In the remote Himalayas of Nepal, the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek offers an enchanting journey through one of Nepal’s most immune and culturally rich areas. This fairly unique gem of a trek in the Himalayas offers a unique blend of magnificent mountain vistas, stunning landscapes, and alluring cultural experiences dating back centuries.
As you move through the Tsum Valley (hidden valley), you’ll encounter ancient Buddhist monasteries and various sacred sites like the Milarepa Cave which will take you to the next level of your spiritual journey. As the journey traverses through the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, the spectacular views of Mount Manaslu welcome you.
The region’s preserved Tibetan-influenced traditions and unbelievable natural beauty make this trek truly sublimely divine for those eager to taste tranquillity amidst nature’s vastness.
Introduction
The Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit are part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, which shares a border with Tibet. Because of its closeness with Tibet, its cultural influences are strongly rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. The word Tsum comes from the Tibetan word Tsombo which means vivid in Tibetan. From the name, it is sure that the valley is vivid both in nature and culture.
After being opened for trekking in 2008, the Tsum Valley has remained understated compared to some more famous trekking routes in Nepal. The valley houses the great natural sceneries of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha ranges, alongside beautiful monasteries, mani walls, and dense alpine forests.
Highlights of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Ancient settlements and unique culture
- The villages of Nile and Chhekampar offer a wonderful insight into their freer lifestyles.
- The natives speak the Tibetan dialect and abide by ancient traditions.
Sacred monasteries
- The Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa among others are the most relevant monasteries in the region.
- They offer an insight into the world of spirituality with a stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.
Pristine nature
- The trek passes through dense rhododendron and pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and raging rivers.
- The valleys also harbours rare wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard and Himalayan blue sheep.
Breathtaking mountain views
- Views of giant mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), and other snow-clad giants unfold from the trek.
Less crowded trails
- Compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is much quieter and allows trekkers to enjoy the peace and tranquillity during the trek fully.
Food and accommodations during the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Small lodges experience
Trekkers will find teahouse accommodation along the route but no big hotels. These basic lodges offer a cozy place to stay and have tasty meals. There are no luxurious facilities but they are quite comfortable for a remote trek. You can expect these things:
- Rooms: Normally rooms are twin-occupied with wooden beds, foam mattresses, and warm blankets. Some lodges have shared spelling spaces in more remote sections of Tsum Valley.
- Facilities: There are squat toilets in common bathrooms. For an additional price, you will have hot showers (gas or gas-heated).
- Electricity and charging: Limited charging options are available and often that comes with an extra cost. Have a power bank so your phone doesn’t go out of battery.
Food
Trekkers can enjoy traditional dishes alongside some Western options. Don’t expect lavish but simple and filling meals:
- Dal Bhat (Rice and Lentils): The most famous Nepali dish of lentil soup, rice, vegetables, and pickles. This staple dish is perfect for giving you energy for the trek.
- Tibetan bread: Also known as the Gurung roti (गुरुङ रोटी), this fried flatbread is eaten with vegetable curry soup and tea for breakfast and snacks.
- Momo: Probably one of the most famous Nepalese dishes, momo is steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with veggies or meat and eaten with some kind of sauce.
- Snacks and drinks: Other readily available items are tea, coffee, and instant noodles. You must also carry some high-energy snacks like nuts and chocolates for the trail.
- Western dishes: If you do not enjoy Nepali food, there are plenty of options for Western food in some areas. You can have a sandwich, burger, pizza, soup, etc.
Flora and fauna of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
A trek to the Manaslu Tsum Valley is not just a cultural and adventurous journey but also a dive into this amazing region’s ecological diversity. As you go up the valley, the landscape changes slowly from subtropical forests to alpine meadows.
Flora
- Forests: The lower altitudes are filled with bamboo, pine, and rhododendron forests. In spring, the rhododendrons, Nepal’s national flowers bloom in vivid pinks and reds.
- Alpine shrubs: As you ascend above 3,500 meters, the vegetation naturally becomes sparse and you can only get hardy shrubs and mosses in the alpine meadows.
- Wildflowers: As spring approaches, it brings vibrant wildflowers to the hillsides which make the entire region lively. It creates a stunning background against the snow-capped mountains.
Fauna
- Snow leopard: Rarely seen but these species are native to this area.
- Himalayan Tahr: If you’re lucky, you can spot these agile mountain goats gazing on steep slopes.
- Langurs and monkeys: In the lower forests, there are lots of playful monkey and langur groups.
- Birds: Watch out for blood pheasants, golden eagles, and Himalayan monals.
Culture and festivals of Manaslu Tsum Valley
The Manaslu region’s centuries-old rich cultural heritage is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and ancient traditional practices. Here is an overview of the culture and practices of this region:
Culture
Tsumba people
The Tsumba people are the indigenous inhabitants of Tsum Valley who have been geographically isolated from the rest. Despite that, they have been able to preserve their unique culture, tradition, and language (Tsumke).
Buddhist influence
The valley is deeply influenced by ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions and practices. Ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa are significant proof of this region’s cultural centers.
Non-violence tradition
This valley has a long-standing commitment to religiously practising non-violence. That includes avoiding less harm to every living being. This practice is called the Shagya custom which is followed by the Tsum Nubri community.
Traditional lifestyle
The Tsumba people have successfully managed to follow the traditions that have been there for centuries. One of their unique customs is polyandry ( a woman marrying multiple brothers).
Festivals
1. Tsum Shagya Centennial Festival
This festival dedicated to the non-violent practices in the upper Tsum Valley has been celebrated for more than 105 years. It shows the community’s commitment to preserving every living being by not following any harm like hunting, slaughter, honey production, and forest fires.
2. Lhosar
Lhosar is the biggest festival of the people of Manaslu. There are several Lhosars celebrated across different communities in this region:
Sonam Lhosar: This Lhosar marks the beginning of a new year for the Tamang community and symbolizes renewal and gratitude after the harvest season.
Tamu Lhosar: Celebrated by the Gurung Lhosar, this festival appears in January on the Gregorian calendar. People play traditional instruments like Damphu while performing selo dances and visit monasteries for prayers.
Gyalpo Losar: The Sherpa community celebrates this Lhosar and performs mask dances during celebrations. They prepare Gunthunk and Chhyan dumpling feasts for their family and friends.
3. Horse festival
During this festival, men participate in horse racing during the day. In the evening, women perform traditional singing and dancing.
4. Saka Dawa
This festival is celebrated on a full moon day to cherish Lord Buddha’s birth. On this day, devotees perform rituals at local monasteries with extreme faith.
What should I pack for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
If you’re well prepared with your packing, you can ensure you’re ready for challenging weather and terrains. Here is a checklist of what you should not miss during the trek:
Clothing
- Base layer: Moisture-soaking tops and leggings for the bitter-cold climates.
- Mid-layer: Insulating layers such as fleece jackets and pants are essential to retain warmth.
- Outer-layer: A waterproof jacket and pants are a must to protect against wind and rain.
- Trekking shoes: Get yourself a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots that have a good grip for rugged terrain. They must be broken in before the trek.
- Socks and Underwear: You need to pack several packs of moisture-wicking socks and underwear.
- Hat and gloves: Warm hats, gloves, and mittens will help a lot in the cold weather.
Trekking equipment
You need a duffle bag of 90-100 liters for storing the main luggage that a porter or yak can carry. For carrying daily essentials during everyday hikes, you may carry a day backpack of 30-35 liters. While trekking poles are optional, they are highly recommended for support on uneven terrain. You never know what the weather in the mountains might bring so bring along a rain gear or a raincoat.
Sleeping gear and personal hygiene items
A sleeping bag that can withstand up to -20 degrees Celsius is an absolute necessity for cold nights at high altitudes. A sleeping bag liner can add extra warmth if you need it.
Also, do not forget your personal hygiene items like toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, shampoo, wet wipes, and sanitizers. A first-aid kit of essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication is needed.
Electronics, accessories, and miscellaneous items
How can we skip the head torch with extra batteries, a power bank, a camera with a charger, and a portable charger?
Also, a water bottle, water purification tablets, energy bars, snacks, etc make a huge difference. Reading materials or games to pass the time at teahouses will boost your spirit during the trek.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is the road less travelled. Very few treks open an opportunity to explore virgin landscapes, embrace Tibetan culture, and experience the sheer rawness of the Himalayas with no crowds around.
As the trek goes further, it will take you into worlds of unparalleled culture immersion and breathtaking natural beauty, making an unforgettable journey. So, for adventure seekers, carry your bags and zest to explore one of the most scenic regions of Nepal. You can contact Asian Expedition if you have any queries about the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.