Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trekking -20 Days

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you’ll meet and exchange warm greetings with one of our representatives. Afterwards, you’ll be escorted to your hotel where after check-in, you can relax and repose enjoying the amenities offered by your hotel. At the end of the day, you may stroll around the vivid marketplace in Thamel, the tourist hub of the city flooded with lights, restaurants, bars, hotels, shops of all imaginable kinds, music shops, bakeries, and fellow backpackers.

This very day is assigned as a ‘free day’ to traverse the Kathmandu Valley. There are a variety of options available as this time-honoured valley is a UNESCO world heritage site harbouring a total of seven sites which illustrates the historical as well as the cultural triumph of Kathmandu itself. Pay a visit to the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath and indulge in the spiritual ambience of the temple area. You may also climb the steps to the sacred Buddhist stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath to explore the classical realms of Tibetan Buddhism. Moreover, you can stopover at the Durbar Square Complexes situated in each sister cities (namely Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur) inside Kathmandu Valley. Embrace the feat of ancient Nepalese architecture and craftsmanship. If still not satisfied then make a trip to Changunarayan Temple, the most ancient structure in existence within Nepal.

This morning, we’ll set off for a smooth drive down a paved highway till Dhading Besi. We’ll then get going on a bumpy ride via the rugged track to Jyamire and proceed further to Baseri (800m), also known as the organic village due to its pristine atmosphere and natural way of farming. Through a rough journey, we’ll observe some exquisite scenery on the way. These beautiful countryside vistas incorporate vintage settlements, terraced hills, green farmlands, lush meadows and sparkling rivers.

In the pursuit of the fairly easy segment of the trekking trail, we’ll frequently encounter several ups and downs across the woods, then continue on elevated slopes and riverbeds alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. We’ll stay on the windy mountain pathway above the river and advance past a verdant valley, cascading waterfalls and streams, and the and the settlements of Khorsane, Lapubesi, Nauli Khola and Khani Besi to arrive at Machhekhola (930m). 

We’ll resume our trek on the same side of Budhi Gandaki River. The trail proceeds through the unvaried terrain, comprising woodlands, sandy river flats as well as numerous rise and falls. We may come upon monkeys and langurs in the jungle. We’ll carry on with ascend and descend over a handful of ridges and reach Tatopani (930m). Alleviate your pains by submerging yourself in the hot water of the Himalayan springs as the locals believe the hot water that comes straight out of the ground possesses magical healing properties. We’ll now move past Doban (1,000m), Yaruphant (1,140m) and a bridge over Yaru Khola (1,363m) to Yaru (1,140m). At last, we make an appearance at a quaint Gurung village of Jagat (1,570m).

We’ll advance on the riverbed to ascend over a craggy ridge and enter Salleri (1,440m) where lovely outlooks of Sringi Himal (7,187m) warmly welcome the visitors. Subsequently, we’ll cross a long suspension bridge to Philim (1,590m), a prosperous village encircled by the farmlands of millet, maize, and potato. Heading to the north, we’ll climb uphill to Ekle Bhatti (1,600m). Don’t let the name of the place that translates to ‘lone teashop’ mislead you, as there are multiple teahouses established here. Making our way beyond a dramatic gorge, we’ll enter pinewoods and reach an intersection of trails. We’ll move to the right and traverse the forest of pine and rhododendron. Later, we’ll move up on serpentine steps to the other side of Siyar Khola then push ourselves through tranquil woodland to Lokpa (2,240m).

Descending via enchanting woods, we’ll negotiate suspension bridges and escalate on steep stairs. Thereafter, we’ll direct our steps up the abrupt slopes across pines and rhododendrons to a defunct teahouse of Ghumlong (2,130m). The trekking route now makes a steep ascent to Ripchet (2,470m) then extends over Siyar Khola via a wooden bridge. We’ll eventually walk up to Chumling (2,470m). It is a picturesque village that encompasses old-fashioned houses, old gompa, orchards, and lovely stone paths.

From this point onwards, we can find artistic chortens and mani walls beside the trail as we move forward. We’ll range over a suspension bridge and progress through rich fields of potatoes and maize. We can also notice Tibetan-style houses without flat roofs as the region sees much of the rain and snow. Accompanied by the lovely vistas of Ganesh Himal, we’ll get to Rainjam (2,400m). Here we’ll spot only a single Bhatti with enclosed courtyard. Crossing Serpu Khola, we’ll now forge ahead till we reach Chhokang Paro (3,031m). The valley widens up here and we can discover traditional stone houses together with farmland of buckwheat, potato, maize, and barley. In clear weather, we can catch a glimpse of Himalchuli (7,893m) down the valley.

On day nine of our escapade, we’ll move towards the east and pass by few tiny villages to ascend a ridge full of chortens to Lamagaon (3,202m). We’ll negotiate Shiyar Khola then progress beyond the settlements of Phurbe (3,251m), Pangdun (3,258m) and Chhule (3,347m) then proceed uphill to Nile (3,361m). This is the last human settlement north in the upper Tsum Valley while moving on the route to the north. During the course of today’s journey, we’ll visit Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu) which is believed to be a meditation site of Milarepa who conveyed Buddhism to Tibet. The cave possesses a high cultural value showcasing stone carved artistic scripts, prayer flags, elegantly painted Buddhist murals and important Buddhists scripts in the paper. Apart from that, we’ll also witness the splendid sights of Poshyop Glacier, Kipu Himal and Churke Himal. Following a gradual trek over challenging terrain, we’ll eventually set our foot in Mu Gompa (3,700m). Established in 1895, the monastery is the highest and furthermost location in Tsum valley. You’ll perceive a true serene ambience here. Feel the cool mountain breeze gushing through the valley and the prayer flags fluttering in the very wind.

Picking up the trail where we left it off yesterday, we’ll advance via the east bank of Shiyar Khola and leave behind the hamlets of Chhule and Phurbe. After hours of trekking, we’ll land up at a small yet beautiful Burgi village. If you missed the famous traditional Tibetan chiya (butter tea) and local meal earlier, now is the right time to taste it. Staring at the lush greenery, we’ll continue down to Chhokang Paro, then arrive at Gho (2,485m). Descending further, we’ll cross a wooden bridge spanning over Siyar Khola to Domje (2,460m) where the trail splits, one leads to Chumling (2,386m) .

On this day, we’ll walk out of the remote Tsum Valley and get ahead on the unlevelled path with numerous ups and downs to Lokpa (2,040m). Succeeding an hour hike, we’ll end up at an intersection; to the left, the track leads back to Jagat. We’ll proceed to the right and pursue the Manaslu Circuit. The trekking trail traverses a suspension bridge and climbs to Nyak Pedi. It will then turn out to be narrow along the Budhi Gandaki River. As we haven’t seen almost any trekkers in the Tsum Valley, we’ll feel Manaslu Circuit a bit crowded which is actually not! Lastly, we’ll enter the vicinity of Deng (1,860m).

After a short walk, we’ll come across a suspension bridge. Subsequent to that, we’ll overcome a handful of abrupt ascents and descents adjacent to Budhi Gandaki River. Beyond the villages of Rana (1,980m) and Bihi (2,130m), we’ll cover more distance, cross Serang Khola then climb steeply to Ghap (2,160m). An additional hike from a bridge below Bihi can steer us to Prok (2,380m). Equipped with ACAP office and emergency radio; this settlement also offers a side-trip to Kal Tal (3,685m). Making frequent crosses to and from the north as well as south river bank; we’ll move via the woodland of fir and rhododendron then end up at the primary trail with on well-made staircase. We’ll eventually climb our way out to the other end, the gorgeous Namrung Village (2,630m). We can find many shops, restaurants and lodges here.

Through Banjam (2800m), we’ll pass by mani walls, fields and houses then steer into the forest of fir, oak and rhododendron. Afterwards, we’ll ascend to Lihi (2,900m) then make the progress to Sho (2,950m). We’ll advance further to Lho (3,180m). From here, we can spot sublime outlooks of Manaslu (8,163m) and Manaslu North (7,157m). An easy walk past the pinewoods and rhododendron forest will take us to Shyala (3,520m). We can revel in surrounding panoramas at this rural locale.

Following an hour easy hike on the standard route, we’ll turn up at large village of Sama (3,520m). From this point onwards, we’ll lose the sight of stupendous Manaslu but gain the access into the realm of grasslands, yaks, and stone houses. Sama aka Samagaon is a lovely village that functions as a starting point for other exciting side-trips. Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit or Tsum Valley trek often recognize Samagaon as an excellent place to rest and acclimatize.

The fourteenth day is allotted as ‘Rest Day’ in order to provide much-needed rest to your worn out feet. According to our physical condition, if our feet agree to go progress ahead; we’ll go for a jaunt nearby. Sama (Samagaon) presents a variety of options for excursions. You can go for a hike to Manaslu Base Camp (5-6 hours walk), Pungyen Gompa (4-5 hours walk) and Birendra Tal (1-hour walk). Admire nature at its best!

Refreshed and full of zeal, we pack our bags and navigate through the grazing land of yaks to the wide valley with mani walls and Juniper vegetation. Thereupon, we’ll scale up a ridge, then descend to proceed on a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. At long last, we’ll roll in inside Samdo (3,875m), a village as pretty as a picture.

The trail becomes broad as we make a descent beyond Juniper trees. We’ll cross ravines to climb up the slope of the hill. At the top lies Dharamsala (4,480m), now a seasonal village with one teahouse and tents for trekkers to stay overnight before attempting a strenuous rise to the Larkya La Pass. Prepare yourself for a crowded place with chilling temperatures.

Prior to the break of the day, we’ll gradually ascend a ridge beside Dharmasala. The climb itself is not arduous but it is the never-ending rugged trail and abrupt glacial moraine that bother trekkers before their arrival at Larkya La Pass (5,160m) i.e. marked with prayer flags. It is the highest elevation we’ll ever reach in the course of our entire trek. Look out for cairns and metal snow poles for finding a correct route if confused/lost en route.  Discover the snow-clad peaks of Himlung (7,126m), Kang Guru (6,981m), and Annapurna II (7,937m) from the top.  Subsequent to a long and tiring descent on a loose stone trail, we’ll walk in a more level area with grassy moraine. Ultimately, we’ll set our foot at Bhimthang (3,700m). 

After an overnight stay at the heavenly settlement surrounded by enchanting vistas of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kung, Kang guru and the Annapurna II; we’ll experience mostly downhill walk. We’ll pass over a glacial stream and go uphill over a side of the moraine. Thereafter, we’ll climb down beyond a blissful forest of rhododendron and pine to Karche then push on the trail to the Gurung Village of Gho (2,560m). A further walk of about three hours down the hill past Tilije (2300m) and Thonje (1,900m) ends at Dharapani (2300 m).

At the conclusion of the Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will return to either Kathmandu or Pokhara from Dharapani using public transportation.

Today signifies the conclusion of your extraordinary adventure on the Tsum Valley Manaslu circuit Trek. According to your planned schedule, we will guarantee your timely arrival at the airport for your departure. If you have any extra time, feel free to engage in extra activities. We genuinely trust that you have enjoyed your mountain getaway with our experienced local team, and we anticipate the opportunity to see you once more in the future.