Manaslu & Ganesh Himal Base Camp with Tsum vally

The trail from Machha Khola follows the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and narrow ridges carved into cliffs. Passing through Khorlabesi and Tatopani (known for its natural hot springs), the trail gradually climbs towards Jagat. This traditional stone-paved village marks the official entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area. The village has mani walls, small teahouses, and a friendly Gurung community.

Leaving Jagat, the trail climbs past Salleri and Sirdibas, offering views of Shringi Himal. Soon you arrive at Philim, a large Gurung village with fields of maize and millet. From here, the route branches towards Tsum Valley, leaving behind the main Manaslu Circuit path. The day ends at Lokpa, a small settlement surrounded by pine forests. Lokpa is the first gateway into the mystical Tsum Valley.

Today’s trek descends through a gorge before climbing again through dense forests. You cross the Syar Khola on a suspension bridge and gradually ascend to Chumling, a beautiful village with traditional Tibetan-style houses. The village is dotted with monasteries and mani walls, while Ganesh Himal can be seen in the distance. Chumling offers the first real taste of Tsum’s unique culture and remoteness.

The trail climbs higher into Upper Tsum Valley. Crossing small bridges and passing cultivated fields, you enter Chhekam Paro, one of the most picturesque villages in Tsum. Wide barley fields stretch across the valley, and the backdrop of Ganesh Himal makes the scenery unforgettable. This is a perfect place to observe Tibetan Buddhist culture and daily lifestyle.

Following the valley north, you pass chortens, mani walls, and traditional villages such as Lamagaon and Burji. Monasteries like Milarepa’s Cave add to the spiritual charm of the trail. Eventually, you reach Nile, the last village in Upper Tsum, located close to the Tibetan border. Nile is culturally rich, with Buddhist murals and gompas.

Today is a cultural highlight. You hike up to Mu Gompa, the largest and most important monastery in Tsum Valley. Perched on a hilltop, this centuries-old gompa offers wide views of snow peaks and deep valleys. The monastery is home to monks who still live a traditional lifestyle. Spending time here provides spiritual insight and a sense of timelessness. Return to Nile for the night.

After exploring the northern end of Tsum, you retrace your steps down the valley. The descent is easier and allows more time to enjoy village life, prayer wheels, and landscapes before reaching Chhekam Paro again for overnight stay.

A shorter trekking day leads you to Gho, a peaceful hamlet nestled in the valley. This section of the trail feels untouched and tranquil, with fewer trekkers and plenty of natural beauty.

From Gho, you continue deeper into the remote section of Tsum. The path goes through forests and streams before reaching Gumba Lumba, another quiet settlement where trekkers can rest in the lap of nature.

This is one of the trek’s biggest highlights. A challenging hike takes you to Ganesh Himal Base Camp, also known as Gabesh Himal by locals. Surrounded by glaciers, snowy peaks, and rocky landscapes, this base camp is an awe-inspiring place. The panoramic view of the Ganesh Himal range is unforgettable. After spending time at the base camp, return to Gumba Lumba for overnight.

Descending through alpine forests, you walk past small streams and scattered villages until reaching Ripchet or Sipche, both traditional settlements. These villages are known for their hospitality and beautiful terraced fields.

You leave Upper Tsum and rejoin the Manaslu trail at Lokpa. This marks the end of the Tsum Valley exploration and the start of your journey towards Manaslu Base Camp.

From Lokpa, the trail drops to the Budhi Gandaki River and follows a rugged gorge. Passing through bamboo forests and small hamlets, you gradually reach Deng, a Buddhist-influenced village with stone houses and prayer flags.

A long day of trekking takes you through alpine forests and ridges. As you ascend higher, the landscapes open with views of Manaslu, Himchuli, and Ganesh Himal. Overnight at Namrung, a lively settlement with better facilities.

The trail climbs steadily, passing through Lho village with its grand monastery and iconic views of Manaslu. By afternoon, you reach Shyala, surrounded by alpine meadows and Himalayan peaks.

A side hike to Pungen Gompa offers one of the best views of Manaslu. Afterwards, continue to Sama Gaun, the largest village in the region, filled with stone houses, monasteries, and fields.

Another highlight of the trek. A steep but rewarding hike takes you to Manaslu Base Camp, offering close-up views of glaciers and the mighty Manaslu peak (8,163 m). The base camp provides a dramatic Himalayan experience. Return to Sama Gaun for the night.

A short but beautiful walk leads to Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village near the border. The views here are spectacular, and the culture feels truly Tibetan.

Today you explore further with a hike to the Rui La border pass, which historically served as a trade route between Tibet and Nepal. The pass offers wide Himalayan panoramas. Return to Samdo for the night.

Climbing gradually, you reach Larkya Phedi, the base of the famous Larkya La Pass. The area is rugged and windy but offers breathtaking scenery.

The toughest but most rewarding day of the trek. An early start takes you across the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey. From the top, you can see Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The descent to Bimthang is long but stunning, with glaciers and alpine landscapes.

From Bimthang, descend through rhododendron forests and meadows until you reach Ghowa. Continue trekking down to the roadhead at Besisahar, where a vehicle will be waiting for your drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. This marks the end of your epic Himalayan adventure.