Overview of Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a 20-day adventure that combines two of Nepal’s pristine trekking routes: the Manaslu Valley and the Tsum Valley. Starting from Soti Khola (710m / 2,329 feet), you’ll follow the Budhi Gandaki River into the sacred Tsum Valley, and after exploring ancient monasteries, you’ll rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit, crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). The route descends through the Marsyangdi Valley, completing a full circuit around Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781 feet), the world’s eighth-highest peak. You’ll sleep in simple teahouses throughout the trek. This moderately challenging trek demands good physical fitness and proper acclimatization due to the high altitude.
Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- Explore the sacred Tsum Valley and discover ancient Buddhist monasteries like Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139 feet) and Rachen Gompa (3,240m / 10,630 feet).
- Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781 feet) is the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
- Cross thrilling suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River.
- Visit Pungyen Gompa (4,050m / 13,287 feet), one of the valley’s most sacred pilgrimage sites with intricate Buddhist architecture.
- Spot rare wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, red pandas, and snow leopards in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Why is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trekking special?
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek stands apart from other treks. While other popular trails have become highways of trekkers, this route still feels like genuine exploration due to its restricted permit requirements. The Tsum Valley remained completely closed to foreigners until 2008, preserving its traditional way of life intact. The trek’s diversity is equally remarkable: you’ll walk through subtropical forests alive with langur monkeys, cross high-altitude desert landscapes reminiscent of Tibet, and witness both the lush greenery of rice paddies and the beauty of glacial moraines. The combination of challenging mountain passes, deep cultural immersion, and relative solitude makes this trek a bucket-list journey for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty Level
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek falls into the moderately difficult to challenging category, primarily due to its length, altitude, and remoteness. You’ll spend 20 days trekking, with daily walking times ranging from 5 to 8 hours and required acclimatization days. The Larkya La Pass crossing (5,106m / 16,752 feet) demands both physical stamina and mental determination, especially if weather conditions are poor. Altitude can be challenging, as you’ll sleep above 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) for several nights and reach over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) at the pass, where oxygen levels drop to roughly half of what you breathe at sea level.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Before attempting this trek, you should be able to walk for 6–7 hours carrying a light daypack without excessive fatigue. Start preparing at least 8-12 weeks (2-3 months) in advance with regular cardio training. Hiking with elevation gain is ideal, but running, cycling, or stair climbing work well too. Include some longer sessions on weekends to build endurance. Strengthen your legs, core, and ankles through exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups to handle the constant ascents and descents. If you live at sea level, consider arriving in Nepal a few days early to begin adjusting to altitude.
Mental Preparation
Mental preparation matters just as much as physical fitness. Be ready for basic teahouse conditions that include thin mattresses, shared bathrooms, cold mornings, and occasional power outages. Flexibility is essential, since weather, trail conditions, or altitude sickness might require itinerary changes. Previous trekking experience at altitude (above 3,500 meters / 11,483 feet) is highly recommended, but not necessary if you’re in excellent shape and willing to listen to your body. This isn’t a technical climb requiring mountaineering skills, but it demands respect for the mountains, patience with the pace, and trust in the acclimatization process.
Altitude Sickness Prevention & Symptoms
Prevention of altitude sickness starts with proper acclimatization, and our itinerary includes rest days at key elevations, but you must drink 3–4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol, eat regularly even without an appetite, and walk slowly. Consider taking Diamox (Acetazolamide) after consulting your doctor, and always listen to your guide’s advice on pacing. While mild headaches, nausea, and sleep difficulty are normal above 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), persistent headaches, vomiting, loss of coordination, confusion, extreme fatigue, or shortness of breath at rest demand immediate descent. Descending even 300–500 meters (984–1,640 feet) can save your life, so communicate honestly with your guide about how you’re feeling.
Cultural Etiquette And Responsible Trekking
You should remove shoes and hats when entering monasteries, walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls, and never touch religious artifacts without permission. It’s important to ask before photographing inside gompas or even people and to sit quietly during prayer ceremonies. Consider dressing modestly with covered shoulders. Learning basic Nepali phrases like “namaste” (hello) and “dhanyabad” (thank you) is not mandatory, but can be helpful as locals appreciate the effort. Carry out all non-biodegradable waste and use refillable water bottles instead of buying plastic. Stick to established trails and tip guides and porters fairly, as their livelihoods depend on your generosity.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Right for You?
The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek requires a special permit, making it not suitable for everyone, and that’s precisely what makes it more special than other treks. If you’re seeking solitude over crowds, cultural authenticity over tourist shows, and the satisfaction of completing a serious Himalayan challenge, then the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek will meet your expectations. And if you are looking for the guidance to make your dream of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek to turn into reality, you can contact us today to start planning your adventure. Our experienced local guides who know every stone on these paths and every story in these valleys are ready to make your trek safe, memorable, and transformative.
Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Outlet itinerary
| Day | Destination | Sleep altitude | Duration | Distance | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kathmandu | 1,345m | 30 min drive | 7 km | Airport transfer, hotel check-in |
| 02 | Kathmandu (Rest) | 1,345m | Full da | - | Permit preparation, briefing |
| 03 | Machha Khola | 930m | 8-10 hrs | 170 km | Scenic drive via Arughat |
| 04 | Jagat | 1410 m | 6- 7 hrs | 21 Km | Riverside trekking, hot springs |
| 05 | Lokpa | 1830m | 6-7 hrs | 18 Km | Villages and Jungle walk |
| 06 | Remzam | 2500 m | 5-6 hrs | 12 Km | Forest walk |
| 07 | Nile | 3160m | 6-7 hrs | 15 km | Tsum valley |
| 08 | Nile | 3160m | 6-7 hrs | 8 km | Explore Mu Gompa |
| 09 | Chumling | 2400m | 7-8 hrs | 21 km | Downhill to reach Chumling |
| 10 | Dyang | 1,800m | 6-7 hrs | 15 km | Fields of wheat and barley |
| 11 | Namrung | 2,540m | 6-7 hrs | 19 km | Alpine zone entry |
| 12 | Shyala Village | 3,500m | 5-6 hrs | 12 km | Himalayan views intensify |
| 13 | Sama Gaon | 3,530m | 5-6 hrs | 11 km | Visit Pungyen Monastery |
| 14 | Sama Gaon | 3,530m | Full day | - | Acclimatization & exploration |
| 15 | Samdo | 3,860m | 3-4 hrs | 9 km | After rich samdo hiking hill |
| 16 | Dharamsala | 4,470m | 4-5 hrs | 7 km | Prepare for the pass |
| 17 | Bimthang via Larkya La | 3,720m | 8-9 hrs | 24 km | Cross 5,106m pass |
| 18 | Dharapani | 1,860m | 7-8 hrs | 25 km | Descend through forests |
| 19 | Kathmandu | 1,350m | 9-11 hrs | 230 km | Drive back, celebration |
| 20 | Departure | - | 30 min | 7 km | Airport transfer home |
Relatate Picture Gallery
Trip Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu Airport then transfer to respective Hotels
- Distance : 7 Km
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to hotel
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines, you will be well received by company guides and staff. You will then drive a short distance to the hub of Kathmandu, where your hotels are located. After checking into your lovely rooms and getting refreshed, join the group in the Hotel lobby for a group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal pleasant.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include:
Day 02: Free day in Kathmandu to prepare the permits
- Distance : Explore day
- Duration : Free day
- Max. Altitude :1345m
We will collect your passports and photos to prepare your immigration permits. You can explore the town on your own. After collecting permits, we will have a trip briefing and introductory program with your guide.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Machha Khola
- Distance : 180 Km
- Duration : 8 to 10 Hours
- Max. Altitude :730 m
Start our fabulous adventure to Tsum Valley trekking taking a long and exciting overland journey to reach warmer areas of Gorkha district at Arughat a moderate size town with sub-tropical temperature, where our drive continues on the road for an hour to reach our first overnight stop at Machha Khola a small farm village, slowly turning into a town due to motorable road facilities.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Day 05: Trek to Jagat
- Distance : 21 Km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :1400 m
The first-day walk starts following the Buri-Gandaki River upstream heading into a gorge covered within the dense forest as walks lead to a climb into cool the shade of forests after a nice. the walk leads past Khorla Beshi a small farm village, and on a winding trail to reach Tatopani village with its natural “Hot Spring,” as per time permits enjoy the warm refreshing bathe then walk uphill to Jagat village for other overnight stops. This is a nice village with many shops and stores including many simple good lodges to stay in lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Trek to Lokpa
- Distance : 18 Km
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :2040 M
After a wonderful overnight stop and a pleasing time at Jagat, the morning walk leads towards our destination heading to Tsum High Valley, as the walk continues towards high areas through many small farm villages and then a short climb with a downhill crossing over the suspension bridge to reach Nagjet and Philip, a large village with scattered farmhouses. Philip walks into farm areas with golden fields of wheat and barley, as he heads to a climb towards a rocky ridge within the bamboo forest to reach Dyang village. From here onward leave the main trail of the Manaslu trek, where our trail leads further north towards remote Tsum valley areas as the walk progresses within the isolated country then reach Lakuwa village with cooler air for the overnight stop.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Remzam or dumje
- Distance : 11 Km
- Duration : 5 to 6 Hours
- Max. Altitude :2500 m
From Lakuwa village after leaving Buri-Gandaki River for the week, as morning walk leads into a more interesting village of Tsum areas which is known as the valley of happiness with views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. The walk leads further North East heading into the narrow gorge with a short down and uphill climb entering a forest of rhododendron and pine trees and then walking past a few scattered farm villages where the climb leads above Lungwa Khola (stream) towards an overnight stop at Chumling village right in Tsum Valley.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07:Trek to Nile
- Distance : 15 Km
- Duration : 6 To 7 Hours
- Max. Altitude :3361
After a pleasant overnight stop at Chuling morning walk gains, much altitude as our route leads behind North of Ganesh Himal, venturing within a country, the walk leads as tree lines drop towards arid and barren landscapes where villages are similar to Tibet traditions and culture as it this area is close to Tibet border once an ancient Trans Himalayan Salt Trade trail. Slowly walk leads into windswept terrain and then crosses a bridge over Smatiking Khola, with views of Ganesh Himal, which locals call Yangra of Tibetan origin, that towers high above 7,422 m, as the walk continues to reach Nile village for the other overnight stop.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08: Exploration day around Mu Gompa
- Distance : 8 Km
- Duration : 4 to 5 Hours
- Max. Altitude :3750 M
At Mu Gompa rest day to explore this fascinating area where fewer number trekkers often visit this amazing wild country, hike to scenic viewpoints make friends with locals, and explore the time-forgotten villages. The Mu Gompa monastery has rows of Chortens and provides beautiful mountain views. Moreover, you get an opportunity to visit Dhephu Doma Gompa – one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09: Trek back to Chumling
- Distance : 21 km
- Duration : 7 to 8 Hours
- Max. Altitude :3361 M
With a marvelous time around remote and almost forgotten areas of upper Tsum within a valley of happiness in the harmony of pristine wilderness and tranquility, the morning leads to a long downhill to reach Chumling village back into tree lines this will be the last overnight stop around Tsum valley.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Dyang
- Distance : 15 Km
- Duration : 5 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :1800 m
After the pleasant stop at Chumling, the journey continues a higher walking past several farm villages and then on a downhill to cross over a bridge to reach walks into farm terraces of golden fields of wheat and barley, then climbs on rocky ridge top into the bamboo forest area to our overnight stop at Dyang village.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Trek to Namrung
- Distance : 19 km
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,800 m
A morning walk from Dyang leads to a cooler area where you can feel the rise in altitude, on entering the Himalayan alpine region, continue to walk downhill to a riverside to reach Bihi Bazaar a small village near a riverside. From here onwards encountering more villages of strong Tibetan culture, the walk leads on a gentle trail with few short ups and downs till Namrung village is reached for the overnight stop.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Trek to Shyala Village
- Distance : 12 Km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :3500 M
The trek from Namrung to Shyala Village is a picturesque segment of the Manaslu Circuit, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a deep immersion into the local culture and natural beauty. This day’s trek is relatively moderate in terms of difficulty, with gradual ascents and descents through beautiful landscapes.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Sama Gaon vai Pungen Gumpa
- Distance : 11 km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :3,530 m
The trek from Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Monastery is a captivating segment of the Manaslu Circuit. This route offers trekkers the opportunity to explore a remote monastery with breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. The journey combines cultural exploration with stunning natural landscapes, making it a highlight of the trek. Pungyen Monastery: Visit the secluded Pungyen Monastery, nestled in the mountains.Scenic Views: Panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and other peaks.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14: Rest day in Sama Gaon for acclimatization.
- Distance : Rest Day
- Duration : Full day
- Max. Altitude :3530m.
Taking a rest day in Samagaon is crucial for acclimatization, especially as you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. This rest day not only helps your body adjust to the altitude but also provides an opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of the area. Samagaon is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal place for a day of rest and exploration. Acclimatization Hike to Manaslu Base Camp Approximately 7-9 hours round trip Altitude: Manaslu Base Camp is at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) Description: This hike is strenuous but highly rewarding, offering magnificent views of Mount Manaslu up close. It helps in acclimatization by exposing you to higher altitudes before you return to sleep at a lower altitude in Samagaon. The trail passes through glacial moraines and offers stunning panoramic views.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15: Trek to Samdo
- Distance : 9 km
- Duration : 4 to 5 Hours
- Max. Altitude :3860 m
After a nice stop at Sama Gaon, where our route leads to a climb to Samdu and onward, the walk to Samdu is not too far and can be done in a few hours, due to the high altitude within dry air makes the walk slower. Our route slowly leads to Samdu village which is the last village before the Larke-la base and passes, Samdu overnight in this interesting village of strong Tibetan influence due to its closeness to the border of Tibet, where trade still exists.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16: Trek to Dharmashala
- Distance : 9 Km
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
- Max. Altitude :4,460 m
Our journey starts in the morning with a downhill trek up to Budhi Gandaki River. Then we cross the river and again march upward through Larkya Bazaar and Valley of Salka Khola towards Dharmasala which is not a lodge but an easy place to stay for a night. It is 7km away and will take about 4 hours to reach there on normal days. We have a high chance of seeing blue sheep. This place is also known as Larke Phedi. Stay overnight at Dharmasala.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 17: Traverse Larke passes at 5,106 m and descends to Bhimtang
- Distance : 24 Km
- Duration : 8 to 9 hours
- Max. Altitude :5,106 m
Starting early morning to reach Larke-la Pass above 5,106 m, where the walk first heads with a gradual winding uphill, and then steep up to reach the highest point of the adventure on top of Larke-La festooned with hundreds of Buddhist colorful prayer flags marked with stones piles. From the top offers excellent views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, after a great moment a long descent leads you over snow and scree, to reach a valley to Garcia. Further walk on moraine leads to Tambuche at 3,900m from here short walk to our overnight stop at Bhimtang, a lovely place on a wide valley with some good lodges to stay.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 18 : Trek to Dharapani village
- Distance : 25 km
- Duration : 7 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :1950m
From here the track leads downhill into the forest passing a small summer settlement and then climbing on terraced fields to Karcher La, and then down to Marsyangdi River. After a few hours’ walks reach Tilje village by following Dudh (milky) river downstream, the assigned number of villages, including Thonje. From Tilje an hour’s climb after crossing a bridge and then joining the main trail of the Annapurna circuit joins in Dharapani village. Dharapani a lovely large village will be a civilization after being in the complete wilderness, where one can celebrate with a beer and buy a hot shower from the lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 19: Drive to Kathmandu and then transfer to your hotels
- Distance : 230 Km
- Duration : 09 to 11 hours
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
After a marvelous experience and adventure on high hills and mountains, the morning drive brings you back to Kathmandu, at Kathmandu where our wonderful adventure concludes, with an afternoon free at leisure or last-day shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Farwell Dinner
Day 20: International Departure for Homeward Bound.
- Distance : 7 Km
- Duration : Day30 Minutes drive to Hotel
- Max. Altitude :
This is your last day in Nepal, the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture. After a memorable experience and great scenic adventure on Manaslu Circuit trekking, as per your international flight time, our staff will transfer you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next port of call and respective countries.
- Accommodation:
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Cost Details
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICE
- Airports pick up and drop off, upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu.
- Pre-meeting before the trek.
- 3 Night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (3 Star Hotel)
- Helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, well English speaking trained, government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodations, and insurance
- Meals on full board ( Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner ) with 3 times tea/coffee during the trek
- A strong, helpful porter with proper equipment (one porter for two people – porter will carry a maximum of 25 kilos )
- Seasonal fresh fruits as Available
- Guesthouse accommodation during the trek.
- 1 Well Plan Trekking T-shirt
- Kathmandu – Macha -Khola – Dharapani – Kathmandu transportation on a public vehicle
- Manaslu Special trekking permit fee.
- Manaslu Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Annapurna Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Manaslu Trekking Map
- Duffel bag
- Worst case, help with all rescue and evacuation arrangements.
- First aid medical kit, Oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes.
- All applicable taxes are as per the government rules and regulations.
- Well Plan Trekking trek achievement certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant
OPTIONAL ADDONS(Available during check-out)
- Private Jeep
THE PACKAGE EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICE
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Katmandu).
- Travel insurance, which has to cover emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation in addition to medical expenses (compulsory)
- Your personal expenses. (Phone call, Wifi, Laundry service, bar bills, battery recharge, a bottle of water or hot water, Mineral water, Hot shower, etc.)
- All the alcoholic drinks and bar bills.
- Extra Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival or late departure. early arrival from the mountain (due to any reason) Than the scheduled Itinerary.
- Services not mentioned in the ‘Services Includes’ section ( Please ask us if you are confused about any services )
- Kathmandu lunch and Dinner
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Equipment’s
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT LIST
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience .we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
- T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Fleece wind –stopper jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
- Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
- Underwear
- Hiking trousers
- Fleece or woolen trousers
- Lightweight thermal bottoms
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
- Thin lightweight inner socks
- Heavy poly or wool socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)Toiletries
- Toothbrush /paste
- Multi-purpose soap
- Nail clippers
- Deodorants
- Medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Face and body moisturizer
- Small mirror
- Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue/toilet roll
- Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
- A cough and /or cold medicine
- Anti –altitude sickness pills; Diamox or acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic
Extras /luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map /guidebook
- Journal and pen
- Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards etc)
- Modest swimsuit
- Binoculars
Trip Map
FAQ
Kathmandu is approximately 140-160km away from Machha Khola, the main trekking starting point for the Tsum Valley.
No, you cannot trek the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek without a guide, as the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area and trekking there requires being done through a registered Government trekking company and guide, following specific rules and regulations to protect the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks occur, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is from late September to May, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather.
Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good, and the days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
The best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). Autumn is considered the most popular time, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. The skies are crisp, and the visibility is outstanding, perfect for enjoying stunning Himalayan scenery. Spring is equally beautiful, with blooming rhododendrons along the trail and mild temperatures. Between these two, autumn is slightly preferred by most trekkers.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking sits at 5106 Meters where altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization and hydration are important to ensure a safe ascent.
If you experience altitude sickness in the Tsum Valley Trek or any other trek, immediate descent is the primary treatment. For moderate to severe symptoms, descend 500-100m immediately and, if necessary, arrange a helicopter evacuation.
Yes, you absolutely need a sleeping bag for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek. While tea houses provide beds and blankets, they are often insufficient for freezing, high altitude temperatures and a sleeping bag is essential for warmth, comfort and hygiene.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is mostly basic tea houses and lodges run by local families. These provide simple rooms with twin beds, a pillow, and blankets, though it’s always wise to carry your own sleeping bag for extra warmth. Depending on group size and room availability, the triple share may be offered at your request. A single supplement room is available at an additional cost.
We will arrange clean and comfortable rooms with attached washrooms; however, teahouses in some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also, note that single rooms are available in the trekking regions at the lower elevations, but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
While on the trek, we provide good quality food in sufficient quantities from Tea Houses/Mt. lodges. We provide all meals on a full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and tea & coffee) from the teahouse menu during the trekking period. Various meals include noodles, soups, bread, rice items, curries, spaghetti, pizza, egg items, potato items, pasta, and fresh vegetables, so overall you have a different choice of food on the trek.
Drinking tap or stream water directly is not safe. Most tea houses along popular trekking routes sell bottled water, though it becomes more expensive and harder to find at higher altitudes. A more eco-friendly and budget-friendly option is using water purification tablets or a portable water filter to purify water from streams or taps. Boiled water is also available at tea houses for a small fee.
Carrying a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is highly recommended. Avoid buying too many plastic bottles, as it contributes to environmental pollution in mountain ecosystems.
Trekkers need four permits:
- Manaslu Special trekking permit fee.
- Manaslu Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Manaslu Area Local permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Tsum Valley Special permit
- Is a drone allowed on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek?
Flying a drone on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is generally not allowed without special permits. Nepal has specific laws and regulations regarding drone use, especially in restricted areas like Manaslu, which is a conservation area and a restricted trekking zone.
Internet access on the Manaslu Circuit is limited and unreliable compared to more popular trekking routes. Some tea houses and lodges in larger villages like Samagaon and Samdo offer WiFi, but don’t expect fast or consistent connectivity. The signal is often weak, and you may have to pay a small fee to use it.
Nepali SIM cards with data (like NTC) work in some lower sections but lose signal as you go higher. It’s best to inform your family beforehand and not rely on constant internet access throughout the trek.
Trip Videos
Client Reviews
Mia
Geri
I had the most amazing time in Nepal! Thank you so much Well Plan trekking for making this adventure so smooth and enjoyable! It was an unforgettable experience! See you again soon!🙏 Source TripAdvisor
Davied
Sten
Maria
Although it was our first time in the high mountains, we could easily cross the Larke Pass, because of really good aclimatization.
On the trip, there were also with us two really kind and helpful porters.
As for trek: Tsum Valley – less commercial and less crowded but so beautiful!
Manaslu Circuit – unforgettable views on really high mountains. Source Tripadvisor
ilq
We have been with two our 13-years daughters for over 20 days on the trail (Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit) organized by Ram from Well Planned Trekking. That was really wonderful experience. Tsum Valley is less commercial so you need to be prepare for a little less accomodation comfort, but in return you gain truly unique experience of Nepali hard but happy live in the mountains. Manaslu Circuit is more nature-oriented trek. It has really breathtaking views. You can there fully appreciate the magnificent and at the same time ruthless beauty and might of nature. We are really thankful to Ram from Well Planned Trekking, who make this experience possible for us. He is extremely experience guide, and he really knows every little path there. Wherever we went, he personally knew the people around: the villagers, the hostel owners and staff. What’s more, and what really distinguish him from other guides was his willingness of showing and explaining the life and customs of those people around. What is also worth of mentioned our guide and both of ours porters were all the time to help us – not only during walking time, but just all the time. We really have feeling of having premium service.
We decided to take full package with Well Planned Trekking (from arrival to departure month later at the airport), and this was very good decision. Everything was indeed very well planed, with some time at the cities (but not too much – we preferred it that way). At the trail the distances ware perfectly calculated. A little longer at the beginning, than a little shorter when we were higher – with resting/acclimatization days in just a right moment. It did really payoff to trust in Ram planning experience.
To throw some tips for the fellows who would like to repeat our trip:
* the electricity is there usually, with max one day break without
* the temperature differs – at the same day we experienced like 7C at the morning and over 25C (!) at noon. The coldest night was at Dharamsala: -10C.
* crampons (little one – so called microspikes) are very helpful for Larke Pass
* water is all around, so if you have chlorine tablets (or other filtering system) – you don’t need too big bottle
* toilets are tough experience – embrace the adventure 🙂 Source Tripadvisor
