The mighty Himalayas of Nepal offer some of the most spectacular and serene trekking trails in the world. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the remote Tsum Valley and Manaslu region in the northern Gorkha district.
An Overview
Nestled in the shadow of the magnificent 8th highest peak in the world, Manaslu (26,781 ft), the Tsum Valley and Manaslu region encompass dramatic landscapes from high passes and peaks to terraced hillsides and rural villages. Trekkers are treated to breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, verdant forests, cascading waterfalls and the culture of the local inhabitants that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Highlights of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek
The 19-day trek undertaken by the authors of the video starts from the town of Barpak and takes trekkers along ancient salt trading routes into the sacred ‘Hidden Valley of Happiness’, through terraced farmlands and across high mountain passes, all the while exploring Buddhist monasteries, temples and villages along the way.
Some of the major highlights of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek include:
- Witnessing traditional lifestyles in remote Himalayan villages like Lokpa, Prok, Chhekampar and Chumling where indigenous practices live on.
- Visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries like the Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa which host sacred Buddhist texts and practices.
- Crossing high altitude passes like the Larkya La (17,770 ft) which connects the region to the famed Annapurna Circuit.
- Viewing majestic Himalayan peaks like Ganesh Himal, Siringi Himal, Buddha Himal and the towering Mt. Manaslu.
- Encountering rare wildlife like the Himalayan Thar, yellow-throated marten and native pheasants.
- Experiencing the unique culture of the Chhumba people who inhabit the Tsum Valley.
- Trekking through remote and unspoiled valleys, rivers and villages seldom visited by outsiders.
For trekkers seeking pristine mountain scenery, cultural immersion and physical challenge, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek is a must-do Himalayan adventure. The trek requires fitness, proper acclimatization and quality gear to handle the cold temperatures but offers memories to last a lifetime.
The Journey Begins – Heading to Tum Valley
The authors commenced their 19-day adventure in the town of Barpak, about 70km northeast of Pokhara in central Nepal. Considered the epicenter of the devastating 2015 earthquake, Barpak remains a traditional Gurung village that gives visitors a glimpse of local life.
Leaving Barpak, the trek first passed through the village of Laprak before beginning a steep climb up stone steps towards the Gurkha village of Soti Khola. The landscape was dotted with blooming wild strawberries and views of the distant Ganesh and Siringi Himal peaks. After overnighting in Soti Khola, the trek continued to Kyoropani with its hot springs and Gurung culture.
The next leg of the journey took the trekkers over a 3600m high ridge to the Tamang village of Lokpa overlooking the Tum Valley. The scenery was stunning with terraced farms, traditional homes and smiling villagers along the way. After spending a night listening to folk songs in Lokpa, the trek descended through rhododendron forests to reach the Gurung village of Philim.
Entering the Sacred Tsum Valley
After Philim, the trail crossed the Budhi Gandaki river over the trail’s only suspension bridge to finally enter the mystical Tsum Valley.
The Tsum Valley, also known as the ‘Beyul Kyimolung’ or ‘sacred hidden valley’, is steeped in spirituality and home to the Chhumba people. The valley was described by Guru Rinpoche as a sanctum of happiness in the 8th century and pilgrims have flocked here for centuries. The Chhumbas practice Buddhism and follow a non-violent ‘Sagya’ lifestyle.
The first main village in Tsum is Chhokangparo, a collection of traditional stone and mud homes with alpine views. Further inland lies the artistic village of Chhule showcasing ancient cave dwellings and monasteries. The route then continues past Chhule Gompa and Chhuwang Gompa before crossing the Shiar Khola river over an iron bridge with colorful prayer flags to reach the remote village of Nile.
Nile is the last permanent village and offers stunning vistas of Chhula Himal and other high peaks. A steep climb from Nile leads to the Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in Tsum Valley belonging to the Kargyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. After soaking in the spiritual ambience, the return trek descends back to Chumling and Philim with their traditional architecture and practices.
Crossing Larkya La to Complete the Circular Route
From Philim, instead of retracing steps back through Tum Valley, the adventurers decided to complete the full Manaslu circuit by crossing the Larkya La pass. This high-altitude non-technical traverse would take them across into the famed Annapurna region.
After passing waterfalls and terraced farms, the trail entered birch forests and finally the alpine terrain surrounding the pass. Larkya La (17,770 ft) offers magnificent panoramas of Himchuli, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II as well as northwards into Tibet.
After a steep descent, the trail winds its way past meadows and waterfalls through traditional villages like Dharapani and Tal to eventually reach Annapurna’s tourist hub of Manang. At Manang, trekkers can either head west to Muktinath and Jomsom to complete the Annapurna Circuit or south back to Pokhara like the authors did.
Reflections on the Journey
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek takes intrepid trekkers into the hidden valleys and high passes of Nepal’s less crowded northern region. The natural beauty and cultural richness encountered along the way make this trek an unforgettable experience.
The chance to mingle with the Chhumba people of Tsum Valley and glimpse their ancient way of life is a highlight. Their devout Buddhist lifestyles and ‘Sagya’ philosophy is humbling to observe. The serene monasteries like the Mu Gompa and Chhuwang Gompa also provide spiritual oases along the route.
For the physically fit, the crossing of the Larkya La pass to connect Manaslu with the Annapurna Circuit is another achievement. While strenuous, the rewards are plentiful, from the sense of accomplishment to the awesome Himalayan vistas.
While increasing road construction is slowly opening up the region to modernization, much of Manaslu and Tsum Valley’s charm lies in its remote and unspoiled nature. Trekkers seeking to experience the magic of these areas should embark on the journey before the culture and landscapes change forever.
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek promises adventure, reflection and connection – making it one of the finest treks Nepal’s majestic Himalayas have to offer.
5 Key Questions about the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek
What is the best time of year to do the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek?
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when skies are clearer. Winters can be very cold while summers see heavy rain.
How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek?
The trek requires a moderate to high level of fitness. There are several high passes like Larkya La (5,100m) and lots of ascent/descent on uneven trails. Proper acclimatization and stamina are a must.
Do I need camping gear for this trek?
No, there are many teahouse lodges along the route so camping gear is not essential. However, quality trekking gear like boots, poles, layers and gloves are a must.
Is a guide necessary for this trek?
Having a guide is not mandatory but recommended. A guide helps navigate, shares insights about the culture and can aid in case of any issues. Solo trekking is possible for very experienced trekkers.
Do I need any permits?
Yes, you need a TIMS permit and also an ACAP permit for the Manaslu Conservation Area. Permits can be arranged via tour agencies or the ACAP offices in Kathmandu or Besisahar.
Final words
For adventure seekers looking to trek a less traversed route through remote Himalayan valleys and over high passes with incredible mountain vistas, the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek is an ideal choice. The cultural experiences and physical challenges promise memories to last a lifetime. However, trekkers must come prepared with sufficient fitness levels and gear to fully enjoy this strenuous but immensely rewarding Himalayan journey.
