Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trekking - 20 Days

religious place
mountain region
tsum valley
At a Glance
based on 4 reviews
Duration20 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,106 m at Larkya La Pass
Group Size2-10
StartsMacchikhola
EndsBesisahar
Travel StyleTrek
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

The adventure to the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley is in the northern part of Nepal and passes through the hidden traditional villages of the lower Tsum called Chumling and the upper Tsum known as Chhaikampar, showcasing the distinctive culture of the native Tsumbas, who are the locals of the Tsum Valley.

Guarded by the Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Sringi Himal to the north, and Ganesh Himal to the south, all under the protection of the Manaslu Conservation Area, Tsum Valley offers the most scenic landscapes along with the tempting vistas of the Himalayas and the rich cultural encounters of the Manaslu region. 

The whole Manaslu Circuit takes a boast on its abundance in cultural and historical landmarks represented by several Mani walls, Chortens, vibrant prayer flags, the holiest monasteries, and gompas, including scared caves where Guru Rinpoche and Tibetan philosopher spiritual leader Milarepa were believed to have meditated and blessed with liberation.

Moreover, the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trekking Route is one of the only recently opened restricted trails in 2008 and presents trekkers and travelers with the most unspoiled, untainted natural beauty, along with the witnessing of a wide range of flora and fauna, including some endangered species like snow leopards, red pandas, Asian black bears, lynxes, and many more.

Highlights

  • An intriguing drive from and to Kathmandu.
  • Venture to the secret valleys and hidden trail of the eighth-tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft).
  • Discover the unspoiled culture, religious values, and traditions at Mu Gompa, Rachen, Pungyen Gompa, etc.
  • This is a great chance to get a refined insight into the people from the Valley of Happiness, Tsumbas.
  • Eternal views of Sringi Himal, Hiunchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Larkye Peak, along with the almighty presence of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m),.
  • Cross the rewarding high mountain pass of the Manaslu region, Larkye La Pass (5,106 m).
  • Traverse through the dense forests, raging rivers, cascading waterfalls, thrilling suspension bridges under the Manaslu restricted region of Nepal, etc.

What to expect at Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley?

The isolated wonderland of Manaslu ponders trekkers with a bountiful natural and cultural gem of the country secluded in the center of the Langtang Himal, forming an extraordinary natural amphitheater of the western region of the majestic crown jewel alike set Himalayas, including the Jugal Himal.

Therefore, the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is an adventuresome expedition moving back and forth to the Budhi Gandaki river valleys, passing by scenic terraced farms, lush forests of oak, rhododendrons, and blue pine trees, and following the mesmerizing mountain views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), the Ganesh Himal range, and others, presenting you with a must-grab opportunity of a lifetime with:

Less- Frequented Trekking route in Nepal

The Manaslu trekking region of Nepal is designated as one of the restricted areas of Nepal that has regulated its special permits to gain access to the area, which adds an extra layer to the overall trek logistics and is mostly preferred by true adventurers only.

Furthermore, the Manaslu region is relatively remote and has comparatively less developed tourist infrastructure in terms of roads and air links, which has not yet been as commercialized as some of the other popular trekking destinations in Nepal, resulting in a real sense of authentic adventure and achievement upon completing the circuit trek with Tsum Valley exploration. 

Impressive mountain views

The Manaslu Restricted Area of Nepal is situated on the north-western side of the capital city, Kathmandu, in the Gorkha district, primarily dominated by the eight-tallest mountain giant globally, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m). At the same time, the extremely prohibited valley within the region, Tsum Valley, is nestled amidst Boudha Himal (6,672m), Himal Chuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,405 m), and Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23 474ft).

Having said that, definitely, throughout the route to voyaging the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley, you will be stunned by the beautiful sight of these prominent Himalayan peaks, along with the spectacular views of Himalchuli (7,893 m/25,896 ft), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m/25,823 ft), and many others.

Unique Cultural experience

The Manaslu region is famed for its untouched culture, traditions, and traditional Tibetan-style villages with flat-roofed stone houses. The upper regional villages of Samagaon and Samdo are home to distinctive Nubri people, while an integral part of the Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley, is inhabited by people of Tsum and Tsumbas, especially in Chhokang Paro and Mu Gompa.

Similarly, the lower sections of the Manaslu Circuit, precisely Ghap, and Lho, are settled in by the indigenous community of Gurung, while the higher altitude areas of the Manaslu region are dominated by Bhotis and Tibetan descendants, who share historical ties with Tibet and showcase evident resemblances in architecture, religious rituals, and practices. 

The native locals of this part of the Himalayas are often smiling, humble, and welcoming, and they consider guests as their gods. You will be impressed with the unswayed faith in Buddhism and Hinduism as flaunted by a series of monasteries, stupas, and Mani walls festooned with vibrant prayer flags that you might be one of the first ones to come across during your journey to the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek.

Inspirational Lifestyle of Monks in Mu Gompa and Pungyen Gompa

Far away from the hustling and bustling cities live Buddhist monks, the spiritual guides towards liberation in the gompas of the Manaslu region. The sole reason for their lives is to obtain nirvana, and they are usually strictly disciplined.

Several routes to the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek pass by these ancient gompas and monasteries, where you will get to be part of the daily rites and rituals performed to neutralize negative energies and channel positivity.

Mu Gompa and Pungyen Gompa are two of the noteworthy gompas that you will be visiting during your 20-day Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek. Mu Gompa, at an elevation of 3,700 m (12,139 ft), is considered the largest and oldest monastery in the Manaslu region and presents trekkers and travelers with the monastic lifestyle of a community of monks manifesting Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism.

Whereas, Pungyen Gompa is set in the foothills of the surrounding splendor of mountain ranges at an altitude of 4,050 m, which is believed to have been crafted by the Tibetan Buddhist Guru to shelter the refugees suffering from war and famine and has been serving as the major cultural, historical, and spiritual highlight of the Manaslu region, where one can learn to appreciate life.

Pristine Nature in the Manaslu Conservation Area

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trekking trails are ventured by the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is a haven for nature enthusiasts renowned for its serene and diverse natural beauty. The protected area is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, offering the unspoiled raw Himalayan wilderness.

On your lucky day, you might even get to see extremely rare wildlife such as marmots, Himalayan tahr, and varying species of birds while you traverse closer to the glacier of Manaslu and its alpine vegetation through the rural valleys of the Budhi Gandaki River.

Getting into the route to trek Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

The Manaslu region has multiple routes to trek its circuit, combined with Tsum Valley. However, our 20-day adventurous trekking trail follows the classic salt trading itinerary that connects with another classic Annapurna Circuit hiking track.

The journey to embark on the Manaslu circuit Tsum Valley first begins from Maccha Khola, passing by the nicely ornate typical villages of Arughat and Sotikhola. Then, the ramble of 5–6 hours each day is ascending through the Budhi Gandaki valleys.

The villages of the valleys are dotted between lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendrons that climb a steep accent over the ridge to reach Lokpa after Jagat. From Lokpa, this specific route to venture into the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley takes you to Chumling, Chekampar, and Nile, and later on stops at Mu Gompa for acclimatization day.

The circuit and Tsum Valley for now take a descending route back to Chumling by Chekampar to start yet another surreal journey to cross the strenuous and rewarding Larkya La Pass of the Manaslu restricted region by Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, Samdo, and Dharamsala.

Before crossing the scenic and challenging Larkya La high mountain pass, you will let your body adapt thoroughly with a day trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyun Gompa from Sama Gaon, and once you have lived the soulful moment in this mountain pass, you will begin the returning trek to Kathmandu, descending through Bimthang, Tiliche, Dharapani, and finally to Besisahar, where you will get to decide whether to get back to Kathmandu or enjoy yourself in the tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara.

Why 20 days itinerary to hike Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley?

The 20-day Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley itinerary is designated after thoughtful consideration of trekkers so that you get the best out in the least amount of grueling experience based on our years of sharpened knowledge in the field of catering personalized services in travel and tourism.

The journey according to this 20-day itinerary to trek Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley begins with a scenic and thrilling drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, passing initially by the Trishuli River Valley and later the Budhi Gandaki, covering a distance of 140 km (87 miles) in 9–10 hours.

Then, the true expedition begins as you venture into several tiny and some larger Himalayan settlements, such as Chekampar and Chumling, also known as upper and lower Tsum, with a continuous ascending and descending ramble of 5–6 hours each day to the Larke La Pass and finally to Dharapani.

From Dharapani, you will take a jeep back to Besishar to catch a local bus either to Pokhara or Kathmandu, where we recommend you immerse yourself in the tourist paradise of Nepal, Pokhara for sure.

This itinerary is tailored to make sure you do not miss any highlights of the Manaslu region, including Mu Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, and several others, for not only a better natural experience but also a cultural endeavor in the celestial presence of the killer mountain, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m).

Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Cost

According to Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd., the cost of the 20-day Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek starts at USD 1,055, which is the standard package price. If you are a group of more than 10 trekkers and travelers, you can get the special group discounted budget, which implies that solo trekkers or small groups might have to pay slightly more.

It is for a guided trekking package of 20 days to Manaslu Circuit with a side trek to Tsum Valley, where all of the travel and trek logistics will be taken care of by Ammonite Adventure, including food, accommodation, trekking permits, guides, and their necessities, along with their insurance.

Itinerary

The day drive begins quite early today after breakfast along the Prithvi Highway to the west of Kathmandu that crosses the river Trishuli to Dhading and later on Arughat to change the vehicle into a jeep.

The jeep ride stops first at the notable Soti Khola, from where the destination of the day, Maccha Khola, is just a 2-3 hour drive through the village of Lapubesi (880m) along the bank of Dordani Khola to the northwards of Gorka and later on the scenic river valleys of the Budhi Gandaki River.

The total drive time is about 9–10 hours, passing by epic scenery of terraced farms, roaring rivers, beautiful traditional villages, and verdant forests that make up a few sections of bumpy roads, which usually begin from Arughat onwards.

Max. Altitude: 870m/2,854ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Today’s aim of the trek is to reach the entry point of the Manaslu region, Jagat by crossing the Tharo Khola and heading up to another stream of Khola Besi, which gradually leads you to the famous natural hot spring of Tatopani.

From the infamous hot spring of the Manaslu region, the trekking route of the day follows the trail that crosses the Budhi Gandaki River via a thrilling suspension bridge. Onwards, you will remain cautious to arrive at Dhoban village as you ramble through the landslide-prone areas.

Thereafter, you will cross Yaru Khola, climb the steep walk of Thado Bharyang, and ascend to the lovely typical village of Jagat to register your trek.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The traverse to the restricted area of the Manaslu region officially begins now and onwards after completing the ACAP entry process at Jagat, which ascends initially to Salleri along the rocky ridge and descends subsequently to Sirdibas. From Sirdibas, it is again an uphill trek up to Ghatta Khola.

Ghatta Khola widnes the valley while you continue ascending through the large Gurung settlement in Philim that passes by alluring lush forest and mountain views to meet Lokpa after taking a delicious lunch break at Ekle Bhatti, from where the trekking trail diverges into two halves: one takes you to complete the circuit while another approaches Tsum Valley.

Max. Altitude: (2,040m / 4,493ft )Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

On day four, you will move forth to explore the lower Tsum, Chumling, which begins with a descent from Luangwa River Valley and then a pleasant ascent through the packed natural beauty of pine, rhododendrons, and juniper to make it to Gumlung.

The overall walk of the day is comparatively strenuous through the lush woods and Himalayan vistas of Shringi Himal, which looks more magnificent after crossing the Siyar Khola and finally reaching Chumling.

The stone-paved pathways, friendly locals, and traditional villages along with the historic Chumling Gompa are worth a venture before you call it a day in the teahouse or local lodge.

Max. Altitude: (2,386m / 6,692ft)Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Chekampar is named for the Upper Tsum Valley, which is a 10 km trek from the lower Tsum; Chumling upon crossing the hanging bridge to the new forest towards Tanju; and the tiny Gompa of Daphe, which consists of several statues of Buddha made of ceramic. 

From here is an enjoyable hike to Dumje and Sarphu Khola with expanded views of Ganesh and Baudha Himal that follows the trekking trail to upper Tsum Valley, Chhokang, and Paro, collectively referred to as Chekampar.

Max. Altitude: 3,010m / 9,875ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The Nile to the west of Shikhar Khola is about a 20–25 minute hike from the last village in the north-upper Tsum Valley, known as Chhule. Therefore, on this day, you will walk through the series of Tsum Valley villages such as Ngakyu, Leru, and Lama Gaon, from where you will head to honor the ‘Pigeon Cave’ or Piren Phu. 

A spiritual journey to the cave where the Buddhist saint Milarepa is believed to have mediated takes you through Burji, Phurbe, and Pangdun to spend overnight at the Nile after savoring the day's lunch at Lar.

Max. Altitude: 3,361m/11,058ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

This day's walk is comparatively shorter than the previous day as you move through the west outskirt of the valley closer to the Tibetan border to reach Mu Gompa, the ancient largest Gompa of the region.

It is also the maximum altitude you will reach at Tsum Valley Trek, adorned with vibrant prayer flags and numerous chhortens, providing one of the best looks out at the surrounding peaks along with a sneak peek at Tibet that returns to the Nile to spend the night.

Max. Altitude: 3,700m / 11,026 ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

On the eighth day of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, you will gradually descend back to Chekampar from the Nile to complete the round trip to the Manaslu region before officially continuing your journey from Chumling.

The trek takes place in the reversed form of Chekampar to Nile via Pangden, Phurbe, Burji, Lama Gaon Leru, Nagakyu, and finally to the upper Tsum right after Chhule.

Max. Altitude: 3,361m / 11,026ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Today is yet another descending trail from Chekampar to Chumling, passing by Gho, Rainjam village, and the low Tsum Valley to finally reach Chumling after overpassing a bridge near the village of Gho.

You will begin trekking early in the morning so that you get enough time to roam around the lively town in the afternoon and spend a comfortable night at the local tea house or lodge

Max. Altitude: 3,010m / 9,875ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The day has come when you will bid goodbye to Tsum Valley as you continue down the hill trek from Chumling along the river coast of Shair Khola, which passes by Lokpa to follow the Budhi Gandaki.

Hence, on this day, you will take a descending trek to Sirdibas, Salleri, Ghatta Khola, and lastly to Ekle Bhatti from Philim, which is a walk that presents you with the possibility of encountering domestic sheep and goats along with their wild species.

By the time you cross the Budhi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge, you will have already made it to Nupri. Upon passing through the dense forest of bamboo from here, the Gurung village of Deng welcomes you at an altitude of 1,860m.

Max. Altitude: 2,386m / 6,692ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

What a beautiful day to have when you will keep on playing hide and seek with the Budhi Gandaki river along with the awe-inspiring views of several mountains including a series of centuries-old Buddhist Gompas and monasteries which initiates from a gradual climb to Rana, Bhiphedi, Serang Khola, and Ghap. 

 

At Ghap, you will take a lunch break and move forward traversing the steeper trail rich in bamboo and rhododendron trees to reach the gateway of the Nupri region, the village of Namrung to spend the cozy night at a tea house.

Max. Altitude: 2,900m / 9512ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The twelfth trekking day calls out yet another lovely hike day to Lho, passing by many Mani walls, peaceful Gompas, and typical villages with crystal-clear views of Manaslu Massif, including a glimpse at Himal Chuli and Phungi, to spend the most relaxing, well-deserved, and comfortable night at Lho.

Max. Altitude: 3,180m/10,433ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The most iconic day is here when you will hop for an easy-going hike to Sama Gaon, moving along the river bank following the jaw-dropping sight of Mt.Manaslu (8,163m), Naike Peak, Himalchuli, Nagadi Chuli, Larkya Peak, Saula Himal, etc. 

Particularly, the village of Shyala is renowned for the refined view of these gigantic peaks, where the pastureland of yaks and potatoes barely magnifies the distinctive alpine meadows and whole picturesque mountainous landscapes. 

Once you make it up to Sama Gaon, Ganesh Himal to the east cannot go unnoticed alongside Tibet nearby.

Max. Altitude: 3,520m/11,546ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Proper acclimatization is key to successful trekking participation in the Himalayas. With continuous ascends and descends, it is time to let your body acclimate and adjust to the varying altitude of over 3,000m. 

Therefore, day fourteen is allocated as acclimatization day, where you will be presented with the option of hiking to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. Birendra Tal is another alternative side trip; however, due to its being situated relatively at a lower altitude, a trek here might not be as effective as a ramble up to base camp or the Gompa of Pungyen.

Max. Altitude: 4,600 m/15,100 ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

You will start the trek of the day at dawn, descending through the terraced farms and series of Mani walls that cross the Budhi Gandaki river back and forth via numerous hanging wooden bridges, consequently leading to the Samdo Valley.

The valley shares a border with Tibet showcasing a noteworthy Tibetan influence in art, culture, and overall architecture ensuring an outstanding enhanced trekking experience while you spend the filling night at Samdo preparing for the next day.

Max. Altitude: 3,875m/12,713ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Day 16 marks the beginning of an adventurous journey to cross the Larkya La Pass as you make your way through the temporary Tibetan marketplace known as Larke Bazaar after breakfast in Samdo.

Then, the trekking route of the day crosses two rivers with shimmering water and, later on, Larkya Glacier, which goes around the Salka Khola Valley before making a final ascent to Dharamsala, otherwise called Larkya La Phedi.

Throughout the trek day, the views seen are fantastic to fill yourself with necessary nutrients during your overnight stay at the tea house in Dharamsala.

Max. Altitude: 4,460 mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Probably, it could be the longest and most challenging part of the comprehensive Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek when you are atop the highest elevation of the overall journey at the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m, right below the majestic panorama of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.

Usually, the afternoon wind is considered unfavorable to cross the pass; hence, you will leave Dharmasala very early in the morning. It begins with a gentle climb across the moraine, which becomes quite rugged and steep as you move closer and closer to the pass, which is visible once you pass by a ridge with two cairns.

The pass is truly rewarding, which grants an unmatchable sense of achievement to make a memorable descent to Bhimthang to the west of the mountains, which is quite strenuous for a few hours and relatively easier after a while till you make it to the teahouse of the day.

Max. Altitude: 5,106 m/16,752 ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The trek from Bhimtang to Tiliche is a downhill walk, passing by charming hidden valleys, rugged cliffs, dense woods, and raging waterfalls. Hampu Cave, Puktu Kharka, and Karche Pass, along with Gho village, are some of the noticeable landmarks of the trail, surrounded by several majestic mountains and terraced fields till you make it to the tea house of Tiliche to spend the night.

Max. Altitude: 3,590mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

It is yet another relaxing trek day that takes you to the starting point of the top-notch Annapurna Circuit Trek in Dharapani, from where you will drive back to Besisahar to decide whether to head to Kathmandu or stop by Pokhara awaiting extra adventure.

Max. Altitude: 3,590mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Last day in Nepal, a lot to reminisce about as you take a flight back to your country. Three hours before the scheduled flight, you will be transported to the Tribhuvan International Airport by our airport representative.

I hope you enjoyed your Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek with us. We look forward to seeing you again. Thank you!

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Trip Service Details
Included
  • Standard accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
  • Comfortable lodging during the trek as per the itinerary
  • Local bus/jeep/ car fare used during the trek
  • Three meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner while trekking.
  • Government-registered mountain trekking guide and map.
  • Personal insurance and trekking gear along with other equipment for Nepalese staff.
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees.
  • All essential permits required for the trek: ACAP, MCAP, and RAP.
Excluded
  • International flight tickets to and from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. 
  • Travel insurance providing high-altitude coverage in case of a medical emergency or any other unforeseen circumstances. 
  • Lunch, dinner, and extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, shopping, calls, and internet data expenses during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • One porter that can be shared between two people can carry a maximum weight of 25kg.
  • Guide and Porter trek tips are much appreciated.
Dates & Availability
Starts:November 25, 2024Ends:December 14, 2024
PriceUS$1725
AvailabilityGuaranteed
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Additional Info

Foods and accommodation during Trek to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek

In contrast to other well-traversed trekking trails in Nepal, the food and accommodation options are quite limited in a few remote sections of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek route, such as Tsum Valley. Staying in local teahouses or lodges is part of this amazing teahouse trekking in the Himalayas of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m).

Therefore, anticipate seeing the fair availability of modern amenities and Western menus. In the meantime, you wonder how the rooms are in teahouses and lodges. It's a win-win, i.e., rooms are tidy enough to spend a cozy night, mostly simply furnished with two beds, and sharing bathrooms.

Best time to embark on an adventurous journey to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley

What could be the best time to trek Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley other than the spring and autumn when the weather is considerably calm and stable, wildflowers are either in full bloom or have started shading, and the skies are usually clear, providing excellent mountain scenery throughout the journey. 

Furthermore, if you are seeking the best monsoon trekking destination in the Himalayas of Nepal, Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek serves you as the most suitable one due to its location in the trans-Himalayan region concealed behind the rain shadow area.

Winter trekking is also possible and is actually the best time to discover the never-before-seen beauty and its mystery. However, appropriate packing, gearing, and equipment are a must to make the most of the best trekking experience during the winter on the Manaslu Circuit.

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek are graded as a moderate-to-strenuous challenging trek in the upper Himalayas of Nepal, as it takes place at a reasonably higher altitude level and involves crossing one of the highly elevated Larkya La Mountain Passes at 5,106 m.

Several trekking days include steep up-and-down hill hikes through rocky terrain as well as above 3,000 m, where the chances of acute mountain sickness can be concerning. 

Nonetheless, all your effort comes fruitful with the dramatic landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, authentic Himalayan culture and tradition, typical villages rooted to nature, and never-ending vistas of the magnificent peaks.

What are the permits required for Manslu Circuit and Tsum Valley's 20-day expedition?

You will need three major permits to begin your trip to Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley because the Manaslu region falls under the highly restricted area of Nepal, where you must be assisted by local guides. Solo trekking basically means two trekkers on the route, excluding the guide and porter.

The first permit you will have to get on hand is the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 30) for all tourists and NPR 1,000 (approximately USD 10) for trekkers who are SAARC nationals.

The second permit you will need to enter the Manaslu region is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), due to several common trials passing by the Annapurna region that are similarly payable as the MCAP.

The unique permit you are obligated to get is the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, whose cost can vary depending upon the season of your trekking and has a time limit on how many days you can spend, unlike other trekking areas in Nepal.

As of now, the RAP fee is USD 40 per person per entry for seven days from September to November and USD 30 per person per entry from December to August. If you wish to extend your stay in the Tsum Valley, you will have to pay USD 7 per additional day.

How much distance is covered during the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek?

In our 20-day package to trek Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley, you will cover a distance of approximately 220km (136.7 miles), which has separated two days for adequate acclimatization. As one of the professionals in organizing travel, treks, and tours, we know the importance of letting your body adapt to the Himalayas of Nepal to ensure your safe and sound trekking involvement.

Therefore, we believe the 20-day itinerary to go trekking Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley is the best one where you can adjust the itinerary as per your needs and preferences. Adding days is a wise thing to do for a more enhanced experience.

Another plus is that you will not have to rush your steps. While we say so, it is important to note that side trips, specific trekking routes, additional acclimatization, rest, or exploration can affect the overall distance covered during the trek.

Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trekking - 20 Days Gallery
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FAQs

Yes, in terms of unspoiled nature and culture, the Manaslu region definitely holds the lead as one of the most remote and less-crowded trekking trails.

Tsum Valley is one of the most culturally and naturally swanky traditional valleys in the restricted region of Manaslu. Tibet from here is just a morning walk away.

Watch out! Though the water from natural sources seems pure and drinkable, it often isn’t safe to drink. So in rare occurrences, as boiled water is mostly refillable throughout the journey, consider purifying it rather than drinking it directly.

Along the trekking trail of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, you may find mobile network coverage. Several tea houses and lodges in the lower region also provide access to the internet. Although it can be unreliable and limited, it is good enough to convey your message of well-being. Therefore, make sure to get an NTC or Ncell SIM card before officially commencing the trek.

Yes. However, you must be informed that the definition of solo trekking in Nepal since April 1st, 2023 has upgraded into a group of at least two individual trekkers seeking a more secluded and isolated experience in the Himalayas with an authorized guide.

The answer is very simple: safe navigation, sound communication, and a memory of a lifetime while your government-licensed guide takes care of all your trekking logistics.

Well, it depends on the season of your travel and the altitude of the region because, depending on your preferences and special requirements, Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd. can arrange a single room in the lower region that cannot be said to be the same once you have gained a notable elevation.

It isn’t zero at all. Yet, if you choose to go with a 20-day itinerary to trek Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley, the probability gets on a very low graph as several days of the package are allocated solely for acclimatization, where you don't need to force your pace.

Larkya La Pass, at an altitude of 5,106m above sea level, is the maximum elevation of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek.

Generally, it will take you between 14 to 20 days to complete the Mansaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek depending upon the itinerary, budget, side trips, pace, and number of days you have chosen for acclimatization.