Overview
The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal's most authentic and rewarding Himalayan adventures, combining the sacred Tsum Valley with the classic Manaslu Circuit. This comprehensive journey takes you through two restricted regions rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture, culminating in the crossing of the legendary Larkya La Pass (5,106m) with spectacular views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth highest peak.
The trek begins in the subtropical forests of the Budhi Gandaki Valley before ascending to the remote Tsum Valley, a sacred Himalayan enclave opened to trekkers only in 2008. Here you'll explore ancient monasteries including Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Dephyudonma Gompa, visit Milarepa's Cave where the great Tibetan sage meditated, and experience the unique 'Shyagya' tradition of non-violence that has been practiced by the Tsumbas since 1920.
After rejoining the main Manaslu Circuit, you'll trek through traditional Tibetan villages, past mani walls and chortens, with ever-present views of the towering Himalayas. The highlight is crossing Larkya La Pass, one of Nepal's longest high passes, where prayer flags flutter against a 360-degree panorama of peaks including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Annapurna II, and Ganesh Himal. This challenging trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking deep cultural immersion, pristine wilderness, and the satisfaction of conquering a major Himalayan pass.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors, warming temperatures, and excellent visibility. Some snow may remain on Larkya La early in the season.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most popular season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and perfect conditions for crossing Larkya La. Peak season for mountain photography.
Best SeasonNote: Winter (Dec-Feb) is very cold with heavy snow making the pass difficult. Monsoon (Jun-Aug) brings leeches and landslides - not recommended.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from your hotel in Kathmandu for the scenic drive to Machha Khola, the traditional starting point of the Manaslu Circuit and gateway to the Tsum Valley. The journey follows the Trishuli River through beautiful rural landscapes, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages. You'll pass through Dhading Besi and Arughat before the road follows the Budhi Gandaki River through increasingly rugged terrain. The drive offers glimpses of Ganesh Himal (7,422m) and the dramatic river gorge. Arrive in Machha Khola (890m), a small settlement named after the 'Fish River' that flows through it. Check into your teahouse, meet your trekking crew, and prepare for the adventure ahead. Evening briefing on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit route, including restricted area regulations and permit requirements for the Tsum Valley.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 5 or more
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary (Kathmandu-Machha Khola & Dharapani-Kathmandu by private jeep)
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter
- Sleeping bag and down jacket for high altitude (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Manaslu and Tsum Valley region
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
- Packed lunch for Larkya La and Mu Gompa days
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,200m & helicopter evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($2-5 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, landslides, political unrest)
Important Information
- • Permits Required: This trek requires four permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A new local permit (NPR 1000) is also required.
- • Guide Mandatory: Independent trekking is not permitted in these restricted areas. You must trek with a licensed guide from a registered agency.
- • Travel Insurance: Mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,200m and helicopter evacuation.
- • Physical Fitness: This is a strenuous trek with long days (8-10 hours on pass day), high altitude, and remote terrain. Excellent fitness and prior high-altitude experience required.
- • Road Construction: Some sections, especially between Machha Khola and Jagat, may have road construction and occasional blasting. Your guide will ensure safe passage.
- • Shyagya Tradition: In Tsum Valley, respect the non-violence tradition - do not kill any animals or insects.
Photo Gallery
Sacred Tsum Valley with Ganesh Himal
Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
Way to Sacred Tsum Valley
Sacred Tsum Valley with Ganesh Himal
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek?
This trek is rated as challenging to strenuous. You'll trek 5-8 hours daily on rugged terrain with significant altitude gain. The Larkya La Pass day involves 10-11 hours of trekking at over 5,000m with glacier crossings. Prior high-altitude trekking experience and excellent fitness are essential.
What makes Tsum Valley special?
Tsum Valley is a sacred Himalayan enclave with deep Buddhist significance. It's home to ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, Milarepa's Cave with the sage's footprint, and the unique 'Shyagya' tradition of non-violence practiced since 1920. The valley opened to trekkers only in 2008 and retains authentic Tibetan culture.
How much do the permits cost?
Permit costs vary by season. For Manaslu: $75-100/week + $10-15/day. Tsum Valley: $35-40/week + $7/day. MCAP and ACAP: approximately $22 each. A new local permit costs NPR 1000. Total for 19 days ranges approximately $250-300 per person.
What is the accommodation like?
Teahouses throughout the trek are basic but comfortable, with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms. In Tsum Valley and remote sections, facilities are simpler. Hot showers and charging are available at most lodges for an extra fee ($2-5). The teahouses offer warm hospitality and hearty meals.
What wildlife might I see?
The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to 33 mammal species including Himalayan tahr, blue sheep (bharal), musk deer, Himalayan marmots, and occasionally snow leopards. Over 110 bird species include the colorful Himalayan monal (Danphe), Nepal's national bird.