Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit: A Complete Guide

The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking experiences. It combines the remote beauty of Tsum Valley with the breathtaking Manaslu Circuit. 

In the barely touched northern section of Nepal’s Gorkha district sits Tsum Valley, which presents trekkers with an exceptional, untouched, peaceful trekking adventure. The Buddhist heritage combined with enchanting vistas and Tibetan traditions in Tsum Valley makes this area a perfect choice for explorers who want to escape from typical Nepal trails. 

This trek offers a mix of cultural immersion, stunning landscapes, and high-altitude adventure, making it a must-do for trekking enthusiasts.

Tsum Valley: A Sacred Himalayan Valley

Tsum Valley stands as a Himalayan sacred pilgrimage valley that receives the name “Hidden Valley of Happiness.” The region originates from Tibetan Buddhist cultural roots which can be seen through its numerous ancient monasteries and prayer flags together with mani walls and chortens scattered throughout the landscape.

Two sacred spiritual centers, Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, are located within the valley. Buddhist monks and nuns reside there to practice meditation.

The breathtaking natural beauty of Tsum Valley is unlike anywhere else in Nepal. The valley sits under three magnificent mountains: Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal. The trekking trails lead visitors into extensive forests that contain wonderful waterfalls and several clean rivers. Tsum Valley stands apart from popular Nepalese trekking areas because it provides an unspoiled natural journey without heavy crowds.

Trekking Route And Duration

The Tsum Valley trek begins at Soti Khola or Machha Khola and then follows the Manaslu Circuit path until turning towards Lokpa to enter Tsum Valley. Travelers journey through a series of towns, starting with Chumling, extending to Chhokang Paro, and ending at Nile during their experience in Tsum Valley. This trail typically requires 14 to 18 days based on travel speed and tour planning.

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Culture and Tradition

The Tsumba people who live in Tsum Valley have alongside them their ancient customs and traditions for several centuries. The local population of Tsum Valley follows Tibetan Buddhist principles and maintains the rare marital custom of polyandry in their villages.

Lhosar and Dhachyang and Saka Dawa are the major festivals that locals celebrate with overflowing joy because these celebrations display their cultural spirit to all visitors.

Best Time to Visit Tsum Valley 

Visitors should choose to trek to Tsum Valley between the spring months of March to May and the autumn months from September to November. The period between March and May, along with September to November, provides visitors with both sunny weather and comfortable conditions while showcasing magnificent mountain views.

The trails become dangerous due to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to August), and extreme winter weather prevails during December to February.

Permits and Regulations

A special permit functions as an essential requirement for entry into Tsum Valley because it remains a controlled zone. The critical permits required for the Tsum Valley Restricted Area consist of both the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Two trekkers need to obtain permission to enter the restricted area, and they must work together with a registered local guide.

Among Nepal’s trekking routes, the Manaslu Circuit Trail stands as one of the most beneficial yet least populated sequences. It provides breathtaking scenes, deep cultural encounters, and far-off trekking experiences. The trek goes around the world’s eighth-tallest peak, Mount Manaslu (8,163m), while sharing remote villages, lush forest views, and high mountain passes with its trekkers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Hidden Trekking Gem

The Manaslu Circuit provides visitors with an untouched trekking experience different from what Everest and Annapurna offer to their numerous visitors. The Manaslu Conservation Area presents hiking trails that enable observers to discover Himalayan blue sheep and snow leopards among various fauna species and plant varieties.

The Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage stands out in this area because numerous ancient monasteries together with their chortens and prayer flags make it their home.

Trekking Route and Duration

The Manaslu Circuit trek begins at Soti Khola and then winds through the Budhi Gandaki River until it leads explorers toward mountainous elevations. The Manaslu Circuit route features major locations including Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo that finalize at Larkya La Pass (5,106m). 

The descending journey leads people from Bhimthang to Dharapani where it connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail. During standard treks, the overall length of time ranges from fourteen to eighteen days based on planning details and acclimatization requirements.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is most enjoyable during the spring months from March to May and during the autumn season from September to November. During the spring and autumn seasons, visitors find a reliable climate together with perfect mountain panoramas and mild environmental conditions. 

During winter months from December to February heavy snowfall makes the trail extremely difficult and cold because of which moving becomes challenging. The monsoon season from June to August brings wet conditions and dangerous, slippery trails.

Cultural Experience

The trek enables travelers to discover indigenous Gurung and Tibetan culture in their traditional communities by crossing through their settlements. Trekkers who explore this area can visit monasteries while conversing with locals and receiving authentic traditional Himalayan accommodation facilities.

Samagaon and Samdo villages display Tibetan Buddhist traditions in addition to impressive mountain peak views of Manaslu and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Permits and Regulations

Visitors trekking in the restricted Manaslu Circuit need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) with the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) to access the region. All trekkers must have two companions and must be with an officially licensed trekking guide while they visit this region.

Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit

The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit takes you through the restricted region of the Manaslu Conservation Area, offering a less crowded alternative to the Everest and Annapurna regions. The trek provides mesmerizing views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world, alongside the cultural richness of Tibetan Buddhist villages and sacred monasteries.

The intersection of the Tsum Valley Trek with the Manaslu Circuit provides an exceptional journey that leads explorers to uncharted cultural and remote parts of Nepal. The trek offers astounding peaks, holy Buddhist locations, and deep immersion into the Himalayan traditional living.

This trek is perfect for people who want to explore adventurous trails and cultural profundity because of its clean tracks and minimal tourism density, similar to the Everest and Annapurna areas.

Highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit:

• Scenic views of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Himalchuli.
• Exploration of the sacred Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa in Tsum Valley.
• Unique Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.
• Thrilling experience of crossing the high mountain pass of Larke Pass (5,160m).
• Diverse flora and fauna within the Manaslu Conservation Area.
• Unveil the mystique of Tsum Valley that embraces Tibetan Buddhist cultural traditions and carries the nickname “Valley of Happiness.“
• Pass by the colorful prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, and prayer wheels while enjoying the spiritual atmosphere.
• Learn about the traditional ways of living of the Tsumba and Gurung indigenous people.

Why Choose The Tsum Valley Trek With Manaslu Circuit?

Off-the-beaten-path Adventure

The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit combines two lesser-known trekking gems of Nepal into one venture. So, you will get to experience two epic adventures in one. You will trek on the off-the-beaten trails that lead to the secluded Tsum Valley and then to the Manaslu Circuit route. 

Compared to other commercialized trails, the trails are quieter and off-beat. The rugged terrain, surrounded by raw and unspoiled nature, offers a unique and more authentic adventure. It is the best way to experience an epic trekking adventure in Nepal.

Scenic and spiritual significance

If you are looking for a scenic trek with a rich spiritual experience, the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit is for you. While venturing deep into the remote area of Nepal, you will pass through dense forests of rhododendron, oaks, and firs, to alpine meadows and green pastures. Similarly, you will pass through diverse landscapes, such as glacial valleys, high mountain passes, traditional villages, and Tibetan settlements. You will also enjoy stunning mountain views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and more. 

The sacred Tsum Valley is a sacred, hidden valley believed to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. Hence, it has historic, religious, and spiritual significance. You will traverse numerous monasteries, stupas, prayer wheels, and caves. The trails are filled with prayer flags and chortens, offering a deep spiritual atmosphere and serenity. Hence, the trek is not only a scenic adventure but also a holy pilgrimage to the Himalayas.

Cultural and monastic experience

The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit is also a cultural and monastic experience. The Tsumbas people preserved their century-old culture and tradition, as they were secluded from the outside world until 2008. The locals still follow their traditional lifestyle and live in the Tibetan-style stone houses. They also wear traditional attire and follow Tibetan Buddhism.

During the trek, you will also glimpse monastic life while visiting the monasteries. You can see monks performing daily rituals and chanting prayers. The monasteries, stupas, and prayer wheels reflect traditional Tibetan architecture and Buddhist symbols. Visiting the Tsum Valley and Manaslu region offers insight into the rich ancient culture and history.

Best Time For Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit

The best seasons for the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. Similarly, the visibility is excellent, and the trails are dry and in excellent condition for trekking.

The journey between December and February is possible but demanding because snowfall provides obstacles to the trails. Meanwhile, the June to August monsoon season leads to frequent landslides and torrential rains. Visibility is also poor during winter and summer. Trekking in these seasons should only be attempted by experienced trekkers who must also make meticulous preparations. 

Here is a brief on the two best seasons for the trek:

Spring (March to May)

Elevation (meters)	Daytime Temperature	Nighttime Temperature
Lower trail (700 – 2000 m)	15°C to 25°C	5°C to 10°C
Mid trail (2000 – 3500 m)	10°C to 20°C	0°C to 5°C
High trail (3500 – 5100 m)	0°C to 10°C	-10°C to -5°C

Spring is the best time to witness the active flora and fauna along the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trekking route. After a long winter, the warm temperature causes the entire rhododendron forest and colorful wildflowers to bloom. You may also catch sightings of rare and endangered wildlife during the trek. The sky is clear and offers excellent visibility. It is the best time to enjoy the views of the snow-capped mountain vistas. In addition to the bright days, the daylights are also longer in spring. Thus, trekkers can enjoy the journey at their own pace.

Autumn (September to November)

Elevation	Daytime Temperature	Nighttime Temperature
Lower trail (700 – 2000 m)	10°C to 20°C	0°C to 8°C
Mid trail (2000 – 3500 m)	5°C to 15°C	-2°C to 5°C
High trail (3500 – 5100 m)	-5°C to 5°C	-12°C to -5°C

The autumn season has the most stable and favorable weather conditions compared to other seasons. The air is crisp, and autumn foliage colors the entire landscape of Nepal. There can be slight rainfall during early September, but it quickly clears up. As the season progresses, the trail becomes drier. The visibility during the autumn is also excellent, so it is the best time to take spectacular mountain photographs. Furthermore, the temperature is mild, so the trekking conditions to Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Circuit are the most comfortable.

Trek Route

A standard Tsum Valley Trek and Manaslu Circuit itinerary lasts about 20-24 days. You will begin the journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Dhading. From Sotikhola, you will start your trekking journey. You will traverse through diverse landscapes, forests, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls.

In the first phase of the trek, you will pass by several charming villages like Dovan, Jagat, Philim, Chumling, Chhule, Mu Gompa, etc., and explore the Tsum Valley. For the second phase, the path from the Tsum Valley unites with the Manaslu Circuit at Deng to proceed through Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo on the way to the Larkya La Pass and down to Bhimthang and Dharapani. Here’s a general outline of the Tsum Valley Trek and Manaslu Circuit:

Tsum Valley Section

• Day 1-2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
• Day 3-7: Trek through Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Mu Gompa
• Day 8-10: Explore Tsum Valley and return to Lokpa

Manaslu Circuit Section

• Day 11-14: Trek through Deng, Namrung, Lho, and Sama Gaun
• Day 15-18: Acclimatization and ascent to Larke Pass (5,160m)
• Day 19-22: Descend via Bimthang, Dharapani, and drive back to Kathmandu

Permits and regulations for the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit 

Tsum Valley Trek with the Manaslu Circuit belongs to restricted areas that require specific trekking permits. These include:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

The trekking route from Jagat to Samagaon falls in the Manaslu Restricted Area. Hence, they must obtain a permit through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu. The Department of Immigration issues the permit, and the costs vary depending on the season.

• Autumn season: $100 per person for the first week. Additional $15 per person per day after a week.
• Spring, summer, and winter season: $75 per person for the first week. An additional $10 per person per day after a week.

Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

The Tsum Valley also falls within the restricted area as it lies close to the Tibetan border. Another reason is that the valley is one of the most preserved areas of Nepal. It is home to ancient heritages, culture, and customs. The government has regulated tourism in the region to preserve these age-old cultural heritages. Hence, trekkers must also obtain the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit. The Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara issues this permit, and the cost varies depending on the season.

• Autumn season: $40 per person for the first week. Additional $7 per person per day after a week.
• Spring, summer, and winter seasons: $30 per person for the first week. Additional $7 per person per day after a week.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

You will trek through the Manaslu Conservation Area during the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit. It is home to the unique biodiversity of the Manaslu region, so trekkers must obtain a permit to access the area. One can get the permit through a registered trek agency from the Tourist Service Center or the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu. The MCAP costs are:

• SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000 per person
• Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 3000 per person
• Nepalese Nationals: NPR 100 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Aside from the Manaslu Conservation Area, trekkers must also trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area. The area from Dharapani falls within the region. The Annapurna Conservation Area is Nepal’s largest protected area. Hence, trekkers must obtain a permit to access the area. The Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Nepal Tourism Board, or Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), issues the ACAP. The costs are as follows:

• SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000 per person
• Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 3000 per person
• Nepalese Nationals: NPR 100 per person

Note: The Nepalese government demands that this trek have at least two people in a group accompanied by a licensed guide.

Accommodation and Food

The trek is a teahouse trek, meaning you’ll find basic lodges along the route. Teahouses and lodges are the most common accommodations available along the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit. These teahouses and lodges usually have shared rooms with communal bathrooms. You may also find dormitory-style rooms in some places. A standard room costs around $5 to $10 per night. However, it can increase due to extra services like internet, hot water, etc. 

The rooms are poorly insulated, so it is best to carry a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm at night. There is electricity in lower altitude regions, but accommodations at higher altitudes run on solar power. Hence, you must pay an additional service charge for hot water/ shower, internet, charging devices, etc. These services usually cost around $2 per service.

Meals typically include dal bhat (rice, vegetables, and lentils), Tibetan bread, momo (dumplings), and noodles. You may also find other options like Tsampa porridge, soup, salad, buckwheat pancakes, Sel roti, curries, and more. You can also carry extra snacks like energy bars and chocolates to energize yourself throughout the journey. The teahouse meal usually costs around $5 to $8. Bottled water often costs around $2 but can increase at higher altitudes. 

Trek Difficulty And Physical Preparation

The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek is a challenging venture. Trekkers must have proper physical fitness and health. Although there is no need for prior trekking experience, having one is beneficial. The trek takes 18 to 24 days, and the highest altitude is 5160 meters at Larkya La Pass. Depending on the destination, you must trek 6 to 8 hours each day, sometimes even longer. The paths are rocky and rugged, with steep uphill and downhill trails. The remoteness of the region further adds to the difficulty of the trek.

To overcome the challenges of the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit, trekkers must physically prepare for it. For the best result, trekkers should start preparing at least 2 to 3 months before the journey. Trekking to higher altitudes becomes more demanding. Hence, trekkers undertake exercises and training to improve their overall physical fitness. 

Cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, running, jogging, cycling, and swimming help to build stamina. Similarly, squats, lunges, step-ups, and deadlifts strengthen muscles for demanding uphill and downhill climbs. You can also train by hiring a professional personal trainer, who will help in physical preparation for the journey. Likewise, mental preparation is also necessary for the long journey. Researching about the trek, setting realistic expectations, and mental resilience play a crucial role in tackling the rugged trails of the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit.

Culture, Religion, And Traditions

Alongside its scenic natural beauty, the Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit allows visitors to understand the distinctive traditions of the Himalayan mountain people. The Tsumba ethnic group, which belongs to the Tibetan origin, mainly resides in the valley. The Tsum Valley residents maintain an antique Tibetan Buddhist faith, as sacred monasteries and religious celebrations maintain a central function within their community. The Tsum Valley was secluded from the rest of the world until 2008. As a result, its ancient culture and heritage remain untouched by the modern world. 

You can see a strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism in the numerous monasteries, stupas, chortens, mani walls, and prayer wheels. You will come across many of them, and colorful prayer flags decorate suspension bridges and high-altitude trails. Tsum Valley is also home to many caves believed to have been used for meditation by Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava and Milarepa (a Tibetan saint). During the trek, you will have the opportunity to visit the ancient Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa’s Cave.

Wealthy ecosystems, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, exist alongside each other during this trek, so visitors can enjoy the sights of the Himalayan blue sheep and even be lucky enough to encounter the scarce snow leopard.

Conclusion

A remarkable expedition named The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit presents travelers with an opportunity to discover adventure alongside cultural attractions and natural wonders.

The ridge trail provides both explorers and trekkers seeking isolated destinations with an authentic encounter with the Himalayas. People who want spiritual peace, together with thrilling mountain journeys, should consider experiencing this Himalayan adventure.

The Tsum Valley Trek with Manaslu Circuit is an extraordinary journey through one of Nepal’s most pristine trekking regions. This trek should be on your bucket list if you seek adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural depth!

Book your Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek today and experience the Himalayas like never before!