Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

• Manaslu Region
• Off Beaten Zone
• Trekking

 Manaslu+Tsum Valley Trek Overview

Trek Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a captivating and challenging trek around the eighth highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8163 meters). This trek offers an unparalleled experience of pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain vistas. It traverses through remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Highlights:

• Remote and Less Crowded: Compared to more popular treks like Everest and Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, offering a more serene and authentic trekking experience.
• Cultural Richness: The trek passes through traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs and Tibetans, providing insights into their unique cultures and lifestyles.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
• Larkya La Pass: At 5106 meters, crossing this high pass is a significant achievement and offers spectacular panoramic views.
• Conservation Areas: The trek takes you through the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area, rich in biodiversity and home to various flora and fauna.

Difficulty Level:

• Challenging: Requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes.

Duration:

• 17-21 days: Depending on the itinerary and side trips.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola

• Elevation: 869m / 2850ft.
• Distance: 160 km
• Duration: 9-10 hours
• Details: Depart from Kathmandu and drive to Machha Khola, a scenic journey through the countryside and along the Trishuli River.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat

• Elevation: 1340m / 4395ft.
• Distance: 16 km
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Details: Follow the river upstream, passing through small villages, terraced fields, and forested areas.

Day 3: Trek to Lokpa

• Elevation: 2240m / 7347ft.
• Distance: 13 km
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Details: Continue trekking through lush forests and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Lokpa.

Day 4: Trek to Chumling

• Elevation: 2386m / 7826ft.
• Distance: 7 km
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Details: A shorter trekking day through dense forests and picturesque landscapes to the village of Chumling.

Day 5: Trek to Chhokangparo

• Elevation: 3031m / 9941ft.
• Distance: 8 km
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Details: Ascend gradually, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and valleys before arriving at Chhokangparo.

Day 6: Trek to Nile

• Elevation: 3361m / 11026ft.
• Distance: 9.5 km
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Details: Trek through the upper Tsum Valley, passing through villages and monasteries.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Nile – Hike to Mu Gompa

• Elevation: 3700m / 12136ft.
• Distance: 4.3 km
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Details: Spend the day acclimatizing with a hike to the Mu Gompa, exploring the monastery and surrounding areas.

Day 8: Trek to Chumling

• Elevation: 2470m / 8101ft.
• Distance: 17.5 km
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Details: Descend back to Chumling, retracing your steps through the beautiful Tsum Valley.

Day 9: Trek to Deng

• Elevation: 1860m / 6100ft.
• Distance: 14.5 km
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Details: Continue trekking, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through dense forests.

Day 10: Trek to Namrung

• Elevation: 2630m / 8638ft.
• Distance: 15 km
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Details: Climb steadily, passing through villages and terraced fields to reach Namrung.

Day 11: Trek to Shyala

• Elevation: 3500m / 11480ft.
• Distance: 11 km
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Details: Ascend through forested areas and enjoy panoramic mountain views before arriving at Shyala.

Day 12: Shyala to Sama Gaon

• Elevation: 3520m / 11549ft.
• Distance: 15.5 km
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Details: Trek to Sama Gaon with an optional side trip to Birendra Lake or Pungen Gompa.

Day 13: Trek to Samdo

• Elevation: 3860m / 12660ft.
• Duration: 3 hours
• Details: A shorter trekking day to the village of Samdo, allowing for further acclimatization.

Day 14: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Rui La (Tibetan Border)

• Elevation: 4998m / 16393ft.
• Duration: 8 hours
• Details: Spend the day acclimatizing with a hike to the Rui La, the Tibetan border, offering stunning views.

Day 15: Trek to Dharamshala

• Elevation: 4460m / 14628ft.
• Distance: 6 km
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Details: A steady climb to Dharamshala, the final stop before crossing the Larkya La pass.

Day 16: Trek to Larke-La then hike to Bhimtang

• Elevation: 5106m / 16751ft.
• Distance: 14 km
• Duration: 8-10 hours
• Details: Cross the challenging Larkya La pass and descend to Bhimtang, a long and rewarding day.

Day 17: Trek to Dharapani

• Elevation: 1960m / 6428ft.
• Distance: 16 km
• Duration: 8 hours
• Details: Final day of trekking, descending through rhododendron forests and picturesque villages to Dharapani.

Day 18: Dharapani to Kathmandu:

• Distance: Approximately 230 km
• Travel Time: 8-10 hours by bus or jeep
• Details: After reaching Dharapani, you can take a jeep or bus to Besisahar and then transfer to a vehicle heading to Kathmandu. The journey offers scenic views of the hills and countryside.

Day 19: Dharapani to Pokhara:

• Distance: Approximately 165 km
• Travel Time: 7-8 hours by bus or jeep
• Details: From Dharapani, you can travel to Besisahar and then catch a bus or jeep to Pokhara. This route also provides beautiful views and a more relaxed journey.

 

Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit

• Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to trek. The weather is generally stable, and the trails are surrounded by blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers.
• Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time for trekking, with clear skies and stable weather. The views of the mountains are stunning, and the temperatures are comfortable.
• Avoid: The monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and the winter season (December to February) due to cold temperatures and heavy snowfall.

Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Clothing:

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
• Insulating Layers: Fleece jacket or down jacket
• Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking Pants and Shirts: Lightweight and quick-drying
• Hat and Gloves: Warm hat and gloves for cold weather, sun hat for daytime
• Socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks
• Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots, comfortable trekking shoes or sandals for evenings

Gear:

• Backpack: 40-50 liters with a rain cover
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C
• Trekking Poles: For stability and support
• Headlamp: With extra batteries
• Water Bottles and Purification: 2-3 liters capacity and water purification tablets or a filter

Accessories:

• Sunglasses: UV protection
• Sunscreen: High SPF
• Lip Balm: With SPF
• First Aid Kit: Basic supplies and any personal medications
• Personal Hygiene Items: Biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits

Documents and Money:

• Permits: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a TIMS card
• Passport: With extra copies
• Cash: Nepali Rupees for expenses along the trail

Key Points

• Permits: Ensure you have the required permits for both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley treks, including the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
• Guides/Porters: Hiring a guide or porter is recommended for a more enjoyable trekking experience.
• Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially at high altitudes.

This detailed itinerary provides a comprehensive guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, ensuring proper acclimatization and enjoyment of the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.