Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek – 21 Days
21 Days
Moderate
Kathmandu
8,629 m
Breakfast, lunch, Dinner
2 to 25 People
Kathmandu
Spring & Autumn
Teahouse/ Hotel
Private Vehicle
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is a rewarding journey that combines remote mountain landscapes with the unique culture of northern Nepal. This trek passes through tranquil settlements, historic monasteries, stunning forests and high-altitude passes and is unique from the more congested hiking areas of the country. This walk passes through the Budhi Gandaki Valley and then into the secret, mystical Tsum Valley, where the customs and Tibetan Buddhist traditions hold a significant place in everyday life.
Discover the tranquility of the Tsum Valley Trek as people still live as they have for generations. There are Prayer wheels, Mani walls, Chortens and centuries-old monasteries all over the valley. The quietness, the friendliness of the locals and the relaxed way of life are some of the characteristics of this part of the trip. The path gently ascends the hillside and gradually moves through greening hills and forests into spacious alpine valleys with snow-clad mountains.
The trail then follows back to the main trekking route and moves onto the high mountain area. The Manaslu Circuit Trek winds through traditional villages, through yak pastures and through dramatic glacial scenery all the way to the highest point of the trek, Larke Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft). Trekkers from this pass will enjoy the view of the mountains as they head into the Marsyangdi Valley below.
This trek is for trekkers who are physically fit and willing to walk for several days in remote mountain areas. The treks typically range from 5 to 8 hours a day and allow for adequate acclimatization time. There will also be a rest day at Samagaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) to help acclimatise your body before heading to the higher elevations. The simple accommodation and freshly prepared meals along the trek are available in comfortable teahouses.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek has been designed for people who wish to enjoy nature as well as a cultural tour. It is a chance to see areas that are not so overrun with tourists and is also an opportunity to experience the incredible scenery of the Himalayas and true hospitality. Expert guides, well-organised itineraries and full permit arrangements will ensure that you have a safe, comfortable and enjoyable trip from the moment you arrive in Nepal until you leave.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great option for those looking to enjoy the attractions of the natural beauty and traditional culture of the Nepal Himalayas in two days. This includes the quiet trails of the secluded Tsum Valley and the thrilling experience of crossing the Larke Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft). On the way, you will pass through peaceful villages, visit ancient monasteries, cross suspension bridges and enjoy impressive views of snow-covered mountains.
The Tsum Valley trek is an opportunity to learn more about a remote corner and its local way of life and traditions, along with the Tibetan Buddhist culture. With fewer tourists the atmosphere of this valley is peaceful and authentic.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek also offers a variety of changing topography, beautiful forests, alpine meadows and high mountain views. Both trails offer a cultural, nature and trekking experience, making them a memorable journey through the Himalayas.
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Welcome to Nepal. Upon reaching Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your Kathmandu hotel. This ride will pass through the lively streets of the city, allowing you to experience some of the local lifestyle, vibrant markets and historical sites.
Once you have settled in at the hotel, you can rest and recuperate from your trip. If you get there early, you can do a brief stroll around the local area, get some change or eat some great food at one of the local restaurants. Your guide will also make a quick overview of the trek ahead, answer questions and final check-in.
Kathmandu is at an altitude of 1,400 m / 4,593 ft), which makes it easier to acclimatize yourself to the mountain environment before you enter the higher areas of Nepal.
Activity & Duration 30 minutes Airport transfer and hotel check-in
Accommodation Hotel
Meal Dinner
Max Altitude 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu)
Distance 6 Km
Today you will spend a part of the day exploring some of the cultural and historical sites of Kathmandu Valley as well as the final pre-trek preparations. You will get a chance to visit significant temples and heritage sites that depict Nepal’s long history, unique architecture and religion.
In the daytime, there is also the opportunity to review trekking gear, buy or hire any missing gear and ensure all permits and documents are in order. Your guide will inform you of the route (and safety precautions to take) and what you can expect to see during the trek.
The sightseeing day is laid-back and allows you to enjoy the city before heading into the mountains. The weather in Kathmandu is always comfortable to start your adventure due to its height of 1,400 m / 4,593 ft.
Activity & Duration 6 to 7 hours Sightseeing and trek preparation.
Accommodation Hotel
Meal Breakfast
Max Altitude 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu )
Distance 20 Km
After breakfast, we set off from Kathmandu heading towards Soti Khola, a long journey. The route winds through the mountain roads and then passes along the rougher roads of the rural areas. Part of the way, you will cross rivers, terraced farms, ancient villages and lush hills showcasing the evolving landscape of central Nepal.
During the trip, there will be multiple meals, rest and photo stops. The closer you approach the trailhead, the quieter and more rural the surroundings become. This leads to Soti Khola, a small settlement on the banks of the river, by late afternoon or evening, marking the start of the trek.
Soti Khola lies at an elevation of 730 m / 2,395 ft). The trip to the destination is shorter than to Kathmandu, but it is an appropriate preparation for the forthcoming days.
Activity & Duration 8 to 9 hours
Accommodation Hotel, Lodge
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 1,400m/4,593ft. (Soti Khola)
Distance 160 Km
Today will be the first day of a trek. We follow Budhi Gandaki River, which passes through various suspension bridges, forests, cultivated fields and small Gurung villages. The path is a combination of hiking up and down steep slopes through narrow valleys.
Passing through waterfalls and rocky areas, it leads to the village of Macha Khola. In the way, you will get to see green hills and experience the tranquility of rural Nepal. The trail is not very difficult, making it a good introduction to the trek.
Macha Khola is located at (900 m / 2,953 ft). When you get to the village, you can sit in the teahouse and get ready for the following day’s trek.
Activity & Duration 6 to 7 hours
Accommodation Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 900m/2,953ft. (Macha Khola)
Distance 14 Km
You will start your trek from Macha Khola to Jagat today. Small villages, natural hot springs at Tatopani, rocky cliffs and beautiful river valleys will pass by before you slowly ascend into the mountains.
The scenery grows increasingly hilly and the villages are a picture of the old way of life in the area. Finally, we reach Jagat – a lovely stone village which is the official entrance to the restricted Manaslu area.
Jagat sits at an elevation of (1,340 m / 4,396 ft). If you increase your elevation gradually, you’ll be able to acclimate to the altitude and enjoy the scenery.
Activity & Duration 7 to 8 hours Trek
Accommodation Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 1,340m/4,396ft. (Jagat)
Distance 22 Km
Following breakfast, we head further up through lovely woods and traditional villages and head towards Lokpa. The trail continues to Philim, then heads into the more peaceful side of the trail, where it forks off from the main Manaslu Circuit Trek. From here, we cross rivers and walk through peaceful pine and rhododendron forests and head towards the remote Tsum Valley.
As we go further into the valley, the trail narrows. Today’s walk is delightful because of the quiet and calmer nature of the area in which we are walking. At the end of the afternoon, we arrive in the small village of Lokpa, the first village within the Tsum Valley.
Activity & Duration 6 to 7 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 2,240m/7,349ft. (Lokpa)
Distance 17 Km
The trail dips down and then crosses the Siyar Khola by suspension bridge today. On the other side of the crossing, the path rises steadily through forests, narrow valleys and small farming areas. On a clear day, one can enjoy beautiful vistas of Ganesh Himal and other adjacent peaks all along the route.
The traditional stone houses and peaceful villages are some of the features that provide a glimpse into the unique culture of the Tsum Valley. This leads to the small village of Chumling, where fields and the mountain scenery prevail. The village also boasts of ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Activity & Duration 5 to 6 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 2,386m/7,828ft. (Chumling)
Distance 13 Km
Then, we set off heading back down Chumling, continuing into deeper Tsum Valley. The path rises through small villages, cultivated fields and forests and over suspension bridges across the Shiar Khola. The valley opens up as we increase our elevation and come with wider views of the mountains around us.
En route, we clear through traditional settlements where Tibetan Buddhist customs and a simple mountain life are followed. On clear days, you may enjoy views of Ganesh Himal and other nearby peaks. In the afternoon, we arrive at Chokhangparo, which is a combination of the two nearby villages, Chokhang and Paro.
This is the first night above 3,000m, so it is important to take the time to walk at a comfortable pace and keep well hydrated.
Activity & Duration 5 to 6 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,031m/9,944ft. (Chokhangparo)
Distance 10 Km
It’s one of the best days of the day in the upper Tsum Valley. We have a slow ascent towards Milarepa Cave (3,361 m / 11,027 ft). Local tradition has it that the venerated Tibetan Buddhist saint Milarepa meditated here. The cave is still considered a sacred place for pilgrims and tourists to visit.
From the cave, we pass through the village of Lamagaon and then through the last of the permanent villages, Nile, on the road to the Tibetan frontier. From here, we do the last trek to Mu Gompa (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), the highest monastery of the Tsum Valley. It’s a fantastic destination thanks to the lovely environment and mountain views.
Activity & Duration 7 to 8 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,700m/12,139ft. (Nile )
Distance 14 Km
This morning we leave Mu Gompa and head towards Chekampar via Rachen Gompa. This valley, though the same one, has different views as we descend through the open vistas and peaceful hamlets.
En route, we stop by Rachen Gompa (3,240 m / 10,630 ft), a Buddhist monastery that has many nuns residing there. The monastery provides a peaceful and quiet environment in which visitors can relax and learn more about the spiritual legacy of the region. Then we continue to go down to Chekampar (3,010 m / 9,875 ft) and we stay there overnight.
Activity & Duration 6 to 7 hours
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,700m/12,139ft. (Chekampar )
Distance 16 Km
We will trek from Chekampar to Lokpa after breakfast. The path runs through the Chhokangparo village, goes through suspension bridges and then through forests and traditional villages. Today is a bit easier to walk downhill, but there are some uphill spots to be worked out on the way.
The air warms as we descend and plants grow more thickly. As you leave the upper Tsum Valley behind, there will be a second opportunity to see the valley and experience the tranquility of this remote area.
Activity & Duration 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,010m/9,875ft. (Lokpa)
Distance 18 Km
You start your trek from Lokpa to Bihi. The path passes through woods until it arrives at Philim, a big Gurung village with terraced fields and traditional houses. Then we follow up the Budhi Gandaki River.
It winds through a few small villages and through both woodland and rocky areas. The scenery changes as the valley becomes narrower, with impressive cliffs and flowing rivers. We get to the quiet town of Bihi (2,130 m / 6,988 ft) after some hour, where we take in a restful night’s sleep.
Activity & Duration 6 to 7 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 2,240m/7,349ft. (Bihi)
Distance 15 Km
We then head towards Namrung today. The path traverses multiple suspension bridges and through small villages showcasing the mountain way of life with small stone houses.
The views are more alpine and surrounding peaks start becoming visible as we rise to higher levels. There are several gentle uphill sections along the way leading up to the traditional Tibetan-influenced village of Namrung (2,630 m / 8,629 ft) with its wonderful vistas of the mountain.
Activity & Duration 6-7 hrs
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 8,629m/28,310ft. (Namrung)
Distance 13 Km
Today’s trek is a scenic trek on a beautiful mountain trail with a view of Manaslu and other surrounding peaks. We then arrive in the traditional Lho village (3,180 m / 10,433 ft), where one can enjoy wonderful views of the mountain and visit the local monastery if time permits.
We then head up another brief stretch, set amongst vast valleys and snow-clad peaks of the Shyala. We end up in the biggest village of Samagaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) in the upper Manaslu region. The lovely settlement is significant for crossing the high pass later on the trek.
Activity & Duration 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,530m/11,581ft. (Samagaun)
Distance 17 Km
It’s a significant acclimatisation day in Samagaun today. We do not go higher and higher, but take time to acclimate our bodies to the lower air pressure during the day. Acclimatisation helps to minimize the risk of altitude sickness and prepare us for the ascent to the higher parts of the trail.
There are several possibilities for a short trek around the village. Numerous trekkers go on a walk to Birendra Lake or an uphill trek to Manaslu Base Camp before coming back to Samagaun. Climbing higher and sleeping lower, these treks offer great views of the mountains.
Once back in the village, you can enjoy a quiet afternoon, visit the local monastery or spend some time learning about the local community’s traditional lifestyle.
Activity & Duration 5 to 6 hours Acclimatization trek and rest
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 4,800m/15,748ft. (Samagaun)
Distance 10 Km
We depart Samagaun and head for Samdo. The path is set in a broad valley that gently rises and opens up into fields. Once the trees start to get sparse, the landscape transforms into a harsh, rugged alpine landscape dotted with lofty peaks.
In the way, we cross the grazing land of the yaks and have a wonderful view of Manaslu and its surrounding mountains. It isn’t a big trek, so there will be plenty of time to keep a comfortable pace and keep acclimatizing. We arrive at the traditional Tibetan-influenced village of Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) early in the afternoon.
In the afternoon, relax or take a stroll around the village in the serene mountain air.
Activity & Duration 4 to 5 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,875m/12,713ft. (Samdo)
Distance 8 Km
You will trek from Samdo to Dharmashala. The trail follows the upper valley of Budhi Gandaki and follows the rocky terrain and the alpine meadows.
The higher up the mountain, the less vegetation and the more dramatic the mountain view. This trail has stunning vistas of glaciers and the surrounding snow-clad peaks. After a few hours of walking, we get to the last town on the way to the crossing of Larke Pass, Dharmashala (4,460 m / 14,633 ft).
As soon as you arrive, make it a priority to get a good night’s sleep, drink plenty of water and get ready for the difficult day ahead.
Activity & Duration 4 to 5 hours Trek
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 4,460m/14,633ft. (Dharmashala)
Distance 11 Km
This is the hardest, but best day on the trek. The climb starts very early in the morning and proceeds steadily up to the highest point on the way, Larke Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft). It is an easy but challenging climb due to the elevation.
The top of the pass offers stunning vistas of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and the Manaslu range. We then do some passing before we enter a long stretch of rocky hiking trails, glacial valleys and alpine meadows leading to Bhimthang (3,720 m / 12,205 ft).
Once you’ve reached the highest point of the adventure and a long day’s hiking, you can unwind and enjoy the victory.
Activity & Duration 8 to 10 hours Trek across Larke Pass.
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 5,160m/16,929ft. (Bhimthang)
Distance 24 Km
Today you will start trekking from Bhimthang to Dharapani. This walk goes through lovely forests with rhododendron, pine and oak trees. We pass through wooden bridges, clear mountain streams and take in the changing scenery as we pass out of the high alpine area.
We pass through the villages of Gho and Tilije, where the villagers live as they have always done. The warmer weather and greener nature of this day compared to the last couple of days. We reach Dharapani (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) after walking through the Marsyangdi Valley.
The lower elevation means that the evening is pretty comfortable after a few days at the high elevation.
Activity & Duration 7 to 8 hours
Accommodation Lodge, Teahouse
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude 3,720m/12,205ft. (Dharapani)
Distance 22 Km
Following breakfast, we head off from Dharapani in a local jeep for a drive to Besisahar. The road traverses river valleys, mountain villages and terraced farmlands, leaving the beautiful landscapes of the trekking area behind.
From Besisahar, we board a private car/tourist bus for the trip back to Kathmandu. The drive along Prithvi Highway is along the rivers and rolling hills till the evening reaches the capital. Once you get to the hotel, you can rest or have a welcome wine or a farewell dinner with your trekking group.
The final night in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) is a comfortable stay after the trek.
Activity & Duration 9 to 10 hours Jeep and road transfer
Accommodation Hotel
Meal Breakfast, Lunch
Max Altitude 1,860m/6,102ft. (Kathmandu)
Distance 220 Km
This is your adventure’s final day. Some free time can be used to visit Kathmandu to buy souvenirs or to visit the local shops and markets. It’s a wonderful chance to buy handicrafts or traditional clothing, prayer flags or locally-made items to help remember your trip.
Our representative will put you on your departure flight at the scheduled time at Tribhuvan International Airport. Those who want to stay longer in Nepal can also continue their vacation, take a further tour or a short trek or go on a wildlife safari or cultural tour.
Hope you leave Nepal with great memories of Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek and we look forward to seeing you again in the future.
Activity & Duration 30 minutes Airport transfer, departure or leisure
Meal Breakfast
Max Altitude 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu)
Distance 6 Km
If our standard itinerary doesn't fully meet your needs, we are happy to tailor it to your specific preferences and requirements.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately demanding to challenging trek. Carefully selected, it can be completed by those with good fitness and a little pre-existing hiking experience, though the dedicated beginner might be able to do it with adequate preparation. It’s a long day of walking, with plenty of rock climbing and a couple of river crossings. The highest point on the walk is the Larke Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft), at which the air is thin and walking is more difficult.
Tsum Valley trek is one of the less popular trekking routes of Nepal, with fewer amenities than the popular trekking routes. There are six to eight hours of walking involved on some days, so it’s important to get moderate exercise prior to the trip to enjoy it more comfortably.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek also demands proper acclimatization as it takes a few nights above 3,000 m / 9,843 ft). The safest way to complete the trek is to walk at a steady pace and stay hydrated; follow the advice of your guide. Mission Himalaya Treks carefully plans its trips to give ample time for proper acclimatisation.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek can be undertaken at various times of the year; however, the best time is in the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). The weather is generally good, the skies are clear and mountain views are excellent during these months.
Rhododendron forests bloom, green hills appear and the daylight hours are warm in the spring. Heights of more than 3,500 m (11,483 ft) require warm clothing in the morning and evening. Many trekkers prefer autumn because of the relatively stable weather conditions, the dry trails and the good visibility.
The Tsum Valley Trek is not as good in the summer monsoon as it is in other seasons, as trails become muddy and landslide risks are heightened during the rainy season. For those with experience of winter trekking, it may be possible to do the route, but snow around Larke Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft) may affect the route. The weather is most enjoyable when stable in the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The meals are prepared at a local teahouse along the way during the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek. The food is simple, but high in energy for long days of trekking. Various dishes are available, including dal bhat, fried rice, noodles, soups, pasta, potatoes, eggs, pancakes, porridge and Tibetan bread. Tea, coffee and seasonal vegetables are also available in many teahouses.
On the Tsum Valley Trek, you’ll be in remote villages where food is brought by porters, mules or yaks. This means that food options are reduced as you ascend. Fresh fruits and packaged snacks may not always be available, especially in the upper valley.
It is very important to drink sufficient water during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Most teahouses have boiled water available and trekkers generally carry water purification tablets or filters. Popular hot drinks are ginger tea, lemon tea and garlic soup, especially above (3,500 m / 11,483 ft).
The teahouses in the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek are also available for overnight accommodation, providing a comfortable and cozy place to rest at night. The rooms are generally basic and typically contain twin beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets. Shared bathrooms are possible in the more remote villages.
The accommodation becomes less luxurious as you go further into the Tsum Valley Trek, given the remote location. In some villages, electricity, hot showers and internet services may be provided at an extra cost, but these services are not available in all villages. For cooler nights, it is suggested that a sleeping bag be carried for additional warmth.
On the Manaslu Circuit Trek, teahouses start to get more basic at higher altitudes (above 3,500 m / 11,483 ft). Though the basic facilities, the friendly hospitality of local families make it welcoming. As far as we can, Mission Himalaya Treks arranges only reliable teahouses for you to stay at, for a comfortable journey.
A visa is required for most overseas visitors to enter Nepal before embarking on the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek. Tourist visas can mostly be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or may be applied for in advance at a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate. Passports must have at least 6 months’ validity from the date of arrival.
Tsum Valley Trek is a restricted trek area and special permits are required. The trek must be conducted with a licensed guide and the trek must be booked through a registered trekking company. Permits required are the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
Without these permits, it is impossible to undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trek and independent trekking will not be permitted in the restricted areas. Mission Himalaya Treks does everything in its power to arrange all permits for the trek prior to starting, so you can enjoy your trek.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is a mix of scenic road journeys and trekking in the remote areas of the mountains. The trip begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, from where the trekking starts. The road is built along the riverside, hilly areas and traditional villages leading to the trailhead.
The Tsum Valley Trek is all on foot with mountain villages, forests, suspension bridges and narrow valleys. Few roads run down most of the valley and the area is quite peaceful and serene – the only way to experience the valley is on foot.
The return trip from the Manaslu Circuit Trek is started by jeep trek from Dharapani to Besisahar. Then you head back to Kathmandu in your own car or a tourist bus. Mission Himalaya Treks arranges all transportation that is a part of the tour, making it smooth and hassle-free for you from your arrival till you depart.
One of the key components of planning the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is travel insurance. As you reach the Larke Pass (1065 m /3526 ft), you should have high altitude coverage on your insurance policy. It should also include emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and personal items.
The Tsum Valley Trek is on mostly off-track trails with very limited medical care. Helicopter evacuation can be the quickest and safest means of transport in emergencies. The right kind of insurance will help to prevent any unnecessary costs on your journey.
Before engaging in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, take a moment to review your policy and make sure that the maximum covered altitude and the activities are included. Take paper and electronic versions of your insurance card with you on the trek. Mission Himalaya Treks will make the arrangements to meet the emergency if necessary; however, each trekking client will need to get proper insurance before coming to Nepal.
While many of the services are covered in the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is advisable to make a budget for personal expenses as well. Bottled water, snacks, desserts, hot showers, battery charging, laundry and tips for guides/porters are typically not included in the package price.
The Tsum Valley Trek is a trek that gradually rises in price as you enter the higher and more remote villages, since supplies have to be carried over increasingly long distances. It is advised to take some amount of cash in Nepali currency as card payment facilities are not generally available outside Kathmandu.
Otherwise, trekking on this circuit around Manaslu, you can consider buying souvenirs, giving donations to monasteries and having additional drinks and snacks during the trek. It is good to make a reasonable budget for yourself before your journey so you don’t experience any inconvenience during your adventure.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through various villages where many different languages are spoken. The country’s official language is Nepali and local Tibetan-influenced dialects are also spoken in the Tsum Valley (and higher up Manaslu). Many guides, lodge owners and staff have basic to good English in the trekking areas, which makes it easier to converse with the international guests.
Mobile network coverage is available in some of the lower villages of the Tsum Valley Trek and gradually decreases as you head down the valley. Some teahouses offer Internet access for an extra fee; however, the Internet may be slow or unavailable due to the remote setting.
It’s a kind gesture to learn some basic Nepali greetings along the Manaslu Circuit Trek to connect with the locals. Mission Himalaya Treks can offer you guides with experience to help you with communication if necessary, so you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable trekking experience.
For Photography, the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit trek is a great opportunity to photograph the beautiful mountain scenery, the traditional villages, ancient monasteries and the daily life of the people. The people are generally friendly, but be sure to ask permission before taking close pictures of people, monks and the old.
As part of the Tsum Valley Trek, it is also important to take care of some traditions in monasteries. Some prayer rooms or religious ceremonies may not allow photography. Before taking photographs in the interior of the monastery, always ask monks or the guide for instructions.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is controlled regarding the use of drones in Nepal. Permission is normally needed from the appropriate government authorities to fly a drone and in some cases, permission from a local authority or protected area management. Always review rules and regulations and ensure that you have all necessary permits for operating a drone; otherwise, it could lead to legal complications.
The Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek is much more than just a mountain trek. The trip goes through villages where the ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions are still practiced. Along the way, you will find prayer flags, mani walls, chortens and ancient monasteries, all adding to the cultural experience.
In the Tsum Valley trek, one can get the opportunity to see local festivals when one visits the valley at an opportune time. Prayers, traditional music, dances and family gatherings are the hallmarks of Tibet’s festivals, including the Tibetan New Year (Lhosar). All visitors are welcome to watch these celebrations and to respect local customs.
Every little interaction with the local families makes for a memorable part of the journey along the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Meaningful cultural experiences throughout the journey are made by greeting people with courtesy, respecting religious sites and observing local customs.
Doing a lot of preparation before hiking the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek will make your trek safer and more enjoyable. Get physically fit by taking long walks, hiking or doing other types of cardiovascular fitness activities for a few weeks prior to your trip to Nepal. You should bring warm clothes, comfortable trekking boots and a good sleeping bag to keep you warm throughout the trek.
The Tsum Valley Trek takes you to remote mountain areas where the weather conditions can change rapidly. It is important to reduce the risk of altitude illness by taking time to acclimatize, walking at a steady pace and drinking lots of water. Please follow your guide’s advice if you have any health issues on the journey.
With careful preparation, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a wealth of breathtaking mountain views and indispensable cultural experiences. When you travel with Mission Himalaya Treks, you are guaranteed to have experienced guides, correct permits and support from the onset of your journey to the end in Kathmandu.
There are no ATMs available on the hiking trail. Withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu before starting the trek.
Yes, charging services are available for an extra price at most tea houses, but in some remote villages, there may be a limit on electricity.
Single rooms are available in lower villages but cannot be guaranteed in remote villages or during busy trekking seasons.
There are several trekking shops in Kathmandu where you can buy or rent good quality equipment before starting the trek.
Bringing ample Nepali rupees for their personal needs is advisable as the card payment is not accepted much on the trekking route.
Vegetarian meals are commonly available at teahouses and some healthy ones are available made from fresh local produce.
There are many villages where battery charging is available, but again, it depends on the availability of electricity and in most cases, charges are levied.
All teahouses do have boiled drinking water. Water purification tablets or filters provide an additional level of safety.
There are a handful of basic health posts in the villages, but serious health emergencies are normally referred to Kathmandu.
Certainly, the itinerary may be flexible before confirmation according to your travel schedule, fitness and preference.
Rocky, uneven and high mountain trails require comfortable waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support.
Yes, the porters normally carry 20 kgs each, normally shared between two trekkers.
If older children are fit and have prior experience in trekking, they can join as long as they are comfortable with the length of a trekking day.
The power sockets in Nepal are generally Type C, D and M. It is highly advised to bring a universal travel adapter with you.
Unless otherwise stated, a sleeping bag is not included. There is a place readily available in Kathmandu where you can rent one before leaving the country.
Yes, most hotels do store the extra luggage without any problems and they don’t charge any extra fee.
Tipping is acceptable as a token of appreciation for guides and porters, but it is always voluntary.
Yes, it is possible to make private trip arrangements, usually for families, couples, individuals and groups, on the dates you desire.
In general, it is recommended to book at least 1-3 months in advance, as this is a popular time to trek in the spring and fall months.
