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Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip code MCT-TN
Package name Manaslu Circuit Trek
Duration 14
Max. elevation 5135 m
Level Difficult
Transportation All ground transportation is as per the itinerary. 
Accomodation 3*** star Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House/Lodge during the trek. 
Starts at Kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
Trip route Kathmandu-Aarughat-Soti Khola-Maccha Khola-Dang-Namrung-Sama Gaun-Samdo-Dharmasala-Bhimtang-Dharapani-Besisahar-Kathmandu
Cost USD 1,099 per person

Highlights

Overview

Unique and distinct route in comparison with other Best Trekking in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit trek or Manaslu diversity Trek for Larkela Pass is the best trekking for the ultimate off-the-beaten trekking and completely wilder Himalayan experience. Far from the trekkers' crowd and deep inside the Himalayas, Manaslu is the best trekking destination in Nepal for those who always prefer to go much wild and deeper for the unexplored and hidden natural phenomena. Being unchanged and classic for many years, the Manaslu Circuit trek still offers true classical and cultural trekking and still visitors found the unimaginable Himalayan experience. 

Unlike other trekking that goes long walk only to reach the destination, the Manaslu Circuit trek takes the trekkers every day in a new and unique atmosphere: epic sceneries, glories mountain views, stunning panoramas and vistas, friendly local people and their rich culture and typical hospitality, cultural significance and monument, conserved wildlife, and species, and more. This trek is more physically demanding and still offers the best scenic adventure with exciting thrills and joys. The experienced guides, professionals, explorers, and experts often recognize the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best alternative for the Annapurna Circuit trek in every term: scene, mountain glory, landscapes, culture, monuments, wilderness and remoteness, adventure, and excitement.

The Manaslu region was forbidden and closed to outsiders/tourists till the 90s. It shares the borderline with Tibet and is also one of the major routes for Indo-Tibetan Trade. It is still used for the Nepal-Tibet border crossing. The Manaslu valley is one of the well-known and most popular places in Nepal since the ancient/medieval period. During the 90s, Manaslu was allowed to the limited numbers of trekkers and prior permission was required. With the growth of Tourism and national security, Manaslu diversity Trek for Larkela Pass was allowed for everyone. While the region is still not allowed for solo travelers due to the remoteness, wilderness, forbidden/ abandoned areas, and deserted land. The Special permit is still applicable for visitors. Being a part of the Conservation area, permission from Annapurna Conservation Area Project and Manaslu Conservation Area Project is necessary. At least a guide is required for foreigners to enter this wilder-core Himalayan area. The travelers can imagine how unique and incredible the Manaslu Valley is only with those required permissions. 

Manaslu Valley shares a similar culture and tradition as Tibet and the locals still follow the traditional/ ancient Tibetan culture and faiths. Manaslu Circuit trek is the perfect combination of the Tibetan and Nepalese cultures, two sides of Hospitality, culture, tradition, different lifestyle, and daily rituals, and mostly the front and the back of the Himalayan. Trekkers will have an awesome Himalayan and Trans Himalayan Trekking Experience (both front and back of the Himalayas).

What Makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek Special in 2024/2025?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a captivating adventure that takes you through the pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Manaslu region. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore remote villages, ancient monasteries, diverse ecosystems, and the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. The trek is known for its dramatic scenery, challenging passes, and the distinct culture of the Tibetan-influenced inhabitants. The 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek provides an immersive experience into the untouched beauty and traditions of the Himalayas.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Route and Accessibility
The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins at Soti Khola and ends at Besi Sahar, with the trail winding through varied landscapes including subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrains. The route includes stops at Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, Dharmasala, and the Larkya La Pass. Access to the starting point is typically a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, while the return from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu can be made by road.

Manaslu Conservation Area
The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, which covers 1,663 sq km. Established in 1998, the area is rich in biodiversity, home to endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda. Trekkers will have the chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna, contributing to a unique and enriching trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude
The Manaslu Circuit Trek varies in altitude, starting from about 700 meters (2,297 feet) at Soti Khola to a high point of 5,160 meters (16,929 feet) at Larkya La Pass. Proper acclimatization is crucial to manage the altitude changes effectively and avoid altitude sickness. The diverse altitudes provide stunning, varied landscapes and a rewarding trekking experience.

Altitude Sickness on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Altitude sickness is a concern as the trek reaches heights of up to 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To mitigate altitude sickness:
A) Acclimatize properly with gradual ascent and adequate rest days.
B) Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
C) Be aware of symptoms and descend immediately if they worsen.
D)Proper preparation and awareness ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Safety
Ensuring safety on the Manaslu Circuit trek is paramount. Key safety measures include:
A) Hiring experienced guides and porters for security and local knowledge.
B) Carrying a well-equipped first aid kit.
C) Having comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations.
D) Staying hydrated and following a proper acclimatization schedule.
E) Monitoring health symptoms and descending if they worsen.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Preparation
Proper preparation is crucial. Essential steps include:
A) Engaging in regular cardio and strength training exercises.
B) Undertaking shorter hikes to familiarize yourself with altitude trekking.
C) Packing the right gear.
D) Acquiring necessary permits (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and a restricted area permit).
E) Arranging comprehensive travel insurance.

Getting to Soti Khola
The trek starts from Soti Khola, accessible by a scenic drive from Kathmandu. Public buses and private jeeps offer picturesque views of the countryside and river valleys.

Visa and Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek
A) Visa Requirements: Obtain a visa upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or from a Nepali embassy.
B) Entry Permits: Trekkers must have a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a restricted area permit.
C) Physical Fitness and Preparation for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
D) Fitness Level: Moderate to high fitness required; training with hikes and cardio is recommended.
E) Altitude Sickness: Acclimatization days and gradual ascent help prevent altitude sickness.

Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a culturally rich and moderately to highly challenging trek that offers stunning natural beauty and a rewarding experience. Proper preparation, understanding the weather and altitude challenges, and packing the right gear are essential for a successful trek. Travers Nepal looks forward to hosting your unforgettable adventure in the Manaslu Circuit region in 2024/2025.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal | (D)

As you soar into the sky and approach the bustling city of Kathmandu, a magnificent sight of the valley, the Himalayas, and the step-like fields beneath will greet you. Following the necessary customs procedures, a designated representative will be awaiting your arrival to navigate through the initial culture shock of Kathmandu’s winding and narrow streets, leading you to your lodging. After settling in, venture out and explore one of Kathmandu's most distinguished cultural attractions. In the evening, immerse yourself in the tourist center of Thamel, a favorable location to experience your initial meal, with a plethora of dining options offering both traditional Nepalese and Western dishes.

Day 2 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley | (B)

Today you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the highlights of the Kathmandu Valley, including four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You'll start with a visit to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is perched on a hill overlooking the city. This ancient Buddhist stupa is one of the most sacred sites in Nepal and is surrounded by numerous shrines and temples.

Next, you'll head to Baudhanath, another important Buddhist site and the largest stupa in Nepal. This impressive structure is located in a bustling Tibetan neighborhood and is a hub of religious activity.

After lunch, you'll visit Pashupatinath, a Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world for Hindus.

Finally, you'll explore the historic city of Patan and its Durbar Square, which is home to many temples and palaces from the Malla period. You'll have the opportunity to admire intricate wood carvings, metalwork, and other traditional handicrafts in the area.

In the evening, you'll return to your hotel in Kathmandu to rest and reflect on your incredible journey in Nepal.

Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Machhi Khola via Aarughat | 800m | (B, L, D)

After a satisfying breakfast, the journey westward along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway commences, heading toward the charming village of Machhi Khola before diverting towards the hilltop settlement of Dhading. In route, the drive showcases the scenic beauty of the rural communities, small towns, verdant terraces, and lush hillsides. The once smooth ride will gradually transition into a rugged, dirt path, presenting awe-inspiring vistas of the southern slopes of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal. As the day progresses, you will arrive at the Bhuri Gandaki Valley's Machhi Khola, in time to relish a delightful dinner.

Day 4 : Trek from Macchi Khola to Jagat | 1370m | (B, L, D)

Following breakfast in Machha Khola, your journey continues with a trek that traverses the gorge and proceeds upstream. The trail initially winds narrowly and features gentle inclines and declines. It eventually crosses the Tharo Khola en route to Khorlabesi. You'll traverse more hills and valleys before reaching Tatopani, which hosts a small hot spring that provides a suitable place to rest and rejuvenate.


Upon leaving Tatopani, you'll climb over a ridge and cross the Budhi Gandaki using a suspension bridge. You'll encounter another staircase and hike over another ridge before reaching Dobhan. Then, crossing another suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, you'll ascend a stone staircase and descend towards the river before trekking more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. As you move through the region, you may observe quaint Gurung villages nestled high in the jungle, as well as Langur monkeys roaming about.

After crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, you'll ascend a ridge and hike along the river before climbing towards the village of Jagat.

Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Deng | 1804m | (B, L, D)

After having breakfast in the village of Jagat, you'll begin your trek through a variety of landscapes, dense sub-tropical forests, small rivers, and rustic villages until you reach your final destination.

Start the trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri, then descend to Sirdibas. As the trail continues to the Ghatta Khola river, the valley widens a bit. You'll keep walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, a large Gurung village. From here, the trail turns north just above the lowest house in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet fields to Ekle Bhatti.

Next, the route enters a steep, uninhabited gorge where you'll descend to the grassy slopes and then cross the Budhi Gandaki river. Trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank before returning to the west side again. The trail widens through the valley, and you'll pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola river. Upon crossing, you'll reach the tiny village of Deng.

Day 6 : Trek from Deng to Namrung | 2630m | (B, L, D)

After breakfast in Deng, you'll begin one of the most important and culturally significant sections of the trek. First, you'll cross the Budhi Gandaki river and climb up to the bridge, where you'll climb a bit further to join a trail from Bhi. Then, head west up the valley, passing through lush forests, alpine vegetation, and quaint villages housing ethnic groups of the Manaslu region. You'll start to see major peaks appearing in the distance.

Even though there is another route, you'll take the trail through Prok. This village has a beautiful vantage point of the snowcapped Siringi Himal. Take a break here and then continue to cross the Budhi Gandaki several times today, running into several gompas along the way. The trail then follows the river upstream through a dense forest and leads to a narrow gorge. Keep going until you notice the forest becomes less dense. This rewarding part of the walk is a magnificent way to experience the Manaslu Conservation Area. You'll eventually reach one last steep climb to get you to the village of Namrung.

Day 7 : Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun | 3525m | (B, L, D)

After having breakfast in Namrung, you can take a walk around the village to enjoy the beautiful views of Siring, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Himal Chuli to the south. Once you hit the trail, you'll climb steadily through forests until you reach Lihi, a charming village with numerous stupas and barley terraces. The trail then descends and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal with Ganesh Himal always visible in the distance.

As you continue, you'll pass through the villages of Sho, Lho, and Shyala before reaching Sama Village. From Lho, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and visit the renowned Ribung Gompa. Shyala Village is surrounded by towering mountains like Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, while Manaslu and vast glaciers lie directly ahead. To the right, you can see other snow-capped peaks, and Ganesh Himal stands at the far end. You'll spend the night in Samagaon, and this will be the end of today's journey.

Day 8 : Acclimatization Day | (B, L, D)

Today is a rest day, so you can sleep in and take it easy. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then spend the day relaxing in Samagaon.

For those who are feeling adventurous, there is an optional day hike that explores the rich Sherpa culture of the area. You can see thousands of mani stones with Buddhist texts, as well as photographs of Sherpa women dressed in traditional clothing and adorned with ornaments. If you hike up to a small hill near Sama Village, you'll find an old monastery called Pungyen Gompa that offers stunning views of the nearby glacier.

Day 9 : Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo | 3850m | (B, L, D)

After having breakfast in Samagaon, you'll start your trek by descending towards the Budhi Gandaki River and following it until you reach a bridge over a side stream. Along the way, you'll pass several mani walls and enjoy the stunning mountain views that the route has to offer, including views of the Tibetan border.

This part of the trek is relatively easy and follows a shelf above the river. You'll pass through juniper and birch forests in Kermo Kharka before dropping down to cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge. After crossing the river, you'll climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river, where you'll come across a stone archway. From there, you'll continue your trek until you reach the village of Samdo.

Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala | 4460m | (B, L, D)

After breakfast in Samdo, you'll head towards the seasonal Tibetan market called Larke Bazaar. You'll then descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. From there, you'll begin your ascent and cross two streams while enjoying views of the Larkya Glacier. The trail then leads around the valley of the Salka Khola and climbs up again to Dharamsala, which is also known as Larke Phedi. Along the way, you'll pass by many traditional monasteries.

Today's hike is shorter, which leaves you with plenty of time for acclimatization and relaxation in the afternoon.

Day 11 : Trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang 3590m via Larkya-la Pass (5135m) | (B, L, D)

After having a hearty breakfast in Dharamsala, you'll embark on a longer and more challenging hike today. Along the trail, you'll encounter several rustic villages, clear glacier lakes, beautiful valleys, and diverse flora and fauna, in addition to some remarkable snowcapped peaks.

After a brief ascent, you'll arrive at a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glacier, providing you with stunning views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. As you walk across the glacier moraines, you'll gradually ascend, with the steepness increasing in the final part of the pass. From here, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and the enormous Annapurna II. Your trek will conclude with a rewarding walk through misty low pastures in the early evening, with Mount Manaslu looming majestically in the distance.

Day 12 : Trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani -1860m | (B, L, D)

After breakfast in Bhimtang, you'll descend down towards the Burdin Khola and walk through a dense forest. The trail becomes easier as it follows the Marsyangdi River downstream. Pass through Karche and Gho villages, then cross a bridge over the Dudh Khola and continue walking towards the village of Tilije.

Tilije is a beautiful village with a mix of Gurung and Magar cultures. After Tilije, cross another bridge over the Marsyangdi River and walk through a stone arch to reach the village of Thonje. Here, you'll need to show your trekking permit and cross a bridge over the Marsyangdi River again before reaching Dharapani. Dharapani is a village in the Annapurna region with great views of Manaslu and Annapurna II.

Day 13 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu | (B)

After breakfast in Dharapani, you'll take a jeep to Besisahar, where you'll switch to a bus to make the final journey to Kathmandu. The drive to Besisahar takes about 4-5 hours, and the bus ride to Kathmandu takes approximately 6-7 hours.


Along the way, you'll pass through many small towns and villages, giving you a glimpse of rural Nepali life. You'll also see terraced fields, lush forests, and picturesque hillsides.

Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city. You may want to visit some of the historic temples and shrines in the city, such as Swayambhunath (also known as the Monkey Temple) or Pashupatinath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, you can explore the bustling streets and markets of the city, sampling some of the local cuisine and picking up souvenirs.

Day 14 : You're Departure | (B)

As your departure day has arrived, we hope that you have had a wonderful and memorable trek in the Manaslu region. After breakfast, you will depart from your accommodation and make your way to the airport for your journey back home or to your next destination. We hope you had a great experience with us and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Safe travels!







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