Our Manaslu Tsum valley trek is a beautiful and rewarding trek. This trek takes you through the off beaten paths into the isolated villages. Also, you will reach near the Nepal-Tibet border during this trek.
This trek exhibits the unique and typical rural life of Nepal. It is an opportunity to witness the diverse nature and culture. The diversity in the landscapes, biodiversity, wildlife, and birds during this trek is amazing.
During this trek, you can also visit the base camp of Ganesh Himal. As a looker-on, you observe the most splendid views of the Himalayas in Tibet and in Nepal. Passing through the Manaslu conservation area, you can sightsee the plants, animals, and birds.
The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum valley is definitely the best lifetime experience. This trek is the best approach to know and learn about the Nepalese and Tibetan blended culture. You will saunter across different settlements with different ethnicities and rich culture.
If you want and decide for a tour with us on our 21 Days Manaslu circuit Trek with Tsum valley, please feel free to contact us. We (Exciting Nepal) organize the best treks and tours in Nepal. All our treks are customizable.
Related: Manaslu Circuit Trek
Highlights of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- The Ganesh Himal Base Camp
- The Larke Pass
- Ancient and beautiful Gompas like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa
- The off beaten and less explored trekking trails.
- The beautiful hidden valleys of the Manaslu region.
- Trekking to the Tibetan border and exploring the Tibetan side.
- The diverse nature, diverse terrains, flora, and fauna, antique monasteries, chortens, and gompas in the region.
- Diverse culture and ethnic groups like Brahmin, Chhetri, Tamang, Magar, Tibetan, and Gurung people.
- Mesmerizing views of Mt. Manaslu, Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Ganesh Himal, and Larkye Peak.
- Navigating the unique routes to the typical Tsum Valley.
Difficulties During Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- During most of the days on the trek, you must walk for 6 to 7 hours every day. It almost makes you footslog! Lots of trekkers gradually trudge from the midway.
- This trek takes you to high altitudes. It is common to being susceptible to high altitude sickness, hence, you must be heedful to it.
- There are various places where trekkers claimed that they encountered snow leopards. It is perilous to get out during nights alone.
- The remoteness of the trek adds difficulty to the trek. The trail isn’t well facilitated. You shouldn’t expect for good accommodation and foods throughout the trek.
- Crossing the Larke pass is tougher. There are some other parts on the trail that are also more demanding. Prepare for them.
- The temperature at high altitudes is extreme. Get appropriate gears to stand the unpredictable weather conditions.
Altitude Profile of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Sotikhola (710m)+
Day 2: Trek to Machhakhola (870m)
Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1340m)
Day 4: Trek to Lokpa (2,240m)
Day 5: Trek to Dumje (2,460m)
Day 6: Trek to Nile- Chule (3,361m)
Day 7: Trek to Mu Gompa (3,710m)
Day 8: Exploration day around Mu Gompa
Day 9: Trek to Rachen Gompa (3,240m)
Day 10: Trek down to Chumling (2385m)
Day 11: Trek to Deng (1860m)
Day 12: Trek to Namrung (2630m)
Day 13: Trek to Lho (3180m)
Day 14: Trek to Samagaun (3500m)
Day 15: Acclimatizing day at Samagaun
Day 16: Trek to Samdo (3860m)
Day 17: Trek to Dharamasala (4480m)
Day 18: Cross the Larke pass (5213m) trek down to Bimtang (3720m)
Day 19: Bimtang to Tilije (2300m)
Day 20: Trek to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar (760m)
Day 21: Drive back to Kathmandu from Besisahar
Day 1 Drive Kathmandu to Sotikhola (710m)
Estimated Time: 6 to 7 hours drive
Wake up early in the morning. After having your breakfast, get ready. Recheck your luggage. Our hotel representative will be there to receive you at the hotel. From there, we will drive to the bus park to catch a bus.
The bus will drive you towards the west of Kathmandu valley. The ride from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi over a blacktopped highway is comfortable. You can amuse on the views of green hills, beautiful terraces, cultivations, and some rivers.
After we cross the Trishuli river, the bumpy drive begins. It will take nearly three hours to reach Arughat. You can relish on the diverse landscapes, greenery, and countryside life while riding. At Arughat, we will take a rest for a while. Arughat is a small town with a Newari settlement.
From Arughat, we will again drive towards Soti Khola. The two hours bus/jeep ride begins after crossing a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. Driving across the Gurung and Magars, you observe their small and beautiful villages. You behold the field of millet and paddy on the way to Soti Khola.
Overnight in Soti Khola.
Day 2 Trek to Machhakhola (870m)
Estimated Time: 6 to 7 hours walk.
After having an early morning breakfast, we will begin to trek. We will cross the suspension bridge over Soti Khola. The trek route passes through a forest of Sal until we will reach a ridge. From the top of the ridge, we will see the splashing Budi Gandaki river.
On continuing further, we will reach Khursane. From there, the trail is rocky. The trail passes through some tropical waterfalls, cliffs, and terraces. Walking past the terraced fields, we will walk up to Labubesi. Labubesi is a beautiful village of Gurungs.
From Labubesi, the trail goes uphill along the sandy riverbed of Budi Gandaki river. After walking for some time, we will reach Khanibesi. From Khanibesi, you will see a stunning north-east view of Ganesh Himal. Ambling the beautiful trail, we will descend towards Machcha Khola village.
Overnight at a tea house in Maccha Khola village.
Day 3 Trek to Jagat (1340m)
Estimated Time: 6 to 7 hours walk
On the next day, we will set off on the trekking trail towards Jagat. The trek begins as we will follow the narrow trail towards Tharo Khola. We stroll the meandering trail along the Budi Gandaki river. Upon crossing a suspension bridge before we reach Khorlabesi.
From Khorlabesi, you will see a beautiful view of Ganesh Himal. From Khorlabesi, the trail involves frequent ascends and descends. We will walk over the beautiful trail before we reach the famous hot-spring at Tatopani. You can take a relaxing dip in the hot spring for some time.
From Tatopani, we will begin to climb another ridge. We will again cross the suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki. After crossing the river, the trail comprises of a stone staircase. We will cross a landslide after finishing to climb the staircase. Now, we will reach Doban.
We will again cross a suspension bridge and start climbing the stone staircase. The trail now dips down to a river and again climbs some stairs. After some time, we will reach Thado Bharyang. The trail continues after crossing the west bank of Budhi Gandaki. We will climb over a ridge and follow the trail along the riverside until we reach Jagat.
From Jagat, we will see fascinating views of Shringi Himal. We will also see some mani walls and chortens. Overnight at a lodge in Jagat.
Day 4 Trek to Lokpa (2,240m)
Estimated Time: 5 to 6 hours walk
Today is the day when we will enter the restricted area of Tsum valley. At the checkpoint in Jagat, you must register your restricted area permit.
We will start to trek after a nice morning breakfast in Jagat. The morning view of Shringi is impressive. We will follow the trail alongside the river for a while. The trail passes through some climbing and descending sections. After walking for some time, we will get a sight of the settlement at Philim.
We will cross a suspension bridge before we reach Philim. We will stop for lunch at a local lodge there. There is a school in Philim. We will explore it and also the village as we walk along the trek route. You will see a welcome board at the conjunction of the Ekle Bhatti trail and the Manaslu- Tsum Valley trail.
From there, we hike to Lokpa; our destination of the day. We will stay at a local lodge overnight.
Day 5 Trek to Dumje (2,460m)
Estimated Time: 7 hours walk
Today is again a long day on the trek. Starting after a filling breakfast in Lokpa, we will begin walking uphill. The trail passes uphill and takes us to a ridge. As we reach the top of the ridge, we observe the most beautiful views of the Ganesh Himal. Also, we will reach the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
On continuing further from the base camp, we will trek towards Chumling. Chumling is a beautiful village located towards the southward direction of the beautiful Shingri Himal. It is also called as lower Tsum.
From Chumling, we again walk over the trekking route towards Dumje village. Dumje is a beautiful place with local lodges for accommodation. Overnight in Dumje.
Day 6 Trek to Nile- Chule (3,361m)
Estimated Time: 7 hours walk
After having a nice and warm breakfast in Dumje, today, we will trek towards Chule. Enjoying the splendid views along the trek route, we will walk over. We will follow the standard trekking route. The trail contains various uphill and downhill sections. At some parts, we will trek through the forests.
After walking, we will finally reach Nile. Nile is the last village on the trail before we reach Upper Tsum Valley. The beautiful village lies on the west side of the Shiar Khola.
The village of Nile is 20 minutes farther than Chule. On the way, we will visit the Piren Phu cave and the Burji Village. There are lodges at Nile where we will stay for an overnight.
Day 7 Trek to Mu Gompa (3,710m)
Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours hike
Today, you will trek very close to the Nepal-Tibet border. From Nile, we will follow the trekking trail towards the westward direction. The hike to Mu Gompa is short. A gentle uphill climb from Nile and we will reach Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is the highest point on our trek, 3700 meters.
The gompa is near to the Tibetan border. So, we will have a chance to rejoice the Tibetan landscapes. The place is influenced by Tibetan culture. So, we will see more of the
Tibetan lifestyle and culture.
The Mu Gompa has a beautiful monastery with more than 100 monks. The monastery houses some religious books, a statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava. Seasonal Yak pastures surround the Mu Gompa in all directions. Also, we will see the Lungdang Glacier towards the east. The views of high peaks surrounding the gompa in all directions are enchanting.
Overnight at Lodge.
Day 8 Exploration day around Mu Gompa
Today, we will spend the whole day exploring the area. The place is beautiful with big pastures surrounding the Gompa. People go to the pastures at 5000m during early monsoon to collect Yarsagumba. It is a medicine that is half a caterpillar that grows into a plant during monsoon. Yarshagumba is sky-high expensive. One kg of it costs US$10,000 in China.
Towards the east and west of the Gompa, there are two passes: Mailatasachin Pass (5093m) and Thapla Bhanjyang (5104m) respectively. On this day, one can hike to the base camp of Pika Himal.
There are some trekkers who make a climb to Kalung (3820m) or Bhajyo (4030m) as a day trip. From these places, one can get the best views into Tibet. If you want to climb the pass and come down, it will take around 6 to 7 hours.
You can also visit the 600-year-old Dhephu Doma Gompa, 3900m. The gompa isn’t so far. A short uphill hike of around 30 to 45 minutes over the westward track will get you there. There are some ancient Thankas inside the gompa. There are also chances of seeing snow leopards and musk deer during this hike.
Day 9 Trek to Rachen Gompa (3,240m)
Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours walk
After the exploration day around Mu Gompa, we will start to trek towards the Rachen Gompa. Following the trek route, we will trek down to the valley through Chule. From the valley, we will again continue descending till we reach Phurbe.
We will reach at the Siyar Khola valley that homes the Rachen Gumba. The gompa is a nunnery that lies in the footsteps of gigantic mountains. These mountains are the borders of Nepal and Tibet.
Rachen Gompa is an ancient gompa. It is one of the beautiful gompas in Nepal. The gompa is a home of large number of nuns. An individual family in the Tsum valley has at least one member who is either a monk or a nun.
Overnight at a local lodge in the riverbank of Siyar Khola.
Day 10 Trek down to Chumling (2385m)
Estimated Time: 7 to 8 hours
After spending a night at a local lodge, we will trek down to the village of Chumling. We will follow the same trail that we used previously. While trekking, we will see the best surrounding vistas. We relish being a part of the life beyond the Himalayas.
Leaving some beautiful villages behind, we move on towards lower Tsum or Chumling village.
Chumling is a beautiful village. It is one of the large villages in this area. At Chumling there are various lodges where we can stay overnight. Overnight in Chumling.
Day 11 Trek to Deng (1860m)
Estimated Time: 4 to 5 hours
From Chumling, we walk downhill to the village of Deng. While descending, we luxuriate in the magnificent views of glistening peaks. The striking views of Ganesh Himal and Mt. Manaslu keep on accompanying us as we trek down.
We will walk through a steep gorge and grassy slopes. Be more careful while walking through the difficult parts on the trail. We will descend down to the riverbed of Budi Gandaki. We will cross the river over on a bridge.
Now, the trail becomes wider as it passes through bamboo forests. We will walk through the forest and will reach the Deng Khola. We will cross the river to reach Deng village.
Deng village is a small and beautiful village with few lodges for accommodation. Overnight at a local lodge in Deng.
Day 12 Trek to Namrung (2630m)
Estimated Time: 6 to 7 hours walk
We will start to trek from Deng. Following the Budi Gandaki river, it is nearly one hour. Then, we will cross the river and walk uphill for additional one hour to reach Rana. The trails ahead of Rana are not straight.
We will follow the zigzags until we meet the trail from Bhi. Now, the trail meets the stone steps. We will climb on the steps. We will walk up and down past waterfalls and streams. After walking for around 3 hours, we will reach the Shringi Khola suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, we will ascend the trail towards Ghap village.
We will take lunch in the village and will start again. Walking across the green fields and into deep forests of firs, we will walk alongside the Shringi river to reach a waterfall. We will cross the river on a wooden bridge. After crossing the river, we will climb a long way through for nearly 2 hours. After the walk, we will finally reach Namrung.
Namrung is the entrance to Upper Nuri. At Upper Nuri, there are the Tibetan inhabitants. They speak a different language. Overnight in Namrung.
Day 13 Trek to Lho (3180m)
Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours hike
From Namrung, the trek route climbs steep uphill through a forest. Along the trek route, there are large barley fields at some places. You will reach a place called Lihi, 2900 meters consisting a group of houses and some of the beautiful chortens. Towards the south of Lihi, we will see the magnificent views of Himal Chuli 7893 meters. We will also see the alluring view of Ganesh Himal towards the east.
From Lihi, the trail descends towards the side valley of Simnang and then to the Hinang river. There is a chorten near the river from where we can see Ngadi Chuli 7873 meters. We will continue further to Sho. AT Sho, we will see the clusters of houses.
The trail now climbs up towards Shrip. We will walk past a large prayer wheel en route to Shrip. After a steep climb, we will reach the ridge. Lho is a large village situated over the ridge. From the village, we get the first sight of Manaslu North and Naike Himal.
There is a local monastery called Ribung monastery above Lho village. Also, a place called Kani near Lho village is a perfect viewpoint for sunset and sunrise. We will hike to Kani in the evening for sunset views. Also, you can get up early to see the majestic sunrise views over Manaslu Himal.
Overnight in Lho village.
Day 14 Trek to Samagaun (3500m)
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Today is a kind of acclimatization day. We will take a short hike of 2 to 3 hours upto Samagaon. While trekking along the trek route, we will see the most splendid views of Mt. Manaslu. The walk is easy. We will stroll through the Shyala village, 3520 meters. From Shyale, the trail goes uphill into pine and rhododendron forests. You will relish to see a beautiful stream on the way.
We will walk for another hour to reach the Samagaun. As we get reach closer to the village, the alluring vistas of enchanting Himalayas go on disappearing. Instead, we will see large green pastures, herds of yaks, and lots of stone houses. Samagaun is a large village.
Overnight stay in Samagaon.
Day 15 Acclimatizing day at Samagaun
Today is our acclimatization day. This day is mandatory since we already reach higher altitudes. We will rest in Samagaon for the whole day today. We will explore the large and beautiful village. We will take a short hike to the Birendra Tal and the Anie Gompa.
If you are a strong and fit person, you can make a visit to Pungyen Gompa. The Gompa is at quite a distance from Samagaun. Visiting the Pungyen Gompa is the most attractive thing about today. From the gompa, we will see the extraordinary views of the glaciers.
After our acclimatization hike, we will trek back to Samagaon for the overnight stay.
Day 16 Trek to Samdo (3860m)
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Today is another short yet a challenging day on the trek. The trail passes through the Birendra Tal, 3450 meters, near the Manaslu Glacier. Trekking in this part is very tough during winter.
The trek route descends until we reach the main trail to Samdo. We will walk through the beautiful Yak pastures. You will see the Juniper forests around. We will climb a ridge and again descend to the Budi Gandaki river. After crossing the wooden bridge over the river, we will continue to walk towards Samdo.
Samdo village is a beautiful village. The remote lifestyle, the beautiful nature and culture are impressive. You will see a lot of yak herding at the village. In the village, you’ll see more sheds for cattle than the houses.
From Samdo village, you can see the beautiful Samdo Peak. If you want to trek to Larkya La trail, you can go on an afternoon acclimatization walk of 3 to 4 hours up the valley. If you are hiking in the afternoon, wear a down jacket. The place is cold as it sits at a high altitude.
Overnight in Samdo.
Day 17 Trek to Dharamasala (4480m)
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
We will start after a nice breakfast in Samdo. The trek route from Samdo descends on a wide trail. The trail drops down to the Budi Gandaki river. We will cross the river and follow the trekking trail again. On the way, we will see a mani wall.
We will climb through the forests of Junipers. If you are trekking in April, there are chances of seeing lots of Marmots. We will now cross two ravines. The tracks are narrow. We will cross a few streams. We will also get a sight of the Larkya glacier. We will cross two ravines which will be icy during winter.
We will then climb through a valley to reach the village of Dharamsala. Dharmasala is a seasonal village. There are some lodges there. The rooms are primitive with small, dirt-floored, and dark stone rooms.
Also, there is a camping area in Dharmasala. The camping area is nowadays filthy with rubbish and toilet trenches. But apart, the herds of Himalayan Goats and Blue Sheeps over the hills near the campsite are beautiful. Some trekkers say that they encountered Snow Leopards in the area.
Overnight in a guesthouse in Dharamsala.
Day 18 Cross the Larke pass (5213m) trek down to Bimtang (3720m)
Estimated Time: 7 to 9 hours hike
Today, we will be crossing the Larke Pass. Crossing the pass can be difficult if there is snowfall or high wind during the night. As you ascend up you might see snow. Be more careful while stepping over the iced rocks or snowy bumps.
We will make a steady climb enjoying the exquisite view of Larkye peak. We will climb over the ridge beside the lateral moraine of Larke Glacier. The climb is not difficult but it is long and rocky underfoot, particularly as you top the moraine. While descending, we will walk past four frozen lakes. On top of the pass, we see the colorful prayer flags.
At the top, the temperature can be very low. Icy winds blow frequently. Make sure you pay heed to it and have clothes to keep you warm enough. From the top, the stunning views of Mt. Himlung 7126 meters, Kang Guru 6981 meters, and Annapurna II 7937 meters will leave you spellbound.
After completing the ascents, we will now descend the steep. Be watchful while you are descending. At some places on the trails, there will be ice and snow. Some portions of the descents are arduous however some are easy.
The descent is bewitching. We will see the amazing views of icefalls, mountains, glacial lakes, and the Bimtang glacier. Walking through the loose gravel, grassy moraines, and rocky trails, we will trek towards Bimtang. The longer day ends after we reach Bimtang. The view of Mt. Manaslu seen from the valley is enchanting.
Overnight in Bimtang.
Day 19 Bimtang to Tilije (2300m)
Estimated Time: 7 to 9 hours hike
After having breakfast in Bimtang, we will again set off on the trekking trail towards Tilije. We will start with a descent. Walking through the big meadows at Bimtang, we will cross a glacial stream over a wooden bridge.
Again, we will walk down through the forests of coniferous and Rhododendron trees towards Hompuk village. The trail continues on descending following the Dudh Khola riverbank. Passing through the wonderful vegetation and beautiful sceneries feel wonderful. After some time we will reach Karche. Following Karche is a landslide. After the landslide section, we will make a steep climb and descend, After that, we will reach the Gho village. From there, we will again continue towards Tilije. The trail passes through beautiful fields and Oak and Rhododendron trees. Finally, we will enter Tilije village.
Tilije is a Gurung village. There are good lodges for overnight stays. Also, Tilije is famous for the local brandy. Overnight in Tilije.
Day 20 Trek to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar (760m)
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hour’s walk plus 4 to 5 hour’s drive
We will leave the Tilije village crossing the bridge over the Dudh Khola. We will follow the trail along the riverbank. We will descend down through the forests of Shrubs into Marshyangdi valley. There, we will cross the Dudh Khola again. We will walk past the mani walls to reach Thonje village.
Dharapani isn’t so far from Thonje village. We will reach there after crossing the bridge over Marsyangdi River. We will pass through a police checkpoint before reaching Dharapani.
From Dharapani we will take a jeep or bus to Besisahar. Overnight in Besisahar.
Day 21 Drive back to Kathmandu from Besisahar
Today is our last day on the trek. We will drive along the riverbanks of Marsyangdi and Trishuli River. On the way, we can enjoy the beautiful terraced fields, diverse landscapes, splashing rivers, hills, and mountains.
We will reach Kathmandu. Finally bid farewell to the beautiful tour.
In hope that you will have a great time with us.
Trip Cost US$ 1600 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Two-night deluxe hotel in Kathmandu on B/B, Before and After the trek. Hotel Access Nepal Pvt.ltd.
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- Tea house accommodations arrangement during the trek.
- Remote area trekking permit and all needed documents.
- Entry Permit for Annapurna and Manasalu Conservation Area.
- A Guide and necessary staffs.
- A Strong Porter among the two trekkers ( one porter sharing among two member ) including all his expenses including full insurance during the trek.
- All surface transportation to the starting point and from the ending point of the trek by bus.
- All meals three times a day as well as tea/coffee during the breakfast.
- Equipment like sleeping bag, down jacket if you do not have your own. To be return after the trek
- Necessary insurance for trekking staff.
- Trekking route map.
- First Aid kit box with basic medicine,including Oximeter and pulse meter checker.
- Emergency Rescue assistance arrangement, paid by your travel insurance.
Cost Excludes:
- Nature of personal expense
- Private Jeep if you need.
- Drinks
- All meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Activities in Kathmandu and Pokhara such as sightseeing tour.
- International airfare
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Satellite Phone.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us