Manaslu Circuit Trek
Small Group Journeys

Manaslu Circuit Trek

An ultimate off the beaten path Trek

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The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents an extraordinary adventure. Setting itself apart from the popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, this trail stands out with its limited number of travelers. Its remote and demanding terrain, combined with minimal tourism, creates an environment where the natural beauty remains untouched, offering an opportunity to deeply connect with unspoiled, wild landscapes.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has gained popularity owing to its improved accessibility, providing an exclusive opportunity to explore untouched landscapes. Its appeal lies in the absence of large crowds, enabling adventurers to intimately connect with nature and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere, resulting in a unique and incomparable experience.

Exploring the villages along the trail offers a rich cultural experience, filled with profound insights into the local way of life, traditions, and customs. These encounters enable connections with the region’s social and spiritual aspects, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the community’s heritage.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an exceptional adventure, combining the thrill of navigating rugged terrains with opportunities to appreciate untouched natural areas and engage deeply with the local culture. Renowned for its less-frequented trails, this trek provides a unique experience for those seeking a less conventional route in Nepal.

This Manaslu Circuit Trek presents an incredible opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife flourishing in their natural habitat. Along the journey, you may encounter fascinating animals such as the Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and Blue Sheep. Yet, the most exhilarating prospect is the chance to come across the elusive snow leopard. Observing these animals in their native surroundings brings an unmatched sense of excitement and awe to the trekking expedition.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek commences with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, offering a breathtaking view of Nepal’s countryside. The journey passes through picturesque villages and lush green rice fields, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the region. After Arughat, the smooth paved highway gradually transforms into a rough dirt road, signaling the beginning of a more rugged terrain towards Machha Khola. This transition marks the start of an adventurous trek that showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Manaslu region.

The Manaslu Circuit Tek begins from Machha Khola, the trail winds through a variety of landscapes, traversing charming villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, adorned with Chortens and Mani walls along the way. The journey continues on to Lho village, and then to Samagaon, offering stunning views and cultural encounters with the local communities. At Samagaon, you will spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude gained. Samagaon is a picturesque village set against the backdrop of the towering peaks of the Manaslu range.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches its climax at the magnificent Larkya La Pass, standing at an impressive elevation of 5,106 meters. This pivotal point on the trek offers breathtaking panoramic views that extend in every direction. You can enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas of the snow-capped peaks of Manaslu to the north, Annapurna to the west and the Ganesh Himal range to the east.

The descent from Larkya La Pass towards Bimthang and Tilche presents an immersive experience that unfolds through a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. This extraordinary journey uncover a captivating transformation, transiting from breathtaking high-altitude panoramas to verdant valleys and picturesque villages.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek comes to an end at Tilche, where you reflect on the beautiful memories created amidst the rugged and stunning landscapes of the Manaslu region before heading to Besisahar. From there, a scenic drive brings you back to Kathmandu, offering a final chance to absorb the picturesque vistas of Nepal’s countryside, villages, and terraced fields. Completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek marks the end of a physical journey but the start of a lasting connection to Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary adventure that harmoniously combines physical challenges with breathtaking natural beauty. Its rugged terrain and captivating landscapes create an unforgettable experience for those who embark on this remarkable journey.

Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: In Kathmandu
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola
Day 4: Trek from MachhaKhola to Jagat
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Pewa
Day 6: Trek from Pewa to Namrung
Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Lho
Day 8: Trek from Lho to Samagaon
Day 9: Acclimatization Day-Excursion to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa
Day 10: Trek from Samagoan to Samdo
Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Dharmashala
Day 12: Trek from Dharmashala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass
Day 13: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilche
Day 14: Drive From Tilche to Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu and local village lodge during the trek
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu, while all meals are included during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and Autumn
Route Route Kathmandu-Machha Khola-Jagat-Pewa-Namrung-Lho-Samagoan-Samdo-Dharamshala-Bimtang-Tilch-Besisahar-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, February, December

  • Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola.
  • Explore the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River Valley.
  • Diversified, unspoiled ecosystems & less explored trekking routes.
  • Walkthrough tropical green hills covered with pine and oak forests at the beginning of the trek
  • The unique cultural fusion of Tibetan and Nepali ethnic groups with a touch of Himalayan hospitality.
  • Enjoy the world’s spectacular views of the 8th Highest Mountain and other peaks.
  • Cross Larkya La Pass (5153m) is this route’s highest pass.

Cost Information

Cost is based on group to offer the best possible price.

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights accommodation in 3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu.
  • 11 nights’ accommodation in a tea house during the trek with an attached bathroom where possible.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu.
  • Three standard meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) and some hot drinks (tea/coffee) during the trek.
  • One welcome/farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
  • 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
  • English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
  • Transportation: Kathmandu-Machhakhlola-Tilche-Kathmandu in a private 4W jeep.
  • First aid kit, duffel bag, and trekking map.
  • Trekking staff accommodation, wages, meals, trekking gears, and insurance.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (RAP/MCAP/ACAP).
  • All government tax and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal Visa.
  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner in Kathmandu).
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
  • Bottled/boiled water, battery recharge, Wi-Fi and hot showers during the trek.
  • Tips and gratuities to Guide, Porter and driver.
  • Travel medical insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation.
  • Personal trekking gears and equipment’s.
  • Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
  • Any other expenses other than the listed above.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1.

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, a representative from Wind Horse will be waiting to greet you and assist with transferring you to your hotel. Once you’ve settled in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Later in the evening, there will be a short briefing session, followed by a delightful dinner featuring a cultural performance at a traditional Nepalese restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2.

In Kathmandu

Today, you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three Durbar (palace) squares in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu Durbar Square is rich with its intricate wood carving and its history. Also known as the “Musuem of Temples” there are over 50 temples in the square. You will explore the area around the former palace of the kings of Nepal, viewing various temples and monuments.

Following the visit, you will drive to Boudanath Stupa. Boudanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and also a World Heritage Site. Boudanath signifies peace and tranquility, and is a Centre of religious and spiritual significance. You will see thousands of pilgrims circumambulating the stupa, you will circumambulate with pilgrims and visit the surrounding monasteries.

Afterward, you will proceed to Pashupatinath Temple. The Pashupatinath temple is situated on the banks of the Bagmati river and is one of the most revered Hindu temple in Nepal. The main temple complex is not accessible to non-Hindus, but you can explore around the periphery of the temple complex which is quite large and impressive. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3.

Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola

The drive from Kathmandu to Arughat offers a captivating panorama of Nepal’s countryside, unveiling its natural charm. Along this route, you will be treated to picturesque sights of quaint villages and vibrant green rice fields, providing a glimpse into the authentic indigenous lifestyle of the region.

Upon reaching Arughat, the paved highway gives way to a dirt road, leading towards Machhakhola and marking a transition to a rougher, more rugged terrain. Traveling along this uneven path becomes an adventure in its own. Overnight in Machhakhola.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 880m
Duration Duration: 8-9hrs, Approx. 140kms
Overnight Tea House
Day 4.

Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat

Your Manaslu Circuit trek begins from Machhakhola, you’ll trek along a trail that winds along the riverbed, with some ups and downs. After crossing the Thado Khola and Machha Khola, you will arrive at Tatopani.

As you continue your trek, the trail goes over uphill climb, navigating a ridge that eventually leads to a suspension bridge stretching across the Budhi Gandaki river.

After crossing the Budi Gandaki river, you will ascend over a well-constructed stairway, navigating through a landslide area before reaching Dovan. You will cross the river over a suspension bridge, and ascend the stone stairs, descend back to the river, and finally an uphill hike will bring you to Thado Bharyang

Upon reaching Tharo Bharyang, you will navigate across the Budhi Gandaki river, followed by an ascent over a ridge. Eventually leading to the picturesque village of Jagat, where you will spend the night. Overnight in Jagat.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1360m
Duration Duration: 6-7hrs, Approx. 22kms
Overnight Tea House
Day 5.

Trek from Jagat to Pewa

The day’s journey begins along a stone-paved trail that leads northwards, navigating through a rocky ridge towards Salleri. Continuing on, the path winds down towards Sirdibas and Ghatte Khola, with beautiful views of the surrounding and rural countryside

After crossing over the Budi Gandaki river over a suspension bridge, the route then continues uphill over stone stairs to Philim. From Philim, the trails winds up and down the hillside, the valley gets wider with sparse vegetation.

Leaving the river bank, the path meanders through a breathtaking landscape adorned with rhododendrons and pine trees. You’ll navigate across the Shiar Khola river, eventually arriving at the village of Pewa. Overnight in Pewa village.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1870m
Duration Duration: 6-7hrs,
Overnight Tea House
Day 6.

Trek from Pewa to Namrung

Today you begin with a gradual uphill hike to Deng. After crossing the Budhi Gandaki River, you will climb to Rana and continue further until you reach Bihi Phedi. The hike goes through varied terrain, passing through several villages.

Continuing westward along the valley, you will come across panoramic views of the Budhi Gandaki River. This part of the trek passes through dense forests, past ancient mani walls, and occasionally opens up to expansive landscapes with breathtaking views.

After crossing over a suspension bridge, the trail contours to Ghap, a picturesque village with its own unique charm. You will also pass through Prok village, where you can experience the local culture and customs.

The trail to Namrung involves crossings of the Budhi Gandaki river several times, past chortens and mani walls. The trail goes through dense fir, rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forest. The trail then further leads you to the village of Namrung, with breathtaking panoramic views of the landscapes and majestic mountains. Overnight in Namrung.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2630m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 7:

Trek from Namrung to Lho

Leaving Namrung the landscape changes, the valley gets more wide and open. As you trek through the forests and cross a side valley, you’ll encounter Lhi village, which is known for its charm, with chortens and terraced fields.

Continuing along the ridgeline, the trail leads to Sho, another beautiful village along the route. You will continue further to reach Lho, a culturally reach village with stunning vistas of the Manaslu and Manaslu North peaks. Overnight in Lho.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3180m
Duration Duration: 4-5hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 8.

Trek from Lho to Samagaon

Today’s trek involves a moderate hike on an easy trail, offering spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu. In the beginning it is a steep climb out of Lho, and then it is a gradual climb to Shyala. The trail goes through verdant rhododendron and pine forest, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks such as Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.

A short climb from Shyala past pine trees and scatter bushes, you will come across an open valley with Samagaon at the far end. Samagaun surrounded by snow-covered peaks on three sides is one of the largest settlement in this region. You will pass through several gates, Chortens, and Mani walls as you approach Samagaon. Overnight in Samagaon.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3530m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 9.

Acclimitization Day - Excursion to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen gompa

Begin your day by immersing in the magnificent beauty of the Himalayas. Enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas, capture the breathtaking panoramic moment and experience the majestic sunrise as it bathes the landscape in vibrant and radiant hues.

Following breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the village. Engage with the locals to immerse yourself in their culture, traditions, and daily routines. This interaction offers an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into their customs, beliefs, and their way of life.

Moreover, there are also other options such as a hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. The Manaslu Base camp is located just north of the village and past Birendra Lake. Though challenging, the hike could be quite promising.

Pungyen Gompa lies to the south of Samagaon and is about two and a half hours hike away. It is hidden behind the ridge in front of Manaslu and provides massive views of the glaciers. Overnight in Samagaon.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Manaslu Base Camp at 4800m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 10.

Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

You will descend into the Budhi Gandaki River valley, traversing through juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka, adorned with their unique flora. You will cross over a wooden bridge, followed by an ascent onto a promontory, offering a breathtaking panoramic view nestled between the converging forks of the river. You will come across a white Mani wall that marks the path towards Samdo. Overnight in Samdo.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3885m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 11.

Trek from Samdo to Dharamashala (Larkya Phedi)

Starting along the edge, you will cross over the wooden bridge. And then ascend steep hill, past small streams with the stunning views of the Lakya Glacier. You will follow the trail along the Salka Khola valley and the climb up to reach the stone guest of Dharmashala. It is not a proper guest house or lodge, but it is a kind of a dormitory made in to meet the need of the trekkers in this region. Overnight in Dharamshala.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4480m
Duration Duration: 4-5 hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 12.

Trek from Dharmashala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass

The journey across the Larkya La Pass is a thrilling and challenging adventure in this Manaslu Circuit Trek. As it will the longest day in this trek, you will start early in the morning. The trail winds through the valley on the northern side of the Larkya Glaciers. Along the way, you will be treated with awe-inspiring views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak.

The journey offers a gradual but demanding uphill trek, especially challenging at higher elevations. The weather plays an important factor, it will be more challenging if there is storm or snow along the trail.

Despite the exertion, the journey rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views and a deep sense of accomplishment as you progress towards the pass. The views from the pass is truly awe-inspiring, with the panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II in their complete grandeur.

After crossing the pass, you will descend to the meadows of Langbuche Kharka and continue on to reach the picturesque village of Bimthang. The trail offers stunning views and diverse landscapes, making the journey an enriching experience. Overnight in Bimthang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 5106m at Larkya La Pass, 3720m at Bimthang
Duration Duration: 8-9hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 13.

Trek from Bimthang to Tilche

From Bimthang, your journey unfolds with the incredible views of the breathtaking panoramas of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal.

Today’s hike begins with a descent to the Budhi Gandaki river, and you will cross the river and hike past stunning rhododendron forest, and arrive at the Karche valley, the highest cultivated land in the area.

Traversing these fields, the trail ascends beyond a ridge with panoramic view of the changing landscapes. Ultimately, you will arrive at Gho(2515m). This is the last village that precedes the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure at Tilche village. From Gho, the trail is almost over a dirt road for about 2 kms until the village of Tilche, where you stop for the night. Overnight in Tilche.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2280m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 14.

Drive from Tilche to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will board a private 4 wheel jeep  from Tilche to Besisahar. Situated as a significant transit hub, Besisahar acts as the pivotal starting point for numerous treks across the Annapurna region.

After lunch at Besisahar, you will than transfer to a standard vehicle and drive back to Kathmandu. The drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu goes through diverse landscapes, offering glimpses of enchanting villages and terraced fields, presenting a scenic journey filled with charm and beauty. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Please be advised that the road conditions in Nepal can vary, and the duration of the drive may depend on factors like weather, road conditions, and traffic.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Duration Duration: 8-9hrs drive
Day 15.

Departure

Transfer to the airport for your flight homewards.

MEALS:
Breakfast

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Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu and local village lodge during the trek
Meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu, while all meals are included during the trek
Route Route Kathmandu-Machha Khola-Jagat-Pewa-Namrung-Lho-Samagoan-Samdo-Dharamshala-Bimtang-Tilch-Besisahar-Kathmandu
Max Group Size Max Group Size 2-8 (minimum 2 members required)
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and Autumn
Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

 Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, February, December

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