| Trip code | |
| Package name | Manaslu Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 15 |
| Max. elevation | 5160 m |
| Level | |
| Transportation | All ground transportation (bus) as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge / Tea House during the trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 1,490 per person |
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a captivating journey through one of Nepal's most remote and spectacular regions, circumnavigating the towering Manaslu Massif in the Himalayas. This trek has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to the more crowded Annapurna Circuit, offering trekkers pristine landscapes, diverse cultures, and challenging high-altitude experiences.
The trek typically begins in the town of Maccha Khola or Jagat, where trekkers explore on a gradual ascent through lush subtropical forests filled with rhododendron, pine, and bamboo. As you gain elevation, the scenery transitions into alpine meadows dotted with traditional villages inhabited by the Gurung and Tibetan communities. These villages, such as Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo, provide opportunities to interact with locals and witness their daily lives, which are deeply rooted in Himalayan traditions and Buddhism.
One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the crossing of the Larkya La Pass, standing at an altitude of 5,160 meters. This pass offers panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Manaslu itself (8,163 meters) and surrounding peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The trekking route also passes through stunning glacial valleys, rugged terrain, and dramatic gorges, providing a truly immersive experience in the raw natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Higher Path Treks is a reputable trekking company that organizes expeditions to the Manaslu Circuit, ensuring a safe and well-managed adventure for trekkers of various experience levels. They provide knowledgeable local guides who are familiar with the region's terrain, weather patterns, and cultural nuances. This expertise helps trekkers acclimatize properly and navigate the challenges of high-altitude trekking effectively.
Throughout the trek, Higher Path Treks arranges accommodation in teahouses or camping setups, depending on the preference of the trekkers. Teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit are simple yet comfortable, offering warm hospitality and local meals that provide much-needed sustenance after a day of trekking. The company also takes care of necessary permits and logistics, ensuring that trekkers can focus on enjoying the journey without worrying about administrative details.
Culturally, the Manaslu Circuit offers a fascinating blend of Tibetan and Nepalese influences. Trekkers can visit ancient monasteries, Buddhist stupas, and prayer wheels along the route, gaining insight into the spiritual practices that have shaped the lives of the local communities for centuries. Festivals such as Lhosar, celebrated by the Tibetan community, offer trekkers a chance to witness traditional dances, rituals, and vibrant cultural ceremonies.
The Manaslu Circuit trek with Higher Path Treks is ideal for adventurers seeking a combination of wilderness exploration, cultural immersion, and panoramic mountain views. This trek challenges both body and spirit while rewarding trekkers with unforgettable experiences in one of Nepal's most remote and awe-inspiring regions. For those looking to step off the beaten path and into the heart of the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit promises an adventure of a lifetime.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft), you'll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the rest of the day free to rest after your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a bustling tourist hub in Kathmandu known for its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. You'll attend a pre-trek briefing in the evening where you'll meet your trekking guide, review the itinerary, and make final preparations for the trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Today, after an early breakfast,Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat, and then continue to Maccha Khola. The journey takes approximately 9 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, terraced fields, and rural villages. The road winds along the Trishuli River, offering occasional views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges in the distance. Upon reaching Maccha Khola (930m/3,051ft), a small village on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, you'll check into your lodge and rest for the evening. Overnight stay in Maccha Khola.
After breakfast, the trek begins with a gentle ascent along the narrow trail that winds up and down through lush subtropical forests. You'll cross the Machha Khola (Fish Stream) multiple times via suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. Passing through several small villages and terraced fields, you'll reach Dobhan and then continue to Tatopani (hot springs). The trail then ascends steeply to reach Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft), a small village with a Tibetan feel, where you'll spend the night. The trek takes approximately 6 hours, offering views of waterfalls and the Budhi Gandaki River. Overnight stay in Jagat.
Leaving Jagat, the trail follows the river upstream, passing through dense forests and several suspension bridges. You'll ascend steeply to reach Philim, a large Gurung village with a scenic backdrop of lush green hills. Continuing on, you'll trek through pine forests and terraced fields to reach Deng (1,804m/5,918ft), a quiet village inhabited by the Gurung and Tibetan communities. The trek takes about 6 hours, with views of Sringi Himal in the distance. Overnight stay in Deng.
Today's trek begins with a gradual ascent through forests of rhododendron and pine. You'll pass through small settlements and yak pastures, enjoying views of Manaslu (8,156m), Ganesh Himal, and other snow-capped peaks. Crossing several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River, you'll reach Namrung (2,630m/8,628ft), a Tibetan village with stone houses and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The trek takes approximately 6 hours. Overnight stay in Namrung.
Leaving Namrung, the trail ascends through barley and potato fields, with increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. Passing through the village of Lihi, where you'll encounter traditional Tibetan-style houses and mani walls, you'll continue to Sho, a small settlement with a stunning view of Manaslu. The trail then leads to Lho (2,957m/9,701ft), a large village with a beautiful monastery and views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. The trek takes about 4 hours. Overnight stay in Lho.
Today's trek follows a scenic trail with panoramic views of Manaslu and other peaks. Passing through forests of pine and rhododendron, you'll descend to the Damonan Khola and then ascend steeply to Shyala village. Continuing on, you'll reach Sama Gaun (3,530m/11,581ft), a picturesque Tibetan village surrounded by mountains. The trek takes approximately 4 hours, allowing time to explore the village and visit the local monastery. Overnight stay in Sama Gaun.
Today is reserved for acclimatization in Sama Gaun. You can take a day trip to either Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m/14,435ft) or Pungyen Gompa, a monastery with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The hike to Manaslu Base Camp offers stunning views of Manaslu Glacier and the northern face of Manaslu itself. Alternatively, Pungyen Gompa provides cultural insights into the region's Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The day trip takes approximately 7-8 hours round trip. Overnight stay in Sama Gaun.
Leaving Sama Gaun, the trail ascends gradually through juniper and birch forests, with views of the Manaslu range and Samdo Peak. Crossing several streams, you'll reach the village of Samdo (3,865m/12,680ft), a Tibetan settlement close to the Tibetan border. The trek takes about 3 hours, allowing time to explore the village and acclimatize to the higher altitude. Overnight stay in Samdo.
Today is another acclimatization day in Samdo. You can take a day trip to the Tibet Border (5,000m/16,404ft), a short hike that offers panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding mountains. The hike takes approximately 8 hours round trip, providing a glimpse into the unique landscape and culture of the region. Overnight stay in Samdo.
After breakfast, the trail ascends through juniper and birch forests, with views of Larkya Glacier and Cho Danda. Crossing several streams, you'll reach Dharmasala (4,460m/14,632ft), also known as Larkya Phedi, a small lodge settlement at the base of Larkya La Pass. The trek takes about 4 hours, allowing time to rest and prepare for the challenging ascent to the pass. Overnight stay in Dharmasala.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek as you cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,924ft), the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit. Starting early in the morning, you'll ascend steeply to the pass, marked with prayer flags and offering breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. Descending from the pass, you'll traverse across moraines and glacial lakes before reaching Bimthang (3,590m/11,778ft), a broad and beautiful valley with stunning views of Manaslu. The trek takes about 10 hours, with a sense of accomplishment upon arrival. Overnight stay in Bimthang.
Leaving Bimthang, the trail descends through rhododendron forests and pastures, passing through several small villages such as Gho and Tilje. Crossing the Dudh Khola (Milk River), you'll reach Dharapani (1,970m/6,463ft), a popular trekking junction in the Annapurna region. The trek takes approximately 7 hours, offering views of Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the distance. Overnight stay in Dharapani.
After breakfast, you'll catch a local jeep or bus for the scenic drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. The drive takes about 10 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, terraced fields, and rural villages. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel. You can rest and relax or explore more of Kathmandu's vibrant culture and cuisine. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight or extend your stay to explore more of Nepal. This concludes your Manaslu Circuit Trek, a challenging yet rewarding journey around one of Nepal's most spectacular and culturally rich regions.