Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel
After you landed, one of the representatives from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure receives you at the airport. After a brief introduction, you are transferred to the hotel in Thamel. After some rest, visit us at our office. We introduce you to our staff and guides for the Manaslu Trek. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 02: Explore Kathmandu Valley( 4 – 6hr)
Today first you explore numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. These include the Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and many other places. A mesmerizing moment here in Kathmandu to witness the beauty of nature, and different cultures with different temples, architecture, and monuments. End of the day you prepare for the Manaslu trip with the required stuff needed during the trip. 

Day 03: Drive to   to Machha Khola (890m): 9 – 11hr

The next morning after enjoying the delicious breakfast. we will drive by private transportation to Machhekhola which  takes 9-11 hours to get there. Overnight at a lodge in Maccha Khola. 

Day 04: Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m):

We resume our journey from Machha Khola following Tharo Khola through the narrow path and finally to Khorlabesi. After a few times, we reach the most popular hot spring Tatopani. We can relieve our stress and tiredness by taking a hot bath in Tatopani. Then we cross the suspension bridge over Budi Gandaki River to reach Thado Bharayag. Walking along the river we reach Jagat village. Overnight at a lodge/teahouse in Jagat.

Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa(2240/7349Ft)

Day 06: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling(2386m/7828Ft)

Day 07: Chumling to Chaikampar (3o31m/9944Ft) 

Day 08: Chaikampar to Mu Gompa( 3700m/ 12139Ft)

Day 09: Mu Gompa to Chaikampar (3130m/9944Ft)

Day  10: Chaikampar to Gompa Lungdang(3400m/11155Ft)

Day  11: Hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp(4900m/16076Ft) then back to Gompa Lungdang

Day  12: Gompa Lungdang to Ripchet(2470m/8104Ft)

Day  13: Ripchet to Deng(1860m/6102Ft)

Resuming our trek, initially, we climb a rocky cliff towards Siribas. Then continue towards Ghatte Khola. Crossing the suspension bridge we reach Philim village, a settlement of the Gurung community. We have lunch here and continue our journey from grassy slopes and some cliffs to cross over Budi Gandaki to reach a small village called Deng. We rest for the day here and stay overnight. 

Day 14: Deng Village to Namrung (2630m)
We begin our trip by crossing over the Budi Gandaki Bridge to climb a bit far to join the trail from Bhi. Passing through several landscapes and forests we reach Ghap. You should follow the instruction of your guide and be extra concerned about the path. After all the obstacles we finally reach up to Namrung Village. Enjoy a lovely sunset view and stay overnight.

 Day 15: Namrung to Samagaun (3530m) 
We commence our trek passing Banjam, Lihi, Sho, Lho, and Sayla settlements. Adore the sight of Naike Peak, Himchuli, Manaslu, Siring Himal, and Ganesh Peak on the way. Arrive at Samagaun. Overnight at a lodge/teahouse in Samagaon. 

 Day 16: Samagaun to Pungyen gompa
Today you explore the Samagaun Village where you know about the traditional and cultural Monasteries as well as the geographical cultivation such as potatoes and barley flourish. Most people prefer to wear woolen clothes made of up sheep’s wool and involve in the manufacture of blankets and rugs for trade. Monasteries have impressive designs and carvings which reflect the history of Tibetan settlers. There exist 8 different monasteries and among them, Pemba Chholing Gompa is the largest. You can witness the wonderful view of Manaslu, as well as the beautiful lake lies, ascend of monasteries. After trekking for 5-6 hours, we arrive at Manaslu Base Camp. You can also visit Pungyen Nunnery (3870m) lies above the Pungyen glacier. Stay Overnight.

Day 17: Samagaun to Samdo (3860): 
Resuming today’s trek descends towards Budi Gandaki. The journey is relatively easy and it lies above the self above the Gandaki River. You get to see the stone arch and plane granny land before you enter the village. Attractive place, get to see yaks and goats around the fields and the stunning view of Samdo Peak (6335m). In about 4-5 hours, we reach Samdo village.

Day 18: Explore the Tibet Border Rui La(4998m/16398Ft)

Day 19: Samdo to Dharmashala (4460m):
We start our day trek by traversing over Budi Gandaki River. After some ascend hike you see a glimpse of the Larkya glacier. Visit the valley and way upward again to reach Dharmashala. Overnight at a lodge/teahouse in Dharmashala.   

Day 20: Dharmashala to Bimtang via Larkya La (5135m):
New day toward a new destination, after breakfast we headed toward Larkya glacier in the north direction offering a clear view of Larkey Peak and Cho Danda. From here we start the trek to reach Larkey La Pass which is the highest point of our whole trek. The climb is challenging and in some steep sections, you should follow the instructions of the guide properly. One can have a panoramic view from the Pass. After some time here, we start our long descent to Bimthang. Rest for the day after reaching Bimthang village. Overnight at a lodge/teahouse in Bimthang. 

Day 21: Bimtang to Dharapani: 
Today, we descend to Dhud Khola. We traverse through the forest abundant with Rhododendron and pine to reach Dharapani. As the last walking day of the Manaslu Circuit, enjoy the plenty of scenery throughout the trail. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge in Dharapani. 

Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani: (7-9hr)
We take a bus from Dharapani to Besisahar. Again we drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. After the successful trek, we transfer you to your hotel. Rest for a while and join us for a farewell dinner. Share some stories and feedback as well for the team. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.    

Day 23: Departure Day
We pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to TIA before your departure. The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek remains with you forever alongside the lifelong memories and experiences from the trek with Himalayan Sanctuary. 

Cost Included

• All land transportation ( Trekking starting and ending points)
• Airport Pick up and Drop
• 3  Star  Category Accommodation in Kathmandu including  Breakfast.
• Tea house/Lodge Accommodation including  Breakfast, Lunch, and, Dinner during  Trekking.
• Kathmandu Sightseeing
• Trekkers’ Information Management System “TIMS” (Trekking permit).
• Manaslu and Tsum Valley Special Permits
• National Park fees and  Conservation fees – permits, fees.
• A First Aid and Eco trained & Government licensed holder professional  English Speaking guide.
• Porter ( 1 for each 2 Trekker ) while on trek (Maximum weight for a porter is 20 Kg)
• Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure Duffel Bag
• Accommodation, meals, salary, equipment, transportation & Insurance of H S A staff
• All government taxes.
• Farewell dinner at the end

Cost Excluded

• Nepalese visa fee
• International airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Excess baggage charges
• Entrance fee and Tour Guide
• Travel and rescue insurance
• Personal expenses (phone calls, hot and cold drinks, Tea, Coffee, Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, hot  shower, extra porters, etc.)
• Tips for guides and porters
• Extra night accommodation if required

The following personal items give you a general idea that of need to bring for the trek. The personal items are of individual interest and choice. The most important fact that one should keep in mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas

General

• Sleeping bag
• Rucksack bag
• Down Jacket
• For Head and Neck
• Hat to keep the heat of the sun off your ears and neck
• Lightweight Balaclava
• UV protection Glacier glasses
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• A neck warmer

Hand

• pair of liner gloves
•  pair of warm gloves (preferably woolen)
• pair of shell gloves
• Light thermal tops
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Waterproof shell jacket
• 2 women’s sports bras (Synthetic)

Legs

• 2 pairs of nylon hiking shorts
• Underwear
• pairs of lightweight long underwear
• Softshell pants
• Trekking pants
• Cotton pants

Feet

• liner socks
• Heavy-weight socks
• crampon
• lightweight socks
• Waterproof trekking boots
• light trekking shoes
• Medicines and First Aid Kits
• Excedrin for headaches
• Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
• Immodium or Pepto Bismol capsules for diarrhea
• Diamox 125 mg for altitude sickness

Miscellaneous

• Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies).
• Airline ticket
• Lip balm
• Sunscreen
• Pocket knife
• Water purification Iodine tablets
• Toiletry kit
• Toilet paper
• Hand wipes
• Liquid hand sanitizer
• Towel

Note:  This equipment list is only a guideline. You need to bring the listed items, however, you can choose from your preferred brands using your expertise. You can also shop the above equipment and clothing at a reasonable price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu.

• 1. Can I trek the Manaslu Trek independently ?

No, you can’t trek the Manaslu Tsum Valley  Trek independently or alone. According to the Nepal Government, a minimum  of two trekkers are compulsorily required to make a Manaslu  trek permit. You can’t trek alone due to safety and restricted region.

• Why Manaslu Trek is restricted ?

You are not alone to ask the question about why Manaslu  Trek is restricted. One major reason behind this restricted region is that Nepal Government especially Nepal Tourism Board and other concerned governing bodies where jointly aim to preserve this place for making it attractive to trekkers from all around the world. Another reason is to ensure security for trekkers while passing open border points – Larkya La Pass, Rui La Pass, and Tsum Valley which shares the border with Tibet. Hence, Manaslu Treks is termed a restricted region in Nepal.

• How difficult is Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek ?

To answer this question, you should know your physical fitness level. You should also be able to walk 6 – 7 hours a day. There is one special day when you have to walk before sunrise to avoid storms at Larkya La. Because the guide has a strict deadline to pass the Larkya La before noon which should be operated according to the itinerary. Similarly, at some point like Larkya La Pass (5160m), there is a step down which makes a it little harder to pass due to the icy path. In that case, you can use crampons on boots to pass the icy path to reach Bimthang. Larkya La Pass is the highest point as well as the longest day in Manaslu Circuit Trek. If you complete this day, then another path is quite easy to trek down around the Annapurna Region. If you have a willing power or dedication to complete the Manaslu trek. Then, it’s not that much difficult. In between the trekking, the guide will suggest you take a different level of walking pace depending on your destination. This will make your trekking a lot more physically friendly.

• If I am alone. Can I join with other trekkers for a permit ?

Yes, you can join with other trekkers for a special trekking permit. For that, you must be flexible in terms of duration. In peak season, you will easily find another trekker for a permit. Whereas in low season, it’s quite difficult or time-consuming to find other trekkers who are heading to Manaslu for that particular month.

• How is transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola’s start point ?

From Kathmandu to Solti Khola’s start point, you will be traveling to the hillside via Prithvi Highway until Malekhu. After that, you will follow the narrow off-road till to Soti Khola. It’s quite a long off-road journey of about 7 – 8 hours. You have two options to get Soti Khola’s start point. Take a morning local bus from New Buspark, Kathmandu. Expect some crowd, local gossip, too many stops, and an opportunity to make new local friends as well as an adventure while traveling from the local bus.

• Do we need Travel Insurance ?

Yes, you need travel insurance to overcome unforeseen circumstances such as; Bad weather (Snow, Storm, Landslides, and other natural disasters), Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), food poisoning, and physical accidents.

• What sort of trekking clothing and equipment do we need for Manaslu Trek ?

We have listed the trekking clothing and equipment you need for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. 

• What kind of food and accommodations can be found in Manaslu Trek ?

Around Manaslu Trek, there are new as well as old teahouses that were built after the earthquake. So, don’t expect to get luxurious accommodations. You will get a room with a comfortable bed and shared a bathroom with a hot shower facility (private expenses). Nowadays, you can also get connected to wifi from teahouses (private expenses). Don’t forget to take caution before drinking water. You can refill the safe drinking water (private expenses) from every teahouse situated around Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.

• Which is the best season for Manaslu Circuit Trek ?

The best seasons for Manaslu  Trek are March, April, May, and the last week in September to mid-December. Peak season is in October. The low season is the monsoon (June to September) due to rain and hazed weather. In December to late February to early March, there is a probable chance of winter snow and the lodge will be closed mainly in Laryka Phedi, Bhimthang.

• What happens If I or my friends o get sick while trekking Manaslu Circuit?

If you get sick while trekking, you can ask the guide for normal precautions. If that doesn’t help, try to go to a lower altitude for treating altitude sickness. And, if the situation gets worse such as; some sort of physical accident then our guide will help you to evacuate from trekking via a rescue flight.

• What will be lodging and food like in Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek ?

With the increase in popularity of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, many new teahouses and lodges have been opened on the trail. So, accommodation is available in tea houses if you follow the standard trail. Although, if you like, we can arrange for accommodation in camps. Lodging and food cost in Manaslu and Tsum Valley is never constant. The rate differs from one tea house to the other and the price is also different according to season. Also, you will find the price of food to be higher with an increase in altitude. It is because mules and yaks are the only means of transport available in these high-altitude areas. The staple food- Dal Bhat is the cheapest in the lower altitude areas while potatoes and tsampa (a local food) are the cheapest in high altitude areas. It is because rice is not locally grown in these high-altitude areas.

• Is there an internet facility in Manaslu Trek ?

You will get a better experience of internet browsing at Arughat Bazaar while you can also get internet facility at Samagaon. You can also find satellite wifi in Samdo. However, cell phones from NCell GSM Network and Nepal Telecom will work only as far as Arkhet which is near Soti Khola. 

• Do I need insurance for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek ? 

Yes, you need insurance for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Your insurance should cover medical evacuation in case you need an emergency rescue. You should read their terms and conditions carefully and know about the highest elevation limit for coverage by insurance. 

• Is Manaslu trekking difficult ?

Manaslu received a significant number of tourists only since 2010. Previously, there was no proper trail and camping was the only possible form of accommodation. If you have a high level of stamina and will to explore the rich cultural aspects of the highland, Manaslu, Trek is not an impossible activity for you. The difficulty of any trek can be calculated based on the average walking hour per day, the maximum altitude that you will reach, the terrain that you will pass through, and the remoteness of the area.

• Can I go for Manaslu Trek with the Kids ?

You can go to Manaslu  Trek with kids if your kids are fond of traveling, rejoice in an outdoor experience, and has previous trekking experience. Climbing Larkya La is the most difficult part of the trek and there is the possibility that your child might suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

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