The Manaslu region of Nepal is a sanctuary of spiritual heritage, where Tibetan Buddhist monasteries (gompas) are living monuments to centuries old culture.

Nestled along the trails of the Manaslu Circuit and the secluded valleys of Tsum and Nubri, these monasteries are architectural wonders and active centers of daily monastic life, rituals, and community identity. They transform treks to the region into a spiritual exploration.

The Manaslu region’s monasteries are deeply tied to Tibetan Buddhism, influenced by the Sakya, Nyingma, and Kagyu lineages. Many gompas, such as Mu Gompa in Upper Tsum and Serang Gompa in Kyimolung Valley, were established by revered lamas and are repositories of ancient scriptures, thangkas (religious scrolls), and oral traditions.

The region’s isolation preserved these practices, and this gives trekkers an unfiltered glimpse into Himalayan Buddhism.

Monasteries here are the heartbeat of local communities. They host festivals like Saga Dawa (celebrating Buddha’s enlightenment at Mu Gompa) and Mani Rimdu (masked dances at Ribung Gompa), where villagers gather for blessings, feasts, and rituals.

Nunneries like Rachen Gompa and Lungdang Gompa highlight the vital role of women in preserving spiritual traditions, with daily chants, butter lamp offerings, and purification ceremonies (Nara).

The gompas maintain strong ties to Tibet and Tibetan Buddhism, evident in their architecture: whitewashed walls, golden stupas, and prayer wheels, and practices like juniper incense rituals, mantra chanting, and kora (circumambulation).

Monasteries such as Shringi Gompa in Bihi Village are pilgrimage sites linked to Kyimolung, a hidden sacred valley. Others, like Dhiren Gompa, are meditation retreats with caves tied to Milarepa, the legendary Tibetan yogi.

Trekking to these monasteries needs effort, and it rewards you with great cultural immersion. Unlike crowded tourist sites, Manaslu’s gompas operate on their own schedules.

Monasteries in Upper Tsum Valley

The Upper Tsum Valley is home to some of Nepal’s most spiritually significant and culturally intact monasteries. These gompas are architectural landmarks and active centers of Tibetan Buddhist practice, preserving ancient rituals, scriptures, and community traditions.

Accessible during the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek, they are great opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in monastic life and the culture of the region in general.

1) Mu Gompa

Location: Near Nile village, Upper Tsum (3,700 m)
Highlights: Largest and highest monastery in Tsum Valley

Mu Gompa is situated near Nile village in Upper Tsum Valley at 3,700 meters, making it the highest and most remote monastery in the region. The monastery occupies a dramatic high-altitude location with views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.

As part of the Sakya tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, Mu Gompa maintains strong connections to Tibetan monastic traditions. The complex features a central prayer hall with statues of Avalokiteshvara, Maitreya, and Padmasambhava.

The site has stupas and mani walls used for circumambulation, and preserves ancient Tibetan Buddhist scriptures and thangka paintings.

The monastery is particularly known for hosting the annual Saga Dawa festival, which commemorates Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana.

During this festival, pilgrims perform circumambulation around the sacred complex while monks conduct chanting ceremonies. The event includes butter lamp offerings and community feasts.

Trekking Access
Accessible via a steep hike from the Nile village, the trail to Mu Gompa gains significant elevation and presents challenging terrain. Trek Me Nepal's itineraries typically include this as part of our Tsum Valley trek.

The monastery has basic overnight accommodations for visitors.

Cultural Protocols
Visitors must dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered, and remove footwear before entering prayer halls. Photography requires permission, particularly of monks and interior spaces. Small monetary donations are welcome, and visitors should move clockwise when circumambulating sacred structures.

2) Rachen Gompa

Location: Chhokangparo, Upper Tsum
Highlights: Major nunnery with vibrant female monastic traditions

Rachen Gompa is situated in Chhokangparo village within Upper Tsum Valley. As a major nunnery in the region, it is one of the few centers dedicated to female monastic life in the Himalayas.

The nunnery follows Tibetan Buddhist traditions, with prayer halls containing religious artworks and statues. Its primary focus is the preservation of female monastic practices, distinct from the larger monasteries in the region.

Rachen Gompa is known for conducting the Nara purification rituals, which involve specific chanting and ceremonial practices. The nunnery also hosts community feasts that bring together nuns and local villagers during festivals.

Trekking Access

Located along the Tsum Valley trekking route, the gompa is accessible via a detour from the main trail. Visitors typically reach it while traveling between Chumling and Chhokang Paro.

Cultural Protocols

Photography inside the gompa requires permission. Visitors must dress modestly and remove shoes before entering prayer spaces. Small donations may be offered respectfully.

The nunnery maintains strong ties to surrounding villages through shared rituals and community events, and is both a spiritual and social center.

3) Lungdang Gompa

Location: Below Ganesh Himal, near Chhokangparo
Highlights: Secluded nunnery and meditation retreat

Lungdang Gompa is located near Chhokangparo in Lower Tsum Valley, below the Ganesh Himal range. This nunnery sits in a secluded area accessible via a steep trail, and is a quiet retreat environment distinct from more accessible monasteries in the region.

Established as a nunnery, Lungdang Gompa is a spiritual retreat site for nuns dedicated to Tibetan Buddhist practice. The gompa's remote location has helped preserve traditional rituals and meditation practices with minimal external influence.

The nunnery is particularly known for hosting the Dumji festival, an annual event featuring traditional cham dances (masked rituals) that symbolize the triumph of good over evil. Daily practices include morning and evening chanting sessions conducted by the resident nuns.

While physically isolated, the nunnery maintains cultural ties to surrounding villages through festival participation and shared religious traditions. The Dumji festival in particular attracts local community members alongside spiritual practitioners.

Trekking Access and Visitor Information

Reaching Lungdang Gompa requires navigating a challenging, steep trail from the Lungdang Khola riverbed. The path is narrow and exposed, making it advisable to attempt only during stable weather conditions. Unlike some larger monasteries, Lungdang has limited visitor facilities due to its primary function as a retreat center.

Cultural Protocols

Visitors should dress modestly (covered shoulders and legs) and maintain quiet behavior appropriate for a meditation retreat. Photography inside prayer spaces requires explicit permission from the nuns. Small donations may be offered in the temple donation box.

4) Namla Gompa

Location: Namla area, Lower Tsum
Highlights: Elder-led teachings and rural community ties

Namla Gompa is situated in the Namla area of Lower Tsum Valley, near rural settlements along the trekking route. The monastery occupies a modest structure typical of smaller village gompas in the region, blending into the local architectural style with whitewashed walls and traditional woodwork.

Functioning primarily as a center for elder teachings, Namla Gompa preserves oral traditions passed down through generations of monks.

Unlike larger institutions like Mu Gompa, it focuses on maintaining simpler, community-oriented Buddhist practices rooted in daily village life. The gompa contains basic ritual objects and scriptures used for local ceremonies.

The monastery conducts straightforward daily rituals led by elder monks, emphasizing fundamental Buddhist practices accessible to local villagers. Seasonal ceremonies align with agricultural cycles, including blessings for crops and livestock. These practical rituals demonstrate the integration of Buddhism with rural Himalayan life.

Trekking Access and Visitor Information

Accessible via a minor detour from the trail between Lokpa and Chhokangparo, Namla Gompa requires no special permits beyond standard Tsum Valley trekking documentation. The approach involves a short, gradual climb from the main path. Visitors should note the gompa lacks dedicated guest facilities or commercial services.

Cultural Protocols

As an active village monastery, Namla Gompa welcomes respectful visitors observing basic etiquette:

• Dress modestly (covered shoulders/legs)
• Remove footwear before entering prayer spaces
• Maintain quiet demeanor during rituals
• Ask permission before photography
• Offer small donations (50-100 NPR) if observing ceremonies

5) Naksa Chhyoling Gompa

Location: Naksa area, Lower Tsum
Highlights: Rare Bon-Buddhist fusion site

Naksa Chhyoling Gompa is situated in the Naksa area of Lower Tsum Valley, positioned away from the main trekking routes. This monastery occupies a quiet, secluded location and is a less-visited heritage site in the region.

The gompa is one of the rare sites in the Manaslu region that preserves a fusion of Bon and Buddhist traditions. Established during the period when Bon practices were merging with Tibetan Buddhism in the Himalayas, it maintains architectural and ritual elements from both spiritual systems.

Naksa Chhyoling Gompa conducts unique rituals that blend Bon animist traditions with Buddhist practices. The monastery features:

• Ritual objects used in both Bon and Buddhist ceremonies
• Distinctive architectural elements like swastika symbols (yungdrung) alongside Buddhist imagery
• Seasonal ceremonies that incorporate pre-Buddhist Himalayan spiritual traditions

Cultural Protocols
Visitors should observe these guidelines:

• Remove footwear before entering any structures
• Photography is only allowed with explicit permission
• Maintain respectful silence during any observed rituals
• Offer donations discreetly if participating in ceremonies

6) Chumling Monastery

Location: Chumling Village, Lower Tsum (2,386 m)
Highlights: Gateway to Tsum’s spiritual culture

Chumling Monastery is located in Chumling Village (2,386m elevation) in Lower Tsum Valley, positioned as the first major religious site encountered when entering the valley from the Lokpa direction.

The monastery sits prominently within the village structure, serving as both a spiritual center and a geographical landmark for trekkers beginning their Tsum Valley journey.

As the initial monastic institution along the Tsum Valley trek route, Chumling Monastery historically functioned as an orientation point for pilgrims entering the sacred valley.

The gompa introduces visitors to the unique spiritual traditions of Tsum Valley, distinct from mainstream Tibetan Buddhist practices. Its architectural style reflects the transitional nature of the Lower Tsum region, blending elements from both Manaslu and Tibetan building traditions.

Chumling Monastery maintains daily prayer rituals conducted by resident monks, with morning and evening chanting sessions open to respectful visitors. The monastery places special emphasis on orientation ceremonies that explain Tsum Valley's unique spiritual significance to arriving travelers.

These sessions highlight local variations of standard Tibetan Buddhist practices and help preserve the valley's distinctive prayer traditions. The ritual calendar also incorporates seasonal festivals tied to agricultural cycles, reflecting the monastery's deep connection to local village life.

For trekkers, the monastery serves as both a spiritual introduction to Tsum Valley and a practical waypoint along the route, with basic visitor access but no dedicated lodging facilities.

Visitors should observe standard monastery etiquette, including modest dress and quiet conduct during ceremonies, while having the opportunity to witness authentic daily practices in this gateway to Tsum Valley's spiritual heritage.

Trekking Access and Visitor Information
Chumling Monastery is accessible via a 4-5 hour moderate trek from Lokpa, typically completed on Day 6 of standard itineraries. The well-defined trail winds through scenic pine and rhododendron forests with a gradual elevation gain from 2,260m to 2,386m.

Basic visitor facilities include the opportunity to observe evening prayer ceremonies, while limited homestay accommodations are available in the surrounding village, though the monastery itself offers no dedicated lodging for travelers.

The approach provides trekkers with their first proper introduction to Tsum Valley's spiritual landscape while maintaining relatively accessible trail conditions compared to more remote gompas further up the valley.

Cultural Protocols
Visitors should observe:

• Standard monastery dress code (covered shoulders/legs)
• Shoe removal before entering prayer halls
• Restricted photography rules (exterior only without permission)
• Quiet conduct during ceremonies

Monasteries in Lower Tsum & Adjacent Valleys

The Lower Tsum Valley and its surrounding areas host several monasteries that, while less prominent than those in Upper Tsum, offer equally authentic glimpses into Himalayan Buddhist culture and daily monastic life. 

7) Gohngye Gompa

Location: Between Chekampar and Nile villages in Lower Tsum

Highlights: Spiritual waystation and practical resting point

Gohngye Gompa occupies a strategic position along the trekking route between Chekampar and Nile villages in Lower Tsum Valley. Situated at a natural stopping point for travelers, this modest monastery provides both spiritual respite and practical rest along the journey.

The gompa's riverside location has views of the surrounding valley, and it serves as a transitional marker between the Lower and Upper Tsum regions.

As one of the smaller monastic institutions in Tsum Valley, Gohngye Gompa fulfills an important role as a waystation for pilgrims and travelers. While historical records about its founding remain scarce, its continued use reflects the deep integration of Buddhism with daily life in the valley.

The monastery maintains basic ritual functions without the elaborate ceremonial calendar of larger institutions.

The gompa complex features a simple yet functional layout centered around a single-story prayer hall adorned with traditional woodcarvings. Surrounding the main structure runs a circumambulation path for devotional walks, while basic living quarters for resident monks and an exterior courtyard for traveler rest stops complete the modest facilities.

Daily religious practices at Gohngye Gompa focus on essential Buddhist rituals, including morning and evening chanting sessions and the maintenance of butter lamp offerings.

The resident monks conduct periodic blessings for passing travelers, performing simplified versions of standard Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies adapted to the gompa's small scale and resources.

Gohngye Gompa is conveniently located directly along the main trekking route between Chekampar and Nile, requiring no detour and typically being visited between days 7-9 of standard Tsum Valley itineraries.

The monastery offers basic visitor facilities including a simple rest area with seating and drinking water availability, though it provides no formal lodging or meal services for travelers.

8) Namrung Local Gompa

Location: Namrung Village (2,630m) along the main Manaslu Circuit route between Deng and Lho villages → accessible without detours during our standard itineraries

Highlights: Active village monastery with authentic glimpses of daily Tibetan Buddhist practices, morning/evening chants open to visitors

Namrung Local Gompa is situated in Namrung Village (2,630m elevation) along the main Manaslu Circuit trekking route, positioned between Deng and Lho villages. The gompa's central location within the village settlement makes it easily accessible without detours from the primary trail.

As an active village monastery, Namrung Local Gompa represents the living tradition of Tibetan Buddhism as practiced in daily community life. Unlike larger, more isolated monastic institutions, this gompa focuses on serving the immediate spiritual needs of Namrung villagers rather than maintaining extensive scholarly or retreat programs.

The monastery preserves basic ritual functions that have remained largely unchanged for generations, offering visitors an authentic glimpse of Himalayan Buddhism integrated with agricultural village life.

Namrung Local Gompa features a modest single-story structure with traditional Tibetan Buddhist architectural elements, including a compact prayer hall housing essential religious statues and thangkas, along with a small library of well-used liturgical texts.

The complex also includes an exterior mani wall carved with Buddhist mantras and basic living quarters for resident monks directly connected to the main prayer hall.

The resident monks maintain regular daily rituals, including morning and evening chanting sessions, butter lamp offerings, and periodic blessing ceremonies for villagers.

Special annual pujas coincide with local agricultural cycles and major Buddhist festivals, becoming community events with extended chanting and communal feasting.

9) Hinang Gompa

Location: Near Lihi Village along the Manaslu Circuit route

Highlights: Spiritual center and monastic training institution, with insights into Buddhist education through its young monk training programs and annual pujas

Hinang Gompa is located near Lihi Village along the Manaslu Circuit trek route, situated at a moderate elevation that makes it accessible as a side excursion from the main trail. The monastery occupies a quiet hillside position overlooking terraced fields and traditional stone houses of the surrounding village.

This gompa serves dual purposes as both a spiritual center and an educational institution for young monks. Established within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, it focuses particularly on training the next generation of monastics while maintaining regular religious services for the local community.

The monastery preserves standard ritual practices while adapting some elements to its educational mission.

Hinang Gompa's architectural layout centers around a traditional prayer hall featuring standard Buddhist iconography, flanked by residential quarters for student monks and dedicated study rooms for scripture memorization and philosophical debate practice.

The complex includes a central courtyard that serves as both a communal gathering space and an outdoor teaching area, reflecting the monastery's dual purpose as a spiritual and educational institution.

The gompa maintains a structured routine of daily prayer sessions involving both teachers and students, alongside annual pujas that highlight its educational mission.

Resident lamas provide systematic training in Tibetan language, scripture study, ritual instrumentation, chanting techniques, and basic meditation, all integrated with community-oriented ceremonies that connect monastic practice to village life.

Regular philosophy and ritual training sessions reinforce the monastery's role in preserving Buddhist knowledge through hands-on transmission to younger generations.

10) Kal Chhokang Gompa 

Location: Near Kal Tal lake in Prok village, Lower Tsum Valley

Highlights: Specializes in traditional exorcism rituals and protection ceremonies

Kal Chhokang Gompa occupies a scenic position near Kal Tal (lake) in the Prok village area of Lower Tsum Valley. The monastery's lakeside location provides a tranquil spiritual environment distinct from other gompas in the region, with the reflective waters creating a natural meditation aid.

The monastery maintains a unique ritual specialization in exorcism practices rarely found in larger institutions. These ceremonies, performed by trained monks using traditional methods, represent an important but less-publicized aspect of Himalayan Buddhist practice.

The gompa's connection to both Bon and Buddhist traditions is evident in its hybrid ritual implements and architectural details. Kal Chhokang Gompa's architectural layout features a compact prayer hall adorned with murals of protector deities, alongside specialized spaces dedicated to its unique exorcism ceremonies.

The complex includes a lakeside meditation platform overlooking Kal Tal, basic living quarters for monks, and secure storage for ritual objects like traditional masks, instruments, and ceremonial implements used in protective practices.

The monastery maintains a rigorous schedule of religious practices focused on its ritual specialization, including regular exorcism ceremonies conducted by senior lamas and seasonal blessings incorporating lake water.

Daily prayers emphasize protective and purification themes, while special pujas coincide with lunar calendar milestones. Resident monks undergo intensive training in the precise instrumentation and chanting techniques required for these distinctive protective rituals.

11) Dhiren Gompa

Location: Near Mu Gompa and Nile village in Upper Tsum Valley

Highlights: Preserves ancient meditation caves linked to Milarepa,  silent retreats, and ascetic practices in a secluded setting

Dhiren Gompa is located near Mu Gompa and Nile village in Upper Tsum Valley, positioned at a secluded site that includes natural cave formations. The monastery's remote setting, surrounded by rocky terrain, creates an ideal environment for meditation retreats away from village disturbances.

This gompa holds particular importance due to its historical connection to Milarepa, the revered 11th-century Tibetan yogi. The site preserves meditation caves traditionally used by Milarepa and subsequent practitioners, maintaining an uninterrupted lineage of ascetic practice.

The stone architecture blends with the natural rock formations, reflecting the simplicity of its meditative purpose.

Monasteries Around Samagaun and Manaslu Base Camp

The monasteries situated near Samagaun village and along the approach to Manaslu Base Camp represent some of the most accessible and culturally significant religious sites along the Manaslu Circuit trek.

These gompas combine spiritual importance with trekking practicality, offering visitors opportunities to engage with Himalayan Buddhism while acclimatizing for higher altitudes.

12) Shyala Monastery

Location: Situated above Shyala Village at 3,500m elevation along the Manaslu Circuit route → accessible via a 1-2 hour hike from the village 
Highlights: Ideal acclimatization benefits with panoramic views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks

Shyala Monastery, also known as Pungyen Gompa, is situated above Shyala Village at approximately 3,500 meters elevation, along the main Manaslu Circuit route between Namrung and Samagaun.

Positioned on a hillside with commanding views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), and Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), the monastery serves as both a spiritual site and a strategic acclimatization stop for trekkers.

Established as a traditional Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Pungyen Gompa belongs to the Nyingma lineage and maintains active daily rituals. The gompa derives its alternative name "Pungyen" (meaning "adorned conch") from its historic association with protective ceremonies for the surrounding peaks.

Local lore suggests the monastery was founded to spiritually safeguard the Manaslu massif, with particular focus on mitigating avalanche risks through ritual practice.

Shyala Monastery's compact complex centers around a single-story prayer hall distinguished by intricate woodcarvings and traditional painted window frames. The interior preserves original 19th-century murals of protector deities and mandalas, while a rooftop viewpoint with Manaslu-oriented prayer flags and an exterior mani wall complete the spiritual landscape.

Daily rituals at Pungyen Gompa follow a structured schedule of morning Chenrezig chants and afternoon scripture study, punctuated by distinctive "pungyen" rituals using ceremonial conch shells. The monastery's annual cycle includes pre-winter protector deity pujas and mountain blessing ceremonies, alongside meditation instruction opportunities.

Reached via a clearly marked 1-2 hour hike from Shyala Village (200m elevation gain), the site offers basic rest areas and water access but no lodging, with visitor observation limited to non-prayer periods.

13) Ribung Monastery (Lho Monastery)

Location: Situated in Lho Village (3,180m) directly along the main Manaslu Circuit trekking route
Highlights: Renowned for hosting the annual Mani Rimdu festival featuring elaborate masked dances (cham)

Ribung Monastery, also called Lho Monastery, is located in Lho Village (3,180m) along the main Manaslu Circuit trekking route between Namrung and Samagaun.

Positioned prominently above the village with views of Manaslu's north face, the gompa serves as both a spiritual center for local residents and a cultural highlight for trekkers.

Established as part of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, Ribung Monastery plays a vital role in preserving the region's religious heritage. The monastery is particularly renowned for hosting the annual Mani Rimdu festival, a multi-day celebration featuring elaborate masked dances (cham) that depict Buddhist teachings through performance. This event draws participants from across the Nubri region.

The monastery complex features a two-story main prayer hall built in traditional Tibetan style, with carved wooden pillars and door frames that reflect local craftsmanship. Inside, visitors will find a collection of antique thangkas and ritual items, while residential quarters house monks in training.

An open courtyard in front of the temple is used for festivals and community gatherings. Daily religious life includes morning and evening prayers, scripture study for novice monks, and training in ritual instruments such as horns, drums, and cymbals.

The monastery is particularly known for its performance of the Mani Rimdu festival, the creation of sand mandalas, and protective rituals conducted on behalf of the local village.

Located at 3,180 meters, the gompa lies directly on the Manaslu Circuit trekking route. There is no need for a detour, making it easily accessible to trekkers. Visitor facilities are limited to a small rest area, and while casual observation is allowed during non-ceremonial periods, lodging and meals are not provided.

14) Serang (Shringi) Gompa

Location: 3,800m above Bihi village in the Kyimolung Valley
Highlights: Remote Nyingma monastery with original 18th-century murals and terma texts, hosts Mahakala rituals, seasonal retreats, and valley-protection ceremonies

Serang Gompa, also known locally as Shringi Gompa, is located high in the Kyimolung Valley above Bihi village, at an elevation of around 3,800 meters. Getting there requires a 3-4 hour uphill hike from Bihi. The trail passes through alpine meadows, small forest patches, and across glacial streams.

Due to its altitude and location, the gompa is only accessible during the warmer months, mainly from May to October. The area remains quiet and remote, with no roads or vehicle access.

Serang Gompa is considered one of the key spiritual sites in the Kyimolung Valley, which holds special status in Tibetan Buddhism as a hidden valley or “beyul.” These valleys are believed to offer spiritual refuge and are associated with treasure teachings revealed by tertons (treasure-revealers) of the Nyingma lineage.

The gompa itself was founded by the Shringi Lama and has served as a retreat site for many practitioners over the centuries. It retains its connections with Nyingma teachings, particularly those emphasizing ancient transmissions and hidden teachings.

The structure of the gompa is built directly into the mountainside and consists of three levels made from stone and timber. Inside, the monastery holds original murals dating back to the 18th century, including detailed depictions of Padmasambhava and various protector deities.

There are also small cave-like rooms that were historically used as meditation cells. An ancient library within the gompa houses important religious texts, including terma, which are said to be revealed only at specific times by designated spiritual figures.

The monastery conducts a number of ritual activities throughout the year. One of the main practices is the Mahakala puja, a protection ritual often performed to remove obstacles and safeguard the valley. The gompa is also active during Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year, when monks perform extended ceremonies.

Seasonal retreat periods are strictly maintained by the resident monastics, and there are also annual rituals focused on protecting the wider valley and maintaining harmony within the local environment.

15) Shringi Gompa (Bihi Village)

Location: 2,950m in the center of Bihi village, Lower Nubri
Highlights: Cultural and spiritual center preserving relics, murals, and pilgrimage records; features carved mani stones, statues of Padmasambhava and Sakyamuni

Shringi Gompa in Bihi village is located at around 2,950 meters elevation and is easily accessible throughout the year. It serves as a key religious and cultural center for the Lower Nubri region. Unlike the more isolated Serang Gompa, this monastery is situated right in the village and can be visited without any special trek.

For many pilgrims, it is the formal beginning of the Kyimolung Valley pilgrimage route.

This monastery is one of the oldest in the area and has long been regarded as the spiritual heart of Nubri. It preserves religious relics and artifacts from early periods of Buddhism in the region. Over generations, the gompa has maintained detailed records of pilgrims visiting Kyimolung Valley, as well as local oral histories and lineage stories.

As a result, it functions not only as a place of worship but also as an archive of regional religious life. The structure includes a courtyard where visitors can find carved mani stones, some of which depict elements of the Kyimolung pilgrimage journey. 

The main temple hall contains statues of key figures in Tibetan Buddhism, such as Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and Shakyamuni Buddha.

The interior walls are decorated with old paintings showing sacred sites and the symbolic layout of the hidden valley, helping to orient pilgrims spiritually and geographically.

Shringi Gompa in Bihi is open to respectful visitors. There are no entrance fees, but photography is generally restricted inside sacred areas. Visitors are expected to follow basic cultural norms, such as dressing modestly and walking clockwise around the temple and other sacred objects.

While the monastery does not have formal tour services, local residents or monks may offer basic guidance if asked politely.

Festivals and Pujas in Manaslu Monasteries

Pro Tip for Trekkers

Dress Code and Personal Conduct

Clothing should cover the shoulders and legs for both men and women, wear long pants/skirts, and shirts with sleeves. Remove hats and shoes before entering prayer halls. Maintain quiet conversation tones throughout the monastery compounds. Avoid public displays of affection.

Photography Protocol

Always ask permission before photographing monks, nuns, or ritual objects. Never use flash inside prayer halls as it damages ancient artworks. Some monasteries prohibit all interior photography (especially those with sacred murals). Pay the requested fees for photography permits.

Ritual Objects and Sacred Spaces

Do not touch ritual items like prayer wheels, statues, or altar objects. Walk clockwise (kora direction) around stupas, mani walls, and prayer halls. Avoid pointing feet at altars or stepping over seated monks. Never disturb meditation practitioners.

Financial Contributions

Small donations are appreciated when visiting prayer sessions; place money discreetly in donation boxes. For special blessings, follow local custom. Support monastery projects by purchasing local handicrafts rather than giving cash directly to monks.

Cultural Interactions

Use respectful greetings: "Namaste" (Nepali) or "Tashi delek" (Tibetan). Accept the offered tea with both hands. Avoid initiating physical contact; wait for monks/nuns to extend hands first. Refrain from interrupting prayers or teachings.

Environmental Considerations

Carry out all trash as monasteries lack waste systems. Use designated toilets if available. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol on monastery grounds. Respect wildlife around sacred sites.

Special Gender Protocols

Some nunneries restrict male access to certain areas. Women may be asked to sit separately during ceremonies. Avoid touching nuns or female practitioners. During menstruation, some monasteries request women refrain from touching sacred objects.

Group Trekking Behavior

Limit group sizes when visiting smaller monasteries. Designate one person to ask questions. Avoid surrounding individual monks/nuns. Maintain adequate personal space during ceremonies.

How Trek Me Nepal Supports Cultural Preservation

At Trek Me Nepal, we integrate cultural preservation into every trek through direct action and ethical partnerships. We prioritize local employment, training Tsum and Nubri valley residents as cultural interpreters and sourcing supplies from village cooperatives to keep economic benefits within the community.

We actively facilitate authentic festival experiences like Mani Rimdu at Ribung Monastery while implementing visitor management systems to protect these traditions from over-tourism. Our 'One Guest One Tree' initiative complements this work by planting ritually significant species like juniper and stabilizing sacred sites threatened by erosion.

Every interaction follows strict ethical guidelines: from group size limits at monasteries to mandatory cultural training for guides. We don't just showcase Himalayan culture; we ensure our presence actively sustains it for future generations.

Conclusion

The monasteries of the Manaslu region represent more than spiritual landmarks; they are living centers of culture, history, and community. From the remote meditation caves of Dhiren Gompa to the vibrant festivals at Ribung Monastery, each site offers trekkers an authentic connection to Himalayan Buddhist traditions.

At Trek Me Nepal, we approach these sacred spaces with respect and responsibility. Our itineraries are designed to support cultural preservation through direct contributions to monastery upkeep, community-based tourism, and sustainable practices like the "One Guest One Tree" initiative.

By prioritizing ethical engagement, i.e. small groups, trained local guides, and mindful visitation, we ensure tourism benefits both travelers and the communities hosting them.

For those seeking meaningful adventure, the Manaslu region provides not just mountain vistas but a rare opportunity to witness traditions that have endured for centuries. With careful planning and genuine respect, visitors can walk away with a deeper understanding and leave behind only a positive impact.

Our treks to Manaslu and Tsum Valley are carefully designed to include these monasteries, festivals, and cultural experiences, all while adhering to responsible tourism practices. Whether you join our classic itineraries or opt for a customized journey, we ensure meaningful encounters with the region’s spiritual heritage.

Book your Manaslu Circuit trek, which includes visits to these monasteries, through Trek Me Nepal. We offer three primary package options: Standard (13 days), Extended (16 days) and Combined with with Tsum Valley (21 days).

Interested in a tailored trip? We adjust routes, stays, and activities to match your pace and interests, just ask. Either way, your visit supports the preservation of these sacred sites and local communities.