Nepal · Trekking

22-Day Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek via Larkya La Pass

22 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek the remote Manaslu Circuit and explore the sacred Tsum Valley
  • 02 Follow the Budhi Gandaki River through forests, gorges, and traditional villages
  • 03 Visit Mu Gompa and discover ancient monasteries with strong Tibetan Buddhist influence
  • 04 Acclimatize in Sama Gaun and hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa
  • 05 Cross the high-altitude Larkya La Pass and witness panoramic Himalayan views

Experience an immersive 22-day Himalayan expedition through the remote Manaslu Circuit and the sacred Tsum Valley, where dramatic landscapes meet deep cultural heritage. Follow the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, terraced hills, and traditional villages before entering the secluded Tsum Valley, known for its strong Tibetan Buddhist influence and ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa. Traverse evolving terrain from subtropical lowlands to high alpine zones, with gradual acclimatization in key settlements like Sama Gaun and Samdo. Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey, and witness sweeping views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Engage with local communities, observe centuries-old traditions, and explore remote trails far from crowded trekking routes.

Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey, and witness sweeping views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 22 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Manaslu, Besisahar, Dharapani
Languages English, Hindi, Nepali

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

  • Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Meet your trekking guide and team for introductions and coordination.
  • Attend a detailed briefing about the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley route.
  • Time to rest, refresh, and prepare your gear for the upcoming journey.
  • Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Elevation: 1,350 m

2
Day 02

Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, covering approximately 160 km through changing landscapes.
  • The journey begins on the smooth Prithvi Highway before transitioning into rugged off-road trails.
  • Pass through key local hubs like Dhading Besi and Arughat, following the Budhi Gandaki River.
  • Enjoy views of lush hills, traditional villages, terraced fields, and cascading waterfalls along the route.
  • Experience a true Himalayan road adventure with a 4×4 drive, setting the tone for the trek.

Driving Distance: 160 km
Driving Duration: 7-9 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 930 m

3
Day 03

Trek Along the Budhi Gandaki to Jagat

  • Begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing Tharo Khola early in the day.
  • Pass through Khorlabesi village and visit the natural hot springs at Tatopani.
  • Continue along narrow trails with sections of landslide areas and stone staircases.
  • Cross multiple suspension bridges and follow the river through scenic gorges.
  • A gradual ascent leads to Jagat, a checkpoint village for entering the restricted Manaslu region.

Trekking Distance: ~17 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,340 m

4
Day 04

Enter Tsum Valley on the Trek to Lokpa

  • The trek begins with a gradual ascent through sub-tropical forests and stone-paved trails from Jagat.
  • Pass through Philim village, known for its settlements and local school supported by international aid.
  • Continue toward Ekle Bhatti before leaving the main Manaslu Circuit route.
  • Enter the remote Tsum Valley region, following trails with deep gorges and cascading waterfalls.
  • A steady climb through dense forest leads to Lokpa, the first village within the Tsum Valley.

Trekking Distance: ~15 km
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 2,240 m

5
Day 05

Forest Trails and Suspension Bridges to Chumling

  • Descend from Lokpa through dense pine and rhododendron forests into the lower Tsum Valley.
  • Cross the Shiar Khola via suspension bridges along a narrow and rugged trail.
  • A gradual ascent continues through forested paths and small traditional settlements.
  • Reach Chumling, a village known for stone houses, woodwork, and Tibetan-influenced culture.
  • Views of Ganesh Himal begin to appear as the elevation gradually increases.

Trekking Distance: ~11 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 2,386 m

6
Day 06

Ascend to Chhokang Paro in Upper Tsum

  • Cross a suspension bridge and begin a steady ascent through forested terrain.
  • The landscape gradually shifts from dense vegetation to more open alpine surroundings.
  • Reach the Chekampar area, where the valley widens with expansive mountain views.
  • Observe traditional Tibetan-influenced villages with mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags.
  • Continue to Chhokang Paro, a key settlement in the upper Tsum Valley.

Trekking Distance: ~11 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,010 m

7
Day 07

Upper Tsum Valley Trek to Nile

  • Gradual ascent deeper into the Upper Tsum Valley through open and dry Himalayan terrain.
  • The trail offers wide views of the valley with scattered villages and yak grazing areas.
  • Pass through Lamagaon and visit the sacred Milarepa Cave, an important meditation site.
  • The landscape becomes more arid and Tibetan-like as elevation increases.
  • Reach Nile, the last permanent settlement near the Tibetan border.

Trekking Distance: ~10 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,361 m

8
Day 08

Day Hike to Sacred Mu Gompa

  • Set out early in the morning toward Mu Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley.
  • Ascend through dry, high-altitude terrain with expansive mountain views.
  • Explore the monastery complex, known for its cultural and religious significance.
  • Interact with monks and observe traditional practices within the gompa.
  • Return to Nile after the visit for an overnight stay.

Trekking Distance: ~6.3 km
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,361 m

9
Day 09

Descend from Nile to Chhokang Paro

  • Begin the descent from Nile through the Upper Tsum Valley, following the same trail.
  • Pass traditional villages and open landscapes with improved visibility during descent.
  • The trail becomes easier with gradual downhill sections and less physical strain.
  • There is an opportunity to visit monasteries and interact with local communities along the route.
  • Reach Chhokang Paro for an overnight stay.

Trekking Distance: ~10 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,010 m

10
Day 10

Return Through Forests to Chumling

  • Continue descending through pine and rhododendron forests along familiar trails.
  • Pass mani walls, small settlements, and traditional village pathways.
  • Notice changes in temperature and vegetation as the elevation decreases.
  • Terraced fields and greener landscapes reappear along the route.
  • Reach Chumling and stay overnight in the village.

Trekking Distance: ~11 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 2,386 m

11
Day 11

Rejoin the Manaslu Circuit and Trek to Deng

  • Leave Tsum Valley and rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit route near Lokpa.
  • Descend and ascend through dense forests and narrow river valleys.
  • Follow the Budhi Gandaki River along scenic and rugged terrain.
  • Cross multiple suspension bridges and pass small rural settlements.
  • Reach Deng, a quiet village surrounded by forested hills.

Trekking Distance: ~20 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,804 m

12
Day 12

Climb Through Forests to Namrung

  • Begin with a gradual ascent through bamboo and rhododendron forests.
  • Cross the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times via suspension bridges.
  • Pass through villages such as Rana and Bihi along the trail.
  • The landscape becomes more alpine with a stronger presence of Buddhist culture.
  • Reach Namrung, a village with views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Trekking Distance: ~17 km
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 2,630 m

13
Day 13

Mountain Views on the Trek to Lho

  • The trek continues through villages like Sho and Shyala with gradual elevation gain.
  • Enjoy clear views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli along the route.
  • Pass prayer wheels, mani stones, and small monasteries reflecting Buddhist culture.
  • Walk through open landscapes with panoramic mountain scenery.
  • Reach Lho, a large village known for its monastery and mountain backdrop.

Trekking Distance: ~9.5 km
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,180 m

14
Day 14

Into Nubri Valley to Sama Gaun

  • Ascend gradually into the Nubri Valley with expanding alpine landscapes.
  • Cross open plateaus and pass yak grazing pastures along the trail.
  • Continue through traditional settlements with increasing mountain visibility.
  • Reach Sama Gaun, one of the largest villages in the region.
  • The area is known for its monasteries, stone houses, and views of Manaslu.

Trekking Distance: ~7.5 km
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,530 m

15
Day 15

Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaun

  • Rest day to allow proper acclimatization before moving to higher elevations.
  • Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) for glacier and mountain views.
  • Alternative visit to Pungyen Gompa (4,000 m), a monastery with scenic surroundings.
  • Short hikes help adjust to altitude while maintaining activity levels.
  • Return to Sama Gaun for overnight rest and recovery.

Sleeping Elevation: 3,530 m

16
Day 16

Short High-Altitude Trek to Samdo

  • Short trek through open high-altitude terrain with a gradual ascent.
  • Pass long mani walls, yak pastures, and wide valley landscapes.
  • Observe increasing Tibetan cultural influence in settlements along the route.
  • The trail follows ancient trade paths near the Tibetan border region.
  • Reach Samdo, a small village with historical cross-border significance.

Trekking Distance: ~8.2 km
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,860 m

17
Day 17

Acclimatization Hike Toward the Tibet Border

  • Rest day focused on acclimatization before crossing the high pass.
  • Optional hike toward Lajyung La Pass near the Tibetan border.
  • The trail offers wide views of surrounding Himalayan ranges and valleys.
  • Experience high-altitude terrain and remote landscapes along the route.
  • Return to Samdo for an overnight stay and final preparation.

Sleeping Elevation: 3,860 m

18
Day 18

Ascent to Dharmasala Base Camp

  • Gradual ascent toward Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharmasala.
  • Trek through rugged, high-altitude terrain with limited vegetation.
  • Follow glacial river paths and open landscapes along the route.
  • Reach the basic high camp used before crossing Larkya La Pass.
  • The afternoon is reserved for rest and preparation for the next day.

Trekking Distance: ~6 km
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 4,460 m

19
Day 19

Cross Larkya La Pass and Descend to Bimthang

  • Start early for the most challenging and longest trekking day.
  • A steady ascent leads to Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
  • Begin a long descent over rocky and glacial terrain.
  • Reach Bimthang, located in a broad alpine valley.

Trekking Distance: ~16 km
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,590 m

20
Day 20

Descend Through Forests to Dharapani

  • Descend through rhododendron and pine forests with changing landscapes.
  • Follow glacial streams and cross suspension bridges along the trail.
  • Pass villages such as Karche and Tilje with occasional mountain views.
  • The terrain becomes greener as altitude decreases toward lower regions.
  • Reach Dharapani, where the Manaslu route meets the Annapurna Circuit.

Trekking Distance: ~24 km
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,960 m

21
Day 21

Drive from Dharapani Back to Kathmandu

  • Drive from Dharapani through Besisahar, reconnecting with the main highway.
  • Follow the Marsyangdi and Trishuli River valleys during the journey.
  • Transition from mountainous terrain to urban surroundings near Kathmandu.
  • Enjoy scenic views of hills, rivers, and rural settlements along the route.
  • Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel for rest or evening activities.

Driving Distance: ~214 km
Driving Duration: 7-8 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,350 m

22
Day 22

Departure from Kathmandu

  • Final day in Kathmandu with transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Prepare for departure following breakfast at the hotel.
  • Assistance is provided for airport transfer and check-in procedures.
  • End of the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley trekking journey.
  • Departure according to your international flight schedule.
Budhi Gandaki River, Tsum Valley, Larkya La Pass, Manaslu

Where this trip takes you

Budhi Gandaki River, Tsum Valley, Larkya La Pass, Manaslu

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 4 cities · 22 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off (arrival and departure transfers)
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (hotel stay with breakfast)
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All standard meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • Necessary support staff (porters) for luggage carrying
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Ground transportation (Kathmandu to Machha Khola and return from Dharapani)
  • Guide and porter insurance, food, accommodation, and salary
  • A basic first aid kit is carried by the guide
  • Government taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel insurance (including high-altitude emergency evacuation)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Extra meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, and other personal expenses during the trek
  • Snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips for the guide and porter (customary but not mandatory)
  • Any additional costs due to delays (weather, strikes, or personal reasons)
  • Emergency rescue and evacuation costs

What to bring

  • Down- or fiber-filled waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Warm cotton trousers
  • Shirts and T-shirts
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Woolen hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Raincoat
  • Trekking boots
  • Thick socks
  • Light socks
  • Camp shoes
  • Sandals
  • Sleeping bag (4 seasons)
  • Down jacket
  • Daypack
  • Water bottle
  • Sun cream, sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Laundry soap
  • Plasters
  • Cards and personal medical kit
  • Toilet articles
  • Pocketknife
  • Binoculars
  • Notebook & pen
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Toilet roll
  • Sewing kit
  • Film

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Lamingtan Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 22 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,940.00 — $2,425.00
Double Sharing $1,940.00 — $2,425.00

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