Manaslu & TSUM Valley Trek 22 Days - 22 Days
If you're looking for more than just a typical trek, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit offer one of the most authentic Himalayan adventures in Nepal. Far from the crowded trails of Everest and Annapurna, this journey takes you through remote mountain villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes that still feel untouched by mass tourism. It is a place where nature, culture and spirituality come together in a truly special way.
This 21-day expedition goes beyond the standard route to give you a deeper experience of the region. You'll explore the sacred Tsum Valley, known for its peaceful Buddhist culture and centuries-old traditions, visit beautiful alpine areas such as Kalatal and walk through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. Along the way, you'll meet local communities, learn about their way of life and enjoy the quiet beauty of a region that remains largely unchanged.
The adventure reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of Nepal's most stunning mountain crossings. Surrounded by towering peaks and incredible views, the pass marks the perfect finale to an unforgettable trek. Challenging, rewarding, and deeply inspiring, this journey is ideal for travelers who want to experience the wild heart of Nepal in its purest form.
Expedition Overview
| Expedition Feature | Details |
| Trip Duration | 22 Days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu) |
| Highest Elevation | 5,160 m (16,929 ft) at Larkya La Pass |
| Trek Type | Himalayan trekking expedition |
| Terrain | Mountain trails, stone steps, forests, glacial moraines, and high-alpine landscapes |
| Accommodation | Traditional teahouses and local homestays |
| Price | € 2,155 per person |
| Included Services | Restricted area permits, conservation fees, local transportation, professional guide, porter support, and all meals during the trek |
Why Manaslu Trek is ideal for you?
- Less crowded and more authentic than Everest and Annapurna.
- Spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world's 8th-highest peak.
- Cross the stunning Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
- Explore the sacred and hidden Tsum Valley.
- Experience rich Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions.
- Walk through diverse landscapes, from forests to glaciers.
- Visit ancient monasteries and remote mountain villages.
- Enjoy genuine local hospitality in traditional teahouses.
- Perfect for trekkers seeking adventure, solitude, and culture.
- One of Nepal's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path treks
Overview of Trek Itinerary (Quick View)
| Day | Route | Max Altitude | Duration | Highlights |
| 1 | Kathmandu → Simjung Goganpani (Gorkha) | 1,500 m | 6–7 hrs (local bus) | Scenic drive through the Trishuli ,Marshyangdi and Dauradi valleys into the hills of Gorkha. |
| 2 | Simjung Goganpani → Barpak | 2,000 m | 7 hrs | Trek to the historic Gurung village of Barpak. |
| 3 | Barpak → Laprak | 2,100 m | 4 hrs | Mountain ridge walk with views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu. |
| 4 | Laprak → Khorla Besi | 970 m | 6–7 hrs | Descend into the Budhi Gandaki gorge through forests and waterfalls. |
| 5 | Khorla Besi → Jagat | 1,370 m | 5–6 hrs | Suspension bridges, hot springs, and entry into the Manaslu region. |
| 6 | Jagat → Lokpa | 2,240 m | 4–5 hrs | Leave the main Manaslu trail and enter the sacred Tsum Valley. |
| 7 | Lokpa → Chumling | 2,363 m | 4 hrs | Forest trails, river crossings, and views of Baudha Himal. |
| 8 | Chumling → Chekampar | 3,010 m | 4–5 hrs | Traditional Tibetan villages, monasteries, and mani walls. |
| 9 | Chekampar → Nile | 3,361 m | 4–5 hrs | Visit ancient settlements and sacred Buddhist sites. |
| 10 | Nile → Mu Gumpa → Nile | 3,700 m | 3–4 hrs | Excursion to the highest monastery in Tsum Valley. |
| 11 | Nile → Lokpa | 2,240 m | 7 hrs | Descend through the upper Tsum Valley. |
| 12 | Lokpa → Deng | 1,860 m | 5–6 hrs | Rejoin the Budhi Gandaki trail. |
| 13 | Deng → Prok | 2,365 m | 6 hrs | Trek to the traditional village of Prok. |
| 14 | Prok → Kalatal Lake → Prok | 4,000 m | Full day | Excursion to the hidden alpine Kalatal Lake. |
| 15 | Prok → Lho | 3,180 m | 5–6 hrs | Spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu and Ribung Monastery. |
| 16 | Lho → Shyala → Pugen Glacier → Shyala | 3,500 m | 5–6 hrs | Explore Shyala and the impressive Pugen Glacier. |
| 17 | Shyala → Birendra Lake → Sama Gaon | 3,520 m | 5–6 hrs | Visit Birendra Lake and continue to Sama Gaon. |
| 18 | Sama Gaon → Manaslu Base Camp → Sama Gaon | 4,400 m | 5–6 hrs | Acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp. |
| 19 | Sama Gaon → Samdo → Dharmasala | 4,460 m | 7–8 hrs | Trek through Samdo and continue to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi). |
| 20 | Dharmasala → Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) → Bhimthang | 5,160 m | 10 hrs | Cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass and descend to Bhimthang. |
| 21 | Bhimthang → Tilje → Besisahar (4WD) → Kathmandu | 2,300 m | Full day | Trek to Tilje, drive to Besisahar, and return to Kathmandu. |
Day to Day Itinerary
The trail climbs steadily through farms and Gurung villages. Life here feels simple and closely connected to the land. What to expect: Stone steps, friendly locals, and a steady uphill walk. Don’t miss: Barpak’s traditional village and its powerful earthquake history. What to do: Take it slow and enjoy village interactions.
You enter high mountain terrain with dramatic views of Manaslu dominating the skyline. What to expect: Cooler air and wide alpine landscapes. Don’t miss: First close full view of Mt. Manaslu. What to do: Take sunset views around Lho seriously—they are unforgettable.
A scenic day exploring glaciers and open mountain amphitheaters. The scale of the landscape becomes overwhelming. What to expect: Cold winds and snow-covered terrain. Don’t miss: Pugen Glacier beneath the massive south face of Manaslu. What to do: Dress in layers and move carefully on icy sections.
You descend slightly into the main valley and visit a beautiful glacial lake. This is a key acclimatization stop. What to expect: Tibetan-influenced villages and glacier-fed landscapes. Don’t miss: Turquoise Birendra Lake at the base of Manaslu glacier. What to do: Hydrate well and take short walks.
A demanding hike takes you close to Manaslu Base Camp. You return to Sama Gaon for recovery. What to expect: Rocky terrain and noticeably thinner air. Don’t miss: Expedition tents and glacier views at base camp area. What to do: Go slow and watch for altitude symptoms.
A short climb takes you to Samdo, a traditional Tibetan-influenced village near the border. What to expect: Cold, dry winds and open landscapes. Don’t miss: Unique borderland culture and lifestyle. What to do: Rest and eat well for the final push.
You climb steadily to the final stop before the pass. The environment becomes harsh and minimal. What to expect: Strong winds and very basic accommodation. Don’t miss: Old trade route ruins along the trail. What to do: Prepare gear and rest early for the pass day.
Accommodation During the Trek
Your accommodation changes gradually as you move from rural hills to remote Himalayan highlands. The style ranges from simple village stays to basic high-altitude mountain lodges.
Days 1–5 (Gorkha Foothills):
You stay in simple, locally run teahouses and community lodges in villages like Barpak and Laprak. Rooms are basic but clean, with shared facilities and a strong homestay feel. Expect warm hospitality rather than comfort.
Days 6–11 (Tsum Valley – Sacred Sanctuary):
Accommodation becomes more traditional and remote. You will stay in local homestays and small guesthouses, including monastery-run lodges near places like Mu Gumpa. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with wooden beds, thick blankets, and very simple facilities. Electricity and hot water are limited or unavailable in many places.
Days 12–21 (Manaslu Circuit & High Altitude Zone):
As you rejoin the main Manaslu trail, teahouses become more structured and consistent. In key villages like Sama Gaon, Samdo, and Bhimthang, you may find slightly improved comfort, sometimes with hot showers and basic attached bathrooms for an extra charge. Food variety also improves on the main circuit.
At Dharmasala (4,460m), conditions become extremely basic again. The lodge is a simple stone shelter built for survival and acclimatization before crossing Larkya La Pass. It is cold, crowded, and functional rather than comfortable, designed purely to support the final high-altitude push.
Food available during the Trek
Food along the Manaslu and Tsum Valley route is simple, filling, and designed to give you energy for long trekking days. As you go higher and more remote, the menu becomes smaller, but the meals stay warm, fresh, and freshly cooked in each teahouse.
Common meals throughout the trek:
You will mostly find Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables), noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, potatoes, eggs, chapati, and basic Tibetan dishes. Breakfast usually includes porridge, pancakes, eggs, bread, and tea or coffee. Meat is limited in higher regions due to transportation constraints.
Don’t Miss Foods (and Why)
- Dal Bhat power 24 hour - Nepalese everyday diet for unlimited refills, balanced nutrition, and perfect for long hiking days.
- Tibetan Butter Tea (Tsum & Upper Manaslu) - A salty, buttery tea that helps you stay warm and hydrated in cold, high-altitude regions. It is also part of local culture.
- Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup) - Ideal for cold evenings, this warm noodle soup is light, easy to digest, and very comforting after long walks.
- Momos (dumplings) - A popular Himalayan snack filled with vegetables or meat. Great for quick energy and a cultural must-try.
- Potato dishes (especially in higher villages) - Locally grown, organic, and rich in energy, potatoes are a key food source in remote mountain areas.
- Tsampa (roasted barley flour, Tsum Valley) - Traditional Tibetan staple food, often mixed with tea or butter. High in calories and deeply cultural.
- Garlic soup (Samdo region) - Locals believe it helps prevent altitude sickness. Even if it doesn’t cure anything medically, it warms the body and aids digestion at high altitude.
- Apple pie (lower Manaslu villages like Bhimthang/Tilje) - A surprising reward at the end of long trekking days — fresh, sweet, and a sign you’re getting closer to road access again.
Food becomes simpler as altitude increases. In lower regions, menus are more diverse, while in higher villages like Samdo and Dharmasala, choices are limited to basic but calorie-rich meals. Everything is freshly cooked, but availability depends on seasonal supply and remoteness.
The key rule is simple: eat warm, eat local, and eat often.
Trek Difficulty: How Hard Is It Really?
This expedition is classified as Strenuous / Challenging (Grade 4 out of 5). It is not a technical climbing route, but it requires strong fitness, stamina, and mental resilience. You will be trekking for long hours across remote Himalayan terrain for three weeks.
| Factor | What It Means in Real Terms |
| Duration | 21 consecutive trekking days with minimal rest |
| Daily Trekking | 5–7 hours on average, sometimes longer on pass or excursion days |
| Terrain | Steep climbs, long descents, stone steps, river valleys, and alpine trails |
| Endurance Requirement | You must be comfortable walking long distances day after day without full recovery days |
The biggest strain is not one single day, but the continuous effort over three weeks.
The Crux (Larkya La Pass – 5,160m)
- The toughest day starts around 3:30 AM in freezing conditions
- Steep ascent over rocky moraine and possible snow sections
- Reaching 5,160m Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek
- Followed by a long ~1,500m descent into Bhimthang
This is a full-day physical and mental challenge requiring pacing, hydration, and focus.
Trail Conditions & Exposure
- Narrow paths carved into steep Budhi Gandaki gorge walls
- High, swaying suspension bridges over deep river valleys
- Mixed terrain: forest trails, scree slopes, glacial sections
- Some exposed areas require careful footing but no technical gear
Altitude Risk Profile
You cross 3,000m around Day 8 and stay above this level for nearly two weeks. This is where altitude becomes a serious factor.
- Risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is real
- Symptoms may include headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite
- Proper acclimatization is essential throughout the trek
Best Time to Go
We have designed this itinerary for Spring (March–April), which is one of the best and most balanced seasons for the Manaslu & Tsum Valley expedition.
| Period | Conditions |
| March | Cold mornings, snow still present at higher passes |
| April | Most stable weather, best trekking conditions overall |
| May | Warmer temperatures, slightly hazier before monsoon |
Why it’s ideal:
Spring is the best combination of safe weather, good visibility, and natural beauty. Lower regions come alive with blooming rhododendron forests, while the high mountains remain crisp and dramatic.
What to expect:
- March: Snow on Larkya La Pass, colder nights, winter-like conditions at altitude
- April: Best balance — clearer trails, safer pass crossing, stable weather
- Late April–May: Warmer days, melting snow, easier high pass conditions
Don’t miss:
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom (especially Days 2–7)
- Crystal-clear Himalayan views after cold nights
- Gradual transition from snowy peaks to green valleys
Autumn Season (September to November) — Alternative Window
Why it’s great:
Autumn offers the clearest mountain views of the year after the monsoon clears the air.
What to expect:
- Extremely sharp visibility of Mt. Manaslu and surrounding peaks
- Stable weather with dry trekking conditions
- Much colder nights at higher elevations
- Busier trails compared to spring
Best for:
Photographers and trekkers prioritizing mountain clarity over solitude.
Quick Summary
- Best overall season: Spring (March–April)
- Best for views: Autumn (October–November)
- Your itinerary match: Perfectly aligned with spring conditions and snow transition timing at Larkya La
Includes and Excludes for Trek
FAQs
No technical experience is required, but good fitness is essential. You should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily on steep and uneven terrain for several days in a row.
It is the hardest day of the trek. You will walk for around 10 hours at high altitude (5,160m), starting early in freezing conditions, followed by a long descent. Proper pacing and acclimatization are key.
Yes, because you spend many days above 3,000m. However, the itinerary is designed with gradual ascent and acclimatization days to reduce the risk significantly. Slow walking and hydration are very important.
You will stay in simple teahouses, homestays, and basic mountain lodges. Facilities are modest but clean, with twin-sharing rooms and limited hot showers in higher regions.
Meals are freshly cooked in teahouses. The main staple is Dal Bhat, along with noodles, soups, rice, potatoes, eggs, and basic Tibetan dishes. Food becomes simpler at higher altitude.
Yes. You need Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Tsum Valley Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These are all included in the package.
Spring (March–April) is ideal due to stable weather and blooming rhododendrons. Autumn (September–November) offers the clearest mountain views but is more crowded and colder at night.
