Tsum Valley &

Manaslu Circuit Trek

SUMMARY

Trade the familiar for the truly remarkable. This isn’t simply a trek; it’s a passage into a world where ancient whispers echo through remote monasteries, where the air hums with the presence of towering peaks, and where Tibetan-influenced culture shapes everyday life. We’re inviting you to explore the Tsum Valley alongside the Manaslu Circuit, a journey that moves beyond the ordinary and into one of Nepal’s most culturally rich Himalayan regions.

Here, you step away from well-worn paths and into landscapes that feel deeply untouched. The trail carries you through high mountain valleys, quiet forests, and traditional settlements where life unfolds at its own pace. Ancient Buddhist monasteries stand watch over the valleys, prayer flags marking the rhythm of devotion that has guided these communities for centuries.

But this journey offers more than scenery alone. It’s about human connection. Sharing tea with families in the villages of Tsum Valley, listening to stories shaped by altitude and isolation, and gaining insight into a way of life that has changed little over generations. The combination of cultural immersion and mountain trekking creates a rare balance that defines this region.

For those seeking an even deeper exploration, the extended Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek + Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek links multiple remote regions into one long, immersive journey. This route expands beyond the core circuit, crossing lesser-visited terrain and revealing an even quieter side of the Himalayas for trekkers with the time and curiosity to go further.

Thoughtfully designed to begin and end in Kathmandu, this trek connects the energy of Nepal’s capital with the stillness of its high mountain valleys. It’s a complete journey, from bustling streets to silent ridgelines, offering a fuller understanding of the country’s landscapes and cultures.

We invite you to walk these hidden trails with us, to move through valleys shaped by faith, resilience, and the mountains themselves. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a personal odyssey through the heart of Nepal. If you’re ready to answer the call of the mountains, the path awaits.

TREK OVERVIEW

Arrival city: Kathmandu

Meals: 19 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 17 dinners

Activity: Hiking

Maximum Altitude: 5,106 m / 16,752 ft

Trek Grade: Hard

Duration: 20 days

Price from: US $1,550*

*Calculation based on 4 trekkers

- English speaking professional mountain guide
- Porter
- All government and local taxes
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Three meals a day
- All necessary paperwork and permits (MCAP / ACAP / Special permit)
- Trekking Map
- All ground private transportation
- Excess baggage charges
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, shower etc) tip for staff
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and incase of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary

BOOK THIS TRIP NOW

ITINERARY

We want you to fully embrace the breathtaking beauty of the Tsum Valley, and Manaslu Circuit, knowing you're in good hands. To that end, we've prioritized proper acclimatization in our itinerary, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure. We also understand that your journey is personal, so we offer flexibility to tailor it to your schedule and preferences. Your expert guide, with their intimate knowledge of the region, will also be there to adapt the plan based on weather or your fitness, guaranteeing the best possible experience in this remarkable corner of Nepal.

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, and prepare for the trek. In the evening, a welcome dinner will introduce you to traditional Nepali cuisine.
Enjoy a self guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or visit trekking gear shops in Thamel to purchase or rent any last-minute equipment needed for your adventure. Meet your trekking guide for a pre-trek briefing, discussing the itinerary and essential details for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
An early morning drive takes us through scenic countryside, terraced fields, and rolling hills before reaching Machha Khola, a riverside village marking the beginning of our trek.
Crossing various suspension bridges, we make our way past terraced fields and hot springs, stopping at Tatopani for a quick break. The trail ascends to Chisapani, a picturesque hilltop village.
Leaving the main Manaslu Circuit trail, we enter the hidden world of Tsum Valley. The trek winds through rhododendron forests and terraced slopes before reaching Chumling, a traditional Tibetan village.
We continue deeper into Tsum Valley, passing quaint stone houses, mani walls, and chortens adorned with prayer flags. The towering peaks of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli dominate the horizon as we reach Chhokang Paro.
Today’s trek leads us to Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in Tsum Valley, nestled at the base of the snow-capped peaks. This spiritual haven offers insight into the region’s rich Buddhist traditions and stunning mountain vistas.
After exploring Mu Gompa, we descend to Rachen Gompa, a significant nunnery in the valley. The journey provides a deep cultural immersion as we interact with local monks and nuns.
A scenic yet challenging trek takes us through deep forests and remote hamlets, eventually leading to Gumba Lungdang, a serene monastery with panoramic Himalayan views.
We retrace our steps and leave Tsum Valley, rejoining the Manaslu Circuit Trail at Lokpa.
Rejoining the Budhi Gandaki River, we ascend past waterfalls and deep gorges. Namrung offers breathtaking views of Siringi Himal and Ganesh Himal.
A scenic day’s walk takes us through Tibetan-influenced villages and ancient Buddhist shrines, leading to Lho, where we’ll visit the stunning Ribung Monastery.
As we gain altitude, the trail opens to vast pastures with stunning views of Manaslu (8,163m). Samagaun is a cultural hub with rich Tibetan heritage.
We spend the day exploring, with an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) or Birendra Lake for acclimatization.
A short trek leads to Samdo, the last major village before Larke Pass, providing a great opportunity to observe Tibetan culture.
Ascending through alpine landscapes, we reach Dharamsala (Larke Phedi), the staging point for crossing Larke Pass.
A demanding but rewarding day, as we cross Larke Pass, offering jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II before descending to Bimtang.
A long descent through lush forests leads to Dharapani, where we conclude the trekking portion of our adventure.
A scenic drive back to Kathmandu offers a chance to reflect on the incredible journey before a celebratory farewell dinner.
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.