Manaslu Circuit Trek

Your adventure kicks off upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, take time to explore the vibrant tourist hub of Thamel, where you can find trekking gear shops, ATMs, money exchange facilities, and lively cafes. This is the perfect place to buy or rent any last-minute trekking equipment. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and attend a detailed briefing with your guide about the trek, altitude awareness, and the journey ahead. It's a great time to ask questions and finalize preparations before the adventure begins!.

Today is dedicated to final trek preparations. Take the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu Valley, such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square. We can arrange an optional sightseeing tour with an experienced guide and private transport at an extra cost-a great way to learn about Nepal’s deep cultural history.

Meanwhile, no worries-we’ll handle all the paperwork and secure your special Manaslu trekking permits for you. You’ll also meet your guide, review your gear, and make final plans for the trek. If you have any belongings not needed during the trek, you can store them safely at your hotel with free storage provided. Get ready-the real adventure starts tomorrow!

Today, your journey begins with a scenic 8-9 hour drive (approx. 160 km) from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The road winds through rural landscapes, river valleys, and terraced hillsides. Expect a mix of paved and off-road sections, with lunch served at a local stop along the way. Upon reaching Machha Khola, located beside the Budhi Gandaki River, you'll check into a teahouse, meet your guide for a briefing about tomorrow’s exciting trek, and hear a short story about the region’s culture and history. Rest well-the real adventure begins tomorrow!

Today’s trail is a mix of uphill, downhill, and flat sections, crossing several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. You'll pass through villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani, enjoying views of the lush hills, river valley, and terraced farms. The walk is around 17-20 km, with lunch en route at a scenic teahouse.

The climate varies by season-warm in spring/autumn and cool in winter. You'll notice the remote lifestyle of locals, their traditional homes, and farmlands. Arriving at Jagat, a stone-paved village once used as a trading checkpoint, you’ll stay in a cozy teahouse with hearty food and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Today’s trail follows scenic river valleys, crossing several suspension bridges, with a mix of uphill, downhill, and flat sections. Pass through traditional villages like Sirdibas, Philim, and Ekle Bhatti, where you’ll see local farming life and unique Gurung-Tibetan culture. Enjoy lunch en route with views of waterfalls and lush forests. The trail narrows as you head deeper into the remote region, with occasional steep climbs and shady pine sections. After around 18 km, you’ll reach Deng, a peaceful village with simple teahouses. Climate varies with the season-warm during spring/autumn days and cooler mornings/evenings. In Deng, relax with local meals and talk with your guide about the journey ahead. This marks your entry into the core highlands of the Manaslu region.

Today The trail from Deng to Namrung involves steady uphill climbs with some flat and downhill stretches, crossing several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll trek through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, passing small traditional villages along the way.

The walk covers about 16-18 km, with a stop for lunch en route at a local teahouse offering beautiful mountain views. The climate cools as you gain altitude, especially in mornings and evenings.

Namrung is a quiet village known for its welcoming teahouses and friendly locals. Here, you’ll rest well and prepare for the higher altitude ahead, surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery and rich cultural heritage.

Today’s trek includes steady climbs, some flat trails, and crossing suspension bridges through forests and traditional villages rich in Buddhist culture. You’ll cover about 10-12 km and enjoy lunch with mountain views.

Lho Village is a historic Sherpa settlement known for its ancient monasteries and vibrant local festivals. You can take an optional hike to nearby temples and meditation caves, offering stunning views of the Manaslu range and peaceful spiritual experiences. It’s a perfect place to rest and acclimatize before heading higher.

Today, you’ll trek through forests and villages and reach Samagaun by lunchtime. You’ll stay here two nights for acclimatization. Enjoy 2-3 optional hikes to nearby sacred glacial lakes like Birendra Tal (4,000m / 13,123ft) and Pungmo Tsho (4,150m / 13,615ft). You can also hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m / 15,748ft) or other viewpoints depending on your fitness and weather. Discuss with your guide today to choose the best hike for tomorrow while exploring ancient temples and Sherpa culture. For these hikes, carry a small daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather-light moisture-wicking clothes for warmer parts, a warm insulated jacket for cooler temperatures, a hat, gloves, and sturdy trekking boots to handle rocky or icy trails. Weather can vary quickly, so be prepared for sun, wind, and possible cold.

Today is an important acclimatization day in Samagaun (3,540m / 11,610ft), giving you time to adjust to the altitude before climbing higher. You’ll go slowly and can choose from three scenic hikes after discussing with your guide: a gentle walk to Birendra Lake (4,000m), a slightly longer option to Pungmo Tsho Lake (4,150m), or a challenging hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), which takes 6-8 hours round trip. Each offers incredible views of glaciers, Manaslu Himal, and surrounding peaks. Carry water, energy bars, and dress properly for the changing weather. These hikes are not only beautiful but also help your body acclimatize safely for the days ahead.

Today, you’ll trek from Samagaun (3,540m / 11,614ft) to Samdo (3,860m / 12,660ft), which takes about 3-4 hours on a gradual uphill and mostly flat trail along the Budhi Gandaki River. The walk is around 8km and offers stunning views of Manaslu, Samdo Peak, and the surrounding valley. Upon arrival by lunch time, you can either rest at the teahouse or opt for a short acclimatization hike above the village for better altitude adaptation. Samdo is a traditional Tibetan refugee village near the Tibet border, with an interesting history as a former trade route hub.

Today, you’ll trek from Samdo (3,860m / 12,660ft) to Dharamsala (4,500m / 14,764ft). The hike takes around 5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 6.5 km (4 miles). The trail involves a gradual uphill climb, with a mix of rocky and dusty terrain, so it’s important to go slowly and pace yourself at this altitude.

Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi, is the last stop before the Larke La Pass. Facilities are very basic here, with limited teahouses, and accommodation often includes shared dorm rooms for 4 people or tent sharing, especially during busy trekking seasons.

Along the way and from Dharamsala, enjoy dramatic views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and rugged alpine landscapes. Upon arrival, rest well, and be sure to discuss with your guide about the next day’s early morning climb over the Larke La Pass. Don’t forget to carry warm clothing, energy bars, snacks, and enough water for this higher altitude stretch.

Today is a major highlight of the trek as you cross the historic Larke La Pass (5,140m / 16,864ft) and descend to Bimtang (3,720m / 12,204ft) -a journey of about 7–9 hours, covering nearly 20 km. The pass has long been used by local traders and herders as a traditional route between the Manaslu and Annapurna regions, making it both a physical and cultural milestone.

You’ll start early, often before dawn, to avoid strong winds and ensure enough daylight. The trail is gradual at first, then becomes steeper and icy with loose scree-so move slowly and carefully. Carry enough water, snacks, and wear proper layers, as the weather can shift quickly.

From the top, you're rewarded with stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After soaking in the scenery, descend to a glacier valley where tea shops offer hot drinks-a perfect place to rest. The final stretch to Bimtang is long but beautiful. If weather conditions are poor, always prioritize safety and consider returning. Crossing Larke Pass is a true Himalayan achievement.

Today, the trail descends from Bimtang (3,720m / 12,204ft) to Dharapani, covering around 22 km in 7–8 hours. You’ll pass through lush rhododendron and pine forests, cross wooden bridges, and follow rivers along a scenic downhill path. The landscape shifts from alpine terrain to subtropical forests, offering rich biodiversity and mountain views.

You'll pass small villages like Gho and Tilje, where you can enjoy local hospitality. The trail includes some gentle ascents, descents, and flat stretches, making for a rewarding and varied day of trekking.

Dharapani is a major settlement on the Annapurna Circuit, where you’ll feel the merging of two great trekking routes. It’s a lively village with mixed cultures, and once served as a trade stop between the Manang and Gorkha regions. Rest here and reflect on completing the Manaslu Circuit journey.

Today, we take a long but scenic drive back to Kathmandu. First, a 4–5 hour jeep ride to Besisahar on a bumpy mountain road, followed by a 5–6 hour drive along the highway to reach the city. Total distance is around 230 km.

👉 Optional: You can also walk to Tilje and drive to Besisahar today for an overnight stay, making the next day’s drive shorter and more comfortable.

In the evening, enjoy a warm farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of your amazing Manaslu Circuit journey.

As your journey comes to an end, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. It's time to say goodbye, but we hope this won’t be the last time our paths cross. We thank you for choosing us to be part of your unforgettable adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more incredible experiences in the future.

Safe travels and see you again soon!