The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the untouched and extraordinary trekking destinations in Nepal. It’s an adventurous trek where you trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. This trek hovers around the diverse and breathtaking landscape, from subtropical forest to plains and again to high-altitude alpine terrains. Crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters is the major highlight of this trek. Larkya La is a high-altitude pass that requires navigating a steep, snow-covered trail often in freezing conditions, which is physically and mentally challenging. However, the challenge is worth taking as you will be greeted by spectacular majestic peaks including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal.
The Manaslu Circuit trek starts from the bustling town of Arughat, or Soti Khola. From there, the trekking trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River. At first, as you gradually ascend, you will pass through terraced fields and picturesque villages. In these villages, you will get an insight into the traditional rural lifestyle of Nepal, where local people are busy on their farms, taming their cattle, weaving rugs, and children playing in the streets. The higher you move, the landscape begins to change, with fewer settlements, dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, waterfalls, and cascades, and mountains being closer. The trail passes through remote villages where people are influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. There you will get an opportunity to visit sacred monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, and a chance to experience the spiritual and cultural traditions of the region firsthand. In some villages, particularly Sama Gaon and Lho, you will be delighted by the warm hospitality of people living deeply rooted in their religion and in harmony with nature. On descending from Larkya La pass, you will see a drastic change in landscape again as you enter the Marsyangdi Valley. The landscape changes from harsh and rocky terrain to lush forest and fertile lands. Finally, you trek through charming villages and terraced farmlands eventually, connecting with Annapurna Circuit.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is full of challenges because of the remote nature, limited facilities, and abrupt change in temperature from hot and humid to freezing. This sense of solitude, combined with the pristine natural environment and rich cultural heritage, makes the Manaslu Circuit a truly unique adventure. This trek is suitable for experienced trekkers looking for a challenging adventure in a remote and culturally rich region of Nepal.
14 Days
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Prepare for the trek with a briefing from Trip Pokhara's guide. Overnight in Kathmandu at Hotel
MEALS
Welcome Dinner 14 Days
Take a long but scenic drive to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek. Pass through beautiful countryside, terraced fields, and rural villages. Overnight in Soti Khola at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Begin your trek following the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through lush forests and small villages. The trail undulates as you make your way to Machha Khola. Overnight in Machha Khola at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Continue along the Budhi Gandaki, crossing suspension bridges and passing through hot springs and terraced fields. Reach the village of Jagat, the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Overnight in Jagat at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Ascend and descend through beautiful landscapes, including forests and riverside paths. Pass through small villages like Salleri and Philim, finally reaching Deng. Overnight in Deng at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
The trail continues through dense forests, crossing bridges over the Budhi Gandaki and passing through Buddhist villages with colorful prayer flags and mani walls. Reach Namrung, a Tibetan-influenced village. Overnight in Namrung at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Trek through alpine forests and pastures, with stunning views of Manaslu and other peaks. Pass through the villages of Lho and Shyala before reaching the large settlement of Samagaon. Overnight in Samagaon at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Spend a day acclimatizing in Samagaon. Explore the village and visit the ancient Pungyen Monastery. You can also take a side trip to the Manaslu Base Camp. Overnight in Samagaon at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
A short trek today takes you further into the mountains, passing through yak pastures and barren landscapes. Reach the Tibetan village of Samdo, located near the border with Tibet. Overnight in Samdo at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
A gradual ascent takes you to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, the base camp for the Larkya La Pass. The terrain becomes more rugged and barren as you gain altitude. Overnight in Dharamsala at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Begin the challenging ascent to Larkya La Pass early in the morning. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. After crossing the pass, descend steeply to Bimthang. Overnight in Bimthang at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Descend through forests and pastures, passing through the villages of Karche and Gho before reaching the larger village of Dharapani. Overnight in Dharapani at Tea House
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 14 Days
Take a jeep to Besisahar and then a bus back to Kathmandu. This marks the end of your trek. Overnight in Kathmandu at Hotel
MEALS Breakfast and Dinner 14 Days
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, taking home unforgettable memories of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
MEALS BreakfastThe best time to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it easier and safer to cross the Larkya La Pass. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and make the trail muddy and difficult. Winter (December to February) is extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes, with the possibility of snow blocking the pass.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is classified as a strenuous trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of physical fitness. The trek involves long days of walking, often 6-8 hours, with significant altitude gain and loss each day. The Larkya La Pass, at 5,160 meters, is the most challenging part of the trek, requiring careful acclimatization and determination to cross. Proper preparation and acclimatization are essential to prevent altitude sickness and ensure a successful trek.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you will need the following permits:
A registered guide is mandatory for this trek due to its restricted area status.
The best time is during the pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (September-November) seasons for stable weather and clear views.
It’s a strenuous trek, requiring good physical fitness and some experience with high-altitude trekking.
Yes, a guide is mandatory due to the restricted area status of the Manaslu Circuit.
You’ll need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP, and a TIMS card.
The trek typically takes 14 days, depending on the route and pace.
The highest point is the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.
Yes, the Manaslu Conservation Area is home to species like snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr.
Accommodation is in teahouses, offering basic facilities.
Pack warm, layered clothing, a sturdy sleeping bag, and trekking poles.
Yes, ensure your insurance covers trekking at high altitudes and includes emergency evacuation.
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