Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Welcome to Nepal and the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Your Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative from Himalayan Dream Team will meet you at the airport and welcome you with a traditional Nepali flower garland before transferring you by private vehicle to your hotel.

After check-in, the rest of the afternoon is free to relax after your international journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may also take a short walk around the nearby streets and get your first impression of Kathmandu.

In the evening, we invite you to a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine and hospitality while meeting your trekking team and looking forward to the adventure ahead.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will join your guide for a cultural sightseeing tour of some of Kathmandu's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This day provides an introduction to Nepal's Buddhist and Hindu traditions, historic architecture and everyday city life before you leave for the Manaslu region.

Your first visit is Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), situated on a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. At approximately 1,335 m, it is also the highest point reached during today's sightseeing. This ancient Buddhist stupa is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus and offers panoramic views across Kathmandu on a clear day.

You then continue to Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most important Hindu temple complex, located beside the sacred Bagmati River. Here you can observe temples, shrines, saffron-robed sadhus and traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies along the riverbanks.

Afterwards, continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal center of old Kathmandu. Walk through its courtyards and narrow streets while discovering traditional Newari architecture, carved wooden buildings, temples and former royal palaces.

The sightseeing concludes with a walk through the lively local market areas of central Kathmandu, where spice shops, vegetable stalls, traditional stores and busy streets provide a glimpse into everyday life in the capital.

After the tour, return to your hotel and prepare for the journey toward Machha Khola, the starting point of your Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek, the following morning.

After breakfast, your journey toward the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870 m). Leaving the Kathmandu Valley, we follow the Prithvi Highway westward alongside the Trishuli River before turning toward the hills of the Gorkha region.

The journey passes through changing landscapes of terraced farmland, river valleys, small settlements and forested hills. As we continue toward Arughat and Soti Khola, the road gradually becomes rougher and more adventurous, particularly on the final section toward Machha Khola.

Depending on the weather and road conditions, the drive normally takes around 8–9 hours. On arrival in Machha Khola, check into the lodge and relax beside the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Tomorrow, the walking section of the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek officially begins.

After breakfast in Machha Khola, begin the first full day of trekking by following the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. The trail passes through small settlements, cultivated hillsides and narrow sections of the river valley, with a mixture of gradual climbs and descents along the way.

Continue through Khorlabesi before reaching Tatopani, a small settlement known for its natural hot-water springs. From here, the trail continues towards Dobhan, crossing suspension bridges and following the changing course of the Budhi Gandaki through a progressively narrower valley.

Further along the route, pass through Yaru Bagar and cross the cantilever bridge built along the rocky gorge after sections of the original trail were damaged by the 2015 earthquake. Suspension bridges, waterfalls and steep valley walls make this one of the more varied sections of today's walk.

The final part of the trail gradually climbs towards Jagat (1,340 m), an attractive stone-built village and an important checkpoint on the Manaslu trekking route. Your trekking permits are checked as you enter the restricted region.

After arriving in Jagat, check into your lodge and rest for the evening. From here, the journey continues deeper into the Manaslu region before branching towards the remote Tsum Valley.

After breakfast, leave Jagat and continue north through the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Today's route takes you deeper into the restricted Manaslu region before leaving the main Manaslu Circuit trail and entering the quieter approach towards Tsum Valley.

The trail passes through Salleri and continues towards Sirdibas and Philim, a larger Gurung settlement surrounded by terraced fields. Along the way, enjoy views across the river valley and, when the weather is clear, towards Sringi Himal (7,161 m).

After passing Philim, continue through Ekle Bhatti and forested terrain until reaching the trail junction where the route towards Tsum Valley separates from the main Manaslu Circuit. From here, leave the Budhi Gandaki Valley and begin climbing towards the lower entrance of Tsum Valley.

The landscape becomes quieter as the trail passes through forest and increasingly remote terrain. A final ascent brings you to Lokpa (2,240 m), a small settlement that serves as the gateway to Tsum Valley.

After checking into your lodge, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and prepare for tomorrow's trek towards Chumling, when you begin exploring the villages and Buddhist culture of Tsum Valley in greater depth.

After breakfast, leave Lokpa and begin trekking deeper into the Tsum Valley. The trail initially descends through peaceful rhododendron and pine forest before crossing small streams and climbing through the narrow valley. This section feels noticeably quieter and more remote as you leave the main Manaslu route behind.

The trail continues with a series of ascents and descents towards Bhatti Ghumlong and the area around Ripchet. Along the way, forested hillsides, waterfalls and occasional views towards the Ganesh Himal range accompany the walk.

After crossing the Siyar Khola, continue with a gradual ascent towards Chumling (2,386 m), one of the first important settlements in the lower Tsum Valley. Traditional stone houses, cultivated fields, mani walls and Buddhist monuments begin to reveal the distinctive Tibetan Buddhist character of the region.

After arriving in Chumling, settle into your lodge and, depending on available time, explore the village and its surroundings. Local religious sites include Panago Gumba, Mani Dhungyur and Gurwa Gumba, while traditional chortens, prayer walls and views across the valley create a peaceful introduction to life in Tsum Valley.

Leaving Chumling, the trail continues deeper into Tsum Valley, where the Tibetan Buddhist character of the region becomes increasingly visible. Along the way, you pass traditional mani walls and chortens carved with Buddhist prayers and symbols. After crossing a suspension bridge, the route continues through cultivated fields of maize and potatoes, with traditional stone houses scattered across the valley.

The trail climbs steadily through forested slopes and areas shaped by old landslides. As you gain elevation, views towards the Ganesh Himal range become increasingly impressive, with glimpses of villages positioned high above the valley. After a simple lunch stop around Rainjam, cross the Serpu Khola and continue on a gradual but steady ascent.

The day's walk ends at Chhokang Paro (3,030 m), one of the main settlements of Upper Tsum Valley. The broad valley around the village is covered with traditional barley and buckwheat fields, while clear weather can provide impressive views towards Himalchuli and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Today's trek is relatively shorter, allowing you to gain altitude gradually while exploring some of the important cultural and spiritual sites of Upper Tsum Valley. Take time in the morning to experience the traditional settlements around Chhokang and Paro before continuing north through cultivated fields and small villages.

The route passes Rachen Gompa (3,240 m), an important Buddhist nunnery in Tsum Valley. You can also visit Piren Phu, commonly known as Milarepa's Cave, a sacred meditation site associated with the renowned Tibetan Buddhist yogi Milarepa. The surrounding area contains prayer flags, religious sites and traditional architecture that reflect the valley's strong Buddhist heritage.

Continuing north, pass through the settlements of Phurbe and Pangdun, with their mani walls, chortens and traditional houses. After crossing the Shiar Khola, the trail climbs gradually towards Chhule and then continues upstream to Nile (Nyile) at 3,360 m.

Nile and nearby Chhule are among the last permanent settlements before Mu Gompa and the upper reaches of Tsum Valley. Traditional stone houses, agricultural fields and the increasingly open mountain landscape give this part of the valley a distinctly remote character. After arriving in Nile, settle into your lodge and rest for tomorrow's excursion to Mu Gompa.

Today is one of the cultural highlights of the Tsum Valley section. Starting early with a light daypack, follow the upper Shiar Khola valley north towards Mu Gompa. The landscape becomes increasingly open and remote as you move closer to the high Himalayan border region.

After a steady ascent past traditional chortens and high-altitude pastures, reach Mu Gompa (approx. 3,700 m), one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Tsum Valley. Set against a dramatic mountain landscape, the monastery has long served as a place of Buddhist study, prayer and meditation for the local community.

Depending on available time, weather and trail conditions, there may also be an opportunity to explore further towards Dhephyu Doma Gompa, situated at a higher elevation. Your guide will determine whether this additional excursion is suitable on the day.

After exploring the Mu Gompa area, descend through the upper valley towards Chhule and continue south. The return journey provides another opportunity to appreciate the traditional villages, cultivated fields and Buddhist monuments of Upper Tsum Valley before arriving back at Chhokang Paro for the night.

After breakfast, leave Chhokang Paro and descend through the valley towards Gho (2,485 m), a small settlement with a local monastery. Continue downhill and cross the Shiar Khola before reaching Dumje (2,440 m), an important junction for the trail towards Gumba Lungdang.

From Dumje, the character of the trek changes considerably as the trail begins a sustained climb through pine and rhododendron forest. The path is steep in places and gradually gains elevation as it winds higher above the main valley. Mani walls and prayer flags appear along the route as you approach the monastery.

After the demanding ascent, arrive at Gumba Lungdang (3,200 m), a remote Buddhist nunnery set high above the valley beneath the Ganesh Himal range. The peaceful location, surrounding mountain scenery and daily religious practices make Gumba Lungdang one of the most memorable cultural stops on the trek.

Depending on the monastery schedule and local circumstances, you may have an opportunity to experience the evening prayers before settling in for the night. Tomorrow is reserved for exploration of the high mountain surroundings above Gumba Lungdang.

Today is reserved for a challenging high-altitude exploration towards Ganesh Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m). The hike is undertaken only when weather, trail conditions and individual fitness are suitable, with your guide making the final assessment before departure.

Starting from Gumba Lungdang, the trail descends briefly before climbing through forests of pine, birch and rhododendron. After crossing the Laudang Khola, continue steadily uphill towards higher ridges, seasonal yak pastures and increasingly open alpine terrain.

As you gain elevation, the forest gradually gives way to high mountain landscapes beneath the Ganesh Himal range. The route continues towards the grassy areas below the glacier, where clear weather provides impressive close-up views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers and high ridges.

After reaching the highest suitable point for the day and enjoying a packed lunch in the mountain surroundings, retrace the trail to Gumba Lungdang. Depending on your return time and the monastery schedule, you may have an opportunity to experience the evening prayers before resting at the lodge.

After breakfast, leave Gumba Lungdang and begin the long descent from the upper Tsum Valley. The trail first descends towards Dumje before continuing through the lower valley, with a mixture of forest paths, river crossings and traditional settlements along the way.

Continue towards Ripchet (2,470 m), a traditional village surrounded by cultivated terraces of barley and buckwheat. Mani walls, chortens and stone houses reflect the Buddhist culture that has accompanied you throughout the Tsum Valley section of the journey.

From Ripchet, descend steeply towards the river before continuing through peaceful temperate forest. The trail eventually climbs again towards Lokpa (2,240 m), where you return to the junction connecting Tsum Valley with the main Manaslu trekking route.

After arriving in Lokpa, check into your lodge and rest. Tomorrow, the journey leaves Tsum Valley behind and continues towards the higher sections of the Manaslu Circuit.

After breakfast, leave Lokpa and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit route. The trail returns towards the Budhi Gandaki Valley and continues through a landscape of deep river gorges, forested slopes, suspension bridges and small mountain settlements.

Continue towards Deng, an important village on the Manaslu Circuit. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes as you move deeper into the Nupri region, with Buddhist mani walls and traditional stone-built settlements becoming increasingly common. On clear days, there are views towards Sringi Himal and the surrounding mountains.

From Deng, follow the Budhi Gandaki upstream through a series of gradual climbs and descents. The trail passes through forest and small settlements before reaching Ghap, surrounded by cultivated fields, forested hillsides and traditional stone houses.

After arriving in Ghap, settle into your lodge and enjoy a well-earned rest before tomorrow's climb towards Lho.

Today's trek gains significant elevation as you continue north through the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley. The trail climbs through forests of fir, rhododendron and oak, passing Buddhist mani walls, chortens and traditional settlements that reflect the strong Tibetan Buddhist influence of the upper Manaslu region.

As you gain altitude, the mountain scenery becomes increasingly impressive. Continue through villages and cultivated fields towards Lihi and Sho, where clear weather can provide excellent views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli.

A final gradual ascent brings you to Lho (3,180 m), a beautiful mountain village situated beneath Manaslu. The village is known for Ribung Gompa and its impressive position overlooking the surrounding valley and Himalayan peaks.

After settling into your lodge, take time to explore the village or simply enjoy the mountain views. On a clear evening, the changing light on Manaslu is one of the memorable sights of this section of the trek.

After breakfast, leave Lho and continue towards Samagaon on a relatively shorter trekking day. The trail passes through high-altitude forests, cultivated fields, mani walls and small Buddhist settlements, with increasingly impressive views of the surrounding mountains.

Continue towards Shyala, a beautifully positioned village surrounded by Himalayan peaks. On a clear day, the area offers excellent views towards Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli and other peaks of the Manaslu range.

From Shyala, continue across the broadening valley and follow the trail towards Samagaon (3,520 m), one of the most important settlements of the upper Manaslu region. Traditional stone houses, mani walls and monasteries reflect the Tibetan Buddhist heritage of the local community.

After arriving in Samagaon, check into your lodge and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at a relaxed pace. The slower schedule is useful as you prepare for tomorrow's important acclimatization day before continuing to higher elevations.

Today is an important acclimatization and exploration day at Samagaon. Rather than immediately continuing higher, you spend a second night at 3,520 m, allowing additional time to adjust before trekking towards Samdo, Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass.

For well-acclimatized trekkers, an optional hike can be made towards Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp (approx. 4,400 m). The trail climbs gradually above Samagaon towards the glacial landscape beneath Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), with increasingly impressive views of the mountain, surrounding glaciers and high Himalayan terrain.

The Manaslu Base Camp hike is physically demanding and is not compulsory. Your guide will consider your acclimatization, fitness, weather and trail conditions before deciding whether the full hike is appropriate. A shorter excursion to Birendra Tal or a relaxed exploration around Samagaon is also possible.

After the day's acclimatization activities, return to Samagaon for a second night. Rest, stay well hydrated and prepare for tomorrow's trek to Samdo as the journey moves into the highest section of the Manaslu Circuit.

After breakfast, leave Samagaon and continue north through the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley. Today's walk is deliberately shorter, allowing your body additional time to acclimatize before moving towards Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass.

The trail descends gently towards the Budhi Gandaki River before continuing through juniper and birch vegetation. Passing Kermo Kharka, follow the gradually rising trail and cross the river before making the final ascent towards Samdo (3,875 m).

Samdo is one of the highest permanent settlements in the Manaslu region and has strong cultural connections with Tibet. Surrounded by an increasingly barren high-altitude landscape, the village offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After arriving at your lodge, spend the remainder of the afternoon resting and acclimatizing. If you feel comfortable, a short walk above the village can provide additional acclimatization before returning to Samdo for the night.

Leaving Samdo after breakfast, descend towards the Budhi Gandaki and cross the river before continuing into increasingly remote high-altitude terrain. The vegetation gradually becomes sparse as the trail climbs towards the upper reaches of the valley.

Continue past the area around Larkya Bazaar and follow the steadily ascending trail through rocky terrain towards Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. At this elevation, the landscape is dominated by high mountain ridges, glacial terrain and expansive Himalayan scenery.

Arrive at Dharamsala (4,460 m), the final overnight stop before crossing Larkya La. Accommodation here is basic due to the remote location and high altitude. After arriving, rest, stay well hydrated and prepare your clothing and equipment for tomorrow's early start.

An early night is recommended, as the following day is the longest and most demanding stage of the Manaslu Circuit.

Today is the highest and one of the most demanding days of the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek. Starting early in the morning, follow the trail gradually upward through rocky and glacial terrain towards Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the entire journey.

The ascent is long and steady, crossing moraine and high-altitude terrain where snow and ice may be present depending on the season and weather conditions. Your guide will maintain a suitable pace and carefully assess trail and weather conditions during the crossing.

From Larkya La, clear weather provides an impressive Himalayan panorama, including views towards Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II, together with surrounding glaciers and high mountain ridges.

After spending a short time at the pass, begin the long descent towards Bimthang. The initial descent can be steep and requires care, particularly when snow or ice is present. Continue across moraine and alpine terrain before the landscape gradually becomes greener approaching Bimthang (approx. 3,590 m).

Arrive at Bimthang and check into your lodge for a well-earned rest after completing the highest and most challenging section of the trek.

After breakfast, leave Bimthang and begin the long descent towards the lower Marsyangdi Valley. The dramatic high-altitude scenery gradually gives way to alpine meadows and forests as you descend from the northern side of the Larkya La Pass.

Continue through pine and rhododendron forest, crossing the Dudh Khola and passing mountain pastures and small settlements along the way. The trail continues towards Kharche and eventually reaches Tilje, where cultivated fields and warmer surroundings signal your return to lower elevations.

From Tilje, continue towards Dharapani (1,860 m), where the Manaslu route connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail. This marks the end of the walking section of your Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek.

After arriving in Dharapani, check into your lodge and enjoy your final evening in the mountains.

After breakfast, leave Dharapani and begin the overland journey back to Kathmandu. The road follows the Marsyangdi Valley through mountain settlements and terraced hillsides before continuing towards Besisahar.

From Besisahar, continue towards Kathmandu, eventually joining the main highway. Along the journey, enjoy changing views of rivers, agricultural terraces, villages and the green hills of central Nepal.

Driving time can vary depending on road conditions, traffic, weather and seasonal road maintenance. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest after completing the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek.

The remainder of the evening is free to relax, enjoy a meal in the city or simply recover from the long journey back from the mountains.

After breakfast, you have a full free day to relax OR explore more of the Kathmandu Valley’s rich cultural heritage. For those interested, we recommend an optional sightseeing tour to two of Nepal’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Boudhanath Stupa and Bhaktapur.

Morning - Boudhnath Stupa, A Center of Peace and Spirituality

To start the day, you’ll go to the Budhhanath Stupa, one of the biggest and most sacred stupas in the world. As you approach the large white dome structure, notice the golden buddha eyes on the dome looking down on you, and notice the peace it brings. Take time to meditate, and join the devotees for a few minutes to walk around the stupa and participate in prayer and spiritual activities.

After the stupa, you can head to one of the vibrant and lively monasteries and participate in ritals,  You can watch the monks and pilgrims and the relaxing and serene environment that they bring to the place, as they perform their rituals.

Afternoon – Bhaktapur: The Living Heritage of Nepal

After completing your visit to Boudhanath, drive to Bhaktapur, where you will first enjoy lunch at a traditional Newari restaurant before beginning your exploration of this beautifully preserved medieval city.

Bhaktapur’s brick-paved streets, ornate temples, and open courtyards transport you back in time to the days of the Malla kings.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Wander through this historic palace complex surrounded by pagoda-style temples and intricate stone sculptures.
• 55-Window Palace: Admire the fine woodcarvings and elegant craftsmanship of this architectural masterpiece.
• Golden Gate and Lion Gate: Two iconic entrances that showcase remarkable examples of traditional metal and stone art.
• Pottery Square: Watch local artisans skillfully shaping clay on traditional wheels, keeping alive the centuries-old pottery tradition that defines Bhaktapur’s charm.

Sightseeing will end in the late afternoon and you will go back to Kathmandu. Depending on time, you can take a walk in Thamel for a beautiful evening and do last minute souvenir shopping. It is a busy area with many shops, cafes and lovely streets.

Today marks the end of your Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek and your journey with Himalayan Dream Team. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will have some free time before your airport transfer.

If your flight departs later in the day, you can leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy some final time in Kathmandu for shopping, sightseeing or simply relaxing before departure.

At the appropriate time, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight. We recommend arriving at the airport approximately three hours before departure.

If you would like to extend your stay in Nepal, Himalayan Dream Team can arrange additional experiences such as sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, a visit to Pokhara or a wildlife tour in Chitwan National Park. Please contact our team in advance, and we will be happy to help you plan your Nepal extension.

Thank you for traveling with Himalayan Dream Team. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Nepal again in the future.