Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

After Breakfast, we leave the vibrant city of Kathmandu setting off for an 8-9 hour drive on Prithvi highway. We drive along Trishuli River, through terrace hillsides and rural landscapes. En-route, we cross magnificent Nyauli Waterfall before arriving Machakhola. Machakhola is the first entry point into Manaslu Conservation Area where we check-in with our Permits for Manaslu and Tsum Valley. This long drive journey offers glimpses of Nepal’s countryside, setting the tone for the trek ahead. Overnight at a local lodge/teahouse.

Our trek commences with a steady trail that follows the Budi Gandaki River through lush forests and terraced farmland. As you trek along, you’ll cross several suspension bridges, pass Khorla Besi Village, small settlements, Hot Spring (TatoPani), navigating the rugged path. From Dovan you can either continue the motor road (shorter and easier) or cross the suspension bridge to take another trekking route across the river to reach Jagat (longer). Jagat is a village picturesque village along the riverbank and our second entry point into Manaslu Conservation Area.

Today’s trek leads you through traditional villages bustling with local life, offering a glimpse into the region’s culture. As you progress along the trail, you’ll catch your first views of Chamar Himal, a striking peak in the Ganesh Himal range, standing at 7,165 meters (23,507 feet). After passing Nagjet Village, you’ll have the option to cross either the old or new suspension bridge over the river, followed by a short ascent to reach Philim, the third checkpoint of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Continuing on, you’ll pass the village of Chisopani (“Cold Water”) and trek across dramatic river gorges. As you progress, you’ll pass stunning waterfalls along the way. At a junction leading to both Manaslu and Tsum Valley, we take the right path toward Tsum Valley. We enter the Tsum Valley Gate overlooking Nyak Phedi and Nyak Village behind, and just before reaching Lokpa, a brief ascent offers a glimpse of Mount Manaslu rising to your left. Lokpa is the first village in Tsum Valley, where scenic views of hills and forests await.

Today’s path is challenging with several ups and downs, but rewarding. Following the deep river gorge, the trial leads with the Magnificent view of Chamar Himal Range in front. Climbing and descending through dense rhododendron and pine forests, we cross a chilling cliffside bridge, several streams, and a wooden bridge. There’s a small tea house where you can pause for a break. Continuing along the trail, you’ll come to a suspension bridge near a small tea shop at the junction leading to Chumling and Rimchet. We cross the bridge and ascend to reach Chumling, a small yet beautiful village known for its old monasteries and stone houses set against towering peaks.

Leaving Chumling in the morning, the journey to Chhekamparo unfolds along a trail that offers enchanting views of Ganesh Himal and the beauty of the Tsum Valley. Starting with a short descent, trekkers cross the Syar Khola River via a suspension bridge, surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant landscapes. The path then gently ascends through small settlements like Rainjam and Gho, where you can pause and experience the warmth of local hospitality. Gho is an ideal place for a rest or lunch stop, allowing you to refuel with a local meal and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

After lunch, the trek resumes with a gradual climb towards Chhekamparo. As you near the village, the trail opens up, revealing breathtaking panoramas of Ganesh Himal and the surrounding peaks. Reaching Chhekamparo, at an altitude of 3031 meters, feels rewarding, and you’ll find the village rich with Tibetan influence, from traditional architecture to the warmth of the local community. If energy permits, a short evening stroll through the village offers glimpses into the unique culture, with opportunities to visit a nearby monastery or interact with the welcoming locals. This day captures the spirit of the Tsum Valley’s blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, making it a memorable stop on your trek.

Begin your day with a gentle trek from Chhekamparo to Lama Gaon, covering a short yet rewarding 3-4 km distance in just over an hour.The route has a peaceful, spiritual ambiance, adorned with mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens along the trail.

As you approach Lama Gaon, the trail begins a gentle ascent, leading you into the village at an altitude of 3,020 meters. Lama Gaon offers a rich cultural experience, with the historic Rachen Gompa nearby, which dates back centuries and serves as a prominent nunnery in the Tsum Valley. Also, close by is the Tsum Monastery, a place to immerse yourself in the region’s unique Buddhist heritage, and the famous Milarepa Cave, where the revered Tibetan saint Milarepa is believed to have meditated.

With this short trek, you’ll have ample time to explore these significant sites, interact with locals, and enjoy the serene beauty of Lama Gaon, deepening your connection to the Tsum Valley's cultural and spiritual roots.

Today is a dedicated rest and acclimatization day at Lama Gaon, giving you time to relax or explore the surrounding cultural sites. You may choose to visit Rachen Gompa, a historic nunnery, as well as the Tsum Monastery, where you can observe morning and evening prayers that enrich the spiritual atmosphere. For a unique experience, head to Milarepa Cave, where the revered Tibetan saint Milarepa is said to have meditated. This day provides a meaningful pause in your trek, allowing you to connect with the Tsum Valley's deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.

Today's trail from Lama Gaon to Chule takes you straight through the heart of the Tsum Valley, offering an immersive experience of its landscapes and culture. The path opens up to a broad valley floor, where farmers can be seen working their fields, framed by towering mountains on both sides. You’ll pass several mani walls and Buddhist shrines, adding a peaceful ambiance to the journey, and spot dzopas, yaks, and horses grazing in the pastures.

Today’s journey takes you to Mu Gompa, one of the Tsum Valley’s most revered monasteries, followed by a visit to a nearby nunnery before returning to Lama Gaon. With Mu Gompa in sight, you can follow the trail along either side of the river, crossing small streams as you approach the monastery. Just before reaching Mu Gompa, a short ascent brings you to the sacred site, perched at an altitude of 3,700 meters.

Mu Gompa, one of the highest monasteries in the region, is known for its remote and tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and views of the snow-capped Ko-chiang mountain (6,209 m) just behind it. The Tibetan border lies close by, adding to the sense of isolation and the spiritual ambiance. The monastery serves as an important center for Buddhist practices and is deeply respected by locals.

A 20-minute walk from Mu Gompa leads you to a small nunnery, where currently six nuns reside, continuing the traditions of meditation and service in this remote corner of the Himalayas. After visiting both Mu Gompa and the nunnery, you’ll retrace your steps back to Lama Gaon, completing a culturally rich and scenic day in the Tsum Valley.

Today’s trek from Lama Gaon to Rimchet takes 6-7 hours, with a gradual descent offering sweeping valley and mountain views. The trail passes through traditional villages, showcasing the Tsum Valley’s rich culture and daily life before arriving in the charming village of Rimchet at 2,485 meters. Rimchet, known for its authentic rural charm, is surrounded by terraced fields and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The stone-built homes and simple lifestyle of the villagers reflect the deep cultural roots of the Tsum Valley. From Rimchet, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Chumling across the valley, adding to the scenic beauty of this peaceful village.

Today's trek from Rimchet to Lokpa takes you through a peaceful forested trail, offering beautiful mountain views. The route descends gradually, and upon reaching Lokpa, you'll find a quiet village surrounded by terraced fields.

Today’s trek from Lokpa to Deng takes you on a 15 km journey through diverse landscapes over 6-7 hours. The trail begins with a descent, leading you toward a suspension bridge that crosses over to Nyak Phedi. After crossing the bridge, you’ll follow the river trail, passing through lush forests and scenic terrain. As you continue along the river, you’ll cross the Pewa, navigating through peaceful surroundings with cascading waterfalls and rich vegetation.

The path gradually climbs and descends as it weaves through the terrain, with the sounds of the river accompanying your walk. The trek is a beautiful mix of tranquil riverside landscapes and vibrant forest areas. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach the village of Deng at 1,860 meters, a quiet, traditional settlement offering a peaceful atmosphere to rest and reflect on the journey.

Today’s trek from Lokpa to Deng takes you on a 15 km journey through diverse landscapes over 6-7 hours. The trail begins with a descent, leading you toward a suspension bridge that crosses over to Nyak Phedi. After crossing the bridge, you’ll follow the river trail, passing through lush forests and scenic terrain. As you continue along the river, you’ll cross the Pewa, navigating through peaceful surroundings with cascading waterfalls and rich vegetation.

The path gradually climbs and descends as it weaves through the terrain, with the sounds of the river accompanying your walk. The trek is a beautiful mix of tranquil riverside landscapes and vibrant forest areas. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach the village of Deng at 1,860 meters, a quiet, traditional settlement offering a peaceful atmosphere to rest and reflect on the journey.

Today’s trek takes you from Namrung to Shyala, ascending gradually through lush forests and terraced fields. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages like Lihi and Sho, offering a glimpse into traditional Tibetan life. The path climbs steadily, with breathtaking views of the Manaslu range as you move higher. The trail is also dotted with mani walls and chortens, reflecting the strong Buddhist influence of the region. Upon reaching Shyala, you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and a peaceful village atmosphere, perfect for rest and reflection.

Distance: 4 km to Pungen Monastery, 10 km to Sama

Duration: 2-3 hours to Pungen Monastery, 4-5 hours to Sama

Today, you’ll begin with a short hike from Shyala to Pungen Monastery, located about 4 km away. The hike takes 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. From the monastery, you’ll be able to see panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), and Himalchuli (7,893 m). After visiting the monastery, you’ll continue your trek to Sama, which is 10 km further, taking around 4-5 hours. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy incredible views of the glaciers descending from the towering mountains. Upon arriving in Sama, you’ll be surrounded by the magnificent Manaslu, Samdo Peak, and Larkya Peak, providing breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan landscape.

Today’s trek takes you from Sama to Samdo, with a visit to the beautiful Birendra Lake along the way. The trail is mostly straight, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks and glaciers. As you start, you’ll pass through alpine meadows before reaching the lake, a peaceful spot to rest. Just before arriving in Samdo, there is a short ascent that leads you into the village. Upon reaching Samdo at 3,875 meters, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of Manaslu and Larkya Peak, with the village serving as a perfect spot for acclimatization before higher altitudes.

Today’s trek takes you from Samdo to Dharmasala, with a gradual ascent through rugged landscapes and high-altitude terrain. As you move along the trail, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Upon reaching Dharmasala at 4,460 meters, you’ll have time to rest and acclimatize, preparing for the challenging trek ahead to Larkya La Pass.

Today is one of the most challenging days of the trek, as you cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. The trail takes you through harsh alpine terrain, with a steep ascent to the pass, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Himlung Himal. After crossing the pass, the descent to Bhimtang begins, offering stunning views of glaciers and rugged landscapes. Upon reaching Bhimtang, you’ll enjoy a well-earned rest in the village surrounded by towering mountains.

Today’s trek takes you from Bhimtang to Dharapani, descending through lush forests, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes. You’ll pass through Kharapani and Tal, eventually arriving at Dharapani at 1,860 meters, a bustling village in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here, you can relax and enjoy the last views of the mountains before heading back to Kathmandu.

On the final day, you'll drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu, passing through scenic landscapes, villages, and rivers. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey through the Manaslu region.