Manaslu and Tsum Region Treks

Manaslu Region is the land of beyuls (sacred Buddhist valleys) and ‘spirit mountains’. One of the least visited trekking regions in Nepal, Manaslu Region was opened for tourists only in 1992. The region is home to Manaslu, the eighth tallest mountain in the world, and the Manaslu Conservation Area. To protect the fragile ecosystem and culture of the indigenous communities in the region, the government has tried to control the number of tourists entering the region by levying a high permit fee. Most tourists visit this region for trekking and mountaineering.

Trekking in the Manaslu Region can be tough but rewarding. The trails are not as well facilitated as in the Everest and Annapurna Regions. But the sheer beauty of the landscape and rich cultural experience more than compensates for the lack of infrastructure. Most of the treks begin from Machha Khola or Barpak in the Gorkha district, Gorkha occupies an important place in the history of Nepal as it is the native place of the Shah kings who unified and ruled over Nepal for more than two hundred years. The trails traverses the Buri Gandaki River Valley and the hamlets of nomadic people.

One can experience diverse landscapes and cultures while trekking in this region. While the villages in the lower hills and valleys are populated by Chettri, Brahmin, and Gurung communities, those at the higher elevations are inhabited by nomadic tribes of Tibetan origin. Treks along the Nubra Valley and the hidden valley of Tsum showcase the rich Tibetan heritage of the nomadic communities. Located in the Trans Himalayan Region, Tsum Valley is regarded as a 'beyul,' a sacred valley blessed by Buddhist guru Padmasambhava. Untouched by modern civilization, the people of the Tsum Valley still follow the ancient traditions and customs of their ancestors. Nubra Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, and Manaslu Circuit Trek are some of the popular treks in the Manaslu Region.

The Tsum Valley Trek offers a unique experience in Nepal, combining stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and remote Buddhist monasteries. Trekking through this hidden valley, you'll witness ancient traditions, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the warmth of the Tsumba people. It's a journey off the beaten path that promises serenity and adventure.