MANASLU TSUM VALLEY TREK 13 DAYS
MANASLU TSUM VALLEY TREK 13 DAYS
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek – 13 Days is a fast-paced yet deeply immersive Himalayan adventure, thoughtfully crafted by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd. for trekkers with limited time but a strong desire to explore Nepal's hidden cultural and natural treasures. This compact itinerary perfectly blends high-altitude trekking, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and spectacular Himalayan landscapes into one unforgettable journey.
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, where a scenic drive takes you to Jagat, the trek’s starting point. Traveling via private jeep minimizes transit time, allowing more energy and focus on the trail ahead. From the very first steps, you’ll find yourself within the awe-inspiring Manaslu Conservation Area, known for its rich biodiversity, ancient monasteries, and dramatic mountain scenery.
The route soon leads into the magical Tsum Valley, a sacred Himalayan sanctuary often called the "Hidden Valley" due to its isolated and untouched nature. Opened to trekkers only in 2008, this region has preserved centuries-old traditions. As you pass through Chumling, Chhekampar (Chokhangparo), and eventually reach Mu Gompa, you’ll witness timeless Tibetan-influenced villages, prayer-engraved mani walls, and remote gompas nestled beneath the snow-capped peaks of Ganesh Himal.
One of the major highlights is the visit to Mu Gompa, perched at high altitude and offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. This sacred monastery reflects the spiritual heart of the valley and provides an unforgettable cultural and scenic experience.
After soaking in the spiritual essence of Tsum Valley, the trail reconnects with the renowned Manaslu Circuit, continuing toward remote and rugged landscapes. You’ll trek through Deng, Namrung, and reach the culturally vibrant village of Samagaon, one of the largest settlements in the region. Here, surrounded by yak pastures and glacial rivers, the massive presence of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) dominates the horizon, creating postcard-perfect views.
Despite its condensed duration, this 13-day trek covers an extraordinary range of terrain—from subtropical forests and alpine meadows to high mountain passes. Along the way, you'll walk through blooming rhododendron forests, cross dramatic suspension bridges, and pass under cascading waterfalls, all while enjoying panoramic views of Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu itself.
What makes this trek unique is not just the scenery but the genuine hospitality of the local people. Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, the communities along the trail offer warmth, resilience, and deep-rooted spirituality. The experience is enriched by the guidance of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s professional team, who ensure safety, comfort, and cultural insight at every step.
Your adventure concludes at Dharapani, from where a private vehicle takes you back to Kathmandu, completing a whirlwind yet rewarding journey through one of the Himalayas' most culturally and geographically diverse regions.
Ideal for fit trekkers seeking a less-traveled, culturally rich, and visually stunning trekking experience, the 13 Days Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a true gem for those short on time but big on adventure.
Book your Himalayan escape today with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd. and discover the unmatched beauty and serenity of Nepal’s hidden valleys.
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 via a private jeep. The journey takes you along the Prithvi Highway, with views of rivers, villages, and terraced hillsides. After reaching Jagat (1,340m), your trek starts with a short walk through lush landscapes and forested trails to reach Philim, a large Gurung village nestled above the Budhi Gandaki River.
Overnight in Philim.
Day 2 : Trek from Philim to Chumling (2,390m) – 7–9 hours.
Today you begin your ascent into the Tsum Valley, taking a trail that branches off at Ekle Bhatti. You’ll enter Lokpa, the first village officially within the Tsum region. The trail narrows into a gorge and gradually climbs through dense pine forests and prayer-flag-lined paths before reaching Chumling, a peaceful village with stone houses and views of Shringi Himal.
Overnight in Chumling.
Day 3 : Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – 5–6 hours.
The trail continues along suspension bridges and hillside paths to the Upper Tsum Valley. Pass mani walls, chortens, and traditional villages before reaching Chokhangparo (Chhekampar). On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. This high-altitude village is deeply spiritual and offers insight into the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.
Overnight in Chokhangparo.
Day 4 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile / Mu Gompa (3,361m) – 6–7 hours.
Today’s trek leads through Nile, the last permanent village in the Tsum Valley, toward Mu Gompa, the highest point in the valley. The dry, open landscapes resemble Tibet, and the trek becomes increasingly spiritual as you pass centuries-old gompas, mani stones, and prayer flags. Mu Gompa is a historic and sacred monastery located near the Tibetan border and offers a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere.
Overnight near Mu Gompa or in Nile.
Day 5 : Trek from Mu Gompa to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – 5–6 hours.
After a peaceful morning exploring the monastery and its surroundings, descend back through the same trail to Chokhangparo. The descent offers new perspectives of the landscape, and you may encounter local monks or pilgrims along the way. It’s a great day to engage more with locals and visit any sites you may have missed on the way up.
Overnight in Chokhangparo.
Day 6 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Chumling (2,386m) – 6–7 hours.
Retrace your steps through the Tsum Valley, descending through forests and small villages. You’ll enjoy a gradual walk back to Chumling, where you can rest and enjoy the calm, traditional atmosphere of this Lower Tsum settlement.
Overnight in Chumling.
Day 7 : Trek from Chumling to Deng (1,860m) – 6–7 hours.
You’ll leave the Tsum Valley and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit trail. The trail descends through Lokpa and follows the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross multiple suspension bridges, pass through lush jungle terrain, and reach Deng, a small but culturally rich village inhabited by Gurung and Tibetan communities.
Overnight in Deng.
Day 8 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m) – 5–6 hours.
Today's route climbs steadily through scenic pine and fir forests, crossing through several traditional villages including Ghap and Prok, where you’ll be treated to panoramic mountain views. The trail finally opens into Namrung, a well-developed village with excellent views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal, along with several monasteries and chortens.
Overnight in Namrung.
Day 9 : Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m) – 6–7 hours.
The trail gradually ascends through Lho Village, where you'll see a large monastery and one of the best panoramic views of Manaslu. Continue through Shyala, surrounded by high Himalayan peaks, until you reach Samagaon, the largest village in the region. It’s an ideal place to explore Buddhist monasteries, yak pastures, and traditional stone homes.
Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 10 : Trek from Samagaon to Dharamsala (4,460m) – 4–5 hours.
A shorter day, but crucial for acclimatization before the high-altitude pass. The trail climbs steadily through alpine landscapes, sparse vegetation, and yak herder camps until reaching Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi). Though basic in accommodation, it’s a vital resting point before crossing Larkya La.
Overnight in Dharamsala.
Day 11 : Trek to Bimtang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m) – 8–9 hours.
Start early to tackle the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek—Larkya La Pass. The climb is steady but strenuous due to thin air and cold temperatures. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The long descent leads you to the tranquil glacial valley of Bimtang, a beautiful meadow surrounded by Himalayan peaks.
Overnight in Bimtang.
Day 12 : Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,900m) – 6–7 hours.
Descend through a dramatic change in vegetation—from alpine meadows into lush rhododendron and pine forests. Pass through Karche and Gho, charming villages in the Annapurna region, until you reach Dharapani, a busy settlement that connects with the Annapurna Circuit.
Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 13 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu – 8–9 hours.
Your journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar. Enjoy the changing landscape as you pass hills, rivers, and terraced fields. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can celebrate the successful completion of one of Nepal’s most beautiful and culturally immersive treks.
Overnight in Kathmandu or trip ends.
SERVICES
Costs Include In Your Package:
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat by Private Jeep & Dharapani to Besisahar By Sharing local Jeep & Besisahar to Kathmandu By Local bus
- All standard meals (lunch, dinners & 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 trip 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.
Cost Excludes
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal are not included.
- Meals & Accommodation in Kathmandu: Lunch, dinner, and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu are at your own expense.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee: Easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). Visa fees are:
- $30 USD for 15 days
- $50 USD for 30 days
- $125 USD for 90 days
- Additional Accommodation: Extra nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek for any reason.
- Beverages & Extra Food on the Trek: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, bottled water, and any food or drinks ordered outside of the standard meal plan (especially in tea houses).
- Desserts & Sweets: Items such as chocolate, cakes, pies, and puddings are not included.
- Hot Showers & Device Charging: Charges for hot showers and battery/electronic device charging at tea houses.
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory insurance covering high-altitude emergency evacuation and medical rescue.
- Tips for Staff: Gratuities for guides and porters are not included but are highly appreciated and culturally encouraged.
- Unforeseen Costs: Expenses resulting from events beyond our control, such as:
- Landslides or natural disasters
- Extreme weather conditions
- Government strikes or changes in regulations
- Itinerary changes for safety reasons
- Illness or personal emergencies
- Other Expenses: Any costs not explicitly mentioned under the "Cost Includes" section will be considered excluded.
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 region and Tsum Valley are designated as restricted trekking zones by the Nepal government to preserve their fragile environment and cultural heritage. Trekkers must obtain special permits such as the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and Tsum Valley Permit. These permits are only available through registered trekking agencies like Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd., ensuring a regulated and safe trekking experience.
Physical Fitness Is Essential
This trek covers long walking days at varying altitudes, including steep ascents and descents. While you don’t need to be an expert mountaineer, good physical fitness is important for enjoying the trek comfortably and avoiding fatigue. Regular cardio exercise, hiking practice, and strength training before the trip can make a big difference.
Altitude Acclimatization
The trek reaches its highest point at the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), where altitude sickness can be a serious risk. Your itinerary includes rest days and gradual ascents to help your body adjust. Staying well-hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and monitoring symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness are crucial for safe trekking at high altitude.
Best Seasons to Trek
The most favorable times for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these periods, you’ll experience stable weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons or golden autumn foliage. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain and landslides, while winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold and snowy.
Local Culture and Religion
The Tsum Valley is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site rich in Tibetan culture. Villages like Chumling and Chokhangparo feature ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, and mani walls. Respecting local customs—such as removing shoes before entering temples and asking permission before photographing people—is essential to preserve the spiritual ambiance and build positive connections.
Accommodation
Accommodations along the route are primarily simple teahouses, offering basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities are more rustic at higher elevations with limited heating and hot water. Carrying a good sleeping bag and warm clothing will ensure a comfortable night’s rest in these remote settings.
Limited Connectivity
Mobile and internet signals are very weak or unavailable for much of the trek. This is a perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Inform your family or friends about limited communication ahead of time.
Packing Essentials
Prepare for varying weather conditions by packing layered clothing, including thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and waterproof outerwear. Durable trekking boots, a quality sleeping bag rated for cold weather, a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water purification tablets or filters are must-haves for a safe and comfortable trek.
Wildlife and Nature
The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna including elusive species like red pandas, musk deer, and Himalayan birds. Respect wildlife habitats by maintaining a safe distance, not feeding animals, and avoiding loud noises to preserve this pristine ecosystem.
Responsible Tourism
The Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions are fragile environments with unique cultural heritage. To protect them, practice responsible tourism by minimizing plastic use, carrying out all your trash, supporting local businesses and communities, and following trail etiquette. These small actions help preserve this incredible region for future generations.
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FAQS
Do I need a special permit for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. This trek passes through restricted regions in Nepal, so you’ll need several permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Tsum Valley Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Your trekking agency arranges these and cannot be obtained independently.
How difficult is this trek?
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is considered moderate to challenging. It involves long trekking days, rough trails, and high-altitude passes like Larkya La (5,106m). Good physical fitness and mental preparedness are essential, especially for those with limited trekking experience.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Larkya La Pass, standing at 5,106 meters (16,752 ft) above sea level. It’s a physically demanding yet rewarding part of the trek with panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Mount Manaslu.
When is the best time to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
The ideal trekking seasons are:
- Spring (March–May) – Warm temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, clear views
- Autumn (September–November) – Crisp air, stable weather, excellent mountain visibility
Avoid the monsoon (June–August) and heavy winter (December–February) due to poor trail conditions and extreme cold.
Can beginners do this trek?
While possible, this trek is more suited for trekkers with some experience or those who are physically well-prepared. Beginners should engage in regular cardio and hiking training before attempting this trek. A slower-paced itinerary or extra acclimatization days can help if you're new to high-altitude trekking.
What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Accommodation is mostly in local teahouses or lodges, which offer basic facilities:
- Twin sharing rooms
- Shared toilets
- Limited hot showers
- Basic meals (dal bhat, noodles, soups, momos, etc.)
The comfort level decreases as you gain altitude, especially near Mu Gompa and Larkya La Pass.
Is Wi-Fi or phone signal available along the trail?
Connectivity is limited. Some villages may have slow Wi-Fi for a small fee, but there are long stretches—especially in Tsum Valley and high-altitude areas—without any signal. Consider informing your contacts that you'll be offline during the trek.
What should I pack for this trek?
Pack light but effectively. Essentials include:
- Warm, layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- First aid kit and personal medication
- Power bank or solar charger
- Water purification tablets
Are there altitude risks during this trek?
Yes, since the trek goes above 5,000 meters, altitude sickness is a real concern. The itinerary includes gradual acclimatization, but symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea must be taken seriously. Trekkers should inform their guide and rest or descend if symptoms worsen.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Absolutely. You must have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m), including emergency evacuation by helicopter, medical expenses, and trip cancellation. It’s mandatory and highly recommended for your safety and peace of mind.
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