Tsum and Nubri Valley Trek, A Fusion of Tsum Valley Culture and Manaslu Adventure

Welcome to Kathmandu, the spiritual heart of Nepal. Upon arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will welcome you and help transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is for unwinding. In the evening, you can stroll the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.

While we finalize your restricted area permits and all paperwork, you will meet your guide for a final gear check. You will also receive a pre-trek briefing and information about the route conditions.

Use this day for last-minute purchases like an extra pair of socks or snacks. It is also recommended to exchange your currency. ATMs are non-existent on the trek, so ensure you have enough cash for personal expenses like hot showers.

The journey to the trailhead of Machha Khola takes you on a scenic drive through the mid-hills. You will follow the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki Rivers on winding roads. For the best views of the terraced farms and the deep valleys, we recommend choosing the right-side seat of the bus.

The trek officially begins today. The trail follows the river through a narrow gorge, crossing several suspension bridges before entering the Manaslu Conservation Area. Upon reaching Jagat, you will find a beautiful stone-paved village where your permits are officially recorded.

Keep your documents easily accessible in your daypack, and ensure all your papers are in place. The police check process here is very thorough with paperwork.

From Jagat, you branch away from the main circuit to enter the sacred Tsum Valley at Lokpa. This is a “Beyul,” a hidden land blessed by Buddhist masters. You walk along a steep and lush trail, relishing the sense of complete isolation.

Your journey takes you across the Shair Khola, which leads you into Chumling, in the lower Tsum Valley. Chumling offers spectacular views of the Ganesh Himal range. Visit the local monasteries to see ancient murals. The village architecture reflects deep Tibetan roots. Try the local salt butter tea, which is excellent for staying hydrated in the dry air.

Leaving Chumling behind, the valley widens into broad fields of buckwheat and barley as you hike to Chhokhangparo, your overnight destination. Here, you will start noticing the air thinning, making each step a struggle.

Chhokhangparo is a non-violent zone where no animals are slaughtered. You might see a Himalayan Tahr grazing peacefully nearby.

Today, you trek to Nile, the northernmost village in Tsum. After dropping your gear in the teahouse, you can hike to Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is the region's oldest monastery, situated near the Tibetan border. A further walk takes you to Dephudonma Gompa, often considered the birthplace of Tsum Buddhism.

Arriving at Mu Gompa before noon allows you to witness the monks' daily rituals. You can further take in the spiritual energy and enjoy panoramic views of the border peaks.

You retrace your steps toward the lower valley. This descent offers a different perspective of the landscape, revealing hidden waterfalls and peaks you may have missed. Using trekking poles is helpful for the steep downhill stone steps. Enjoy the warmer temperatures as you return to the lower altitudes of Chumling today.

Leaving Tsum, you rejoin the main Budhi Gandaki trail toward Deng. The cultural transition from Tsumba to Nubri traditions is fascinating. You will cross high bridges draped in colorful prayer flags.

This section features narrow cliff paths, so always stay on the mountain side when passing mule caravans for your safety.

Today’s trek includes an ascent through dense forests to Namrung. Watch the langur monkeys swing in the canopy as you head to the gateway to Upper Nubri. Namrung has some of the best teahouses in the region and offers clear views of Siringi Himal.

Prepare for another thorough inspection of your permits and documents at the village checkpost.

The trek to your next destination, Lho, is short and scenic. The journey passes through traditional Sho before reaching the village, which reveals the majestic double peak of Mount Manaslu.

At Lho, you can visit Ribung Gompa for a stunning sunset. For a sweet surprise, visit the local bakery here!

Your trek to Samagaon takes you through pine forests. This is the regional center and a hub for mountaineers. You will see massive mani walls and ancient chortens. Staying in this sprawling village provides a window into high-altitude life. The communal dining halls are usually heated by a central stove.

Today’s itinerary is dedicated to acclimatizing before the Larkya Phedi Trek. This is done to allow your lungs to adapt to the high-altitude conditions.

You will hike to Birendra Tal, a turquoise lake at the foot of the Manaslu glacier. If you feel strong, hike toward the Base Camp for a closer view of the climbing routes. Remember to drink plenty of water.

A gentle climb from Samagaon leads to Samdo, a village close to the Tibetan border. Here, the landscape becomes stark and alpine. Keep your hydration levels high to prevent altitude-related problems.

Samdo is known for its high-quality yak wool items. The border trade here often brings unique goods to the village.

The climb to Dharamsala is short but physically demanding due to the thin air. This is a basic high camp settlement. Eat a bowl of garlic soup, which locals recommend for altitude.

Rest early tonight, as you will start your climb of the Larkya La long before the sun rises.

Your day begins early today. With headlamps, you will take on the challenging Larkya La Pass crossing. Reaching the prayer flags at the summit provides a sense of pure triumph.

The descent toward Bimthang is equally tricky. Prepare for the steep and often slippery trails. Using microspikes is helpful if there is ice on the trail.

Today, you will descend through one of Nepal’s most beautiful forests. The trail transitions from alpine terrain to lush rhododendron forests.

Reaching Dharapani marks your entry into the Annapurna region. Enjoy a celebratory meal here, as you have completed the circuit.

You have come to the end of the 19-day Fusion of Tsum Valley Culture and Manaslu Adventure. The final journey takes you on a drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar. The jeep ride down the Marsyangdi valley is an adventure, passing massive waterfalls and deep gorges.

Once you reach the highway, the drive to Kathmandu is smoother. Enjoy your return to civilization after several days of a long trek. You can head to a spa for a rejuvenating massage, or head to the bars in Thamel for a celebratory cheers with your fellow trekkers.