Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering trekkers an immersive and spiritual journey through a culturally rich and pristine region. Nestled in the northern part of Gorkha, Nepal, the Tsum Valley remains one of the least-explored areas in Nepal, preserving its ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional villages. This trek is a perfect blend of breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, serene alpine landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.

The trail winds through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and the upper alpine region, revealing the untouched beauty of the valley. Snow-capped peaks like Manaslu (8,163m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871m) dominate the skyline, while quaint villages like Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Mu Gompa immerse trekkers in centuries-old Buddhist traditions. The valley’s remoteness and restricted access mean that only a limited number of trekkers visit each year, making it a unique adventure for those seeking solitude and authenticity.

Because of its moderate difficulty and well-paced itinerary, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers who have some experience with mid-altitude treks and are looking for a culturally rich, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience. The route is supported by basic teahouses and lodges, and with proper preparation, trekkers can enjoy a safe and unforgettable journey.

Highlights:

  • Explore the hidden Tsum Valley, an isolated Himalayan valley preserving traditional Tibetan-Buddhist culture.
  • Walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and alpine landscapes with views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
  • Visit ancient monasteries such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, as well as traditional villages.
  • Witness local festivals, rituals, and daily life of the Tsumba people, offering deep cultural immersion.
  • Trek at a moderate pace suitable for trekkers with prior acclimatization experience, in a serene and uncrowded setting.

What can you expect from the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

This trek is perfect for travelers seeking solitude, culture, and Himalayan vistas away from crowded trails. You’ll experience a range of landscapes — subtropical forests, rhododendron-covered hills, alpine meadows, and glacial moraine. Daily walks are moderate, with some steep ascents, offering both physical challenge and rewarding scenery.

Photography enthusiasts will find the trek captivating, with countless opportunities to capture traditional villages, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and panoramic Himalayan views. Overnight stays in family-run lodges offer hearty meals and warm hospitality, enhancing the immersive cultural experience.

Major attractions of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, a city teeming with art, history, and spirituality. From here, you’ll travel to Jagat, the gateway to the Manaslu region. The trail passes through villages like Jagat, Dharapani, and Chumling, each offering a glimpse into local culture and ancient traditions.

In Tsum Valley, pristine alpine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and isolated monasteries provide a unique trekking experience unlike any other in Nepal. The valley’s isolation preserves its culture and natural beauty, allowing trekkers to connect deeply with the Himalayan environment and the local people.

This trek is ideal for culturally curious and adventurous travelers, including solo trekkers, couples, and small groups. Its moderate altitude and remote setting provide both a physical challenge and a sense of tranquility.

Who Can Do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy multi-day walks of 4–7 hours. This trek is perfect for those seeking tranquility, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experiences, and immersion in Tibetan-Buddhist culture. Even first-time trekkers with good fitness and proper acclimatisation can enjoy the journey with guidance from experienced local guides.

Iconic Himalaya welcomes enthusiastic trekkers from all over the world — whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, your partner, or family. You can also join a group trek with other travellers or arrange a private trek. Iconic Himalaya can also adjust your itinerary and travel arrangements as per your preference. 

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pickup & drop in Kathmandu; city transfers.
  • 2 nights in Kathmandu (hotel, breakfast) and 1–2 nights in Pokhara if included.
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary (private vehicle / local bus).
  • All trekking nights in teahouses (twin share) with full board meals while trekking.
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide (mandatory), porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers), local liaison.
  • All government local taxes/VAT, and office expenses.
  • Staff salary, insurance for staff, food and accommodation for crew.
  • Water purification (tablets or filters) for safe drinking water.
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets and a duffle bag- if necessary( return after trek).
  • First aid kit carried by the guide.
  • Emergency rescue assistance coordination.
  • A trip completion certificate and a trek route map.
     
Excludes
  • International airfare to/from Kathmandu; Nepal entry visa.
  • Lunches/dinners in Kathmandu/Pokhara unless specified.
  • Personal travel & rescue insurance (mandatory). Insurance must cover trekking/evacuation to at least 5,200–6,000 m.
  • Hot showers, battery charging, alcoholic drinks, and snacks not included.
  • Tips for guide/porter (recommended).
  • Any additional costs due to weather, landslides, or route changes.
  • Excess baggage charges on domestic flights.
  • Extra nights in Kathmandu for early arrival, late departure, or emergency/voluntary itinerary changes.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing if extended
  • Any service not listed under “Includes.”
Dates & Availability

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek operates seasonally due to its high altitude and remote location within Nepal’s restricted region. The best trekking months are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear, the skies are stable, and mountain views are at their finest. Spring  between March–May is a beautiful season when rhododendrons bloom across the hills, trails are alive with greenery, and the snow-capped peaks of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal sparkle under bright skies. The weather is mild and ideal for crossing Larke La Pass. Autumn (September–November is the most popular trekking season with crisp air, dry trails, and clear mountain vistas. The landscapes glow golden with harvest fields, and the views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and the Annapurnas are at their sharpest. Winter (December–February) is the upper sections, including Larke La, often experience heavy snowfall, making the pass difficult to cross. Lower Tsum Valley remains accessible, offering a quieter, spiritual experience among monasteries and villages. Monsoon (June–August) is the region becomes lush and green, but trails can be slippery, and leeches are common. Trekking is not advised during this time due to landslide risk and limited visibility.

Note:

  • The itinerary may change due to weather, or health reasons.
  • For trip confirmation, a deposit (typically 25% of total) is required; balance due per operator policy.
  • The deposit is non-refundable but can be transferred to the next trekking season for up to two years.
  • The price is valid until December 2026.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Equipments

Equipment and accessories play a vital role in ensuring safety, comfort, and success on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Since this is a remote, high-altitude route with long days and limited access to shops, careful preparation is essential. Below is a detailed packing guide curated for the Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions.

Bags & Packs

  • Main backpack (50–65 L): Durable and comfortable, with a strong frame and hip belt.
  • Daypack (25–30 L): For daily essentials like water, camera, snacks, and extra clothing layers.
  • Duffel bag: Provided by Iconic Himalaya for the porter to carry your main luggage (max 15–20 kg per person).

Footwear

  • Sturdy trekking boots: Waterproof, broken-in, with ankle support.
  • Camp shoes or sandals: For evenings and rest days.
  • Warm trekking socks (3–4 pairs): Moisture-wicking and thermal.

Clothing

  • Insulated down jacket: Essential for cold nights, especially near the pass.
  • Fleece or mid-layer (2): For warmth during mornings and evenings.
  • Waterproof shell jacket and pants: Breathable and wind-resistant.
  • Base layers (thermal tops & bottoms): Lightweight for layering and warmth.
  • Trekking shirts (quick-dry, short & long sleeve).
  • Trekking pants and extra lightweight trousers.
  • Warm hat/beanie, sun hat, and neck gaiter (buff).
  • Light gloves and insulated gloves.

Sleeping & Bedding

  • Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C rating): Highly recommended for high-altitude nights.
  • Sleeping bag liner: Adds warmth and cleanliness.

Gadgets & Accessories

  • Headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Trekking poles: Helpful for steep ascents and descents around Larke La.
  • Sunglasses (UV-protected) and sunscreen (SPF 50+).
  • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2 L capacity).
  • Water purification tablets or filter (no bottled water available en route).
  • Power bank or solar charger: Electricity is limited and often paid per charge.
  • Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel.
  • Plastic/dry bags for waterproofing clothes and electronics.

Medical & First Aid

  • Personal prescription medications.
  • Basic first aid kit (painkillers, antiseptic, blister patches, oral rehydration salts).
  • Altitude medication (Diamox, if prescribed).
  • Lip balm with SPF and skin moisturizer.

Women-Specific

For women trekkers, it’s important to carry trusted feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, and moisturizer, as supplies are limited in the remote villages of Manaslu and Tsum Valley. A light scarf or shawl is especially useful when visiting monasteries, nunneries, or traditional homes, where modest dress is appreciated.

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek passes through deeply spiritual Buddhist communities, including ancient monasteries and sacred meditation caves. Women trekkers often find this journey both humbling and empowering — a space of cultural connection, self-reflection, and natural beauty. Many teahouses along the route are family-run, offering a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment.

Trekking in this region is not just about reaching the pass — it’s a journey through living culture and heartfelt hospitality. The kindness of locals, the strength of mountain women, and the serene atmosphere of the Tsum Valley make this trek an inspiring and transformative experience for women adventurers.

Prescription Medicine 

Carry all regular prescriptions for the entire trip. Our guides are equipped with a group first aid kit, but trekkers are responsible for their personal medications or chronic condition treatments.

Essential Information

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate to challenging adventure, ideal for trekkers seeking a remote, culturally rich, and high-altitude Himalayan experience. The trail involves 6–8 hours of walking per day over varied terrain from forested valleys and suspension bridges to rugged mountain passes.

Crossing Larke La Pass (5,160m) is the most demanding section of the trek, requiring good endurance and acclimatization. Prior trekking experience at altitude is helpful but not mandatory for fit and determined adventurers. With the right pacing, rest days, and support from our experienced Iconic Himalaya guides, trekkers of all backgrounds can complete this rewarding circuit safely and confidently.

This trek is less commercialized than routes like Everest or Annapurna, meaning fewer crowds and more authentic encounters with local life but also fewer comforts. The challenge is part of what makes the journey unforgettable.

Altitude Sickness & Remedies

The Manaslu and Tsum Valley route ascends well above 5,000 meters, making altitude sickness (AMS) a real concern if not managed properly. Our itinerary includes gradual acclimatization in Tsum Valley and Samagaon, giving your body time to adjust before tackling higher elevations.

Common symptoms include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. To prevent AMS, follow your guide’s advice and observe these key precautions:

  • Hydrate well (3–4 L/day).
  • Ascend slowly and rest frequently.
  • Eat well and avoid alcohol or sleeping pills.
  • Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear.

Our guides are trained in altitude management and first aid. Oxygen and emergency evacuation arrangements are available if needed, covered by your insurance.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy should cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters, as well as medical evacuation, hospitalization, and trip cancellations or delays.

Due to the remote nature of the Manaslu region, helicopter evacuation is the only viable emergency transport option. Please verify that your insurance includes helicopter rescue coverage in Nepal before departure.

Training for the Trek

This trek demands good physical preparation. Begin your fitness routine 6–8 weeks before departure, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina. Activities like hiking, cycling, swimming, running, and stair climbing with a weighted daypack are excellent preparation.

Consistency matters more than intensity — the goal is to build endurance and confidence for multiple days of sustained walking at altitude.

Mental preparation is just as important. The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is remote, rustic, and physically demanding — but with the right mindset, every step becomes part of an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s wild and sacred landscapes.

Best Time & Weather

Best seasons are Autumn (Sept–Nov) and Spring (Mar–May) where the weather is stable with clear mountain vistas, and comfortable daytime temperatures. Winter is cold with limited lodge services; monsoon (June–Aug) brings rain, slippery trails, and possible landslides. Permit rules and trail conditions also vary by season — Iconic Himalaya will advise the best window for your travel dates.

Food & Accommodation on the Trek

Teahouses provide simple twin rooms with blankets; rooms range from basic to comfortable depending on the village. Meals are hearty and warming: dal bhat, noodles, thukpa, pancakes, porridge, and local yak dishes in higher villages. We recommend carrying electrolyte powders and snacks for extra calories on long days.

Nutshell

  • Duration: 21 Days
  • Max Altitude: 5,160 m / 16,929 ft (Larke La Pass)
  • Activity: Trekking & Cultural Exploration
  • Trek Grade: Moderate to Challenging
  • Best Seasons: March–May & September–November
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the trek
  • Transportation: Private vehicle & local jeep
  • Group Size: Minimum 2 people (as per restricted area rules)
  • Start/Finish: Kathmandu
  • Permits Required: Manaslu RAP, Tsum Valley RAP, MCAP & ACAP
  • Region: Manaslu & Tsum Valley (Gorkha District)
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