Trekking in Nepal
Book your travels
+977 9841619019
21 Days
Trekking
Challenging Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek: Remote, elevated, varied landscapes, steep climbs, enriching cultural interactions, awe-inspiring panoramas
5160 M
Kathmandu-Machhakhola
Dharapani-Kathmandu/Pokhara
Minimum: 2 pax
Autumn: Sep / Oct / Nov / Dec Spring: March / April / May
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek presents an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of the Manaslu region, accentuated by the allure of the Tsum Valley. This trek promises a harmonious blend of natural splendor, cultural immersion, and memorable encounters, making it an unparalleled expedition. Traverse majestic mountains, engage with hospitable locals, and unravel the essence of this lesser-explored trekking route.
Nestled in Nepal’s Gorkha district, Tsum Valley boasts a rich cultural and natural heritage, cradled by the Himalayas. Despite its recent opening to trekkers in 2008, the valley remains one of Nepal’s less-frequented trekking destinations.
Renowned for its profound Buddhist customs and culture, the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek showcases numerous monasteries, Chortens, and mani walls adorned with sacred inscriptions. Believed to have been meditated in by the Buddhist saint Milarepa en route to Tibet, the valley is accessed from Machha Khola, starting a gradual ascent through picturesque villages and landscapes.
The circular route of the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek allows for an exploration of both regions. Traverse traditional villages like Chumling, Chhokangparo, Samagaon, and Samdo, and pay homage to ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa. Trek through diverse terrains, including forests, terraced fields, and high mountain passes, offering an enriching experience.
Chumling, the initial village encountered upon entering the Tsum Valley, is characterized by its traditional Tibetan architecture, terraced fields, and hospitable inhabitants. Iconic villages like Chhikangparo boast ancient monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, embodying significant religious and cultural heritage. Nile village, situated near the Tibetan border, hosts the revered Piren Phu cave, believed to have been a meditation site for Milarepa. While not a specific destination, the challenging yet rewarding Larkya La Pass stands as a pivotal highlight, offering awe-inspiring panoramas of the surrounding peaks.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek promises an array of highlights, from panoramic views of towering peaks like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli, to an immersion in the distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture of the region. Crossing the formidable Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters marks a significant milestone, unveiling breathtaking vistas and memories to cherish.
In Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek, an Iconic village Chhikangparo is known for its ancient monasteries, such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, which are significant religious and cultural sites in the region. Visit these monasteries to witness the Buddhist traditions and artistry. Mu Gompa is the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley. It holds great religious importance for the local people. The monastery is perched on a hilltop and provides panoramic views of the valley and the mountains. Inside the monastery, you can observe intricate Buddhist murals, sculptures, and artifacts.
Nile is a beautiful village located near the border of Tibet. It is a center for Tibetan Buddhism and is home to the revered Piren Phu cave. This cave is believed to be a meditation site of the Buddhist saint Milarepa and contains ancient religious artifacts. A visit to the Nile and Piren Phu offers a spiritual and historical experience. While not a specific place, the Larkya La Pass is a significant highlight of the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek.
This high mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and is a challenging but rewarding part of the journey. this Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek Take your time to soak in the panoramic vistas and capture memories of this remarkable experience.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek offers several highlights, including stunning mountain views of peaks like Manaslu (8,156 meters), Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. You’ll immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsum Valley, visit ancient monasteries, and witness religious ceremonies. Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters) is a significant achievement and provides breathtaking panoramic views in Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek is renowned for its strenuous nature. It entails traversing through remote and rugged terrain, characterized by steep ascents and descents. The pinnacle of the trek is the challenging Larkya La Pass, reaching an elevation of 5,135 meters (16,847 feet). Conquering this pass demands adequate acclimatization and physical endurance. While the trail is generally well-marked, certain sections can be rocky and uneven. Thus, prior trekking experience and a high fitness level are essential for an enriching and fulfilling expedition.
Here is the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek outline itinerary, Detail Itinerary has been provided in Itinerary Section.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710m)
Day 4: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m)
Day 5: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m)
Day 6: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2240m)
Day 7: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2386m)
Day 8: Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3010m)
Day 9: Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile (3361m) via Milarepa Cave
Day 10: Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (3700m) and back
Day 11: Trek from Nile to Chumling
Day 12: Trek from Chumling to Deng (1860m)
Day 13: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630m)
Day 14: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3530m)
Day 15: Acclimatization day in Samagaon
Day 16: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3860m)
Day 17: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala/Larkya Base Camp (4460m)
Day 18: Cross Larkya La Pass (5160m) and trek to Bimthang (3720m)
Day 19: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2300m)
Day 20: Trek from Tilije to Tal (1700m) and Drive to Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek offers an opportunity to delve into the enchanting Tibetan-influenced culture of the region. As you traverse through remote villages, you’ll witness the time-honored traditions and lifestyle of ethnic groups like the Tsumbas and Gurungs. The presence of ancient monasteries, Chortens, and prayer flags along the trail adds to the immersive cultural experience, allowing you to witness firsthand the rich heritage that has been preserved for centuries.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek traverses through a spectrum of ecological zones, exhibiting abundant biodiversity. Progressing upwards, trekkers encounter verdant forests teeming with Rhododendron, pine, and oak trees, fostering a diverse array of bird species. The area also harbors elusive wildlife, such as the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and red panda. Renowned for its distinctive flora and fauna, the Tsum Valley offers nature enthusiasts numerous opportunities to marvel at its rich biodiversity.
The weather conditions along the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek fluctuate significantly with altitude. At lower elevations, the climate tends to be temperate, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit). However, as you ascend, temperatures gradually decrease, often dropping below freezing point, particularly at higher altitudes, especially during nighttime. The region experiences distinct seasons, with optimal trekking conditions prevailing during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather tends to be more predictable, characterized by stable conditions and clear skies, making it ideal for trekking.
To embark on the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek, it’s crucial to prepare the right gear. Essential items include durable trekking boots, moisture-wicking and fast-drying clothing layers, insulated garments for colder weather, waterproof and windproof outer shell jackets and pants, headwear, and gloves for protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, a backpack equipped with a rain cover, a water bottle or hydration bladder, trekking poles for stability, a sleeping bag suitable for lower temperatures, a comprehensive first aid kit, water purification tablets or a filter, energy-rich snacks, and a camera to immortalize the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural encounters.
The trek is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness. Prior hiking experience and a regular exercise regimen are recommended. It’s essential to be well-prepared with proper trekking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing, and a suitable backpack.
Our team from Touch the Himalaya ensures that your meals are taken care of during the trek. Our teahouses serve delectable and nourishing dishes to sustain you throughout the journey. You’ll savor a diverse range of local and international cuisine, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and Thukpa (noodle soup). Additionally, we offer Western-style options such as pasta, eggs, and sandwiches. Our skilled chefs meticulously prepare each meal with attention to detail and adhere to strict hygiene standards to prioritize your well-being. Tsum Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek
To enrich your trekking adventure and prioritize your safety, we offer seasoned and well-informed guides to accompany you on the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek. Our guides possess extensive knowledge of the local culture, geography, and trekking paths. They provide valuable insights into the region’s history, biodiversity, and traditions, adding depth to your expedition. With their expertise, you can traverse the trail with assurance and fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor and cultural heritage of the Tsum Valley.
Ensuring your safety is our top priority. We strongly advise all trekkers to obtain travel insurance that specifically covers high-altitude trekking. This insurance should include provisions for emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability coverage. Our team is here to help you understand the specific insurance requirements and ensure that your policy adequately protects you throughout the Tsum Valley-Manaslu Trek. Your well-being matters most to us, and we want you to embark on this adventure with full confidence and peace of mind.
Before setting off on the Tsum Valley-Manaslu Trek, acquiring the requisite permits is essential. These permits are indispensable for ensuring a seamless and lawful journey through this captivating region. Our team is highly knowledgeable about the permit application process and will guide you through obtaining the necessary documents. Trust us with this task, and we will guarantee a hassle-free experience, enabling you to fully indulge in the marvels of the Tsum Valley.
We take care of the paperwork and ensure that you have all the required PERMITS before commencing the trek. As part of our comprehensive services, we manage all the necessary PERMITS required for the Tsum Valley-Manaslu Trek. This typically involves securing permits such as the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
Additionally, after crossing the Larkya La pass, we transition into the Annapurna Region, necessitating the acquisition of an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits are indispensable for trekking in the region and play a vital role in the conservation endeavors of the area. We handle all the paperwork involved, ensuring that you are fully equipped with all the requisite permits before embarking on the trek.
At Touch the Himalaya, we guarantee an exceptional adventure throughout your Tsum Valley-Manaslu Trek. Our exceptional amenities, delightful cuisine, experienced guides, insurance guidance, and essential permits guarantee a seamless and memorable expedition. With our dedicated team, your safety, contentment, and delight take precedence as you explore the awe-inspiring scenery and cultural marvels of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu region. Explore our trip grading details and refer to our booking process for any inquiries regarding reservations please check our Booking Procedure
The difficulty and grading of the trip is available here.
Any confusion can be addressed if you visit our booking process.
Trip can't be compare with else with Touch The Himalaya by flying half an hour Helicopter then trek to Tsum Valley and Manaslu all in 12 Days was an amazing trip in my life. The whole team took care about every single detail to make the trek unforgettable! Our guide Madan and his crew Kumar and Bishnu booked the best accommodation available in the town during our trip, my girl friend she was having difficulty adjusting the altitude when we were over 5000 Meter and we
(me and my girl) nearly decided to be back from before the Larke pass, Madan and his team empowered us, suggested some altitude adjustment ideas, Bishnu and Kumar supported and finally we succeed the mission Larke Pass, so that we all reached the destination safely. It was a great and lifetime experience. would like to thank Touch The Himalaya and all entire team who helped us to organize such an amazing nature.
I don’t normally write reviews but I would just like to let people know of my experiences with Touch the Himalaya and its staff.
I completed the Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley trek in March/ April this year. I had a 21 day holiday, meeting my 18 year old son who was travelling in India and Nepal for a gap year.
I contacted Madan as I was looking to do the Manaslu circuit a couple of months before I left and he was prompt in his email replies, informative and consistently helpful. He was clear with his very reasonable pricing and was happy to go along with my requests and to offer me options and possible itineraries. I was initially looking to hire a guide only and then due to a last minute low back problem Madan was flexible in organising a porter as well at short notice. Madan was happy for me to sort my own accommodation as I am used to travelling independently.
From arrival to departure at Kathmandu airport my service from Touch the Himalaya was faultless, making my stay fantastic. My guide Thakur picked me up from the airport and gave me a lift to my hotel, I met up with Madan and Thakur in Kathmandu the next day with all permits and permissions organised and we travelled by bus to the start of the trek. Myself and my son stayed with Thakur and his family in his family home on the first night as his home village was at the start of the trek. Next day we met our porter Ram who comes from the next village.
The next three weeks of trekking was everything I had hoped. We had a fantastic time and Thakur and Ram were a great partnership, both being local and knowing the route well. Thakur as guide was informative, helpful and always attentive to our needs and looking to make things run smoothly. Thakur also works as a city tour guide in Kathmandu and so had in depth knowledge on culture, customs and religions as well as helping me with my Nepali which I was keen to improve. Ram was constantly cheerful and helpful both trekking or in the evenings exchanging Nepali and UK card games. Thakur and Ram also knew the lodge owners and we were always made to feel welcome and comfortable (I would class the high camp at Dharamsala slightly differently as everyone has to stay in the one place where facilities are basic but that’s just how it is and I think there are plans afoot to improve this). We were free to trek at our own pace and Thakur was always keen to accede to our requests – for example we managed a side trip to Manaslu base camp for acclimatisation (4900m) although the route was pretty snowy and no one had been up there for a few days.
I particularly liked Thakur and Ram’s flexible and can do attitude and honesty. If I asked Thakur a question he didn’t know the answer to he was honest in his reply, and always did his best to find out.
Madan, Thakur and Ram are all from the Manaslu region. They were always scrupulously honest in our dealings and were helpful to my son after I left Nepal and he stayed on travelling.
Recommendations:
Tsum valley is well worth the trip if you have time.
Travel light – you can probably live without it. I would recommend Shona’s in Thamel for gear if you need anything in Kathmandu – great quality nepali made down jackets, fixed prices.
Pack of cards
Side trip to Pungyen Gompa, we did it from Shyala to Samagoan.
I was very pleased that we booked Ram as a porter – once I had swallowed my pride of not carrying my own gear, you’re supporting the local economy and it definitely made my trekking experience better. Obviously, it depends on your finances.
I have previously trekked independently Annapurna circuit 1986, Everest, Arun Valley, Annapurna 1997 and was initially wary about having to book a guide for Manaslu but I needn’t have worried – it enhanced rather than impinged on my trekking experience.
In conclusion I would heartily recommend:
Touch the Himalaya and Madan Neupane for organising your trek or any other adventure you are planning in Nepal.
Thakur Prasad as your guide
Ram Neupane as your porter
Steve Hunter, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Date of experience: March 2018
Touch The Himalaya's were immediately a very professional organisation. They provided us with a great price and discussed all the minute details of a trek up and down Tsum Valley, an offshoot of the Manaslu circuit trek.
The highlight of our experience with this company was the guide that they supplied, Bikram.
Bikram was an outstanding guide. With years of experience under his belt, and a relaxed, yet safe attitude, he was the perfect suit. Bikram made sure that we were always given the best deal everywhere we stopped and matched our fitness levels with the length/difficulty of each day.
Make sure that you ask for Bikram for whichever trek you decide to undertake.
Cheers from the kiwis;
If you are looking for a guide for the Manaslu circuit, we highly recommand you Rajesh Neupane from Touch the Himalaya. We did a 21 day trek of the Tsum valley and Manaslu circuit with a day trek to the Manaslu basecamp (which we highly suggest you to do).
Being from the Manaslu area, he is very knowledgable about the trek. He has being very welcoming form the moment he picked us up at the airport to the moment we left the country. The agency took care of all the details concerning the permits for the trekking so the organization of the trek was very easy for us. During the treck, we could see that the other guides would rely on him for advices most of the time. He always try to find you the best places to eat and sleep. Also, since he is fluent in english, the communication was easy. The only thing is that he is very popular so make sure in advance he is available for your trek.
Don’t hesitate to hire his as your guide, you won’t regret it!
Guillaume and Emilie
Date of experience: October 2014
@2011-2024, Touch The Himalaya Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. || ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ||
