Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek
Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek

Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek: Cost & Detail Information

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Trip at a Glance
Duration21 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,106 meters (16,752 feet)
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Trek overview 

The Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a captivating journey through Nepal's remote Manaslu region and the hidden Tsum Valley. This trek combines stunning mountain scenery, including a view of Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak, with rich cultural immersion in unique Tibetan-influenced villages and monasteries.

The best part of the Manaslu Circuit is that you will be trekking through the lap of high majestic mountain worlds 8th highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), and Himal Chuli (7,893 m / 25,896 ft). Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m / 25,823 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m / 26,040 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m / 24,786 ft), Annapurna IV (7,525 m / 24,688 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m / 23,379 ft), and other peaks above 6,000 meters.

A special part of this trek is the Tsum Valley, which is like a secret valley that was hidden from the outside world for a long time. The people there have unique traditions and cultures, kind of like a little piece of old Tibet. You'll see ancient monasteries with colorful paintings and meet people who live a peaceful, traditional life.

It's a proper adventure that takes a few weeks. Some days you'll walk for many hours, crossing Larke Pass, 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). And you'll climb to very high places where the air feels thin. It's a challenge for your body, but the incredible views from each corner make it worth it.

You'll sleep in simple guesthouses along the way, where you can rest and eat basic but tasty Tibetan food. You'll meet fellow adventurers from all over the world and friendly locals who will share their culture with you.

To go on the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley trek, you need special permits because it's a protected area. You also need to have a guide and porter with you to make your trek easy and successful. The best times to go are spring or autumn when the weather is nice and clear.

guest enjoying tsum valley manaslu trek

Why Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek?

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek is a great choice for those who want a special and remote adventure in the Himalayas. It is less crowded than other famous treks like Everest or Annapurna, so you get peace with stunning mountain views. You walk around Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world, and cross a high mountain pass called Larke La Pass, which offers amazing scenery. 

The Tsum Valley is a hidden and spiritual place, rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. You will visit old monasteries, see prayer walls, and meet kind local people who still follow ancient ways of life. The valley was closed to outsiders until 2008, so it feels untouched and pure.

.This trek is also great for nature lovers. It goes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to many animals like Himalayan blue sheep and maybe even snow leopards.

The trail takes you through forests, rivers, and remote villages. It’s a great mix of nature, culture, and adventure. If you love quiet places, big mountains, and authentic local Tibetan culture, this trek is perfect for you. If you seek more challenges, the rewards are unforgettable and worth it.

mount Manaslu
Mount Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft)

Why is Solo Trekking not allowed in the Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Solo trekking isn't allowed in Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit because these are remote, high-altitude areas with challenging trails. Trekking alone poses significant safety risks like accidents, altitude sickness without help, and getting lost.

These regions are also close to the Tibetan border and are designated as restricted areas by the Nepalese government. This helps control tourism and protect the environment and local culture.

The special permits needed for these treks can only be obtained through registered trekking agencies, and you will require a licensed guide, which will already be managed by us after your booking. This also supports the local economy by providing jobs for guides and porters.

Why trek with us?

Trek with us for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure! As a locally based and experienced operator right here in Nepal, we offer unparalleled insights into the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit. Our knowledgeable guides are not just experts in the terrain and safety; they are passionate locals who will enrich your journey with cultural understanding and personal connections.

We prioritize your safety and comfort, handling all logistics seamlessly, from permits to comfortable accommodations and nutritious meals. We tailor our treks according to your needs, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience that goes beyond just reaching the destination. Discover the magic of Nepal with us, who truly know and love these mountains.

 

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Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Your arrival will be at Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, where our representative will be waiting for you. After your immigration formalities, you will be picked up by our team members from View Nepal Treks and Expedition for a warm, welcoming meet and greet. And transfer to the hotel, Basic activities are planned on this day, so as per your arrival time, you will have a couple of hours to rest and freshen up, and a walk to nearby areas to buy the essentials you need for the rest of the trekking days.

Max Altitude: 1,310 meters/ 4600 feet Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 1 hour to 45 minutesDistance: 5.6km/ 3.8m

Today, after breakfast in Kathmandu, you will take a scenic drive towards Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek. The journey will take you through curvy and bumpy roads, offering glimpses of rural Nepalese life, terraced fields, and eventually following the Budhi Gandaki River. This long but interesting drive sets the stage for your adventure into the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit. Upon arrival in Machha Khola, you will check into the hotel accommodation for the night, preparing for our first day of trekking.

Max Altitude: 900 meters/ 2,953 feet Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.Accommodation: Hotel and LodgeDuration: 8-10 hoursDistance: 40-160km (87-100 m).

Your trekking journey officially begins today as you leave Machha Khola and head towards Jagat. The trail initially follows the Budhi Gandaki River, winding through forests and crossing suspension bridges. You will pass by small settlements and witness the daily lives of the local people. The walk involves some ascents and descents as we make our way to the charming village of Jagat, situated at the confluence of the Siyar Khola and Budi Gandaki rivers. We will spend the night here in a local guesthouse.

 

Max Altitude: 1,300 meters/ 4,265 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 14-16 kilometers / 8.5-10 miles (estimated)

Today's trek takes you from Jagat to Lokpa, entering further into the restricted Tsum Valley region after necessary permit checks. The trail continues along the Budi Gandaki, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages. You will experience a gradual ascent, surrounded by lush greenery and the majestic Himalayan foothills. Lokpa is a small settlement that offers you the real taste of the unique culture and architecture of the Tsum Valley. You will stay overnight in a local teahouse.

Max Altitude: 2,040 meters/ 6,693 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12-14 kilometers / 7.5-8.5 miles (estimated)

Our journey continues towards Chumling, a significant village in the lower Tsum Valley. The trail today involves more uphill trekking, walking through beautiful pine forests, and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You will encounter main walls and chortens, signifying our entry into a more deeply Buddhist influenced region. Chumling is known for its welcoming atmosphere and provides an opportunity to interact with the local community and observe their unique customs. You will spend the night in a local guesthouse.

 

Max Altitude: 2,386 meters/ 7,828 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 5-17 kilometers / 9-10.5 miles (estimated)

Today's destination is Chhe Kampar, another charming village higher up in the Tsum Valley. The trek offers increasingly dramatic mountain scenery as we ascend through varied landscapes. You will pass by traditional stone houses and agricultural fields, gaining insights into the sustainable way of life in this remote valley. Chhe Kampar provides excellent views and a peaceful environment for our overnight stay in a local teahouse.

Max Altitude: 2,860 meters/ 9,383 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12-14 kilometers / 7.5-8.5 miles (estimated)

You will continue ascending deeper into the Tsum Valley towards Nele. The trail becomes more rugged, and the air starts to feel thinner as you gain altitude. The landscapes become more barren and dramatic, with towering peaks surrounding you. Nele is a small settlement that offers a glimpse into the high-altitude lifestyle and provides a base for our exploration of Mu Gompa. We will spend the night in a local guesthouse.

Max Altitude: 3,360 meters/ 11,024 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 10-12 kilometers / 6-7.5 miles (estimated)

Today is dedicated to exploring Mu Gompa, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in the Tsum Valley. After an early start, you will trek to Mu Gompa, enjoying the stunning high-altitude scenery. You will have time to explore the monastery, interact with the monks, and get lost deeply in the spiritual atmosphere. In the afternoon, you will trek back down to Nele for our overnight stay. This day aids in acclimatization as well.

Max Altitude: 3,360 meters/ 11,024 feet; Mu Gompa: 3,700 meters/ 12,139 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 14-16 kilometers / 8.5-10 miles (estimated)

Today, you begin your descent back down the Tsum Valley, retracing our steps towards Chhe Kampar. The downhill trek offers different perspectives of the landscapes we ascended earlier. You will enjoy the relatively easier walk and the familiar surroundings as you return to Chhe Kampar for another night in a local teahouse.

Max Altitude: 2,860 meters/ 9,383 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 8- 10 kilometers / 5-6 miles (estimated)

Your descent continues as you trek from Chhe Kampar back to Lokpa. The trail will be mostly downhill, making for a less strenuous day of walking. You will pass through the villages and landscapes you experienced on your way up, noticing different details on your descent. You will spend the night in Lokpa, preparing to rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit trail.

Max Altitude: 2,040 meters/ 6,693 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12-14 kilometers / 7.5-8.5 miles (estimated)

Today, we leave the Tsum Valley and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit, trekking towards Deng. The trail will involve some ups and downs as we navigate the terrain. We will notice a change in the environment as we move towards the landscapes characteristic of the Manaslu region. Deng is a small village where we will stay overnight in a local guesthouse.

Max Altitude: 1,860 meters/ 6,102 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 16-18 kilometers / 10-11 miles (estimated)

Your trek continues to Namrung, as you steadily gain altitude. The trail offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Manaslu range. You will pass through forests of rhododendron and pine, and cross several streams. Namrung is a larger village with good views and provides a comfortable stop for the night in a local teahouse.

Max Altitude: 2,630 meters/ 8,629 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12-14 kilometers / 7.5-8.5 miles (estimated)

Today, you will trek towards Samagaon, a village in the upper Manaslu region and the gateway to the base camp. The trail climbs gradually, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu itself. You will pass through traditional villages and witness the unique culture of the local Gurung community. Samagaon is a relatively large settlement where you will spend two nights to aid in acclimatization

Max Altitude: 3,535 meters/ 11,598 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 15-17 kilometers / 9-10.5 miles (estimated)

Today is crucial for acclimatization to the higher altitude. You will spend the day in Samagaon, resting and allowing our bodies to adjust. If you're feeling energetic, there are options for short hikes to nearby viewpoints or monasteries, which will further aid in acclimatization. This rest day is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek ahead.

Max Altitude: 3,535 meters/ 11,598 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: Full DayDistance: Varies based on optional hikes

After the acclimatization day, you will continue trekking to Samdo, a small village close to the Tibetan border. The trail is relatively short today, allowing us to gain altitude gradually. You will enjoy the increasingly alpine scenery and the unique cultural influences of this high-altitude settlement. Samdo offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and provides a base for your ascent towards the Larke La Pass. You will spend the night in a local guesthouse.

Max Altitude: 3,860 meters/ 12,664 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 8-10 kilometers / 5-6 miles (estimated)

Today, you will trek to Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi, the last settlement before crossing the Larke La Pass. The trail ascends through barren landscapes and high-altitude vegetation. The views become increasingly dramatic as you approach the base of the pass. Dharmasala is a basic shelter, and you will spend the night here, preparing for the challenging crossing of the Larke La Pass the next day.

Max Altitude: 4,460 meters/ 14,633 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDistance: 6-8 kilometers / 3.7-5 miles (estimated)

Today is the most challenging day of your trek as you cross the majestic Larke La Pass. You will start early to avoid strong winds and potential snow. The ascent to the pass is steep and strenuous, but the panoramic views from the top are truly mesmerising. After some time in the breathtaking scenery, you will begin a long and often steep descent to Bimthang, a beautiful valley with stunning views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and other peaks. You will spend the night in a local guesthouse, tired but exhilarated.

Max Altitude: Larke La Pass: 5,106 meters/ 16,752 feet; Bimthang: 3,720 meters/ 12,205 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 15-17 kilometers / 9-10.5 miles (estimated)
Max Altitude: 2,300 meters/ 7,546 feet Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 15-17 kilometers / 9-10.5 miles (estimated)

Your final day of trekking takes us to Dharapani, where you will rejoin the Annapurna Circuit trail. From Dharapani, you can take a private vehicle for a scenic drive to Besisahar, the starting point of the classic Annapurna Circuit. We will spend the night in a hotel in Besisahar, marking the end of our Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek.

 

Max Altitude: : Dharapani: 1,860 meters/ 6,102 feet; Besisahar: 760 meters/ 2,493 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: Trek 3-4 hours, Drive 3-4 hours.Distance: 8-10 kilometers / 5-6 miles (estimated).
Max Altitude: 1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hours driveDistance: 170-200 kilometers / 105-124 miles (estimated)

Warm greetings and farewell from our representative. Our staff will be there at the hotel check-out time to reach you and depart to the Tribhuvan International Airport, for your onward journey home, filled with lasting memories of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek.

 

Max Altitude: 1,310 meters/ 4600 feet. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: Lodge and Tea houseDuration: 45 minutes via private car/ Jeep.Distance: 6 kilometers/ 3.7 miles.
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Cost Details
Includes

Airport Pickup and drop-off via private car/ jeep to the International Airport in Kathmandu,

Two nights' accommodations on a B&B basis in a respective hotel in Kathmandu,

Accommodation in a lodge and a tea house during exploration,

Fresh and local meals  (breakfast, lunch, dinner),

Sightseeing at the inner core of Kathmandu Valley with experienced and certified guides,

Experience a certified trekking guide for the entire trek,

All the transportation facilities are included as per the itinerary.

Restricted area permits, along with the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fees,

Government Tax processing fee and service charge,

First AID medical kit in case of emergency occurs during the trek,

Welcome and farewell dinner in an authentic Nepali cuisine restaurant with live cultural & traditional programs.

Excludes

International 2-way flight tickets and visa fees,

Extra drinks (hard) and snacks during the trip,

Traveling and medical insurance,

Extra porter: A single porter can carry 20 kilograms, which can be shared by two people.,

Tips for guides and porters,

Personal essentials, laundry services, and basic materials,

Personalized professional trekking kit.

Emergency rescue and evacuation by any means of transportation, including helicopter services and medical services.

Add-ons & Options

We View Nepal Treks and Expedition having decades of experience organizing Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek with our professional guide and leaders, we stand in a up most frontline adventure company in Nepal. As we continue to puss the boundries of excellance, we eager to present your sellection of exclusive Add Ons item to elevate your adventure trip to Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek 

We have updated the seperate cost of  porter Service

Porter service at USD 380

We provide you local Sherpa porter to carry your luggage 20-25 kg, which  can be shared by 2 clients (2:1), while you have strong porter to carry your bag, you will have more time to enjoy the trekking in the beauty of mighty Himalayas.

Essential Information

Permits and Regulations for the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking in the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit requires several permits due to the region's restricted status and conservation area regulations. These permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency, and solo trekking is not allowed. The necessary permits include:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Required for the Manaslu Circuit. Costs vary depending on the season and duration of your trek.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Needed for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

Specifically for entering the Tsum Valley. Costs also vary by season and duration.

Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit

A local permit is required for trekking through the Chum Nubri Rural Municipality, which includes the Tsum Valley and parts of the Manaslu Circuit.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

You will pass through parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area, particularly towards the end of the trek.

Our company will handle the application process for these permits, requiring copies of your passport, passport-sized photos, and your detailed trekking itinerary. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.

Best Trekking Seasons for the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek

The best times to book the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

Spring (March - May)

Offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and the stunning spectacle of rhododendrons blooming across the hillsides. The mountain views are generally excellent.

Autumn (September - November)

Provides stable weather conditions, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures. This is considered the peak trekking season in Nepal due to the optimal visibility of the mountains.

Trekking during the winter (December to February) is possible but involves colder temperatures, potential snowfall at higher altitudes, and some tea houses may be closed. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides, with obscured mountain views. Here is some more information about the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manalsu Circuit

Altitude Sickness Prevention and Precautions

Trekking at high altitudes while crossing the passes carries the risk of altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Prevention is very  crucial, and the following measures should be taken:

  • Gradual Ascent: Our itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gain and sufficient acclimatization days.
  • Hydration: Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily to stay well-hydrated.
  • Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: These can exacerbate the effects of altitude.
  • Ascend Slowly: Trek at a comfortable pace and avoid a fast walk.
  • Listen to Your Body: Inform your guide immediately if you experience any symptoms of AMS.

Guide and Porter for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek

Guide

  • Mandatory: A licensed guide is required for the restricted area.
  • Cost: USD 25–35 per day (includes food, accommodation, and insurance).
  • Navigation assistance.
  • Permit handling.
  • Cultural insights and safety management.

Porter

  • Optional but Recommended: Carries 15–20 kg of gear.
  • Cost: USD 15–25 per day (includes food, accommodation, and insurance).
  • Benefits: Reduces physical strain and allows you to enjoy the trek.
  • Hire through a trekking agency like ours for experienced and insured staff.
FAQs

The cost can vary significantly based on the duration, level of comfort (teahouses vs. camping), and whether you hire a guide and porters. For a basic teahouse trek, expect to budget approximately USD 1,200 to USD 2,000 per person for a trek lasting around 20-25 days. This generally includes permits, accommodation, food, and potentially a guide and porter. Luxury options with better accommodations and more services can easily exceed this range. Prices might have seen a slight increase in 2025 due to inflation and other factors.

As of 2025, you typically need the following permits:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The cost varies depending on the time of year. Generally, it's more expensive during peak seasons (spring and autumn) and cheaper during off-seasons. For example, expect to pay around USD 100 per week for the first week and USD 15 per day thereafter during peak season.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit usually costs around NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 23-25).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As part of the descent, you might enter the ACAP region, requiring a permit costing around NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 23-25).
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (TRAP): Similar to the Manaslu RAP, the cost depends on the duration. Expect to pay around USD 75 per person for the first 8 days and USD 10 per day thereafter.

The duration usually ranges from 20 to 25 days, depending on your itinerary, acclimatization days, and pace. A common itinerary might include around 7-10 days for the Manaslu Circuit, 5-7 days for exploring the Tsum Valley, and additional days for travel to and from the trailhead (Soti Khola or Machha Khola) and acclimatization.

The food is typically simple and consists of local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, momos (dumplings), and basic Western options like pasta or fried rice in some places. The cost of food can range from USD 20 to USD 30 per day per person, depending on your appetite and the remoteness of the location (prices tend to increase at higher altitudes).

Yes, it is mandatory to trek with a licensed guide in the Manaslu region, which includes the Tsum Valley. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers and to support the local economy. Hiring porters is optional but highly recommended, especially if you are not accustomed to carrying heavy loads at high altitudes. Porters typically cost around USD 20-USD 30 per day plus tips.

Highlights

  • Stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Manaslu (the eighth highest mountain in the world).
  • Exploring the unique culture and traditions of the Tsum Valley, with its ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.
  • Crossing the challenging Larkya La pass (5,106 meters/16,752 feet).
  • Experiencing diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glaciers.
  • Immersing yourself in the remote and less crowded trails compared to some other popular treks in Nepal.

Challenges

  • High altitude and the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is crucial.
  • Long and strenuous trekking days, often over challenging terrain.
  • Basic accommodation and facilities in some areas.
  • Unpredictable weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.

This trek is considered moderately to strenuously difficult. It involves long trekking days, significant altitude gains (reaching the Larkya La pass at 5,106 meters/16,752 feet), and walking on varied and sometimes challenging terrain. Good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are highly recommended. Acclimatization days are crucial to prevent altitude sickness.

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