Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek: A Hidden Gem

Looking for an epic Himalayan journey far from the crowds? The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is precisely what you’re searching for! It’s one of Nepal’s most exciting, off-the-beaten-path adventures, combining stunning mountains, ancient culture, and untouched wilderness.

Many trekkers miss this trail because they’re too focused on Everest or Annapurna. But guess what? They’re overlooking one of the true hidden gems in Nepal. The Tsum Valley trek leads you into secret Buddhist valleys, while the Manaslu Circuit trek surrounds you with epic Himalayan peaks, without the traffic jams of more popular treks.

Explain why the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek should be your next adventure. From permits and routes to landscapes and culture — here’s everything you need to know in simple, easy language!

Where is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Located?

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is in the Gorkha District of Nepal, northeast of Kathmandu. It circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m) — the 8th highest mountain in the world! The Tsum Valley, Nepal, is part of the trek that leads into a secret Himalayan valley that borders Tibet.

Why it’s special:

• Remote and peaceful — you’ll barely see any crowds!
• Ancient Buddhist villages, monasteries, and colorful prayer flags everywhere
• Snow-covered peaks, waterfalls, and green forests

Trek facts:

• Starts in Soti Khola or Machha Khola
• Ends at Dharapani or Besisahar
• Combine the Tsum Valley trek and the Manaslu Circuit trek into one route

This section introduces the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, including both the Manaslu trek and Tsum Valley Nepal routes. If you’re searching for hidden gems in Nepal, this trek is at the top of the list!

Trekking Route Overview of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trail

Here’s a simplified version of what the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail looks like:

Route Summary:

• Days 1–7: Explore the spiritual Tsum Valley, Nepal
• Highlights: Chhokangparo, Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa
• Days 8–16: Circle Mount Manaslu on the Manaslu Circuit trek
• Highlights: Samagaun, Manaslu Base Camp, Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

For a detailed trek route summary of the Tsum Valley Trek as provided by a Boundless Adventure’s package, click here.

Top Attractions on the Trail:

• Mu Gompa: Ancient monastery with fantastic mountain views
• Lho Village: Tibetan-style houses with yak herders
• Larkya La Pass: Snow-covered mountain pass with breathtaking views

Trek Difficulty:

• Moderate to challenging
• Suitable for fit beginners or experienced trekkers

Why combine both?

The Tsum Valley trek adds unique culture and less crowded trails, while the Manaslu Circuit trek brings the thrill of high mountains. The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek are among Nepal’s most rewarding hidden gems!

Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

You’ll need special permits to trek the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trail. The region is restricted for preservation and security.

You need these permits:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Important Notes:

• Solo trekking is not allowed. You must go with a licensed guide and at least one other person.
• These permits are only available through registered trekking agencies in Nepal.
• Your passport and visa must be valid, and you need recent photos.

Permit Costs (Approx.):

• Varies by season (usually USD 70–100 for Manaslu RAP, USD 40–70 for Tsum Valley)
• Conservation permits: Around USD 30 each

The permits protect the environment in Tsum Valley, Nepal, and help control tourism in these hidden gems. Always trek responsibly and follow local rules!

Recommended Read: Adventures In Restricted Trekking Area Nepal

Natural Beauty and Scenery Along the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trail

This trek is a feast for your eyes! You’ll witness some of the best scenery in all of Nepal.

Scenic Highlights:

• Towering snow peaks like Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal
• Dense pine forests and peaceful rhododendron paths
• Waterfalls, hanging bridges, and icy rivers
• Quiet farmlands and wild Himalayan landscapes

Wildlife You Might See:

• Himalayan Thar (wild goat)
• Blue sheep
• Snow leopards (rare!)
• Eagles and other mountain birds

The Tsum Valley trek is unique, with green hills, ancient cliffs, and monasteries tucked into rocky slopes. The entire Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek offers some of the most untouched natural beauty in the world.

No wonder this trail is among the top hidden gems in Nepal!

Cultural Experience in Tsum Valley, Nepal

Culture is a big reason why the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is so special. You’ll enter another world with strong Tibetan influence and ancient traditions.

Cultural Highlights:

• Visit ancient gompa monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa
• Spin prayer wheels and walk past colorful mani walls (stone carvings)
• Watch monks pray and hear the sound of long Tibetan horns
• Experience homestays in traditional stone houses

Unique Traditions:

• Polyandry (one woman marrying multiple brothers) is still practiced in some villages
• Tibetan Buddhist festivals and dances
• Locals speak their own dialect and wear traditional robes

The Tsum Valley Nepal region was closed to outsiders until 2008, so the trek feels like walking through living history. The culture you experience along the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail is unmatched—truly one of the hidden gems in Nepal.

Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

Timing your Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek right can make a big difference in your experience.

Best Seasons:

Spring (March to May):

• Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, warm daytime trekking
• Ideal for photography and enjoying the Tsum Valley, Nepal, greenery

Autumn (September to November):

• Perfect weather and visibility
• Great for crossing high passes like Larkya La

Avoid These Months:

•  Winter (December to February): Icy, snowy trails, some lodges closed
•  Monsoon (June to August): Slippery trails, leeches, and possible landslides

Why This Matters:

• In the Tsum Valley trek areas, homestays and tea houses may close during the off-season
• River crossings and high passes can be dangerous during snow or heavy rain

Whether exploring the spiritual side of the Tsum Valley, Nepal, or crossing the challenging Manaslu Circuit trek, go during the right season to enjoy safe, comfortable conditions. That’s the secret to enjoying one of the top hidden gems in Nepal without trouble!

Difficulty Level of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging—not impossible, but you do need to be prepared.

Physical Challenges:

• Daily walking of 6–8 hours
• Steep climbs and rocky trails
• High altitudes up to 5,160m at Larkya La Pass

Mental Preparation:

• Some remote areas have no Wi-Fi or phone signals
• You’ll stay in basic tea houses — no hot showers in some villages
• Long trekking days may be tiring, especially for beginners

Tips to Make It Easier:

• Train 3–4 weeks before your trek: walking, hiking, or light running
• Walk slowly at high altitude — don’t rush
• Drink lots of water and rest often

The trek is totally doable for first-time trekkers with decent fitness and a good guide. Exploring the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail is about patience and stamina. Once you cross that snowy pass and visit the sacred gompa of Tsum Valley, Nepal, you’ll realize why it’s one of the best hidden gems in Nepal.

What to Pack for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

Packing smartly for the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is essential because you’ll be far from shops or cities.

Clothing:

• Warm jacket (down or fleece)
• Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
• Trekking pants and t-shirts (quick-dry)
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Gloves, hat, and buff/scarf
• Good-quality trekking boots (well broken-in)

Gear Essentials:

• Sleeping bag (4-season if trekking in colder months)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Trekking poles
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle and purification tablets
• Small first aid kit with altitude meds

Extras:

• Snacks, energy bars
• Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, wet wipes, toothpaste)
• A camera or a phone with an extra power bank

The Tsum Valley trek passes through remote villages, and the Manaslu trek crosses high mountains—both demand proper preparation. Don’t expect fancy facilities. Think light, warm, and weather-ready. A well-packed bag makes your journey through the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail much easier and way more enjoyable! For more, read our blog Must-Have Gear for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Accommodation and Food on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trail

One of the best parts of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is staying in local tea houses. They’re basic but cozy and filled with mountain charm!

Accommodation Details:

• Tea houses in most villages (wooden rooms, twin beds, shared toilets)
• Some villages in Tsum Valley Nepal, may only have homestays
• Don’t expect luxury — focus on the experience!

Food You’ll Eat:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, veggies) – endless refills!
• Noodles, pasta, fried rice, chapati, and potatoes
• Tibetan bread and pancakes for breakfast
• Tea, coffee, hot lemon — available in all tea houses

Money Tips:

• Carry enough cash (Nepali rupees) – no ATMs after Arughat
• Meals and rooms get pricier the higher you go

The food is freshly made and surprisingly delicious. Sharing dinner by a warm fire in the Tsum Valley trek villages is unforgettable. You’ll feel at home in these peaceful corners of Nepal’s hidden gems.

Final Thoughts

Is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek worth it? Absolutely! Here’s why:

It’s far less crowded than the Everest or Annapurna treks, offering a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure. The trek blends stunning natural beauty, rich spiritual culture, and thrilling mountain landscapes. As you explore the untouched Tsum Valley in Nepal, you’ll enter a serene world that feels like something from a postcard.

Along the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail, you’ll cross snowy passes, visit ancient monasteries, and experience unforgettable daily views. If you’re an adventurer looking to escape the crowds and explore one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets, this is the trek for you.

The Manaslu trek will challenge you physically and mentally, leaving you with lasting memories of strength, patience, and wonder. It’s an experience that stays with you forever. So, contact Boundless Adventure now to customize your trip.

How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek? A Complete Guide to Trekking Challenges

FAQ’s

What is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek is a combined trekking route exploring the remote Tsum Valley trek and the famous Manaslu Valley trek. It takes you through beautiful mountain villages, sacred monasteries, and high mountain passes in Nepal’s hidden gems.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek difficult?

Yes, it’s a bit challenging. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley treks involve steep climbs, long days of walking, and high altitudes. But with good fitness and a guide, they’re manageable for first-time trekkers, too.

How long does the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek take?

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek usually takes around 20 to 24 days. It depends on your pace, rest days, and the exact route you take through the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail.

Can beginners do the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek?

Yes, beginners can do it if they train and go with a guide before the trip. The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek are remote, so they help people be physically fit and mentally prepared.

What makes the Tsum Valley trek special?

The Tsum Valley trek is special because of its peaceful Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and untouched villages. Tsum Valley, Nepal, feels like a world frozen in time — one of the true hidden gems in Nepal.

Is the Manaslu Tsum Valley trail crowded?

No, it’s not crowded. The Manaslu Tsum Valley trail is one of the quieter treks in Nepal. It’s perfect for people who want to avoid the crowds of Everest or Annapurna.

What kind of food and accommodation can I expect?

You’ll stay in simple tea houses with basic rooms and warm meals like dal bhat, noodles, and pancakes. The experience on the Manaslu trek and the Tsum Valley trek is rustic but rewarding.