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Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek – 24 Days

Duration
24 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5106 m
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Group Size
2-20
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Spring (March to May) & Autumn (September to November),

The Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular 24-day adventure that combines two of Nepal’s most enchanting trekking regions. Starting from Soti Khola in the lower Budhi Gandaki valley, the trek first explores the remote Tsum Valley, a hidden Himalayan sanctuary known for its rich Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and pristine landscapes. Along the way, trekkers pass traditional Tibetan-style villages, mani walls, prayer flags, and sacred gompas, while enjoying sweeping views of snow-capped peaks. The trail gradually ascends through lush forests and terraced fields, making it a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

After leaving Tsum Valley, the journey continues on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering a classic high-altitude Himalayan experience. Trekkers traverse scenic villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo, and tackle the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, one of the highest points of the trek. The route showcases glaciers, high alpine landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan vistas, including Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The trek gradually descends through verdant valleys to Syange, from where trekkers drive back to Kathmandu, concluding an unforgettable journey through remote and breathtaking regions of Nepal.

Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Remote and Hidden Valley: Discover the secluded Tsum Valley, a pristine Himalayan region rarely visited by tourists.
  • Ancient Buddhist Monasteries: Visit sacred gompas like Mu Gompa and Pungain Gompa, and experience Tibetan Buddhist culture firsthand.
  • Spectacular Himalayan Views: Witness breathtaking panoramas of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, and surrounding peaks.
  • High-Altitude Adventure: Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), a thrilling highlight of the trek.
  • Traditional Villages: Explore Tibetan-style villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo, with stone houses, prayer flags, and friendly locals.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Trek through forests, terraced farmlands, rivers, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high-altitude valleys.
  • Wildlife and Nature: Spot Himalayan flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, birds, and occasional sightings of snow leopards or musk deer.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience local festivals, rituals, and the warm hospitality of the Tsum and Manaslu communities.
  • Adventure and Solitude: Enjoy off-the-beaten-path trekking with minimal crowds and a true sense of Himalayan wilderness.

Why choose the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek?

  • Explore a Hidden Valley: Tsum Valley is remote and untouched, offering a chance to experience authentic Himalayan culture away from crowds.
  • Rich Buddhist Culture: Visit ancient monasteries, gompas, mani walls, and meet monks and local villagers practicing traditional Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Stunning Mountain Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, and other Himalayan peaks throughout the trek.
  • High-Altitude Adventure: Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), one of the most rewarding high passes in Nepal.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high-altitude valleys.
  • Cultural Immersion: Interact with friendly locals in traditional villages, gaining insight into their lifestyle, festivals, and customs.
  • Combination Trek: Experience two incredible trekking regions, Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit, in one journey.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path: Avoid the crowds of the Annapurna or Everest regions, enjoying solitude and pristine natural beauty.
  • Adventure for Experienced Trekkers: Perfect for trekkers looking for a moderately challenging, high-altitude adventure with cultural and scenic highlights.

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Short Itinerary and Map
Starts From: Kathmandu
Ends At: Kathmandu
Max Altitude: 5106 m

Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek – 24 Days Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Rest and prepare for the trek.

Max Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)
Duration: 30 Mins
Distance: 4 KM
Accommodation: Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Private Car
Day 2

Restricted Area Permit Procedure & Kathmandu Sightseeing (Optional)

Complete the restricted area permit for Manaslu and Tsum Valley. Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
 

Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 25 KM
Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Private Car
Day 3

Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Drive through scenic landscapes, crossing rivers and terraced fields to reach Soti Khola, the starting point of your trek.
 

Max Altitude: 700m (2,296ft)
Duration: 8 Hrs
Distance: 170 KM
Meals: B,D
Accommodation: Guest House
Mode of Transportation: Bus
Day 4

Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through forests, suspension bridges, and small villages.
 

Max Altitude: 930m (3,051ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 10 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 5

Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

A longer trekking day with gradual ascent, passing farmland, rivers, and local settlements.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 22 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 6

Trek from Jagat to Lokpa

Trek enters the remote Tsum Valley region, with increasing Buddhist cultural influence, Mani walls, and traditional villages.
 

Max Altitude: 2,240m (7,349ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 15 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 7

Trek from Lokpa to Chhokang Paro

Gradual ascent into higher valleys. Views of Himalayan peaks and local monasteries.

Max Altitude: 3,031m (9,944ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 11 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 8

Trek from Chhokang Paro to Mu Gompa

Enter the spiritual heart of Tsum Valley. Mu Gompa is a sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery.

Max Altitude: 3,700m (12,139ft)
Duration: 5 Hrs
Distance: 8 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 9

Trek from Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro

Return trek with optional exploration of Mu Gompa surroundings.
 

Max Altitude: 3,031m (9,944ft)
Duration: 5 Hrs
Distance: 8 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 10

Trek from Chhokang Paro to Gumba Lungdang

Continue trekking along scenic valleys and local settlements.

Max Altitude: 3,200m (10,498ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 12 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 11

Hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp & Return to Gumba Lungdang

Day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp for breathtaking panoramic views. Return to Gumba Lungdang.
 

Max Altitude: 4,800m (15,748ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 14 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 12

Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa

Descend through beautiful villages and terraced fields, retracing your path from earlier trekking days.

Max Altitude: 2,240m (7,349ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 13 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 13

Trek from Lokpa to Deng

Trek continues through forests and river valleys, entering Manaslu Circuit region.

Max Altitude: 1,860m (6,102ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 18 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 14

Trek from Deng to Namrung

Gradual ascent with scenic mountain views and traditional villages.

Max Altitude: 2,540m (8,333ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 20 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 15

Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon

Trek deeper into Manaslu region; Sama Gaon is a major village with spectacular Himalayan vistas.
 

Max Altitude: 3,590m (11,778ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 17 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 16

Hike to Manaslu Base Camp / Pungain Gompa & Return to Sama Gaon

Optional challenging day hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungain Gompa, offering incredible mountain views.

Max Altitude: 4,580m (15,026ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 16 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 17

Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo

Short trek into a Tibetan-influenced village with stone houses and prayer flags.
 

Max Altitude: 3,870m (12,696ft)
Duration: 5 Hrs
Distance: 8 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 18

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala

Trek toward Larkya La Base Camp; prepare for the high pass crossing.

Max Altitude: 4,460m (14,632ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 10 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 19

Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass

Larkya La Pass crossing is the highlight of the trek, offering majestic Himalayan views. Descend to Bimthang for overnight rest.

Max Altitude: 5,106m (16,751ft)
Duration: 10 Hrs
Distance: 20 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 20

Trek from Bimthang to Tilije

Gentle descent through forests and local villages.
 

Max Altitude: 2,299m (7,542ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 18 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 21

Trek from Tilije to Tal

Trek continues through terraced fields, farmland, and local villages.

Max Altitude: 1,680m (5,511ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 15 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 22

Trek from Tal to Syange

Final trekking day, descending to lower valleys.

Max Altitude: 1,101m (3,612ft)
Duration: 6 Hrs
Distance: 14 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 23

Drive from Syange to Kathmandu

Scenic drive through valleys and rivers, returning to Kathmandu. Relax and celebrate the completion of your trek.

Max Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)
Duration: 7 Hrs
Distance: 135 KM
Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Private Vehicle
Day 24

Final Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport for your onward journey.

Duration: 30 Mins
Distance: 4 KM
Meals: B
Mode of Transportation: Private Car
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Route Map
Altitude Chart

Cost Details

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Private pick-up and drop-off by a private vehicle.
  • Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing: Full-day sightseeing tour with a private vehicle and an English-speaking guide.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu: 3 nights at a 3-star category hotel on a twin-sharing basis, including breakfast.
  • Transportation: Public bus transfers from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and from Syange to Kathmandu.
  • Permits & Fees: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit), and Restricted Area Permits for Tsum Valley and Manaslu.
  • Guides & Porters: Experienced English-speaking trekking guide with all expenses covered, including insurance, meals, accommodation, and salary. Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers) carrying 15–20 kg, with wages, meals, accommodation, equipment, and insurance included.
  • Meals: Full board during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
  • Trekking Equipment: Complimentary sleeping bags and duffle bags provided (to be returned after the trek).
  • Trekking Support: Trekking route map and first aid kit for emergency use.
  • Taxes & Charges: All applicable government taxes and company service charges included.


 

What’s Excluded

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal are not included.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and trekking insurance is required but not included.
  • Entrance Fees: Any sightseeing or monument entrance fees in Kathmandu.
  • Nepal Visa Fees: Visa charges for Nepal entry.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except for complimentary dinners provided by the hotel.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as Wi-Fi, bar bills, laundry, electricity charges for gadgets, hot showers, hot water, and other personal costs.
  • Tipping: Gratuities for guide(s), porter(s), and driver(s).
  • Other Items Not Listed: Any expenses or services not mentioned in the package inclusions.

Dates & Availablity

Fixed Departure is for joining pre-scheduled group departures.

Private Trip is for personalized experiences.

Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Jun 2026
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Sep 2026
Oct 2026
Nov 2026
Dec 2026
Jan 2027
Feb 2027
Mar 2027
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15 Mar, 2026
Starts on Sunday
07 Apr, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
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20 Mar, 2026
Starts on Friday
12 Apr, 2026
Ends on Sunday
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25 Mar, 2026
Starts on Wednesday
17 Apr, 2026
Ends on Friday
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Equipment Lists for Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek – 24 Days

For the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek, pack layered clothing including thermal base layers, fleece and waterproof jackets, trekking pants, warm gloves, hats, and sturdy boots. Bring a daypack, sleeping bag, trekking poles, water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses, toiletries, travel documents, first-aid kit, and optional climbing gear for high-altitude sections.

Upper Body Layers
  • Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal)
  • Long-sleeve trekking shirts
  • Fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof shell jacket
  • Lightweight insulating jacket for layering
Lower Body Layers
  • Trekking pants (quick-dry)
  • Thermal leggings or long underwear
  • Waterproof overpants for rain or snow
  • Shorts (optional, for lower altitudes)
Footwear & Accessories
  • Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support
  • Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
  • Wool trekking socks (multiple pairs)
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or muddy trails)
Head & Sun Protection
  • Warm wool/fleece hat for cold
  • Sun hat or cap for daytime
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses (UV protected)
Personal & Medical Kits
  • Personal medications
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox, as advised by doctor)
  • Painkillers, anti-diarrhea medicine, bandages
  • Blister care: moleskin or blister pads
  • Insect repellent
Travel Documents
  • Passport & visa
  • Trekking permits (TIMS & Restricted Area Permit)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Copies of passport & permits
  • Flight tickets & hotel confirmations
Miscellaneous
  • Camera & spare batteries
  • Notebook & pen
  • Power bank & charging cables
  • Travel locks for luggage
  • Lightweight trekking umbrella (optional)

Essential Information

Trek Starting Point

  • Location: The trek officially starts from Soti Khola, located in the lower Budhi Gandaki valley.
  • Access: Reachable by a scenic but long drive from Kathmandu (approx. 8–9 hours).
  • Why Soti Khola: It marks the gateway to both the Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit, connecting lower valleys to high Himalayan regions.

Altitude & Difficulty

  • Highest Point: Larkya La Pass – 5,106 m (16,752 ft)
  • Lowest Point: Syange – 1,100 m (3,609 ft)
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous; suitable for trekkers with previous trekking experience and good fitness.
  • Acclimatization: Multiple rest and acclimatization days are included (e.g., Namrung, Sama Gaon) to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Duration & Distance

  • Total Trek Days: 24 days, including arrival, departure, and sightseeing.
  • Daily Trekking Distance: Typically 8–22 km per day, depending on altitude and terrain.
  • Trek Duration: 5–11 hours per day on longer or high-altitude trekking days (e.g., Larkya La Pass).

Accommodation

  • In Kathmandu: 3, 4, or 5-star hotels depending on preference.
  • During Trek: Teahouses or lodges in villages; basic but clean facilities.
  • Facilities: Beds, blankets, meals, and simple bathrooms (hot water may be limited at higher altitudes).

Meals

  • Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are usually provided at teahouses/lodges during trekking.
  • Cuisine: Local Nepali dishes (dal bhat, noodles, momos), Tibetan food in Tsum Valley.
  • Special Needs: Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can often be accommodated.

Transportation

  • From/To Kathmandu: Private vehicle or bus transfer.
  • During Trek: Walking is required; all trekking is on foot.
  • Luggage: Porters can be hired to carry heavier bags; daypacks are recommended for essentials.

Permits & Fees

  • Restricted Area Permit: Required for Tsum Valley and Manaslu regions.
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Needed for Manaslu Circuit.
  • Cost: Permit fees are paid in Kathmandu before the trek starts.

Best Time to Trek

  • Autumn: September to November – clear skies, moderate temperatures, and great mountain views.
  • Spring: March to May – rhododendron forests bloom, good visibility, and pleasant weather.
  • Avoid: Monsoon season (June–August) due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails; winter (December–February) can be very cold and snowy.

Weather & Climate

  • Lower Altitudes: Warm to mild during the day, cool at night.
  • Higher Altitudes: Can be freezing, especially above 4,000 m.
  • Rainfall: Minimal in autumn and spring; summer monsoon brings heavy rain and landslides.

Safety & Health

  • Altitude Sickness: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and follow acclimatization days.
  • Medical Facilities: Limited in remote villages; basic first aid available in teahouses.
  • Insurance: Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is highly recommended.

Communication

  • Mobile Coverage: Limited in Tsum Valley and high-altitude areas; Kathmandu and some villages have coverage.
  • Internet: Available in Kathmandu and some lodges in lower regions; not reliable at high altitudes.

Electricity & Charging

  • Voltage: 220V AC, 50 Hz.
  • Availability: Limited in teahouses; solar panels and power banks recommended.

Local Culture & Etiquette

  • Language: Nepali and Tibetan dialects; English widely understood in trekking areas.
  • Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering monasteries, dress modestly, and ask before photographing locals.
  • Festivals: If trekking in festival season, you may witness Buddhist rituals and celebrations.

Essential Items to Carry

  • Clothing: Layered clothing suitable for cold, windy, and sunny conditions.
  • Footwear: Strong trekking boots with ankle support.
  • Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, lip balm.
  • Trekking Gear: Walking poles, backpack, sleeping bag (optional).
  • Medical Kit: Altitude sickness medication, basic first aid, personal medications.

Wildlife & Nature

  • Flora: Rhododendrons, alpine meadows, pine and oak forests.
  • Fauna: Snow leopard (rare), musk deer, Himalayan birds.
  • Environmental Responsibility: Carry out waste and respect natural habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am a solo traveler. I keep reading that Manaslu is a 'restricted area' and I can't go alone. Is there any way around the 2-person permit rule, or can I just hire a guide and be the only 'trekker'?

No, there is no legal "way around" this rule. The Nepal Department of Immigration requires a minimum of two foreign trekkers plus a licensed Nepali guide to issue the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). We cannot issue a permit for one person alone. However, we frequently "permit-match" solo travelers with others starting on the same date. While you must be on the same permit, you are not forced to walk at their pace; you just need to pass through the checkpoints together with your guide.

I've heard Tsum Valley is a 'non-slaughter' zone. Does this mean I have to be 100% vegetarian for that entire week? How is the protein intake for such a long trek?

Yes, Tsum Valley is a sacred Buddhist sanctuary where the killing of animals is strictly prohibited. You will not find fresh meat in the valley. We advise sticking to Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, and veg), which provides excellent protein and complex carbs. While some teahouses may have dried meat brought in from outside, we recommend avoiding it due to hygiene risks. To maintain your energy, we suggest bringing supplemental protein bars or nuts from Kathmandu to bridge the "veg-only" days in Tsum.

Is the side hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp from Gumba Lungdang worth the extra effort? It looks steep on the map. Is it a technical climb or just a long walk?

It is a non-technical but strenuous 6–7 hour round trip. The trail is often faint and rocky, reaching 4,200m. While the views of the Ganesh Himal range are spectacular, it is a significant physical drain before re-joining the main Manaslu trail. We only recommend this to trekkers who are feeling 100% healthy at Gumba Lungdang. If you have any signs of early fatigue, we suggest resting at the nunnery instead to save your energy for the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) later in the trip.

I'm worried about the 'standard' of teahouses. I read a review saying the Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi) camp is 'filthy' with terrible toilets. Is there an alternative or a way to get a 'luxury' room there?

To be direct: Dharmasala is the most basic accommodation on the trek. It is a seasonal stone hut settlement, not a permanent village. There are no "luxury" options; rooms are small, often shared, and the shared toilets are basic. We manage expectations by treating Dharmasala as a "base camp" experience rather than a hotel stay. It is only for one night before the pass. We ensure our guests have high-quality sleeping bags to compensate for the cold and basic conditions.

What happens if I get altitude sickness? How quickly can a helicopter actually get to me in Tsum Valley versus the main Manaslu trail?

Rescue logistics depend entirely on weather and your insurance. In the main Manaslu Circuit (Sama Gaon/Samdo), heli-evacuation is relatively fast (2–4 hours in daylight). Tsum Valley is more remote and narrow; if the weather is cloudy, a helicopter cannot land. In such cases, we use a horse or porters to descend you to a lower altitude immediately. We require all guests to have insurance that specifically covers "helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m." We do not "wait and see"—at the first sign of HAPE/HACE, we initiate descent.

Is a SteriPen enough for water? I’ve seen people talk about 'virus' risks near the villages. Should I just buy bottled water to be safe?

A SteriPen or a Sawyer filter is effective, but for the Manaslu region, we recommend "double treatment." Filter the water to remove sediment/protozoa, then use a drop of chlorine or iodine to kill viruses, especially near high-livestock areas like Samdo. We strongly discourage buying plastic bottled water—it is expensive ($3–$5 per bottle) and creates a massive waste problem. We provide boiled water at teahouses, which is the safest and most eco-friendly choice.

What is the cellular/Wi-Fi situation? I need to check in with family every few days. Which SIM card works best in Tsum?

Expect a "digital detox." In Tsum Valley, cell service (NTC/Ncell) is virtually non-existent once you leave Lokpa. On the main Manaslu Circuit, NTC has better coverage in higher villages like Samdo, but it is patchy. Teahouse Wi-Fi (Everest Link or similar) costs $5–$10 for a data card, but it is often slow and fails in bad weather. We advise letting your family know you will be "off-grid" for 3–5 days at a time. Our guides carry a satellite phone or local phone for emergency coordination only.

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