Manaslu Circuit Trek – 16 Days

The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River. The views along the road are unparalleled – traditional villages, terraced fields, white-water rivers, lush forests, and towering mountains, including Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal. We will continue our bus ride until we reach Soti Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu trek. Our first night on the trek will be spent at Soti Khola.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our Trekking Planner guide and staff will greet you with a warm traditional welcome at the airport, according to your flight’s landing time. You will have no trouble reaching the hotel and checking in. Before leaving you, our team will provide a brief overview of the trek, collect your passports and photos for the necessary permits, and answer any questions you may have.

After checking in and freshening up from your flight, take some time to explore the bustling streets of Thamel.

The next day, you’ll meet the rest of the group in the hotel lobby for a briefing about the Manaslu Circuit trek. This session will cover important information on the trek’s do’s and don’ts, local culture, and other vital details to ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable holiday in Nepal.

In the evening, we will enjoy a group dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant, where you can savor traditional local cuisine and enjoy a folk cultural performance.

Trek Distance: 160km / 99.4miles
Highest Altitude: (1,350m/4,430ft)/(1400m/4593ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

This will be the first day on the trail. We wake up at Soti Khola, prepare for a long day of trekking, and head towards Maccha Khola. The path is breathtaking, with waterfalls along the way. The trail involves sharp ascents and descents, so be cautious. We will pass through Sal forests, walk beside towering cliffs, and occasionally encounter mules along the path. Our journey will take us through Khursani village, the Lububesi Gurung settlement, and finally reach Machha Khola.

On this day, we will also arrange the special and restricted permits required for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Optional Tour: You can take a historical tour of Kathmandu, guided by one of our professional tour guides. During this tour, you’ll visit three important temples: Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa. You’ll learn about Nepali history, culture, art, and architecture.

Later in the day, we will hold a small briefing session about the trek, where you’ll meet your trek guide and make final preparations for the journey. We’ll do a final check of your packing and ensure everything is in order.

Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour: Enjoy a day exploring the best of Kathmandu’s cultural heritage sites and World Heritage Sites, with time for trek preparation. The tour will include:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Swayambhunath Monkey Temple
• Boudhanath Buddhist Stupa
• Pashupatinath Hindu Temple

Kathmandu Durbar Square is famous for its handicraft shops and narrow cobbled alleys leading from ancient palaces to stunning temples. Swayambhunath, located atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley and is home to hundreds of monkeys that reside in the surrounding forest. Boudhanath is said to be the tomb of a legendary sage who achieved enlightenment. Pashupatinath is a sacred burial site for Hindus, with many devotees and Gurus residing here. If you wish, you can even ask one of these holy men for a photo with you!

Trek Distance: 9.7km / 6miles
Highest Altitude: (890m/2,965ft)/(1400m/4593ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

We haven’t gained much altitude yet, as you can tell from the sub-tropical vegetation surrounding the trek. However, be prepared for some ups and downs along the way. You will cross two major rivers: Tharo Khola and Machha Khola. After crossing Machha Khola on a suspension bridge, we will enter Tatopani, but continue along the path through forests, eventually reaching Doban. “Doban” means the confluence of two rivers in Nepal, and true to its name, Doban is located at the junction of the Shari Khola and Sarpu Khola rivers.

The day begins early with a hearty breakfast in Kathmandu before we drive to Machha Khola. The drive is long, so prepare yourself to enjoy the scenic countryside views, though be aware that the road can be bumpy at times.

This marks the start of an early morning, long, and interesting overland journey to Nepal’s Mid-West, offering a chance to observe the traditional farming life of rural Nepal.

The drive follows the main highway, passing through villages and towns, until we reach the district of Gorkha and the Arughat farm town. From there, we will transfer to a local vehicle suitable for the rough dirt roads and continue to Soti Khola for an overnight stop. Soti Khola is a moderately-sized farming village situated near the banks of the Buri-Gandaki River.

Trek Distance: 9.5km / 5.9miles
Highest Altitude: (900m/2953ft)/(1,070m / 3510ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

After breakfast in Doban, we continue our journey toward Philim, reaching it by the end of the day. The trek begins with a sharp climb to Louri and continues until Thado Bharyang, located just below Jagat. We then cross a river to reach Jagat, a Tibetan-style settlement, and cross another river to arrive in Philim, a Gurung village.

From Machha Khola, we cross a river and ascend to Khorla Besi. Gradually, the trail leads us through a beautiful gorge, passing lovely waterfalls and occasional landslides. We will then reach Tatopani village, famous for its natural hot springs. Afterward, we cross the Budhi Gandaki River on a thrilling suspension bridge. Continuing past Doban, we cross another suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola and ascend to Thado Bharyang. From here, the route will take us to Jagat.

In the morning, from Machha Khola (Fish Stream), we walk to the Khola Besi village and then to Tatopani, where we can enjoy a refreshing break at the natural hot springs, time permitting. The trail continues as the valley meanders into a narrow gorge, and we cross a suspension bridge before entering a small forest on our way to Doban, a small settlement located on a high shelf overlooking the Buri-Gandaki River.

The walk proceeds by crossing another bridge and climbing to a high ridge before descending into the valley at Yara Khola (Stream). After another hour of walking, we reach Jagat.

Jagat is an interesting hill farming village, inhabited by various hill tribes including Magar, Gurung, Chettris, Brahmins, as well as Manaslu Bhotia (Tibetan-looking tribes) and some Newar people who run most of the lodges and shops.

Trek Distance: 13km / 8miles
Highest Altitude: (1,570m / 5,150ft)/(1340m/4396ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Our journey continues after a hearty breakfast, with the goal of reaching Ghap. The route takes us through Bihi Phedi and Bihi. The trek begins with a short descent, followed by a steep ascent that leads us to the Rana Bridge. We continue through the pine forest and cross a bridge to reach Bihi Phedi. Once you cross the bridge, you’ll notice the Buddhist influence in the area, with Mani walls and portraits of various gods and goddesses. We then cross another suspension bridge before finally reaching Ghap.

As we trek through the farmlands of Deng, we cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. The route continues toward Rana, ascending towards the Budhi Gandaki valley. Along the way, we pass through dense forests before reaching Ghap, and then climb to Prok village. The trail offers beautiful views of Singri Himal. Continuing beyond Ghap, we reach Namrung, which is one of the most important and culturally significant settlements along the trek.

In the morning, the walk takes us through high cliff walls as we head toward a farming village. Here, the houses and landscape change, and we enter an area with a stronger Tibetan Buddhist influence. After steady walking, we reach Bihe, a small village where buckwheat, wheat, barley, and potatoes are grown as staple crops.

From Bihe onwards, the trail enters a higher, cooler alpine region. The path follows a series of Mani prayer stones and walls leading us to Ghap, a lovely village where we will stop for the night.

Trek Distance: 11.5km / 7.14miles
Highest Altitude: (2,250m / 7,382ft)/(2397m/7864ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

From Ghap, our next destination is Namrung. The route takes us through dense forests of fir, rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, with steep ascents, suspension bridges, and stone stairs leading to Namrung. Around Namrung, you’ll encounter large barley fields. From here, enjoy breathtaking mountain views as the valley unfolds before us. As we ascend, the temperate forests gradually give way to the barren browns and grays of the Himalayan landscape, while the bright blue skies become more vivid at higher altitudes.

We arrive in Lho, a picturesque village offering a magnificent view of Manaslu, with the tranquil Rebung Gompa monastery perched close to the mountain. Soon after leaving Lho, the trail descends steeply and then climbs again. We walk through sparsely populated woodlands toward the neighboring village of Shyala, which provides a spectacular view of Ngadi Chuli to the southwest.

Walking along the Budhi Gandaki River from Ghap, we cross the river and stroll through small agricultural communities toward Namrung village, where the North Face of Mt. Manaslu and its surrounding peaks offer the best views. Our trek continues through the settlements of Banjham, Lhi, and Sho, gradually ascending to Lo-Gaon, where we will spend the night.

Trek Distance: 9km / 5.5miles
Highest Altitude: (2,660m / 8,727ft)/(3180m/10433ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

After breakfast, we continue our journey with the goal of reaching Lho. The path takes us through the picturesque Lihi village, where we cross a stream originating from the Lindanda Glacier to reach Sho, all while enjoying views of Simnang Himal (6251m). However, we will push ahead to reach Lho, a culturally rich village adorned with prayer flags, Mani walls, Chortens, and other stupas.

The trail from Shyala to Sama Gaun offers phenomenal views of snow-capped mountains like Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29), Hiunchuli, Manaslu, Naike Peak, and others. From here, the trail continues straight for a while before ascending, leading us to cross a suspension bridge over the Numla Khola. We will then walk along the moraine of Pungyen Glacier and pass by ancient monasteries. The route becomes more challenging as it descends to rock-strewn moraine fields before reaching Sama Gaun.

From Lo-Gaon, the morning begins with a gradual ascent, offering views of Peak 29 and Manaslu. After a few hours of scenic walking, we reach Shala, a small farming village with stunning views of Phungi, Mt. Manaslu, and Himal Chuli peaks.

The trek continues further west, deep into the heart of the Manaslu Valley, to reach Sama Gaun, a village located near the towering Mt. Manaslu. Sama Gaun is the largest village in the high Manaslu Valley. We will spend two nights here, giving us time to acclimatize and explore the village’s lovely viewpoints.

Trek Distance: 11km / 6.8miles
Highest Altitude: (3,180m / 10,433ft)/(3520m/11549ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

From Lho, we begin our trek early in the morning, heading toward Samagaun. The path passes through a forest before reaching Shyala village, which is surrounded by agricultural fields and features several wooden resting places. As we continue, we cross a small stream that drains the Pungyen Glacier and eventually reach the flat village of Samagaun. Samagaun is the closest village to Manaslu Base Camp.

Today is our first rest day in Sama Gaun. To help acclimatize your body, you have hiking options to either Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake. Alternatively, you can choose to hike towards the ridge of Pungyen Monastery, an ancient and significant site for the locals, located south of Sama Gaun. This hike requires a round-trip walk of five to six hours.

After several days of continuous trekking, a well-deserved rest day is essential for acclimatization before we continue our ascent toward the higher areas and cross the Larke-La Pass. Enjoy your free day in Sama Gaun, exploring the village, which is rich in Tibetan culture. You can visit the old monastery, interact with the locals, and take in the grand surrounding views of snow-capped peaks.

Trek Distance: 17.2km / 10.6miles
Highest Altitude: (3,530m / 11,581ft)/(3520m/11549ft)
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

During this trek, we will acclimatize at Samagaon to adjust to the thinner air as we reach higher elevations. However, we won’t remain idle. We will explore Samagaon and take the opportunity to observe the local lifestyle and experience their culture. Additionally, there are several options for exploration, including a hike to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, or a visit to Pungyen Monastery.

Pungyen Monastery, located south of Samagaon, is about a two-and-a-half-hour hike away. It is hidden behind the ridge in front of Manaslu and offers stunning views of the glaciers. Birendra Tal, a glacial lake at 3,450 meters, is where ice blocks tumble into the lake with thunderous displays. Samagaon is an interesting place for acclimatization and exploration.

The route becomes even more scenic and panoramic as we move beyond Sama Gaun. We will cross pastures and ascend the valley, trekking through lush forests of birch and juniper. The mountain views along the way are breathtaking. We will descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and cross it via a wooden bridge. From there, the trail steeply climbs to Samdo.

After spending a refreshing rest day in Sama Gaun, the adventure continues toward the end of the Manaslu Valley. We will walk to Samdo, the last village of the Manaslu and Gorkha regions, where the altitude gain is gradual. The terrain becomes more arid and barren, with spectacular views of high, snow-capped mountains. After a few hours of walking through wide, barren land, we will reach Samdo, the last large village in the region, where we will stop for the night. Located on the route to the Tibet border, Samdo is the gateway to our next destination, Larke Phedi.

Trek Distance: 16km/9.94miles
Highest Altitude: 3875m/12713ft
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Today’s trek is relatively more interesting and pleasant. We will cross pasture areas and ascend into the valley. The trail leads us through forests of juniper and birch. As we descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, we will cross a wooden bridge and then climb steeply on the opposite side. Along the way, we’ll be treated to amazing views of the mountains, especially Manaslu, as we reach Samdo—a Tibetan refugee village. Once in Samdo, we will explore the village and the surrounding hills.

On our rest day, you have the option to hike to the Tibetan border at Rui La Pass (4998m). The trail heads towards Rui La Pass from Samdo, following the Athara Saya Khola (1800m rivers). Rui La offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, both in Nepal and Tibet, with views of the Fukang Glacier. After completing the hike, we will return to Samdo.

Today’s walk takes us to the end of the Manaslu Valley. The morning begins with a departure from Samdo, the final village of Gorkha and the high Manaslu areas. The route then heads towards the base of Larke-La Pass at Dharmasala, where we will find a few simple lodges for our overnight stay. It’s a lovely short walk on a pleasant, gradual path, with gorgeous scenery. The walk ends at the base of Larke-La Pass, where we will have lunch and spend our last night in the Gorkha district.

In the afternoon at Larke Phedi, you will have free time for a short walk and to prepare for the next morning’s long climb to the high Larke-La Pass and the journey towards the Manang area.

Trek Distance: 8.2km / 5miles
Highest Altitude: (3,875m / 12,713ft)/(4998m/16397ft)
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

We begin our trek along the Samdo edge, passing through fields and old Mani walls as we cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. We will walk past the Athahra Saya River and then follow the Larke River. Along the way, you’ll notice the Mani walls and prayer flags, marking the proximity of the Larkya La Pass.

Next, we reach the Larkya Glacier, which is truly magnificent. After taking in the views, we continue our trek through the valley of Salkha Khola, gradually climbing to reach the stone guest house at 4,450 meters. This guest house is not a lodge but a community dormitory, known as a Dharamsala or Larkya La Phedi. This day will be memorable, offering stunning views of the Larkya Glacier and Mount Manaslu.

The big day has arrived! We start early, enjoying a hearty breakfast, and follow our lead guide as we begin the steep climb over moraine, rocks, and boulders around the ablation zone of the Larkya Glacier. Although the walk uphill is long, it’s enjoyable, with breathtaking views of Cho Danda and the nearby Larke Peak.

With steady progress and a few refreshing stops, we continue our climb to the top of Larkya La. The pass is marked with thousands of colorful Buddhist prayer flags. At the summit, a signboard displays the name of the pass and its exact elevation. We take some time to enjoy the fantastic panoramic views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and the entire Manaslu range, with Ganesh Himal visible on the far eastern horizon.

After conquering the toughest part of the trek and standing at the highest point, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, we begin our long descent to the other side of Larkya La Pass, into the Manang district.

From the base of Larkya La on the Manang side, we enjoy an easy walk through green forests and tall trees, leading to Bhimthang (also known as Bhimphedi) for an overnight stop after a long and challenging day. Bhimthang is nestled in a beautiful forested area with wide green fields and several good lodges, all adorned with prayer Mani walls.

The trail continues to descend through fields and Mani walls, crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. As we ascend, the fluttering prayer flags and Mani walls signal that we are nearing the top of the pass. After crossing two streams, we are treated to dramatic views of Larkya Glacier. The route then winds around the Salkha Khola Valley, ascending further to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya La Phedi.

Trek Distance: 11.7km / 7.2miles
Highest Altitude: (4,480m / 14,698ft)/(4460m/14633ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5                                                              

The exciting part of the journey awaits us as we trek around the Manaslu Circuit, crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,100m). After an early morning breakfast, we will depart from Dharamsala, as it will be a long trek. Weather conditions are the most important factor, as the weather will determine whether the trek becomes more challenging due to strong winds or storms.

We begin by crossing the moraine and descending to a small lake. The trail becomes rough and unclear as we cross the south side of a steep grassy slope. Our route follows the moraine to an edge, marked by two landmarks. The prayer flags along the route help guide us, providing a sense of direction. We carefully descend to four frozen lakes, then climb a steep trail to the Larkya La Pass.

From the pass, you can enjoy panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and the majestic Annapurna II. The marvelous trail continues along the top of the moraine, heading west with steep, rough bends. We cross the moraine again and gently descend to another grassy moraine at 4,450m. As we descend, the trail becomes easier to navigate, and we eventually arrive at a small meadow. The valley begins to widen as we approach a large meadow, mani walls, and small houses, indicating that we have reached Bhimtang.

It’s a big day. You will wake up early and begin trekking towards the top of the Larkya La. You may face strong winds and storms along the way. The trail is challenging and rough, involving walking on steep grassy slopes, passing moraine, and following the edge. The trail descends to the four frozen lakes and ascends to the top of the pass, where you will be rewarded with striking views of Mt. Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Mt. Kang Guru, and Mt. Annapurna II.

From here, you will gently descend to a small meadow. Beyond this point, the valley widens, passing by mani walls and small houses, leading to Bhimtang.

From Bhimtang, the rest of the journey is pleasant, with a downhill descent. As you lose altitude, you will feel rejuvenated upon reaching your goal. The walk continues through the cool shade of coniferous trees, with a few short climbs. However, the path mostly descends to Gho, where we will make an overnight stop. Gho is a small settlement with a few simple lodges, located at a cattle grazing area.

Trek Distance: 24.7km / 15.3miles
Highest Altitude: (5,160m / 16,929ft)/(5160m/16925ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

The previous day’s trek may have been tough, but you can rest assured that today’s trek will not be very taxing. You begin by descending to the Budhi Gandaki River and crossing it to enter the rhododendron forest. This leads to Karche, a cultivated area near the top of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. You will continue along the riverbank to reach Gho.

Next, you trek through more rhododendron forests and eventually reach Tilije. After crossing the Dudh Koshi River, you will walk through a scrub forest. The trail then descends to Dharapani, passing through small settlement areas.

On the last day of the adventure, the walk starts with an easy downhill stretch through a cool, dense forest, leading to the village of Telje. Telje is situated on a shelf above the Marsyangdi River, which flows from Manang, Annapurna Himalaya, and the Chulu glaciers.

After stopping for lunch in Telje, you’ll have a short climb in the afternoon, crossing a bridge to reach Dharapani for an overnight stop. Dharapani is a lovely, moderate-sized village located on a motorable road, at the junction of the popular Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit routes.

Trek Distance: 10km / 6.2miles
Highest Altitude: (3,720m / 12,205ft)/(1930m/6440ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

This will be the last day on the trail. After waking up in Gho, we head towards Dharapani. The route descends, so the trek should be easy. You will pass through many fields and pastures, eventually reaching Tilje, a large Gurung settlement. This village is famous for its brandy. However, we continue forward, passing several Mani walls to reach Thonje village, and then enter Dharapani village.

From here, we will take a local jeep or bus back to Kathmandu. The drive goes through Besisahar and offers gorgeous views of the mountains and lush green hills. In the late evening, you will meet with the team members for a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the journey.

In the morning, from Dharapani, we embark on a long and exciting drive to Kathmandu. The ride takes you through the warm, lowland farming country, heading further down towards the Lamjung area. The drive continues with a long, winding descent to the bottom of a hill at Syange. From here, we follow the Marsyangdi River to reach Besisahar, a large town and the headquarters of the Lamjung district.

At Besisahar, we change transport, and the drive continues on a smooth, good road to Kathmandu. The journey follows a well-maintained road to Dumre town. From there, we take the main highway to Kathmandu, arriving by late afternoon or in the evening. Check into your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure for individual activities. We will then gather for a group farewell dinner.

Trek Distance: 6km / 3.7miles
Highest Altitude: (2,550m / 8,367ft)/(1400m/4593ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Today will be your last day on the road. After an early breakfast, we leave Dharapani and head to Besisahar by local bus, a journey that will take about six to seven hours. The drive will be scenic as we pass through many villages, along the Marsyangdi River, and through Bhulbhule town and Khudi. We expect to reach Besisahar before 3 pm to catch the last bus to Kathmandu. If we are delayed, we may need to extend the itinerary by a day.

Once we catch the bus to Kathmandu, we will pass the point where the Marsyangdi River meets the Trishuli River, as we head east along the Prithivi Highway. The drive offers beautiful and natural scenery, including terraced lands and high peaks.

It’s time to say goodbye and fly back home. Our airport representatives will assist you with check-out and drop you off at the international airport according to your flight departure time.

After an exciting and memorable adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, on your last day in Nepal, our Trekking Planner staff and guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home or to your next destination.

Trek Distance: 224km / 139miles
Highest Altitude: (1,910m / 6,266ft)