Manaslu Circuit Trek

Key Points

Start At

Kathmandu

Duration

14 days

Trekking Grade

Moderate to Strenuous

Accommodation

Hotel/ Teahouse

Max. Altitude

5160

Activity

Trekking

Meals

B.L.D

Best Season

April – June

End At

Kathmandu

Trip Overview

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path adventures. Set around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, this route combines spectacular Himalayan scenery, traditional villages, and fascinating cultural experiences. Compared with the busier Everest and Annapurna trails, the region offers a quieter and more authentic experience for travelers looking to explore Nepal’s remote mountain landscapes.

Explore the Remote Manaslu Region

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola before following the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, terraced farmland, suspension bridges, and peaceful settlements. As the trail gains elevation, the landscape gradually changes from green valleys to alpine terrain. Along the way, trekkers encounter welcoming communities, traditional homes, Buddhist monasteries, and ancient cultural traditions.

Discover Himalayan Landscapes and Mountain Views

One of the highlights is the remarkable variety of scenery throughout the route. The trail passes through dramatic river valleys, dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain. As you move higher, impressive views of Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and other snow-covered peaks create unforgettable moments. The changing landscapes also provide excellent opportunities for photography and nature exploration.

Cross the Larke La Pass

The most challenging section is the ascent to Larke La Pass (5,160 m). Reaching the summit requires good preparation and proper acclimatization, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding Himalayas. After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward the Marsyangdi Valley, where the scenery changes once again.

Culture, Nature, and Adventure

Beyond the mountain views, this Himalayan journey offers meaningful encounters with local communities and their way of life. Trekkers can experience Buddhist traditions, visit historic monasteries, and learn about the customs that have shaped the region for generations. The combination of remote landscapes, cultural richness, and physical challenge makes this route an excellent choice for adventurous travelers.

With its peaceful trails, diverse scenery, and authentic mountain experiences, the Manaslu Circuit Trek provides a memorable alternative to Nepal’s more crowded trekking routes.

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

30–45 minutes drive

📏 Total Distance

Airport transfer only

⚠️ 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

8–9 hours drive

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 160 km

⚠️ 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

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 16 km

⚠️ 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 from Jagat to Deng (1860m / 6102 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

Deng (1,860 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

18–20 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

Today’s trail is mixed with stone steps, narrow paths, and forest sections. Comfortable trekking shoes and steady pacing are important.

Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630m / 8629 ft)

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Manaslu region, where the scenery becomes more dramatic and the cultural atmosphere more Tibetan. The trail passes through small villages, forests, mani walls, and prayer wheels. You will cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times and climb gradually through beautiful landscapes. As you gain altitude, you may begin to see impressive mountain views and traditional stone houses. Namrung is a beautiful village with mountain views and a peaceful environment, making it a great place to rest after the day’s walk.

📍 Starting Point

Deng (1,860 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Namrung (2,630 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

18–19 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude starts to increase from this day, so walk slowly and avoid rushing. Drink enough water and inform your guide if you feel headache or dizziness.

Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3180m / 10433 ft)

The walk from Namrung to Lho is one of the most scenic sections of the lower Manaslu region. The trail passes through beautiful villages such as Lihi and Sho, where you can see traditional houses, barley fields, mani walls, and prayer flags. As you move higher, the views of Manaslu and nearby peaks become more impressive. Lho is a stunning village known for its monastery and breathtaking mountain views. After reaching Lho, you can rest or visit the local monastery in the evening.

📍 Starting Point

Namrung (2,630 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Lho (3,180 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10–12 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

This is a shorter trekking day, which helps with gradual acclimatization. Take time to enjoy the mountain views and avoid unnecessary fast walking.

Day 7: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3530m / 11581 ft)

Today’s trail offers spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. You will pass through Shyala, a beautiful village surrounded by mountains and open landscapes. The route is relatively shorter but visually very rewarding. As you approach Samagaun, the valley becomes wider, and the village appears with traditional houses, monasteries, and mountain backdrops. Samagaun is one of the most important villages on the Manaslu Circuit and a key place for acclimatization before moving higher.

📍 Starting Point

Lho (3,180 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samagaun (3,530 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

8–10 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

Even though the walking time is shorter, the altitude is now above 3,500 meters. Keep the pace slow and avoid overexertion.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun

Today is an important acclimatization day in Samagaun. You can spend the day exploring the village, visiting the monastery, or taking an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa, depending on your fitness and weather conditions. The purpose of this day is to help your body adjust to the altitude before continuing towards Samdo and Larkya La Pass. Samagaun offers beautiful mountain views, peaceful cultural surroundings, and a chance to learn more about the local lifestyle of the Manaslu region.

📍 Starting Point

Samagaun (3,530 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samagaun (3,530 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–7 hours optional hike

📏 Total Distance

Optional hike around Samagaun

⚠️ Important Note

Acclimatization is very important for safety. Follow your guide’s advice, walk slowly, and return to Samagaun for overnight rest.

Day 9: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3875m / 12713 ft)

After proper acclimatization in Samagaun, the trek continues towards Samdo. The trail is shorter but gradually gains altitude as it follows open landscapes, yak grazing areas, and beautiful mountain scenery. The route feels more remote and peaceful as you move closer to the Tibetan border region. Samdo is a traditional village with strong Tibetan cultural influence and impressive views of surrounding peaks. After reaching Samdo, you can rest and explore the village slowly.

📍 Starting Point

Samagaun (3,530 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Samdo (3,875 m)

⏱️ Duration

3–4 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

8–9 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

This is a short trekking day, but the altitude is high. Avoid walking too fast and keep your body warm, especially in the evening.

Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4460m / 14632 ft)

Today you will trek from Samdo to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail gradually climbs through dry and rugged high-altitude landscapes. The environment becomes colder and more remote as you move closer to the base of Larkya La Pass. This is a short but important day because you need enough rest before the long and challenging pass-crossing day. After reaching Dharamsala, you will have an early dinner and prepare your gear for the next morning.

📍 Starting Point

Samdo (3,875 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

7–8 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

Accommodation at Dharamsala is basic, and it can be very cold. Keep warm clothes, gloves, headlamp, snacks, and water ready for the next day.

Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass and Trek to Bimthang (3590m / 11778 ft)

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You will start early in the morning and gradually climb towards Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek at around 5,160 meters. From the pass, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and other Himalayan peaks. After spending some time at the top, the trail descends steeply towards Bimthang. The long descent can be tiring, but the mountain views and sense of achievement make this day unforgettable.

📍 Starting Point

Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Bimthang (3,590 m)

⏱️ Duration

8–10 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 22–24 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

Start early, wear warm layers, and carry enough water and snacks. The pass can be windy, snowy, or icy depending on the season, so follow your guide carefully.

Day 12: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1860m / 6102 ft)

After crossing Larkya La Pass, today’s trail descends through beautiful forests, riverside paths, and traditional villages. The landscape changes quickly from high alpine scenery to greener valleys. You will pass through places like Yak Kharka, Gho, and Tilije before continuing towards Dharapani. This section is peaceful and scenic, with excellent views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Dharapani is connected with the Annapurna Circuit route and has better facilities compared to the higher villages.

📍 Starting Point

Bimthang (3,590 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dharapani (1,860 m)

⏱️ Duration

7–8 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 20–22 km trek

⚠️ Important Note

The trail includes long downhill walking, so trekking poles can be very helpful. Walk carefully to protect your knees and avoid slipping.

Day 13: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Today you will drive back from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The journey usually begins with a jeep ride through rough mountain roads towards Besisahar, followed by a drive along the highway back to the capital city. The route passes through rivers, hills, villages, and scenic countryside. After many days in the mountains, returning to Kathmandu feels comfortable and refreshing. Once you arrive, you can rest at your hotel or enjoy a final evening in the city.

📍 Starting Point

Dharapani (1,860 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

9–11 hours drive

📏 Total Distance

220–240 km drive

⚠️ Important Note

The drive is long and road conditions can vary. It is better to start early in the morning to reach Kathmandu on time.

Day 14: Final Departure from Kathmandu

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

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 keep your passport, flight ticket, and travel documents ready. Airport reporting time is usually recommended at least 3 hours before international departure.

Route Map

No altitude chart data found.

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Duration:14 days

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