8 Days Tsum Valley Trek
This eight-day trek package takes you into the remote Tsum Valley, a sacred Buddhist valley encompas...
OVERVIEW & HIGHLIGHTS
The Bhimtang trek (also spelled Bimthang) is a nine-day route into the western edge of the Manaslu region, finishing in the glacial basin of Bimthang at about 3,700 m with a side trip to Ponkar Lake at 4,100 m. Around 66 km of total walking, graded moderate, with teahouse accommodation throughout.
Most trekkers experience Bimthang as their first rest stop after crossing the formidable Larkya La on the Manaslu Circuit. This dedicated route approaches directly from the western side instead — tracing up from Dharapani through Gho, skipping the high pass and avoiding the restricted-area permit required for the full circuit.
This makes it one of the few ways to experience genuine Manaslu scenery on a moderate grade, requiring only two conservation permits rather than three, and with no minimum group size requirement beyond a licensed guide.
|
Day |
Route |
Distance |
Duration |
Elevation |
|
1 |
Arrival Kathmandu |
n/a |
n/a |
1,324 m |
|
2 |
Chyamche |
n/a |
2 hrs |
1,370 m |
|
3 |
Dharapani |
12 km |
5-6 hrs |
1,860 m |
|
4 |
Gho |
10.6 km |
5-6 hrs |
2,515 m |
|
5 |
Bimthang |
16 km |
4-5 |
3,700 m |
|
6 |
Explore Ponkar Lake |
2 km |
2-3 hrs |
4,100 m |
|
7 |
Dharapani |
26 km |
7-8 hrs |
1,860 m |
|
8 |
Besisahar |
n/a |
n/a |
1,860 m |
|
9 |
Kathmandu |
n/a |
n/a |
1,324 m |
Distances and times are approximate and subject to route variation.
Source: Google Map (Bimthang Area)
The famous stopover after Larkya pass and Tsum Valley Trek requires a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Graded moderate, this trek features tea-house lodging, scenic Himalayan terrain from subtropical forest to alpine grasslands, and deep cultural immersion along a quieter route in the Manaslu region.
Jeewan Tamang, Trekking Guide / Mountain Climber / Trail Runner
Since founding North Nepal Trek in 2015, Mohan Raj Bhandari has guided trekkers along the quieter western approach to the Manaslu region. Jeewan Tamang, who has personally led groups from Dharapani up through Gho to the Bimthang glacial basin and on to Ponkar Lake beneath Manaslu and Himlung Himal, shares firsthand insight into this moderate, permit-light route.
On the first day of our journey to Bhimtang, we take a bus to Syange, Lamjung. From Kathmandu, it takes about 8 hours to reach, whereas from Pokhara it takes around 5 hours.
From Syange, we hike for 2hours to reach Chyamche.
Passing through the villages of Chamche we come across Chamche waterfall which is huge and beautiful and cuts the road right through. To experience this waterfall is a refreshment in itself.
We then walk by the mountainside where the trail ascends with stone steps and descends and continues likewise. It takes about 5 to 6hours to reach Dharapani.
From Dharapani we head towards Gho which takes about 5-6 hours. Walking by the mountainside and views of rivers we have to cross two bridges over the Marsyangdi River.
The trail ascends from Dharapani (1860m) to Gho (2515m).
Gho to Bhimtang route is so beautiful that you start to realize how it feels to be all out in what you call true nature.
From Gho, we walk through dense forests with tall mountain views and huge rocks on the way to reach Surki. Further on, with the Marsyangdi River gushing, we walk by her side, experiencing the intensity of life.
After one and a half hours of hiking, we will reach Yak Kharka and have our lunch there. Spotting Manaslu on the way will inspire you to get going. After about 2 hours of hiking, we will reach Bhimtang, where the nature and views will leave you spellbound.
The rawness and intensity of the huge forest, the massive sound of the river flowing in full force, and the glorious Manaslu Himal standing unapologetically strong are the intoxicants of life you will be blessed with on the way to Bhimtang.
On the 5th day, we will explore Bhimtang of which beauty can’t be absorbed in a single day. We will try to pay as much reverence to the place as we can by visiting the eminent places Bhimtang is embellished with, which are Ponker lake, Ponker glacier, Nayamlo lake.
While hiking around Bhimtang we can see mountains including Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Himchuli. This will be our second night in Bhimtang.
We will hike back to Dharapani from Bhimtang following the same route. We begin by walking across the pastureland and descending to the valley of Budhi Khola.
We walk further, crossing the river and walking through the rhododendron forests. After a couple of hours of hiking, we reach Tije, where there is an apple orchard. Also, Tije is famous for its wine. We trek for another hour to reach Dharapani.
From Dharapani, we return to Besisahar by jeep. The roads are not in good condition because of heavy rainfall last year, river Marsyangdi flooded through the Tal valley and caused much destruction.
Taking a bus from Besisahar we back back to Pokhara/Kathmandu.
Note: You can include Lunch and Dinner within the package itself, with an extra cost of 15$ - 20$ per day.
Autumn Trail Alert: Trails are dry and stable with clear, cool days; teahouses are open and comfortable, though wifi turns patchy above Dharapani.
Your maximum sleep elevation will be a manageable 3,700 m at Bimthang. To keep you feeling great, we've carefully balanced the rapid elevation gain on Day 5 with a nice, lower-effort acclimatization schedule on Day 6. Your guide will monitor you daily for AMS—your well-being always comes first!
We are fully prepared for any situation. For land transport, road head access conveniently extends all the way to Dharapani. In the highly unlikely event of a severe emergency, rapid helicopter evacuation is available directly from Bimthang during clear daylight conditions.
To make sure you are 100% protected, we require all trekkers to hold comprehensive insurance. Your policy must explicitly cover emergency medical treatment, high-altitude trekking up to 4,500 m, and emergency helicopter rescue.
This trip comes with high-altitude trekking risks such as potential altitude sickness, so travel insurance is compulsory. All trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy to North Nepal Trek. The policy must cover medical treatment and emergency repatriation above 3,000 meters, including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitude.
Secure the Bhimtang Trek for 2026/2027 before the seat gets fully booked.
The 9-day Bhimtang Trek is a moderate Himalayan trek through forested slopes, alpine meadows, mountain ridges, and traditional villages in the Manaslu and Annapurna region. It offers a quieter trekking experience with views of dramatic Himalayan landscapes, including Ponkar Lake and Ponkar Glacier.
Bhimtang is a mountain settlement in the Manang District of central Nepal, on the Manaslu side of the Himalayan trekking region. The route passes through forests, high meadows, villages, and scenic mountain viewpoints before reaching Bhimtang and its surrounding alpine landscapes.
The trek is graded moderate. Most days involve around 4 to 6 hours of walking, but some stages are considerably longer, with the itinerary reaching around 7 to 10 hours on the more demanding days. You should be comfortable walking on uneven mountain trails and handling changing terrain.
Yes, fit beginners with some hiking experience can undertake the trek. Regular walking, uphill training, and basic endurance preparation before arrival are recommended because the route includes long days and significant changes in elevation.
The major highlights include rhododendron and alpine forests, traditional stone villages, mountain ridges, Ponkar Lake, Ponkar Glacier, and panoramic Himalayan views. The relatively quiet trails are another attraction for travelers looking beyond Nepal's busier trekking routes.
The trek passes through traditional Himalayan settlements where you can experience local village life, stone-built houses, family-run teahouses, and mountain communities. The cultural experience is closely connected with the landscapes and livelihoods of people living along the route.
The trek requires the relevant Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area permits for the route. North Nepal Travel & Trek arranges the required permits and paperwork before the trek begins.
Yes. A licensed trekking guide is required for trekking in the Manaslu region under current regulations. A guide also provides route navigation, manages local logistics, and assists with safety and communication during the trek.
Yes. We can adjust the itinerary according to your travel dates, fitness level, available time, and preferred pace. Additional rest days or route adjustments can be discussed when planning your trek.
Both options can be arranged. Private trips and group departures are available, with the final price depending on group size and the services included in your package.
The 9-day Bhimtang Trek starts at approximately USD 599 per person for a private trip, with the final price varying according to group size and included services.
The package includes trekking accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking days, a licensed guide, ground transportation according to the itinerary, and required permits and paperwork. Personal expenses such as snacks, hot showers, charging, travel insurance, and optional services are additional.
Yes. Personal expenses such as hot showers, device charging, snacks, drinks, and other optional services aren't normally included. If you pay by card, a 3.5% card processing fee may also apply.
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods generally offer more stable weather, better visibility, and favorable trekking conditions.
Yes, but conditions are more demanding. Monsoon can bring rain and slippery trails, particularly at lower elevations, while winter brings colder temperatures and the possibility of snow. Some teahouses may operate with limited services during winter.
Altitude sickness is possible because the route reaches high mountain elevations. The itinerary should be followed at a sensible pace, with adequate hydration and attention to symptoms such as persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual fatigue, or loss of appetite. Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking at the elevations reached on this route, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation. Check the policy carefully before traveling because standard policies may exclude high-altitude trekking.
Accommodation is mainly in locally operated teahouses and lodges. Rooms are generally simple, with twin or double beds and shared or basic bathroom facilities. The standard is rustic rather than luxurious, but the local hospitality is an important part of the experience.
Meals include familiar trekking staples such as dal bhat, soups, noodles, eggs, bread, rice, and tea. Vegetarian meals are available, and dietary requirements should be communicated when booking.
Yes. A porter can be arranged to carry your main luggage, allowing you to trek with a lighter daypack. The standard package doesn't include a porter unless specifically added to your booking.
Bring broken-in trekking shoes, layered clothing, a warm jacket, waterproof outerwear, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, personal medication, and basic trekking essentials. Because conditions can become cold at higher elevations, warm clothing is particularly important.
Yes. Ground transportation to the trailhead and from the trek's exit point is arranged according to the 9-day itinerary. Exact vehicle arrangements depend on the final route and prevailing road conditions.
Connectivity is limited and inconsistent, particularly in the more remote sections. Some villages and teahouses may have mobile coverage or Wi-Fi, but you shouldn't rely on continuous internet access throughout the trek.
The route moves through rhododendron and alpine forests, high meadows, river valleys, mountain ridges, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes. Ponkar Lake and Ponkar Glacier are among the most distinctive natural highlights of the trek.