Overview

Our ManasluTsum Valley Trek is a wonderful combination of two treks: The Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trek. Neither of these trails is heavily trafficked, and in fact, they are two of the more underrated treks in the country. The combination makes for a 23-day excursion into the precious Hidden Valley of Tsum and around the pristine Manaslu(8,156 meters/26,758 feet) – the 8th tallest mountain in the world.

This journey has it all – terraced hillsides, raging rivers, mountain settlements, alpine passes, and of course, huge snow-clad mountains. If you look at a map of the ManasluTsum Valley Trek, you will see that the trail is nestled between two popular trekking spots: the Annapurna Conservation Area and Langtang National Park. However, this trail, particularly Tsum Valley, has a completely unique, almost untouched feel to it.

This is where the trek begins, in Tsum Valley. We head up from SotiKhola, following the turquoise Budi Gandaki River northward. The cool breeze makes us feel at peace, though inside we are so excited for each day to come. From Jagat, we enter Tsum Valley, and we are already surrounded by mountains. Upon arrival there, trekkers feel as if they have entered a truly Hidden Valley, existing outside of time.  During our time in the valley, we stay with the Tsum people, who practice Tibetan Buddhism. Admire their mani stones, wavering prayer flags, and ornate monasteries. Following the Shyar River, we leave the fertile valley to get an up-close view of the mountains at Mu Monastery.  The Tsum Valley is really a magical place, teeming with spiritual energy. 

Then, we begin the Manaslu Circuit part of the trail. A major highlight of this section is traversing the Larkya La Pass (5135 meters), which exposes trekkers to mind-boggling mountain views. We are eye-to-eye with these massive peaks, which make us feel humbled to be in their presence. Two days after the pass, we arrive in Dharapani, take a two-hour drive to Besisahar, and stay for the night.  The following day we bid farewell, or rather “see you later” to the mountain and return to Kathmandu.

Throughout the trek, we are surrounded by peaks, including SringiHimal (7165m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Ganesh Himal (7422m) and of course Manaslu (8156m). Additionally, there’s plenty of wildlife to admire, including the musk deer, snow leopard, red panda, and much more. The sceneries throughout the ManasluTsum Valley Trek are the kind that inspire religions. Don’t forget to look up from your feet and set your gaze upon the beautiful environment surrounding you.

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather.  During the Spring, there is a bit more colour and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer.  The ManasluTsum Valley Trek requires moderate fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Trip Highlights

Personal experience with the residents of Tsum Valley that goes above and beyond the interactions on a more popular trekking route.

Larkya La Pass (5135 meters) – a panoramic view of mountains as far as the eye can see

A trail that is vastly underrated and unpopulated, providing a more peaceful journey

Tsum Valley is a paradise! Full of cascading waterfalls, snowy peaks, and welcoming villagers

Majestic mountain vistas, including SringiHimal (7165m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Ganesh Himal (7422m).

A variety of landscapes – from subtropical jungle to the rugged high alpine environment

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat (570m) and further drive to Sotikhola, 8-9 hour drive.
  • Day 04: Trek from Sotikhola to Machhakhola (570m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 05: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1370m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2240m), 6 hours.
  • Day 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2386m), 6 hours.
  • Day 08: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3030m), 7 hours.
  • Day 09: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Chhule/Nile (3360m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 10: Trek from Chhule/Nile to Mu Gompa (3700m), 3-4 hours.
  • Day 11: Trek from Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro, 7 hours.
  • Day 12: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Chumling, 5 hours.
  • Day 13: Trek from Chumling to Deng (1920m), 6 hours.
  • Day 14: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2250m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 15: Trek from Namrung to SamaGaun (3450m), 6 hours.
  • Day 16: Rest day for acclimatization and exploration at Sama Gaun.
  • Day 17: Trek from SamaGaun to Samdo (3780m) 3-4 hours.
  • Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4460m), 3-4 hours.
  • Day 19: Trek from Dharmasala to Bimtang (3630m) via Larkya La pass (5135m), 7-8 hours.
  • Day 20: Trek from Bimtang to Tilje (2240m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 21: Trek from Tilje to Dharapani (1430m) and drive to Besisahar, 2-3 hours walk and 4-5 hour drive.
  • Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu by bus, 5-6 hours.
  • Day 23: Departure.

Trip note

Accommodation

All our packages include accommodation in the cost.  This accommodation is included during the set itinerary.  While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you.  During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay in based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be twin-shared basis. In the mountain, Shower and toilet will be on Sharing basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group.  Our company provides you a sleeping bag, two person tents with comfortable mattress for outdoor camping trek. Our Guide will try to set up your camp with a spectacular view.

Food

Nepal has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs.  If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time.  During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included.  Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own.  On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.  For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental ,Italian , Tibetan and Indian at teahouses.  While camping, we will prepare the meals for you.  After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel. 

Guide & Porters

A government-licensed guide will lead the trek.  All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry.  Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one.  If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it.  Your safety is our number one priority.  For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers.  For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.    

Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience

As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude.  Our treks have acclimatization days built into the itinerary.  It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness.  The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek.  On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trial.  Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness.  More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek. 

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek.  We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control.  In case of medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance.  You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country.  Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains. 

Best Time to Travel

The peak seasons for traveling in Nepal are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November).  These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course they are a little more crowded than the off-season.  It is possible to trek during the Winter (December to February), but you will face cold temperatures.  It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall.

Note:

Please be assured that Breeze Adventure manage our treks to the highest standards. Your safety and satisfaction are our priority. We will support you to the best of our abilities with any issues that may arise. We will work with you to ensure you get the most from your trek and visit to Nepal.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
    Welcome to Nepal! A representative from Breeze Adventure will welcome you our hotel. We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek. Overnight at hotel.
  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
    Have breakfast and start sightseeing around Kathmandu in a private vehicle. We will see several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will learn about each site’s historical, religious, and cultural significance. Overnight at hotel.
  • Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat (570m) and further drive to Sotikhola, 8-9 hour drive.
    We set off early today toSotiKhola. During the drive, we have views of the countryside, with glimpses into the locals’ lifestyle and surrounding mountain sceneries. We drive on a smooth road from Kathmandu to DhadingBesi, the district headquarters of Dhading (1050m) but the drive from DhadingBesi to Arughat will be on a rough road. Upon reaching Arughat, a major town in the region, we drive further towards SotiKhola. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 04: Trek from Sotikhola to Machhakhola (570m), 5-6 hours.
    Aftercross the first bridge, we trek through the beautiful Sal forests, then climb onto a ridge above the flowing rapids of the BudhiGandaki. We then reach Khursanewhere the rough trail ascends and descends past two cascading waterfalls on a steep trail clinging to the side of a cliff. We eventually head down, passingterraced rice fields, then up and around to the Gurung village of Labubesi. We further climb behind a rocky outcropping, where the valley opens up. Dropping to the sandy river bed, we walk onthe stones before climbing over another ridge. We head down again to the river and cross another suspension bridge to reach MachhaKhola village. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 05: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1370m), 5-6 hours.
    Our narrow trail makes a fewsmall ups and downs and eventually traverses over the TharoKhola to reach Khorlabesi. After a few more ups and downs, we come across a small natural hotspring in Tatopani. From the hot spring, we move over another ridge, and cross the BudhiGandaki on a suspension bridge. At this juncture, we climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Doban. After we cross the suspension bridge over the YaruKhola, we climb the stone stairs and descend to the river. We again climb more stone stairs to TharoBharyang. Crossing the west bank of the BudhiGandaki, we climb over another ridge, and walk along the river toeventually reach the village of Jagat. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2240m), 6 hours.
    Today we check into restricted region of Manaslu and Tsum Valley. The guide will register the permitswhen leavingJagat. At the beginning, we trek a bit along the riverbank. During some up and downs,Philim comes into our sight. We crossa suspension bridge and stop in Philim for lunch. Briefly explore the village of Philim and its school funded by the Japanese. PassingEkle Bhatti, the trail separates toward Tsum and Manaslu. Pass through the welcome board and hike up toward Lokpa. You might feel like it is early to stop in Lokpa but next settlement Chumling is too far to make in one day. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2386m), 6 hours.
    For the whole stretch today, there is nowhere to stop, so we pack extra snacks. The trail completely passes through quiet, sub-tropical forest. You will encounter numerous up and down until you arrive small suspension bridge. The trail then gets diverted from this bridge toward Ripchet and Chumling. Cross the bridge and walk by a small stone wall on the side of trail. Chumling is not that far from this point. There are few teahouses by the main trail. In the late afternoon, you can make small side trip to upper part of Chumling, there are few teahouses too. There is monastery at the upper end of village which has an awesome view of Ganesh Himal. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 08: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3030m), 7 hours.
    Cross the suspension bridge onto the opposite side of the river, and enjoy another spectacular view of Ganesh Himal. Walk past Rainjham toSerpuKhola, at which point we enter the hidden valley of Tsum. Another steep climb takes us to the village of Chhokang Paro, today’s destination. Admire the magnificent Hiunchuli at 7893 meters. Overnight in guest house.
  • Day 09: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Chhule/Nile (3360m), 5-6 hours.
    There are lots of mani walls, gompas and chhortens as we make our way further up the Tsum Valley, nearing the border of Tibet. We can stop for some tea from the friendly nuns at RachenGompa. We stop for lunch in either Chhile or Nile, and stay at one or the other for the night. Chhule boasts two dramatic waterfalls high above us. On a clear day, we can see the Churke and KipuHimal. Spend the rest of the day hanging out in the lodge or exploring the beautiful scenery. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 10: Trek from Chhule/Nile to Mu Gompa (3700m), 3-4 hours.
    After breakfast, the trail gradually ascends to Mu Gumba, the largest monastery in the region and farthest point in the Tsum Valley. We can take a tour of it, as our itinerary is short today. Chhosyang Tal is about two to three hours uphill walk, and then we visit DephyudonmaGumba, one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley. The monastery is nestled high in the mountains, a most picturesque location.It is run by Lama Serap of Nile Ladrang from the Kangin sect. There are a few campsites and drinking water facilities. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 11: Trek from Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro, 7 hours.
    We begin our hike after breakfast. It’s a long day full of gorgeous views back to Chokang Paro. The numerous mani walls, chhortens, and prayer flag wavering in the wind give us a sense of peace throughout theday. We can stop again at RachenGompa, the large monastery/nunnery in the area, for a mid-day break. Overnight in guest house.
  • Day 12: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Chumling, 5 hours.
    Today, we retrace our steps back down the Tsum Valley. The trail entails lots of ups and downs, stretching along the bank of the SardiKhola and lifts back up to terraced fields and suspension bridges. We can stop for a rest in villages along the way, or make a visit to a gompa. We enjoy our second time in Chumling, spending time with the locals and having a nice dal bhat for dinner. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 13: Trek from Chumling to Deng (1920m), 6 hours.
    We head out after our morning meal towards Deng. Our first stop is in Gho, where there is a small gompa. We then steer ourselves over the SiyarKhola via a wooden bridge and wind up in Domje. The trail then leads back to Lokpa, which we’ve already passed through earlier on in the trek. Continuing, we divert from this trail before reaching Philim, and take the trial up to Deng. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 14: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2250m), 6-7 hours.
    After leaving Deng, we cross the BudhiGandakiagain and ascent to Rana (1910m). Wego up a bit more to take the trail from Bhi, then head west up the BudhiGandaki valley. The trail passes through mixed forests.We take the route that goes throughProk village, whichhas a perfect viewpoint for SiringiHimal. We cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and come across several gompasas well, which we can stop for a visit. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. The forest becomes less dense and the trail is level again. The pleasant walk continues and after one last steep incline we reach Namrung. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 15: Trek from Namrung to SamaGaun (3450m), 6 hours.
    Right when you leave your bed, you have awesome views of Siring and Ganesh Himal, and from the village you can also see Hiunchulito the south. We climb steadily, passing through forests to reach Lihi, a fine village with many chhortens and barley field terraces. The trail drops and crosses the side valley of SimnangHimal with Ganesh Himalin eyeshot. We pass through Sho, Lho and Shyala villages before reaching Sama. We enjoy extraordinary views ofManaslu from Lho, where we can also explore the famous RibungGompa. In Shyala, we find ourselvesencompassed by high peaks like Hiunchuli and Peak 29 (NgadiChuli) to the left, with Manaslu and large glaciers straight ahead, and at the far end stands Ganesh Himal. Today’s journey ends in Samagaon. Overnight in guest house.
  • Day 16: Rest day for acclimatization and exploration at Sama Gaun.
    Today, we take it easy and let our bodies become accustomed to the altitude. If you have any interest, we can do a day hike and explore the surrounding area. Overnight again in the guest house.
  • Day 17: Trek from SamaGaun to Samdo (3780m) 3-4 hours.
    Today, we descend to the BudhiGandaki River, that has turned north and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. The trail to the left leads to Manaslu Base Camp. The Larke La Trail passes several mani walls as the valley widens. It is an easy trail above the river passing juniper and birch forests of KermoKharka. We drop down, cross the BudhiGandaki on a wooden bridge and climb steeply. From a stone arch, we can view a large white kani. Finally passing through the kani, we find Samdo. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4460m), 3-4 hours.
    Soon after heading out on the trail, we cross the wooden bridge over the Budi Gandaki and walk on and upward. After crossing two streams and witnessing the Larkya Glacier we go around the valley of the SalkaKhola and climb up again to the stone guest house (4460m), which is not a lodge but rather a shelter called Dharmshala, also known as LarkePhedi. The short walk today also leaves plenty of time for acclimatization and hanging out in the afternoon. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 19: Trek from Dharmasala to Bimtang (3630m) via Larkya La pass (5135m), 7-8 hours.
    After a short climb, we reach a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers from where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larke Peak. Finally, we walk across moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper in the last section of the pass. From the pass, there are outstanding views of HimlungHimal, CheoHimal, Kangguru and the massive Annapurna II. It is a longer day than usual to Bimtang, but to walk into these low pastures with the evening mist coming in and face-to-face views ofManaslu is an exciting experience. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 20: Trek from Bimtang to Tilje (2240m), 5-6 hours.
    Surki is our stopover for lunch today. We therefore head off in this direction. On narrow paths mostly, we reach Surki, a small settlement, in about four hours. This is where we stop for lunch in one of those five or six service providers. It takes a couple of more hours for us to reach Tilje from here on. Although Tilje is ansmall settlement, it provides us with around many places to options for our accommodation. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 21: Trek from Tilje to Dharapani (1430m) and drive to Besisahar, 2-3 hours walk and 4-5 hour drive.
    Today, we start out on a long, but easy descent. We stop at Dharapani on the way for lunch. Lunch over and we continue. Crossing into Annapurna Conservation area requires us to produce one more permit. Soon, we make it to Besisahar after a scenic drive. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu by bus, 5-6 hours.
    Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport. Thank you for choosing Breeze Adventure as your trekking guide! We look forward to your next adventure with us.
  • Day 23: Departure.
    Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport. Thank you for choosing Breeze Adventure as your trekking guide! We look forward to your next adventure with us.

Cost Details

Cost Includes

Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.

Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.

All transportation for the trek.

Local guest house accommodation in mountain.

Government-authorized experienced guide and porters

Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters

Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.

All equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.)

TIMS Card and all additional permits

First Aid Kit

Maps

Service charge and government taxes

Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu

Cost Excludes:

International airfare

Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)

Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.

Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek

Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee

Tips for guide and porter

Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary

Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)