The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a breathtaking journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. Combining the classic Manaslu Circuit with the hidden Tsum Valley, this trek offers a rare blend of dramatic mountain scenery, sacred monasteries, and authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Starting from the lush hills of Machha Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through deep gorges, waterfalls, and traditional Gurung and Tamang villages. Entering Tsum Valley, often called the “Hidden Valley of Happiness,” you’ll visit ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, surrounded by serene landscapes and spiritual calm.
Crossing the mighty Larke La Pass (5,160 m) adds adventure and altitude to this journey, with awe-inspiring views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The trek is a true Himalayan gem — less crowded, deeply spiritual, and visually spectacular.
Highlights
Private ground transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu
Comfortable vehicle with experienced driver, fuel, tolls, and parking included
Best available mountain lodge accommodation during the trek
Private room wherever available (shared only at high altitude if required)
Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Freshly cooked hygienic meals with multiple menu choices
Unlimited tea or coffee during breakfast and dinner
Boiled drinking water during the trek
Licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide
Required number of strong, insured porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
All guide and porter salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit Tusm valley, Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, and ACAP permits
Government taxes, VAT, and service charges
Trekking map and detailed itinerary briefing
First-aid medical kit carried by the guide
Emergency assistance and coordination if needed
Duffel bag and trekking poles (on request)
Luggage storage at company office during the trek
Certificate of completion after the trek
International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fee
Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance
Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging fees during the trek
Alcoholic drinks, bottled beverages, and snacks
Personal expenses (laundry, bar bills, phone calls)
Tips for guide, porter, and driver
Emergency evacuation costs (unless covered by insurance)
Additional nights caused by weather, health, or itinerary changes
Costs arising from natural disasters, strikes, or government policy changes
Any services not specifically mentioned in the Includes section
Trekking map and detailed itinerary briefing
Duffel bag for porter use (if requested)
Trekking poles (on request)
First-aid kit carried by the guide
Welcome drink or tea at starting lodge (Machha Khola)
Complimentary hot tea/coffee during breakfast and dinner on the trek
Certificate of completion after the trek
Seasonal trekking tips and packing list provided before departure
Luggage storage at company office in Kathmandu during the trek
Support from local office staff for any emergencies or coordination
Remote and less-crowded trekking route
Stunning views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, and Himalchuli
Rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture and traditional villages
Ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa
Prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens along the trail
Moderate to challenging trekking days
Gradual altitude gain with acclimatization days
Basic but clean teahouses and homestays
Simple local meals (dal bhat, noodles, soups)
Cold temperatures at higher elevations
Limited facilities and electricity in remote areas
Restricted-area permits required
Licensed guide is mandatory
Distance : approximately 160 km
Drive hour : 8 - 9 hour
Begin your scenic journey from Kathmandu toward the western hills of Nepal. The drive follows the winding Trishuli River, offering stunning views of terraced fields, green hills, and traditional villages along the way. Passing through Dhading, Arughat, and Soti Khola, you’ll notice the landscape gradually change from urban bustle to peaceful countryside.
The final stretch follows a rugged mountain road carved along the Budhi Gandaki River, revealing glimpses of waterfalls and deep river gorges. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Machha Khola, a small riverside village surrounded by lush hills and tranquil nature. This is the gateway to your Manaslu Circuit Trek, where you’ll spend the night preparing for the adventure ahead.
Overnight stay at Machha Khola
Distance : 20 - 21 km
Trek time : 7 - 8 hour
The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, winding through narrow valleys, forested hills, and traditional Gurung villages. The path undulates up and down, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through Tatopani, a small hot spring where trekkers often stop for a short rest.
As you continue, the trail offers stunning views of waterfalls cascading down steep cliffs, with the sound of the river accompanying you throughout the day. Gradually, the route ascends to the charming stone village of Jagat, marked by mani walls and traditional houses - the official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Enjoy your evening exploring the village or relaxing in a cozy teahouse surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery.
Overnight stay at Jagat
Distance : 9 - 10 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trail leaves Jagat along stone steps and terraced fields before entering dense forest and crossing the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. Passing charming villages like Philim, the valley gradually opens with views of waterfalls and steep green cliffs.
A scenic trail then branches toward the peaceful and secluded Tsum Valley, leading you to Lokpa, the first village of this hidden region. Surrounded by pine forests and quiet mountain scenery, Lokpa offers a calm and beautiful atmosphere for the night.
Overnight stay at Lokpa
Distance : 6 - 7 km
Trek time : 6 - 7 hour
The trail descends through a forested path with constant views of deep gorges and towering cliffs. After crossing a long suspension bridge, the route climbs steadily along a scenic hillside overlooking the Syar Khola river.
As you enter the Tsum Valley, the landscape becomes wider and more peaceful, with traditional stone houses and prayer flags welcoming you to Chumling, a charming village surrounded by terraced fields and mountain views.
Overnight stay at Chumling
Distance : 6 - 7 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trail rises gently through terraced fields and small villages, offering wide views of the surrounding hills and snowy peaks. After crossing several wooden bridges, the path enters the heart of the Upper Tsum Valley, where the landscape opens into broad, peaceful meadows.
Arriving at Chhokang Paro, you’ll be welcomed by traditional Tibetan-style houses, mani walls, and a warm cultural atmosphere. The village offers beautiful sunset views and a calm Himalayan setting to relax for the night.
Overnight stay at Chhokang Paro
Distance : 8 - 9 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
A gentle trail leads through open fields, ancient mani walls, and traditional villages that reflect the deep Tibetan culture of the valley. The scenery becomes wider and more dramatic as snow-capped peaks rise above the valley.
Following the Syar Khola, the path gradually climbs to Nile, the last village before Mu Gompa. Its peaceful setting, stone houses, and surrounding mountain views make it an ideal place to rest and prepare for the next day’s exploration.
Overnight stay at Nile
Distance : 13 - 14 km
Trek time : 7 - 8 hour
A gentle climb from Nile leads toward the upper valley, surrounded by open landscapes and snowy peaks. The trail gradually ascends to Mu Gompa, the highest and most important monastery in Tsum Valley, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain views.
After exploring the monastery and enjoying the quiet beauty of the high valley, retrace the trail down through the wide meadows and traditional villages.
Overnight stay at Nile
Distance : 8 - 9 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trek from Nile to Chumling is a moderately challenging trail that offers stunning Himalayan scenery and an authentic Sherpa village experience. The path winds through lush forests, terraced fields, and small streams, providing a serene trekking environment. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks and the peaceful rural landscapes of Solukhumbu.
The trail gradually ascends, making it suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness. Chumling itself is a quaint village where visitors can experience local culture, traditional houses, and friendly communities. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of nature, culture, and moderate trekking adventure.
Overnight stay at chumling
Distance : 8 - 9 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trail descends from Lokpa through dense forests and rocky paths, offering views of waterfalls and steep cliffs along the Budhi Gandaki. After crossing a suspension bridge, the route gently climbs toward Philim and then continues through bamboo forests and narrow gorges.
As the valley widens, the trail follows the river to the peaceful village of Deng, surrounded by terraced hills and a calm mountain atmosphere - a comfortable stop before heading deeper into the Manaslu region.
Overnight stay at Deng
Distance : 8 - 9 km
trek time : 5 - 6 hour
Leaving Deng, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, climbing steadily through lush forests and alpine landscapes. You’ll pass through charming villages such as Rana and Bihi, where Tibetan prayer flags flutter above traditional stone houses. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and Kutang Himal as the valley opens wider and the air grows cooler.
As you approach Namrung, you’ll notice a shift in culture with Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and mani walls reflecting strong Tibetan influence. Namrung itself is a picturesque mountain village surrounded by dense pine forests and terraced fields, offering stunning sunset views and a warm, peaceful atmosphere to end the day.
Overnight stay at Namrung
Distance : 8 - 9 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, climbing steadily through lush forests and alpine landscapes. You’ll pass through charming villages such as Rana and Bihi, where Tibetan prayer flags flutter above traditional stone houses. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and Kutang Himal as the valley opens wider and the air grows cooler.
As you approach Namrung, you’ll notice a shift in culture — with Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and mani walls reflecting strong Tibetan influence. Namrung itself is a picturesque mountain village surrounded by dense pine forests and terraced fields, offering stunning sunset views and a warm, peaceful atmosphere to end the day.
Overnight stay at Shyala
Distance : 14 - 15 km
Trek time : 6 - 7 hour
This day trail is filled with breathtaking mountain scenery and deep cultural beauty. From Shyala, you walk across open meadows surrounded by towering peaks like Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, and Himal Chuli. A short side hike takes you to the serene Pung Gyen Gompa (3,870 m) — an ancient monastery set against a dramatic backdrop of glaciers and cliffs.
After exploring the monastery and soaking in the peaceful spiritual energy, you descend to Samagaon, one of the largest and most picturesque villages in the Manaslu region. The village offers incredible views of Manaslu’s north face, along with traditional stone houses, mani walls, and warm Sherpa–Tibetan hospitality.
Overnight stay at Samagaon
A full day to rest and explore the beautiful village of Samagaon, helping your body adapt to the altitude while enjoying the incredible mountain surroundings.
You can take a scenic hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) for breathtaking close-up views of Mount Manaslu and its glaciers, or walk to the tranquil Birendra Lake, a stunning turquoise glacial lake nestled below the mountains.
Samagaon offers a unique window into Tibetan-influenced Himalayan life, with traditional stone houses, colorful prayer flags, and warm local hospitality. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting monasteries, or simply relaxing amidst majestic mountain views.
Distance : 15 - 16 km
Trek time : 4 - 5 hour
Leaving Samagaon, the trail gently ascends through wide yak pastures and juniper forests along the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The views open up beautifully, revealing the snow-covered peaks of Manaslu, Syaula, and Naike Peak in the distance.
As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes thinner, and the air feels cooler and fresher. Passing mani walls and small chortens, the route leads to Samdo, a traditional Tibetan refugee village just a day’s walk from the Tibetan border.
In the afternoon, explore the village or take a short acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint overlooking the mountains and valley.
Overnight stay at Samdo
Distance : 11 - 12 km
Trek time : 5 - 6 hour
The trail from Samdo begins with a gentle descent past mani walls before crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. Gradually ascending through barren landscapes and rocky terrain, the scenery becomes more rugged, with dramatic views of Larke Peak and Manaslu dominating the skyline.
You’ll reach Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi, a small settlement that serves as the base for crossing the Larke La Pass. The altitude is higher here, so it’s important to rest, stay warm, and prepare for the challenging but rewarding trek ahead.
Enjoy an early dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks under a starry sky.
Overnight stay at Dharmasala
Distance : 14 - 15 km
Trek time : 7 - 8 hour
An early morning start leads to one of the most memorable days of the entire trek. The trail climbs steadily on a rocky and icy path toward the Larke La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. As you ascend, the first light of dawn illuminates the surrounding peaks - Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung, and Annapurna II - creating an unforgettable panorama.
Reaching the Larke La Pass (5,160 m) feels like standing on top of the world, surrounded by endless snowfields and fluttering prayer flags. After taking in the views and a few celebratory photos, begin the long descent toward Bimthang, passing through glacial moraines and alpine meadows.
Bimthang (3,720 m) welcomes you with its peaceful setting and stunning mountain views - a perfect place to rest and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Overnight stay at Bhimthang
Distance : 22 - 23 km
Trek time : 7 - 8 hour
After a peaceful morning in Bimthang, the trail descends through enchanting forests of pine and rhododendron, with the sound of streams and birds filling the air. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna II as you follow the glacial river downstream.
Passing through charming villages like Yak Kharka and Tilije, you’ll notice the landscape changing - from high alpine meadows to lush green hills. The trail continues gently to Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit meets the famous Annapurna Circuit trail, marking the end of your remarkable Himalayan journey.
Spend the evening relaxing and celebrating your successful trek in this peaceful mountain village.
Overnight stay at Dharapani
Distance : 220 km
After finishing a trek,from Dharapani the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The journey follows the winding mountain roads through Tal, Chamje, and Besisahar, offering the last glimpses of terraced hills, waterfalls, and local villages along the way.
As you leave the Himalayas behind, the road gradually leads to the bustling city of Kathmandu, where comfort and celebration await. Once back at your hotel, you can relax, enjoy a hot shower, and spend the evening exploring Thamel’s lively streets, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying a farewell dinner to mark the end of your unforgettable Manaslu Circuit adventure.
Overnight stay at kathmandu
The full trek typically takes 19–22 days, depending on acclimatization and side trips such as Mu Gompa and Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
Yes. You need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Larke La Pass (5,160 m) — offering spectacular Himalayan views.
Limited Wi-Fi and charging are available in some teahouses for a small fee.
It’s a moderate to challenging trek due to its remoteness and altitude, but manageable for fit trekkers with good preparation.
Yes. The Tsum Valley and Manaslu region require a mandatory licensed guide and permits through a registered trekking agency.
