Places Nepal
Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek
Nepal
17 Days
Challenging
Into the Hidden Valley of Tsum and Around Manaslu.
From
US$ 1,280
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 $1,450
2 - 5 $1,290
6 - 10 $1,190
11 - 15 $1,090
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What's included?

Licensed Guide

English speaking trek guide

Accommodations

All accomodations furing the trek

Foods

All foods during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

All Permits

All necessary trek permits

Transportations

All needed ground transfers as per the itinerary.

What is it really like?

Photos from the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek

Discover ancient Tibetan monasteries, chortens, and remote villages rich in Buddhist culture.

Conquer the dramatic 5,106m (16,752ft) pass with panoramic views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.

Hike to the base of the world’s 8th-highest mountain and admire its pristine alpine beauty.

Walk through lush forests, alpine meadows, and spot rare wildlife like blue sheep and Himalayan monals.

Key Information

Max. altitude

890 m / 2,920 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
Kathmandu
1,400 m
Overnight
Machha Khola
890 m
Road distance
160 km
Travel time
8–9 hrs

Day 1 is a full road day — no trekking yet. You leave Kathmandu before most people are awake, follow the highway west through the Trishuli lowlands, then turn north into the Budhi Gandaki valley as the landscape transforms from flat farmland to steep river gorges. By the time you pull into Machha Khola, the mountains feel close enough to touch. Settle in, eat a proper dinner, and get to bed early — the actual walking starts tomorrow.

Public Bus — Included
Tourist bus from Gongabu Bus Park
Your guide meets you at your hotel, arranges a taxi to Gongabu (New Bus Park), and handles all boarding. Grab a window seat and enjoy the scenery.
Departure6:00–8:00 AM
Duration8–9 hours
StopsLunch + toilet breaks
CostIncluded in package
Private Jeep / HiAce — Optional
Door-to-door from your hotel
More comfort, more flexibility — stop for photos when you like and depart as late as 8:30 AM. Ideal for groups or anyone who values comfort over cost.
DepartureFlexible
Duration7–8 hours
CapacityUp to 6–7 people
CostUSD $250 / vehicle
5:30–6:00 AM
Hotel pickup — taxi to Gongabu Bus Park
Early start, light traffic, Kathmandu still sleeping
Have breakfast early or ask your hotel the night before to pack something for the road. Your guide meets you at the lobby.
6:00–8:00 AM
Bus departs Gongabu
Kathmandu gives way to open countryside
Your guide handles boarding. Get a window seat on the left side for the best views through the gorge after Arughat.
Midday
Lunch stop en route
Stretch your legs, eat warm food, refill water
The bus makes a scheduled stop at a roadside dhaba before Arughat. Use the time well — there are toilet breaks too.
Post-Arughat
Tarmac ends — the valley begins
Bumpy, dusty, and absolutely worth it
After Arughat the road turns unpaved. Terraced hillsides, river crossings, and canyon walls all the way to Machha Khola. A buff over your face helps if you're near the back.
Late afternoon
Arrive Machha Khola — check in, rest
Dinner, charge everything, lights out early
Check in to your teahouse, clean up, and eat. Day 2 is your first real trekking day — aim to be in bed by 9:00 PM.

Machha Khola — Your First Night on Trail

890 m / 2,920 ft
A small riverside village in Gorkha district, sitting on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. Machha Khola is the official Day 1 stop for Manaslu Circuit trekkers — a place to decompress after the long drive and prepare for the weeks of walking ahead. Despite its size, it's well equipped: most teahouses have attached bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging. The sound of the Budhi Gandaki at night is one of the better sleeping aids on the entire circuit. Stock up on any last-minute snacks here — reliable shops thin out quickly above Arughat.
Community
Gurung & Ghale
Facilities
Wi-Fi · Hot shower
Charging
Reliable — use it
Breakfast before you leave. Most buses depart before hotel kitchens open — ask the night before to prepare something early or pack snacks.
Charge everything tonight. Machha Khola has the most reliable electricity on the circuit. Devices become harder to charge from Day 4 onward.
Cash check. There are no ATMs beyond Arughat. Make sure you have enough Nepali rupees ($250-$350) for the full 17 days before leaving Kathmandu.
No trekking today. It's a full travel day — hydrate, rest, and mentally transition from city mode. Your legs start tomorrow.

Max. altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Altitude Gain

510 m / 1,673 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
890 m
Overnight
1,340 m
Trek time
6 hrs
Machha Khola
890 m
→
Kholabesi
990 m
→
Dobhan
1,070 m
→
Jagat
1,340 m

Your first real day on the trail and an immediate introduction to what makes the Manaslu Circuit so distinct. The route follows the Budhi Gandaki gorge northward — a dramatic river canyon where the trail hugs the riverbank, crosses on long swinging suspension bridges, and traverses narrow rock ledges above the water. It's raw, beautiful, and occasionally vertiginous from the first hour.

Subtropical vegetation dominates at this elevation — banana palms, bamboo, and dense forest lining the trail. Watch out for mule trains carrying supplies upvalley; they always have right of way on the narrow ledge sections. You'll pass through the checkpoint village of Dobhan before arriving at Jagat, which marks the official entry into the Manaslu restricted zone.

Jagat

1,340 m / 4,396 ft
The gateway village of the Manaslu Restricted Area with a checkpoint where all trekking permits are verified. Jagat has a relaxed atmosphere, well-established teahouses, and a pleasant position above the river. From here the trail quietens — day-trippers are filtered out at the checkpoint and the circuit begins to feel genuinely remote.
Checkpoint
Permits checked
Teahouses
Good selection
Hot shower
Available
First day fatigue is normal. Your body isn't fully adjusted to trail life yet. Walk at a steady pace, drink water consistently, and don't race to the teahouse. You have 16 more days ahead.

Max. altitude

2,240 m / 7,349 ft

Altitude Gain

900 m / 2,953 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
1,340 m
Overnight
2,240 m
Trek time
7 hrs
Jagat
1,340 m
→
Sirdibas
~1,490 m
→
Deng junction
~1,800 m
→
Lokpa
2,240 m

At the village of Deng, the Manaslu Circuit continues straight ahead while your route turns right into the Tsum Valley. This fork is one of the most significant moments of the entire trek. You're leaving a relatively well-known trekking route and stepping into one of the most isolated and culturally preserved valleys in the entire Himalaya — a valley opened to foreign trekkers only in 2008.

Cross the river and begin the climb toward Lokpa. The landscape shifts almost immediately — wider, quieter, unmistakably Tibetan in character. Mani walls appear. Prayer flags string between rocks. The pace of the valley slows everything down. Today is a longer, harder day with 900 m of gain — pace yourself from the start.

Lokpa

2,240 m / 7,349 ft
The gateway village of the Tsum Valley — a small, tightly-knit settlement where the valley culture announces itself immediately. Flat-roofed stone houses, prayer wheels at every corner, and chortens lining the entrance path signal that you have crossed into a different world. Basic teahouses, warm hosts, and the first real quiet of the trek.
Culture
Tibetan Buddhist
Accommodation
Basic teahouses
Signal
Usable Weak (NTC)
Cultural etiquette from here on: Always walk clockwise around mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels. Remove shoes before entering monastery buildings. Ask before photographing people. The Tsum people are warm and welcoming — their traditions deserve the same respect in return.

Max. altitude

2,386 m / 7,828 ft

Altitude Gain

146 m / 479 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
2,240 m
Overnight
2,386 m
Trek time
4 hrs

A gentler day after the long climb yesterday. The trail winds through terraced barley and buckwheat fields as the valley floor widens and reveals itself in full. Ancient mani stone walls carved with Tibetan scripture line the path. The whole place has a quiet, steady rhythm that begins to feel like the natural pace of things up here.

Arrive at Chumling early enough to explore. Walk up to the monastery above the village before dinner — the views over the entire Tsum Valley from up there are worth every extra step, and it sets the context for everything you'll see over the next three days.

Chumling

2,386 m / 7,828 ft
One of the main villages of the lower Tsum Valley, sitting on a wide sunlit terrace with views of the surrounding peaks. The Tsum people here are of Tibetan origin and speak their own dialect distinct from both standard Tibetan and Nepali. Flat-roofed architecture, yak butter tea from open doorways, and monks in burgundy robes moving between houses and the monastery above — Chumling is your first real window into Tsum Valley life.
Ethnicity
Tsumba (Tibetan)
Monastery
Above village
Teahouses
Several
Try yak butter tea tonight. It's thick, salty, and warming in a way that takes adjustment — but it's the drink of this culture and the experience of drinking it with a local family is one of those small things you don't forget.

Max. altitude

3,240 m / 10,630 ft

Altitude Gain

854 m / 2,802 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
2,386 m
Overnight
3,240 m
Trek time
6 hrs

A significant climb into the upper Tsum Valley, crossing into a higher, drier landscape where the valley broadens and the snow peaks of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli begin to fill the horizon. The trail climbs through juniper forest and across open hillside. This is one of the bigger elevation days in the Tsum section, so an early start and a steady pace are the right approach.

Your overnight is at Rachen Gompa — one of the two great monasteries of the Tsum Valley and a community of monks whose daily rhythms between meditation, prayer, and subsistence farming give the place a genuinely living quality. The main assembly hall contains a large statue of Guru Rinpoche and remarkable hand-painted murals covering every wall. As evening falls and the monks gather for prayer, the sound of chanting drifts across the hillside in the fading light.

Rachen Gompa

3,240 m / 10,630 ft
An active monastery on the western side of the upper Tsum Valley, considered alongside Mu Gompa as one of the twin spiritual poles of this hidden Buddhist enclave. The monastery guesthouse offers very basic accommodation — mattresses, blankets, a shared kitchen — but the atmosphere of genuine monastic peace is unlike any teahouse on the circuit. Staying here is a privilege available to very few visitors in the world.
Type
Monastery guesthouse
Monks resident
Yes, year-round
Facilities
Very basic
Altitude notice: You've climbed over 850 m today and crossed 3,000 m for the first time. Drink water, eat a full dinner, and sleep early. If you feel a headache coming on, rest — don't push through it. Tomorrow is a shorter day designed to help you acclimatise.

Max. altitude

3,361 m / 11,027 ft

Altitude Gain

330 m / 1,083 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
3,240 m
Nile
3,361 m
Mu Gompa
3,700 m
Overnight
Nile / Mu Gompa

Trek up to Nile — the highest permanently inhabited village in the Tsum Valley — and then continue to Mu Gompa, the spiritual heart of the entire valley. For many people who complete this route, today ends up being the day they talk about for years.

Highest village
Nile
3,361 m / 11,027 ft
The highest permanent settlement in the Tsum Valley — a tiny village at the threshold between the inhabited valley below and the high gompa wilderness above.

Very few trekkers make it this far and the silence here in the evenings is absolute. Basic teahouses run by local families who are among the most welcoming hosts on the entire route.
Monastery
Mu Gompa
3,700 m / 12,139 ft
The spiritual heart of the Tsum Valley — a large, active monastery perched on a rocky promontory with sweeping views. Inside: ancient thangka paintings, rows of prayer wheels, butter lamps burning day and night, and monks who live here year-round.

This is not a museum piece but a working religious community. Take your time here — this is why you came.
The highlight of the Tsum Valley: Mu Gompa is accessible to very few trekkers in the world. The combination of active Buddhist practice, extraordinary mountain scenery, and near-complete isolation makes this one of the most powerful experiences Nepal's trekking routes have to offer — and it's exclusive to this itinerary.

Max. altitude

2,386 m / 7,828 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start
3,361 m
Overnight
2,386 m
Trek Distance
12 km / 7.5 mi
Trek time
6 hrs

A long descent retracing the valley trail south to Chumling. The return through familiar villages carries a different quality — faces recognise you, children wave, the landscape seen in reverse reveals details invisible on the way up. The Tsum Valley has a way of growing on you quietly, and the descent gives you time to let everything from the past four days settle.

Back at Chumling, the relative warmth of the lower valley feels earned. Tonight is your last night in the Tsum Valley before the itinerary rejoins the Manaslu Circuit tomorrow. Use the evening to reflect — you've spent five days in one of Nepal's most inaccessible and culturally intact valleys. Very few trekkers in the world can say the same.

Look after your knees today. Nearly 1,000 m of descent on uneven trail is the scenario trekking poles were designed for. Use them, take your time, and don't race to the bottom just because it's downhill.

Max. altitude

1,860 m / 6,102 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
2,386 m
Overnight
1,860 m
Change
−526 m
Trek time
5 hrs

Descend from the Tsum Valley and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit trail at Deng — the same junction you passed on Day 3. The transition back to the main circuit is noticeable: more trekkers on the trail, busier teahouses, and the Budhi Gandaki gorge narrowing again above the village as the route pushes north toward Manaslu country.

Deng has a good range of teahouses with relatively reliable electricity and charging. After several days of very basic accommodation in the upper Tsum Valley, a warm dining room with a full menu feels like a genuine treat. From here to Samagaun the trail follows the classic Manaslu trekking route through progressively higher and more dramatic scenery.

Deng

1,860 m / 6,102 ft
The junction village where the Tsum Valley trail rejoins the main Manaslu Circuit. Well-supplied teahouses, charging facilities, and a checkpoint. The gorge above Deng is one of the most visually dramatic sections of the entire circuit — sheer rock walls rise thousands of metres on both sides while the river thunders below. Waterfalls drop from hidden hanging valleys above the trail.
Teahouses
Good selection
Charging
Available
Checkpoint
Permits verified

Max. altitude

2,630 m / 8,629 ft

Altitude Gain

770 m / 2,526 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
1,860 m
Overnight
2,630 m
Trek Distance
19.5 km / 12.1 mi
Trek time
6 hrs

A significant elevation day as the trail climbs through the deepening Budhi Gandaki gorge. Sheer granite walls rise thousands of metres on both sides, waterfalls drop from invisible hanging valleys above, and the river's voice fills every quiet moment. Pass through the small villages of Rana and Bhi before arriving at Namrung.

At Namrung, on a clear day, you get your first real glimpse of Manaslu (8,163 m) on the northern horizon. The world's eighth-highest mountain has been hidden behind ridgelines for days — its first appearance here tends to stop people mid-stride. This is what the next week is building toward.

Namrung

2,630 m / 8,628 ft
A well-positioned village at the entrance to the upper Manaslu valley with reliable teahouses and the first clear views of Manaslu on a clear day. Namrung is home to Nubri people — a Tibetan-origin community with their own dialect, cultural traditions, and a small active monastery worth a short visit. The village marks the transition between the subtropical gorge and the high alpine world above.
Culture
Nubri (Tibetan)
Manaslu view
First glimpse
Teahouses
Good

Max. altitude

3,500 m / 11,483 ft

Altitude Gain

870 m / 2,854 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
2,630 m
Overnight
3,500 m
Trek Distance
10 km / 6 miles
Trek time
6 hrs

The trail passes through the traditional high-altitude villages of Lihi and Sho — both home to Nubri communities with Tibetan-influenced architecture, ancient monasteries, and yak herds grazing the surrounding grassland. The Manaslu massif grows progressively larger with every hour of walking.

Shyala at 3,500 m delivers something extraordinary: the full north face of Manaslu presented from an intimately close angle. At 8,163 m, the mountain fills the sky above the village in a way that photographs never fully capture. This is one of the finest unobstructed views of an 8,000-metre peak available from any trekking route in Nepal.

Shyala

3,500 m / 11,483 ft
A high, wind-exposed village in the upper Manaslu valley with one of the most dramatic mountain views on the entire circuit. The north face of Manaslu dominates the northern sky in a way that photographs never fully replicate. Nubri families maintain a centuries-old way of life centred on yak herding, barley farming, and Buddhist practice.
Manaslu view
Outstanding
Teahouses
Basic, warm
Overnight temp
Below −5 °C

Max. altitude

4,040 m / 13,255 ft

Altitude Loss

814 m / 2,671 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
3,500 m
Pungen Monastery
4,040 m
Samagaun
3,530 m
Trek time
6 hrs

Rather than taking the direct trail to Samagaun, today's route detours up to Pungen Monastery — an ancient gompa sitting on a glacial moraine above a stunning glacial lake, with the full north face of Manaslu filling the entire sky above. The altitude detour is significant but the view from up there is one you'll remember for the rest of your life.

Descend to Samagaun — the largest and most comfortable village on the upper Manaslu Circuit. Good teahouses, a health post, and solar power make it feel relatively well-served after the sparse upper villages. During climbing seasons you may share the village with expedition teams preparing for Manaslu's summit. You sleep here for two nights.

Samagaun

3,530 m / 11,581 ft
The main village and expedition base on the upper Manaslu Circuit — and your most comfortable overnight stop since Deng. Multiple teahouses, a health post, and solar charging. The Manaslu Glacier is visible directly from the village and the mountain dominates the northern skyline. You stay here two nights, which gives your body genuine acclimatisation time before the long climb to Larkya Phedi.
Teahouses
Best on upper circuit
Health post
Yes
Nights here
2 nights

Max. altitude

3,530 m / 11,581 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Base
3,530 m
Option A
Birendra Lake
3,900 m
Option B
Base Camp
4,800 m
Overnight
Samagaun

This rest day is not optional — it's essential. You've climbed steadily for days and the Larkya La crossing (5,160 m) is three days away. A proper acclimatisation day now makes the pass crossing dramatically safer and more manageable. The principle is simple: climb high, sleep low. Go up, then come back down to Samagaun for the night.

There are two options depending on your fitness, ambition, and how well your body has been responding to altitude so far. Discuss with your guide the evening before — they'll read the situation honestly.

Option A — Birendra Lake
3,900 m · 3–4 hrs round trip · Easy
A short, rewarding hike to a glacial lake reflecting the peaks above. Perfect for trekkers who want gentle acclimatisation without overexertion. Good views of the Manaslu Glacier and a peaceful spot to sit and absorb the scale of the landscape. Recommended if you've been feeling any altitude effects.
Option B — Manaslu Base Camp
4,800 m · 7–8 hrs round trip · Strenuous
A demanding but extraordinary hike across glacial moraines to the foot of Manaslu's north face. At base camp, expedition tents, fixed lines, and the sheer scale of an 8,000-metre peak from ground level are genuinely humbling. Only attempt this if you feel strong — the Larkya La matters more. Turn back if any AMS symptoms develop.
Larkya La priority rule: If you're torn between pushing to Manaslu Base Camp or playing it safe with Birendra Lake, choose the lake. The Larkya La crossing is the defining physical challenge of this trek. Arriving at Larkya Phedi tired is a mistake; arriving rested ais the goal.

Max. altitude

3,860 m / 12,664 ft

Altitude Gain

330 m / 1,083 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
3,530 m
Overnight
3,860 m
Trek Distance
8 km / 5 mi
Trek time
4 hrs

A deliberately short day pushing north toward the Tibetan frontier. Samdo is the last proper village before the Larkya La and sits in a wide, open valley with an almost austere beauty to it — sparse vegetation, yak tracks in the dust, and the high pass visible for the first time on the horizon above.

Arrive early, rest through the afternoon, and eat a complete dinner. Tonight is your second-to-last night before the pass. Your body needs fuel and sleep more than it needs another kilometre of hiking.

Samdo

3,860 m / 12,664 ft
The last permanent village before the Larkya La pass, sitting close to the Tibetan border in an open high-altitude valley. Samdo has a small but reliable teahouse and is a crucial acclimatisation stop — sleeping here at 3,860 m before pushing to Larkya Phedi (4,480 m) tomorrow keeps the altitude gain manageable. The village has a monastery and yak herders who use the surrounding pastures in summer.
Tibet border
Very close
Teahouses
Limited
Last permanent village
Before the pass

Max. altitude

4,480 m / 14,698 ft

Altitude Gain

620 m / 2,034 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
3,860 m
Overnight
4,480 m
Trek distance
6.5 km / 4 mi
Trek time
4 hrs

A short, purposeful day climbing to Larkya Phedi — also called Dharamshala or High Camp — at 4,480 m. This is the staging post for tomorrow's pass crossing: a single guesthouse compound in a completely exposed high-altitude bowl with nothing around it except the mountain and the wind.

Arrive by early afternoon, rest, and eat a full dinner even if your appetite is suppressed by the altitude. Pack your pass-crossing kit before sleeping — headlamp, warm layers, snacks, water, and crampons if snow conditions require. Your guide will brief you on the exact departure time based on conditions observed during the afternoon. It's typically between 04:00 and 05:00.

Larkya Phedi (Dharamshala)

4,480 m / 14,698 ft
The pre-pass camp for the Larkya La — one of the most exposed overnight stops on any trekking route in Nepal. A single guesthouse with basic dorm accommodation and a small kitchen. This is not a comfort stop; it is a staging post for one of the great Himalayan passes. Temperatures overnight can drop to −15 °C or below. Your sleeping bag is the most important piece of gear you own tonight.
Accommodation
Dorm only
Night temp
−10 to −15 °C
Departure
03:00–05:00
Pack before you sleep, not in the morning. The 04:00 departure in the dark and cold is not the moment to be digging through your bag. Everything you need for the pass should be organised and accessible before lights out.

Max. altitude

5,106 m / 16,752 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Larkya La — 5,160 m / 16,929 ft

The highest point of the trek · The physical and emotional summit of 15 days of walking
Start
4,480 m
Pass
5,106 m
Bimthang
3,720 m
Total descent
1,440 m
Larkya Phedi
4,480 m
→
Larkya La
5,100 m
→
Bimthang
3,720 m
04–05:00
Depart Larkya Phedi
Headlamps on, stars overhead, cold air biting
The pre-dawn start is non-negotiable — the pass must be crossed before afternoon wind and cloud builds. Follow your guide's pace exactly. This is not the moment for a fast start.
Sunrise
Larkya La — 5,106 m
The roof of the trek. Stand here and let it sink in.
A wide saddle draped in prayer flags, battered by wind, ringed by peaks. From the top: Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Annapurna II, and the Marsyangdi valley opening to the south. This is why you came.
Mid-morning
Western descent begins
1,440 m down — moraine, meadow, forest
The descent is long and knee-intensive. Glacial moraine gives way to alpine meadow, then progressively the vegetation returns. Each band of green is a marker of altitude surrendered and warmth regained. Trekking poles are essential.
Afternoon
Bimthang — 3,720 m
The hardest day is done. Eat everything. Sleep deeply.
Bimthang is a high meadow settlement surrounded by mountains and filled with late-afternoon light. You'll arrive tired, hungry, and deeply satisfied. Dal bhat, a sleeping bag, and a quiet mind.

Bimthang

3,720 m / 12,205 ft
A high alpine meadow settlement on the western side of the Larkya La — the first overnight after the pass and one of the most beautiful locations on the entire circuit. Surrounded by rhododendron forest with views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli, Bimthang feels like paradise after Larkya Phedi. Good teahouses, warm food, and the particular satisfaction of a big day done.
Setting
Alpine meadow
Views
Outstanding
Teahouses
Good quality
Safety first on the pass: The Larkya La in poor conditions — snow, ice, cloud — is genuinely dangerous. Your guide makes the call on timing and conditions. If they recommend waiting a day at Larkya Phedi, trust that completely. The pass has claimed lives and deserves full respect.

Max. altitude

3,720 m / 12,205 ft

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start
3,590 m
Tilije
2,300 m
Besisahar
760 m
Mode
Trek + jeep

A rapid descent through rhododendron and pine forest to Tilije — a traditional lower-valley village with a well-preserved monastery worth a brief stop. The vegetation thickens with every 100 m of altitude surrendered and the air grows noticeably warmer and richer. After 18 days at altitude, the return to treeline feels almost physical — like a change of pressure in the chest.

From the road junction below Tilije, a jeep carries you down the Marsyangdi valley to Besisahar — the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit and a town of relative comfort. Hot shower. A proper sit-down dinner. The first reliable mobile signal in days. The mountain chapter of the journey is over.

The altitude reversal today is extraordinary: from 3,590 m at dawn to 760 m by evening. Your body will feel the pressure change. Drink water, eat well, and allow a little time to just sit and be back in the world of traffic and electricity and other humans.

Max. altitude

1,350 m / 4,429 ft

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Meals

Breakfast & Lunch
From
Besisahar
To
Kathmandu
Duration
6–7 hrs
Mode
Tourist bus

The final day is a long bus ride home along the Prithvi Highway — a scenic drive through the Marsyangdi and Trishuli river valleys that serves as a gentle, rolling debrief of everything the past 17 days have been. Outside the window: terraced fields, roadside tea shops, children in school uniforms. The ordinary world, reassembled.

Arrive back in Kathmandu by early evening. Twenty days. Two valleys, one of which almost nobody ever visits. Two base camps. Two high gompa excursions. One 5,106 m pass. The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley is one of the longest, most varied, and most culturally rich trekking routes in Nepal — and the proof of that is the particular feeling of returning from it. Not just tired. Genuinely changed.

Rest day in Kathmandu recommended: 17days at high altitude takes a physiological toll that one night's sleep doesn't resolve. Build at least one buffer day in Kathmandu before any international flight. Your body has earned the rest and your stories deserve a proper telling.

⇀ Starts:

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Arrival Recommendation: Arrive in Kathmandu by 4:00 PM on Day 1 to participate in a pre-trek briefing and enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.

↼ Ends:

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Departure: You can schedule your departure for any time after the trek concludes.

Places Nepal provides free airport transfers for all arrivals and departures, no matter your flight schedule. Simply share your flight information with us in advance for a smooth pickup and drop-off experience.

Transportation Details

Day 1: Travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by local bus with your trek guide.

Day 16-17: Return journey involves a shared jeep ride from Tiliche to Besisahar, followed by a tourist bus back to Kathmandu the next day.

Elevation Chart
Day 1
Teahouse
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2-16
Teahouses
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 17
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

During the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek, trekkers stay in locally-run teahouses along the trail. Twin-sharing accommodation is included throughout the trek, providing simple but comfortable rooms in remote Himalayan villages. Rooms usually come with two single beds, pillows, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities in most locations.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek are included. Teahouses serve a variety of freshly prepared meals suitable for long trekking days in the mountains. Breakfast options commonly include eggs, Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, muesli, chapati, tea, and coffee. Lunch and dinner menus typically offer Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, potatoes, curries, momos, and seasonal vegetable dishes.

Dal Bhat is the most common trekking meal in Nepal as it is nutritious, filling, and often served with free refills. As the trail reaches higher and more remote sections of Tsum Valley and the Manaslu region, food choices may become more limited, but meals remain warm, hearty, and energy-rich.

Teahouses in the mountains are basic compared to city hotels, but they provide an authentic Himalayan trekking experience with warm hospitality and cozy dining spaces. Hot showers, charging facilities, and Wi-Fi may be available in some villages for an additional cost.

Please note that hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu are not included in the trek package unless specifically mentioned.

This trek is rated Challenging.

The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is classified as Challenging, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers with a high level of physical fitness, mental resilience, and prior high-altitude trekking experience.

This challenging Himalayan route combines the remoteness of the Tsum Valley with the dramatic alpine terrain of the Manaslu Circuit—culminating in a demanding and incredibly rewarding adventure.

Why This Trek is Considered Tough:

  1. High Altitude Exposure
     You’ll reach a maximum elevation of 5,220 meters (17,122 ft) at Larkya La Pass, and spend several days trekking above 3,000 meters (9,842 ft). Additional key elevations include Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m / 15,748 ft). Prolonged time at altitude increases the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and requires careful pacing, hydration, and awareness of altitude symptoms.
  2. Trek Duration
     This trek covers a span of 22 continuous days, requiring long-term stamina and mental determination. The combination of daily physical exertion and limited comforts can be physically and emotionally demanding.
  3. Daily Trekking Hours
     Expect to walk 6–8 hours each day, sometimes more. Days are spent traversing steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, glacial moraines, and potentially snow-covered paths, especially near Larkya La.
  4. Trail Conditions
     The route includes remote and rugged trails, river crossings, narrow ridges, and areas prone to landslides or snow accumulation depending on the season. Trail maintenance is minimal in some sections, adding to the challenge.
  5. Built-in Acclimatization
    The itinerary includes strategic rest days for acclimatization; however, individual altitude responses vary. It's crucial to ascend slowly, listen to your body, and stay hydrated.
  6. Larkya La Pass Crossing
     The ascent to Larkya La Pass is the most demanding part of the trek. This crossing requires an early pre-dawn start, walking for several hours in cold temperatures at high altitude, followed by a steep descent to lower altitudes.
  7. Required Physical Conditioning
     Trekkers should have prior experience with multi-day treks at altitude, and be in excellent cardiovascular health. Training should include endurance hikes, uphill climbs, strength conditioning, and backpack training.
  8. Remote & Isolated Terrain
    The Tsum Valley and upper Manaslu region are among the most remote areas in Nepal, with limited access to medical services, transportation, or supplies. Basic teahouses are available but offer minimal amenities—hot water, charging, and heating may come at an extra cost. 

Is This Trek for You?

If you’re an adventurous, fit, and experienced trekker seeking a raw, remote, and spiritually rich Himalayan journey, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek offers one of Nepal’s most incredible and off-the-grid trekking experiences. Proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy this physically and mentally rewarding challenge.

The weather on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek varies by season and altitude. The best times to trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when skies are clear, temperatures are moderate, and mountain views are at their best.

  • Spring: Mild days with blooming rhododendrons. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes.
  • Autumn: Crisp air and excellent visibility. Daytime temps average 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F); nights get much colder at high elevations.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Extremely cold with snow and limited lodge facilities. Temperatures at high altitudes can fall below -20°C (-4°F).
  • Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Wet and muddy trails, with cloud cover and increased risk of landslides. Not ideal for trekking.

Weather becomes harsher above 3,000 meters (9,842 ft), especially when crossing Larkya La Pass (5,220m / 17,122ft), where snow and wind are common. Always pack warm layers and be prepared for sudden changes.

                              • Airport pickup service upon arrival in Kathmandu
                              • Local bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
                              • Shared jeep transportation from Tilche to Besisahar
                              • Tourist bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu or Pokhara
                              • All required trekking permits and restricted area permits
                              • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
                              • Guide’s salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, and insurance
                              • Teahouse/lodge accommodation throughout the trek
                              • Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
                              • Basic first aid kit carried by the guide
                              • Arrangement of all trekking logistics and paperwork
                              • Trek completion certificate
                              • Government taxes and official service charges
                              • Free luggage storage in Kathmandu during the trek

                                                  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees
                                                  • Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
                                                  • Personal trekking equipment and gear
                                                  • Porter service (USD 25 per day, 18kg max)
                                                  • Hot showers, Wi‑Fi, charging, and personal teahouse expenses
                                                  • Bottled drinks, alcohol, snacks, and desserts
                                                  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara
                                                  • Tips for guide and porter
                                                  • Accommodation in Kathmandu
                                                  • Any services not specifically mentioned in the Cost Includes section

                                                  The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is physically demanding, reaching altitudes over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and requiring up to 8 hours of trekking per day on rugged terrain. To fully enjoy the experience and stay safe, it’s essential to prepare your body in advance.

                                                  1. Cardiovascular Training (4–6 days/week)

                                                  Build endurance with hiking, running, swimming, or cycling. Aim for 45–60 minutes of sustained cardio. Simulate trekking conditions by hiking on trails with a loaded backpack (8–10 kg or 17–22 lbs).

                                                  2. Strength Training (2–3 days/week)

                                                  • Focus on legs, core, and upper body:
                                                  • Squats, lunges, and step-ups for leg strength.
                                                  • Planks and crunches for core stability.
                                                  • Push-ups and resistance exercises for shoulder/back strength (useful for carrying a daypack).

                                                  3. Hiking Practice

                                                  Train with long hikes at least once a week, gradually increasing difficulty and duration. Practice walking on uneven ground, stairs, and inclines to mimic Himalayan trails.

                                                  4. Stair Climbing & Elevation Training

                                                  Use stairs or incline treadmills to prepare for steep ascents and descents. If possible, train at altitude or use a weighted vest to simulate high-altitude fatigue.

                                                  5. Flexibility & Recovery

                                                  Incorporate yoga or stretching routines to improve flexibility and reduce injury risk. Recovery is just as important as training.

                                                  6. Mental Preparation

                                                  Trekking in remote regions like Tsum Valley requires mental resilience. Practice patience, stay positive, and be ready for unpredictable conditions like weather changes or basic lodge facilities.

                                                  Packing the right gear is essential for a safe and comfortable experience on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek. Below is a comprehensive checklist categorized for your convenience.

                                                  1. Clothing

                                                  Base Layers:

                                                  • 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
                                                  • 2 thermal tops and bottoms (light and midweight)

                                                  Insulation Layers:

                                                  • 1 fleece jacket or pullover
                                                  • 1 down jacket (suitable for -10°C or colder)

                                                  Outer Shell:

                                                  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
                                                  • Waterproof trousers or rain pants

                                                  Trekking Pants:

                                                  • 2 pairs of lightweight trekking pants
                                                  • 1 pair of thermal-lined or heavier pants for colder days

                                                  Shirts & Jackets:

                                                  • 1 warm trekking shirt (flannel or wool)
                                                  • 1 softshell jacket (optional)

                                                  Sleepwear & Underwear:

                                                  • Comfortable clothes for sleeping
                                                  • 3–4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
                                                  • 3–4 pairs of wool/synthetic trekking socks
                                                  • 1–2 pairs of warm thermal socks

                                                  2. Head & Hand Gear

                                                  • Sun hat or cap
                                                  • Wool or fleece beanie
                                                  • Buff or neck gaiter
                                                  • UV-protective sunglasses
                                                  • Lightweight liner gloves
                                                  • Insulated gloves or mittens (waterproof recommended)

                                                  3. Footwear

                                                  • Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots (ankle support, waterproof)
                                                  • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
                                                  • Gaiters (optional for snowy sections)

                                                  4. Sleeping Essentials

                                                  • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
                                                  • Sleeping bag liner (for added warmth & hygiene)

                                                  5. Backpack & Bags

                                                  • 35–45L daypack with rain cover
                                                  • Duffel bag (for porter to carry, max 9kg)
                                                  • Dry bags or packing cubes (to organize gear and protect from moisture)

                                                  6. Trekking Accessories

                                                  • Trekking poles (adjustable, with snow baskets)
                                                  • Headlamp with extra batteries
                                                  • Reusable water bottles (2x1L) or hydration bladder
                                                  • Water purification tablets or filter
                                                  • Snacks (energy bars, dried fruits, etc.)
                                                  • Lightweight towel and toiletries
                                                  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm with SPF
                                                  • Personal first aid kit (include blister care, pain relief, altitude meds)

                                                  7. Documents & Essentials

                                                  • Valid passport and copies
                                                  • Trekking permits (provided by your operator)
                                                  • Travel insurance (covering high-altitude trekking & evacuation)
                                                  • Cash in small denominations (for meals, Wi-Fi, charging)

                                                  Optional Items

                                                  • Solar charger or power bank
                                                  • Camera or phone with extra memory/cards
                                                  • Notebook and pen
                                                  • Earplugs (for noisy teahouses)
                                                  • Lightweight book or e-reader

                                                  Tip: Pack light but smart—weather can vary drastically at altitude. Layering is key. Your duffel bag carried by porters should not exceed 9 kg (20 lbs).

                                                  The Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding Himalayan adventures, combining remote mountain wilderness, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes into an unforgettable 17-day journey. This trek takes you deep into the hidden Tsum Valley before connecting with the legendary Manaslu Circuit Trail, creating a perfect balance of cultural immersion and alpine adventure.

                                                  Located in the remote Gorkha region of northern Nepal, the route passes through traditional mountain villages, dense forests, glacial rivers, sacred monasteries, and rugged Himalayan terrain beneath the towering presence of Mount Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The trek also crosses the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft), one of Nepal’s most dramatic Himalayan passes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

                                                  Route and Altitude Description

                                                  The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, followed by a gradual ascent through the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The trail winds through terraced hillsides, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and traditional Gurung villages before reaching Jagat, where the route branches toward the hidden Tsum Valley.

                                                  As you move deeper into Tsum, the landscape becomes increasingly peaceful and spiritual. Ancient mani walls, prayer flags, chortens, and centuries-old monasteries define the valley’s unique atmosphere. The trek reaches Mu Gompa (3,700m/12,139ft), the highest and most important monastery in the region, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery and strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.

                                                  After exploring the upper Tsum Valley, the trail rejoins the Manaslu Circuit route and continues through Deng, Namrung, Shyala, and Samagaun. An acclimatization day at Samagaun allows time to explore Birendra Lake or hike toward Manaslu Base Camp before continuing toward Samdo and Larkya Phedi. The adventure reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft), followed by a long descent into the beautiful valley of Bimthang and onward to Besisahar.

                                                  Key Altitude Points:

                                                  • Machha Khola – 890m (2,920ft)
                                                  • Chumling – 2,386m (7,828ft)
                                                  • Mu Gompa – 3,700m (12,139ft)
                                                  • Samagaun – 3,530m (11,581ft)
                                                  • Manaslu Base Camp – 4,800m (15,748ft)
                                                  • Larkya La Pass – 5,106m (16,752ft)
                                                  • Bimthang – 3,720m (12,205ft)

                                                  Culture and Spiritual Significance

                                                  Tsum Valley remained isolated from the outside world for centuries and still preserves a deeply rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture. The people of the valley continue to practice ancient traditions, customs, and dialects that have remained largely unchanged over generations. Sacred monasteries such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa serve as spiritual centers for local communities, while prayer wheels, mani walls, and meditation caves add to the valley’s mystical atmosphere.

                                                  Further along the Manaslu Circuit, trekkers encounter traditional Nubri and Tibetan-influenced villages where mountain lifestyles continue much as they have for centuries. Monasteries like Pungen Gompa, set beneath the massive glaciers of Manaslu, offer both cultural insight and extraordinary mountain views.

                                                  Mountain Views, Flora & Fauna

                                                  Throughout the trek, trekkers are rewarded with constantly changing Himalayan scenery. Major peaks visible along the route include Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Ngadi Chuli, and Shringi Himal.

                                                  The trail passes through diverse ecological zones ranging from subtropical forests and bamboo groves to alpine meadows and glacial landscapes. Rhododendron forests bloom beautifully during spring, while the higher regions are home to Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan thar, marmots, and numerous mountain bird species including the colorful Himalayan monal.

                                                  Permits Required

                                                  Since both Tsum Valley and Manaslu are restricted trekking regions, multiple permits are required for this trek:

                                                  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
                                                  • Tsum Valley Special Permit
                                                  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
                                                  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

                                                  Trekkers must travel with a licensed guide, and solo trekking is not permitted in these regions.

                                                  Who Is This Trek Suitable For?

                                                  This trek is ideal for:

                                                  • Experienced trekkers seeking a remote and culturally rich Himalayan experience
                                                  • Fit hikers comfortable with multiple days of trekking at altitude
                                                  • Travelers looking for less crowded trails and authentic mountain culture
                                                  • Adventure seekers who enjoy basic teahouse trekking and challenging mountain passes

                                                  While no technical climbing is required, the trek involves long walking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions, making good physical preparation highly recommended.

                                                  The 17-day Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an extraordinary combination of sacred Himalayan culture, remote mountain landscapes, and high-altitude adventure. From the peaceful monasteries of Tsum Valley to the dramatic crossing of Larkya La Pass, every section of the trail reveals a different side of Nepal’s untouched Himalayan beauty.

                                                  This journey is more than just a trek—it is an immersive experience through one of the most authentic and spiritually rich regions of the Himalayas.

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