Best Side Trips in The Manaslu Trek

If you are opting for the Manaslu Circuit Trek then be prepared for a joyous adventure in the lap of the Himalayas. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful trek on its own, However, to enhance your trekking experience there are a few side trips in the Manaslu region that you shouldn't miss out on during your trekking.

 

What is the Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu Trek is a captivating journey that circles around the eighth-highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters). Located in the Gorkha District of Nepal, this trek takes you through diverse terrain, from lush green forests and terraced fields to high alpine meadows and glacial valleys. It's a less crowded alternative to the more popular treks like the Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, offering a more serene and authentic trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best treks in the Himalayas, offering trekkers a journey through some of Nepal's most stunning landscapes. While the main trail itself is absolutely beautiful, numerous side trips along the way can enhance your experience even further. These side trips provide a deeper dive into the region's culture, history, and natural beauty.

 

Trekker enjoying the waterfall (Jagat)

Unique Features of the Manaslu Trek

One of the key highlights of the Manaslu Trek is its remoteness and cultural richness. The trail passes through traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, where you can experience the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. The trek also takes you across the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

• Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), eighth-highest mountain in the world, 
• Stunning views from various points along the trek, especially from the Larkya La Pass.
• Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the trek, providing trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
• Experience the unique cultures of the ethnic Gurung and Tibetan people in villages like Sama Gaon, Lho, and Namrung.
• Ancient Monasteries such as Pungyen Gompa, Hinang Gompa, Mu Gompa
• Home to unique customs and traditions, largely untouched by modern influences.
• (Manaslu Conservation Area), Rich in biodiversity with numerous species of flora and fauna, including endangered species like the snow leopard and Himalayan tahr.
• Numerous rivers, including the Budhi Gandaki River, and stunning waterfalls along the trail.
• Compared to more popular treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Trek is less crowded, offering a more serene and intimate trekking experience.
• Relatively untouched by commercialization, preserving its natural beauty and tranquility.
• Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people, who often invite trekkers into their homes for tea and conversation.
• Stay in traditional homestays and tea houses, providing a unique cultural experience.
• Ancient Trade Routes between Nepal and Tibet, adding historical significance to the trek.
• Ancient stupas, mani walls, and other archaeological sites along the trail.
  
  

Best Side Trips in the Manaslu Trek

Let's explore some of the best side trips you can take during the Manaslu Trek.

Serang Gompa (3100 m)

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude:3100m
• Starting Point: Bihi Phedi
• Ending Point: Bihi Village
• Total Duration: 10 hrs

 

Description

Serang Gompa also known as Nubri Gompa, stands out as a serene and historically significant Buddhist monastery in the Manaslu region. Located just above Bihi Gaon the trip to this place during the Manaslu trek is a beautiful side hike through rugged terrain, charming villages, and majestic mountain vistas, providing a rich cultural immersion with the local Gurung and Tibetan communities.

This monastery is believed to have been established 500 years ago in the Himalayas. The closest teahouses and settlement to This Monastery is Bihi Village and for this side trip, Bihi Village is the best place to stay overnight. 

You can carry water bottles and snacks for this side trip as you won't find other places to buy or refill mid-trip. The journey to this monastery if mostly uphill and inside the lush pine forests. You can expect some beautiful mountain landscapes such as  Manaslu, Singri Himal, and Ganesh Himal.

If you are doing the Manaslu Circuit Trekking then you can definitely consider the Serang Monastery as a day side trip.

Pungyen Gompa (4,050m)

Trekkers posing after reaching Pungyen Gompa

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: 4,050m
• Starting Point: Sama Gaon
• Ending Point: Sama Gaon
• Total Duration: 8 hrs

 

Description

Pungyen Gompa is an ancient monastery located near Sama Gaon's village at an altitude of about 4,050m. The locals deeply revere this monastery which offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The monastery is named after Pungyen, a local deity, and is a place of pilgrimage for the local people. 

Usually, trekkers make a day trip to this monastery and need to walk for nearly about 5 hours in total. This side trip starts in a branch that lies between Shyala and Samagaon. We divert our way from the main route and hike about an hour before reaching an area full of Yak pasture and an additional one-and-a-half-hour hike from there leads us to the popular Pungyen Monastery.

On a clear day, we can get some of the best views of Mt. Manaslu, Nadi Manaslu, and Himal Chuli from the Monastery. Along with the outstanding views of the mountains, we get to see the Buddhist monks praying in the monastery, especially in the seasonable times. These monks reside in the monastery and have dormitories in which to stay. However, there are no tea houses so trekkers need to fall back to their s teahouses for an overnight stay.

If you really want to spend a night there then you can opt for a camping option. The peaceful environment and the spiritual significance of the gompa make it a must-visit side trip.

 

Birendra Lake (3620m)

Beautiful scenery of Birendra Lake with Mt. Manaslu in behind

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: 3620m
• Starting Point: Sama Gaon
• Ending Point: Sama Gaon
• Total Duration: 2hrs

 

Description

Birendra Lake, situated at the base of Manaslu Glacier, is a stunning glacial lake that offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic peaks. The lake situated at an altitude of (3620m) is named after the late King Birendra of Nepal and is a popular spot for trekkers looking to enjoy some peaceful moments in nature. This lake is believed to be named Birendra Lake after King Birendra visited here.

This side trip is a 30-minute walk from Samagaon and lies on the way to Mansalu Base Camp. Trekkers can continue their side trip to Manaslu Base Camp after visiting the Birendra Lake. If you are courageous enough then you can even take a bath in the lake but trekkers need to be careful about their health as the weather will be really cold and bathing in the freezing cold water may not be a great idea.

This short side trip lies on the way to Samdo from Samagaon and trekkers should definitely visit this Lake during the Manaslu Circuit Trekking. At Birendra Lake, you can enjoy a picnic by the water, take stunning photographs, and even meditate in the tranquil surroundings. The lake is a perfect spot for a day trip.

 

Kal Tal (Death Lake) (3600m)

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude:3600m
• Starting Point: Prok Village
• Ending Point: Pork Village
• Total Duration: 7 hrs

 

Description

Kal Tal, or "Black Lake," is a hidden gem that offers a unique natural attraction in the Manaslu region. The lake gets its name from the dark (kalo), reflective waters that create a mesmerizing contrast with the surrounding greenery. This mountain lake, situated at an altitude of 3600m is a highly recommended day side trip during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

This side trip is 3-4 hours away from Prok Village. The best time to visit this lake is when the weather is clear so that the reflection of Mount Manaslu strikes clearly on the Lake.

The best time to visit Kal Tal is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is clear, and the trails are in good condition. You can also have a beautiful mountain panorama from the lake. This side trip offers a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to connect with nature. 

Hinang Gompa

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: 4020m
• Starting Point: Lihi
• Ending Point: Lihi
• Total Duration: 3 hrs

 

Description

Hinang Gompa, located near the village of Lho, is another significant monastery in the Manaslu region. We will start this side trip from Lihi and takes about an hour to get there. You will reach the Hinang glacier from where the hidden gem Hinang Gompa lies just ahead. The view of the Gompa in front of Majestic Mt.Himalchuli is unexplainable.

This gompa provides a deep dive into the local Buddhist culture and traditions. The monks living here are welcoming and often share stories and insights about their way of life. 

If interested trekkers can continue their side trip to Himal Chuli Base Camp (4020m), else we will return to our teahouse and stay overnight.

The trek to Hinang Gompa is relatively easy and takes you through picturesque landscapes and yellow pine forests. It's a great option for those looking to explore more of the local culture while staying within the main trail. Hinang glacier, the Buddhist lifestyle, and the Hinang monastery are the major highlights of this side trip in the Manaslu Trek.

 

 

Manaslu Base Camp (4848 m)

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: 4848m
• Starting Point: Sama Gaon
• Ending Point: Sama Gaon
• Total Duration: 8 hrs

 

Description

Manaslu Base Camp (MBC) is a popular side trip in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Manaslu Base Camp lies on the foot of the mighty Manaslu mountain at an altitude of (4848 m), because of this reason, you can have the best view of the Manaslu Peak from here. 

This side trip from Sama Gaon takes a full day as it is a longer day hike. It takes 4-5 hours to reach the base camp and about three hours to return back. The route is a steep climb from Samagaon. The reward gets better and better as you climb up and gain the elevation. During peak climbing seasons you can see climbers preparing for the Manaslu expedition with a lot of tents and equipment.

As this is a popular side trip in the Manaslu region you can meet trekkers along the hike and can meet climbers as well who are heading for the Manaslu climb. The area and the surroundings on the Mansalu Base Camp is magical and cannot be described in words. 

If you are doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek then this side trip is the one you should definitely consider and please don't forget to carry water during this side excursion as you may not find proper drinkable water mid-hike.

The Tibetian Border (4998 m)

Trekkers celebrating after reaching Tibetian border

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: 4998m
• Starting Point: Larkya Bazar
• Ending Point: Larkya Bazar
• Total Duration: 8-9 hrs

 

Description

A side trip to the Tibetan border (Rui La) can add an extra layer of adventure and cultural exploration to your trek. This side trip to the Tibetan border usually involves visiting the village of Larkya Bazar, which is located near the border with Tibet.

The side trip typically adds 1-2 extra days to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. People sometimes do this trek as Manaslu Circuit Tibet View Trek where you do the typical Manaslu Circuit Trekking but in addition to that you will visit the Tibetan border as well. This trekking route is also considered one of the best treks in Nepal.

The region near the Tibetan border has a distinct Tibetan influence, with unique customs, languages, and Buddhist monasteries. This side trip offers a deeper insight into the Tibetan way of life.

The journey to the Tibetan border passes through remote and picturesque landscapes, including high-altitude valleys, rugged mountains, and glacial rivers. We can head to the Tibetian border from Larkya Bazar which is just a 25-minute hike away from Samdo. After exploring Larkya Bazar for a while we will drop our bags in the teahouse of Larkya Bazar and head towards the Tibetian border.

The hike to the Tibetian border usually takes 4-5 hours. After reaching the border you can spend some of the best time during the trek and at the end, we will hike down back to Larke Bazar to our respective tea houses and call it a day.

Tsum Valley

Visit to Tsum Monastery during Tsum Valley trek

Quick Insights

• Highest Altitude: Mu Gompa (3700m)
• Starting Point: Machha Khola
• Ending Point: Pewa/Deng
• Total Duration: 7-9 Days

 

Description

Tsum Valley, located in the northern part of Gorkha District, Nepal, is a hidden gem known for its unique culture, pristine natural beauty, and spiritual significance. Known as the "Hidden Valley," Tsum Valley is home to ancient Buddhist monasteries, unique customs, and a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

People prefer to do the seven-day Tsum Valley trek along with the Manaslu Circuit Trekking. Opened to trekkers only in 2008, Tsum Valley remains one of Nepal's less-explored regions, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The starting point of the Tsum Valley trek lies in Lokpa which we can reach from entering Jagat. After the Tsum Valley trek, we can connect to the Manaslu Trekking at Nyak Phedi or Pewa.

Key highlights of Tsum Valley include the Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Milarepa’s Cave, and the traditional villages of Chhokangparo and Nile. The valley is also known for its stunning landscapes, including the Ganesh Himal range and the Sringi Himal. During the Tsum Valley trek, you shouldn’t miss a side trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp along with Gompa Lung Den.

The best times to do this side trip are spring and autumn. Trekkers need special permits to enter the restricted area. Accommodations during the Tsum Valley trek range from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges, and the valley offers various adventure activities beyond trekking, such as rock climbing and meditation retreats. Visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly, respecting local customs and supporting conservation efforts to preserve the valley’s pristine environment.

 

Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola (870m) 

Day 2:  Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m) 

Day 3:  Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2240m)

Day 4:  Lokpa to Chumling (2386m) 

Day 5:  Chumling to Chokhangparo (3031m) 

Day 6:  Chokhangparo to Nile (3361m) 

Day 7: Nile to Mu Gompa (3700m) and overnight in the Nile 

Day 8: Trek from Nile to Chumling

Day 9: Trek from Chumling to Pewa/Deng

 

From Pewa/ Deng you can continue your Manaslu Circuit Trek according to the regular itinerary.

 

If you want to Tsum Valley trek only (without the Manaslu Circuit), then you can trek to Phillim from Chumling, and the next day you can hike to Dovan and catch a bus/jeep to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

A side trip to Tsum Valley is a unique journey into a land where ancient cultures in the Manaslu Region. It promises an unforgettable experience filled with spiritual discovery, cultural immersion, and adventurous trekking.

 

Trekking Options in the Manaslu Region

Manaslu Region houses some of the most beautiful Himalayan treks in Nepal. So if you are looking for trekking options in the Manaslu region here are a few trekking routes you can choose from:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Tsum Valley Trek
• Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Combined
• Tibet View Trek
• Rupina La Trek

 

Conclusion

Trekking in the Manaslu region is a beautiful journey on its own, however, these side trips add unique opportunities to explore the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and challenging terrains of the region. Before you plan your trip to Manaslu you should add some of these destinations in your itinerary. By planning carefully, respecting local customs, and practicing sustainable trekking, you can enhance your trekking experience and create lasting memories.

If you are planning a trek in Nepal then feel free to contact us, We are happy to arrange you a beautiful trip in the heart of the Himalayas.

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