Side Trips in Manaslu Trek

Tara Rana
Updated on July 03, 2025

There's no doubt, when it comes to Manaslu region, it tends to win's every adventure seekers heart, who seek to explore something rugged and remote in the highlands, after all it is one of the best off beaten trails, in Nepal, where the pristineness, is still ait it's ancient era, and the culture are still celebrated on it's heritence way. When it comes to this region, the first and foremost thing that blows away in everyone's mind is the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek, and the untamed Tsum Valley Trek perfect for those seeking soltitude and something almighty than just the mountains.

The circuit that reaches the Larke Pass- 5106 meters, is itself a once-in-a-lifetime journey, that lets you unveil the mystic high passes, passing by the historic cultural villages, monasteries, gompas, shrines, deepest gorges to pristine lakes, with the befriend of the high mountains in every step. Any treks within the Manaslu region meander through the roaring Budhi Gandaki River, and gradually ascend via alpine valleys, rich Himalayan flora and fauna in the woodlands, and ascend to the panoramic mountain views. Well, that's why this trailhead, filled with awe-struck views and fascinating insight, but just more than mountains and cultures; there are several side trips that you can venture on, to enhance the journey even more, that remains like a hidden gem in the Himalayas.

From the deep gorges, to monasteries dating back thousands of years, to the glacial meadows, and the Tibetan plateau, of the Nepal-Tibet border, no matter whether you crave serenity, roller coaster adventure, or mysterious mosaic villages, the  Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek takes you on a deeper exploration of this restricted area. In this blog, we will take a deep insight into the fascinating best 15 side trips in the Manaslu region, which have existed for decades, so your journey becomes even more worthwhile, covering every highlighted aspect without missing out on anything corner. 

Best Manaslu Circuit Trek Side Trips: Top Must-Visit Points

There's no doubt that the Manaslu Circuit Trek is regarded as one of the top-notch wilderness adventures in Nepal, which not only attains the almighty high mountain pass but also demonstrates the rich Tibetan culture of Nubri and Bon communities. Even though it is such a fascinating journey to exist, itself, to make the expedition even more meaningful, by attaining other base camps, monasteries, and vantage top points, one can add additional days to the itinerary, so you can unveil some of the hidden gems, rather, than just following the basic standard route to Manaslu Circuit.

Hence, here are some of the best side trips along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route that you can add to your package, especially recommended for 2025 and 2026:

Serang Gompa (3100 m/10,281 ft)

Located at such a high elevation of 3100 meters, Sereng Gompa lies in the heart of Manaslu region, which is marked as a rich cultural Buddhist monastery residing in one most pristine Kyimoung Valley. Gonpo Tsten became the 1st ever lama to be associated here in this gompa with three sons, that is well known for their divine spiritual power, migrated from Eastern Tibet, one of his sons Nyime Cho Kyi Gyaltsen became the lama for the locals residing here, after he saved villagers from spiritual dangers, then, afterwards, Serang Gompa was established by Chokyi Gyaltsen. 

In the present day, this Serang Monastery is also considered as one of the rare Tibetan Buddhist centers that hosts meditations, educations, and prayers, hence serving as a spiritual cultural sanctuary for nuns (monks), and a visual and cultural retreat for visitors. 

The Serang Gompa is located within the Nubri Valley, which can be reached straight from Bihi village, with a long-duration hike of 6 to 7 hours, passing through several other notable villages like Kogpa and Tsak, which demands a bit strenous, steep hike. However, the marvelous transition of waterfalls, rivers, rolling hills, diverse landscapes, and the captivating views of mountains keep you engaged throughout the short yet meaningful adventurous hike, which itself is a journey. 

Historically built 500 years ago, Serang Gompa sets itself apart by its anciently made three-story rectangular structure, intricate carvings, and the colorful Buddhist thangkas, engraved with art, depicting mythological stories and deities as well. Right after you visit the monastery, you can feel the unmatched peaceful aura, where the monks are engaged in pujas and other spiritual rituals, the monks' chanting echoes throughout the territory, with the backdrop views of Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and the almighty Mount Manaslu itself, blending the beauty with distinct Tibetan culture.

If your itinerary collides with festivals and celebrations, like Losar (Tibetan New Year), Saga Dawa, Guru Rinpoche Day, Chotrul Duchen, or Annual Prayer Festivals, in between Spring and Autumn, you will get a holy new insight into rich cultural mosiac, where the traditions, and festive, thrives in the beauty of landscape here. Serang Gompa is one of the most ancient Buddhist monastery that resides in a mountainous area, over 3000 meters, within a restricted region, making it one of the best side trips of the Manaslu Trek, which you will visit during your expedition.

Facts

  • Highest Altitude: 3200 meters
  • Starting Point: Bihi Phedi
  • Ending Point: Bihi village or continue the route to Manaslu Circuit
  • Hiking Duration: 8-9 hours

Major Highlights of Serang Gompa

  • Participate in the daily rituals, offerings, chanting, meditation sessions, and engage in-depth learning and spiritual practices of monks, and get an insight into the unchanged Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle and their philosophy.
  • Walk past the remote sections, culturally rich villages like Bihi, Gongong, via lush green forested area, cascading waterfalls, roaring rivers, and get surrounded by the panorama of mountains where the magic of landscape blends with the spiritually rich cultures and traditions.
  • Get blessed by the Lama - notable monks, nuns with a unique enlightenment to the soul and spirits.
  • Glance at the Tibetan Buddhist architectural monastery that hosts three stories, whitely washed, and also get a chance to see a huge Buddhist statue in golden color, mystic mandalas, and the statue of other deities, and spin the prayer wheels, said to bring blessings and fortune.
  • Interact with the local monks-nuns, and attend the teachings of Buddha, with permission, and also, if you want, you can visit the children monks and contribute to their education.
  • Celebrate the festivals and rituals with locals and monks by engaging in dances (Cham), daily prayers, and lighting the butter lamp seeking blessings.

Pungyen Gompa (4019 m/13124 ft)

Pungyen Gompa is one of the religious side trips during the Manaslu Circuit Trek that sits high at the highest elevation of 4700 meters, which was historically built as an honor to the Buddhist Master - Lord Pungyen, who spread Buddhist teachings throughout this region, which is why the gompa is named after him.

Perched in the mountainous region, the trail to reach the Pungem Gompa includes a side trip from Samagaon that demands 5 to 6 hours of long duration covering 15 to 16 kilometers, an out-and-back route. The trailhead passes through the yak pastures beginning from Samagaon and slowly ascends to the alpine vegetation section and meanders along the glacier-fed Manaslu Glacier side by side.

While approaching the Pungen Gompa, you will also get to pass through a notable landmark and a fun-loving insight into local children's lives in as the route touches Shree Gaurishankar Basic School, where you can visit the educational site, located at 4000 meters. As you approach higher up the Pugyen Gompa, the surrounding mountain views such as Himalchuli, Peak 29, become more prominent, including the world's eighth highest peak - Mount Manaslu at 8163 meters, along with the rugged view of desert Tibetan-like landscapes. 

While visiting the Pungen Monastery, the multi-tiered roof of a typical style single-story building is constructed in a simple style, built with stone walls, blending perfectly with the rugged terrains in the background. Even though the monastery is simple and small, but holds a spiritual significance as it is dotted with the colorful fluttering prayer flags, and holds the statues of Budhhas, Guru Padmashava, and many other deities, serving as a meditative place for spiritual seekers.

Mostly, the Pungen Gompa is visited while acclimatizing at Sama Gaon, or en route, from Shyala village while approaching Samagaun, depending on one's itinerary, whatever the route, you undertake, the best time to visit this monastery remains Spring and Autumn, where the weather conditions and the festival celebrations, collides perfectly with eachother.

Facts

  • Highest elevation: 4500 meters to 
  • Starting Point: Sama Gaon
  • When: Accimatization Day at Sama Gaon or the Route from Shyala village to Sama Gaon
  • Ending Point: Sama Gaon
  • Hiking Duration: 8 to 9 hours (In and Out) - round off

Highlights

  • Meander through the remote, isolated villages, woodlands via rhododendron forests, and yak pastures before crossing the almighty Larke Pass, demonstrating a distinct view and letting you adopt a rising elevation
  • Experience the rich Tibetan culture and arts while gazing over colorful Buddhist prayer flags, distinct holy statues of deities including Buddha and Guru Padmashava, vibrant frescoes, and other Tibetan-style architecture
  • Engage in the meditations, and chantings with other rituals or other Buddhist teachings hosted daily
  • If the itinerary collides with the festive season, then thrive in the rich Tibetan celebrations like Mani Rimdu, where mask dances, music, and chantings are performed, providing a spiritual insight
  • Closer view of Ngadi Chuli, Himal Chuli, and many other glacier-fed valleys en route

Kal Tal: Death Lake (3600 m/11813 ft)

One of the hidden gems, a treasure Himalayan high-altitude fresh water lake, residing at an altitude of 3600 meters, Kal Tal is a treasure that is a less popular side trip in the Manaslu Trek. Covering about 23 hectares of land, this Kal Tal is also known as Death Lake lies on the top of Lungmang Hill, which reflects the towering mountains of Sringi Himal and Mount Manaslu, blending with the little glimpse of rhododendrons and fine pine trees, in the Spring season. 

Regarded as Kalchhuman Tal by local folks, it is a holy spiritual site, for the locals especially for the locals following the Buddhist Tibetan culture, where nearby there a eight joint stupas and the Kal Chokkang Gompa, where worship, chants of monks, and prayers are hosted. In every annual year, in Jestha May, here you can get a thriving celebration insight during full moon days, by burning junipers and hosting ritual dances, and prayers. 

The Kal Tal is visited on the 4th, 5th, or 6th day during the trek to Manaslu from Prok village, that demands about 16 kilometers of walking distance covering 5 to 6 hours, navigating via steep strenous trailhead starting from forested section of the blooming rhododendron forests along with the mesmerizing snowcapped peaks of Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli en route before reaching the Lake. The best time to visit Kal Tal tends to be during the peak seasons, when you can hike along with the vibrant wild flowers and the safest route, whereas reaching the lake, you will be rewarded with the alluring views of peaks reflecting like a mirror in the lake.

Facts

  • Highest Point: 3600 meters
  • Starting Point: Prok village
  • When it reaches: 5th or 6th Day (Acclimatizatin Day)
  • Ending Point: Prok village 
  • Hiking Duration: 4 to 6 hours (In and Out) - round off

Highlights

  • Thrive in the celebration of puja at Jestha - May, during the full moon day, where the wetland hosts boast cultures, spiritual mask dances, song playing, and prayers of monks
  • Visit the 8th joint stupas and the famous monastery of Kal Chhokang, and glance at the historical landmark worshiped as a sacred site by locals
  • Get surrounded by the unobstructed views of several mountains, including the Ganesh Himal, Peak 29, and Mt. Manaslu, which reflect beautifully in the crystal clear holy lake
  • Pass through the woodland of rhododendron, birch forest, gazing over the mountain goats, the elusive red panda, and the chirping sounds of wild birds
  • Walk through the dense forested section, through the less crowded trailhead, before reaching the wetland

Hinang Gompa (3100 m/10174 ft)

Perched at a height of 3100 meters, Hinang Gompa resides between Lihi and Sho Tibetan villages, which stands out being another culturally rich monastery of the Manaslu region, holding a deeply rooted religious side for locals. The best part is! one can even stay here for several days, where you can get a unique insight into the Buddhist practices of monks, their way of living, and the prayers they hold in the evening and morning. This monastery also serves as an educational sector and permanent housing for 40 young monks, where they are shaped up to become the head of the lama in the future - hence, you can get spiritually connected with children and the daily ancient rituals and practices.

To reach Hinang Gompa, the side trip begins with an ascent from the village of Lihi and enters the forest area, along the fascinating Hinang Khola and other ancient settlements of Bihi and Ghap, before finally reaching Namrung - the largest Gurung village of the Manaslu region. While you approach the Hinang Gompa, the alluring views of Himalchuli, Ngadichuli, Peak 29, and Mount Manaslu (8163 m) become more prominent and closer to your face, along the blue icy Hinang Glacier.

The trip to Hinang Gompa is the easiest and shortest side trip during the Manaslu Trek; however, it holds a rich cultural significance, where one can get a distinct Buddhist tradition, and the way the monks sustain themselves at such a high altitude and follow their daily practices. Located at such a high elevation, the view of the almighty Mount Himalchuli just behind the mountains is worth undertaking to gaze at.

Facts

  • Starting Point: Lihi village
  • Highest Altitude: 3100 meters
  • When to reach: Optional Extension to add
  • Ending Point: Lihi village
  • Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours round off

Highlights

  • Get a meaningful educational insight into monks' daily practices, livelihood, and learn about their daily life, for several days, if you want, as this monastery also serves as a basic accommodation to visitors - a perfect chance for culture explorers
  • Breathtaking 360 panorama views of Himalchuli peak, Ngadi Chuli, and many other surrounding snowcapped peaks are the prominent backdrop of the monastery
  • Engage in meditation and other spiritual rituals, enhancing the serenity and enriching yogic Tibetan knowledge
  • Walk past the blue icy Hinang Glacier en route, a marvelous transition from verdant forest to the alpine valleys, and a culturally dotted site

Himal Chuli Base Camp (4020 m/13194 ft)

Another notable side trip during the Manaslu Trek is marked by the almighty Himal Chuli Base Camp that stands tall at the height of 4020 meters, which is a hidden gem and remains unknown, unlike other base camps to exist here in Nepal. Nestled at such a high altitude, it cannot be reached without extending 1 more day; hence, you must add 1 more day to the itinerary, which is attained after visiting Hinang Gompa.

The side trip to the Himal Chuli Base Camp starts from Sama Gaon and passes by the glacier terrains, alpine valleys, and rugged terrains, and does the final ascent to the base camp, bringing you close to the legendary Himal Chuli - 7896 meters.

It is a side trip done while acclimatizing at Lho or Sama Gaon, depending on the itinerary and demands, 5 to 8 hours of walking distance that begins from entering the forested section decorated with colorful red rhododendrons, and gradually transitions into rugged terrains, and finally, you'll be come across the 360 degree unhindered views of Mount Himalchuli with other peaks like Buddha Himal, and Mt. Manaslu, fusions the beauty of highlands with a sense of accomplishment after marking a new height.

Facts

  • Starting Point: Samagoan
  • Highest Point: 4020 meters
  • Duration: 5 to 7 hours
  • Ending Point: Sama Gaon

Highlights

  • Feel the sense of achievement by reaching a new height of 4020 meters
  • Hike through, blooming rhododendron forest, glacier moraines, and the alpine valleys, and get surrounded by the panoramic 360-degree view of Himalchuli Peak - 7896 meters
  • Pass through the less frequented, less crowded trailhead and witness the serenity that the Manaslu region holds

Ribung Gompa (3400 m/11456 ft)

Perched at an elevation of 3400 meters, Ribung Gompa is one of the historic landmarks, a Buddhist monastery situated near Lho village, rewarding visitors with an eye-catching view of Mount Manaslu (8163 meters) and the entire village of Lho. The monastery of Ribung, engraved with the traditional ancient style Tibetan structure flanked by the colorful pryaer flags, mandals, thangka painting and the statue of deities, of big statue of Lord Buddha, where you can meditate, and gaze over the insight of monks (nuns) praying and engaging in the daily ritual spiritiual practices, making one of the culturally rich monastery of Manaslu region.

Ribung Monastery is the most popular gompa across the globe, even to foreigners, as the famous Hollywood movie - The Creator has featured this gompa, highlighting the Buddhist practices, and the monks' community signifying the spiritual heritage existing from centuries till date, making one of the best side trip of Manaslu Circuit Trek. This gompa hosts the vibrant celebrations and festivals where monks engage actively through chants, dances, and playing music in major festivals like Lhosar, Dumje Festival, and Mani Rimdu Festival, adding a vibrant spark to the isolated territory.

To reach Ribung Gompa, it includes a side hike from Lho village with an uphill walk of 30 to 45 minutes, covering 2 kilometers of walking distance through forested area, and a Tibetan dotted trail through mani walls, chortens, and attains the highest elevation of 11456 feet, showing the idyllic fish eye views of Himalchuli, Baudha peak, and Ngadi Chuli.

Trip Facts

  • Starting and Ending Point: Lho village
  • Highest Point: 3400 meters
  • Duration: Maximum 1 hour

Highlights

  • A short yet rewarding hike to the hilltop of Ribung Gompa, which showcases the marvelous transition from agricultural farms, yak herds, to the Tibetan dotted monastery 
  • Thrive in the ancient cultural celebrations in the festive Mani Rimdu and Lhosar Festival - Tibetan Calendar
  • Witness the boasting cham dance, festival music, monks' prayers, and chants if the festival collides with the itinerary
  • Gaze at the alluring mountain views like Ngadi Chuli, Baudha Peak, and many other surrounding snow-capped peaks

Birendra Lake (3692 m/12197 ft)

Perched at a height of over 3000 meters, a glacial Birendra Lake, which is one of the most popular pristine freshwater glacial lakes that holds a deep spiritual connection with the locals. Located, near Sama Gaon village, it is known as a must-do side trip during the Manaslu Trek, as it unveils the heavenly beauty of the mountains, including the world's eighth highest peak - Mt. Manaslu reflecting on the lake, that changes according to the season or the climatic conditions, however mainly flows on the green emrald color. 

This particular lake, also known as the Birendra Tal, is named by local folks after the Great King Birendra of Nepal, formed by the melting of a glacier fed by Manaslu, which is enchantingly surrounded by the almighty peaks and the fine line trees of red blooming rhododendrons and pines. It also acts as a mirthful acclimatization spot and side hike from Samagaon, that approximately take almost 2 hours, gaining an elevation of 128 meters. It is a trip that is usually done to achieve a rapid gain of altitude; however, it has its a name as one of the popular beautiful spots within the Manaslu region.

Trip Facts

  • Starting and Ending Point: Sama Gaon - acts as an acclimatization hike
  • Highest Point: 3690 meters
  • Duration: 2 hours

Highlights

  • Holy Emerald, like a turquoise lake that changes according to the season and weather conditions
  • High Altitude Glacial Lake formed straight from the glacier fed by the world's 8th highest peak - Mt. Manaslu
  • Breathtaking reflection of the mountains in the untamed lake with the surrounding peaks like Manaslu North, Manaslu - Killer Mountain, and Ngadi Chuli
  • Gaze at the snowy, frosty peaks just in the backdrop of thriving rhododendrons and pines
  • Safe way and best way to acclimatize before crossing the high pass of Larke La - 5106 m

Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m/15868 ft)

Residing at an altitude of 4800 meters Manaslu Base Camp sits, on the lap of one of the eight-thousanders to exist on this planet - Manaslu Mountain, also known as the Killer Mountain, it marks as one of the best highlighted side trips of the Manaslu Trek, that captivates not only hikers but the thrill seeker summitters, as it is also the starting point to summit this peak. 

The trail to Manaslu Base Camp is quite wild and strenous, as the route from Samagaon navigates through the diverse terrains from the ancient isolated valleys to rugged, steep lines and finally to the slippery section demanding approximately. 7 hours of round trip, which is almost 14 kilometers by distance in feet. However, the panorama view of Mt. Manaslu itself, with other mountains along the Manaslu Glacier sparkling brightly, makes you forget about the long duration hike. Nonetheless, it doesn't require any technical climbing, opening the gateway to everyone, and the reward becomes the enchanting surroundings with the gigantic peak of Naide Peak, Samdo Peak, Ganesh Himal stretching stunningly to other panoramic landscapes. 

Note: If you are opting for the Short Manaslu Trek, then you might not be able to reach the base camp, so make sure to extend your trek by adding one more day, including this side trip, if time fits you.

Trip Facts

  • Starting and Ending Points: Samagaon (acclimatization day)
  • Highest Point: 4800 meters
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
  • Grade: Strenous

Highlights

  • Reach the foothill of the almighty world's eighth-tallest peak of Manaslu - 8163 meters, and mark a new height 
  • Witness the marvelous transition from Tibetan villages, to remote, rugged landscape, and finally to the alpine meadows with 360-degree panoramic 360 degree views of mountains
  • Meet locals en route and Himalayan fauna like the Himalayan goat, snow leopards in the distance (if you are lucky), and get motivated by the insight of climbers all boasting about reaching the tip of the peak
  • Fish Eye, front view of several mountains, including Samdo Peak and Manaslu Glacier

Tibet Border - Lajung Glacier (5163 m/16946 ft)

Rising high at an elevation of 5163 meters, the Tibet Border is the last settlement, or you can say the last side trip during the Manaslu Trek, before crossing the almighty Larke Pass. Located near Samdo village, the Tibet Border, to reach here, the route navigates straight 8 to 9 hours of round trip (In and Out), through the uphill walk from alpine valleys and passing by rugged, rocky terrains towards the Nepal-Tibet Border. It is also known as one of the most significant ancient routes, as the trailhead was once a trading pathway used by Tibetan and Nepalese traders, reflecting the deep mutual relationship between Nepal and Tibet. 

The trip to the border is included while acclimatizing in Samdo, which one can add to their go-to side trip list by stretching 1 more day, that takes a high elevation landscape, near Lajung Glacier, featuring the rugged icy valleys, in the blue icy tone and moraine. It doesn't represent the other side of the country; however, it shows the distinct perspective of the whole Tibet border region, which demonstrates the rich Tibetan Buddhism influence, dotted with monasteries, prayer flags, on the other side. Whereas, from the Nepal-Tibet border, you can get the alluring eye-captivating close view of almighty peaks like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and many others. 

The best time to visit the Tibet border remains the same, Spring and Autumn, and with the special permits of the Manaslu region, one can attain it with ease, before crossing the high pass. 

Facts

  • Starting and Ending Point: Samdo village (Round-trip)
  • Highest Altitude: 5163 meters
  • Duration: 8 to 9 hours
  • Grade: Challenging

Highlights

  • Gaze at the distinct insight of the rugged landscape and glacier moraine from the Nepal-Tibet border
  • Witness the breathtaking views of mountains blending with the remote Tibetan plateau landscape, with the sparkling panorama of Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Shringi Himal
  • Once in a lifetime opportunity that can only be attained in this trekking expedition

Rui La Pass - Lajyang Bhanjyang (4998 m/16297 ft)

Rui La Pass is another side trip from Samdo village, which is easier to access and even highly preferred by the trekkers, as it marks the ancient trade border between Nepal - Tibet; however, in the Upper Mustang region, another restricted area of the land of the Himalayas. If luck favours you, then one can still witness the yak caravan trade in present days, from Nepal to Tibet and vice versa, if not, then the views of several almighty peaks, including Himalchuli, Samdo Ri Peak, Ngadi Chuli, and the legendary Mt. Manaslu itself, are engulfed by the rugged Tibetan plateau, showing the great transition from alpine meadows to glacial terrain and the Tibetan plateau like Mars while journeying from Samdo to Rui La Pass - 4998 meters, after 4 to 5 hours hike, will surely leave you speachless. 

The route simply begins from Samdo village itself and then follows the Dharamsala, crossing over the famous roaring Athahra Saya Khola, from where the slippery glacier section starts, and finally climbs to the U-shaped Rui La Pass - the ultimate destination. 

Facts

  • Starting & Ending Point: Samdo village
  • Highest Altitude: 4998 meters
  • Duration: 6-8 hours (Round Trip)
  • Grade: Moderate

Highlights

  • Alluring views of the gigantic peaks
  • Witness the U-shaped - "Rui La Pass", with the rugged landscape with the alpine meadows of the highlands panorama
  • Experience the ancient historical landmark, used as a trading route, in Nepal and Tibet

Samdo Ri - Samdo Peak (5177 m/1704 ft)

Nestled with Manaslu Conservation Area, Samdo Ri stands tall at the great height of 5177 meters (1704 feet), that lies at such a high altitude, demonstrate the best panorama view of the several mountains such as Himal Chuli, Kang Guru, and the Mount Manaslu itself, stretching it's vista to the rugged Tibetan barren landscape. 

To attain Samdo Ri, the hike begins from, Samdo village, which is a bit challenging to ascend, and requires some prior high elevation experience as well, as it passes through the diverse terrain from steep sections, to the prominence of approximately - 55 meters, giving a crisp climb to the summit, hence the total worth of each stride. After hassling for several hours, the rewarding views of ample peaks reward you, such as Himal Chuli (7894 m), Kang Guru (7643 m), and the legendary Manaslu Mountain, influx by the Tibetan Barren landscape. 

Facts

  • Starting and Ending Points: Samdo village
  • Highest Point: 5177 meters
  • Level: Strenous

Highlights

  • Strenous, yet rewarding side trips in the Manaslu region demonstrating the vista of almighty peaks at its best, fish eye form, including the legendary peaks like Kang Guru and Mount Manaslu
  • Perfect point to acclimate to the rising elevation, and challenge yourself by attaining the new height before crossing the Larke La
  • A less crowded trailhead, offering a crisp off-beaten adventure in Nepal

Ponkar Lake (3972 m/13356 ft)

Up in the highlands, there sits the high-altitude, enchanting glacial lake named Ponkar Lake, at an elevation of 3972 meters, close to the foothill of the almighty Larkya La Pass near Bhimthang. Situated at the top hill, it is another acclimatization side trip of the Manaslu region, which begins from Bimthang and demands 3 to 5 hours through the easiest trail round trip, but ofcourse, has some steep sections, but it won't be much of a problem, as your body gets used to rugged terrains, just make sure to pay cautious, meandering by the loose gravel. 

The best time to visit Ponkar Lake, in the months of Spring and Autumn, as you can see the clear reflection of the almighty peaks like Cheo Himal, Himalchuli, Larke Peak, and Ponkar Peak itself, with the surrounding blooming flowers, thriving enchantingly. To reach Ponkar lake, it covers the third fourth half of the total Manaslu Trek distance, passing through several notable villages like Gho, Tilije, and attaining during the side excursion from Bimthang, making it one of the remarkable points to climb at.

Facts: 

  • Duration: 3 to 5 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting and Ending Point: Bimthang
  • Highest Point: 3972 meters

These are the top best side trips in Manaslu Circuit Trek, that you can basically opt for, by adding to your hike; however, some of them remain included in the itinerary, whereas some are too lengthy for a round trip, requiring a 1-day addition to the package. Nonetheless, to venture out on this one in a kind wilderness adventure, you can book it with Destination Himalaya Treks with ease, for a smooth journey. You can either contact us via email - info@destinationhimalayatreks.com, or just WhatsApp or call us at +977 98510161814, for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable expedition at the best affordable price range. 

Tsum Valley Trek Side Trips 

Tsum Valley Trek, called the "Hidden Valley" of Nepal, gives a rare opportunity to experience pristine Buddhist culture and untouched Himalayan landscapes. The trek on its own is indeed quite fulfilling, but some carefully chosen mini-treks will turn a mere trekking holiday into a spiritual and cultural expedition that will never wear out in your memory. So these are the side treks you have to do as an addition to the Tsum Valley Trek, highly advisable in 2025 and 2026:

Mu Gompa(3700 m/12,139 ft)

Mu Gompa, one of the most sacred monasteries of the Tsum Valley. This cave hermitage was about 400 years old and was founded by Guru Rinpoche, who used it as a spiritual centre for the local people of Tsum. It is an entire Tibetan structure with white walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind against the backdrop of Ganesh Himal. Around 25 monks are engaged in performing daily prayers, meditation, and teachings of Buddhism. In the main hall are kept ancient scripts, thangka paintings, and golden Buddha statues.

Facts

  • Duration: 8-10 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting and Ending Point: Chhekampar village
  • Highest Altitude: 3700 meters

Highlights

  • Observe monks engaged in meditation and rituals
  • Explore sacred meditation caves
  • Participate in traditional Buddhist ceremonies
  • Panoramic views of the entire Tsum Valley

Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4200 m/13,7850 ft)

This base camp offers an elevated view of Ganesh I (7,422m) and Ganesh II (7118m). It originates at Mu Gompa Village and links up with an ancient pilgrims' route across the alpine grasslands and even runs through yak pastures. The trail enters the Shiar Khola valley, where it crosses moraines of the glacier and rocky ground. The final approach is a steep ascent over scree. Pilgrims have hung prayer flags and shrines in the base camp area.

Facts

  • Duration: 10-12 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting Point: Mu Gompa
  • Highest Point: 4200 meters

Highlights

  • Up-close images of the Ganesh Himal mountains
  • Alpine settings and cross-glacial moraines
  • Religious importance in the Hindu and Buddhist religions
  • Encounter blue sheep and Himalayan animals

Rachen Gompa (3240 m/10,6110 ft)

Rachen Gompa is one of the most culturally significant nunnery in the Himalayan region. It is the religious center of the Tibetan Buddhist nuns, who are mostly engaged in a religious life, practice, and meditation, with the monastery estimated to be about 300 years old. Approximately 40 nuns live in the nunnery complex and follow a strict discipline of prayers, meditation, and religious studies all through the day. In the main temple, one finds good murals which represent the life of Buddha, different mandala designs, and a single humongous prayer wheel. The trek to Rachen Gompa goes along the river valley of Shiar Khola, which extends away from Chhekampar, passing old settlements of Tsumba, whose old customs still exist.

Facts

  • Duration:6-7 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting and Ending Point: Chhekampar village
  • Highest Altitude: 3240 meters

Highlights

  • Experience authentic nunnery life
  • Participate in meditation sessions
  • Learn about female monastic traditions
  • Explore traditional Tibetan architecture

Milarepa's Cave (3450 m/11,301 ft)

This sacred cave, known locally as Milarepa Puk, is the same cave where the greatest yogi and poet of Tibet meditated through the years as he composed most of his great songs, later to be remembered as an inspiration to all practitioners of Buddhism all over the world. There are also allegedly hand and footprints of Milarepa, alongside age-old murals and prayer flags at the cave. From Chhekampar, the trek wanders through juniper forests and alpine meadows overlooking the Ganesh Himal.

Facts

  • Duration:5-6 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting and Ending Point: Chhekampar village
  • Highest Altitude: 3450 meters

Highlights

  • Visit a sacred pilgrimage site
  • See Milarepa's handprints and footprints
  • Experience profound spiritual energy
  • Learn about Tibet's greatest yogi

Chhokang Paro Monastery (3700 m/12,229 ft)

Chhokang Paro Monastery is another significant location of spirituality, and it is located near the upper Tsum Valley. It is demonstrative of how the traditional architecture of Tibet survived, and its priceless Buddhism-related artifacts were preserved in the centuries-old monastery. One of the most well-known relaxing meditation halls and quiet mountain scenery is found in this monastery. From Chhekampar, the trekking route offers some nice acclimatization opportunities while getting immersed in Buddhist culture.

Facts

  • Duration:7-8 hours of In and Out - Round Trip
  • Starting and Ending Point: Chhekampar village
  • Highest Altitude: 3700 meters

Highlights

  • Peaceful meditation environment
  • The traditional architecture of Tibetan monasteries
  • 360-degree Mountain views
  • Buddhist cultural immersion

 

 

 

 


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