Tsum Valley Trek (GHT)

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Tour Duration:  Approx. 8 hours

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a royal historical complex filled with temples, palaces, and shrines from the 15th century. Highlights include Kumari Ghar (the home of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, an architectural marvel built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa

Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple

Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Altitude above sea level: 900 m/2,952 ft. (Macha Khola)

Driving duration: 9–10 hrs. Approx. 

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your adventure early in the morning with a private vehicle journey from Kathmandu, heading west along the picturesque Kathmandu–Pokhara Highway. This full-day drive takes you through charming mountain villages, terraced rice fields, and lush green hillsides, offering stunning views of rural Nepal.

You’ll veer north at Dhading to reach Arughat Bazaar, following the Budi Gandaki River upstream toward Macha Khola, a remote village in the Manaslu trekking region. Although the final stretch of the road gets rough and dusty, the journey rewards you with dramatic landscapes and occasional glimpses of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal ranges — perfect for landscape photography and cultural immersion.

This scenic drive is a visual feast and the perfect start to your Manaslu Circuit Trek or any off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.

Altitude above sea level: 1,440 m/4,724ft. Jagat

Hiking duration: 6-7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Machha Khola , the trail winds through river gorges and forested hills, following the Budi Gandaki River. You’ll pass Khorlabesi (970 m / 3,182 ft.) with its small natural hot spring, then cross ridges and suspension bridges toward Dobhan (1,070 m / 3,510 ft.).

The path continues through Yaru Khola and Tharo Bharyang (1,190 m / 3,904 ft.), featuring stone staircases and river crossings. Finally, after a scenic ridge climb, you’ll reach Jagat, the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

A diverse trekking day with hot springs, river valleys, and traditional Himalayan villages.

Altitude above sea level: 2,240 m / 7,349 ft. – Lokpa

Hiking duration: Approximately 6 hours (17.5 km / 10.89 mi)

Ascent: 890 m / 2,923 ft.

Descent: 286 m / 938 ft.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Your trek begins with a permit check at the Jagat police post, after which you ascend a rocky ridge toward Salleri. From there, the trail descends to Sirdibas, gradually opening into a wider valley as you approach Ghatta Khola.

You’ll continue along the riverbed, crossing a suspension bridge to reach Philim, a large and vibrant Gurung village. A gentle uphill climb then brings you to Ekle Bhatti, where the trail divides: one path leads toward Manaslu, while the other takes you into the Tsum Valley.

Heading north, you arrive at Lokpa, the first village of the remote and mystical Tsum Valley, nestled among dense pine forests and surrounded by serene mountain scenery.

Altitude above sea level: 2,386 m / 7,828 ft. – Chumling

Hiking duration: Approximately 4–5 hours (13.3 km / 8.27 mi)

Ascent: 502 m / 1,647 ft.

Descent: 220 m / 722 ft.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Lokpa, you’ll descend into the river valley before beginning a gradual climb toward Gumling. The trail winds through a peaceful forest, with no villages or tea houses along the way.

After several ups and downs, you’ll cross a suspension bridge, where the trail splits: one path leads to Ripchet, while the other takes you to Chumling. Follow the Chumling route, passing a small mani wall before arriving at the village.

Chumling greets you with quiet charm, a handful of tea houses, and your first authentic glimpse of life in the remote Tsum Valley.

Altitude above sea level: 3,031 m / 9,944 ft. – Chhokang Paro

Hiking duration: Approximately 5–6 hours (10.6 km / 6.62 mi)

Ascent: 645 m / 2,116 ft.

Descent: 180 m / 594 ft.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, this day of trekking is considered challenging due to the long uphill stretches. The trail begins by crossing a suspension bridge over the Sarpu Khola (river), followed by a continuous and sometimes steep climb toward Gho village. From Gho, it takes a couple more hours of uphill hiking to reach the flat plateau where the twin villages of Chhokang Paro are situated.

Along the way, you’ll pass through dense pine and rhododendron forests as well as cultivated farmlands dotted with traditional Tibetan-style houses. The trek also offers spectacular views of the Ganesh Himal range and Shringi Himal throughout the day.

Altitude above sea level: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft. – Mu Gompa
Hiking duration: Approximately 3 hours (7 km / 4.3 mi)
Ascent: 355 m / 1,165 ft.
Descent: 669 m / 2,195 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, follow the trail up to Mu Gompa and visit the monastery. Mu Gompa was established by Drupa Rinpoche, a Bhutanese lama who meditated in nearby caves before the monastery was founded. Situated at 3,700 m and surrounded by high mountains, it is one of the most important spiritual sites in the Tsum Valley. After exploring the monastery, descend to Nile for lunch, then continue down to Chhokang Paro in the afternoon. The local nunnery here is well worth visiting for its beautiful Buddhist thangka murals.

Altitude above sea level: 2,240 m / 7,349 ft. -Lhokpa
Hiking duration: 6–7 hours (13 km / 8 mi)
Descent: 791 m / 2,596 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you retrace the main trail out of the Tsum Valley. The route winds through narrow river gorges and dense pine and rhododendron forests. You pass the traditional villages of Gho and the Domje area before continuing toward Lokpa. Early in the trek, you enjoy clear views of the Ganesh Himal range. Lokpa, set between the Budi Gandaki and Siyar Khola rivers, marks the entry and exit point of the restricted Tsum Valley region.

Altitude above sea level: 2,100 m / 6,890 ft.- Ghap
Hiking duration: Approximately 7 hours (14 km / 8.7 mi)
Ascent: 600 m / 1,969 ft.
Descent: 750 m / 2,461 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you descend steeply from Lokpa to cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge, then climb through a narrow gorge. The trail passes through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, crossing several streams and the Serang Khola. Some sections are steep, rocky, and slippery, requiring careful footing. You rejoin the main Manaslu Circuit trail at Deng, and as you continue toward Ghap, you enjoy impressive views of Sringi Himal.

Altitude above sea level: 3,180 m / 10,433 ft.-Lho
Hiking duration: Approximately 7–8 hours (15 km / 9.3 mi)
Ascent: 1,015 m / 3,330 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River and climbs steeply through dense forests of blue pine, oak, and rhododendron. After passing Lhi village, the path becomes a vertical ascent. You pass through key villages, including Namrung (a checkpoint), Lihi, and Sho. From Namrung onward, the air grows crisper, and spectacular mountain views emerge. Lho village offers breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu’s twin summits (8,163 m) and nearby peaks such as Syaula Himal and Ganesh Himal.

Altitude above sea level: 3,450 m / 11,319 ft. – Samagaon
Hiking duration: Approximately 3–4 hours (8 km / 5 mi)
Ascent: 350 m / 1,145 ft.
Descent: 45 m / 148 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trail is well-marked and mostly straightforward, rising from forested areas into open, high-alpine yak pastures. You pass through Shyala village, which offers a 360-degree panorama of Himal Chuli, Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli), and the Manaslu massif. As you near Samagaon, the largest and most important village in the Nubri Valley with strong Tibetan cultural influence, views of Mount Manaslu become even more dramatic. Trekkers usually spend the night in Samagaon and often take an acclimatization hike the next day, such as to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp.

Altitude above sea level: 3,450 m / 11,319 ft. – Samgoan
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is an essential acclimatization day in Samagaon. Start your morning with a warm breakfast at the tea house. You can choose to rest and relax or explore the surrounding area.

For active trekkers, there are exciting day hike options. One hike leads to a small hill near Sama village, offering breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.

Discover thousands of mani stones etched with Buddhist prayers and meet Sherpa women dressed in traditional clothing and jewelry. You may also visit the ancient Pungyen Gompa monastery. From the ridge, enjoy a panoramic view of the glacier.

Alternatively, take a scenic walk toward Manaslu Base Camp. Along the way, pass the stunning and frozen Birendra Lake. Whichever option you choose, the day helps your body adjust to higher altitude. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and immerse yourself in Sherpa culture.

Altitude above sea level: 3,860 m / 12,660 ft. – Samdo
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, (7 km / 4.3 mi)
Ascent: 390 m / 1,280 ft.
Descent: 50 m / 164 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your scenic trek to Samdo. Descend towards the Budhi Gandaki River and follow the trail. Cross a bridge over a side stream and spot countless mani walls.

As the valley opens up, stunning mountain views come into sight. Marvel at Manaslu North, Nike Peak, and the majestic Samdo Peak. This section of the trail nears the Tibetan border, offering alpine charm. Along the way, mountain goats and grazing yaks might appear.

Continue along a gentle ridge lined with juniper and birch forests. You’ll reach Kermo Kharka, a peaceful spot with stone herder huts. From here, descend to the Budhi Gandaki and cross a wooden bridge.

Then ascend steeply onto a cliff nestled between river confluences. Pass through a stone arch and continue onward to the village of Samdo. Enjoy the alpine beauty and the tranquil atmosphere of this high-altitude settlement.

Altitude above sea level: 3,860 m / 12,660 ft.-Samdo
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is an important acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the high altitude.

You may choose to rest in Samdo or explore the surrounding trails.

For adventure seekers, hike toward the Gya La Pass (5,300 m / 17,388 ft), a traditional trade route to Tibet. This trail offers incredible views of Manaslu and the Tibetan plateau.

Alternatively, walk up the valley behind Samdo to a lesser-used trade route. Enjoy panoramic views of Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkya Peak, Cheo, and Kang Guru.

Along the way, pass several seasonal yak herder shelters known as doksas. Keep your eyes peeled for Himalayan birds such as the Lophophorus, Lammergeyer, and Himalayan Griffin.

Altitude above sea level: 4,460 m / 14,632 ft, Larkya Phedi
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, (5 km / 3.1 mi)
Ascent: 640 m / 2,100 ft.
Descent: 40 m / 131 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your short but scenic trek to Larkya Phedi.

First, pass the seasonal Tibetan market known as Larke Bazaar. Then descend toward the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. From here, ascend steadily, crossing two glacial streams along the way. Enjoy spectacular views of the Larkya Glacier as you hike.

Next, follow the trail through the peaceful Salka Khola Valley. Ascend further to reach Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi. Along the route, admire Samdo Peak towering behind you. To your left, spot the Manaslu summit climbing route.

The landscape here is dramatic and truly unforgettable. Finally, settle into your teahouse and rest before tomorrow’s high pass adventure.

Altitude above sea level: 3,590 m / 11,778 ft. – Bhimtang
Hiking Duration: Approximately 8 to 9 hours, (14 km / 8.7 mi)
Ascent: 580 m / 1,903 ft.
Descent: 345 m / 1,132 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, set out on one of the most challenging days of the trek.

Begin your gradual ascent to a small valley north of the Larkya Glacier. Take in mesmerizing views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak along the way. Continue across glacial moraines as the trail steadily climbs toward the pass.

The final ascent becomes steeper, but the mountain views are incredibly rewarding. At Larkya La Pass (5,135 m / 16,847 ft.), marvel at peaks like Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Spend a moment soaking in the stunning panoramic landscape.

Then, begin your descent from the high pass into misty alpine pastures. Manaslu towers in the distance, making the descent even more spectacular. The trail winds down through rocky terrain and into greener valleys.

Finally, arrive at Bhimtang, a tranquil village surrounded by peaks and meadows. Settle into your lodge and rest after a long but unforgettable day.

Altitude above sea level: 1,900 m / 6,233 ft.-Tilche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours, (16 km / 9.9 mi)
Descent: 1,390 m / 4,560 ft. 
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin the day with a downhill hike alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross a wooden bridge and enter a lush rhododendron forest. The trail follows a narrow valley, rich in flora and scenic beauty.

Reach Karche, the highest cultivated land in the valley. Continue along the riverbank, enjoying views of quiet villages and terraced fields. Pass through the peaceful village of Gho, a perfect rest stop. From Gho, trek further to reach Tilche, a charming Gurung settlement.

Tilche welcomes you with a warm atmosphere and traditional architecture. Enjoy your evening with hearty food and reflections on the journey so far.

Altitude above sea level: 1,030 m / 3,379 ft. -Bandipur
Driving Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
Accommodation: The Old Inn or similar
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before leaving the mountains behind. Begin your scenic drive towards Bandipur, a hilltop town rich in culture.

Bandipur is a hidden gem nestled in central Nepal. The cobbled streets are lined with traditional wooden Newari houses.

Wander through Bandipur Bazaar and admire its timeless charm. Be inspired by the artistic buildings and local lifestyle. Locals live simply but radiate warmth and happiness.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft.- Kathmandu
Driving Duration: 4–5 hours (approx.)
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, begin your drive back to Kathmandu. Enjoy scenic views as you descend from the hills.

Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. Take time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Reflect on your incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.