Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek 15 Days

Day 01: Arrival, hotel transfer & welcome dinner O/N Hotel (D)    

Upon your arrival, a representative from Manaslu Adventure Treks will warmly welcome you at the airport with a flower garland and ensure a smooth transfer to your designated hotel in the city. Once you check in and settle, the representative will provide a detailed program briefing, including an overview of your upcoming trip.

If time permits, you can explore the local area on a short walk. This will allow you to acclimate to the environment and enjoy the surroundings. The day concludes with a special welcome dinner hosted at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine and get acquainted with fellow travelers and the Manaslu Adventure Treks team.

Day 02: Arrangement of trekking permit, O/N Hotel (B)

The day will be spent in Kathmandu to arrange the necessary trekking permits for the Tsum Valley Trek. A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required because the Tsum Valley region falls under a restricted area. A Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card is mandatory for treks in restricted areas. After completing the permit arrangements, you may have the rest of the day free to relax or explore the local areas of Kathmandu Valley.

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (930m) via Arughat (550 m) 8-9 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

After breakfast, your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu towards Arughat, a small town in the Gorkha district. The drive takes you through winding roads, rural villages, terraced fields, and the beautiful Trishuli River. After reaching Arughat, you will continue on a more rugged road towards Machhakhola. You stay overnight in Machhakhola.

Day 03: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1410 m) 7-8 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

You start the trek by crossing the Machhakhola River, then ascend through the forested paths. The trail leads to Tatopani (1100m), known for its natural hot springs, where trekkers often stop to relax. Then, you continue uphill through rhododendron and oak forests. From Tatopani to Thulo Dhunga (1300m), the path follows a series of rocky outcrops and forested trails with small villages and terraces. The final stretch to Jagat (1410m) involves gradually climbing several suspension bridges. As you approach Jagat, you encounter its terraced fields and traditional stone houses. You stay overnight in Jagat.

Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2390 m) 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail starts with a gradual descent to the river, followed by a steady climb through lush forests and terraced fields. As you pass by small settlements such as Salleri and Sirdibas, you are greeted with stunning views of Shringi Himal and glimpses of local life. The trail continues across a suspension bridge to Philim, a culturally rich Gurung Village. From here, the route diverges from the main Manaslu Circuit, entering the secluded and mystical Tsum Valley. A peaceful forest walk with bamboo groves and cascading waterfalls leads to Lokpa, the first village in the Tsum valley, where you stay overnight.

Day 05: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2390 m) (Lower Tsum Valley) 7-8 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Lokpa to Chumling, taking you deeper into the heart of the Lower Tsum Valley. The journey begins with a descent through a dense pine and rhododendron forest, followed by a series of ups and downs along a narrow, rugged path carved into steep hillsides. As the trail winds above the Budhi Gandaki River, breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and distant snowy peaks emerge. After crossing a long suspension bridge over the Siyar Khola, the path gradually ascends to Chumling, a picturesque village, nestled at the base of the Shingri Himal. You stay overnight in Chumling.

Day 06: Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3010 m) (Upper Tsum Valley) 7-8 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail ascends from Chumling to Chokhangparo, marking the transition from the Lower to the Upper Tsum Valley. The day begins with a pleasant walk through fertile farmlands, crossing several suspension bridges over the roaring Siyar Khola. As the trail climbs higher, the landscapes become increasingly dramatic, with expansive views of Ganesh Himal and the valley opening wide to reveal ancient stone walls and scattered chortens. The path continues through pine and juniper forests, dotted with Mani walls inscribed with Buddhist prayers and symbols. Upon reaching Chokhangparo, one of the largest and most culturally rich villages in the Upper Tsum valley, you are welcomed by traditional Tibetan homes, smiling locals, and awe-inspiring views of Himalchuli and other snow-capped peaks. You stay overnight in Chokhangparo.

Day 07: Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile/Mu Gompa (3361 m) 7-8 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the journey continues from Chokhangparo to Nile/Mu Gompa, taking you deeper into the sacred heart of the Upper Tsum Valley. The trail follows a gentle ascent along the Siyar Khola, passing through traditional villages like Lamagaon, Pangdun, and Chhule, where ancient Buddhist murals, Mani walls, and chortens line the path, reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual heritage of the region. As the valley narrows and climbs higher, the air grows thinner and colder, while the landscapes become more barren and majestic. Along the way, yak herds graze peacefully in alpine meadows, and the presence of ancient monasteries adds to the mystical aura of the journey. You can choose to stay in Nile, the last permanent settlement in the valley, or continue to Mu Gompa, one of the region’s oldest and most significant monasteries.

Day 08: Trek from Nile/Mu Gompa to Chokhangparo (3010 m) 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you retrace your route from Nile/Mu Gompa to Chokhangparo, offering a different perspective of the stunning Upper Tsum Valley. After soaking in the serene morning atmosphere at Mu Gompa or the Nile, the descent begins along the banks of Siyar Khola. The trail, though familiar, feels new as you pass through the timeless villages of Chhule, Pangdun, and Lamagaon, as you are mesmerized by their spiritual charm and cultural richness. The wide valley, flanked by snow-capped peaks and dotted with grazing yaks, unfolds in all its peaceful grandeur under the soft afternoon light. As you return to Chokhangparo, the welcoming smiles of the villagers and the cozy atmosphere of the settlement offer a comforting sense of homecoming. You stay overnight in Chokhangparo.

Day 09: Trek from Chokhangparo to Chumling (2386 m) 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you trek back to Chumling from Chokhangparo, descending gradually through the serene landscapes of the Upper Tsum Valley. The trail retraces the path past familiar villages such as Domje and Rainjam, offering a final glimpse of the unique stone houses, vibrant prayer flags, and ancient Mani walls that define the spiritual essence of the region. As you move downhill, the crisp mountain air begins to warm, and the surroundings shift from high-altitude openness to lush forests and terraced fields. Crossing suspension bridges and winding through rhododendron and pine forests, the trail eventually brings you back to Chumling, where you stay overnight.

Day 10: Trek from Chumling to Deng (1860 m) 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Chumling back to Deng, rejoining the main Manaslu Circuit after exiting the mystical Tsum Valley. The day begins with a descent through dense forests and across several suspension bridges, retracing the path to Lokpa, where the Tsum Valley route diverges. From Lokpa, the trail continues with a steep descent toward the Budhi Gandaki River, followed by a series of uphill and downhill stretches that pass through narrow gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The path feels more rugged and wild here, with occasional troops of langurs seen in the trees above. The trail winds past small settlements like Nyak and Bihi Phedi before finally arriving at Deng, a small but lively village situated on the hillside above the river. You stay overnight at Deng.

Day 11: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630 m) 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you start the day with a gentle climb through lush forests of bamboo and rhododendrons, crossing several small rivers towards Bihi Phedi (2300m). Then you continue to Ghap (2380m) through pine and cedar forests, with occasional views of the surrounding mountains. As you come across Namrung (2660m), the trail starts to steepen slightly, with fantastic views of the peaks, including Manaslu. The village is situated on a plateau with terraced fields and a few Buddhist Stupas. You stay overnight in Namrung.

Day 12: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3530 m) 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

The trail from Namrung to Lihi (2900m) passes through lush forests, barley fields, and small settlements with views of Ganesh Himal and Simnang Himal. From Lihi, you trek through terraced fields and enjoy the first full view of Manaslu while you reach Lho (3180m). You can visit the Ribung Monastery at Lho. Then you ascend gradually towards Syala (3520m) through forests and pastures with close-up views of Manaslu and Naike peaks. The trail flattens as you reach Samagaon (3530m), a scenic village surrounded by majestic mountains, where you stay overnight.

Day 13: Acclimatization at Samagaon O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today is acclimatization day at Samagaon. This day allows your body to adapt to higher altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness before proceeding to even higher elevations. Then, you can hike to Birendra Taal (3690m), a beautiful glacial lake, about 1.5 hrs from Samagaon. Finally, you can hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m), which takes about 5-6 hrs round trip from Samagaon. Here, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding glacial fields.

Day 14: Trek from Samagaon to Dharamshala (4460 m) 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you trek from Samagaon to Dharamshala following a gentle incline along the Budhi Gandaki River. You pass through yak pastures, juniper bushes, and stark landscapes with views of surrounding peaks. Along the way, you encounter Mani walls, chortens, and remnants of Tibetan influence. Then, you climb steadily, passing through barren landscapes and sparse vegetation, until you reach Larkya Bazaar. This seasonal Tibetan trading hub, now largely abandoned, offers a glimpse of its historical significance. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Larkya Peak and Naike Peak. Finally, you reach Dharamshala (4470m), a simple lodge area at the base of Larkya La Pass, also known as Larke Phedi. You stay overnight at Dharamshala.

Day 15: Trek from Dharamshala to Bhimtang (3720 m) via Larkya La Pass (5106 m) 8-9 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you begin the trek before sunrise to ensure good weather for the pass crossing. Then you ascend to Larkya La Pass via a steep, challenging climb over rocky and icy terrain. You can get stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II at the pass, depending on the weather conditions. The top of Larkya La Pass is marked by prayer flags, providing a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Then you descend gradually through glacial moraines and rugged terrain, eventually to grassy meadows as you approach Bhimtang (3740m). You stay overnight at Bhimtang.

Day 16: Trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani (1960 m) 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you begin the trek by descending from Bhimtang, where you will see majestic views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Himlung Himal. You pass through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and charming villages. You travel along Yak Kharkha and Sagure Kharkha, offering picturesque meadows, Kharche village, Goa village, and Tilije. The trail descends from Tilije through lush forests and traditional villages. Then you cross suspension bridges and follow the Marsyagdi River to reach Dharapani (1960m). You stay overnight in Dharapani.

Day 17: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1900 m) 8-9 hrs O/N Hotel (B L D)

After breakfast, a private vehicle takes you back to Kathmandu. This day transitions to a smooth ride back as you approach the end of your journey. Arriving in Kathmandu may feel like a cultural shift after spending days in the mountains. The remaining part of the day is free in Kathmandu, which allows you to relax, explore the city, or do some last-minute shopping. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local Nepali restaurant and travel arrangements to your destination.

Day 18: An Official end of the trip and departure to the airport (B)

On the final day of your journey, a special Trip Conclude Ceremony will be organized by Manaslu Adventure treks. During this heartfelt event, the team will express gratitude for your participation and acknowledge the memorable experiences shared throughout the adventure. Also, the clients are free to provide feedback, which is valuable for the team to understand their experience and gather insights to improve future trips. As a token of appreciation, a souvenir will be presented to you, symbolizing the lasting memories of your adventure and deep connection to Nepal’s culture and natural beauty.

The day concludes with a final goodbye and transfer arrangements to your onward destination, whether to the airport or your next journey within Nepal. The team will ensure your departure is smooth and filled with warm wishes for future travels.