Explore the sacred hidden world of Tsum Valley, visit ancient monasteries beneath Himalayan giants and cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass on one of Nepal's most remote and culturally immersive trekking adventures
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, culturally rich and rewarding long-distance trekking adventures. Combining the legendary Manaslu Circuit with the hidden Tsum Valley, this remarkable Himalayan journey offers an unparalleled blend of high mountain scenery, Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries and remote wilderness.
Beginning in the deep Budhi Gandaki Valley, the trail follows dramatic river gorges, terraced hillsides and traditional mountain settlements before turning into the secluded Tsum Valley. Often referred to as the “Hidden Valley of Happiness”, Tsum remained isolated from the outside world for centuries and preserves a unique culture deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Ancient monasteries, sacred caves, prayer walls and timeless farming communities create a fascinating cultural experience rarely found elsewhere in Nepal.
After exploring the upper reaches of the valley, including the sacred Mu Gompa, the route rejoins the main Manaslu Circuit and continues through the spectacular Nubri Valley towards Samagaun, Samdo and the high alpine landscapes beneath Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The trek culminates with the crossing of the magnificent Larkya La Pass (5,100m), one of Nepal’s finest Himalayan passes, before descending through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests and traditional villages to the Marsyangdi Valley.
Throughout the trek, walkers experience extraordinary cultural diversity, breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and a remarkable range of landscapes, from subtropical river valleys to glaciated mountain terrain. Wildlife enthusiasts may also encounter Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, musk deer and numerous bird species within the protected Manaslu Conservation Area.
Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a genuine Himalayan wilderness experience far from Nepal’s busier trekking routes, the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek delivers one of the country’s most authentic and unforgettable mountain adventures.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer and passport collection.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Philim (1,590m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Philim to Chumling (2,386m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,010m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile (3,361m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 9: Hike to Mu Gompa (3,700m) and return to Nile, approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Nile to Chhokang Paro (3,010m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Lokpa (2,240m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Lokpa to Deng (1,800m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m), approx. 4.5-5 hours.
Day 15: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,530m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 16: Acclimatisation day in Samagaun with optional hike to Birendra Lake (3,690m).
Day 17: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m), approx. 3-4 hours.
Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 19: Contingency day for weather or acclimatisation.
Day 20: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,100m) and descend to Bhimtang (3,720m), approx. 9-10 hours.
Day 21: Trek from Bhimtang to Gho (2,515m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 22: Trek to Dharapani (1,963m) and drive to Besisahar, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 23: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 24: Depart Nepal.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions, acclimatisation requirements or operational considerations.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Passport Collection and Transfer
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in, passports will be collected for the processing of the Manaslu and Tsum Valley restricted area permits. The remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is dedicated to final preparations for the trek. Your guide will conduct a detailed briefing covering the route, safety procedures, altitude awareness and equipment checks. There will also be time for any last-minute shopping or gear rental.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Kathmandu, the journey follows the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers through terraced hillsides, rural villages and increasingly remote mountain landscapes. The scenic but adventurous drive offers a fascinating introduction to rural Nepal before reaching the trailhead at Machha Khola.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
The trek begins by following the Budhi Gandaki through narrow gorges, forested hillsides and traditional settlements. Crossing numerous suspension bridges and passing the natural hot springs at Tatopani, the trail gradually climbs to Jagat, a charming stone-paved village and official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Philim (1,590m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Today’s shorter trek follows scenic riverside trails and forested slopes. Buddhist influences become increasingly visible through mani walls, prayer wheels and colourful prayer flags. A final ascent leads to the large Gurung village of Philim, known for its traditional architecture and mountain views.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Philim to Chumling (2,386m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Today marks your entry into the hidden Tsum Valley. The trail climbs steadily through pine forests and crosses a spectacular suspension bridge before opening into a broad valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Chumling is a beautiful traditional village offering excellent views of Shringi Himal.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,010m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Following ancient trails lined with mani walls and chortens, the route climbs deeper into the valley. Traditional farming villages, prayer flags and mountain scenery accompany the day’s walk before reaching Chhokang Paro, one of the cultural centres of upper Tsum.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile (3,361m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The landscape becomes increasingly open and dramatic as you approach the upper valley. Passing yak pastures, isolated settlements and magnificent mountain scenery, you reach Nile, the northernmost permanent settlement in Tsum Valley.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 9: Hike to Mu Gompa (3,700m) and Return to Nile | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
A memorable excursion leads to Mu Gompa, the highest and most important monastery in Tsum Valley. Perched on a hillside overlooking the valley, the monastery offers extraordinary views and insight into centuries-old Buddhist traditions before returning to Nile.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 10: Trek from Nile to Chhokang Paro (3,010m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Retrace your steps through the spectacular upper valley, passing monasteries, fields and traditional settlements. The descent provides new perspectives on the landscapes and cultural heritage encountered earlier in the trek.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 11: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Lokpa (2,240m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Tsum Valley behind, descend through forests, narrow valleys and remote mountain terrain before rejoining the main Manaslu Circuit trail at Lokpa, a peaceful village surrounded by dense vegetation.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 12: Trek from Lokpa to Deng (1,800m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows forested hillsides and river crossings through increasingly dramatic terrain. Traditional settlements and glimpses of higher Himalayan peaks provide a preview of the alpine landscapes still to come.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 13: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
One of the longer trekking days, today’s route climbs steadily through forests of rhododendron, pine and fir. Passing the beautiful village of Ghap with its impressive mani walls, the trail continues upward to Namrung, the gateway to Upper Nubri.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 14: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
As altitude increases, the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular. Snow-capped peaks dominate the skyline and Mount Manaslu begins to reveal itself in all its grandeur. Lho is renowned for its monastery and stunning mountain views.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 15: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,530m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
A scenic trek through alpine meadows, yak pastures and traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements leads to Samagaun, the largest village in the upper Manaslu region. Surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, the village offers a fascinating glimpse into local mountain life.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 16: Acclimatisation Day in Samagaun with Optional Hike to Birendra Lake (3,690m) (B L D)
To aid acclimatisation, today includes an optional excursion to the beautiful Birendra Lake, a sacred glacial lake situated beneath the Manaslu Glacier. The hike offers outstanding views of Manaslu’s north face and surrounding peaks before returning to the village.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 17: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day allows for gradual altitude gain as the trail passes yak grazing areas and ancient trade routes. Samdo is a remote Tibetan-influenced village close to the border with Tibet and offers magnificent mountain scenery.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The landscape becomes increasingly barren and alpine as you approach the high mountain environment beneath Larkya La Pass. Dharmasala serves as the final staging point before tomorrow’s major pass crossing.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 19: Contingency Day (B L D)
A flexible day built into the itinerary to accommodate weather conditions, acclimatisation needs or any unforeseen delays before crossing Larkya La Pass.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 20: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,100m) and Descend to Bhimtang (3,720m) | Approx. 9-10 Hours (B L D)
Today is the highlight of the trek and one of Nepal’s great Himalayan pass crossings. Beginning before dawn, the trail climbs steadily through glacial terrain and scree slopes to the prayer-flag-covered summit of Larkya La Pass. Spectacular views extend across Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and countless surrounding peaks. A long but rewarding descent leads to the beautiful alpine valley of Bhimtang.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 21: Trek from Bhimtang to Gho (2,515m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Descending through flower-filled alpine meadows, rivers and forests of pine and rhododendron, today’s walk provides a dramatic contrast to the high-altitude landscapes beyond the pass. The warmer air and lush vegetation signal your return to lower elevations.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 22: Trek to Dharapani (1,963m) and Drive to Besisahar | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
A final short walk brings you to Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit joins the Annapurna Circuit. From here, a scenic drive follows the Marsyangdi Valley to Besisahar, marking the official end of the trek.
Overnight in Besisahar.
Day 23: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B)
The drive back to Kathmandu follows the Prithvi Highway alongside rivers, terraced hills and bustling market towns. Upon arrival, enjoy a well-earned rest and reflect on your Himalayan adventure.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 24: Depart Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Tsum Valley, Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions, acclimatisation requirements or operational considerations.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Additional Information
Permit Information: To obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, your original passport is required at least two working days before departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- 1-night accommodation pre or post-trek in Pokhara (where applicable)
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Flip flops/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.



