Are you an explorer seeking an adventurous trekking destination with a fusion of tradition and local culture? In that case, Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is just the right option for you.
Tsum Valley is one of the fascinating yet secluded valleys located in the Manaslu region of Nepal which is closer to the Tibetan border. The breathtaking view of tall snow-capped mountains, heavenly ambiance, and a touch of Tibetan-style Buddhist culture make this lowland stand out as a trekking spot.
Keep on reading to find out all about the Manaslu Expedition, more specifically about the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek if you are planning your next adventure in Nepal.
Key Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek
- One of the most remote and rarely explored trekking routes in Nepal beginning with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola.
- Made open for trekking only after 2008 thus, retains much of its pristine beauty.
- The most sacred valley in the northern region of the Gorkha district with spectacular mountain views of Himalayan ranges such as Ganesh and Sringi.
- Explore several Buddhist monasteries and chortens that reflect a century-old tradition. Some of them are Dephyudonma and Rachen monastery.
- Chance to pay a visit to the largest monastery of Tsum Valley called Mu Gompa, located at an altitude of 3650 m.
- A living museum of Tibetan Buddhists that gives a rare opportunity to visit a culturally preserved and traditionally preserved hidden gem of Nepal.
- Get across the longest passes existing across Himalaya i.e. Cross Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5106 meters.
Everything About Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek
Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is undoubtedly one of the most rough yet equally fascinating trekking trails for any adventurer. This dauntless exploration begins with a most scenic drive through the captivating Green Hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, leading through the banks of fast-flowing rivers like Machha Khola, and thrilling landscapes of rural Nepal.
A Detailed Overview
As the name suggests, the culturally rich Tsum Valley and majestic peaks of Manaslu Mountain, are the major attractions of Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek. Donning an altitude of 8163 meters, the Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world located in the west-central part of Nepal.
Also known as Kampunge among the locals, the Manaslu mountain has a sacred meaning according to the Sanskrit language of the Hindus. According to it, “manasa” means intellect or soul, and the mountain is indeed a sound habitat of the soulful Buddhist people.
In order to begin this spiritually sound and culturally rich trek, you will have to drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola through a palace called Argughat in Gorkha district. Once you reach Sotikhola, you will have to climb up through a forest of Budhi Gandaki Valley which is enriched with rhododendron flowers and sharp pine trees. Passing through the ridge leading to Lokpa, this climb will directly lead you to the entry point of Tsum Valley.
While passing through the Tsum Valley Trekking route, you will get across the infamous monasteries of this area: Pango Gumba, Mani Dhungyr, and Gurwa Gumba. All of these are located in the Chumling village of this trek which will consequently lead you to the largest village in Tsum Valley i.e. Chhokangparo. Exactly at this village, you will start seeing the majestic views of mountain ranges such as Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli.
As you pass Chhokangparo, the trek will start getting more challenging as you will get closer to the upper inner Himalayan regions. You will come across a silent alpine glade and the rough desserts of the high mountains. On this path leading to Mile, you can pay a visit to the most sacred cave of the region called Piren Phu cave while you ascend further to the highest point of the Tsum Valley. Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in the valley is located at this point.
After you surpass the monastery, a descending climb awaits you. You will climb down to Lokpa, the entrance of Tsum Valley. This is where the Tsum Valley Trek ends and if you want to explore more, you can continue with the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Take a lot on our Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary to find more details of the trek. Besides, the Manaslu Circuit Map below will give you more insight on how to continue trekking through the Manaslu Circuit after completing the Tsum Valley Trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
You can find different trekking itineraries depending on how long you want the expeditions to be. Usually, we offer 21 Days Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek package.
A complete Manaslu Expedition itinerary will help you enjoy your trekking adventure to the fullest. Find your detailed itinerary to plan a successful Manaslu Circuit Trek while exploring the beautiful Tsum Valley.
# | Itinerary | Altitude | Hours |
Day 01 | Drive Kathmandu to Soti Khola | 750m/2460ft | 7/8 hours drive |
Day 02 | Trek to Macha Khola | 930m/3051ft) | 5 hours |
Day 03 | Macha Khola to Jagat | 1340m/4396ft | 7 hours |
Day 04 | Jagat to Lokpa | 1830m/6003ft | 6 hours |
Day 05 | Lokpa to Dumje | 2460m/8070ft | 6 hours |
Day 06 | Dumje to Nile | 3,361m/11026ft | 6 hours |
Day 07 | Nile to Mu Gompa | 3700m/12139ft | 2/3 hours |
Day 08 | Exploration day around Mu Gompa | 3700m/12139ft | |
Day 09 | Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa | 3300m/10791ft | 5/6 hours |
Day 10 | Rachen Gumpa to Chumling | 2360m/7717ft | 6 hours |
Day 11 | Chumling to Deng | 1800m/5905ft | 8 hours |
Day 12 | Deng to Namrung | 2630m/8628ft | 7 hours |
Day 13 | Namrung to Lho | 2957m/9701ft | 5 hours via Hinang Gompa (3200m) |
Day 14 | Lho to Samagaun | 3540m/11614ft | 5 hours via Shyala 360 degree viewpoint |
Day 15 | Acclimatization Day at Samagaun – Hike to Manaslu Basecamp (4940m) or Pungyen Gompa (3980m) | ||
Day 16 | Samagaun to Samdo | 3865m/12680ft | 3 hours |
Day 17 | Samdo to Dharamasala | 4,480m/14698ft | 4 hours |
Day 18 | Cross the Larke pass | (5,106m/16752ft) and Trek to Bimtang (3,720m) | 8/9 hours |
Day 19 | Bimtang to Tilije | 2,300m/7545ft | 6 hours |
Day 20 | Tilije to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar | 720m/2362ft | 6/7 hours |
Day 21 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1360m/ 4462ft from Besisahar |
Best Seasons to Explore Tsum Valley
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers breathtaking views and cultural immersion in the stunning
Himalayas. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to embark on this adventure. During Spring, the weather gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) at lower altitudes. The lush valleys come alive with vibrant rhododendron
blooms, creating a colorful tapestry.
Summarising the Most Spiritual Trekking Adventure
You will also agree with me when I say the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the one-of-a-kind experiences of a lifetime. Scenic drives, tall pine forests, and colorful rhododendrons along the varying landscapes along with an experience of Tibetan-infused Buddhist culture are major highlights of this trek.
Since the route isn’t as hyped up as ABC or Everest Expedition, its rawness is untouched. This is exactly why you mustn’t miss this trekking adventure.
Book a package fitted to your needs and begin your Manaslu expedition right away. The snowcapped mountains and divine lands are calling you!
Keep exploring the adventurous Nepal!
Tags: Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Trek, Manaslu Tsum valley trek