Manaslu circuit – Tsum valley trek is the two combined trekking a section of Manaslu circuit and a portion of Tsum valley trek. The trek is known for its peace and solitude. This trek provides the services of tea houses and local homestays in quiet remote locations in the western part of Nepal.
This region has been opened for visitors only a few years ago, due to which you have a wonderful chance of having an experience of the unspoiled Manaslu Region. During the trek, you will reach very close to the Tibetan border, which the resemblance to landscapes of Tibet itself. One might even mistake it for being in Tibet but there’s a huge mountain range to the north that marks the Nepalese border. You’ll be trekking close to these very foothills of the giant Himalayan peaks.
“Tsum” translates to vividness, and the trace of it can be felt through the trek, especially where you feel the air and thus the life, as described by Guru Rimpoche. He even called it the “Hidden Valley of Happiness”. A Buddhist guru may have called it so for his own reasons, but once you’re here you’ll feel the aura too – especially trekking through the remote and quiet landscapes.
The time spent in this “Hidden Valley of Happiness” will inspire you for months ahead, especially regarding your raw experience with nature and after seeing the simplistic ways of people who call this region home. The beautiful views you’ll have from Larkya-La Pass 5,160m, and the pristine valley itself will be memorable in this program organized by Peace Nepal Treks.
The Trek starts driving from Kathmandu to Barpak Village and walking starts ahead – Larpak (2,200m) – Khorlabensi 970m – Philim (1,570m) – Chumling (2,386m) – Chhokang Paro (3,031m) – Nile (3,361m) – Mu Gompa (3,700m) – Rachen Gompa (3,240m) – Gumba Lungdang (3,200m) – Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m) – Lokpa (2,240m) – Ghap (2,160m) – Lho (3,180m) – Samagaon (3,520m) – Manaslu base camp 4,400m – Samdo (3,875m) – Dharmasala (4,460m) – popular LARKYA LA Pass 5,160m, Bimtang (3,590m – Dharapani (1,963m) – Dharapani to Besisahar – Kathmandu
You’ll be trekking through average Nepali trails, but you’ll need the desire to walk – at least for three weeks. The program is designed to have ample days for acclimatization before trekking further to higher altitudes. You need to walk about 6 to 7 hours each day and need physical fitness for walking for 3 weeks.
Starting from Kathmandu with a local bus ride or private Jeep ride, you will reach Budhi-Gandaki and trek along the rushing river for a couple of days. And the trek joins the popular Annapurna Circuit at Dharapani. Our 3 weeks trek ends here and drives back to Kathmandu from Dharapani.
It’s a tranquil trek that provides an exquisite experience of remote Nepal. Homestay is the norm here, but you can take this opportunity for camping as well – a camping trip in the pristine region of the Himalayas! Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Hiunchuli, and Shringi Himal are some of the peaks you’ll see on this memorable trip to Nepal.
This trek is a restricted area of Nepal and needs to issue a special permit through the government register local trekking company in Kathmandu. There is not allowed to travel on their own. It’s compulsory to travel with at least one guide or one porter service. You need two different special permits – one for Tsum Valley Trek and another for Manaslu Circuit Trek. You also need the Manaslu Conservation entry fees (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation permit (ACAMP) entry fees.
This program organized by Peace Nepal Treks is a splendid combination of trekking and tea house (homestay) in the quiet remote locations of western Nepal. You will be trekking a section of the Manaslu Circuit and also a portion of Tsum Valley, which is known for its peace and solitude.
Drive Kathmandu to Machhakhola, Overnight stay in Machhakhola (930m), tea house stay – 9 hours driving
Trek Maccha Khola to Jagat, Overnight stay in Jagat 1340M. Walking 6 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Jagat to Lokpa, Overnight stay in
Lokpa 2240 M. walking 5 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Lokpa to Chumling, Overnihgt stay in Chumling – 2386 M. Walking 5 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Chumling to Chekampar, Overnight stay in Chekampar 3031M, Walking – 6 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Chekampar to Nile, Overnight stay in Nile 3361M. Walking 6 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Day Trip to Mu Gompa - Nile 3700 M. Walking. Walking 6 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Nile to Chekampar 3031M. about – 5 hrs walking, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Chekampar to Gumba Lundang 3200M, About – 6 hrs walking, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Day Trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp, Gumba Lundang – 3670M, about 8 hrs walking, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Gumba Lundang to Lokpa Lokpa 2240M, about – 7 hrs walking, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Chumling to Deng, Overnight stay in Deng 1860M. walking 6 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Deng to Namrung, Overnight Namrung 2630M. Walking 6 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Namrung to Lho, Overnight stay in Lho 2957M. Walking 4 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Lho to Sama Gaun, Overnight stay in Sama Gaun 3530M. Walking 4 hrs, Lodge stay Accommodation.
Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa) Sama Gaun – 4400M. Walking 7 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Sama Gaun to Samdo, Overnight in Samdo – 3865M. walking 3 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Tibet Border) Samdo – 5000M. walking 8 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Samdo to Dharmasala, Overnight stay in Dharmasala – 4460M. Walking 4 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass - 5,160M Bimthang 3590M. walking 10 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Trek Bimthang to Dharapani, Overnight Dharapani 1970M. Walking 7 hrs. Lodge stay Accommodation.
Drive: Dharapani to Kathmandu, Overnight stay in Kathmandu – 1300M. Drive – 10 hrs
Note: Above holiday itinerary can be customized as our guest specific requirements and can make shorter and longer. We design your holidays accordingly.
Note: Mineral water is available at all tea houses (at your own expense), or you can use purified tap water with provided purification tablets.
The trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness and endurance. It involves long walking hours, steep ascents, and high altitudes, especially when crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
Yes, you need three permits:
The trek typically takes 18–22 days, depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, and side trips in the Tsum Valley.
The best time is Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March–May) when the weather is stable, and the views are clear.
Accommodation is in basic teahouses with shared rooms and simple facilities. Hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available at some locations for an extra cost.
This trek is not recommended for beginners. Prior trekking experience and a good fitness level are advised due to high altitudes and demanding terrain.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a down jacket, and personal medications. A detailed checklist should be prepared.
Gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, eating well, and taking prescribed medications like Diamox can help. Your guide will monitor you for symptoms.
Yes, a registered guide and a porter are required for safety and logistical support. Additionally, having a guide is mandatory due to the restricted area.
Yes, the Tsum Valley trek is a detour off the Manaslu Circuit. It is a culturally rich and scenic area, adding a few extra days to the itinerary.
Meals include simple but hearty Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and momos. Vegetarian options are widely available.
The cost varies based on group size, itinerary, and services. On average, the trek costs $1,500–$2,500, including permits, guide/porter wages, accommodation, and meals.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers unique landscapes and cultural experiences, but timing your trek during the right season is crucial for the best experience. Here's a breakdown of the best seasons:
Highlights: Crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and breathtaking mountain views.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes and drop to -5°C to -10°C at higher elevations.
Why it's best: This season is considered the best time for the trek due to pleasant weather, clear visibility, and vibrant landscapes.
Highlights: Blooming rhododendrons, colorful trails, and warm weather.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures vary from 10°C to 25°C in the lower regions, with cooler nights at higher altitudes.
Why it's ideal: The trails are alive with wildflowers, and the weather is mild and stable, perfect for trekking.
Highlights: Peaceful trails and snow-covered peaks.
Temperature: Can drop below -10°C at higher altitudes; lower regions remain around 5°C to 10°C.
Why it’s challenging: Though quieter, the extreme cold and snowfall can make the trek tough. Certain passes, like Larkya La, might be closed.
Highlights: Lush green scenery and fewer crowds.
Temperature: Warm but humid, with daytime temperatures around 15°C to 25°C.
Why it’s less favorable: Heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and leeches can make trekking difficult. However, the Tsum Valley, lying in the rain-shadow region, may still be accessible.
For the best trekking experience with clear views, mild temperatures, and manageable trails, Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March-May) are the ideal seasons.
Packing the right equipment is crucial for a successful trek in the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, as weather conditions can vary by season and altitude. Below is a detailed equipment list tailored for different seasons.
All Seasons
Sleeping Gear
This list ensures you're well-prepared for the challenges and beauty of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek in any season.
Would you like to enjoy this Peace Nepal holiday trip with just your group of friends? Great news! You can book it as a Private Adventure.
Our Private Adventure specialists are ready to provide a quote or discuss options tailored to your group.
We look forward to helping you plan your perfect trip!
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