Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek 23 Days - 2024/2025 Cost

Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek 23 Days - 2024/2025 Cost
At a Glance
  • Duration23 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5,160 m/16,929 ft
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Trip Style Trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • An adventurous and less crowded trail with great mountain panoramas
  • Visit the Milarepa Piren Phu Cave- a sacred cave believed to be the place of the renowned Tibetan Buddhist yogi and poet, Milarepa
  • Visit ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rancehn Gompa
  • Hike to Manaslu Base Camp and Ganesh Himal Base Camp
  • Explore Pung Gyen Gompa and Punggung Glacier
  • Get to see the beauty of stunning Birendra Lake and come across waterfalls, rivers, and streams along the way
  • Get to see the unique lifestyle of the locals
  • Cross the challenging Larkya La pass and witness diverse landscapes

The Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek is an adventurous 23-day journey in the remote Himalayas of Nepal. This trek takes you close to the eight-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft). On the Manaslu Tsum valley trek, you will challenge yourself and travel far away from the bustle of the modern world.

Unlike popular trekking routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, the Manaslu circuit Tsum valley is less commercialized and less crowded. Trekking here is like discovering the Himalayas in its raw form, where the locals are still living an old lifestyle and deeply connected to their ancient beliefs.

Today, the Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal, and before it was opened to foreign travelers, the region was long prohibited from entering. The Manaslu circuit trek was opened in 1991, whereas Tsum valley was opened in 2007 for trekkers. To trek here, a special permit is required, and only a handful of trekkers get to visit the Manaslu region every year.

What to expect during the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trekking?

The Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek starts from Machha Khola and ascends to the upper Budhi Gandaki region. Trekking through dense forests, you will pass by beautiful villages. On the way, you will trek past cascading waterfalls and cross thrilling suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki river.

The numerous stupas, chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries along the way make the trek quite immersing. Mountains like Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/26,040 ft), etc are seen during the Manaslu circuit trek with Tsum valley.

The biggest highlight of the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek is the Larkya La pass. You will cross this mountain pass towards the end of the trek. Crossing this pass is challenging and requires guidance from expert mountain guides who have crossed this pass many times before.

The Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek route

During the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek 23 days, you will travel close to the Nepal-Tibet border. Following our Manaslu Tsum valley trek itinerary, you will trek an acclimatization break in Samdo and go on a hike to Rui La pass (4,998 m/16,398 ft). This is when you will get to discover one of the oldest trade routes between Nepal and India.

Likewise, our Tsum valley trek itinerary has a rest day in Gompa Lungdang and Samagaun. The entire Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trail is within the Manaslu Conservation Area, so get ready to encounter diverse vegetation, birds, and if lucky, rare wildlife like snow leopards, red pandas, etc.

The interactions with locals and their simple yet fulfilling lifestyle will inspire you. The tranquility of the region allows you to unwind and rejuvenate.

Is the Manaslu Tsum valley trek right for you?

If you have previous trekking experience and have good physical fitness, you can do the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek. This trek highly depends on the mental and physical wellness of the trekkers. Do understand that, the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek is very challenging.

If you wish to take on this lifetime adventure, join us on the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek 2024/2025 departures. We are offering a very affordable Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek cost and incredible service. For more information, contact us anytime.

Itinerary

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Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Welcome dinner

Meet us at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon landing. Our team will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel in a private four-wheeler. It takes around half an hour to reach Thamel from the airport. Once you check in at the hotel, rest and later explore the bustling streets of Thamel. In the evening, we will meet you over a complimentary welcome dinner organized by the company.

     

    Accommodation: Hotel

    Meals: Breakfast only

    The second day in Kathmandu is spent visiting some tourist sites and preparing for the trek. We will visit monuments like Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The tour will be guided by one of our friendly guides.

    After the tour, return to the hotel and have some rest. Later, we will discuss the trek route and introduce you to your mountain guide. Pack the duffel bags and do any last-minute shopping. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Thamel before returning to the hotel.

      Distance: 169.7 km/105 miles

      Altitude: 890 m/2,965 ft

      Duration: 10 hours

      Accommodation: Teahouse

      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      From Kathmandu, we will drive to Machha Khola. The ride will be breathtaking, thanks to the scenic highway. From Arughat, the road gets bumpy till Machha Khola. We can see superb views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Langtang Himal.

        Distance: 22.2 km/13.7 miles

        Altitude: 1,410 m/4,625 ft

        Duration: 6/7 hours

        Accommodation: Teahouse

        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        We will begin trekking from Machha Khola and ascend to Jagat. The trail goes along the banks of the Budi Gandaki river via lush forests. On the way, we will cross suspension bridges and reach Khorla Besi. From here, walk uphill to Tatopani and cross two suspension bridges on the way to Dovan. Shortly, we will go past a landslide area and trek to Jagat.

          Distance: 7.5 km/10.8 miles

          Altitude: 2,040 m/4,493 ft

          Duration: 6-7 hours

          Accommodation: Teahouse

          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          From Jagat, we will ascend to Salleri and continue trekking along the Budhi Gandaki river, crossing it a few times before reaching Philim. From here, the trail ascends to Ekle Bhatti and follows a narrow track to Lokpa village. The view of Mt. Manaslu is phenomenal along the way.

            Distance: 6.3 km/3.9 miles

            Altitude: 2,386 m/6,692 ft

            Duration: 5 hours

            Accommodation: Teahouse

            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            We continue trekking from Lokpa, enjoying stunning views of Ganesh Himal VI and Boudha Himal. The trail descends to Lungwa river valley and follows a subtropical forested route to Chumling. This part of the trail is isolated. Cross Syar Khola just before reaching Chumling.

              Distance: 8.4 km/5.2 miles

              Altitude: 3,010 m/9,875 ft

              Duration: 5-6 hours

              Accommodation: Teahouse

              Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              We will follow an uphill steep route from Chumling and gradually trek to Chhokang Paro. Chhokang and Paro are two different villages. Here, we will visit an old monastery and get to see traditional stone houses. Likewise, the view of Shringi Himal is phenomenal from this village.

                Distance: 17.6 km/10.9 miles

                Altitude: 3,700 m/11,026 ft

                Duration: 8 hours

                Accommodation: Teahouse

                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                Following a steep, rugged route, we will trek to the Nile village. From here, we will shortly reach Milarepa Piren Phu Cave. We will explore this sacred cave and further continue trekking to the Mu Gompa. The landscape is arid and stunning.

                  Distance: 15 km/ miles

                  Altitude: 3,010 m/9,875 ft

                  Duration: 6 hours

                  Accommodation: Teahouse

                  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  Leaving Mu Gompa, we will descend following the same trail back to Phurbe. From here, we will follow a different route that leads to Rachen Gompa. We will explore this ancient monastery and trek, crossing two bridges to Chhokang Paro.

                    Distance: 12 km/ miles

                    Altitude: 3,200 m/10,498 ft

                    Duration: 5-6 hours

                    Accommodation: Teahouse

                    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                    From Chhokang Paro, the trail descends to Domje. From here, we will turn to Gompa Lungdang. The trail gradually ascends to Thuluung Danda and from here, descends to Gompa Lungdang. It is an isolated track with stunning mountain views.

                      Altitude: 3,691 m/12,140 ft

                      Duration: 5 hours

                      Accommodation: Teahouse

                      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                      We will spend a rest day in Gumba Lungdang. In the morning, hike to the isolated Ganesh Himal Base Camp. The route passes by two gorgeous valleys and the lateral moraine of Torogumba Glacier. After exploring the base camp, return back to Gumba Lungdang to spend the remaining day.

                        Distance: 10 km/ miles

                        Altitude: 2,470 m/8,103 ft

                        Duration: 5 hours

                        Accommodation: Teahouse

                        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                        From Gompa Lungdang, we will begin trekking, following the same trail back to Domhe. Crossing a suspension bridge, we will follow the trail that leads to Ripchet. On the way, there are two suspension bridges, and most of the route descends.

                          Distance: 20 km/ miles

                          Altitude: 1,860 m/6,102 ft

                          Duration: 7-8 hours

                          Accommodation: Teahouse

                          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                          Leaving Ripchet, we will descend along a zigzag route that ascends and descends via forests and rockfall areas. Before reaching Lokpa, the trail crosses two bridges. From here, we will ascend to Deng via Nyak and Pewa. The view of the Shringi Himal is fantastic from Deng.

                            Distance: 19.5 km/12.1 miles

                            Altitude: 2,630 m/8,626 ft

                            Duration: 5/6 hours

                            Accommodation: Teahouse

                            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                            From Deng, the trail crosses a bridge and goes via lush rhododendron, fir, and oak forests. Passing by settlements like Rana, Bhi Phedi, and Bihi, we will reach Namrung village. On the way, we can see striking views of Shringi Himal and cross a few more small suspension bridges.

                              Distance: 17.7 km/10.9 miles

                              Altitude: 3,520 m/11,548 ft

                              Duration: 6 hours

                              Accommodation: Teahouse

                              Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                              Leaving Namrung, we will trek via an alpine forest to Lihi. The trail further goes past Sho and landslide areas, offering a wonderful view of Mt. Himchuli and Simnang Himal. We will trek past settlements like Lho and Shyala and graudally trek to Samagaun.

                                Accommodation: Teahouse

                                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                On this day, we will have a rest day in Samagaun. For the acclimatization hike, we will visit Pung Gyen Gompa or Mt. Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake. Both hiking options are fantastic and offer breathtaking mountain panorama.

                                  Distance: 8.2 km/5 miles

                                  Altitude: 3,875 m/12,713 ft

                                  Duration: 3/4 hours

                                  Accommodation: Teahouse

                                  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                  From Samagaun, we will trek to Samdo, crossing pastures. The trail ascends to the top of the valley and passes by birch and juniper forests. We will then descend to Budhi Gandaki river and cross a suspension bridge before following the steep trail to Samdo village. Samdo is one of the oldest Tibetan refugee villages in Nepal.

                                    Accommodation: Teahouse

                                    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                    Today, we will spend another day hiking and resting to acclimatize to the altitude. Early in the morning, we will hike to the Tibetan Border- Rui La. The trail follows an ancient trade route and takes us to a section of the Himalayas visited by a handful of travelers every year. After the hike, we will return to Samdo to spend the remaining day with locals.

                                       

                                      Distance: 11.7 km/7.2 miles

                                      Altitude: 4,480 m/14,698 ft

                                      Duration: 4/5 hours

                                      Accommodation: Teahouse

                                      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                      We are very close to Larkya La (pass). On this day, we will hike to Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharamsala. It is the base of the pass. The trail goes along the Athahra Saya river and Larke river. Trekking past mani walls and prayer flags, we will trek in the Salkha Khola valley and follow a steep route to Larkya Phedi.

                                        Distance: 24.7 km/15.3 miles

                                        Altitude: 5,160 m/16,929 ft

                                        Duration: 8/9 hours

                                        Accommodation: Teahouse

                                        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                        We will begin very early in the morning. The trail from Larkya Phedi crosses a moraine and descends to a small lake. From here, we will follow an unclear rugged track and steep the south grassy slope. Further, we will walk up to the edge of the moraine and descend from here to four frozen lakes.

                                        The final section involves ascending to the top of the pass from the lakes. The views of Mt. Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, Kang Guru Himal, etc, are breathtaking from the top of the pass. Further, we will follow a downhill grassy moraine to Bhimtang.

                                          Distance: 23 km/14 miles

                                          Altitude: 1,860 m/6,100 ft

                                          Duration: 8 hours

                                          Accommodation: Teahouse

                                          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                          We will trek from Bhimtang following a downhill route to Burding Khola. The trail then goes through lush forests of rhododendron and reaches Karche. From here, we will trek to Gho village and keep trekking to Tilije. Crossing Dudh Khola twice, we will reach Dharapani.

                                            Distance: 118 km/73 miles

                                            Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft

                                            Duration: 7-8 hours

                                            Accommodation: Hotel

                                            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinner

                                            We’ll drive back to Kathmandu on this day. The ride will be long and beautiful. In Kathmandu, you have the left of the day free to relax and shop. We will meet you in the late evening for the farewell dinner.

                                              Meals: Breakfast only

                                              Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. They will bid you our last goodbye and make sure you reach the airport without any issues.

                                                Cost Details
                                                Includes
                                                • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                                                • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                                                • The two nights stay in Kathmandu, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                                                • Transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besishahar to Kathmandu.
                                                • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permits, Manaslu Conservation Area Permits, Manaslu Restricted Permits, and Tsum Valley Restricted Permits.
                                                • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                                                • All accommodations during the mountain.
                                                • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                                                • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                                                • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and of the 2 guests 1 porter
                                                • First-aid kit.
                                                • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                                                • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                                                • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                                                • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                                                Excludes
                                                • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                                                • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu.
                                                • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                                                • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                                                • Personal guide and porter.
                                                • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                                                • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                                                • Tipping to staff.
                                                • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                                                Useful Information

                                                Difficulty

                                                • Trek distance: The Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek is approximately 220 kilometers (136 miles) long. On average, you will trek 11 to 15 kilometers a day during this trek, making it 6-7 hours of walking.
                                                • Difficulty level: The difficulty level of the Manaslu Tsum valley trek is considered challenging. This trekking route navigates steep and offbeat terrain. The region is remote with very limited tourist infrastructure, making the overall journey very demanding. The trekkers have to be physically fit with good health, endurance, and stamina to do the Manaslu Tsum valley trekking.
                                                • Terrain: As we mentioned above, the terrain is off-the-beaten and remote in the Manaslu region. You will navigate via various terrain and climatic zones. The trail begins from sub-tropical forests and ascends to alpine forests before going above tree line. Further, you will trek via landslide-prone areas, rocky gorges, moraines, and rock fall areas.
                                                • Altitude sickness: The elevation rises above 5,000 meters during the Manaslu circuit trek with Tsum valley. However, before you touch this elevation, you will spend quite a few days in lower elevations and slowly acclimatize. Likewise, our Manaslu Tsum valley trek itinerary has ample rest days, letting you well acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.
                                                • Preventive measures: These are some of the things you can do to avoid altitude sickness during the Manaslu circuit and Tsum valley trekking in Nepal: stay hydrated and maintain your pace. Likewise, take plenty of rest and have lots of food. Listen to your body, and do not push unnecessarily.
                                                • Previous trekking experience: Yes, you will need a previous trekking experience for the Tsum valley Manaslu trek. This trek is only recommended to experienced trekkers.
                                                • Trek preparation: Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek preparation requires getting physically and mentally ready for the journey. Likewise, you also have to arrange all the documents and trekking gear and book your international flight to/from Kathmandu, Nepal. For physical preparation, you can do regular exercise and go on long walks.

                                                The best time to do the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek

                                                • Spring: Spring- March to May is a popular time for trekking in the Manaslu region. With stable weather, a mild climate, and long daylight hours, trekking is quite bearable. The temperatures range from 0°C to 20°C (32°F to 68°F). March is cold, and as April and May start, the climate begins to warm up. The lower part of the trail is bloomed with rhododendrons in this season.
                                                • Autumn: Autumn (September to November) is another favorable time for Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trekking. It is the season of festivals in Nepal, so with a mild climate and stable weather, you will also get a fantastic environment. The temperature goes up to 30°C (86°F) and above in the lower altitude, whereas the upper part of the trail will be on the cold side.
                                                • Summer/monsoon: The summer and monsoon (June to August) season runs simultaneously. Trekking during this time can be challenging due to unstable weather and poor visibility. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 25°C (41 °F to 77°F) in the upper part of the trail. Whereas lower regions can see temperatures above 35°C (95°F).
                                                • Winter: Winter (December to February) is also a challenging time for the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek. The extreme cold and heavy snowfall makes trekking very difficult. Lodges at the upper elevation get closed. Likewise, the Larkya La pass might be closed as per the condition of the trail. You have to be very careful and precise while planning the Manaslu circuit with the Tsum valley trek in the winter season.

                                                Accommodation and Meals

                                                • Rooms: Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek has tea house accommodation. It is a very simple kind of accommodation with very few facilities. The rooms are shared between two trekkers mostly.
                                                • Washroom: The washrooms are generally common but you may get private washrooms in some places. The water in the taps is cold. You can request warm water to wash your face. Pack all the toiletries.
                                                • Hot shower: You can get hot showers in villages at lower elevations by paying a few extra bucks. The upper part of the trail has very limited wood and fuel for hot water. We recommend carrying wet wipes to keep yourself refreshed.
                                                • Charging and WiFi: Both Charging and WiFi are paid services. Charging stations are separately made in the tea house where all trekkers charge their devices. Likewise, WiFi is available in some selected villages, but the signal can be quite poor. You better buy a tourist sim that works fine in the Manaslu region and use data.
                                                • Breakfast: The breakfast menu is simple but delicious and nourishing. You have options like pancakes, porridge, Tibetan bread, chapati, eggs, toast, oats, muesli, etc beverages like tea and coffee.
                                                • Lunch and dinner: Lunch and dinner have the same menu and usually include dal bhat, momo, thukpa, burger, pasta, noodles, roti, veggies, curries, chili, sandwiches, etc.
                                                • Drinking water and beverages: Bottled water will cost you a lot of money and is also bad for the environment. Carry water purification tablets, and refill your water bottle with boiled water, and use purification tablets for extra safety.

                                                Additional Information

                                                • Travel insurance: For Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek, you have to get travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills. Travel insurance will protect you in a crisis and allow you to travel freely.
                                                • Passport and visa: Your passport should have six months of validity from the day you enter Nepal. Likewise, you can get a Nepali travel visa from the related authorities in your country or look out for on-arrival visa eligibility for your country.
                                                • Money exchange: There are no ATMs along the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trail, so withdraw enough money in Kathmandu to use during the trek.
                                                • Tips: You are supposed to tip guides, porters, and drivers. It is the best way to say thank you for their hard work. Budget some gratitude money for the trip.
                                                • Luggage: Keep your luggage light, but also make sure you have all the essentials for the trek. You have a 10 kg duffel bag weight limit and a 5 kg backpack weight limit for this trek.
                                                • Personal expense: Allocate money for shopping, extra food and drinks, emergency funds, international airfare, etc. Check out our cost include and exclude section. You will learn what things are covered in the Tsum valley Manaslu circuit trek cost and budget the rest of the expenses accordingly.
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