Start on a remarkable journey that weaves through the heart of the Himalayas, blending the mystical Tsum Valley with the majestic Manaslu Circuit. This expedition begins in the bustling capital of Kathmandu, taking you towards the serene Sotikhola via the market hub of Arughat. Setting forth from Sotikhola, the trail ascends the Budhi Gandaki Valley, adorned with dense pine and rhododendron forests, before reaching the threshold of Tsum Valley at Lokpa after three days of trekking. Your stops en route include the quaint Machha Khola, the historic Jagat, and finally Lokpa, each offering unique insights into the local culture and natural beauty.
Diving deeper into the Tsum Valley, the trek progresses from Lokpa to the picturesque village of Chumling, home to the revered Pango Gumba, Mani Dhungyr, and Gurwa Gumba monasteries. A night's stay in Chumling is followed by a trek to Chhokangparo, through Domje - Tsum Valley's largest settlement. Chhokangparo presents breathtaking vistas of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal, etching unforgettable memories.
The journey continues, winding through bamboo groves and rhododendron forests in the lower reaches, transitioning into serene alpine meadows and stark high-mountain deserts above. En route to Nile from Chhokangparo, you'll explore the sacred Piren Phu cave, a revered site in Tsum Valley. The trek's zenith is the ascent to Mu Gompa, the highest point in the Tsum Valley, followed by a descent to Lokpa and a continuation through the Manaslu Circuit.
The path from Lokpa to Deng winds through Ghap, Rana, and Bhiphedi, leading to Namrung village, where the Tibetan heritage is palpable in the daily lives of its people. Journeying from Namrung, the trek passes Lho, adorned with mani walls and gompas, to reach Sama Gaon, notable for its monastery. An acclimatization day at Sama Gaon offers excursions to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, or Pungyen Gompa, allowing for a deeper connection with the landscape.
The trek towards Larkya La Pass begins with a day's hike to Dharmasala, followed by an early morning ascent to Bhimtang via the breathtaking Larkya La Pass (5,160m), renowned for its panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This marks the beginning of the journey's conclusion, from Bhimtang to Gho and then to Tal, where transportation awaits to ferry you to Besisahar and subsequently back to Kathmandu.
This fusion of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is designed to leave an indelible mark on your heart, offering a profound experience that intertwines natural grandeur with cultural depth. The detailed itinerary below sketches every step of this unforgettable adventure.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Manaslu Tsum Valley, a trek that unveils the hidden splendors of Nepal's remote landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. This meticulously planned itinerary combines the rugged beauty of the Manaslu Circuit with the serene and spiritual Tsum Valley, offering a trekking experience unlike any other.
