Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Sacred Journey,23 Day's

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Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek — a rare Himalayan traverse into the quiet sanctuaries of Tibetan Buddhism and across Nepal’s longest high pass, Larkya La (5160 m). This journey stitches together the untouched Tsum Valley and the dramatic Manaslu region—long off-limits and now one of Nepal’s most authentic, less-trodden adventures.

From the hill roads to Soti Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, rising and falling through ridgelines and timeless stone villages. In Tsum, heritage shines: Milarepa’s Cave with its sacred art, serene nunneries at Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Gumba Lungdang, where you can sit in on the evening puja. A side trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp unveils a sweeping panorama of the Ganesh massif. Linking to the classic Manaslu circuit, the route threads through diverse ethnic settlements and glacier-carved valleys, then climbs over Larkya Glacier to Larkya La. The descent spills into the Marsyangdi corridor toward Jagat for the road journey back to Kathmandu.

Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek Key Highlights

  • Immersive Tibetan Buddhist culture: Milarepa’s Cave, Rachen, Mu, and Gumba Lungdang
  • The big crossing: Larkya La Pass (5160 m), Nepal’s longest high pass
  • Mountain drama: Manaslu (8163 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Machhapuchhre (6997 m), plus the Ganesh Himal range
  • River-carved beauty: waterfalls, gorges, and the Budhi Gandaki’s sculpted valleys
  • Wildlife moments: Himalayan monal, blue sheep (bharal), and Himalayan tahr
  • Fewer trekkers, deeper solitude—perfect for culture seekers and high-mountain lovers

 

Route overview

  • Start: Scenic drive to Soti Khola
  • Tsum Valley: Keraunja–Chumling–Chhekampar; Milarepa’s Cave; Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, Gumba Lungdang (join evening puja)
  • Side trip: Ganesh Himal Base Camp vantage
  • Link to Manaslu: Return to the main valley; ascend toward Samagaun with views of Manaslu and neighboring giants
  • The high crossing: Traverse Larkya Glacier to Larkya La Pass (5160 m)
  • Exit: Descend to the Marsyangdi corridor and on to Jagat for the road back to Kathmandu

 

Why the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out

  • Remote authenticity: Ancient monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and living Buddhist traditions
  • Big scenery without big crowds: A true off-the-beaten-track experience
  • Cultural mosaic: Tamang, Magar, Tibetan, and Gurung communities
  • Forest to high desert: Rhododendron, pine, juniper, and fir giving way to stark, high-altitude landscapes

 

Permits, difficulty, and best season

  • Permits: Restricted-area permits for Tsum and Manaslu, plus MCAP/ACAP—Him-Trail handles it all
  • Difficulty: Strenuous; sustained elevation and a major high pass—best for fit, experienced trekkers
  • Best season: Spring (Mar–May) for blooms and clear mornings; Autumn (Sep–Nov) for stable weather and long-range views

 

Trek with Him-Trail

  • Veteran local leaders: Guides who know the trails, weather, and culture by heart
  • Safety first: Smart acclimatization, attentive pacing, reliable logistics
  • Respectful travel: Support for monasteries and local livelihoods
  • Seamless experience: Transport, permits, flights, and lodges—handled end to end

 

Ready to go deeper into the Himalayas?
If you’re seeking rare culture, sweeping Himalayan skylines, and a high pass you’ll never forget, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek delivers in every way.

[Click Here to Inquire Now and Get a Custom Quote!]

Need help planning?
Visit Him-Trail Travels and Trek or email us at [email protected] for a free consultation.

Included/Excluded

  • Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and transfer by private car/van.
  • 3 nights deluxe single/double accommodation with breakfast at 4* Hotel Kathmandu Guest House in Kathmandu.
  • Guided sightseeing tour as per above itinerary in Kathmandu and all entrance fees.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with Tea & coffee and hot/cold filter water during the trek.
  • 19 nights Lodge/Guest-house accommodation during the trek.
  • 1 experienced, helpful and friendly English speaking guide, porters (1 porter for 2 persons and carry 25KG), their food & accommodation, bus ticket, salary, equipment and insurance.
  • Down Sleeping Bag (Minus 30-40 Degree Celsius), Duffel Bag, Spikes, LifeStraw Water Filter for drinking water, trekking map.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit.
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
  • All transportation by 4W private vehicle.
  • All necessary permits.
  • First Aid Medical Kit box.
  • All Government Tax.
  • Travel insurance.
  • International air fare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
  • Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
  • Items and expenses of personal nature.
  • Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, phone call, Internet, battery charging and hot shower.
  • Personal Trekking Equipment.
  • Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
  • Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, political disturbance, and strikes etc.
  • Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.

Tour Plan

Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu

Upon arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representatives and will be taken to hotel. Feel free to explore the capital city. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2  Restricted Area Permit procedure and Guided Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Valley

As we acquire restricted area permits for you, we will proceed necessary permits for you. At the same time, our tour guide will take you on an excursion of the UNESCO listed World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley. Starting with the Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath, you'll visit the Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, and another Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath. Later, we discuss the dos and don'ts of the trip. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu

Day 3 Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola 870m by private vehicle 7-8 hours

A westward picturesque ride along the Prithvi Highway, via the lush hills, leads us to Malekhu. Then, driving past Dhading Besi, the road turns curvy and leads us uphill to Gola Bhanjyang where enthralling views of snow-capped mountain peaks can be seen. The road then goes downhill to cross Ankhu Khola, and later, at Arughat, we meet Budhi Gandaki River. A further drive up the west bank of Budhi Gandaki River finally brings us to Machha Khola. Overnight at a lodge in Machha Khola.

Day 4 Trek from Machha to Jagat 1410m/6-7 hours

After breakfast, we move forward through the narrow tracks on a meandering trail. After passing Tharo Khola, we reach Tatopani. Following the trails of Budhi Gandaki River and walking past a landslide-prone area, we cross the village of Dobhan and Yaruphant. Crossing the suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki River, we enter Manaslu Conservation Area to walk on a stone paved trail to arrive in Jagat. Overnight at a lodge in Jagat.

Day 5  Trek from Jagat to Lokpa 2240m/6-7 hours

Today we enter the constrained region of Manaslu and Tsum Valley. Leaving Jagat, we start walking on the riverbank of Budhi Gandaki past the settlements of Salleri, Sirdibas, and Philim. Enjoying the view of Shringi Himal (7161m), we register ourselves at the checkpoint in Philim before heading on to Ekle Bhatti. Still walking alongside Budhi Gandaki River, we arrive at a waterfall before entering the village of Lokpa. Overnight at a lodge in Lokpa.

Day 6 Trek from Lokpa to Chumling 2386m/4-5 hours

You will begin descending through the forest and cross a stream on a bridge. You will then ascend steeply on the stairs and trek on the north side through the rhododendron and pine forest. You will then descend towards Bhatti Ghumlong and again ascend steeply to Ripchet. You will cross the Siyar Khola on a dangerous wooden bridge and ascend towards Chumling. Overnight at a lodge in Chumling.

Day 7 Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro 3031m/4-5 hours

You will begin trekking by crossing the suspension bridge and go through the field of potatoes and maize. You will see beautiful views of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) and its neighboring peaks. Further ahead, you cross a long suspension bridge and Serpu Khola to ascend gradually and finally arrive at Chhokang Paro Village. If the weather is clear, you will get to see amazing views of Mt. Himalchuli (7,893 m) from here. Overnight at a lodge in Chhokang Paro.

Day 8 Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile 3361m/4-5 hours

You will head was through the small villages and ascend towards a ridge and reach to the huge courtyard of the Rachen Gompa (3,240 m). You will then ascend and visit Milarepa’s Cave and further, cross the Siyar Khola. You will go through the hamlets of Phurbe and Pangdun and reach the Chhule Village.  You will then trek towards the upstream to cross the bridge and ascend to the Nile. Overnight at a lodge in Nile.

Day 9 Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa 3700m and back to Chhokang Paro 3031m/6-7 hours

You will wake up early in the morning and trek along the west bank of the river. You will ascend to the huge Mu Gompa with the beautiful views of Chortens and Tibetan mountains. You will also visit Dephyudonma Gompa on the way and return back to the Chhule. Further, you will continue trekking until you reach the bridge on the west bank. You will cross the bridge and descend down to Chhokang Paro. Overnight at a lodge in Chhokang Paro.

Day 10 Trek from Chhokangparo to Gumba Lungdang 3200m/5-6 hours

Move downhill on a narrow track via the village and to a wooden bridge over Shiar Khola. Cross the bridge to reach Domje, and then, ascend steeply on an unclear path through pines and rhododendrons until the path arrives at the Mani wall with prayer flags. Finally, make a vertical twist and climb through huge pine forest to reach Gumba Lungdang (3200m), a small nunnery on the foothills of the Himalayas. Astonishing view of the Ganesh Himal range and the other Himalayas can be seen from Gumba Lungdang. Overnight at a monastery in Gumba Lungdang.

Day 11 Day trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp 4500m/7-8 hours

Cross Langdang Khola and climb steeply on a rough unclear track through the forest of pines and rhododendrons. Upon arrival in Landan Kharka, we walk on the parallel moraine of Torogumba Glacier. Walking on the steep, icy, and slippery trails of Torogumba Glacier, we arrive in Torogumba Kharka before reaching Ganesh Himal Base Camp. From the base camp, a breathtaking view of the Ganesh Himal range can be observed.  Later, hike back to Gumba Lungdang and attend the night puja. Overnight at a monastery in Gumba Lungdang.

Day 12 Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa 2240/7-8 hours

Today, we retrace our way back to Lokpa following a rising path. Arrive in Domje following Landang Khola and the walk on the south bank of Shiar Khola. Passing several small streams and monasteries, we arrive at a micro-hydropower station in Ripchet. Then, climb down a rock fall area past the small settlement of Gumlung, and walking through the Sarti Gorge, we cross Lungwa Khola to finally arrive in Lokpa. Overnight at a lodge in Lokpa.

Day 13 Trek from Lokpa to Ghap 2300m/7-8 hours

Cross the suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki River and leave Lokpa to enter Nyak. Then continue walking uphill on the gorge of Budhi Gandaki River to arrive in the Gurung village f, Deng. Enjoying the view of Shringi Himal (7161m) on the backdrop, we cross Mani walls and several bridges over Budhi Gandaki River to finally arrive in Ghap. Overnight at a lodge in Ghap.

Day 14 Trek from Ghap to Lho 3180m/5-6 hours

Ascend on a landslide prone trail uphill and cross Mani walls, meadows, and houses through fir, rhododendron and oak forests before climbing to Lihi. Continue the walk uphill past the village of Sho, from where you walk on a landslide area to reach the small village of Lho. There are outstanding views of Manaslu (8163m), Himal Chuli (7893m), Ngadi Chuli (7971m), and other surrounding mountains throughout the trek. Overnight at a lodge in Lho.

Day 15 Trek from Lho to Samagaon 3520m/3-4 hours

Climbing alongside Budhi Gandaki River, we pass several small monasteries and Chortens enjoying the view of Manaslu massif and arrive in Shyala. The track then passes a bridge over Numla Khola that flows from the Punggen Glacier. Descend to the broad valley, cross a school and a large Chorten that leads to a series of houses with front yards that form the main portion of Sama. The Pema Chyoling Lhakang Monastery is at the end of the village against the moraines of Manaslu Glacier. View of the Manaslu range, Naike Peak (6211m), and Larkya Peak (6249m) are seen from Samagaon. Overnight at a lodge in Samagaon.

Day 16 Acclimatization day - Hiking to Manaslu Base Camp 4400m/8 hours 

This day is set for you to rest and get adjusted to the high altitude. There are various places to visit in Samagaon like Birendra Tal or Anie Gompa. Afterward, the team will hike up to Manaslu Base Camp. From the base camp, you get a wonderful view of Mt Manaslu (8156m).  After spending some time at the base camp, you return back to Samagaon for the overnight stay. Overnight at a lodge in Samagaon.

Day 17 Trek from Samagaon to Samdo 3875m/3-4 hours

Descend towards Budhi Gandaki River, that has turned north, and pass the track that leads to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. This is an easy track above the river via juniper and birch forests that bound Kermo Kharka. Further on, the trail ascends to pass Budhi Gandaki River through a wooden bridge and continue walking on the riverbed before crossing the Mani walls to reach Samdo. Enjoy the view of Samdo Peak (6335m) and its amazing glacial basin to the east, the Sama Valley and its arrays to the south, while to the west is a bird’s eye view of the northern Syacha Glacier from Manaslu. Overnight at a lodge in Samdo.

Day 18 Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala 4460m/3-4 hours

Cross the northern village fields to reach Budhi Gandaki River for the last time at the Larkya Bazaar site. The river moves north up the Pana Danda Valley. Walk along the westward track above Syacha Glacier. The source of the Syacha Glacier that goes downhill from the Manaslu North point comes into sight. The trail ascends up the gorge towards the Larkya Glacier outside the Larkya La Phedi in Dharamsala. Dharamsala offers a great view of Larkya Peak (6249m) and Naike Peak (6211m). Overnight at a lodge in Dharamsala.

Day 19 Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang 3590m/7-8 hours via Larkya-La Pass 5160m

From Dharamsala, the trail ascends to a ridge followed by a slow climb to the vast and untidy moraine of Larkya Glacier. A short walk leads to a gorge followed by a descent to the first of four small scattered frozen lakes. Finally walking through Larkya Glacier, we reach Larkya-La Pass (5160m), which is the longest mountain pass in Nepal. Enjoy the mountain-view comprised of Cheo Himal (6812m), Himlung (7126m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), Kangguru (6981m), and Annapurna II (7937m) seen from the top of Larkya-La. Descend to Dangboche Kharka, from where the track follows the curve of the side moraine of the Salpudanda Glacier into the beautiful Bimthang Valley. Overnight at a lodge in Bimthang.

Day 20 Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani 1860m/6-7 hours

Descend from Bimthang to cross the stony glacier to reach the pristine rhododendron and pine forest. The trail goes downhill along the west bank of Dudh Khola as we pass Hompuk and Sangure Kharka before going down to the highest cultivated land at Kharche. Trek through the forested land to the Gurung village of Tilje, then, descend rapidly towards Marsayangdi Valley through the scrub forest. Pass the west bank just before Thonje, and then, cross Marsayangdi River to arrive in Dharapani. Overnight at a lodge in Dharapani.

Day 21 Trek from Dharapani to Jagat 1400/5-6 hours

Today is the last day of trekking as we walk down to Syange following Marsayangdi River downstream. We walk through a landslide, through Mani walls, through the thatch housed village of Tall, through waterfalls, and through the settlements of Sattale, Chamje, and finally arrive in Jagat, situated on the bank of Marsyangdi River. Overnight at a lodge in Jagat.

Day 22  Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu by private vehicle 7-8 hours

We take a long drive, through the lush hills and bumpy roads with countryside views back, to Kathmandu today. Upon arrival, you can either rest or shop around the city. You can also taste the local food of Kathmandu. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 23 Final Departure from Kathmandu

You will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours before the scheduled time of your flight back home.

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