Manaslu Circuit Trek - 15 days

After you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, you'll be greeted by our staff and guide with a heartfelt welcome.

Your guide will provide a comprehensive briefing about the trek, ensuring you're well-informed and prepared. To kick off your adventure, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner at a charming Nepali restaurant, complete with traditional folk performances.

After an early morning breakfast, we will set off to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, rich in culture and traditions. Throughout the day, we will visit various cultural heritage sites, offering insights into the city's history, culture, and people. 

Our itinerary includes exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, and more. In the evening, after sightseeing, you will have lots of time to prepare for your trek, including any last-minute shopping you may need to do.

The journey covers approximately 138 kilometers and spans 8 to 9 hours, contingent upon road conditions. Setting off westward from Kathmandu, you'll traverse captivating landscapes and charming villages.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city in your wake, the road meanders through the Trishuli River Valley, treating you to glimpses of terraced fields, verdant hillsides, and authentic Nepali settlements. 

Beyond mere transportation, this journey immerses you in the captivating tapestry of Nepal's diverse and picturesque countryside.

As you continue your journey, you'll soon arrive at Soti Khola, a quaint village nestled beside the tranquil Budi Gandaki River. After a brief drive, you'll reach Machha Khola, where you'll rest for the night in a cozy teahouse. 

En route, you'll marvel at the changing landscape, shifting from lush subtropical greenery to enchanting alpine forests, offering a glimpse into the rich variety of flora and fauna in the Manaslu region.

Today signifies the third day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, commencing from the charming hamlet of Maccha Khola, nestled beside the tranquil Budhi Gandaki River. 

Following a nourishing breakfast, embark on a picturesque path meandering through terraced fields and quaint settlements. The initial stretch involves a gentle climb, unveiling sweeping vistas of the rolling hills and the glistening river below.

As the trek unfolds, traverse verdant forests and numerous suspension bridges, injecting an element of adventure into the expedition. The melodious rush of the river serves as a constant companion, lending a serene ambiance to the journey.

Come mid-morning, a pit stop at a teahouse along the way presents an opportunity to recharge, replenish, and engage with fellow trekkers.

Reaching Jagat, a charming village nestled atop a hillside, marks the pinnacle of the day's journey. Lined with cobblestone streets and adorned with quaint traditional dwellings, this historic settlement exudes timeless charm. 

Adventurers can immerse themselves in the local customs, engage with the villagers, and pay a visit to the village monastery. The panoramic vistas of the encircling mountains, with occasional glimpses of the majestic Manaslu, amplify the feeling of achievement and awe.

Today's journey leads you from Jagat to Deng, weaving through a tapestry of varied landscapes, quaint villages, and mesmerizing mountain panoramas. This leg spans approximately 15 kilometers, a trek lasting around 6 to 8 hours to reach your destination.

Setting off from Jagat, your path shadows the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing a suspension bridge en route to Philim. The trek to Philim unfolds vistas of the distinctive local culture and traditional Gurung architecture.

As you continue your trek, you'll meander through dense pine and vibrant rhododendron forests, occasionally emerging into clearings that offer breathtaking vistas of the majestic Siringi Himal and neighboring peaks.

Drawing closer to the village of Deng, the landscape undergoes a transformation, imbued with an alpine ambiance, while the towering mountains command a more imposing presence on the horizon.

Navigating the terrain may present challenges with uneven and steep sections, necessitating a moderate level of physical fitness. Yet, the warm hospitality of the locals and their rich cultural heritage offer an enriching and captivating experience along the way.

The day's journey culminates in Deng, where you can unwind and bask in the tranquil embrace of the Himalayan surroundings, reflecting on the day's adventures amidst the serene beauty of the mountains.

Following a nourishing breakfast in Deng, the day's trek commences, leading you through lush forests and picturesque villages. The trail gently ascends, offering a moderate trekking challenge.

Ascending further, you'll encounter charming hamlets like Bihi, each revealing facets of the local culture and traditional architecture, providing a window into the distinctive lifestyle of the region. This part of the journey spans approximately 12 kilometers, typically requiring 6-7 hours to traverse, allowing for individual pacing and breaks along the way.

A standout moment of the day awaits as you reach the awe-inspiring Nangdala Pass, unveiling sweeping vistas of the Himalayan expanse, notably the majestic Ganesh Himal and Manaslu peaks. Perched at an elevation of around 3,600 meters, this pass serves as a sublime viewpoint, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the landscape.

Transitioning towards Namrung, the scenery evolves into alpine splendor, with verdant meadows and enchanting rhododendron forests adorning the terrain.

Begin your day with an early start, as today's trek spans roughly 15 kilometers and typically requires 5 to 6 hours to traverse.

The journey kicks off with a stroll through lush forests, navigating across numerous suspension bridges spanning the Budhi Gandaki River. Gradually ascending, you'll catch glimpses of distant snow-capped summits. With each step upward, the landscape transforms, enveloping you in vibrant rhododendron and towering pine forests.

Continuing along the path, you'll encounter the village of Sho, where a breathtaking vista of Manaslu and Himlung Himal awaits. From there, the journey unfolds towards Lho, winding through tranquil alpine pastures and quaint settlements. 

Lho enchants visitors with its fusion of Tibetan and Nepalese influences. Take time to wander through the village, pay a visit to the Ribung Gompa, and engage in delightful conversations with the hospitable locals.

Following a satisfying breakfast in Lho, we set out on a roughly 15-kilometer journey, expected to span about 6 to 7 hours.

Our adventure commences by bidding farewell to Lho, ascending steadily through dense pine forests. With each step upward, the majestic profiles of Manaslu and its neighboring peaks gradually dominate the horizon. 

Soon, the trail unfolds into expansive alpine meadows, treating us to sweeping vistas of the Manaslu range. Don't forget to keep a keen eye out for local wildlife sightings, from Himalayan marmots to a variety of bird species, enhancing the trek with their presence.

Pressing onward, the path leads us downhill to the river before ascending once more, eventually bringing us to Sama Gaun. 

Renowned for its harmonious blend of Tibetan and Nepali customs, Sama Gaun captivates with its array of traditional stone dwellings and monastic sanctuaries, enhancing its allure and cultural richness.

oday marks a crucial rest day, essential for acclimatization before venturing into higher altitudes and tackling the Larkya-La pass. Take advantage of this free day to explore the nearby villages, perhaps with a leisurely hike. 

Additionally, you have the option to embark on an excursion to either Birendra Lake or the Tibet border, delving deep into the hidden wonders of the Manaslu region.

Setting out from Sama Gaun at the break of dawn, you'll trace a well-marked path meandering through alpine forests, gradually unveiling panoramic vistas of the towering peaks that encircle you. With each step upward, the landscape undergoes a transition from verdant greenery to rugged terrain, mirroring the increasing imprint of Tibetan culture evident in the local architecture and way of life.

Traversing alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, you'll traverse pastures frequented by yaks and encounter scattered settlements along the way. Nestled at a higher altitude, the village of Kermo Kharka provides a splendid vantage point for soaking in the grandeur of the Manaslu range. Continuing onward, a suspension bridge spans the river, leading you through rocky terrain.

Upon reaching Samdo, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Manaslu and its neighboring summits. 

Commencing the day's trek with a gentle ascent through picturesque vistas, enveloped by towering peaks and verdant foliage. The path closely follows the course of the Budhi Gandaki River, culminating in the arrival at Samdo village after approximately 2 hours.

From Samdo, press on towards the Tibet border, where the trail ascends to present a more demanding terrain, ideal for acclimatization. Upon reaching the border, immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of this remote and culturally rich region. 

The panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau are simply breathtaking, and the serene wilderness at these lofty altitudes fosters a profound sense of tranquility. Take ample time to explore the surroundings, capturing the awe-inspiring vistas with your camera.

Returning to Samagaon later in the afternoon, the descent offers a fresh perspective of the landscape, with the shifting hues of the mountains illuminated by the setting sun.

Start your trek with a gradual ascent, traversing through rugged terrain that unveils sweeping vistas of the encircling mountains. Each step upward reveals the mesmerizing allure of the Manaslu region, captivating the senses with its natural splendor.

Covering a distance of approximately 10 kilometers, the trek typically spans 4 to 5 hours, varying according to individual pacing. The trail winds through rocky landscapes, tranquil yak pastures, and pristine alpine forests, offering a rich tapestry of terrain to explore.

The scenery grows increasingly dramatic as you approach Dharmasala, also known as High Camp, perched at an altitude of approximately 4,480 meters.

Commence your day with an early breakfast in Dharmasala, fortifying yourself for the demanding journey ahead. The initial leg of the trek entails a steep ascent through rugged terrain and mountains, steadily ascending in altitude. 

With each step upward, the panoramic vistas of the neighboring peaks, notably the majestic Manaslu, unfurl in ever more breathtaking splendor, enhancing the grandeur of your trek.

After several hours of rigorous climbing, you'll arrive at the base of Larkya Pass, a lofty mountain pass soaring to an elevation of approximately 5,135 meters (16,847 feet). This represents the pinnacle of your trek, and conquering Larkya Pass instills a profound sense of triumph and achievement. From the pass's summit, you're treated to unparalleled views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.

The journey to Bimthang spans roughly 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) and can consume approximately 8 to 10 hours, contingent upon individual pacing and prevailing weather conditions. 

Strat trek from Bimthang to Dharapani, spanning a distance of approximately 19 kilometers, with an estimated duration of 6 to 7 hours, contingent upon individual pace and breaks. 

This part of the journey is renowned for its varied landscapes, beginning with serene alpine meadows and gradually descending through verdant forests and traditional villages.

Commence your day with a descent from Bimthang, reveling in sweeping panoramas of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Manaslu. As you progress downward towards Dharapani, traverse through verdant terraced fields and charming hamlets. 

The final stretch of the route traces the tranquil course of the Marsyangdi River, imparting a tranquil ambiance to your trek. Approaching Dharapani, observe the landscape's shift from alpine to subtropical, offering a captivating blend of environments throughout the day's journey.

Commencing early in the morning, bid farewell to the enchanting village of Dharapani. The journey from Dharapani to Kathmandu spans approximately 220 kilometers, with an estimated travel time of 9 to 10 hours, subject to road conditions. 

En route, you'll traverse through picturesque landscapes, catching glimpses of terraced fields, quaint villages, and the ever-watchful presence of the Himalayan peaks.

As you approach Kathmandu, prepare for the bustling traffic and lively streets as you enter the valley, embraced by rolling hills. The rural scenery gradually yields to the urban landscape, marking the conclusion of your mountainous odyssey.