Manaslu & Tsum Valley trekking

M a n a s l u   &   T s u m   V a l l e y

Manaslu, the world's 8th highest mountain, marks the geographical mid-point of Nepal’s Great Himalayan Trail.

Region

manaslu

Duration

24 Days

Walk

5 - 7 Hrs

Elevation

5100m

Best Season

Spring/Autumn

Accommodation

Hotel + Lodge + Tent

Price

$1,850 USD

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek offer an extraordinary journey through Nepal’s remote and culturally rich Himalayan landscapes. Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest peak, stands at the heart of this trek, with its name, “Mountain of the Spirit,” mirrored in the tranquil villages and valleys surrounding it. Since 2010, the trek has become teahouse-friendly, making it comparable to the Annapurna Circuit but with fewer crowds. The trail begins along the dramatic cliffs of the Budi Gandaki river valley, climbing into wider valleys with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. The highlight is the Larkya La Pass (5,135 m), which rewards trekkers with stunning panoramas of glaciers and mountain ranges.

The trek also includes the sacred and secluded Tsum Valley, a recently opened region near Tibet, rich in pristine natural beauty and vibrant culture. With sparkling vistas of the Ganesh, Sringi, and Baudha Himal ranges, the valley is adorned with chortens, mani walls, and ancient Buddhist art. Milarepa, the renowned Buddhist saint, is said to have meditated in its caves, and remnants of the Tsum Kingdom remain visible. This untouched area preserves a unique heritage due to its isolation. Combining the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, this trek delivers an off-the-beaten-path adventure, offering a perfect blend of rugged beauty, spiritual depth, and cultural immersion.

Group Discount

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m): Meet at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to hotel, rest or explore local sights while trek permits are prepared.
  • Day 2
    Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley: Visit UNESCO Bhaktapur and Kathmandu temples, enjoy Nepali dinner, and stay overnight in Kathmandu.
  • Day 3
    Kathmandu to Arughat (570m): Drive via Prithvi Highway, pass Dhading Besi, and reach Arughat through dusty roads.
  • Day 4
    To Soti Khola (730m): Easy walk with rice fields, waterfalls, and village views, passing Arkhet Bazar. (3–4 hrs)
  • Day 5
    To Machhekhola (930m): Rough trails along the Budhi Gandaki with rocky paths and waterfalls. (4–5 hrs)
  • Day 6
    To Jagat (1340m): Trek past Tatopani and Dobhan, registering permits at MCAP Office in scenic Jagat. (5 hrs)
  • Day 7
    To Deng (1860m): Cross suspension bridges, climb through bamboo forests, and reach Deng. (5–6 hrs)
  • Day 8
    To Namrung (2540m): Cross rivers, trek through forests, and reach Namrung via Ghap. (6–7 hrs)
  • Day 9
    To Lho (3020m): Explore Tibetan-influenced villages and enjoy views of Manaslu and nearby peaks. (4–5 hrs)
  • Day 10
    To Samagaon (3390m): Trek through glacier-fed streams and reach Tibetan settlements with monasteries. (4–5 hrs)
  • Day 11
    Acclimatization in Samagaon: Optional hike to Pung-gyen Gompa or explore Sama Gompa.
  • Day 12
    To Samdo (3690m): Pass Manaslu Glacier and reach a Tibetan refugee community in Samdo. (3–5 hrs)
  • Day 13
    To Dharamsala (4460m): Cross the Budhi Gandaki for the last time and ascend to Larkya Rest House. (3–5 hrs)
  • Day 14
    To Bimtang (3590m) via Larkya La (5100m): Cross the high pass with glacier views and descend to Bimtang. (8–9 hrs)
  • Day 15
    To Tilije (2300m): Descend through meadows and forests, stopping at Gurung settlements. (4–6 hrs)
  • Day 16
    To Jagat (1300m): Trek to Dharapani, joining the Annapurna Circuit, and continue to Jagat. (6 hrs)
  • Day 17
    To Besisahar (760m): Jeep or walk to end the trek. (6–7 hrs)
  • Day 18
    To Kathmandu or Pokhara: Return by bus or private vehicle, arriving at the hotel.
  • Day 19
    Departure: Depending on flight time, enjoy sightseeing or shopping before airport transfer.

Cost Includes

  • International and domestic airport pick-up and drop-off services
  • Three nights of hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Licensed and experienced trekking guides
  • Porters for carrying luggage and supplies
  • All accommodations in teahouse lodges during the trek
  • All meals and hot beverages while trekking
  • All necessary documents and permits for trekking
  • Trek equipment including sleeping bags and down jackets
  • First aid supplies
  • Insurance coverage for staff equipment
  • Coordination of rescue services (costs covered by your insurance plan)
  • Guided tour of World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu area
  • Traditional Nepali welcome dinner

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare
  • Travel and trekking insurance
  • Visa fees for entry into Nepal
  • Rescue service charges
  • Bottled beverages (cold and alcoholic)
  • Lunches and dinners not included during trekking