Round Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek
Trip Overview
A trek around Manaslu mountain along with the trip extension to the Tsum valley is the most complete trip in this area which covers all the major sites of the attraction of this region. Although the Manaslu area was opened for trekking since 1991, this area is still unspoiled and less crowded in comparison to other trekking destinations. Moreover, Tsum valley is even new to most of the trekkers as this area was opened since 2008 only and the tea houses have recently been established in Tsum area which is pretty basic.
Travelers visiting in these areas will need to obtain special permits for both Manaslu and Tsum areas and should travel with a licensed guide. The trail ascends and descends through a variety of landscapes including terraced fields, deep gorges, glacial rivers, and dense green forests along with views of Ganesh Himal, Singiri Himal, and Bouddha Himal en-route. Visit to ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Pungyen Gompa adds spirituality in the trek.
Highlights
- Experience the culture and lifestyles of the restricted valleys of Manaslu and Tsum areas.
- Visit the ancient monasteries and enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Singri and Bouddha Himal.
- Cross one of the high passes of Nepal, Larkya la (5160m).
- Chance to extend towards the Annapurna Circuit trail just upon finishing the Manaslu Circuit trail.
Itinerary
Commencing this trip
In the 24 days trip, you will start your trek by visiting the Tsum Valley first and then continue to Manaslu Circuit trail afterward. The trip from Kathmandu starts with a drive to Sotikhola from where you will start trek following the Manaslu Circuit Trail initially. After crossing a long suspension bridge at Philim, you will start with your trip towards the hidden valley of Tsum where you will reach up to the highest point of 3700m at Mu Gompa. Exploring the most of the places of attraction in this area, you will retrace the same way back up to Philim where again after crossing the bridge, you will continue the trail of Manaslu Circuit.
If you are an avid hiker and have flexible days for your trip, you can take a slightly different trail via Prok village (2380m) towards Ghap and Namrung from Bihi. Depending on your time and walking capacity, you may consult with your guide to make a day trip up to Kalchhuman Lake located at an altitude of 3685m above the Prok village.
Enjoying the views of great Mountains including Mt. Manaslu, visiting some ancient monasteries and crossing a great Larkya La pass (5160m), you will return back towards the trail which merges with the route to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will be driven back to Kathmandu in a private vehicle which will be waiting for you either at Syange or at higher spot depending on your trip itinerary or road condition during the time of trip.
Best time to do this trip
Unlike most of the other treks, this trip is also highly recommended to undertake during Spring and Autumn. March to Mid-June and October till Mid-December will be the best time for the visit which will offer clear skies and visibility of the mountains. Trekking in this region during Summer (monsoon time) and winter is not recommended due to the risk of landslides in summer and heavy snow on the high passes in winter.
What is included?
- 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast on twin sharing basis.
- 21 nights accommodation in standard tea houses during the trek on a full board twin sharing basis (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner with tea/coffee).
- Experienced English speaking trek guide and porter/s for the trek (1 porter assigned for 2 travelers).
- Kathmandu to Sotikhola & Syange to Kathmandu transfers in private vehicle.
- 2 International Airport transfers in private vehicle.
- All required trek permit fees include Restricted area permit for Manaslu and Tsum areas.
- Equipment allowances, salary, and insurance for the trek staffs.
- Kit bags/duffle bags for the trek (size 55L).
- A first aid kit with basic supplies.
- All government taxes.
What is not included?
- Single room supplement charges during Hotel stay in Kathmandu.
- Lunches and Dinners in Kathmandu.
- Soft Drinks and Alcoholic beverages like Coke, Beer, etc. and cigarettes.
- Any sort of guided/ unguided city tours and transfers for the same.
- Entrance fees for monasteries and museum (if any).
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Hot shower and hot drinking water during the trek.
- Your personal trekking gears and equipment like the sleeping bag, trekking poles, down jackets, etc.
- Personal nature expenses related to the phone, wifi, gadget charging, laundry, gratitude/ Tips, snacks expenses, extra meals, tea, and coffees etc.
- Your travel insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if any.
- Any activities or services not mentioned in "Service included section"