Pungyen Gumba – The Best Acclimatization Hike From Samagaun (Manaslu Trek)

Samagaun is one of the most popular acclimatization stops on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and Pungyen Gumba is considered the best one-day side trip from the village. Located behind Mount Manaslu, this historic monastery offers breathtaking views of glaciers, icefalls, and towering Himalayan peaks. Beyond its natural beauty, Pungyen Gumba holds deep cultural and religious importance in the Nubri Valley.

Cultural & Historical Significance

In the local language, Manaslu is called “Gangri Pungyen”, where Gangri means “mountain” and Pungyen is the name of the deity believed to protect Mount Manaslu. Local people consider Pungyen a powerful guardian spirit, often seen as a deity residing around the mountain.

The Pungyen Gumba and surrounding settlements are believed to be around 400 years old, with strong ties to Tibetan Buddhism. Historically, Buddhist monks gathered here for religious teachings, meditation, and secluded spiritual practice.

Even today, monks and practitioners conduct major rituals during occasions like Saga Dawa, and they perform multi-day pujas every year during the 6th month on the 4th day of the Tibetan lunar calendar.

Altitude & Hiking Time

• Altitude: ~4,000 meters above sea level
  
  

• Best for: Acclimatization during the Manaslu Circuit Trek
  
  

• Distance: Approximately 8–10 km from Samagaun
  
  

• Time Required: 3.5 to 4 hours uphill to reach the gumba
  
  

Because of its altitude and gradual ascent, Pungyen Gumba is considered one of the safest and most effective acclimatization hikes in the region.

Views & Scenery

The trail to Pungyen Gumba and the monastery site itself provide 360-degree Himalayan views. Some of the major peaks visible are:

• Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) – extremely close and unobstructed
  
  

• Himalchuli (7,893 m)
  
  

• Nyadi Chuli / Peak 29 (7,600 m)
  
  

• Buddha Himal
  
  

• Massive glaciers, icefalls, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes
  
  

This is one of the most scenic viewpoints on the entire Manaslu Circuit.

Activities Around Pungyen Gumba

1. Camping

Camping near Pungyen Gumba offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by pristine mountain scenery.

2. Hidden Hike to “Gangsa” (4,400 m)

Just above Pungyen Gumba lies a lesser-known spot called Gangsa, at around 4,400 meters.

• Time required: About 5 hours round trip from Pungyen Gumba
  
  

• Highlights: Extremely close views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding glaciers
  
  

• Note: This location is rarely visited by tourists and remains a hidden gem.
  
  

Mountaineering History & Local Beliefs

Historically, early Japanese climbers attempted to ascend Manaslu from the Pungyen side. Their expedition reached around 7,000 meters but did not summit. When they returned the following year to try again, local communities resisted, believing the deity of Pungyen would become angry.

Since then, climbing Manaslu from this side has been considered forbidden, as locals believe it may trigger avalanches or other natural dangers.

The area is also considered sacred, so locals are not allowed to harvest medicinal herbs or plants around Pungyen.