The Tsum Valley lies on the northern fringe of the Manaslu region, tucked against the Nepal-Tibet border northeast of the main circuit trail. It was officially opened to trekkers in 2008, having been a restricted area long before the rest of Manaslu was even on the trekking map. The valley is a distinct Tibetan Buddhist world: its people, the Tsumba, maintain traditions, dialects, and religious practices that have remained largely intact partly because of the valley's remoteness and partly because of the spiritual authority of the monasteries that anchor each village. This is not a cultural backdrop to a trekking route. It is the actual point of the trip.
The 23-day combined itinerary links the main Manaslu Circuit with a detour into the Tsum Valley, adding approximately 7 to 8 extra days compared to the standard circuit. Trekkers follow the Budhi Gandaki valley north from Arughat as usual, but branch northeast at Philim into the Tsum Valley before rejoining the main trail and continuing to Samagon, Samdo, Larkya La Pass (5,106m), and Dharapani. The Tsum section visits Chhokang Paro, Nile, and the monasteries of Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa before returning to the main circuit route.
This combined trek requires four permits: the Manaslu RAP, a separate Tsum Valley RAP, the MCAP, and the ACAP. It is the most comprehensive Manaslu region experience available and worth every additional day of investment. For the standard Manaslu Circuit without the Tsum Valley extension, see our Manaslu Circuit Trek. For a standalone Tsum Valley focus, see our Tsum Valley Trek (16 days).
Duration: 23 days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu) | Max Altitude: 5,106m (Larkya La Pass) | Trek Grade: Strenuous — double restricted area, licensed guide mandatory | Best Season: October-November, March-May | Permits Required: Manaslu RAP, Tsum Valley RAP, MCAP, ACAP (4 permits)
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What is the Tsum Valley?
A hidden trans-Himalayan valley on the Nepal-Tibet border, northeast of Manaslu. One of the last intact Tibetan Buddhist sanctuaries accessible to trekkers. Opened to outsiders in 2008 and still a restricted area requiring a separate Tsum Valley permit.
What permits are needed?
Four permits: Manaslu RAP, separate Tsum Valley RAP, MCAP, and ACAP for the circuit section. A licensed guide is mandatory for both restricted areas. We arrange all permits as part of your package.
How long does this combined trek take?
23 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. The Tsum Valley detour adds approximately 7 to 8 days compared to the standard Manaslu Circuit.
Can I do just the Tsum Valley without the full circuit?
Yes. See our Tsum Valley Trek (16 days) for a focused Tsum Valley itinerary with a shorter overall duration.
Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
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