Higher Path Treks & Expeditions

Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Days
15
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US$ 115
Limited offer
From US$ 1,705
US$ 1,590
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 $1,705
2 - 4 $1,590
5 - 8 $1,575
9 - 12 $1,560
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Max. elevation
5160 m / 16929 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best season
Mar- May, Sept - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge / Tea House during the trek
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek

Highlights

  • Marvel at breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 meters) and other prominent peaks such as Himalchuli (7,893 meters), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 meters), and Ganesh Himal range.
  • Experience the unspoiled beauty and remote wilderness of the Manaslu region, with fewer trekkers compared to more popular routes like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
  • Encounter diverse ethnic groups including the Nubri and Tsum Valley people, who have their own distinct cultures, languages, and traditions.
  • Visit ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags along the trail.
  • Optionally explore the Tsum Valley, a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley known for its Buddhist culture, serene landscapes, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
  • Cross challenging mountain passes such as Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas but requires proper acclimatization and preparation.
  • Traverse through diverse landscapes including lush forests, terraced fields, glacial valleys, and rugged terrain dotted with picturesque villages.
  • Spot a variety of wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, and diverse bird species.
  • Encounter rhododendron forests and alpine vegetation.
  • Stay in local tea houses and lodges run by friendly villagers along the trail, experiencing warm Nepali hospitality and traditional meals.

Overview

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.

Trip Itinerary

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.

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Route Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Map

Includes

  • Airport transportation (pick-up and drop-off)
  • 2 nights accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Tea house accommodations during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation as per the itinerary in a comfortable private vehicle
  • English-speaking trained and experienced trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 clients)
  • Staff costs including salary, insurance, and equipment (including a down jacket for porter)
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS card, Restricted Area Permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit)
  • All government and local taxes
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason) money is not refund

Doesn't Include

  • Personal trekking equipment (e.g., sleeping bag, trekking poles)
  • Personal expenses such as cold drinks and alcohol during the trek
  • Hot showers and charging facilities for electronic devices during the trek
  • Internet usage fees and battery charging costs during the trek
  • Meals during your stay in Kathmandu (apart from breakfasts included in the hotel)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Any additional expenses not mentioned in the "Included" section

Upcoming Departure Dates

1 Nov 2024
From Kathmandu
15 Nov 2024
To Kathmandu
7
seats left
From 1,705
US$ 1,590
Saving US$ 115
Join Now
1 Dec 2024
From Kathmandu
15 Dec 2024
To Kathmandu
9
seats left
From 1,705
US$ 1,590
Saving US$ 115
Join Now
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Equipment List

Travel Document
  • Valid passport
  • valid visa
  • 2 PP size photo for permit
  • personal insurance(Medical and
  • Emergency Rescue)
  • Emergency contact Family/company
  • contact number
  • Credit card
Toiletries
  • Hand Sanitizers and hand wash
  • Wet Tissue
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Laundry soap
  • Garbage bag
  • Period Pad for women )
Upper Body
  • Short Sleeved shirt / T-shirts
  • Lightweight Top/ Thermo coat
  • Synthetic or fleece jacket
  • Down insulated jacket
  • Windproof jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket
Hand and head
  • Lightweight synthetic liner glove
  • Wind stopper fleece gloves
  • Sun cap
  • Wool/fleece hat
  • Neck gaiter /high neck
Lower Body
  • Underwear
  • Lightweight ling underpants
  • Trekking pants
  • Gore-Tex pants
  • Trekking and climbing socks 5-6
  • pairs
Miscellaneous
  • Umbrella/Rain punch
  • Water proof stuff sacks
  • Power bank
Technical Devices and gear
  • Headlamp with Spare Batteries
  • Sleeping bag -20
  • Sun/ Glacier glasses UV protection
  • Day pack 45-55Lit
  • Water bottle
  • Pack towel
  • Trekking pole
  • Swiss knife
  • Slippers
  • Trekking boots
First Aid Kit
  • Sunscreen (50 spf)
  • Lips guard
  • Water purification tablets
  • Baby wipes or wet towels
  • Handy plaster
  • Crack bandage
  • Antibiotic ( ask your medical doctor
  • Paracitamol ( ask your medical
  • doctor
  • Aspirin ( ask your medical doctor
  • Sinex ( ask your medical doctor
  • Anti-diarrhea ( ask your medical
  • doctor
  • Brufen/Ibuprofen ( ask your
  • medical doctor
  • Diamox ( ask your medical doctor
  • Dexamethasone tablets ( ask your
  • medical doctor
  • Eye drop
  • Move, Sancho blam
  • Oxymeter, thermometer

Frequently Asked Questions

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and challenging trek in Nepal that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse landscapes, and a glimpse into traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The recommended trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions.

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek falls under restricted area trekking in Nepal. Trekkers need a special permit called the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a strenuous trek. It involves significant altitude gains (reaching over 5,100 meters at the Larkya La Pass), long hiking days, and challenging terrain. Previous trekking experience at high altitudes and a good level of fitness are recommended.

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern as the trek reaches high altitudes. It's important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, ascend gradually, and be aware of symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. If symptoms occur, descending to a lower altitude is essential.

ATM facilities are not available along the trekking route. It's important to carry enough Nepali currency (Nepalese Rupees) for the entire trek to cover expenses such as meals, accommodation, and any unforeseen circumstances.

Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable in many parts of the trekking route. Some teahouses may offer WiFi, but it can be slow and may require a fee. Expect connectivity to be sporadic due to the remote mountainous terrain.

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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal