Staff meets you outside arrivals with an Asian Hiking Team sign. 15-20 min drive to Thamel hotel (traffic-dependent). Hotel Check-in & Freshen up, Recommended: Shower, hydrate, and short rest. Group Meeting & Tour Briefing (Led by: Lead guide or company manager): Daily trek/tour flow, safety protocols (altitude/AMS). Domestic flight/transport logistics, Gear Check, guide introduction, Final Payment & Document Check: Bring: Passport, passport photo, travel insurance copy (must cover helicopter rescue). Payment by Credit card (4% fee extra) or cash (USD/NPR/Euro any) preferred, Q&A

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu—the historical and cultural heart of Nepal—you will embark on a full-day guided sightseeing tour by private vehicle, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath (where you may witness traditional cremation rituals along the Bagmati River), the Buddhist pilgrimage center of Bouddhanath Stupa with its prayer wheels and vibrant flags, the hilltop Swoyambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) offering panoramic valley views, and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square featuring ancient temples, traditional architecture, and the living goddess Kumari; after your tour, you will return to your hotel for a group meeting, permit collection, and equipment check.

Early morning, drive along the Prithivi Highway to Malekhu Pul, then turn right to Dhading Besi, the district headquarters of Dhading. From there, continue off-road to Salentar and Aarughat Bazaar, a famous shopping hub for the Manaslu region, with lunch en route. The drive takes about 6 to 8 hours. From Aarughat, it’s a half-hour drive to Aarkhet Bazaar, accessible by direct bus during the autumn and spring trekking seasons. Alternatively, you can drive directly to Sotikhola on the same day within half an hour. From Sotikhola, take a local jeep for a 2-hour drive to Machhekhola, where you will transfer to your lodge for an overnight stay.

Crossing Machhe Khola, the trail follows upstream to the small village of Khorla Bensi and the hot springs at Tatopani. The valley sides then steepen, forcing the route to switch to the left bank via a suspension bridge. The trail is exposed and challenging in places. After a short forest path, you reach the lone guesthouse at Doban, where the Buri Gandaki River descends steep rapids. Beyond this, the river calms, flowing across a broad gravel bed. At Lauri, the trail crosses back over the river on another suspension bridge before climbing to the fields of Jagat (1340 m) for an overnight stay. Trekking time: 5–6 hours.

Today’s trek starts by climbing over a rocky ridge to reach Salleri, where views of Sringi Himal begin to open up. From Salleri, the trail descends gently to the village of Setibas, where the valley widens and the terrain becomes more open. Continuing upstream, the trail passes the Ghatta Khola, a smaller river feeding into the Buri Gandaki, and then crosses a long suspension bridge over the river. From here, a short climb brings us to Philim (1,590 m), a large and culturally rich Gurung village with traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and nearby Buddhist monasteries. We overnight in a lodge or teahouse in Philim.

Leaving Philim, the trail heads north through dense forest with views of the narrowing Buri Gandaki valley. After passing Ekle Bhatti, cross a dramatic gorge and enter forests of towering pine and rhododendron. Soon the path forks: the right-hand trail branches toward Tsum Valley, where your route begins a steady climb with occasional clearings revealing views of the Himalchuli peaks. Passing through Lokpa, a small village marking the entrance to Tsum, continue uphill through beautiful forest before descending to the small settlement of Ghumlong. A further climb brings you to Ripchet, known for its traditional houses and fields. After crossing the Shiar Khola on a suspension bridge, a final short ascent leads you to Chumling (2,363 m), a picturesque stone village with narrow alleys and a charming old gompa (monastery). Spend the evening exploring the Chumling gompa and wandering the stone-paved lanes of this culturally rich village. Overnight in a lodge or teahouse.

After breakfast in Chumling, cross a long suspension bridge to the opposite bank of the Shiar Khola, enjoying superb views of the Ganesh Himal range. The trail climbs steadily past Rainjam and through scattered villages and forests, offering glimpses of the unfolding hidden Tsum Valley. You’ll follow the course of the Serpu Khola, crossing smaller streams and prayer-flag-draped bridges. After entering Tsum proper, the valley widens, revealing fertile fields and stone-built houses framed by towering peaks. A final steep ascent brings you to the twin villages of Chhokang and Paro (often collectively called Chhokang Paro, 3,010 m). If the weather is clear, enjoy commanding views of Himalchuli (7,893 m) and surrounding mountains. The region is deeply Tibetan in culture—expect to see Mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags. Overnight in a local lodge or teahouse.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the upper Tsum Valley, with increasingly stunning mountain vistas and a rich display of local culture. As you climb above Chhokang Paro, be mindful of the rising altitude and take your time. The trail passes Lamagaon, offering an optional visit to the renowned Rachen Gompa, a large and active nunnery adorned with murals and filled with Tibetan Buddhist history. A short side trip also takes you to the sacred Milarepa’s Cave, where the famous Tibetan saint is said to have meditated. Returning to the main trail, cross the Shiar Khola and walk through the villages of Phurbe and Pangdun, where you can admire traditional Tibetan architecture and friendly local life. Continuing onward, pass the charming village of Chhule before making a final ascent and crossing another bridge to reach Nile (also called Nele), a remote village nestled near the Tibetan border. The area is culturally fascinating and spiritually rich, with mani walls and fluttering prayer flags. You will overnight in a monastery guest house or local lodge.

Today’s journey brings you to the very edge of Nepal, in the mystical highlands of the Upper Tsum Valley, where Tibetan influence is strongest. From Nile, walk along the west bank of the valley, where the landscape opens into a stark, beautiful expanse dotted with mani walls and chortens. You will climb steadily toward Mu Gompa, the highest and most remote monastery in the Tsum Valley, perched at 3,700 m. Established in the 1890s, Mu Gompa is home to a small group of monks and offers exceptional views of the Ganesh Himal and nearby Tibetan peaks. After visiting the monastery and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, continue your trek higher into the windswept pastures of Bhajyo (also called Bhajyo Base or Bhajyo Yak Kharka) at around 4,030 m. This is a remote area, with no permanent village—only a few yak herder shelters dot the landscape. From here, you will enjoy sweeping views of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and the imposing wall of peaks on the Tibetan side. After lunch at Bhajyo, spend the afternoon exploring the rugged terrain or resting. You will overnight in a simple Gomba or basic yak herder accommodation.

After experiencing the windswept heights of Bhajyo, today you begin your descent back down the valley. Retracing your steps through the stark, beautiful Upper Tsum Valley, you will pass Mu Gompa once again before continuing downward along the Shiar Khola. The trail offers continued views of Ganesh Himal and Tibetan border peaks, along with occasional encounters with yak caravans and locals on trading routes. Your destination is Rachen Gumba, one of the spiritual highlights of the Tsum Valley. Founded in 1905 AD, this large nunnery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and houses a vibrant community of nuns (anis). The monastery is known for its beautifully painted Buddhist murals, ancient scriptures, and serene atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the inner sanctum of the gompa and interact with the resident nuns. Overnight at the Gumba or nearby guesthouse.

After breakfast at Rachen Gompa, you begin your trek southward, following the Shiar Khola valley. You’ll cross a bridge to the west bank and descend toward Chhokangparo, revisiting this charming village. The trail then drops below Chhokangparo, following the previous path for about 2 hours until you reach the small gompa at Gho (2,485 m), a serene and lesser-visited spot perfect for a short rest and reflection. From here, you take the northern route through the Lower Tsum Valley, passing through the quiet villages of Yaju and smaller hamlets dotted with chortens and mani walls. The scenery transitions from alpine pastures to more temperate forest as you gradually descend. After a final stretch of trail, you arrive at Dumje, a peaceful and remote village. Overnight in a simple Lodge/Tea House.

From Chumje, the trek follows the northern route of the lower Tsum Valley. You pass through the village of Dorjon Kharka just before reaching Rana. Along the way, you will cross a large suspension bridge spanning the main valley of the Manaslu Budhi Gandaki River. For those interested in exploring more, there is an option to take a short walk further upstream to the village of Bihi. After the day’s trek, overnight accommodation is in a lodge or teahouse in Deng.

The valley remains steep-sided and spectacular as we cross into the village of Lana, where Mani stones appear—clear signs of entering the high Buddhist region. After about four hours, we reach Ghap, a village straddling the river. Here, the Tibetan cultural influence becomes evident, and the climate noticeably cools, making the trekking more pleasant. As we gain altitude into alpine territory, mountain views become more impressive. After Ghap, there are several Mani walls along the trail and three more crossings of the Budi Gandaki River before reaching Namrung (2,630 m). Today’s trek takes 5–6 hours, with an overnight stay at a lodge or hotel.

Today’s trek is relatively short but offers spectacular mountain views en route to Lho. After breakfast, you will start trekking past the village of Lihi, then cross the Hinang River via a small bridge. From there, the trail ascends steadily to Sho, a quaint settlement nestled in the valley. Continuing uphill, you will reach the large village of Lho, situated at about 3,150 meters. Lho is a culturally rich village famous for its beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery, numerous whitewashed chortens (stupas), and intricately carved Mani stone walls, which are prayer stones engraved with Buddhist mantras. The village atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual, reflecting its Tibetan Buddhist heritage. From this vantage point, you can look back to catch breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal I, one of the impressive Himalayan peaks in the region. You will spend the night at a cozy guest house or hotel in Lho, allowing time to rest and acclimatize before continuing the trek.

After breakfast, you leave the serene village of Lho Gau and follow the right bank of the river. Along this path, majestic views of Peak 29 rise ahead, setting the tone for the day’s trek. At a fork in the trail, you take a short detour to the left that leads uphill to the Honsansho Gompa, a quiet monastery nestled in this remote region. From here, you can admire breathtaking panoramas of Peak 29, the massive Himalchuli, and the towering Manaslu—truly spectacular Himalayan giants. After soaking in these views, you return to the main trail and continue onward until you reach the lush fields surrounding Sama Gau, located at 3,520 meters. This charming village offers a welcome rest after 4 to 5 hours of trekking. You will spend the night comfortably at a hotel or guest house in Sama Gau, preparing for the next stage of your adventure.

Today is a rest day at Samagaon, designed to help you acclimatize to the altitude and recharge your energy. Nestled in a peaceful forest surrounded by towering mountains, this tranquil setting offers the perfect environment to relax and adjust. You have the option to take a day hike to the Manaslu Base Camp, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Samdo (Pang Phuchuli), Nagdi Chuli, Simnang Himal, the massive Manaslu glacier, and the impressive Manaslu icefall. Nearby, you can also visit Birendra Kunda, a pristine ice lake close to the base camp. Your guide will discuss and customize the day’s activities based on your condition and preferences, ensuring you make the most of your acclimatization day. In the evening, you will rest comfortably at a lodge or hotel in Samagaon.

Today’s trek follows a gentle uphill path to Samdo, traversing a barren desert landscape and a windy valley. Samdo sits just four kilometers from the Tibetan border, which is strictly off-limits to visitors without special permits. If you wish to visit the Tibetan border, an extra day is required for the necessary arrangements. Samdo is also home to a Tibetan refugee village, adding cultural interest to this remote stop. This location offers spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu, Samdo (Pang Phuchuli), Nagdi Chuli, Sonam Himal, the Manaslu glacier, the impressive Manaslu icefall, and numerous other towering peaks. You will stay overnight at a comfortable lodge at 3,875 meters, enjoying the unique alpine atmosphere.

The trek today covers approximately 4 to 5 hours to reach Dharmashala, also known as Larkya Phedi or Larkya Base Camp. The trail is rocky and zigzags steadily uphill, requiring careful footing but offering rewarding views along the way. Before arriving at Larkya Phedi, you will pass through Larkya Bazaar, a vibrant seasonal market where local people gather to buy, sell, and exchange goods brought from Tibet. This lively market adds a cultural highlight to the day’s trek. Overnight accommodation is at a basic tea house in Dharmashala/Larkya Phedi, providing simple shelter and warmth amid the high-altitude environment.

Today’s trek is a challenging 8 to 12 hours journey, starting early in the morning with a steep ascent along a rocky and windy trail to reach the Larkya La Pass. You will carry a packed lunch for the day. From the pass, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views including Larke Peak, the sunrise over Mt. Manaslu, Ratna Chuli, Cheo Himal, and several other snow-capped peaks. After crossing the pass, the trail descends steeply through rocky and icy terrain. If you are trekking in December or early March, it is highly recommended to bring mini crampons for safety, and trekking poles will also be helpful for stability during the descent in other seasons. Along the way, you will pass by several icy lakes, so careful footing is essential. Your destination is Bimthang, a broad, level valley dotted with Mani walls and deserted houses. Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse in Bimthang (3590m).

Today’s trek from Bimthang to Tilije takes approximately six to seven hours. You will cross expansive high pastures and then descend into the valley of the Purdin Khola, near the Base Camp on the west side of Manaslu. From a ridge at about 4150 meters, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu to the southeast and Annapurna II to the southwest. After crossing a bridge over the headwaters of the Dudh Khola, the trail leads you through a lush rhododendron forest and winds through a narrow valley until you reach Karche at 2785 meters, the highest cultivated land in the area. Continuing downhill, you cross a stream and arrive at Tilije, a charming village known for its apple orchards and local wine production. Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse in Tilije.

After leaving Tilije, you will trek uphill for nearly two hours to reach Dharapani, where you cross a bridge over the Marshyangdi River. At Dharapani, your guide will check your Manaslu special permit again. From there, you take a local jeep down to Besisahar, which takes about 4–5 hours. Besisahar is well-connected, with regular bus and microbus services to Kathmandu running every hour until mid-afternoon (around 2–4 pm). The drive back to Kathmandu takes approximately 5–6 hours, including a stop for lunch along the way. Upon arrival at Balaju Bus Park in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. If you prefer to continue your adventure, it is also possible to drive from Besisahar to Pokhara, which takes around 4 hours by road. You can spend the night in Pokhara before further exploration or your return journey.

Today is your final day in Nepal. You can spend this time shopping for souvenirs and gifts for your family, friends, or relatives. If you have booked any extra trips or activities, this is the time to prepare for those as well. When it’s time to depart, the Asian Hiking Team staff will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight or next destination.