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Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days

Trip Overview

The Tsum Valley is located on the north of the Manaslu trail. It was firstly opened in 2008 for the trekker. Entire Manaslu Region is rich in culturally and naturally. People from this region speak an individual dialect originated from Tibet. The trek starts with a bus drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. Then follow the trail through middle hills that go beyond Soti Khola. You are supposed to pass numerous villages and cross bridges as we walk up to higher and higher. The intriguing aspects of this trek are stone houses, slate roofs, Milarepa’s cave and the Chhekampur village. The monastery situated at Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa to its south make our trek mesmerizing. Gumba Lungdang is another inescapable beauty of this trek. The views of Ngadi Chuli, Himal Chuli, Manaslu and many other peaks provide you great pleasure during the trek.

Your route rejoins the Manaslu Circuit Trek at Lokpa and ascends through the Kutang – Nupri valley inhabited by Tibetan origin people with its own particular custom and dialect. A explore and rest day is set for Samagaon to visit the substantial Kargyu-Pemba Chholing Gompa of the Nyingma-Pa Buddhism. The Pungyen Nunnery is based on an edge, south of the town, with sublime perspectives of Manaslu. A walk to the Manaslu BC would be another choice for the day and the mountain was first summited by a Japanese team in 1959. The essence of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the two-day walk through tundra and scour juniper from Samagaon to the Larkya Phedi (Dharmasala Lodge) and afterward to the Larkya La summit (5,160m/16,930ft). The view en-route, and especially from the summit, is breathtaking.

The descent across scree slopes is steep at first, becoming more gentle. Then, the trail slips into the thick woods of the Marsyangdi River, crossing onto the Annapurna Circuit Trail that prompts Dharapani for the jeep/bus back to Kathmandu.

Amazing Nepal Trek & Expedition offers 24 days package of Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek. Our company ensures this trek is moderate to fairly challenging trek. So, it is not quite appropriate for all sorts of trekkers. Your positivity, enthusiasms, and strong determination are mandatory to complete your trek successfully. In this package, our company guarantees foods, lodges, and accommodation, security and transportation costs. It provides special discounts if you come along with group members. Although this trek is pretty good during the whole year, the most suitable time is from March to May and September to December. Enjoy your trip!

Trip Highlights

  • Sightseeing UNESCO World Heritages in Kathmandu Valley
  • Traditional Tibetan culture and its inhabitants’ lifestyles
  • Ancient Monasteries, Caves, and Gompas
  • Green forest fancied by terraced farmlands
  • Stupendous views of snow-capped peaks in Manaslu region

Additional Information

If the suggested itineraries are not up to the mark, we can even customize your trip as per your need with a special group discount. Kindly contact us at  [email protected] for detail information. You can also contact us by calling at +977-9851116042 for 24/7 support. We speak English, Hindi, and Nepali.

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and trek preparation

Day 03: Drive to Soti Khola (710m/2,330ft) via Arughat (670m/2198ft) 8-9 hrs 

Day 04: Trek to Machha Khola (890m/2,920ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 05: Trek to Dobhan (1,000m/3,280ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 06: Trek to Philim (1,590m/5,216ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 07: Trek to Chumling (2,360m/7,750ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 08: Trek to Chhekampar (3,010m/9,850ft) 5-6 hrs

Day 09: Trek to Nile (3,480m/11,415ft) 4-5 hrs

Day 10: Exploration day: Nile – Mu Gompa (3,709m/12,169ft) – Chhekampar (3,010m/9,870ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 11: Trek to Gumba Lungdang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs

Day 12: Trek to Lokpa (2,240m/7,348ft) 7-8 hrs

Day 13: Trek to Bihi Phedi (1,990m/6,530ft) 6-7 hrs

Day 14: Trek to Namrung (2,660m/8,727ft) 4-5 hrs

Day 15: Trek to Lho (3,180m/10,430ft) 3-4hrs

Day 16: Trek to Sama Gaon (3,530m/11,578ft) 5-6 hrs

Day 17: Sama: Rest and exploration day: Birendra Tal / Pungyen Gompa / Manaslu Base Camp

Day 18: Trek to Samdo (3,860m/12,660ft) 3-4 hrs

Day 19: Trek to Larkya Phedi/Dharamsala (4,460m/14,628ft) 3-5 hrs

Day 20: Trek to Bimthang (3,720m/12,201ft) via Larkya La (5160m/16930ft) 7-9 hrs

Day 21: Trek to Gho (2,515m/8,250ft) 5-6 hrs

Day 22: Trek to Dharapani (1,920m/6,300ft) 3-4 hrs

Day 23: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft) via Besi sahar (760m/2495ft) 7-8hrs

Day 24: Final departure

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Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Upon our arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative, who will drop you off at our hotel. After checking in, we take a rest or visit Amazing Nepal's office. We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Amazing Nepal. For dinner, you will be served excellent Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country's authentic food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Full day Kathmandu City excursion

After breakfast, you will set out for sightseeing of the culturally and architecturally rich heritage sites of the Valley. Places such as the Pashupatinath, the world-famous temple precinct of the Hindus, the Boudhnath and Swaymbhunath, the world-famous Buddhist stupa precinct, and Kathmandu Durbar Square will open up completely a new cultural world of Nepali art and architecture to you. You will also be taken to the Kumari Ghar, where resides the Virgin Goddess. We will also discuss the trip, and you will be introduced to your fellow trekkers and our crews.

Day 03:  Drive to Soti Khola (710m/2,330ft) via Arughat (670m/2198ft), 135km, 8-9 hrs 

A scenic drive west through the middle hills to Malekhu, then a secondary road to Dhading Besi and a 35km dirt road to Arughat on the Budhi Gandaki River. This is a large Newar and Gurung village with many mango orchards. Then another 2 hrs drive upstream to Soti Khola.

Day 04: Trek to Machha Khola (890m/2,920ft), 6-7 hrs

The trail undulates over ridges and passes waterfalls on a steep trail clinging to the side of a cliff. It then drops to pass rice paddies before climbing to the attractive Gurung village of Labubesi. Beyond, the valley opens out and the trail drops onto gravel banks along the river before rising to the village of Machha (Fish) Khola above the river – with good views of the 7,000m/22,950ft Ganesh Himal.  

Day 05: Trek to Dobhan (1,000m/3,280ft), 6-7 hrs

The narrow trail follows minor ups and downs, often dropping to the gravel bar before crossing the Thado Khola and following a rocky ravine to Khorlabesi. After more moderate ups and downs there is a small hot spring at Tatopani. The trail then climbs a ridge before crossing the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. A good staircase leads to a landslide before a final ridge to Dobhan.

Day 06: Trek to Philim (1,590m/5,216ft), 6-7 hrs

Today’s trail follows the east bank to a 93m suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, then climbs stone stairs up and back to the river before climbing to Thado Bharyang. Here it crosses to the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, climbs a ridge and follows the river gently upwards to the village of Jagat. Walk on to Salleri, via a cliff-side trail – with views of Shringi Himal (7,187m/23,580ft) to the north. Descend to Sirdibas; and the first signs of Buddhist culture. Another suspension bridge leads to the east bank, and a tiring climb up to Philim: a prosperous Gurung village, the Chholing Sandu Gompa and surrounded by fields of maize and millet.

Day 07: Trek to Chumling (2,360m/7,750ft) 6-7 hrs 

Traverse north of Philim, through lush grasses and scrub up the exquisite narrowing valley to the village of Chisopani and then the millet fields of Ekle Bhatti (one house, 1 600m/5,250ft). The trail then gradually descends, beneath a spectacular waterfall, into the gorge below and a junction before “New Bridge” which leads to the Larkya La.  To the right (east) a well-graded, exposed, zigzag track rises up through blue pines and rhododendrons, to Lokpa and the narrow Lower Tsum Valley. The Tsum region is home to 4 000 people in 18 villages.

Descend through forest, crossing streams, before tackling a long and steep climb up the south side of the Siyar Khola gorge that drains the Tsum Valley. The high point is marked by flags at a turn in the valley with views across to the Shringi Himal above colorful grain, potato and bean fields. Descend to Gumlung and the Siyar Khola. Cross the suspension bridge and finally ascend the gentler narrow trail to Chumling. The houses are classic Tibetan but built with sloping roofs to cope with the abundant rain and snow. 

Day 08: Trek to Chhekampar (3,010m/9,850ft) 5-6 hrs

Cross the suspension bridge into new forest growing over a recent landslide. Pass a small water-driven prayer wheel on a ‘Nepali flat’ path through the lush forest, inhabited by white-faced langurs.  Continue to Tanju and the small Damphe Gompa [with hundreds of small ceramic statues of Chenresig (Buddha of Compassion): a common feature in the valley]. Beyond Dumje are glimpses of the Ganesh Himal and Baudha Peak. Beyond Rainjam farm the trail drops to cross the Sarphu Khola that drains the Syakpa Glacier off Shringi Himal to the north. The trail then climbs, for some two and half hours, on well-graded but the exposed track, past Gho to the Upper Tsum Valley. 

Magnificent slate Chortens, facing Ganesh Himal, herald the linked villages of Chhokang and Paro; collectively known as Chhekampar (place of wisdom).  Here the valley broadens but the stone houses nestle under cliffs to make full use of the spacious fields for barley, maize, buckwheat, and potatoes. Herds of tahr frequently graze the wild cliffs to the north: and if not monitored can cause havoc in the fields. 

Day 09: Tre to Nile (3,480m/11,415ft) 4-5 hrs 

A shorter and easier route today: with much to explore on the wide flat valley floor on either side of the river. Visiting the sights can be divided over two days.

North of the river: From Chhekampar, walk past a local school at Kaye before reaching the clustered twin villages of Ngakyu and Leru. The Rachen Nunnery stands across the river. The trail then rises to a low ridge with Chortens before Lama Gaon. 

Next is the village of Burji and nearby is Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu – Pigeon Cave) on the slopes of Langju Himal. There are two chapels and two caves. Features include an impression of Milarepa’s footprint and a rock in the shape of an elephant. His meditation place has been made into a gompa devoted to him; the other is devoted to the Nyingma-pa deities of the region.  

A little east of the cave, the retreat monastery Chi Phu, clings to the slopes higher up the Langju Himal. The trail then, perforce, crosses to the southeast bank of the Siyar Khola and joins the trail from Rachen Gompa to Nile shortly before Phurbe. 

South of the River: Before Ngakyu another bridge crosses to the southeast bank of the river and heads northeast to Rachen, Nile and on to Tibet. 

The Rachen Nunnery, established in 1905, is enclosed within spacious walls that form the outer residential cells for the nuns. The original small monastery (and a large prayer wheel) is in the southwest of the complex and is decorated with murals depicting the history of Buddhism. There are separate retreat buildings. It belongs to the small Ngak-pa sect – which forbids animal slaughter. A large and imposing new temple has been built within the grounds: spacious, light and decorated with acrylic paintings and bright hangings. The inner wall houses numerous deities in tall glass-fronted cases.

Next is Phurbe and further up the trail, Pangdun: its gompa has a large prayer wheel. Beyond Pangdun, the valley gently curves towards the north. Next is an unusual round stupa before the impressive entrance gate to the large village of Chhule (Chhu Li, shady side). Thirty minutes above this village, to the south, is the 700 years old two-storeyed Gonhgye Monastery; with superb views. 

Beyond the village, bridges cross a tributary (with an impressive waterfall ahead) and then the Siyar Khola back to the west bank – and a final short rise up to Nile. 

Day 10: Exploration day: Nile – Mu Gompa (3,709m/12,169ft) – Chhekampar (3,010m/9,870ft) 6-7 hrs

Make an early start for the 2hr walk up to the 77-year-old Mu Gompa with another ¾ hr stiff hike up to the small 856-year-old Dephyu Doma Nunnery (place of the birth of light) which is superbly situated at 4,000m/13,100ft on a small promontory; with Ganesh II as its primary view. Views of the western Ganesh Himal are visible to the left of an intervening peak. Mu only has the latter view (including Ganesh I) and a view back down the valley. Mu is the highest permanent settlement in the Tsum Valley. To the north are seasonal Kharkas and passes to Tibet. Return to Nile for lunch, then trek back to Chhekampar. 

Day 11: Trek to Gumba Lungdang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs

Retrace the trail to the small gompa at Gho, then drop south to a wooden bridge over the river and continue to Dumje: which has a Tibetan herbal medicine clinic and school. The trail then leads up steeply 3½hrs, through magnificent pine, oak and rhododendron forest to a mani wall after which it traverses along an exposed route, before zigzagging up through huge silver pines to the gompa perched on a ridge.  The mountain views in all directions are fantastic: this is likely to be a highlight of the trek.

This 110-year-old gompa with 20 nuns (who each reside in a small cell), has an intense and engrossing puja late each afternoon. Visitors are invited to attend and permission may be obtained to sleep on the gompa veranda and use their kitchen and ablution facilities. Overnight at gompa in Gumba Lungdang.
Day 12: Trek to Lokpa (2,240m/7,348ft) 7-8 hrs

Descend on the trail back to Dumje, turn left to cross the Langdang Khola and take the south bank trail down the Siyar Khola and shortly the lower of two trails that cross deep, impressive gorges on new bridges to the climb to the high fertile land and ribbon village of Ripchet. Several chortens adorn barley and buckwheat fields that have been cut from surrounding pine forest. Beyond the village, steep stairs lead down to Gumlung on the river before the trail climbs back through the forest to Lokpa. 

Day 13: Trek to Bihi Phedi (1,990m/6,530ft) 6-7 hrs     

Follow the trail down to the junction with the Manaslu trail up from Philim. Cross the Budhi Gandaki (below its confluence with the Siyar Khola) and enter its narrow gorge on an up-and-down trail with river crossings. After a suspension bridge, the trail enters the bamboo forest and rises to the village of Deng (1,800m/5,906ft). 

This is the entry point to Kutang or lower Nupri (part of Tibet until the 1840s): a region inhabited by Gurungs who practice Buddhism, have their own language and trade across the passes with Tibet. The trail crosses to the east bank and zigzags up to Rana. A short series of vertical switchbacks then lead to a log-bridge tributary crossing and an isolated water mill before the trail descends gently to the lodge at Bihi Phedi, high above the river.   

Day 14: Trek to Namrung (2,660m/8,727ft) 4-5 hrs  

The trail undulates above the river, drops to cross the Serang Khola and later enters an impressive S bend between sheer basalt walls. To the right, huge rocky crags appear – with a spectacular waterfall above fields of maize and wheat. Beyond the valley broadens and turns northeast; the trail crosses a bridge before a well-preserved entrance Kani and walls of carved mani stones that lead to the attractive village of Ghap (2,250m/7,382ft) on the south bank. 

The trail then ascends through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forest (with birds that include the Impheyan pheasant) above the steeply descending river. For a short section, it is forced back to the north bank by sheer walls and re-crosses back to the south bank on a wooden bridge (above a natural stone bridge) at a point where the river thunders down a narrow defile. It then climbs steeply (for 1hr) away from the river to Namrung: a police checkpoint for permits. Before reaching the village, the trail overlooks the Tum Khola from Tibet whose waters considerably increase the Budhi Gandaki’s volume at the confluence (not visible from the trail). 

Day 15: Trek to Lho (3,180m/10,430ft) 3-4hrs

Namrung is the entrance to Upper Nupri (the western mountains) a region of purely Tibetan inhabitants who speak a (different) dialect of western Tibet and continue to trade across the passes; chubas are the common dress. 

The trail continues through a mix of forest and extensive barley fields: guarded by bear watchers (simple guard towers dot fields from Bihi Phedi to Shrip). In Lihi (2,900m/9,515ft), series of dwellings are grouped, each under a single shingled roof. There are impressive Chortens, plus great views of Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft) to the south. Only the Ganesh Himal is visible to the east. 

The trail then drops and enters a side-valley to cross the Hinang Khola (where a path leads south to the Himal Chuli BC). Beyond the double-span bridge, it rises sharply to a detailed Chorten from where impressive views of Ngadi Chuli (7,873m/25,831ft) rise above the side-valley walls. Beyond are the packed houses of Sho (2,960m/9,712ft). Good views continue on the climb, past a large prayer wheel on the trail, up to Shrimp.  

On the walk up to Lho, Manaslu (8,156m/26,760ft, the mountain of the spirit from the Sanskrit Manasa – ‘intellect’ or ‘soul’, the 8th highest peak), Manaslu North and Naike Peak are revealed for the first time. A steep pull leads to the ridge and the large village of Lho. 

Many of the stone houses in this region have distinctive wooden decks and shingles. The large Ribung monastery above the village houses ~150 monks. The best spot for sunset and sunrise pictures is from a Kani above the village; reached by a walk through barley fields, past a long mani wall and old Chortens. Rise early for sunrise shots of Manaslu.

Day 16: Trek to Sama Gaon (3,530m/11,578ft) 5-6 hrs   

The Budi Gandaki now flows far below in the valley north of the trail which passes the long mani wall out of Lho, before dropping steeply to cross the Damonan Khola tributary. It then follows a gentle stream upwards through an exquisite mixed forest. Then a short climb to a plateau: and the badly deforested village of Shyala (3,520m/11,549ft). Huge mountains surround it: Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft) and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli, 7,873m/25,831ft) to the south; Manaslu (8,156m/26,760ft) and large glaciers ahead; more snow-capped peaks to the west and north. 

Further on, the trail crosses a bridge over the Numla Khola that drains the Pungyen Glacier from Manaslu. Later a trail leads left to Pungyen Gompa. Continue down the broad valley, past a school, to a large Chorten, beyond which a yellow Kani leads to rows of houses with front courtyards that form the main part of Sama. The Kargyu Chholing Monastery stands above the far end of the village against a forested moraine. Only the upper sections of Manaslu and the Naike ridge are visible from the village. 

Day 17: Sama: Rest and exploration day: Birendra Tal / Pungyen Gompa / Manaslu Base Camp

Sama is the regional center of Nupri. Explore the village architecture and customs: only potatoes and barley flourish in the short summers at this altitude. Cloth weaving for chubas (from local goat and sheep wool or Tibetan imported wool) and the manufacture of hooked rugs are important occupations for trade with Tibet. Yak and Dzopkyo herds and horses are kept and traded.  

The Labrang (Lama’s Place) Gompa in the lower village and the Kargyu Chholing Monastery on the rise beyond the village, were established some 500 years ago when this region was first settled by Tibetans. The monastery architecture is unique with fine woodwork. There are eight temple buildings: the largest, Pemba Chholing Gompa, contains an impressive statue of Guru Rinpoche. It belongs to the Nyingma Buddhist sect and so most of its Lamas are married and live in dwellings at the complex.

An easy and rewarding hike beyond the monastery is to the Birendra Tal (3,450m/11,319ft) below the Manaslu Glacier. It can be viewed from a hilltop or from a stony beach and offers striking views of the mountain. 3km, 1½hrs

Or, follow the trail towards Samdo to a bridge over the stream from the lake and then ascend the demanding trail that rises 1 200m above the lake and the snout of the glacier to the Base Camp (4,900m/16,100ft), 8km, 5-6 hrs 

A walk to the Pungyen Nunnery (3,870m/12,697ft) that stands on a plateau above the Pungyen Glacier offers unbeatable views of the Nadi ridges and Manaslu from near the gompa. It also adds an illuminating perspective of the mountain and its satellites to the other views seen along the circuit trail.

Walk back along the trail, past the school, to the turnoff to the Pungyen Nunnery.  It lies over the ridge on a plateau above the glacier and looks out onto Manaslu (known locally as Kang Pungyen).  The two and a half hrs trail through summer Kharkas (no teahouses) along the Numa Khola and Pungyen Glacier can be icy and slippery. Above the complex is a cave gompa with yet better views. 

Most of the gompa buildings were destroyed by an avalanche in 1953 and were only recently rebuilt. The avalanche was blamed on that year’s first Japanese expedition to Manaslu. They were the first to Summit the mountain – in 1956. 10km, 5-6hrs. Return to the lodge in Sama for the night.

Day 18: Trek to Samdo (3,860m/12,660ft) 3-4 hrs 

Descend towards the Budhi Gandaki, that has turned north, and pass the lake and Base Camp trail as well as several mani walls as the valley begins to widen. This is an easy trail along a shelf above the river past juniper and birch forests that surround Kermo Kharka. A stone wall divides the region into two with a stile and animal gate that separates the Sama and Samdo herds. Further on, the trail drops to cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge before climbing steeply onto a promontory above the confluence of the river with the Mayol Khola from the Samdo Glacier to the northeast. 

At the top is a stone arch, followed by fields before a white Kani at the entrance to the village: an attractive, cold, yak and goat herding area. This was an ancient summer grazing region and was only settled in the late 1950s when the residents fled Tibet. They built the clustereddry-stonee houses with stone-slab roofs along a low ridge with fields below and behind the village. They trade to the north and south.  

Zigzag up yak tracks behind the village to any of several sets of flags on a high ridge for superb 270o views: with Samdo Peak (6,335m/20,785ft) and its dramatic glacial basin to the east; the Sama Valley and its ranges to the south (Manaslu is masked by a rocky peak to the southwest); while to the west is a bird’s eye view over the northern Syacha Glacier from Manaslu (partially hidden) and tomorrow’s trail to Dharamsala and the Larkya La. Samdo is the last village before Gho, in the Manang District. Only informal kharkas (with lodges) lie between these villages. 

Day 19: Trek to Larkya Phedi/Dharamsala (4,460m/14,628ft) 3-5 hrs 

Descend past the northern village fields to cross the Budhi Gandaki for the last time at the remains of the Larkya Bazaar site. The river turns north up the Pana Danda Valley. Follow the westward trail on grassy slopes with scrub juniper, rhododendron and lichen-covered granite above the Syacha Khola Valley. The source of the Syacha Glacier that descends from the Manaslu North ridge comes into sight. The trail works its way gradually up the valley towards the Larkya Glacier beyond the Larkya La Phedi, called Dharamsala.  The guest house is a simple stone structure: with a kitchen and dining room, two separate buildings with 15 small double rooms, two tunnel-tents each with 8 cramped beds and a third for trekking staff. Short walks can lead to better views of the Larke (6,249m/20,503ft) and Naike (6,291m/20,641ft) peaks. 

Day 20: Trek to Bimthang (3,720m/12,201ft) via Larkya La (5160m/16930ft) 8-9 hrs 

Today’s pass needs, if snow-free, 3-5 hours to ascend the 800m/2,600ft to the summit and 3-4 hours to descend the 1,500m/4,900ft to Bimthang. It can be very cold, especially if windy. Snow and ice conditions demand more care and time. 

The trail along the northern moraine of the Larke Glacier is not steep or difficult but is long and continuously rocky underfoot. Snow poles line the route. From Dharamsala, it rises gently to a ridge followed by a long gentle climb to the vast and jumbled moraine. Larke Peak on the Larke Himal wall and Pawar Peak on the Cheo Himal emerge to the south and north of the glacier. A short climb leads to an ablation valley followed by a drop to pass the first of four small scattered frozen lakes. A gradual ascent to the left up the glacial moraine and a final pull leads to the first set of summit flags. Back to the east; look over the trail to Tibetan border ranges beyond Samdo Peak. The Larke Himal wall blocks more southerly views; the Pawar Himal views to the north. 

A long moraine-ridge runs from the first flags, parallel to the Larke wall and separated from it by a deep gully, to the second set of flags and astounding views ahead. (These flags also mark the border between the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation areas.)

To the west, peaks include (anticlockwise from the north) the impressive Pawar Peak (6,620m/21,720ft), Cheo Himal (6,820m/22,376ft), the Himlung pyramid (7,126m/23,380ft), Gyaji Kung (7,030m23,065ft), Kang Garu (6,981m/22,905ft) plus Annapurna II (7,937m/26,041ft) and its satellites away to the east. Below lies a magnificent basin within a dramatic rock and ice walls from which flow a complex of glaciers. 

The descent begins from these flags and drops steeply off the moraine then traverses loose scree slopes down a set of steep zigzags to the grassy Dangboche Kharka (4,450m/14,600ft) almost directly below.           

The trail offers a bird’s eye view of the glacial action that feeds the upper Dudh (milk) Khola. From the Pawar Himal, the Salpudanda Glacier merges with the Ponkar Glacier below the medial Ponkar Lake (trapped between their moraines) and is then joined by the western Kechakyu Glacier to form the Bimthang Glacier that exists the valley.

From Dangboche Kharka the gradient eases and the trail follows the curve of the lateral moraine of the Salpudanda/Bimthang glacier into the lovely Bimthang Valley. A T-junction indicates a path up over the moraine to the Ponkar Lake or down to the scenic settlement of Bimthang (plain of sand). The Kechakyu Himal rises to the north and Manaslu’s northeast face and connecting ranges stand high above the valley to the east. 

Bimthang is now the summer grazing settlement for the people of Samdo. Before the closure of the Tibetan border, it was an important trading post. The Tibetan Khampa warriors held a center here in the 1970s. 

Day 21: Trek to Gho (2,515m/8,250ft) 5-6 hrs

A further 1,200m/3,900ft descent begins with a walk across the Bimthang Plain, a drop to cross the stony glacier then up and over the far moraine to enter magnificent pristine rhododendron and pine forest. Views back towards the Larke, Manaslu, Nadi and Chuli Himals are excellent all along this route. The trail descends along the west bank of the Dudh (milk) Khola past Hompuk (3,430m/11,254ft, a rock shelter near the bridge) and attractive Sangura Kharka (3,020m/9,909ft) before descending steeply to the highest cultivated land at Karche (2,700m/8,860ft). Beyond is a flood-related landslide, more terraced fields and a steep ridge climb before dropping to the substantial (Gurung) village of Gho. 

Day 22: Trek to Dharapani (1,920m/6,300ft) 3-4 hrs

After breakfast, trek through farmlands to the old paved village of Tilje (2,300m/7,546ft), then cross to the east bank of the river before descending rapidly towards the Marsyangdi Valley through the scrub forest. Cross back to the west bank just before Thonje (1,965m/6,447ft) and then, in Thonje, cross the Marsyangdi Khola (from Manang) just above the confluence before joining the new road along the main Annapurna Circuit route in Dharpani at the perfect lunchtime and end of the trek. Afternoon enjoys a hot shower and wonder around this Tibetan village. 

Day 23: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft) via Besi Sahar (760m/2496ft) 190km 8-9 hrs drive

After breakfast, a sharing jeep ride along the dusty and bumpy road to Besi Sahar and public bus ride (paved road) back to Kathmandu. 

(Alternatively, turn west on the paved road to explore the lake city of Pokhara (106km), beneath the Annapurna Himal, before driving or flying back to Kathmandu.)

Day 24: Final departure

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight to your next destination. 

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Service Included:

  • All airport transfers 
  • Tourist Standard Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights with breakfast 
  • Welcome and Farewell dinner
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu covering 4 UNESCO heritage sites 
  • Private Jeep transport Kathmandu to Soti Khola (trail foot) 
  • Sharing jeep transport Dharapani to Besishar and private transport to Kathmandu
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (Restricted Area permit, Conservation area Permit, and TIMS)
  • An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide and local porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Full meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) followed by a cup of Tea/Coffee during the trek  
  • Iodine/Chlorine treated Safe Drinking water 
  • All mountain accommodation (2 nights private room with independent bathroom/hot showers and remaining Soft, comfortable, twin sharing room with shared toilet)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes 
  • Trekking equipment such as down-filled sleeping bag and duffel bag
  • Souvenir: Manaslu Route map and Amazing Nepal T-Shirt

Service not Included:

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except for welcome and farewell dinner
  • Monument entrance fees 
  • Deserts (cakes, bakes, and pies)s 
  • Additional Hot Drinks 
  • Bottled drinks 
  • Boiled/mineral water 
  • Electronic device re-charge
  • Hot shower 
  • Wi-Fi 
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and evacuation insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Tipping to driver and trekking crew

All prices are in US dollars and do not include international airfare, unless otherwise noted.

Accommodations and Meals:

You will be provided a room in a tourist standard hotel, while you are in Kathmandu. During your trekking, you will be provided room in teahouses. Please be informed that you will be sharing the room at teahouses. Please also note that the Manaslu region is located at far from the maddening crowd, therefore, teahouses may not be as much sophisticated as one finds them in town.

We will provide only breakfast while you are in Kathmandu and three-course meals while you are on trek. This means you will be taking breakfast and dinner at teahouse you stay and lunch in the mid of your trekking. Since the Manaslu region is geographically a remote place, you will be provided only selected but hygienic and organic local foods such as Nepali dal bhat, Tibetan soup, and bread, porridge etc.

Is this trek appropriate for me?

Our company ensures Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley is moderate to fairly challenging trek. So, we confidently announce that it is not appropriate for all trekkers. Trekkers might suffer from high altitude and thin air. But, it requires inspiration and passion which makes your trek successful. Although you have an average health condition, your positive attitude and strong determination can help to accomplish this trek. For making comfortable walking, adjusting to changing climate, our package manages the facility of acclimatization in needed place as well as 5-6 hours walking per day. If you have already accumulated hiking and jugging experiences that will be beneficial to adjust to the situation; although if you do not have that is not a big problem. However, Amazing Nepal Trek & Expedition cordially request to have medical checking before you plan to start any trekking and hiking.

Briefing of the Tour:

You will be briefed about the trek, you will be given information file, and importantly introduced with your guide.

Trekking Crews:

We will provide government registered, well-trained English Speaking guide, who holds enough knowledge about responsible tourism and eco-friendly tourism

We will also provide an assistant guide who is ready to help you with every situation.

We will provide a porter is provided to every two of you, and he will be carrying not more than 25kg.

We get our crews’ life get insured.

Certificate:

After the trek is over, you will be provided with ANTE adventure certificate.

Size of Group:

Trekking Group Size of our group can range from two people to ten people. In case you want to travel alone, do not hesitate to write to us. We will plan accordingly. In case, you more than ten people, please do let us know so that we can develop and improvise plans and itinerary.

Acclimatization:

Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit is as much difficult as it is technical. We give special priority to its technical sides as well. For this, we have designed an itinerary to allow you get acclimatize naturally. We know the particular location you need to stay for rest, and the particular distance you need to walk slowly and so on. In case you get high altitude sickness, we have crews who know how to deal it effectively and smartly.

How to respond to Altitude Sickness?

  • Please do carry first aid box
  • Please consult your physician
  • Please do keep on informing our crews if you feel uneasy
  • Please do walk in the group so that you can help each other

Travel Insurance:

We would like to recommend you to get your trekking insured. Since you are trekking in probably one of the wildest and challenging routes, you need to be cautious of anything inevitable. You may need helicopter evacuation and get your trip canceled. You may get injured and get your baggage theft and so on.

Permits and fees:

The government local body charges some small amount of fee for every you make to the World Heritage sites, National Park, restricted areas along climbing. The price we charge includes all the fees.

If you want to book a trekking package with Amazing Nepal Trek and Expedition and still wondering about the essential equipment for your trekking journey, here we are more than happy to offer our checklist for your references. Please make necessary amendments to our checklist as per your need and convenience. For some case, if you couldn’t get any of these listed equipment/gears in your hometown or you’re in a rush before you fly to Kathmandu, don’t worry! The listed necessary items mentioned below can be easily purchased here.
Except for your day pack, all luggage will be carried by porters. A porter is available for two people who will carry maximum up to 25 kg. So, you have to be careful while packing your bag or luggage.
 
Moreover, there is an allowance of 15kg per person on domestic flights. Additional personal items are not needed for the trekking portion of the trip which can be kept in the hotel’s storage room without extra cost.

Below is the checklist of equipment that is required for the trek:
 
HEAD

  • Buff headwear /neckwear
  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Head Torch

UPPER BODY

  • Cotton T-shirts or Thermals
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Down-filled jacket  (Your own Down Jacket is strongly recommended, but Amazing Nepal Trek also supply complimentary down jacket which is needed to be returned after the completion of the trek)

LOWER BODY

  • Lightweight cotton pants (long)
  • Waterproof Pants
  • Thermal underwear

FEET

  • Thin inner socks
  • Thick and warm wool hiking socks
  • Comfortable Hiking boots
  • Sneakers /slippers

HANDS

  • Gore-tex gloves

ACCESSORIES

  • Sleeping bag rated to - 20°C (Your own sleeping bag strongly is recommended, but Amazing Nepal Trek also supply complimentary sleeping bags which is needed to be returned after the completion of the trek)
  • Trekking bags/duffel bag (Amazing Nepal Trek will supply complimentary water and windproof duffel/kit bag, but one extra big duffel bag/suitcase is necessary for items that are left at the hotel in Kathmandu)
  • Large plastic bags (For keeping items dry inside trek bag)
  • Trekking poles (Optional, Recommended)
  • Water bottle or camel bag
  • Toiletries
  • Towel
  • Sewing Kit
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, and lip balm
  • The First-aid kit; should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band-Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea
  • Re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking if any particular
  • Wet wipes 
  • Reading or writing material
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Saskia, Nederlands

We went with the 2 of us end of April until half May. 
We had a great trekking with guide Lakpa and porter Sonam. The scenery is just stunning! Also, teahouses and food is pretty good up there. 

We originally booked Manaslu circuit with tsum valley (around 21 days). But as time went we decided to not go to Tsum valley. They told us there was a dangerous part at that time in Tsum valley, so we didn't feel confident enough. (just know that the paths in Tsum valley are not as developed as the paths around Manaslu as we were told be other tourists). It would be nice if we would have known that beforehand. Since we didn't have a lot of experience. We even would say some parts of Manaslu can be 'adventurous!! But this is where you need your guide for :):):)

After we decided not to do tsum valley we took it slowly and had some easy days of walking. Lakpa was really flexible so I think we changed our itinerary daily;).

We had an amazing experience and got more confident every day as Lakpa and Sonam were helping us at the difficult moments.
Definitely would recommend this agency! Just let you inform wel about tsum valley. The mountains change all the time.

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Jenna Barker, Australia

We had a great experience! The Amazing Nepal team was very professional, from Nirmal and his office staff, to our guide and porter. At every moment, if we had doubts or questions, they were there, ready to assist. The Manaslu trek was tremendous. Everywhere we turned, it was another postcard view! I'd like to give a special shout out to our guide, Ram Chhettri, who made the experience better at every opportunity, from his extensive knowledge of the trails and the names of all the mountains, to his willingness to answer any silly question we came up with. He made sure that we remained on track, ate well and stayed healthy, acclimatized and hydrated, and in general had a smooth and enjoyable experience, despite the rigorous trekking schedule. He also interfaced very well with our porter, Dipesh, who carried twice as much as us and always arrived at our destination before us, so our extra equipment and sleeping materials were there waiting when we arrived. We will definitely be using Amazing Nepal again for future trips!

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Anna Ye, HK

Couldn't recommend this company highly enough. At every stage we were looked after from airport transfers and accommodation to the trek itself. We were fortunate to have most wonderful guide Ram who was very friendly, informative and well experienced. If you find yourself if his group you're in for a great time! Thank you Amazing Nepal!!

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Desislava Miteva, Ukreine

I choose Amazing Nepal Trek because they had by far the best customer service. Nirmal, the man you will message with from abroad, was super organised and replied within a day. I hiked around Manaslu, and it was a great, tough hike. My guide, Ram, was super professional and knew everything about the local Manaslu restricted area. I was travelling as a girl solo, but on the way, I met plenty on other travelers and it was always a good time.

I met other travelers from Amazing Nepal while I entered in the Anapurna trails, and they also loved it and were super satisfied. This is a great company and I would definitely use them again if i ever go back hiking in Nepal :)

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Lisa Potter, Ireland

I have just returned from completing the Tsum Valley trek in Manaslu region. Actually this was my second trip I have completed EBC with amazing nepal and once again it was a great success. Amazing Nepal trek and Expedition is a local company with local knowledge using local guides which means you are always seeing the best of Nepal regardless of the adventure you are joining them on.  My trip to Manaslu Tsum Valley was a big one for me and was quite challenging due to the extreme cold (-20) and the mild effects of altitude sickness. My guide Raju was nothing short of outstanding ensuring that I understood everything regarding our trek and what to expect, ensuring my welfare was priority at all times. 

The trek was breathtaking not only for the views but also because of the inclines! Nepal has definitely captured my heart and I will be back a third time, with ANTE for another adventure soon.

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Ele Petti, Italy

Amazing Nepal is an amazing company as their name. I went on their Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley trek with two others friends. During the trek we were treated extremely well and our guide always made sure we were comfortable. I highly recommend Raju, our guide. He went above and beyond when after the trip was over I got food sickness and he came to the hospital to help take care of me. As I stated, at this point the trip was over and yet he still came to help me. I should also note that I never got sick on trip. I got sick afterwards from food in Thamel. Book with Amazing Nepal Trek and Expedition, you won't regret it.

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Gustaf Arfors, Sweden

Amazing Nepal was the best! This is a bit of an extreme kind of vacation and from their multi-page list of things to bring to their communication and guidance along the trek, their personalized care and customer service is just truly exceptional. I traveled alone and joined a group of seven others and at no time during the trip did I ever feel unsafe or out of my element-they were wonderful and run an exceptional program. I highly recommend this team if you're contemplating going to Nepal for this or any of their other treks. Truly a wonderful, life changing experience J

Rating
Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley - 24 days
Jordan Jeffrey, Australia

Raju, my guide, was incredibly kind and knowledgeable about the entire trek. Always happy to answer all the questions that I had. A great, hardworking, and trustworthy guide who helped me achieve the trip of a lifetime. We had a best trek ever, making it all the way over Larkya-La. I highly recommend Amazing Nepal Trek and Expedition for your trekking in Nepal. They are professional, respectful, and really good at what they do. 

They also do a fantastic job at making you think that the days won't be as absurdly difficult as they are, which helps morale, especially at 17,000 feet!

Rating

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