Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

The best times to trek the Manaslu Tsum Valley are from early October to November (Autumn) and from March to May (Spring). These months are ideal for trekking in Nepal. During this period, you will see blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, the best mountain views, a pleasant atmosphere, and mild temperatures. The average temperature ranges from 10 to 20 degrees, but nights can still be cold, sometimes reaching freezing point.

Likewise, December to mid-February (Winter) brings harsh conditions for trekking in the upper Himalayan region. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can make travel difficult. Many villagers move to lower areas during this time. While you can still trek, you must be well prepared with food, camping tents, and essential gear. At night, the temperature drops below the freezing point, sometimes even to -25 degrees.

Further, June to September (Rainy + Summer) brings heavy rain and extreme heat, especially in the lower areas. Continuous rain can make trekking challenging and may obstruct views of the Himalayas. Further, extreme heat makes it difficult to walk. While the Tsum Valley lies in a partial rain-shadow, conditions can still be wet and humid in the early parts of the trail. Most trekkers avoid this time due to the difficult trail conditions.

A typical day on the Tsum Valley trek begins early in the morning, between 5 a.m. to 6 a.m. You will wake up, enjoy a nice local breakfast as you take in the pleasant views of the mountains and the valleys. After that, you will begin trekking.

Early Morning

7 AM – 8 AM:

After breakfast, get ready for the trek. Pack the essentials you need and wear layers to accommodate the altitude. Keep a separate bag for items you use often, like snacks, chocolate, water bottles, and sunglasses.

8 AM to 12 or 1 PM:

Start the trek around 8 or 9 AM, depending on when you wake up. This first part lasts about 4-5 hours. You can cover more distance since you will feel fresh after your morning sleep. After trekking for 4-5 hours, you will stop for lunch based on your plan.

Afternoon

12 PM to 1 PM:

Take a one-hour lunch break to rest. Your guide will take you to a teahouse where you can enjoy local dishes like Dal Bhat. Some teahouses also have Western food options like pizza, burgers, and spaghetti.

1 PM to 4 PM:

After lunch, start your afternoon trek. This usually takes about 4 to 5 hours. Since you might feel tired, take your time and travel more slowly. You will visit local villages, see beautiful scenery, and explore ancient temples or monasteries. As evening approaches, the light changes, creating long shadows on the mountains.

Evening

4 PM to 7 PM:

During the 4 PM to 5 PM window on a typical Manaslu Tsum Valley trek day, you will have reached the day’s destination. After that, you will begin to settle into the teahouses, freshen up after the day’s walk, and often socialize with fellow trekkers and the local hosts. This is also the time to order dinner from the teahouse menu, perhaps enjoying a warm beverage while recounting the day’s experiences and taking in the surrounding mountain views before the evening sets in.

Night

7 PM to 8 PM:

A calm atmosphere takes over as evening falls in the Manaslu Tsum Valley. Between 7 PM and 8 PM, the smell of dinner fills the air. You’ll find a mix of local Nepali dishes and possibly some familiar Western food at the teahouse. Mealtime becomes a chance for trekkers to come together, share stories about their day, and connect while enjoying the beautiful Himalayan scenery.

8 PM to 10 PM:

Following a hearty dinner, 8 PM and 10 PM are a precious window for rest and recovery. Knowing that another day of rewarding yet challenging trekking lies ahead, an early bedtime is necessary. You’ll bid goodnight to your dedicated crew, appreciating their hard work, and then settle into your sleeping bag, allowing your body and mind to recharge fully.

The Tsum Valley Trek occurs at high altitudes near the world’s 8th-highest peak. Because of this, your body needs enough carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients. You will find nutritious food in the trekking areas, but your choices will be limited. Our Manaslu Tsum Valley trek package includes 19 breakfasts, 19 lunches, and 18 dinners. All meals in the trekking regions are provided on a full-board basis, which means you get breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For Breakfast – Tibetan Tsampa Porridge, Pancakes, Eggs, Fruits, Oatmeal, French Toast with Jam, Butter, Cheese, Muesli Breads, Corn Flakes, Vegetables, and Hot Drinks.

For Lunch and Dinner: 

• Macaroni
• Pasta with cheese and tomato sauce
• Prawn crackers and papad
• Puffcorn
• Non-veg Momo (Mainly Chicken or Buff)
• Spaghetti with either cheese, tomato, or both
• Sandwich (optional egg) served with chips
• Boiled Noodles, Mixed Fried Noodles
• Fried potatoes with fresh vegetables, an egg, or cheese.
• Rice with chicken curry or vegetable curry
• Roast, mash, or hash brown potatoes.
• Chowmein, Tenthuk, and Thukpa
• Veggie Spaghetti with tomato ketchup
• Veg, egg, or cheese fried rice
• Fried noodles with cheese add-on
• Veg-fried pasta, cheese-fried pasta
• Vegetable and potato momo, either grilled or steamed
• Finger Chips (eggs optional)
• Sherpa Stews
• Dal Bhat (vegetable, non-veg)
• Sandwich with either grilled tomato or grilled cheese, or both
• Spaghetti with tuna, cheese, and tomato sauce
• Cheese Momo
• Spring rolls, Pakauda, sizzlers, etc.
• Tomato Sandwich with grilled tuna, Club Sandwich
• Boiled potatoes
• Fried noodles (vegetable or egg)

Apart from these foods, trekkers are advised to carry energy drinks and snack bars, which they can take in their side bag and have during the trek.

Accommodation

Accommodation on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek varies depending on the location. In the city areas (Kathmandu), there are options to choose from three—to five-star hotels or budget lodges, whereas in the higher, remote altitudes, you will have options of a teahouse or camping in a barren field.

Tea houses, or guest houses, are the main lodging options on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit. They provide cozy spaces for trekkers to eat, relax, and connect. Key stops like Jagat, Lho, Shyala, Samagaun, and Samdo offer excellent facilities, while others provide basic accommodations with essentials like beds, blankets, and dining areas. Staying in these lodges immerses you in local culture and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people.

Likewise, camping on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a great way to experience the wild and remote beauty of the region. In some areas where teahouses are limited or unavailable, trekkers set up tents in open fields and spend the night under the stars. This option is now less common and more expensive than staying in teahouses. Camping requires extra gear such as tents, cooking equipment, and a support team to carry everything.

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a difficult trek in Nepal. Physical fitness and strong determination are required. Despite the challenge, many trekkers go to the Manaslu area during each season. Several factors influence the level of difficulty of the trek, which we will talk about later. Nonetheless, with proper planning and preparation, even someone who has done the trek once can undertake the Manaslu trek. The trek is popular among experienced trekkers who have done other popular treks in Nepal. Thus, let’s discuss some of the elements of difficulty in the trek.

High Altitude

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trek that goes from 600 meters to 5,106 meters at Manaslu Larke La Pass. This trek can increase the risk of altitude sickness, also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Anyone, no matter their age or fitness level, can get altitude sickness when they go above 3,000 meters. Early signs of AMS include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, a faster heartbeat, and trouble sleeping. You can manage mild symptoms by adjusting to the altitude, drinking plenty of water, and resting enough. However, if symptoms worsen, the person should move to a lower altitude or may need to be flown to Kathmandu if the condition is serious.

Rugged Terrain

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is quite challenging because of its rough terrain and topography. You’ll be hiking in the foothills of the massive Himalayas. The trek is both physically and mentally demanding due to its steep paths, large rocks, and cliffs. The trail is extremely challenging, with numerous ups and downs. The trek passes through uncharted areas, making it even harder. You’ll be faced with natural obstacles, river crossings, and difficult terrain that will push you to the limit. You’ll need to be in top endurance and fitness to undertake this high-altitude trek. Therefore, it’s extremely important to prepare well for this trek.

Remote Area

The remote location of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek significantly contributes to its difficulty due to limited infrastructure and accessibility. Unlike more popular trekking regions with well-established facilities, this area has basic teahouses for accommodation and food, and transportation to the trek’s starting point often involves long, bumpy rides on unpaved roads. The remoteness means there are few ways to communicate and limited access to medical facilities. This requires trekkers to be self-sufficient and well-prepared for unexpected situations.

There are several permits that trekkers need to obtain for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. They are listed below:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This Manaslu special permit is mandatory for trekking in the Manaslu region. The cost varies depending on the season and duration of your trek. From September to November, it’s USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 per day afterward. From December to August, it’s USD 75 for the first week and USD 10 per day afterward.

2. Tsum Valley Restricted Permit: If you plan to explore Tsum Valley, you’ll need this additional permit. The cost is USD 40 for the first week and USD 7 per day thereafter. Since the Tsum Valley is also in a restricted area, it requires a restricted area permit.

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required if you plan to trek to or from the Annapurna region, which is a standard route for the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek. The Trek passes through the Annapurna Sanctuary. It costs USD 30 per person.

4. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit is also required and costs USD 30 per person for tourists from other countries and approximately $10 per person for tourists from the SAARC nations.

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is among the most underrated treks because of its stunning mountain views, strolling in the remote settlements, and the chance to immerse oneself in unique culture and traditions. Here are some reasons you should experience the Tsum Valley Trek.

Manaslu Base Camp

One of the main reasons to undertake the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is the chance to explore the Manaslu Base Camp. From the base camp, you can see the eighth-tallest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu. You will see the majestic mountains and the stunning Tsum Valley filled with snowy mountains and glacial moraines.

Birendra Lake

Birendra Lake is the major attraction of the Tsum Valley Trek. This freshwater lake is in the Manaslu Glacier in Gorkha District, northern-central Nepal. It is named after the late King Birendra Shah. The lake is close to the Punhyen Glacier and the Gompa in Samagaun. Trekkers traveling from Sama Gaun to Manaslu Base Camp can visit this lake in Gandaki Province. Birendra Lake became popular as more people chose to trek the Manaslu Circuit.

Larkya La Pass

Larkya La Pass is another major attraction of the Tsum Valley Trek. Its altitude is approximately 5100m, making it one of the highest passes. It is a starting point for treks to Manaslu Base Camp and Bhimtang Valley. The pass is named after Larkya Peak, 6249 meters in the Annapurna region. The trail leads to the right sub-peak of Manaslu. One of the significant reasons that trekkers like to reach this pass is to click photos of majestic mountain views and the entire Tsum Valley.

Majestic Mountain Views

Trekkers will also get to see the amazing mountain views throughout the trek. Some of the views you will see during this expedition are Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Himalchuli, and Nilgiri. The trekkers who love mountain climbing and adventure in the Himalayas are the most enthusiastic about this trek.

Remote villages & off the beaten Trail

Many trekking spots in Nepal are highly commercialized and often crowded. However, Tsum Valley is different as it is the least crowded trek. The trekkers will pass through various remote villages, including Chumling, Mu Gompa, Lokpa, Rachen Gompa, and Nile. The trail of this trek is mainly off the beaten path and often ends in the wilderness. The atmosphere is so pleasant during the ideal seasons that trekkers often prefer to camp outside.

The Manaslu Tsum River Valley Trek lies in remote areas. The off-beaten trails, remote villages, and lack of infrastructure make it challenging to access simple services like communication, electricity, and internet connections. However, you can still stay connected and keep your devices charged with a little planning.

Communication and Internet

Mobile networks are available in some sections of the trail. It’s best to buy a local SIM card before starting the trek. NTC and Ncell are the two main providers. NTC generally offers better mobile coverage in the mountains, while Ncell is more useful for mobile data in lower areas.

Furthermore, some tea houses in villages like Namrung, Samagaun, and Dharapani offer Wi-Fi, but it can be slow and unreliable. Wi-Fi access is usually not free and may cost between $2 to $10 per device per day, depending on the location.

Battery Charging

At lower altitudes and bigger villages, you can easily charge your devices in tea houses. But as you go higher, charging points become limited and electricity may be unreliable due to solar power or power cuts. In remote areas, you’ll likely need to pay a small fee to charge your phone or camera.

Tip: Carrying a power bank or solar charger is highly recommended to keep your devices running throughout the trek.

Since the trek to Manaslu Tsum Valley is long, the trekkers must use certain modes of transportation to travel from one place to another. Here are a few modes of transportation that the trekkers can use.

Bus

The local bus is the most common mode of transport from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola. Local buses leave daily from Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu, usually between 6:00–7:00 AM. The bus fare costs NPR 1500-2000 per person.

Route Profile:
Kathmandu → Malekhu → Mugling → Gorkha Bazaar → Arughat → Soti Khola → Machha Khola

You will also take a bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu/Pokhara.

Jeep

Jeeps are a great option for traveling on the rough roads leading to Machha Khola, especially for treks like the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit. Compared to buses, jeeps are faster, more flexible, and can handle the bumpy, off-road sections better. A private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola costs around $180 to $250, depending on the season. A jeep can fit 6 to 7 people, so it’s ideal for groups. Likewise, a shared jeep costs about $20 to $30 per person. You’ll also take a jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar.

Flight

Trekkers can board a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight is the most expensive mode of transportation, costing from $100 to $200 per person. It is also the most comfortable or the quickest way of travelling, as you can reach Pokhara within 25 to 30 minutes.

At Himalaya 360, we believe that trekking in Nepal should be safe, exciting, and personal. That’s why we offer well-planned treks with friendly guides, custom options, and clear pricing. We’re a registered trekking company in Nepal, and we work closely with trusted organizations like TAAN, NMA, and ATTA.

Here’s why so many trekkers choose us for the Manaslu Circuit Trek:

• Customizable itineraries: Everyone has different needs, and we get that. With Himalaya 360, you can adjust your trek based on your fitness level, schedule, and interests. Want to add Tsum Valley? Need more acclimatization days? No problem. We’ll plan a route that suits you best, so your trek is both comfortable and unforgettable.
• Expert guides: Our local guides have years of experience in the Manaslu region. They’re not just trained in safety, they know the trails, the teahouses, and the mountain culture. Most importantly, they’re warm, helpful, and always ready to support you throughout your journey.
• Last-minute booking: We can arrange last-minute treks (up to 1–2 days before) depending on permit availability. Just reach out to us. We’re always ready to help you hit the trail.
• Clear Prices & 24/7 Support: We keep things simple and transparent. Everything you need: permits, transport, food, and accommodation are clearly listed in our package. And if you ever need help or have questions, our team is available 24/7, before and during your trek.