Manaslu Region
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Circle the spirit mountain through remote Himalayan valleys
Overview
“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.”
– Mary Davis
Located far into the remote Himalayas, Manaslu district and Larkya La Pass (5,160m) form an untouched sanctuary of cultural heritage and nature. Homelands of the Gurung and Tibetan-descent folk, the area oozes with old Buddhist culture, prayer flags fluttering over centuries-old monasteries. Manaslu Conservation Area is full of life—snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahrs roam its forests, and rhododendrons edge the trails in splashes of color. As trekkers approach the breathtaking Larkya La Pass, they are well rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru, thereby making this one such true Himalayan jewel.
Route Map
Interactive route map — Coming in Phase 2
Itinerary
Kathmandu, the gateway to the Himalayas, welcomes you with a blend of chaos and charm. As you step into this vibrant city, the scent of incense fills the air, and ancient temples stand beside bustling streets. Your evening briefing sets the stage for the journey ahead. Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner and explore the lively Thamel district, where colorful prayer flags flutter above narrow alleys lined with shops, cafés, and monasteries. The city’s rich history and spiritual ambiance set the tone for the adventure that awaits in the mountains.
Elevation Gain/Loss:N/A
Suitability:Arrival Day. Suitable for all.
Embark on a long but scenic drive through winding roads that unveil Nepal’s countryside. Rice terraces cascade down hillsides, rivers rush through valleys, and remote villages dot the landscape. The road to Machha Khola takes you through Dhading and Arughat, where glimpses of daily rural life offer a cultural introduction to the region. Passing the Budhi Gandaki River, you’ll feel the air grow crisper as you near the trek starting point. Machha Khola is a peaceful village surrounded by lush greenery, where the sound of flowing water lulls trekkers to sleep.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-500m
Suitability:Long travel day. Suitable for all. Roads may be rough.
Your journey into the heart of the Himalayas begins. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, winding through forests alive with bird calls and the chatter of monkeys. Villages like Labubesi introduce you to the Gurung culture, with stone houses and terraced fields. Suspension bridges sway gently above rushing rivers, adding excitement to the trek. Arriving in Jagat, a historic village with traditional stone-paved streets, you’ll feel a shift in atmosphere—this is where the rugged charm of mountain life truly begins.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+510m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for trekkers with basic fitness.
Today’s trail ascends through dense forests where rhododendrons bloom in vivid hues during spring. Waterfalls tumble down cliffs, and Buddhist prayer flags flutter along the path. You’ll cross several suspension bridges before reaching Philim, a picturesque village with vibrant fields of maize and barley. As you continue, the Tibetan influence becomes more pronounced, seen in Mani walls adorned with sacred inscriptions. Deng is a small, cozy settlement where the hospitality of the locals makes you feel at home amidst the towering peaks.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+394m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for all active trekkers.
As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms. The trail winds through pine and fir forests, where the air carries the crisp scent of alpine trees. Chortens (Buddhist shrines) mark the path, and the first clear views of Siringi Himal appear on the horizon. Passing through the charming village of Ghap, you’ll hear the distant hum of prayer wheels. Namrung welcomes you with traditional stone houses, panoramic mountain views, and a deeper immersion into Tibetan culture. The stars shine brighter here, unhindered by city lights.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+826m
Suitability:Challenging. Suitable for fit and acclimatizing trekkers.
The morning sun lights up the peaks as you make your way toward Samagaon. The trail meanders through Lho, where the Ribung Monastery stands against the backdrop of Manaslu’s snow-covered slopes. Shyala village offers a surreal view of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Peak 29 towering above yak pastures. Samagaon, the spiritual heart of the region, is a place of tranquility. The locals, dressed in traditional Tibetan robes, welcome trekkers with warm smiles. A visit to its ancient monasteries gives insight into a life deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions.
Elevation Gain/Loss: +900m
Suitability: Challenging. Suitable for acclimatized trekkers with strong endurance.
To prepare for higher altitudes, today is spent exploring. A hike to Pungyen Gompa provides breathtaking views of Manaslu Glacier, while those who stay in the village can observe daily life—women spinning wool, children playing in fields, and monks chanting prayers in centuries-old monasteries. Yak herders roam the outskirts, adding to the timeless feel of the village. This day of rest allows you to adjust to the thin air while soaking in the beauty of Samagaon’s serene surroundings.
Elevation Gain/Loss:Optional (~+300m to +1,100m)
Suitability:Flexible. Suitable for all acclimatizing trekkers.
The landscape grows more barren as you ascend. The trail follows yak pastures, where marmots peek curiously from rocky burrows. Samdo, a windswept village near the Tibetan border, offers a glimpse into a resilient way of life. Here, Tibetan refugees have built a small but thriving community, their homes adorned with prayer flags. The cold air bites, but the warmth of the villagers’ hospitality makes Samdo a welcoming stop. A short hike to a nearby hill rewards you with views stretching into Tibet.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+330m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for acclimatized trekkers.
The climb becomes steeper, and the landscape turns rugged, with glacial moraines dotting the path. The air is crisp, carrying the whispers of the mountains. Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, is a simple resting point before the big challenge—crossing Larkya La Pass. Amidst the harsh environment, trekkers share stories over steaming cups of tea, finding camaraderie in the shared anticipation of the adventure ahead.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+600m
Suitability:Moderate to challenging. Suitable for well-acclimatized trekkers.
A pre-dawn start sees you climbing under starlit skies. The ascent to Larkya La Pass is challenging but rewarding, with views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru greeting you at the summit. The descent into Bimthang is a stark contrast—lush meadows replace icy ridges, and the sound of melting glaciers fills the air. Bimthang, a valley surrounded by peaks, feels like an oasis of beauty and tranquility after the day’s exertion.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+700m / -1,440m
Suitability:Strenuous. Suitable for experienced and fit trekkers.
The trail descends in lovely rhododendron forests, with pink and red flowers creating a dreamlike scene in spring. The chirping of Himalayan birds accompanies trekkers as rivers wind through valleys, their surface glinting in the sun. Wooden bridges and ancient Chortens along the trail characterize the path, adding history to the walk. Tilije, a small Gurung village, welcomes visitors with its stone road, hospitality, and home cooking. The small lodges, set amidst lush green forests, are perfect to relax and reflect on the travel so far.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-1,420m
Suitability:Moderate. Long descent. Suitable for all trekkers.
A gentle trek takes one over terraced farm fields and local villages, where locals go on with their day-to-day activities. The transition from alpine wasteland to subtropical land is apparent, as oak and bamboo groves cloak the unforgiving terrain. Trekkers bid farewell to snow-topped peaks that have been companions as they enter Dharapani. A ride along scenic routes to Besisahar here unveils a new landscape of rolling hills, winding rivers, and rainbow-hued farms. The atmosphere grows warmer, infused with the scent of wildflowers in bloom. Besisahar, a vibrant town, is a pleasant resting place before the last drive to Kathmandu.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-440m
Suitability:Easy to moderate. Suitable for all trekkers.
The journey back to Kathmandu is a celebratory and reflective experience. The picturesque twisty road drive gives one a final view of Nepal's breathtaking scenery, ranging from cascading waterfalls to remote villages on the hilltop. As the bustling streets of the city welcome the trekkers back, the air is filled with a sense of achievement. The evening is kept for a farewell dinner, during which trekkers recount tales of grit, adventure, and memories that would last a lifetime. Cultural performances and traditional Nepali cuisine fill the air with an air of celebration, highlighting the achievement of this epic quest across the Himalayas.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+540m
Suitability:Travel Day. Suitable for all.
A day to unwind and absorb culture. Ramble through the UNESCO-protected Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), where prayer flags flail in the wind in front of a Kathmandu Valley vista. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, where Hindu rituals are performed along the sacred Bagmati River. Stroll past the medieval city of Patan, its temples intricately carved and hidden courtyards. In Thamel, markets festively decked out invite visitors to browse for souvenirs, handmade trinkets, and real spices. The day slows its close, sipping masala tea in a roof-top cafe, and glancing out the final views of Nepal's eternal beauty.
Elevation Gain/Loss:N/A
Suitability:Rest and cultural day. Suitable for all.
With the Himalayas in mind, the departure time from Nepal has finally arrived. The final stroll down Kathmandu's colorful streets, a final sip of scalding Nepali tea, and a sniff of the pungent mountain breeze. As you board your flight, the towering mountains may disappear into the horizon, but the spirit of the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains—transforming souls forever who have walked its trails. The trek ends, but the stories, the friendships, and the personal transformation remain on, inviting you back to the mountains once more.
Elevation Gain/Loss:N/A
Suitability:Departure Day. Suitable for all.
What's Included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu hotel accommodation (as per itinerary)
- Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trek
- All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (as per package policy)
- Trekking permits and TIMS card
- First aid medical kit
- Government taxes and service charges
Not Included
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
- Snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
- Hot shower, Wi-Fi, and battery charging during the trek
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses and laundry
Requirements
Fitness
Moderate fitness required; regular hiking or cardio recommended.
Experience
No high-altitude experience required; prior multi-day hikes are helpful.
Gear
Warm layers, trekking boots, sleeping bag, and rain gear are required.
Trek Details
Distance
5,106m
Duration
15 Days
Max Elevation
5,106m
Start Point
Difficulty
Hard
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
From
$2,222.00
per person