Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trekking Overview

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek is an ideal Himalayan journey that starts in the tropical hot Machhakhola in Nepal's Gorkha region and concludes in Dharapani over the arctic cold snow and frost-lined Larke-La pass (5,106 m). While walking, you will have the opportunity to see rocky mountains, lush rhododendron and alpine forests, traditional villages, terraced farms, and the unique Tibetan cultural people, particularly in Tsum Valley, Lho-gaon, Samagaon, and Samdo village. The people in these areas are influenced by Tibetan Buddhist culture and religion, and they have both traditionally and continue to depend on trade with Tibet.

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley is a less crowded trekking zone than the famous Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp Trek, but it is still a popular Himalayan destination due to its rich Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, Mane walls, colourful praying flags, angelic mountainous peaks, varied rugged terrain, and the circling trail of the world's 8th highest peak, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters). Larke-La Pass (5,106 m) is the highest and most challenging trekking pass, taking 8–10 hours on the frost and snow from Dharmasala to Bhimthang and providing an exciting experience for all trekkers and hikers.

The Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek are similarly rich in Himalayan flora and fauna, including the rare Himalayan Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Blue Sheep, Ghoral, Barking Deer, a variety of pheasants, and diverse vegetation. The main source of income for the residents on this side is the natural drug Himalayan Viagra, known as Yarshagumba, which is one of the most expensive medicines and is collected every year in May and June. Behind all of these scenes, the people and their openness to travellers are truly admirable.

Why join us in the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek?

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek is a unique off-the-beaten path in the Nepalese Himalayas of the world's 8^th highest peak, Mt. Manaslu. This trek offers the stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experience, preserved wilderness, and challenging terrain of Larke-La Pass (5,106 m). Behind the scenes, you can make your journey very memorable and fruitful if you join a good company and get a good guide and crew.  Believe us, we have an authorised trekking company based in Nepal. We are a team of experienced trekking and climbing guides who have already led many groups in this remote and rugged terrain. Our guides are very familiar with the hillside weather, geography, cultural peoples, history, traditions, spiritual sites, and lovely flora and fauna. If an unseen situation happens, they can take a decision immediately. So, we heartily request that you join us. We are sure you will be happy to finally join us.

The best seasons or months to trek in the Manaslu circuit

The best seasons or months to trek in Manaslu Circuit are generally considered to be during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to mid-December. Both seasons offer ideal conditions for trekking in terms of stable weather, distance visibility, and cultural experiences. In spring, the temperatures are moderate, there is blooming vegetation, generally clear skies, and excellent mountain views, and it is also the time for the Buddhist festival of Losar. In autumn, the weather is more stable than in the spring, with clear skies and excellent visibility of the mountains, Days are typically sunny and warm, while nights can be chilly at higher altitudes. It is also the time for major Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural richness to the trekking experience. The choice for trekking between spring and autumn often depends on personal preference regarding the scenery (blooming flowers in spring vs. clear skies in autumn) and the availability of time for travel.

The physical fitness of the Manaslu circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and high-altitude trek in Nepal, so it requires perfect physical fitness. Here are some key aspects of physical fitness you should focus on:

Cardiovascular endurance: like activities such as running, cycling, and long hours of walking, often on steep and rugged terrain, at least 2-3 months every day.

Leg strength: Strong legs are essential for steep ascents and descents on the rocky mountain trail for at least 6–8 hours every day.

Flexibility: training such as yoga, or simple stretching for muscle soreness.

Altitude fitness: The Manaslu circuit trek is generally the toughest. The Larke-La pass is 5,106 m, so if possible, it is better to take the altitude training; otherwise, focus on aerobic exercises to improve your body’s oxygen utilisation.

Endurance training: increase your stamina by hiking or walking, practice meditation to build mental resilience; and focus on your challenging high-altitude trail.

Before starting any fitness, it is better to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, and additionally, start your training at least 2-3 months earlier to build up your fitness gradually and minimise the risk of injury while trekking.