Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek - 27 Days

  • Trip Code HTA-67
  • Duration: 27 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
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Trip Highlights

Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek Highlights:-

  • Scenic dirt road drive to Arughat from Kathmandu
  • Exploring the Budhi Gandaki River and valley
  • Experience the Nepalese and Tibetan mixture culture
  • Walking between the borders of Nepal and Tibet
  • Astonishing views of Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Annapurna,
  • The sacred hidden valley of Tsum Valley or also called “Beyul”
  • Ancient Buddhist monasteries and remote villages

     

 

About Trip:

The Tsum Valley, also known as the Hidden Valley, lies north and northeast of Manaslu along the Nepal-Tibet border and remained a restricted area until 2008. While geographically part of Nepal, the region is predominantly Buddhist and has traditionally maintained a culture distinct from both Nepal and Tibet. The valley is relatively undeveloped compared to more popular trekking destinations, with gentler roads and a peaceful environment.

The people of Tsum have unique cultural practices, including polyandry, where all brothers in a family are married to one woman. The region is dominated by towering mountains, high passes, deep valleys, villages, gompas, chortens, and massive stone walls. Trekking in the Tsum Valley offers some of the most beautiful views of the Ganesh Himal, Spring Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges.

During the first days of the trek, we explore the Budhi Gandaki Valley, passing through dense forests, terraced fields, and hill villages. As we leave the Manaslu highway and enter Tsum, the hidden valley’s charm becomes evident. Along the way, we traverse mountain forests, cross cold rivers, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. The trek also includes visits to several Buddhist gompas and monasteries in the region, including Milarepa Cave, Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and others.


 

Outline Itinerary

S.N.:- OUTLINE ITINERARY:-
Day-01(1,350m.) Step on Kathmandu
Day-02(1,350m.)

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE

(SIGHTSEEING)

Day-03(2,000m) Barpak
Day-04(2,200m) Laprak,6-7 hrs
Day-05(875m) Khorlabeshi,7-8 hrs
Day-06(1,410m) Jagat,6 hrs
Day-07(1,590m) Philim,3hrs
Day-08(2,363m) Chumling,6/7 hours
Day-09(3,010m) Chokhangparo,5/6 hours
Day-10(3,361m) Nilevia Milarepa cave,6/7 hrs.
Day-11(4,030m) Bhajyo(Chhekya),4 hrs.
Day-12(4,030m) Bhajyo (Cheekya) Rest
Day-13(3,240m) Rachen Gompa,6 hrs.
Day-14(3,230m) Chumje,5/6 hrs.
Day-15(3,130m) Bihi,4/5 hrs.
Day-16(2,540m) Namrung,6 hrs.
Day-17(3,180m) Lho,4 hrs.
Day-18(3,530m) Samagaon,5/6 hrs.
Day-19(3,860m) Samdo,4/5 hrs.
Day-20(4,460m) High Camp (Ekle Bhatti),5 hrs.
Day-21(3,590m) Bimthang,7/ 8 hrs.
Day-22(3,590m) Bimthang Rest day
Day-23(1,860m) Dharapani,6-7 hrs.
Day-24(1,100m) Ghermu,7 hrs.
Day-25(800m) Besisahar,4 hrs.
Day-26(1,350m.) Kathmandu,7/8 hrs
Day-27(1,350m.) Final Departure

 

Cost Includes:

  • Airport pickups & drops in a private vehicle
  • Star level hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, & dinner) during the trek
  • Welcome dinners
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
  • An experienced, English-speaking, & government-licensed trek leader & assistant trek leader 
  • Porter service 
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food, & accommodation
  • Himalayan Traverse’s trekking bag/duffel bag & T-shirt
  • All necessary paperwork & trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
  • All government & local taxes

     

Cost Excludes:

  • Nepalese visa fee 
  • Excess baggage charge(s)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain due to any reason other than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
  • International flights
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)

     

Day-01: Step on Kathmandu(1,350M./4,429FT.)

Upon arriving in Nepal and completing the necessary customs formalities at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Traverse will warmly welcome you at the arrival gate and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from the fatigue of your long journey.

1,350m.                                        

Hotel Vaishali                                         

No Meal


Day-02: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SIGHTSEEING(1,350M./4,429FT.)

4-landmarks, 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Visit with a Professional Licensed Person helping you know Kathmandu even deep historically. (Swayambhunath, Bauddhanath)- Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. With the knowledge gained we make you actually feel welcomed the Night as a part of a family with a warm Nepalese cuisine at a welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Traverse after knowing the team and getting to know our guides in person.

Overnight in Kathmandu.           

INCLUDED MEALS: WELCOME DINNER

1,350m.                                          

Hotel Vaishali                                          

Breakfast, Welcome Dinner 


Day-03: Barpak (2,000m./6,560ft.)

A six-hour drive west from Kathmandu through the scenic mountain roads takes us to Gorkha, the historic capital of medieval Nepal. From Kathmandu, we travel to Baluwa and then continue by local jeep to Barpak village, which sits gracefully atop a hill. Barpak is renowned as the hometown of Gaje Ghale, a World War II veteran and recipient of the Victoria Cross awarded by the Queen of Britain.

Day-04: Laprak (2,200m./7,216ft.), 6-7 hrs.

We begin our trek heading east through the mountains toward the main valley of the Budhi Gandaki River. After a few hours of steady climbing, we reach the Gupsi Dada Pass (3,000m), which connects Laprak and Barpak. From the top, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Buddhi, Shringi, Ganesh Himal, and the Langtang range. Following this, we descend to Laprak, a picturesque Gurung village nestled amidst the hills.

Day-05: Khorlabeshi (875m./2,870ft.), 7-8 hrs.

We continue trekking east toward the main valley of the Budhi Gandaki River in the Manaslu region. From Laprak, we descend and cross a suspension bridge before making a steep climb along the hillside. Along the way, we pass through the village of Singla, taking in the stunning views of Manaslu Himal and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The trail then descends to reach Kholrabeshi.

Day-06: Jagat (1,410m/ 4,625 ft), 6 hrs.

After navigating several more ascents and descents, we arrive at Tatopani. From the hot springs, the trail climbs over another ridge and crosses the Budhi Gandaki River via a suspension bridge. We then ascend a ridge to reach Dobhan. Crossing the Dobhan Khola on another suspension bridge, the rugged trail continues upward to Duman. After crossing the Yaru Khola bridge, we climb stone steps, descend to the river, and then ascend more steps to reach Tharo Bharyang. The trek continues along the Budhi Gandaki River before ascending toward the village of Jagat.

Day-07: Philim (1,590m./ 5,215 ft.), 3 hrs.

Climb over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Setibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola. Continue upstream to a long suspension bridge. Climb up to Philim, a large Gurung village.

Day-08: Chumling (2,363m./7,775 ft.), 6/7 hrs.

From Philim, we head north through a forest, enjoying views of the narrowing valley. After reaching Ekle Bhatti, the trail crosses a gorge and enters pine forests. We then descend toward the trail leading into Tsum Valley, climbing through pine and rhododendron forests while admiring the majestic Himalchuli mountains. Passing through Lokpa, the trail continues northward, weaving through more pines and rhododendrons. We descend to Ghumlong before ascending to Ripchet. After crossing the Shiar Khola, we finally arrive at Chumling, where we can explore the old Chumling Gompa and stroll along the village’s stone streets.

Day-09: Chokhangparo (3,010m/9,903ft), 5/6 hrs.

We cross a suspension bridge to reach the opposite bank, taking in stunning views of Ganesh Himal along the way. Continuing past Rainjham, we follow the trail to Serpu Khola and enter the hidden Tsum Valley. A steep climb then leads us to the village of Chhokangparo, where, weather permitting, we can enjoy breathtaking views of Himalchuli, standing at 7,893 meters.

Day-10: Nile (3,361m./11,058ft.), via Milarepa cave, 6/7 hrs.

As we ascend above Chhokhangparo, it is important to be cautious of altitude-related issues. The trail passes Lamagaon and leads to Rachen Gompa, followed by a climb up to Milarepa’s Cave. After crossing the Shiar Khola, we continue through the villages of Phurbe and Pangdun. Beyond Chhule, the path climbs upstream, crosses a bridge, and finally brings us to Nile.

Day-11: Bhajyo (Chhekya) (4,030m./13,218ft.), 4 hrs.

We are now approaching the Tibetan border. The trail leads us along the west bank of the valley, passing through traditional Tibetan landscapes, before climbing up to Mu Gompa. From there, we continue ascending to Bhajyo, where we are very close to Tibet and can enjoy impressive views of both the Tibetan peaks and the Ganesh Himal range. Bhajyo is a remote area with no local houses, though a few yak farmhouses can be seen. After lunch, we take time to explore the surroundings.

Day-12: Bhajyo (Cheekya) Rest

We take rest at Bhajyo both for acclimatization and sightseeing. Discover the highland around Bhajyo. If the weather is clear, you can also enjoy the magnificent views of Ngula Dhojyang pass as well the glaciers of the Yamdro Valley.

Day-13: Rachen Gompa: (3,240m./10,627ft.), 6 hrs.

From Bhajyo, we descend to Rachen Gumba, a nunnery established in 1905 AD in the Shiar Khola Valley. As one of the largest and most important nunneries in the region, it holds great cultural and religious significance. The interior is beautifully adorned with intricate Buddhist mural paintings, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of the area.

Day-14: Chumje (3,230m./10,595ft.), 5/6hrs.

We continue south until reaching a bridge that takes us across to the west bank, then descend again toward Chhokangparo. From there, we follow the previous trail downward for about two hours until we reach a small gompa at Gho (2,485m). Taking the northern route through the lower Tsum Valley, we finally arrive at Chumje via Yaju.

Day-15: Bihi (3,130m./10,266ft.), 4/5hrs.

From Chumje, we continue along the northern route of the lower Tsum Valley, passing the village of Dorjon Kharka just before reaching Rana. We then cross a large suspension bridge spanning the main valley of the Manaslu Budhi Gandaki River. For those interested, it is possible to walk further upstream to visit the village of Bihi.

Day-16: Namrung (2,540m./8,331ft.), 6 hrs.

The first part of today’s trek follows relatively flat terrain, before the trail gradually ascends through forested paths. Along the way, we enjoy stunning views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks, eventually reaching the village of Namrung.

Day-17: Lho Trek (3,180m./10,430 ft.), 4 hrs.

From Namrung, we again enter the Buddhism influenced region. Climb through the forest to Lihi. Enjoy the spectacular rise of the Ganesh Himal.  Descend to Sho. Another steep climb takes us to our today's campsite on a ridge.

Day-18: Samagaon Trek (3,530m./11,578 ft.), 5/6 hrs.

Although the Budhi Gandaki lies far below, our route follows a smaller tributary. Walking through the cool, shaded fir forest is particularly enjoyable. After a short climb, we reach a plateau and the village of Shyala. Towering mountains surround us—Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu and its massive glaciers straight ahead, and other snow-capped peaks to the right. At the far end of the valley we came from stands the impressive Ganesh Himal. Overlooking the valley at the edge of the village is the well-known Sama Monastery. Sama Gaon, primarily inhabited by Tibetans, lies at the base of Manaslu.

Day-19: Samdo Trek (3,860m./12,660 ft.), 4/5 hrs.

We descend toward the Budhi Gandaki, now flowing north, and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. A trail branching to the left leads to Manaslu Base Camp. The Larkya La Trail passes several mani walls as the valley gradually widens. The path is relatively easy along a ledge above the river, winding through the juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka. After dropping off the ledge, we cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge and climb steeply onto a promontory between two river forks. From a stone arch, a large white kani comes into view, and after passing through it, we arrive at the village of Samdo.

Day-20: High Camp (Ekle Bhatti) (4,460m./14,628ft.), 5hrs.

We continue along the edge, crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, and begin ascending. Along the way, we cross two streams and catch views of the Larkya Glacier. The trail winds around the Salka Khola valley and climbs again to reach a stone guesthouse at 4,450 meters. This shelter, known as a Dharmshala or Larkya Phedi, is not a full lodge but serves as a resting place. We camp here for the night to prepare for tomorrow’s much-anticipated crossing of the famous Larkya Pass. After a short climb, we reach the ablation valley on the north side of the Larkya Glacier.

Day-21: Bimthang (3,590m/11811ft), 7/ 8 hrs.

After an early start, we trek across the glacier moraines, gradually ascending until the final section becomes steeper as we approach the pass. From the top, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and the massive Annapurna II. Take time to savor the spectacular panorama from the pass. It is a longer day than usual as we make our way to Bimtang, but walking through the low pastures with evening mist rising and Manaslu in view is an unforgettable experience.

Day-22: Bimthang Rest day

After more than two weeks of continuous trekking, a rest day is a welcome relief for our tired muscles. This is also a perfect opportunity to explore the area around Bimtang and immerse ourselves in the cultural life of the local mountain communities.

Day-23: Dharapani(1,860m/6,100ft) Trek,6-7 hrs.

Today’s trek involves a significant descent. We start from the Burdin Khola valley, passing through rhododendron forests to reach Karche, the highest cultivated area in the valley. From there, we descend to the village of Gho. Staying along the northern bank of the river, we continue our trek into Tilje. After leaving Tilje, we cross the Dudh Khola, return to its northern side via a wooden bridge, and proceed onward to Dharapani.

Day-24: Ghermu (1,100m/3,608ft), 7 hrs.

The remainder of our trek follows trails first explored during the early days of the Annapurna Circuit. We descend to the Marsyandi River and cross via a suspension bridge, then climb away from the river and trek through a broad, flat valley to reach the village of Tal (1,675m), located at the base of a large waterfall.

From Tal, the trail continues to Chyamje. Trekking along the river with alternating ascents and descents, we arrive at Jagat. A steep path then descends through the Marshyangdi Valley. After crossing the Marshyangdi River at Syange, the trail leads onward to Ghermu.

Day-25: Besisahar (800m/2,625 ft), 4 hrs.

The Marsyandi Valley gradually opens up, revealing terraced fields and villages perched high on the hillsides—testaments to the centuries-old labor of Nepalese farmers. Along the way, we pass several charming villages, including Bhulbhule and Khudi. The trail then flattens as we follow the left bank of the Marsyandi River. Our final ascent brings us to Besi Sahar, a bustling and dusty town that marks the end of our trek and the return to civilization.

Day-26: Drive Kathmandu,7/8 hrs.

We enjoy a 7 to 8-hour scenic drive back to Kathmandu, following the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. Along the way, the route offers stunning views of lush green hills, towering mountains, terraced fields, and villages scattered on both sides of the road. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, we transfer to our hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or doing some last-minute shopping.


DAY-27: FINAL DEPARTURE

Today marks the farewell as we hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventurous journey in the future. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your scheduled flight for departure back to your homeland.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast

1,350m.                                                         

Homeland                                              

Breakfast   


(Note: Booking must be confirmed 6 months before in advance)


You must bring the important documents mentioned below in your trip.

  • Valid Passport with 2 pp sized photos
  • Proof of insurance and visa form
  • International air tickets
  • Enough cash which can be exchanged once you reach Kathmandu
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.

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