Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larya La Trek - 20 Days

Your Tsum Valley and Larya La Trek begins with a scenic and exciting drive from Kathmandu, taking you deep into the heart of Nepal's rugged landscape. We'll pick you up from your hotel in a private 4x4, ensuring a comfortable and personalized journey.

Leaving Kathmandu, we'll head northwest out of the valley via Nagdhunga, immediately starting a winding descent with picturesque views of the Nepali countryside. This winding road continues all the way to Galchi, an important junction where a diversion leads north towards Rasuwa district and the Chinese border at Kyirong. This area is a gateway to renowned treks like the Langtang Valley, Tamang Heritage Trail, Gosainkunda, and Ganesh Himal Base Camp treks.

From Galchi, the descent eases as we drive mostly parallel to the Trishuli River for approximately 20 km, reaching Malekhu. Here, we'll cross a bridge and head north onto the Kalu Pande Highway towards Arughat via Dhading Besi. From Dhading Besi, the road becomes winding again, meandering through the hills. Just below Thumki, the paved road gives way to an off-road section as we descend to a river crossing at Aankhu Khola.

After crossing the Aankhu Khola, you'll find a paved road leading to Salyantar. From there, it's a dirt road to the next significant crossing: the Budhi Gandaki River. This bridge marks the boundary between Dhading and Gorkha districts, and upon crossing, you'll arrive at Arughat Bazar.

The journey intensifies from Arughat. The road becomes more challenging, but incredibly exciting, as you drive almost parallel to the Budhi Gandaki River all the way to Machha Khola. This section offers thrilling views of cascading waterfalls amidst remote wilderness, making the challenging terrain feel adventurous and rewarding. From Machha Khola, we'll continue for another 50 km to reach Jagat, a small settlement nestled in a deep valley and our final destination for the drive.

Your journey today takes you deeper into the Himalayas, following the right bank of the Budhi Gandaki river on a shared path with the classic Manaslu Circuit. The landscape gradually softens as you approach Philim, revealing more terraced fields and traditional villages nestled amidst the slopes.

The trail continues to Nyak, where the Budhi Gandaki is once again bridged. This is your pivotal point: here, you'll choose to peel away from the Manaslu Circuit, not crossing the river, but instead turning east to enter the mystical Tsum Valley, tracing the course of the Shyar Khola river.

A ceremonial gateway soon greets you, marking your official entry into this sacred valley. Adorned with inscriptions, including a clear message in English, it reiterates the valley's profound reverence for life. Tsum Valley strictly prohibits the killing of any animals, forbidding hunting, honey collection, trapping, and even the transport of meat, reflecting the deep-rooted Buddhist principles that permeate every inch of this unique territory.

The path to Lokpa is generally easy, often shared with pack animals – the vital lifeline for provisions in this remote valley. Lokpa itself is a small, charming settlement of traditional houses clinging to the mountainside, offering a glimpse into local life. This north-facing area is remarkably humid, characterized by lush, vibrant vegetation and abundant water sources. The surrounding forest is teeming with wildlife; expect to hear and possibly spot various birds and monkeys, though the wilder inhabitants like bears, leopards, and wild pigs are also known to roam. This day truly immerses you in the serene and wild essence of the Tsum Valley.

Today's trek from Lokpa leads you deeper into the Tsum Valley's dramatic embrace, traversing a truly spectacular gorge carved by the Shyar Khola river. The journey begins with a descent through dense forest, offering an immediate taste of the river's raw power. You'll soon encounter a massive, active landslide just beyond Lokpa, highlighting the incredible force of water cascading down from the towering peaks.

The undulating trail continues to Gadh Khola, where the enticing "hidden valley" of Tsum stretches out before you. The path winds precariously close to the river, sometimes even requiring passage on bridges ingeniously built into sheer vertical walls to navigate past the ever-present, roaring waters. You'll then descend to a wooden bridge at the secluded village of Bhatti Ghumlong (2,130 m)

Instead of climbing towards Ripchet, you'll cross the Shayar Khola on a sturdy wooden bridge, arriving at Chumling (2,360 m). This significant village, the first truly encountered in the Tsum Valley, isn't a concentrated settlement. Its traditional houses are beautifully scattered amongst fields of millet and other cereals, all framed by the formidable ridges of the Ganesh Himal range, soaring above 6,000 meters. In Chumling, you can immerse yourself in local life by visiting the old Gompa, exploring its beautiful stone streets, traditional houses, and orchards, all reflecting the serene Buddhist principles of the valley. This day truly immerses you in the isolated grandeur and unique landscape of the Tsum Valley.

Beyond Chumling, the Tsum Valley truly begins to open up, revealing a breathtaking panorama of scattered stone houses and meticulously cultivated fields. You'll find yourself constantly escorted by majestic mountains, many soaring over 6,000 meters, with several prominent peaks of the Ganesh Himal range exceeding 7,000 meters, forming a dramatic natural amphitheater.

The path from here ascends more gently, winding through charming hamlets and further terraced farmlands. Witnessing daily life unfolds is a step back in time: all agricultural activity is performed manually or with the help of traditional pack animals. There's no machinery of any kind; the trail you traverse, along with the resilient beasts of burden, remains the sole lifeline for essential provisions.

This segment of the valley immerses you fully in its vibrant Tibetan culture and profound religiosity. Numerous temples, small sanctuaries, chortens, and intricate mani walls – stone carvings inscribed with Buddhist prayers – adorn the landscape at every turn, reflecting the deep spiritual essence of the region.

Your trek concludes in Chhokangparo, a small village primarily comprised of four stone houses, yet boasting one of the newer and more comfortable lodges in the area. The path itself often becomes beautifully stone-paved as it leads directly through the heart of the settlement. Here, you'll see chickens roaming freely (their eggs a permissible food source) and perhaps a yak, vital for both carrying loads and working the fields. This stretch of the Tsum Valley offers a quieter, more intimate experience, primarily inhabited by locals dressed in traditional Tibetan attire and a handful of intrepid trekkers, like yourself, who have ventured into this unique and sacred Himalayan world.

The Tsum Valley truly unfolds, revealing a surprising and vast plain, as you trace your steps towards Nile. This fertile expanse is a patchwork of cultivated fields, brimming with cereal crops and potatoes, and even small apple orchards.

As you traverse this open landscape, scattered villages and houses dot the scenery, while ubiquitous signs of deep Buddhist devotion—such as elaborate stupas, chortens, and intricate mani walls—guide your way. The valley is home to numerous temples and monasteries, both ancient and newly built, for both monks and nuns. You'll pass through Lamagaon to reach the significant Gompa Rachen, and the revered Milarepa Cave, where the legendary Buddhist prophet is said to have meditated.

After crossing the Shayar Khola, your journey continues through the charming villages of Phurba and Pangdun. Beyond the village of Chhule, you'll climb upstream and cross another bridge, finally arriving at Nile. Strategically positioned at the very edge of this great plain, nestled on the right bank of the Shayar Khola river, Nile is your gateway to the valley's dramatic conclusion. From here, the valley narrows once more, leading directly towards towering Himalayan peaks and the high passes (over 5,000 m) that, when open, connect to the Tibetan side of China. This expansive, snow-capped vista is a striking contrast to the congested paths you've previously navigated, and here, the increasing altitude brings a distinct, refreshing coolness to the air.

After an early breakfast in Nile, you'll stroll along the west bank of the valley, a path that runs extremely close to the Tibetan border, offering a palpable sense of the region's remote and cross-cultural connections. This is a relatively easy 3 to 4-hour climb through stark, beautiful Trans-Himalayan terrain.

As you ascend through the arid landscape, you'll pass expansive yak pastures and ancient monastic sites, all while being treated to stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and distant traditional homes. Your primary destination is Mu Gompa, the largest and most revered monastery in the Tsum Valley. Perched dramatically amidst this austere beauty, Mu Gompa is a vital center of Buddhist learning and devotion, home to ancient manuscripts and a profound sense of tranquility. Spending time here offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the monastic life and the deep spiritual heritage of the Tsumbas.

After soaking in the spiritual ambiance and the unparalleled views, you'll begin your descent, retracing your steps through the magnificent valley. The downward journey allows for different perspectives on the landscapes you ascended, eventually bringing you back to the charming village of Lamagaon, where you'll spend the night. This day offers a deep dive into Tsum Valley's spiritual core before your return to a more comfortable altitude.

Leaving the high-altitude serenity of Lamagaon, your trek today embarks on a significant descent towards the picturesque village of Ripchet (2,470m). As you descend, the Shyar Khola river remains a constant companion, winding its way through the valley below. This journey takes you from the arid, exposed landscapes of the upper Tsum Valley, gradually transitioning through a diverse tapestry of terrain where lush forests begin to re-emerge.

The trail, often undulating but predominantly downhill, offers a welcome change of pace after your high-altitude explorations. You'll navigate through a mix of slopes, sometimes gentle, at other times steeper, all while remaining deeply immersed in the unique culture of the Tsum Valley. As you lose altitude, you'll continue to pass by traditional hamlets, terraced farmlands, and the ever-present Buddhist chortens and mani walls that signify the valley's spiritual heart. Views of the surrounding mighty Himalayan peaks continue to provide a dramatic backdrop. Arriving at Ripche, a charming settlement perched on a hillside, signifies a successful passage through Tsum's varied beauty and a well-deserved rest in a more verdant setting.

You'll descend to the bridge at Ghumlong, and retrace your steps back to Lokpa.

This short day of trek will present you with crucial rest for the upcoming push to Manaslu Circuit a.k.a. Larya La section of your trek.

From Lokpa the trail descends as you walk across a sturdy bridge over the Budi Gandaki and then enter a small gorge. The undulating trail enters into the valley, and you will soon arrive at the Gurung village of Deng.
 

Right out of Deng, the trail immediately begins a steady climb northward, navigating through increasingly dense coniferous forests of pine and fir, with rhododendron thickets along the way. You'll follow the ever-present Budhi Gandaki River, often winding along its banks and crossing it multiple times on sturdy suspension bridges, as your Manaslu Circuit trek leads you further into the spectacular high valleys towards Namrung. This segment of the trail offers a tangible shift in culture and a continuous ascent through breathtaking landscapes.

As you trek, you'll distinctly notice the architecture of the villages change, featuring the characteristic flat-roofed stone houses of the Nupri people. Passing through Bihi Phedi, you gain a deeper sense of immersion into the truly remote mountain communities. A significant milestone for the day is the village of Ghap, where you'll find impressive mani walls adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, clearly signaling the strong Buddhist influence.

As you continue to ascend, the valley begins to open slightly, offering your first truly grand views of the towering peaks. You might catch impressive glimpses of Ganesh Himal (Ganesh I), and the majestic Manaslu will begin to reveal more of its formidable presence. Your day culminates upon arrival at Namrung (approximately 2,630 m). This large and important Nupri village, with its ancient monastery and traditional stone houses, provides clear, close-up views of the Manaslu range, offering a deep sense of accomplishment as you reach this significant high-altitude settlement.

Leaving Namrung, a vibrant Nupri village, your trek immediately begins with a gradual but steady ascent eastward. The trail, well-defined and often winding, quickly leads you into a landscape dominated by increasingly sparse coniferous forests of pine and fir, with junipers beginning to appear. As you trek, you'll feel a palpable sense of moving deeper into the high mountains, with the air growing crisper.

You'll pass through several smaller, traditional Nupri villages like Lihi and Sho, each adorned with extensive mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags that vividly underscore the deeply entrenched Tibetan Buddhist culture of this region. The unique architecture of flat-roofed stone houses becomes even more prevalent here. As the valley widens slightly with your ascent, the views begin to truly open up, offering tantalizing glimpses of what lies ahead.

This segment of the trek is renowned for its increasingly grand mountain panoramas. You'll soon find yourself face-to-face with the immense peaks of the Manaslu range. The majestic Manaslu (8,163m) itself, along with Himal Chuli (7,893m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), will dominate the skyline, offering breathtaking, close-up views. Your day culminates upon arrival at Shyala (approximately 3,500 m). This picturesque village is nestled in a stunning setting, famous for its unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding giants, providing a profound sense of awe as you settle into this high-mountain sanctuary.

From Shyala, your Manaslu Circuit trek today leads you towards Samagaun, the largest village in the Nupri Valley. This segment offers a profound spiritual and visual experience by incorporating a special detour.

Right out of Shyala, the trail guides you to a river crossing. Instead of immediately heading north-west towards Samagaun, you'll take the south-west trail towards Pungyen Gumba. This path is a deliberate ascent through open expanses dominated by sparse alpine shrubs, junipers, and high-altitude grasses. As you trek, the views of the surrounding peaks, especially the majestic Manaslu (8,163m), Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli, remain constant companions.

Your efforts are rewarded as you reach Pungyen Gumba (approximately 4,000 m), a significant milestone for the day not just in terms of altitude, but also spiritual immersion. This ancient monastery, nestled on a hillside directly facing the immense Manaslu, offers a powerful sense of sanctity. From Pungyen Gumba, the views of Manaslu are exceptionally close and awe-inspiring, providing a unique perspective of its towering face. You’ll likely enjoy your packed lunch here amidst these incredible vistas and the monastery's tranquil ambiance.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking panoramas at Pungyen Gumba, you'll begin your descent back to the main trail fork. From there, your path continues towards Samagaun (approximately 3,540 m). This large and vital village in the Nupri Valley, a true cultural hub, is where you'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant community, ancient mani walls, and impressive chortens, reinforcing the deeply entrenched Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.

Today is a crucial acclimatization day in Samagaun (approximately 3,540 m), the vibrant cultural heart of the Nupri Valley. This day offers you the flexibility to either embrace the peaceful serenity of this large village or embark on an exhilarating excursion to the foot of Mount Manaslu.

If you choose to rest, you can explore Samagaun's rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, wandering among its ancient mani walls and impressive chortens, or visiting its main monastery, Samagaun Gompa. This is an ideal chance to restore your energy and immerse yourself in the daily life of this high-altitude Sherpa community, preparing you for the higher altitudes ahead.

Optional Excursion: Manaslu Base Camp (MBC)

For those seeking an unparalleled close-up encounter with Mount Manaslu, an invigorating full-day trek to Manaslu Base Camp is highly recommended. This challenging ascent serves as an excellent "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy.

The trail from Samagaun to MBC involves a sustained and significant elevation gain of approximately 1,250-1,300 meters. You'll trek steadily upwards, initially crossing open alpine pastures and grassy slopes near Samagaun. As you climb higher, the terrain becomes progressively more challenging, transforming into rocky paths and scree fields. You'll navigate across and along the lateral moraines of the Manaslu Glacier, a rugged landscape of loose rocks and glacial debris, leading you steadily towards the base of the massive icefall. Along the way, you'll also encounter the stunning Birendra Tal, a beautiful turquoise glacial lake fed by the Manaslu Glacier, offering a picturesque pause amidst the rugged landscape. Upon reaching MBC, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable, incredibly close perspective of Mount Manaslu's towering north face, along with awe-inspiring vistas of Manaslu North, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and the immense Manaslu Glacier. This iconic milestone places you at the very doorstep of an 8,000-meter giant.

After soaking in this extraordinary atmosphere and immense mountain views, you'll embark on the long descent back to Samagaun, carrying profound memories of standing at the foot of the "Spirit Mountain." The remainder of your day is yours to unwind and prepare for the next stage of your adventure.

Leaving Samagaun, the largest village in the Nupri Valley, your Manaslu Circuit trek today follows a path that leads you further into the high, vast landscapes towards Samdo. The trail begins with a gentle, steady ascent eastward out of the village, almost immediately separating from the route to Manaslu Base Camp.

You'll traverse largely open, high-alpine terrain, characterized by expansive pastures and sparse vegetation consisting primarily of grasses, dwarf shrubs, and junipers – clear signs that you are now well above the main treeline. The route, while steadily gaining altitude, is often described as one of the easier days, providing comfortable trekking amidst incredible scenery. You'll pass by Kermo Kharka, a seasonal yak herders' camp, hinting at the nomadic lifestyle of this elevation. All along the way, the towering presence of Manaslu, Manaslu North, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) remains an awe-inspiring backdrop, growing ever more magnificent.

Your day culminates upon arrival at Samdo, a significant village and the last permanent settlement before the challenging Larkya La Pass. Samdo is renowned for its close ties to the Tibetan border and is home to a community with strong Tibetan cultural influences, including a local monastery. This strategically positioned village provides crucial acclimatization as you prepare for the highest pass crossing of your trek.

Beyond Samdo, the last permanent village before the formidable Larkye La Pass, your Manaslu Circuit trek today delves further into an increasingly remote and austere high-mountain landscape towards Dharamsala. The trail initially descends gently to cross the Budhi Gandaki River for the final time, a significant milestone marking your departure from its main valley.

After the river crossing, the path begins a steady, consistent ascent, leading you into a truly barren and rocky alpine environment. You'll be well above the treeline now, with vegetation limited to hardy lichens, mosses, and sparse dwarf grasses clinging to the ground. The air feels crisper, and the silence is profound, broken only by the wind. The towering presence of the Manaslu range continues to dominate your views, with the vast expanse of the Larkya Glacier becoming increasingly prominent. The path may occasionally traverse rocky moraines, preparing you for the terrain of the pass ahead.

Your day culminates upon arrival at Dharamsala (a.k.a. Larkye Phedi) (approximately 4,460 m). This is not a village, but rather a basic collection of lodges and teahouses, serving as the crucial high camp and staging post for your crossing of the formidable Larkya La Pass tomorrow. Despite its basic amenities, finding shelter here offers a profound sense of accomplishment and anticipation, as you are now at the very foot of the pass, ready for an early start.

Today is undoubtedly the most challenging, yet profoundly rewarding, day of your Manaslu Circuit adventure, as you prepare to cross the mighty Larkya La Pass. Your day begins well before dawn, as you set out from Dharamsala (Larkye Phedi) into the crisp, cold high-alpine air.

The trail to the pass is a sustained and arduous ascent, navigating over rocky moraines, steep scree slopes, and potentially icy sections, especially in the early hours. You'll be trekking high above the treeline, with the landscape dominated by stark rock formations, snow, and ice, revealing the raw power of the Himalayas. The climb demands every ounce of your determination, but every step brings you closer to an unparalleled reward.

Upon reaching the summit of Larkya La Pass (5,150 m), a triumphant sense of accomplishment will wash over you. From this highest point of your trek, you'll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama that is simply awe-inspiring. Gaze upon the colossal peaks of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Gyaji Kang, and from a new perspective, the majestic Manaslu itself, along with vast glacial landscapes.

The descent from Larkya La is long, steep, and often challenging, making it a test of endurance and careful footing. You'll navigate through rugged, rocky terrain and eventually traverse lateral moraines as you gradually make your way down into a different valley. As you lose significant altitude, the landscape slowly transforms, and sparse alpine shrubs and hardy rhododendron bushes begin to reappear, signaling your return to more hospitable elevations. Your day culminates upon arrival at Bimthang (approximately 3,720 m). This beautiful post-pass village offers a sense of immense relief and provides stunning views back towards the pass and surrounding peaks, a perfect place to recover after conquering the Manaslu Circuit's greatest challenge.

Leaving the serene village of Bimthang, your Manaslu Circuit trek ends today as you begin a long and substantial descent towards Dharapani. This segment offers a dramatic and rapid return to lower altitudes, transforming the landscape with every step.

The trail immediately drops down, following the course of the Dudh Khola (river) downstream. You'll quickly notice a remarkable change in the environment: the sparse high-alpine terrain gives way to increasingly dense and lush rhododendron and pine forests, which will be your constant companions throughout much of the day. The air grows warmer and more humid, providing a refreshing contrast after days in the cold, thin air of the high passes. You'll pass through smaller settlements like Gho (Gua), continuing your continuous downward journey.

Further down the valley, you'll reach Tilje, a larger and more established village with its own monastery, signaling your return to more populated areas. Here, you'll observe a clear cultural shift, as the predominantly Tibetan Buddhist influence of the Nupri Valley gradually blends with the mixed communities of Gurung, Manangi, and other groups reflecting the lower altitude. Finally, your long day culminates upon arrival at Dharapani. This bustling village is a significant hub, marking the official completion point of your Manaslu Circuit trek as it reconnects with the famous Annapurna Circuit trail. Here, you can truly celebrate your successful circumambulation of the Manaslu massif amidst a more comfortable, vibrant setting.

Your Manaslu Circuit adventure culminates with the long and scenic drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. This journey offers a dramatic transition from the pristine mountain trails you've just conquered back to the bustling energy of the capital.

Your drive begins from Dharapani, the very point where the Manaslu Circuit reconnects with the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. The road from Dharapani is initially typically rougher, winding through dramatic river valleys and charming rural villages. This section takes approximately 3 hours in a 4x4 vehicle. As you descend, the landscape transforms rapidly: the high-altitude forests give way to lush terraced farmlands, verdant hills, and a growing presence of local life. You'll pass areas that are familiar to those trekking the Annapurna Circuit, perhaps spotting trekkers setting out or returning from their own Himalayan explorations, with distant views hinting at the formidable Thorung La Pass that defines that iconic trek.

Upon reaching Besisahar, a larger town that serves as a key transportation hub, you'll pause for a well-deserved lunch and change vehicles. From here, your journey continues on the well-paved Prithvi Highway towards Kathmandu, a segment that typically takes around 6 hours. The scenery continues to evolve, from winding river gorges to expansive farmland and then into the increasingly populated and developed areas leading towards the Kathmandu Valley. This drive offers a final, sweeping overview of Nepal's diverse geographical tapestry, from its rugged foothills to its thriving plains.

As you near Kathmandu, the urban landscape gradually emerges, replacing the tranquility of the mountains with the familiar sights and sounds of city life. This final segment of your journey provides ample time to reflect on the immense challenges you've overcome, the breathtaking beauty you've witnessed, and the profound cultural experiences you've gathered on your Manaslu Circuit adventure.

Depending upon your exit plans, with the most probable being your return flight back home, your guide or a representative will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport.