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Manaslu trek was officially opened to tourist in 1991, but mountaineering expeditions have had long access to the area. In 1950 a party led by H.W. Tilman trekked from Thonje to Bimtang and col. Jimmy Roberts crossed the Larkya La looking for an interesting mountain to climb. The Manaslu Circuit trek is far less crowded and quiet than other classic treks in Nepal and remains a true remote adventure. The Manaslu trek features all the great aspects of a classic trek in Nepal: epic scenery, spectacular suspension bridge crossings, and a 5100m Himalayan pass.
Tsum valley is one of the remote but amazing trekking region of Nepal. Manaslu trekking was opened for trekking in 1991; Whereas Tsum trekking was opened to tourists for trekking in 2008 and there is little information available about this area. The Tsum Valley is a divine Himalayan pilgrimage valley located in northern Gorkha, Nepal. “Tsum” means vivid. This is situated at the majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal, and Boudha ranges, this tranquil Himalayan valley is rich in age-old art, culture, and religion. The local people are mostly of Tibetan origin and speak a unique dialect. Trails can be found with artistic chortens and lined with mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with drawings of deities and inscribed with prayers. The valley is uniquely rich in fauna, especially the Himalayan Thar and Blue Sheep which congregates in herds of 50 to 200. Hunting, fishing is not permitted in the Tsum Valley. The valley also has some unique and historical monasteries, including Rachen Gumba and Mu Gumba, which lie on a pretty plateau nestled in the lap of the valley, and Gumba Lungdang, situated at the base of a conical hill against the main slope of Ganesh Himal.
Also for those trekkers who have time limits or special preference can trek only the Tsum Valley within 12 days or only Manaslu circuit trek in 16 days and for those who wish to complete the both Tsum Valley and Manaslu round trekking, it can be done within 23-24 days.
Trip Hightlight
Tsum Valley and Around Manaslu Trekking (23 Nights/24 days) Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport.
Day 02: Kathmandu full day city Tour.
Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Sotikhola. (700m)
Day 04: Trek Sotikhola to Machha Khola. (869m)
Day 05: Trek Machhakhola to Jagat (1340m)
Day 06: Trek Jagat to Lokpa (2240m)
Day 07: Trek Lokpa to Chumling. (2386m)
Day 08: Trek Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3031m)
Day 09: Trek Chhokangparo to Nile (3361m)
Day 10: Hike Nile to Mugompa(3709m) then trek back toRachen Gompa.(3240m)
Day 11: Trek Rachen Gompa to Chumling. (2386m)
Day 12: Trek Chumling to Deng (2460m)
Day 13: Trek Deng to Namrung (2630m)
Day 14: Trek Namrung to Lho Village. (3180m)
Day 15: Trek Lho village to Samagaon(3520m)
Day 16: Acclimatization at Samagaon.
Day 17: Trek Samagaon village to Samdo (3875m)
Day 18: Trek Samdo to Dharmasala(4460m)
Day 19: Dharmasala to Bhimthang (3590m)
Day 20: Trek Bhimthang to Gho (2515m)
Day 21: Trek Gho to Dharapani (1963m)
Day 22: Drive Dharapani to Besi Sahar (760m)
Day 23: Drive Besi Sahar to Kathmandu.
Day 24: International Departure
Tsum Valley and Around Manaslu Trekking (23Nights/24 Days) Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport.
Arrivals at Kathmandu Tribhuwan International Airport, Then welcome by our office representative, and transfer to the respective hotel. After checking in to the hotel, meet our experienced trekking guide then detail briefing about the Trekking. Trekking permit collection as well as other required documents for the trekking. Finally settle down all the payment procedures.
Day 02: Kathmandu full day city Tour.
After the morning breakfast, briefing about the Kathmandu full day city sightseeing. i.e Swoyambhunath, it is one of the holiest pilgrims for Buddhist and Hindus, and it is located at the hilltop in the Kathmandu also popularly known as the monkey temple.
Then after we drive to Bouddhanath stupa, which is also the main important shrine for Buddhist around the world. Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the largest spherical Stupa of Nepal and one of the largest Stupa in the world. Then finally we drive for Pashupatinath.
Pashupatinath is located nearby Bouddhanth, this temple is one of the major important sacred pilgrim site for the Hindus around the world. And not to forget all above three shrines are enlisted in UNESCO world heritage site. Finally drive back to hotel, then have some rest, prepare for trekking which starts from tomorrow. Overnight.
Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Soti khola. (700m) (7-8 hours)
After breakfast, we drive from hotel to Soti khola on our private vehicle, which takes around 7-8 hours.
Overnight at Soti khola.
Day 04: Trek Soti khola to Machha khola. (869m) (5-6 hours)
After breakfast, we will start our trekking from Soti khola to Machha Khola, which takes around 5-6 hours of Gentle walk alongside the famous Budi Gandaki River. The main inhabitants of Machha khola village are the Gurung communities with their own tradition, culture and they have good hospitality. Overnight at Machha khola Village.
Day 05: Trek Machha khola to Jagat (1340m) (6-7 hours)
After breakfast, we Trek Machha khola to Jagat, which will take around 6-7 hours of gentle walk along with few upward downward walks then crossing the Tharo khola, we reach at Khorlabesi. Ater walking few hours then we will reach the natural hot spring (Tato pani in nepali). After spending sometime at Hotspring we continue our journey again until we finally reach to Jagat after a long trek. Overnight at Jagat.
Day 06: Trek Jagat to Lokpa (2240m) (7-8 hours)
After Breakfast we trek Jagat to Lokpa, which will take around 7-8 hours of gentle walk with equally ascending and descending narrow trails passing through the bridge. We climb over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola. Continue upstream to a long simple hanging bridge. Climb up to Philim, a large gurung village. Philim valley is well known for school and police station built by Japanese. Walk past MCAP Philim to the north across a forest with the views of the narrowing valley and walk up north from Gum Pul we reach Lokpa. Overnight at Lokpa.
Day 07: Trek Lokpa to Chumling. (2386m) (4-5 hours)
After breakfast trek Lokpa to Chumling which takes around 4-5 hours. From Lokpa the trail descend around 30 minutes towards Lungwa khola and ascending through little difficult trail further two hours north through beautiful pines and rhododendrons forest we reach Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar Khola, finally arrive at Chumling, lower Tsum, from where we can view Shringi Himal. Visit the old Chumling gompa, and the stone streets of the village. Stay overnight in Chumling.
Day 08: Trek Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3031m) (5-6 hours)
After breakfast trek Chumling to Chhokang paro which takes around 5-6 hours of trek, then Cross the suspension bridge onto the opposite bank. Enjoy the great views of Ganesh Himal. Walk past Rainjam to Serpu Khola crossing another bridge we arrive at the Gho Village. Another continues climb for two and half hours to Tsum, the trail takes us to the village of Chhokangparo. If the weather is clear; enjoy the views of Himalchuli 7893m and Ganesh Himal 7140m. The main inhabitants of the chhokang paro village are the pure Buddhist followers. Overnight at Chokhangparo.
Day 09: Trek Chhokang paro to Nile (3361m) (5-6 hours)
After breakfast Trek Chhokang paro to Nile, takes around 5-6 hours of walk. We trek through the villages of Ngakyu, Leru, Lama Gaun today. We will visit a holy cave at the Lama gaun. It is believed that saint Milarepa had meditated here in the cave; (certain admission fee is required) the cave is also popularly known as Piren Phu meaning “Pigeon cave”. After visiting the holy cave we continue our trek passing Burji, Phurbe and Pangdun villages, there is beautiful magnificent big Buddhist Stupa is located on the way to Chhule and Nile. Arrive at Nile, and overnight.
Day 10: Hike Nile to Mugompa(3709m) then trek back to Rachen Gompa.(3240m) (7-8 hours)
Early morning breakfast then hike to Mu Gompa with our packed lunch, which will take around 3 hours from Nile to reach at the Mu Gompa, excursion around the Mu Gompa and Dhephu Doma Gompa for around 1 hour. Mu Gompa is the oldest monastery in the region, and we are now almost close to the Tibetan border. The Gompa lies at the highest and most remote part of the Tsum Valley. After the excursion around the Gompas we trek down towards Rachen Gompa which will further take around 4 hours including the time for our packed lunch on the way. The total time from Nile to Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa will take around 7-8 hour all together. Stay overnight at Rachen Gompa Village.
Day 11: Trek Rachen Gompa to Chumling. (2386m) (5-6 hours)
After Breakfast, we return downwards from Rachen Gompa to Chumling, which takes around 5-6 hours of trek. This is the same route which we took previously on the way to Tsum valley; hence the attractions are same as previous. Arrive at Chumling and overnight.
Day 12: Trek Chumling to Deng (2460m) (7-8 hours)
After Breakfast, We trek from Chumling to Deng. This will take around 7-8 hours of trek; initially we climb down for around 3 hours until we arrive at lokpa. From from lokpa to Deng it takes around 4 hours of trek crossing through the bridge over the Budi gandaki River then the trail to Deng takes us through the gentle and slight upward narrow climb. After Trekking for few more hours, this will take us to the Deng after crossing the small river bridge near by. Stay overnight at Deng.
Day 13: Trek Deng to Namrung (2630m) (7-8 hours)
After the breakfast, we trek from Deng to Namrung this will take around 7-8 hours of trek. On our trek we will enter the area influenced by Buddhism where we can see colorful flags and few stone huts. After a few more ups and downs through forests, the trail turns a corner and arrives at Ghap through well preserved paintings and elegant mani wall. After crossing the Ghap village, the valley becomes steeper and there is a long climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Namrung. Stay overnight at Namrung village.
Day 14: Trek Namrung to Lho Village. (3180m) (4-5 hours)
After breakfast we trek from Namrung to Deng village, this will take around 4-5 hours of trek. After few hours of the wonderful trek we arrive at the Lamagaon, from where Mount Himal chuli can be viewed. After crossing the Himal chuli viewpoint on the way to Lho village we can see the Tong Gompa a Buddhist shrine. Since the is the shortest trek for just 4-5 hours we will reach at lho village earlier, hence the remaining time can be used to explore Lho village. Stay overnight at Lho Village.
Day 15: Trek Lho village to Samagaon(3520m) (5-6 hours)
After breakfast we trek from Lho village to Samagaon, this will take around 5-6 hours of trek. From Lho, we follow the right bank of the river with views of Peak 29 ahead. A couple of hours climbing through the forest bring us to the village of Shyala, offering superb views of Phungi, Manaslu and Him Chuli. After enjoying the spectacular views of mountains and peaks, we continue our trek for more about 2 hours then we will arrive at the Samagaon. From Samagaon we can see the stunning view of Mount Manaslu (8163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. Stay overnight at Samagaon.
Day 16: Acclimatization at Samagaon.
This day we will spend our day at Samagaon for Acclimatization hence after the breakfast we will hike up to the Birendra Lake which lies around 1-hour hike from Samagaon. Birendra Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Manaslu glacier and nearby punhyen glacier. After spending a few times around the Birendra Lake we will hike down to the nearby monastery to explore around. After exploring the monastery, rest time on your own, where you can take a walk around the village. Overnight at Samagaon.
Day 17: Trek Samagaon village to Samdo (3875m) (4-5 hours)
After the breakfast, trek Samagaon to Samdo, this will take around 4-5 hours. During the Samagaon to Samdo route we can view the beautiful mountain views, amazing lanscpaes close to the Tibetan border. During the trek we can also see the beautifully painted mani walls, on the way to the Samdo village. After continues trek of 4-5 hours we will arrive at samdo village. Stay overnight at Samdo village.
Day 18: Trek Samdo to Dharmasala(4460m) (4-5 hours)
After the breakfast, trek Samdo to Dharmasala, this will also take around 4-5 hours. People also refer Dharmasala as Larkya phedi, which is same infact. Today we start our trek by crossing the wooden bridge over a river then arrive at the Larke bazaar, which used to be a good market in the previous time but there is nothing remaining at the present time. Crossing the larke bazaar and walking few more, the huge larkya Glacier coming from Manaslu can be seen from here. The trail grows steeper, climbing up the side of a gorge to a viewpoint at the edge of a huge gorge at 4000m. Nearing the Larkya Glacier, we reach Larkya Phedi, where there is a small lodge, built to serve travellers crossing the Larkya La which lies now just ahead. Stay overnight at tea house Dharmasala.
Day 19: Dharmasala to Bhimthang (3590m) (9-10 hours)
Start our trek at the early morning after the hot and quick food, then trek Dharmasala to Bhimthang, this will take around 9-10 hours. After an early start, we soon reach the snowy valley on the left side of the Larkya Glacier with attractive views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. We continue trekking along glacier moraine and start making the gradual ascent to the top of the Larkya pass (5160m). From the top, there is a stunning panorama view of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II. On the descent, the trail follows the top of the moraine to the west and makes a set of steep, rough switchbacks as it crosses the moraine then descends more gently on snow to a grassy moraine. Depending on the conditions if icy then crampons and ice axe are advisable for the descent. The trail now becomes easier to follow and reaches a small meadow and spring at. The valley becomes wider as the trails heads down to a large meadow, past a mani wall and a small rest house that marks Bimthang. Stay overnight at tea house.
Day 20: Trek Bhimthang to Gho (2515m) (6-7 hours)
After breakfast, we trek from Bhimthang to Gho, this takes around 6-7 hours. After crossing the pastures of Bimthang the trail drops to a glaciar stream at the headwaters of the Dudh Khola, crosses a wooden bridge and descends into pine and rhododendron forest. Not far from here you reach Karche's fenced fields, then cross a landslide before making a steep climb to a ridge decorated with prayer flags before making a descent to the river bank at Gho. Stay overnight at Gho.
Day 21: Trek Gho to Dharapani (1963m) (4-5 hours)
After breakfast, we trek from Gho to Dharapani, this takes around 4-5 hours, exiting the Manaslu trekking region and entering into the famous Annapurna circuit trekking region. From Gho the trail continues through fields and intermittent stands of rhododendron and oak tree to arrive at Tilje, a large Gurung village. Exit Tilje village through a stone arch, cross the Dudh Khola and follow along its embankment descending through the scrub forest. The walls of the Marsyangdi Valley loom larger and finally, the houses of Dharapani appear in the distance. Stay overnight at Dharapani.
Day 22: Drive Dharapani to Besi Sahar (760m) (4-5 hour)
After the breakfast at the Dharapani, drive to Besi Sahar, this takes around 4-5 hours of rough drive on a normal jeep. Arrive at the Besi sahar, Check in to the hotel, rest and fresh up. After lunch walk around the local market in the Besi sahar at your own. Stay overnight at Besi Sahar.
Day 23: Drive Besi Sahar to Kathmandu. (5-6 hour)
After the breakfast drive from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu in a private luxury vehicle, this takes around 5-6 hours. Upon arriving at the Kathmandu, check in to the hotel, rest, do some fresh up then prepare for Typical Nepali farewell dinner. Overnight Kathmandu.
Day 24: International Departure
After breakfast drive to Kathmandu International Airport for your onward journey.
Cost Starts from USD 1900.00 per person (Minimum 2 pax basis)
From 3-5 person; USD 1700.00 per person.
From 6-10 person: USD 1500.00 per person
Included:
• Conservation/national park fees and all government taxes.
• Accommodation in the Lodges in trekking areas.
• All required land Transportation during the Trip
• Experienced & professional Trekking Guide, his Salary, food & Insurance.
• The necessary number of porters
• Kathmandu Valley city sightseeing tour
• Kathmandu Hotel on BB plan
• Porter’s salary, foods., insurance &equipment’s
• All meals( Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
• First aid box.
• Celebration dinner after the trip in Kathmandu.
Excludes:
• Medical/personal high-risk insurance (suggest have rescue coverage policy as well)
• Personal Clothing/Gears for the trekking
• Tips for Nepalese staffs.
• Cost of personal expenses, shopping, Beverage bills etc.
• Nepalese Visa fee
• International Airfare fee
• Internet cost during the trek
• Hot water Shower during the trek.
Note: If provided date is not convenient for you then, let us know. We are happy to arrange your appropriate custom trip.
| Start Date |
End Date |
Availability |
Price |
|
| 2018 |
| September |
| 05th Sep |
28th Sep |
OPENED |
1500 |
Book Now |
| October |
| 03rd Oct |
26th Oct |
OPENED |
1500 |
Book Now |
The major important checklist for the trekking are as follows:
1) Trekking boots - 01 pair with 4 pairs of warm shocks
2) Dawn Jacket - 01
3) Sleeping bag- 01
4) Long sleeves - 02 pairs
5) Sun glass - 01
6) Hat - 01
7) Water Bottle - 01
8) Half Pant - 01
9) Trousers - 02
10 ) T- Shirts - 04
11) Trekking Stick - 02
12) Sunscreen - 01
13) Mosquito repelling cream - 01 ( in case in the low land areas)
14) Rucksack - 01
15) Gloves -01 pair
16) Wind proof jacket- 1
17) Warm Cap-1
18) Personal Medicines
19) Flash light
For whom is the Tsum valley and Manaslu Trek
Who would enjoy the Manaslu Trek? Probably most people would enjoy the trek but especially those who are interested in culture, want to get away from the crowds and commercialization of other treks and are happy to compromise on comforts to experience authentic Nepal. For those who realize they missed the Annapurna Circuit Trek in its golden age will love this trek.
Does Himalayan Icefall trekking arrange the trekking permits?
Yes, we do. No worries….
Can i Trek Tsum valley and Manaslu round trekking alone?
According to the rules, you must trek as a group of at least two and be accompanied by a registered guide. So you can't.
Is the Tsum Valley and Manaslu circuit Trekking Difficult?
The Lonely Planet guidebook describes the Manaslu trek as tougher than most, but this is now wrong. There have been new trails put in that significantly reduce the climbing involved and reduce the exposure. The trails are now wide and good unlike in Tilman’s time (1950) wherein one part the trail was a few narrow planks resting on branches that had been hammered into cracks in the rock!
While some of the trails are fantastically airy, high above the Budi Gandaki River, the trails are perfect for trekking. You should be fit as there are lots of up and down, but there is nothing too extreme on this trek. Just take it easy on the descent from the pass.
How busy is the Tsum valley and Manaslu circuit Trek compared to Annapurna region?
It’s anecdotal evidence, but the Annapurna circuit sees around 10,000+ trekkers per year (it was 65,000 in 1995!) compared to Manaslu’s 2,000. This information only really affects you if you trek in October, as most other months are quiet.
Can i trek Tsum valley and Manaslu circuit trek in reverse?
Yes you can do the trekking in reverse as well, the original main circuit trek starts from Soti khola, where as if you would like to do it in reverse you may start from Besi sahar too. Dont worry Himalayan Icefall trekking can arrange you the trek as per your desire.
What gears and equipments do i need ?
The basic equipments and gears that you migh need for this trek, its listed on the other tab.
Will I get altitude sickness?
There is a risk since you will be hiking above 3000m. Different people react to altitude in different ways, no matter their fitness level or experience in the mountains. That’s why you should learn and understand what altitude sickness is and what the symptoms are beforehand. You can ask your local travel medicine specialist, search online or attend one of the lectures organized in Kathmandu.
Do I need to purchase my own travel insurance?
Yes. Most trips run smoothly, but once in a while something unexpected can happen, that’s why we highly recommend that before coming to Nepal you purchase travel insurance. We take all the necessary precautions to make sure your safety is at first-hand, but it is always best to have it.
Will my mobile phone work?
Not Really
What is the accommodation like?
We can tailor the accommodation to meet your requests. While in Kathmandu we generally stay in very nice hotels. During the treks, we will be staying in local guesthouses along the trail. The guesthouses vary, but overall is clean, charming and meet all of your needs.
Who are the guides?
Himalayan Icefall Trekking hires guiding professionals with a love and passion for outdoor travel and adventure. Our guides have been with us for many years and know the trails well. They all speak English very well and know how to take good care of the clients.
Will I have to carry all of my own stuff?
No, unless you request to. Our porters will carry up to 15-20kgs of weight for each trekker. All you need to carry are your essential items for the day. The porter fee is included in the price of your trip. We plan for 1 porter for 2 trekkers in accordance with the guidelines set out by the International Porter Protection Group. If you would like more weight to be carried, please let us know. In general, 15-20kg is more than sufficient.
Are the water and food safe?
The tap and mountain water in Nepal are generally not safe to drink for tourists. Bottled water, boiling water or using water purification tablets are your best options. Tea and coffee are okay to drink.
Yes, the food is safe in Nepal. And delicious!
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