The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek is a famous trek in Nepal. It takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,163 m. This trek perfectly merges with Tsum Valley, a quiet and beautiful area that is less visited by tourists. Tsum Valley is one of Buddhism’s hidden valleys, known for its peaceful villages and old monasteries. This trek is perfect if you want to explore the Manaslu region’s natural beauty and unique culture.
Manaslu is located in the Gorkha district of Nepal, in the western part of the country. To start the trek, you will travel from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, which is about an 8-hour drive. You will see awesome landscapes, rivers, hills, and forests on the way. Great views of the snow-capped mountains, such as Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Himal Chuli, can be seen on the way. From the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek, the panoramic mountain views are breathtaking.
This trek has been open to visitors since 1992, but special permits are required because it is in a restricted area. You need to be in a group of at least two people (excluding guides and porters) and book through a certified trekking company. The trek has become easier with teahouses and lodges available for accommodation, so camping is no longer necessary. Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek combined great mountain scenery, Tibetan-style culture, and quiet trails to create one fantastic adventure.
Your journey to Manalsu Tsum Valley trek begins with a long drive from Kathmandu. You’ll leave the city and head towards Dhading Besi. The road is smooth at first, but soon it turns bumpy and dusty as you go deeper into rural Nepal. Along the way, you’ll pass small towns like Naubise and Galchi. As you move closer to Arughat (550 m), the scenery feels more peaceful, with views of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) in the distance.
From Arughat, you’ll continue driving toward Machha Khola. The road is narrower and rougher, but you’ll enjoy the adventure. You’ll pass by Arkhet Bazaar, where locals trade daily goods. The Budhi Gandaki River will guide you the whole way until you reach Soti Khola and finally Machha Khola. Machha Khola sits by the Budhi Gandaki River and will be your stop for the night.
Drive Time:
8–9 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
160 km (99 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
930 m (3,051 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Dinner (L.D)
Place:
Machha Khola
On the second day of your Manaslu Tsum Valley journey, you’ll start walking from Machha Khola along the Budhi Gandaki River. This trek from Machha Khola to Jagat takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the valley. Soon you’ll reach Tatopani, a small village known for its natural hot springs, which are supposed to cure many bone-related diseases like arthritis. You’ll cross a suspension bridge and continue on a trail above the river, which gives you company throughout the day.
After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach Dovan (1,070 m). It sits at the confluence of the Budhi Gandaki River and a smaller tributary stream. From Dovan, you’ll continue to Jagat (1,340 m), a larger settlement with stone-paved streets. Jagat is marked with traditional houses and Mani walls that show the Buddhist culture of the region. You’ll end the day here.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
22 km (13.6 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,340 m (4,396 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Jagat
The day begins as you leave Jagat. You’ll walk past Mani walls and cross the Budhi Gnadaki River on a suspension bridge. The path climbs gradually, and you’ll see terraced fields all over the hillside. Soon, you’ll reach Sridibas (1,420 m), a Gurung village with traditional houses and friendly locals. From here, you’ll also catch a glimpse of Shringi Himal (7,187 m).
After Sridibas, you’ll continue towards Philim (1,590 m). The trail stays close to the Budhi Gandaki River, guiding your way forward. Philim is a large Gurung village famous for the Buddha Secondary School, which serves as the sole secondary school in the Tsum Nubri region. The stone houses and Mani walls here reflect Buddhist traditions. This section of the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail is full of village life and mountain views.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
15 km (9.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,590 m (5,217 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Philim
You’ll start walking from Philim after breakfast. The trail climbs through terraced fields and stone houses. You’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gnadaki River. Soon, you’ll reach Ekle Bhatti (1,600 m), which is the first major rest stop for trekkers entering the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley. You can take a rest here, observing the mountains around, including Shringi Himal. You’ll feel the valley opening as you continue forward.
From Ekle Bhatti, you’ll move toward Chumling (2,360 m). The path follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes through pine and rhododendron forests. Chumling is a large Gurung village that showcases real Himalayan village life. The mani walls and prayer flags show the Buddhist influence in the area. This part of the Manaslu Tsum Valley trekking is full of cultural sights and river views that keep your journey alive.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
15 km (9.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,360 m (7,743 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chumling
The day starts early from Chumling, leaving the village behind. The trail climbs through forest, stone houses, and crosses a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. Soon, you’ll reach Renjam (2,500 m), a village with tea houses and Mani walls. From here, you’ll see Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal in the far hills. You’ll feel the culture of the Gurung and Tibetan communities around you as you continue.
After Renjam, you’ll head to Chhokangparo (3,031 m). The path moves past pine and rhododendron trees and finally reaches Chhokangparo or Chhekampar. The name “Chhekam” comes from the local Gurung/ Tamang languages. “Chhe” means six, and “Kam” means fields or plots. The area has six small grazing plots used by villagers for yak and cattle during the summer months. Chhekam also has a calm atmosphere with eahosues for overnight stay.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
16 km (10 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,031 m (9,944 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chhokangparo
From Chekkam Park, you’ll climb through a rhododendron forest and head towards Lamagaon. It serves as a cultural gateway to the Tsum Valley. You’ll see prayer flags fluttering above the houses. The local Gurung and Tibetan culture is visible everywhere. Also, the view of Manaslu (8,163 m) and Sringi Himal is clear from here.
From Lamagaon, you’ll continue to the Nile (3,361 m). The trail follows the river and crosses a suspension bridge. You’ll pass through stone houses and cultivated terraces like maize and paddy along the path. Nile is a small village perfect for resting on your sixth day of the trek. This section of the Manaslu Tsum Valley trekking is full of village life and steady climbs that keep you engaged throughout the trek.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
14 km (8.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,361 m (11,027 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Nile
Starting your seventh day of the trek, you’ll leave Nile early in the morning. You’ll pass Mani walls and prayer flags along the way. Soon, you’ll reach Chukke, a traditional Tibetan Buddhist settlement that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Tsum Valley locals. Children walk to school, and farmers work in the fields. This part of the Manslu Tsum Valley journey gives a real sense of local Gurung and Tibetan culture.
After Chhuke, you’ll continue towards Chhokangparo, also known as Chhekampar. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River at points and passes through forests. You’ll cross a suspension bridge before reaching the village. Chekkampar has teahouses where you can rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, as it is your final stop for the day.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
12 km (7.5 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,031 m (9,944 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chhokangparo
You’ll start early from Chhokangparo and move towards Chumling. You’ll cross a few suspension bridges and Mani walls along the way. Chumling is a Gurung village that has some local shops that sell locally made handicrafts like handwoven woolen clothes, beaded jewelry and necklaces, traditional Tibetan Buddhist items like prayer flags (lungta), small statues of Buddha and deities.
After Chumling, you’ll cross the Budhi Gandaki River and reach the large Gurung village known as Lokpa (2,240 m). You’ll enjoy mountain views while walking and see the daily activities of locals. This part of the trek is more about the local skills and historical art preserved by the Tsum Valley inhabitants for many years.
Trek Time:
7–8 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
19 km (11.8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,240 m (7,349 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Lokpa
From Lokpa, you’ll start early and walk toward Phewa. You’ll see Ngadi Chuli (Gangapurna II, 7,871 m) and Himalchuli (7,893 m) from different points along the way. Phewa serves as the gateway to the higher and more remote part of the Tsum Valley. Also, mani walls and prayer flags show the local Buddhist culture here.
After Phewa, you’ll continue towards Deng (1,860 m). The path follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes more villages with teahouses. Deng is a larger settlement where you can stay overnight. You’ll see Ganesh Himal clearly from here and notice the daily life of the Gurung and Tibetan communities.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
14 km (8.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,860 m (6,102 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Deng
On day 10 of your trek along the Manaslu Tsum Valley path, you’ll start from Deng. You walk through Bihi Phedi, where you can witness the rural lifestyle and agricultural practices of the local Tsumpa people. From here, the trail moves to Ghap. Along the way, you’ll see Mount Ganesh and Shringi Himal rising above the valley. The trail gives you clear views of the Budhi Gandaki River below as you continue towards Namrung.
As you approach Namrung (2,630 m), the scenery opens up to Mount Himalchuli and Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Namrung itself is a key stop with its large mani walls and Buddhist monasteries. You can rest here and enjoy the atmosphere of the village.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
17 km (10.6 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,630 m (8,631 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Namrung
You begin your day from Namrung and head towards Lihi. The trail first takes you past the clear views of Mount Manaslu and Himalachuli, then through open areas where you can spot the Budhi Gandaki River below. Lihi is considered a cultural hub of the lower Tsum Valley, where you can observe traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices. The Manaslu Tsum Valley weather can change quickly further, so be prepared for cool winds and occasional clouds.
After Lihi, you’ll continue to Lho (3,180 m). Lho is one of the oldest settlements in the Tsum Valley and acts as a spiritual and cultural center for the region. You’ll see Mount Cheo Himal (6,820 m) and Ngadi Chuli in the distance as you walk. You can meet locals and learn about their daily lives. Reaching Lho marks the end of a memorable day filled with mountain views and unique Tsum Valley experiences.
Trek Time:
4–5 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,180 m (12,500 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Lho
The twelfth day of your trek starts from Lho and heads towards Syala. The trail gives clear views of Mount Manshu and Himalchuli. Syala is a remote village known for its original Tsum Valley lifestyle and monasteries. You’ll see locals performing daily activities like farming and trading. From here, the path continues towards Samagaun (3,530 m).
Samagaun is a key stop on the 19 days Manaslu Tsum Valley trek. Samagaun has a large monastery known as Pungyen Gompa. The village gives you a sense of local culture and mountain life. Reaching Smagaun completes a rewarding day of Tsum Valley trekking.
Trek Time:
4 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
8 km (5 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,530 m (11,581 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samagaun
Today is your acclimatization day in Samagaun. You’ll do a short hike to Pungyen gompa, located above the village. This monastery is an important site for locals, which is active especially during the Tsi-Chu festival, which is celebrated in February and March. This festival is celebrated in honor of the birth of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is revered for bringing Buddhism to Tibet. Walking slowly to these points helps your body adjust to the high altitude.
After visiting Pungyen Gompa, you’ll return to Samagaun for lunch and rest. You can explore local shops and interact with villagers. Drinking plenty of water and eating light meals is important to stay healthy at this altitude. You can also visit smaller gumbas and observe monks performing rituals. This helps you understand the local culture and lifestyle.
In the afternoon, you can take another small hike to nearby viewpoints. From here, you’ll see Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli, and other peaks clearly. The rest of the day is for relaxation and breathing exercises. You’ll return to your lodge in Samagaun to rest and prepare for the next trekking day. This acclimatization day is important to prevent altitude sickness and to make sure you’re ready for the challenging sections ahead on the Manasu Tsum Valley trek.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day (optional)
Trek Distance:
15 km (9.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,530 m (11,581 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samagaun
Spending a good acclimatization day at Samagaun, you’ll start your day by heading towards Samdo. The trail takes you past open areas with clear views of Mount Manaslu and Himalchuli. You’ll pass a small viewpoints where you can rest and take photos. The views of the Budhi Gandaki River and the surrounding peaks make the hike interesting and steady.
As you approach Samdo (3,860 m), the trail opens up to stunning views of Ngadi Chuli and Cheo Himal. Samdo is a key stop on the Tsum Valley trek, where you’ll notice the Tibetan-style houses and local monasteries. The village is a gateway for Larkya La and higher passes. You can rest here, meet locals, and prepare for the next day’s hike.
Trek Time:
3–4 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
8 km (5 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,860 m (12,664 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samdo Village
The trail today will take you from Smado towards Larkye Bazaar. The trail climbs slowly, giving you clear views of Mount Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, and Cheo Himal. Larkye Bazaar is a small settlement that serves as a resting point for trekkers before the Larkya La Pass. You’ll not climb the Larkye Pass today, just take a break here, enjoy the views, and plan for the challenges that you face tomorrow.
After Larkye Bazaar, you continue to head down towards Dharamsala (4,460 m), also known as Larkya La Phedi. Dharamsala lies close to the Larkya Bazaar, and it is also used as the final stop before the pass. From here, you can also see mountains like Manaslu and Himalchuli. This day is important for adjusting your body and preparing for the next day’s trek over Larkya La.
Trek Time:
4–5 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
11 km (6.8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,460 m (14,632 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Dharamsala
You start early from Dharamsala for the climb to Larkya La Pass. The trail is steep but gives beautiful views of Mount Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, and Cheo Himal. You’ll pass high-altitude rocks and prayer flags along the way. You need to be careful as the oxygen level is around 50–53% of sea level. Reaching Larkya La at 5,106 m is the highlight of the trek. You’ll take time here to rest, take photos, and enjoy the view of the peaks. This is one of the highest points on the 19-day Masnalu Tsum Valley trekking.
After crossing Larkye La, you descend towards Bhimthang (3,720 m). Bhimthang is a peaceful settlement where you can rest and recover after a long day. This village has lodges and a few local shops. This part of the trek is rewarding, with a combination of high-altitude landscapes and mountain views. You’ll end the day at Bhimthang ready for the next section of the trek.
Trek Time:
8–9 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
24 km (14.9 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,720 m (12,205 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Bhimthang
You’ll start your day from Bhimthang and head towards Yak Kahrka. The trail offers clear views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Boudha, and other surrounding ridges. Yak Kharka is a grazing area where yaks and local animals are seen. You’ll trek for an hour before reaching Karche. You can rest here and interact with locals if you want to learn about customs and their lifestyle.
After Karche, you continue your descent to Tilije. Tilije serves as a cultural and trade hub of the Manaslu circuit. You’ll see Lamjung Himal (6,983 m) and Annapurna II (7,937 m) from points along the trail. The village marks the return to lower altitudes, and you can rest well here.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
16 km (10 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,300 m (7,546 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tilije
Descending from Tilije, you’ll head towards Dharapani on your second last day of the trek. Dharapani is a village where the Manaslu Circuit trek meets the Annapurna Circuit trek. It also marks the end of the remote trail and the start of easier access with better lodges, transport options, and road connectivity. From Dharapani, you’ll continue further down towards Tal. The path moves along the Marshyandgi River, and you’ll notice the change in landscape as you drop to a lower altitude.
After reaching Tal, you’ll switch from trekking to a local jeep for the final drive toward Besisahar (760 m). Tal is known for its beautiful waterfalls, calm riverside views, and peaceful village atmosphere. From this point onward, the route becomes busier as you enter the Annapurna region. The jeep ride follows a rugged road, passing terraced farmlands, scattered settlements, and lively roadside villages. Reaching Besisahar marks the completion of your trekking part of the Manaslu journey with memories of mountains, villages, and cultures.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
35 km (21.7 miles)
Trek Distance:
22 km (13.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
760 m (2,493 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Besisahar
You’ll begin your final day with a drive from Besisahar towards Kathmandu. The road follows the Marshyangdi River for some distance. You’ll pass towns like Dumre, where the road connects to the main Prithvi Highway. Along the way, you can see the Trishuli River flowing beside the highway and a glimpse of Ganesh Himal from certain points. The drive is long but filled with changing scenery as you move closer to the capital.
As you approach Kathmandu, the road passes through Mugling and Kurintar, known for its cable car to the Manakamana Temple. As you enter the Kathmandu Valley, the city view opens with busy markets, temples, and traffic. This marks the completion of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Journey.
Drive Time:
7 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
175 km (108.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Accommodations:
Not Included
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Kathmandu
To respect the varied accommodation preferences of our guests, the Kathmandu stay has been kept optional, so you can freely choose a hotel that best suits your comfort and budget. However, if you would like us to arrange your accommodation, we would be more than happy to assist. Let us know your preference (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star) at the time of booking, and we will include it as an add-on without any hassle.
Every day, we will enjoy a unique trekking experience while witnessing the beautiful scenery, snapping photos, and exploring local villages along the way. Our friendly and experienced Sherpas and guides will share information and historical facts about the places we visit. While our porters will carry our luggage, we will need to bring a small backpack to carry valuables and important documents.
We will start our day with a hot cup of tea or coffee in the morning. After breakfast, we will begin our trek around 7 AM to 8 AM. After trekking for about three to four hours, we will stop for lunch on the trail. We will rest for about an hour before continuing our walk in the afternoon, which will be shorter, lasting about two to three hours.
Once we reach our overnight lodge, tea house, or tent, we will enjoy some snacks. You will have time to explore the area before it gets dark. We will serve dinner between 6 PM and 7 PM. Afterward, we will relax and chat about the day’s trek. We will also have the option to play Monopoly or cards, watch mountaineering documentaries, or learn a few Nepalese words from our crew before heading to bed for a good night’s sleep.
Our Manaslu trip begins in Soti Khola village, a few hours up the valley from Arughat. We will follow a path that winds through bamboo forests in the narrow Budhi Gandaki Valley. After our visit to Tsum Valley, we will rejoin the Manaslu Circuit at Deng village. We will then head to the Nupri region, home to Tibetan immigrants from the village of Lho. Similar to Tsum Valley, we will pass by monasteries, Mani walls, and bright Buddhist prayer flags.
We will spend one night at Samagaun and two nights at Samdo for acclimatization. From Samagaun, we can take a trek to Manaslu Base Camp. A scenic trail from Samdo leads toward Tibet, where we may spot blue sheep. After Samdo, we will begin our approach to the challenging Larkya La Pass. While no mountaineering experience is required, the Larkya La Pass day is demanding.
The trek starts with a drive of about eight hours from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, passing through lush hills and rivers. We will then ascend to Lokpa via Jagat, walking through rhododendron and pine forests. The route will take us through terraced farmland and along the gushing Budhi Gandaki River. As we enter the Tsum Valley, we will leave the Manaslu trail behind and explore the rich Tibetan culture. We will stop at Gumba Lungdang, Mu Gompa, Pungen Gompa, and Rui La Pass, which is near the Tibet border. The trek ends in Dharapani, from where we will either return to Kathmandu or head to Pokhara.
Trekkers will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit from Jagat to Sama Gaun. These regions fall within the restricted area, and trekkers must have this permit to access them. The costs for the permit are as follows:
You need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) to trek in the Manaslu region, as it helps protect the area’s natural beauty and wildlife. You can easily obtain it through a licensed trekking agency or at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu. It is an important permit that ensures sustainable tourism while you explore the breathtaking Manaslu area. The cost for this permit is:
The Tsum Valley is a restricted area, and you need a special permit to access it. This permit is important because it regulates the number of visitors to this culturally significant region. You can get the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit at a licensed trekking agency in Kathmandu. Unlike the Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality Permit, which is issued by the local municipality, it is issued by the Department of immigration. The costs for the permit are as follows:
You’ll need this permit to enter the Tsum Valley and surrounding villages within the Manaslu region. The local rural municipality office collects this permit, and you need to acquire it in Jagat village during the trek, not through a trekking agency.
You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the sections of your trek that pass through the Annapurna region. You can obtain the ACAP at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or through a licensed trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This permit helps ensure that your trek through the beautiful Annapurna region is both safe and environmentally responsible. The cost for this permit is:
The best time for you to trek to the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley depends on your preferences. Spring and Autumn are ideal if you are looking for the best weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain views, though the trail will have many trekkers. Summer/Monsoon offers lush landscapes and fewer trekkers but has challenging weather conditions, including rain and slippery trails. Similarly, winter demands preparedness for cold temperatures and potential trail closures.
Spring is a perfect season for trekking because the weather is clear and the temperatures are moderate. During the day, you can enjoy trekking with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. At night, it can get cold, dropping from -5°C to 5°C. The skies are usually clear, giving you excellent views of the mountains. You will see blooming wildflowers, especially rhododendrons and magnolias, lush forests, and crystal-clear views of mountain peaks like Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
Pros:
Cons:
Summer, or monsoon season, is warmer, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Nights are cooler, with temperatures around 5°C to 10°C. The season brings heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy and slippery. However, the continuous rainfall transforms the region into a lush green paradise. You will also see waterfalls and rivers flowing in full force. Fewer trekkers come this season, meaning the trail will be quieter and more peaceful.
Pros:
Cons:
Autumn is the best season for trekking because the weather is dry, clear, and stable. Daytime temperatures during this season are comfortable, typically ranging from 10°C to 18°C, and nighttime temperatures fall between -2°C and 5°C. The crisp autumn air and dry trails provide ideal trekking conditions, and the views of the Himalayan peaks are unbeatable. Furthermore, local festivals like Dashain and Tihar occur during autumn, offering you a chance to experience the cultural celebrations of Nepalese communities along the trail.
Pros:
Cons:
Winter is the least popular season due to the cold weather, but it offers a peaceful, quiet trekking experience. The daytime temperature is between 5°C and 10°C, but at night, it can drop drastically to -10°C to -5°C at higher altitudes. You will see beautiful, serene landscapes covered with snow all across. This is when you can experience the trek in complete solitude. However, the extreme cold and possible snow blocking higher passes like Larkya La can make it challenging.
Pros:
Cons:
During the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek, you will stay in simple yet comfortable accommodations like teahouses, lodges, or tents along the trail. Amenities are basic; you get a bed, blankets, and sometimes even shared bathroom facilities. Your room is not going to impress, but they are great places to finally rest and warm up after a long day of hiking. Accommodation in higher altitudes will be more basic but still provide essential comfort. Staying in the teahouses run by locals, you can also understand their culture while interacting with them.
Meals on the trek are usually served in the teahouses or lodges where you will stay. You will be provided with a variety of local and international food options, ensuring you stay fueled for the trek. Meals will be nutritious and prepared fresh. You will enjoy hearty meals to keep your energy up for the long days of trekking, and there will also be snacks like biscuits and fruits available for extra energy. Below is a sample of the meals you can expect:
Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, and tea/coffee
Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, momos (dumplings), or soup
Dal Bhat, vegetables, rice, fried rice, pasta, and traditional dishes
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, where the oxygen level is lower than at sea level. During the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek, your body may struggle to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels, leading to symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Significant altitude gain and rapid ascent without proper acclimatization increases the risk of AMS. If not addressed, symptoms can worsen, leading to serious conditions like high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek is considered moderately challenging. The trek involves long days of walking, with some steep ascents and descents. You will be trekking at altitudes ranging from 700 m to 5,106 m, so you must be prepared for altitude changes. Most of the trails are uneven and rugged, especially in the higher parts. You will definitely need to be in good physical shape because the trek requires stamina. Although it is not as tough as other high-altitude treks, it requires proper preparation and stamina.
The Tsum Valley part of the trek is a bit easier than Manaslu itself, but still involves walking at high altitudes and can be physically demanding. Some parts of the trail are remote, and the weather can be unpredictable, so you need to be ready for changing conditions. Depending on your pace and time of acclimatization, the trek can be up to 14 or even 18 days long. It is important not to rush and to stop resting whenever you feel like you need to. You should have proper gear, a good guide, and adequate preparation, which are essential to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
When trekking in the Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions, hiring a trekking guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insight. Your guide will help you with the route, provide valuable information about the local culture, and ensure you stay safe while trekking. The porter will carry your heavy luggage, allowing you to focus on the trek itself. Tipping is customary, and you should plan to tip your guide and porter at the end of your trek. A typical tip is around NPR 1,500 to 3,000 for the guide and NPR 1,000 to 2,000 for the porter, depending on the level of service and the length of your trek.
During the trek, there are baggage limits that you must adhere to, especially when you are using porters. Typically, porters are allowed to carry up to 15–20 kg of luggage, so you should pack light and only bring essential items. You can carry a small daypack with personal items, valuables, and documents, which you will need throughout the day. The baggage limit is important to ensure that porters do not carry too much weight, as they may be walking long distances in challenging conditions. Keep in mind that excess baggage should be left behind in Kathmandu or other safe locations.
All foreigners, except for Indian nationals, need a valid visa to enter Nepal. You can get an on-arrival visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at border entry points. To apply for a visa, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months, one passport-sized photo, and a visa fee of US for 30 days, which can be paid in cash (major currencies). Children under ten years old can get a free visa. People from China and SAARC countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) can get a free visa. Citizens of countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Afghanistan might not be able to get an on-arrival visa and should check with their local Nepalese embassy. Visa rules can change, so it is important to check the official immigration website for updates
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