Highlights

  • Still a relatively unspoiled trekking destination but gaining in popularity
  • Fantastic views of Mt. Manaslu and other high mountains in the area, and of the Annapurna range from Larke La pass (5160m)
  • Diverse landscapes from the lower areas with diverse vegetation into alpine regions
  • Traditional Tibetan-style villages and lifestyle
  • Explore the traditional unspoiled lifestyle of the people in the area
  • Rich flora and fauna, including blue sheep and the rare snow leopard
  • Old monasteries

About Manaslu Circuit Trek - 13 days

The Manaslu Circuit Trek or Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is probably the most popular route in a restricted area after Upper Mustang. Starting at Macchekhola in the Budi Gandaki river valley in the Gorkha district it runs in a counter-clockwise loop north around the Manaslu range and then joins up with the Annapurna circuit trail in the Marsyangdi river valley. 

As it starts at a relatively low altitude, around 900 meters, we pass through very different types of vegetation and landscapes on our way up to the highest point – Larke La passes at 51m. We trek along the Budi Gandaki River, crossing several suspension bridges on the way, past terraced farmlands. Then slowly reaching more alpine areas and coniferous forests and then into a rugged mountainous landscape that has been shaped by retreating glaciers.

We still find traditional villages on the way with varying ethnicities and lifestyles as we move from the lower hilly areas into the mountain regions that are inhabited by people of Tibetan origin. We have the option of visiting some of the Tibetan Buddhist monasteries on the way.

As we gain altitude, and the landscape starts opening up from the narrower river valley, we get good views of the impressive peak of Mt. Manaslu in the distance that we are trekking towards and will be passing on its east side, at its base. We stop at Sama (3520m) for an acclimatization day. On this day we can either trek to the Manaslu base camp or hike to Pungyen Glacier and Pungyen Gompa. We actually recommend hiking to Pungyen as this is more interesting and offers great views of the Manaslu southwest face and the glacier below.

The day we cross Larke La pass is physically challenging as it is a long walking day with a steep descent across rugged trails. The spectacular view from the pass is rewarding though, as we look from east to west across mountain landscapes and white peaks, the Manaslu range now to our south, and the massive Annapurna range appearing in the west. 

The last trekking day takes us through different vegetation again, including rhododendron forests that cover the landscape in various colors in the spring season. At Dharapani the Manaslu circuit trail meets the Annapurna circuit trail and our trek ends here.

Unless you have not yet had enough trekking and more time at hand, we take a vehicle to Besisahar and back to Kathmandu (or wherever your next destination is).
Please contact us at Himalayan Ecological Trekking for more details about the route and let us help you plan your trip. 

Itinerary

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Day 1: Pick up from airport transfer to the Hotel

Our representative will you pick you up at the Airport and drop your Hotel. Then, our representative will explain about the plans for sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation3 star category Hotel
  • Mealsup to your choose
  • PlaceKathmandu
  • Max. Altitude1375 m

After breakfast, we start our voyage through four stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These incorporate the structurally rich Durbar Square, the holy Hindu sanctuary of Pashupati Nath, the intriguing 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambunath), and Buddha Nath Stupa which is one of the biggest stupas on the planet. Subsequent to finishing our visit late in the evening, we drive to the Himalayan Ecological Trekking office for a concise meeting about our trek and to become more acquainted with our group pioneer (guide) and kindred explorers.

  • Accommodation3 star category Standard Hotel
  • Mealsup to your choose
  • PlaceKathmandu
  • Max. Altitude1375 m

We set off early today for Sotikhola. Amid the drive, we appreciate perspectives of the Nepalese farmland alongside the mountain landscapes. We will be driving on a cleared street from Kathmandu to Dhading Bensi, the area headquarters of Dhading (1050m)but the drive from Dhanding Bensi to Arughat will be on a harsh street. After achieving Arughat, a noteworthy town in the area we drive assist onto an edge above colossal rapids on the Budhi Gandaki. Overnight in Soti Khola.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceMachhekhopla
  • Max. Altitude900 m

The restricted track encounters a few minor peaks and valleys, passes the Thado Khola in the long journey, and eventually arrives in Khorlabesi. We come across a small hot spring in Tatopani. We proceed from the hot spring over another edge and then, via a suspension bridge, cross the Budhi Gandaki. At this intersection, we take a broad, all-around staircase that leads over a Landslide and over a cliff to Dobhan is our lunch place. We cross the Yaru Khola, ascend some stone steps, descend to the river, and then climb more stone steps to reach Tharo Bharyang. We cross a ledge and go along the stream as we approach the Budhi Gandaki's west side onto an edge above colossal rapids on the Budhi Gandaki.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceJagat
  • Max. Altitude1340 m

We begin the current hike by crossing a rocky edge to Salleri, and then we descend to Sirdibas. As the trail ascends to Ghatta Khola, the valley enlarges a little. Additionally, we continue to walk upstream to Philim, a sizable Gurung settlement, where there is a lengthy suspension bridge. The track just traverses the smallest house in the community before turning north, staying on a truly flat path as it crosses millet fields to reach Ekle Bhatti is our lunch break. The path now travels across a perilous, Waterfall, an uninhabited abyss. Now we descend to the lush land slopes, bridge the Budhi Gandaki, walk along the west bank for a while, cross to the east bank, and then return once more. As we move through the trail the valley enlarges and we go through bamboo, pine, and mix forest backwoods to the Deng Khola. After the intersection of the Khola, we achieve the modest village of Deng.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceDeng
  • Max. Altitude1860 m

We proceed to Rana at 1910m after a little hike via Deng and across the Budhi Gandaki. We ascend a little from the scaffold to reach a track leading from Bhi, where we proceed west along the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through mani and forests before turning onto a bend that leads to Ghap village our lunch place. We follow the route through Prok town even if there is another option. In addition, we pass several gompas today as we travel across the Budi Gandaki. The trail finishes the creek upstream of a forested area. The creek crosses at a notable location after the intersection, where it thunders down a tight crevasse, the woods turns out to be less thick and the trail is fine once more. The wonderful walk proceeds and after the last soak climb we achieve Namrung.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceNamrung
  • Max. Altitude2630 m

Siringe, Rukur, and Ganesh Himal may be seen from Namrung village, and Mt. Himal Chuli can be seen in the distance to the south. We continue to rise, pass through the countryside, and eventually arrive in Lihi, a lovely town with many Chortens and grain terraces. With Ganesh Himal always nearby, the trail descends and traverses the Himalchuli Himal side valley. We go through Sho Village as well, in order to get to Lho Village we have a nice lunch break with a beautiful view of Mt. Manaslu. We explore the well-known Ribung Gompa and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, and at the far end stands Ganesh Himal. The present voyage closes in Shyala village where we spend the night. 

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceShyala
  • Max. Altitude3530 m

It is named after Manaslu; Pungyen means wristband and is a wonderful representation of the two pinnacles. It was destroyed a year after the first futile Japanese attempt to climb Manaslu. The locals believed that the ascent enraged the heavenly powers, and when the Japanese came a year later they encountered a lot of resistance that they needed to abandon their quest. In 1959, they finally began to bear fruit. We learn about the extensive Tibetan culture. We like how there are lots of mani stones with Buddhist symbols and messages, and we like how the Tibetan women are dressed traditionally. A historic Gompa is located nearby Sama town on a little slope. We go to Sama Gau through the Pungen Gumba for the Acclimatization Day climb; in order to get to Sama village, we'll need to bring more water and a packed lunch.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceSama
  • Max. Altitude3530 m

We acclimatize at Samagaon throughout this walk to get used to the thin air as we would have reached a greater elevation. We won't just sit around; instead, we'll explore Samagaun. You will undoubtedly notice the inhabitants' ways of living and encounter their culture. In addition, there are other choices, such as a hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp. A glacial lake called Birendra Tal features tremendous ice falls into the water. Samagaon is a fascinating place for acclimatization day.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceSama
  • Max. Altitude3520 m

The Budhi Gandaki River has swung north today, and it follows us to a bridge over a small stream. The Manaslu Base Camp is indicated by the trail to the side. As the valley widens, the Larkya la Trail crosses a couple of mani dividers. A straightforward path crosses the stream through Kermo Kharka's juniper and birch woodlands. We dismount the rack, use a wooden extension to bridge the Budhi Gandaki, and then scramble steeply up onto a ledge that stands between two branches of the creek. We can see a massive white kani emerging from a stone curve. Finally, after navigating the kani, we come across Samdo as our Lunch and overnight.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceSamdo
  • Max. Altitude3875 m

In fact, we continue to walk along the border till today after crossing the Budi Gandaki and beginning to go higher. We round the Salka Khola valley after crossing two streams and viewing the Larkya Glacier before climbing once more to the stone visitor house (4450 m), also known as Larke Phedi and referred to as Dharamshala. This building is not a hotel but rather a kind of asylum. A lot of time is left for acclimatization and relaxation as you approach the Dharmasala thanks to today's short stroll.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceDharamsala
  • Max. Altitude4460 m

We ascend in the direction of the valley on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers, from which we may enjoy breathtaking views of Larkya Peak. Finally, we move across the ice sheet's moraines as we slowly rise, becoming notably more difficult only in the final section of the pass. Amazing views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and the massive Annapurna II and Glacier are available while traveling. Although it is a longer day than usual for Bimtang we need to carry some packed lunch and chocolate bars, it is fascinating to meander through these low fields as the night falls and Mt. Manaslu approaches in the distance. 

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceBimthang
  • Max. Altitude3790 m

We may enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal from a cliff near Bimthang. We continue to descend and cross Sange Kharka, a high field that is followed by an extension over Surki Khola's lunch break. We travel through alpine, and rhododendron forests and complete a trail in a little valley until we arrive at Karche, the highest point of development in the valley at 2785 meters. Before making a risky move over an edge, we travel crosswise over fields. The trail descends off the slope in a sizable, open circular portion to the bank of the river at 2580 meters. The town of Gho is just past and not far away. We may spend the night at Gho to recover from our exhaustion from yesterday.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceGho
  • Max. Altitude2515 m

We cross a small ledge and take in the stone-cleared trail as it passes through a lovely community. At that time, we cross Dudh Khola, ascend a chorten-shaped curve, pass a mani divider, and arrive at the town of Tilche. We encounter a police checkpoint in the town and in Dharapani. From Dharapani, we entered the Annapurna circuit section.

One has the possibility to enjoy both mountain and slope scenery on the route from Dharapani to Besi Sahar. The Marsyangdi I streams' banks are frequently traversed during the drive. Additionally, we pass through several lovely Water Falls, towns with porches for gardening on both sides of the road. We will be escorted to our accommodation in Besi Sahar.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • Mealsmenu
  • PlaceBesisahar
  • Max. Altitude760 m

The Marsyangdi and Trishuli streams' banks are frequently traversed during the drive. Additionally, we pass through several lovely towns with porches for gardening on both sides of the road. We will be escorted to our accommodation in Kathmandu. The day in Kathmandu might be used for leisure activities or perhaps catching up on some extremely late shopping. We shall have a farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful conclusion of our tour. Spend the night in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation3-star category Hotel
  • Mealsup to your choose
  • PlaceKathmandu
  • Max. Altitude1375 m

Today marks the end of our Nepali expedition. You will be dropped off by a representative of Himalayan Ecological Trekking at the Tribhuwan International Airport a few hours prior to the scheduled flight.

    What's Included

    • Airport pick up and drop all with tour planning
    • Three nights standard hotel with BB plan in the Kathmandu
    • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
    • During the trek all meals:- Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner
    • Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner
    • All Government paperwork with Manaslu special permit and MCAP ACAP conservation fees
    • Company Duffel bag
    • Private Jeep to Machha Khola and Kathmandu from Besi Shahar
    • Local Jeep reserve from Dharapani to Besi Shahar
    • Insurance and Equipment for Nepali crew
    • Government license holder Trekking Guide and Porter (2 Trekker = I porter)
    • Guided city tour of Kathmandu Valley with a private vehicle and entrance fee 
    • Medical Kit ( first add box)
    • All government and local taxes
    • Nepali visa fee
    • Personal expenses
    • Travel and Rescue insurance
    • Personal expenses (Eg: Battery charge, alcohol and any bottled drink, Toilet paper, Wi-Fi Hot shower, boiled hot water
    • City meals ( Lunch and Dinner) and Extra night due to early arrival from trekking overstay compare to itinerary any reason
    • Tips for Guide, Porter, and Driver ( all Crew)
    • Money wire charge

    Useful Information

    1.    Where is the Manaslu region?
    Mount Manaslu is the world’s eighth highest peak, lying in the Nepal Himalayas just east of the Annapurna range in the west-central part of Nepal, about 100 km northwest of Kathmandu. 
    The Manaslu circuit trek starts in Macchekhola in Gorkha district, southeast of Mt. Manaslu, and it runs in a counter-clockwise loop north around the Manaslu range. At its end, it joins the Annapurna circuit route at Dharapani. Normally you would then return by vehicle via Besisahar. If you have time and want to continue trekking, you could continue into the Annapurna trekking region from here. 

    2.    What is the best time for the Manaslu circuit trek?
    The best seasons to trek in Manaslu are autumn and spring. A little cold weather at night but warm and clear days and clear views of the spectacular mountain ranges. Often clouds appear in the afternoon, creating an interesting atmosphere and different but not less stunning views of the mountains.

    3.    How difficult is the Manaslu trek?
    The Manaslu circuit trek is considered moderately difficult. The trail slowly ascends into the mountain areas, and we slowly gain altitude. Some of the walking days may be lengthy, particularly the day when crossing the Larke - La pass is a long day and you need to be able to walk on rugged, steep terrain. 

    4.    Can I do a trek without a guide?
    Trekking in most of the Manaslu area without a guide is not possible. It is a restricted zone and as per the law of the Nepal government, a licensed guide and special permit are compulsory for the safety and security of trekkers. 

    5.    What kind of permit is required for the Manaslu circuit trek?
    Travelling to the Manaslu region requires a special permit and a group of at least two trekkers. Because the trekking region is in a remote part of Nepal and is relatively high in altitude, there is a risk that trekkers get lost or suffer from altitude sickness. To avoid these situations, the Nepalese government has made a guide and special permit compulsory for trekking in this region.
    You will need three permits for this trek in fact:
    •    Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit)
    •    Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)
    •    Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)

    6.    What is the cost of the required permits and fees for the Manaslu circuit trek?
    •    Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit): the cost varies according to the season. From  September to November it is USD 70 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 10. The rest of the year (December-August) costs USD 75 for 7 days and each extra day costs USD 10, another season cost 100 USD for 7 days and each extra day costs 10 USD.  
    •    Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit): 3000 NPR
    •    Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit): 3000 NPR

    7.    How high is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
    The highest point on the trek is Larke La Pass (5106m), which we cross towards the end of the trek when you will have already adjusted to the altitude. The highest point of night stay is at Dharamsala, before the Larke La, at 4460m.

    8.    How can I prevent getting altitude sickness?
    This is a guided trek, and you will be accompanied by one of Nepal's experienced trekking guides who knows how to recognise altitude sickness (as there may be other physical conditions as well with similar symptoms) and who knows what to do. They will take very good care of you. 
    In general, it is important that you climb up slowly and avoid gaining more than 300-500 metres (altitude of night stay) per day. Drink plenty of water and avoid smoking and drinking liquor. If symptoms of altitude sickness are observed, climb slowly or stop for a rest day (depending on intensity) allowing your body to adjust. If symptoms persist and/or get worse, it is important that you move to a lower altitude to avoid life-threatening conditions.

    9.    Food and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
    Because it is a restricted region and still relatively off the beaten path, there are a limited number of simple tea houses on the way although the number has been increasing in the past years. As for food, they will usually provide cereals (muesli mostly), toasted bread, eggs, or pancakes for breakfast, soups, pasta, sandwiches, and potato dishes as well as traditional Nepali daal Bhaat (a dish of rice, lentils and vegetable curry). Although other items are available, we recommend sticking mostly with local food, like daal Bhaat or potatoes, as this is usually safe and people know well how to prepare.

    10.    Is travel insurance required for this trek?
    Yes, travel insurance is a must for those trekking in remote regions of Nepal. It is for trekkers’ own safety and security and is used only in exceptional emergency cases. The insurance should cover medical emergency cases including helicopter evacuation. 
    Also, emergency insurance is required for the crew (guide and porters) as per the Nepal government law. The cost of the crew’s insurance is covered in the total cost of the trek. A serious and responsible trekking agency will ensure that all of its crew members are properly insured and adequately equipped for the trek.