Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek

Your 20-day Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a scenic drive along the winding highway. From Kathmandu, you will travel along the Prithivi Highway, relishing the quaint countryside life and taking in the views of terraced farms and river valleys. The bus journey is a mix of black-topped roads and graveled sections. After an 8-9-hour exhilarating drive, you will reach your overnight destination of Maccha Khola, nestled on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River.

You will begin your journey along the trekking trails of the Manaslu region today. From Maccha Khola, the trek starts with a gradual ascent across the rugged terrain. Your adventure takes you across the Tharo Khola and Budhi Gandaki River, several suspension bridges, and picturesque villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani.

In Tatopani, you can spend some time relaxing in the natural hot spring before heading to the stone-paved village of Jagat, where you will spend the night. Jagat also marks the entry point to the secluded regions of the Manaslu region. Here, your restricted area permits are officially checked.

From Jagat, your journey continues through the river gorge and crosses several suspension bridges, adding an element of thrill to your trek. On today’s trek, you will pass through Philim, a large Gurung settlement, and Ekle Bhatti before diverging from the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route into the northern trails leading to Tsum Valley.

From this junction, you will ascend toward Lokpa, which is also the official entry point to the hidden valley.

The journey from Lokpa to Chumling is relatively shorter and takes you to the lower Tsum Valley. Your day begins with a brief descent before entering the steep but beautiful rhododendron and pine forest trails. As you gain elevation, you will experience a shift into the landscape, characterized by stone houses.

After a 4 to 5-hour trek, you will reach Chumling. Here, you will find a strong influence of Tibetan Buddhist culture and heritage. You can take the time to visit local monasteries and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the lower Tsum Valley region as you prepare to delve deeper into this ancient, secluded valley.

Today’s journey takes you to the upper Tsum Valley and consists of a significant ascent of over 600 meters. The journey involves crossing suspension bridges and following the Syar Khola River. With the increase in altitude, you will find the majestic peaks, including the Ganesh Himal range and the Bauhda Himal, emerging closer. Soaking in the awe-inspiring views, you will pass through several small settlements, chortens, and Mani walls before reaching Chhokangparo. \

Your trek today is a mix of easy walks and gradual ascents. You will pass several ancient villages, including Lamagaon. Here, you can visit the sacred meditation spot of Milarepa, a Buddhist sage. Throughout the trail, you will find profound influences of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Take in the mesmerizing sights of prayer flags and carved stones along the path to Nile.

In Nile, you will experience crisp mountain breezes and high-alpine landscapes. This is the farthest village in the Tsum Valley, and offers a base for further exploration.

Today, you will explore the spiritual heartland of the Tsum Valley, the ancient Mu Gompa. This is the oldest monastery of the region and is situated near the Tibetan border. Your journey takes you further north to the sacred monastery. You can enjoy the serenity and absorb the tranquil ambiance, and explore the rich heritage before your descent to your overnight destination in Chhokangparo.

The trek to Gumba Lungdang diverts away from the main Tsum Valley trail. Your journey includes a steady climb, offering unparalleled views of the Tsum Valley below. After a 6 to 7-hour trek, you will reach Gumba Lungdang, famous for its nunnery.

Gumba Ludang is a significant spiritual center that offers insights into the monastic life and the Buddhist heritage of the region. This is a peaceful region, which provides a serene atmosphere suitable for holistic meditation surrounded by icy giants.

From Gumba Lungdang, you will retrace your steps back to Lokpa, marking your exit from the Tsum Valley. The trail meets with the Manaslu Circuit route, and takes you on an adventurous trek along the Himalayan terrain.

Today’s trek primarily consists of descents toward the main valley floor. You can enjoy the familiar landscapes and scenic views from a different perspective. The trek lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours before reaching Lokpa, where you will prepare for the next phase of your adventure.

Leaving Lokpa behind, you will continue your descent along the Budhi Gandaki River toward Deng. The journey includes a hike along lush subtropical forests and across several picturesque villages, including Ghap, which is known for its unique mani walls and houses with intricate wood carvings.

Continue the trek along the trails before reaching Deng, a charming village with rich Tibetan cultural influences.

From the lower elevation region of Namrung, you will begin a gradual ascent. The trek takes you into the Nupri region, a Himalayan settlement inhabited by people of Tibetan origin. Your journey further takes you deep into the dense rhododendron and fir forests, across the Budhi Gandaki River, and over several wooden bridges.

As you approach Namrung, you will find distinct architectures and unique upper Himalayan cultures. Here, you can enjoy the fluttering prayer flags and find the first close-up view of Siring Himal.

The trek from Namrung to Shyala takes you on steep ascending trails with scenic views. From Namrung, you will pass the stunning village of Lho, where you can find spectacular panoramic vistas of Manaslu and Himalchuli. As you continue through the forested path, you will gradually enter the alpine zone with rugged terrain.

After a 6 to 7-hour trek, you will reach Shyala, a relatively new settlement. Here, you will find yourself surrounded by a natural amphitheater of incredible peaks, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Peak 29.

After several days of long and strenuous trek, you will find today’s walk short and easy. Today’s trek primarily aids in proper acclimatization. Leaving Shayala behind, the trails pass through yak pastures and a vast landscape with continuous views of the Manasl massif before reaching Samagaon.

Samagoan is one of the largest and a significant villages in the Manaslu region. Located in a flat plain, you can experience ancient Tibetan culture as you prepare for your crucial acclimatization day.

In Samagaon, you will stop for a strategic acclimatization. Acclimatization is crucial while traveling in the Himalayas. This allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude, significantly reducing the risks of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or mountain sickness.

Today, you will participate in an acclimatization hike. You have a few options to choose from. Depending on your interest, you can trek to the Pungyen Gompa to relish the breathtaking views of the Manaslu glacier and Manaslu’s east face, and experience the rich culture and heritage of this ancient gompa. Alternatively, a scenic walk to the turquoise Birendra Tal beneath the Manaslu glacier is another popular option.

Both treks allow your body to adjust to the thin atmosphere by following the “climb high, sleep low” strategy.

From Samagoan, you will follow the Budhi Gandaki River into a wide, open valley. The trail is straightforward and enters further into the high-alpine environment. Here, you will find sparse vegetation and arid, rugged terrain.

As the trek continues toward Samdo, you will experience a gradual change in weather and atmosphere. Samdo is a quiet Himalayan outpost, and the last major settlement before the high Larkya La Pass.

Today’s trek is shorter but includes a critical altitude gain. As you head toward the high altitude region of Larkya La Pass, you will trek at a steady pace over the gentle ascents of the high alpine terrain. You will find yourself at more secluded locations, surrounded by high mountains. The landscapes become increasingly dramatic and serene.

Upon reaching Dharmashala, or the Larkya Phedi (the foot of the Larkya La Pass), you will find accommodation in a basic teahouse or hut. Spend the afternoon resting. Ensure your gear and equipment are in place for the challenging pre-dawn trek over the high pass.

You have reached the most significant section of your 20-day Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek. The journey across the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of your trek, is demanding but rewards you with an immense sense of accomplishment and majestic views.

The trek to Larkya La Pass begins before dawn. You will navigate the rugged terrain and rocky slopes with your expert guide. Upon reaching the 5,106-meter summit, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Manalu mastiff, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before descending to the picturesque valley of Bimtang.

Today’s trek consists of a long descent through lush forests and beautiful landscapes. You will leave the high-altitude environment behind, trailing along the Dudh Khola. The journey takes you back to several villages, giving you a fresh perspective on the Manaslu region before reaching Tiliche.

The trek from Tilchie to Dharapani marks the final section of your trek. You will join the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek as you head to your destination. After completing a 4 to 5-hour steep descent to Dharapani, you will board a jeep for a long and scenic drive to Besisahar.

The 20-day Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek officially concludes today. The final day of your expedition includes a comfortable drive from Besisahar to the Lake City of Pokhara. You will travel in a private jeep, enjoying the charming landscapes.

Upon reaching Pokhara, you have the rest of the day to yourself. Take some time to rest and unwind before heading to the vibrant lakeside streets to celebrate the completion of your 20-day excursion.