A unique excursion in the Manaslu Region of Nepal is the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It resembles a treasure that is lying in wait to be found. This journey is ideal for those who are adventurous and seek something off the beaten road because it offers breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating cultural experiences, and challenging treks.
Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Trek Overview
Trekking Route
A circular trip known as the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trip takes hikers around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest summit in the world at 26,781 feet (8,163 meters). The trip usually starts at Soti Khola or Arughat and continues through a range of environments, including as verdant forests, terraced fields, steep mountain routes, and isolated settlements. The trail then enters the pristine Tsum Valley, which is well-known for its distinctive monasteries and Tibetan culture, and returns to the Manaslu Circuit for the descent.
Highlights
Savor stunning vistas of Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
Views of neighboring peaks, including Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal, are expansive from the trek.
Tsum Valley is renowned for its historic settlements, old monasteries, and culture influenced by Tibet.
See the major village of Tsum Valley, renowned for its amiable residents and historic monasteries.
Discover the wide range of plant, animal, and bird species that can be found in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Take on the challenge of traversing 5,160-meter-high Larkya La Pass, which offers breathtaking sweeping vistas.
Trace the Budhi Gandaki River as it meanders past field terraces and scenic valleys.
Explore the Pungyen Gompa, a monastery tucked away near Manaslu’s base.
Discover the Tsum Valley’s Rachen Gompa, renowned for its historic building and spiritual significance.
Discover the warmth and friendliness of the locals in historic villages such as Samagaun and Lho.
To fully experience the customs and way of life of the area, stay in a homestay.
Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley are less congested than more well-known hiking routes, making them more intimate trekking options.
Regulations and Permits
It’s important to comprehend the laws and permits that control the area before beginning your journey on the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek:
Permit for Manaslu Restricted Area
A special authorization is necessary to enter the Manaslu region, which is classified as restricted terrain. This permit can be obtained through authorized trekking agencies, and it is usually granted to a minimum of two trekkers.
Permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
You can obtain an ACAP permit in Kathmandu or on the path. The Manaslu Circuit hike briefly enters the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Permit for Restricted Area in Tsum Valley
You will need a special restricted area permit for the trek’s portion in Tsum Valley. Like the Manaslu permit, it can be acquired through approved organizations.
TIMS Card: Every hiker must have a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. It guarantees trekkers’ safety and aids with law enforcement’s tracking of them.
Best Time to Trek
Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the best times to do the Manaslu Circuit Trekking and Tsum Valley Trek. The trails are most picturesque during these months, with rhododendron blooming in the spring and clear skies in the autumn. The weather is also rather steady during these months.
Trekking Itinerary Manaslu Circuit Trek
A well-planned itinerary is the most necessary thing for a successful trek. Here is the best and most common typical itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft) & transfer to hotel
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola(7,10m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 3 : Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (9,30m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 4 : Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 6 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,600m) Duration 5-6 hours.
Day 7 : Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,530m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 8 : Acclimatization day at Samagaun.
Day 9 : Trek from Sama to Samdo (3,860m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 11 : Trek from Dharmasha to Bimtang (3,720m) Via Larkya la Pass (5,106m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
Day 12 : Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,960m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 13 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Beshisahar Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 14 : Transfer to International airport.
Accommodation and Facilities
Along the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek, lodging options range from modest teahouses to opulent resorts in select settlements. Although teahouses offer basic amenities, don’t anticipate five-star lodging. Be ready for basic but comfortable accommodations with shared amenities.
Health and Safety
The most crucial thing to remember during the walk is to put your health and safety first. Here are some essential pointers:
– Take break days and a steady ascent to properly acclimate.
– Drink pure water to stay hydrated.
– Pay attention to your guide’s recommendations and obey their instructions.
– Know the signs of illnesses linked to altitude and be ready for them.
– Bring along a complete first aid kit and any prescriptions that may be required.
Manaslu And Tsum Valley Trek Side Trips:
Pungyen Gompa: A detour from Samagaon that provides sweeping views of the neighboring peaks including Manaslu.
Tsum Valley Exploration: For a more in-depth look at local culture, make detours to Chhokangparo, Nile, and Mu Gompa.
Hiring a Guide and Porter
At Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek, it is not feasible to hike on your own; instead, you must engage a local guide and porter through the Agency. They lighten your weight, assure your safety, and give insightful commentary on the culture, so you may enjoy the event to the fullest.
Trekkers’ dream come true with the Manaslu Base Camp Trekking and Tsum Valley Trek, which offers the ideal fusion of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural depth. You can go on this incredible trek through the heart of the Himalayas, where you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime, if you have the right planning, permissions, and a spirit of adventure. To guarantee that this beautiful region is preserved as a treasure for upcoming generations of hikers, please take care to respect the environment and the local populations.
