Important Information

Region
Manaslu Region Treks
Duration
23 Days
Max Altitude 5160m
Best Season Whole Season
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Jeep

Tsum valleys and Manaslu Circuit used to trek only with proper camping equipment in the past. But these days tea houses are built there to provide lodging and fresh meal service to trekkers and mountaineers who wish to visit these hidden valleys of Manaslu and Tsum that lie in Gorkha district.  This combined Manaslu and Tsum valley trek will offer trekkers to explore the sensational view of Mount Manaslu (8th highest mountain in the world with 8,156m), secret Tibetan Buddhist isolated Himalayan Tsum Valley, and experience the dramatic Larke Pass of 5,100 meters.

Manaslu Trek is the controlled trekking area of Nepal, one of the best treks in Nepal regarded by many trekkers. Manaslu circuit trek comprises sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to arid Trans Himalayan high pastures which bordering Tibet and offers a package of astonishing view, increasingly mountainous landscape, and a high pass crossing at Larke La. This trek is both geographically and culturally marvelous. The residents of Nubri (the western mountains), a region known for Upper Buri Gandaki, are Tibetan immigrants decades ago. They have their own speech, dress, and customs which are almost exclusively Tibetan. There is still continuous trade between Nubri and Tibet, for instance, Chinese beer and candies are found more frequently than Nepali ones. In this region Tibetan culture and religion have a strong influence, most places have Tibetan names with the meaning behind every name. The trekking route follows the ancient salt trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River. Trekking through the green forest, several gorges, beautiful waterfalls, typical villages, centuries-old monasteries, and the turquoise lake (Birendra Tal)

This trek was officially opened to tourists in 1991AD, but mountaineering expeditions had long access to the area. In 1950 a party led by HW Tilman trekked from Tilje to Bimtang and Colonel Jimmy Roberts crossed the Larke La Looking for an interesting mountain to climb. Mount Manaslu was attempted by Japanese expeditions every year from 1952 until 1956.                              

Tsum Valley Trek is the hidden valley situated in the northern Gorkha between the majestic backdrop of the Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the south and Sringi Himal to North with the elevation varies from 1905m in Lhokpa to over 5093m at Ngala Dhojhyang pass on the Tibetian border. The Tsum valley was restricted until the year 2007. Local people are known as Tsumpa. They have their own unique culture, tradition, & dialect mostly related to the Tibetan language. It comprises many religious monasteries such as Dhephyudonma Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Mu Gompa. In summer they celebrate festivals like Dhacyhang (Archery), Saka Dawa (literally it is the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar, a month Honoring the Buddha’s Life), and Fanning (Picnic). The fascinating landscapes of this wonderful valley will make the imaginations of trekkers beyond expectations.

The trials are decorated with artistic Chortens and lined with Mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with drawings of deities and inscribed with prayers. The circuit traverses across Tsum Valley, the Manaslu area in Nepal, and the southern parts of Tibet. The Buddhist saint Milarepa and Guru Rinpoche are believed to have meditated in the caves of these mountains due to their remoteness and inaccessibility. Even though this area is remote but the landscape is amazing.  

Himalayan wander walkers had organized this trek many times and send a guide who speaks both English and Tibetan fluently. This trek begins from Arughat in the Gorkha district, which is easily accessible from Kathmandu. We also offer a Manaslu circuit trek with Tsum valley. Furthermore, please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Highlights

  • A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat
  • Exploration of the Tibetan culture and lifestyle
  • Waterfalls, rivers, and caves along the way
  • Wildlife animals like blue sheep and Himalayan Thar
  • Many Buddhist monasteries
  • Prayer flags and Mani walls along the route
  • Stunning views of mountains like Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli
  • Beautiful pine, juniper and rhododendron forests.
  • Scenic dirt road driving to Arughat from Kathmandu
  • Exploring the Budhi Gandaki River valley
  • Walking between the borders of Nepal and Tibet
  • Crossing Larkya La over 5215 meters

Outline Itinerary ( 23 Days )

Day 1

Arrival at Nepal (1300m).

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by a representative of the Himalayan Wander Walkers. You will be checked into your hotel. You will meet our trekking operator for a briefing about the entire trek on this day. You have to come one day earlier for the Special permit. For that, we need to show your original Passport to the Immigration office. You can either rest or hang out around a famous tourist area in Kathmandu, Thamel. Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

 

Day 2

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Today after breakfast we will start a city tour of most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. These landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swyambhunath), and the world's largest Buddhists stupa, Bouddhanath. Briefing regarding the trek with two-way question-answer with the trip leader (The Guide). Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

 

Day 3

Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (870m), 8-9 hours

We will start the day early after breakfast. We take a drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi on a nice, paved road enjoying the views of the hilly areas, terraces, fields, and rivers. The drive from Dhading Besi to Arughat is a little rough one on rocky trails. Drive from Arughat to Macha Khola.
Overnight at the teahouse.
Meal: three times a day.

Day 4

Trek to Jagat (1340m), 6-7 hours.

The next day, From Machhakhola we follow a narrow trail that takes us to Tharo Khola and finally to Khorlabesi. After a few ascends and descends, we reach a popular hot-spring, Tatopani. We will spend some time here and can enjoy the natural sauna in the hot -spring and relieve all our tiredness and stress of the trek. We climb another ridge and cross the Budhi Gandaki on another suspension bridge. After this, we climb a staircase and then cross a landslide and a ridge to reach Doban.  After crossing a suspension bridge, we again climb the stone staircase then go down to the river and climb some stairs again to reach Thado Bharyang. Then we cross the west bank of Budhi Gandaki, climb over a ridge, walk along the river to reach the village of Jagat. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 5

Trek to Lokpa (2240m).

On this day, we first reach Salleri after climbing a rocky ridge and then go towards Sirdibas. We continue to Ghatta Khola and then walk upstream through a long suspension bridge to reach a Gurung village in Phillim. We take the trail up through Philim and we will pass by Ekle Bhatti where the trail separates between Tsum and Manaslu. As we trek, we will notice the welcome board, so we head towards Lhokpa. On the way, we will see a few villages and rivers. The rivers begin to narrow down as we meet the convergence of the Syar River from the Tsum valley. Taking a right turn, the trail takes us forward, eventually reaching the Lokpa village. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 6

Lokpa to Chumling (2386m), 5-6 hours.

Before heading to Lokpa, we will register our permits of Manaslu and Tsum valley at the entry checkpoint. Climbing a ridge over Sallery, we will walk along the river bank crossing the Budhi Gandaki river via a long wide suspension bridge. Continuing to trek, the valley opens up as we head towards Phillim. The trek throughout is a very pleasant one. We will pass by Ekle Bhatti where the trail separates between Tsum and Manaslu. As we trek, we will notice the welcome board, so we head towards Lokpa. This village is the first village in the Tsum valley that gives us the opportunity to view the beautiful Manaslu range. This village is isolated and is a hidden valley of happiness blessed by Padmashamva centuries ago. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 7

Chumling to Chhekamparo (Upper Tsum) (3010m), 5-6 hours.

From Chumling we trek to Chhekamparo. Upper Tsum valley (part of the Inner Himalaya) open from Chhekamparo.Chhekamparo is a village situated on flat land and made up of two settlements Chhekam and Paro. From the valley, the Ganesh Himal range can be seen directly to the south where it provides superb views of the Baudha and Himal chuli peaks to the south-west. Some households in this village practice polyandry. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 8

Chhekamparo to Nile/Chhule, visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way (6-7 hours)

From Chhekamparo we trek to Nile/ Chulle. This is the last village heading north in the upper Tsum Valley. The Nile is on the western, sun-side of the Shiar Khola, about 20 minutes’ walk across from Chhule. On the way, we pass the Piren Phu cave. Piren Phu (pigeon cave) is one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley. It is located at the foot of a rugged cliff near the village of Burji. Milarepa, the famous Tibetan saint, was believed to have meditated here. There are two separate gumbas attached to the rocky cave. Richly painted Buddhist murals, excellent artistic scripts carved on stones, long prayer flags and significant Buddhist paper scripts make this cave one of the most important socio-cultural assets in the valley. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 9

Nile/Chhule to Mu Gompa (3700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4060 m) (4 hours)

From the Nile, the trail gradually ascends to Mu gumba, the largest monastery in the region. Mu Gumba is located at the highest and farthest point in the Tsum valley. Mu Gumba was established in 1895 AD and is situated at an altitude of 3510m. The monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life-sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. Dhephyudonma Gumba is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is situated in the rugged mountains, a 2 hr walk from the village of Chhule and Nile. The history of this monastery is directly associated with the dawn of Buddhism in the valley. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 10

Extra day for exploring

We take a hike up Mu Gumba and reach the base of Pika Himal (4865m). We are quite close to Tibet and get a good view of the Tibetan peaks as well as the Ganesh Himal range. After the day's excursion, we return to our camp at Mu gumba. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 11

Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (5 hours)

From Mu Gumba we take the trail to Rachen Gumba, a nunnery. The nunnery is situated in the Shiar Khola Valley in the foothills of the mountains bordering Nepal and Tibet. Rachen Gumba has established in the year 1905 AD and is one of the largest nunneries in the Tsum valley. It houses nuns belonging to the Ngak-pa sect which does not allow animal slaughter. The nunnery houses one thousand clay, molded statues of Avalokiteshwara, a brightly colored, carved throne and pillar, and a large prayer wheel. The center is richly painted with murals about Buddhism and its history. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 12

Rachen Gompa to Dumje (6-7 hours)

From Rachen Gompa we proceed towards Dumje, a small village with about eight houses and adjoining cattle shed.
Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 13

Dhumje to Deng (1860m), 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we are heading to Lokpa and cross Ripchet. We pass one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Lower Tsum Valley, Samba Tingding Chhupyang. This is the village that lies along with the trial from Gumpa Laundang to Lokpa. There are remarkable numbers of Mani walls, Chortens, and gateway chortens. The trek leads us on a high and beautiful trail through a narrow dramatic gorge section with towering walls, past a thundering waterfall just above us, and cross the suspension bridge, where we ascend gradually along a wide hillside. After trekking through dense forest the small village of Deng, lower Nubri region called Kutang, where the people are ethnically pure Tibetans. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 14

Deng to Namrung (2,630m), 6-7 hours

We take a brief walk from Deng and then we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to reach Rana. From here we climb for a while and then head west to Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through forests and painted Mani stones and a corner from where we reach Ghap. Then we take the trail through Prok village which allows us to witness the beautiful view of Siring Himal. We follow the river, crossing it at many places and pass through dense forests and Gompas along the way. After crossing the river at a gorge, the trail becomes leveled and after a last steep climb, we reach Namrung where we will have the best viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal as well as Mt. Himal Chuli.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 15

Namrung to Lho (3180m), 3-4 hours

From Namrung a steep climb and passage through forests take us to Lihi, a village well known for its chortens and barley terraces. After crossing the side valley of Simnang, we pass through Sho and then reach Lho. Late afternoon visits the local monastery after you reached there.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 16

Lho to Samagaun (3500m), 3-4 hours

After crossing the Shyala village, we reach the Sama village where one gets to witness the amazing views of Mount Manaslu and explore the famous Ribung Gompa. The breathtaking view of the high mountains along with glaciers is the highlight of the trip.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 17

Acclimatizing day at Samagaun.

This day is set aside to rest and acclimatize to the increasing altitudes. We stay in Samagaon and explore the surrounding areas or visit Birendra Tal and Anie Gompa.  The main attraction of the day is the Pungyen Gompa with a spectacular view of the glaciers but its rather a long day only recommended for fit hikers. It is situated on a hill near Samagaon. We hike up to the Gompa named after the two peaks of Manaslu which means bracelet.  It was destroyed when the Japanese first tried to summit the peaks. It was believed that the expedition to reach the summit might have angered the Gods. After the detour, we come back to Samagaon. Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

 

Day 18

Samagaon to Samdo (3860m), 2-3 hours

We follow the Budhi Gandaki River up to a stream which we cross on a suspension bridge.  From here we take the trail on the right to Larke la. It is a fairly easy trail, passing through Mani walls and juniper and birch forests. We again cross a bridge over Budhi Gandaki and continue forward. From a stone arch, we can see a Kani and after crossing it, we reach the Last settlement of Tibetan immigrants called Samdo.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 19

Samdo to Dharamasala (4480m), 2 & half hours

We start our day trip by crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and begin a hike upwards. After crossing a few streams and seeing a glimpse of the Larkya glacier, we go around a valley and make our way upwards again to reach a guesthouse called Dharmashala.  This short walk to Larke Phedi provides enough time and rest to acclimatize for the further trek.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 20

Cross the Larke pass (5213m) trek down to Bhimtang (3720 m), 8-9 hours

On this day, we make a short climb and reach a valley on the north side of Larkya glacier with exquisite views of Larkya peak.  We ascend the moraines of a glacier which becomes quite steep at the end before reaching the pass. From here we can enjoy the breathtaking views of Himlung, Cheo, Kanggru, and the Annapurna. It is a longer walk than other days and you reach the guesthouse among the low pastures at the dim lights of dusk. When we finally reach Bhimtang, the exquisite view of Mount Manaslu makes every step worth it.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 21

Bhimtang to Gho (2560m), 4-5 hours

After enjoying the splendid views of the mountains from a ridge in Bhimtang, we make our way down towards a high pasture and then a bridge over Dudh Khola. We walk through Rhododendron forests, narrow valleys, and fields before making a climb to the river bank that leads to the village of Gho. 

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 22

Go to Dharapani (3-4 hours) and drive to Besi Sahar (760m).

We move in a stone-paved path passing through a beautiful village and then cross a bridge over Dudh Khola, move past an arch and Mani walls to get to the Thonje village. After passing through a police checkpoint we make our way towards Dharapani from where we enter the Annapurna circuit section.  From Dharapani we take a Jeep or bus from Dharapani to Beishar, which takes 4-5 hours.

Overnight: at teahouse. Meal: three times a day.

Day 23

Drive back to Kathmandu from Besishar.

We drive along the banks of Marsyangdi and Trishuli River, witnessing the beautiful scenery of rice fields, terraced farms, rivers and valleys, and refreshing views of the hilly areas and mountains. After a few hours’ journeys, we reach Kathmandu.

Overnight at Hotel.

 

Include

Transport from Kathmandu to Macha Khola by local bus.
Tea House/lodge accommodation during the trek.
Three night accomodation with breakfast in Kathmandu.
All Standard Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the Trek.
Official Himalayan wander walkers (Government registered and licensed) Expert Guide, 1 Assistant Guide for 12 or Above
Trekkers with accompanying porters (generally, 1 porter per 2 trekkers) to assist with carrying gear during the trek. (We cover the porters’ meals, lodging, salary, transport, insurance, equipment, and other essentials.)
Tsum Valley and Manaslu special permit and Conservation Area Permit (ACAP & MCAP), Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
All Government and local taxes.
Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before your international departure.
Local Sharing transportation from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Exclude

International flight airfare
Excess baggage charges
Meals (meal and dinner) in Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking.
Personal expense such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery re-charge fee extra porters etc.
Personal clothing and gear
Travel insurance
Tips for guide and porters
Additional costs or delays cause by out of management control for example, landscape, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes etc.

Important Information

CHECKLISTS

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
In Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN NEPAL

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal, you are advised to bring your own gear.

Trekking or running shoes, Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)

Down or fiber-filled jacket, Jumper or piled jacket, Hiking shorts, Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella, Hiking pants, T-shirts or blouses, Underwear, Sun hat

Rucksack, Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional), Water bottle, Torch, batteries, and bulbs