Manaslu Circuit: Gateway to Adventure
Manaslu circuit is recently popular trekking trails in Nepal. Known as great alternative to Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek offers challenging venture and crosses Larkya-La pass situated at 5,106 meters (16,747 feet). The trail offers breathtaking views of mountains like Peak 29, Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, etc. Manaslu trekking begins in lush lowland terrain and gradually ascends into alpine landscapes.
Verdant forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees give way to high-altitude meadows adorned with colorful wildflowers during spring and summer months. In winter, meadows are all covered with snow. The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route lets you explore glacial rivers and pristine lakes. Birendra Lake is one of famous lakes.
Likewise, locals and rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage make the journey exceptional. Far away peace of the Himalayas, exploring beautiful valleys, lovely villages, and ancient monasteries. Unlike crowded trekking routes in Nepal, Manaslu Circuit offers sense of solitude and tranquility. Hiking trails are less frequented, allowing trekkers to savor untouched beauty of wilderness without hustle and bustle of larger trekking destinations.
Manaslu region's diverse flora and fauna add to its allure. You encounter rare and elusive wildlife like Himalayan Thar, snow leopard, and blue sheep, as well, variety of bird species. The hiking trail becomes progressively rugged as you approach higher altitudes. You'll navigate rocky paths, steep ascents, and descents, challenging your endurance and balance.
Tsum Valley: A Hidden Gem
Tsum Valley is hidden gem in Manaslu region. Not many travelers explored this best-kept secret of Nepal. Hiking trail to Tsum Valley diverts from Lokpa on Manaslu circuit. Isolation of the valley from rest of country allowed it to preserve its unique culture, traditions, and pristine natural beauty. Making it authentic Himalayan destination for adventure lovers.
Join Tsum Valley Trek or Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek with us as per your vacation limits. Tsum Valley is surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, etc. As you trek through valley, you'll encounter pristine alpine meadows blanketed with wildflowers during the warmer months. Tsum Valley is adorned with numerous waterfalls, their crystal-clear waters cascading down rocky cliffs.
Dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and fir trees surround starting part of valley's slopes. Along the trail, crystal-clear rivers and streams flow. You cross thrilling bridges. Beauty of Tsum Valley isn't limited to its natural landscapes. Traditional Tibetan-style villages that dot the valley are vital part of its charm. Intricately carved mani walls, stone houses adorned with prayer flags, and warm smiles of local Tsumbas add cultural dimension to the valley's beauty.
The Tsum Valley's remote location and limited light pollution make it stargazer's paradise. Lush alpine meadows and grasslands characterize lower regions of Tsum Valley. Herds of yaks and livestock graze on fertile grounds, adding to rustic charm of the valley. As you ascend in elevation, dense forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron dominate landscape. Rugged terrain Tsum Valley includes rocky outcrops and scree slopes, particularly approach higher elevations.
What is it like trekking in winter season of Nepal?
Capturing magic and relishing the winter landscapes
Winter brings profound transformation to Manaslu region. Landscape, once vibrant and green, now sees snow blankets in every corner. Air carries freshness and clarity of the mountains. Venture along the well-trodden trails, stillness of surroundings and towering Himalayan mountains keep you company.
Sunrise and sunset in Manaslu region during winter are nothing short of miraculous. Golden and pink glow paints mountain peaks and sky. It's as heaven, and you can't help but enchanted. Rivers and frozen streams, quaint villages, and dark, rustic hues of forests and barren hills make trekking route mystical.
Winter season is great time of the year to capture stillness of Himalayas, true Himalayan landscape- all white and powerful. Whether you love photography or not, views make you take pictures and videos. And if you love photography, you amazed by beauty of Manaslu region.
Memorable encounters with locals and wildlife
Amidst snow-covered terrain, locals of Manaslu region continue their daily life. Smoke curling from chimneys tells of homes warmed by timeless stories shared among families. Hospitality of local communities remains unwavering, offering break from cold in the warmth of their homes and richness of culture.
Trekking in Manaslu region especally winter offers more than breathtaking landscapes. Opportunity to learn about people and part of the world communities that disconnected from modern world and living very fulfilling life. Picturesque villages, charming smiles of villagers and lovely hospitality welcoming you.
Imagine sipping hot butter tea in cozy kitchen and chit-chatting with locals about lives and your life. Tales of yak herding, high-altitude farming, and navigating high mountain passes fill the room. You amazed to see how resilient face of challenging winter conditions. Overall encounter with locals is nothing less than an inspiration.
Winter season brings out rarest wildlife in Manaslu region. Both Manaslu Circuit Trail and Tsum Valley Trail, chances of spotting snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan tahrs, and different species of birds, including Himalayan griffon vultures and Tibetan snowcocks. Likewise, winter vegetation equally mesmerizing.
Winter Trekking Challenges and Rewards
Winter Manaslu region is not without its challenges. The crisp, biting cold demands layers of insulation & high passes with icy paths. Overcoming obstacles is true essence of winter trekking adventure. It is period where time seems to stand still, where magic of mountains meets serenity of winter's embrace.
Extreme cold, icy terrain, and high-altitude passes present formidable challenges. Sub-zero temperatures take toll on your body, necessitating layers of warm clothing and attentive frostbite prevention. Moreover, the trails, demanding in other seasons, become more treacherous with added challenge of navigating icy and snow-covered paths.
Acclimatization is crucial, especially when tackling Larkya-La, high mountain pass at 5,106 meters (16,747 feet). Altitude sickness strike, and need to ascend gradually and stay well-hydrated is essential. Mentally, isolation of winter trek both daunting and rewarding. Absence of usual crowds means more solitude, both peaceful and introspective but mentally challenging.
Sense of accomplishment upon completing Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek in Winter is profound. Overcoming physical and mental challenges of this adventure imparts deep sense of resilience and inner strength. The opportunity to witness the Himalayas in winter splendor is reward in itself. You have rare opportunity to truly connect with pristine natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Friendship formed with fellow trekkers in face of adversity, such as navigating icy trails or enduring freezing temperatures, creates lasting bonds. Moreover, winter trekking in Manaslu affordable trekking during peak seasons. Accommodation costs are generally lower, and reduced number of trekkers means that you have more flexibility in choosing lodging and prices.
Preparing for Winter Trekking in Nepal
Meticulous planning and preparation are essential for winter treks in Nepal. Prepare yourself physically and mentally for Manaslu and Tsum valley journey. Likewise, you have to well-equipped for trekking. From packing right clothes to every little essential for journey is important.
Physical fitness and mental preparation:
1. Cardiovascular fitness: You have to build your stamina. Regular aerobic exercise like running, hiking, swimming, and cycling. Any of those activities help you increase your endurance, but you have to do regularly.
2. Strength training: As you have to walk long hours while carrying backpack on yourself, you have to strong. Your legs and core need to strong enough to handle rugged terrain. Strength training help you lot with it.
3. Altitude acclimatization: Acclimatization is huge part of successful winter trekking. Rest days after every major elevation gain. We take care of it, as our Manaslu region trekking packages are designed with ample acclimatization days.
4. Cold weather training: Well, you do not need it during other seasons, but while trekking in winter season, you have to ready for cold. You prepare yourself by spending time in colder climate outdoors. It help you understand how your body reacts in extreme cold.
5. Mental resilience: Having right mentality is crucial part of winter trekking in the Himalayas. During winter season you have positive-minded to make your journey achuivement. Talk to our team and understand weather and limitations.
Winter Manaslu Trek Essential Gear and Clothing:
1. Layered clothing: Winter in Manaslu region demands layered approach to clothing. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from the body. Add insulating layers for warmth and waterproof and windproof outer shell to protect against the cold and elements.
2. Insulated jacket: High-quality down or synthetic insulated jacket is essential to stay warm during freezing temperatures. Ensure it is lightweight and packable for convenience.
3. Warm headgear: Warm beanie or hat is crucial to retain heat. Don't forget to pack neck gaiter or scarf to protect your neck and face from cold winds.
4. Gloves and Hand Warmers: Invest in insulated, waterproof gloves for hand protection. Hand warmers lifesaver on exceptionally cold days.
5. Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction are essential. Consider bringing gaiters to prevent snow from getting into your boots.
6. Thermal Socks: Pack several pairs of moisture-wicking thermal socks to keep your feet warm and dry.
7. Backpack: A comfortable, spacious backpack with a rain cover is necessary to carry your gear. Ensure it's large enough to accommodate extra layers, snacks, and water.
8. Sleeping Bag: Cold-weather bag rated for sub-zero temperatures is crucial for comfortable night's sleep during frigid nights in tea houses or campsites.
9. Trekking Poles: Sturdy trekking poles provide stability on icy terrain and reduce strain on your knees.
10. Headlamp: Days are shorter in winter, so reliable headlamp is essential for early morning starts and late arrivals at tea houses.
11. First Aid Kit: Include essentials like pain relievers, blister treatment, and personal medications you may need.
12. Water Purification: Ensure you have way to purify water, as many water sources may be frozen or inaccessible.
Booking Manaslu and Tsum valley Trek:
1. Choose reputable agency: Research and select reputable trekking agency with experienced guides who are familiar with winter conditions in Manaslu region. We, Ace Vision Treks, is most experienced trekking companies in Nepal for winter Manaslu trekking.
2. Trekking Permits: Our team obtain all permits for you. You do not have to go through hassle. Likewise, our Manaslu Trek package cost includes permit fees, so you do not have to pay any additional money.
3. Hiking partners: As per rules of restricted area trekking in Nepal, you cannot trek Manaslu region alone. Likewise, you have to trek at least one other fellow trekker. Get in touch with us whether you are solo trekker or have group. We organize best Manaslu Circuit Trek to Tsum Valley Trek for you.
4. Travel insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking in winter conditions, including emergency air evacuation if necessary.
5. Confirm booking: Booking Manaslu Trek in winter season is quite easy. Once you send booking request to us (through our site), our team get back to you. After receiving the advance payment and your general information with your passport copy, we send you trip confirmation mail. Are you planning to visit Bank to transfer advance amount? We have online bank transfer system so save your time and secure your Nepal trekking.
Winter Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek Itineraries
*Note: teahouse in Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) (4,480 m/14,698 ft) gets partially closed during winter season. There is no service for meals, but rooms are open where we can spend the night. We will bring packed food and snacks for this section of the trail.
i) Manaslu Circuit Trek
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft) and transfer to the hotel
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730 m/2,896 ft) via Arughat
Day 03: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890 m/2,965 ft)
Day 04: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410 m/4,625 ft)
Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804 m/5,917 ft)
Day 06: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m/8,626 ft)
Day 07: Trek from Namrung to Samagaun (3,520 m/11,548 ft)
Day 08: Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m/14,435 ft) or Pung Gyen Gompa (4,060 m/13, 316 ft) for an incredible mountain view
Day 09: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875 m/12,713 ft)
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) (4,480 m/14,698 ft)
Day 11: Trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) by crossing Larkya-La pass (5,106 m/16,747 ft)
Day 12: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije (1,700 m/5,576 ft)
Day 13: Trek from Tilije to Tal (1,680 m/ ft)
Day 14: Trek from Tal to Syange (1,150 m/3,773 ft)
Day 15: Drive from Syange to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft) by public vehicle
Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu
ii) Tsum Valley Short Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft) and transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Restricted area permit procedure & Kathmandu sightseeing
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730 m/2,896 ft) via Arughat
Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890 m/2,965 ft)
Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410 m/4,625 ft)
Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240 m/7,349 ft)
Day 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386 m/7,828 ft)
Day 08: Trek from Chumling to Chhokangparo (3,031 m/9,944 ft)
Day 09: Trek from Chhokangparo to the Nile (3,361 m/11,027 ft)
Day 10: Trek from the Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m/12,139 ft)
Day 11: Sightseeing and acclimatization at Mu Gompa
Day 12: Trek from Mu Gompa to Lamagaon (3,302 m/10,833 ft)
Day 13: Trek from Lamagaon to Chumling (2,386 m/7,828 ft)
Day 14: Trek from Chumling to Philim (1,570 m/5,151 ft)
Day 15: Trek from Philim to Khorla Besi (970 m/3,182 ft)
Day 16: Trek from Khorla Besi to Soti Khola (730 m/2,896 ft)
Day 17: Drive from Soti Khola to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft)
Day 18: Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure
iii) Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trekking Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft) and transfer to the hotel
Day 2: Restricted area permit procedure & Kathmandu sightseeing
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730 m/2,896 ft) via Arughat
Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890 m/2,965 ft)
Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410 m/4,625 ft)
Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240 m/7,349 ft)
Day 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chhokang Paro (3,031 m/9,944 ft)
Day 08: Trek from Chhokangparo to Mu Gompa (3,700 m/12,139 ft)
Day 09: Trek from Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro (3,031 m/9,944 ft)
Day 10: Trek from Chhokangparo to Gumba Lungdang (3,200 m/10,498 ft)
Day 11: Hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,800 m/15,748 ft)
Day 12: Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa (2,240 m/7,349 ft)
Day 13: Trek from Lokpa to Deng (1,804 m/5,917 ft)
Day 14: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m/8,626 ft)
Day 15: Trek from Namrung to Samagaun (3,520 m/11,548 ft)
Day 16: Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m/14,435 ft) or Pung Gyen Gompa (4,060 m/13, 316 ft) for an incredible mountain view
Day 17: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875 m/12,713 ft)
Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) (4,480 m/14,698 ft)
Day 19: Trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) by crossing Larkya La pass (5,106 m/16,747 ft)
Day 20: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije (1,700 m/5,576 ft)
Day 21: Trek from Tilije to Tal (1,680 m/ ft)
Day 22: Trek from Tal to Syange (1,150 m/3,773 ft)
Day 23: Drive from Syange to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft) by public/private vehicle
Day 24: Departure from Kathmandu
Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley blog, we hope to encourage foreign trekkers to do winter trekking in Nepal. While the season's challenges are real, rewards are equally abundant. Beauty of winter trekking lies not only in breathtaking landscapes but friendships forged with fellow trekkers and connections made with the resilient mountain communities. The isolation trails and affordability of journey further enhance its allure.
In the end, our winter trek in Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley is best trekking ventures in the Himalayas challenging, extremely rewarding, and lifetime experience!
Are you planning to complete Manaslu Trekking? Ace Vision Treks travel blog Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather Temperature Month-wise is most helpful post to choose best month.
How hard is Manaslu Trek? Our Manaslu Trek Difficulty is helpful which day is most challenging! Check details guide.
