Recommended Top 18 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.

Side trips in the Manaslu Trek are not simply detours to add more places to your route. Many are planned as acclimatization hikes, allowing you to climb to a higher altitude during the day and return to a lower elevation to sleep. This helps your body gradually adjust as you gain altitude toward Larkya La.

Short hikes lead to glacial lakes, monasteries, viewpoints, and high-altitude valleys. Some fit naturally into your regular trekking days, while others require a full extra day or a longer itinerary.

Samagaun and Samdo are the main hubs for high-altitude side trips. Earlier sections of the route also offer cultural detours around Lihi, Prok and Bihi. The right excursion depends on your available time, physical condition, weather and acclimatization. Not every side trip is suitable for every trekker.

This guide covers the main Manaslu Trek side trips, including their starting points, approximate altitude, walking time, difficulty and practical considerations.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Side Trips

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 

Serang Gompa is located near Bihi in the Kutang area of the Nubri Valley, at an altitude of around 3,100 meters.

Himalayan Masters also offers a separate Manaslu Circuit Trek with Serang Gompa itinerary, allowing trekkers to include the monastery without treating it as a quick stop on the standard circuit.

The trek from Bihi to Serang Gompa takes around 6 hours and follows a challenging uphill trail. There are two route options, lower and upper, with the lower route becoming particularly difficult during the monsoon.

The trail is narrow in sections, and there are no villages or teahouses along the way. The route passes through pine forests and, in spring, blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers.

Serang Gompa itself offers a peaceful setting with views of Siringi Himal from the monastery area. The monastery has electricity and Wi-Fi, and trekkers can stay at the monastery or camp nearby. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the overnight stay.

Highlights

• Scenic views of Siringi Himal
• Buddhist monastery and nunnery
• Pine forests and spring rhododendrons
• Remote mountain setting
• Two route options from Bihi
• Opportunity to experience local Buddhist culture
• Electricity and Wi-Fi at the monastery

Kal Tal

Kal Tal, also known as Kalchhuman Lake or Death Lake, is a high-altitude alpine lake located above Prok Village. The side trip starts from Prok at around 2,380 meters and climbs through forests, meadows, and steep mountain terrain toward the lake at approximately 3,574 meters.

The hike covers around 10 km one way, making it roughly 20 km for the complete round trip. Trekkers generally need around 3-5 hours to reach Kal Tal and another 3-5 hours to return to Prok, depending on pace, trail conditions, and breaks.

The route involves more than 1,200 meters of elevation gain, making it a challenging full-day hike rather than a short side excursion. Trekkers should carry enough water and food because there are no regular teahouses along the trail. The lake is still relatively less visited and provides a peaceful setting away from the main Manaslu trail.

• Turquoise alpine waters of Kal Tal
• Views of surrounding snow-capped mountains
• Forest and meadow landscapes along the trail
• Kal Chokkang Gompa and eight nearby stupas
• Quiet and less-crowded mountain setting
• Opportunity for photography and nature observation

Hinang Gompa

Hinang Gompa is a small Buddhist monastery in a peaceful valley between Lihi and Sho on the Manaslu Circuit. The usual side trip begins in Lihi Village at about 2,840 meters and follows a gentle uphill path through pine and rhododendron forests along the Hinang Khola.

About 20 minutes after leaving Lihi, the trail splits from the main route and leads about 2.5 to 3 kilometers to the monastery. Most trekkers take 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Hinang Gompa and about the same time to return, so the round trip is a short hike of 2 to 3 hours.

The monastery is at around 3,100 meters, so the climb is moderate and not very difficult. Visitors can look around the monastery, watch Buddhist religious practices, and see traditional murals and prayer wheels.

Sometimes, you can also stay and eat with the monks if arrangements are possible. After visiting, trekkers can return to Lihi and continue toward Sho on the main Manaslu Circuit.

Highlights

• Traditional Buddhist monastery and religious practices
• Mountain views from the monastery area
• Pine and rhododendron forests
• Traditional murals and prayer wheels
• Quiet setting for relaxation and reflection
• Opportunity to stay and dine at the monastery when available

Himalchuli Base Camp

Himalchuli Base Camp is a rugged high-altitude detour from Lihi Village, reaching around 4,020 meters. The side trip covers approximately 14 km round trip and takes around 6-8 hours, with roughly 4-5 hours of ascent and 2-3 hours of descent.

The trail starts from Lihi at around 2,900 meters and passes through Hinang Gompa before continuing toward the base camp. The first section follows a forested trail through blue pine and rhododendron trees before entering more open and rugged terrain.

Beyond Hinang Gompa, the trail becomes steeper and follows the Hinang Glacier through rocky and glacial terrain. The base camp lies in a high-alpine pasture beneath Mt. Himalchuli (7,893 m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), offering close views of their surrounding icefalls and mountain walls.

There are no teahouses or shops beyond Hinang Gompa, so trekkers should carry a packed lunch and enough water for the entire excursion.

The trail is less defined than the main Manaslu route, with loose scree and rocky sections near the glacier, making a local guide important for navigation.

With more than 1,100 meters of elevation gain, this is a challenging full-day side hike and should only be attempted after proper acclimatization.

Highlights

• Views of Mt. Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli
• Hinang Glacier and surrounding glacial terrain
• Hinang Gompa and forested trail
• High-alpine pasture around the base camp
• Close views of Himalayan icefalls
• Remote and less-traveled mountain landscape

Pungyen Gompa

Pungyen Gompa is an ancient Buddhist monastery in Manaslu region located at around 4,050 meters in an open alpine valley above the Manaslu Circuit.

On the Himalayan Masters itinerary, trekkers visit Pungyen Gompa while travelling from Shyala to Samagaun, taking a detour from the direct route to Samagaun.

The hike from Shyala to the monastery takes around 4 hours and involves a gradual uphill section, particularly during the first 1.5 hours, followed by flatter and gradual terrain across open grassland.

The monastery is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli, with small streams and seasonal frozen rivers flowing through the surrounding meadows.

After exploring the monastery, the trail continues back for around 2 hours before joining the route toward Samagaun.

Overall, the Pungyen Gompa detour adds several hours of walking compared with the direct Shyala-Samagaun route, while still allowing trekkers to reach Samagaun the same afternoon.

The total walking distance and duration depend on the exact route and pace. With its steep initial ascent and altitude above 4,000 meters, the hike is challenging and should be attempted after proper acclimatization.

Highlights

• Ancient Buddhist monastery in an alpine setting
• Panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli
• Open grassland and yak pasture
• Seasonal frozen streams and mountain scenery
• Traditional monastery and peaceful surroundings
• A scenic detour while travelling from Shyala to Samagaun

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Birendra Lake

Birendra Lake sits near Samagaun at an elevation of about 3,690 meters, just below the Manaslu Glacier. The hike to the lake starts from Samagaun village at 3,530 meters and is roughly 2-3 km round trip.

The trip takes 2-3 hours round trip, if you walk at a relaxed pace and stop for photos. With only about 160 meters of elevation gain, this hike is easier than many other high-altitude side trips in the area.

The trail is gradual and offers great views of the mountains and glacial scenery. After enjoying time at Birendra Lake, you return to Samagaun on the same path. This hike does not require an overnight stay and is a good short outing for your acclimatization day in Samagaun.

Highlights

• Glacial Birendra Lake beneath the Manaslu Glacier
• Scenic views of the nearby Himalayan peaks
• A short, easy hike that helps with acclimatization
• Beautiful glacial landscapes and mountain scenery
• Plenty of chances to take photos around the lake

Manaslu Base Camp

The Manaslu Base Camp is a popular side trip in Manaslu Trek. This trek is a 13-14 km (about 8 miles) long hike from Samagaun, 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.

Highlights

• Views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks
• Close views of the Manaslu Glacier
• High-altitude alpine landscape
• Challenging full-day hiking experience
• Opportunity for photography and acclimatization at altitude

Samdo Ri

Tibet Border

The Tibet Border side trip starts from Samdo Village at 3,875 m and leads to the Rui La Pass at around 4,998 m. The round trip covers approximately 16-18 km and takes 6-8 hours, with about 4-5 hours uphill and 2-3 hours downhill.

The trail follows an old caravan route that once connected Nepal and Tibet for trade. Trekkers cross rugged high-altitude terrain with views of surrounding peaks and the Lajung Glacier.

This hike also works as an acclimatization hike before crossing Larke La Pass. Trekkers who missed an earlier acclimatization hike can use this as another option to prepare for the higher altitude of Larke La. The trail is demanding, so it should only be attempted after proper acclimatization and when trekkers are feeling well. After reaching the border, trekkers return to Samdo for the night.

Highlights

• Nepal-Tibet border at Rui La Pass
• Lajung Glacier and surrounding mountain views
• Historic Nepal-Tibet caravan route
• Buddhist prayer flags and border pillar
• High-altitude acclimatization hike
• Preparation for crossing Larke La Pass
• Challenging full-day hike from Samdo

Dharmasala Viewpoint

The Dharmasala Viewpoint, also known as Kanki Danda, is a short afternoon acclimatization hike from Dharmasala at 4,460 m. The hike covers around 1.5-2 km round trip and takes about 1-1.5 hours, with roughly 150-200 m of elevation gain. The trail climbs through loose rocky moraine and gravel to a nearby ridge above the camp.

This short hike helps trekkers adjust to the high altitude before crossing Larke La Pass the following morning. It is also an option for trekkers who have missed an earlier acclimatization hike.

From the ridge, trekkers can see the Larkya Glacier, Larkya Peak, Naike Peak, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal. After spending some time at the viewpoint, trekkers return to Dharmasala to rest before the early morning pass crossing.

Highlights

• Short acclimatization hike from Dharmasala
• Kanki Danda ridge viewpoint
• Larkya Glacier views
• Views of Larkya Peak, Naike Peak, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal
• Helps prepare trekkers for Larke La Pass
• Rocky high-altitude terrain
• Return to Dharmasala for overnight stay

Ponkar Lake (Ponkar Tal)

Ponkar Lake, also known as Ponkar Tal, is located at about 4,100 meters in a glacial basin above Bhimthang, which sits at 3,600 meters. The round trip is about 5 to 6 kilometers and usually takes 2 to 3.5 hours, with an elevation gain of 400 to 500 meters. The trail starts in Bhimthang, goes through alpine pastures, and then becomes more rugged with loose gravel and lateral moraine.

Ponkar Lake lies among the Ponkar, Kechakyu, and Suti glaciers, with views of Mt. Manaslu North, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Larkya Peak. Trekkers can visit the lake after crossing Larke La and reaching Bhimthang, or stay an extra night in Bhimthang for a separate day hike. The route is less defined near the glacial section, so trekkers should follow their guide.

Highlights

• Ponkar Lake at around 4,100 m
• Ponkar, Kechakyu, and Suti glaciers
• Views of Manaslu North, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Larkya Peak
• Alpine pastures and glacial terrain
• Short side trip from Bhimthang
• Can be done after crossing Larke La or on an extra day
• Loose moraine and less-defined trail near the lake

Tsum Valley Trek Side Trips

Tsum Valley sits tucked away in the Manaslu region and is famous for its Tibetan Buddhist culture, old monasteries, and sacred places. Trekkers can experience traditional Himalayan life and local spiritual customs up close.

Besides the main Tsum Valley Trek, there are side trips to monasteries, caves, viewpoints, and high mountain scenery. These paths stretch into the Tsum and Nubri regions, giving trekkers more places to discover along the way.

Below are some of the main side trips you can take in the Tsum Valley, in addition to the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Rainjam Viewpoint

The Rainjam Viewpoint is a fantastic viewpoint to witness magnificent panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal ranges. From Chumling, it is about 3 to 4 kilometers away and takes around 1.5 hours to get there. The trail runs along the river and is mostly easy until you reach the viewpoint.

Trekkers can also reach Rainjam by taking the longer route from Lokpa, which is the main junction where the Tsum Valley trail splits from the Manaslu Circuit.

From Lokpa, Rainjam is about 12 to 14 kilometers away and usually takes 5 to 6 hours to reach, depending on your pace and the path you choose. From the viewpoint, you can see the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal ranges.

Rainjam Dhampa Gompa is also close by. Because this spot is right on the main Tsum Valley trail, you do not need to plan an extra overnight stay to visit.

Highlights

• Panoramic views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal
• Rainjam Dhampa Gompa
• A short walk from Chumling
• Trail along the river and Himalayan scenery
• Views of sunrise and sunset
• You can visit without needing an extra overnight stay

Rachen Gompa

Rachen Gompa is a Buddhist nunnery in the Tsum Valley, which is also a very significant religious place for the local community. It is situated in Lamagaun, in between the route from Chekkampar and Nile.

From the main trekking route, the gomba is approximately 5 kilometer (3.1 miles) which takes around 2-3 hours walking. Since it lies directly on the standard Tsum Valley trail, trekkers can visit it without adding a separate side-trip day or overnight stay. The nunnery is known for its Buddhist paintings, traditional artwork, and religious practices.

Highlights

• Buddhist nunnery in the Tsum Valley
• Traditional Buddhist paintings and artwork
• Religious and cultural practices of the Tsum community
• Himalayan views around Lamagaon
• Located directly on the Chhekampar-Nile route
• No separate overnight needed

Milarepa Cave (Piren Phu) Side Trip

Milarepa Cave, also called Piren Phu or Pigeon Cave, is a sacred meditation spot near Lamagaon Village in the Tsum Valley. The Tibetan Buddhist saint Milarepa is said to have meditated here. The cave is right across from Rachen Gompa, so you can easily visit both during your trek.

It takes about 30 minutes to walk from Rachen Gompa to the cave along a short trail across the valley. The full detour from the valley floor is about 4 to 5 km (3 miles) round trip and usually takes 2 to 3 hours, including the climb and return. The path has some steep parts and stone steps on the hillside.

The cave is surrounded by pine forests and traditional stone houses. Inside, you can see Buddhist inscriptions and other religious features. This cave is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and gives visitors a chance to experience the spiritual heritage of the Tsum Valley.

Highlights

• Sacred meditation cave associated with Milarepa
• Located directly opposite Rachen Gompa
• Around 30 minutes from Rachen Gompa
• Approximately 4-5 km round trip from the valley trail
• Around 2-3 hours for the complete detour
• Buddhist inscriptions and religious features
• Pine forests and traditional stone houses
• Important Buddhist pilgrimage site

Dhiren Gompa

Dhiren Gompa, also called Dhephu Doma Nunnery, is a Buddhist nunnery in the Upper Tsum Valley. It is located at about 3,700 meters, near Mu Gompa, and is one of the more secluded religious sites in the area.

You can reach the gompa from Nile Village in about 2 hours by following a steep, rocky trail through traditional Tsum settlements and high-altitude pastures. It is also just 15 to 20 minutes from Mu Gompa, so you can visit both monasteries in one trip.

Buddhist nuns live at Dhiren Gompa, where they spend their days in prayer, meditation, and other religious activities. The area is also linked to Milarepa, who is believed to have meditated in caves nearby. Visitors can see Buddhist sculptures, prayer wheels, and other religious features around the nunnery.

Highlights

• Buddhist nunnery at around 3,700 m
• Around 2 hours from Nile Village
• Only 15-20 minutes from Mu Gompa
• Traditional Tsum Valley settlements and pastureland
• Buddhist sculptures and prayer wheels
• Religious practices and meditation
• Connection with Milarepa and nearby meditation caves

Gumba Lungdang

Gumba Lungdang is a remote Buddhist monastery in the Tsum Valley, famous for its views of Ganesh Himal and peaceful mountain setting. The monastery is at about 3,200 meters and can be reached by a separate trail from Dumje.

The hike from Dumje to Gumba Lungdang is about 7 km one way and usually takes 3 to 4 hours. After crossing the Domje Bridge, the trail goes uphill through the forest and heads toward Thulung Danda before reaching the monastery. Some parts are steep, and many trekkers choose to stay overnight to enjoy the area without hurrying.

Gumba Lungdang is home to a small group of monks, and visitors can watch Buddhist prayers and rituals here. The monastery also offers great views of the surrounding Himalayas, including Ganesh Himal.

Highlights

• Remote Buddhist monastery at around 3,200 m
• Around 7 km from Dumje
• 3–4 hours of uphill walking
• Views of Ganesh Himal
• Trail through forest and Thulung Danda
• Traditional Buddhist prayers and rituals
• Option to stay overnight near the monastery

Ganesh Himal Base Camp

Ganesh Himal Base Camp is a high-altitude side trip that you can reach from Gumba Lungdang in the Tsum Valley. It is part of the Himalayan Masters 20-day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek itinerary.

The hike begins and ends at Gumba Lungdang (3,200 m) and follows a steep trail up to Ganesh Himal Base Camp at about 4,800 meters. The distance is around 3 to 4 km one way. It usually takes 4 hours to reach the base camp and another 2.5 to 3 hours to return. The trail goes through Landan Kharka and into rugged, high-altitude terrain.

There are no teahouses along the route, so trekkers carry a packed lunch and enough water for the day. After exploring the base camp, trekkers return to Gumba Lungdang for an overnight stay. The climb is strenuous because of the steep trail and significant altitude gain, so proper acclimatization is important.

Highlights

• Ganesh Himal Base Camp at around 4,800 m
• Starts and ends at Gumba Lungdang
• 3–4 km one way from the monastery
• Around 6.5–7 hours round trip
• Trail through Landan Kharka
• Views of the Ganesh Himal range and glaciers
• Packed lunch along the trail
• Overnight at Gumba Lungdang
• Included as a side trip in Himalayan Masters’ 20-day itinerary

Thongbu Kharka Side Trip

Thongbu Kharka is a high-altitude alpine pasture in the northern Upper Tsum Valley, at about 4,500 meters. It is located beyond Mu Gompa (3,700 m) and can be visited as a side trip while staying at the monastery.

From Mu Gompa, the trail leaves the main teahouse route and heads into a rugged, mostly uninhabited alpine area. Local Tsumba herders use this land for yak grazing in the summer. Because of the high elevation and remote location, this side trip is best for trekkers who are already used to the altitude.

You can use Mu Gompa as your base, visit Thongbu Kharka during the day, and return to the monastery for the night. The route goes into higher terrain than the main Tsum Valley trail, so be sure to check the weather and consider the altitude before you go.

Highlights

• High-altitude alpine pasture at around 4,500 m
• Side trip from Mu Gompa
• Traditional yak-grazing area
• Remote northern Upper Tsum Valley
• Rugged alpine landscape
• Opportunity to explore beyond the main Tsum Valley trail
• Return to Mu Gompa for overnight stay

Food, Drinking Water and Lunch Arrangements on Manaslu Side Trips

Food and water arrangements depend on the length and remoteness of each side trip. Short hikes from villages usually allow trekkers to return for meals, while longer routes require food and water to be carried.

Side trips such as Manaslu Base Camp, Himalchuli Base Camp, Ganesh Himal Base Camp, Samdo Ri, and Rui La have no teahouses along the trail. Trekkers should carry enough drinking water and a packed lunch for these hikes.

Some routes have natural water sources or taps, but trekkers should not rely on them without treating the water. Carry water purification tablets or another suitable purification method.

Shorter side trips such as Birendra Lake, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa Cave can usually be combined with a regular trekking day, allowing trekkers to eat at the village before or after the hike.

Mobile Network on Manaslu Side Trips

As you go deeper, mobile coverage in Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley gets weaker. NTC usually works farther along the upper Manaslu route, and Ncell sometimes reaches Samdo. However, signal strength depends on your exact location and the weather.

The connection becomes unreliable or unavailable on remote side trips and at higher elevations. Trekkers should not depend on mobile service during routes such as Rui La, Samdo Ri, Manaslu Base Camp, Ganesh Himal Base Camp, Himalchuli Base Camp, or Thongbu Kharka.

Download offline maps before leaving the connected villages and keep your phone charged. Guides should also be informed before a group leaves the main trail for a remote side trip. In an emergency, the guide assesses the situation and arranges the appropriate response based on the location and trail conditions.

How Should You Prepare for a Long or Remote Manaslu Side Trip?

• Carry enough water: Take sufficient drinking water, especially on routes without teahouses.
• Carry water treatment tablets: Use them if you need to refill water from streams.
• Pack food: Carry snacks and a packed lunch for longer side trips.
• Wear warm layers: Temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.
• Use sun protection: Carry sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and lip balm.
• Carry a small daypack: Keep your essential items accessible during the hike.
• Charge your phone: Remote routes may have limited mobile coverage and charging facilities.
• Check the weather: Confirm the weather and trail conditions with your guide before leaving.
• Start early: Plan longer side trips so you can return before  dark.
• Maintain a steady pace: Avoid rushing, especially at higher elevations.
• Know the turnaround time: Follow the agreed return time even if you have not reached the destination.
• Tell your guide how you feel: Report tiredness, discomfort, or altitude-related symptoms before continuing.

Final Thought

Manaslu side trips add more than extra distance to your trek. They take you to high altitude lakes, monasteries, view points, and remote moutain landscape that are not always part of the main trekking trails. Some also acts as an acclimatization hikes during the trek.

The right side trip depends on your itinerary, altitude, weather, available time, and group condition. Prepare well, follow your guide’s advice, and allow the trail conditions to shape your plans.

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 the 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 via WhatsApp: +977-9823636377. You can also fill out an online form on our website or directly visit our office in Saat Ghumti, Thamel, Kathmandu.

Author

Swostika Khanal

Swostika is a content writer at Himalayan Masters as well as a travel enthusiast. She loves to travel and learn about different cultures and people. With a love for writing, traveling, and embracing diverse cultures, she is on a journey to explore and inspire through words.