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The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is a world-class Himalayan adventure that combines the remote Tsum Valley with the challenging circuit around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. Known for its raw natural beauty, authentic Tibetan-influenced culture, and high-altitude challenges, it offers a unique alternative to Nepal’s more commercialized treks.
Ideal for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu region remains relatively untouched. The trail winds through remote mountain villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and lush alpine forests, providing deep cultural immersion and peaceful surroundings.
A major highlight is the crossing of Larke La Pass (5,106m), offering sweeping views of Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Ngadi Chuli. You'll also explore picturesque villages such as Samagaun, Lho, Namrung, and the culturally rich Tsum Valley, where traditional mountain life and Buddhist heritage thrive.
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey through Nepal’s majestic Himalayas. The trek starts in Machha Khola, approximately a 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu. From here, the trail winds through lush bamboo forests and traditional Gurung communities alongside the Budi Gandaki River. The scenery resembles the famous Annapurna Circuit, but without the crowds, offering a more peaceful experience.
This trek includes a visit to the sacred Tsum Valley, one of Buddhism’s secret valleys, rich with ancient monasteries and isolated settlements. Being introduced to trekkers only recently, Tsum Valley remains a pristine destination with minimal tourist impact. Beyond Lho village, the trail enters the Nupri region, home to Tibetan immigrants. Along the way, trekkers will encounter vibrant prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and monasteries that reflect the area's deep spiritual heritage.
Sama Gaun offers wide-open landscapes and spectacular mountain views. The trek from Sama Gaun to Manaslu Base Camp and back serves as an excellent acclimatization day. After passing Samdo village, trekkers spend a night at Dharamsala before tackling the challenging Larkya La Pass. This demanding climb is suitable for fit hill walkers without prior mountaineering experience. At the summit of Larkya La, panoramic views stretch across Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and many other towering Himalayan peaks.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Attend a pre-trek briefing and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Today, we complete the special permit process for the Manaslu Restricted Area, which requires your original passport. Our team will handle all paperwork for the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Meanwhile, you can visit cultural landmarks or shop for trekking gear in Thamel.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Enjoy views of rivers, terraced hillsides, and rural villages as you follow the Budi Gandaki River.
Overnight: Teahouse in Machha Khola
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Follow the Budi Gandaki River through lush forests and small settlements. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through Khorlabesi and the natural hot springs at Tatopani before reaching Jagat.
Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Continue your trek through the Budi Gandaki Valley, passing through bamboo forests and crossing suspension bridges to reach Lokpa, a picturesque village.
Overnight: Teahouse in Lokpa
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend to the Budi Gandaki River and cross to the opposite bank. Continue through forests and cross several streams to reach Chumling, a village known for its traditional stone houses.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chumling
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Ascend through forests and terraced fields to reach Chhokangparo, a village offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chhokangparo
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue your ascent through the Tsum Valley, passing through villages and crossing streams to reach Nile, the last village in the valley.
Overnight: Teahouse in Nile
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Optionally, take a day hike to Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139ft), a remote Tibetan Buddhist monastery offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Overnight: Teahouse in Nile
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Descend from Nile and continue trekking through forests and streams to reach the traditional village of Chumling, known for its stone houses and serene surroundings.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chumling
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Continue descending through rhododendron and oak forests as you make your way to Deng, a lively village that marks the beginning of the lower Manaslu Circuit.
Overnight: Teahouse in Deng
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Pass through pine forests, mani walls, and small settlements as you gain altitude. Enjoy your first real views of Mt. Manaslu and Siringi Himal as you approach the Tibetan-influenced village of Namrung.
Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
After a hearty breakfast, begin a scenic ascent to Lihi Village, known for its ancient chortens and barley fields. Enjoy views of Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) as you continue past the picturesque Syo Village. Arrive at Lho, a cultural hub home to the Ribung Monastery, where you can experience Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Overnight: Teahouse in Lho
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Today's trek offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, especially Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Pass through Shyala Village, surrounded by snowy peaks including Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu. Reach Samagaun, the largest village in the region, with its stone houses, yak pastures, and rich Tibetan culture.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaun
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours (hike)
To aid acclimatization, choose a hike to either:
Return to Samagaun for the night.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaun
Trek Duration: 4 hours
A shorter, gentle trek leads to Samdo, the last permanent settlement before the Larke La Pass. The trail opens to wide alpine valleys with great mountain vistas.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Climb steadily towards Dharamsala (also called Larke Phedi), the High Camp for Larke La Pass. Rest and prepare for the pass crossing tomorrow.
Overnight: Teahouse in Dharamsala
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Start early to ascend the Larke La Pass, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and Cheo Himal before descending steeply to Bimthang.
Overnight: Teahouse in Bimthang
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend through a lush valley with rhododendron forests and alpine pastures. Pass villages like Hampuk, Yak Kharka, and Karche before reaching the peaceful settlement of Gowa.
Overnight: Teahouse in Gowa
Trek Duration: 2 hours | Drive Duration: 3 hours
A short descent leads to Tilje Village (2,300m), known for its terraced fields and traditional architecture. After a break, drive to Besisahar by jeep, marking the end of the trekking journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Besisahar
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, passing through river valleys, terraced hills, and traditional towns. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue your stay in Nepal with more adventures or sightseeing.
