Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek

A Journey Through Majesty and Mystique!
The Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek offers a captivating blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural immersion, and a challenging adventure, making it a dream destination for seasoned trekkers seeking an unforgettable Himalayan experience. 

The trek embarks from Soti Khola, following the enthralling Budhi Gandaki River. Lush valleys adorned with emerald forests, dramatic gorges carving through the earth, and majestic snow-capped peaks painting the horizon - this diverse panorama will leave you awestruck.

Beyond the Larkya La lies the mystical Tsum Valley, a secluded haven steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Witness ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, vibrant prayer flags adorning every path, and the serene lifestyle of the locals. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and cultural richness of this hidden gem.

This trek demands moderate fitness levels. Be prepared for diverse terrains, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather conditions. But the sense of accomplishment and the profound connection with nature you'll gain make it an unparalleled adventure. Larkya La, the trek's highest point at 5,160 meters, demands determination and resilience. But witnessing the breathtaking views of Manaslu (8th highest mountain in the world) and the surrounding Himalayan giants from the summit makes every step worthwhile.

• The ideal Season for this trek is Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer pleasant trekking conditions.
• You will need to obtain a special permit to trek in the Manaslu region. 
• Train yourself to ensure you can handle the demanding terrain and high altitude.
• You should be prepared for cold weather, especially at higher altitudes.

Embark on this extraordinary journey, and let the Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek unveil its majestic landscapes, cultural treasures, and a sense of accomplishment that will resonate long after your return.

Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu 
Altitude: (1350m/4428ft)
Meals Plan: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

On arrival to Kathmandu; we will greet you at the airport and transfer to your trip hotel. Later we meet and take you and brief you on the Tsum Valley Cultural Trek with us and introduce your trekking guide. Evening, we host welcome dinner at one of the finest local restaurant in Kathmandu with music and ethnic dance. Overnight at Kathmandu Hotel.

Day 02: Day Guided Tour in Kathmandu Valley. Trek Preparation Day
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Activities: Kathmandu sightseeing
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Today after breakfast we will start the half-day tour of Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu Valley is probably one of the most interesting cultural valleys with a superb blend of Hinduism and Buddhism and mega edifices dedicated to deities of these religions. Moreover, the historic courtyards and palaces inside Kathmandu are artistically fascinating, which date back to ancient and medieval eras. Firstly, we will visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus- Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is an abode of thousands of devotees, Sadhu (holy men/Baba). The sights of cremating dead bodies most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati is an offbeat cultural experience. From Pashupatinath we drive to nearby Boudhanath, the biggest Buddhist monastery in Asia-  This Stupa is one of the holy Stupas. You can circumambulate around this mega shrine clockwise to witness Himalayan culture scattered everywhere at Boudhanath.

Day 03: Drive to Arughat Bazaar & To Sotikhola - 7 to 8 hours drives
Altitude: 800m/2652ft
Activities: Driving
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

Today an early start takes us on an 8-9-hour ride to Sotikhola in the Gorkha district. As you follow the Budi Gandaki River, you will notice on arrival that the town is located on both sides of the riverbank. Arughat Bazaar is a pleasant town with many shops selling any last-minute supplies that you may need for your journey. After tea break at Arughat, we continue drive to Soti Khola. On arrival at SotiKhola we will explore the village, Overnight at Sotikhola.

Day 04: Trek to MachhaKhola 
Altitude: 1000m/3280ft
Activities: 5 to 7 hours walks
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

Today after hot breakfast we trek to Machha khola, which translates as Fish River in English. Above the river is a village with the same name – Machha khola. This village is also the joining point for the Great Himalayan Trail as it heads up the East bank of the river and goes in the direction of the Ganesh Himal. Overnight at Machha khola.

Day 05: Trek to Jagat 
Altitude: 1410m/3214ft
Activities: 6-7 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa 
Altitude: 2240m/7347ft
Activities: 6-7 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling 
Altitude: 2386m/7826ft
Activities: 4-5 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 08: Trek from Chumling to Chhekampar 
Altitude: 3031m/9941ft
Activities: 4-5 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 Chhekampar.

Day 09: Trek from Chhekampar to Nile 
Altitude: 3361m/11024ft
Activities: 4-5 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 10: Hike to Mu Gompa (3700) and trek to Chhekampar via Rachen Gompa
Altitude: 3031m/9941ft
Activities: 6-7 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

After a nice breakfast; we go hiking to make an exploration day to famous and religious Mu Gompa without taking our luggage. We are now almost close to the Tibetan border. Walk to the west bank of the valley through the Tibetan landscapes. Climb up to the Mu Gompa (monastery). Then after, we make a visit to the Dhephu Doma Gompa. We descend down to hotel for lunch and trek down to Chhekampar via Rachen Gompa a Buddhist nunnery and retrace back to Chhekampar

Day 11: Trek to Lokpa 
Altitude: 2240m/7347ft
Activities: 7-8 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

It is same way back to Lokpa via Chumling again though there is an alternative trail via Ripchet that detour at the bridge. Here, we will be following the trail into forest again. Spending a night at Lokpa we will arrange to shift towards Deng. Stay overnight at guesthouse.

Day 12: Trek from Lokpa to Ghap 
Altitude: 2300m/7544ft
Activities: 7-8 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 13: Trek from Ghap to Lho 
Altitude: 3180m/10430ft
Activities: 5-6 hours walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodges

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 14: Trek from Lho to Samagaun 
Altitude: 3390m/11120ft
Activities: 3-4 Hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail from Lho climbs through quite a beaten forest towards Shyala (352m), then the trail on crosses the slope that drains Punggen glacier and reaches Samagaon through a nice flat area where you will always see lovely views of Yaks grazing. O/N at Mt. Lodge in Samagaun.

Day 15: Day Exploration in Samagaun 
Altitude: 3390m/11120ft
Activities: Explore the surrounding
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we will spend the full day of acclimatization and exploration in Samagaon. Samagaon is a lovely village, where houses are aligned in rows along a small river and face nice courtyards. The fields are located on both sides of the village above its houses level. Lodges are located north of the village, and they are full of action especially during the Manaslu climbing expedition’s periods. A day trip could be taken from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp – the first station of the Manaslu expeditions, and villagers are often called to help carry stuff to and from the base camp, adding them a significant source of income. While spending an extra day in Samagaun, you could do a day trip to Manaslu Base Camp or visit Punggen Gumba and enjoy exploring the village, etc. O/N at Samagaun at Mt. Lodge.

Day 16: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo 
Altitude: 3800m12464ft
Activities: 3-4 Hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, our trek to Samdo is short due to the altitude gain and acclimatization proposes. With easy morning and breakfast, then cross Budi Gandaki river through the wooden bridge into the side stream. Here, it has intersection to go to, Manaslu Base Camp (on North) and to Samdo Village. From here, the trail ascent ups the village of Samdo. Samdo is a tiny lovely village located just under the majestic Samdo peak (6335m) and the Samdo glacier. Only a few lodges are available here. From Samdo, we could also have the option of making a day side trip to Tibetan Border (Subject to security). O/N at Guest House in Samdo.

Day 17: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (Also known as Larke Phedi) 
Altitude: 4460m/14629ft
Activities: 4-5 Hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Samdo, the trail will continue passing through passing fields and old mani walls, then descend to the river and cross the wooden bridge to Larkya Bazaar which used to be a very famous old Bazaar for trading to this region peoples but now nothing really remains. From here, the trail starts to climb with a view of huge Larkya Glacier ahead. A final push over with steep climbing closed the Larkya Glacier and to reach Dharmasala for the overnight. Dharamshala is a wide gradual mountain slope with the campsite and a lodge called "Larke Rest House”. It was renovated in 2011 and now equipped with Guesthouse facilities for an overnight stay, but in offseason, it could get closed. O/N at Guest House. 

Day 18: Trek from Dharmasala to Larkya Pass & Trek Down to Bhimtang (3720m/12202ft) 
Altitude: 5213m/17099ft at Larka La
Activities: 7-8 Hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This is “the big day” so an early start is a must. With light and quick breakfast, with the support of headlamp or torch at early morning (5:00), start walking to Larkala passes. Immediately above from Dharmasala, the trail becomes rocky as it goes along a moraine. In almost two hours walking, you reach a beautiful turquoise lake that reflects the surrounding snowy mountains. Depending on the season that you reach here, the lake could be partially frozen but in colder months, it may be totally frozen. Further, the trail climbs on numerous rocky moraines – hills. These rocky hills and snowy ridges beyond now surround you. Just before Larke pass, there are several small shallow lakes, before the final climb to the prayer flags marking the first part of Larke Pass. It takes 4-5 hours to reach Larke Pass from Dharamshala. From the top, the mountain vista to the west is incredible - Himlung Himal (7126m), Chap Himal, Gyaji Kang, Kang Guru (6981m) and Annapurna II (7937m) seen great. Now after a top, the trail is followed by a steep tiresome descend down through a slippery trail towards the moraine of Salpudanda glacier. The trail then becomes gradual as it goes along the moraine and parallel to Bhimtang glacier towards Bhimtang. O/N at Bhimang. 

Day 19: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilje (2300m) then to Dharapani 
Altitude: 1860m/6101ft
Activities: 5-6 Hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Bhimtang is a small settlement with few guesthouses, surprising spot located between Bhimtang glacier and the slopes of Larke Himal range. View from Bhimtang is great on Annapurna’s with stunning views of Mt. Lamjung, Himlung, Annapurna and Mt. Manaslu itself. The vegetation here is lush and colorful, and the trail crosses the foot of the Bhimtang glacier through fantastic scenery. From here, we mostly descend through the rhododendron and firs forest and long pastures take you to the lovely village of Tilche (2300m). And village has a welcoming atmosphere, with a few lodges, and it is rich with agricultural activity. Exit the village through a stone arch, cross the Dudh Khola and follow along its embankment descending through the scrub forest. The walls of the Marsyangdi Valley loom larger and finally, the houses of Dharapani appear in the distance. Pass through Thonje via a wooden bridge and through a Chorten-shaped arch and Dharapani lies across a long suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi. Dharapani is in the regular and famous trail to Annapurna Circuit. O/N at Dharapani. 

Day 20: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Activities: 7-8 Hrs drive 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we we will take available local Jeep sharing drive to Besisahar. From Besisahar we drive to Kathmandu. This drive is picturesque, landscapes and natural. On arrival to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel. Free time. In the evening, we meet again, take feedback of your trek with us and host farewell dinner at one of the finest restaurants in town. O/N at Hotel.

Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu 
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Activities: Departure
Meals: Breakfast

Today is a day for last-minute souvenir and gift shopping. After breakfast, as per your flight schedule we will transfer you to the airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight.
“End of our services” 

Cost Includes:

• All ground transportation in Kathmandu by private vehicle (Including airport pick and drop) 
• 03 Nights twin sharing three star standard deluxe accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
• Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the typical Nepalese restaurant
• Tsum Valley Trek Permit, Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit, Fees & TIMs card
• Kathmandu to Arughat to Soti Khola & return transfer by private Jeep drive (7 to 8 hours drive- each way)
• Tsum Valley Trek on full board of meals (B, L, D, tea /coffee in cups only), seasonal fruits etc. 
• Tsum Valley Trek accommodation in comfortable Mt. Lodges & Guest Houses on twin share- (Few Nights will be in attached bathroom/hot shower)
• One Advanced Adventures Trek Leader (Gov. Licensed, first aid, altitude trained/experienced and eco trained), assistance leader/s in a group, their entire expenses, equipment and insurance 
• One trek porter to carry trek luggage’s for every two trekkers in a group, all payment, trekking equipment and insurance 
• Sleeping Bags and Down Jacket for Trek use (Need to return after trek), Trek Duffle Bag and T-shirt, Trekking Maps & Adventure Certificate 
• Group Medicine kit Box
• All Gov. and local taxes as applicable 
• Final departure transfer from Kathmandu to airport on your departure

Cost not Includes:

• Nepal Visa, International flights in/out Nepal 
• Lunch & evening meals in Kathmandu (If any) 
• Cost of beverages such as mineral water, coca cola, Beer etc., cost of battery charge, laundry etc. on trek 
• Travel insurance (Must include Helicopter evacuation, Medical Exp. and trip cancellation) 
• Personal trekking gears 
• Personal nature expenses & Tips 
• Any extending trips

Passport & Visa Information
Nepal visa is the easiest visa to obtain; you may buy your Nepal visa at your nearest Nepalese Embassy/ Consulate or Mission offices abroad or buy this upon on arrival to Kathmandu international airport as per your convenient. You have to have 2 passport size photographs, Visa fees in US cash & valid passport at least for 6 months valid at the starting of the trip.

Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Group Size
In this Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek, the minimum group size would be two and maximum group size is ten or more on request. We can also organize private trip to solo person with single supplement cost. Else, join our estimated group departure dates available online or ask us with your personal dates, we will open group date on the same date.

Our Guides, Trip & Safety
Because these hikes take you on the remote Himalayan region, it is very essential that you are accompanied with the very experienced and qualified & equipped leader for the safe and successful trip. We Advanced Adventures employee the local trek guide and stuff who are trained and qualified on the trip we worked on. Our guides are trained and licensed from Nepal Gov, certify from TAAN & Nepal Mountaineering Association. All of our leading Trekking and Climbing Guide are experience from last 8 to 10 years. We have train them specially for your trip, to cater the flexible needs of our peoples in the group joining from different countries, this double assure you that your trip is at the right and professional hands.

At every trip, there would be our one Trek leader and one assistance leader on each additional 2 peoples on the trek- this arrangement would ensure that even if any of our guide/ assistance guides get sick or if any travelers gets sick and need to be back or delay the days of walking, it would still works smoothly and there would not be any impact on our original trek plan. Also each two trekker would have one Sherpa helper for carrying your trekking bags.

Acclimatization 
There is no way to prepare for altitude other than to spend time at altitude. Being in very good physical condition will help ameliorate some of the exhaustion that people often feel, but it will not prevent altitude caused medical problems such as Acute Mountain Sickness. This itinerary is designed with a high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) in mind and to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure trek in the Himalayas. Staying well hydrated and getting plenty of rest may help. 

The maximum elevation of this trek will be reached at at altitude of 6119m above sea level. Obviously this altitude range is high, but as we would be e range of altitude, and we are hiking from the 820m to this altitude range with enough days of hiking en route, it is not considered a high risk zone for AMS. However, AMS could affect to the peoples indifferently. 

Travel Insurance & Vaccination
You must obtain personal travel insurance to join us for our Himalayan trips. You must be having a travel insurance which must cover helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and medical expenses. And it is suggested that you buy your insurance policy from you homeland country before traveling as it is difficult buying local travel insurance policy for foreigners in Nepal. 

Vaccination is required to plan to your trip to Nepal but it is not a must to have thing to come, but highly suggested. Your doctor will have the information of vaccination you would require to the country you will be traveling. 

Hepatitis A, Japanese Encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid and Malaria etc. are the recommended vaccination for traveling to Nepal. 

Meals and Accommodations
While in Kathmandu, your accommodation is at 3 star deluxe hotel that comfort your stays in city and while in trek, your accommodation is at Mt. Lodge and Guest House which is clean and comfortable. During climb we use tented camps. Our entire accommodation is at twin share unless stated but single supplement accommodation is also available on personal request at the additional cost of US$- 450.

In city, only breakfast is included on the offered trip itinerary but while in trek full board of meals is included (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, and Tea- Coffee). We provide you food from the local tea- house/ Mt. Lodge from en route. Breakfast and dinner is to be provided from the same tea- house/ guest house we would overnight but lunch would be en route in between.

Foods provided are depends on the availability of the Mt. lodges we would be staying but in general, you can have Nepalese foods (Dal Bhat), Tibetan fried bread, various soups, Momo’s (steamed dumplings), potatoes, pastas and even a version of pizza! So, over all you have a different choice of food on trek.

Trekking Season
We do have two best seasons to attempt this climbing to Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek. We always suggest you to come at the right time of the year as far as possible to enjoy this trip at best weather condition. 

Spring: - (March, April, May) - Best warmest time to trek & climb. Rhododendron flowers in bloom- excellent trails and clear skies, best visibility. Good Temperature, warmest weather of the year.

Autumn:- (Mid September, October and November) - Excellent trails, clear blue skies, best visibility. Best Time to Trek & Climb

Winter Months: - (December, January and February) are also good, but it’s obviously colder. You have to be prepared for this. It is up to you to plan this trek/trek at this cold time or not.

Summer: - Monsoon, so rain and visibility can be a big issue (from Mid June, July and August). We do not suggest you this time for the trek/climb.

Caring Porter
Our porter are fully equipped and insured for each trip they are undertaking with us. As you know that we are very sincere with the porter issues and their situation while on trek thus we make sure that our porter are fully prepared for the trip. We are closely working with International Porter Progress Association for the welfare and befit for the touristic porters. The maximum load carried by our porter is 20 to 25 KG maximum so be sure that your trekking bag so not load more than 12 KG.

To Book
Once you would choose which trip you would like to book with us, write us with the information or phone us on our phone number for the trip booking confirmation. We have online trip booking option, you may go on that link, choose your trip and date and follow the instruction with information required and summit us. Once your trip booking request would be received, we would suggest you the final trip booking procedure with advance payment of the trip. Non-refundable deposit of 20% (per person) is required to confirm a place on your selected adventure.

Please do not hesitate to contact us in relation to any questions you may have regarding our trip booking Process.