Popular Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Duration

14 Days

Max Alt

5,160m

Difficulty

Hard

Trek Overview

Regarded by many as Nepal’s best trek “Manaslu Circuit” offers a package of spectacular views increasingly rugged scenery and a high pass crossing at Larkya La (5100m). The walls of the Budi Gandaki valley are perpendicular so there is a huge amount of extra climbing as you hike up and down over ridge or across cliff side shelves. The trail is rough and steep and in a couple of places literally hangs on a bluff high above the river.

The trek is both geographically spectacular and culturally fainting. The inhabitants of the Upper Budi Gandaki Region are known as Nuri. The western mountain is direct descendant of Tibetan immigrants who came there on the early 1600. In Upper Noperi, the speech, dress and customs are almost exclusively Tibetan. Noperi actual paid taxes to Tibet until about 1830 and there is still trade between Noperi and Tibet. The mountain views in Noperi are sections and the Larkya La is one of the most dramatic pass crossings in the Himalayan.

Traditionally, most have attempted this trek from the village of Arughat around 125 km northwest of Kathmandu, but it was also possible to start from the village of Bharpak over the Rupnal (4720m or directly from Gurkha via Bharpak and Larpark). However, with the extensive damage caused by the 2015 Earthquake changes trek route of this trek.

Trekking at a Glance

Duration

14 Days

Trip Grade

Hard

Max Altitude

5,160m

Accommodation

Hotel / Tea House

Starts/Ends

Kathmandu / Dharpani

Activities

Trekking

Best Time

Mar- May & Sep- Nov

Itinerary

15 Days Journey

Day 1:

Arrival at Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling capital, and get transferred to your hotel. Take the day to rest and prepare for your trek. If time permits, you can explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu or visit the local attractions.

Hotel

Dinner

1,400m

Day 2:

Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola

Embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, passing through lush forests and riverside villages. Enjoy the views of rural Nepal as you approach the Machhakhola village.

Lodge

B, L, D

869m

Day 3:

Trek Maccha Khola to Philim

Trek from Maccha Khola to Philim, a beautiful village. The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense forests and charming settlements.

Lodge

B, L, D

1,570m

6-7 hours

Day 4:

Trek Philim to Deng

Continue your trek from Philim to Deng, crossing several scenic spots and experiencing the local culture. The path offers stunning views and peaceful surroundings.

LodgeB, L, D

B, L, D

1,660m

6-7 hours

Day 5:

Trek Deng to Ghap or Namrung

Today's trek takes you through picturesque villages, moving higher into the mountains. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Lodge

B, L, D

2,630m

5-6 hours

Day 6:

Trek Namrung to Lho

Trek from Namrung to Lho, a village with panoramic views of the Manaslu mountain range. The trail becomes more rugged as you ascend higher into the mountains.

Lodge

B, L, D

3,180m

6-7 hours

Day 7:

Trek Lho to Sam Gaon

Today’s trek takes you to Sam Gaon, a beautiful village with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal place to rest and acclimatize.

Lodge

B, L, D

3,500m

5-6 hours

Day 8:

Sama Gaon to Samdo

Trek from Sam Gaon to Samdo, passing through alpine meadows and scenic valleys. The trail leads you higher into the mountains, providing more incredible views.

Lodge

B, L, D

3,875m

4-5 hours

Day 9:

Rest Day / Trek to Viewpoint of Naike Ri

Take a rest day in Samdo or choose to hike to Naike Ri for an amazing view of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu and its neighboring peaks.

Lodge

B, L, D

5,100m

4-5 hours

Day 10:

Trek Samdo to Dharmasala

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala, the final stop before crossing the Larkya La Pass. The views continue to be breathtaking as you get closer to the high pass.

Lodge

B, L, D

4,460m

4-5 hours

Day 11:

Dharmasala to Bimthang crossing Larkya La Pass

This is the most challenging day as you cross the Larkya La Pass, one of the highest points of the trek at 5,160m. The views are extraordinary, and the experience of crossing this dramatic pass is unforgettable.

Lodge

B, L, D

3,590m

8-9 hours

Day 12:

Trek Bimthang to Goa

Descend from Bimthang to Goa, passing through forests and charming villages along the way. The trek provides beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.

Lodge

B, L, D

2,350m

6-7 hours

Day 13:

Goa to Dharpani, trek 2 hours; Drive to Besi Sahar

Trek for 2 hours to Dharpani, then take a scenic drive to Besi Sahar, where you’ll rest and relax after a long trek.

Hotel

B, L

830m

2 hours/drive

Day 14:

Drive from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu

Drive from Besi Sahar back to Kathmandu, completing your incredible Manaslu Trek. Enjoy the scenic views along the way and relax on your final day in Nepal.

Hotel

Breakfast

1,400m

Day 15:

Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Take a moment to reflect on your trek and the memories you’ve made.

Breakfast

1,400m

Trek Gallery

What's Included & Excluded

What's Included

All Airport Arrival – Departures. Transfers
Hotel Accommodations in Kathmandu with Breakfast (twin sharing)
Teahouse / Lodge Accommodations During Trek (twin sharing) as per schedule
Meals During trek – Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner / Tea or Coffee a day
Kathmandu – Jagat – Transportation
Porters to carry your personal luggage (2 trekkers equal 1 porter)
Guide and Porter insurance fee
Manaslu Entry Permits
Annapurna Conservation Park Entrance Fee
Farewell Group Dinner
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Duffle Bag
First Aid Kit
Filter Drinking Water

What's Not Included

International Airfare
Nepalese Visa fee
Travel and Rescue Insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Tips for Guide, Porter, and Driver

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to trek in Manaslu?

Yes, trekking in the Manaslu region requires special permits. You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit. These permits are arranged for you through the trekking agency.

What is the difficulty level of the Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu Trek is considered to be moderate to difficult. The trek involves long days of hiking, high-altitude passes, and rugged terrain. It’s suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and prior trekking experience.

What is the best time to do the Manaslu Trek?

The best time for the Manaslu Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March - May) and post-monsoon (September - November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and great views. The monsoon season (June - August) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.

Share Your Experience

Have you completed this trek? Share your experience with fellow adventurers!

Manaslu Circuit Trek