Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal's isolated treks, a compelling and off-the-beaten-track journey. It takes hikers into Nepal's isolated areas, presenting stunning scenery, varied cultures, and historic Buddhist monasteries. This ultimate adventure trip is an alternative to the heavily travelled Everest and Annapurna regions.
This route is getting more popular. The trek offers trekkers an exceptional experience by fusing the Manaslu Circuit's allure with the Tsum Valley's peaceful charm.
"Beyond the Beaten Path: Unveiling the Mystique of the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Circuit Trek in the Himalayas"
The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek takes hikers through the secret valley of Tsum and up close to Mount Manaslu. Mount Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters. It is isolated from Tibet in the north, which has majestic Himalayas. The region covers deep forests, gorges and rivers in the south.
The trek features roaring rivers, waterfalls, and complex rocky pathways clinging to cliff sides. You will experience remote villages with terraced rice fields and lengthy suspension bridges that test one's mental stamina. You will explore mani walls, chortens, and other Buddhist temples, especially on the Tsum Valley stretch.
One of Nepal's most secluded treks in the Himalayas is the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. The Boudha, Siringi, and Ganesh Himal peaks provide an imposing background for this journey. Tsum means vivid. The Tsum Valley lies in the heart of the most isolated and hidden Himalayan valley on the Tibetan border.
The Tsum Valley, a restricted area until 2008, is a less crowded trekking route in Nepal. It adds a portion of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and is one of Nepal's most picturesque valleys.
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek delivers a singular and unmatched Himalayan adventure. It is a less-travelled route in the beautiful Himalayas, with the ideal balance of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure.
The combination of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences makes the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek a truly rewarding and enriching adventure for trekkers seeking an extraordinary journey in the Himalayas.
Yes, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a restricted area trekking route in Nepal. Trekkers must get specific permits from the Nepalese government to do this trek. The permits are necessary to safeguard the preservation of the region's delicate environment and distinctive culture while regulating the number of tourists.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek requires four main permits: the Manaslu Restricted Permit, the Tsum Valley Restricted Permit, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
The trekking agency will handle the paperwork and apply for the permit on your behalf.
Flat rate for all months: US$35 per week per person.
The best time to trek the Manaslu Tsum Valley is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. These months offer the most favourable weather and optimal trekking conditions, providing a fantastic and enjoyable experience.
The difficulty level of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is moderately to strenuous. The rugged terrain challenges the trek, but it is not technical. As it is strenuous, it demands a good level of physical fitness and strong leg muscles.
The trek doesn't require previous trekking experience. However, it is more helpful if you are an experienced hiker. When navigating the Larkya La Pass, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek reaches its highest point. The pass, which rises to a height of roughly 5,160 meters (16,929 feet) above sea level, is the journey's highest point.
One of the hike's most challenging and rewarding sections is crossing the Larke La Pass. The trail climbs through rugged terrain to the top of Larke Pass, which offers stunning panoramic views of the nearby peaks and glaciers. The trail then steeply descends to Bhimtang, demanding perfect knees.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek covers a wide range of elevations through various landscapes and high-altitude regions. The trek starts from Machha Khola at 700 meters. Then, the trail leads the higher route to reach Larke Pass. You will pass several villages to Larke Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.
Once you leave Machhi Khola, you reach Jagat. Jagat is the entry point of the restricted Manaslu Tsum Valley. Then, you will pass Lokpa, Chamling, Chokang Paro, Nile, Mu Gompa, and Rachen Gompa around Tsum Valley. You will reach 3,700 meters to 4,000 meters in Tsum Valley.
After Tsum Valley, you join the route to Manaslu from Deng. You will pass Namarung, Samagaun, Samdo and Dharmasala. Samagaun is at 3,530 m, where you do an acclimatisation before heading to Larke Pass.
You stay overnight at Dharmasala (4,460 m), the last place before Larke Pass (5,106 m). In conclusion, the elevation of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek ranges from 700 meters to 5,106 meters.
The starting point for the trek is typically the village of Machha Khola, and the endpoint is Dharapani. The trek is about 177 kilometres (110 miles) from the Machha Khola to Dharapani.
Public transport (local buses), private vehicles (four-wheel drive) and local sharing jeeps are available for this trek. So, it is up to you which transport you want to use for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek per your budget. Public transport is much cheaper than private transport.
It is around 160 kilometres from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. It is around a 7-8-hour drive by private jeep or local bus, depending on road conditions and the type of vehicle used. It is around 215 kilometres from Dharapani to Kathmandu and takes around 7-9 hour drive.
During the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you will find basic yet comfortable lodging and traditional Nepali meals at the teahouses and lodges along the trail. The availability of food and accommodation may vary from one village to another, with more limited options in the remote and higher altitude regions.
Teahouses and lodges are the primary accommodation options along the trekking route. These are simple guesthouses run by local families or entrepreneurs, providing a bed in a shared room or a private room (in some places) with basic amenities.
In larger villages like Samagaon and Samdo, you may find relatively better facilities and more comfortable lodges.
Teahouses and lodges on the trek offer a menu with a variety of dishes, ranging from traditional Nepali cuisine to continental.
Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup), a typical Nepali meal, is a popular and hearty choice among trekkers as it provides a good source of energy.
As you gain altitude and trek into more remote regions, the menu choices might become more limited. The availability of fresh produce may be reduced, so some items on the menu might be subject to availability.
Most teahouses also offer tea, coffee, and hot beverages to warm you up during the colder days.
Electricity is available in some teahouses but it is limited and may not be available throughout the day. Some lodges charge extra for charging your electronic devices.
Mobile network coverage is available in some villages, but it might be sporadic or unavailable in more remote areas. It's best to inform your loved ones about limited communication during the trek.
Hiring a guide and porter is mandatory for the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Circuit Trek. The cost for a licensed guide can range from USD 25 to USD 40 per day. The cost for a porter can range from USD 20 to USD 30 per day. The guide's and porter's fees are typically shared among the trekking group.
The guide and the porters will not leave you alone from the beginning to the end of the trek. They will continuously be helping you by carrying your luggage, serving you food, arranging your accommodation and helping you accommodate to a new culture and environment.
For an 19-21-day trek with a moderately sized group, a rough estimate of the total budget can be between USD 1,200 to USD 1,800 per person which includes transportation, permits and fees, travel insurance, food and accommodation, guides and porters, and some miscellaneous expenses.
The budget is provided as a general estimate and can vary based on individual preferences, trekking itinerary, and unforeseen circumstances.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek typically takes around 18-20 days to complete.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Machha Khola (Drive), 910 m
Day 02: Machha Khola to Jagat, 1340 m
Day 03: Jagat to Lokpa, 2240 m
Day 04: Lokpa to Chumling (Entering Tsum Valley), 2390 m
Day 05: Chumling to Chhokang Paro, 3030 m
Day 06: Chhokang Paro to the Nile, 3360 m
Day 07: Nile to Mu Gompa, 3700 m
Day 08: Exploration Day at Mu Gompa
Day 09: Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa, 3240 m
Day 10: Rachen Gompa to Chumling, 2390 m
Day 11: Chumling to Deng, 1860 m
Day 12: Deng to Namrung, 2635 m
Day 13: Namrung to Samagaon, 3510 m
Day 14: Samagaon to Samdo, 3875 m
Day 15: Samdo to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi), 4460 m
Day 16: Dharmasala to Bimthang (3590 m) via Larkya La Pass
Day 17: Bimthang to Tilije, 2300 m
Day 18: Tilije to Dharapani, 1860 m
Day 19: Dharapani to Kathmandu (Drive)
Ans - Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is classified as a restricted area trekking in Nepal, so solo trekker is not allowed to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. The trekkers have to be part of a registered trekking agency and have a government-authorized guide for the entire trek.
Ans - The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves reaching high altitudes, long days of walking, and varied terrains. Proper physical fitness and acclimatization are crucial.
Ans - Mobile network coverage is available in some villages along the trail but may be sporadic or unavailable in more remote areas. Wi-Fi is limited and often comes with an additional cost.
Ans - Altitude sickness is a concern, so proper acclimatization is crucial. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before the trek and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Successful Trekking Advice
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek may be a highly rewarding journey that offers hikers breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and a sense of success with the correct planning and a positive mindset.
The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Circuit Trek is more than just a hike—it's a journey through time and environment. It's an opportunity to regain our sense of adventure and marvel at the magnificence of pristine landscapes. The trek also provides an opportunity to learn about the varied Himalayan culture.
As we venture off the main path, we become one with the mountains, profoundly impacted by their beauty and allure.
Always remember to hike responsibly, showing respect for the environment and local culture.
