Manaslu Circuit
Overview:
Starting at Machhakhola (859m), the trail gradually ascends through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and traditional villages where trekkers encounter warm hospitality from the indigenous Gurung and Tibetan communities. The lower elevations are characterized by terraced farmlands and verdant hills, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the towering Himalayan range. As the trek progresses, the scenery transforms into a dramatic alpine wilderness. Trekkers traverse through picturesque settlements such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon, each offering unique cultural insights and breathtaking mountain views. The highlight of the journey is reaching the Larkya La Pass, an awe-inspiring ascent that rewards adventurers with unparalleled panoramic vistas of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Tour Highlights
- Mount Manaslu (8,163m) – The Soul of the Region
- Remote and Less Crowded Trails
- Manaslu Conservation Area – A Haven for Wildlife
- Authentic Cultural Encounters
- Larkya La Pass (5,180m) and Breath taking View of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II
- Diverse and Dramatic Landscapes
- Tea Houses and Homestays – Living the Local Way
Tour Facts
- Total Duration: 16 Days
- Trek Duration: 11 Days
- Maximum Elevation: 5,180m (Larkya La Pass)
- Trek Grading: Moderate to Strenuous
- Best Season: March – June & September – November
- Starting/Ending Points: Machhakhola / Dharapani
- Accommodation: 4 Nights in Hotels, 11 Nights in Guest Houses
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
- Arrival in Kathmandu
- Warm Nepali Welcome – Receive a heartfelt greeting from our Karnali Excursions representative at the airport
- First Impressions of Kathmandu – Enjoy a short drive through the bustling streets of the city
- Comfortable Hotel Check-in – Arrive at your hotel, check in, and take some time to relax and refresh
- Overnight Stay in Kathmandu
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Breakfast / Refreshments
Day 02: Half Day Sightseeing in Kathmandu, Trek Briefing and Preparation
- Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a living museum of medieval Nepal, with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and the Holy Bagmati River, where Hindu pilgrims perform rituals and cremation rites.
- Ascend to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) for breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley and a serene spiritual experience.
OR
- Experience the tranquil ambiance of Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
- Immerse yourself in Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage before your trek begins.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Breakfast / Refreshments
Day 03: Drive to Machhakhola
- Scenic Drive Through Nepal – Embark on a mesmerizing drive from Kathmandu, transitioning from the lively cityscape to the peaceful Himalayan foothills.
- Arughat Bazaar – Stop at the vibrant market of Arughat, where rural life unfolds amidst terraced fields and bustling local trade.
- Nature’s Embrace – Continue through bamboo groves, traditional settlements, and lush forests, with the soothing sounds of nature accompanying your journey.
- Arrive at Machhakhola – Reach this peaceful riverside village, nestled in the heart of the hills, the perfect retreat to unwind after a day of exploration.
- Overnight Stay in Machhakhola – Relax and rejuvenate in this tranquil setting, ready for the adventures ahead.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 410m
- Down Hill: 80m
- Distance: 160km
- Duration: 5hrs
Trek Begins
Day 04: Trek to Jagat (990m)
- Budi Gandaki River’s Rhythm – Follow the winding path alongside the river, crossing suspension bridges with stunning views of cascading waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.
- Immersed in Nature – Trek through lush forests and terraced hillsides, where each step brings you closer to Nepal’s untamed beauty.
- Tatopani Hot Springs – Take a rejuvenating break at the natural hot springs of Tatopani, soothing your muscles with the warm, bubbling waters.
- Villages and Scenic Views – Continue through peaceful villages, where stone houses dot the landscape, and the air is filled with the serenity of the Himalayas.
- Arrive at Jagat – Reach the charming stone-paved settlement of Jagat, nestled in the hills, offering a tranquil end to the day’s journey.
- Overnight Stay in Jagat – Relax and soak in the quiet beauty of this Himalayan village as you prepare for the next adventure.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 730m
- Down Hill: 100m
- Distance: 20km
- Duration: 7hrs
Day 05: Trek Deng (1700m)
- Breathtaking Gorge Views – Trek through a dramatic narrowing of the valley, where towering cliffs and the roaring Budi Gandaki River create a stunning natural spectacle.
- Tibetan-Inspired Villages – Experience the rich Tibetan culture as you pass villages with stone houses, fluttering prayer flags, and fields of buckwheat, maize, and barley.
- Vertigo-Inducing Trails – Navigate sections of exposed trail clinging to steep hillsides, offering jaw-dropping views of the river below.
- Highland Wilderness – Journey through serene pine forests, moss-covered boulders, and the occasional chorten, each adding to the tranquility of the landscape.
- Arrive in Deng – After an exhilarating day of trekking, reach the peaceful village of Deng, a serene sanctuary amidst the rugged highlands, where the ancient mountain air envelops you in calm.
- Overnight Stay in Deng – Rest and rejuvenate in this quiet village, a perfect retreat after a captivating day of exploration.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 550m
- Down Hill: 80m
- Distance: 22km
- Duration: 9hrs
Day 06: Acclimatization Day
- Himalayan Retreat – Enjoy a peaceful day of rest amidst towering cliffs and serene pine forests, allowing both body and mind to acclimatize to the high altitude.
- Crisp Fresh Air – Breathe in the invigorating mountain air, mingling with the distant hum of fluttering prayer flags, setting the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.
- Cultural Immersion – Wander through charming stone-paved paths, interact with friendly locals, and soak in the Tibetan-influenced culture that defines this quiet village.
- Tranquil Vibes – Sit back and watch the mist roll over the valley, letting the calm beauty of your surroundings rejuvenate you for the journey ahead.
- Preparation for the Journey – Use this day to harmonize with the environment, ensuring you’re physically and mentally ready to continue the trek into the heart of the Himalayas.
- Overnight Stay in Deng – Rest in the peaceful embrace of Deng, a perfect setting to recharge for the adventure ahead.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: BLD
Day 07: Trek to Namrung (2650m)
- Vast Himalayan Beauty – Ascend from Deng into an expansive landscape where towering peaks dominate the horizon, offering an ever-changing panorama of raw mountain majesty.
- Bridges & Settlements – Cross suspension bridges over the Budi Gandaki River, passing through quaint villages where life moves at a serene, timeless pace.
- Tibetan Charm – Feel the gentle breeze of spinning prayer wheels and witness the resilience of villagers tending to fields nurtured by ancient water channels, preserving traditions that have stood for centuries.
- Aromatic Pine & Juniper – The cool, crisp air of the Himalayas greets you as you pass cascading streams and stone-built hamlets, filled with the calming scent of pine and juniper.
- Spiritual Elevation – With every step, the landscape elevates your spirit, reaching the charming village of Namrung, nestled under snow-capped peaks, offering a warm Tibetan welcome.
- Overnight Stay in Namrung – Rest and recharge in the tranquil embrace of Namrung, the gateway to the heart of the high Himalayas.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 1100m
- Down Hill: 0m
- Distance: 19km
- Duration: 7hrs
Day 08: Trek to Syala (3300m)
- Majestic Ascent – Embark on a breathtaking journey to Syala, where each step unveils an ever more awe-inspiring landscape, carved by time and ice.
- Serene Forests & Himalayan Meadows – Wander through serene forests and meadows, where the beauty of the natural world unfolds, drawing you deeper into the heart of the Himalayas.
- Snow-Capped Glory – Reach a stunning amphitheater of snow-covered peaks, with the towering Manaslu standing tall in silent grandeur, its glacial slopes gleaming in the crisp mountain sunlight.
- Frozen Cascades – Gaze upon distant ice cliffs, their frozen cascades showcasing nature’s raw, untamed beauty.
- Panoramic Views – Steady your climb with panoramic vistas that stretch across an untouched, wild world—a true reward for the trekker’s spirit.
- Solitude & Awe – As you arrive in Syala, feel the profound peace of being surrounded by towering summits and the hum of the high Himalayas, a place of solitude and reverence.
- Overnight Stay in Syala – Rest beneath the shadow of majestic peaks, where the mountain’s quiet energy restores your body and spirit.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 1100m
- Down Hill: 350m
- Distance: 16.5km
- Duration: 5hrs
Day 09: Trek to Samdo (3850m)
- Expansive Wilderness – Journey deeper into the heart of the Manaslu region, where the valley opens up into a vast, breathtaking wilderness, inviting you to explore its endless beauty.
- Majestic Peaks – The trail meanders through broad meadows and rugged terrain, with distant peaks offering their majestic presence at every turn, creating a constant awe-inspiring backdrop.
- Serene Pastures – Walk through peaceful pastures and past ancient stone walls, where history whispers in the crisp mountain air, adding a sense of timelessness to the journey.
- Rising Altitude – Feel the sense of altitude grow as the remote beauty of the high Himalayas surrounds you, making every step a reminder of the rugged landscape you are crossing.
- Tranquil Samdo – Reach Samdo, a quiet village nestled at the foot of towering summits, where the vast, serene surroundings evoke a profound stillness, allowing for deep reflection.
- Overnight Stay in Samdo – Rest in the embrace of this tranquil village, surrounded by towering peaks, and experience the peaceful solitude of the high Himalayas.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 330m
- Down Hill: 100m
- Distance: 16.4km
- Duration: 4hrs
Day 10: Rest and Acclimatization Day
- Tranquil Escape – Embrace a well-deserved pause in Samdo, where the surrounding towering peaks create a serene, timeless atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and altitude adjustment.
- Gentle Exploration – For the curious adventurer, a peaceful walk northward towards the Tibet border offers a rare chance to explore the rugged terrain and experience the raw beauty of this remote region.
- Whispers of Tibet – As you wander closer to the Tibetan frontier, feel the winds carry the stories of distant lands, and behold the silent guardians of the Himalayas standing watch over this isolated area.
- Village Sanctuary – Return to the tranquil haven of Samdo, where the peaceful solitude of the village is amplified by the vast and awe-inspiring mountains surrounding it.
- Overnight Stay in Samdo – Rest and rejuvenate in this serene village, reflecting on the majestic landscape and the journey that has brought you closer to the heart of the Himalayas.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 1260m
- Down Hill: 1260m
- Distance: 19.5km
- Duration: 8hrs
Day 11: Trek to Dharamsala(4450m)
- Serene Ascent – Enjoy a gentle yet significant climb to Dharamsala, nestled at 4,450 meters, offering breathtaking views as the mighty peaks of the Manaslu range draw closer.
- Himalayan Tranquility – Wander through peaceful alpine meadows and rugged terrain, surrounded by the calm beauty of the high Himalayas—perfect for reflection and rejuvenation before the big challenge ahead.
- Crisp Mountain Air – Breathe in the refreshing mountain air as you arrive at Dharamsala, a serene camping spot where the stillness of the surroundings invites rest and preparation.
- Base for the Larkya La Crossing – With the Larkya La pass just around the corner, this peaceful day offers the perfect opportunity to gather strength and anticipation for the demanding adventure that lies ahead.
- Overnight Stay in Dharamsala – Rest in the tranquil haven of Dharamsala, the calm before the storm, as you prepare for the exhilarating journey to cross Larkya La.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 630m
- Distance: 6.1km
- Duration: 3hrs
Day 12: Trek to Bimtang (3720m) via Larkya La (5123m)
- The Ultimate Challenge – Conquer the Larkya La pass at 5,123 meters, the crowning achievement of your trek, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and glittering glaciers in every direction.
- Pre-Dawn Start – Begin your day early to avoid the fierce midday winds, setting off before the sun rises and embracing the tranquility of the high Himalayas.
- Exhausting Ascent, Rewarding Descent – Push through the demanding climb to Larkya La, then descend through breathtaking landscapes, feeling the rush of accomplishment as the towering peaks fade into the distance.
- Unmatched Views – At the pass, marvel at the sweeping vistas of the rugged terrain and expansive glaciers, a moment of awe that will stay with you long after the trek ends.
- Bimtang’s Serenity – Arrive in Bimtang, a peaceful sanctuary nestled in the valley, where the warmth of the air and the quiet beauty offer a perfect end to one of the trek’s most memorable days.
- Overnight Stay in Bimtang – Rest and reflect on your achievement, surrounded by the serene beauty of Bimtang, a well-earned refuge after the monumental challenge of Larkya La.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Up Hill: 810m
- Down Hill: 1570m
- Distance: 16km
- Duration: 8hrs
Day 13: Trek to Dharapani (1860m)
- Bittersweet Descent– Bid farewell to the high pastures as you begin your descent into lush, vibrant landscapes filled with rhododendron and oak forests, especially stunning during springtime blooms.
- Crossing the Dudh Khola– Experience the thrill of crossing a suspension bridge over the Dudh Khola, connecting the rugged mountains to the softer, greener valley below.
- Vibrant Forests– Immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of colors as the trail winds through the vibrant forests of rhododendron and oak, offering a sensory feast for the eyes and spirit.
- View of Annapurna– Arrive in Dharapani, where the wilderness of Manaslu gives mesmerizing view of the majestic Annapurna peaks, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas.
- Overnight Stay in Dharapani– Rest and reflect in Dharapani, the peaceful village nestled at the foot of Annapurna, offering a moment of calm and a sense of accomplishment after your incredible trek.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: BLD
- Down Hill: 1800m
- Distance: 20km
- Duration: 8hrs
Return to Kathmandu
Day 14: Adventurous Drive to Kathmandu
- Scenic Drive Back – After two weeks of epic trekking, enjoy a thrilling 10-hour drive through dramatic landscapes, where the rugged mountains slowly give way to the vibrant valley below.
- Reflective Journey – Pass by familiar villages and terrain, offering nostalgic glimpses of the route you trekked, allowing for moments of reflection on the challenges and triumphs of the journey.
- Breathtaking Vistas – Marvel at the stunning vistas along the road—deep river valleys, terraced fields, and rolling hills—all adding to the beauty of the adventure’s final stretch.
- Return to Kathmandu – As the vibrant skyline of Kathmandu reappears on the horizon, the drive marks a peaceful end to your Himalayan journey, leaving you with memories of the high mountains forever etched in your heart.
- Overnight Stay in Kathmandu – Relax and unwind in Kathmandu, completing your trek with a comfortable stay in the heart of the city.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
- Distance: 220km
- Duration: 10hrs
Day 15: Leisure, Relax or Exploration of World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley (Optional)
- Relax and Reflect – Enjoy a leisurely day to unwind and reflect on your Himalayan adventure, taking in the serene atmosphere of Kathmandu after an unforgettable journey.
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kathmandu Valley. Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square for medieval architecture and vibrant local life or explore Patan Durbar Square, a masterpiece of Nepali art and architecture.
- Cultural Immersion – Wander through centuries-old temples, pagodas, and intricately carved statues that tell the tales of Nepal’s artistic heritage.
- Unwind in the Heart of Kathmandu – Whether exploring or simply relaxing, this day offers the perfect balance of rest and discovery, providing a peaceful end to your adventure.
- Overnight Stay in Kathmandu – Enjoy a comfortable evening, reflecting on the incredible trek and preparing for your next adventure.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
Day 12: Trip Concludes
- Departure from Kathmandu – As your unforgettable adventure concludes, head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your return flight, carrying the essence of the Himalayas with you.
- Memories to Last a Lifetime – Reflect on the awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultures, and transformative experiences that made this journey truly special.
- A Deep Connection to the Himalayas – Bid farewell to Nepal, leaving with a profound bond to the mountains that will stay in your heart forever.
Cost, Includes & Excludes
Cost Includes:
- All ground transportation, including airport pick-up and transfers.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis with bed and breakfast.
- Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with all entry fees covered.
- Best available local lodge accommodation during the trek.
- English-speaking trekking guide.
- Three meals a day during the trek.
- Conservation fee.
- Well-insured and fully equipped supporting staff.
Cost Does Not Includes:
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Travel insurance.
- Major meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu.
- Rescue charges if needed.
- Medical expenses, if treatment is required.
- Personal equipment (e.g., shoes, clothing, etc.).
- Personal expenses.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Any other expenses not explicitly mentioned above.
Trip Extension
Do you wish to extend your trip to include more time, additional destinations, or both? Let us know and we’ll help you plan it out.
(These trips can also be extended or modified to fit your schedule.)
To view our Trip Extension options, please take a quick look at our Trip Extensions menu.
