Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a culturally rich and exceptionally beautiful trekking route - also regarded as the hidden treasure of the Himalayas. It is an off-the-beaten trekking route that requires some special permits to trek.

The major highlight of this 22-day journey is the least explored Tsum Valley. Tsum valley is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage site - a pristine valley in the northern Gorkha district of Nepal - part of the inner Himalayas. The Valley is also extremely rich in cultural assets, dotted with gompas (Buddhist monasteries), chorten, and mani walls. The longest mani walls (over 250 m) are located in Dzong and Phurpe. The Manaslu Tsum Valley also preserves the steps of the great Buddhist Yogi Chyuchin Milarepa and the story of the Guru Padmasambhava’s association.

Tsum Valley is surrounded by Buddha Himal and Himalchuli in the west, Ganesh Himal in the south, and Sringi Himal in the north. Moreover, this draw is located in the Manaslu region. It can be combined with the Larkya La Pass, one of the longest passes in the world which offers attractive views of Himalchuli (7893 m), Manaslu (8163 m), Ngadi Chuli (7879 m), and other mountains. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful landscapes.

Local residents in the area are the Tibetan group of "Tsombo". They welcome you with their traditional Tibetan Butter Tea and authentic local meal. You get the chance to drink a completely different taste of tea! Most notably, people here never slaughter animals, even as a sacrifice to the gods.

The route to round Manaslu and Tsum Valley follows through the Budi Gandaki River and the opening point is Chhokangparo. Another notable attraction of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek route is the variety of floras and faunas.

Above all, the Manaslu region & Tsum Valley have incomparable beauty and a rich mix of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. Thus, it offers a true adventure for visitors as you find mountains and valleys covered with diverse and untouched ecosystems.

Many hikers definitely want to take this section for fantastic mountain views, rich culture, and feelings that can’t be expressed in words. Finally, several tea houses, guest houses, and lodges are being built in this area for the feasibility of the trekkers. Hence, camping trips or tea house trekking are viable options.

Add on Trip During Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek 

You can add a side day trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp in this Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Ganesh Himal Base Camp is one of the least explored and undisturbed base camps in Nepal that offers a picture-perfect view of Ganesh Himal and a mesmerizing view of the surroundings.

So, if you are enthusiastic, adding a day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp from Gompa Lungden would give you an opportunity to gain additional experience and be very fruitful since you are already in the region spending your valuable time money, and energy.

If you decide to take this add-on tour, on the day of the hike, we will take packed lunch, explore, and spend the needed amount of time at the base camp and return to Gompa Lungden. And if you want to experience a night at the base camp, we will take a tent for the experience.

Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley Trek Highlights 

• Experience the trek on the Hidden Treasure Trekking trail 
• Spend days in the culturally rich and extremely beautiful region 
• Follow the raging waters of Budi Gandaki River and pass by innumerable cascades
• Discover the unexplored ancient gompas, Chortens, and mani walls 
• Opportunity to be at the Base camp of the 10th highest mountain Manaslu
• Relish the vistas of numerous Himalayan Ranges up close
• Get insight into the culture and tradition of the region that is very similar to Tibet’s
• Encounter many different species of flora and fauna
• The attractive views of Himalchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and many more
• A great chance to trek across the longest Himalayan Pass at 5160 meters named Larke La Pass
• Explore the isolated parts of the Manaslu Region including the magical Tsum Valley

Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty 

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a challenging trekking journey in one of the isolated regions of Nepal. Though prior experience in trekking is not mandatory, trekkers should be physically fit and mentally determined to complete this trek. Trekkers are expected to trek on the region’s high and steep terrains with multiple ascents and descents for 5-6 hours a day on average for 16 days on this 22-day journey. Hence, we recommend you hit the gym or participate in sports such as hiking, swimming, cycling, etc. months prior to your departure for the trek. 

There are many other factors that cause challenges during a mountainous trek journey. Altitude Sickness (AMS) is one of them. And there are chances of getting affected by AMS during this Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek as you will be walking and sleeping above 3000 meters altitude for several days and nights. Moving slowly, keeping yourself hydrated, eating a balanced diet, etc. are some of the preventions for AMS. However, if you notice a symptom, you are suggested to inform your guide as soon as possible. Carrying an altitude sickness medication like Diamox could come in handy. 

You could also face difficulties due to the wrong choice of time for trekking. So, you need to choose the right timeframe for the best experience without many challenges. 

Best Time to do Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Like 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is best done during the spring and autumn seasons because of the stable weather and pleasant temperatures. The days are clear, the skies are blue, and the trails are in their best state during these seasons. 

An average spring daytime temperature is 24 °C and the nighttime temperature is -4 °C with vegetation getting ready to thrive once again as the winter ends. The trails and the forest vistas will be fully covered with rhododendron blossoms and magnolia and the views of the Himalayas will be extra level stunning.

Autumn aka fall in Manaslu Tsum Valley Region starts from mid-September and lasts till October. And, this time period is also a great time for trekking journeys because of the temperature climate, and weather. The temperature in the fall ranges from 25 °C to -6 °C from day to night. This is also the biggest festive season in Nepal where you get to experience Nepali culture in depth.

Summer is the hottest time of the year in the Manaslu Tsum Valley region which also brings monsoon along with it. And monsoon here causes the trails to be wet, slick, and slippery with the high chances of landslides and mudslides. The views are also obstructed by clouds and fog. Hence, the summer monsoon season is not recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek. 

The winter season that starts in December is also considered an off-season for many high mountain treks including this Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek because of the harsh cold weather. In addition, the heavy snowfall makes the crossing of the trails impossible, especially in the high regions such as Larke La Pass at 5160 meters altitude above sea level. 

Permits to Do Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

Trekkers need to obtain the following permits to dot the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. 

1. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit 

2. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

3. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

4. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit 

Note: Manaslu including Tsum Valley is in a restricted region, so each party must have valid permits, an authorized guide, and a trekking plan from a registered trekking company. Also, the permits are only issued to a group of a minimum of two persons.