Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding adventures. Combining the rugged trails of the Manaslu Circuit with the hidden cultural gems of the Tsum Valley, this trek offers an extraordinary blend of Himalayan scenery, Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and remote wilderness.
Unlike the busier Everest or Annapurna routes, the Manaslu region remains less crowded, pristine, and authentic. Trekkers pass through ancient monasteries, traditional villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, culminating in the dramatic crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,167 m / 16,752 ft).
This trek is ideal for those seeking a challenging journey into the heart of the Himalayas with cultural depth and fewer crowds.
The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek blends high Himalayan adventure with rich Tibetan culture. Experience towering peaks, ancient monasteries, and remote villages.
Highlights
Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,167 m), one of Nepal’s most scenic high passes.
Exploring Tsum Valley, a sacred Himalayan valley with Tibetan culture.
Visiting Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa monasteries.
Stunning views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II.
Experiencing authentic teahouse trekking in remote Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Arrival: Tribhuvan International Airport Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, enjoy a welcome briefing where you’ll meet your trekking team and go over last-minute preparations.
Dinner
3 Stars Hotel
Day 02
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710 m / 2,329 ft)
Transport: Jeep/Bus – 8 to 9 hrs Distance: 141 km / 87 miles
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive west from Kathmandu through hills, rivers, and villages. Passing through Dhading and Arughat, you’ll follow the Budhi Gandaki River until you reach Soti Khola, a small riverside town where your trek begins.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 03
Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~14 km / 8.6 miles
Today’s trail winds through sal forests, suspension bridges, and rocky ridges. Small Gurung villages dot the path as you gradually climb alongside the river, ending at Machha Khola, a cozy settlement by the river.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 04
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410 m / 4,626 ft)
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~22 km / 13.6 miles
Crossing suspension bridges, ridges, and small settlements, the trail gradually climbs higher into the Manaslu region. Passing Khorlabesi and Tatopani (hot springs), you’ll continue to Jagat, the entry checkpoint for the restricted area.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 05
Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240 m / 7,349 ft) – Entry to Tsum Valley
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~16 km / 10 miles
From Jagat, follow the Budhi Gandaki upstream until reaching the fork where the trail leads into the sacred Tsum Valley. Enter Lokpa, the first village of Tsum Valley, surrounded by pine forests and dramatic mountain views.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 06
Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386 m / 7,828 ft)
Trek Time: 5 to 6 hrs Distance: ~11 km / 7 miles
Descend through lush forests before crossing suspension bridges that lead to the lower Tsum Valley. Traditional Tibetan-style houses, terraced fields, and monasteries make Chumling a cultural highlight.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 07
Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,031 m / 9,944 ft)
Trek Time: 5 to 6 hrs Distance: ~13 km / 8 miles
Gradually climb higher into the valley, enjoying views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. Chhokang Paro is a large settlement in Upper Tsum Valley, offering insights into Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 08
Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile (3,361 m / 11,026 ft) via Rachen Gompa
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~14 km / 8.6 miles
Today’s trail takes you deeper into the valley, visiting Rachen Gompa, one of the most important nunneries of the region. Continue through fertile fields and mani walls before reaching Nile village.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 09
Hike to Mu Gompa (3,700 m / 12,139 ft) – Acclimatization
Trek Time: 4 to 5 hrs round trip Visit: Mu Gompa Monastery
Take a side trip to Mu Gompa, one of the oldest and highest monasteries in Tsum Valley. This is also an acclimatization day to help adjust to higher altitudes. Explore monastic life, meditation caves, and stunning mountain views before returning to Nile.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 10
Trek from Nile to Chhokang Paro (3,031 m / 9,944 ft)
Trek Time: 6 hrs Distance: ~13 km / 8 miles
Retrace your steps through fertile farmland and chortens, returning to Chhokang Paro. This allows gradual descent while still enjoying cultural encounters in the valley.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 11
Trek from Chhokang Paro to Lokpa (2,240 m / 7,349 ft)
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~15 km / 9 miles
Descending out of Tsum Valley, the trail passes monasteries and dense pine forests before reaching Lokpa again. From here, you’ll reconnect with the main Manaslu Circuit trail.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 12
Trek from Lokpa to Deng (1,860 m / 6,102 ft)
Trek Time: 6 hrs Distance: ~13 km / 8 miles
Rejoining the Manaslu Circuit, the path climbs through alpine forests and crosses suspension bridges before reaching Deng, a charming village with Tibetan culture.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 13
Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660 m / 8,727 ft)
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~19 km / 12 miles
Ascend gradually through lush forests and alpine landscapes. The views open up to snow-capped peaks as you enter Namrung, a beautiful village with stone houses and monasteries.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 14
Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft)
Trek Time: 6 to 7 hrs Distance: ~17 km / 10.5 miles
One of the most scenic days of the trek. Pass through Lihi and Sho villages, with magnificent views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Ganesh Himal. Arrive at Sama Gaun, the largest village in the region.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 15
Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft)
Side Trips: Pungyen Gompa / Manaslu Base Camp
Spend the day exploring Sama Gaun with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft) or Pungyen Gompa. This day helps prepare for higher altitudes and allows cultural immersion in the village.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 16
Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,860 m / 12,664 ft)
Trek Time: 4 to 5 hrs Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles
A short day of trekking brings you closer to the Tibetan border. Samdo is a traditional trading village with yak pastures and stunning Himalayan views.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 17
Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft)
Trek Time: 4 to 5 hrs Distance: ~7 km / 4.3 miles
Climb steadily to Dharamsala (also called Larkya Phedi), the last settlement before the high pass. The landscape here is barren but dramatic, offering a true Himalayan wilderness feel.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 18
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,167 m / 16,952 ft) – Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m / 12,204 ft)
Trek Time: 8 to 9 hrs Distance: ~18 km / 11 miles
The toughest but most rewarding day of the trek. Start early to cross Larkya La Pass (5,167 m), with panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Descend steeply to the beautiful meadow village of Bimthang.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 19
Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860 m / 6,102 ft)
Trek Time: 7 to 8 hrs Distance: ~20 km / 12.4 miles
Descend through pine forests and pastures with views of Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. Passing through Tilje, you’ll finally reach Dharapani, connecting with the Annapurna Circuit trail.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 20
Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar – Return to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Transport: Jeep to Besisahar (3 hrs) + Bus/Private Vehicle to Kathmandu (6–7 hrs)
After completing your trek, enjoy a scenic jeep ride to Besisahar. From here, a bus or private vehicle will take you back to Kathmandu, where you’ll celebrate your successful adventure. If you wish to continue to Pokhara instead, transfers can be arranged.
Lunch + Breakfast
Tea House
Day 21
Departure from Kathmandu
Transport: Hotel to Airport
Your Himalayan journey comes to an end. Our team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
Breakfast
Cost Includes
22 nights' accommodation in tea houses/lodges during the trek
Trekking Gear Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover Daypack (20–30L) for daily essentials Sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C; rentable in Kathmandu) Trekking poles (highly recommended) Headlamp with spare batteries Water bottles (1L × 2) or hydration bladder Water purification tablets or filter Sunglasses (UV protection) Quick-dry travel towel Gaiters (useful in snow/mud on Larkya La)
Personal Items & Toiletries Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap/shampoo Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & SPF lip balm Wet wipes & hand sanitizer Toilet paper (not provided in teahouses) Small mirror & nail clipper Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
Health & First Aid Personal prescription medications Diamox (Acetazolamide) for altitude — consult your doctor Pain relievers (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen) Antiseptic cream, blister plasters, band-aids Oral rehydration salts/electrolyte tablets Cold/flu medicine Compact first-aid kit
Electronics Phone + charger Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh) Camera + spare batteries/memory cards Travel adapter (Nepal: Type C/D/M) Kindle/book/notebook (optional)
Documents & Money Passport + Nepal visa 2–4 passport photos (for permits) Travel insurance (covers high-altitude evacuation) & emergency contacts Cash in NPR (ATMs unreliable in remote areas) Waterproof pouch for documents/money
Snacks (Optional) Energy bars, nuts, trail mix, chocolate Instant coffee/tea (teahouse drinks cost more at altitude)
Pro Tip Keep your pack light (aim for 8–10 kg). Leave extra luggage in Kathmandu. If you choose the porter add-on, they can carry ~20–22 kg; keep water, snacks, and warm layers in your daypack.
Manaslu circuit trek with tsum valley
Permits Required Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Permits are issued through a registered trekking agency. Independent trekking is not allowed.
Best Time to Trek Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons in bloom, mild temperatures, clear mornings. Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp skies, peak trekking season. Winter: Snow makes the pass risky. Summer/Monsoon: Trails slippery, landslides possible.
Difficulty Level Rated Challenging due to long trekking days, remote trails, and high altitude. Previous trekking experience above 3,500 m is recommended.
Accommodation & Food Accommodation: Basic teahouses (twin-sharing, simple bedding, shared toilets). Food: Dal Bhat (Nepali staple), Tibetan bread, noodles, soups, momos, and occasional pasta or pancakes. Vegetarian options widely available.
Safety & Health Altitude sickness is a risk; itinerary includes acclimatization days. Guides carry first aid kits; evacuation can be arranged by helicopter if needed. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is mandatory.
