Manaslu Circuit Trek

Key Points

Start At

Kathmandu

Duration

15 days

Trekking Grade

Moderate to Strenuous

Accommodation

Hotel/ Teahouse

Max. Altitude

5160

Activity

Trekking

Best Season

April – June

End At

Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The‌ Manaslu Circuit Trek is a thrilling journey around Mount M‌anaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-hi‌ghest mountain in the world. Known as the “hidden gem of Nepal,” this trek offers spect‌acular mountain scenery, traditional villages‌,‍ lush vall‍eys, and the dramatic crossing of the Larke La Pass (5,160 m).​ It is less cro‍wded tha‌n the Everest a‍nd Ann‍apurna reg‌io‌ns, giving trekkers a un‌ique sense of adventure and cul‌tural immersion. The trail passes through rem‌ote Buddhist villages, ancient monasterie‌s, and d‌iverse landscap‌es ranging from subtropical forests to‍ high alp‌ine terrain.

The‌ Mana‌slu C‌ircuit Trek is a 14-day journey around Mount Ma‌naslu‌ (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest m‍ount‌ain. The r‍oute follows the Budhi Gandak‍i River valley, starting fro‌m Soti Khola, and passes th‌rough terraced fields, de‌nse forests, suspension bridges, and remote moun‍tain villages. Unlike the busier Everest and Ann‍apurna treks, this trail is quieter and offer‍s a more authent‌ic Himalayan experience⁠.

Trekke‌rs will e‍ncount‌er Tibetan‍-influence‌d‍ villages, ancient monasteries, and stunn‌ing‍ views of peaks like Himalchuli, Gan‌es‌h Hima‌l, and Manaslu i‌tself. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larke La Pa‍ss (5,160 m), which offers br‍eathtaking mountai‌n panoramas before descending into the Marsyangdi Valley.

Graded as mode‍r‌at‌e to c‍hallenging, the trek i‌s suitable for those‍ with⁠ good fitness and some t‍rekking experience. With proper‌ accli‍mat‍ization and cultu‌ral immersi‍on, th‍e Manaslu Circuit is one of N‍epal’s best options for a rewarding and less crowded Hi‌malayan‌ adventure.

Highlights

The‌ Manaslu region is home to a mix of Gurung, Nubri, and Tibetan-influenced communities‍, each with their own traditi‌ons, dialects, and way‍ o‍f life. Ma‍ny villages,‍ especially at higher altitudes like Samagaon and Samdo, follow strong Budd‌h‌is‌t practic‌e‍s. You‌’l‌l find prayer flags, maniwa‌lls (stone carvings with Buddhist prayers),‌ and monasteries througho‌ut the trek. Life here is simp‌le and‌ revolves around farming, herding yaks, and religious rituals.

As a visitor, showing respect‍ to loca‍l culture is very important. Always walk to the le‌ft side o‌f maniwalls and stupas as a sign of respect, and spin prayer⁠ whe‍el‌s clockwise. Greet locals with a smile and a simple‍ “‌Na‍maste‍” or the Tibetan‍ greeting “Tashi Delek.” Modest dress is app‌reciated in‍ villages cover shoulder‍s and avoid very short clothing, even though trek‍king gear is acce‌ptable.

What we can do

Walk left of s‌tupa‌s (clockwise).

Greet locals with Namaste or‍ Tashi Delek.

D‍ress modestly in villages.

Carry your trash and keep the trail clean.

Hike slo‌wly and acclimati‍ze pr‍operly.

Support local tea houses and‍ buy from villagers.

‌Ask before taking photos.

What we can’t do

Don’t touch a‍ny‌one’s head or point your feet at shrines.

Don’t enter monasteries withou‍t per‌mission.

Don’t harm animals or w‍ildlif‌e.

Don’t litter or leave plastic waste behind.

Don’t rush at high altit‍udes‌-a‌void overexertion.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m / 4412 ft)
Welcome to Nepal. After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Once you check in, you can relax after your journey or take a short walk around nearby markets and cultural streets. Kathmandu is a vibrant city filled with temples, cafés, and traditional architecture. In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide for a short briefing about the trek, where your gear and final preparations will be checked.

📍 Starting Point

Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

Airport transfer only

📏 Total Distance

30–45 minutes drive

⚠️ Important Note

Please ensure your trekking equipment and travel documents are ready. Kathmandu is the best place to purchase or rent any missing gear before beginning the trek.
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m / 3051 ft)
After an early breakfast, we leave Kathmandu and begin a scenic drive toward the Manaslu region. The road passes through hills, rivers, and traditional villages. As the journey continues, the landscape becomes more rural and mountainous. You will enjoy views of terraced farms, waterfalls, and local settlements along the route. By evening we arrive at Machha Khola, a small riverside village where we stay overnight in a local teahouse.

📍 Starting Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Machha Khola (930 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 160 km

📏 Total Distance

8–9 hours drive

⚠️ Important Note

Road conditions may be rough in some sections. Keep water, snacks, and personal essentials with you during the drive and enjoy the changing scenery of rural Nepal.
Day 3: Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
Today our trekking adventure begins. We follow a scenic trail along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through small villages and lush landscapes. The trail includes suspension bridges, forest paths, and narrow river valleys. As we gradually climb higher, the environment becomes more peaceful and remote. After several hours of trekking through beautiful surroundings, we reach Jagat, a charming village known as the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

📍 Starting Point

Machha Khola (930 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Jagat (1,340 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 16 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

This is the first day of trekking, so walk slowly and take regular breaks. Maintaining a steady pace helps your body adapt comfortably to the gradual altitude gain.
Day 4: Trek Jagat to Lokpa (2240m / 7349 ft)
Leaving Jagat, the trail climbs through terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages. Along the route, you will see beautiful landscapes and cultural settlements reflecting the unique lifestyle of the region. As we move deeper into the mountains, the scenery becomes more dramatic. After several hours of trekking through forests and narrow trails, we reach Lokpa, a quiet village that marks the entrance to the Tsum Valley.

📍 Starting Point

Jagat (1,340 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Lokpa (2,240 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 15 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

The trail gradually climbs today, so keep a comfortable pace and stay hydrated. Taking regular breaks will help maintain energy throughout the trek.
Day 5: Trek Lokpa to Chumling (2386m / 7828 ft)
Today we enter the beautiful Tsum Valley. The trail descends into forested landscapes before crossing suspension bridges over the river. Along the way, you will see traditional houses, prayer flags, and stunning mountain views. Chumling is a peaceful village surrounded by hills and farmland. It offers wonderful views of Ganesh Himal and provides a great opportunity to experience the local Tibetan-influenced culture.

📍 Starting Point

Lokpa (2,240 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Chumling (2,386 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 11 km

📏 Total Distance

5–6 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages in the Tsum Valley. This region is culturally unique and considered sacred by many local communities.
Day 6: Trek Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3031m / 9944 ft)
The trail climbs gradually through beautiful landscapes, passing ancient monasteries, mani walls, and small settlements. The scenery becomes more open with impressive mountain views. After several hours of trekking through traditional Tibetan-style villages, we reach Chhokang Paro, the largest settlement in the Tsum Valley.

📍 Starting Point

Chumling (2,386 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Chhokang Paro (3,031 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 13 km

📏 Total Distance

5–6 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude gain becomes more noticeable from today. Walk slowly, drink enough water, and inform your guide if you feel any symptoms related to high altitude.
Day 7: Trek Chhokang Paro to Nile (3361m / 11027 ft)
Today we trek deeper into the upper Tsum Valley. The trail passes through traditional villages, Buddhist chortens, and scenic landscapes surrounded by Himalayan peaks. The peaceful environment and cultural heritage make this section of the trek very special. After several hours of walking, we reach Nile, the last permanent settlement in the upper valley.

📍 Starting Point

Chhokang Paro (3,031 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Nile (3,361 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 10 km

📏 Total Distance

5–6 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

The altitude is now above 3,000 meters, so continue trekking at a slow pace. Staying hydrated and maintaining steady breathing will help with altitude adjustment.
Day 8: Visit Mu Gompa and Trek back to Nile (3361m / 11027 ft)
Today we hike to the famous Mu Gompa, one of the most important monasteries in the Tsum Valley. Located in a peaceful mountain setting, the monastery offers incredible views and spiritual atmosphere. After exploring the monastery and surrounding landscapes, we return to Nile for the night.

📍 Starting Point

Nile (3,361 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Nile (3,361 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 9 km

📏 Total Distance

5–6 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Mu Gompa is an important religious site. Please respect local traditions, dress modestly, and follow monastery guidelines when visiting this sacred place.
Day 9: Trek Nile to Chumling (2386m / 7828 ft)
After breakfast, we retrace our route back down the valley. The descent offers beautiful views of mountains, forests, and traditional villages. Walking downhill provides a different perspective of the landscapes we previously passed. By afternoon we arrive again at Chumling where we stay overnight.

📍 Starting Point

Nile (3,361 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Chumling (2,386 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 15 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Descending can still be physically demanding. Walk carefully on steep sections and take short breaks to avoid strain on knees and joints.
Day 10: Trek Chumling to Deng (1860m / 6102 ft)
Leaving Chumling, we return to the main Manaslu trail and continue toward Deng. The route passes through forests, rivers, and small settlements. The scenery gradually changes as we move deeper into the Manaslu region.

📍 Starting Point

Chumling (2,386 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Deng (1,860 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 18 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Trail conditions may include narrow sections and suspension bridges. Walk carefully and follow your guide for safe passage.
Day 11: Trek Deng to Namrung (2630m / 8628 ft)
The trail climbs gradually through forests and remote mountain landscapes. Along the way, you will notice increasing Tibetan cultural influence in the villages and monasteries. Namrung is a traditional village offering beautiful views of surrounding mountains.

📍 Starting Point

Deng (1,860 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Namrung (2,630 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 19 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude gain becomes significant today. Maintain a slow trekking pace and drink plenty of water to support proper acclimatization.
Day 12: Trek Namrung to Samagaon (3530m / 11581 ft)
Today’s trek offers spectacular views of Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan peaks. The trail passes through alpine forests, traditional villages, and Buddhist cultural landmarks. Eventually we reach Samagaon, one of the largest villages in the region.

📍 Starting Point

Namrung (2,630 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samagaon (3,530 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 17 km

📏 Total Distance

6–7 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Higher altitude requires slower trekking and proper hydration. Pay attention to how your body feels and inform your guide if you experience discomfort.
Day 13: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon (3530m / 11581 ft)
Today is an important acclimatization day. You may explore the village, visit monasteries, or take short hikes to nearby viewpoints. This helps your body adapt to the altitude before continuing toward higher elevations.

📍 Starting Point

Samagaon (3,530 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samagaon (3,530 m)

⏱️ Duration

Optional exploration

📏 Total Distance

Short hikes around the village

⚠️ Important Note

Light activities such as short hikes help improve acclimatization. Avoid strenuous activity and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Day 14: Trek Samagaon to Samdo (3860m / 12664 ft)
Today we trek to Samdo, a traditional village near the Tibetan border. The trail follows a gradual climb through alpine landscapes with stunning mountain views.

📍 Starting Point

Samagaon (3,530 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samdo (3,860 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 8 km

📏 Total Distance

4–5 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

The altitude is now significantly higher. Walk slowly and keep warm clothing available as temperatures can drop quickly.
Day 15: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (4460m / 14632 ft)
We continue trekking toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. This is the base point for crossing Larkya La Pass. The trail passes through rugged alpine terrain.

📍 Starting Point

Samdo (3,860 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dharamsala (4,460 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 7 km

📏 Total Distance

4–5 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Rest well today and prepare warm clothing and gear for tomorrow’s high-altitude pass crossing.
Day 16: Cross Larkya La Pass and Trek to Bimthang (3720m / 12205 ft)
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day as we cross the Larkya La Pass. From the top, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks before descending toward Bimthang.

📍 Starting Point

Dharamsala (4,460 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Bimthang (3,720 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 16 km

📏 Total Distance

8–9 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Expect cold temperatures and strong winds at the pass. Walk steadily, stay warm, and follow your guide’s instructions carefully.
Day 17: Trek Bimthang to Gho (2560m / 8398 ft)
After crossing the pass, today’s trek descends through beautiful forests and alpine landscapes. The trail offers wonderful views of surrounding peaks and valleys.

📍 Starting Point

Bimthang (3,720 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Gho (2,560 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 14 km

📏 Total Distance

5–6 hours trek

⚠️ Important Note

Descending trails can be steep in some areas. Walk carefully and take breaks to avoid fatigue.
Day 18: Trek Gho to Dharapani and Drive to Kathmandu (1350m / 4412 ft)
Today we trek to Dharapani where our trekking journey ends. From here we drive back to Kathmandu through scenic countryside landscapes.

📍 Starting Point

Gho (2,560 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

Approx. 12 km trek + 160 km drive

📏 Total Distance

4–5 hours trek + 7–8 hours drive

⚠️ Important Note

The journey back to Kathmandu may be long depending on road conditions. Keep personal essentials with you during the drive.
Day 19: Final Departure from Kathmandu (1350m / 4412 ft)
Your unforgettable trekking adventure comes to an end today. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your international departure.

📍 Starting Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

Airport transfer only

📏 Total Distance

30–45 minutes drive

⚠️ Important Note

Please check your passport, flight ticket, and personal belongings before leaving the hotel and ensure you arrive at the airport early for departure procedures.

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Regular: US$ 1599
Price range: US$ 1299 - US$ 1599
Duration: 15 days
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Group Type
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US$ 1399
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US$ 1349
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US$ 1299
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