Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Summit Nepal Adventure will be waiting to welcome you. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. After settling in, you’re free to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, or rest and prepare for the adventure ahead. In the evening, there will be a trek briefing to introduce your guide and provide an overview of the journey.
We set off early for a long but scenic drive through Nepal’s rolling hills and terraced countryside to reach the starting point of our trek. The journey to Maccha Khola follows the Trishuli and Budi Gandaki Rivers, with picturesque villages and waterfalls along the way. After about 9 hours on both paved and off-road tracks, we reach Maccha Khola, a small riverside village where we spend the night.
Our trek begins along the Budi Gandaki River, crossing numerous suspension bridges and passing through small villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani. The trail winds through subtropical forests and narrow gorges, eventually leading to Jagat—a traditional village built on stone terraces and serving as the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Leaving Jagat, we climb through lush landscapes and pass small hamlets like Salleri and Sirdibas. The path gradually ascends to Philim and then splits; we take the eastern route into the less-traveled Tsum Valley. After traversing a ridge and entering a deeply forested area, we reach Lokpa, the first village in the mystical Tsum region.
Today’s trail takes us deeper into the Tsum Valley, a region rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. We descend into a dense pine and rhododendron forest and cross the Siyar Khola before climbing again toward Chumling. This peaceful village offers your first real immersion into Tsum culture, with traditional stone houses and a backdrop of Ganesh Himal.
The journey continues through fertile fields and yak pastures, passing by Mani walls and small Buddhist shrines. We follow the trail northward along the Shiar Khola to reach Rachen Gompa, a serene nunnery set in a wide valley surrounded by majestic peaks. It’s a perfect place to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the region.
We trek further north, passing through the village of Nile and continuing up to Mu Gompa, the highest and most isolated monastery in the Tsum Valley. This ancient monastery sits just below the Tibetan border and offers stunning views of the snow-covered mountains and Tibetan plateau. After exploration, we stay overnight at Nile or near the monastery depending on conditions.
We exit the Tsum Valley and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit route. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River once more, passing through pine forests and terraced hillsides. After crossing several bridges and riverside paths, we arrive at Deng, a compact settlement that marks our transition into the higher Manaslu region.
Today, the trail climbs steadily through changing terrain. We pass through forests, mani walls, and remote hamlets like Bihi and Ghap, where Tibetan culture becomes more pronounced. The final stretch winds through a narrow gorge before reaching Namrung, a scenic village with clear views of mountains like Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli.
The trail climbs through alpine scenery and scattered farmlands to Lihi and Sho, small settlements with striking chortens and stone houses. Soon we arrive at Lho, a large village with an impressive monastery and spectacular views of Manaslu looming above.
A relatively short hike today takes us to Samagaon, one of the largest and most culturally significant villages on the trail. We pass through forests and yak pastures, with panoramic views of Manaslu, Peak 29, and other high peaks. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the traditional homes and ancient monastery that define the village.
To adjust to the altitude, we spend a rest day in Samagaon with the option of day hikes. You can trek to Birendra Lake, visit Pungyen Gompa, or, for the more adventurous, hike up to Manaslu Base Camp. Each option offers spectacular scenery and an up-close look at the glaciers and rugged terrain of the region.
We trek higher into the arid alpine zone today, passing mani walls and yak pastures on our way to Samdo, a small village just a few hours from the Tibetan border. This remote settlement offers incredible views and a quiet environment to rest before crossing the high pass.
A short and gradual ascent leads us to Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharmasala. This basic lodge settlement is the last overnight stop before tackling the Larkya La Pass. The afternoon is spent resting and preparing for an early start the next day.
We begin before dawn to cross the Larkya La Pass, the highest and most dramatic point of the trek. The trail ascends steadily over a rocky and snowy landscape to the pass, which rewards us with awe-inspiring views of Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The descent to Bimthang is long but beautiful, passing glaciers and alpine meadows.
The descent continues through rhododendron forests and terraced fields as we gradually return to lower elevations. We pass through charming villages like Tilije and Thonje before reaching Dharapani, a larger settlement at the junction with the Annapurna Circuit.
After breakfast, we board a private jeep for the long but scenic journey back to Kathmandu. The route winds through lush hills, riverside towns, and rugged tracks before reconnecting with the Prithvi Highway. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest or explore the city one last time.
Your incredible journey through the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit with Summit Nepal Adventure comes to a close today. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will transfer you to the airport. We hope you depart with unforgettable memories, cultural insights, and a deep appreciation for the hidden Himalayan wonders you’ve explored.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek combines the breathtaking beauty of the Manaslu Circuit with the serene and culturally rich Tsum Valley. Located in a remote region near the Tibetan border, Tsum Valley is a hidden gem, offering an authentic Himalayan experience away from the crowds. The trek is known for its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, sacred sites, and stunning landscapes. With Summit Nepal Adventure, trekkers can explore the peaceful valley, enjoy incredible views of Manaslu (8,163m) and Ganesh Himal, and immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of the Tsumba people.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with prior experience in high-altitude trekking. The trail includes long days of trekking with ascents and descents through rugged terrain, reaching altitudes of up to 3,700 meters (the highest point is Mu Gumba in Tsum Valley). The trek requires good physical fitness, acclimatization to higher elevations, and a spirit of adventure. Summit Nepal Adventure ensures gradual acclimatization and provides professional guides to make the trek as comfortable and safe as possible.
Yes, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek requires special permits because it lies within a restricted region. You will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Tsum Valley Special Permit. These permits are arranged by Summit Nepal Adventure, ensuring all documentation is handled correctly and promptly, so you can focus on enjoying your trek without the hassle of paperwork.
The best times to trek the Manaslu Tsum Valley are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally clear, offering spectacular views of the mountains, and the temperatures are mild, making the trek more comfortable. Spring also brings blooming flowers, especially rhododendrons, while autumn offers crisp air and clear skies. Trekking in winter is possible but can be colder, with the risk of snow blocking high passes.
Accommodation along the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is mostly in traditional teahouses, which provide basic but comfortable rooms and communal dining. In Tsum Valley, many of the teahouses are locally run, offering a more intimate and authentic experience. Meals consist of simple but nutritious food like dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and Tibetan bread. Summit Nepal Adventure ensures that the teahouses we partner with maintain cleanliness and serve fresh, locally sourced food.
Yes, a guide is mandatory for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek due to its status as a restricted area. Trekking without a guide is not permitted. Summit Nepal Adventure provides experienced, English-speaking guides who are familiar with the terrain, the local culture, and the requirements of the region. Our guides are also trained in high-altitude trekking safety and first aid, so you can feel secure throughout your journey. We also offer porters to carry your luggage, allowing you to trek with a lighter load.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek requires a good level of physical fitness, as the days are long and the altitude can cause fatigue. It's recommended to do cardio and strength training in preparation, especially focusing on endurance for uphill climbs and long walking days. Additionally, acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness, and Summit Nepal Adventure’s carefully planned itinerary ensures that you ascend gradually, giving your body the time it needs to adjust. Our team will also provide you with a detailed packing list that includes appropriate clothing for cold weather and high altitudes.
The standard Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek takes approximately 16 to 18 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule. The trek usually starts from Soti Khola and proceeds through the Manaslu Circuit before branching off to the Tsum Valley. Key stops include the village of Chhekampar, the ancient Mu Gumba, and the sacred Dhephu Doma Monastery. Summit Nepal Adventure offers flexible itineraries and can customize the trek based on your time constraints, fitness level, and any special interests you may have, such as additional cultural visits or side treks.
Tsum Valley is a culturally and spiritually unique region. It has been known as a sacred valley, and it was once a restricted area for foreigners, making it one of Nepal's most untouched regions. The valley is home to the Tsumba people, who practice Tibetan Buddhism, and trekkers can visit ancient monasteries like the Rachen Gompa and Mu Gumba. The valley is also rich in history, with many legends tied to the region's spiritual significance. Along with its cultural depth, the valley offers dramatic mountain views and remote villages, making it an exceptional place to trek.
Booking the trek with Summit Nepal Adventure is straightforward. You can contact us through our website or email to discuss your preferred dates and requirements. We will take care of all logistics, including permits, transportation, accommodation, and professional guides. Early booking is recommended due to the need for special permits, especially in the busy trekking seasons. Once booked, we’ll provide all the details you need for preparation and offer support at every stage of your journey.
