Manaslu Circuit Trek
Kathmandu,Nepal
Duration
16 Days 15 Nights TripTour Code
TP7544Description
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and rewarding trekking experiences, offering stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of adventure like no other. This trek takes you around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, through remote villages, high mountain passes, and lush valleys. Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek? Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Unlike the crowded trails of Everest and Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit remains less traveled, allowing for a more peaceful and authentic adventure. Spectacular Scenery: From cascading waterfalls to towering snow-capped peaks, the trek offers diverse landscapes that change with altitude. Rich Culture: Trek through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, and ancient monasteries, and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. Challenging but Rewarding: The trek reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,106m), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Highlights
- Stunning views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Ganesh Himal
- Cultural immersion in Tibetan Buddhist villages
- Crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass
- Wildlife encounters, including blue sheep and Himalayan tahrs
Included
- Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers in a private vehicle. Accommodation: Hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast before and after the trek. Permits & Fees: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Transportation: Private vehicle for Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu. Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Trekking Crew: Experienced, government-licensed English-speaking guides and porters (one porter for every two trekkers). Accommodation during the Trek: Teahouse/lodge stays throughout the trek. Equipment: Complimentary sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffle bag (to be returned after the trek). First Aid & Safety: Group medical kit, oximeter for altitude monitoring. Taxes & Service Charges: Government and local taxes, trekking agency service fees.
Not Included
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory insurance covering high-altitude rescue and medical evacuation. Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, bottled water, personal gear, and extra meals in Kathmandu. Additional Accommodation: Extra nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or unforeseen delays. Hot Showers & Charging Fees: Extra charges for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging electronic devices in teahouses. Emergency Costs: Expenses for helicopter evacuation, additional transportation due to personal or weather-related delays. Tips & Gratitude: Tips for guides, porters, and trekking staff. Optional Activities: Sightseeing entry fees in Kathmandu, additional tours, or any services not mentioned in "Cost Includes."
Itinerary
Day 1
- Day 01: International Arrival in Kathmandu Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
- After check-in, you can rest or explore the bustling streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub.
- In the evening, we will have a short briefing about the trek and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Nepali cuisine.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 2
- Day 02: Preparation for Trek and Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1,338m/4,390ft) Today, we will complete the necessary permit formalities and make final preparations for the trek.
- After breakfast, we will embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- The evening will be free for last-minute shopping and packing.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 3
- Day 03: Drive to Machha Khola (900m/2,952ft) via Soti Khola (710m/2,329ft) We begin our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Soti Khola.
- The drive takes approximately 8–9 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes, terraced fields, and charming villages along the Budhi Gandaki River.
- We will stop for lunch en route and continue the bumpy road to Machha Khola, where we will spend the night in a teahouse.
Day 4
- Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft) Our trek begins as we follow the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and walking through small settlements and dense forests.
- We pass Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where natural hot springs offer a chance for a quick dip.
- The trail continues through Dobhan and Yaruphant before reaching Jagat, a charming village where we complete permit check-ins.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5
- Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Deng (2,095m/6,871ft) Today’s trek involves a mix of ascents and descents, crossing the Budhi Gandaki multiple times via suspension bridges.
- We pass villages like Philim and Ekle Bhatti before entering a more isolated region with lush vegetation.
- As we approach Deng, the scenery changes, offering glimpses of towering cliffs and distant peaks.
- Overnight stay in Deng.
Day 6
- Day 06: Hiking from Deng to Namrung (2,900m/9,512ft) Leaving Deng, we continue through alpine forests and cross several suspension bridges.
- The trail ascends through small settlements like Ghap, where we observe Mani walls and Buddhist prayer wheels.
- The climb becomes steeper as we approach Namrung, a scenic village with stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal.
- Overnight in Namrung.
Day 7
- Day 07: Trek from Namrung to Lho Gaun (3,180m/10,430ft) Today’s trek is relatively short but scenic, offering spectacular mountain views.
- We ascend through rhododendron forests, crossing rivers and pastures before reaching Lho Gaun.
- The village is known for its breathtaking views of Manaslu and Ribung Gompa, a beautiful monastery.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8
- Day 08: Trekking from Lho Gaun to Samagaon (3,500m/11,480ft) We trek through dense forests, crossing Shyala village, which offers a panoramic view of Himal Chuli, Peak 29, and Manaslu.
- The trail gradually ascends to Samagaon, a traditional Tibetan-influenced village.
- Here, we will explore the local lifestyle and visit the monastery.
- Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 9
- Day 09: Acclimatization Day – Samagaon A crucial rest day for acclimatization.
- We take a short hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa to enhance altitude adaptation while enjoying breathtaking mountain vistas.
- The rest of the day is spent exploring the village or resting.
- Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 10
- Day 10: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m/12,713ft) We trek further towards the Tibetan plateau, passing yak pastures and mani walls.
- The trail is relatively gentle, allowing us to soak in the high-altitude landscape.
- Samdo, a small village near the Tibetan border, offers stunning views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
- Overnight in Samdo.
Day 11
- Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m/14,633ft) via Larkya Base Camp Today’s trek takes us to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi.
- We gradually ascend through rugged terrain, crossing rivers and barren landscapes.
- Dharamsala offers basic accommodations, preparing us for the Larkya La Pass crossing the next day.
- Overnight stay in Dharamsala.
Day 12
- Day 12: Dharamsala to Bimtang Trek (3,590m/11,778ft) via Larkya La Pass (5,165m/16,929ft) An early start is essential as we embark on the most challenging day of the trek.
- The ascent to Larkya La Pass is steep but rewards us with stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
- The descent to Bimtang is long but scenic, passing through glaciers and moraines.
- Overnight in Bimtang.
Day 13
- Day 13: Trek from Bimtang to Tilije (2,300m/7,546ft) We descend through lush forests and cross several streams before reaching Tilije, a beautiful Gurung village.
- The trail becomes easier as we lose altitude, walking through rhododendron and pine forests.
- Overnight in Tilije.
Day 14
- Day 14: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani (1,410m/4,625ft) A relatively short trek to Dharapani, where we officially enter the Annapurna Circuit route.
- We walk along well-maintained paths, passing traditional villages and terraced farmlands.
- Overnight stay in Dharapani.
Day 15
- Day 15: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via a Private Car We take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, passing through Besisahar and enjoying views of lush hills, rivers, and villages.
- Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
- The evening is free to explore the city or enjoy a farewell dinner.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 16
- Day 16: Departure After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
- We hope you had an unforgettable adventure and wish you a safe journey home.
Faq's
You need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A registered guide is mandatory, and solo trekking is not allowed.
The trek is moderate to challenging, requiring 6-8 hours of walking per day on rugged terrain. Good fitness, endurance, and prior trekking experience are recommended.
The ideal trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is stable, offering clear views and comfortable temperatures.
The highest point is Larkya La Pass (5,165m/16,929ft). To prevent altitude sickness, acclimatization days, slow ascent, hydration, and avoiding alcohol are essential.
Accommodation is in basic teahouses/lodges with twin-sharing rooms. Meals include dal bhat (rice and lentils), soups, noodles, momos, and tea. Food variety is limited at higher altitudes.
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