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  • calanderDuration :19 Days
  • local-expertsGroup Size :2
  • local-expertsMaximum Altitude :5201 m
  • local-expertsDificulty Level: Challenging
  • local-expertsBest Seasons: All Seasons
  • local-expertsAccomodation:

    Hotels and Tea Houses

  • local-expertsTransportation: Private Vehicle
  • local-expertsFitness: Fit

Overview

The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek is a stunning and culturally rich trek in the Manaslu region of Nepal, offering a less crowded alternative to the more popular treks in the country. The trek takes you through the remote and sacred Tsum Valley, home to ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and traditional villages, where Tibetan culture and customs remain largely intact. The journey also circles the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trek is challenging, with diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests and terraced fields to high mountain passes and glacial terrain. It is ideal for trekkers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion in a relatively untouched part of Nepal.

Trip Highlights

    • Stunning views of Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak.
    • Challenging high-altitude pass with panoramic mountain views.
    • Sacred valley with ancient monasteries and preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture.
    • Dramatic landscapes with deep gorges, waterfalls, and lush forests.
    • Sacred meditation site of the Tibetan saint Milarepa.
    • Interaction with Gurung and Tibetan communities and their unique traditions.
    • Range of landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and rugged mountains.
    • Offers a serene and less commercialized trekking experience.

Tour Itinerary

Namaste & welcome to Mandala Holidays! Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by a representative from Mandala Holidays. After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a Mandala Holidays with Group leader's name display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to the Hotel. (Overnight at hotel).

The transfer from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola in the Manaslu region is a long but scenic drive that typically takes about 8-9 hours, covering around 140-160 kilometers. The journey begins on a well-paved highway, passing through the Trishuli River valley, offering beautiful views of terraced fields, small villages, and the river. As you approach the Manaslu region, the road becomes more rugged and narrow, with sections of bumpy, unpaved paths. The drive, while challenging, is rewarding with stunning landscapes and a gradual transition from urban to rural Nepal. Maccha Khola, a small village along the Budhi Gandaki River, serves as the starting point for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

The trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat is a moderately challenging journey that typically takes around 6-7 hours, covering approximately 22 kilometers. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, leading you through lush forests, terraced fields, and several small villages. The path involves both ascents and descents, with some narrow, rocky sections, as well as suspension bridge crossings over the river. Along the way, you will pass through villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where you can take a break and enjoy the local culture. As you approach Jagat, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with steep cliffs and deep gorges. Jagat is a small, traditional village marked by stone-paved streets and offers a glimpse into the local way of life, making it a memorable stop on your trek.

The trek from Jagat to Lokpa is a scenic and moderately challenging journey that typically takes around 5-6 hours, covering approximately 16-18 kilometers. The trail begins with a steady ascent, passing through lush forests and terraced fields as you follow the Budhi Gandaki River. You will cross several suspension bridges and pass through small villages, including Salleri and Sirdibas, where you can observe the local culture and lifestyle.

As you continue, the trail gradually climbs and narrows, with the river cutting through deep gorges. The landscape becomes more rugged, and the views of the surrounding hills and distant peaks are stunning. Lokpa, a small, isolated village, is your destination for the day. It offers a peaceful environment and a chance to rest before continuing your trek deeper into the Manaslu region.

The trek from Lokpa to Chumling is a scenic journey that takes around 4-5 hours, covering approximately 11-13 kilometers. The trail begins with a descent through a dense forest, followed by a crossing of the Siyar Khola (river) via a suspension bridge. After crossing, the path ascends gradually, winding through forests and offering glimpses of the surrounding hills and distant mountains.

As you approach Chumling, the landscape opens up, revealing the beautiful lower Tsum Valley, known for its rich cultural heritage and Tibetan influence. Chumling is a traditional village with stone houses and fields of barley and potatoes. The village provides stunning views of Ganesh Himal and offers a peaceful atmosphere to rest and explore the local culture, including visits to nearby monasteries and prayer wheels. This day’s trek introduces you to the unique culture and natural beauty of the Tsum Valley, a hidden gem in the Manaslu region.

The trek from Chumling to Rachen Gompa is a rewarding journey that takes about 5-6 hours, covering a distance of approximately 13-15 kilometers. The trail ascends gradually as you move deeper into the Tsum Valley, offering increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You will cross the Siyar Khola again and pass through picturesque villages like Gho and Chhokangparo, where you can witness the strong Tibetan Buddhist culture that defines the region.

As you trek higher, the landscape becomes more open and expansive, with terraced fields, mani walls, and chortens (Buddhist shrines) dotting the path. Rachen Gompa, your destination, is a significant and serene nunnery located at around 3,240 meters. It is one of the largest nunneries in the Tsum Valley and a spiritual center for the local community. The gompa is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a peaceful environment for trekkers to rest and reflect. The trek to Rachen Gompa not only provides a cultural immersion but also stunning views and a sense of tranquility in this remote region.

The trek from Rachen Gompa to Mu Gompa is a relatively short but spiritually significant journey, taking about 4-5 hours and covering approximately 10-12 kilometers. The trail continues deeper into the upper Tsum Valley, gradually ascending as you move closer to the Tibetan border. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and rugged, with fewer trees and more open, windswept terrain.

Along the way, you will pass through small villages like Nile, where you can observe the traditional Tibetan lifestyle and architecture. As you approach Mu Gompa, the views of the surrounding peaks, including the Ganesh Himal range, become more prominent.

Mu Gompa, located at around 3,700 meters, is the highest and most remote monastery in the Tsum Valley. It serves as an important spiritual and cultural site, offering trekkers a chance to experience the deep Buddhist traditions of the region. The gompa is home to monks and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, making it a serene and contemplative place to end your day's trek.

The trek from Nile to Chumling is a long but rewarding journey that typically takes about 7-8 hours, covering approximately 20-22 kilometers. The trail begins with a descent from the higher elevations of Nile, retracing your steps through the upper Tsum Valley. You will pass through the village of Chhokangparo and continue along the Siyar Khola, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and lush valleys.

As you descend, the landscape transitions from the rugged, barren terrain of the upper valley back to the greener, more fertile areas of the lower Tsum Valley. The trail involves both ascents and descents, with some sections passing through dense forests and across suspension bridges.

The trek from Chumling to Deng is a diverse and moderately challenging journey, taking about 7-8 hours and covering approximately 20-22 kilometers. The trail starts with a descent through lush forests and terraced fields, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You will cross the Siyar Khola and retrace some of your earlier steps, gradually making your way out of the Tsum Valley.

As you continue, the trail involves both ascents and descents, with sections that pass through small villages and dense forests. You will rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit route near Lokpa, then continue along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through villages like Philim and Ekle Bhatti.

The landscape becomes more rugged as you approach Deng, with steep cliffs and deep gorges. Deng is a small, traditional village located at around 1,860 meters, surrounded by terraced fields and offering a glimpse into the local culture. It’s a peaceful place to rest after a long day of trekking, with the sound of the river and the distant views of the Manaslu range adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

The trek from Deng to Namrung is a scenic and moderately challenging journey, typically taking about 6-7 hours and covering approximately 19-20 kilometers. The trail begins with a gradual ascent, following the Budhi Gandaki River through a deep and narrow gorge. As you trek, you will pass through small villages like Rana and Bihi Phedi, where you can observe the local culture and traditional Tibetan Buddhist influences.

The trail continues with a mix of ups and downs, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you ascend, with towering cliffs and distant views of snow-capped peaks.

As you approach Namrung, the trail climbs more steeply, leading you to this larger village at an altitude of approximately 2,630 meters. Namrung is a culturally significant stop on the Manaslu Circuit, known for its stone-paved streets, traditional houses, and vibrant Tibetan culture. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal, and serves as an excellent place to rest and acclimate before continuing your trek further into the Manaslu region.

The trek from Namrung to Lho is a relatively short but scenic journey, taking about 4-5 hours and covering approximately 10-12 kilometers. The trail begins with a steady ascent through lush forests and passes through small villages such as Lihi and Sho, where you can see fields of barley, potatoes, and wheat, along with traditional Tibetan-style houses.

As you climb higher, the landscape opens up, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Naike Peak. The trail is dotted with mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels, reflecting the strong Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.

Upon reaching Lho, you are greeted with stunning views of Manaslu, especially from the large monastery that overlooks the village. Lho is a picturesque village with a rich cultural atmosphere, making it an ideal place to rest and soak in the majestic mountain scenery. The village also offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local people and the opportunity to explore the nearby Ribung Gompa, adding to the spiritual experience of the trek.

The trek from Lho to Samagaun is a scenic journey that takes about 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 12-14 kilometers. The trail begins with a gradual ascent from Lho, passing through lush forests and terraced fields. As you continue, you will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb steadily, gaining elevation as you approach the higher reaches of the Manaslu region.

The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu and its neighboring mountains, as you trek through traditional villages like Shyala. The path is adorned with mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags, reflecting the area's strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.

Upon reaching Samagaun, situated at around 3,530 meters, you will find it nestled in a picturesque valley with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Samagaun is a larger village compared to others on the trek and serves as a key acclimatization stop before continuing towards the Manaslu Base Camp. The village offers a chance to explore local culture, visit the nearby Pungyen Gompa, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Manaslu region.

The trek from Samagaun to Samdo is a relatively short but notable journey, taking about 4-5 hours and covering approximately 7-9 kilometers. The trail begins with a steady ascent from Samagaun, following the Budhi Gandaki River and gradually climbing through rugged terrain and alpine meadows.

As you trek, you will enjoy increasingly expansive views of the surrounding peaks, including the impressive Manaslu and the Larkya Glacier. The path is adorned with mani walls and prayer flags, reflecting the region's strong Tibetan Buddhist culture. You will pass through the small village of Kher, which offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Upon reaching Samdo, situated at around 3,860 meters, you will find it nestled in a high-altitude valley near the Tibetan border. Samdo is a traditional Tibetan village with a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the peaks of the Manaslu range and the nearby glaciers. It serves as an important acclimatization stop before continuing towards the higher altitudes of the trek.

An acclimatization day at Samdo, situated at around 3,860 meters, is essential for adjusting to the high altitude and preparing for the higher elevations of your trek. This day is best spent resting and allowing your body to adapt to the reduced oxygen levels. Begin with a relaxed morning, focusing on hydration and nutrition to support your acclimatization. Light activities, such as gentle walks to the nearby Larkya Glacier or the old Tibetan trading post, are recommended to help your body adjust without overexertion. Exploring Samdo itself offers insights into local Tibetan culture and traditions, with opportunities to visit small gompas and interact with the villagers. The day also provides a chance to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, enhancing your trekking experience. Additionally, use this time to ensure your gear is in order and review the route to the Larkya La Pass with your guide, preparing yourself for the challenging segments ahead. This acclimatization day is crucial for minimizing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a smoother trek through the Manaslu region.

The trek from Samdo to Larkya Phedi is a significant and scenic journey that typically takes around 4-5 hours, covering approximately 10-12 kilometers. The trail begins with a gradual ascent from Samdo, moving through a high-altitude landscape marked by rocky terrain, alpine meadows, and sparse vegetation.

As you trek, you will traverse through several small streams and cross the Budhi Gandaki River one last time. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Larkya Glacier and the towering summits of the Manaslu range. You will pass through areas with large boulders and glacial moraine, providing a stark and dramatic contrast to the earlier, more verdant sections of the trek.

Upon reaching Larkya Phedi, located at approximately 4,450 meters, you will find a base camp area at the foot of the Larkya La Pass. This is a crucial stop for acclimatization and preparation before tackling the challenging pass. The area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the glacier, setting the stage for the next day’s ascent to the Larkya La Pass.

The trek from Larkya Phedi to Bhimthang via Larkya La is a demanding yet rewarding journey that typically takes about 8-10 hours. The trek covers approximately 18-20 kilometers and involves crossing the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of around 5,160 meters.

The day begins with an early start as you ascend from Larkya Phedi through rugged, rocky terrain and glacial moraines. The trail is steep and can be challenging, but the views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Manaslu and the Annapurna range, are truly spectacular. As you approach Larkya La Pass, you will traverse snowy and icy sections, and the thin air at high altitude can make the ascent demanding.

Reaching Larkya La, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and glaciers. After spending some time at the pass to enjoy the vistas and take photographs, you will begin the descent towards Bhimthang. The trail down to Bhimthang is less steep but still requires careful navigation due to the rocky and uneven terrain.

Upon arrival in Bhimthang, situated at around 3,720 meters, you will find a beautiful alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks. Bhimthang is a welcome resting point with stunning views, providing a serene environment to recover after the challenging crossing of the Larkya La Pass.

The trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani is a long and varied journey that typically takes about 7-8 hours, covering approximately 22-24 kilometers. The trail starts with a descent from Bhimthang through lush forests and alpine meadows, gradually transitioning to lower altitudes.

Initially, the path descends steeply through dense woods and terraced fields, crossing several small streams and rivulets. You will pass through villages like Gho and Tilje, where you can observe traditional local architecture and rural life. The trail continues along the Dudh Khola River, providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape and the lower hills.

As you approach Dharapani, you will navigate through terraced farmland and traditional settlements. Dharapani, situated at around 1,860 meters, is a bustling village and a key junction on the Annapurna Circuit, offering a range of amenities and a chance to interact with other trekkers.

This leg of the trek marks a significant change in scenery as you move from the high-altitude, rugged terrain to the more temperate and fertile lower regions. Dharapani provides a comfortable resting point after a long day of trekking, with the opportunity to relax and reflect on the journey.

The drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu typically takes about 8-10 hours, covering a distance of approximately 160-200 kilometers. The journey begins with a descent from the mountainous terrain of Dharapani through winding roads, eventually reaching the more populated and developed areas closer to Kathmandu.

The route takes you through scenic landscapes, including terraced fields, lush forests, and river valleys. As you travel, you will pass through small towns and villages, observing the daily life of rural Nepal. The road can be bumpy and winding in sections, particularly as you navigate through the hilly regions.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will enter the bustling city, transitioning from the tranquil mountain environment to the vibrant urban atmosphere. The drive offers a chance to relax and reflect on your trekking adventure as you make your way back to the city.

It's your last day in Nepal! Grab some breakfast, and then take in some last-minute shopping in Kathmandu. We'll make sure you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport with plenty time before your flight home. At this time, we'll say our goodbyes and bid you farewell, armed with warm memories and gorgeous photos to show your loved ones.

Trekking Equipments

TREKKING GEAR

1. Ruck sack bag with rain cover. 

2. Day Pack Bag – Recommended for treks with summit day

3. Head Torch with spare batteries. 

4. U V protection sunglasses. 

5. Water Bottles: 1 liter bottle for each trekkers

FOOTWEAR

1. Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes 

2. Pair of lightweight Slipper/Sandals 

CLOTHING

1. Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. 

2. Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 

3. Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking

4. Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. 

5. Undergarments. Qty – 1 for every day of trekking

6. Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck.

7. Full sleeves sweater. 

8. Rainwear ( Jacket & Pants ).

9. Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. 

10. Woolen cap. 

11. Sun shielding Hat. 

TOILETRIES

1. Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)

2. Sun screen lotion small pack. 

3. Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

MISCELLANEOUS

1. Camera (Optional) 

2. Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.

3. Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional

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