Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek – 22 Days Through the Hidden Himalayan Valleys of Nepal

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek – 22 Days Through the Hidden Himalayan Valleys of Nepal

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a journey for travellers who want to experience a quieter and more remote side of the Nepal Himalayas.

Far from the busy trails of the Everest and Annapurna regions, this trek leads through the dramatic landscapes surrounding Mount Manaslu, traditional Gurung villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, narrow mountain gorges and the culturally rich Tsum Valley.

What makes this journey particularly special is the contrast between its different sections. The trail begins with the rushing Budi Gandaki River and green hills before gradually moving into higher, colder and more rugged terrain. In the Tsum Valley, the atmosphere changes again, with Tibetan Buddhist traditions, centuries-old monasteries and isolated settlements surrounded by high Himalayan peaks.

The journey eventually continues towards Samagaon and Manaslu Base Camp before reaching its highest point at Larkya La Pass at 5,160 metres. From there, the trail descends through Bhimtang, Tilje and Dharapani before returning towards Kathmandu.

This 22-day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is not simply about reaching one destination. It is a long Himalayan journey through changing landscapes, cultures and elevations, with every section offering something different.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Highlights

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Highlights

  • Explore the remote and culturally rich Tsum Valley
  • Trek through traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages
  • Experience the dramatic Budi Gandaki Valley
  • Visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave
  • Explore Mu Gompa and Dhephu Gompa
  • Visit Rachen Gompa
  • Experience the mountain villages of Chumling, Chhokangparo and Nile
  • Explore Samagaon and the upper Manaslu region
  • Trek to Manaslu Base Camp
  • Visit Birendra Lake
  • Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass
  • Reach the highest point of the trek at 5,160 metres
  • Enjoy views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Himlung, Annapurna II and surrounding peaks
  • Walk through rhododendron and pine forests
  • Experience remote Himalayan communities away from the busier trekking routes
  • Private group discounts available

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek at a Glance

Trek Details Information
Duration 22 Days
Region Manaslu & Tsum Valley
Maximum Altitude 5,160 m / 16,929 ft
Highest Point Larkya La Pass
Trek Starting Point Machha Khola
Trek Ending Point Dharapani
Major Highlight Manaslu Base Camp
Tsum Valley Highlight Mu Gompa & Milarepa Cave
Difficulty Challenging
Accommodation Hotels & Mountain Guest Houses
Trekking Style Guided Trek
Group Type Private / Group
Best Seasons Spring & Autumn

Why Choose the Manaslu Tsum Valley TrekWhy Choose the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is ideal for trekkers looking beyond Nepal’s popular routes and wanting a deeper Himalayan experience. This 22-day adventure combines remote mountain scenery, authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture, traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and the challenging Larkya La Pass.

  • Remote & Less Crowded: Experience peaceful trails far from Nepal’s busiest trekking routes.
  • Two Treks in One: Explore the mystical Tsum Valley before continuing through the spectacular Manaslu Circuit.
  • Rich Tibetan Culture: Discover centuries-old monasteries, prayer walls, chortens and traditional Himalayan communities.
  • Exceptional Mountain Views: Enjoy dramatic views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli and other Himalayan peaks.
  • Mu Gompa Experience: Visit the remote and culturally significant Mu Gompa in the upper Tsum Valley.
  • Larkya La Adventure: Cross the famous 5,106-meter Larkya La Pass surrounded by impressive high-altitude scenery.
  • Authentic Himalayan Villages: Stay in local teahouses and experience the traditional lifestyle of mountain communities.
  • Varied Landscapes: Trek through lush forests, river valleys, alpine terrain, glacial landscapes and high mountain passes.
  • Perfect for Adventure Seekers: A rewarding combination of cultural discovery, wilderness, high-altitude trekking and Himalayan exploration.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Route

22-Day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,350 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Dinner

Your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek begins in Kathmandu.

After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you at the terminal and transfer you to your hotel.

Once you have settled in, you can rest after your journey or take a short walk around the neighbourhood.

The evening is kept relaxed, with time to meet the trekking team and prepare mentally for the adventure ahead.

A welcome dinner gives you an opportunity to experience traditional Nepali food before the trek begins.

Day 2: Free Day and Trek Preparation in Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,350 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Before heading into the mountains, you have a preparation day in Kathmandu.

This is the time to check your trekking equipment, organise your backpack and make sure you have the essentials required for the journey.

Important trekking equipment includes good trekking boots, trekking poles, layered clothing, warm gloves, a warm sleeping bag, sunglasses, sunscreen, a sun hat, water purification supplies and personal medication.

You can also use part of the day to explore Kathmandu before the long trek begins.

A little preparation today can make a big difference once you are several days into the mountains.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

Distance: Approximately 160 km
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today you leave Kathmandu by road and travel towards Machha Khola, the starting point of the trekking section.

The journey takes you away from the busy capital and into the countryside.

The route initially follows the Prithvi Highway before turning towards the northern valleys. Along the way, you pass through areas including Dhading Besi and Aarughat before continuing towards Machha Khola.

The scenery gradually changes from urban surroundings to terraced farmland, forested hills and river valleys.

Machha Khola is the final major settlement before the trek begins in earnest.

Overnight at a local guest house.

Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat

Distance: Approximately 21 km
Walking: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today marks your first full trekking day.

The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River through a landscape of green hills, rocky paths and traditional villages.

You pass Khorlabesi and continue towards Tatopani, where natural hot springs provide an interesting stop along the route.

The trail then continues towards Dobhan and Yaru Bagar, involving several ascents, descents and suspension bridge crossings.

Eventually, you reach Jagat, a traditional Gurung settlement at around 1,340 metres.

Jagat is an important point on the Manaslu trekking route and provides your first real feeling of being inside the Himalayan trail network.

Day 5: Jagat to Lokpa

Distance: Approximately 18 km
Walking: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 2,240 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail begins climbing more noticeably today.

Leaving Jagat, you follow the Budi Gandaki upstream through farmland and small settlements before reaching Ekle Bhatti.

From there, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged.

The route passes through a narrow gorge before reaching Philim. After Philim, the trail enters forested terrain dominated by rhododendron and pine.

This section feels considerably more isolated than the earlier part of the trek.

After several hours of walking through forest and mountain terrain, you arrive at Lokpa.

Day 6: Lokpa to Chumling

Distance: Approximately 8 km
Walking: About 4 hours
Altitude: 2,386 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today is a shorter trekking day, giving you time to enjoy the changing landscape.

The trail descends towards the Lungwa River before continuing through lush pine and rhododendron forests.

After crossing a suspension bridge, the route climbs towards Gumling.

From here, you can enjoy views towards Ganesh Himal and Baudha Himal.

The trail continues through a series of climbs and descents before crossing the Syar Khola and reaching Chumling, also known as Lower Chum.

The village provides your first deeper introduction to the unique culture of the Tsum Valley.

Day 7: Chumling to Chhokangparo

Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 3,010 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail continues deeper into the Tsum Valley.

Following the Syar Khola, you walk through pine woodland towards Domje, one of the larger settlements in the lower Tsum Valley.

The route then continues towards Gho, where you can visit a local gompa before continuing uphill.

The final part of the day involves a gradual ascent to Chhokangparo, also known as Upper Chum.

As you gain altitude, the mountain scenery becomes increasingly impressive, with views towards Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.

Day 8: Chhokangparo to Nile via Milarepa Piren Phu Cave

Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking: 4–5 hours
Altitude: Around 3,500 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

One of the cultural highlights of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek awaits today.

The trail leads towards Lamagaon and then to the famous Milarepa Piren Phu Cave.

According to local Buddhist tradition, the cave is associated with the great Tibetan Buddhist master Milarepa, who is believed to have meditated here.

The cave and surrounding religious sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual history of the valley.

After exploring the area, you continue through Phurbe, Pang and Chhule before crossing the Syar Khola and reaching Nile.

The landscape is increasingly high-altitude now, with traditional villages surrounded by barren Himalayan slopes.

Day 9: Nile to Mu Gompa and Hike to Dhephu Gompa

Mu Gompa: Approximately 3,700 m
Dhephu Gompa: Approximately 4,060 m
Walking: 2.5–3 hours to Mu Gompa + day hike
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s journey is shorter in distance but rich in cultural and spiritual experiences.

From Nile, the trail follows the Syar Khola towards Mu Gompa.

The gradual climb passes chortens and traditional Buddhist features before reaching the remote monastery settlement.

After checking into the accommodation, you continue with a day hike towards Dhephu Gompa.

Situated at a higher elevation, Dhephu Gompa offers a quiet mountain setting and an opportunity to experience the spiritual atmosphere of this remote part of the Himalayas.

After the hike, return to Mu Gompa for the night.

Day 10: Nile to Chumling

Distance: Approximately 18 km
Walking: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 2,386 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The route now begins its return through the Tsum Valley.

You descend alongside the Syar Khola towards Chhule before continuing towards Rachen Gompa.

Rachen Gompa is an important Buddhist nunnery in the valley and offers another opportunity to experience the religious heritage of the region.

After visiting the area, the trail continues towards Pang and Phurbe before reaching Lamagaon.

From Lamagaon, you continue downhill towards Chumling.

The lower elevation becomes noticeable as the air grows warmer and the vegetation becomes thicker.

Day 11: Chumling to Deng

Distance: Approximately 19 km
Walking: About 7 hours
Altitude: 1,860 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Leaving Chumling, the trail descends through forested terrain towards Lokpa.

After reaching Lokpa, the route continues along the Syar Khola.

The landscape is filled with forest, river valleys and dramatic mountain slopes, with views towards Sringi Himal.

You cross Ghatta Khola before beginning the final section towards Deng.

Deng sits at a considerably lower elevation than the villages you have recently visited, making the change in climate noticeable.

Day 12: Deng to Namrung

Distance: Approximately 19 km
Walking: 7+ hours
Altitude: 2,630 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail climbs again today.

After crossing the Budi Gandaki River, you continue towards Rana and Bihi.

Waterfalls, forests and mountain scenery accompany much of the route.

The trail then reaches Ghap, where chortens and mani walls begin to appear more frequently.

From Ghap, it takes roughly another hour and a half to reach Namrung.

Namrung marks another important transition point as the landscape begins to take on a more alpine character.

Day 13: Namrung to Shyala

Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking: About 6 hours
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After yesterday’s long walking day, today’s route is shorter but involves a significant climb.

The trail leaves Namrung and gradually ascends through oak forest towards Sho.

Continuing higher, you reach Lho, a culturally important village known for Ribung Monastery.

The monastery provides both cultural interest and beautiful views towards the Manaslu range.

From Lho, the trail continues across wider mountain paths before reaching Shyala.

The views become increasingly dramatic as the surrounding peaks begin to dominate the skyline.

Day 14: Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Gompa

Distance: Approximately 17 km
Walking: 4–5 hours
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 4,050 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today brings you into the high Manaslu landscape.

Leaving Shyala, you walk through open grassland and thin woodland before reaching the junction towards Pungyen Gompa.

The trail leads towards yak pastureland where you can enjoy wide views across the surrounding mountains.

Pungyen Gompa sits in an impressive setting and is an important cultural stop on the route.

After exploring the area, the trail descends before continuing towards Samagaon.

At around 3,530 metres, Samagaon is one of the most important settlements in the upper Manaslu region.

Day 15: Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp and Return

Manaslu Base Camp: Approximately 4,800 m
Distance: Approximately 12 km round trip
Walking: Around 7 hours
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today is one of the major highlights of the entire trek.

From Samagaon, you begin the climb towards Manaslu Base Camp.

The trail initially climbs gradually towards Birendra Lake before becoming more rugged.

As you move higher, the terrain changes to rocky paths, small streams and increasingly barren mountain surroundings.

After several hours of climbing, you reach Manaslu Base Camp.

The enormous Manaslu massif rises above the valley, creating an unforgettable Himalayan panorama.

After spending time at Base Camp, you retrace your steps and return to Samagaon for the night.

Day 16: Samagaon to Samdo

Distance: Approximately 9 km
Walking: About 4 hours
Altitude: Approximately 3,860 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail continues towards the remote village of Samdo.

From Samagaon, you climb towards Birendra Lake before continuing through meadows and glacial streams.

Chortens and mani walls appear along the trail as you move deeper into the upper Manaslu landscape.

Samdo is a small settlement located close to the Tibetan border and strongly influenced by Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The short walking day gives you time to appreciate the stark beauty of this high-altitude environment.

Day 17: Samdo to Dharamsala

Distance: Approximately 12 km
Walking: About 5 hours
Altitude: Approximately 4,460 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail becomes more rugged as you approach the Larkya La section.

Leaving Samdo, you cross the Budi Gandaki River before following a gradual ascent towards Larke Bazaar.

This seasonal settlement provides views towards the Shyacha Glacier and the surrounding high mountain valley.

Beyond Larke Bazaar, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse.

The trail crosses rocky terrain, chortens and mani walls before the final climb towards Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi.

With the Larkya La Pass crossing coming tomorrow, an early night’s rest is important.

Day 18: Dharamsala to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass

Distance: Approximately 24.7 km
Walking: 7–8 hours
Larkya La Pass: 5,160 m
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This is the most demanding and memorable day of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.

The trail begins with an early ascent across rocky terrain.

As you climb higher, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and alpine. The route continues along ridges marked by cairns before eventually reaching the summit of Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,160 metres.

This is the highest point of the trek.

From the pass, the surrounding panorama opens dramatically. Depending on weather and visibility, you can see peaks including Cheo Himal, Himlung, Kang Guru and Annapurna II.

After taking time to appreciate the achievement, the trail begins its long descent towards Bhimtang.

The descent can be steep and challenging, particularly after the long climb to the pass. The landscape gradually changes from rocky terrain to grassy areas and eventually rhododendron forest.

By the time you reach Bhimtang, one of the toughest sections of the journey is behind you.

Day 19: Bhimtang to Tilje

Distance: Approximately 20 km
Walking: Around 7 hours
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The landscape changes dramatically as you descend.

From Bhimtang, the trail gradually loses elevation towards Yak Kharka, with beautiful views across the Manaslu Himalayan range.

The route then continues through pine and rhododendron forests towards Karche.

Further downhill, you pass Goa, a traditional Gurung settlement surrounded by farmland.

The final section takes you towards Tilje, a larger Gurung village with several accommodation options.

After spending many days at high altitude, the warmer environment and greener landscape are a welcome change.

Day 20: Tilje to Dharapani and Drive to Kathmandu

Walking: Approximately 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km trekking + road journey
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The final trekking section begins with a gradual descent through forests and terraced farmland.

After reaching Thonje, the route continues towards Dharapani.

A suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River leads you towards Dharapani, where the trekking portion of the journey officially comes to an end.

After lunch, you board a vehicle for the journey towards Kathmandu.

After weeks of walking through remote Himalayan landscapes, returning to the city feels like entering another world.

Day 21: Rest and Kathmandu Exploration

Altitude: 1,350 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

This day provides time to relax after the trek.

You can explore Kathmandu, shop for souvenirs or simply enjoy a comfortable day in the city.

A sightseeing tour around Kathmandu Valley can also be arranged if you wish to explore some of Nepal’s historic and cultural attractions.

According to the provided itinerary, sightseeing on this day is not included in the trekking package and is charged separately. Pasted text

This day can also serve as a contingency day in case unexpected circumstances during the trek have caused delays.

Day 22: Final Departure from Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,350 m

Your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek officially comes to an end today.

After breakfast, our representative will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the airport approximately three hours before your scheduled flight.

After completing a long Himalayan journey through the Tsum Valley, Manaslu Base Camp and Larkya La Pass, you leave Nepal with memories of remote villages, Buddhist monasteries, high mountain landscapes and days spent walking far from the usual tourist routes.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a challenging trek and is best suited to travellers who are comfortable with long walking days and significant changes in elevation.

The difficulty comes from several factors:

  • Long trekking days
  • Steep ascents and descents
  • Remote mountain terrain
  • High-altitude sections
  • The 5,160 m Larkya La Pass
  • Rocky and uneven trails
  • Changing Himalayan weather
  • Limited facilities in remote areas

You should prepare with regular walking, hiking, cardiovascular training and uphill exercise before arriving in Nepal.

Best Time for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

The best seasons for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are generally spring and autumn.

Spring – March to May

Spring brings warmer conditions, blooming rhododendrons and generally favourable trekking weather.

Autumn – September to November

Autumn is one of the most popular trekking seasons in Nepal. After the monsoon, the skies are often clearer and mountain visibility can be excellent.

Winter

Winter brings much colder conditions, particularly around the higher sections and Larkya La Pass.

Monsoon

Heavy rainfall can affect lower sections of the trail, road conditions and visibility.

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Cost

The private group pricing provided for this trek is:

No. of People Price Per Person
2 Pax US$1,500
3–5 Pax US$1,400
6–9 Pax US$1,350
10–15 Pax US$1,300
16+ Pax US$1,200

Private group discounts are available for larger groups.

The supplied pricing table begins from 2 people and does not list a single-person rate. Pasted text

What Makes the Tsum Valley Special?

The Tsum Valley is one of the most distinctive parts of this trek.

The valley has a strong Tibetan Buddhist influence, visible through its monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, chortens and traditional villages.

The journey through Chumling, Chhokangparo and Nile feels very different from trekking through Nepal’s busier routes.

Milarepa Piren Phu Cave adds another layer of history, while Mu Gompa and Dhephu Gompa provide some of the most memorable cultural experiences of the route.

This is where the trek becomes more than a physical journey.

Manaslu Base Camp Experience

Reaching Manaslu Base Camp is another major highlight.

The trail from Samagaon climbs through increasingly rugged terrain towards the mountain’s base. Birendra Lake provides an impressive early landmark before the route becomes more exposed and rocky.

At Base Camp, the surrounding mountains create a dramatic amphitheatre.

Standing there after travelling from the lower Budi Gandaki Valley and through the Tsum Valley gives the experience a real sense of achievement.

Larkya La Pass – The Highest Point

At 5,160 metres, Larkya La Pass is the highest point of this itinerary.

The approach begins from Dharamsala and requires an early start.

The climb is demanding, but reaching the summit provides a huge sense of accomplishment.

The surrounding Himalayan panorama can include Cheo Himal, Himlung, Kang Guru and Annapurna II.

The descent towards Bhimtang is equally important to respect because the trail can be steep and tiring after crossing the pass.

What to Pack for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

A practical packing list includes:

  • Good-quality trekking boots
  • Trekking poles
  • Warm sleeping bag
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece layer
  • Thermal base layers
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Trekking trousers
  • Warm gloves
  • Wool socks
  • Sun hat
  • Warm hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Water purification tablets
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Headlamp
  • Personal medication
  • Basic first-aid supplies
  • Energy bars
  • Backpack and daypack

Because the route reaches more than 5,000 metres, warm clothing and suitable footwear are particularly important.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

The provided itinerary is 22 days, including Kathmandu arrival, preparation, trekking, return to Kathmandu, a rest/contingency day and departure. Pasted text

What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest point is Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,160 metres. Pasted text

Does the trek include Manaslu Base Camp?

Yes. The itinerary includes a dedicated day from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp and back, reaching approximately 4,800 metres. Pasted text

What is the main highlight of Tsum Valley?

The Tsum Valley section includes Milarepa Piren Phu Cave, Mu Gompa, Dhephu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, along with traditional villages and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Pasted text

Is Larkya La Pass difficult?

Yes. The pass is the highest and one of the most physically demanding parts of the trek. The itinerary covers approximately 24.7 km from Dharamsala to Bhimtang on this day. Pasted text

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

The route is challenging because of its length, remote terrain, altitude and Larkya La Pass. Good physical preparation is strongly recommended.

Plan Your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek with Ambition Himalaya

Whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends or as a private group, Ambition Himalaya can help you organise your journey through the Manaslu and Tsum Valley region.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: +97714518413
Mobile / WhatsApp: +9779851148898
Office: Thamel-26, Kathmandu, Nepal
Website: Ambition Himalaya

Ambition Himalaya

Your Journey to the Himalayas Begins Here.

Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days: Complete Trek Itinerary & Package Cost in Nepal

Hidden Lake TrekThe Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and less-explored trekking adventures in the Annapurna region. Known locally as Khayer Lake Trek, this route offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and Himalayan wilderness.

Surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri, this trek is ideal for travelers who want to experience Nepal beyond the crowded trails.

Unlike commercial trekking routes, the Hidden Lake Trek takes you deep into peaceful forests, traditional Gurung settlements, and high alpine landscapes where nature remains untouched and pure.

For official trekking rules, permits, and conservation area guidelines, you can also check the Government of Nepal – Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC):
https://dnpwc.gov.np

Trek Overview

Trek Overview

The Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days is a rewarding off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Designed for trekkers seeking peaceful trails, breathtaking mountain scenery, and an authentic Himalayan experience, this trek leads to the beautiful Hidden Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes.

The journey begins in Kathmandu before driving to Pokhara and continuing towards the trekking trail. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush forests of rhododendron and pine, alpine meadows, and high mountain ridges offering spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The highlight of the trek is reaching Hidden Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding Himalayan peaks, creating an unforgettable natural setting.

With moderate to challenging trekking days and gradual altitude gain, this itinerary is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Proper acclimatization and experienced guid

es ensure a safe and enjoyable journey throughout the trek.

Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds, discover untouched Himalayan landscapes, or experience Nepal’s rich mountain culture, the Hidden Lake Trek offers a perfect combination of adventure, nature, and tranquility.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore one of Nepal’s hidden alpine lakes in the Annapurna region.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
  • Trek through traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
  • Experience peaceful off-the-beaten-path trekking trails.
  • Walk through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain landscapes.
  • Witness spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
  • Experience authentic local culture, hospitality, and mountain lifestyle.
  • Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a less crowded Himalayan trekking experience.
Trip Facts Details
Destination Hidden Lake (Khayer Lake), Annapurna Region
 Duration 11 Days
 Maximum Elevation 4,660 m (15,289 ft) – Hidden Lake
 Trek Grade Moderate to Challenging
 Best Seasons Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
 Accommodation Hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara, Local Tea Houses/Guesthouses During Trek
 Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner During the Trek
 Starting Point Kathmandu, Nepal
 Ending Point Kathmandu, Nepal

Why Choose the Hidden Lake Trek

Why Choose the Hidden Lake Trek?

The Hidden Lake Trek is perfect for trekkers who want a quiet, authentic, and scenic Himalayan experience.

Major Highlights:

  • Visit the sacred Hidden Lake (Khayer Lake)
  • Explore Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP region)
  • Stunning sunrise over Annapurna South & Machhapuchhre
  • Traditional Gurung villages like Ghandruk
  • Dense rhododendron forests (especially in spring)
  • Natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda
  • Less crowded and peaceful trekking route
  • Ideal for photography, meditation, and nature lovers

For conservation and trekking permit information, visit:
https://ntb.gov.np (Nepal Tourism Board)

Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our team welcomes you and transfers you to the hotel. Evening briefing and welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

  • Distance: 200 km
  • Duration: 7–8 hours

Scenic drive through rivers, hills, and villages.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – Drive to Ghandruk (1,940m)

Visit the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk, explore culture, museum, and mountain views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 – Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)

Trek through rhododendron forests with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 – Trek to Dobato (3,550m)

A quieter trail with increasing alpine scenery and fewer trekkers.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 – Trek to Pode Kharka (4,060m)

Reach high alpine meadows surrounded by Himalayan peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 – Hidden Lake Excursion (4,660m) & Trek to Tribung

Today is the most important day of the trek.

You hike to Hidden Lake (Khayer Lake), a sacred alpine lake located beneath Annapurna South. The peaceful environment, prayer flags, and mountain reflections make it a spiritual and unforgettable experience.

After exploring the lake, return and descend to Tribung.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 – Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,560m)

Descend through forests and villages. Relax in the famous natural hot spring.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 – Drive to Pokhara

Return to Pokhara and enjoy Lakeside city life.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 10 – Drive to Kathmandu

Scenic return journey via Prithvi Highway.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 – Departure

Transfer to airport or extend your stay in Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Hidden Lake Trek Cost (Group Pricing)

Group Size Price Per Person
1 Person US$ 850
2 People US$ 750
3–5 People US$ 700
6–9 People US$ 650
10–15 People US$ 600
16+ People US$ 550

Best Time for Hidden Lake Trek

Spring (March–May)

  • Rhododendron bloom
  • Clear mountain views
  • Pleasant weather

 Autumn (September–November)

  • Stable climate
  • Best visibility
  • Ideal trekking conditions

Difficulty Level

Difficulty Level

This trek is moderate to challenging.

You should be prepared for:

  • 5–7 hours walking daily
  • Steep ascents and descents
  • High altitude conditions

No technical climbing skills required.

What Makes Hidden Lake Special?

Hidden Lake is considered a sacred Himalayan lake located in the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is less commercialized, making it perfect for travelers seeking peace and raw natural beauty.

The reflection of Annapurna South on the lake surface, combined with prayer flags and silence, creates a truly spiritual atmosphere.

What to Pack

  • Trekking boots (waterproof recommended)
  • Down jacket
  • Warm layers
  • Sleeping bag
  • Trekking poles
  • Gloves & hat
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Water bottle / hydration system
  • Personal medicines

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hidden Lake Trek safe?

Yes, it is safe with a licensed guide and proper preparation.

Do I need permits?

Yes, you need ACAP permit and TIMS card. These are regulated by the Government of Nepal.

 Official info: https://ntb.gov.np
Conservation info: https://dnpwc.gov.np

What is the highest point?

The highest point is approximately 4,660 meters at Hidden Lake.

Is a guide necessary?

Yes, a licensed guide is strongly recommended for safety and navigation.

Are there tea houses?

Yes, basic but comfortable tea houses are available along the route.

Book Your Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days with Ambition Himalaya

Ready to discover one of Nepal’s most breathtaking hidden alpine destinations? The Hidden Lake Trek – 11 Days offers an unforgettable journey through traditional Himalayan villages, lush rhododendron forests, spectacular mountain landscapes, and the pristine beauty of Hidden Lake (Khayer Lake).

Whether you’re an experienced trekker, a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, Ambition Himalaya provides professionally guided trekking experiences with flexible itineraries tailored to your schedule, fitness level, and budget. Our experienced local guides, reliable logistics, and commitment to exceptional service ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventure from start to finish.

Why Book with Ambition Himalaya?

  • ✔️ Experienced local trekking guides
  • ✔️ Customized private and group departures
  • ✔️ Competitive prices with no hidden costs
  • ✔️ Comfortable accommodation and transportation
  • ✔️ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
  • ✔️ Special discounts for groups and early bookings

Contact Us Today

Website: www.ambitionhimalaya.com
Booking Page: https://ambitionhimalaya.com/hidden-lake-trek-11-days/
Phone / WhatsApp: +977-9851148898

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of Nepal’s most scenic and less-crowded Himalayan adventures. Book your Hidden Lake Trek today with Ambition Himalaya and let our expert team take care of every detail while you create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Annapurna region.

↑