Manaslu and Tsum Valley
In the heart of the secret Tsum valley, between Tibetan monasteries and peaks over 8000 meters.
Duration
20 days
From
€1,805/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Style
Expeditions
Comfort
budget
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
Manaslu, located at 8,163 meters altitude, is the world's eighth highest mountain and remains majestically remote from crowds. Similar in many ways to the Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit unfolds in a less frequented valley. The recent construction of lodges sees this circuit evolving over time. The Sama gompa (monastery), in an amphitheater at the foot of Manaslu, marks the entrance into Buddhist territory. The Larkya Pass (5,135 m), the highest point of the route, presents a gentle slope before dropping steeply to reach the lower valleys. Superb panoramas, typical villages inhabited by different ethnic groups. This trek also takes you into the beautiful and less frequented Tsum valley, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas and long isolated. Between ancient monasteries, traditional villages and wild landscapes, this sacred valley reveals a deeply preserved Tibetan culture. An exceptional itinerary for travelers seeking an authentic immersion, between high peaks, human encounters and still confidential paths.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Népal!
Welcome and assistance by our representative at Tribhuvan international airport in Kathmandu. A short drive takes you to your hotel where you can rest for a few moments.
Route to Lapubesi
Lapubesi - Dovan: Start of the trek!
Following the trail that continues along the river with small climbs and descents, we arrive at Thado Khola which we cross and continue to Kholabesi. Popular for coffee, buckwheat and tobacco, our trail continues towards the Manasalu circuit to join the Great Himalaya Trail.
Following the narrow gorge towards Dovan, we arrive at Tatopani, a place with three hot springs. The trail rises on a ridge, then cross a new suspension bridge, pass under the cliffs and climb to reach Dovan where we will spend the night.
Dovan - Philim: Entry into the Manaslu
After breakfast, you leave Dovan and continue your hike towards Philim by crossing the old suspension bridge of Yaru Khola. You then continue climbing up to Thado Bharyang. Upon reaching Jagat, you now enter the Manaslu park. Jagat was formerly a Maoist fortress and this place benefits from an abundance of potatoes, corn and climbing beans that are planted at the same time.
You continue your hike by climbing the rocky ridge to Saller (1440m) and descending to Sirdibas, then you go back up the river to cross the longest suspension bridge which leads us to the long and arduous climb to Philim. Overnight in lodge
Philim - Chumling: At the Gates of the Tsum Valley
You take the road to the Tsum Valley today and continue north of Philim through the forest. An hour's climb takes you to Ekle Bhatti (1600M). Continuing on, you arrive at the crossroads with Ghap on the left and Tsum Valley on the right, you climb through a forest of pines and rhododendrons.
Following the zigzag steps from here to get the first view of the lower Tsum Valley. Crossing the steep cliffs through the peaceful forest, we arrive at Lokpa (2240m).
You descend through the forest to cross two new bridges, after which you climb a steep staircase and continue until the hidden Tsum Valley stretches before you. The path from here climbs steeply to Ripchet (2470M). Another 45 minutes of walking to Chumling.
Night in lodge.
Chumling - Chhokangparo
After breakfast, you begin your hiking by crossing a suspended bridge and continue through the rich agricultural lands of corn and potatoes. Traditional Tibetan architecture makes today's walk very interesting. Continue climbing up the valley with a splendid view of the east of Ganesh Himal and several other peaks over 7000m in altitude.
After lunch, you cross the Serpu Khola and climb for approximately 2 hours to reach Chekkangparo. The valley then opens onto fields of buckwheat, potatoes, barley and corn.
Night in lodge.
Chhokangparo - Nile
Today's hike will be relatively short and easy, with most of the day passing through vast open valley. You can explore the village and continue heading north, then cross small villages and a few local schools to reach Lamagoan (3202m). There is a convent you can visit.
You continue the trail towards Nile by crossing Ranchen Gompa.
Night in lodge.
Nile - Lar
Today, a day excursion to Mu Gompa. You continue via Rachen Gompa and also visit the Dhephu Dom convent. The sunrise on the west bank across the narrow valley is sublime. Continue through the arid Tibetan landscape until the final ascent to Mu Gompa.
After visiting Mu Gompa, descent to Lar.
Night in lodge.
Lar - Gompa Lungdang
The trail starts today with an ascent of more than 3 hours and we continue through the superb forest of pines, oaks and rhododendrons. You are rewarded by the panoramic views of the Himalaya, one of the highlights of this trek. The Lungdang Gompa is over 100 years old and visitors are invited to attend the daily ritual.
The view of the Ganesh Himal range is magnificent.
Night in lodge.
Lungdang Gompa - Lokpa
Early departure this morning in anticipation of the long hike that descends directly from Domje. Continuing your way through the forest, you cross very deep gorges on the new suspension bridge.
After some ups and downs on the stairs, we arrive at Lokpa.
Night in lodge.
Lokpa - Deng
The hike begins across the rocky ridge and several bridges. While crossing the suspension bridge, you climb straight up to Philim where we stop for lunch. The village has a school built by Japanese that you can visit during lunch preparation.
After lunch, you continue on the trails that cross the village of Ekle Bhatti. After crossing the ridge and the narrow path, you arrive at Deng.
Night in lodge.
Namrung - Samagaon
Samdo - Larkya Phedi
Larkya Phedi - Bhimthang
It's the big day, wake up at dawn for this long day. The climb is not very difficult and you cross the Larkya Pass at 5125 meters, congratulations!
You now start a long descent to the village of Bhimtang.
Night in lodge.
Tilje - Besisahar - Katmandu: End of the trek!
From there, a jeep awaits you to drop you off in Besishar, at the crossroads between Annapurna and Manaslu.
Free day or activity day in Kathmandu
Today you have a choice, you can take advantage of the day to stroll through Katmandou or ask us for a guided tour of the main sites in the city. We offer you the opportunity to participate in an immersive and exclusive activity with a traditional craftsman. On the program to choose from: cooking classes, sculpture, painting, music and much more. A fun activity for the whole family. The best souvenir you can take home!
Welcome back!
Transfer to the international airport (3 hours before) for your final departure depending on your flight schedule.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Travel insurance: cancellation / repatriation / trip interruption / baggage loss
- International flights.
- Visa fees 50 USD for 30 Days
- Personal expenses: souvenirs, drinks, spa, telephone, etc.
- Tips.
- Meals Outside the Trek
Included
- Land transfers described in the program by private vehicle
- 3 nights in 3-star B&B hotels in Kathmandu
- The all-inclusive trek
- Guidance by an English-speaking Népal guide during the trek
- A porter for 2 trekkers
- Trekking Permits in National Parks
- Daily fees and insurance for local Nepalese teams
- Your travel advisor's support 24/7.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Nepal for a tourist stay. Since entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Nepal, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into the country and must have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist visa
Unlike some destinations, Nepal does not grant visa exemptions to nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada. A tourist visa is mandatory to enter the territory.
This visa can be obtained in two ways:
On arrival (visa on arrival): available at the main entry points, notably Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and certain land border crossings. It is strongly recommended to complete the application form online before departure to facilitate procedures on site.
Online before departure: via the official online visa system of the Nepalese government (online visa application), allowing you to obtain prior authorization to present upon arrival.
Official rates are as follows:
15 days: 30 USD
30 days: 50 USD
90 days: 125 USD
Payment is generally made in cash (USD, EUR, or other accepted currencies) or by credit card depending on the entry points. It is advisable to have US dollars in cash for payment on site.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Online arrival form
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival form available on the official portal of the Nepalese government. This form allows you to provide immigration authorities with:
passport information
flight details
the address of your first accommodation in Nepal
A digital confirmation or a reference code may be requested when passing through immigration or at the visa issuance counter upon arrival.
Special permits for trekking areas
Certain regions of Nepal require additional permits in addition to the tourist visa:
the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System): mandatory for most trekking itineraries,
national park or conservation area permits (e.g., Sagarmatha for Everest, Annapurna Conservation Area),
restricted zone permits for certain specific destinations such as Mustang, Dolpo, or Manaslu.
These permits are generally obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the relevant offices.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Nepal, except in case of arrival from a country at risk of yellow fever. However, several vaccinations are strongly recommended by health authorities:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
diphtheria-tetanus-poliomyelitis (DTP),
rabies (especially for extended stays or in remote areas),
Japanese encephalitis (depending on areas and season).
Preventive antimalarial treatment may be recommended for certain low-altitude regions (Terai). It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as their own tourist visa.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Nepal in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be covered for emergency assistance, repatriation and foreign medical expenses.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the full policy detailing all coverage and claims reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claims reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Yes, a tourist visa is required, issued upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or at land borders (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days). A valid passport for at least 6 months beyond entry and an identity photo are required.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, plan between 110 and 190 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Himalayan treks require a dedicated budget (permits, porters, lodges).
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Annapurna Massif
Himalayan pathfinder, based in Katmandou (Naxal)
Nepal is a country that naturally teaches patience and humility. Even a simple trip can become a very profound experience there.
— Nirmala
