Recommended Top 21 Popular Side Trips in Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu region is not just about its renowned circuit trail; it is also a hidden gem in the Himalayas of Nepal. Trekking in Manaslu is heaven for adventure seekers, offering raw, remote, and rich cultural experiences. Apart from the popular Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trek, there are several side trips in the Manaslu Trek route that you can explore.

The main circuit itself is an extraordinary journey where trekkers can explore traditional, local, ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, lakes, lush forests, etc. They get past deep gorges and alpine meadows and catch a few glimpses of snow-capped, panoramic mountain views and some rare species of birds and animals.

Whether you seek cultural immersion or untouched wilderness, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek and a few side trips cover it all. From secluded villages and sacred monasteries to high-altitude passes and villages, you are awarded with an experience like no other.

To explore the magnificence of the Manaslu region, book an exciting trek with Himalayan Masters. You can get in touch with us via email, WhatsApp, or by visiting our website. We assure you that we will provide the most well-managed, safe and comfortable trip at the most affordable price.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Side Trip

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is already an adventurous journey. But for those seeking even more adventures, adding a few additional days to their standard trek route suffice.

There are several side trips in Manaslu Trek along the route, offering stunning landscapes, hidden monasteries, some of the glacial Lakes in Nepal, and a panoramic view of staggering peaks.

These excursions let you discover the hidden gems besides the standard Manaslu Circuit trek route.

Here are some of the recommended popular trips on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route.

Serang Gompa (3100 m/10,171 ft)

A peaceful and spiritual retreat, Serang Gompa is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in the Manaslu region. Lying amidst green hills, it offers a glimpse of the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The monastery is located in the Bihi area of the Nubri Valley. The trek to the monastery starts from Bihi Phedi. It is a day-long trek that takes around 7-9 hours and involves dense forests and crossing streams.

However, after a long, tiring trek, trekkers get to stay in the Gompa itself, offering an insight into the monastery.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Serang Gompa

• It is an ancient monastery with spiritual significance.
• From the monastery, tourists can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
• A chance to get insight into monastic life and Buddhist rituals.

Kal Tal (3574 m/11,726 ft)

Also known as ‘Death Lake’ and ‘Kalchhuman Lake’, Kal Tal is a hidden alpine lake offering its visitors alluring views of the untouched natural setting and crystal-clear water.

Kal Tal is situated just after Prok Village, a short detour with a moderately steep path along the Manaslu trail route.

The route to the lake follows through forests and meadows path, providing beautiful views as the journey continues. After around 5 hours of trek, we can reach the lake.

There is an artistic Kal Chokkang Gompa and eight joint stupas where visitors can visit and worship. Moreover, travellers seeking undisturbed scenery along with personal peace can visit this lake, as it is still lesser known to many.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Kal Tal

• Trekkers can get stunning views of a turquoise glacial lake.
• Views of surrounding snow-capped peaks.
• A perfect destination for photography and solitude.

Hinang Gompa (3100 m/10,171 ft)

A short detour on the way of Manaslu Circuit Trek, between Lihi and Sho, Hinang Gompa is a small yet beautiful monastery. The monastery is situated in a quiet valley, offering a serene spiritual experience.

Hinang Gompa serves as an important religious site among the locals. The trek route to Hinang Gompa branches off from the main trek and then follows a gentle path through the rhododendron forests.

The monastery offers a quiet retreat and an opportunity to observe Buddhist traditions in practice. Furthermore, the monastery also provides an accommodation facility for its visitors where they can dine with the monks.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Hinang Gompa

• Spectacular views of mountains in its backdrop.
• Traditional Buddhist murals and prayer wheels give a different sensation or religiousness.
• Provides a peaceful environment, perfect for meditation.

Himalchuli Base Camp (4020 m/13,189 ft)

Travelling to Himalchuli Base Camp allows trekkers to experience one of the top two peaks in the Manaslu region at their base.

Visitors can reach Himalchuli Base Camp by extending a day hike further from Hinang Gompa. There are no teahouses on the way, so we suggest you take a packed lunch, energy bars, enough drinking water, etc.

For those who want to stay here, there is no accommodation facility, but camping is possible.

Trekking to Himalchuli Base Camp is a physically demanding task but offers majestic mountain views, which provides an optimal adventure for professional hikers.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Himalchuli Base Camp

• Close-up views of the Himalchuli glacier.
• Thrilling high-altitude trekking experience.
• Possible sightings of Himalayan wildlife.

Pungyen Gompa (4050 m/13,287 ft)

Visiting Pungyen Gompa is one of the best side trip options in Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is one of the region’s most iconic and oldest monasteries, around 400 years old.

Pungyen Gompa is a remote and enchanting monastery situated amidst glaciers and towering peaks. It is nestled in an open valley, offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Manaslu region.

The trail to Pungyen Gompa detours on the way from Shyala Village to Samagaon. The trek passes through an uphill path via yak pastures. Trekkers often visit this monastery as an acclimatization hike before heading to higher altitudes.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Pungyen Gompa

• Ancient Buddhist monastery with serene surroundings, a perfect place for peace and tranquillity.
• Breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Peak.
• Situated in a quaint alpine meadow.

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Birendra Lake (3691 m/12,110 ft)

A glacial lake, Birendra Lake/Tal is a beautiful lake situated near Samagaon. Its water originates from Mount Manaslu. The tranquil water of the lake reflects the surrounding peaks, forming a breathtaking view. This short trek is apt for acclimatization prior to ascending to higher-elevation villages.

It is one of the major lakes in Nepal, and it is an easy and short hike of just about half an hour from Samagaon. Running dzopkyos (a hybrid of yak and cow) and yak on a wide pasture land on the way is a cheerful experience.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Birendra Lake

• Beautiful glacial lake with turquoise-coloured water.
• A good picnic spot at the lake viewpoint.
• Excellent acclimatization hike from Samagaon.

Manaslu Base Camp – Manaslu Glacier Viewpoint (4400 m/14,436 ft)

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a popular side trip in Manaslu Trek.

This trek is a 13-14 km (about 8 miles) long hike from Samagaon, around 6-7 hours round trip, which is a perfect choice for acclimatization.

From Manaslu Base Camp, trekkers can get a great view of Manaslu Glacier and surrounding peaks, including the world’s 8th highest peak, Mount Manaslu.

As the trail to the base camp is quite challenging, it is an ideal trekking option for adventure lovers with strong determination.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Manaslu Base Camp

• Great views of Manaslu Glacier, Manaslu and other surrounding peaks.
• Offers high-altitude trekking experience.
• Perfect destination for photography, videography, and adventure seekers.

Samdo Ri (5177 m/16,985 ft)

Situated just above Samdo Village (one of the closest villages to the Tibetan Border), Samdo Ri is a lesser-known viewpoint. It offers great all-round panoramic views of the Himalayas, including views of the Tibet border.

The climb to Samdo Ri is steep but rewards the trekkers with great scenery.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Samdo Ri

• Stunning view of the Tibetan plateau and mountain ranges.
• Great alternative for acclimatization.
• It is a less crowded trail, the perfect trail for serenity and wilderness.

Tibet Border – Lajung Glacier

A long yet exciting hike to the Tibet border takes around 8-9 hours for a round trip from Samdo Village. This trek takes travellers to the Nepal-Tibet border, offering stunning views of nearby peaks and Lajung Glacier.

It is an ancient caravan route that used to be a busy trade route between Nepal and Tibet. These side trips in Manaslu Trek option allow the trekkers to explore the culture and wonders of high-altitude rugged terrains.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Tibet Border

• This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the Tibet border.
• Glaciers’ amazing views of glaciers.
• Remote and untouched beauty.

Rui La Pass (Lajyang Bhanjyang) – 4998 m/16,398 ft

It is a high-altitude pass near the Tibet border. The pass can be reached from Samdo, providing stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and several other staggering peaks.

Rui La Pass is a historical trade route between Nepal and Tibet. It is an isolated, lesser-known trail offering solitary and awe-inspiring destinations for trekkers.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Rui La Pass

• Spot yaks grazing in wide pasture lands and other wildlife.
• Historical and culturally significant trade route.
• Breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8163 m/26,782 ft), Himalchuli, and other peaks.

Dharmashala to Pangpoche Viewpoint (6620 m/21,719 ft)

A spectacular viewpoint, Pangpoche Viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding peaks and glacial valleys.

The hike from Dharamshala (4460 m/14,633 ft), one of the highest altitude villages in Nepal, to Pangpoche Viewpoint is an easy, rewarding hike. This hike normally serves as a short acclimatization trek before crossing over Larke La Pass at 5106m (16,752ft) – one of the highest altitude mountain passes in Nepal.

It takes around 2-3 hours for a round trip, about 3 km (2 miles). This trail starts in Dharamsala, taking a steep, though not difficult, path up to the ridge. The entire trail is spectacular because the topography keeps changing every minute from rocky to grassy ridges, offering great views.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Dharmashala to Pangpoche Viewpoint

• Scenic sunrise and sunset view of the Manaslu range.
• Perfect place for acclimatization before crossing Larke La Pass.
• Less crowded trail with serene landscapes.

Ponkar Lake (Nayamlo and Kamlo Tal) – 3965 m/13,009 ft

A hidden gem located near Bimthang, Ponkar Lake consists of two lakes – Nayamlo and Kamlo Tal. These pristine glacial lakes provide a magical view of surrounding snow-capped peaks.

The beginning point for reaching Ponkar Lake is Bimthang, a significant overnight stay location in the standard Manaslu trekking route. From here, trekkers can follow a well-marked trail with gradual elevation through rugged terrain. Trekkers can see some shrubs and alpine vegetation on the way.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Ponkar Lake

• The most beautiful blue colour glacial lakes are surrounded by rugged mountains.
• It is the best place for photography, meditation, and yoga treks in Nepal.
• Observe rich, high-altitude flora and fauna within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Dudh Pokhari (Nasharng Tso) – 4560 m/14,961 ft

Nasharng Tso, popularly known as Dudh Pokhari, is a holy, high-altitude lake reflecting fascinating scenes of surrounding peaks in its milky blue waters.

Dudh Pokhari starts from Jagat by going on very steep and energy-consuming uphill treks. The path goes through rugged landscapes, gaining altitude until it reaches the astonishing lake.

It is a complete camping trek which takes about 3 days to reach the lake. We suggest this side trips in Manaslu Trek to those only who are physically fit and are ready to take the adventure to the next level.

Dudh Pokhari can also be reached from Barpak, the earthquake’s epicenter in 2015. And it is a comparatively easier route than from Jagat.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Dudh Pokhari

• A famous, sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
• Turquoise-colored water reflecting the snow-clad peaks is a breathtaking view.
• It is a challenging yet rewarding hike for adventure lovers.

Rupina La Trek (4720 m/15,485 ft)

A less-touristy route linking the Manaslu region with the lower area of Annapurna via virgin trails into the most isolated wilderness. It starts from the village of Barpak in the Gorkha district and traverses varied landscapes, from beautiful forests to alpine meadows and steep ridges. It measures over 60 km (37 miles) and will take approximately 7 to 8 days of trekking. It’s a less travelled path, meaning there are very few boarding and lodging options available, which automatically means one must camp at many places on this trek.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Rupina La Trek

• Off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Spectacular views of Himalchuli and other towering peaks.
• Diverse landscapes and ethnic communities.

Tsum Valley Trek Side Trip

The Hidden Valley of Happiness, the Tsum Valley, is an excellent trip in the Manaslu region. It is a spiritual journey in the secluded region of Manaslu to understand authentic Nepalese spiritual and cultural practices.

Untouched by modernization, this valley offers trekkers an experience of traditional Himalayan life, rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. From ancient, historic monasteries and sacred caves to breathtaking views of pristine Himalayan landscapes, trekkers are going to enjoy each moment. The Tsum Valley is a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

So, let’s see through some of the side trips in Manaslu Trek and the Tsum Nubri region, apart from the standard Tsum Valley Trek route.

Rainjam Viewpoint (3100 m/10,171 ft)

The Rainjam Viewpoint is a fantastic viewpoint to witness magnificent panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal ranges. It is located on the way from Chumling to Chhekampar, near Domche Village.

There is a monastery named ‘Rainjam Dhampa Gompa’. From there, the majestic views of the Himalayas can be enjoyed.

It is a short detour on the main trek trail of Tsum Valley, about 2 2-hour trek. The trail is quite easy and accessible for trekkers looking for a short retreat with awesome views.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Rainjam Viewpoint

• Panorama of snow-white peaks in all directions.
• A great place for sunrise and sunset photography.
• A serene and peaceful location with less crowd.

Rachen Gompa (3240 m/10,630 ft)

A nunnery monastery, Rachen Gompa is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in the Tsum Valley. The gompa provides a spiritual sanctuary to Buddhist practitioners.

This Gompa was built by Lama Kunga Tsultrim Dorje in the late 19th century as a spiritual destination for nuns.

Rachen Gompa lies on the way from Chhekampar to Nile, in Lamagaon Village, on the standard Tsum Valley Trek itinerary. It takes around 2-3 hours to reach Lamagaon, about 5 km (3 miles).

Major Attractions and Highlights of Rachen Gompa

• Magnificent Buddhist paintings and traditional artworks.
• Home to over 300 Tibetan Buddhist monks.
• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.

Milarepa Cave/Piren Phu (3361 m/11,027 ft)

The Milarepa Cave, or Pigeon Cave or Piren Phu, is a sacred cave near Lamagaon Village. It is believed that Saint Milarepa (a great saint/monk with divine power) used to meditate here during his journey in the 11th century.

This cave is a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhist devotees. It takes about half an hour to reach Milarepa Piren Phu Cave from Lamagaon. The path to the cave is also really enjoyable, with beautiful pine forests and traditional houses made of stone.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Milarepa Cave

• A sacred meditation place of the famous Tibetan saint Milarepa.
• Ancient Buddhist inscriptions on the walls of the cave.
• A peaceful, serene environment for cultural immersion and meditation.

Upper Nile Cave (3361 m/11,027 ft)

A holy Buddhist cave, the Upper Nile cave, is believed to have been used by Guru Rinpoche during his spiritual journey. This cave is situated near Nile Village in Upper Tsum Valley.

It is a short yet steep ascent from the main trail. The hike to the cave takes around 1-2 hours, about 2 km, to reach the Upper Nile Cave from Nile Village.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Upper Nile Cave

• Sacred Buddhist site with historical importance.
• Unique rock formations and old prayer inscriptions.
• Panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Dhiren Gompa (3400 m/11,155 ft)

It is a centuries-old monastery in a serene Tsum valley, a Buddhist learning and reflection hub. Located near Chhekampar, the Dhiren Gompa trek passes through the old Tsum village settlements and high-altitude pasture lands.

Dhiren Gompa trek can be started from Nile or Chhule Village, which takes around 2-3 hours, approximately 4 km (2.5 km) through a steep, rocky trail.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Dhiren Gompa

• Wonderful Buddhist sculptures and prayer wheels.
• Home to sacred Guru Rinpoche relic.
• It is a quiet retreat, perfect for reflection and meditation.

Gumba Lungdang (3200 m/10,499 ft)

The Gumba Lungdang is a remote and peaceful monastery in the Tsum Nubri region. There is only one monastery and nothing more in its vicinity. However, it is known for some stunning views of Ganesh Himal in its backdrop.

It is one of the most photogenic destinations in Tsum Valley, where lots of Buddhist followers visit for worship. Gumba Lungdang is a spiritual treat that gives a unique feeling of tranquillity to its visitors.

Trekkers can reach the Gumba with a 3-4 hours (about 7 km/4 miles) hike from Dumje on the way from Chhekampar to Chumling. After crossing Domje bridge, trekkers can reach Gumba Lungdang via Thulung Danda.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Gumba Lungdang

• Great view of Ganesh Himal.
• Opportunity to witness traditional Buddhist rituals.
• A good option is to stay overnight in a friendly monk’s village.

Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4800 m/15,748 ft)

The Ganesh Himal Base Camp is a popular trekking destination in the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek route. It is an off-the-beaten trail, providing trekkers with excellent views of the Ganesh Himal range.

Ganesh Himal Base Camp can be reached with around 3-4 hours trek from Gumba Lungdang, covering approximately 3-4 km (2.3 miles). The path to the base camp follows a steep slope. After spending a few moments here, we will return back to Gumba Lungdang to stay overnight.

However, this challenging side trips in Manaslu Trek is rewarded with some of the most dramatic landscapes in the entire range.

Major Attractions and Highlights of Ganesh Himal Base Camp

• Panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal range and surrounding glaciers.
• Soothing alpine terrain with varied vegetation and wildlife.
• A remote and lesser-visited trekking route.

Get in Touch with Himalayan Masters

Discovering the hidden treasure of Manaslu and Tsum Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Its visitors are awarded with adventure, culture, and pristine natural beauty. From historical, archaic monasteries to jaw-dropping mountain panoramas and glittering glacial lakes, these side trips in Manaslu Trek are something you ought not to miss.

For such an extraordinary trip, you can put your trust in Himalayan Masters. We are an experienced professional trekking company with expert, licensed guides. We ensure that your trip is safe, well-organized, and memorable.

To get in touch with us, you can contact us at [email protected] or our WhatsApp- +977-9823636377. You can also fill out an online form on our website or directly visit our office in Saat Ghumti, Thamel, Kathmandu.