Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley

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Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley is widely regarded by experienced trekkers as one of the finest extended mountain journeys in Asia . This extraordinary 20-22 day expedition combines the complete circuit around Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak at 8,163m, with a cultural detour into Tsum Valley—one of Nepal's last beyul, a hidden sacred valley where Tibetan Buddhist life continues largely as it has for centuries, barely touched by the modern world .

The combination works exceptionally well because the two routes complement each other perfectly. The Manaslu Circuit delivers high-altitude drama: spectacular gorge sections, dramatic mountain scenery, and the physical challenge of the high pass. Tsum Valley provides cultural depth: ancient monasteries, sacred landscapes, and authentic human connection in communities that few outsiders have ever visited . Together, they form a trek that is both physically rewarding and culturally transformative.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, following the Budhi Gandaki River through dense forests, suspension bridges, and charming stone villages. At Lokpa, the trail diverges north into the Tsum Valley, exploring the "Valley of Happiness" with its ancient monasteries including Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, long mani walls, and Tibetan-influenced traditions . Returning to the main circuit, the trail ascends through Namrung, Lho, and Samagaon, with breathtaking views of Manaslu's north face, before crossing the legendary Larkya La Pass at 5,160m and descending to Bimthang .

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a physically demanding yet culturally immersive Himalayan adventure with spectacular mountain panoramas, remote wilderness, and authentic Tibetan Buddhist heritage. 

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, safe trail conditions, and comfortable temperatures . Spring offers blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn provides crisp, clear views with excellent visibility at Larkya La Pass. Off-season travel during monsoon (June-September) brings landslide risks, while winter (December-February) makes the high pass challenging due to snow and ice .

Notes to Travelers

This trek is physically demanding and recommended for experienced trekkers with strong fitness levels and prior high-altitude trekking experience. The circuit reaches altitudes over 5,100 meters at Larkya La Pass and covers approximately 250-280 km over 20-22 days .

The Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions are restricted areas , which means:

  • A licensed guide is mandatory 

  • Solo trekking is not permitted 

  • Special restricted area permits are required 

  • Minimum group size of 2 trekkers 

Permits required include: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Tsum Valley RAP, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS card, and a newly introduced Local Area Entry Permit (Rs. 1,000 per trekker) .

Accommodation throughout the trek is in basic teahouses and community lodges. At higher altitudes like Samdo and Dharamsala, facilities are very basic with limited amenities . Temperatures drop well below freezing at night, especially at Larkya La Pass, so warm gear is crucial .

The trail involves steep ascents and descents, narrow cliffside paths, landslide zones, and glacial moraines . Crossing Larkya La Pass requires an early morning start (3-4 AM) to navigate snow and ice safely. Trekkers should be comfortable with heights and prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather .

Transportation includes a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola/Machha Khola (7-9 hours) and a return drive from Dharapani via Besisahar to Kathmandu (7-8 hours). Road conditions can be rough and delays may occur .

Highlights

  • Trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163m) – the world's eighth-highest mountain with close views of Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and surrounding peaks 

  • Cross the legendary Larkya La Pass (5,160m) with stunning 360-degree Himalayan panoramas stretching to the Tibetan border 

  • Explore the sacred Tsum Valley – a hidden beyul (blessed valley) with ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and monasteries 

  • Visit ancient monasteries including Mu Gompa (3,700m), Rachen Gompa (cliff monastery), and Milarepa's Cave meditation site 

  • Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture in villages like Chhekampar, Nile, Samagaun, and Samdo 

  • Walk through diverse landscapes from subtropical forests and terraced fields to glacial moraines and high-alpine terrain 

  • Trek along the pristine Budhi Gandaki River with dramatic gorges and suspension bridges 

  • The longest mani wall in the Tsum Valley at Chhokang Paro, stretching 50-100 meters 

  • One of Nepal's most remote and least-crowded major trekking routes

Fixed Departure Dates

Early booking recommended due to limited seats.

September 01, 2026
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December 31, 2026
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February 01, 2027
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May 31, 2027
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Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu (1,350m)

    • Highlights: Arrival in the capital city of Nepal, welcome by our representative, first glimpse of the Himalayan atmosphere

    • Activity: Transfer to hotel, rest and recovery from your flight

  • Day 2 : Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola (890m) / Soti Khola (730m)

    • Highlights: Scenic 7-8 hour drive along the Trishuli River, passing through Dhading and Arughat, views of terraced fields and rural villages, arrival at the trailhead 

    • Activity: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola, hotel check-in, meet your trekking crew, prepare for the trek

     

  • Day 3 : Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)

    • Highlights: Crossing suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River, subtropical forests, natural hot springs at Khorlabesi, Gurung villages, MCAP checkpoint entry 

    • Activity: Trek from Machha Khola, cross the river, pass through Khorlabesi and Dovan, ascend to Jagat village, permit verification at the restricted area checkpoint

     

  • Day 4 : Trek Jagat to Lokpa (1,860m)

    • Highlights: Follow the Budhi Gandaki River, pass through Saguleri and Sirdibas, views of Mt. Shringi Himal (7,187m), Philim village, Tsum Valley branch junction 

    • Activity: Trek from Jagat through terraced hillsides and small hamlets, cross bridges, arrive at Lokpa village where the Tsum Valley trail diverges from the main circuit 

     

  • Day 5 : Trek Lokpa to Chumling (2,386m)

    • Highlights: Enter the Tsum Valley, cross into the restricted Tsum Valley area, views of Ganesh Himal and Baudha Himal, lush subtropical rhododendron and pine forest, Chumling village with three monasteries 

    • Activity: Trek from Lokpa, descend into the Lungwa River Valley, ascend through forests, cross the Syar Khola, arrive at Chumling village, visit Panago Gumba and Mani Dhungyur monasteries 

     

  • Day 6 : Trek Chumling to Chhekampar (3,031m)

    • Highlights: Walk through the Upper Tsum Valley, flat agricultural land between two communities (Chhekam and Paro), stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Baudha Himal, polyandry traditions observed in some families 

    • Activity: Trek from Chumling to Chhekampar (also known as Chhokangparo), explore the village, visit the Milarepa Gompa, overnight stay

     

  • Day 7 : Trek Chhekampar to Nile Village (3,361m)

    • Highlights: Visit Piren Phu cave (Milarepa's meditation cave) with Buddhist murals and ancient paper scripts, Shiar Khola views, Rachen Gompa cliff monastery, final settlement in Upper Tsum Valley 

    • Activity: Trek from Chhekampar, visit the sacred Piren Phu cave, continue to Nile village, explore Rachen Gompa monastery perched against a cliff face, overnight stay 

     

  • Day 8 : Day Trip to Mu Gompa (3,700m) and Return to Nile / Chekampar

    • Highlights: MU GOMPA – the highest point of Tsum Valley Trek, active nunnery with 80-100 residents, breathtaking mountain views, ancient Buddhist murals, Dephyudonma Monastery, Tibetan border views 

    • Activity: Early morning start, hike from Nile to Mu Gompa along the west side of the valley, visit the monastery and chortens, explore Dhephu Doma Gompa, return to Nile or Chhekampar for overnight stay 

     

  • Day 9 : Trek Nile / Chekampar to Chumling (2,386m)

    • Highlights: Retrace the scenic Tsum Valley trail, farewell views of the Ganesh Himal range, mani walls and prayer flags, descent through cultural villages 

    • Activity: Descend from Nile/Chekampar through Chhekampar and Chumling, enjoy familiar landscapes from a new perspective, overnight at Chumling

     

  • Day 10 : Trek Chumling to Deng (1,800m)

    • Highlights: Exit Tsum Valley, rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit trail, dense forest sections, suspension bridges, traditional villages, views of Shringi Himal 

    • Activity: Trek from Chumling to Lokpa, continue along the main circuit to Deng village, overnight stay

     

  • Day 11 : Trek Deng to Namrung (2,630m)

    • Highlights: Gradual ascent through forests and Tibetan-influenced villages, views of Manaslu range, ancient mani walls, traditional stone houses 

    • Activity: Trek from Deng through villages and forests, cross streams, arrive at Namrung with views of the surrounding peaks

     

  • Day 12 : Trek Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,530m) via Lho

    • Highlights: FIRST MAJOR MANASLU VIEWS, the best views on the circuit, Lho village with Manaslu's north face dominating the skyline, Tibetan-influenced culture, Pungyen Gompa 

    • Activity: Trek from Namrung through Lho village, pass through Shyala, arrive at Sama Gaun (Samagaon), the largest village in the Manaslu region with health post and conservation office

     

  • Day 13 : Trek Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,860m)

    • Highlights: Gradual ascent through high-altitude valley, yak pastures, views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks, Tibetan border area, ancient trade route 

    • Activity: Trek from Sama Gaun through open terrain, pass through yak pastures, arrive at Samdo village, explore the high-altitude settlement with views of Tibet

     

  • Day 14 : Acclimatization Day in Samdo (3,860m)

    • Highlights: CRITICAL PRE-PASS ACCLIMATIZATION, day hike to 4,500m viewpoint, views of the Tibetan border, traditional trade route, wildlife spotting (blue sheep) 

    • Activity: Rest and acclimatization day, hike to a nearby viewpoint (approximately 4-5 hours), prepare for the challenging Larkya La Pass crossing, overnight at Samdo

     

  • Day 15 : Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m) / Larkya Phedi

    • Highlights: Gradual ascent along the Marsyangdi River, high mountain scenery, wildlife spotting, base camp atmosphere, early dinner and bed for the pass crossing 

    • Activity: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (also known as Larkya Phedi), the base camp for Larkya La Pass (approximately 4-5 hours), rest and prepare for the early morning start

     

  • Day 16 : Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and Descend to Bimthang (3,720m)

    • Highlights: LARKYA LA PASS CROSSING – one of Nepal's most spectacular high-altitude passes, 360-degree panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Chekargo Glacier, Manaslu's massif, Annapurna range, prayer flags, glacial moraine 

    • Activity: Early morning start (3-4 AM mandatory), ascent to the pass (5,160m), celebration at the top, descent through snow and glacier sections, arrive at Bimthang (8-10 hours total), overnight at tea house

     

  • Day 17 : Trek Bimthang to Tilje (2,300m) / Dharapani (1,860m)

    • Highlights: Descent through lush forests, rhododendron and pine, views of Annapurna range, traditional villages, warm-up after the pass crossing 

    • Activity: Trek from Bimthang, pass through Gowa and Tilje (5-6 hours), continue to Dharapani if schedule allows, junction with the Annapurna Circuit trail, celebration and rest

     

  • Day 18 : Drive Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar

    • Highlights: Scenic drive through the Marsyangdi Valley, views of the Annapurna range, return to the capital, farewell dinner celebration 

    • Activity: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar (5-6 hours), continue to Kathmandu (7-8 hours), hotel transfer, free time for shopping, farewell dinner with Himalayan Karma Treks

     

  • Day 19 : End of the Program / Fly to Your Destination

    • Activity: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, farewell

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure in a private vehicle
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
  • Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu transportation by private jeep/tourist bus
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) 
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card 
  • Local Area Entry Permit (Rs. 1,000 per person) 
  • Tea house/community lodge accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • One experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide 
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry your main luggage
  • Insurance, salary, meals, and accommodation for guide and porters
  • Medical kit (basic first aid)
  • All government taxes and official expenses
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu 
  • Complimentary duffel bag from Himalayan Karma Treks for storing and carrying your trekking gear

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory, covering emergency evacuation and high-altitude trekking up to 5,200m)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, battery charging, hot showers, etc.
  • Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, bottled water, and snacks
  • Extra meals and accommodation in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary
  • Extra porter services (if required beyond the standard 1:2 ratio)
  • Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (recommended but at your discretion)
  • Any additional costs due to flight cancellations, weather delays, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Emergency evacuation and medical treatment costs
Altitude
5,160m
Duration
20 Days
Group Size
5-10 Climbers
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
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