Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek - 20 days

Best time for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Every season has its own uniqueness and scenery for trekkers to offer. Spring and Autumn are considered one of the most preferable and loved seasons by trekkers for any type of trekking expedition. These peak seasons not only ensure safety but also reward you with stunning views throughout the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek.

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

• As known as the blooming months of the year. During the Spring season, blooming pines and rhododendrons thrive beautifully adding pink and red colors to the landscapes.
• The most challenging section of this trek - Larkya La becomes easy to cross. Thinking how? Well, the snow trails become clear by melting from the increased sunlight in the daytime. That allows us to cross the difficult route in the easiest way possible.
• The perfect blend of climate and weather brings out the clear visibility of mountains without being foggy making our Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek worth the long hour hike.
• The warm temperature blending perfectly with the climate helps us to ascend without being all sweaty and worn off by continuous trekking. 

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

• Embarking on the journey to Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley in Autumn not only brings out the clear views of the mountains. But also, allows you to hike on the trail full of festive vibes. The major festivals of Nepal fall in the middle of October. It gives you a perfect opportunity to learn something about Nepal’s big festivals and trek the route happily with the festival mood. 
• Another best part about this period is; as it falls just right after the monsoon it allows us to hike on this trail without panicking about heavy snowfalls/rainfalls. 
• Just like Spring, it brings out the best clear skies that show us the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks without being bothered by fogginess. 

Difficulty Level of Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

As Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek is a journey where we must cover two expeditions in one single journey, it falls under the category of moderately challenging to strenuous trek. The trail has numerous ups and downhill through rugged terrains and rocky sections that would probably tremble your feet after a daily hike of 6-7 hours hike each day.

One of the most difficult sections comes while we ascend up to the Larkya La through sloppy/snowy trails. The risk of altitude sickness is quite expected as we cross the height of 5000 meters. However, that wouldn’t be a big deal as we have set two acclimatization days, so we can gradually adopt the rising altitude.

Apart from that, the main thing that we must be concerned about is being mentally prepared. Why? Well, as we have already mentioned we are navigating through the remote areas throughout the 20 straight days. Although, it might sound basic; if you are a beginner then, accommodating tea houses with limited amenities would be challenging.

Nonetheless, this Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is tailored by pro expert teams so, anyone with even basic level fitness can complete this trek without facing any difficulties while ascending to such high altitudes. With proper gear and a planned package, this trip can easily be completed without any fuss.

Preparation for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Well, we all are familiar with how certain risks are circulating in the mountains. Trekking in such areas with limited amenities is not a joke. However, if some things are considered beforehand and we become well prepared for the trek, then navigating to high altitudes will be easier for sure. To be prepared for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley, here are some of the things to consider.

• Mental Preparation: First and foremost, being mentally prepared is one of the most vital parts of any trekking/climbing expedition. As we are spending more than a week in remote areas with limited infrastructure. It might be challenging to adjust to a new environment especially if you are a beginner. Just keep within your mindset that we are here for exploration, for something new out of a luxurious world. Just with this mindset, your trekking to Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley would be more easier and enjoyable at the same time.
• Physical fitness: As much as it sounds obvious and too basic. Even if you are a pro trekker and have been to longer expeditions before. To prepare yourself, before 1 month or at least 2 weeks is necessarily important. Just engage in some kind of physical activity like hiking for 3-4 hours, walk slowly on a treadmill or you can just do up and down in the staircase to build up your stamina.
• Medical Consideration: Please pay 100% attention to your health care. Consult with someone professional expert and get some guidance on how your current health situation is. So, we can play and be prepared accordingly. Although our professional guides carry the basic medical kit, make sure to carry your daily essential medicines.
• Balanced Diet: Balanced nutritious foods may sound like an obvious basic thing to consider throughout any trek. It would be the best thing if you manage your eating habits filled with nutritious meals some days before the trip begins as this trek tends to burn more calories than regular days. So, plan your meals accordingly that suit your body and will help you to have good strength without compromising your go-to meals

Meals during the trek 

As we march to the Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley Trek at higher altitudes each day. We must take care of our diet and fill up our bodies with nutritious food. This region serves one of the top-notch quality foods that cater the taste of every individuals. From local, Indian, and Asian cuisines to Western and continental cuisines, this route has everything that you are looking for. So, that you don’t have to compromise your dietary food and taste as well. 

Throughout this trek, we provide meals; Breakfast Lunch, and Dinner you can choose whatever you prefer from the menu. The variety options menu will be provided to you, from here you can choose your favorite foods and they will be cooked freshly.

Here are some of the options provided by guest houses:

Breakfast: Tibetan loaves of bread made out of wheat, and flour, served with eggs and curry; French toast with butter, jam, and omelets, any kind of eggs, Oatmeals, porridge, pancakes, muesli, granola (in some places), Chapati (Indian bread), any kind of soups veg/non-veg, Hot beverages like coffee, Tibetan tea, ginger tea, milk tea and even green tea.

Lunch: For lunch, mainly Dal bhat rice and lentils served with side curry, Spinach, and some kind of pickle is mostly preferred by trekkers as it is filled with nutrition. The best part is! you can refill it as much as you can. Other options are; Pizza, burgers, sandwiches, noodles, ramen, spring rolls, momo, macaroni, pasta, any type of salad (simple ones), macaroni, Thukpa (soup with flour noodles)

Dinner: For dinner, the options are the same just like lunches. Just order anything that you like from the menu and dine in the dining hall as it is much cozy and warm there. 

Note: Please note down that; if you are lactose intolerant and are allergic to some ingredients. Then, inform our guide beforehand so he will tell the kitchen chefs to cook the food accordingly. 

Accommodation during the Tsum Valley Trekking

Throughout this trek, you’ll be accommodated at the best tea house available in every section of the trip. The lodges are quite basic and simple as it is run by none other than the locals themselves. However, you don’t have to worry about the rooms, they are well-maintained and hygienic. 

Well, the first section of our trek is within the Tsum Valley. As mentioned the rooms are basic yet comfortable enough. Most of the rooms are made out of the woods in an antique style (old village style) but are cozy and well enough. Rooms might be a little cold, for that please note down to sit at the dining area.

This area is warm where the organic hitting pots are always there 24/7 made up to warm up the area and to heat water as well. You will get a twin bedroom here along with comfortable pillows, and warm blankets. It is the most luxurious item that you could get in such a remote area. 

After we descend to Deng, we reach the area of the Manaslu circuit. Here, the lodges are quite well modified and developed than the previous days. The amenities are quite luxurious as compared to Tsum but the rooms are the same with twin beds available. If you have made the booking earlier, then the single beds can be manageable within this area.

What type of hot showers/ toilets/ washrooms to expect?

In lower sections, you can easily get an attached washroom in a room. While moving to the upper parts, the toilets are outside the rooms (common washroom). However, it won’t be much problem as the lodges are limited in the Manaslu region. 

For the hot showers, you must pay an extra $3-$5 for a hot bucket of water and must inform beforehand. So, it can be well-manageable without taking much time.  

Electric sockets and Wifi facilities

Electric sockets inside the rooms are not available in the room in some sections. To charge up your phone, you must go to the dining area and charge up your battery. The best thing you can do is carry a power bank to recharge the battery. So, that you don't have to be in queue just to recharge your battery health. 

For the Wifi; in the lower region, you can get easily access to the internet connectivity even in the rooms. But, as we ascend higher the internet can only connect in the dining area. So what can we do? Well, the best thing, is to buy a Nepali SIM Card in Kathmandu (Ncell or Ntc) make sure to buy one of these two. The hotspot might not work due to low network connectivity so, the only best we can do is buy a sim card before the trip. 

Tips for Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek

• Always carry a power bank and solar batteries as in the higher regions, there is no electric plug available in the room and lodges charge you $2- $5 to plug in your phone for the charging.
• Buy a Ncell or NTC SIM card before the trip starts.
• Please make your travel insurance documents that cover all your theft, bills, and medical evacuation over the altitude of 4000 m.
• Make sure to carry your daily medicines as medicals are not available in remote areas.
• Bring cash with you, estimating the additional expenses you might incur during the trek, as ATM services are not available in remote areas.
• Pack only essential items that are necessary for this trek. Don’t overpack the trekking bag as it becomes quite hectic while ascending.
• Even if you hire a porter, carry a small bag to hold your essential gadgets and other basic items, such as a water bottle, charger, phone, headlamp, basic first aid kit (for minor injuries), etc.
• Carry water purification tablets to purify the water provided by the lodges.

Packing List for Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are no specific requirements regarding the packing list, but some of the essentials for sure make your trek quite easy to complete. As the amenities are limited in this route. It would be a great idea to carry everything in your backpack. Here are some of the lists that are a must to carry for this trekking:

• Down jacket and Tshirt with a fleece inside
• Hiking boots/ Trekking shoes (it is a must)
• Crampons (as we must pass through some of the snowy trails in high passes)
• Warm shocks, hats, gloves, and jacket 
• 2 trekking poles/sticks
• Dry fit t-shirts and pants
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen (to protect from ultralight)
• Headlamp or a simple light
• Purifying water tablets
• Basic medical kit (also carried by guide)
• Sleeping bags (if allergic to harsh coldness; provided by us)
• Personal medicines/ daily medications

Note: We can provide you sleeping bag (if you don't have one throughout the trek. Duffle bag, tshirt, cap will be provided as a complimentary.

Travel Insurance 

As this trip ascends to an altitude of more than 5000 meters, Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. Although, our beloved clients haven’t had any such unfortunate accidents. But, we just want to make sure that you are safe and if anything happens then, there won’t be much big issue for you. 

Just please make sure that your insurance policy covers all the theft, basic medical injuries, accidents, and helicopter evacuation over 4000 m. It is always better to do your travel insurance within your hometown. Once, you finalize your insurance send all your insurance information, documents, and a policy that will help us to manage helicopter evacuation if any unfortunate circumstances occur during the trek. 

Safe Booking Procedure 

To confirm your bookings for this trek to Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley we require only 10% of the advance payment to book your domestic flight tickets and accommodations. For the payment, you can directly pay through our website or simply bank transfer the advance payment. After your booking is done, please send us your passport, 2 passport-sized photos, flight details, and also travel insurance. For the remaining payments, you can do it after arriving here in Nepal via card, debit card, credit card, PayPal, Cash, Western Union, or whatever you prefer. For extra details please mail info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com or WhatsApp us at +977 9851016814.