Table of Content:
- Introduction of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- Information about Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek in Spring
- Five Major Reasons for doing Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- Detailed 22 days Itinerary Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- Necessary Trekking Gears
Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the best remote treks in Nepal which leads you towards Mount Manaslu (8,163m). Tsum Valley is located between Ganesh Himal, also called Yangri and Mt. Manaslu (Kutang), the eighth highest peak in the world. Trekking to Manaslu and Tsum Valley takes you completely away from the crowds to the tranquil Nepalese Himalayan region. Tsum Valley Manaslu trekking comes after Everest region and Annapurna region trekking as a growing tourist destination of Nepal.
Manaslu Tsum Valley hiking introduces you with the typical lifestyle, culture and tradition of rustic mountain villages in the Nepalese Himalayas. The age-old monasteries decorated with prayer flags and wheels are the strong evidence of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the region. Mani walls and chortens in almost every village of Tsum Valley are praiseworthy aspects that always welcome the trekkers. During the trek, you can observe extensively wealthy cultural heritage, perfectly rustic hamlets and jovial people celebrating colorful festivals.
Manaslu Tsum Valley region extends between sub-tropical and alpine regions those abodes large varieties of flora and fauna. Along with the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu region and Annapurna II, you can find the dense pine, oak, fir and rhododendron forests. Himalayan birds like Lophophorus and animals like Himalayan Thar, snow leopard inhabiting in Manaslu Conservation Area are lifelong memory. Similarly, the glacial lakes and icefalls in the vicinity of wall-like snowy peaks all above 6,500m make another appeal to explore them.
The magical Manaslu Tsum Valley trek starts from Soti Khola and moves further up to Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The classic villages, pristine valleys and close-distant view of the silvery mountains always encourage you to accomplish the trek. The experience of crossing Larkya La Pass, one of the challenging Himalayan pass is beyond description in any word. The exploration of BirendraLake close to Samagaun and Sama Gompa make your Nepal trekking more memorable and lifetime achievement.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek in spring:
Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is accessible throughout all seasons of the year although winter is not as appropriate as rest of the other seasons. Manaslu Tsum Valley trek in spring is the best alternative to get the full satisfaction worth the amount you pay. In this cool season, the entire Manaslu region is decorated with the colorful flowers found in Manaslu Conservation Area. Flower species of rhododendron and other local flowers cover the magical Manaslu Tsum Valley region with magnificent embroidery.
Trekking Manaslu Tsum Valley in spring is an excellent plan you make for discovering the remote trekking trail of Nepal. In this season, there are lowest avalanches risks, landslides and other hurdles created due to harsh climatic conditions. The climatic condition of the Manaslu region is warm in day time and cool in the night and morning. The snowcapped peaks like Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Hiunchuli and others including the lush valleys and dramatic landscapes unleash their gorgeousness at the fullest.
Five Major Reasons for doing Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek:
Off the Beaten Path Trek:
One of the two major valleys of Manaslu region, Tsum Valley is a growing trekking destination in Nepalese Himalayas. Travelling around Tsum Valley and Manaslu region is all the way an off the beaten path trek to gather unique experience. Unlike Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks, Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekking is less crowded as not many trekkers have been there. If you prefer camping trekking through the tranquil Himalayan zone, this is the perfect match to make your dream come true!
Cultural and Religious Attractions
Two major ethnic groups: Nubri and Tsum are the permanent settlers of Nubri and Tsum Valley which are divided by the Chhikur River. Nubri Valley is the home for Gurung ethnic community in which most of the people are engaged in foreign employment. As long as the Nepal government opened the trekking in Manaslu region, Nubri Valley is frequently visited by foreign visitors. Therefore, Nubri Valley is quite familiar with the modern information and communication technology, culture and tradition of the western world.
Tsum Valley which is almost completely distant from modern world and its discoveries, hosts the Bhotias (Bhutias) as the dominant settlers. The other ethnic communities living in Manaslu Tsum Valley region are Gurung and Sherpa people who are mostly Buddhist. Influenced by the Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition, you can find chortens, mani walls and monasteries in this region. There are many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Rachen Nunnery, Mu Monastery and Gumba Lungdang Nunnery. You can take a stroll around the Buddhist cultural villages like Chumling, Chhule, Chhekamparo and Nyile to witness unique culture and tradition.
Pirren Phu (also called Milarepa’s Cave or Pigeon Cave) is one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in Tsum Valley. Milarepa’s Cave is named after the ancient Tibetan saint, Milarepa who is believed to have meditated and got enlightened in the Nepalese Himalayas. Milarepa’s Cave is located near Burji Village of Manaslu Tsum Valley region where you can see three separate caves. A large statue made up of clay in tribute to Saint Milarepa who was born in around 1052 nearby the natural rocky cave. The foot prints of Milarepa, statues of Avaloketeshwara, Buddha and Tara are other assets of Milarepa’s Cave.
Mountains over 6,500m Elevation
The most striking feature of Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek is the spectacular vistas of the snow-clad mountains all above 6,500m. This region is named after one of the eight thousand of Nepal, Mount Manaslu (8163m), and the 8th highest peak in the world. While trekking to Manaslu region, you can observe other peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kanguru, Siringi, Hiunchuli, Gynji kang, Larkey peak and Ngadi. Also, Ganesh Himal and Annapurna II are other mountain giants adding to the beauty of Manaslu Tsum Valley region. The sparkling panorama of these mountains during sunrise or sunset can hardly be explained in any verbal expression!
Flora and Fauna
Another reason for doing Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is a wide variety of flora and fauna species available in Manaslu Conservation Area. You can have a wonderful glimpse of 33 species of mammals, 110 species of birds and 210 butterfly species. The endangered animal species like snow leopard, Himalayan thar and musk deer occupy the conservation area.
Around 2,000 flowering plants conserved in 19 different types of forests are something remarkable to experience in one’s life. The dominant species of plants like Himalayan pine and rhododendron including some medicinal plus aromatic plats are also found here. Manaslu Conservation Area decorated with the colorful flowers in spring like a bride is a lifetime achievement you can ever have.
Safe Trekking Region
Although you have to cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m), a challenging high Himalayan pass, Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is safer than other region. There is less probability of altitude sickness; however, you had better pack Diamox Oral in your first aid kits. This is entirely a teahouse trekking, so, you don’t have to bother about arranging camping trekking gears. You don’t need to spend the nights at the highest altitude which may be quite challenging. Even while crossing Larkya La Pass, you don’t need any climbing gears but can do it as if trekking in other parts of the region. There is less or no chance for blizzard or glacial slides while going on Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek.
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Highlights of the Trek:
- Exploration of hidden valleys close to Tibetan border from Nepal
- Visit of ancient monasteries, chortens and gompas.
- Stunning view of snowcapped peaks like Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, Ngadi, Ganesh Himal and Larkya Peak
- Classic trekking trails of Tsum Valley
- Popular monasteries like Piren Phu (Milarepa’s Cave) in Tsum Valley
- Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106m), the highest point of the entire Tsum Valley Manaslu trek
Day to Day Itinerary:
Day 01: Reception at the Kathmandu Airport (1,350m)
As soon as you arrive at the Kathmandu Airport, a team member of A1 Excursion welcomes you there. Then, s/he guides you up to the hotel which is booked for your accommodation. You can either take a rest to prepare for the next day’s trip or stroll around Thamel area. You can even collect the trekking gears that you need during the Manaslu region journey by consulting with the trekking guide. In the evening, the trekking guide gives you all the required instruction about Manaslu Tsum Valley trek 22 days itinerary.
Day 02: Drive to Soti Khola (700m) -9 Hrs
After having breakfast, you journey towards Soti Khola, the gateway to magical Manaslu region trekking, begins in a private jeep. You will drive along the Prithvi Highway that moves ahead through the banks of the Trisuli until Mugling and the Marsyangdi Rivers. The beautiful scenery scene of cultivated land, snowy peaks of Manaslu region and Langtang region during the drive makes the journey more impressive. After driving for about 8/9 hours, you reach Soti Khola for the night stay at a teahouse tasting the delicious cuisines.
Day 03: Trek to Machha Khola (960m) -6/7 Hrs
The trekking trail goes uphill and downhill along the densely forested Budhi Gandaki River Valley showing you the glimpses of mountains. You go across some serene villages situated at the top of hills on the way to boosting your journey uphill. You pass by a beautiful village Lububeshi at an elevation of 880m before reaching Machha Khola for the night stay.
Day 04: Trek to Lokpa (2,240m) via Jagat (1,410m) – 6 Hrs
Today, you walk across some ethnic villages like Kholabesi, Dovan by crossing a few suspension bridges over the Yaru Khola. After going past Kholabesi, you find Tatopani (spring of naturally hot water), where you can take a short break to enjoy the hot water. Then you reach Jagat by leaving Thado Bharyang village far behind. Jagat is the entrance point of Manaslu Conservation Area, so, you have to get the MCA permit checked there. Following the route that goes past Salleri, Philim and Ekle Bhatti from where you can have the first glimpse of Manaslu range. By walking the trail going upwards, you reach today’s destination Lokpa Village from where you can have a stunning view of Himchuli and Buddha Himal.
Day 05: Trek to Chumling (2,390m)-5/6 Hrs
Lokpa is the gateway to Tsum Valley that is the central attraction of the entire Manaslu region trekking. If the day has fine weather, you can have a majestic sight of Buddha Himal and Ganesh Himal IV while moving further. You will penetrate through the sub-tropical forests of pine and rhododendron trees until you reach Gumling village. Walking alongside the Lungwa River Valley in the isolated surrounding, you will reach Chumling, the tonight station. You can take a short hike around Chumling to observe three monasteries: Panago Gumba, Mani Dhungyar and Gurwa Gompa. You can also enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of Ganesh Himal from upper part of Chumling village.
Day 06: Trek to Chhekamparo (3,010m)-5/6 Hrs
The trekking route takes you upwards to upper part of Tsum Valley region along the Syar Khola Valley. Then, you go across Domje which is the largest mountain city in the entire Tsum Valley and Gho which hosts a unique Gompa. By following the trail that goes up and down, you reach Chhekamparo, a pure Tibetan Buddhist village for the night station. You can relish the stunning view of Himchuli and Ganesh Himal with the sips of Tibetan traditional tea if the weather is favorable. The local people of Chhekamparo welcome their guests with the traditional tea made up of cheese and salt including organic food.
Day 07: Trek to Mu Gompa (3,700m) via Milarepa’s Cave (3,300m)-4 Hrs
After breakfast, you begin your journey by walking past Chulchule village and then Nile, the last village in the northern part of upper Tsum Valley. You find the farming plots cultivated with different seasonal crops on the way. As soon as you cross Lamagaun, you reach Piren Phu (Pigeons’ Cave or Milarepa’s Cave) near Burji Village. Piren Phu has a great historic importance in Buddhism that the Chinese scholar or saint, Milarepa came to this cave and started his penance. After a long penance in the tranquil Himalayas of Manaslu region, he was enlightened as the senior citizens of the upper Tsum Valley narrate it. You can still find the foot prints of the saint Milarepa in the cave. After exploring the two gompas protecting Buddhist paintings, inscriptions carved on stones and manuscripts, you move forward to Mu Gompa. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Mu Gompa where you will have acclimatization next day.
Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Mu Gompa
As it is the acclimatization day, you can sleep till late morning so that you can recover from travel fatigue in the Himalayas. For the acclimatization purpose, you can explore Mu Gompa premises decorated with chortens, prayer flags and wheels extending peaceful message. You can also take a short hike to pasturelands for yak grazing even in dry and arid trans-Himalayan region. Or you can visit Dophyudonma Monastery which is related to the beginning of Buddhism in Tsum Valley and is managed by Lama. This is one of the oldest monasteries in the region having a row of chortens and giving you splendid view of mountains of Manaslu region.
Day 09: Trek to Chumling (2,390m)-5/6 Hrs
After reaching the highest point of Tsum Valley trek, now, you will descend towards Chumling vai Chhekamparo for the night station. The trekking trail from Mu Gompa to Chumling gives you the joy of the natural beauty and cultural variety. You feel it quite easier to descend than ascend the trail. Cherish the spectacular view of the landscapes, villages situated on top of hills and monasteries en route. You can enjoy the different view of Ganesh Himal and Himchuli while walking downwards.
Day 10: Trek to Lokpa (2,240m)-6 Hrs
Tonight, you will reach Lokpa for the rest by walking down the trail which you have already witnessed. Overnight stay at a hotel by relishing the local cuisines served by the local people.
Day 11: Trek to Deng (1,860m)-6 Hrs
From Lokpa, you follow the trail going down towards Philim, one of the night stations during Tsum Valley trek. Then you have to cross a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and move along the narrow trail going up and down. Again you cross a suspension bridge over the river and walk further towards Nyak village. Afterwards, following the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, you reach Deng by crossing the bamboo forests.
Day 12: Trek to Ghap (2,160m)-7 Hrs
After enjoying the sunrise view of Siringi Himal from the Gurung village, Deng, we begin our journey towards Ghap. Then you follow the trail that descends towards Rana Bridge; crossing this bridge, you reach Bihi Phedi which is a little far from pine forests. You can see mani walls, mystic stone idols of gods and goddesses reflecting the dominance of Buddhist followers there. Finally, you reach Ghap by crossing a suspension bridge over the Sereng Khola which joins the Budhi Gandaki River later on. Overnight stay at a teahouse at Ghap by tasting the delicious food items prepared and served by the local people.
Day 13: Trek to Lho (3,180m)-6 Hrs
You follow the rugged path that passes through the dense forests of pine, fir, oak and rhododendron that shelter different species of birds. By walking along the path that goes up and down to cross a few suspension bridges over the streams, you reach Namrung village. Then, you go past the path made of stone stairs and colorful barley fields to reach Lihi, a village having traditional art and architecture. Exploring the architectural beauty of Lihi, you move forward crossing a suspension bridge with the view of Lidanda Glacier and Simnang Himal (6,251m). Walking slowly along the trail for two hours, you reach Lho, a beautiful village having mani walls, prayer flags and chortens. Lho village is famous for some Buddhist monasteries including Nyingma Rinjung Gompa plus majestic appearance of Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Overnight stay at a hotel in Lho village relishing the delicious typical Nepali food items cooked in Tibetan style.
Day 14: Trek to Samagaun (3,500m)-3 Hrs
After witnessing the beauty of Buddhist village, Lho, you move ahead to Shyala which is another village having terraced agricultural fields and wooden houses. Then, you pass by the Pungen Glacier and reach Samagaun that is extended in a flat valley. Samagaun has a cluster of houses having neat and clean courtyards in the middle of fields planted with different crops. The environment of Samagaun and its people look really busy with the flock of trekkers for peak climbing season as it is close to Manaslu Base Camp. Overnight stay at a teahouse of Samagaun witnessing the stunning vistas of the landscapes and snowy peaks of Manaslu region.
Day 15: Trek to Samdo (3,860m)-5 Hrs
From Samagaun, you follow the trail that moves towards the northern part of the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley to reach Samdo for the night station. On the way, you see the confluence of the Larke River and a small tributary of the Budhi Gandaki River. You also see the Samdo Glacier which is the origin of the holy Budhi Gandaki River. Leaving the trail to Manaslu Base Camp trek, you move further along the juniper and birch forests around Kermo Kharka. Going across some suspension bridges and the appealing landscapes, you reach Samdo village.
Day 16: Trek to Dharmasala (4,480m)-6 Hrs
After breakfast in Samdo village, you begin your journey along the trail that goes past the Atharha Saya (1,800) River and follows the banks of the Larke River. During the walk, you can enjoy the exciting view of Naike and Pangboche Peaks as if they are smiling at you to welcome. Then, you cross a bridge and mani walls and huts made of stones to reach Larkya Bazaar which is a seasonal market to sell the products of the region. This is the second highest place of Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary after Larkya La Pass. En route, you can have a wonderful sight of the Syacha Glacier, some pasture lands and dense forests, occasionally blue sheep! You can take a short stroll around Dharmasala, where you are going to stay tonight.
Day 17: Trek to Bhimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m)-9 Hrs
Today is the most fascinating day throughout the entire Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary as you are going to cross Larkya La Pass (5,106). You begin your journey quite early today moving up towards the highest point of the Manalsu trekking package. The trail gradually ascends by leaving the Larkya Glacier and offering you the wonder full view of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Larkya La Pass is a vantage point in the whole Manaslu Circuit that shows you the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu region including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Then, you descend along the slippery trail that goes past the Salphudanda Glacier section and some cliffs to reach Bhimthang for the night rest.
Day 18: Trek to Gho (2,515m)-7 Hrs
Today, the trekking trail gradually descends from Bhimthang with the splendid vistas of snowy mountains of Manaslu region. You can see the peaks like Himlung, Cheo, Gyagi Kunj, Kanguru and Annapurna II in a fine day. Then the trail further moves through the dense forests giving you the best picturesque of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. While following the trail going along the banks of the Dudh Khola River, you may have a rare sight of grey monkey (Langur) in the surrounding. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Gho village.
Day 19: Trek to Tal (1,700m)-7 Hrs
Today’s destination for the night station is Tal (Tal Besi) after a continuous trekking for about 7 hours. The path goes past some lovely dense forests until you reach Tilje, one of the stations during Manaslu Circuit trekking. Tilje is a beautiful village situated on the banks of the Marsyangdi River that lets you reaches another village, Dharapani. Dharapani is one of the large villages en route Annapurna Circuit trekking trail having lodges and hotels for the trekkers. Witnessing the gurgling flow of the Marsyangdi River water and the natural waterfalls on the side, you walk up to Tal Besi.
Day 20: Trek to Jagat (1,410m)-5/6 Hrs
After having breakfast in Tal Besi, you start the journey of the last trekking day of Manaslu Tsum Valley trek through Annapurna Circuit trail. On the way, you go past a village named Karte situated on a flat valley of theAnnapurna region trekkingtrail. The trail descends going past some teahouses, mani walls, cultivated farming plots and waterfalls. You come across the flocks of tourists and local people moving up and down, so the trail looks quite busy today. After about 6 hours, you reach Jagat for the night station. You can celebrate the successful completion of the Tsum Valley Manaslu region trekking itinerary without any mishaps and bitter experience.
Day 21: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350m)-9 Hrs
After taking your breakfast, you catch a private jeep or local bus right from Jagat to reach Kathmandu for the night stay. The journey to Kathmandu proves to be wonderful again to be moving ahead via the black-topped road. The glimpses of the Himalayas of Manaslu region, cultivated land and amazing landscapes join you to make the drive memorable. After nearly 9 hours, you arrive Kathmandu and be in the hotel booked for your tonight’s accommodation. You can spend the remaining time either taking rest or going shopping or even partying with your colleagues for fun. In the evening, A1 Excursion organizes farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant somewhere around Thamel area.
Day 22: Final Departure
Today is the last day of your Manaslu Tsum Valley trek 22 days itinerary which you have successfully worked out. So, the representative of A1 Excursion Adventure will accompany you up to the Kathmandu Airport for the final see-off. Have a wonderful journey back to your home town! We hope to see you again and again to explore the other trekking regions of Nepalese Himalayas.
Necessary Trekking Gears:
- Duffel or Rucksack bag (Provided)
- Down Sleeping bag (Provided)
- Down Jacket (Provided)
- Daypack
- Hiking pants
- Waterproof & Windproof jacket
- Rain coat or Umbrella
- Full-sleeves shirts
- Jumper or Fleece jacket
- Pair of T-shirts
- Trekking Boots (water proof is better)
- Sandal, Toilet paper
- Cotton thick socks (2 pair), Woolen socks to wear with boots
- Sun-hat & fleece hat
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Sun block for lips
- Sun lotion
- Goggles or Sunglasses
- Thermal long underwear sets
- Insulated pants
- Trekking poles
- Wind breaker pants
- Water bottle
- Flash light or Head light, Batteries
- Swiss army Knife
- Personal Dry Towel
- Personal toiletries and medication which should be labeled
- Crampons
- Snow leg Gaiters
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