Manaslu Circuit Trek

Itinerary, All Inclusive Cost, Booking Open for 2023 | 2024

Trip Facts

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Group Size: Minimum 2
  • Trip Type: Lodge Trek
  • Food: As Per Itinerary
  • Accommodation: Hotel in City Lodge on Trek
  • Best Season: March - May & Sept - December
  • Max Elevation: 5,215m | 17,109ft

Highlights

  • Enjoy a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek
  • Marvel at the stunning views of the world's highest peaks, including Manaslu Mountain (8,156m), Lamjung Himal, and Mt. Annapurna II
  • Follow the Budhi Gandaki River gorge, passing through beautiful forests, steep ridges, terraced fields, and suspension bridges
  • Reach the highest point of the trek, the Larkya La Pass (5,135m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
  • Immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna, captivating landscapes, and enchanting forests filled with rhododendron, pine, cedar, birch, and juniper trees
  • Gain insight into the Hindu and Buddhist cultures along the trek route, visiting traditional Gurung and Tibetan-style settlements
  • Keep an eye out for rare and endangered species like the elusive snow leopard

About Manaslu Circuit Trek

Welcome to the mesmerizing journey of the 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, brought to you by Nepal Spirit Adventure. This thrilling trek takes you into the heart of the enchanting Manaslu region, offering breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and an unforgettable adventure.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, providing a unique and less crowded alternative to other popular treks in Nepal. This remarkable journey takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world, standing tall at 8,163 meters.

As you embark on this 16-day trek, you will experience the pristine beauty of the Manaslu Conservation Area, rich in biodiversity and home to diverse flora and fauna. The trek presents a blend of natural wonders, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes, that will leave you in awe.

Throughout the trek, Nepal Spirit Adventure ensures your comfort and safety. We provide experienced guides who are well-versed in the region, offering valuable insights and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Our carefully designed itinerary allows for proper acclimatization, ensuring that you adapt well to the altitude and make the most of this incredible adventure.

Walkthrough of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Your trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, setting the stage for an incredible exploration of the region. Following a well-crafted itinerary, each day of the trek unfolds with new encounters and breathtaking vistas, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of the Himalayan landscape.

As you venture along the trail prepared by Nepal Spirit Adventure, you will traverse through enchanting villages including Machha Khola, Doban, Philim, Deng, Ghap, Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo. These villages offer glimpses into the local culture and traditions, providing an authentic and enriching experience.

The highlight of the trek is the challenging Larkya La Pass, a thrilling high-altitude crossing that rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After conquering the pass, you will continue your journey to Bhimtang, completing the magnificent circuit around the majestic Manaslu mountain.

The return journey takes you through Gho and Dharapani, where you will catch a local bus to Besisahar. From Besisahar, a bus ride will bring you back to Kathmandu, marking the end of this unforgettable Manaslu trekking experience.

With Nepal Spirit Adventure, you can rest assured that every aspect of your trek is well taken care of, from expert guides to comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Our team ensures your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey, allowing you to fully savor the wonders of the Manaslu region.

Benefits of Booking with Nepal Spirit Adventure

  • Free Airport Transfers: Enjoy complimentary transfers from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel upon arrival and vice versa.
  • Online Trip Briefing: Get a comprehensive online briefing after booking confirmation, covering trek details, equipment checklist, and itinerary.
  • Extra Luggage Storage: Store your extra luggage at the Nepal Spirit Adventure store during the trek.
  • Health and Safety Measures: Benefit from pulse oximeters to monitor blood oxygen levels, medical kits, and experienced guides to ensure your well-being throughout the trek.
  • Easy Booking and Communication: Experience a hassle-free booking process with multiple communication channels, including email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom, and 24/7 phone communication.
  • Convenient Payment System: Enjoy an easy payment system for your trek booking.
  • Gear Arrangements: Sleeping bags and down jackets can be provided if you don't have your own.

Important Note

  • This 16 Days itinerary is a guideline and can be customized according to your preferences and needs.
  • Prior trekking experience is recommended, and participants should be in good physical condition.
  • It is essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking activities.
  • Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions during the trek.
  • Weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes and follow the advice of your guide.

Tea House in Manaslu Circuit Trek: What to expect?

When embarking on a trekking adventure, teahouses serve as cozy resting spots along the mountain trails. These teahouses offer accommodation, meals, and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers. The facilities provided are simple yet comfortable, ensuring a pleasant stay during your journey. Here's what you can anticipate:

Accommodation
Teahouses typically offer basic lodging options, including twin rooms or dormitories. While the rooms are simple, they provide a comfortable place to rest.

It's advisable to bring a sleeping bag for added warmth and coziness. Sleeping Bag can however be rented in Thamel or provided by us upon request which should be returned after completion.

Similarly, please note that single rooms may not always be available, except during the off-season when luck might be on your side. Sharing a room with other trekkers is a common practice.

Facilities
The shared toilets and bathrooms at teahouses come in either Western-style or squat style, accommodating different preferences.

Showers generally provide cold water, although some teahouses offer hot water showers for an additional fee. It's worth mentioning that heating is not available in sleeping rooms, so be prepared with warm layers and a good sleeping bag to keep comfortable during the night.

Dining Experience
Teahouses feature a dining area where you can enjoy your meals and interact with fellow trekkers. The dining area is usually warmed by a stove, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Solar power is commonly used for lighting, and some teahouses offer charging facilities for your electronic devices, which may involve an additional cost.

Breakfast and dinner are served at communal tables, providing an opportunity to share stories and experiences with other trekkers. The menu options are varied, catering to different dietary preferences.

Sustainable Practices
To minimize environmental impact, teahouses often provide boiled water for drinking instead of relying on plastic bottles. This not only reduces waste but also ensures the preservation of the pristine mountain environment.

However, there is usually a nominal fee for the boiled water. It's advisable to bring your own sterilization tablets or a life straw as an alternative for purifying water during your trek.

In conclusion, teahouses offer a comfortable and welcoming haven for trekkers along the mountain trails. With basic yet cozy accommodations, communal dining experiences, and sustainable practices, teahouses provide the perfect respite during your trekking adventure.

Prepare accordingly, embrace the unique ambiance, and connect with fellow adventurers as you embark on a memorable journey through the mountains with us.

Manaslu Trek

Itinerary

Expand All Hide All

You are heartily welcome to Nepal, your first day in the Himalayan country for your dream trek to Manaslu Circuit Package Trek, Meet our airport crews who will be showing the display board of Nepal Spirit Adventure then transfer to your respective hotel downtown in the hub of Kathmandu city, after checking in and refreshment, if it is day time, you can look around the Thamel market. If your arrival is already night you can go to sleep overnight in a hotel. 

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1314m
  • Transportation: Private Vehicle

Today you have a complete rest day and take it easy to look up the required trek equipment and permit obtain. We provide you brief about trekking as well as you may be interested to join the world heritage site city tour of Kathmandu. It is available and we can share that information after your arrival in Kathmandu overnight in the hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1314m

Starting early morning to begin this adventure to Manaslu Circuit Trek with an overland drive heading to warmer areas of mid-west Nepal, passing farm villages and towns as the drive reaches Arughat a large village of Gorkha district located near the Buri-Gandaki river. From here, catch another bus to Machha Khola for about 7 - 8 hours of bus service approximately and an overnight stop, at a small farm village by the Machha Khola (stream). overnight in the teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Machha Khola
  • Altitude: 9,00m | 2,920ft
  • Transportation: By Bus

After breakfast in Machha Khola, you'll begin today's trek, which follows the gorge and continues up the river. The trail is narrow at first and gently heads up and down, eventually crossing the Tharo Khola to reach Khorlabesi. After more ascending and descending, you'll arrive at a small hot spring in Tatopani—a good place to take a break!

From here, you'll climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge. You'll then climb up a staircase and head over a ridge to Dobhan. Upon crossing another suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, you'll climb a stone staircase and then drop to the river and climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Keep an eye out for neat Gurung villages in the jungle high above, as well as Langur monkeys, which roam the region.

Crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, you'll climb over a ridge, trek along the river, and then climb toward the village of Jagat overnight in the teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Location: Jagat
  • Altitude: 1,370m
  • Walking Hours: 6 - 7 Hours: 13.7 miles (22 km)

After breakfast in the village of Jagat, you'll make your way through various landscapes and dense sub-tropical forests, as well as small rivers and rustic villages to get to your final destination.

Begin the trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues to the Ghatta Khola River. You'll continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, a large Gurung village. From here, the trail turns north just above the lowest house in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet fields to Ekle Bhatti.

The route now enters a steep, uninhabited gorge where you'll descend to the grassy slopes, and then cross the Budhi Gandaki River. Trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank before you return to the west side again. The trail widens through the valley and you'll pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola River. Upon crossing, you'll reach the tiny village of Deng it will take approximately 6 - 7 hours to trek overnight in the teahouse. From here onward air gets cooler with a touch of Tibetan culture.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Deng
  • Altitude: 1,860m | 6,102ft
  • Walking Hours: 6 - 7 Hourse: 12.3 miles (19.9 km)

Enjoying your morning breakfast at Deng, you'll start one of the most important and culturally significant sections of the trek. First, cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb up to the bridge, where you'll climb a bit further to join a trail from Bhi. Then head west up the valley passing through lush forests, alpine vegetation, and quaint villages housing ethnic groups of the Manaslu region, with major peaks starting to appear in the distance.

Even though there is another route, you will take the trail through Prok. This village has a beautiful vantage point of the snowcapped Siringi Himal. Take a break here and then continue to cross the Budi Gandaki several times today running into several gompas along the way. The trail then follows the river upstream through a dense forest and leads to a narrow gorge. Keep going until you notice the forest becomes less dense. This rewarding part of the walk is a magnificent way to experience the Manaslu Conservation Area. You'll eventually reach one last steep climb to get you to the village of Namrung overnight in a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Luncha and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Namrung
  • Altitude: 2,630m | 8,626ft
  • Walking Hours: 6 - 7 hours: 12.1 miles (19.5 km)

After breakfast in Namrung, you can walk around the village for a good viewpoint of Siring, Ganesh Himal, and also Mount Himal Chuli to the south. Once on the trail, you'll first climb steadily and pass through forests to reach Lihi, a fine village with many stupas and barley terraces. The trail then drops and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal with Ganesh Himal always close by.

Further along, you'll pass through the villages of Sho, Lho, and Shyala before reaching Sama Village. You can enjoy extraordinary views of Manaslu from Lho and also explore the famous Ribung Gompa. In Shyala village you'll be surrounded by high mountains like Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu, and large glaciers straight ahead. Other snowcapped peaks can be seen to the right, and at the far end stands Ganesh Himal. Today’s journey ends in Samagaon where you'll spend the night in a teahouse.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Samagaon
  • Altitude: 3,530m | 11,581ft
  • Walking Hours: 6 - 7 Hours: 10.9 miles (17.7 km)

Today is an acclimatization day, so sleep in and relax. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and then spend the day at Samagaon getting some rest.

For those who want to explore, there's an optional day hike that explores some rich Sherpa culture. You can enjoy the sight of thousands of mani stones with Buddhist texts, as well as photos of Sherpa women clad in traditional clothes and ornaments. If you hike up to a little hill near the Sama village, you'll find an old gompaPungyen Gompa—a monastery with great views of the glacier night stop in the teahouse of Samagaon.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Samagaon
  • Altitude: 3,530m | 11,581ft

After breakfast in Samagaon, you'll descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. You'll pass several mani walls as the valley begins to widen. The mountain views along this route are amazing and get you close to the Tibetan border.

This is an easy trek on a shelf above the river that passes juniper and birch forests in Kermo Kharka. Drop down and cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge, and then climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river. You'll come to a stone archway and continue walking until you find the village of Samdo village for an overnight stay in a teahouse.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Samdo
  • Altitude: 3,860m | 12,660ft
  • Walking Hours: 4 - 5 hours: 10.1 miles (16.4 km)

After breakfast in Samdo, you'll pass a seasonal Tibetan market called Larke Bazaar and descend to the Budi Gandaki River. Cross the wooden bridge and begin walking upward, crossing two streams while witnessing the Larkya Glacier. You'll head around the valley of the Salka Khola and climb up again to Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi. Along the route, you'll see many traditional monasteries.

Today's shorter hike leaves time for acclimatization and relaxing in the afternoon. 

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Dharmshala
  • Altitude: 4,460m | 14,632ft
  • Walking Hours: 4 - 5 hours: 7.2 miles (11.7 km)

A Big Day! Start early morning to reach the top of Larkya-La Pass at 5,215 meters, morning walk leads to a steep long climb with beautiful scenery of surrounding hills and valley and of Manaslu,Larkya Peak, Bouddha Himal, Himalchuli, and Peak 29

After hard effort reaches the top of the pass, festooned with Buddhist prayer flags overlooking fantastic scenery. From here after enjoying a short rest and catching the views a long descent reaching back into greens around the forested area to Bimthang for an overnight stop, after a hard long day walks overnight in the teahouse.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Bimthang
  • Altitude: 3,590 | 11,778
  • Walking Hours: 8 - 9 Hours: 15.3 miles (24.7 km)

After breakfast in Bimthang, head out to a nearby ridge where you can enjoy great views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal. Keep descending on the trail and cross a high pasture followed by a bridge over the Dudh Khola River.

From here, walk through a rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until you reach the highest cultivated land of the valley at Karche. Pass through lush fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. The trail comes off the ridge in a big, sweeping arc to the river bank. A short distance beyond is the village of Gho where some trekkers choose to stay the night, but you'll continue walking until you get to Tilije

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Tilije
  • Altitude: 2,277m | 7,470ft
  • Walking Hours: 5 - 6 Hours: 10 miles (16 km)

After breakfast in Tilije, you'll continue your descent starting with a climb over a small ridge where you can enjoy the stone-paved trail. Then, cross the bridge over the Dudh Khola River and climb up through a stupa-shaped arch and past a mani wall before you reach the village of Thonje. Here, you'll go through a police checkpoint and continue to Dharapani. At this point, you have now exited the Manaslu Conservation Area and entered the Annapurna Conservation Area of the trek.

Further down, cross a bridge over the Marshyangdi Khola River. There will be some mani walls before reaching the village of Tal, situated at the foot of a large waterfall. This is a more commercialized area with lots of teahouses and trekkers.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Tal
  • Altitude: 1,700m | 5,577ft
  • Walking Hours: 5 - 6 Hours: 7 miles (11.3 km)

After breakfast in Tal, follow the trail down a sometimes steep trail to the village of Chyamje crossing the beautiful Marsyangdi Khola (once again) via a suspension bridge. The valley of the same name opens with its terrace fields while villages clung very high to the hillsides.

The trail then descends further through picturesque rhododendron and pine forests to get to the village of Syange where you'll stay the night. This is your last night on the trail! Before dinner, make sure to check out Syange's magnificent waterfall overnight in the teahouse.

  • Meals: B L D
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Location: Syange
  • Altitude: 1,080m | 3,542ft
  • Walking Hours: 5- 6 Hours: 8 miles (12.9 km)

On the last day in the Himalayan countryside, the morning drive leads downhill passing many nice villages of Bulbule following the Marsyangdi River all the way to the large town of Besishar, the headquarters town of Lamjung district. From here a few hours’ drive brings you to Dumre on Pokhara –Kathmandu highway and then another 4 interesting drives reach you back to Kathmandu, after a great memorable time in the high mountains with Nepal Spirit Adventure's excellent services.

  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,315m | 4314ft
  • Transportation: By Bus

Time to say farewell to Nepal. Enjoy your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping. A representative will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your return flight home. It's good to be at the airport at least three hours prior to departure.

    Customize My Trip

    Cost Details

    • Kathmandu international airport arrival pickup and departure by private vehicle
    • Twin-sharing room 3-night hotel in Kathmandu includes breakfast
    • Bus service for 2way: Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Syange to Kathmandu
    • Conservation entry permit for Manasalu and Annapurna 
    • Special Manaslu trekking route permit
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 3 times daily meals along the trekking period
    • Route experience trek guide including his daily wages and insurance
    • Strong Sherpa porter, we provide one porter for 2 trekkers and including his daily wages and insurance
    • Manaslu trek equipment: Sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag (return after the trek)
    • Nepal Spirit Adventure exclusive medical kit
    • Government tax and company service charge
    • Nepalese visa
    • Travel insurance & Rescue operation
    • Personal trekking equipment
    • Tippin
    • Food and an extra night's hotel in Kathmandu & due to an early return from a trek, or an extended stay in Nepal
    • Additional trips or tours in Kathmandu
    • International flight ticket

    Dates & Prices

    Departure note

    All our published dates are guaranteed departures. If the dates don’t match your travel plans, we are more than happy to create your desired date. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for and our travel experts will help plan your tailor-made trips to your dream destination.

    Useful Information

    Best time to visit Manaslu Circuit Trek

    The best time to visit the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring and autumn seasons. Starting from March to May, the spring season offers generally clear weather and the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of snow-capped mountains. However, there might be occasional haze that can affect visibility. The region
    becomes vibrant with colorful rhododendron blooms, adding to the beauty of the trek.

    Autumn, from mid-September to November, is another favorable season with clear weather and pleasant temperatures. The skies are usually clear, providing excellent views of the Himalayas and lush green landscapes. The monsoon rains have subsided, leaving behind refreshed vegetation and abundant
    water sources.

    While the Manaslu region attracts many trekkers, especially during peak seasons, winter trekking is gaining popularity among those seeking solitude. Trekking in winter requires appropriate winter clothing and gear to withstand the cold temperatures.

    Trekking during the summer season, specifically in June and July, is not recommended due to the monsoon rains. The trails can be wet, and mountain views are often obscured with low visibility. It is best to avoid trekking in the Manaslu Circuit during this period.

    Meals and Accommodations

    In our Manaslu Circuit Trek package, we offer comprehensive meals and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for our trekkers. Throughout the trek, you will be provided with three meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These meals are included in the package cost
    and are designed to provide you with the necessary energy and nutrition for the trek.

    The meals are typically served at teahouses or lodges along the trekking route. The teahouses offer a variety of options, including local Nepali cuisine as well as international dishes. You can expect a range of delicious and hygienic meals during your trek, prepared with fresh ingredients.

    During the Manaslu Circuit trek, accommodations are provided both in Kathmandu and along the trekking route. In Kathmandu, we offer accommodations in tourist standard hotels that provide comfortable rooms and basic amenities. These hotels are conveniently located in the city, allowing easy access to popular attractions and amenities.

    Along the trekking route, accommodations are available in the form of teahouses or lodges. The bedrooms in teahouses are unheated but provide two beds with mattresses, pillows, and blankets. While the facilities are basic, they offer a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking. It is recommended to bring a personal sleeping bag for added comfort, preferably a three-season sleeping bag to ensure warmth during colder nights.

    The Accommodations along the Manaslu region are generally clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and pleasant experience for trekkers. However, it's important to keep in mind that as the trek progresses, the number of accommodations may decrease, particularly after the village of Bhimtang. During peak trekking seasons, it is advisable to make advance room bookings to ensure availability.

    What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek

    • A pair of trekking boots or trek shoes suitable for off-road walking
    • Wind/ waterproof light jacket
    • Rucksack or daypack (30 liters) with waterproof cover
    • Down jacket
    • Sleeping bags
    • Trekking pants and waterproof trousers
    • Long sleeve shirts
    • Water bottles and water purification tablets
    • Socks and underwear
    • Rubber sandals
    • Trekking poles
    • Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries
    • Sun protection cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
    • Towel, flip-flop, and toiletries items
    • Sunglasses

    How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

    The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude sections. A good level of physical fitness and previous trekking experience is recommended.

    How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

    The Manaslu Circuit trek typically takes around 14 to 16 days to complete. The duration may vary depending on factors such as your fitness level, acclimatization needs, and preferred itinerary.

    How high is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

    The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) above sea level. The trek involves significant altitude gains and requires proper acclimatization for a safe and enjoyable experience.

    Where to start the Manaslu Circuit?

    The Manaslu Circuit trek usually starts in the village of Soti Khola, located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. This serves as the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area. From Soti Khola, the trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing through various villages and scenic landscapes before reaching the Larkya La Pass.

    Testimonials