Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek – A Journey into Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Kingdom

Tsum Valley & Manaslu Circuit Trek – 22 Days

Duration

22 days

group size

2-10

altitude

5120

trip start

Kathmandu

Best season

Autumn, Spring

difficulty

hard

Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek – A Journey into Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Kingdom

The Tsum Valley is one of Nepal’s most fascinating and least explored Himalayan regions. Known as the “Hidden Valley”, it is a sacred land where ancient Tibetan culture, centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, and untouched mountain landscapes have remained remarkably preserved. Isolated from the modern world for generations, this mystical valley offers a rare opportunity to step into a living Himalayan culture where traditions, spirituality, and daily life continue much as they have for centuries.

Throughout the journey, you will discover remote Tibetan villages, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain wind, ancient mani walls, and sacred monasteries that have stood for hundreds of years. The warm hospitality of the local Tsumba people, their unique customs, and their deep Buddhist faith create an unforgettable cultural experience. Walking through this peaceful valley feels like traveling back in time, far from crowded trekking routes and mass tourism.

The Tsum Valley Trek is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Himalayan adventure, combining spectacular mountain scenery with rich cultural immersion. Surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Ganesh Himal range and hidden among pristine forests and high mountain pastures, the valley offers a perfect balance of natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

Combined with the legendary Manaslu Circuit, this journey becomes one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal. The Manaslu region, dominated by the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, remains one of the most unspoiled trekking destinations in the Himalayas. Compared to the famous Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu trail offers equally breathtaking landscapes while remaining far less crowded and considerably more authentic.

As the trail follows deep river gorges, dense forests, alpine meadows, traditional Tibetan settlements, and spectacular glacial valleys, trekkers are rewarded with ever-changing scenery and extraordinary mountain panoramas. The journey culminates with the crossing of the magnificent Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), one of the most beautiful high mountain passes in Nepal, offering unforgettable views of snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Himalayas.

This trek is much more than a mountain adventure; it is a journey through living Tibetan culture, sacred Buddhist traditions, and some of the most remote and beautiful valleys on Earth. For those seeking authenticity, cultural discovery, breathtaking scenery, and a true Himalayan experience away from the crowds, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek stands among the finest trekking adventures Nepal has to offer.

detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax after your flight or explore the vibrant streets of Nepal’s capital city.

Kathmandu is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern life, filled with colorful temples, bustling markets, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Not included
Elevation: 1,350 m

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation (1,350 m)

Today you visit two of Nepal's most important religious sites. Begin with the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a major pilgrimage center for Tibetan Buddhists.

Continue to Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River.

In the afternoon, meet your trekking guide for a detailed trek briefing and final equipment check.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Elevation: 1,350 m

Day 3: Kathmandu (1,350 m) – Barpak (1,915 m)

Driving Distance: Approximately 190 km
Driving Time: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +565 m

After breakfast, leave Kathmandu and drive northwest towards the Gorkha region. The scenic journey passes through traditional villages, terraced rice fields, rivers, waterfalls, and beautiful rural landscapes.

Barpak is a picturesque Gurung village located on a hillside overlooking magnificent mountain scenery. The village is famous for its traditional culture and was the epicenter of the 2015 earthquake.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 1,915 m

Day 4: Barpak (1,915 m) – Gupsi Danda (2,950 m) – Laprak (2,100 m)

Walking Distance: 13 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,035 m
Elevation Loss: -850 m

Your trek begins with a steady climb through rhododendron forests to Gupsi Danda Pass. The summit rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Buddha Himal ranges.

After enjoying the mountain scenery, descend to the authentic Gurung village of Laprak, beautifully perched on a ridge above the valley.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 2,100 m

Day 5: Laprak (2,100 m) – Khorla Besi (970 m)

Walking Distance: 15 km
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +300 m
Elevation Loss: -1,430 m

Today's trail traverses beautiful hillsides before descending through forests and agricultural terraces toward the Budhi Gandaki Valley.

The route offers wonderful views of traditional mountain settlements and dramatic landscapes before reaching Khorla Besi beside the river.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 970 m

Day 6: Khorla Besi (970 m) – Jagat (1,340 m)

Walking Distance: 14 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +650 m
Elevation Loss: -280 m

Follow the Budhi Gandaki River through narrow gorges, suspension bridges, and subtropical forests. The trail gradually climbs to Jagat, the official gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Jagat is a charming stone-built village where trekkers complete permit checks before entering the restricted region.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 1,340 m

Day 7: Jagat (1,340 m) – Lokpa (2,240 m)

Walking Distance: 15 km
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,100 m
Elevation Loss: -200 m

The vegetation gradually changes from subtropical forests to alpine landscapes. You enter the homeland of the Tsumba people, descendants of Tibetan settlers who have preserved their traditions for centuries.

The trail leaves the main Manaslu route and enters the hidden Tsum Valley.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 2,240 m

Day 8: Lokpa (2,240 m) – Chhekampar (3,010 m)

Walking Distance: 14 km
Walking Time: 7 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,000 m
Elevation Loss: -250 m

Begin with a descent to the river before following forested trails and crossing several suspension bridges. Gradually climb to the beautiful twin villages of Chhokangparo and Chhekampar.

The village offers magnificent views of the Ganesh Himal massif and showcases authentic Tibetan architecture.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,010 m

Day 9: Chhekampar (3,010 m) – Nile (3,360 m)

Walking Distance: 10 km
Walking Time: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: +450 m
Elevation Loss: -100 m

The valley opens into a broad Himalayan plateau dotted with ancient Tibetan villages and Buddhist monuments.

Along the route, you can visit the sacred Milarepa Cave, where the famous Tibetan saint is believed to have meditated.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,360 m

Day 10: Nile (3,360 m) – Mu Gompa (3,700 m)

Walking Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: +340 m

A short but rewarding trek brings you to Mu Gompa, the highest and most important monastery in Tsum Valley.

Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the monastery is home to resident monks and serves as an important center of Buddhist learning and spirituality.

In the afternoon, enjoy an acclimatization hike above the monastery for even better views of the surrounding peaks.

Accommodation: Monastery
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,700 m

Day 11: Mu Gompa (3,700 m) – Ranchen Gompa – Chhekampar (3,010 m)

Walking Distance: 16 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +150 m
Elevation Loss: -840 m

Visit the impressive Ranchen Gompa before descending through beautiful arid landscapes and cultivated fields.

The trail offers wonderful opportunities to experience traditional Himalayan life and admire the unique architecture of the Tsum Valley.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,010 m

Day 12: Chhekampar (3,010 m) – Ripchet (2,470 m)

Walking Distance: 12 km
Walking Time: 5 hours
Elevation Loss: -540 m

Descend through forests, mani walls, prayer flags, and traditional settlements to the peaceful village of Ripchet.

This charming village is one of the most beautiful settlements in the valley and provides a perfect place to relax.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 2,470 m

Day 13: Ripchet (2,470 m) – Deng (1,860 m)

Walking Distance: 16 km
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +300 m
Elevation Loss: -910 m

Rejoin the Budhi Gandaki Valley and continue through forests and traditional villages. The route gradually reconnects with the main Manaslu Circuit trail.

Deng marks the transition into the culturally Tibetan-influenced upper valley.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 1,860 m

Day 14: Deng (1,860 m) – Namrung (2,630 m)

Walking Distance: 19 km
Walking Time: 7 hours
Elevation Gain: +920 m
Elevation Loss: -150 m

The valley narrows dramatically before climbing through forests and traditional settlements.

You may visit the beautiful village of Bihi, surrounded by ancient mani walls and rich Buddhist heritage.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 2,630 m

Day 15: Namrung (2,630 m) – Sama Gaon (3,520 m)

Walking Distance: 17 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,000 m
Elevation Loss: -110 m

One of the most scenic days of the trek. Pass through Lho village with spectacular views of the mighty Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest mountain.

After passing Shyala, the trail traverses a beautiful glacial valley before reaching the large village of Sama Gaon.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,520 m

Day 16: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon (3,520 m)

A crucial day for altitude acclimatization.

Optional hikes include:

Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m)
Pungyen Gompa
Birendra Lake

These excursions provide breathtaking views of glaciers, icefalls, and surrounding Himalayan peaks while helping your body adapt to the altitude.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,520 m

Day 17: Sama Gaon (3,520 m) – Samdo (3,870 m)

Walking Distance: 8 km
Walking Time: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: +350 m

A relatively short trek leads to Samdo, a traditional Tibetan refugee village located near the Tibetan border.

The village offers incredible mountain scenery and a fascinating glimpse into the local way of life.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,870 m

Day 18: Samdo (3,870 m) – Dharamshala (4,460 m)

Walking Distance: 7 km
Walking Time: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: +590 m

Follow a spectacular trail high above the valley floor before reaching Dharamshala, also known as Larkya Phedi.

This small settlement serves as the base camp for crossing Larkya La Pass.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 4,460 m

Day 19: Dharamshala (4,460 m) – Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) – Bimthang (3,590 m)

Walking Distance: 24 km
Walking Time: 8–9 hours
Elevation Gain: +700 m
Elevation Loss: -1,570 m

Today is the grand highlight of the trek.

An early morning ascent leads to the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), one of Nepal's most beautiful Himalayan passes. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind while immense glaciers and snow-covered peaks surround you.

Enjoy unforgettable views of Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, Annapurna II, and the majestic north face of Manaslu.

After the pass, descend into the beautiful glacial basin of Bimthang.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,590 m

Day 20: Bimthang (3,590 m) – Tilije (2,300 m)

Walking Distance: 16 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +150 m
Elevation Loss: -1,440 m

Descend from alpine landscapes into lush forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron. Cross glacial streams and beautiful meadows before reaching the traditional Gurung village of Tilije.

The village is known for its beautifully carved wooden houses and rich mountain culture.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 2,300 m

Day 21: Tilije (2,300 m) – Dharapani (1,960 m) – Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Walking Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 1.5 hours
Driving Time: 7–8 hours
Elevation Loss: -950 m

A short walk brings you to Dharapani, where your trekking adventure officially ends.

From here, drive back to Kathmandu through spectacular mountain scenery, rivers, villages, and terraced farmlands.

In the evening, enjoy a final celebration dinner and reflect on an unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Altitude: 1,350 m

Day 22: Final Departure

According to your international flight schedule, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Your adventure through the hidden Tsum Valley and around the mighty Manaslu comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Nepal's mountains, culture, and warm hospitality.

Meals: Breakfast

End of Services

inclusion

Nepal entry visa fees (available on arrival at the airport or online before travel).
Personal travel insurance, including emergency evacuation, medical expenses, trip cancellation, repatriation, and other personal coverage.
International flights to and from Nepal.
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu.
Entrance fees to historical monuments and cultural sites visited in Kathmandu.
Transportation costs for sightseeing visits in Kathmandu.
Beverages during the trek and in Kathmandu, except for up to three cups of tea or coffee served at breakfast. This exclusion includes soft drinks, fruit juices, mineral water, alcoholic beverages, and other drinks.
Personal expenses such as telephone calls, internet/Wi-Fi charges, hot showers, battery charging, laundry services, souvenirs, and snacks.
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, and other trekking staff (customary but entirely at your discretion).
Any additional accommodation, meals, or transportation required due to flight delays, natural events, weather conditions, illness, personal reasons, or circumstances beyond our control.
Expenses arising from unforeseen situations such as landslides, road closures, strikes, political disturbances, or other force majeure events.
Any services, activities, or expenses not specifically mentioned in the "The Price Includes" section.

Exclusion

Nepal entry visa fees (available on arrival at the airport or online before travel).
Personal travel insurance, including emergency evacuation, medical expenses, trip cancellation, repatriation, and other personal coverage.
International flights to and from Nepal.
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu.
Entrance fees to historical monuments and cultural sites visited in Kathmandu.
Transportation costs for sightseeing visits in Kathmandu.
Beverages during the trek and in Kathmandu, except for up to three cups of tea or coffee served at breakfast. This exclusion includes soft drinks, fruit juices, mineral water, alcoholic beverages, and other drinks.
Personal expenses such as telephone calls, internet/Wi-Fi charges, hot showers, battery charging, laundry services, souvenirs, and snacks.
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, and other trekking staff (customary but entirely at your discretion).
Any additional accommodation, meals, or transportation required due to flight delays, natural events, weather conditions, illness, personal reasons, or circumstances beyond our control.
Expenses arising from unforeseen situations such as landslides, road closures, strikes, political disturbances, or other force majeure events.
Any services, activities, or expenses not specifically mentioned in the "The Price Includes" section.