Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek

What are the expectations of Manaslu Circuit with TSUM Valley trek?

The Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley is a truly unique adventure that offers spectacular scenery, cultural immersion, a sacred journey, and mental resilience.

The Manaslu with TSUM valley trek opened for the trekkers in 2008. In a short period, it gains a huge number of visitors. The 21-day offer magical views of mountains that include Ganesh, Siringi, Bouddha Himal and Mount Manaslu Itself.

It is an unspoiled and challenging trek with limited facilities compared to the EBC and Annapurna treks. Its sections are narrow, rocky, and steep as it approaches the Larkya La Pass.

You’ll also have a chance to learn about the lifestyle, cultures and traditions of the locals. Furthermore, exploring monasteries, gompas, and chortens is rewarding.

You may also encounter blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, musk deer and white leopards. Additionally, the vibrant rhododendron forest, a diverse range of flora &fauna, makes your journey more magical.

Manaslu and TSUM Valley trek Difficulty

The MANASLU circuit with TSUM Valley is a strenuous to moderate trek. It is not achievable for beginners without the right preparation. However, it requires a high level of fitness to conclude 3 weeks long journey.

The highest point of the trek is Larkya La Pass (5,100 m). The TSUM Valley itself has reached above 3,700 meters. Furthermore, there is a high chance of altitude sickness for the trekkers.

You have to walk around 6-7 hours daily, which may be tiresome for the trekkers. The trails are not properly manageable. It includes rugged terrains, rocky paths, steep ascents and descents. The weather is unpredictable and unstable even at the lower altitudes. The temperature ranges from -10 to -15 degrees at higher altitudes. Further, sudden storms may also affect our walking trails.

Compared to the EBC & Annapurna trek, the tea house provides you with minimal facilities. Further, there are limited choices of food. Additionally, there is limited electricity and internet.

Despite these obstacles, it is one of the remarkable and adventurous journeys. Remember, the trekker requires excellent physical fitness and mental toughness to accomplish the journey.

Planning & Preparation of the trek

The 21-day Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM Valley trek is a challenging but amazingly rewarding adventure. It requires proper planning & preparation. The planning includes: physically, mentally and logistically.

To make your journey achievable, one should start fitness training at least 9-10 weeks before the journey. You’d better get involved in the cardiovascular training – cycling, swimming & jogging – at least 4/5 times a week.

The strength training – squats, lunges and planks is equally significant. You may also take part in hiking training. It would be helpful during the journey.

You may also practice Yoga and meditation to improve focus, which leads you to a pleasant and peaceful hike. Further, these activities also strengthen your mind and offer a wide range of mental, physical, emotional, and social benefits.

Make sure to prepare all trekking gear and equipment before the commencement of the journey. Ensure your travel insurance allows you to travel freely with a peaceful and pleasant mind.

Altitude Sickness & Preventions

It is very common to face altitude sickness, when you hike above 2000-2500 meters. It is a condition when your body doesn’t properly adapt the oxygen at the higher elevations.

Headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, trouble sleeping are the common symptoms that trekker’s have to face during high-altitude treks. If not properly it led to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, we have 3 day acclimatization in the entire 21 days. It is necessary to adapt and adjust with the high altitude and changing environments.

Here are some preventive measures of altitude sickness.

Gradual ascents: During the trek, we’ll give priority to the gradual ascents.

Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated and drink at least 4-5 liters of water every day.

Medication –Consume the Diamox aka Acetazolamide 1-2 day prior the trek.

Alcohol & Tobacco – Avoid consuming alcohol & tobacco after the trip begins.

Last but not least, always listen to yourself, and never push yourself higher if your body not allowing.

Is this trek possible for the beginner’s?

The first question might have in your mind whether the beginners can do the Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM valley Trek. Of course, you can.

It is not like walking in the garden. It is possible. However, you need proper preparations. The trek crosses above 5,100 meters, which can be challenging for the trekkers. The trek runs for 21 days, which can be physically and mentally demanding. It is more isolated compared to other treks. Further, the route has limited health facilities.

Though it is not a technical climbing skill. You’d better be involved in sports activities and some other fitness training, at least 9-10 hours before the trip. You may also walk with a 6-7 kilogram backpack. Hiring an experienced guide is very important for your comfort and safety.

If you are a motivated beginner with normal fitness, the Manaslu circuit with the TSUM valley is doable. It is a scenic adventure, less crowded in a peaceful and serene environment.

Best time & Season

There are four seasons in Nepal – Spring, Autumn, Monsoon and Winter.

Spring (March-May) – The spring is one of the promising seasons for the Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM valley trek. During this time, the weather is clear and stable. You will be glad to see the rhododendrons and lush greenery in the lower altitudes. It is also a promising time for bird watching and enjoying the local festivals.

Autumn (Sep-Nov ) –   You’ll get the best experience while trekking in the autumn. All through the season, the skies are clear, dry trails and clear crystal views of Manaslu, Ganesh, Bouddha and other surrounding peaks.

You’ll find moderate weather during the day. There is no chance of landslides from October. The majority of trekkers choose autumn, but still peaceful than the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Winter (Dec-Feb) – Winter is not particularly worthwhile for the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley trek. Throughout this time, there has been heavy cold everywhere. The high passes are blocked by the heavy snowfall.

This season is rewarding for the highly experienced trekkers. The snow-covered mountains and clear skies offer magnificent views.

Monsoon ( June to August) –  Trekking in Manaslu and TSUM valley is generally not recommended in the monsoon season. During this time, there is heavy rainfall, cloud cover, and poor visibility.

There are high chances of landslides, floods and mudflows from the upper valley. Further, the levels of the river increase and become impassable. This season is unsafe and sore trekking conditions. During this time, there are less crowded compared to other seasons.

Availability of Food & Meals

When you are in Kathmandu, you’ll have delightful and delicious cuisine while staying in a 3-star hotel. During the trek, we’ll provide you with 3 courses of meals a day – breakfast, lunch and dinner – along with hot beverages.

While options are limited compared to the luxurious trek – Annapurna and Everest, you can still have fresh, prepared meals from us.

While having breakfast, you may have several options. It includes: Tibetan Bread, Chapatti, Omelettes, Boiled Eggs, Porridge, cornflakes, and Muesli.

We’ll provide you with high-nutrient and protein-rich food – Dal, Bhat, Tarkari aka Rice, Lentils & Vegetables for dinner. Along with you may enjoy fried rice, Mo: Mo, Spaghetti, Pasta, and Thupka.

There are several options to offer in drinks: tea (milk, black, lemon), fruit juice, coffee, and local chang (millet beer).

Accommodations

While staying in Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a 3-star hotel with a bunch of facilities. After starting the trek, we will mostly stay in a tea house, local lodges and homestays. It is not as modest as the Annapurna and Everest regions

We’ll have twin sharing rooms along with wooden beds, a mattress, a pillow and blankets. There are no attached bathrooms even in the lower regions. There are communal dining areas and no room services. It is quite cheap. The price ranges from 5 to 15 USD per night.

When you are in remote regions, especially in the TSUM valley, you have to stay with the local families. You’ll have a common room to sleep with a mattress and thick blankets.

You’ll get an authentic cultural experience while staying with the local family.

Necessities of Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is not an option; it is essential when you are hiking above 5,000 meters or going on a long day’s journey.

The Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM valley trek reaches above 5100 meters with less medical facilities. If you suffer from altitude sickness, injury or any kind of accident, it will cover all your medical expenses.

The Nepalese government and trekking agencies also demand travel insurance with trekkers when you are hiking above 3,500 meters. Further, the prohibited area of Manaslu and TSUM is more complicated than other trekking regions.

It is also helpful if your trip is cancelled due to bad weather, political unrest or any other unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, it also protects your personal belongings and manages other necessary stuff.

Permits & Consent

You need a few permits for the Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM valley trek.  It includes Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, TSUM Valley Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Manaslu  – This permit is necessary from Jagat to Samagonn. It costs around $100 per person for first 7 days (Sept-Nov), and $ 75 (Dec-Aug). After the first seven days,  you have to pay 15 USD per day.

Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – TSUM valley – This permit is necessary to enter in the TSUM valley. It costs around 40 per person for a week (Sept-Nov) and 30 per person/week (Dec–Aug). The extension charge is $7 per day after a week.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) – This permit is mandatory to enter in the Manaslu Circuit trek route. It costs $30 per head.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) –This permit is necessary from Dharapani till you exit ACAP in Besisahar. It also costs USD 30 per person.

You can easily obtain these permits from Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu. Remember, TIMS card is essential but not mandatory.

Extra Expenses during the trek

After purchasing the tour package from Morning Star Treks it includes almost everything that you need during the journey. We are a fully supported trek package. There are a few expenses that trekkers will cover their own.

During the Manaslu Circuit with the TSUM Valley trek, you should prepare to pay for the hot shower, gadget charging and WI-FI. In the lower valley, it may be free. However, in the remote and Upper valley, you are liable to pay.

We will not cover any extra expenses for drinks or any food items not listed in the itinerary.

Transportation and Communication Facilities

We Morning Star Treks always fulfill the needs and demand of our valuable clients. During the Manaslu and TSUM valley journey, all road transportation will take care by our company. After arriving in Kathmandu, our company employee will receive you at the exit gate. He will take you to the reserved 3-4 star hotel in a private vehicle (car, jeep or van).

For the journey from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and back from Dharapani to Kathmandu, we will share a bus or jeep depends on the size of our trek members.

We’ll provide you free SIM card (NTC/NCELL) for using data while you trek. However, you need to return after the journey is over.

Differences: Private vs. Group Trek

Selecting between Private vs. Group trek depends on your choice, preferences and priorities.

The Private treks are more customized and offer flexibility in terms of itinerary, dates and pace. It is a bit expensive, but you have your personal guide and porters. It is generally costlier compared to a group trek. It is also ideal for the couple, family and friends.

Similarly, Group Trek is less costly and affordable than a private tour. The itinerary will be fixed. Usually, you have 15-16 members in a single group. It has limited customisation and flexibility.

During the trek, you may also share your experiences with the fellow trekkers. The guides or the team leader is the decision maker in the group trek.

Private Trek : Best in terms of freedom, flexibility but high cost

Group Trek : Less costly but having less freedom and flexibility