Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking to the restricted area of Nepal.

Trip Facts

duration Duration 16 days
trip-difficulty Trip Difficulty Difficult
trip-difficulty Highest Point 5135m
Average Group Size 6-10
trip-code Trip Code MCTAH
trip-code Area Manaslu Region
trip-code Start Point Kathmandu
trip-start-point Trip End Point Kathmandu
trip-accomodation Accomodation As Mentioned
trip-meals Meals As Mentioned
transportation Transportation On Private Basis

Trip Highlights

  • A special area with remote trails untouched by the roads.
  • Surrounding peaks, rich in natural and cultural aspects.
  • Picturesque trek and option of side trips/treks like Tsum Valley.
  • Stunning suspension bridges, Budhi Gandaki river, Manaslu Base Camp & Birendra Tal.
  • Panoramic Larkya La pass, view of Cerulean glacier from here.
  • Witnessing isolated villages, vintage monasteries and authentic Nepali culture of different communities of people.

Trip Overview

Manaslu circuit trek is a less crowded, off beaten tea house trek that rounds the Manasri range in the Himalayas. It starts in the Gorkha district of western Nepal and ends in the Manang district. The circuit covers the two conservation areas of the country, Annapurna conservation area and Manaslu conservation area. Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is flexible and shows you the special area of Nepal. 

Apart from Manasri Himalayan range, the Manaslu circuit trek also shows you areas behind Annapurna range. Manaslu circuit runs at the bank of Budhi Gandaki river at lower elevation leading you to the high Himalayan gigantic peaks and finally to the longest pass of the country Larkya la pass (5,135 m). Opened in 1992, Manaslu circuit trek lies in the Manaslu conservation area covering the area of 642 sq. mi in Gorkha district of western Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a difficult level of the trek in the Manaslu region of Nepal. With our Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary 6 to 7 hours of walk daily is required to complete the trek in 12 days. Often compared with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a more isolated trek of Nepal. But the beautiful scenarios, vintage monastery, different snow-capped mountain ranges and ethnic culture of the different groups of people make the trek a lifetime experience. The trek is wild and remote, yet there are tea houses at everyday stages, so trekkers don’t need to bring tents and food, making it more accessible and affordable than similar treks.

Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in the restricted area of Nepal. Because of that, a restricted permit is also needed to trek in this region. Similarly, no solo trekkers are allowed to trek in these kinds of areas in Nepal. Most teahouses are quite basic but comfortable, with two single beds in each room. There is a common area for meals and relaxing, which is a great place to stay warm around the fire at night.

Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November) are the best seasons to travel to this region. In autumn, the weather will be clear and calm as well as you can get the opportunity to view High mountains including Manaslu with the full of Snow. Meanwhile, In spring, rhododendron blooms and you can see all the rhododendron forest turns into a beautiful garden. Manaslu Circuit trekking difficulty level is moderate. Compared to others, it is easily accessible and affordable.

Summary of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The trek en-routes through Buddhist villages, numb valley to falling Marsyangdi valley in Annapurna circuit wherein Manaslu circuit leads to Besisahar. Encompassing subtropical forest at a lower elevation, through Himalayan foothills to the high and challenging Larke la pass gives you the overwhelming experience.

During the first day of the trek, you will follow the upstream of Budi Gandaki River through the woodlands. Machhakhola is about 15 KM from Sotikhola. After about 6-7 hours of walking, you will reach Machhakhola. The landscape changes drastically as you go more upwards and when you reach Jagat you’ll find it drastically changes. Amazing landscapes with great views of waterfalls, rivers and mountains can be seen from Philim and Ekle Bhatti during the walk to Deng. The trail is full of Mani walls and crafted stones where you will get some glimpse of Tibetans flavour of people and culture. You will walk around 19 km before reaching the beautiful Namrung village.

Situated at the lap of Manaslu Himal and peak 29, Lho Gau lies at an elevation of 3,180 meters above sea level. Samagau is the most beautiful village on the entire trek situated at an elevation of 3,500 meters. The distance from Samagau to Samdo is 8 km and it takes 3-4 hours to reach the village from Samagau. Larkey Bazar was the hub of the trade from Tibet and upper Manaslu region. After a steady climb from Larkey Bazar, you will reach Dharmashala, the last place to stay before crossing the Larkya La pass. 

You will have the spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas like the Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru and Annapurna II. It is then a steep descent down from the pass towards Bhimphedi. The trail continues more downwards crossing the Karcher la pass via beautiful rhododendron forest reaching Tilje village. The trek then continues via Thonje village (from where you will enter the Annapurna region), Dharapani, Karta village before reaching Chamje village.

Manaslu Region of Nepal

The Manaslu Circuit trek encompasses diverse terrain, flora and fauna, ethnic culture and traditions. Likewise, Trekking through this route gives you wonderful landscapes, countryside, green lush forests. Prominently, the gorgeous view of the high glacier and Mount Manaslu. Also, experience the magnificent views of the snow-capped peaks such as Shringi Himal, Himlung, Cheo Peak, Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru, Annapurna II and others. The highest peak throughout the trek is Manaslu (8,167 m). Similarly, The Manaslu region is home to the Snow leopard, Himalayan Thar and Musk Deer including 33 species of mammals, 110 species of birds, 3 species of reptiles and over 1500-2000 species of flora. In addition, Manaslu Circuit reflects a rich way of life history, unrivalled glory and natural variety.

Fascinating natural stereotypes, beautiful villages and stunning views of Himalayas aid in the popularity of Manaslu Circuit Nepal. The Manaslu ranges lie along the border of Nepal and China. Tibetan culture and traditions influence the lifestyle here. Gurung, Rai, Magar and Limbu follow Buddhist cultures. Trekkers can learn about cultural values. But, the area falls under the restricted area. Therefore, Travelers need a special permit to explore this trek. Local trekking guide is important.

Larkya La Pass

Larkya La Pass is situated between Dharmashala and Bhimthang. It is also the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Larkya La pass is not a technical pass and no ropes or climbing equipment are required to cross this pass. However, This region is popular for the sudden storms which make trekking difficult. During the time of snowfall, Larkya La Pass is even more difficult to cross because of the slippery route. Situated at an altitude of 5,200 meters, this pass lies in the Manaslu region of Nepal. This pass is one of the most beautiful passes in the trekking zone in the Himalayas of Nepal. Not much challenging but has huge beautiful attributes, this pass is popular for trekking in the Manaslu region. The trail leading to Larkya la pass starts from Gorkha, Arughat. With the spectacular mountainous beauty and diverse cultural experiences, this pass offers amazing experiences.

If our trip itinerary doesn’t suit your holiday schedule or you wish to modify the itinerary then feel free to inbox us. We want our valuable guests to enjoy their travel according to their needs and wills. We provide a variety of packages for student groups/family groups/corporate teams and many more. Every travel package is different according to the group size and the demand of the guests. We are also more than happy if you combine it with any travel plans, please let us know and we’ll create a tailor-made itinerary, designed especially for your travel group.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

Kathmandu Arrival

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you at Kathmandu Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.

At 06:00 PM: In the evening we will meet for a coffee and will brief you the details of your trek program.

*Optionally you can add one additional night stay in Kathmandu to cover cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu as well for your trek preparation shopping.

Kathmandu Full Day Sightseeing: You will visit for a full day sightseeing in Kathmandu of Kathmandu and Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath.

duration 30 Minutes
duration 10Km
ascent 1350m
trip-accomodation Kathmandu Eco Home
trip-meals N/A
transportation On Private Basis
Day 02

Drive to Soti Khola

At 06:30 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and be ready for your drive to Sotikhola. Sotikhola is about 190 KM far from Kathmandu, it takes Approx. 6-8 hours of drive to reach there.

At 03:00 PM: First check-in at your hotel. You will get a few hours to buy your required things for the trek if needed. If not, you can explore the surrounding area and take rest.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 190 Km
descent 700m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
transportation On Private Basis
Day 03

Trek to Machhakhola

At 07:00 AM: Have your breakfast and be ready for the first-day adventure to Machhakhola. Today you will follow the upstream of Budi Gandaki River through the woodlands. Machhakhola is about 15 KM from Sotikhola. You will have your lunch on the way. After about 6-7 hours of walk, you will reach Machhakhola. Dinner will be served after 6 PM.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 14 Km
ascent 900m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 04

Trek to Jagat

At 07:00 AM: This second day of the trek starts with crossing the Machha Khola and Khoralbesi reaching the hot springs. You have to walk in the forest area until you cross the Dovan Khola which is the opening to the Budi Gandaki river valley. The landscape changes drastically as we go more upwards and when you reach Jagat you’ll find it the drastically change. The distance from Machhakhola to Jagat is around 22 km and it takes 7-8 hours.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 17 Km
ascent 1340m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 05

Trek to Deng

At 07:00 AM: Today’s trek will continue from the Jagat crossing the well-paved village before climbing the Sirdabas village which offers a great view of Shringi mountain. Trail then passes through the amazing landscape with great views of waterfalls, river and mountains via Philim and Ekle Bhatti finally reaching Deng. Today’s walk is 20 km and takes around 7-8 hours.

duration 8-10 Hours
duration 20 Km
ascent 2100m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 06

Trek to Namrung

At 07:00 AM: Another 6-hour trek towards Namrung will start after breakfast at early morning. The trail is full of mani walls and crafted stones where you will get some glimpse of Tibetans flavour of people and culture. You will walk around 19 km before reaching beautiful Namrung village.

duration 8-10 Hours
duration 17 Km
ascent 2900m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 07

Trek to Lho Gau

At 07:00 AM: After breakfast, the trek starts towards Lho Gau which is situated at the lap of Manaslu Himal and peak 29 in front of it. Amazing stone crafting can be seen on the stones of the trails with mani walls. Also for a close view of Manaslu, we will take a side trip to the Pungen glacier. Today’s walk is 10 km which will take 5-6 hours.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 10 Km
ascent 3180m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 08

Trek to Samagau

At 07:00 AM: The trek follows towards the Samagau via the Pungen glacier. Samagau is the most beautiful village on the entire trek. It takes 6-7 hours walking of 8 km trail before reaching Samagau.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 8 Km
ascent 3500m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 09

Acclimatization Day at Samagau

At 07:00 AM: When you are trekking in the high altitude it is recommended that you should take proper acclimatization before going further high. For the acclimatization you will have the option of trekking to the Manaslu Base Camp (4750 m) and back to Samagau which will approximately take 7-8 hours. Or take a half-day hike to glacier across the valley or Birendra Tal.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 14 Km
ascent 4800m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 10

Trek to Samdo

At 07:00 AM: Samdo is the beautiful Tibetan refugee village with mountain Manaslu in front of it. This village is just one day walk from the Tibet border to Nepal. The distance from Samagau to Samdo is 8 km and it takes 3-4 hours to reach the village from Samagau.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 8.4 Km
ascent 3690m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 11

Trek to Dharmashala

At 07:00 AM: After crossing the few rivers and the amazing trail we will reach Larkey bazar. Larkey bazar was the hub of the trade from Tibet and upper Manaslu region. After a steady climb from Larkey bazar, you will reach Dharmashala the last place to stay before crossing the pass tomorrow. The distance from Samdo to Dharmashala is 7 km and it takes 5 hours.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 6.5 Km
ascent 4450m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 12

Trek to Bhimphedi via Larke la Pass

At 06:00 AM: Today is the pass day, you will start early in the morning climbing the Cho Chanda before heading to the beautiful pass. The trail today offers the panoramic views of the mountains all around. You will have the spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas like the Himlung Himal (7126 m), Cheo Himal (6820 m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru (6981 m) and Annapurna II (7937 m). It is then a steep descent down from the pass towards Bhimphedi. The distance of the trail is 25 km and it takes 8-9 hours of continuous trek.

duration 9-10 Hours
duration 16 Km
descent 3590m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 13

Trek to Tilje

At 07:00 AM: The trail continues more downwards crossing the Karcher la pass via beautiful rhododendron forest reaching Tilje village. The distance between Bhimphedi to Tilje is 26 km and it takes 8-9 hours of trek.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 18 Km
descent 2300m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 14

Trek to Chamje

At 07:00 AM: After breakfast, the trek starts with crossing the Dudh Khola River. The trek then continues via Thonje village (from where you will enter the Annapurna region), Dharapani, Karta village before reaching Chamje village. The distance between Tilje and Chamje is 19 km and it takes 6-7 hours.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 18 Km
descent 1410m
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 15

Drive to Kathmandu

At 08:00 AM: On this day you are returning to Kathmandu by drive. You will get shopping time in Kathmandu and we will have a farewell Nepali dinner together.

duration 8-10 Hours
duration 200 Km
descent 1350m
trip-accomodation Kathmandu Eco Home
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 16

Departure

You will be free until your flight time; we will drop you at Kathmandu Airport 3 hour before your flight.

duration 30 Minutes
duration 10 Km
transportation On Private Basis

Trip Guide

The information about the Manaslu Circuit Trek is in-depth; feel free to contact us 24/7. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Services Includes

  • All arrival and departure at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.

  • Private transfer (Kathmandu/Sotikhola/Chamje/Kathmandu) as mentioned in the itinerary.

  • A 3 Star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara as per the trek itinerary.

  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip.

  • Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.

  • All necessary paper works. (National Park Entry Permits and TIMS Card)

  • English speaking licensed trek guide.

  • Porter during the trek. (Can carry 20KG Baggage of 2 people)

  • Lodge or Tea house accommodation during the trek.

  • One local SIM card (returnable) during your stay.

  • All government and local taxes.

  • Guide and Porter’s salary, food and accommodation during the trek.

  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your traveller’s insurance company.

  • Sleeping bag, duffle bags and trekking route maps – if necessary.

  • A farewell Nepali dinner on your last night.

Services Excludes

  • Personal expenses.

  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee.

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

  • Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport size photos and 30 USD)

  • International flight ticket.

  • Travel health insurance. (Recommended)

  • Tips for the guide, porter and driver.

  • Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.

  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. 

16 Days from US$ 2020
USD 1920 / Person

Assure

We assure you to provide our dedicated services.

Available

Our service will be available to fulfill your need

Reliable

We are committed to provide promised services.

Affordable

Our aim to offer best and competitive prices

Why Travel With Altitude Himalaya?

We believe in the quality services to accommodate our guests 360 degrees need with tour personalization and customization. Our dedicated and experienced team believes not only in arranging trips, but making creating life long memories. Our travel experience within the region of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet could make a memorable trip of yours.

Confirm Your reservation Now
Guide
Experienced Guide
Tailor
Tailor made holiday
Local Expertise
Local expertise

TALK TO AN EXPERT

we can help you find your perfect holiday

Mr. Kiran has experience of 10+ years in tourism across Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet holiday arrangements to thousands of travellers from around the world. He will help you to figure out the best possible vacation plan according to your choice and preference.

KIRAN NEUPANE

Nepal, Bhutan & Tibet Expert