People Interested
1
Location
Manaslu
Durations
23 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Max group size
12
Best Time
Spring and Autumn
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. This 23-day trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machhe Khola, and from there you'll start your journey toward the Tsum Valley. This trek is also commonly known as Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trekking.
The Tsum Valley is a remote and hidden valley that was once a part of Tibet. It is home to ancient Buddhist monasteries, and mani walls that have remained untouched by modern civilization. You'll get a chance to visit these sacred sites and learn about the unique customs and traditions of the local people.
From the Tsum Valley, you'll cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) to enter the Manaslu Circuit, which offers stunning views of the Manaslu range. You'll trek through beautiful forests, cross glacial rivers, and pass through picturesque villages. The Manaslu Circuit is also home to the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.
One of the main highlights of this trek is the stunning view of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. You'll also get a chance to see other peaks such as Himal Chuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422m).
Overall, the Tsum Valley Manaslu Base Camp Trek is an excellent option for those looking for less crowded trekking destinations, to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the Himalayas. It is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
You can also check out our Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek With Thorang La Pass- 32 Days or a shorter Manaslu Base Camp Trek- 14 Days these options can be more suitable for you.
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek, which includes the Tsum Valley and Thorong La Pass, is a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and prior experience with high-altitude trekking. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, the crossing of high-altitude passes, and long days of trekking. Altitude sickness is also a significant concern for trekkers, making it essential to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions.
The ideal time for the Manaslu Base Camp Trek is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is stable and favorable for trekking, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended, as heavy rainfall can make the trail slippery and challenging.
To prepare for the Tsum Valley Manaslu Base Camp Trek, it is recommended to undertake regular physical exercises and cardiovascular training, such as running, cycling, or swimming. Hiking on hilly terrain and practicing uphill and downhill climbs with a backpack are also helpful. It is recommended to start preparing at least 2-3 months before the trek. Trekkers should also consult their doctor regarding any medical concerns and get vaccinated for common illnesses. Acclimatization training before the trek is also crucial to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Finally, carrying appropriate gear and equipment such as a sleeping bag, warm clothes, trekking shoes, and a first aid kit is essential.
There are several reasons why one may choose the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Base Camp trek for trekking.
Firstly, the trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the culturally rich Tsum Valley, which is home to ethnic communities with their own language, culture, and religion.
Secondly, the trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and glaciers, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Manaslu peak, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Additionally, the Manaslu Base Camp Trek is less crowded than other popular treks in the region, offering a more peaceful and authentic experience.
Finally, by choosing this trek, you will also be supporting the local communities as a portion of the trekking fees goes towards community development projects.
Day 2 : Drive to Machhe Khola (970 meters/2952 feet)
Following breakfast in Kathmandu, we will embark on an 8-9 hour drive to Soti Khola. Along the way, we will be treated to stunning vistas of the hills and mountains. Our accommodation for the night will be a tourist guest house located in Machhe Khola.
Day 3 : Hike to Jagat (1340meters/4395 feet)
Today our trek begins today as we cross the Machhe Khola and follow the riverbank through enchanting forests and quaint villages. After a 6-7 hour hike, we will arrive at Jagat where we will spend the night at a tourist guest house.
Day 4 : Trek to Lokpa (2240m) and Overnight at Tourist Guest House
Today, we will resume our trekking journey and cross multiple suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. Our path will take us through charming villages and scenic forests until we reach Lokpa, where we will spend the night at a tourist guest house.
Day 5 : Trek to Chumling (2385m) and Overnight at Tourist Guest House
Today's trek offers beautiful views of the Himalayan range. We will pass through beautiful forests and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Chumling. We will stay overnight at a tourist guest house.
Day 6 : Trek to Gumba Lungdang (3200m) and back to Domche (2460m) and Overnight at Guest House
Today's trek will take us to Gumba Lungdang, a renowned monastery in the area. After exploring the monastery, we will hike back to Domche and spend the night at a guest house.
Day 7 : Trek to Lar Village (3245m) and Overnight at Guest House
Today, we will trek to Lar Village, passing through beautiful forests and small villages. We will explore the Milarepa Cave and Rajen Monastery before returning to our guest house for an overnight stay.
Day 8 : Sightseeing and exploring the Milarepa cave rajen monastery and the locality
Today, you have the opportunity to visit the Milarepa cave and Rajen monastery in the area. The Milarepa cave holds significant spiritual value as it's linked with the renowned Tibetan saint Milarepa, who meditated there. Similarly, the Rajen monastery is a local Buddhist temple known for its impressive architecture and collection of Buddhist relics. While you're in the area, you can also take in the breathtaking natural scenery and experience the region's distinctive culture.
Day 9 : Trek to Mu Gompa 3710m (about 2.31 mi) overnight at monastery dorm room
This day involves a 7-hour trek to Mu Gompa, which is a remote and sacred Buddhist monastery located at an altitude of 3710m. You will spend the night at the monastery dorm room, which is a unique experience that offers an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the monks.
Day 10 : Trek back down to Chekamparo 3035m (about 1.89 mi) overnight at the guest house
Today, you'll be descending for approximately 6 hours to reach Chekamparo, a quaint village situated at an altitude of 3035m. You'll spend the night at a guest house, where you can unwind and recharge your batteries after a strenuous day of trekking.
Day 11 : Trek back down to Lokpa
The trek back down to Lokpa takes around 7 hours, and you will pass through several small villages and beautiful landscapes along the way. Lokpa is a small village that serves as the gateway to the Tsum Valley.
Day 12 : Trek to Bihi Phedi 2000m (about 1.24 mi) overnight at the tea house
Trekking for 6-7 hours, you will reach Bihi Phedi, which is a small village located at an altitude of 2000m. You will spend the night at a tea house, where you can enjoy some local food and interact with the locals.
Day 13 : Trek to Namrung 2630m (about 1.63 mi) overnight at the guest house
Today's itinerary involves trekking for around 7 hours to reach Namrung, a picturesque village situated at an altitude of 2630m. You'll spend the night at a guest house, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and unwind in a tranquil setting.
Day 14 : Trek to Shyala 3500m (about 2.17 mi) overnight at guest house
After trekking for 6-7 hours, you'll arrive at Shyala, a charming village nestled at an altitude of 3500m. You'll be spending the night at a guest house, where you can relax and gear up for the next day's trekking. Shyala is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and you can soak in the panoramic vistas of the mountains from here.
Day 15 : Trek to Sama (3,530m) via Pungyen Monastry (4,700 m)
On this day, you will be trekking for 8 hours to reach Sama via Pungyen Monastery. You will pass through beautiful landscapes, green forests, and streams on your way. The Punggyen Monastery is a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery and a pilgrimage site for the locals. You can explore the monastery and learn about the rich culture and tradition of the place.
Day 16 : Day trip to Manaslu Basecamp, including Birendra Lake, and exploring Sama village
This day is reserved for a day trip to Manaslu Basecamp, including Birendra Lake, and exploring Sama village. You can witness the stunning view of Manaslu from the base camp and also visit Birendra Lake, which is considered sacred by the locals. You can explore Sama village and learn about the local culture and traditions.
Day 17 : Trek to Larkey Bazzar 4,100m
Trek for 4-5 hours to reach Larkey Bazaar, which is situated at an altitude of 4100m. You will pass through beautiful forests and meadows and can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas.
Day 18 : Day hike to the Tibet border and back to Larkey Bazaar
On this day, you can take a day hike to the Tibet border and back to Larkey Bazaar. You can enjoy the beautiful landscape and learn about the history and culture of the place.
Day 19 : Trek to Dharamsala (4460m)
Trek for 3 hours to reach Dharamsala, which is situated at an altitude of 4460m. The trail passes through beautiful forests, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas. Dharamsala is a small settlement, and you can learn about the local culture and traditions.
Day 20 : Trek to Bhimtang via Larkey Pass
Trek for 8-9 hours to reach Bhimtang via Larkey Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5165m (about 3.21 mi). The pass offers stunning views of the Himalayas, and you can witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset from here. Bhimtang is a beautiful village, and you can explore the local culture and traditions. You will be staying at a nice guest house with an attached bathroom.
Day 21 : Trek down to Gowa (2,515m)
Trek down for 6 hours to reach Gowa, which is situated at an altitude of 2515m. You will pass through beautiful forests and streams, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas. Gowa is a small village, and you can learn about the local culture and traditions. You will be staying at a guest house overnight.
Day 22 : Trek from Gowa to Dharapani (2,100 m)
Today we start our hike from Gowa to Dharapani after an early morning breakfast. It's about a 6 hours hike. We stay overnight at a guesthouse in Dharapani.
Day 23 : Drive from Dharapani to Beshi Sahar again Drive from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu by bus.
This is the final day of our trip, we catch a jeep from Dharapani to Besi Sahar and upon reaching Besi Sahar we catch a bus to Kathmandu. After the drive, we will have a farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant in the evening and call it the end of the trip.
What is the altitude of the Manaslu base camp?
The Manaslu Base Camp is located on the slopes of Mount Manaslu, which is the eighth highest mountain in the world. The altitude of the Manaslu Base Camp is approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level. It serves as a starting point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Manaslu and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
What is the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that combines the Manaslu Circuit with a visit to the remote Tsum Valley. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the culture and natural beauty of the region.
Do I need a special permit for this trek?
Yes, trekkers need both a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and a Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit to undertake this trek. These permits can be obtained through registered trekking agencies in Nepal.
What is the highest point on the Manaslu Base Camp Trektrek?
The highest point is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) above sea level.
What are some highlights of the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Highlights include the stunning views of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal ranges, the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsum Valley, monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp and the challenging Larkya La Pass.
Is it possible to extend the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek (Manaslu Base Camp Trek) or combine it with other treks in the region?
Yes, some trekkers choose to combine the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek with the Annapurna Circuit reaching up to Thorong La Pass(5,416m) or other nearby treks for a longer adventure.
2 friends and I did a fantastic 20-day trek to Tsum Valley & Manaslu Circuit. Hiking Bees and our guide Prem did an excellent job with the planning and during the trek itself - I fully recommend using Hiking Bees!
I did a 20 days tour with my girlfriend (Tsum Valley and Manaslu). I was very happy with the planning of the route. The route allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture and we were able to see very diverse and beautiful landscapes. It was also important to me not to have to share the route with cars and this was very possible here. The hiking Bees therefore put together a route for me that met my expectations. My guide Bohj was very helpful and made sure that my wishes were catered for. He chose teahouses with good food and used his experience to give me recommendations and information about the food and the surroundings.
I recommend doing the hike with the hiking bees! They have planned us a very nice route. Which was very balanced. We had days where we hiked very long and others with fewer hours. This allowed us to relax and have a challenging hike at the same time. Our guide Bhoj was very kind and took very good care of us and our needs. He always chose tea houses with good cuisine and made sure we were satisfied. He made recommendations on what we could try, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the cuisine of Nepal. He was also very flexible about changes to the trek, was very helpful when we had concerns and explained things about the trek we where doing. Our porter Razu was also a very friendly and a nice guy. In summary, it was a wonderful 20 days with Bhoj and Razu. Thank you, to the hiking bees team.
Excellent three weeks of Trekking - Tsum Valley & Manaslu Hiking Bees is very quick to respond & flexible compared to the bigger agencies - Bishow is eager to earn your business & give you a quality experience. I spent three weeks with Risham - he is a very experienced guide who is kind and with a good sense of humor. He goes out of his way to make sure you are safe & taken care of on your trip. Make sure that you meet your guide several days before your trip, if you can, to ensure a good fit. During Desain, guides can be scarce, and I was lucky to get Risham at the last minute.