Manaslu Tsum Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek - 34 Days

Flying into Kathmandu on a crystal clear day is itself a truly breathtaking experience. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, & begin a whole sequence of memorable experiences that stay with you for a real long time. Upon arrival, a representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Our team will assist you with check-in process and provide an orientation about your daily activities. This will be your first overnight stay in the city of temples.

Kathmandu, is the historical heart of Nepal, has been a popular destination for tourists ever since the country opened its borders to outside world. The city presents a wonderful combination of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence in the Valley. Patan and Bhaktapur, its two prime neighboring cities bear immense historical, cultural and religious significances.

We will arrange a professional tour guide for you and a private tourist vehicle with a driver to explore between monuments. The tour guide will take you to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa, the historical and cultural sites you’ll visit today. Offering panoramic views of the valley.

After completion of your day tour, you will be having meeting with your trek guide at our office/hotel. He will brief you about the Trek and all the essentials. The Thamel has many trekking gear shops, where you can buy missing gear in the late evening and get ready for the jeep driving to Machha Khola.

Early morning after breakfast drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870m.) takes about eight/nine hours. You drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway for the first part of the day; after Malekhu you turn towards the hill bazaar of Dhading Bensi. After Dhading bensi the road is still good up to Salyantar but quite narrow. After Salyantar the road is bumpy and dusty but the beautiful scenery and villages will make your day memerable. You will reach your destination Machha Khola late in the afternoon. There is a small market with a few shops, lodges and donkeys that are kept there. Stay your first night in mountain in Machha Khola.

You cross the Machha Khola [Fish Stream] and head upstream to the tiny village of Khorla Bensi and the hot springs at Tatopani. The valley sides are steep until they are impassable and the route then switches to the left bank by way of a suspension bridge. The trail is quite exposed and challenging in places. After a short section of forest path you reach the single teahouse at Doban. Above Doban, the Budi Gandaki descends on an impressive series of rapids. Beyond this steep section, the river is much more placid, meandering across a broad gravel bed. At Lauri, you cross the river on a suspension bridge, and then climb on a high path to the fields of Jagat, where you stop for another night at mountain.

The trek from Jagat to Lokpa, the path follows the Budhi Gandaki River, small villages, terraced fields, bamboo groves, and forests, which give a glimpse of rural Nepali life. You will aslo get to see tarditional mani walls, chortens and prayer galgs which reflect the Buddhist Culture. On the way you will the beautiful views of peacful mountains. After few hours, you will reach Lokpa village where we will stay overnight prefect for resting.  It is a small village with few teahouses. 

After a delicious breakfast at teahouse in Lokpa, we head to Chumling. We desecnd  into the Lungwa river valley. After that you climbs through quiet forests of pine and rhododendron whcih offers a peaceful hike. The trails follows through up and down quiet forest, crossing some small suspension bridges, mani wall and choretens. The path is remote with no villages or teahouse in between. After few hours you cross the Syar Khola (a river) via a suspension bridge to reach Chumling village. Chumbling is a small, spiritual village which is located into the Tsum Valley around you can aslo visit three monastries Panago Gumba, mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gumba. We can aslo get a view of Ganesh Himal on a clear day.

From Chumling we trek to Chhokangparo. Upper Tsum valley (part of the Inner Himalaya) open from Chhokangparo.Chhekamparo is a village situated on flat land and made up of two settlements Chhekam and Paro. From the valley, the Ganesh Himal range can be seen directly to the south where it provides superb views of the Baudha and Himal chuli peaks to the south-west. Some households in this village practice polyandry.

From Chhokangparo we trek to Nile/ Chulle. This is the last village heading north in the upper Tsum Valley. Nile is on the western, sun-side of the Shiar Khola, about 20 minutes walk across from Chhule.

On the way we pass the Piren Phu cave. Piren Phu (pigeon cave) is one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley. It is located at the foot of a rugged cliff near the village of Burji. Milarepa, the famous Tibetan saint, was believed to have meditated here. There are two separate gumbas attached to the rocky cave. Richly painted Buddhist murals, excellent artistic scripts carved on stones, long prayer flags and significant Buddhists paper scripts make this cave one of the most important socio-cultural asset in the valley. Fantastic views can be had of the Shiar Khola, Rachen Gumba, the mountains and settlements amidst huge agricultural land.

From Nile the trail gradually ascends to Mu gumba, the largest monastery in the region. Mu Gumba is located at the highest and farthest point in the Tsum valley. Mu Gumba was established in 1895 AD and is situated at an altitude of 3510m.The monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara.

Dephyudonma Gumba is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is situated in the rugged mountains, a 2 hr walk from the village of Chhule and Nile. The history of this monastery is directly associated with the dawn of Buddhism in the valley. The monastery is run by Lama Serap of Nile Ladrang from the Kangin sect. 

We take a hike up Mu Gumba and reach the base of Pika Himal (4865m).We are quite close to Tibet and get a good view of the Tibetan peaks as well as the Ganesh Himal range. After the day’s excursion we return to  Mu gumba.

From Mu Gumba we take the trail to Chhokangparo via Rachen Gompa, the path walk us through  pine meadow and forest, offering a scenic view of Ganesh Himal and surrounding peaks. You rest at Rachen Gompa, a peaceful and remote monastery which reflects the Buddhist architecture. After resting, the pah descends into narrow valley, and passing through small traditional villages. We reach our destional Chhokangparo village, which is small village that proivdes warm welcome and perfect for restion. We spend our night at teahouse in chhonkangparo.

After an delicious breakfasta at Chhhokangparo we start our trek to Lokpa, the path descends through quiet forets of rhododendron and pine. We rest at Ripchet a small settlement with beautiful views of Ganesh Hima. The journey continues down remote vallyess and riversides wntil we rech Lokpa. we stay overnight at teahouse in Lokpa. This route is scenic, culturally rich, and quite remote, requiring proper permits and, ideally, a guide for a safe and enjoyable trek.

After early breakfast we begin our trail from Lokpa with a descent through quiet forest towards Budhi Gandaki River. Here we rejoin the main Manaslu trail the path enters a narrow and dramatic section of the Budhi Gandaki Gorge. Along the way, you pass waterfalls near Nyak Phedi and walk through quiet pine and bamboo forests. After crossing the rivers, we reach the Deng Village. One of the village which is influenced by Tibetans with mani walls and stone houses. Continuing onward, the trail passes small hamlets and terraced fields before reaching Bihi Phedi, a peaceful riverside village surrounded by beautiful hillside views.

The trek from Deng/Bihi phedi to Namrung, the trek follows along the Budhi Gandaki River via forests, waterfalls, and typical Tibetan-influenced villages. You then pass small settlements, such as Bihi and Ghap, with mani walls, prayer wheels, and terraced fields along the way. From here, there is a steady climb through the rhododendron and oak forests, and you reach Namrung, a beautiful village with stone houses, monasteries, and great views of the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal.You will stay overnight here.

After an early  breakfast we countinue our trek from Nmarung to Sma Goan, the trails passes scenic Tibetan-influenced villages like Lihi, Sho, Lho and Shyala, with stunning views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli. You’ll see chortens, mani walls, barley fields, and the impressive Ribung Monastery in Lho. After crossing open alpine meadows and glacial streams, you reach Sama Gaon, a large traditional village surrounded by incredible mountain scenery and perfect for acclimatization.

You can rest toady or spend the day exploring Sama Gaon and it surroundings. We can hike to beautiful Manaslu Base Camp via the stunning Birendra Lake, or take a walk to a peaceful monastery  Pungen Gompa with great views of a Manaslu and the glacier. his rest day is perfect for acclimatization and enjoying the culture and mountain scenery of the region.

The gentle trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo begins through wide alpine valleys, yak pastures, and glacial streams. As you go higher, the breathtaking views of Manaslu, Naike Peak, and surrounding mountains begin to beautifully unfold. The trail is quite gradual and easy to follow, crossing mani walls and small shelters every now and then.You arrive at Samdo  a traditional Tibetan village close to the Nepal–Tibet border, known for its stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere—an ideal place to rest before heading toward the Larkye Pass.

We start trek from Samdo to Larkye La Phdei, the trails follows climbing through open rocky terrain with views of snow-covered and the Larke Glacier. The alpine meadow, small brooks, and traditional yak shelters mark the passage of this track towards high altitude. A gentle ascent brings you up to Dharamsala, which is the last overnight stoppage before crossing Larkya La Pass. It’s a simple but important overnight point for rest and acclimatization before the big pass day.

Today gonna be toughest day of the trek, after and early breakfast we head to Larkye La Pass from Larkye La Phedi through rocky and snowy terrain. From the pass, one can get spectacular panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Garu, and Annapurna II. Afterwards, the trail descends to Bhimtang via alpine meadows, yak pastures, and forests at 3,590 meters above sea level, a tranquil village with breathtaking views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and peaks around.

The trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani, is a long descent  through yak pasture, alpine meadows, and pine and rhododendron forests. En route, you pass traditional Tibetan-style villages with stone houses such as Goa and Tilje, along with mani walls and chortens. The trail follows the Marsyangdi/Budhi Gandaki River, gradually dropping into terracing and farmland and forested valleys then we will reach Dharapani where we will spend our night.

We evade a narrow field from the village. The Dudh Khola, which originates from the south face of Manaslu and then Marshyangdi, steers to the left. Sinuous trails of the. Annapurna II becomes visible as we arrive at Bagarchhap, a Bhotia village with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. As we continue ascending through forests of pine and oak, we pass through Dhanakyu before coming to a thundering waterfall. Further on, the Marshyangdi River enters a gorge and the trail follows a rock-strewn path.

We now grab a breather for a while and take in the splendor of the picturesque Manaslu. When the steep incline ends, we follow a path amid magnificent rhododendrons and continue on a gently rising path. We cross a stream before entering a pine forest. We then enter the pristine hamlet of Kotho, from where we can grasp the most enchanting view of Annapurna II. Treading further, the route reaches a large white gate with a corrugated iron roof, which is the entrance of Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarter of Manang district. There is electricity, wireless station, schools, shops, health post, post office, police check post, hotels, lodges and banks that are found in Chame. The hot springs are the major attraction of this place.

After a mesmerizing sight of the glowing Lamjung Himal [6893m] in the morning, we head off for Pisang. En route, we cross a large suspension bridge along Marshyangdi and approach houses and lodges on the northern side of the river. Our trail then meanders through barley field leading to Teleku at 2775 meters. As we leave undulating mountain passes, we enter fascinating apple orchards near a bridge at 2840 meters. On crossing the bridge, the pristine hamlet of Bratang appears. History has it that Bratang used to be a Khampa settlement. A stone memorial of a Japanese climber has been built in this place. After leaving the forested village, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape. Before us, the Annapurna mountain range rears up. Further on, we continue our steep rock-strewn trails to the south side and cross a long suspension bridge at 3040 meters. At this vantage point on the bridge, we get to view Paungda Danda rock rising more than 1500 meters from the river. En route, we get to capture splendid views of Annapurna II rising up on the east with Pisang Peak on the north-east. We cross a bridge and enter the village of Pisang. From here, we climbs gently through pine forests and traditional stone houses toward Upper Pisang, a charming settlement known for its ancient monastery and dramatic mountain scenery. We spend the night at Upper Pisang, enjoying the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere and stunning sunset views over the Annapurna range.

We continue our trek to Ngawal, the trails gently ascends through pine forests, passing through ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional stone villages offering breathtaking views of Annapurna ll,lll,lV, and Gangapurna. This scenic route is quieter and more rewarding than the lower trail. After a steady walk, we arrive at Ngawal, a beautiful village perched above the valley, known for its Tibetan-style houses and panoramic mountain views. Overnight stay at a lodge in Ngawal.

The trek from Ngawal to Manang begins with a gentle descent along a scenic trail, offering spectacular views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Passing through juniper forests, stone chortens, and small settlements, the path gradually leads down to the Marsyangdi Valley. We then continue on an easy, mostly level trail toward Manang, the largest village in the region. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and glacial valleys, Manang is an important acclimatization stop. Overnight stay at a lodge in Manang.

Upon reaching Manang, we take a well-earned rest day for proper acclimatization before crossing the Thorung La Pass. This day can be spent with gentle walks along the river to witness the spectacular icefalls cascading down from glaciated mountain peaks, or simply relaxing while enjoying the panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. A short visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) aid post is also recommended, offering valuable insight into altitude awareness and high-altitude health.

After we’ve acclimatized, we advance towards Thorung La. On the way, we cross a stream, climb to Tengi, and 120 meters above Manang and ascend further past Marshyangdi Valley turning north-west up the valley of the Jarsang Khola. Amidst the spectacular vistas of the Annapurna mountain range, we trek beyond the lush green vegetation of scrub juniper and alpine grasses to reach the small village of Gunsang. Gunsang is a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trail at 3960 meters. Along the route, we see several lodges.
As we approach picturesque meadows and rich forests of barberry, juniper etc, we come across horses and yaks grazing. The trail takes us further along a large stream that flows from Chulu West and Gundang, and leads to a rich pasture at 4000 meters.

The trek from Letdar to Thorung Phedi follows a scenic yet increasingly rugged high-mountain trail. Leaving Letdar, the path climbs gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marsyangdi River, which is crossed by a covered wooden bridge.

After the crossing, the trail ascends briefly along the right bank of the river and then continues on a narrow path traversing a steep and unstable slope, requiring careful footing. The landscape becomes more barren as you approach Thorung Phedi, the final settlement before the Thorung La Pass crossing. This stop is essential for rest and final acclimatization.

It’s an early start today for the crossing of Thorung La [5416m]. The trail gets steep immediately on leaving camp, but then the local folks have used this trail for hundreds of years & the path is well defined. The gradient then eases and after around 4 hours of steady climbing, we reach the chorten and prayer flags of the pass. From the snow-covered mountains above, to the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below and the brown and purple hills of Mustang, which spread out before us, we are presented with a thespian landscape, that’s stunning to the eyes.

The descent to Muktinath is a 1600m trek. But the excellent views of Dhaulagiri, more then rewards us for the tiring journey. Eventually, the moraines give way to grassy slopes before a pleasant walk along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath, with its shrines and temple.

After the memorable trek to Muktinath, we drove on a senic drive to Tatopani. The path takes us through the rugged Mustang landscape, with winding roads that offer views of terraced fields, traditional villages, and the Kali Gandaki River below. After few hours we will reach Marpha for lunch and explore Marpha. As we descend to Tatopani, the surroundings gradually shift to lush subtropical forests. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, where trekkers can relax and rest after days of trekking in the high Himalayas. Upon arrival, you can soak in the thermal pools or explore the charming village before settling in for the night.

From Tatopani, we begin our uphill trek through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the sound of birdsong along the trail. The route passes through charming villages and terraced fields,giving glimpses of traditional rural life in the Annapurna region. As we ascend, the views of the surrounding peaks gradually unfold, offering stunning panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail eventually leads us to Ghorepani, a vibrant village known for its panoramic mountain vistas and as a gateway to Poon Hill. We stay overnight at a comfortable lodge, resting and preparing for the early morning excursion to Poon Hill.

Today we start our day early in the morning with a short climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m). Poon Hill is known as one of the most famous viewpoints in the Annapurna region. It offers a spectacular panorama over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and on the clear day, see all the way south to the plains of India.

After soaking in the beautiful sunrise above the mountains and majestic views, descend along a path that winds through dense, moss-covered forests teeming with birdlife towards Banthanti. From Ulleri, we tackle the steep, seemingly endless stone staircase, a classic highlight of the Annapurna trekking route. After this climb, the trail gradually descends to Hile you can take a ride from here or walk upto Banthanti. From here, our drive back to Pokhara by jeep, concluding the trek while offering time to relax and reflect on the stunning landscapes and unforgettable Himalayan experiences along the way.

You can relax by Phewa Lake, walk around Lakeside, enjoy good food, and see beautiful mountain views. A short boat ride, a visit to nearby waterfalls or caves, or simply resting in a hotel makes Pokhara calm and refreshing. It is the perfect place to relax before your next journey.

While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you go up to Damauli, Dumre, Mugling and Kurintar where Nepal’s first Cable car is operated to reach Manakamana (wishes) Temple. In route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and see the local folks happily engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe, you climb up to Thankot, gateway to the capital city of Kathmandu. You can also fly from  Pokhara to Kathmandu which takes about 25 minutes.

As we have successfully completed the trip, it is time to return home or embark on your next journey. Even you can join our next adventures trips in the Himalayas if you wish too. If not, our airport team will take care of your airport escort and say you our last goodbye till the next adventure holidays.