Last-minute booking
If you're interested in booking a Manaslu Tsum valley trek with us, we highly recommend making arrangements in advance. However, we do understand that sometimes plans can change or new opportunities arise at the last minute.
At our company, we offer a special provision for last-minute bookings. If you do need to book a trip with us at short notice, please note that you will be required to make full payment for the trip at least 24 hours before the departure date.
While we will do our best to operate the trek as scheduled, please understand that there may be unforeseen circumstances beyond our control that could cause delays or changes to the itinerary.
If you have any questions or would like to make a booking, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone, Viber, or WhatsApp at +977 9801048210 or by email at info@a1excursion.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Manaslu Tsum valley trek difficulty
The Manaslu Tsum valley trek distance is around 177 kilometers, with various terrains ranging from lush forests to rocky terrain. The trek is considered to be challenging, with a maximum elevation of 5,160 meters at the Larkya La Pass.
The trek starts from the village of Machha Khola and takes trekkers through various terrains ranging from lush forests, steep cliffs, and rocky terrain. The trail is mostly off the beaten path, and trekkers can expect to walk for 6-7 hours a day.
Altitude sickness is a potential risk during the Manaslu Tsum valley trekking due to the high altitude. However, our Manaslu Tsum valley trek itinerary ascends gradually, allowing trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. Trekking in this region requires a good level of preparation and prior experience of high altitude trekking.
Manaslu circuit Tsum valley trek preparation
You have to prepare yourself physically before embarking on the Manaslu Tsum Valley trekking. While the terrain is rugged and uneven, with numerous landslide areas, you will gradually build muscle and adapt to the terrain. During the first few days, you may encounter difficulties, but the gradual elevation gain from the starting point Machha Khola (930 m) will aid in acclimatization.
Over the course of more than three weeks, you'll be walking six to seven hours per day on uneven trails and crossing elevations up to 5,160 meters. This can be challenging for anyone, which is why we recommend engaging in regular physical activities like trekking, hiking, jogging, gym workouts, cardio, and other exercises before the start of the trek.
Best time to do Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley trekking
The best time to do the Manaslu circuit Tsum Valley trek is from March to May and September to November, i.e. spring and autumn seasons. Winter (December to February) and summer/monsoon (June to August) are off time for this trek as the trail condition is not good enough for trekking.
Manaslu Tsum valley trek in spring (March to May)
The spring season from March to May is an ideal time for Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Circuit trek. During this period, you can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding glaciers, with clear skies providing an unobstructed view of the snow peaks.
As the temperatures begin to rise from mid-March, the snow starts to melt, and the route to cross Larkya La Pass opens up. Along the trails, you will witness rhododendron flowers blooming in a variety of colors, making for a beautiful sight.
The daytime temperature in lower lands (from Sotikhola to Ghap) can reach up to 24°C, while in the upper mountains (from Lho to Bhimtang), it can be around 18°C. However, as the sun sets, the temperature in the highlands drops to -4°C, so it's essential to pack warm clothing to keep yourself comfortable at night.
Manaslu Tsum valley trek in spring (September to November)
Autumn is characterized by mild weather conditions, clear skies, and vibrant foliage, making it an ideal time for trekking in the Manaslu region. The Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit trek are especially popular during this season, with tourists flocking to the area to take advantage of the favorable conditions.
As the monsoon season ends by the end of August to mid of September, the weather becomes more predictable, and the skies clear up. This allows for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Likewise, several Nepali festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhat, are celebrated in the autumn season. These festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and witness traditional customs and celebrations.
During this season, the daytime temperature in the lowlands, from Sotikhola to Ghap, can reach up to 25°C, while in the high mountains, from Lho to Bhimtang, it hovers around 15°C. However, as the night falls, the temperature drops significantly, with the high regions experiencing temperatures as low as -6°C.
Accommodation & Meals
When it comes to lodging during the Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley trek, travelers should not expect the same level of luxury as in more popular trekking areas like Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang. Despite the relative isolation and lesser-known status of the Manaslu region, tea house accommodations are available along the trekking route. These tea houses typically offer basic amenities, with shared toilets and bathrooms and rooms equipped with two beds. However, do not expect luxurious furnishings or modern conveniences.
During your stay at a tea house, you may have the opportunity to purchase a hot shower for around 3/4 of a dollar, depending on the location. The experience of staying in a tea house is an integral part of the trekking adventure, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in rural Nepal. The meals are also basic, with options like dal bhat, dhido, momo, thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, soups, chow-mein, etc.
Manaslu Tsum valley trek tips
- Airport Pick-up & Drop-off: We offer a complimentary pick-up and drop-off service from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Our team will help you with airport transfers and luggage as per our itinerary. You can also request additional airport services by paying the cost involved.
- Travel Insurance: The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek is a challenging trek & comes with inherent risks associated with high-altitude trekking, including altitude sickness, landslides, and other unforeseen events. Therefore, travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers participating in this trek. All trekking members must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate before embarking on the trek. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation, including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses, up to the highest trek altitudes (up to 6,000 m).
- Passport & Visa: Foreigners, excluding Indian nationals, must have a valid visa to enter Nepal. On-arrival visas are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and entry and exit points along the Nepal border. To apply for a visa, you need a passport with six months' validity, a passport-size photo, and visa fees (US$50 for 30 days). Visas for children under ten are free, while citizens of China and SAARC countries receive free visas. However, citizens of certain countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and others, may not receive on-arrival visas. If you're a citizen of these countries, please contact your local Nepalese embassy.
- Luggage: The luggage weight limit for each trekker is 10 kg. One porter will carry luggage for two trekkers, not exceeding 20 kg. You can store extra luggage in your hotel's locker room free of cost while trekking. Trekkers can carry a light day pack to keep essentials with them during the trek.
- ATM & Money Exchange: In Kathmandu and Thamel, you can exchange most foreign currencies through local banks and legitimate money exchanges. The ongoing exchange rates are prominently displayed. There is no ATM on the Manaslu trek route, so your last chance to withdraw money is in Kathmandu.
- Charging: Most tea houses along the route have either electricity or solar power, making it easier to charge devices and stay connected with loved ones back home. Do note that tea houses typically charge a small fee for device charging, and a fully charged device can cost roughly 2/3 of a dollar in local currency. To avoid overpaying for charging services, you can carry a power bank or a solar charger during the trek.
- Internet: When trekking through the remote and rugged terrain of the Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley, access to communication and internet services can be a challenge. However, certain villages and tea houses along the way, such as Philim, Chumling, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, Bhimthang, and Dharapani, offer internet connectivity to travelers. Keep in mind that internet access may not always be reliable due to weather conditions and other factors.
- Personal Expenses: We take care of most of the expenses related to the Manaslu Tsum valley trek, such as transportation, meals, and accommodations. However, things like a travel insurance policy, international flights, visa processing fees, snacks, hot and cold drinks, tips for the trekking crew members, souvenirs, etc, are not covered in our package cost. So, make sure to have an additional budget for these expenses.
- Tips: At the end of the trek, it's customary to give tips to the guide and porter as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication. As our Manaslu Tsum valley trek package does not cover the tip for guides and porters, you are free to tip them as you wish.
Manaslu Circuit Tsum valley trek packing list
Follow the below packing list for Manaslu Tsum valley trekking:
- Clothing: Warm and waterproof trekking pants, Thermal underwear, Fleece jacket or down jacket, Waterproof and windproof jacket, Trekking shirts (long and short-sleeved), Warm hat and gloves, Sun hat and sunglasses, Hiking socks, and warm socks
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy trekking boots with ankle support, Sneakers or sandals for camp or tea house
- Trekking Gear: Waterproof backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters, Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C), Sleeping pad, Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, Trekking poles
- First Aid & Toiletries: Water purification tablets or filter, Sunscreen (SPF 50+), Insect repellent, Lip balm with SPF, Basic first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, painkillers), Altitude sickness medication (consult with a doctor before taking), Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes), Hand sanitizer
- Miscellaneous: Camera or phone with extra batteries and memory card, Cash (Nepali Rupees) for tips and purchases along the trek, Documents (travel insurance, passport, visa, permits), Solar charger or power bank, Journal pen, etc
WHAT TO BRING
Trekking/Hiking Gears (Equipments)
- Duffel or Rucksack bag (If do not have then Duffel Bag Provided Returnable)
- Down Sleeping Bag (Provided Returnable)
- Inner Liner (Provided Returnable)
- Down Jacket (Provided Returnable)
- Daypack
- Hiking pants
- Water & wind proof jacket
- Full – sleeves shirt
- Jumper or Fleece jacket
- Pair of T – Shirts
- Trekking boots (waterproof is better)
- Sandal, Toilet paper,
- COTTON THICK SOCKS(2 PAIRS)+Polypropylene/woolsocks (1PAIRS)
- Light cotton socks for under wool socks
- Woolen socks to wear with boots
- Sun hat
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Sun block (lotion) and lip Guard
- Moisture Cream
- Goggles or Sunglasses
- Thermal Long underwear Sets
- Insulated pants
- Trekking poles
- A pair of Crampon
- wind Breaker pants
- Water bottle
- Medical & first aid kit (Provided)
- Any personal special medicine
- Flash light or head lamp
- Batteries and bulbs
- Swiss army knife
- Mobile or Camara charging cable with Adaptor
- Personal Dry towel
- Personal toiletries and medication which should be labeled.