Manaslu Circuit tsum Valley Trek- 20 Days

Trip Facts

Group size 1-20+
Duration 20 Days
Level of difficulty Moderate
Max. Altitude: 5,106m
Accommodation Tea houses/Lodges
Start/End Kathmandu

Trip Highlights

  • Explore the remote and culturally rich Tsum Valley, known for its Tibetan Buddhist heritage
  • Complete the full Manaslu Circuit, offering spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the 8th highest peak in the world
  • Experience diverse landscapes—from lush forests to high alpine passes like Larkya La (5,160m)
  • Encounter traditional Gurung, Tibetan, and Buddhist cultures in villages along the trail
  • Moderate to challenging trek with well-planned acclimatization, perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking solitude

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is a 20-day venture into the remotest parts of Nepal, led by the grandeur of Mt. Manaslu at 8,163 meters, cultural insight into Tsum Valley, and different rugged trails leading toward tranquil landscapes. It is appropriate for those trekkers who look for less crowded routes compared to the Annapurna Circuit; although the journey certainly fills them up with monasteries, waterfalls, and age-old Tibetan traditions. Be it an avid trekker or just a nature lover, Manaslu promises lifetime memories.

Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is a kind of induction to the voyage that takes one through the untrodden terrains where the nature and culture are in a harmonious affair together for 20 days. Beginning in Soti Khola, it follows the Budhi Gandaki River through a series of thunderous rapids, cascading waterfalls, and sub-tropical forests, on its winding way up from the bottom of the waterfalls. This would be taken as if revealing itself right before one’s eyes as it rises high, and after passing the famous Larkya La Pass at the height of 5,160 meters, it would be over. More adventure comes in the form of more trekking in the Tsum Valley, therefore altogether distinct courtesy of its repute for spiritual worth and blemish-free landscapes.

Tsum Valley, which traditionally goes by the name “Hidden Valley,” forms part of some of the recognized scared sites for visits in this trek: Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, in better words, for reasons of their deeply religious significance. The region still remains relatively unexplored by modern-day travelers and therefore keeps its ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls intact. This cultural exploration, skewed atop a challenging yet rewarding Manaslu Circuit, offers the chance of a lifetime to feel the glory of natural splendor, parceled with the cultural heritage.

How does 20 days Manaslu circuit tsum valley starts and end?

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek starts from Kathmandu, including the completion of all permits required for the restricted area of Manaslu. After sightseeing in the capital, another scenic drive of 7-8 hours leads via scenic roads and river valleys to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek, which is situated in the district of Gorkha on the Budhi Gandaki River. The first journey gives an overview of Nepal-from bustling towns to lush hillsides. Soti Khola is an entrance point for the Manaslu Conservation Area, and from here, it’s time to make a real trek into the topography of the ruggedness of rivers and villages.

Your trek of 20 days concludes at Dharapani village in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek ends at Dharapani after crossing over the famous Larkya La Pass, then drives to Besisahar to return to Kathmandu. The last leg of the trip relieves you toward the end of this strenuous hike as you retrace scenic roads back to the capital. Whether it is time to unwind in Kathmandu or recollect memories, this indeed will be a lifetime memory of natural beauty and cultural richness in Nepal.

How long does manaslu circuit tsum valley treks last?

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek usually takes up to 20 days. Within this period, full coverage of the trekking route is possible, including time for acclimatization, exploration of the Tsum Valley, crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,160m in altitude, and time for travel both to and from Kathmandu. Exact days may vary slightly based on the different itinerary, the day(s) of rest chosen, and personal speed of trekking.

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Itinerary

Arrival in Kathmandu, the busy capital of Nepal. You will be met at the airport and transferred back to your hotel. Free day to relax or explore the city. This day is usually used in preparation for the trekking adventure and organizing permits such as the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and the Tsum Valley Permit. Cultural drama and frolic-possibly the most happening area in town, you will have time to explore Thamel in the evening.

Location: Kathmandu
Altitude Different: 1,400 m

Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of your trek. It takes approximately 7-8 hours by jeep or bus through Prithvi Highway with stunning views of hills and rivers with terraced fields along the way. After reaching Arughat, follow the Budi Gandaki River to Soti Khola, which is a small village, where you are going to rest for your overnight stay.

Location: Soti Khola
Duration: 7–9 hrs (drive)
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 710 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From Soti Khola, your trek begins uphill toward Machha Khola, pursuing beautiful sal forests, ridges, and traditional Gurung villages. You cross suspension bridges and walk along the roaring river. This small settlement alongside the riverbank can be reached after about 6-7 hours of trekking.

Location: Machha Khola
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 900 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Today’s is a day of trekking on rugged terrain along with ups and downs. The trail then winds up to Tatopani, which means hot water, literally translating into the availability of hot springs where you may relax. The further route consists of crossings over several suspension bridges and narrow paths along the riverbank up to Jagat, which is a beautiful village with stone-paved streets herding your arrival into Manaslu Conservation Area.

Location: Jagat
Duration: 7–8 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 1,340 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

The trek continuous through the verdant forests and small villages upwards to Lokpa, where the path bifurcates into Tsum Valley. As it goes into a complete wilderness, the number of trekkers becomes few, and the environment gets tranquil. With the gain in altitude, stunning views of terraced hills and dense forests begin to show. The night stay at Lokpa is equally appealing with its beautiful sceneries and tranquil atmosphere.

Location: Lokpa
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 2,240 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Today, you will follow the trekking routes through forests and cross some narrow gorges and ridges to reach the village of Chumling in the lower Tsum Valley. Landscapes vary with time as you enter this sacred valley of rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. You will follow the route through some monasteries and chortens up to a view of the beautiful Ganesh Himal range.

Location: Chumling
Duration: 5–6 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 2,386 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Following the Tsum Valley, it is a 6-7 hour trek to Chhokang Paro. You could see some traditional houses, mani walls, and some prayer wheels dotting in the trail, holding great importance for the Tibetan-influenced culture. The view of the Shringi Himal dominates this section of the trek as pretty scenic.

Location: Chhokang Paro
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 3,031 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From Chhokang Paro, the track continues to the village of Nile, a place where the valley opens up and allows one to take in spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The track goes through small villages, ancient monasteries, and mani walls, which further enriches the spiritual atmosphere. It takes about 5-6 hours of trekking to reach Nile, the last village in the upper Tsum Valley.

Location: Nile
Duration: 5–6 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 3,361 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Today is the day to visit the spiritual heart of the Tsum Valley. Hiking shortly, you will reach Mu Gompa, the biggest monastery in the area, lying near the Tibetan border. You can visit Dhephu Doma Gompa after visiting Mu Gompa. The views around this place are amazing; you will be lucky enough to experience the calm and untouched beauty of the valley.

Location: Mu Gompa (excursion)
Duration: 4–5 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 3,700 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From Tsum Valley, after exploration, you get the route back downhill to Chumling. The 6-7 hour trek takes you to appreciate the landscapes from a different perspective. You pass through serene villages, forests, and rivers with good time to appreciate the unique culture of Tsum Valley.

Location: Chumling
Duration: 7–8 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 2,386 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From here, you will re-join the Manaslu Circuit trek and proceed from Chumling to Deng. The trail goes down in grade, dropping down to the Budhi Gandaki River; then it slowly starts to become the variation from the remote Tsum Valley into the greeneries and vibrancies of the Manaslu Circuit. This 6-7 hour trek takes you through some forests and across bridges with the peaks of the Manaslu range in view.

Location: Deng
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 1,860 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Deng to Namrung takes about 6-7 hours, and it is a lovely route. The track follows the Budhi Gandaki River and slowly climbs up the heights. As you near Namrung, glimpses of Mt. Manaslu are seen. Namrung is a beautiful village that has a mixed culture of Tibetans and Nepalis.

Location: Namrung
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 2,630 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Today’s trek is further into the mountains, ascending through forests, fields, and small villages to reach Samagaon. It takes 6-7 hours of trekking, with magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu and Himal Chuli during the journey. Samagaon is a big village lying at the base of Mt. Manaslu, rich in Tibetan culture, and forms a common stop for trekkers heading toward Manaslu Base Camp.

Location: Samagaon
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 3,530 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From Samagaon, the trek to Samdo is pretty easy, taking about 4-5 hours. The route slowly rises and then winds its way through alpine grassland and fields of moraine. Samdo is a Tibetan-influenced village near the border of Tibet, with spectacular panoramic views of peaks around.

Location: Samdo
Duration: 5–6 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 3,860 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From here, it’s a 4-5 hour trek to Dharmasala-better named Larkya Phedi-the last stop before crossing Larkya La. The trail climbs without dalliance in extremely barren landscapes hemmed in by towering peaks everywhere. You will overnight stay at a simple lodge to prepare yourself for the challenging pass tomorrow.

Location: Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi)
Duration: 4–5 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 4,460 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Location: Samagaon (acclimatization)
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

This is considered one of the most difficult and fulfilling days on this trek. You wake up very early in the morning and start going uphill to the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass (5,160m). In about 3-4 hours of ascents greet you with views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. From here, cross over the pass and make your way down to Bimthang-a picturesque valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains.

Location: Bimthang (via Larkya La)
Duration: 8–10 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 5,160 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

From Bimthang, the trail descends through forests and ridges, crossing over rivers to reach villages like Gho and Tilje. It takes about 6 to 7 hours of trekking to reach Dharapani, a village in the Annapurna Conservation Area, where this trek also meets the Annapurna Circuit.

Location: Dharapani
Duration: 7–8 hrs
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Altitude Different: 1,860 m
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Today, you’ll drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From Besisahar, a jeep or bus will take you back to Kathmandu. The drive takes 7-8 hours, offering a final glimpse of the stunning Nepalese countryside before returning to the capital.

Location: Kathmandu
Duration: 8–10 hrs (drive)
Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-Farewell Dinner
Altitude Different: 1,400 m

Price Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle
  • Pre-trek briefing In Kathmandu Nepal Lion Treks office
  • Transportation from Kathmandu via Arughat to Soti Khola (trek start) and from Tal (trek end) to Besisahar, then back to Kathmandu by local bus.
  • Meals (Main Course:- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and coffee/tea
  • Teahouse/ Lodge accommodations during the trip with family environment
  • One licensed trekking guide speaking English, Chinese, Korean, or Hindi, and Nepali
  • 1 well-experienced English-speaking assistant guide if the group size exceeds 5+ persons.
  • Coverage of Guides including their Meals, Insurance, Salary, Lodging, transportation and other necessary equipment.
  • First Aid Medical Kit(Carried by the guide) Aarogya PC-303 Portable Vital Signs Monitor Device
  • Manaslu & Tsum Valley Special Permits with Conservation Area Permits
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP)
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag and duffel bag(in case if you dont have your own must be returned after completion of the trip)
  • Emergency Evacuation Assistance Service (The cost of the helicopter, hospital and necessary transport are not payable by the company).
  • Nepal Lion Tours and Trek's appreciation certificate after the successful trek
  • Welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant (complimentary).

Price Excludes

  • International Airfare, Visa Fees and Travel Insurance
  • Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-chargefee).
  • Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Additional costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances beyond management control.
  • Gratitude and tips for your guide, porter and driver.

Add-ons & Options

1.⁠ ⁠Accommodation Booking in Kathmandu:

We can arrange your hotel stay in Kathmandu for a smooth and stress-free arrival.
  ✅    Double Room: USD 55 per night (cost can be shared between two trekkers)
  ✅   Single Room: USD 45 per night

📍 Centrally located near Thamel – close to gear shops, great restaurants, and cultural sites.

2.⁠ ⁠Private Jeep Transfer & Flights:

We offer comfortable and convenient round-trip private jeep services between Kathmandu to Machha Khola and return from Dharapani to Kathmandu.

3.⁠ ⁠Porter Services:We can arrange a reliable, experienced porter to support your trek.
   ✅   Contact us for current rates and availability.

4. 🌊 Rafting (Trishuli River)
Paddle through exciting rapids and enjoy a fun-filled river adventure.

Don't hesitate to get in touch with us for current rates and availability.

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FAQ's for Manaslu Circuit tsum Valley Trek- 20 Days

General

It’s a combination trek that circles Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and explores the remote Tsum Valley, known for Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and less-crowded trails.

Yes. You need:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  • Tsum Valley RAP

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Itinerary & Duration

  • Manaslu Circuit only: 14–16 days

  • With Tsum Valley: 20–24 days

Yes. Side trips and acclimatization days can extend the trek, while skipping Tsum Valley or using transport on the approach can shorten it.

Difficulty & Preparation

It’s strenuous, with long days, high altitude, and the challenging Larke La Pass (5,160m).

Yes, recommended. Experience with multi-day high-altitude treks will help.

Transportation

From Kathmandu, take a jeep or bus to Soti Khola or Machha Khola (6–8 hrs).

The trek usually ends at Dharapani / Besi Sahar, from where you can drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Altitude & Safety

The Larke La Pass at 5,160m.

Yes. The trek goes above 3,500m for many days. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are important.

Accommodation & Food

Basic teahouses/lodges with simple rooms, shared toilets, and common dining halls.

Dal bhat, noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, momos, and some international dishes. Fewer options in Tsum Valley.

Preparation & Gear

Warm clothing, down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking boots, poles, headlamp, and personal essentials.

Yes. Almost all gear is available for rent or purchase in Thamel.

Permits & Budget

USD 1,500–2,500 for 20–24 days (permits, guide/porter, food, and accommodation).

Restricted Area Permits + entry to MCAP and ACAP conservation areas.

Service & Guides

Yes. A licensed guide is mandatory because the region is a restricted area. Solo trekking is not allowed.

Yes. Porters are optional but highly recommended, as the trek is long and involves steep climbs and high passes.

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