Manaslu Circuit Trek
15 days | altitude 5160m
trip details
Duration
15 Days
Starting point
kathmandu
end point
kathmandu
activiteis
treking
Pickup Point
TIA Airport
altitude
5160 m
Price from
1385$ Euro
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning journey through Nepal’s remote Manaslu region, providing an alternative to the more popular Annapurna and Everest circuits. This trek spans approximately 12 to 18 days, featuring breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world, and diverse landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude deserts.
A highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,930 feet), which offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks. With a moderate to challenging rating due to significant altitude gains and rugged terrain, this trek is suitable for experienced trekkers. Required permits include the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and, if crossing into the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
The best trekking seasons are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), when weather conditions are stable and skies are clear. Trekkers typically start in Arughat or Soti Khola, accessible via a drive from Kathmandu, and end in Besi Sahar before returning to Kathmandu. Overall, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice for those seeking a secluded trekking experience enriched with cultural encounters and magnificent scenery.
Trip Highlights
- Diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts.
- Stunning views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) and neighboring peaks.
- Panoramic vistas from Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters).
- Cultural experiences with Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang communities.
- Traditional Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and mani walls.
- Opportunities to spot wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and red pandas.
Program Itenary
After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Take the day to explore Kathmandu at your leisure. Visit historic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the bustling streets of Thamel. This day also allows time for last-minute preparations for the trek.
Kick off your adventure with a scenic 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. This journey takes you through picturesque countryside, terraced fields, and small villages, alongside the Budhigandaki River, with views of Ganesh Himal.
Your trek begins with a gentle walk along the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through villages like Khorla Besi and Tatopani. After the easier stretches, the trail becomes more challenging as you ascend to Jagat, a traditional checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area.
The trail ascends from Jagat to Salleri, then descends to Sirdibas. After crossing a long suspension bridge at Philim, you’ll pass through millet and maize fields. As you enter the Himalayan region, enjoy the lush forests before reaching Deng.
Begin your day with a crossing over the Budhi Gandaki River. Ascend through pine and rhododendron forests while catching glimpses of snow-capped peaks. You’ll pass through the villages of Rana and Bihi Phedi before reaching Namrung, which offers excellent mountain views.
The trail steepens as you climb higher, moving through forests and small settlements. You’ll reach Lho Village, which is surrounded by towering mountains and boasts panoramic views of Himal Chuli and Ganesh Himal.
On your trek from Lho to Samagaon, consider an optional detour to Pungen Monastery for close views of Mount Manaslu. Continue to Samagaon, a large village rich in Tibetan culture and stunning mountain scenery.
Spend this day acclimatizing in Samagaon. Explore the village, visit the ancient Pungyen Gompa monastery, or hike to Manaslu Base Camp for breathtaking mountain views. This acclimatization day is crucial for adapting to higher altitudes.
Continue with a gradual ascent to Samdo, a small Tibetan refugee village. The trail showcases stunning views of surrounding peaks as you walk through yak pastures and mani walls, experiencing authentic Tibetan culture.
Today’s trek is a gradual climb to Dharamsala, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and Larkya Glacier. This serves as the base camp for the challenging Larkya La Pass.
This challenging day begins early to avoid strong winds at Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). After a steep ascent and breathtaking views of peaks like Himlung, Cheo, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, you’ll descend steeply to Bimthang.
Descend through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, reaching Tilije village. A key village on the Annapurna Circuit route.
After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, concluding your Manaslu Circuit trek. This journey takes about 7-9 hours, providing time to reflect on your incredible trekking adventure.
Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Take with you unforgettable memories of the trek and the cultural richness of Nepal.
Costs
- Meals During the Trek: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) accompanied by hot drinks.
- Tea House Accommodations: Comfortable twin-sharing lodge or tea house stays throughout the trek.
- Hotel Stay in Kathmandu: Accommodation in a 3-star hotel on a bed-and-breakfast (BB) basis.
- Baggage Porterage: Transportation of luggage up to 12 kg per person by porters during the trek.
- Special Trekking Permits: Permits for trekking in the restricted Manaslu region.
- Trekking Permits and TIMS: Includes Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Guided Cultural Tour: A one-day guided tour of Kathmandu’s highlights, with a French-speaking cultural guide and a private vehicle.
- Staff Insurance: Full insurance coverage for trekking staff, including guides and porters.
- Private Transport to Machhakhola: Transfer from Kathmandu to Machhakhola via a comfortable private vehicle.
- Visa Fee for Nepal: Payment for obtaining a Nepalese visa, which can vary based on nationality and duration.
- Flights to and from Nepal: International airfare to Kathmandu and return from your home country.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Personal expenses for alcoholic drinks.
- Soft Drinks & Mineral Water in the Mountains: Extra expenses for bottled water and beverages during treks.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and emergency evacuation insurance.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and supporting staff as a token of appreciation.
- Entrance Fees: Charges for sightseeing or entrance to cultural and historical sites.
- Meals and Visits in Kathmandu: Personal expenses for meals (except breakfast) and additional activities in Kathmandu.