10 Reasons The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek Needs To Be On Your Nepal Trekking Bucket List

Everest Region and Annapurna Region are the two prominent trekking region of Nepal, the powerhouse of the world's famous trekking trail. Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two most sought-after treks of Nepal. That said these two treks are the most popular treks in Nepal. Meanwhile, there are off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal, and particularly we are talking about Tsum Valley at the edge of Manaslu Circuit Trek. Tsum valley is a sacred hidden valley of the Himalayas and cultural route to virgin valleys of Himalayas.

Often known as hidden gems of Nepal, for a reason Tsum valley wasn't opened for trekking and expedition until recently. It was in 2008 that Tsum valley let its mystery and majestic beauty allure the world in the secret Himalayas. The remote and untouched Tsum Valley is set against the majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, and Sringi Himal. Tsum in the Tibetan language means vivid. Situated in Northern Gorkha, this serene valley flaunts ancient Tibetan art and culture in an unrivaled way. Tsum valley shares Shear Khola originated from the western glacier of Ganesh Himal, and southern glaciers of Sringi Himal. Artistic chortens, mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs, and Buddhist Monasteries in the stunning landscape are the major drawcards of Tsum Valley. On the other hand, the Manaslu region, “Mountain of the Spirit” offers supreme Himalayan beauty intertwined with Tibetan cultural heritage. Predominantly Buddhist region, Manaslu region is home to diverse mountain flora and fauna. There are bountiful reasons to visit the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek, but we have narrowed down to top 10 reasons: 

1) Mt. Manaslu

Mt. Manaslu soaring at an altitude of 8,163m, the eighth highest mountain in the world is drawcard of Manaslu region. It is located in the  west-central part of Nepal and has a meaning  "mountain of the spirit." Trekking in Manaslu region is a wonderful experience for the very reason that the constant backdrop of Mt. Manaslu is spellbinding. The secluded trekking trail of Manaslu region is full of wonder for adventurer.

2) Hidden Gem in the Himalayas

Tsum valley remained isolated, virgin and intact until recently. Tsum valley shares sacred Himalayan pilgrimage. It was in 2008 that this valley was opened for exploration of its hidden mysteries of ancient Himalayan civilization. Tsum valley is a  hidden gem in the Himalayas with its pristine aura and off-the-beaten-path that offers an astounding experience for every traveler.

3) Pristine and stunning landscape

Tsum Valley was officially declared a touristic area in the year 2008, and before that, it was the isolated Himalayas.  It remained one of the hidden gems of Nepal until 2008 and still offers the secluded Himalayas and serenity in the lap of Himalayas. A picturesque Himalayan range like Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges are breath-taking. The dramatic landscape is a major attraction. If you want to trek in the pristine and off-the-beaten paths, then Tsum Valley Trek is perfect for you.

4) Ancient art, culture, and religion

5) Buddhist monasteries

6) Wide assortment of flora and fauna

The variegated and dramatic landscape and pristine eco-system of Manaslu region and Tsum Valley is home to a wide assortment of flora and fauna especially the Himalayan Thar and Blue Sheep, and lush alpine forests, pines, and rhododendrons. Wildlife remains bountiful in Tsum valley as killing wildlife is prohibited. The Himalayan wildlife in Tsum valley is not-to-miss opportunity while trekking in this secluded valley.  Trekking through the Tsum valley takes you through the green countryside with lush alpine forests, pines, rhododendrons and glacial rivers accompanying your way. 

7) Majestic Mountains 

The unrivaled vista of majestic mountains including the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal are notable highlights of this valley. As you walk along the trekking trail to Tsum valley, the majestic and lofty mountains welcome you and you just cannot stop whooping with delights. The mountains flaunt and offer an opportunity for those of us who love photography. As you ascend, the mountain will appear dauntless and conspicuous with incredible views around. 

8)  People, their religion and culture

Among every other reason for why the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek needs to be on your Nepal trekking bucket list, people and religion of Manaslu region and Tsum valley count a lot. People of Tsum valley are called  Tsumba. Soaked with Tibetan Buddhist culture, people of Tsum valley with Manaslu region will not fail to enchant you. Their warm and generous hospitality is magical, and we have to mention their friendly demeanor as well. One can be quickly intoxicated to their culture and lifestyle.

9)  Festivals

Relatively less explored and untouched from modern civilization, Tsum valley has enticing culture and festivals. This sequestered valley and the people are amazing for sure. People practice enchanting festivals including mask dance along with diverse celebrations. One of the significant festivals celebrated widely is The Losar, Tibetan New Year. ‘The Horse Festival’ is yet another highlighted festival in Tsum valley. Polyandry system is still practiced among people in the Tsum valley. 

10) Homestay

Despite the fact that the Tsum valley and Manaslu region are untouched and comparatively less beaten trails of Nepal, it offers unmatched beauty of majestic mountains, beautiful people and their enticing culture. People of the Manaslu region and Tsum valley are ever welcoming and generous and needless to say their hospitality will intrigue you. A homestay is a fine option if you are looking for trekking in Tsum valley and it is the best way to savor local lifestyle and culture. You will be accommodated in the house of local people, and this provides you an opportunity to indulge in the local lifestyle and trust us, this will be a pleasant experience for you.

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Manaslu Circuit Trek [ Hike Pung Gyen Gompa + Birendra Tal] - 17 Days (all-inclusive)^$2300

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Tsum valley trekking-19 Days all-inclusive^$0

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