Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is a wonderful trekking destination in remote mountains of Nepal.

Trip Facts

duration Duration 21 days
trip-difficulty Trip Difficulty Difficult
trip-difficulty Highest Point 4750 M
trip-code Trip Code MTVT
trip-code Start Point Kathmandu
trip-start-point Trip End Point Kathmandu
trip-accomodation Accomodation As Mentioned
trip-meals Meals As mentioned
transportation Transportation As mentioned

Trip Highlights

  • Diversified unspoiled Ecosystems.
  • Both geographically spectacular and culturally fascinating.
  • This valley has a unique cultural blend of Tibetan, less tourist, Nepali people, and their lifestyles.
  • Fantastic views of Mt. Manasalu, Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Ganesh and others, Larkya La Pass. (5,153m)
  • The fantastic hidden land that Guru Rinpoche and Milarepa visited for meditation in several caves.
  • Customs are almost exclusively Tibetan, with several Buddhist Mani walls, ancient Buddhist monasteries and Nunnery, and picturesque villages with traditional houses.

Trip Overview

Trekking to hidden treasure Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a 17 day trekking destination on the lap of Manaslu Himal. Situated in northern Gorkha around the Manaslu Base Camp, you will pass through Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail to reach Tsum Valley. It is also a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage, especially for Buddhists. The valley is rich in ancient art and culture, and extremely beautiful Himalayan scenery can be seen from Tsum Valley.

Manaslu Tsum Valley trek offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful mountains. Such mountains include Shringi, Ngadi Chuli, Buddha Himal, Annapurna range, Ganesh Himal, etc. The ancient villages and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries are untouched and are waiting to be explored. From the forests, teeming with life, at the beginning of the trail, to the barren, rocky highlands above the clouds, you will constantly be amazed.

Tsum Valley Trek takes visitors to the hidden valley of Tsum meaning “vivid” home to the direct descendant Tibetan people known as Tsumbas. The local people are mostly of Tibetan origin and speak a unique dialect. This region is relatively virgin with less beaten paths. Tsum Valley creates the world's one of the few untouched and isolated natural beauties. As the Tsum Valley trek has tough geographical conditions, there has been very little development. Because of that, you can still explore the unique cultures centuries old.

Manaslu Tsum Valley is one of the moderate difficulty levels of the trek in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It is an ideal trek for beginners with a normal fitness level to explore the isolated villages of Nepal. Tsum Valley Trekking is a pure trekking destination in Nepal where modernization and commercialization have not touched the purity of the environment. During the trek, you will stay overnight at the local teahouse and lodges. Remote Tsum valley trek lies 100 Km northwest of Kathmandu offering rich culture and amazing snow-capped mountain ranges.

Manaslu Tsum valley trek is a hidden treasure trekking destination in Nepal. It is believed to be one of Buddhism's sacred hidden valleys, where spiritual progress is facilitated, and where you will find old monasteries. The Tsum Valley Trekking trail takes you across the Tsum Valley, an undiscovered land located in the remote corner of Nepal and it is a new trek. It is a hidden gem of Nepal located at an elevation from 1,905 meters in Lhokpa to over 5,093 meters at Ngula Dhojhyang Pass on the Tibetan border. Additionally, Manaslu Circuit Trek can also be done with the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.

Related read: Trekking Gear Checklist

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Facts

Trek

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Trek Type

Teahouse and Lodge Trek

Duration

21 Days

Highest Elevation

4750 m at Samagaun

Start/Finish

Kathmandu

Difficulty

Strenuous

Total Trekking Distance

170 - 240 KM

Best Time to Trek

  • Spring (March, April, May)

  • Autumn (September, October, November)

Accommodation

Lodges

Average Trekking Per Day

6-7 Hours

Permits Required

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit

  • TIMS Card

  • Tsum Valley Special Permit

Route: Kathmandu - Machhakhola - Jagat - Lokpa -Chhokangparo - Nile - Lamagaun - Lokpa - Deng - Namrung - Lho Gaun - Sama Gaun- Samdo - Dharmashala -  Bhimtang - Tilje - Dharapani - Kathmandu

 

Best Time for Tsum Valley Trek

Trekking is suitable all around the year. March, April, and May are one of the best times for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. During these months of the year, you can witness the amazing rhododendron flowers blooming around the trekking region. These months are also the best time for trekking in any part of Nepal. The weather is warm and amazing views of the mountains and the valleys can be seen due to the high visibility during these months of the year. From March to May, the weather is clear with very little rainfall and the flowers blooming on the trails.

September, October, and November are regarded as the best times to travel to this hidden valley. There is a very low chance of rainfall during these months of the year. Meanwhile, during December, the chances of snowfall are very high. It is neither too hot nor too cold, the sky is blue and the views of the snow mountains are clear.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

The village of Arughat is in two parts, on opposite sides of the Buri Gandaki. Arughat Bazaar is large, clean and prosperous with hotels and shops selling clothes, food and hardware. You will drive further to reach Soti Khola. The Starting Point of the trek. Macchakhola lies at an elevation of 869 meters above sea level and you will pass through the Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail to reach this village. Along the route, you will pass through paved stones along with main walls and high overlooks over rivers. Then you will reach the appealing village of Jagat which lies on the west side of the Budhi Gandaki River. 

The trek throughout is a very pleasant one. You will pass by Ekle Bhatti where the trail separates Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek. As you trek, you will notice the welcome board and move towards Lokpa. The trek can be good as you can observe the snowy cones of Mt. Ganesh and Mt. Shringi. The route takes you descending to the Lungwa River valley as you climb through the dense tropical forests of rhododendron, juniper, and pine. The route takes you to Gumling where you only capture the serene nature. Shortly, you will cross the Syar Khola again, arriving at the village of Chumling.  From Chhokang Paro, the Ganesh Himal range can be seen directly to the south where it provides superb views of the Baudha and Himal Chuli peaks to the southwest.

The Nile is the last village at the top of Tsum valley. On the way, we will go to Piren Phu cave which is additionally one of the holiest caves in the Tsum valley. The cave gives a mind-boggling view of Shiar Khola, Rachen Gumba, and beautiful settlements in the middle of extensive agricultural land. The Mu Gompa lies on the highest and the most remote part of the Tsum Valley. At the monastery, you can see monks busy in their daily routines and the breathtaking view of the border of Tibet. You will trek the same route back to Dharapani from where you will take a drive back to Kathmandu.

Related read: How to deal with altitude sickness?

Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley Trekking Trails are strewn with artistic Chortens and lined with Mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with drawings of deities and inscribed with prayers. The people here never slaughter animals, even as a sacrifice to the gods. The lush and wild landscape of Tsum Valley passes through magnificent deep gorges, hamlets, gompas, chortens, and the glittering snow on the apex touching the mountain peak.  As we leave the main Manaslu Trail for the Tsum Valley, suddenly we get a feeling of entering truly into the hidden valley.

Manaslu Region of Nepal

Manaslu Region is one of the least explored trekking trails in Nepal. Manaslu region trek is one of the most adorable treks in the Himalayas. The most popular trek in the Manaslu region includes the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Meanwhile, Larkya La Pass is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek. Trek along the less traveled trails through rural Nepal with epic views that have to be seen in all their glory. With few visitors encountered along the way, this region offers a very different experience from treks in the Everest and Annapurna regions which receive the largest number of trekkers. However, the trek around Manaslu touches unspoiled regions since it was off-limits until recently. Now open to organized trekking parties only, the area offers a good mix of cultural diversity and fantastic mountain scenery.

If our trip itinerary doesn't suit your holiday schedule or you wish to modify the itinerary then feel free to inbox us. We want our valuable guests to enjoy their travel according to their needs and wills. We provide a variety of packages for student groups/family groups/corporate teams and many more.  Each travel package is different according to the group size and the demand of the guests. We are also more than happy if you combine it with any travel plans, please let us know and we'll create a tailor-made itinerary, designed especially for your travel group.

Related read: Best Adventure Tours in Nepal

What to expect from the Manasalu Tsum Valley trek?

Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is a fusion of incredible places in the diverse mountain regions of Nepal. The trek passes through beautiful valleys, cultural villages, rivers, waterfalls, and mindblowing vantage points. During this trek, you will get to explore the remote lifestyle of the mountain region, besides the impeccable Himalayan ranges in sight. 

Tsum Valley has uncountable attractions which could capture your heart. The people from Tsum Valley could be your best experience of the trip. Helpful people with polite behavior could make you visit twice. The natural beauty from Lokpa to Mu Gompa is the second best thing to explore in Tsum Valley.

Walking through the alpine forest beside the fast-flowing river and white mountains makes a perfect trip to the Himalayas. Buddhist monasteries and local culture from Tsum Valley are the next attractions to visit there. Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa are two major notable monasteries of Tsum Valley. Himalayan ranges on both side from Chhokang Paro to Mu Gompa makes Tsum Valley a heaven in earth. Local Yak and dairy products are must-try food in Tsum.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

Kathmandu Arrival | Welcome to Nepal!

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you in typical Nepali style at Kathmandu airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, we will meet at the hotel for a coffee talk and brief you on the details of your upcoming program. 

Extra activity that you can participate in Kathmandu during your Cultural Tour, let us know your preference in advance so you can schedule the program accordingly and book as needed.  

  • Everest Mountain Flight (It is a 1-hour flight (scheduled at 6:30 AM) with a breathtaking view of the mountain range.) (USD 220 PP)

  • Gosaikunda Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu. (USD 300 PP)

  • Everest Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu with Kala Patthar Landing. (USD 1100 PP)

duration 30 Min.
ascent 1350 M
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals N/A
Day 02

Kathmandu Cultural Sightseeing.

At. 08:30 AM: Have your morning meal and get ready for your cultural tour, you will devote your full day to cultural sightseeing inside Kathmandu valley.  Explore the Pashupatinath Temple devoted to Lord Shiva which is famous for its awe-spiring and amazing pagoda architecture. Visit Boudhanath stupa, where you will be welcomed by the divine smell of incense and the cooing and grunting of pigeons. After arriving at the Boudhanath stupa the divine aura will declare peace among people's souls. You can also enjoy the rooftop view of the entire place while sipping aromatic coffee and yummy food.

Pay a visit to the ancient Buddhist complex Swayambhunath stupa also known as the Monkey temple. At last, you will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the ancient palace of the Malla kingdom. Kasthamandap, Gaddi Baithak, Kaal Bhairav Statue, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and several other Pagodas are the things to explore around durbar square. If you need anything for your upcoming trek you can do shopping at Thamel. You will be dropped back at your hotel in a private vehicle. 

duration 3-4 Hours
ascent 1350 M
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B
Day 03

Drive to Machhakhola

At 06:30 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and be ready for your drive to Machhakhola. Machhakhola is about 160 KM far from Kathmandu, it takes Approx. 6-7 hours of driving to reach there. First, check in at your hotel. You will get a few hours to buy your required things for the trek if needed. If not, you can explore the surrounding area and take a rest.

duration 6-7 Hours
descent 900 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 04

Trek to Jagat.

At 07:00 AM: This second day of the trek starts with crossing the Machha Khola and Khorla Besi reaching the hot springs. You have to walk in the forest area until you cross the Dovan Khola which is the opening to the Budi Gandaki river valley. The landscape changes drastically as we go upwards and when you reach Jagat you’ll find it drastically changes. The distance from Machhakhola to Jagat is around 22 km and it takes 7-8 hours.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 1340 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 05

Trek to Lokpa.

At 07:00 AM: Today’s trek will continue from the Jagat crossing the well-paved village before climbing the Sirdabas village which offers a great view of Shringi mountain. The trail then passes through the amazing landscape with great views of waterfalls, rivers and mountains via Philim and Ekle Bhatti finally reaching Lokpa. Today’s walk is 16 km and takes around 5-6 hours.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 2240 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 06

Trek to Chhokangparo.

At 07:00 AM: Today you will be entering the Tsum valley. After breakfast, you will start the trek crossing the river. Amazing view of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli is throughout the trail. Before reaching Chhokangparo you have to climb the steep hill. Overnight at Chhokangparo.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 3030 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 07

Trek to Nile.

At 07:00 AM: After breakfast, you will start your trek through the pine forest towards Nile. You will pass through the edge of Shiar River, this is the last northern settlement of Upper Tsum Valley. Overnight at the Nile.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 3365 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 08

Trek to Mu-Gompa, back to Lamagaun

At 07:00 AM: Today you will pass through ups and down trails before reaching Mu-Gompa. Mu Gompa is one of the oldest existing monasteries in the Tsum Valley region of Nepal. Due to its remote access, no human settlement is found in the area around Mu Gompa. Mu-Gompa exists at the highest and farthest point in Tsum valley. Yaks carrying goods to and from Tibet can be seen on the way. After exploring Mu Gompa, you will return back to Lamagaun. Overnight stay in Lamagaun. 

duration 5-6 Hours
descent 3240 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 09

Trek to Lokpa.

At 07:00 AM: Today you will start to descend down towards the Lokpa village. You will pass through the pine forest and river by the side of the trail. Overnight at Lokpa.

duration 5-6 Hours
descent 2240 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 10

Trek to Deng.

At 07:00 AM: Today’s trek will continue from the Lokpa crossing the well-paved village which offers a great view of the mountains. The trail then passes through the amazing landscape with great views of mountain landscapes and floral beauty finally reaching Deng. Today’s walk takes around 7-8 hours.

duration 5-6 Hours
descent 2095 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 11

Trek to Namrung.

At 07:00 AM: Another 6-hour trek towards Namrung will start after breakfast early in the morning. The trail is full of mani walls and crafted stones where you will get a glimpse of Tibetans' influence on people and culture. You will walk around 19 km before reaching beautiful Namrung village.  

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 2900 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 12

Trek to Lho Gau.

At 07:00 AM: After breakfast, the trek starts towards Lho Gau which is situated at the lap of Manaslu Himal and peak 29 in front of it. Amazing stone crafting can be seen on the stones of the trails with mani walls. Also for a close view of Manaslu, you will take a side trip to the Pungen glacier. Today’s walk is 10 km which will take 5-6 hours.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 3180 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 13

Trek to Samagau.

At 07:00 AM: The trek follows towards the Samagau via the Pungen glacier. Samagau is the most beautiful village on the entire trek. It takes 6-7 hours to walk on 8 km trail before reaching Samagau.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 3500 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 14

Acclimatization Day at Samagau.

At 07:00 AM: When you are trekking at a high altitude it is recommended that you should take proper acclimatization before going further high. For the acclimatization, you will have the option of trekking to Manaslu Base Camp (4750 m) and back to Samagau which will take approximately 7-8 hours. Or take a half-day hike to the glacier across the valley or Birendra Tal. 

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 4750 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 15

Trek to Samdo.

At 07:00 AM: Samdo is the beautiful Tibetan refugee village with the mountain Manaslu in front of it. This village is just one day walk from the Tibet border to Nepal. The distance from Samagau to Samdo is 8 km and it takes 3-4 hours to reach the village from Samagau.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 3690 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 16

Trek to Dharmashala.

At 07:00 AM: After crossing the few rivers and amazing trails you will reach Larkey Bazar. Larkey Bazar was the hub of the trade from Tibet and the upper Manaslu region. After a steady climb from Larkey Bazar, you will reach Dharmashala, the last place to stay before crossing the pass tomorrow. The distance from Samdo to Dharmashala is 7 km and it takes 5 hours.

duration 5-6 Hours
ascent 4450 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 17

Trek to Bhimtang via Larkya la pass.

At 07:00 AM: Today is the pass day, you will start early in the morning climbing the Cho Chanda before heading to the beautiful pass. The trail today offers panoramic views of the mountains all around. You will have spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas like the Himlung Himal (7126 m), Cheo Himal (6820 m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru (6981 m) and Annapurna II (7937 m). 

duration 5-6 Hours
descent 3590 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 18

Trek to Tilje.

At 07:00 AM: Today our trekking route descends down to reach Tilje. The upper temperate forest reappears and the day becomes warmer as you leave Bhimthang. Rhododendrons and alpine pine trees dominate other vegetation. The terraced crop fields are seen around Kharche. A steep climb up the ridge and again trek down the Marshyangdi river to reach Tilje.

duration 5-6 Hours
descent 2300 M
trip-accomodation Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 19

Tilje to Dharapani, drive to Kathmandu.

At 07:00 AM: You will ascend over a little mountain after breakfast and enjoy the stone-paved path as it goes through a beautiful settlement. After crossing the Dudh Khola bridge, you will pass an arch formed like a chorten, traverse a mani wall, and finally arrive at the settlement of Thonje. After passing a police checkpoint in the village, you carry on to Dharapani. From Dharapani marks the entry of the Annapurna circuit area. A vehicle from Dharapani will take you back to Kathmandu.

duration 7-8 Hours
descent 1350 M
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B,L
Day 20

Leisure in Kathmandu.

You will have full leisure in Kathmandu. If you are interested in a short nearby trip, you can visit Chandragiri hilltop by cable car. From there you can see the landscape view of the Kathmandu valley, the Himalayas in the north, and the hills around. As an alternate option, you can travel to try beloved street foods of Nepal such as Mo: mo and other authentic cultural food as well.

ascent 1350 M
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B,D
Day 21

Departure.

Looking after your departing time, we’ll transfer you to the Airport for boarding. This day, after collecting a lot of incredible memories in the mountains of Nepal, you will be returning to your next destination. 

trip-meals B

Trip Guide

The given information about the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is in-depth, feel free to contact us 24/7 for any kind of assistance. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. We aim to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best time to visit Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

    Spring and Autumn are the best time to trek in Manaslu and Tsum Valley. During this season, the weather is quite moderate, with less chance of rainfall and more clear visibility. So, it's recommended that you plan a trek during these times of the year. 

  • How long is the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek?

    The total trek duration of this trek is about 21 days. Mostly you will be trekking in Manang and Tsum valley. So, the trek is a little longer and provides the most authentic experiences in the region. 

  • How difficult is Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

    The trek is moderately challenging. This trek is one of the most beautiful trekkings in Nepal that combines the beauty of Manaslu with the incredible Tsum valley. In some places, the elevation is above 4000 m. So, you might have difficulty due to Altitude sickness. However, the itinerary is planned to make the trip wonderful with some additional acclimatization stops. We’ll be assisting you throughout the trek. 

  • Are showers and washing facilities available on the trail?

    Yes, but it may incur extra charges. Since it is in a remote region, arrangements are pretty hard. So, the expenses are understandable.

  • Is the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek worth it?

    Yes, it is one of the most beautiful treks in the world. It takes you to the incredible valleys and cultural villages. It is a wonderful off-the-beaten-path for trekking enthusiasts. It has been admired for its jaw-dropping beauty, cultural attractions and natural sceneries.

Services Includes

  • All arrival and departure at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.

  • Vehcile transfer as mentioned in the itinerary. 

  • 3 star deluxe hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.

  • Teahouse and Lodge accommodation during the trek.

  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip.

  • Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.

  • All necessary paperwork. (Required Permits)

  •  An experienced and English/Hindi speaking licensed trekking guide.

  • Guide’s salary, food, accommodation and allowances.

  • Duffle bags to carry goods and trekking route maps – if necessary.

  • Farewell Nepali dinner on your last night in Kathmandu.

  • All government and local taxes.

  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by the traveller's

  • insurance company. (Insurance is highly recommended)

Services Excludes

  • Personal expenses.

  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee if there is Kathmandu sightseeing and additional stay.

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

  • International flight ticket.

  • Travel health insurance. (highly recommended)

  • Tips for the guide, porter and driver.

  • Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.

  • Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

  • Hot water, shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.

  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the including section.

  • Porter during the trek. (a porter can carry around 20/22 KG of baggage)

21 Days USD 3000 / Person

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