Tsum Valley &

Manaslu Circuit Trek

SUMMARY

Trade the familiar for the truly remarkable. This isn't simply a trek; it's a passage into a world where ancient whispers echo through remote monasteries, where the air hums with the energy of towering peaks, and where the vibrant tapestry of Tibetan-influenced culture unfolds before your eyes. We're inviting you to explore the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit, a journey that transcends the ordinary, a chance to truly connect with the soul of Nepal.

Here, you'll step off the well-worn path, exploring one of Nepal's most remote and culturally rich regions. Traverse landscapes that feel untouched, where the raw beauty of the Himalayas takes your breath away at every turn. Feel the quiet reverence as you wander through ancient Buddhist monasteries, each stone and prayer flag a testament to centuries of tradition.

But this trek offers more than just stunning scenery. It's about the connections you'll forge along the way. Share warm cups of tea with the communities of Tsum Valley, their lives woven into the fabric of the mountains, their stories as captivating as the landscapes that surround them. Witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged, a glimpse into a world where ancient traditions thrive.

We understand that you're seeking an experience, not just a trip. Whether you're drawn by the thrill of high-altitude trekking, the allure of cultural immersion, or simply the desire to witness breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, this itinerary offers an unparalleled adventure.

And because we believe that the best journeys begin and end with a sense of place, we've designed this experience to start and conclude in the vibrant heart of Kathmandu. From the bustling streets of the capital to the serene heights of the Himalayas, this trek is a complete immersion into the magic of Nepal.

We're inviting you to join us on a personal odyssey, a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us guide you through the hidden valleys and towering peaks of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit, and let the magic of Nepal work its wonder on your soul.

Are you ready to answer the call of the mountains?

TREK OVERVIEW

Arrival city: Kathmandu

Meals: 19 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 17 dinners

Activity: Hiking

Maximum Altitude: 5,106 m / 16,752 ft

Trek Grade: Hard

Duration: 20 days

Price from: <TBC>*

*per person. Varies per itinerary and time of year

    • English speaking professional mountain guide

    • Porter

    • All government and local taxes

    • A comprehensive medical kit

    • Three meals a day

    • All necessary paperwork and permits (MCAP / ACAP / Special permit)

    • Trekking Map

    • All ground private transportation 

    • Excess baggage charges

    • International airfare to and from Kathmandu

    • Travel and rescue insurance

    • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, shower etc) tip for staff

    • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and incase of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary

ITINERARY

We want you to fully embrace the breathtaking beauty of the Tsum Valley, and Manaslu Circuit, knowing you're in good hands. To that end, we've prioritized proper acclimatization in our itinerary, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure. We also understand that your journey is personal, so we offer flexibility to tailor it to your schedule and preferences. Your expert guide, with their intimate knowledge of the region, will also be there to adapt the plan based on weather or your fitness, guaranteeing the best possible experience in this remarkable corner of Nepal.

  • Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, and prepare for the trek. In the evening, a welcome dinner will introduce you to traditional Nepali cuisine.

  • Explore Kathmandu’s cultural treasures, including Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcase Nepal’s deep-rooted history and spirituality. Later, we’ll conduct a detailed trek briefing, check gear, and finalize trekking permits.

  • An early morning drive takes us through scenic countryside, terraced fields, and rolling hills before reaching Machha Khola, a riverside village marking the beginning of our trek.

  • Crossing various suspension bridges, we make our way past terraced fields and hot springs, stopping at Tatopani for a quick break. The trail ascends to Chisapani, a picturesque hilltop village.

  • Leaving the main Manaslu Circuit trail, we enter the hidden world of Tsum Valley. The trek winds through rhododendron forests and terraced slopes before reaching Chumling, a traditional Tibetan village.

  • We continue deeper into Tsum Valley, passing quaint stone houses, mani walls, and chortens adorned with prayer flags. The towering peaks of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli dominate the horizon as we reach Chhokang Paro.

  • Today’s trek leads us to Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in Tsum Valley, nestled at the base of the snow-capped peaks. This spiritual haven offers insight into the region’s rich Buddhist traditions and stunning mountain vistas.

  • After exploring Mu Gompa, we descend to Rachen Gompa, a significant nunnery in the valley. The journey provides a deep cultural immersion as we interact with local monks and nuns.

  • A scenic yet challenging trek takes us through deep forests and remote hamlets, eventually leading to Gumba Lungdang, a serene monastery with panoramic Himalayan views.

  • We retrace our steps and leave Tsum Valley, rejoining the Manaslu Circuit Trail at Lokpa.

  • Rejoining the Budhi Gandaki River, we ascend past waterfalls and deep gorges. Namrung offers breathtaking views of Siringi Himal and Ganesh Himal.

  • A scenic day’s walk takes us through Tibetan-influenced villages and ancient Buddhist shrines, leading to Lho, where we’ll visit the stunning Ribung Monastery.

  • As we gain altitude, the trail opens to vast pastures with stunning views of Manaslu (8,163m). Samagaun is a cultural hub with rich Tibetan heritage.

  • We spend the day exploring, with an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) or Birendra Lake for acclimatization.

  • A short trek leads to Samdo, the last major village before Larke Pass, providing a great opportunity to observe Tibetan culture.

  • Ascending through alpine landscapes, we reach Dharamsala (Larke Phedi), the staging point for crossing Larke Pass.

  • A demanding but rewarding day, as we cross Larke Pass, offering jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II before descending to Bimtang.

  • A long descent through lush forests leads to Dharapani, where we conclude the trekking portion of our adventure.

  • A scenic drive back to Kathmandu offers a chance to reflect on the incredible journey before a celebratory farewell dinner.

  • After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

 

Want to learn more?

Submit an enquiry and we’ll be in touch with more information.

A Buddhist stupa with a golden spire located in a mountainous landscape, accompanied by a vertical pole with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
Children in a mountainous landscape with snowy peaks and rocky foreground in Nepal.
Snow-capped mountains with a valley and building below
Mountain village scene with stone structures and wooden fences, snowy peaks in background, clear blue sky.
Himalayan village with stone houses, prayer flags, and mountain backdrop
Scenic view of snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky, with forested slopes on either side.
Scenic view of a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks and a traditional stone structure in the foreground.
Snow-covered mountain range with a valley and scattered small stone buildings under a clear blue sky.