Complete Guide to Manaslu Circuit And Tsum Valley Trek For Your Best Experience 2024, 2025

  • Apr 4, 2024
  • Karna Rana

Do you know?: 

Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Manasa’ meaning ‘Intecllect’ or ‘Soul’. Also, the mountain is called as “Mountain Of The Spirit”. Locals call it ‘Kang Pungyen’ because it is above Pungyen Gompa. 

Table of Contents

If you are here then, you have heard praises of the beauty of the Manaslu region. What it feels like to compass the World's 8th highest mountain. Here, we have provided complete guidelines before your trek to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley.

Planning to go trekking in the Manaslu region? Excellent choice. Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley leads to the off-the-beaten trail to the hidden valley of Tsum and around the world’s 8th highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)

Manaslu Circuit Trekking route is spread over 230 Kilometers (143miles) in the remote northern part of Nepal to the Tibet border gaining a maximum elevation of 5160 meters (16929 Feet) at the top of the Larke La Pass, then down to Annapurna Circuit Maian trail at Dharapani.

If you are planning to trek in the Manaslu region then, your main reason might be less crowd and astounding beauty. Plus, it has different characteristics than any other trekking trail. In addition to Tsum Valley, you might want to spend the rest of your life in the Himalayas. 

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Highlights.

  • Walk around the 8th Highest Mountain - Mt. Manaslu.
  • Less crowd and a peaceful environment. 
  • Discover the hidden beauty of Tsum Valley.
  • Experience the Tibetan-influenced Buddhism.
  • Visit numerous Buddhist pilgrimages like Monasteries, Gomba, Chorten, and Manes. 
  • Unique customs, culture, and traditions with diverse ethnic groups. 
  • Panoramic view of Mt. Manaslu, Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and many more. 
  • Chance to witness endangered species. 

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Summary.

Max Elevation: 5,106 meters.

Lowest Elevation: 535 meters.

Total days: 18-25 days.

Total distance: 230 kilometers.

Starting point: Soti Khola/ Machha Khola. 

Ending point: Dharapani.

Duration: 18-26 Days

Accommodation: Tea houses/ Lodges. 

Best time to visit Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley.

Autumn and Spring seasons are pinned as the best seasons to travel to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. Autumn is after the monsoon season while spring is before the monsoon. But, it doesn't mean that other seasons are not suitable; it is just complicated.

Therefore, we have a brief description of the seasons in Nepal for your best experience:

Spring (Late February to early June): Spring is one of the best seasons to trek because it has pleasant weather. Also, forests are decorated with blooming rhododendron flowers. You might see remaining snow on the route from the winter season.

Monsoon (Early June to Late August): It is the rainy season. So, you will face light to heavy rain along the route. It can make your stuff wet as well as make the trail muddy. Also, the weather gets cloudy and blocks all the views. 

Autumn (Late August to Late November): Hands down, this is the best season to trek in Manaslu. The weather is clear and calm. The view is stunning as always. 

Winter (Late November to Late February): Usually, the weather is always cold at higher elevations. But in winter, it is even more freezing. However, the sky is clear and the view gets awesome. But, when it starts snowing, the trail will be closed until spring. 

This is just short information. If you want to learn more, just check our Best Time to Visit Nepal.

Where do we start and end the trek?

Generally, the Manaslu trek begins from Arughat and ends in Besisahar. 

Nowadays, the trek starts from Sotikhola Machhakhola or Jagat. It depends on where you want to start your trek. Now, road access has reached Jagat.

Likewise, the Manaslu trek ends in Dharapani, a couple of days after crossing Larke La Pass. From there, you take a jeep to Besisahar and then again to Kathmandu. 

Permits are Required for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek and its Costs.

Permits required for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley are MRAP (Manaslu Restricted Area Permits) MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit), ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permits), TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card, and a special permit for Tsum Valley. 

MRAP is the permit from Jagat to Samagaun. It is obtained from the Department of Immigration. It costs $100 per person for a week and per day $15 per day for additional days from September to November. In the remaining months, it costs $75 per person for a week per day, and $15 for additional days.

MCAP and ACAP can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board. MCAP costs $2 for SAARC countries and $20 for other countries. Likewise, ACAP costs $30 and $2 for the SAARC nations.

TIMS cards are available from the TIMS counter near Saat Ghumti, Thamel. It costs $10 for every nation while FITs (Free Individual Travelers) cost $20. It is checked only on the last day of the trek so it is not mandatory. But, recommend you make it a trouble-free trip.

Tsum Valley requires a special permit which is also obtained from the Department of Immigration. Likewise, from September to November, it costs $40 per person for a week and per day, and $7 for additional days. In the remaining months (December to August), it costs $30 per person for a week and per day $7 for additional days. For more details, you will find every detail of trekking permits and fees on the Nepal Government's authorized website.

Documents Required for the Manaslu Restricted Area Trekking Permits 

  • Only Government-authorized agencies can apply for the Manaslu restricted area trekking permits (Manaslu RAP) along with the following documents:
  • Online application form (trekkers) Link to Trekking Permit Application
  • A Copy of the Trekker's Passport and valid Visa for the entire Trek.
  • Day-to-day Trekking Program Schedule with a date.
  • A Guarantee Letter of Agency to the Government of Nepal Ministry of Home Affairs Department of Immigration
  • Name lists of trekkers, guides, and other Staff.
  • A Guide and other staff Insurance (NPR 10 K) mention names while filling up the online form. 
  • Tax clearance Certificate of Trekking Agency
  • A license was issued by The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Civil Aviation to operate a trekking business
  • A license issued by Nepal Rastra Bank allows the exchange of foreign currencies
  • Registration Certificate of Permanent Account Number (PAN) or Value-Added Tax (VAT) Certificate
  • Domestic and small industries license documents of Agency
  • Company Registration Document of Agency
  • Voucher of Bank payment (fees in USD) for permits
  • **Covid -19 Vaccination Card of each Trekkers. 
  • Need the original Passport of Trekkers while buying a Manaslu Restricted Area Trekking Permit.

What are the Terms and Conditions of the Manaslu Trek Permit?

  1. The Manaslu permit is non-refundable and can’t be transferred.
  2. A permit is valid for single entry only.
  3. There should be a minimum of two trekkers required in a group.
  4. Individual trekkers and Freelance guides are strictly forbidden in the Restricted Areas. 
  5. Trekkers are subjected to a special permit; they are not allowed to change the trekking route, which needs to be followed as a permit. The concerned trekking agency/trekking guide accompanying the group must not let trekkers change the route.
  6. Everyday expenses, safety gear, and appropriate clothes, Personal Accident insurance must be provided for the guide/porter/other staff by the Trekking Agency.
  7. At last need a professional Local guide from Trekking Agency.
  8. Under 10 years children don’t need Manaslu Restricted Area Permits.
  9. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP) must be processed through an authorized agency.
  10. When in Rome, do as the Romans do; Trekkers should respect local customs and traditions and must follow the norms and culture of the society.
  11. Trekkers shall abide by the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act of Nepal, 2029 BS/1973AD.
  12. The Permits must be shown at the checkpoint entire trek.
  13. ACAP and MCAP Permits will be issued only from the Nepal Tourism Board Office, at Kathmandu and Pokhara not at any check posts in the trek. However, the ACAP permit is also available at Besisahar, Lamjung at the same cost.
  14. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP) is only issued by the Immigration Department, Anamnagar, Kathmandu, and Pokhara.
  15. Trekkers who are going on expedition/Peak climbing through the restricted area, the Mountaineers do not need to pay for Restricted Area permits after getting expedition permits
  16. Permit fees include all taxes.

Why ACAP Permit is Needed for the Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Trek is a combination of two different conservation Areas; ACAP and MCAP.  It needs Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), even for 1 or 2 days at the end of the trip. The Manaslu Trek itinerary includes the route of ACAP such as Dharapni and Larkya Pass Top.

Why is the Manaslu Region a Restricted Area?

Manaslu region is not as popular as the Everest and Annapurna regions. But, it holds its distinct culture, tradition, religion, norms, and values. To protect its unique culture and tradition, it is listed as a restricted area. Plus, it helps to increase the living standard of people. 

The Manaslu region is isolated from the modern world (especially the upper Manaslu). Also, the trekking trail is inside the Manaslu Conservation Area throughout the rural areas. Everything is uncertain in such rural areas. So, for your safety, it is listed as a restricted area. Likewise, this is a sensitive area for political issues due to the nearby Tibet border.

Manaslu Conservation Area: 

Manaslu Conservation Area is a protected area located in the autonomous part of Gorkha. It was established on December 28, 1998, covering 1,663 sq. km consisting of the Mansiri Himalayan Range. It was the second Conservation Area under The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). The altitude of this protected area rises from 600 meters to the summit of Manaslu - 8,163 meters.

It has been home to more than 39 mammals, 2000 species of plants, 201 birds, 3 reptiles, 11 butterflies, and various amphibians. Among them, are Red Panda, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, and other animals noted as endangered mammals. However, birds like Himalayan Snowcock, Chukar, Himalayan Griffin, and Golden Eagles can be widely found.

The objective of MCA is to maintain sustainable tourism protecting the natural diversity and rich culture of the Manaslu region. It also helps in improving the living standard of local people. By the way, there are about 9,000 inhabitants in MCA.

Do I need a Guide and porter for the Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Trek is a restricted area trek, so you need special trekking permits through the authorized trekking agency of the Nepal Government. Porter is not compulsory but needs a professional Guide for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek. The Manaslu Restricted Area starts from Jagat to Larkya La pass. You can hire a Guide and porter from the authorized trekking company, or choose an agency with their client's review or friend's recommendation.  

On the other hand, a guide can be helpful during the trip. The situation can get ugly while trekking in such a rural area.

Accommodation services in Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is one of the best tea house treks in Nepal. The routes have a standard level of accommodation services despite being in such a rural area. There are wide options to choose from for your stay. 

If you want to have a camping trek, it is also possible too.

The ambiance and environment of the tea houses are so positive. You can meet lots of fellow travelers. You can share your story as well as listen to their story. 

Tea houses have basic required amenities and facilities. Most of them have twin bedrooms. But not all of them have an attached bathroom. Usually, rooms are clean and well-maintained with blankets and pillows. Also, the toilets are not bad at all. 

Talking about the cost of accommodation varies according to the altitude of tea houses and also depending on the peak and off-seasons. At lower altitudes, it costs around $2-$5 whereas it costs $5-$10 in higher places. If you want to stay in a single room, they may charge extra. 

Manaslu Trekking Tea Houses and their Contact Number:

S.N.Name of PlacesAltitudeAccommodation & Contact
01.Arughat Many good lodges here550m

View Manaslu Resort, Hotel Third Step,

Hotel Manaslu. Tel: 9741193195 -Uday Shrestha

02.Soti Khola (or Arket), basic lodges720m

Satkar Guest House, Samjhana G.H.,

 

ABC Guest House, Tel: 064691037, 9808571935 -Gorkarna Adhikari
03.Machha Khola, good lodges here930m

Hotel Tsum Valley Resort, Tel: 974605473, 06469104, 9746037107,  

Mount Everest Guest House, Tel: 9746047927, 9746052253,

Royal Garden Gest House, Tel: 989746037107 -Pradip Gurung

Hotel New Asia Trekkers Lodge. Tel: 9746061466, 9860467673 -Hash Maya Gurung

04.Jagat, a good lodge (25 rooms, 50 pax)1440mJagat Guest House, Tel: 9746053312, 9746091814, 9746078003,  –Sita Karki
05.Philim, sufficient Hotels1570mRoyal Garden Gest House, Tel: 064691013, 9746052691 –Sager Gurung
06.Chisapani1570mTea House at Chisapani, Tel: 9743118188
07.Lokpa (2 Tea Houses)1570m

Lobsang Hotel & Lodge, Tel: 994640052, 9746038100, -Lobsang Lama,

New Tsum Valley Home Stay, Tel: 994640052, 9746043882 –Lopsang Lama
08.Chumling, Chumchet (3 Tea houses)2361m

Tashi Delek, Tel: 9749343007, 984544046 –Lobsanh Lama

Tsum Ganesh Himal Hotel, Tel: 9741142261, 994640032,  –Gopal Lama
09.Chhekamparo  ( Tea houses)3010mNew Milerepa Guest house, Tel: 9761502341
10.Lar ( 2,3 Tea House)3109mTsum Valley Lodge, Tel: 994640056, 9841230879 –Lopsang Lama
11.Chhule Nelae ( 3 Tea Houses)3361m 
12.Mu Gumba3700m 
13.Deng, good lodge (20 rooms, 40 pax)1860mManaslu Trekkers Home, Tel: 
14.Namrung, reasonable lodges2560mThakali hotel, Tharpu Guest House Tel: 994640011 -Tsering Bista Lama
15.Lho, reasonable Hotels3180mTashidhelek Hotel, Tel: 016925172
16.Shyala, basic lodge (or Lho, reasonable)3500mPeak 29 Guest House Tel: 994640014 -Kunsang Dorje
17.Samagaon, good lodges. Optional rest day in Sama – Manaslu Basecamp excursion.3500mSamagaoun Guest House, Mt. Manaslu Hotel (Tel: 993644005 Bir Bahadur Lama), Norbu Guest House.
18.Samdo, via Manaslu Basecamp, Reasonable lodges3800mHotel Yak
Hotel Twin Tibetan. Tel: 993640005 Kunsang Tsering
Chez Kelsang
19.Larkye Phedi/Dharmashala, 3 good lodges now (60 pax)4600mLarke Rest House
20.Bimthang, good lodges3700mHotel Pungkar, New Tibetan Guest House (993664542), Bimthang Cottage House
21.Tilje, good lodges2300m 
22.Dharapani, good lodges2130New Tibet Guest House, Tel: 9746041466 –Ratna Gurung

How about Food and Beverage in the Manaslu Region?

The food you find in Manaslu is healthy and freshly made. They serve vegetarian food along with non-vegetarian items too. As always, try to avoid meat production which is not a healthy option in the Himalayas.

Moreover, you can choose continental foods like Pizza, Spaghetti, and many more. Chowmein, Mo: Mo, Veg curry, and Soups are commonly available including some Tibetan foods. Dal Bhat is a wise choice to have in the Himalayas. It comes with a free refill. We have a quote “Dal Bhat power, 24-hour”, and we do have a reason for that. 

Let's dive into a beverage, you can choose from soft drinks to hard drinks. Also, there is a wide variety of hot drinks to choose from. So, choose wisely and enjoy your drinks. Quick reminder, don’t forget to try the Nepali wine ‘Raksi’

How Difficult is Manaslu Trek?

The difficulty level of the Manaslu trek is moderate and strenuous. It isn't considered the hardest. But, continuous ascending and descending throughout the trail, can test your limits and endurance. 

Manaslu region presents a physically and mentally challenging trek. It is perfect for adventure seekers. A constant trekker can easily complete it without any issues. 

But for beginners, it can be a challenging trek. You might need to prepare for the trek. Start doing workouts and jogging before you leave for the trek.

Moreover, the difficulty can depend upon some factors like physical fitness, the weight you carry, the condition of the trail (snow), trekking gear and equipment, acclimatization, food choice, and so on. 

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley?

Usually, the total days to explore Manaslu can take 26 days maximum, for both Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. It depends on trekkers whether they want to include side trips or exclude them. 

Perhaps, 18 days is an effortless and convenient trek but can be too long. If you want a short Manaslu trek then you can choose a rapid trek as well as exclude side trips which can reduce up to 7 days. 

If you just want to dominate the Larke La pass, then it will be even less. The 14-day itinerary is perfect for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Plus, Tsum Valley will get an additional 7 days. For your ultimate experience in Manaslu we have Ultimate Manaslu Trekking, make sure to check it out. 

Only the Tsum Valley trek is possible too. It consists of 11 days. Likewise, days can be shortened.  Likewise, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be done in 11 Days in the shortest form. 

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary.

Below, we have provided an outline of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Itinerary. It is designed to avoid road construction. It may belong, you can go direct to Machha Khola and then trek to Dobhan or Jagat. Here, we have a day-to-day itinerary:

Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek Suggested Itinerary -18 Days
Day 00:  Arrival at Kathmandu.
Day 00: Trekking preparation and permit paperwork day. 
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (535m) -6 to 7 Hours & Again drive Arughat to Machhakhola (930m) – 2 ½ to 3 Hours
Day 02: Trek Machha Khola to Doban (1,070m) -5 to 6 Hours 
Day 03: Trek Doban to Philim (1,570 m) -5 to 6 Hours
Day 04: Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,361m)-6 to 7 Hours
Day 05: Trek Chumling to Chhekampar (Upper Tsum) (3,010 m) -5 to 6 Hours
Day 06: Trek Chhekampar to Chhule-Nile (3,361m), visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave -6 to 7 Hours
Day 07: Trek Chhule-Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4,060 m) -3 to 4 Hours
Day 08: Trek Mu Gompa to Dumje (2,405m)  -5 to 6 Hours
Day 09: Trek Dumje to Pewa (1765m) -7 to 8 Hours 
Day 10: Trek Pewa to Ghap (2165m) - 4 to 5 Hours 
Day 11: Trek Ghap to Lho (3180m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Day 12: Trek Lho to Sama Gaon (Ro) (3525m) - 5 to 6 Hours
Day 13: Explore the day in Sama Gaon for acclimatization, may visit Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m)/ Advance Base Camp (4,800m), Birendra Lake, or Pung Gyen Gumba (3,870m.
Day 14:  Trek Sama Gaun to Samdo (3850m) - 4 to 5 hours
Day 15: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) (4460m) - 5 to 6 Hours
Day 11: Trek Dharamsala /Larkey Phadi to Bimtang (3590m) via Larkya La (5,160m) - 7 to 8 Hours
Day 17: Trek Bhimtang to Dharapani (2,130m) via Tilje (2,300m) - 7 to 8 Hours
Day 18:  Drive to Besisahar (825m)-2 to 3 hours & again drive Beshisahar to Kathmandu -5 to 6 hours
Day 00: Your own destination.

Note: this is just a normal itinerary without mentioning other side trips. If you want to add more side trips then, the itinerary can get longer.

*Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek Map.

The map presented below is designed according to the itinerary programmed above: 

Details about the Elevation of the Manaslu region.

Likewise, the elevation is presented according to the program of the Map above: 

Short Manaslu Circuit trek. 

The Short Manaslu Circuit trek is designed to visit the trekking routes of Manaslu in a short period. It is especially aimed at those who are mentally and physically prepared for the high Himalayas in 11 Days

Short treks are best to avoid long days. Also, it gives opportunities to visit more places in a short time. But it will be more challenging than the regular trek. You have to walk more in a single day. It is not recommended for beginners.

What’s the Difference between Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley?

Both Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley have the same entry point and are correlated. Although, they have different characteristics and components. We have provided some of the differences in the table below:

Manaslu CircuitTsum Valley
Tea houses are pretty standard and are more touristy.Tea houses are decent and are managed by the family.
It is inhabited by mixed ethnic groups.It is the home of the native Tsumba people.
The highest elevation is 5,106m which is Larke La passThe highest elevation is 3,700m which is Mu Gumpa. 
The starting and ending points are different.The starting and ending point is the same.
The trail is challenging.The trail is easier than the circuit.
It is much busier with a lot of tourists.It has fewer tourists than the circuit.

Wifi and Network Connectivity in the Manaslu area.

It might be surprising that the Manaslu area has Wi-Fi as well as network connectivity. Now, you can connect to your closest one even if you are in the middle of the Himalayas.

Talking about Wifi, in Tsum Valley only Lokpa has Wifi access which is the starting point of the valley. Afterward, you cannot connect to the world but can enjoy the tranquility of Nature. But in Circuit almost every place has Wifi facilities except Dharmasala including some other places too.

The Wifi you get below Lho is pretty good. But from Lho and above, you will find Satellite wifi which works only from 7 am to 7 pm. Also, when the weather is worse it might not work. After crossing Larke La you can enjoy wifi there too. 

Thanks to Nepal Telecom, a mobile network is possible in the Manaslu region. They completed the project at the beginning of the year 2022. Now, you can stay connected and use Cellular Data too.

Is Electricity available in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, electricity is available in every place in the Manaslu region. But just a few years ago the majority of the region had to depend on solar power. The Nepal Government has built hydropower in Budi Gandaki and Mini Hydropower running by communities to provide electricity.

Back in time, there was only solar power, so they charged you to charge electric devices like mobile phones, power banks, batteries, etc. Nowadays, you can find an electric socket in your tea house’s room and it's free too. 

Transportation to Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley. How to get there?

Transportation in the Manaslu region is a big question because it has been a long since road construction started. Before, the road access had just reached Arughat. Then, the trek has to start from there.

But now, the road access has reached JagatChumnumbri Rural Minipilicity near Philim Village (which is a couple of days away from Arughat). Still, transportation is available to Machhakhola. If you reserve a private jeep it can drive all the way to Jagat

There is only one way to get to the Manaslu region which is road transportation. You either go by public bus from New Buspark at Kathmandu or reserve a private jeep. Three buses depart at 6 to 8 AM every day, it takes about 6 -7 hours to reach Arughat by public bus. Afterward, you need to take another bus/Jeep from Arughat to Soti Khola or Machhakhola. It will take another 2-3 hours again. There are 3 bus services from Kathmandu to Machhakhola directly through the historical town Gorkha Bazaar, so it takes 2 hours longer to get in total 10 to 11 hours. 

Kathmandu to Machhakhola Bus Transport cost

A private jeep is the most comfortable and time-saving but it is way more costly than public transportation. The cost of the private Jeep is USD 200 to 250, which 7 people can accommodate. 

Has Road Construction Affected the Trekking Trail?

To be honest, road construction has not affected the trekking trail yet. However, the road will eventually reach Rui La Pass. But, the construction has avoided the main trekking trail. You can still enjoy the virgin trail of the Manaslu region.

There are many routes to escape road construction. Are you interested in discovering new trails of Manaslu? Give some time to check them out. 

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Route Other Alternative Routes. 

Normally, Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley start from Arughat. Then, the trail follows through the Soti Khola. Afterward, it will lead to Jagat, the gateway of the Manaslu region. Still, there are other alternative routes too. 

As you enter the Manaslu region, the trail passes through Philim following the trail alongside Budi Gandaki. The village has one of the biggest settlements. After a few hours of walking from the village, it will take you to the suspension bridge. If you cross the bridge it will take you to Circuit and if you follow the path it will lead to Tsum Valley.

Are you ready to try other routes? There is another way to join the trail through Barpark Village. It will add a couple of days to your normal itinerary. But, believe it, it will be worth traveling through that village. It shares one of the best skyline views of the Manaslu range. 

Or, are you done with the tea house trek? Want to experience something new then, Bhumlichok Bhairabi Homestay Trip can be an ideal choice. This trip will show what Lower Manaslu is about.

How about Altitude Sickness in Manaslu?

Of course! You should be concerned about Altitude sickness because you will be over 5,000 meters above sea level. It is not a rare case to have altitude sickness on the Manaslu trek. But, we can avoid it through many remedies. 

First, you should know the symptoms of altitude sickness. Remember, it can be normal to critical. The symptoms include headache, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, tiredness, dizziness, and others. If your case is critical you need to be rescued. 

There are many remedies to prevent altitude sickness. Always eat properly with a heavy diet. Make sure to stay hydrated all the time. Avoid alcohol at higher elevations. Take your pace and ascend slowly. Take it easy and mentally prepare for the challenges.

Manaslu Trekking Guide: Visit the Sacred Sites in Manaslu Region

Trek in Manaslu does not only see the snowcapped mountains, but also observe the local culture, and tradition in the lap of the beautiful Himalayas. During your trek in Manaslu, you will visit some of the best-sacred sites Like Mugumba, Rachen Gumba, Milerepa Cave Monastery, Gumba Lungdain in the Tsum area, and Serang Gumba, Hinnang Gumba, Pung Gyen Gumba, and Samagaun is the birthplace of (Nubri Valley) Guru Mingyur Rinpoche "The Joy of Living" Book. The Himalaya takes you into automatic meditation mode during the trek, you will feel your body language and spiritual vibe after done trek and before. Find out yourself who you are. and why you are? as a human being by self-realization.

Visit the Manaslu Base Camp while Trekking.

Manaslu Base Camp is the campsite below Mt Manaslu where the climbers stay before ascending to the summit. Located at a height of 4,800 meters, it has been a favorite spot for hikers to acclimatize well. 

It has only access from Samagaun. When trekkers stay an extra day in Samagaun they prefer to hike at higher altitudes for acclimatization. It is also included in the Manaslu circuit trek. It takes 4-5 hours to ascend through the Birendra Lake and an additional 3-4 hours to descend back. 

It takes a whole day to explore Manaslu Base Camp. So, you need to pack lunch from the tea house where you stay. You can enjoy the Manaslu-efficient view while having your lunch. 

Best Side-Trips/Day-Trips for Acclimatization in Manaslu.

Both Circuit and Tsum Valley have numerous side trips with rewarding views and are adventurous. Side trips are beneficial for acclimatization. If you choose to travel all side trips in one trek then, you will need a month of holiday. 

There are several hidden treasures in the Manaslu region. This unspoiled area is only visited by a few people. It may be your chance to explore the untouched beauty of Manaslu.

Namely- Himalchuli Base Camp, Kal Tal(lake), Pungyen Gomba, Manaslu Base Camp, Rui La Pass, Serang Gumba, Birendra Lake, Ponkar Lake, and Milarepa Cave and Danda (ridge) are located in Manaslu Circuit side-trips. Manaslu Base Camp is famous among tourists due to an additional rest day in Samagaun. 

Likewise, Tsum Valley has a lot to offer like Mu Gumpa, Dhephyudonma Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Milarepa Cave, Gomba Lungdang, Rimchet village, and Chumchet village. You should not miss them on your visit to Tsum Valley.

Packing lists for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek.

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley trek is a long trek so you need to pack your essentials as required. Let's make it short, we have made a list of gear and equipment for your convenient trek:

Clothing 
●    Brimmed hat or cap
●    Neck buff or bandana
●    Warm hat 
●    Down jacket
●    Windcheater
●    Rain jacket or raincoat 
●    Gloves (inner and outer)
●    Inner thermal wear
●    T-shirts
●    Sports bra (for women)
●    Hiking pants
●    Hiking boots
●    Gaiters
●    Hiking Socks
●    Undergarments

Travel Equipment and Accessories
●    Sunglasses or Goggles
●    Trekking poles
●    Headlamps
●    Sleeping bag
●    Backpack (30l-50l)
●    Crampons or Microspikes
●    Water bottles

Miscellaneous Items
●    Water filter
●    Portable charger/power
●    USB type C adapter
●    Multi-tool
●    Portable Solar Charger
●    Hand sanitizer
●    Camera 
●    Games like chess, cards, etc
●    Snacks/Dry fruits/Chocolate
●    First-Aid kit
●    Medications

Toiletries
●    Toothbrush and toothpaste
●    Toilet paper
●    Soap and shampoo
●    Detergent
●    Moisturizer cream
●    Tampons and Sanitary pads (for women)
●    Sunblock cream
●    Quick Dryer towel
●    Nail Clippers
We have a complete guide on “What to pack for Nepal trip?”. It will be helpful for you. 

Note: You almost need everything which is mentioned above. But don’t overdo it. It may make your backpack heavy so pack your bag wisely.

What has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic?

A lot has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic lasted for almost 2 years. Now, I believe time is really powerful. The area has developed way more than before the pandemic. 

Before, there was no electricity available in almost every part. All of them depend on solar power. Now, Only a few places like Deng, and Dharmasala depend on solar power. Plus, multiple mini-hydros have been built in Tsum Valley too.

In the meantime, owners were busy renovating their tea houses. Now, tea houses have increased their standard. Now, they provide wifi and a shower along with an attached toilet.

Now, Nepal Telecom (NTC) has made network connections on many parts of the route. Before it was hard to get connected with others. 

The cantilever bridge between Dovan and Jagat is out of order. The road access has reached Chhekamparo from Tibet but the road is not in good condition. Locals say there are no public vehicles but some farmers use the road for tractors.

How to Choose the Right Travel Agency for Your Guide to Manaslu?

It is compulsory to take a trekking guide to trek inside the Manaslu area. So, choosing the right travel agency can be tough. Choosing the wrong agency can ruin your vacation. 

First of all, always watch reviews about the agency on Google or TripAdvisor. Make sure they reply to your inquiry on time and the answer they give is precise. Don’t forget to check their website. Also, check photos they upload are genuine or not. 

You can’t miss the opportunity to make the journey of your life. So, Nepal Mother House is for you. We have been providing exclusive services for more than 10 years. We can proudly say our president is from Gorkha; the home of Manaslu. Plus, our guides are all certified and have been to the route multiple times.

Travel Responsibility While Trek in Manaslu

Responsible Travel is an act of showing respect and kindness towards people, culture, and natural habitats along with promoting local tourism. The main ambition is to make a better place to live and a better place to visit. There are some travel responsibilities you should know before traveling to the Manaslu region.

As soon as you enter the trekking area people will welcome you with etiquette. Never forget to say ‘Namaste’ to local people. Be careful, you might get spoiled by the great hospitality. Again, don’t say ‘no’ to whatever they offer to you. Respect your guide and porters too. 

Always ask for permission before taking a picture of a particular person. Walk from the left side while crossing Stupa, Chhorten, and Mane. Try to use your right hand because it is considered good manners in Nepal.

There will be children asking for chocolates. Giving them candies can be a nice gesture. But, don’t spoil them by giving them money

Avoid using plastic materials. Bring your water bottles. Try not to waste food because food is very valuable in the Himalayas. Learn the local language and try to communicate with locals. And finally, don’t complain about the facilities, that’s the best they can provide in such a rural area.

Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek take you to the pristine trail around the 8th highest mountain along with the hidden valley of Tsum. It is the trip you should choose for a lifetime experience. But without any preparation, it can just ruin your expectations. Hope this blog was helpful before you approach Manaslu trekking. 

Was this blog helpful? Let us know. If you have any questions regarding the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, we will be glad to hear from you.

Karna Rana

Karna Rana

Namaste!

I hearty welcome to Nepal, known as the Kingdom of Himalayans, and the roof of the World “Mt. Everest.” Nepal has been named a Heaven on Earth and is a wonder in the Himalayan. It is the Shangri-La, a cultural Museum, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha, and the country of the living Goddess “Kumari.”

I am Karna Rana Trekking Tour Operator and Mountain Guide, specializing in Trekking, Tour, Travel in Nepal, Hiking in the Himalayan and other Outdoor Activities, Peak Climbing, Expedition, Adventure Trekking, Rafting, etc. applying for my field expiring in 2000. Meanwhile, I have completed my Master’s degree in Rural Development (2016) from the Tribhuvan University of Kathmandu, Nepal’s leading educational institution. I have been applying my field experience in tourism, especially in remote areas of the country, for sustainable eco-tourism for local empowerment. I enjoyed writing my blog own word sharing my travel experience in the Himalayan, aiming to provide the right information and help to the Nepal Traveler.

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