Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek - 21 Day

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by the Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. team. You are transferred to your hotel and enjoy a pre-trek briefing, equipment check, and detailed discussion of your upcoming journey. Walking is minimal on this day, allowing you to recover from travel.

A preparation day in Kathmandu is an essential start for any trekking or climbing adventure in Nepal. Located at 1,400m (4,593 ft), Kathmandu is the main hub where all official trekking permits are arranged, and final travel preparations are completed.

On this day, Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. assists with obtaining required permits such as Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, or Tsum Valley permits, depending on your itinerary. A detailed briefing is also provided, including safety instructions, route overview, altitude awareness, and gear checks to ensure a safe and well-organized journey into the Himalayas.

The day also includes a short vehicle sightseeing tour covering approximately 10–15 km in 4–5 hours, exploring some of the most important cultural and spiritual landmarks of Kathmandu Valley. This typically includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, offering a rich introduction to Nepal’s heritage, culture, and traditions.

The drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is a long and scenic journey that marks the beginning of the Manaslu Circuit or Tsum Valley treks.

Starting from Kathmandu at 1,400m (4,593 ft), the route follows the Prithvi Highway toward Dhading and Arughat before branching off onto rougher mountain roads that follow the Budhi Gandaki River valley. The road passes through terraced hills, rural villages, river crossings, and suspension bridges, gradually entering more remote Himalayan terrain. The total driving distance is approximately 160–170 km, and it usually takes around 8–10 hours, depending on road conditions, weather, and traffic.

The trek from Machha Khola to Jagat is a beautiful and varied section of the lower Manaslu region, where trekkers gradually move deeper into the Budhi Gandaki valley. Starting from Machha Khola at 900m (2,953 ft), the trail follows a mix of narrow cliff paths, suspension bridges, riverside trails, and small Gurung and Magar settlements.

Along the way, trekkers pass through villages such as Khorlabesi, Tatopani (hot springs area), Dobhan, and Yaruphant. The trail includes several ups and downs, stone steps, and river crossings, making it both scenic and moderately challenging. As you approach Jagat, the valley becomes more structured with stone-paved paths and traditional village architecture.

The trek covers approximately 22–24 km and usually takes around 6–7 hours of walking. Jagat sits at an elevation of 1,340m (4,396 ft) and is the official entry checkpoint into the Manaslu Conservation Area.

The trek from Jagat to Lokpa is a scenic and important section where the route begins to diverge toward the remote Tsum Valley. Starting from Jagat at 1,340m (4,396 ft), the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through stone-paved paths, terraced hills, and lush subtropical forests.

After leaving Jagat, the trail passes through villages like Salleri and Philim before reaching Ekle Bhatti, where the path to Tsum Valley branches off. From here, the route becomes quieter and more isolated as trekkers ascend toward Lokpa through pine forests, narrow gorges, and suspension bridges over deep river valleys. The trek covers approximately 14–16 km and usually takes around 6–7 hours of walking. Lokpa sits at an elevation of 2,240m (7,349 ft) and serves as the gateway village to the restricted Tsum Valley region.

The trek from Lokpa to Chumling is the first entry into the inner Tsum Valley, offering a beautiful mix of forest trails, river crossings, and cultural transition into the Tibetan-influenced region. Starting from Lokpa at around 2,240m (7,349 ft), the trail descends briefly before climbing through dense pine and rhododendron forests.

The route crosses suspension bridges over the Syar Khola and passes small settlements, waterfalls, and narrow gorges carved by the river. As you move deeper, the valley opens up, and you begin to see traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and Buddhist chortens that mark the entrance to the sacred Tsum Valley. The trek covers approximately 7–9 km and usually takes around 4–5 hours of walking. Chumling sits at an elevation of 2,386m (7,828 ft) and is the first major village inside the restricted Tsum Valley region.

The trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro is the gateway journey into the upper Tsum Valley, where the landscape becomes more remote and culturally Tibetan in nature. Starting from Chumling at 2,386m (7,828 ft), the trail follows the Syar Khola River before gradually ascending through dense forests, suspension bridges, and traditional villages.

The route passes through settlements like Rainjam and Gho, where trekkers experience ancient mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries reflecting strong Buddhist traditions. As you climb higher, the valley opens up, revealing wide Himalayan views and dry alpine terrain. The trek covers approximately 12–14 km and usually takes around 5–6 hours of walking. Chhokang Paro sits at an elevation of 3,010m (9,875 ft) and is one of the largest and most important villages in the upper Tsum Valley.

An acclimatization day at Chhokang Paro (around 3,010m / 9,875 ft) is an important rest stop in the upper Tsum Valley Trek, allowing trekkers to adjust before moving toward higher settlements like Nile and Mu Gompa.

On this day, trekkers usually take short hikes of about 4–7 km (3–5 hours total walking) around the village and nearby viewpoints. A popular option is a hike to nearby ridges and chortens that offer panoramic views of the Tsum Valley, surrounding cliffs, and distant Himalayan peaks, including Ganesh Himal. Chhokang Paro itself is a traditional Tibetan-influenced village, known for its ancient monasteries, stone houses, prayer flags, and strong Buddhist culture. Trekkers often visit local gompas, interact with villagers, and observe daily monastic life, making it both a cultural and spiritual experience.

The trek from Chhule / Nile area up to Mu Gompa is one of the most spiritual and scenic ascents in the upper Tsum Valley. Starting from around 3,300–3,600m, the trail gradually climbs through a dry Himalayan landscape close to the Tibetan border.

The route passes through ancient Buddhist settlements, mani walls, chortens, and open yak grazing fields. As you ascend, the valley becomes more remote and rugged, with wide views of the surrounding peaks, including Ganesh Himal and nearby snow-capped ridges. The air becomes thinner and the environment more peaceful, reflecting the strong Tibetan Buddhist influence in the region. The trek covers approximately 6–8 km and usually takes 3–4 hours of walking. Mu Gompa sits at an elevation of 3,700m (12,139 ft) and is the highest monastery in Tsum Valley, offering a deep cultural and spiritual experience.

A rest and exploration day at Mu Gompa is an important part of acclimatization while trekking in the upper Tsum Valley. Situated at around 3,700m (12,139 ft), Mu Gompa is the highest and one of the most sacred monasteries in the region, offering a peaceful environment surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes. On this day, trekkers usually take short hikes of about 4–7 km (3–5 hours total walking) around the monastery and nearby viewpoints. A popular option is a hike toward the Tibetan border viewpoint or exploration of nearby caves and meditation sites used by monks for centuries. The area provides stunning views of Ganesh Himal and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Inside Mu Gompa, visitors can observe traditional Buddhist rituals, prayer ceremonies, and the daily life of monks, making it both a cultural and spiritual experience. The peaceful setting, combined with thin high-altitude air, makes this an ideal place for rest and gradual acclimatization before descending back through the valley.

The trek from Mu Gompa back to Chumling is a rewarding descent through the spiritual heart of the remote Tsum Valley. Leaving Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139 ft), the highest and most important monastery in the valley, the trail follows ancient Buddhist villages, mani walls, prayer flags, and stunning Himalayan scenery.

The route passes through Nile, Chhule, Phurbe, and Rachen Gompa, offering opportunities to experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture and traditional lifestyle of the local people. As you descend, the landscapes gradually change from high alpine terrain to lush forests and terraced fields. The trek covers approximately 18–22 km and usually takes 7–9 hours, depending on walking pace and trail conditions. Chumling sits at an elevation of 2,386m (7,828 ft) and serves as a comfortable resting point before continuing toward the Manaslu region or returning to the lower valleys.

The trek from Chumling to Deng marks the transition from the sacred Tsum Valley back to the main Manaslu Circuit Trail. After leaving Chumling at 2,386m (7,828 ft), the trail descends through pine and rhododendron forests, crosses suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River, and passes traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced settlements. The route retraces the path to Lokpa before continuing through scenic valleys and narrow gorges toward Deng. Along the way, trekkers enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and terraced farmland while experiencing the unique culture of the Manaslu region.

The trek covers approximately 15–18 km and takes around 6–7 hours of walking. Deng is situated at an elevation of 1,860m (6,102 ft) and is a peaceful village where trekkers can rest before continuing toward Namrung and the higher Manaslu region.

The trek from Deng to Namrung is one of the most scenic sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Leaving Deng at 1,860m (6,102 ft), the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through dense pine and rhododendron forests, crossing several suspension bridges and passing traditional villages influenced by Tibetan culture. Along the route, trekkers pass through settlements such as Bihi Phedi, Ghap, and Prok, where prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens reflect the region’s strong Buddhist heritage. As the elevation increases, the views become more dramatic, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks and beautiful mountain landscapes.

The trek covers approximately 19–20 km and takes around 6–7 hours of walking. Namrung sits at an elevation of 2,630m (8,629 ft) and serves as a gateway to the higher Himalayan villages of the Manaslu region.

The trek from Namrung to Samagaun takes you deeper into the high Himalayas, offering spectacular mountain views and rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. Starting from Namrung at 2,630m (8,629 ft), the trail ascends through alpine forests and traditional villages such as Lihi, Sho, Lho, and Shyala, each adorned with prayer flags, mani walls, and ancient monasteries.

Along the way, trekkers enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Manaslu (8,163m), as well as views of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and other surrounding peaks. The trail gradually climbs through yak pastures and open valleys before reaching the beautiful village of Samagaun, one of the most important settlements in the Manaslu region. The trek covers approximately 17–19 km and typically takes 7–8 hours of walking, depending on pace and acclimatization needs. Samagaun sits at an elevation of 3,530m (11,581 ft) and is the main acclimatization stop before heading toward Manaslu Base Camp and Larkya La Pass.

A rest and acclimatization day in Samagaun (3,530m / 11,581 ft) is an important part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek to help the body adjust to a higher altitude before heading toward Larkya La Pass. On this day, trekkers usually take short hikes of about 4–8 km (3–5 hours total walking) to nearby viewpoints and cultural sites. One of the most popular options is the hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa, offering incredible views of Manaslu, glaciers, and surrounding peaks.

Another easier option is a walk to Birendra Lake, a beautiful turquoise glacial lake located just a short distance from the village. These hikes help improve acclimatization while allowing trekkers to explore the rich Tibetan-influenced culture of Samagaun.

The trek from Samagaun to Samdo is a short but important ascent as you move closer to the Tibetan border on the Manaslu Circuit. Leaving Samagaun at 3,530m (11,581 ft), the trail gradually climbs through wide alpine valleys, yak pastures, and barren high-altitude landscapes shaped by wind and glaciers.

The route follows the Budhi Gandaki valley and passes mani walls, prayer flags, and seasonal settlements used by Tibetan traders. Along the way, trekkers enjoy wide-open views of surrounding peaks and the dramatic high Himalayan terrain, with fewer forests and more rugged mountain scenery. The trek covers approximately 8–10 km and usually takes 3–4 hours of walking. Samdo sits at an elevation of 3,865m (12,680 ft) and is one of the last villages before crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass.

The trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) is a short but important high-altitude approach day before crossing Larkya La Pass. Leaving Samdo at 3,865m (12,680 ft), the trail climbs gradually through a stark alpine landscape with wide glacial valleys, moraine ridges, and views toward the Tibetan border. The route is relatively dry and rugged, with minimal vegetation, and trekkers may see yak caravans and stone shelters along the way. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you approach Dharamsala, surrounded by snowy peaks and glacial terrain.

The trek covers approximately 6–7 km and takes around 3–4 hours of walking. Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) sits at an elevation of 4,460m (14,633 ft) and serves as the final overnight stop before crossing the high Larkya La Pass.

The most challenging and rewarding day of the Manaslu Circuit is the crossing from Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass at 5,160m (16,929 ft). The day starts very early from Dharamsala at 4,460m (14,633 ft) with a steep and steady ascent toward the pass. The climb gradually becomes more demanding as trekkers move across glacial moraines, rocky terrain, and snow-covered sections, depending on the season. Reaching Larkya La Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan giants such as Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.

From the pass, the trail descends sharply toward the lush valley of Bimthang. The descent is long and requires careful footing as the route passes glaciers, ice fields, and rocky slopes before finally entering green meadows and forests. The total distance for this day is approximately 20–24 km, and it typically takes 8–10 hours of trekking.

The trek from Bimthang to Dharapani is a long and beautiful descent that takes you from high alpine landscapes back into lush green hills and traditional villages. Leaving Bimthang at 3,720m (12,205 ft), the trail gradually descends through open meadows, rhododendron forests, and river valleys. The route follows the Dudh Khola river, passing through settlements like Yak Kharka and Karche, with increasing signs of agriculture and human habitation as you lose altitude. The views of the surrounding mountains slowly fade, replaced by rolling hills and terraced farmland.

The trek covers approximately 18–20 km and usually takes 6–7 hours of walking. Dharapani sits at an elevation of 1,860m (6,102 ft) and is an important junction where the Manaslu Circuit connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail.

The drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar is a long but scenic journey that marks the end of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Leaving Dharapani at 1,860m (6,102 ft), the journey begins on rough mountain roads, gradually improving as you descend toward Besisahar. The drive passes through riverside landscapes, terraced hills, waterfalls, and small towns, offering a final glimpse of rural Nepal before reaching the main highway.

From Besisahar, the road continues on the Prithvi Highway toward Kathmandu, following the Trishuli River valley with views of green hills, villages, and occasional Himalayan peaks in the distance. The total distance is approximately 230–250 km, and the drive usually takes around 8–10 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

At the end of the trek, Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. ensures a smooth and memorable farewell. Upon arrival in Kathmandu or the drop-off point, our team assists with transportation and warmly thanks guests for choosing our services. We provide a final briefing, return any pending permits or belongings, and celebrate the trek’s success with photos, memories, and highlights. Guests also receive a personalized certificate of achievement. Our goal is a stress-free, organized, and heartfelt departure, leaving lasting memories of both the adventure and our hospitality.