Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip Facts

  • Duration: 13 Days
  • Challenge level : Challenging
  • Max Altitude:5106m
  • Group size :min-2 People
  • Best TimeSpring / Autumn
  • Destination :Nepal

About Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, culturally rich Himalayan journey around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), the world’s eighth-highest peak. The thirteen-day trek offers a glimpse of the authentic lifestyle in Nepal’s remote villages and the Himalayas.

After a short drive to Machha Khola, the trek begins through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages, following the Budhi Gandaki river gorge. The trail crosses suspension bridges and traditional villages shaped by Tibetan culture.

The ascent reaches Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,929 feet), providing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. On the descent, you pass through the enchanting villages of Bhimthang and Tilje before returning to the road head and heading back to Kathmandu.  The trek starts from Kathmandu and follows the route below:

Kathmandu → Machha Khola (Drive) → Jagat → Dyang → Namrung → Lho → Samagaon → Samdo → Dharamsala (Larke Phedi) → Larke La Pass → Bimtang → Tilche → Chamje → Kathmandu

Trip Highlights

  • Experience the vibrant culture and heritage of Kathmandu before the trek.
  • Immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyles of remote villages such as Jagat and Samagaun.
  • Traverse challenging terrain and suspension bridges while crossing the Budhi Gandaki River.
  • Ascend to the awe-inspiring Larke La Pass and take in the stunning Himalayan vistas.
  • Witness the stunning Manaslu Peak (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, along with its neighboring peaks.
  • Engage with friendly locals and explore the region’s unique Tibetan-influenced culture and monasteries.

Itinerary

This itinerary is intended as a guide only. Local conditions and weather may necessitate variations to the program and can affect the availability of views and panoramas described.
Be aware that all time stated are approximate and may vary with individual and group fitness, weather, Trekking route, river level and road conditions.

Our guide will pick you up from your hotel around 6–7 a.m. and drive you to Machha Khola via Aarughat, a journey of about 7–8 hours.

We suggest having breakfast at your hotel beforehand or taking a packed breakfast. There will be a few short stops for restrooms and breaks, and you will also have lunch along the way.

Max. Altitude: 930 m / 3,051 ft
Duration: 7–8 hours drive
Accommodation: Local teahouse/lodge

On the second day, we trek along the Budhi Gandaki riverbank and cross the Iron Bridge over the river. The trek takes about 6–7 hours, including several short breaks and a lunch stop. Along the way, we'll pass through traditional Gurung villages and encounter mani walls and prayer flags, reflecting Tibetan Buddhist influence.

Upon reaching Jagat, we officially enter the Manaslu Restricted Area, where special permits are required. Jagat serves as an important gateway to the upper Manaslu region, offering a glimpse of the unique culture, architecture, and lifestyle of the local communities.

Max. Altitude: 1,410 m / 4,626 ft

Duration: ~7 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After breakfast, the trail ascends to Dyang Village via Philim, a large Gurung settlement known for its agricultural lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere. Our permit will be checked here before continuing.

Along the way, we’ll enjoy valley views of Baudha Himal (6,672 m / 21,890 ft) and picturesque villages. The trail then enters a remarkable uninhabited gorge, adorned with wild orchids. A steep climb on the west side of the valley takes you through bamboo forests to Dyang. Overnight, you’ll stay at a local teahouse surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery.

Max. Altitude: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft

Duration: ~7 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After breakfast in Dyang around 6 a.m., we begin the trek to Namrung. The trail passes through Buddhist-influenced areas, with minor ups and downs, showcasing well-preserved paintings and an elegant mani wall.

The valley starts steeply as the trail ascends through bamboo and rhododendron forests, leading to Namrung Village in the Nupri Region, inhabited by descendants of Tibetan immigrants.

Max. Altitude: 2,660 m / 8,727 ft

Duration: ~6 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After breakfast in Namrung, we trek to Lho Gaun via Li Gaun. It’s an easy route, with Manaslu Mountain greeting us along the way. Around midday, we stop for lunch. At Li Gaun, enjoy stunning views of the Himal Chuli peaks. A little ahead, Syogaon offers incredible vistas of Manaslu’s north face and Naike Peak.

From Lho Gaun, we’ll catch panoramic views of the Manaslu Massif. Rimung Gumba and the mani walls are additional highlights. Overnight, we’ll stay at a local teahouse.

Max. Altitude: 3,180 m / 10,433 ft
Duration: ~4 hours trekking
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After breakfast at Lho Gaun, we begin the day with a gradual ascent via Lho Gaun and Syalagaun. This stretch offers one of the best views of Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak.

After Syalagaun, we continue to Samagaun through meadows and pine forests. From Samagaun, we can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu.

Max. Altitude: 3,530 m / 11,581 ft

Duration: 4–5 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude before continuing toward the Larke La Pass. You have the flexibility to explore the local area, observe traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, and interact with the residents of Samagaon, or simply relax.

For those wanting a short hike, we trek to Birendra Tal (lake) and visit the local monastery (Gumba), soaking in the serene alpine surroundings. An optional side hike leads to the Punggen Gumba viewpoint (4,742 m / 15,557 ft), offering amazing views of Manaslu, North Manaslu, Himalchuli, Peak 29, and Naike Peak, and then we can return to the lodge.

Max. Altitude: 4,742 m / 15,557 ft (optional hike to Pungyen Gompa)

Duration: 3–4 hours acclimatization hike

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

Our day begins after having breakfast in Samagaun. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, and as the valley widens, we pass through juniper and birch forests until reaching Kyonggma Kharka. The route descends via a wooden bridge before arriving at Samdo, the last settlement near the Tibetan border. Overnight, we’ll stay at a lodge or teahouse.

Max. Altitude: 3,690 m / 12,106 ft

Duration: 3–4 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

On the ninth day, the trek follows a short descent along a wide trail through beautiful fields to an old stone arch. We then cross the river via a wooden bridge to Larke Bazaar, once a thriving market, now abandoned.

Spectacular views of Larke Peak, Samdo Peak, and Manaslu Northwest greet you along the way. Keep an eye out for blue sheep on the Himalayan slopes. Overnight, we’ll stay in a large dormitory tent with very basic facilities.

Max. Altitude: 4,470 m / 14,665 ft
Duration: 3–4 hours trekking, including lunch camp
Accommodation: Basic lodge/dormitory

This day is the highlight of the trek as it’s a long, challenging, but highly rewarding day. After an early breakfast, we begin trekking in the dark along a gradual trail, offering stunning views of Cho Danda and Larke Peak.

Following the glacier moraine, we ascend to Larke La Pass, where we enjoy fantastic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.

The descent is steep and sometimes slippery, leading down a grassy moraine to a large meadow. We’ll stay overnight at Bimtang, situated in a vast valley surrounded by high peaks.

Max. Altitude: 5,106 m / 16,752 ft (Larke La Pass)

Duration: ~8 hours trekking (including a pack lunch break).

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After having breakfast in Bimtang, the trek continues through meadows to the Dudh Khola, where we cross a wooden bridge. We then descend into rhododendron and pine forests.

Climbing to a ridge, we are rewarded with different views of the majestic Mount Manaslu. Overnight is at a local teahouse, which may have hot shower facilities depending on the weather.

Max. Altitude: 3,720 m / 12,204 ft

Duration: ~6 hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

On the twelfth day, we leave Tilche Valley after breakfast and begin a gradual descent through alpine woodlands, crossing a bridge along the way. The trail reaches Dharapani, a small village surrounded by forested hills. From here, the path merges with the classic Annapurna Circuit trek (in reverse), following the Marsyangdi River.

Continuing along a rocky stairway, we reach Tal Village. The descent continues through the valley, crossing the Marsyangdi River again before arriving at Chamje. Overnight, we’ll stay at a local teahouse, marking the last day of trekking before returning to Kathmandu.

Max. Altitude: 2,300 m / 7,546 ft
 Duration: ~6 hours trekking
 Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge

After breakfast, we pack up our trekking equipment and depart Chamje by jeep/bus early in the morning. The scenic drive takes us through river valleys, terraced hills, and local villages, with a lunch stop along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Max. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Duration: 6–7 hours drive

Accommodation: Not included / Hotel in Kathmandu (optional)

What's included

Included

  • Airport Transfers for your international arrival and departure.
  • MCAP and ACAP entrance fee and Restricted Area Permit (Special Permit).
  • A highly experienced, friendly, English-speaking, licensed guide.
  • 1 porter for every 2 guests (max 20 kg per porter / 10 kg per trekker)
  • Insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment for the porter.
  • An assistant guide is provided as needed, with salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance covered.
  • Accommodation in the mountains during the trek.
  • Three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea/coffee during the trek.
  • Kathmandu to Trek Start Point and from Trek Ending Point to Kathmandu by Bus/Jeep.
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day.
  • First aid kit box.

What's Excluded

Excluded

  • Your Nepal Visa fees.
  • All the International air fare to and from Kathmandu.
  • All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Personal travel and health insurance, as well as insurance for helicopter evacuation.
  • In case of extra nights’ accommodation, lunch and dinner in the city due to early arrival and late departure,e as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of the itinerary. We can help you arrange extra nights’ accommodation.
  • Your personal expenses such as (laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottled water, hot and cold shower, extra porter, etc.).
  • The tips for the trekking crews and drivers.
  • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any event out of our control.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
Why Book With Us?
  • Instant online booking
  • Secure payments
  • Guaranteed departure
  • Group discount available
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