Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley

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  • Duration 20 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5213
  • Group Size 2-8
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)

The Manaslu Circuit trek encircles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain on Earth. It is an exclusive and restricted area trek in Nepal that was closed to foreigners until the early 1990s. Even after that, the region remains an untouched gem and is now considered one of the best trekking destinations for adventure treks in Nepal.

Highlights

  • An exclusive and restricted area trek in Nepal that takes you close to Nepal Tibet border
  • Embark on an adventurous journey and explore a corner of the Himalayas where only a few make their way
  • Offbeat terrain, striking mountain views, and breathtaking landscapes
  • Enjoy less crowded trails, walking through peaceful terraces and forested hills, and beautiful villages
  • Push your limits as you ascend the Budhi Gandaki Gorge and conquer the challenging Larkya La Pass
  • Experience a unique mountain lifestyle and get to know Nepali communities like Gurung, Magar, and Nubri
  • Discover the unique flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area
  • Cross thrilling suspension bridges and relish the beauty of cascading waterfalls, streams, and rivers
  • Explore Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pun Gyen Gompa

You might have heard about the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek. These are the two most popular trekking programs in Nepal, as well as the most busy and commercialized ones.

The Manaslu Circuit trek offers way less crowded trails and pristine beauty. The journey is quite raw and challenging. Trekkers searching for something different, adventurous, and daring will love it.Not only that, but you will also enjoy striking mountain vistas and jaw-dropping scenery throughout the journey. In addition to that, experience a simple Himalayan lifestyle and meet with Nepali communities like Gurung, Magar, Nubri, etc.The grandeur of the Manaslu region will leave you in awe. Every day will hold new challenges and experiences. This trek has never-ending adventures and ample time to unwind and enjoy nature.

Bookings are open for Manaslu Circuit trek 2025 and 2026 departures!

What can you expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal?

 

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. From Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek and up to the Larkya La Pass, you will traverse different climatic zones and discover diverse flora and fauna.

 

Please check our Manaslu Circuit trek map below to have an overall view of the route.

 

The trek starts from Soti Khola and ends in Dharapani. The trip is 15 days long but you can also combine a side hike to the hidden Tsum Valley in your itinerary, which will extend the trek to 21 or 22 days.

During the trek, you can see Mount Annapurna dominating the western side of the sky and Ganesh Himal to the east. Mount Manaslu itself is visible from many parts of the trail. Likewise, you will also see views of Simnang Himal, Shringi Himal, Naike Peak, Boudha Himal, etc.It is an off-the-beaten trek. The trail passes through hot lowlands with rice and millet terraces and lush hills to the mighty gorges of Budi Gandaki. The terrain involves many steep and rocky ascends and descends.You will also experience daily altitude gain and the remoteness of the region. Therefore, trekkers must be physically and mentally fit to enjoy the Manaslu Circuit trek.

The trail is connected by many suspension bridges, but you will also cross a few wooden bridges and semi-submerged rocks. Likewise, enjoy cascading waterfalls, streams, and rivers and relish the changing colors of the hills along the trail.In Sama Gaon, we will take an acclimatization break and use this opportunity to explore the Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pun Gyen Gompa. All these three places are accessible from Sama Gaon in 2 to 3 hours of hiking.Then comes Samdo village, which is also a Tibetan refugee village. From here, you can hike to Rui La Pass, once used as a trade route between Tibet. After Samdo, you will spend a night at Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharamsala, and ascend to the Larkya La Pass.Crossing this pass is challenging and involves almost 8 to 9 hours of walking that day. It will be one of the unforgettable days of your trek. Depending on the weather and trail conditions, you may need micro crampons while descending to Bimthang.From the top of the pass, you will behold the most incredible landscape of your life. As you leave the pass and walk along the west corridor, you will see a great glacial cirque and spectacular stream of glaciers created by Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Gyajin Kang wall.

This view alone will make all the hardships of the Manaslu Circuit trekking worthwhile.

 

Cultural engagement during the trek and offbeat trails

The Manaslu Circuit trek is adventurous and culturally fascinating. It passes through beautiful villages inhabited by different Nepali communities. Our guide will help you understand the daily life of the locals and their traditions.You will have memorable interactions with them. The trail is dotted with many stupas and chortens. Pun Gyen Gompa is one of the significant monasteries on the Manaslu Circuit trail that you will visit during your acclimatization day in Sama Gaon.Likewise, the offbeat trails are a bit tricky to navigate and require previous experience. You will climb up and down from many steep hills and gorges. Similarly, cross a few landslide-prone areas on the way and walk through glacier moraine at upper altitude.

 

Why is Manaslu Circuit a restricted area? What does it imply for foreigners?

The Manaslu region is one of the restricted areas in Nepal because it shares a border with Tibet. To maintain border security and protect and preserve the rich biodiversity, the Nepal government has made this region a restricted area for foreigners.Now, interested trekkers have to obtain special restricted area permits to trek or climb in the Manaslu region. Likewise, they have to follow strict rules, like mandatory trekking with a licensed Nepali guide in a group of at least two trekkers.

You can not hire an independent guide to do the Manaslu Circuit trek. Trekking with a local agency like us is necessary.

 

Is Manaslu Circuit trek 15 days suitable for you?

Trekkers have to consider a handful of things before joining the Manaslu Circuit trek 15 days, including their physical and mental fitness, budget, trek duration, time of the year, and overall trek expectations.The challenges of the Manaslu Circuit trek demand strong fitness and previous high-altitude experience. On average, six hours of walking are required. Trekkers also have to adjust to simple tea houses and limited services.

*Note that the Manaslu Circuit trek distance is approximately 180 kilometers.

It will be a life-changing odyssey, but at the cost of your efforts. If you are ready to go beyond your limit and explore the less-trodden realms of the Himalayas, this trek is suitable for you.

 

Who will be your guide and porter during the trek?

You will do the Manaslu Circuit trek with a local Nepali guide who has led many trekkers before. We will provide a friendly and professional guide. He will enrich the journey with his knowledge and expertise.

Our guides are trained to provide first aid, so if you get hurt or sick, they will help you. You do not have to worry about anything. Likewise, our guide will also make the journey fun. You will laugh, sing, and dance a lot.Porters carry the duffle bags for the trekkers. Each trekker can pack up to 9 kg in a duffel bag and 5 kg in a daypack. Trekkers are recommended to pack things that they may need to use while walking, such as water bottles, snacks, documents, cash, sunglasses, SPF, etc, in their daypack.

*Note: Tipping guides and porters is a common practice in Nepal and is expected at the end of their services. If you are happy with their help, we highly recommend tipping them. You can tip as much as you wish.

 

Manaslu Circuit trek preparation and packing

Preparing and packing for the Manaslu Circuit trek is a crucial factor that determines your overall experience. You have to be physically and mentally ready for the trip and well-packed.Physical preparation includes improving your strength and stamina so that you can walk long hours daily on rugged terrain. Likewise, mental preparation involves understanding the region and its remoteness, which will help set the right expectations for the journey.

Finally, you also need to carry proper trekking clothes, gear, and other essentials. Below, we have made a list of things that you will need during the Manaslu Circuit trek:

  • Comfortable, breathable underwear
  • Base layer and thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat, sleeping bag and liner
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (deodorant, SPF, lip balm, toilet paper, wet tissues, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)
  • Cash, travel insurance documents, passport-size photo, valid passport, travel visa

 

Safety and comfort with Top of The World Adventure team

When it comes to trekking in the remotest sections of the Himalayas, where only a few make their way, you need a strong local crew to support you during the voyage.

We, the Top Of The World Adventure team with more than 10 years of expertise, assure you of a hassle-free, comfortable, and safe Manaslu Circuit trek. Our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is tested to provide ample acclimatization opportunities and time with locals.We arrange every aspect of the trek and help you obtain the restricted area permits seamlessly. Our network with the locals along the trail allows you to have the best tea house experience and meals.

Similarly, our complimentary services, such as airport pick-up and drop-off, duffel bag to use during the trek, and transparency to package price, make us a reliable and trustworthy local partner for the Manaslu Circuit trek. You will get high value for your money with us.

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Kathmandu
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Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, the Top of the World Adventure team will greet you. After collecting your baggage, meet our agency staff at the international arrival gate. They will brief you about your trip, provide vouchers, and transfer you to your hotel for a comfortable stay.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

After an early breakfast, depart from Kathmandu on a public bus to Soti Khola. The initial part of the journey is smooth along the highway, but the path becomes rough from Gorkha/Dhading. From Soti Khola, take a sharing jeep to Machha Khola, located 15 km away, which takes around 3 hours. Along the way, pass by an army camp and Khursani Baari, where you can view a 100-meter waterfall from the opposite side. Arrive in Machha Khola before evening and stay overnight.

  • Max Altitude: 930m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, begin your trek along the Budhigandaki River. Enjoy a bath in the hot spring at Tatopani and trek along the steep valley sides. Pass through Doban and Thulo Dhunga before crossing the Budhigandaki River. Approximately an hour before reaching Jagat, see the mesmerizing view of the 158-meter-long cantilever bridge from Yaru Bagar, the first of its kind in Nepal. Jagat is about 22 km from Machha Khola and takes approximately 7 hours to reach. The sight of Jagat’s fields will welcome you for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Enter the restricted region and climb over a ridge to Salleri. Cross the Budhi Gandaki River on a long suspension bridge and witness the valley widen towards Philim. Hike through villages with views of the Tsum Valley and arrive at Lokpa, offering stunning vistas of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal. Stay overnight at a lodge.

  • Max Altitude: 2040m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Descend for half an hour to Lungwa Khola and then climb a zigzag trail for two hours north through pines and rhododendrons until reaching Gumlung. After crossing the Siyar Khola, arrive at Chumling in the Lower Tsum Valley. Chumling is located on the south face of the Shingri Himal, offering an eye-catching view of Shringi Himal. Visit the old Chumling Gompa and the stone streets of the village.

  • Max Altitude: 2386m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today is an easier day compared to the previous one. Begin by crossing the suspension bridge just east of the hotel and traverse through rich farmlands of maize and potatoes. The houses in this area are classic Tibetan style with barricades of firewood on the roofs, but without flat roofs, due to the rain and snow in the region.

Cross a significant landslip area where rocks and floods cleared the terrain, even reaching the opposite bank and killing five people in 1999. This area is now covered with a forest of new trees. As you head up the valley to the east, enjoy superb views of the Ganesh Himal range (7,000-7,400 meters), long suspension bridges on the opposite bank, and the perched village of Ripchet (2,468 meters).

Next, cross the Serpu Khola and climb for over two hours on a well-graded but exposed track to upper Tsum, joining the villages of Chhokang-Paro (3,010 meters). Here, you'll find stone houses with a few iron roofs nestled under cliffs. The valley opens into spacious fields of barley, maize, buckwheat, and potatoes. Note that wheat cultivation has been abandoned due to 'hill bunt,' a disease that causes total crop failure by turning the heads black.

  • Max Altitude: 3000m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Most people can climb to 3,000 meters without experiencing altitude sickness, but the altitude gain in this section above Chhekang-Paro is right at the 300 meters per day suggested for safety. Watch for signs of altitude sickness and be prepared to rest or retreat if symptoms appear.

The friendly locals in this area speak Tsumba, a language related to Tibetan, but they often speak little Nepali and are quite unused to visitors. Begin the trek heading east through small villages and past a local school. Climb over a ridge of chortens and pass through Lamagaon (3,202 meters) across flat fields. Look across the extensive crops and river to the huge courtyard of the Rachen Gompa (3,240 meters), which offers excellent pilgrim accommodation.

At a lodge in Pangchhe, you can pay and get a key to visit Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu), where the bringer of Buddhism to Tibet is reputed to have meditated. The cave is being extensively restored, and a donation of Rs 500 is suggested.

Cross the Shiyar Khola and pass through the hamlets of Phurbe (3,251 meters) and Pangdun (3,258 meters). You will encounter an unusual round stupa before reaching the larger village of Chhule (3,347 meters) through an impressive entrance gate (Kani). There is one homestay in Chhule; turn right above the bridge. The children here wear the traditional Tibetan dressing gown called chubas, and you will see many yaks.

Head upstream to cross the bridge and climb to the Nile (3,361 meters, pronounced "Nee-lay"). Both Nile and Chhule villages feature traditional styles with livestock compounds integrated into the houses and sheltered verandahs for drying crops. Stay overnight at the Nile.

  • Max Altitude: 3361m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Wake up in the valley on the west bank and enjoy the sunrise on the narrowing valley walls, with yaks being put to pasture. The final climb to the large Mu Gompa (3,700 meters) is through dry Tibetan country, with rows of chortens and widening mountain vistas. This is a large monastery with over 100 monks and an ancient gompa visited by David Snellgrove (Himalayan Pilgrimage) in 1956.

On three sides, you will see tantalizing views of the border with Tibet, with frequently used passes to the east (Ngula Dhojyang or Mailatasachin Pass, 5,093 meters) and west (Thapla Bhanjyang, 5,104 meters) just out of sight. Some people climb to Kalung (3,820 meters) or Bhajyo (4,030 meters) and camp, making a day trip to the passes for a view into Tibet. It takes about 4 hours to climb to the pass from Bhajyo and 3 hours to descend.

From Mu Gompa, there are extensive seasonal yak pastures in all directions, the Lungdang Glacier to the east, and high peaks all around. In the early monsoon, in pastures at 5,000 meters, many Tsumba collect the most expensive natural medicine in the world, known as Yarsagumba. This is the caterpillar of a ghost moth parasitized by the fungus Cordyceps sinensis and is worth $10,000 per kilogram in China as an aphrodisiac and cancer cure.

The isolated 600-year-old Dhephu Doma Gompa (3,900 meters) is a 30-45 minute uphill trek on the obvious westward track and has two resident nuns who report seeing snow leopards and musk deer. The inside of the gompa has been repainted by monks from Tibet and features some ancient thankas. Stay overnight at Mu Gompa.

  • Max Altitude: 3700m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Begin your descent from Mu Gompa through forested areas. The trek takes you past Rachen Gompa and Chhule, offering serene views and a tranquil atmosphere. Continue through the lush greenery until you reach the village of Phurbe. This route allows you to experience the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of the region. Stay overnight at a lodge in Phurbe.

  • Max Altitude: 3010m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Begin your descent from Mu Gompa, passing through forested areas and serene landscapes. The trek will take you past the picturesque Rachen Gompa and the charming village of Chhule. Continue your journey until you reach Phurbe, experiencing the tranquil beauty of the region.

From Phurbe, continue descending and cross a suspension bridge near Gho. Enjoy the natural surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere as you make your way to Rainjam Village. After a brief stop in Rainjam, proceed to Chumling for your overnight stay at a lodge. This route offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

  • Max Altitude: 2386m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, enjoy an easier descent as you follow the bank of the Shair Khola River. The trek takes you through several charming villages, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and scenic beauty of the region.

Continue your journey by crossing the Budhi Gandaki River, and experiencing the thrill of walking over suspension bridges. As you make your way through the lush landscape, you'll arrive at the Gurung village of Deng. The Gurung people are known for their warm hospitality and unique cultural traditions, making this an enriching stop on your trek. Stay overnight at a lodge in Deng.

  • Max Altitude: 1860m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Early in the morning, after breakfast, begin your trek with a downhill trail to the Budhi Gandaki River, followed by an uphill climb to Rana Gaon, offering beautiful views of the landscape and rivers. After approximately 45 minutes, you will reach Bihiphedi.

From Bihiphedi, continue trekking towards Gaap, where you will stop for lunch. This leg of the journey takes about 2 hours. After lunch, continue walking for another hour through a dense forest, crossing the river and observing the dense forest, dead pine trees, and other natural wonders.

Next, reach Suksum and begin the climb uphill to Namrung, which takes about an hour. In Namrung, you will encounter people living a Tibetan lifestyle and culture. It is essential to be cautious of potential landslides along today's trek.

As you arrive in Namrung, you will be greeted by mesmerizing views of Saula Himal and the Himalchuli Range. Overall, Namrung is approximately 21 km from Deng and takes about 7 hours to reach. Stay overnight in Namrung.

  • Max Altitude: 2900m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you will trek to the beautiful village of Samagaon. To reach Samagaon from Namrung, you will pass through several charming places, including Banjam, Lihi, Sho, Lho, and Sayla. Along the way, before reaching Lho, you will view a renowned monastery, one of the best in the region, where more than 200 monks, all boys, study.

The path towards Lihi is steep and offers spectacular views of Ganesh Himal, North Himchuli, and Naike Peak on the right. Continue your trek towards Sho, where you will encounter two paths: one leading to Hinayang Monastery and the other to the Manaslu Larke pass. From Sho, it will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Lho, and from Lho, it will take approximately 2 hours to reach Sayla.

From Sayla, it will take about 1 hour to reach Samagaon. From Syala, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of North Himalchuli, Nadi Chuli, Manaslu, North Manaslu, Naike Peak, Saula Himal, and Siringi Himal. The sight of real yaks grazing adds to the satisfaction of the trek. Samagaon is the largest village in the area, originating about 200 years ago from Tibet. It is a popular place for commerce and is the route to Manaslu Base Camp. Stay overnight in Samagaon.

  • Max Altitude: 3500m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

This day is designed as a rest day for acclimatization. You can spend the day relaxing at your hotel and exploring the surroundings of Samagaon. However, if you prefer to hike, there are three excellent options:

Visit Birendra Tal: Located 3 km from Samagaon, Birendra Tal offers a serene and beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Hike to Manaslu Base Camp: This 6 km hike takes about 5 hours to reach the base camp, situated at an elevation of 4,800 meters. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Manaslu Glacier. Crossing the glacier via a bridge will lead you to the naturally stunning base camp area, where you can also explore a nearby cave.

Explore Pungen Monastery: Located 6-7 km from Samagaon, Pungen Monastery offers a flatter trail before reaching the site. This hike provides panoramic views that rival those of the base camp, making it a rewarding option.

  • Max Altitude: 3500
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Samagaon village, begin your trek by walking across a steep hill, then proceed on flat land before reaching your destination, Samdo. Samdo is a Tibetan refugee village situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters. On this day, you will trek through beautiful Juniper and Birch forests, making your way to the base camp.

As you journey through this scenic route, you will witness breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, you will enjoy one of the clearest views of Mount Manaslu. The trek today covers approximately 16 km, offering plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Stay overnight at a lodge in Samdo.

  • Max Altitude: 3690m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Your journey begins in the morning with a downhill trek to the Budhi Gandaki River. After crossing the river, follow an ascent through Larke Bazaar and the Valley of Salka Khola towards Dharmasala. Though Dharmasala is not a traditional lodge, it provides a convenient place to stay overnight.

The distance to Dharmasala is approximately 7 km and will take about 4-5 hours to reach under normal conditions. Along the way, you have a high chance of spotting blue sheep. This area is also known as Larke Phedi. Stay overnight at Dharmasala.

  • Max Altitude: 4450m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Your trek starts early in the morning at around 3 am, providing you with the most beautiful scenic view of the sunrise. The wind at the top will be invigorating for any traveler. From Larkya La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Kangaroo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cho Himal, starting from the left corner.

The descent from Larkya La Pass offers stunning vistas of Cho and Larke Peak. The trail to Bhimtang is challenging and will take approximately 9-10 hours to complete. The journey is demanding but immensely rewarding, with awe-inspiring views all along the way. Stay overnight at Bhimtang.

  • Max Altitude: 3720m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, your journey extends from Gorkha to Manang district as you trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani. Along the trail, you will pass through Karche, Goa, Tilche, and finally reach Dharapani. The trek descends to the Dudh Khola (Milky River), offering spectacular views of various mountain summits as if zoomed in.

During the trek, there is a brief 5-minute uphill climb where the trail becomes warmer and more challenging. After this, the trail starts descending through a dense pine jungle. In May and June, you can enjoy the sight of 8 to 10 varieties of colorful rhododendrons.

After lunch, continue with an uphill climb followed by a descent to Goa. Goa is a peaceful place known for its excellent food and accommodation services. After walking for about half an hour, you will reach a bridge leading to Mane, and finally to Tiliche and Dharapani. Stay overnight at Dharapani.

  • Max Altitude: 1860m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, you will catch a shared jeep on a bumpy road to Besisahar, which takes around 4-5 hours to reach. Upon arrival in Besisahar, you will have lunch and start your return journey towards Kathmandu. The drive back to Kathmandu takes approximately 7 hours.

During the journey, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, picturesque villages, and serene rivers. You will reach your hotel in Kathmandu before evening, allowing you time to go shopping and prepare for your next journey.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

As per your flight schedule, our staff will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your international departure. We hope you had a wonderful trekking experience and look forward to welcoming you again for another adventure in Nepal.

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Route Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley

Altitude Graph

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure by private vehicle
  • Kathamandu-Soti Khola-By Local bus
  • Soti Khola -Machhakhola by sharing jeep
  • Restricted area permit
  • Tsun Valley Special Permit
  • Annapurna Conservation permit
  • Manaslu Conservation area permit (MCA)
  • All necessary permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
  • Trekking guide (Food, sleep, accommodation, salary)
  • Teahouse Accomodation in Mountain
  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Dharapani-Beshisahar Sharing jeep
  • BeshiSahar-kathmandu local bus
  • First aid tool box

Excludes

  • Bar bills
  • Porter Support
  • International flight fare
  • Travels insurance
  • Trekking equipment
  • Tips

Add-ons and Options

  • Private Transportation
  • Extra Comfort Hotel
  • Porter Support
  • Travel Insurance

Additional Info

Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is well-trodden but involves many steep and rodcky parts. You can navigate the trail using standard trekking gear. There is no need for climbing gear.Trekkers must be physically and mentally fit to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. The terrain and distance will be slightly different each day, and some days can be more challenging than others.

Likewise, as the journey progresses, the remoteness of the region increases. Limited facilities and high altitude add to the difficulty of the trek. Crossing the Larkya La Pass is the toughest section on the Manaslu Circuit trail.You have to be acclimatized before crossing the pass because the likelihood of altitude sickness is higher here. Note that the terrain is adventurous and offbeat but not precipitous. If you are well prepared, you can complete the trek just fine.

 

Altitude sickness

The high altitude gain during the Manaslu Circuit trek raises the risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization is the key to a successful and satisfying experience. We recommend previous trekking experience because it will help you acclimate easily.On this trek, you will go beyond 5,000 meters above sea level and spend many days above 3,000 meters. The risk of altitude sickness increases after 2,500 meters. Even though the early symptoms are not serious, they can ruin your journey.Your physical and mental conditions matter a lot during the trek. Even a slight headache and vomiting (symptoms of altitude sickness) can disrupt your trek. So, please do not take it lightly. Follow preventive measures and inform your guide if you feel discomfort.

Stay hydrated during trekking. Drink 2 to 3 litres of water daily. Combine soups and ginger-honey teas in all your meals. Likewise, maintain your pace while walking. You do not have to match anyone's pace. Walk at your own speed, and do not rush.

 

When can you do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The best times for the Manaslu Circuit trekking are March to May (spring) and mid-September to November (autumn). Weather, climate, and trail conditions are best in these months, which makes trekking fantastic.The greenery increases, and the landscapes are quite breathtaking. The warmth of the sun makes walking comfortable even though nights and mornings are cold.The spring blossoms, including rhododendrons (Nepal's national flower), golden flowers, and many others, enhance the beauty of the trail. Likewise, the festivities in autumn make trekking in Nepal enchanting and divine.In both seasons, the temperature ranges between 3°C and 22°C. Higher elevations are colder than the lower parts of the trail. June to August (summer/monsoon) and December to February (winter) are the off-seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek.These months do not have ideal weather or climate, and the trail is not in preferred condition, so the challenges are higher than usual. However, this doesn't mean you cannot trek in these months. You will need proper preparation and a strong crew to rely on.

 

Accommodation during the trip

It is a tea house trek. Tea houses are the simplest kind of accommodation for trekkers in the Himalayas. The services are very limited in the tea houses, but they allow you to avoid camping, which saves you a lot of money and makes the region accessible.There is a communal dining area in the tea house and mostly twin- or three-bedroom rooms. Single rooms are very few and cost a few extra bucks. We will book twin shared rooms along the trail. If you need a single room, let us know when booking.Toilets are shared in the tea houses as well. There are no private washrooms. You have to use squat toilets in many places. Carry a sleeping bag and liner, which is okay for 3 seasons. The teahouse will also provide you with a blanket.WiFi is only available in some villages at lower altitudes. Charging costs extra money, so a solar power bank and extra batteries are recommended for backup. Similarly, hot showers are also limited and cost a few bucks.

 

Meals

During the trek, you will have simple but delicious meals. You won't get a pizza or burger, but the authentic local flavors will enhance your journey. The menu mostly includes Nepali and Tibetan dishes.Some common foods you will have during trekking are thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, dal bhat, fried rice, rice with curries, pies, pancakes, oats, soups, teas, momo, chowmein, etc.Boiled drinking water is also found in all tea houses. It is safe to drink, and you can further use a water purification tablet for peace of mind.

 

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is necessary for the Manaslu Circuit trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills. You can find excellent travel insurance for treks in Nepal online.

 

Additional expenses

Apart from the package cost, you also have to budget your tips, shopping, international flights to/from Kathmandu, emergency funds, meals in Kathmandu, and travel insurance. Likewise, you will also need to carry some money during trekking to pay for your bar meals and additional services like WiFi, charging, hot showers, etc.

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley FAQs

The trek is graded moderate but demands good physical and mental fitness. You’ll face steep ascents, rocky terrain, and a challenging 8-9 hour crossing of the Larkya La Pass at over 5100 meters altitude. Prior high-altitude experience is helpful, and expect about 6 hours of walking daily on average.

The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5213 meters. Acclimatization days, like the one at Samagaon, help your body adjust. Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, listen to your body, and let your guide know if you feel unwell. Our guides are trained in first aid to assist with altitude-related issues.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, offering clear skies and moderate temperatures. Monsoon season brings heavy rain, making trails slippery, while winter can be extremely cold and snowy, especially near the pass.

You’ll stay in simple tea houses offering basic but hearty Nepali meals—think rice, lentils, noodles, and soups. Meals are filling and warming, perfect after a day’s trek. Accommodation is clean but modest, so be prepared for rustic comforts and limited hot water in remote areas.

Yes, with proper preparation and a licensed guide, it’s safe. The area is restricted due to its proximity to the Tibet border, so trekking independently is not allowed. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and help navigate tricky sections like landslide-prone paths and glacier moraines.

Unlike the busy trails of Annapurna or Everest, Manaslu offers pristine, less crowded paths with breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural immersion. You’ll experience untouched mountain villages, diverse ethnic groups like Gurung, Magar, and Nubri, and stunning views of Manaslu and neighboring peaks.

Yes, the Manaslu region is a restricted area requiring special permits and trekking with a licensed Nepali guide in a group of at least two. Independent trekking is prohibited to protect the environment and maintain security. We provide the permits and professional guides as part of our package.

We provide experienced, friendly guides trained in first aid, porters to carry your bags, hassle-free permit arrangements, and high-quality tea house stays. We also offer airport transfers and transparent pricing. Your safety, comfort, and unforgettable experience are our top priorities.

Price Per Person US$1480US$1600
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