Max. Eleviation
5106 m
Destination
Manaslu Region
Duration
16 Days
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Activity
Trekking
Trip Grade
Moderate to strenuous
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and less-crowded long-distance treks, circling the entire Manaslu massif (8,163 m – eighth-highest mountain). This route takes you through traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, deep river gorges, high alpine meadows, and dramatic high passes like Larkya La (5,160 m). You’ll enjoy close-up views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal, plus rich cultural encounters with local communities, ancient monasteries, and a real sense of remoteness.
It’s a perfect mix of natural variety, cultural immersion, and adventure – quieter than Annapurna Circuit, more challenging than Everest Base Camp, and ideal for trekkers seeking something authentic and off-the-beaten-path.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, take time to rest and recover from your international journey. Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a short walk around the neighborhood or relax at the hotel. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.
This day is dedicated to final trek preparation. You will meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing covering the Manaslu Circuit route, safety procedures, altitude considerations, and daily schedule. A thorough equipment and gear check is conducted, with time to arrange rentals or purchases if required. The remainder of the day is free for rest or light sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.
After breakfast, begin a scenic full-day drive through the Nepalese countryside toward Machha Khola. The journey follows winding mountain roads alongside rivers, terraced fields, and remote villages. As the landscape becomes more rugged, you enter the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Arrival at Machha Khola in the late afternoon. Overnight at lodge.
The trek begins along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through narrow gorges, suspension bridges, and small settlements. The trail includes short ascents and descents with dramatic river views. Jagat is a traditional stone village and an official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Overnight at lodge.
Today’s trek continues through forested trails and terraced hillsides, crossing several rivers and villages influenced by Tibetan culture. Stone houses, mani walls, and prayer flags become more frequent as altitude increases. The trail gradually ascends to Deng, a quiet village surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls. Overnight at lodge.
The route climbs steadily through bamboo forests and narrow valleys, crossing the Budhi Gandaki multiple times. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes more alpine. Namrung offers your first clear views of Himalayan peaks and showcases strong Tibetan architectural influence. Overnight at lodge.
A spectacular trekking day through high alpine landscapes. The trail passes through Lho village and continues toward Shyala, surrounded by majestic peaks including Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli. The open plateau of Shyala provides one of the most scenic camps along the circuit. Overnight at lodge.
Today’s trek includes a cultural and scenic highlight with a visit to Pun Gyen Gompa, located beneath the Manaslu Glacier. After enjoying stunning mountain views, descend to Sama Gaon, the largest settlement in the region and an important acclimatization stop. Overnight at lodge.
A crucial acclimatization day. A guided hike toward Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint helps the body adjust to altitude while offering close-up views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. The afternoon is reserved for rest, hydration, and exploration of Sama Gaon’s monasteries and village life. Overnight at lodge.
A relatively short trek leads to Samdo, a remote village near the Tibetan border. The landscape becomes more barren and dramatic, with wide valleys and glacial terrain. The afternoon allows time for rest and acclimatization in preparation for the high pass crossing. Overnight at lodge.
The trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain toward Dharmasala (also known as Larkya Phedi), the final camp before crossing Larkya La Pass. After arrival, rest early and prepare for the challenging pass crossing the next morning. Overnight at lodge/basic teahouse.
An early start for one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. The ascent to Larkya La Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. After celebrating the crossing, descend carefully to the lush alpine valley of Bimthang. Overnight at lodge.
Descend through rhododendron forests and glacial valleys, passing yak pastures and rivers. The trail gradually joins the Annapurna Circuit route at Dharapani. From here, drive to Besisahar, marking the end of the trekking section. Overnight at lodge or hotel.
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu via scenic highways. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in the city. Overnight at hotel.
A leisure day for rest, souvenir shopping, or optional sightseeing to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Boudhanath Stupa or Kathmandu Durbar Square. This day also serves as a contingency buffer. Overnight at hotel.
At the scheduled time, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight, concluding your Manaslu Circuit Trek experience.
Package details
What's Included
- Airport pick up and drop off (Kathmandu airport to hotel).
- Three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit.
- Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porter service (one porter for every two trekkers).
- All ground transportation.
- Accommodation in comfortable teahouses/lodges during the trek (twin-sharing basis).
- Basic first-aid kit carried by the guide.
- Company service charges and all government taxes.
What's not Included
- International flights to/from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fees (USD 30–125 based on duration).
- Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara (except breakfast at hotels).
- Personal trekking gear and clothing (rental available).
- Travel insurance (mandatory for emergency coverage).
- Extra drinks, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and personal expenses.
- Tips for guide and porters (recommended).
- Any unforeseen costs due to delays or changes.
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