FAQs - Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek via Larkye pass Himalayan Diamond Adventure

01. How Difficult Is Tsum and Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The grading of this trek is difficult, but it's suitable for those with good physical fitness and prior trekking experience, regardless of their age. The trail includes the Larke La high pass, which reaches an altitude of 5,106 meters and involves a lot of up and down walking. During the snowfall season, the trail passes through moraines, snow-covered terrain, and icy trails. The trek takes approximately 18 to 19 days and requires 4 to 9 hours of hiking per day, depending on your pace. Along the way, you will encounter warm hospitality, captivating Buddhist landmarks, and breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and stunning landscapes. You will also enjoy a delicious variety of meals and hot and cold drinks. The trekking route provides internet and Wi-Fi services, and there are clean and comfortable accommodations available. During this amazing trip, we will pass through many charming ethnic villages, farmers' cultivated farmlands, terraced paddy fields, tea houses, forests, waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and isolated beauty.

02. What Is the Best Time of a Year to Do Tsum and Manaslu round Trek?

The best time of year to do the Tsum and Manaslu round trek is during the spring season (March to May) and autumn season (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally stable, with less rain and snowfall, and clear skies that provide excellent visibility of the mountains and breathtaking views along the trekking route. The temperature is also moderate, making it an enjoyable trekking experience for tourists. However, the Himalayan Diamond Adventure team highly recommends that our clients do this trip during the autumn season (September to November) or spring season (April to May) for the best experience. September and October are the harvesting time for this region, and April and May are the Alpine flower blooming season, making the trail smoother and more enjoyable.

03. How does it look like accommodation and meal options on the way to Tsum and Manaslu Circuit trail?

Accommodation and meal options on the Tsum and Manaslu circuit trail can vary depending on the trekker's itinerary and the specific tea houses they choose to stay at. Tea houses along the trail offer a range of accommodation options, from luxurious to basic, with choices for both shared and private rooms. Typically, the rooms have two single beds with basic bedding such as blankets and pillows.

In terms of meals, most tea houses offer a wide variety of food options, including traditional Nepalese dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup), as well as international dishes such as pasta and pizza. Breakfast typically consists of eggs, toast, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Tea houses also serve hot and cold drinks, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks. Some tea houses may also offer alcoholic beverages for an additional cost.

04. How does it look like accommodation and meal options on the way to Tsum valley and Manaslu Larkye pass trail?

Accommodation and meal options on the way to Tsum Valley and Manaslu Larkye Pass trail can vary depending on the trekker's itinerary and the specific tea houses they stay at. Tea houses along the trek offer basic accommodation with options for both shared and private rooms. The rooms usually have two single beds with basic bedding such as blankets and pillows.

As for meals, most tea houses offer a wide variety of food options including traditional Nepalese dishes such as dal Bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup), as well as international dishes such as pasta and pizza. Breakfast typically consists of eggs, toast, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Tea houses also offer hot and cold drinks including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks. Some tea houses may also offer alcoholic beverages for an additional cost.

05. What Happens If There Is an Emergency?

Our first priority is your safety and security during your stay in the mountains. If you experience an emergency, become ill, or lose your belongings while trekking or climbing in the mountains, it is important to inform your trekking guide or accompanying agency immediately. We will arrange for a helicopter to rescue you immediately and provide medical attention, or report the incident to the nearest police station to recover your lost belongings. Rest assured that we will take appropriate steps to ensure your safety and well-being in a timely manner.

06. What Essential Documents Do I Need to Bring with Me on Tour?

❖ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank visa pages

❖ Travel insurance policy document

❖ Photocopies of your passport's personal information page

❖ One or more recent passport-sized photos with a white background (1.5 inch x 1.5 inch)

❖ Completed and signed Nepal visa application form

❖ Proof of accommodation in Nepal (such as a hotel reservation or address)

❖ Valid return flight or travel ticket

❖ Proof of sufficient financial means, such as recent bank statements

❖ Mastercard, Visa, and some cash in USD

❖ Proof of payment of the Nepal visa fee

❖ To obtain a visa for Nepal, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date and you must present either a completed COVID-19 vaccination certificate with QR code or a valid PCR test negative result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding

07. What Type of Insurance Should I Get?

It is essential for foreign travelers to secure insurance coverage while trekking or climbing in Nepal. Although trekking in Nepal is generally safe, but if you're going to mountaineering in Nepal then the travel insurance is compulsory. During trip it can be posed physical challenges and hazards, especially at high altitudes, where altitude sickness is prevalent among trekkers, especially foreign travelers who may not have acclimatized properly. Physical injuries can also occur on mountain trails, and in emergency situations, foreign trekkers may need to be rescued by helicopter and transported to hospitals in Kathmandu, which can be costly if the traveler does not have insurance coverage.

We strongly recommend purchasing a travel insurance package that covers high altitudes up to 5,000 meters, potential medical issues, natural disasters, personal accidents, emergency helicopter evacuation, loss or damage of personal belongings, and trip cancellations. The minimum recommended coverage amount is USD 100,000. There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services online.it plan look like

08. What Are Some Popular and Highly Rated Travel Insurance Companies?

We have received positive feedback from our previous travellers regarding the following travel insurance companies: [Company 1], [Company 2], [Company 3]

For Travelers from USA and CANADA........................

Online Global Health Insurance

Travelex

Insure My Trip.com (Online Insurance Aggregator)

Mondial Assistance

Access America

HCC Medical Insurance Services

Good Neighbor Insurance (International Health)

International Health

Insuremytrip dot com

MultiNational Underwriters

TIC Travel Insurance Coordinators Ltd

Travel Assist

TraveLite

For Travelers from England...................................

Specialty Group (UK) Limited

FirstAssist Services Limited

Harrison Beaumont

Buy cheap travel insurance

For Travellers from EUROPE and SLOVENIA...........................

Assistance CORIS

For Travellers from AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

Cover More Travel Insurance

CGU Insurance Limited

For Travellers from SOUTH AFRICA........................................

Travel insurance Consultants Pty. Ltd.

09. How Do You Stay Healthy During A Trek In Nepal?

To maintain good health during a trek in Nepal, it's important to maintain a balanced diet and proper hydration. Avoid consuming junk, stale, heavily spiced, and roasted foods, as well as meat, fish, eggs, and samosas. Instead, opt for fresh, locally prepared meals and ask your guide for recommendations. Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water, and check the expiration date of bottled drinks like Coca Cola and Sprite. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or tea. Walk at a comfortable pace to prevent acute mountain sickness, and make sure to keep your body warm by wearing appropriate clothing.

10. How Far Will You Walk Every Day?

The total ground distance of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Larkya La Pass trek starting from Machhikhola and ending at Dharapani is approximately 160-170 kilometers (99-105 miles). The exact distance may vary depending on the specific route taken and any side trips or detours along the way.

This trek typically takes around 17-18 days to complete and involves crossing high mountain passes, exploring remote villages and monasteries, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range. The highest point on the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) above sea level.

11. Can You Trek Alone in Nepal?

It is possible to trek alone in Nepal, with the exception of some restricted areas where a guide is required for permit purposes. However, trekking alone in high mountain regions, particularly above 3500 meters, is not recommended. Nepal is a hilly country with steep ups and downs, and there is a risk of rock falls, getting lost, and suffering from altitude sickness. It is highly advised to have a guide or porter for assistance in case of any emergency, or for help with rescue or hospitalization.

12. Is Nepal Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Nepal is a safe destination for solo female travelers, as the government takes measures to ensure their safety. However, trekking alone in high mountain regions, particularly above 3500 meters, is not recommended. The country's hilly terrain, with steep ups and downs, poses risks such as rock falls, getting lost, and altitude sickness. It is highly recommended to have a guide or porter for assistance in case of an emergency, or for help with rescue or hospitalization.

13. Why Should You Go Trekking in Nepal?

You should visit Nepal at least once in your life to witness its diversity and vibrant festivals. As the birthplace of Buddha and home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, Nepal offers a chance to explore its diverse ethnic groups, cultures, religions, and traditions. With eight of the world's tallest 8,000-meter peaks and popular treks like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

14. Will You Have to Carry Your Own Stuff?

When trekking alone, you'll need to carry your own gear. Hiring a porter will allow them to carry heavy luggage, while you carry the rest. It's recommended to pack light to avoid excessive weight and minimize the risk of acute mountain sickness, allowing for a more enjoyable trek.

15. Can You Store Extra Baggage or A Suitcase at The Hotel? Is There Any Cost?

Most of the hotels will not charge any extra cost for storing extra baggage or suitcase at the hotel. It is a good idea to do this if you will return back to the same route. Make sure that you don’t leave any jewelry, electronics or items of value in the baggage.

16. Is There Any Weight Limit for Domestic Flights?

For domestic flights in Nepal, the free baggage weight limit is usually 10-25 kgs with an additional luggage extra charge you per kg Nepalese rupees 100 to 125. The free cabin/handbag limit is around 5 kgs.

17. How Long Can I Stay in Nepal with a Tourist Visa?

A Nepal Tourist visa can be issued for 15, 30, or 90 days with the fees changing depending on the number of days you will remain in the country.

18. How Can I Extend a Nepal Visa?

You can extend your Nepal Visa at the headquarters of the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The office in Kathmandu is the only office of the Immigration Department which extends both tourist and non-tourist visas. The Immigration Office in Pokhara is only authorized to extend tourist visas.

You have to apply for an extension of your Nepal visa before it expires. If you apply afterward, you will have overstayed your visa, and you can be fined or even detained or arrested. You can extend a tourist visa for 15 days for a fee of USD 45. You have to pay an additional USD 3 for every day after that.