Permits: The Manaslu Tsum Valley Circuit Trek requires several special permits. These include the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (TVRAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits must be obtained in advance through a registered trekking company.
Guide and Porter: Trekking in the Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions is highly regulated, and you are required to have a licensed guide with you. You cannot trek here solo.
Accommodation: The trek uses teahouse accommodation, which are basic lodges run by local families.
Best Time to Go: The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as the weather is stable and the views are clear.
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Hotel, Tea House, Tent
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Car, Jeep
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All meals during the trek
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2-15
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5,160 M
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Autumn & Spring
Overview
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Circuit Trek is a fantastic adventure that combines the classic Manaslu Circuit with the remote and culturally rich Tsum Valley. A 22-day itinerary is a great choice as it provides ample time for acclimatization and exploration.
Here is a typical 22-day itinerary for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Circuit Trek. Keep in mind that trekking itineraries can vary slightly depending on the weather conditions, and the pace of the group.
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Manaslu Circuit: This classic part of the trek circumnavigates the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to high-alpine terrain and glaciers. The ultimate challenge is crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which offers breathtaking panoramic views of several Himalayan giants.
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Tsum Valley: This is a hidden gem and a major highlight of the trek. A restricted area until 2008, the Tsum Valley is a secluded, ancient Tibetan Buddhist enclave. Trekking here feels like a step back in time, with its distinct culture, centuries-old monasteries (like Mu Gompa), mani walls, and chortens. The people of Tsum are of Tibetan origin and have preserved their unique traditions and language.
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The Route: The trek starts by following the Budhi Gandaki River and then branches off into the Tsum Valley for several days before rejoining the main Manaslu Circuit. After crossing the Larkya La Pass, the trail descends to the Annapurna region, completing the circuit.
Highlights
- Remote and untouched nature away from the main tourist crowds.
- A deep cultural experience with the unique communities of the Tsum Valley and the Gurung villages along the Manaslu trail.
- Challenging trekking that culminates in crossing a high mountain pass.
- Incredible mountain views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding peaks.
- Customize this trek in a variety of ways to match your interests
