Manaslu Circuit Trek
Days
16
Difficulty
Challenging
Altitude
4460m
Mount Manaslu, standing at 8,163 meters, is the 8th highest mountain in the world and lies to the east of the Annapurna range in Nepal. This awe-inspiring peak, known as “The Mountain of the Spirit,” is a prominent feature of the Himalayas and a stunning backdrop for trekkers seeking an adventure off the beaten path. Manaslu Trekking is a specialized trekking route that requires both a Manaslu Trekking Permit and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. The trek has been open to tourists since 1991, and despite its recent accessibility, it still offers an incredibly remote and unspoiled experience. The region remains relatively untouched by commercialization, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the best treks in Nepal for those looking for solitude, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Few trekkers venture to this remote corner of the Himalayas, and the route has not yet been developed into a popular tea-house trek, meaning that accommodations tend to be more basic, adding to the adventure.
Trekking Route and Terrain:
• The trek follows the Budi-Gandaki River gorge before climbing steadily to higher altitudes. The terrain is diverse, ranging from lush forests to rocky, rugged paths and high-altitude alpine terrain.
• The climb to Larkya La Pass is the most difficult section of the trek, but the reward is a stunning view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Cultural Experience:
• The inhabitants of this area, the Nuri, still engage in trade with Tibet, and their language, dress, and lifestyle are very similar to Tibetan culture.
• The trek provides an opportunity to witness these traditional lifestyles firsthand, along with Tibetan Buddhist practices that are deeply embedded in the culture of this region.
Trekking Season:
• The best time to trek in the Manaslu region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable, and the views are clear.
• During the winter, the high-altitude passes can be blocked due to heavy snow, making trekking difficult.
• Summer/monsoon (June to August) is generally avoided due to heavy rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and prone to landslides.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a true Himalayan adventure, combining stunning natural beauty, dramatic landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and physical challenges. With its remote location, fewer trekkers, and untouched nature, the trek offers a perfect opportunity to experience the raw power and serenity of the Himalayas while immersing yourself in the traditions of the local communities. The sense of isolation and awe-inspiring mountain views, especially from the Larkya La Pass, will make this trek an unforgettable journey.
Itirenary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Take rest and prepare for the trek ahead.
- Spend the day exploring the Kathmandu Valley, visiting key UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as:
o Pashupatinath Temple (Hindu pilgrimage site)
o Boudhanath Stupa (a giant stupa and Buddhist center)
o Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) (offering a panoramic view of the city)
o Durbar Square (historic palace complex). - Return to your hotel for overnight.
- Depart from Kathmandu by bus, car, or jeep for an 8-9 hour journey to Arughat. From Arughat, take a short drive to Sotikhola, and then continue to Machha Khola and Jagat (starting point of the trek).
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Continue along the Budi Gandaki River, passing through forests and crossing suspension bridges.
- Reach Deng, a small village, for an overnight stay.
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- The trek takes you through beautiful forests and cultural villages. The landscape becomes more mountainous, and you will begin to notice Tibetan influence in the local culture.
- Stay overnight in Namrung.
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
- The trek is marked by incredible mountain views, including views of Mt. Manaslu.
- Reach Lho, a small settlement with great views of Manaslu. Stay overnight.
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Trek through a breathtaking landscape, with views of Himalayan peaks.
- Arrive at Sama Gaon, a Tibetan-style village located near Manaslu Base Camp. Stay overnight.
- Rest and acclimatize at Sama Gaon.
- For those wanting to explore, you can take a detour to visit Pung Gyen Monastery or Birendra Lake for stunning views of Manaslu. Return to Sama Gaon for the night.
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
- The trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo takes you through beautiful Tibetan-style villages and high-altitude terrain.
- Reach Samdo, a village close to the Tibetan border. Overnight at a teahouse.
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- This section of the trek takes you to Dharamsala, a base camp area near Larkya La Pass.
- Stay overnight to prepare for the challenging pass crossing.
- Trek Duration: 9-10 hours
- The trek to Larkya La Pass is the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek. At 5,106m, you’ll experience dramatic views of the surrounding peaks.
- After crossing the pass, descend to Bimthang, a beautiful valley, for the night.
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Begin descending through forests and villages, passing the Marsyangdi River.
- Reach Goa, a small village for an overnight stay.
- Take a local jeep from Goa to Besishahar, then continue by road to Pokhara.
- Enjoy a free day in Pokhara with a relaxing foot massage by the lake.
- Early morning, drive to Sarangkot for a spectacular sunrise view over the Annapurna Range.
- Afterward, enjoy a city tour of Pokhara, including visits to Phewa Lake, the Peace Pagoda, and Gupteshwor Cave
- Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 minutes).
- Transfer to your hotel for the night and relax after the trek.
- Transfer to the airport for your final departure, taking home unforgettable memories from your Manaslu Circuit Trek.
1. Incredible Mountain Views:
o The trek offers spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu, as well as other towering peaks such as Mt. Himlung (7,126m), Mt. Ganesh Himal, and the Himalchuli range.
o The most dramatic and breathtaking views are found from the high-altitude Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), which is one of the most challenging yet rewarding crossings in the Himalayas.
2. Untouched Beauty and Pristine Ecosystems:
o The trekking route follows the Budi-Gandaki River, passing through a variety of eco-systems, including dense subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys.
o The flora and fauna here are incredibly diverse, with opportunities to spot rare wildlife, such as the Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and various species of birds.
3. Rich Cultural Heritage:
o The upper Budi-Gandaki region is home to the Nuri people, whose culture and lifestyle are heavily influenced by Tibetan traditions.
o The trek offers authentic encounters with the local communities, who are still deeply connected to their trading routes with Tibet.
o You will visit ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and Buddhist stupas, adding a deep spiritual dimension to the trek.
4. Crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m):
o One of the trek’s major highlights, the Larkya La Pass offers unmatched panoramic views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.
o This high-altitude pass provides a dramatic sense of isolation and challenge, as trekkers pass through snow-covered terrain, rugged landscapes, and glaciers.
5. Off-the-Beaten-Track Adventure:
o Unlike popular trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu Circuit Trek sees only a small number of trekkers each year, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a more intimate and personal trekking experience.
o The route is still relatively undeveloped, which means it retains its natural and cultural integrity, allowing trekkers to experience the authentic beauty of the Himalayas.
6. Less Crowded than Popular Treks:
o The Manaslu Circuit Trek is far less crowded compared to more famous treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit. While interest in the region is growing, the Manaslu Trek still sees approximately 10 times fewer trekkers, offering a more peaceful and authentic Himalayan experience.
7. Wildlife Sightings:
o The Manaslu region is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great trek for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers may spot the Himalayan tahr (mountain goat), blue sheep (agali), pika (the highest-living mammal), and Himalayan marmots. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard
Walking Equipments
Well-fitting boots (be sure beforehand that they walk well and are really comfortable) and good socks
Long/ short trousers/skirt
Shirt/t-shirt
Light jumper
Underwear
Sunglasses (UV Protection)
Hat and gloves
Waterproof jacket/poncho
Water bottle
Walking stick
Small rucksack (day pack)
Down jacket
Windproof trousers and gaiters
Other Equipments
Backpack (large)
Personal medication/first aid kit
Personal toiletries
Sunscreen/ lip balm
Penknife
Torch/flashlight with spare batteries
Camera/ film/ memory cards/batteries
Iodine tablets/solution
Sanitary items for women
Flip-flops/thongs
Binoculars
Entertainment (books, music, game sets, etc.)
Airport Assistance: Our office representative will assist you upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport.
Transfers: All arrival and departure transfers as per the itinerary by Private vehicles and Flight (PKR-KTM).
Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation at 3-star hotels.
Accommodation during Trek: Local guest house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis during the trek (includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Conservation Area Entry Fee: Necessary fees for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area and Trekking Permits.
Trekking Team: English-speaking trekking guide and porters for carrying luggage.
Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Guided tours with an English-speaking guide, including entrance fees to all listed sites in Kathmandu.
Taxes: All applicable taxes are included in the package.
International Airfare: Costs for international flights to/from Nepal.
Nepal Visa Fee: Charges for acquiring a visa to enter Nepal.
Meals (Lunch & Dinner): Meals outside the trekking areas (i.e., in Kathmandu & Pokhara).
Additional Sightseeing: Any extra sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses: Costs for things like shopping, souvenirs, or any personal items.
Transportation outside Itinerary: Any costs related to transport not part of the scheduled program.
Insurance: Travel, health, or trekking-related insurance.
Personal Nature Expenses: Any additional personal costs, such as tips, beverages, etc.
