Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek

trekkers resting on the way

We traverse the Tharo Khola River and proceed upstream to Khola Besi. The path takes us along the striking gorge, featuring waterfall-carved rocks and areas impacted by landslides. Upon crossing the bridge, we will arrive at the small village called Kholabesi, followed by the natural Hot Springs. 

Suspension bridge above Budhi Gandaki River

We will then take another trail from the Hot Springs to cross the Budi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge. We will then continue past a landslide to reach Dovan village.

From dove on, we will cross the suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola and ascend the stone steps to Thado Bharyang before climbing up to the delightful town of Jagat, which serves as a gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area, where we will register the permit at the checkpoint.

Trekker from Jagat on the way to Lopka

We entered the restricted area of Manaslu by ascending a route to reach Salleri. Following the riverbanks, crossed the Budi Gandaki River via a long suspension bridge. As we proceed, the valley opens, leading to the Philim. Just past Ekle Bhatti, the path diverges: one route leads to Tsum, while the other heads towards Manaslu.

We make our way upwards, Lokpa, traversing several villages along the way. The river’s narrow, and we’ll catch a glimpse of the confluence of the Yar rivers from the Tsum Valley. Travelling along the right side of Tsum Valley, we arrive at Lokpa village, the first settlement in Tsum Valley that offers these stunning views of the Manaslu range.

This valley, a hidden gem blessed by Padma Sambhava centuries ago, who was regarded as one of the founders of Tibetan Buddhism, provides a breathtaking view of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal from Lokpa village.

Trekker with guide and local woman

Following breakfast, we will embark on our trip to Lokpa village, which serves as a rugged gateway to the Tsum Valley. On a clear day, the views of both the Himalayan Ganesh himal are breathtaking along the path leading from Lokpa to Chumling.

Our route initially descends into the Lungwa River Valley before climbing through a dense subtropical forest filled with rhododendron and Pines. There are no settlements between Lokpa and Chumling.

We will cross the Syar Khola to reach Chumling. A detour to the upper section of Chumling leads to the monastery that offers magnificent views of the Ganesh Himal. Chumling is home to the Health Post and three monasteries. Pango Gumba, Mani Dhungyur and Gurwa Gumba.

Entry point of Chhokang Paro

On this day, we will take a trip to the Upper Valley, located within the vicinity of the Inner Himalayas. The trail traces the Syar river to Domje, the Largest town in the Tsum valley, from where our ascent to the Chhokang Paro begins.

On a clear day, Chhokangparo offers stunning views of both Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal. While in Chhokangparo, you will have the chance to experience the warmth of hospitality provided by the local Tsombo people, after enjoying the Tibetan tea (butter tea) and traditional local dishes. After replenishing your energy with a delightful Tsombo hospitality, the day continues with further exploration of this pristine region.

You will have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries and observe the unique Buddhist culture that thrives in the Tsum valley, a truly enriching experience. The serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas surrounding Chhokangparo make it an ideal spot for reflection and photography.

Prepare yourself to be captivated by the spiritual aura and the untouched beauty of the Upper Tsum Valley, solidifying unforgettable memories of your trek.

Monastery on the way to Milarepa

Today, we’ll be travelling a relatively short distance. The Nile, situated on the western side of Shiyar Khola, is about a 20-minute walk from Chhule, the last village in the northern upper Tsum valley.

Upon your arrival at Ngakyu Leru, you’ll see natives of the region farming on the fertile land of the region. After passing through Lamagaon, you’ll come to St. Milarepa Piren Phu cave, known for preserving a footprint of the saint in the rock. 

This cave, referred to as the pigeon cave, is one of the Tsum Valley’s most sacred locations. Inside you’ll find two distinct gumbas, vibrant Buddhist murals with intricately carved scripts on stones, long prayer flags, and important Buddhist texts, which all contribute to its status as a vital cultural treasure of the valley.

From there, we’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Shiar River and continue the trip through several villages until we reach the Nile.

MONASTERY DURING SIGHTSEEING

This segment of your Manaslu circuit with Tsum Valley Trek promises a deeply spiritual and visually stunning ascent from the Nile to the revered Mu Gompa. Starting your day on the Nile, it is approximately 3361 metres, you will embark on a steady at manageable uphill journey covering roughly 6 kilometres over three to four hours.

As you trek, the lush valley gradually gives way to the more barren high Alpine landscapes reflecting the proximity to the Tibetan Plateau. This transition in scenery, coupled with increasingly expensive views of the majestic ranges, offers a profound sense of remoteness and grandeur, truly immersing yourself in the heart of Upper Tsum Valley.

Your destination, Mu Gompa, stands majestically at 3700 metres, representing the highest settlement in the Tsum pivotal cultural landmark on your Manaslu circuit with the Tsum valley trek.  This ancient monastery serves not only as a place of worship but also as a repository of historical artefacts and Buddhist traditions, with a palpable sense of peace pervading its grounds.

Upon arrival, you’ll have ample time to explore the monastery, observe unique customs at the local Tsumba people and observe the serene ambience of this sacred site, feeling the strong cultural echoes of Tibet.

This tranquil evening at Mu Gompa provides an unparalleled opportunity for contemplation amidst the dramatic Himalayan backdrop, making it a highlight of your entire journey. 

Travellers from the Nile to Rachen gompa

On day 9 of your  Trek, you’ll embark on a rewarding trek from the Nile to Lamagaon, culminating in a significant visit to the ancient Rachen Gompa, situated at 3,240 meters. Departing from the Nile (approx. 3,361m), the trail involves a descent, allowing you to gradually shed altitude while still enjoying the vast openness of the upper Tsum Valley.

The five-hour journey offers diverse scenery as a transition from the more barren landscapes and surroundings of Mu gompa and back into the areas with more visible greenery and traditional settlements, providing a rich tapestry of the region’s natural beauty.  

The highlight of this day is undoubtedly the visit to Rachen Gompa, a prominent Buddhist nunnery, uniquely positioned on the boundary between Nepal and Tibet, surrounded by enormous, awe-inspiring mountains.

This spiritual hub provides a deep insight into the lives of Buddhist nuns and their devotion, offering a different cultural experience compared to the monasteries that you may have visited earlier. 

After you explore Rachen Gompa, you will continue your trip through the charming forest sections, eventually arriving at the welcoming village of Chokkang Paro at approximately 3030 metres.

Here today, you are once again rewarded with breathtaking views of both Humalchuli and Ganesh Himal. This day beautifully combines cultural discovery and scenic trekking, making it a memorable part of your trek.

Trekkers from Lamagaon to Chumling resting at the resting point

Your trek involves a significant and scenic descent from the beautiful village of Chhokang Paro (3,031m) to the welcoming settlement of Chumling (2386), A journey expected to take approximately 6 hours.

Leaving behind these spectacular views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal, your path will lead through a variety of regions as you steadily lose altitude.

You’ll pass through small villages of Gho, continuing your descent that offers a refreshing change in both landscape and temperatures, moving from the more exposed upper valley to a greener, more temperate zone.

As you progress towards your destination, that trail guides you past the traditional Tsumba villages and over an exciting suspension bridge, providing a sense of adventure inherent to the trek.

You will pass through Rainjam village before finally arriving in Chumling, A charming and relatively larger village known for its beautiful stone houses and terraced fields.

This day provides a well-deserved opportunity to relax and lower elevation, reflecting on unique cultural encounters and breathtaking natural beauty experienced in the upper reaches of the Tsum Valley.

Marshyangdi river

As your trek begins its return journey towards the main Manaslu trail, Day 11 sees you trek from the tranquil village of Chumling (2,386m) to the quaint settlement of Lokpa (approximately 2,240m). This segment largely involves a descent, guiding you through a changing landscape of cultivated fields, scattered hamlets, and dense forests.

The path generally follows the Siyar Khola, leading you back towards its confluence with the Budhi Gandaki, marking a clear transition from the inner Tsum Valley back to the primary Manaslu route.

The trek to Lokpa, typically taking around 4 to 5 hours, offers a chance to reflect on the unique cultural and natural experiences of the Tsum Valley, as you reconnect with the main trail of the trek.

Lokpa itself is situated just at the entry point of the Tsum Valley restricted area, providing a different perspective from when you passed through it earlier in your journey. This day is a pleasant blend of continued scenic beauty and a gradual transition to lower altitudes, setting the stage for the next phase of your Himalayan adventure.

Mountainous and hilly landscapes during trek to deng

Returning to the main trek route, your journey from Lokpa (approximately 2,240m) to Deng (approximately 1,860m) marks a notable shift in altitude and environment. This day involves a generally descending and undulating path, typically taking around 5 to 7 hours to complete.

As you leave the direct access point of the Tsum Valley, the trail once again immerses you in the dramatic Budhi Gandaki river gorge, characterised by its deep valleys, lush forests of rhododendron and pine, and impressive waterfalls that cascade down the steep hillsides.

The trek to Deng is a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural transition. You’ll navigate through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, often crossing the Budhi Gandaki River on sturdy suspension bridges that offer thrilling perspectives of the roaring river below.

Upon arrival in Deng, a charming village with distinct Tibetan cultural influences, you’ll notice a subtle change in the architecture and the local dialect as you re-enter the main Manaslu trekking corridor.

This day on your trek perfectly showcases the diverse landscapes and cultural richness that define this incredible Himalayan adventure.

Hills and mountainous landscapes surrounding Namrung

Continuing your captivating trek, day 13 (assuming consecutive day numbering) sees you trek from Deng (approximately 1,860m) to the picturesque village of Namrung (approximately 2,630m). This segment marks a significant ascent, as you gain considerable elevation over a trek typically lasting 6 to 7 hours.

The trail initially leads through lush forests, crossing the Budhi Gandaki multiple times on impressive suspension bridges, before gradually transitioning into a more arid, high-alpine landscape with increasing views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll pass through several small settlements like Rana and Bihi, where the cultural influence of Tibetan Buddhism becomes even more pronounced.

Upon arrival in Namrung, a charming village with traditional stone houses, you’ll feel a distinct shift in the atmosphere and witness the vibrant Tibetan culture firsthand.

Namrung is often considered the gateway to the upper Manaslu region, and on a clear day, it offers your first truly spectacular views of the towering Sringi Himal, a thrilling preview of the grand mountain scenery to come on your  Trek.

This day’s strenuous climb is rewarded with increasingly breathtaking vistas and a deeper immersion into the rich cultural tapestry of the Himalayas.

Lodge/guesthouse at Lo Gaon

Day 14 of your trek brings you closer to the heart of the majestic Himalayas as you trek from Namrung (approximately 2,630m) to the enchanting village of Lho, often referred to as Lo Gaon (approximately 3,180m).

This rewarding segment typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, offering a steady ascent through traditional Tibetan villages. As you climb, the landscape opens up dramatically, revealing increasingly spectacular panoramic views of the colossal peaks that define the Manaslu region.

The cultural immersion deepens on this day as you pass through villages adorned with intricately carved mani walls, chortens, and impressive Kani gates, all testaments to the strong Buddhist heritage.

Upon arrival in Lho, prepare to be awestruck; on a clear day, the village offers one of the most stunning, close-up views of Manaslu (8,163m) itself, along with Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.

Lho also hosts a large monastery, adding to the spiritual ambience, making this day a true highlight of your trek, blending magnificent mountain vistas with profound cultural insights.

View of Samagaun with Mansalu in the Backdrop

Today, on our trip, as we move forward, we’ll come across a variety of attractions incorporated and fused with traditions. As our trip keeps going, we’ll take a hike across the terraced fields beside the mani-walls.

We’ll also go across the wooden crafted bridge over the Budhi-Gandaki River that’ll eventually lead our trail to a beautiful valley named Samdo.