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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is easily one of the best off the beaten path treks in Nepal. The circuit takes you through the remote valleys and quaint villages around Manaslu, offering stunning views of various snowcapped peaks in the process. Our comprehensive guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek covers all the necessary information you will need regarding the trek in one place.
Manaslu (8,163m), which roughly translates to ‘mountain of spirit’ in Sanskrit, is the eighth highest peak in the world. The peak is surrounded by scarcely populated hills and valleys and lush forests, making Manaslu one of the best regions for wilderness trekking. Due to its isolated nature, the region receives fewer visitors than other parts of Nepal. This makes it ideal for trekkers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the trekking crowds on the popular trails and simply experience the pure wilderness, pristine scenery and untouched culture and lifestyle of the locals.
As the name suggests, the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you all around Manaslu while you enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and more. The trek can be started from a number of locations; Arughat, Machha Khola, Soti Khola or even Jagat depending on your preference. The highest point of the trek comes at Larkya La (5,106m), where you will have to make a dramatic crossing of the high pass. The trek takes place in the Manaslu Conservation Area, which means you’ll also get to explore the rich biodiversity and wildlife of the region. The peculiar culture, traditions and lifestyle that you’ll witness in the numerous Gurung and Tamang villages will surely be a memorable experience as well. The trek can also be combined with the Tsum Valley trek for an even longer and diverse experience.
Hoshizora Treks & Tour offers custom itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek along with other treks in the region like Annapurna Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek and more.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique blend of breathtaking Himalayan scenery, cultural immersion, and remote wilderness adventure. Traversing through diverse landscapes, from lush green valleys to high mountain passes, trekkers experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region, encountering traditional villages and monasteries along the way. With fewer crowds compared to other popular treks in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit provides a more intimate and authentic trekking experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both adventure and cultural exploration in the Himalayas.
The best time of the year for Manaslu Circuit Trekking are during the spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) seasons. The spring season is a popular choice for nature lovers as this is when the plants and wildflowers fully bloom and decorate the hills and valleys around Manaslu. Monsoon is also a good time for those who wish to enjoy the wildlife and natural diversity of the region. However, the trails can sometimes become perilous and the views may be mediocre due to unstable weather and rainfall during monsoon. Contrary to this, the autumn season boasts the most stable weather, warm temperature and crystal clear views making it one of the best times for trekking in Nepal. If you don’t mind the low temperatures, the winter season is a decent time to enjoy the mountain views thanks to the extra snow.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek that takes you off the beaten path through remote trails. The trek doesn’t require any technical skills and can be performed with little or no trekking experience beforehand. However, being physically fit and healthy is definitely necessary for this trek. You will trek for an average of 6-7 hours per day.
The highest point of the trek lies at the Larkya La (5,160m) pass. Crossing this high pass will be a tough but very rewarding ordeal thanks to the amazing views from the top. The trek covers a wide range of altitude, from as low as 800 meters to above 5000 meters. The trail is generally located around 3000 meters or above, which means altitude sickness can be an issue on this trek. To combat this, take as many rest and acclimatization days as your body needs, stay adequately hydrated and have some emergency medicine with you at all times.
During the trek, accommodation facilities vary depending on the route and altitude. Lower-altitude areas typically offer a range of guesthouses and tea houses with basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and communal bathrooms. As trekkers ascend to higher altitudes, accommodation options become more limited and basic, often consisting of simple lodges or teahouses with shared dormitory-style rooms and common areas. In some remote areas, camping may be necessary, with trekking agencies providing tents and camping equipment. Regardless of the accommodation type, trekkers can expect a warm and hospitable atmosphere, with meals typically provided by the accommodation providers, offering a chance to refuel and connect with fellow trekkers along the journey.
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, meals typically consist of a hearty combination of local Nepali cuisine and Western dishes to cater to varied tastes and dietary needs. Breakfast often includes options like Tibetan bread, pancakes, eggs, porridge, or muesli with hot drinks such as tea or coffee. Lunches are often taken at tea houses along the trail, offering choices like dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables), noodles, rice dishes, or sandwiches. Dinners typically include a variety of options such as pasta, rice, potatoes, vegetables, and meats or vegetarian alternatives, providing essential sustenance after a day of trekking. Snacks like nuts, chocolate, or energy bars are also advisable to maintain energy levels throughout the day. It's important to stay hydrated, so drinking plenty of water or tea is recommended.
To embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, several permits are required. The primary permit is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, which is essential for trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area. Additionally, a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card is typically required, though regulations may vary. It's advisable to acquire these permits through a registered trekking agency or in Kathmandu or Pokhara before commencing the trek. These permits ensure compliance with conservation and management regulations, as well as providing necessary support and assistance during the journey.
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, transportation services are typically available to and from the starting and ending points of the trek. Most trekkers begin their journey in Kathmandu, where buses or jeeps can be arranged to reach the trailhead in Soti Khola or Arughat. Similarly, upon completing the trek in Besisahar or Dharapani, transportation can be arranged back to Kathmandu or other destinations. It's advisable to book transportation through trekking agencies or reliable local operators to ensure timely and comfortable travel, considering the often challenging terrain and weather conditions of the region.
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, hiring guides and porters is a common practice and highly recommended for an enriching and safe experience. Local guides possess invaluable knowledge of the terrain, culture, and customs, enhancing the trekking journey with insights and assistance. They ensure navigation through the sometimes challenging trails and provide information about the surroundings. Porters play a crucial role in carrying trekking gear, allowing trekkers to focus on enjoying the journey without the burden of heavy loads. Hiring guides and porters also contributes to the local economy, supporting livelihoods in the remote mountain communities along the trekking route.
When preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it's essential to pack appropriate trekking equipment to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the journey. Key items include a sturdy and comfortable backpack, trekking boots with good ankle support, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for layering, a warm sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, a reliable tent if camping along the route, a waterproof jacket and pants, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, a headlamp with extra batteries, a trekking pole for stability, a first aid kit including altitude sickness medication, water purification tablets or a water filter, sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, personal toiletries, and a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, carrying some cash in Nepali rupees for purchasing snacks, drinks, and souvenirs along the way is advisable, as ATM facilities may be limited in remote areas.
Day 01: Welcome at airport and transfer to the Hotel
Day 02: A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley & permit preparation
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti khola (710m) Distance: 140 kilometers, Duration: 8 hours
Day 04: Trek from Soti to Machha khola (869m, 7hrs)
Day 05: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1340m, 7hrs)
Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m, 6hrs)
Day 07: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630m, 7hrs)
Day 08: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3180m, 4hrs)
Day 09: Trek from Lho to Sama (3520m, 3hrs).
Day 10: Acclimatization day, Hike to Birendra lake / Manaslu Base camp / Pungen Gumpa
Day 11: Trek from Sama to Samdo (3860m, 3hrs)
Day 12: Hike to ancient Tibetan trading border Rui La (4998m) and back to Samdo for overnight (8hrs).
Day 13: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (5hrs, 4460m)
Day 14: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimthang (8hrs, 3590m) via Larke La 5160m
Day 15: Trek from Bhimthang to Tilje (2300m), Duration: 6-7 Hours
Day 16: Trek from Tilje to Chamje (1410m) Duration: 6-7 Hours
Day 17: Drive from Chamje to Kathmandu, Distance 215 Kilometers/133 Miles, Duration 8-9 Hours
Day 18: Final Departure
A representative from Nepal Gateway Trekking will greet you outside the Tribhuwan International Airport. They will be waiting to receive you with signboards of your or the company’s name. You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After you are done resting at the hotel, you are free to visit our office to clear any dues or ask questions concerning the trek.
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: D
You will have a fun day of sightseeing today as we guide you through the venerated landmarks around Kathmandu. We will visit popular locations like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and the hilltop complex of Swayambhunath. In the afternoon/evening, we will head to Thamel for any last minute shopping that you may need to do for trekking essentials. We will also pass through Kathmandu Durbar Square on our way. Meanwhile, our staff members will acquire the Manaslu Restricted Area trekking permits that you will need for the trip.
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: B L D
After breakfast, we will have pre trek meeting and you’ll be briefed by the trek leader about the journey ahead. Once we are done loading all equipment, we will hop on the jeep for an 8 hour drive to Soti Khola, which lies 140 kms North West of Kathmandu. We will drive through Dhading Besi and the town of Arughat today to reach our destination, Soti Khola. We will have a lodge booked for us where we will be spending the night.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 8 Hours Drive
The trek finally begins today as we walk through the pleasant Sal forests above the roaring Budhi Gandaki river. As we make our way through Khursane and the Gurung village of Labhubesi, we will have a feel of what trekking in the hills of Nepal is like. Refreshing waterfalls, rocky cliffs, roaring rivers, old suspension bridges and peaceful forests will make this an enjoyable first day of trekking. We will stay the night in a lodge at Machhakhola.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
There will be multiple short sprints of ascending and descending to do on the trail today. We will cross Tharo Khola and Thorlabesi to arrive at Tatopani. This small town is popular for its rare natural hotsprings. Unfortunately, the hot springs haven’t been functional since the 2015 Nepal Earthquake. After a brief lunch break at Tatopani, we will resume on the trail and cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki and Yaru Khola. We will also climb flights of stairs on the way to Dobhan and Tharo Bharyang. It is a short trek further to Jagat once we are past the west bank of Budhi Gandaki.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 7 Hours
Our trek today begins with a climb on a rocky ridge towards Salleri. We will pass through Sirdibas and Ghatte Khola and cross a long suspension bridge before Philim. We will stop momentarily for rest at this small Gurung village and continue north on our trail shortly after. We will pass a steep and uninhabited gorge and slowly trek towards the Budhi Gandaki. As we trek back and forth along the east and west banks of the river, we will reach a bamboo forest. Past the bamboo forest is Deng Khola, and Deng village lies a little further.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 6 Hours
After breakfast, we will set out on the trail and cross the Budhi Gandaki again today to climb to Rana (1910m). The trail today intersects with various other trails and locations including Bhi, Ghap and Prok. You can enjoy a pleasing view of Siringi Himal today from Prok as long as the weather is favorable. We will cross the Budhi Gandaki many more times today on our climb through the forested paths to the Buddhist village of Namrung. Once we reach Namrung, we will be able to witness sights of Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli along with Siringi from earlier.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 7 Hours
The trek today will be a short and pleasant one as we head towards Lho. We will walk leisurely through the tranquil forests and explore the numerous chortens at Lihi village. The view of Ganesh and Simnang Himal close by is a refreshing sight as we trek towards Sho village. Our destination, Lho village is a short distance further. Lho village offers a fantastic view of the towering Manaslu peak. In the afternoon, we will have ample time to visit the famed Ribung gompa as well.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 4 Hours
The trek today is an even shorter one as we will cover the miniscule distance between Lho and Samagaon. We will pass through Shyala, which is encompassed by peaks like Himal Chuli and Ngadi Chuli on the left, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal straight ahead and some other peaks to the right. We will relax for the rest of the day at Sama and spend the night in a lodge as usual.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 3 Hours
A fun day of exploration lies ahead of us there are a lot of exciting locations to visit nearby. This rest day also serves another purpose as acclimatization day. Taking an occasional day off to rest and help your body acclimatize is very important while trekking in the Himalayas. The Pungyen monastery nearby offers great views of the Manaslu glacier if you are looking for a light and easy trek. However, if you are feeling energetic, then the Hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp is an excellent way to experience the true wilderness and beauty of the region. The Pungen and Birendra lake hikes won’t take more than a couple of hours to complete. However, the Manaslu Base Camp trek will take you 7-8 hours to get there and back.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
The Budhi Gandaki river comes into picture yet again today as we trek along its riverbank. We will cross a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki and come across the trail leading to the Manaslu Base Camp. We will instead trek on the Larkye La trail and make our way through Kermo Kharka. After a short while further of trekking through the juniper and birch forests, the short trek today will end as we arrive at Samdo. We will spend the day resting our bodies to prepare for the tough hike the next day.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 3 Hours
We will hike to the open and interesting ancient trading Tibet border called Rui La (4998m) today. Also known as Lajing Bhanjyang, it will take about 4-5 hours to get there. After an early breakfast, we will head north from Samdo and follow the Athara Saya khola for a few hours. Once the river turns west, we start climbing towards Rui la or a couple of hours or so. You will have fantastic views of Manaslu, along with the Hindu and Phukang glaciers today. In the afternoon, we will head back to Samdo for the overnight stay.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 8 Hours
After the tough day of exploration yesterday, the trek today is comparatively easier as we leisurely walk towards Dharmasala. We will cross the Budhi Gandaki again, and a few streams after. Once we see the Larkya glacier, we will tread around the valley of Salka khola and climb up to the shelter at Dharmashala. This place is also known as Larke Phedi, which roughly translates to Larke Base Camp.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 5 Hours
The trail today leads us to a valley on the north side of the Larke glaciers. While steadily climbing across the moraines of the glacier, you will see the towering Larke peak and Cho danda nearby. The trail today also take us through the Larke La (5160m) pass, which is the highest point of the Round Manaslu Trek. From the pass, you will also be able to gaze upon Himlung, Cheo, Kangguru and Annapurna II peaks. After enjoying all these amazing views, we have an easy but long trek ahead of us to Bimthang.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 8 Hours
More descent lies on the trail for us today as we cross the high pasture at Sangure Kharka and head towards the Dudh Khola. We will cross the river through a bridge and enter the forest blooming with rhododendrons. The trail leads us to the high altitude farms at Karche (2785m). We will continue on to a ridge that quickly transitions into a riverbank. The village of Gho is a short distance further. While it is possible to stay at Gho, we will continue on to Tilije in favor the better equipped lodges.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 6-7 Hours
Our final session of trekking takes us on the stove paved trail towards Thonje village. After a brief stop for rest here, we will continue past the police checkpoint towards Dharapani. From Dharapani, we will have entered the Annapurna Circuit section. We will pass through the villages of Karte and Tal, occasionally crossing the Marshyangdi River, before finally reaching Chamje. With this, our trek comes is at an end and it is time for a small ceremonial party.
Accomodation: Tea House
Meals: B L D
Activity Duration: 6-7 Hours
After breakfast, we will pack up our things and head to the bus stop to catch a ride to Kathmandu. This 215 kilometer drive will take us past serpentine roads, fast flowing rivers, green hills, lush forests and picturesque villages. After enjoying the countryside scenery for almost 10 hours, we’ll finally arrive back at the capital. You will then be escorted to a restaurant to celebrate the completion of our trek with a farewell dinner.
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: B
Activity Duration: 8-9 Hours
You will meet up with all the crew and group members over breakfast today. If you have a flight scheduled today, then one of our staff will assist you in getting to TIA a few hours before your flight. Otherwise, you are free to continue on to any other treks or destinations as per your plans.
Accomodation:
Meals: B
| accommodation: | Hotel, Tea House |
| Height: | 5,160m - Larkya La |
| Best Season: | Spring (March - May) and Autumn (September - November) |
| Grade: | Strenuous |
| Duration: | 18 Days |
| Activity: | Trekking and Sightseeing |
| Treks Type: | Tea House Trek |
| Transportation: | Private Vehicle/ Tourist Bus |
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Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek also known as the hidden valley, is one of the most remote but culturally rich Himalayan valleys in the