Trip Details
Destination: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Moderate
Trip Style: Trekking and Tour
Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus
Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel + Tea House Lodge
Group Size: 2
Max Elevation: 5160m
Highlights
- Explore Mu Gompa, Gompa Lungdung, and Rachen Gompa in Tsum Valley
- Discover the most sacred cave in the Tsum Valley, Milarepa Piren Phu Cave (pigeon cave)
- Trekking around Mt Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest mountain
- Walk through Punhyen Glacier, or hike to Mount Manaslu Base Camp at Samagaon
- Enjoy the view of glaciers, lakes, rocks, and mountains of Mt. Manasalu, Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Ganesh, and many others on the Nepal-Tibet border from the high crossing Larkya la Pass
- Get insight into the unique culture and traditions of the Tibetan
- Trek through the ancient Buddhist stupas and famous monasteries
- Manaslu Trekking Region to Annapurna Trekking Region
Among the popular beaten trails are the newly opened combined Tsum Valley trek and Larkya La Pass trek, also known as the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek is gradually taking the hive as a highly demanding and culturally fascinating trek. Only opened up in 1992, and still is the restricted area trekking to the sacred Himalayan pilgrimage through majestic mountain vistas, peaceful valleys, dramatic landscapes, and terraced rice fields of Tsum Valley, crossing over the famous Larkya La pass (5,213 m), near the Tibetan border, is the challenging, yet rewarding journey for trekkers.
The Tsum valley is the Tibetan word “Tsombo”, which means vivid, whereas the famous Tibetan Guru Rinpoche described this valley as “the holy hidden valley of happiness”. Undoubtedly, Tsum Valley is a hidden gem of the Manaslu region, an uncrowded and tranquil spot, and perfect for adventurous souls who are keen to discover natural beauty in its largely unspoiled natural environment. The glorious view of Himlung Himal (7,125 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kang Guru (6,980 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Himchuli (7,893 m), Ganesh Himal (7,319 m), Shringeri Himal (7,187 m), and Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), from the Larkya La Pass, is one of the key features of the Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek. Both these trekking routes have unspoiled natural beauty waiting to be explored. The least explored Manaslu Tsum valley and Larkya La Pass trek takes you to the northern border of Nepal with Tibet and near the eighth highest mountain in the world, “Mt. Manaslu”. Offering the secretive hilltop monasteries, panoramic Himalayan scenic beauty, hurdles of mani walls, Chortens, colorful people wearing Tibetan traditional dress, cultural variety, and most sacred caves, are sure to make this combined trek one of the unforgettable treks in Nepal.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass trek starts with a drive to Soti Khola (730 m), the main trail follows the Budhi Gandaki river gorge, passing through pine and rhododendron forest, pastures, and picturesque villages of the Manaslu region. During the trek, you will also visit sacred Buddhist Gompa such as the impressive Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa‘s cave. If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path trek holidays, then the Nepal Adventure Team takes you to one of the most beautiful places in Nepal through the Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek.
Useful Information
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Transportation
The journey to the Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek. Public buses and private jeeps are the most common modes of transportation. The trip lasts about 7-9 hours, depending on the road conditions. For comfort travelers, it is better to reserve a private jeep. For the way back after the trek, one usually goes from Dharapani to Besi Sahar and then to Kathmandu via road or a combination of road and fly options from Pokhara.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Cost
The price of the Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass trek varies with the group size, trekking agency, and services offered. On average, the trek costs between USD 1,200 and 2,500 per person. The price generally covers permits, transportation, meals, lodging, guide and porter services, and equipment. More luxurious treks with additional amenities can cost more. Budget trekkers can reduce costs by joining group treks or taking teahouse lodges instead of luxury services.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Guide and Porter
A guide is mandatory for the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek due to restricted area regulations. Guides provide navigation, cultural insight, and safety support. Porters can be hired to carry bags so that trekkers can hike comfortably. A guide ranges from USD 25 to 35 per day, and a porter ranges from USD 20 to 25 per day. It is best to hire a guide and porter from a reputable agency to ensure reliability and a fair wage.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Food and Accommodation
Teahouses along the trail offer simple but comfortable accommodation with dormitory rooms. Food consists of Nepali dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Western food, such as pasta and pancakes, is also available at lower altitudes. As altitude rises, food options are limited. Trekkers are advised to bring their snacks, such as energy bars and nuts. Accommodation in teahouses enables interaction with locals and other trekkers, adding to the cultural experience.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Permit
The trek requires several permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – 100(September−November),100 (September−November),75 (December-August) for the first week, with additional fees for extra days.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) – $30 per person.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – $30 per person (required after crossing Larkya La Pass).
- Tsum Valley Restricted Permit – 40 (September−November),40 (September−November), 25 (December-August) for the first week.
Permits must be organized through a registered trekking agency.
Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek Route and Map
The trek follows a circular route starting from Soti Khola, passing through Jagat, Lokpa, and entering the sacred Tsum Valley. The highlights of the journey are Mu Gompa, Nile, and Chhekampar before meeting the main Manaslu trail. The trek crosses the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m) before descending to Dharapani. A decent trekking map is required to follow, and GPS devices or guide assistance is recommended.
Best Season and Time for Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek
The best seasons are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). Autumn offers clear skies, stable weather, and green landscapes. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and warm temperatures. Winter (December-February) is possible but extremely cold, and monsoon (June-August) offers extensive rainfall and landslides, which render trekking difficult.
Weather of Manaslu Tsum Valley and Larkya La Pass Trek
The weather at various altitudes varies. At lower elevations (1,000 m- 3,000 m), the temperature is 15°C to 25°C during the day and may drop to 5°C at night. At higher elevations (above 4,000m), it is 5°C to 10°C during the day while nighttime temperatures drop below freezing. There is a chance of snow around Larkya La Pass, especially in winter. Layering and cold-weather gear are required.