Manasalu Trek via Tsum Valley

Arriving in Kathmandu is a breathtaking experience, with stunning views of the Himalayas welcoming you from the sky. Your flight lands at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at an altitude of 1,350m. After landing, you’ll proceed to obtain your Nepal entry visa, which can either be arranged in advance or acquired on arrival. Visa processing at TIA typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on the queue. For detailed visa information, please visit the official Nepal Department of Immigration website.

Once you exit the airport, our company representative will be waiting to greet you, holding a placard displaying our company name and logo. You’ll receive a warm welcome with a traditional Tibetan scarf as a gesture of hospitality before being transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. The journey to Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub, takes approximately 30 minutes. Along the way, you’ll pass by the sacred Hindu temple Pashupatinath, bustling city streets, and a lively mix of people and vehicles, making the drive both fascinating and memorable.

Upon arrival at your hotel in Thamel, you can rest and refresh. Thamel offers a wide range of restaurants, shopping centers, and excellent accommodations. In the evening, you’ll receive a trip briefing, followed by a special welcome dinner to mark the beginning of your adventure.

The sightseeing program will start from

Swoyambhunath Stupa

The most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu valley. Swayambhu has been listed in the World Heritage Sites. The entire valley was an enormous lake, nagdah, out of which grew a lotus with five colored flame (self-arisen). Lotus was transformed into a hill and the flower became the stupa. It is still believed that the self-arisen flame is covered with dome of Stupa. The place is known as Swayambhu, meaning “Self-Created” over which a stupa was later built. Swayambhu is among the oldest religious sites in Nepal known as ‘monkey temple’ because of the large tribe of roaming monkeys. Located at one of the highest elevations in Kathmandu Valley gives panoramic views of the city. The place was praised by Buddha and meditated by several Buddhas as a pure holy site.

Patan

– City of fine arts–Three main courtyards

It is one of the three medieval cities in Kathmandu and a destination of fine arts has hundreds of fascinating Hindu and Buddhist monuments scattered in and around. Patan City is an enchanting mixture of palace buildings, artistic courtyards, and former palace complex. Most of the monuments are back to the medieval Malla period 15th to 17th century as the golden period of Nepalese art and architecture. Krishna Mandir- a stone temple of Lord Krishna with its 21 spires and bas-relief art depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana epics and surrounding Hindu and Buddhist temples. The main highlights are the Golden Gate and the Golden Window of the old Palace, the beautiful piece of traditional metal crafts, the famed Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles, the Royal bath of Sundari Chowk, a perfect piece of the classic work in stone, Royal Taleju temple, Vishwanath Temple and Char Narayan temple are the finest examples of the unique craftsmanship in wood; the temple of Bhimsen with the magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square outside plus many other shrines and sculptures scattered in and around the square.

Pashupatinath

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal located at the banks of holy Bagmati River. Every year this temple attracts hundreds of elderly followers of Hinduism. The place for different festival like Maha Shivaratri and Teej where thousands of devotees celebrate. The temple is the ultimate pilgrimage for Hindus throughout the world. The area is swarmed in by the Hindus from different part of the country. The two-storied pagoda temple of Pashupathinath houses the five-faced statue of Lord Shiva. Apart from the main shrine, there are numerous temples dedicated to different god and goddess in and around the Pashupatinath temple area. This temple is an important destination for art historians. It displays a variety of temple design some of which are Dome style, Pagoda style, Shikhara style and so on. Cremation site here draws attention of many who really thrive to explore cultural & spiritual aspects of death rituals of Hindus.

Bouddha stupa

Bouddha is the largest and most sacred Tibetan Buddhist site outside of Tibet forming a religion and culture hub for the Tibetan and people from the Himalayas of Nepal. The Stupa was on the ancient trade route from Tibet. The Stupa is claimed to have the relic of Kasyapa Buddha, the third Buddha of the Bhadrakalpa. Boudha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site significant for its historic and architectural significance, with sprouting monasteries and craftsmanship. It is said that the stupa is built by the mother Jyajhima, a poultry woman. She was very poor despite her poverty she had an intense desire for building a stupa. The mother passed away after she completed up to the vase, the dome-like structure. She had four sons, and the construction of the rest of the Stupa was completed by four sons. After they finished it, they all stood up in front of it and made prayers. Everyone made their wishes. When they were praying, all the buddhas and bodhisattvas were absorbed into the stupa, which is why the name of the stupa is also “All-Encompassing.” The stupa is a semicircular white dome and the towering spire, with unblinking eyes painted on each side that stares into the four directions. The overall shape represents a Buddhist mandala (a cosmological map) and the path towards enlightenment, as well as the mythical center of the cosmos, Mount Meru. The four Dhyani Buddha signifies the crucial points, and the fifth, Vairocana is enshrined in the central white hemisphere of the stupa. The base of the stupa consists of three large platforms, decreasing in size. The square tower is topped by a pyramid with 13 steps, represents the stages that human beings must pass through to achieve nirvana. The triangular shape is the abstract for the elements of fire. Every portion has a symbolic significance: the base, dome, spire, and pinnacle represent the five elements

The formal long journey begins today with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhekhola as we drive along various landscapes of the hilly region to arrive at starting point of our trek. After the breakfast you will be picked up by a vehicle for Machhekhola, Gorkha, through the trail of Prithvi Highway until Malekhu. From here we will cross Trishuli River and head northwards to Dhading, travelers will pass through bumpy roads and highways via Dhadingbesi, Gyalabhanjyang (hillpass), Aarughat bazar, aarkhet, Sotikhola to Machhekhola. The journey will be accompanied by incredible views of snowcapped mountains including Ganesh Himal and Mt.Manasalu. As we reach Aarughat bazar we will drive through the bank of Budhi Gandaki River, around various narrow Cliffside road to arrive at Sotikhola, a beautiful settlement of the region. From here we will drive another 1.5hrs to reach Machhekhola to settle down for the night. We can explore the region in the evening and observe beautiful views of snowcapped mountains.

Today is the day we actually start our trekking. After breakfast our journey begins with gradual uphill trail by crossing Machhekhola over a suspension bridge first. Gentle climb takes you to Banshi Khola and then Tatopani, natural hot springs. Be prepared for ups & downs on trails as we are walking through forest will bring us to Doban, a confluence of two rivers (shari khola & sharpu khola) then descending to the level of Budhi Gandaki River. Again climbing slightly uphill we will arrive at Jagat, a beautiful paddy field. Jagat is a traditional village settlement where you can enjoy local culture and lifestyle while staying with hospitable locals overnight

After the breakfast we will start our day with climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri then descending to Sirdibas. Continuing to Ghatte khola and walking upstream through a long suspension bridge to reach a Gurung village in Philim. As we take the trail up through Philim we will pass Ekle Bhatti where trail separates between Tsum valley and Manasalu. As we move further towards Lokpa, we pass by few villages and river. The river begins to narrow down until the confluence of Syar River from Tsum valley from where we take right for Lokpa, the first village of Tsum Valley. We will do necessary permit registration before reaching Lokpa. Overnight stay at Lokpa.

Today we will trek from lower valley to upper valley, also called upper Tsum valley which opens from Chhekampar. This is a tiny beautiful village positioned on flat surface which has two villages Chhakam and Paro, combined name is Chhekampar. Once you reach there you will enjoy an amazing breathtaking views of Budhha Himal and Hiuchuli in southwest as well as other Himalayas. Relax and enjoy unexplored mesmerizing natural valley, try to explore the hidden aspects.

Today we will ascend from Chhekampar after the breakfast, walking through flatlands we will reach at Lamagaun (3220m). Continuing on the same trail across the crop fields and river we will arrive at huge courtyard of Rachen Gompa/Nunnery (3240m). As you are gaining altitude you are advised to have plenty of fluid and keep rehydrated. Beyond the village of Burji, a trail to north is leading to Milarepe cave (11^th century famous yogi/monk) where he is believed to have meditated for long time. Later we will cross Syar Khola to join the trail from Rachen Gompa to Nile. Passing through the hamlets of Phurbe and Pangdun, we will reach a large settlement of Chhule (3347m). You will see a historical Buddhist stupa over there. Continuing upstream trail after crossing the bridge you will make a final climb to Nile (3360m). Nile is the last settlement of upper Tsum valley which lies on the bank of Shyar Khola.

Today is the exploration hiking day to Mu Gompa. So we will start early to Mu Gompa after breakfast through Tibetan countryside with rows of Chhortens and broadening mountain vistas. We will see ancient monastery houses with over hundred monks as well as a tantalizing views of Tibetan border with three passes frequently used for trade by border side people. The views of extensive seasonal yak pastures, Lungdang glacier to the east and high peaks on all directions will make your day. Overnight stay at Mu Gompa.

From Mu Gompa, descend starts to Rachen Gompa, walking along the eastern bank of Shiar Khola through Chhule to reach Phurbe. Rachen Gompa is located in the border area of Nepal and Tibet surrounded by huge mountains. Continuing on the trail through a forested area we arrive at today’s destination ‘Chhekampar’. Overnight stay.

Our descending continues today also as soon as we will have our breakfast. As we reach Gho, we will cross a suspension bridge and hike forward to reach Rainjam village. We keep on descending towards lower valley of Tsum and finally reach Chumling, today’s destination. Overnight stay will be at Chumling.

After the breakfast we will leave Chumling for Deng. Today’s walk will be comparatively easier one. Descending continues as we move along the bank of Shiar Khola to reach Lokpa village. You might encounter a large flock of sheep and goats along the path. As we cross Budhi Gandaki on a solid bridge, we will enter a narrow gorge from where ascending and descending starts through valley. After we cross over a suspension bridge to Nupri, then we pass through bamboo forest to reach the Gurung village of Deng.

As Sun rises, get fueled up with powerful mountain breakfast as we are going to make another day a very adventurous and memorable. We will first walk on winding path of various small village settlements of Deng. Then continuing on same trail uphill and downhill we will reach Log Bridge, crossing it over to reach isolated watermill. From this point we will descend to Bihi phedi and cross Serang Khola over a small bridge. The winding routes will take you to Basalt walls, pass through maize and wheat fields as well as small waterfalls. After crossing a suspension bridge over a beautiful valley river, we will arrive at Ghap, pass through lush green forest with rhododendron and pine trees. Then trail is descending to the level of river bank and continuing walking alongside the river, crossing it and continuing a while through the bank of river will bring a Namrung village. This incredible village is also the gateway to upper Nurpi. The culture in the region is relatively well influenced by Himalayan Buddhism. Overnight stay at Namrung.

We will continue our journey after the breakfast with a commitment to reach Lho. Our path takes us through beautiful Lihi village, then reach Sho crossing stream which originates from Lindada glacier while enjoying the views of Simnang Himal (6251m). Overall the trail provides us a majestic views of snowcapped mountains including peak 29, Mt. Manasalu, up close views of glaciers from moraine is really outstanding. Once you reach Lho, you can start exploring this beautiful village settlement with large Gompa where many children study primary education and Buddhism. Hilltop provides you an amazing and probably the best view of Mt.Manasalu as well as can observe Fishtail Mountain. Overnight stay at Lho.

Today’s trail goes through forested path and barley fields to begin with after powered up with mountain breakfast until we reach Lihi. During this period of our hike, we will observe beautiful views of snowcapped mountain including Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. Today’s trail is comparatively short and easy until Shyala village. From Shyala we will walk almost an hour gentle uphill to reach Samagaun by crossing a suspension bridge over Numa Khola. Once you reach Samagaun, you will no longer see mountain views however you will be attracted to beautiful settlements and yak pastures. Samagaun is the principle village of Nubri people.

As we are gaining the altitude, we require to acclimatize our body in to it. So we will make sure we will spend a day at Samagaun with a purpose of acclimatization. Samagaun lies very close to Manasalu base camp and this village is full with thousands of Mani stones with Buddhist texts and scriptures. In addition, an excursion to Manasalu base camp will be really sensational because of the fantastic views of Manasalu glacier and the turquoise Birendra Lake as well as higher peaks. We return back to Samagaun for overnight stay.

After the breakfast the trail begins for today on descending path to Budhi Gandaki along the base camp trail which passes through Juniper trees before descending to a wooden bridge. We will pass several Mani walls as the valley begins to widen. After crossing the bridge we will climb uphill to a ridge, then we will walk through various barren lands observing majestic views of snowcapped Mountain, Dharmashala and Siachen glacier as we almost close to Tibetan border. Walking further enjoying the beautiful views will get you to Samdo village where you will spend overnight. 

Once you are fueled up with mountain breakfast, we will start today’s trekking that passes through various landscapes. The trail first leads us to a seasonal Tibetan market called ‘Larkya bazar’, descend to Budhi Gandaki River, cross wooden bridge and walk upward crossing two streams while witnessing Larke glacier. Then heading towards the valley of Salka khola and climbing up again finally get us to Dharmashala, a place to spend overnight. The place is best for views of snowcapped mountain including Larke and Naike peaks.

Have a powered breakfast because we are going to hike longer for today. Today is a very special day as we will walk on highest point of our trail, Larkya La Pass (5160m.). The walk might be quite challenging in snow and bad weather, yet doable. This day you got to wake up quite early & leave teahouse because our target will be to cross Larkya La Pass before lunch. This is of course challenging but if you walk steadily you will make it up to Pass successfully and number of rustic villages, clear glacier lakes, and beautiful valley will keep you going. Once you stand at Larkya Pass, you will witness stunning views of Himlung (7126m.) near Tibet, Kangaru (6981m.), Annapurna II (7937m.) and many more as you will feel completely spellbound. After spending our special time at pass we will walk down for three hours towards Bimtang for an overnight stay. Great views of huge icefalls and mountains in all directions, Pongkar Glacier Lake will accompany you while descending.

Today is the last day we will be walking on the trail of Manasalu circuit. We will start descending to Budi Gandaki River and cross it over to enter the rhododendron forest which leads to cultivated area called ‘Karche’ on top of Budhi Gandaki valley. Walking further in next couple of hours you will walk through quite rough trail with the signs of glacial flood with tree trunks smashed and bank undermined. Walking further you will be dropped to Tilije (Gurung Gau), a real village after Samdo. This village is also famous for brandy. Continuing further passing several Mani walls we will reach Thonje village then enter to Dharapani. Overnight stay at Dharapani.

Today is the last day of our entire trekking. After an early breakfast we will catch a local bus to reach Beshishahar. From Beshishahar a private vehicle will be arranged to transport you to Kathmandu where you can enjoy and relax a modern comfort which you might have been missing for long days. In the evening, our office will organize a farewell dinner with Nepalese cultural performance. Cheers, dance and enjoy.

You might have been exhausted after long days trekking. So kindly have relaxed time in comfortable environment in your hotel or would you like to go for souvenirs for your relatives around nearby shops. In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner party for you with Nepalese cultural performance. Eating singing and dancing. Enjoy your last night in Kathmandu.

Departure day, our office representative will see you off at the airport. See you!