Tsum Valley Trek

Nepal

Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

$1580

Destination

Nepal

Activity

City sight seeing/ Trekking

Region

Manaslu Region

Duration

17

Altitude

4060m at Dhephyudonma

Accomodation

3-star hotel in Kathmandu, Lodge, Tea house during the trek

Meal

Full board on trek

Transportation

Private Car / Van / Jeep / Hiace

Best Seasons

Sep-Dec and Mar-May

Group Size

2-20

Grade

Moderate

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Overview

Trip Highlights for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

  • Exploring a path with astounding layers that offers every scenic and cultural opportunity a hiker might desire.
  • Travel north of the Manaslu region to the Tibetan border.
  • Explore the area's historic Chortens, gompas, and monasteries
  • View the Larkya Peak, Ganesh Himal, Hiunchuli, and Mt. Manaslu from a wide-angle perspective.
  • One of Nepal's most extensive, tranquil, and uncrowded treks.
  • The Manaslu region can discover beautiful mountain views, numerous waterfalls, and the roaring waters of the Budhi Gandaki.
  • The availability of a wide range of optional excursions to Gumba Lungdang, Mu Gompa, Rancher Gompa, Pungent Gompa, Hinang Gompa, Kal Tal, Birendra Tal, Ponker Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, and Ganesh Himal Base Camp

All About Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a trip to the "Sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley" situated at 5167m, in the northern Gorkha district of Nepal. Tsum Valley has a population of around 4000 people of the indigenous ethnic group known as “Tsumbas”. "Tsum" word comes from the Tibetan dialect "Tsombas" which means vivid. The trail is striking in terms of flora and fauna in the region, ethnic communities, culture and tradition, topography, and so on. The trail heads up to the mountain through the valley of the Budhi Gandaki River into the wild and unexplored country inhabited by members of the Gurung ethnic groups. The towering Ganesh Himal hills, patchwork meadows, and terraced fields provide a stunning backdrop for the region's peaceful inhabitants and their unshakeable belief adds beauty to its own environment. A hot and sweet cup of locally cultivated natural coffee and Tatopani natural hot springs will help you to feel relaxed on this intensive trial.  

Upper Tsum valley (part of the Inner Himalaya) opens from Chhokangparo, where hospitable local people (Tibetan group "Tsombas") welcome you with traditional Tibetan Chiya (butter tea) and local meals. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek are extremely rich in cultural assets. The valley is dotted with Gompas (Buddhist monasteries), Chortens, and Mani walls. 

The longest Mani walls (over 250m (about 820.21 ft) are at Dzong and Purple. The valley preserves the steps of the great Buddhist Yogi Chiuchin Milarepa and the story about Guru Padmasambhava Circumambulation. The people here never slaughter animals, even as a sacrifice to the gods. The Valley of Tsum is encircled by the Buddha Himal peak and Himal Chuli peak to the west, Ganesh Himal peak to the south, and Sringi Himal peak to the North. 

The Manaslu Tsum valley circuit trek is becoming increasingly well-known as the destination of choice for those looking for an all-encompassing experience of the mountains. It is an adventurous journey through layered landscapes ranging from semi-tropical to pure alpine, steep trails winding by numerous waterfalls and dense forests of rhododendron and pine, and thread-like suspension bridges hanging impossibly high over thundering rivers. We can change the days for trekkers heading to Tsum Valley based on their preferences and worries. If time supports you, The Manaslu Circuit TrekManaslu Larkya Pass Trek, and Manaslu Rupina La Pass Valley Trek might be some other alternatives for your wonderful holiday.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek transportation

The plan specifies that Nepal Trekking Experts will provide public transportation (by bus) from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (9 hours) and Dharapani to Besisahar (4–5 hours) by local Jeep, after which we will transfer to a different public bus or taxi to return to Kathmandu (6–7 hours). The public bus may be crowded and make numerous stops to pick up and drop off more passengers along the way, but it takes longer to get to the destination. You can, however, enjoy it as well as accept it as a part of the experience. If you prefer private transportation, we may provide it upon request for a fee based on the number of people.

Foods and Accommodation for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Imagine that you are in Nepal, exploring uncharted, extremely isolated regions to take in the nation's natural beauty. The menus at the tea houses in the villages are typically pretty similar. Tsum Valley is more isolated and distinctive than the Manaslu circuit, despite its growth, tea houses, and dinners. Generally speaking, you can select from a wide range of regional dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, lentil soup, and pickle that can be replenished as often as you like), fried rice, dumplings (Momo Tibetan meal), Thukpa, any style of potatoes, spring rolls, or western dishes, like pasta, noodles, any kind of eggs, porridge, muesli, chapati, Tibetan bread, and so forth. Upper Tsum valley (part of the Inner Himalaya) opens from Chhokangparo, where hospitable local people (Tibetan group "Tsombas") welcome you with traditional Tibetan Chiya (butter tea) and local meals. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek are extremely rich in cultural assets. The valley is dotted with Gompas (Buddhist monasteries), Chortens, and Mani walls. 

Features   

  • Accommodation in highland teahouses for 17 nights
  • A 21-day plan
  • Kathmandu Permit for the Manaslu and Annapurna conservation areas, Soti Khola, and Dharapani local bus.
  • While on the walk, the restricted region is allowed to provide 17 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 17 dinners.

The Best Time To Trek Manaslu Tsum Valley

The spring and autumn seasons are the optimum times to complete the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek due of the predictable weather and comfortable temperatures. During these seasons, the days are clear, the skies are blue, and the trails are in their optimum condition.

Spring
As winter draws to a close, the average springtime temperature is 24 °C during the day and -4 °C at night, with vegetation preparing to flourish once more. The views of the Himalayas will be exceptionally breathtaking because the pathways and woodland panoramas will be completely covered in rhododendron and magnolia blossoms.

Autumn
Autumn, often known as fall, begins in the Manaslu Tsum Valley Region in mid-September and lasts through October. In addition, due to the weather, temperature, and climate, this season is also a fantastic time for trekking expeditions. From day to night, the temperature in the fall fluctuates between 25 °C and -6 °C. You may obtain a comprehensive understanding of Nepali culture during this, which is also the country's major holiday season.

Summer
The Manaslu Tsum Valley region experiences its hottest weather throughout the summer, which also brings the monsoon season. There are also high chances of landslides and mudslides due to the monsoon here, which makes the trails wet, slick, and dangerous. Clouds and fog further obscure the sight. Therefore, the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is not advised during the summer monsoon season.

Winter
For many high mountain climbs, like this Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, the winter season, which begins in December, is regarded as an off-season because of the bitter cold. Additionally, the trails are impassable due to the heavy snowfall, especially in high places like Larke La Pass, which is located at an elevation of 5160 meters above sea level.

 

Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

Manaslu is a restricted area; hence, a special permit is needed to walk there. Independent and alone hikers are not permitted. A local guide must accompany trekkers on their journey, and treks must be scheduled through a local organization. The following licenses are required in order to hike the Manaslu Circuit Trail.
The following permits are required for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.

  •  Permit for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
  •  Permit for Manaslu Restricted Area (RAP)
  •  Permit for Tsum Valley Restricted Area
  • Permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)

Difficulty of Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trip is a strenuous trek in one of Nepal's remote districts. Trekkers should be physically healthy and psychologically focused to finish this trek, even if prior trekking experience is not required. For an average 16-day route, trekkers should plan on spending 5 to 6 hours each day on the high, steep terrain of the area, with numerous ascents and descents. Therefore, months before you leave for the trek, we advise that you join a gym or take up hobbies like hiking, swimming, cycling, etc.

A hilly trek travel might be difficult for a number of additional reasons. One of them is AMS, or altitude sickness. Additionally, because you will be trekking through the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit at an altitude of more than 3000 meters for multiple days and nights, there is a potential that you will develop AMS. There are several ways to prevent AMS, including moving gently, drinking enough of water, eating a healthy diet, etc. However, if you experience a symptom, you should let your guide know as soon as possible. It might be helpful to have an altitude sickness remedy like Diamox on hand.

This Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek includes the option of an additional day journey to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. One of Nepal's least visited and untouched base camps, Ganesh Himal Base Camp provides a picturesque vista of Ganesh Himal and a spellbinding panorama of the environs.

Photos

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu (1300m)

Welcome from Mountain Guide Trek staff upon your arrival in Nepal. After check-in, if time allows, you will visit the MGT office to meet your trekking leader as well as other participants for the final preparation of the trip.  (Overnight at deluxe hotel on BB basis) 

Day 02: Kathmandu to Soti Khola, 6-7 hrs

Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola offers to enjoy splendid views of Shringri Himal. We drive through Gurung and Magar villages, past the fields and cascading waterfalls, until we reach Soti Khola. We set up our camp on the banks of the Soti Khola(Khola' means river in Nepalese word). (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 03: Trek Soti Khola to Machha Khola, 6-7 hrs

On day 3, we trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola ( the other river bank, which means  Fish River ).  Moreover, (Machha Khola) is a village located nearby the river stream. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 04: Trek Machha Khola to Doban, 6-7 hrs

The trail from Macha Khola to Doban involves some steep ascents and descents. As we climb up we reach Doban which lies at the confluence of Shiar Khola and   Sarpu Khola. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 05: Trek Doban to Philim, 6-7 hrs

On day 5, we start climbing a rugged rocky trail from Dovan.  As we trek through the hills, we get good views of Sringeri Himal and we finally reach the village of Philim at 1550m.  Philim is a large Gurung village with plenty of fertile fields to grow corn and millet.  As there are several good campsites, we set up our camps between alder, blue pine, and poplar trees. (Overnight at a tent camp on full board basis)

Day 06: Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum), 6-7 hrs

From Philim the team will trailhead up over a ridge that finally leads to Ganesh Himal Base camp and to the Lower Tsum (Chumling). For the night we camp at Chumling as there are several good campsites. (Overnight at a tent camp on full board basis)

Day 07: Trek Chumling to Chhokangparo (Upper Tsum), 5-6 hrs

From Chumling we trek to Chhokangparo villege. The Upper Tsum valley is open from the Chhokangparo village settlement. Chhekamparo is two flat land settlements named Chhekam and Paro. From here, the Ganesh Himal range can be directly viewed to the south.  (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 08: Trek Chhokangparo to Nile/Chhule, visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way, 6-7 hrs

On day 8, we trek from Chhokangparo to the place called Nile/ Chulle. Nile/Chulle is the last village in the upper Tsum Valley. Nile village is located on the western side of the Shiar Khola, just a 20-25 minute walk from Chulle. You can observe Piren Phu (pigeon cave)  in the Tsum valley, near the village. This cave is one of the most important Socio-cultural assets to the Buddhist communities leaving around here. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 09: Trek Nile / Chhule to Mu Gompa (3700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4060 m), 4-5 hrs

From the village of Nile, the trail gradually ascends to one of the largest and most popular Mu Gumba. Mu Gumba was established at one of the highest points (3510m) in the year 1895. The monastery has historical and religious importance. Besides, there is another important gumbas to visit  (Dephyudonma Gumba) This gumba is also one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is within the reach of 2 hr from the village of Chhule and Nile. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 10: Extra day for excursion

On day 10, we set a hike from Mu Gumba towards the base of Pika Himal (4865m). This region is quite close to Tibet, chinas autonomous region. We get a good view of the Tibetan peaks as well as the Ganesh Himal mountain range. At the end of the day's excursion, we will return to our camp at Mu Gumba. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 11: Trek Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa, visit Gonhgye Gompa (Nyingma-pa Buddhist sect), 5-6 hrs

The trail heads towards Rachen Gumba (a nunnery) from Mu Gumba on day 11. The Rachen Gumba nunnery is situated at Shiar Khola Valley near the border of  Nepal and Tibet. Rachen Gumba (estd. 905 AD)is one of the largest nunneries located in the Tsum valley. Moreover, this nunnery houses nuns belonging to the Ngak-pa sect, which does not allow animal slaughter. You can observe, a brightly colored and carved throne and pillars,  a large prayer wheel, and paintings related to Buddhism and its history. (Overnight at a tent camp on full board basis)

Day 12: Trek Rachen Gompa to Dumje, 6-7 hrs

On this day, the team will proceed from Rachen Gompa toward Dumje. We can reach Dumje (a small  Buddhist village settlement with about eight houses and adjoining cattle shed after 6-7 hours of walking. (Overnight at a tent camp on a full board basis)

Day 13: Trek Dumje to Philim (cross Ripchet), 6-7 hrs

On day 13, we trek from Dumje towards Philim and finally cross Ripchet. On the way, we pass through (Samba Tingding Chhupyang), one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region of Lower Tsum Valley. (Overnight at a tent camp on full board basis)

Day 14: Trek Philim to Tatopani, 6-7 hrs

From Phillip, we trek to Tatopani. There is a hot spring at Tatopani. You can relieve your tired muscles by soaking yourself in the hot spring. (Overnight at tent camp on full board basis)

Day 15: Trek Tatopani to Soti Khola, 6-7 hrs

From Tatopani we trek to Soti Khola. During the trip, we pass through terraced fields on the hilly terrain and waterfalls until we reach to the bank of Soti Khola river to set up our camps. (Overnight at a tent camp on full board basis)

Day 16: Trek Soti Khola to drive to Kathmandu, 8-9 hrs

Day 16 is the final day of our trekking. On this day, we make our way from  Soti Khola to Kathmandu.  (Overnight at hotel on BB board basis)

Day 17: Farewell Friend (Final departure to your onward destination)

The final day trip in Nepal is today, so you're bidding goodbye to the mountains and wrapping up your time there. There is nothing to do but exchange emails with travel companies and organize photos.  You can go shopping or go sightseeing if you have more time. Mountain Guide Treks will send a representative to take you before 3 hours to the Airport according to the scheduled flight.

Cost Details

Includes
  • Airport pick-up drop service
  • All land transportation as per itinerary
  • 2 nights' deluxe hotel accommodation at Kathmandu n a BB basis.
  • "Farewell dinner"
  • Guest house / tented accommodation according to given itinerary (sharing in 2 bed-room) and 3 meals (Breakfast, lunch, Dinner) during the trek
  • An experienced English-speaking trekking guide and leader, porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) that includes their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging.
  • Down jacket, Mountain Guide treks & Expedition kit (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned)
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National park permit, TIMS )
  • A comprehensive medical kit
Exclude

Nepal entry visa: It is simple to obtain a visa upon arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuwan International Airport by paying US $ 40 or an equivalent amount in another currency. The visa is valid for 30 days and allows for multiple entries. Similarly to that, US $100 will get you a 90-day multiple-entry tourist visa. Bring two duplicate passport-size pictures.)

  • airfare for travel abroad
  • Kathmandu's noon and night meals (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Extra night's lodging in Kathmandu due to earlier arrival, departure, and return from the mountain than the planned itinerary (for whatever reason).
  • Rescue and travel insurance
  • Personal costs (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, water bottle, hot shower during the trekking, etc.)
  • Personal trekking gear and attire
  • Tips for porters and guides
  • Donations and entry fees to monuments

Note: The section on what the fee includes and excludes may help you get a better sense of how the trip is structured. Once you inform us of the number of potential passengers and the departure date, we'll get back to you with the trip's exact cost.
Equipment

Equipment

Head
  • Light or warm fleece hat.
  • Watch with light & alarm
  • Sun hat and scrap
  • Sunglasses
Upper Body
  • T-shirts (4)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or sweater
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
  • Body lotion/Anti-sunlight cream
Hands
  • Playing cards
  • Lightweight gloves (water/windproof)
  • Trail map and guide book
  • Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower Body
  • Underwear (4)
  • Hiking shorts (4)
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Lightweight thermal bottoms
  • Fleece or wool pants
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Feet
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks (4-pairs)
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4-pairs)
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
Accessories
  • Sleeping bag
  • Money belt
  • Head touch and batteries
  • Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
  • Water bottle
  • Toiletries
  • Small wash towel
Optional Items
  • Swiss Knife
  • Playing cards/backgammon/chess set
  • Trekking map
  • Books (Highly Recommended)
  • Binoculars
  • Camera & extra batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Reading books
  • Journal & pen
  • Photo of home/family
  • Energy/protein bars (optional)

Map

Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek Map

FAQ's

Manaslu Conservation Area is a restricted region of Nepal that opened to foreign climbers and trekkers only in the year 1992. The National Trust manages it for Nature Conservation in Nepal. This is a major reason why Manaslu does not allow solo trekking. You need to be accompanied by a government-registered tour guide and a minimum of two trekkers, if you are thinking of the Manaslu trek without a guide then it's better to drop that idea. However, you can choose to take a local porter instead of a guide. This trek was earlier categorized as the difficulty level of trekking, however with a growing number of tea houses and better roads, it has now shifted to the category of the strenuous trek. This also means it is suitable even for beginners. This trek can be done by anyone who has good physical fitness, willingness, determination, and dedication.

Manaslu Base Camp trek can be started from from several locations. But it generally follows the normal route from Sotikhola Bazar- Machha Khola- Jagat- Samagaun and finally at base camp. From Sotikhola, one travels along Budhi Gandaki river through vast, extremely steep valleys, gorges, terrace farmland, ethnic settlement, monastery, lakes Jungle up to  Manaslu Base Camp at 4,800 meters. It normally follows the itenery packages of 13-18 days. During the trip you can have the majestic view of the world's eighth highest peak Mt. Manaslu (8163m). 

Mt. Manaslu is one of the classic mountains in the world with its elevated height of 8163m above the sea level.  Next thing to know about Mt. Manaslu is it has been named as "killer mountan". It's because of frequent avalences and extreme weather. Many lives have been lost since it  was opened for the mountaineers. Moreover, the avalences that occured in 2012 and 2022 cost life of many mountaineers.  A number of lengthy climbs and treks are part of the journey.  High altitude atmospheric conditions, crevasses, snowy slopes, cliffs, glaciers, all these makes the acent to Mt. Manaslu tougher. So  the expedition would be impossible without technical mountaineering gear and equipments, , preparation, climbing trainings, guides, physical fitness and proper stamina.  Manaslu is your best option if you're looking for Mt. Everest climbing, Makalu climbing and other 8000 m + mountain  peaks.  

Birendra Taal (Lake) is located in Manaslu glacier, to the north of Gorkha district, at the elevated height of  (3691m).  Birendra Lake is Nepal's one of the astonishing freshwater lake formed by melting of  Manaslu glaciers. Birendra lake is near Punhyen Glacier and Gompa in Samagaun. The Trail begins at Samaguan and it tends to become a 45 minutes turn from Sama Gaon where we find lodges, houses and  many more sites for night stays. There are also base camps to stay at if you want to hike back to Samaguan. Generally , it is a short preoccupation from the primary trail and the lake can be visited in transit from Sama Gaon to Samdo. Visitors who like to wash and shower in removed waters will think it’s agreeable to plunge in its nippy ice water.

The Manaslu region covers two major hills and a Tibetan mountain region. Manaslu region consists of varieties of regions and cultures followed by the people living there. The trail leading to the upper Manaslu includes mostly Brahmin, Magar, and Chhetri people. The major ethnicities in the upper areas are; Indo Aryans, Tibeto Burmans from the south, and Mongoloids from the north.

Closer to Tibet, we can find the Bhutias which is a Tibetan ethnic group similar to the Sherpas. They are firmly Buddhist and reside in a flat-roofed house. We can also find Magar and Newar communities residing within the region. The area comprises Buddhist religious structures, main walls, Chortens, and monasteries. The majority of the population of the Manaslu region follows Buddhism. The beautiful monasteries can serve as gathering places for pilgrims living in the very areas. 

The Manaslu region/circuit trek is 180km in length, roughly 110 miles. Though it can be rocky and uneven in parts, terrain on the trek is on a well trodden path all the way. There is no rock climbing or ‘mountaineering’ which requires equipment. It requires a walk all the way, although some of the hills can be steep and never-ending! You will meet people along the way, and also yaks. The only  rule of the road is that ;when meeting an oncoming yak, always ensure to step to a side towards the inside of the trail, in order to avoid the cliff edge on the other side. Poles are useful, depending on if you have a personal preference for using  them or whether you have problems with knees. 

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