The Manaslu & Tsum Valley Trek is a breathtaking journey through two of Nepal's most culturally and geographically rich regions. Located in the central Himalayas, this off-the-beaten-path route combines the remote Tsum Valley, once a hidden land of meditation caves, Buddhist nunneries, and ancient monasteries, with the dramatic alpine scenery of the Manaslu Circuit, which encircles the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m).
Opened to trekkers only in 2008, Tsum Valley lies northeast of the main Manaslu trail and is home to the Tsumbas, a unique Tibetan-influenced community that retains deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. The valley is framed by towering peaks and dotted with timeless villages like Choking Paro and Mu Gumba, offering visitors a deeply spiritual and cultural experience. Trekkers may witness herds of Himalayan Thar, Bharal (blue sheep), and, if lucky, the elusive snow leopard.
After exploring the mystical Tsum Valley, the trail rejoins the Manaslu Circuit at Lokpa and climbs through the rugged Kutang–Nupri valleys, once part of western Tibet. Snow-covered ridgelines, glacial rivers, and picturesque villages lead to Samagaon, the cultural heart of the region, where one can visit ancient monasteries and side-hike to Manaslu Base Camp. The crossing of the snowbound Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of the most dramatic in the Himalayas, culminates in panoramic views of Manaslu and the Annapurna range before descending into the lush Marsyangdi Valley.
This 21-day adventure is ideal for trekkers seeking a remote, culturally immersive, and high-altitude Himalayan experience that traverses from subtropical forests to glaciated alpine passes, with rich encounters at every step.
Travel Notes:
Best Season:
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Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, stable conditions, and the best mountain views.
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Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and warmer weather, with some clouds later in the day.
Permits Required:
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Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu & Tsum Valley
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Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
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TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Experience Needed:
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Previous trekking experience at altitude recommended
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Good physical fitness required due to long walking days and remote terrain
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No technical climbing involved, but the Larkya La Pass can be snowbound
Acclimatization:
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The itinerary includes gradual altitude gain and multiple acclimatization days to prevent AMS
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Side hikes to Mu Gumba and Manaslu Base Camp support altitude adaptation
