MANASLU TSUM VALLEY TREK 12 DAYS
MANASLU TSUM VALLEY TREK 12 DAYS
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek – 12 Days is a meticulously designed itinerary by Sherpa Expedition Teams, tailored for adventure seekers with limited time in Nepal. This condensed yet immersive trek combines two of the most breathtaking and culturally significant regions in the Himalayas—Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit—within just under two weeks.
The journey kicks off with a private jeep ride from Kathmandu to Jagat, ensuring a fast and comfortable start to the adventure. Unlike longer routes, this express version reduces road travel and quickly immerses you in the Himalayan landscape. Trekking begins the same day with a scenic walk to Philim, a serene village that serves as the gateway to the secluded Tsum Valley.
From Philim, the trail ascends into the lush Lower Tsum Valley, arriving at Chumling, a picturesque village embraced by pine forests and dotted with ancient Buddhist chortens. The path continues to Upper Tsum Valley, passing through the culturally rich village of Chhekamparo (Chokhangparo), renowned for its Tibetan-style houses, prayer flags, and historic monasteries. The highlight here is the hike to Mu Gompa, one of the region’s highest and holiest monasteries, offering spiritual serenity and sweeping views of Ganesh Himal and nearby peaks.
The route then merges with the Manaslu Circuit, continuing through the alpine village of Deng, dense forests, and rugged mountain terrain. As you approach Namrung, you'll notice a deepening Tibetan influence in the architecture, customs, and dialects of the local communities. The journey then brings you to Samagaon, one of the trek’s most significant villages, where you’re treated to panoramic views of the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and can visit the sacred Pungyen Gompa.
The high-altitude section of the trek leads to Dharamsala, the final stop before conquering the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The pass offers breathtaking Himalayan vistas and a thrilling sense of achievement. The descent from the pass leads to Bhimtang, a spectacular alpine meadow, and continues to Tilje, a charming Gurung village nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna region.
The adventure concludes with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, leaving you with lasting impressions of untouched valleys, towering peaks, and deeply rooted Himalayan culture.
Ideal for trekkers who want a less-crowded, culturally immersive, and physically rewarding experience, the 12-day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek provides the perfect blend of natural beauty and authentic tradition. With private transportation, expert guides, and seamless logistics, Sherpa Expedition Teams. ensures a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable Himalayan journey.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat & Trek to Philim (1,590m) – 10-12 hours.
Your adventure begins early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat by private jeep, passing through winding roads, terraced fields, and rural villages. After reaching Jagat (1,340m), you’ll start trekking toward Philim, a peaceful village nestled among forested hills. The trail crosses suspension bridges and waterfalls, offering your first taste of Himalayan nature. Overnight in Philim.
Day 2 : Trek from Philim to Chumling (2,390m) – 7-9 hours.
Today’s trek leads you deep into the Lower Tsum Valley, passing through dense pine forests and traditional Gurung settlements. After crossing the Siyar Khola River, you’ll reach Chumling, a picturesque village adorned with ancient Buddhist chortens and dramatic views of Ganesh Himal. This marks your entry into the sacred Tsum Valley. Overnight in Chumling.
Day 3 : Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – 5-6 hours.
As you ascend toward Upper Tsum Valley, the trail becomes more scenic and culturally immersive. Pass mani walls, prayer wheels, and monasteries before arriving at Chokhangparo, a charming highland village with stone houses and strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal. Overnight in Chokhangparo.
Day 4 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile / Mu Gompa (3,361m) – 6-7 hours.
Today’s trek takes you to the spiritual heart of Tsum Valley. You’ll walk through remote hamlets and reach Mu Gompa, one of the highest and most sacred monasteries in the region. Explore the ancient Mu Gompa and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Optional hike to Dhephu Doma Gompa for wider views of the snow-capped peaks. Overnight at Nile or Mu Gompa.
Day 5 : Trek from Mu Gompa to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – 5-6 hours.
After a peaceful morning at Mu Gompa, retrace your steps back to Chokhangparo. Along the way, soak in the raw beauty of the valley, interact with friendly locals, and revisit ancient trails lined with prayer flags. Overnight in Chokhangparo.
Day 6 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Chumling (2,386m) – 6-7 hours
Descend through Upper Tsum Valley as you make your way back to Chumling. Though you’re retracing your steps, the trail feels different as you walk downhill with changing light and perspectives. Enjoy your final night in the culturally rich Tsum Valley. Overnight in Chumling.
Day 7 : Trek from Chumling to Deng (1,860m) – 6-7 hours.
Leave Tsum Valley and rejoin the Manaslu Circuit. Today’s trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, descending through bamboo forests and remote settlements. Arrive at Deng, a small but lively village surrounded by rugged terrain and alpine beauty. Overnight in Deng.
Day 8 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m) – 5-6 hours.
Today’s journey leads you through forests, mani walls, and hanging bridges. As you gain altitude, notice a stronger Tibetan influence in the villages and monasteries. Reach Namrung, a gateway to the upper Manaslu region with excellent views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Naike Peak. Overnight in Namrung.
Day 9 : Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m) – 6-7 hours.
The trail continues uphill through the picturesque villages of Lho and Shyala, offering stunning views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m). Visit the famous Ribung Gompa in Lho. Finally, reach Samagaon, a culturally vibrant village where you'll stay overnight. Optional short hike to Pungyen Gompa or rest and acclimatize.
Day 10 : Day 10: Trek from Samagaon to Dharamsala (4,460m) – 4-5 hours.
Today’s shorter trek takes you to Dharamsala, the final stop before the Larkya La Pass. The trail ascends gradually across glacial moraine and barren hills. Rest and prepare for tomorrow’s challenging pass. Due to the altitude, it’s important to stay hydrated and warm. Overnight in Dharamsala.
Day 11 : Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m) – 8-9 hours.
Today is the highlight and toughest part of the trek. Begin early to cross the stunning Larkya La Pass (5,106m), where you're rewarded with unforgettable views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and Annapurna II. The long descent leads to Bimtang, a beautiful alpine meadow surrounded by peaks. Overnight in Bimtang.
Day 12 : Trek from Bimtang to Tilje and Drive to Besisahar, then Kathmandu – 10-11 hours.
On your final day, descend through lush forests, rhododendron groves, and charming villages. Reach Tilje, where your trekking ends. From here, a jeep will take you to Besisahar, and then back to Kathmandu via private vehicle. Celebrate the completion of your incredible Himalayan journey!
SERVICES
Costs Include In Your Package:
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat by Private Jeep & Tilje to Besisahar By Sharing a local Jeep & Besisahar to Kathmandu By Local bus
- All standard meals (lunch, dinner & breakfast) during the trek.
- Best possible teahouses, lodge accommodation (generally twin share rooms)- during the trek
- Government licensed holder ,English speaking trek leader (10 or more trekkers, an assistant guide,) and porter to help carry your luggage.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Guides and porters provided by Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions, including their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
- Manaslu & Tsum Valley special permit to travel within the Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after triis p completed).
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health conditions such as altitude sickness (funded by travel insurance)
- Souvenir - Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions t-shirt
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s certificate of appreciation & completion after the successful trek
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- International airfares
- Lunch and dinner & Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Extra night’s accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure or early return from the trek.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (compulsory)
- Tips for guide and porters (recommended in our culture – and well deserved too!)
- Additional costs or delays caused by events beyond our control, for example, landslides, severe weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies & strikes.
- All the costs and expenses which are not listed in "costs include" will be counted as exclusions.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important that you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All-season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but it has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek, but it has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin-layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings, butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note: Our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well.
Miscellaneous - but must be useful on the trek
- 4 passport-size photos with the original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Restricted Area Permits Required
The Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions are classified as restricted trekking areas by the Nepalese government. Trekkers must obtain special permits to enter, and it’s mandatory to trek with a registered agency and licensed guide. The required permits include:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Tsum Valley Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
These are arranged by your trekking agency, such as Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd.
Physical Fitness Is Key
This trek involves long walking days, high altitudes, and steep ascents and descents. A good level of physical fitness is essential. While prior trekking experience is helpful, it’s not mandatory. Prepare with cardio exercises, hiking, and strength training at least 4–6 weeks before your trip.
Acclimatization Is Crucial
Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500 meters. The trek reaches up to 5,106 meters at Larkya La Pass, so proper acclimatization is essential. The itinerary is designed to gradually gain altitude, with rest days in Samagaon and Mu Gompa to adjust. Drink plenty of water, walk slowly, and listen to your body.
Best Seasons to Trek
The best time to trek the Manaslu Tsum Valley is:
Spring (March to May): Rhododendron blooms, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, spectacular mountain views, and stable weather.
Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rains and landslides, while winter (December to February) can be too cold and snowy for the Larkya La Pass crossing.
Accommodation and Food
You'll stay in local teahouses throughout the trek. While basic, they are clean and cozy. Rooms usually have twin beds, shared bathrooms, and minimal heating. Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, and pancakes. Vegetarian options are widely available. Carry snacks and water purification tablets for extra comfort.
Packing Essentials
Pack light but efficiently. Must-haves include:
Layered clothing (for varying temperatures)
Good trekking boots
Down jacket & sleeping bag
Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses
First aid kit & personal medications
Power bank & extra batteries
Porters can carry your main backpack, so bring a daypack for essentials.
Connectivity and Charging
Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable in the higher regions. Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses (usually paid), but it may be slow. Charging your devices may also cost extra. Bring a solar charger or power bank to stay powered up. Disconnecting from the digital world is part of the Himalayan charm.
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FAQS
Do I need a special permit for this trek?
Yes, you need multiple permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Tsum Valley Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
These are arranged by your trekking agency and cannot be obtained individually.
How difficult is the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
This trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high altitudes, long walking days, and the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) crossing. Good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended but not mandatory.
What is the highest altitude reached on this trek?
The highest point is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) above sea level. Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential to handle the altitude safely.
Can beginners join this trek?
Yes, beginners can join if they are physically fit and mentally prepared for long hikes at high elevations. Pre-trek training such as hiking, cardio, and strength building is highly recommended.
When is the best time to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
The best seasons are:
Spring (March to May) – for warmer weather and blooming flowers
Autumn (September to November) – for clear skies and excellent mountain views
Avoid the monsoon (June–August) and peak winter (December–February) due to harsh conditions.
Is this trek crowded like Everest or Annapurna?
No. The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is far less crowded than Everest or Annapurna regions. It offers a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience, ideal for those seeking solitude and authenticity.
What kind of accommodation is available?
You’ll stay in local teahouses, which provide basic lodging with shared or private twin rooms. Facilities are simple but clean, with shared toilets and limited heating. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at some locations for an extra cost.
What kind of food is served during the trek?
Teahouses serve a variety of local and international meals, including:
- Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry)
- Noodles and soups
- Momos (dumplings)
- Chapati and pancakes
Vegetarian meals are widely available.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is required. Make sure it includes high-altitude trekking (up to 5,500m) and covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
Is a guide mandatory for this trek?
Yes, since this is a restricted area, trekking without a licensed guide and registered agency is not allowed. A guide also ensures your safety, navigation, and helps with local communication and culture.
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