The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek combines two of Nepal's most spectacular restricted area treks into one extraordinary journey through pristine Buddhist valleys and over high mountain passes. This 20-day adventure takes you around the world's eighth-highest peak while exploring the sacred "Valley of Happiness," where ancient Tibetan culture thrives untouched by modern influences.
Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, this combined trek offers authentic cultural encounters in remote villages, challenging high-altitude passes, and jaw-dropping mountain scenery that few travelers experience. From the dramatic Budhi Gandaki Gorge to the prayer flag-adorned Larkya La pass at 5,106 meters, every day brings new wonders that showcase why this route is considered Nepal's best-kept trekking secret.
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek creates a comprehensive Himalayan experience by combining two distinct trekking regions. The journey typically begins in Arughat or Soti Khola, following the Budhi Gandaki River northward. After three days, the trail diverges into the restricted Tsum Valley, where you'll spend a week exploring this hidden Buddhist sanctuary before returning to complete the classic Manaslu Circuit.
The total distance covers approximately 230 kilometers of diverse terrain, from subtropical forests to high-altitude glacial valleys. The route includes everything from narrow gorge trails carved into cliff faces to wide alpine meadows beneath towering peaks. Trekkers exit via Dharapani, connecting to the Annapurna Circuit trail, or continue to Besisahar for transportation back to Kathmandu.
The combined nature of this trek offers incredible variety:
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek requires multiple permits due to its restricted area status:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP):
Tsum Valley Permit:
Conservation Area Permits:
Additional Fees:
Budget Package (USD 1,800-2,200):
Standard Package (USD 2,200-2,800):
Premium Package (USD 2,800-3,500):
The restricted area permit Manaslu regulations require a minimum of two trekkers and a registered guide, making solo trekking impossible in these regions.
The teahouse accommodation Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit has improved significantly in recent years:
The menu options decrease as altitude increases, but you'll find:
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is rated moderate to challenging, requiring good physical fitness and mental preparation:
The Larke La altitude 5106 m represents the trek's highest point:
Start training 2-3 months before departure:
More challenging than:
Similar to or easier than:
Choosing the right season for your Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek significantly impacts the experience:
Advantages:
Considerations:
Peak trekking conditions:
Why autumn is ideal:
Unique advantages:
Challenges:
For experienced trekkers:
Serious considerations:
The Tsum Valley culture represents one of Nepal's most authentic Tibetan Buddhist societies:
The Buddhist monastery in Tsum Valley circuit includes:
The indigenous inhabitants maintain unique traditions:
Beyond Tsum Valley, experience:
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit supports:
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek awaits with its perfect blend of high-altitude challenge, cultural immersion, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Don't let permit complexities or logistics concerns hold you back from experiencing this incredible journey.
Book your trek with Himalayan Hero Adventures, specialists in Nepal remote trekking who handle all permits, provide experienced local guides, and ensure your safety throughout this restricted area adventure. With our deep knowledge of both Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions, competitive pricing, and commitment to sustainable tourism, we'll transform your Himalayan dreams into unforgettable memories. Contact us today to secure your spot for the upcoming season – limited permits mean early booking is essential!
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport, one representative from Himalaya Hero Adventure will receive you and transfer you to the hotel in our private vehicle. Reaching hotel, after hotel check-in, take full rest! Later, we will conduct a short introductory meeting with the team members and our trekking guide at our office. After meeting, if you have time, then you can visit to Thamel area. This area is popular for doing trekking shopping. In the evening, enjoy our welcome dinner in a Nepali restaurant. You will have the chance to taste the real Nepali cuisine! Night stay in the hotel. Dinner Included.
After enjoying morning breakfast at the hotel, get ready for today’s short historical and religious trip around the Kathmandu valley. Pashupatinath temple, Swayambhunath temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square are our today's’ destination. These popular tourist attractions are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage sites too. These heritages represent the unique architectural integrity, ancient art, and brief history of Nepal. You will enjoy the cultural quintessence, paintings, sculptures, and artistically lavish palaces. Returning from the short trip, you will be provided detail information regarding trekking equipment and challenges by our trekking guide. You can buy lacking equipment from Thamel area. Night stay in the hotel. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Traveling Duration: 8 to 9 hours Your trekking journey begins from here! After having breakfast and hotel check-out, we will drive to Machha Khola in a private tourist vehicle. At the initial driving, we will drive on paved roads up to Dhading Besi (the district headquarters of Dhading) and then for remaining hours, we will drive on a rougher surface till we reach Machha Khola. Explore the place and take full rest! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours At first, we will cross the Machha Khola and Khorlabesi river and then pass through the Tatopani. Tatopani is popular for hot bath. Travelers passing Tatopani usually take hot water bath at the pond once. The trail then passes through a forested area until we cross the Dovan Khola. From Dovan Khola we follow the trail towards the Budi Gandaki River. Witness the views of Himalayas and landscapes, we reach Jagat. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 4 to 5 hours In the beginning part of today’s trek, we ascend over a rocky ridge to Salleri and then descend to Sirdibas through plain path. The continuous walk widens up the valley as we reach Ghatta Khola. Further climb takes us to Philim; a village largely inhabited by Gurung community. From Philim, we will walk towards the north across a forest enjoying the views of valley to reach Chisopani. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours The day is challenging as you have to walk in ascending path up to Chumlimg. At the initial stage, the trail crosses the gorge and dense forested area filled with rhododendron and pine trees. On the way, you will enjoy the view of beautiful waterfall and panoramic view of mountains. We will then pass through a village called Lokpa from where we have to descend to Lungwa Khola. From here, ascending for two hours we reach Gumling and after crossing the Siyar Khola, finally, we arrive at Chumling. Chumling is the lower Tsum valley which is located at the south face of the Shringi Himal from where you will enjoy the majestic view of Shringi Himal. Reaching Chumling, you can make a visit to Chumling Gompa and stroll around the stone streets of the village! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 4 to 5 hours After having breakfast at Chumling, we will move towards the trail of Chokhangparo by crossing the suspension bridge on the opposite bank of the river. Today’s trail passes through the terraced fields, Rainjam and crosses forest area, Serpu Khola, long suspension bridges. Then, you have to climb for 2 hours on well-graded exposed route towards upper Tsum valley to reach the village of Chokhangparo. On the way, you will enjoy the views of Ganesh Himal. Reaching the flat land of Chkhangparo, witness the majestic views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours From today, you might get the symptoms of altitude sickness. Continuing our walk from Chokhangparo to small villages, we first climb over a ridge of chortens then, pass Lama Gaon through the flat fields, cross the Shiyar Khola, and pass through settlements of Phurbe and Pangdun. To reach Nile which is the last village heading north in the upper Tsum valley, we cross a suspension bridge. On the way, you will enjoy the scene of traditional village settings. We will visit the Rachen Gompa on the way to Nile. Explore the village which have traditional style houses with livestock compounds! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours After having breakfast, we will head towards the west bank of the valley through the Tibetan landscapes. then, we will climb to Mu Gompa which is the largest monastery of the Manaslu region. This Gompa lies at the highest part of the Tsum valley which offers you mesmerizing views of landscapes and Himalayas. The Gompa lies in the remotest part of the valley. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hoursToday, we will retrace our walk towards Chumling. After having breakfast, we will head to the village of Chumling following the earlier trail. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours After having breakfast, we will trek to Deng. Within 7 to 8 hours of walking in the terraced and descending path, we reach Deng. Several small yet, attractive villages will pop out on the way. Enjoy the views and interact with local people throughout your journey in Manaslu region which will add amusement in your voyage! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours Today, we climb steeply for some time and then descend to cross the river. Walking further to the trail, you will pass some small settlements and then climb up to an amazing valley. You will encounter Mani-walls carved into pavement rocks. Reaching Namrung, roam around the villages! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 4 to 5 hours Today, you will get a first magnificent glimpse of Manaslu North and Manaslu. After having breakfast, we will climb steadily into the high-altitude. Crossing small settlements and light forested areas, we reach Lho Gham. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours Today’s trail follows a lateral moraine of Pungen towards Samagaon. After having breakfast, we will head up towards the village of Lho. You will pass the stone gate and the Mani-walls of the village. You will witness a very close view of Manaslu before reaching Samagaon. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
The first day for acclimatizing with the higher altitude as we will pass Larkya La Pass after few days. Today, we will hike up to the Manaslu Base Camp which will take 6 to 7 hours. For adopting with higher altitude, being physically active through the day and keeping body hydrated is recommended to every trekker. Explore the village and interact with locals! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 2 to 3 hours After having breakfast, we will gradually ascend towards the valley crossing grassland areas. Samdo is a Tibetan refugee village which lies in the remotest part of Tsum valley. Reaching Samdo, we will witness the wonderful vistas of many mountains including Manaslu. Explore the village! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 3 to 4 hours From Samdo, we will cross a couple of streams to reach the Larkya Bazaar. Further trail leads us to Dharmashala. Night stay in the lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 7 to 8 hours We recommend you to stay hydrated and remain with the team throughout the trek to Bhimphedi. We will cross the highest point of the Manaslu Tsum valley trek which lies at an elevation of 5,106 meters. We will climb Cho Chand and then head uphill towards snowy Larkya La Pass. From the top of the pass, you will witness the panoramic view of Cheo Himal (6,820m), Himlung Himal (7,126m), Kang Kuru (6,981m), Annapurna II (7,937m), and Gyagi Kung. Enjoying the breath-taking views of mountains, we will descend through the moraines to Bhimphedi. Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Trekking Duration: 4 to 5 hours The trail at an initial point gently climbs through the paddy fields and pass through the small Karcha La Pass. Then the trail descends through the forested areas which is filled with rhododendron and fig trees to reach Tilje. Explore around the village and take full rest! Night stay in the Tea house. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Traveling Duration: 2 hours and Trekking Duration: 8 to 9 hours Following the downhill path, we reach Dharapani. We will take lunch at Dharapani and then drive back to Kathmandu valley by private vehicle. Traveling towards the valley, re-witness the scene of landscapes, green environment, and Himalayas. After reaching the hotel, hotel check-in. Take rest for a while! If you wish, stroll around the delightful area; Thamel of the valley and buy gifts for your loved ones or family members! Night stay in the hotel. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
After having morning breakfast and hotel checkout, you will be transferred to the Kathmandu International airport by one of our representatives. It is best to reach at the airport before three hours of your flight time. Have a safe journey ahead!
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek requires multiple permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (USD 75-100 for first week), Tsum Valley Permit (USD 30-40 per week), MCAP and ACAP conservation permits (USD 30 each), Chumnubri Municipality Fee (USD 20), and TIMS card (USD 20). Total permit costs range from USD 250-300 depending on season and duration.
Total costs for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek range from USD 1,800-3,500 per person. Budget packages start at USD 1,800 including all permits, guide, basic accommodation, and meals. Standard packages (USD 2,200-2,800) add comfort and better services, while premium options reach USD 3,500 with senior guides and flexibility.
The trek is rated moderate to challenging. The Larke La altitude 5106 m makes it demanding, requiring good fitness and acclimatization. Daily walks average 6-7 hours on varied terrain. The pass crossing day involves 8-9 hours of steep climbing and descent. Previous trekking experience helps but isn't mandatory with proper preparation.
No, the restricted area permit Manaslu regulations require a registered guide for both regions. Solo trekking is prohibited, and minimum two trekkers must travel together. This rule ensures safety and cultural sensitivity in these remote areas. Guides also handle permit checkpoints and provide valuable cultural insights.
The Larkya La pass sits at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), making it the highest point of the trek. Crossing typically starts before dawn to avoid afternoon winds. The pass offers spectacular views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II on clear days.
Best seasons are autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). Autumn offers the most stable weather for crossing Larkya La pass, while spring features rhododendron blooms and Tsum Valley culture festivals. Winter is possible but extremely cold, and monsoon brings rain to lower elevations.
Essential gear includes: -15°C sleeping bag Layered clothing system (base layers, fleece, down jacket, rain gear) Sturdy trekking boots and camp shoes Trekking poles (essential for pass crossing) Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+) First aid kit and medications Water purification tablets Headlamp and batteries
Yes, teahouse accommodation Tsum Valley is available throughout the trek. Basic lodges offer twin-bed rooms, shared bathrooms, and common dining areas. Quality varies but improves yearly. Hot showers and charging facilities available for small fees. No camping required, making the trek more accessible.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory. The remote location and high altitude of Larke La altitude 5106 m make emergency evacuation expensive (USD 4,000-6,000). Ensure your policy covers trekking up to 5,200m and includes rescue and medical expenses.
The complete Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek takes 20 days including transportation. This includes 7 days exploring Tsum Valley and 13 days completing the Manaslu Circuit. Shorter 16-17 day options skip some valley exploration, while 23-25 day itineraries add rest days and side trips.