Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek: An Adventurer’s Guide!
The Manaslu Circuit is a breathtaking adventure in Nepal. This trek takes you through stunning of lush forests, towering green hills, and majestic snowy peaks. Along the way, you’ll visit peaceful villages, learn about local mountain life, and see how people grow food and care for animals.
The journey is a mix of nature and culture, with colorful flowers, clear rivers, and ancient temples. Friendly locals may share stories about their traditions, making the experience even more memorable. It’s a perfect blend of exploration, tranquility, and fun in the heart of the Himalayas.
Why Go on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek: A Fun Adventure!
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek along with Manaslu is a big adventure in Nepal! It is a long walk in the tall mountains where you can see beautiful views of big hills, pretty green forests, and very tall snowy mountains.
You will visit places where people live in small villages, and you can learn about how they live and what they do every day. You will see how they grow their food and take care of their animals. It is very quiet and peaceful, and you can see lots of nature like colorful flowers, tall trees, and clear rivers. The fresh air and the sounds of the birds make it feel very calm and nice.
You will also get to visit Tsum Valley, which is a very special place. In Tsum Valley, the people have old traditions, and they are very kind and friendly. You can see how they live, what they eat, and learn about their way of life. It feels like going back in time, and it makes the trek even more interesting.
In Manaslu Tsum Valley, you will see old buildings called monasteries and special stone walls called mani walls. The people there are very friendly, and they live in a way that has not changed for many years. This makes the trek a great way to learn about new cultures and see beautiful places.
Manaslu Ts um Valley Trek Highlights
Tsum Valley: You will visit Tsum Valley, which is a hidden place with old temples and kind people. You will see how the people there live their lives, which is very different from city life.
● Larke La Pass: You will cross Larke La Pass, which is very high at 5,160 meters. It is hard to climb, but the view from the top is amazing! You will see big mountains all around.
● Cultural Experience: You will learn about the Gurung and Tibetan people who live in the mountains. You can visit their homes, see their traditions, and learn about their culture.
● Beautiful Mountains: You will see Mount Manaslu, which is very tall. You will also see other mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors are the prettiest.
● Quiet Trails: This trek is not crowded like some other treks, so you can enjoy the quiet. It is a nice way to relax and enjoy the mountains.
Best Time To Go Trekking
The ideal time for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekdepends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Each season offers unique conditions, so understanding what to expect can help you plan better.
Spring (March to May)
● Highlights:
Spring is one of the most popular times for this trek, as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are vibrant. The hills and forests come alive with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, creating stunning scenery.
● Weather:
Temperatures are moderate, ranging from 10–20°C at lower altitudes and dropping to around -5°C at higher elevations like Larke La Pass.
● Views:
Clear mornings and evenings offer spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks. However, occasional afternoon clouds might obscure the vistas.
● Popularity:
Trails are moderately busy, with trekkers enjoying the colorful season.
Autumn (September to November)
Highlights:
Autumn is widely considered the best season for trekking in Nepal. After the monsoon, the skies clear up, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. The weather is stable, and the trails are in great condition.
● Weather:
Temperatures are similar to spring, with warm days and chilly nights. It’s cooler at high altitudes, with temperatures dropping to around -10°C at Larke La Pass.
● Views:
The post-monsoon clarity makes for postcard-perfect mountain views. You’ll enjoy golden-hued forests and crisp air.
● Popularity:
This is the busiest trekking season, so expect more fellow adventurers on the trail.
Winter (December to February)
● Highlights:
Trekking in winter offers solitude and a unique experience of snow-covered trails and landscapes. It’s ideal for trekkers who enjoy peaceful adventures and don’t mind the cold.
● Weather:
Temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures are manageable (5–10°C in lower areas), but nights and mornings are very cold, with temperatures plummeting to -20°C at Larke La Pass.
● Challenges:
Heavy snow can block the pass and make certain sections of the trail difficult or impassable. Extra preparation and gear are essential.
● Popularity:
Few people trek during winter, making the trails quieter and less crowded.
Monsoon (June to August)
● Highlights:
Monsoon is the least popular trekking season due to heavy rainfall, but it offers lush, green landscapes and fewer crowds. For nature lovers who don’t mind the rain, this season has its own charm.
● Weather:
High humidity and daily rain showers make trekking challenging. Trails become slippery and muddy, with risks of landslides in certain areas. Leeches are common in the lower regions.
● Views:
The skies are often cloudy, and mountain views can be obstructed. However, occasional clear days reveal stunning vistas.
● Challenges:
Trekking during this season requires good waterproof gear and extra caution on the trails.
Trekking Route Overview
The trek usually takes 20 to 24 days. It starts in a place called Soti Khola, which you get to after a long drive from Kathmandu. You will walk by a river called the Budi Gandaki River and pass through pretty villages and forests. Then, you will go into Tsum Valley and visit villages like Chhokang Paro and Mu Gompa. These places are very interesting because of their history and
culture.
After you finish exploring Tsum Valley, you will go back to the main trail to continue the Manaslu Circuit. You will stop at Samagaon, where you can see Mount Manaslu up close. This is a good place to rest before going higher. Next, you will cross Larke La Pass, which is the hardest part of the trek. The view from the pass is amazing, and after crossing it, you will go down to a place called Dharapani. From there, you will drive back to Kathmandu.
Trek Overview
● Starting Point: Soti Khola (reached by a drive from Kathmandu)
● Ending Point: Dharapani (followed by a drive back to Kathmandu)
● Highlights:
– Scenic trails along the Budhi Gandaki River with lush forests, waterfalls, and
picturesque villages.
– Exploration of the Tsum Valley, a culturally rich region influenced by Tibetan
Buddhism, with iconic stops like Mu Gompa and Chhokang Paro.
– Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,167 m/16,951 ft) with stunning
mountain vistas.
– Opportunities for acclimatization and side trips, such as a hike to Manaslu Base
Camp or Pungyen Gompa.
● Accommodation: Teahouses along the route, providing basic yet comfortable lodging
and meals.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
● Embark on an 8 to 9-hour drive covering approximately 160 km (99 miles) from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, passing through scenic hills and river valleys.
Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft)
● A 6-hour trek along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani.
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240 m / 7,349 ft)
● Continue trekking for about 6 hours, entering the Tsum Valley region and experiencing the unique culture of the area.
Day 4: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386 m / 7,828 ft)
● A 5-hour trek through dense forests and traditional settlements, offering insights into the local way of life.
Day 5: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,031 m / 9,944 ft)
● A 6-hour trek ascending through picturesque landscapes to reach Chhokang Paro, a village with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 6: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile (3,361 m / 11,026 ft)
● A 6-hour trek passing through villages like Lamagaon and Rachen Gompa, leading to the village of Nile.
Day 7: Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m / 12,139 ft)
● A 5-hour trek to Mu Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, offering spiritual insights and panoramic views.
Day 8: Explore Mu Gompa and Surroundings
● Spend the day exploring the monastery and nearby areas, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the region.
Day 9: Trek from Mu Gompa to Chumling
● Retrace your steps back to Chumling, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
Day 10: Trek from Chumling to Deng (1,804 m / 5,918 ft)
● A 6-hour trek descending back to the main Manaslu Circuit trail, reaching the village of Deng.
Day 11: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8,628 ft)
● A 6-hour trek ascending through alpine forests and picturesque settlements, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks.
Day 12: Trek from Namrung to Lho (2,957 m / 9,701 ft)
● A 4-hour trek leading to the village of Lho, renowned for its stunning views of Manaslu and its ancient monasteries.
Day 13: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft)
● A 4-hour trek to Sama Gaun, a village rich in Tibetan culture and the gateway to Manaslu Base Camp.
Day 14: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaun
● Utilize this day to acclimatize, with options for side trips to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa, both offering spectacular views.
Day 15: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,865 m / 12,680 ft)
● A 3-hour trek to Samdo, the last permanent settlement before the Larkya La Pass, providing insights into high-altitude lifestyles.
Day 16: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
● An additional day for acclimatization, with the option to hike towards the Tibetan border for panoramic vistas.
Day 17: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft)
● A 4-hour trek to Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, serving as the base for the pass crossing.
Day 18: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,167 m / 16,952 ft) to Bimthang (3,590 m / 11,778 ft)
● A challenging 10-hour day crossing the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
Day 19: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft)
● A 7-hour descent through rhododendron forests and terraced fields to Dharapani, where the trail intersects with the Annapurna Circuit.
Day 20: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
● Conclude the trek with a drive back to Kathmandu, reflecting on the diverse experiences and landscapes encountered
This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, balancing daily trekking hours with necessary acclimatization to ensure a safe and enriching experience. The journey not only traverses varied terrains but also immerses trekkers in the cultural tapestry of the local communities, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
How hard is the trek?
This trek is not easy, but it is fun if you like walking a lot. You will need to walk for 5 to 8 hours each day on rocky paths. The highest point is Larke La Pass, which is very high up. It is important to take your time so you do not get sick from the high altitude. You need to be strong and ready for some tough days, but the views make it all worth it!
Permits You Need
To do this trek, you need special permits because the area is restricted. Here are the permits you need:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
● This permit is mandatory for trekking through the restricted areas of Manaslu.
● Cost:
– Peak Season (September to November): USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, plus USD 15 for each additional day.
– Off-Season (December to August): USD 75 per person for the first 7 days, plus USD 10 for each additional day.
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (TVRAP)
● Required for exploring the culturally rich and remote Tsum Valley.
● Cost:
– Peak Season (September to November): USD 40 per person for the first 7
days.
– Off-Season (December to August): USD 30 per person for the first 7 days.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
● Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board, this permit helps fund conservation efforts in the Manaslu region.
● Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
● Necessary as the trek ends in the Annapurna region, covering areas like Dharapani.
● Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25).
You also need a guide, and you must trek in a group of at least two people. The guide will keep you safe and help you learn more about the places you visit.
Also Read: Maximizing Travel Adventures with Budget Optimization Strategies
Where To Sleep And Eat?
Here are some important things to pack:
● Trekking Boots: Good, comfortable boots are very important.
● Clothes: Wear layers so you can add or take off clothes as the weather changes. Bring a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat.
● Sleeping Bag: Bring a warm sleeping bag because it gets very cold at night.
● Trekking Poles: These will help you when you are going up or down steep hills.
● First Aid Kit: Bring medicine for headaches, blisters, and anything else you might need.
● Water Purification Tablets: These are important for making sure your drinking water is clean.
● Snacks: Bring snacks like nuts and chocolate to keep your energy up.
Tips For A Great Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
● Take Rest Days: Rest so you can get used to the high altitude.
● Drink Lots of Water: Drinking water helps you stay healthy and avoid altitude sickness.
● Pack Light: Only bring what you need to make walking easier.
● Hire a Guide and Porter: A guide will help you understand the area better, and a porter can carry your heavy bags.
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a wonderful adventure that is full of amazing things to see and do! You will see beautiful mountains that are very tall, with snowy tops that shine in the sunlight. You will learn about new cultures by meeting people who live in the mountains and seeing how they live every day. You can visit their small villages, see their homes, and learn about their traditions. You will also enjoy lots of nature, like green forests, colorful flowers, and big, clear rivers.
This trek is perfect if you love being outdoors and want to explore a quiet, pretty part of Nepal. You will make lots of happy memories as you walk through the valleys, climb up the mountains, and visit the peaceful villages. Every day will be full of new sights, fun experiences, and the joy of being in nature.
If you are ready for an adventure, come and explore the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley! It is a special place full of beauty and culture, and it will be an experience you will always remember. So pack your bags, put on your boots, and get ready for a big adventure in the Himalayas!
