Your adventure begins upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative from Chingu Treks and Tours will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you have the rest of the day free to rest or explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu. In the evening, you will meet with your trekking guide and fellow trekkers for a briefing about the upcoming trek. You’ll also enjoy a welcome dinner, where you can ask any final questions before the adventure begins.
Today, we begin our journey by road to Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek. We will drive for approximately 9-10 hours, passing through scenic landscapes that include lush green hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The drive takes us along the Prithvi Highway, and then we follow the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. The drive ends in Machha Khola, a small village where we will settle in for the night, preparing for the trek to start the following day.
After breakfast, we begin our trek by following the Budhi Gandaki River northward. The trail is relatively moderate as we ascend through charming villages, cross suspension bridges, and pass terraced farmland. The first leg of the trek takes us to Jagat, a beautiful village with stone-paved streets. Along the way, we’ll encounter several small settlements where we can get a glimpse of the local lifestyle. After a 6-7 hour trek, we’ll reach Jagat, where we’ll stay overnight in a local teahouse.
Today's trek takes us deeper into the Tsum Valley region. We will pass through dense forests of rhododendron and pine trees and cross several suspension bridges. As we ascend, the views become more breathtaking, with the towering peaks of the Himalayas emerging on the horizon. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, we will arrive in Lokpa, a quiet village nestled among the mountains. The village is known for its beautiful setting, and we will stay overnight here.
Today’s trek is shorter but takes us through some spectacular landscapes. We will pass through remote villages, lush forests, and valleys as we head toward Chumling, a small village located at an altitude of 2386 meters. The trek offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, including Ganesh Himal. After 4-5 hours of walking, we will reach Chumling, where we will relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
We continue our journey today by trekking to Chhokangparo. The trail offers a mix of uphill and downhill walking through terraced fields and small villages. Along the way, we will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Siringi Himal. After 5-6 hours of trekking, we will arrive in Chhokangparo, a charming village at 3031 meters. The village is a great place to explore and offers a glimpse into the local Tibetan-influenced culture.
Today’s trek takes us higher into the Tsum Valley, where we will reach the village of Nile, located at 3361 meters. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Shringi Himal and Ganesh Himal. We will pass through remote villages, where we can observe traditional Tibetan culture and architecture. After 5-6 hours of trekking, we will reach Nile, where we will settle into a local lodge for the night.
Today is an acclimatization day to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. We will take a short hike to Mu Gompa, a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at 3700 meters. The hike takes about 3-4 hours and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Mu Gompa is a serene place, offering a great opportunity to experience the spiritual side of the Tsum Valley. After visiting the monastery, we return to Nile for the night.
After spending some time in the remote northern region of Tsum Valley, we begin our descent back toward the lower elevations. The trail takes us through beautiful forests, crossing several streams, and passing through traditional villages. After a 6-7 hour trek, we arrive in Chumling, where we will stay overnight. The trek provides more opportunities to view the local lifestyle and culture.
Today, we continue our descent through the Tsum Valley. The trail leads us through a variety of landscapes, including forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, we reach Deng, a picturesque village at 1860 meters. The area is known for its Tibetan-influenced culture, and we will spend the night in a local teahouse.
We begin the day by continuing our descent and crossing the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail takes us through lush forests, traditional villages, and agricultural land. We will pass through small settlements and gain fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. After 6-7 hours of trekking, we will reach Namrung, a village at 2630 meters with stunning views of Manaslu and other nearby peaks.
Today's trek takes us toward higher elevations, as we make our way to Shyala, located at 3500 meters. The trail takes us through beautiful landscapes, with views of the snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys. After a 5-6 hour trek, we will arrive in Shyala, a village with breathtaking views of the mountains. The night will be spent in a cozy lodge in this scenic location.
Today’s trek is relatively short, taking us to Sama Gaon at 3520 meters. The route offers magnificent views of Manaslu and its glaciers. Upon arrival in Sama Gaon, we will have the option to take a side trip to Birendra Lake or Pungen Gompa, both of which offer stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance. After our side trip, we will return to Sama Gaon for an overnight stay.
The trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo is a short but significant ascent. The trail is about 3 hours long, and as we walk, the landscapes become more barren and rugged. Upon arrival at Samdo, located at 3860 meters, we will enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. We will stay in a local teahouse, resting and acclimatizing for the upcoming days.
Today is another important acclimatization day. We will take a challenging day hike to Rui La, which is near the Tibetan border. The hike takes about 8 hours and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including views of the Tibetan Plateau. The hike provides us with a great opportunity to experience the remote nature of the region. We return to Samdo for an overnight stay.
Today, we trek toward Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi), located at 4460 meters. The trail gradually ascends, passing through alpine meadows and offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains. After 4-5 hours of trekking, we will reach Dharamsala, the base camp for those attempting to cross Larkya Pass. We will spend the night here and prepare for the challenging pass ahead.
Today is the toughest day of the trek. We will cross Larkya Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5106 meters. The trail is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. After crossing the pass, we descend to Bhimtang, located at 3590 meters. The total trek for the day takes around 8-10 hours, and we will rest and recover at Bhimtang.
We begin the descent today toward Dharapani, located at 1960 meters. The trail takes us through dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields. After 8 hours of trekking, we will arrive in Dharapani, where we will stay overnight and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After our long trek, we take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The drive takes around 8-9 hours and offers breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and villages. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax after the trek and explore the city.
Your incredible journey ends today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home or onward destination. We hope that the memories of this unforgettable adventure will stay with you for years to come. Thank you for trekking with Chingu Treks and Tours, and we look forward to welcoming you on another adventure!
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a unique and less-traveled trekking route in Nepal that combines the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek with the stunning and culturally rich Tsum Valley. The trek offers trekkers the opportunity to explore a pristine and remote area, providing beautiful views of the Himalayas, diverse landscapes, and a deep immersion into the local Tibetan-influenced culture. Along the route, you will experience the Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle, visit monasteries, and walk through lush forests, picturesque villages, and high-altitude terrains, all while being surrounded by majestic peaks like Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) and Ganesh Himal (7,406 meters).
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek typically lasts 16 to 20 days, depending on the itinerary and your pace. The trek begins from Soti Khola or Arughat and follows the classic Manaslu Circuit route before diverging into the Tsum Valley. The trek includes acclimatization days and enough time to explore the fascinating Tsum Valley, before returning to the main Manaslu Circuit and continuing the journey.
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is considered a moderately difficult trek. It involves trekking at altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), including crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters/16,929 feet), making it essential to have a good level of physical fitness. You should be prepared for long days of trekking through steep and rugged terrain. Some prior trekking experience is beneficial, although people in good physical condition can complete the trek with proper acclimatization and pacing.
The best seasons to trek the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley region are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is typically stable, with clear skies and excellent mountain views. The temperature is moderate, making it comfortable for trekking. The winter season (December to February) is cold, and snow can block the trails in high altitudes, while the summer monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rains, making the trails slippery and less ideal for trekking.
To trek in the Manaslu and Tsum Valley region, you will need the following permits:
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) (for the Tsum Valley)
Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card
These permits are required to enter the restricted areas of Manaslu and Tsum Valley and must be obtained through a licensed trekking agency, like Chingu Treks and Tours. These permits are arranged as part of your trekking package, ensuring all the paperwork is handled smoothly.
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat or Soti Khola. The drive takes around 6-8 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes and rural villages. From Arughat, you start trekking on foot, following the route towards the Manaslu Circuit before reaching the Tsum Valley. Chingu Treks and Tours will take care of all your transportation arrangements, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to the starting point.
Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porter is mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek. As the trek passes through restricted areas, it’s a legal requirement to trek with a guide. A guide will ensure that you stay on the correct path, provide valuable cultural insights, and help with the logistics of the trek. A porter will carry your main backpack, making the trek more comfortable. Chingu Treks and Tours provides experienced and professional guides and porters who are well-versed in the region and its unique culture.
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk, particularly because the trek reaches high altitudes, such as the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). Acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness. Chingu Treks and Tours has built-in acclimatization days in the itinerary, and your guide will help monitor your health during the trek. It’s important to stay hydrated, avoid exertion, and listen to your body. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness), inform your guide immediately. The trek's gradual ascent allows for better acclimatization, but precautions are always necessary.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is provided in teahouses and lodges along the route. These are basic but comfortable accommodations with shared rooms and communal dining areas. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities may become. However, you will always find a warm bed, food, and shelter. Teahouses offer both local and international meals to fuel your trek. In Tsum Valley, you will experience more traditional Tibetan-influenced accommodations with a unique cultural charm.
Packing for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek requires preparation for varying weather conditions and high-altitude trekking. Essential items include:
1. Trekking boots for rough terrain
2. Warm layers for cold mornings and evenings
3. Waterproof jacket and pants
4. Sleeping bag suitable for high altitudes
5. Trekking poles
6. Headlamp/flashlight and spare batteries
7. Personal medications and first-aid kit
8. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
9. Water purification tablets or filter
10. Snacks for energy
Chingu Treks and Tours will provide a detailed packing list, so you are fully prepared for the trek.
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is generally safe, especially when trekking with a professional agency like Chingu Treks and Tours. The route is well-established, and our experienced guides prioritize your safety. However, as with any trek, weather conditions, health, and trail conditions should be carefully monitored. We ensure proper acclimatization, and our guides are trained to handle emergencies and altitude sickness. The trek takes you through remote areas, so trekking with a guide ensures safety, logistical support, and local knowledge.
Yes! Chingu Treks and Tours can help you customize your itinerary. If you have extra time, you can extend your trek by exploring other parts of the Manaslu region, such as a side trek to Tamang Heritage Trail, or visit nearby areas like the Annapurna Circuit or Langtang Valley. You can also choose to add cultural tours of Kathmandu or other regions of Nepal to enrich your experience.
