The snow was falling in the night but morning had suprised us as it was sunny and no clouds visible. The mountain ranges were clear and amazing. We just returned from the Mu Gumba and feeling the Holy spirit and beautiful weather we were ready to take on Larke Pass (5106m).
Manaslu Circuit is really popping off. The recent data shows that the tourist in the region has increased by 10x in 2023 it was 1000 and in 2024 it was 10,000.Recently, a lot of attention is on Manaslu circuit and Tsum valley trek. So the question is: How is Trek in April for the spring break? If you have the same question this is the Blog you need as we are writing this after sending 3 groups to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley combined in April of 2025.
Trekkers inside the sacred monastery Mu Gumba in Tsum Valley. Exploring ancient Buddhist culture, remote Himalayan trails, and authentic interactions on this life-changing trek in Nepal’s untouched Himalayas during Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley Trek from Nepal Tour and Trek.
Overview of Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek in April
- Duration: Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley standalone each take 12-14 days but the combined trek can be completed in 21 days.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging as it has a remote high pass Larkya La at 5,106m and the trek has longer camps in comparison to other treks.
- Permits Required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Tsum Valley Restricted Permit
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) if exiting via Annapurna.
- Requirements to get Restricted Area Permit:
- Licensed Trekking Guide
- At least 2 foreign trekkers
- Application from a Trekking Agency
Why should you do Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek in April ?
April is one of the best time in Nepal for Trekking. The temperature is mild, the skies are very clear and overall very minimal rain in this time in Nepal making it the time to trek. Also, Manaslu Region is very dangerous and unlike other trekking region it is very punishing in terms of physical and geographical challenge. In off seasons, when the weather is not in perfect condition completing the Trek is almost impossible. The challenge that comes with the altitude, the geographical terrain constant landslide and avalanches make the Trek really difficult. So, the timing and weather is essential not only for successful Trek but for own survival.
Crossing Larkle Pass (5106m) in April 20, 2025
Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola (710m)
Day 3: Trek to Machha Khola (930m)
Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,410m)
Day 5: Trek to Chumling (2,386m) – Enter Tsum Valley
Day 6: Trek to Chhokangparo (3,010m)
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Chhokangparo
Day 8: Trek to Nile (3,361m)
Day 9: Return to Lokpa (2,240m)
Day 10: Trek to Deng (1,804m)
Day 11: Trek to Namrung (2,630m)
Day 12: Trek to Lho Village (3,180m)
Day 13: Trek to Samagaon (3,530m)
Day 14: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Day 15: Trek to Samdo (3,860m)
Day 16: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Day 17: Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460m)
Day 18: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) to Bimthang (3,720m)
Day 19: Trek to Tilije (2,300m)
Day 20: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m) → Drive to Besi Sahar
Day 21: Drive to Kathmandu
Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek in April:
The cost of permit differs with seasons and it might be different for different time of year and there are different type of permit needed to trek in this region. The Permits that are needed are as follow:
- Tsum Valley Special Permits: USD 40 per person per week (September-November), USD 30 (December-August)
- Manaslu Special Permit: USD 100 per person per week (September-November), USD 75 (December-August)
- MCAP Permits: USD 30 per person (one-time)
- ACAP Permit: USD 30 per person (one-time)
- TIMS Permits: USD 20 per person (one-time)
And you will need all the above permits to trek in this region. If, you are doing Manaslu circuit alone then you won't need the Tsum Valley Special Permits and viceversa . Also, In addition to this there are other requirement for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley trek in April is at least 2 foreign trekker and 1 guide for them .
Our Personal Experience :
We usually have 3-5 group per season for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek. We have found that People who do Tsum valley trek usually do the Manaslu Circuit Trek and go for whole 21 days experience. In contrast to the pattern in Tsum Valley Trekkers, Trekkers who do Manaslu Circuit only focus on the Manaslu Circuit and skip Tsum Valley completely. And we have 2 failed Larke Pass attempt in September of 2023 and October of 2024. So, with that results our Clients are mostly happy after the trek and when we offer them Pokhara after the trek they usually go for it as it is a nice retreat after the harsh Trek. But, our Guide usually like to trek in region in April season rather than October.
Shyala Monastery
FaQs
The trek is moderate to challenging, with steep ascents/descents, high altitudes (up to 5,106m at Larkya La Pass), and remote trails. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
Yes. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions are restricted areas, requiring permits that mandate hiring a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not allowed.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Tsum Valley Restricted Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) if exiting via Annapurna.
From Nepal Tour and Trek we offer 1,800$ price for a 21-day trek, covering permits, guide and 1 porter between 2 clients, food, accommodation, and transport.
April (spring) and October–November (autumn) are ideal. April offers blooming rhododendrons and fewer crowds.
Days are warm (10–20°C), nights cold (-5–5°C). Skies are clear, with minimal rain.
Yes, but facilities are basic, especially in Tsum Valley. Expect shared bathrooms and limited menus.
Charging ports are available in most teahouses but some Tea houses may charge a fee (NPR 200–500 per device). Carry a power bank as backup.
High due to elevations above 3,500m. Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend slowly.
Clothing: Layered clothing, down jacket, waterproof gear.
Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag (-10°C), sturdy boots.
Extras: Sunscreen, water purification tablets, first-aid kit.
Wi-Fi is almost everywhere except in Dharmasala and in villages like Samagaon and Namrung (paid service). Buy a local NTC SIM card for better coverage as a backup.
Tsum Valley is sacred Himalayan valley with ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture especially Shakya Buddishm, untouched monasteries (e.g., Mu Gompa), and no roads or vehicles.
Book Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Tour and Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and spectacular adventure, offering stunning views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and the diverse landscapes of the Himalayas.
Book Tsum Valley Trek from Nepal Tour and Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek takes you into one of the most secluded Himalayan valleys. The Tsum Valley, located in northern Gorkha, is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley with deep-rooted Buddhist culture.
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