How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal?
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek is considered one of the strenuous treks, requiring good physical fitness and endurance. The journey involves steep ascents, river crossings, and high-altitude trekking. The highest altitude gain at the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trip is at Larkya La Pass with an altitude of 5,106 m/16,751 ft. The path traverses through Larkya La Pass, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, Kang Guru, and many others. Due to its remote terrain, high altitude, and physically demanding trails, the trek can be moderately strenuous. It requires a good level of physical stamina, fitness and prior trekking experience to complete it. If you are a beginner too, you can complete it with proper preparation and determination.
The trek is strenuous due to the following factors:
- Length and Duration: The trek is 19 days long, requiring a daily walk of 7 to 8 hours. While walking regularly on a high-altitude, rugged terrain can make your muscles loose and fatigued.
- High Altitude: You will start your trek from 900 m and reach up to 5106 m of altitude in just 19 days. Due to the reduced oxygen level in the air, there might be a chance of altitude sickness.
- Basic Facilities: As already mentioned, you have to blend in the local lifestyle of people, if you are going for this trek. Some people might find it hard because of the basic accommodation, changing weather, and fewer amenities.
- Other: Many other factors can affect your difficulty during this trek, such as weather instability, remote terrain, isolation, etc.
These are just some variables that might affect the difficulty of the trek. Some treks might be very easy for some people, whereas the same might be very difficult. So, before trekking, you have to be physically fit, mentally stable to complete.
How to prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley?
This trekking to Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit is a strenuous trek that requires high physical endurance and mental resilience. You can prepare for the trek by doing cardio workouts like running, cycling, and stair climbing to build stamina. Strength training for leg muscles and core stability will help with steep ascents and long descents.
Since the trek lasts for 19 days, and the altitude varies constantly, it is also crucial to have rest days. Take acclimatization days in a beautiful village, Samagaun. If you want to stay longer at this attractive destination, you can take a more acclimatization day at Mu Gompa before ascending to a higher altitude.
This long Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek requires mental resilience as much as physical endurance. Staying 19 days at the bare minimum can challenge you mentally. So, practicing yoga and calming techniques can help further in making your journey easier.
What are the accommodation and other facilities available during the trek to Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit?
The Manaslu Region of Nepal is still quite unknown and hidden from the outside world. There are only a few people aware of this hidden gem as it has been restricted till the early 1990s. So, the teahouse there has not been that well developed. So, you have to adjust yourself to their unhindered lifestyle. The teahouses there do not have ample facilities. Like other treks, this trek will also provide you with twin beds. But as you ascend further, you will not have an attached bathroom. The toilets are outside the teahouse, so you have to use them it such a way. Hence, if you are planning for this trek, you have to brace yourself to blend in with the usual lifestyle of the Tsumba and Nubri people.
What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal?
As Manaslu is still considered one of the restricted regions, there are quite a few permits required during this trek. Below are the lists of permits required for the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Because of the restriction at the Tsum Valley, you need to take a Restricted Area Permit Pass issued by the Government of Nepal before the trek. The cost of the RAP varies season to season. From September to November, it would cost you 100 USD per person and an additional US$15 for each additional day. From December to August, it would cost you USD 75 per person and an additional US$ 10 for each additional day.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
As the trek to the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum starts from the Manaslu Conservation Area and ends at the Annapurna Conservation Area so you need an ACAP permit as well. The ACAP costs around 25 USD per person.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
As stated, Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley trek start from the Manaslu Conservation Area, so you need to have a Manaslu Area Conservation Permit that costs you around 25 USD (NPR 3000) per person.
What is the best time to go for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trekking in Nepal?
Like every trekking enthusiast, if you are planning for a trek to Nepal and searching recommendations, we suggest you go for the voyage to Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trekking, during the Spring and Autumn seasons. If you wish to trek during the Summer and Winter, that can also be possible, but you might face weather challenges on the way.
During the Autumn Season (September to November), the skies are clear with moderate temperatures, providing a stunning view of the mountains. This season is ideal for the Manaslu Circuit withTsum Valley Trek for cultural immersion and the best photographs.
During the Spring Season (March to May), the weather is quite pleasant with blooming rhododendrons welcoming you. This season is best for travel and nature lovers.
During the Winter Season (December to February), there are fewer crowds, but the climate gets colder as you ascend higher. There might be some snowfall on the way, but as slippery and challenging as the trail can be, it can also bring out the fun parts.
During the Summer/ Monsoon Season (June to August), we do not recommend it as the trails will be slippery due to rain and leech-infested. The rainy weather will limit your visibility. It is best to avoid if you are an inexperienced trekker.
How do you reach the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal?
The Manaslu Circuit trekking with Tsum Valley starts from Machhakhola, which is an 8 – 9 hour drive from Kathmandu via jeep or bus. After the completion of the trek, a jeep from Dharapani to Kathmandu takes around 10 hours to return.
Why Choose Trek to Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley?
The Manaslu Circuit along with the Tsum Valley trek is a remote and adventurous journey through Nepal’s Manaslu Conservation Area, offering breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal, and the Tibetan-influenced Tsum Valley. This trek is a perfect alternative to the crowded Annapurna and Everest regions, combining the cultural richness of the Tsum Valley with the high-altitude challenge of the Manaslu Circuit.
The trek crosses the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of the highest and most scenic Himalayan passes, and takes you through ancient Buddhist monasteries, yak pastures, and untouched Himalayan landscapes. This trek is a perfect combination of remote wilderness, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and high-altitude adventure. It is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path trek with stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and rich cultural experiences. If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding trek in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is a must-do!
