Above Jagat, the trail climbs to Salleri and Sirdibas before reaching Philim. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as the trail winds past several waterfalls until reaching a junction at Ekle Bhatti where the trail leads to Lokpa a village on the trail to the Tsum Valley. We then climb above the junction of the Buri Gandaki and Shar Khola Rivers and then head to Pewa and finally Deng (1860m). Many villages in this area suffered extensive damage in the 2015 earthquake. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Professional Sherpa Guided Nepal Trekking Tours | Everest & Annapurna
Manaslu circuit trek
Standard Package - Price starts from USD 1500.
Get great group discount above 4 people.
2 Person From : $ 1200
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Max. Elevation
5.106m
Accommodation
Hotel-lodge-Tea house
Best Season
Spring- Autumn
Duration
22 Days
Trip Grading
Strenuous
Activity
Trekking
Meals
Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
Transport
Private vehicle
Departure Location
Kathmandu
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience for adventure seekers looking to explore off the beaten track and immerse themselves in the untouched natural beauty of the Himalayas. This trek takes you on a journey through isolation, remote landscapes, and pristine scenery that will leave you spellbound and spiritually enriched.
With the iconic views of Mount Manaslu, known as the “Mountain of the Spirit,” towering at 8,163 meters, this trek challenges your endurance and resolve as you navigate high altitude passes and unpredictable weather conditions. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are key to successfully completing this trek and enjoying the breathtaking vistas that await you.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a test of your physical and mental strength, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region as you traverse through small Tibetan villages and pastures on the Tibetan border. The highlight of the trek is crossing the challenging Larkye La Pass at 5,160 meters, providing a unique cultural and geographical experience as you witness the convergence of two distinct cultures.
The best time to embark on this adventure is from March to May and mid-September to December, with October being the peak season for trekking due to favorable weather conditions. However, off-peak times offer the advantage of fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with nature.
As you trek from Arughat Bazaar to the majestic Budi Gandaki River and beyond, you will encounter alpine meadows, prayer flags, and traditional villages that reflect the deep-rooted Tibetan influence in the region. The Manaslu Circuit Trek promises a journey of discovery, cultural immersion, and unparalleled natural beauty that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of adventure.
Trip Highlights
- View the 8th highest peak in the world at 8,163m (26,781 ft).
- Magnificent views, increasingly rugged landscape and a high altitude pass at Larkya-La Pass at 5100m (16732 ft )
- The trekking begins from Arughat Bazaar and follows the remarkable Budi Gandaki River north to the village of Deng.
- Remoteness, meaning fewer people take this route. Serene and still unspoiled with nature in its raw state.
- Walking through the tropical green hills covered with pine trees and oak forests at lower altitudes of the trek.
- The distinctive cultures and mix of Tibetan and Nepalese mountain people.
Brief Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft) & transfer to hotel
A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. If time permits we will guide you around Thamel and help you buy some necessary equipment you may require on your trek. There will be a short briefing about our trek, with ample opportunity to answer any questions you may have.
DAY 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola(7,10m) Duration: 7-8 hours
After early morning breakfast, you drive to Soti Khola on a Local Bus. You will follow the Budhi Gandaki River towards the northern side and pass through Morder and Simre villages. It will be bumping and winding dirt road drive which will take around 7-8 hours. Tonight we will stay at Soti Khola. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (9,30m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trek today traverses a mule track and ascends on a breathtaking path cut into the face of the cliff, then descends to Lapubesi (880m). Caution is required here! We then continue to Nauli Khola, crossing a suspension bridge on the way and then take the trail beside the Budi Gandaki River before reaching Machha Khola(900m). This so happens to be where many trekkers were stranded after the earthquake in 2015 and had to be rescued, Depending on current conditions, there is an alternative overnight stop in Kashi Gaun located on the east side of the river. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our route today follows the river to Khorlabesi and the tepid spring at Tatopani (meaning hot water) (930m), and then continues on the eastern bank of the Budi Gandaki River to Doban, Thulo Dunga and Yara Bagar (1370m). The trail zigzags across the river with several suspension bridges to cross before reaching the entrance gate to Manaslu Conservation Area and Jagat (1410m), with its unique flagstone village square. Permits are checked by authorities. Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will check that the route is passable, and may suggest we take an alternative route taking a much higher path on the east side of the river before descending to the old trail near Doban. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,600m) Duration 5-6 hours.
Today we climb beyond the Tom (tum) Khola to Longa Chuta and then come into a captivating fir and rhododendron forest filled with birds and Langur monkeys located on the north side of the Buri Gandak Riveri. We then cross back to the other side of the river before reaching Namrung(2660m), an earlier customs post in the days when this was a route for transporting salt from Tibet. Namrung also suffered extensive damage from the 2015 earthquake, but today it has been restored to its previous charm. .Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 7: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,530m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Guest house accommodation. The trail today leads to Shyala (3520m) where a substantial number of buildings were damaged in the 2015 earhtquake, including the Gompa (Buddhist temple).. We continue on passing through a number of valleys and trails before arriving at the more remote village of Gompas and continue to Sama Gaun(3530) – also known as Samagaun. The town boasts of several fascinating monasteries in the village. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 8: Acclimatization day at Samagaun.
At these higher altitudes it is necessary to get acclimatized, for at least one day, before attempting climbs to higher altitudes. Health specialists suggest that you move about and don’t sit idly. A good way to stay active is to explore the gompa at Pugyen(4070m), a one day hike that leaves the trail between Syaula and Sama. If time permits, it is possible for you to carry on up this valley to the rugged rocks and terrain of the Pugin glacier. Another option is a trip to the lake at Birendra Tal (3450m) and a demanding ascent to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m). It is believed that north of Birendra Tal is Milarepa’s Cave (famous Buddha) claimed to have been used as a meditation retreat by the Buddhist saint. Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
DAY 9: Trek from Sama to Samdo (3,860m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today the trail descends and heads back to the Buri Gandaki River passing the junction of Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. The valley expands before reaching Kermo Khadka and then continuing to the white Kani Gateway signaling the entrance to Samdo (3860m). If time permits we may trek to the peak above the village for impressive views of Mount Manaslu. If it is necessary to further acclimatize, there is a 6 t0 7 hour trek climbing 640m to the moraine of the Fukang Glacier, where you will be rewarded with far-reaching views towards several passes used by locals to cross over into Tibet. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
A relatively short day sees us descending through fields prior to starting our climb towards the Larkya-La Pass, a trek offering dazzling views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier, and a likelihood of spotting Himalayan blue sheep on your trek to Dharmashala (4480m). This is as high as we go today without risking altitude sickness. This is the last safe haven before reaching the pass. This sector of the trek is often subject to snowfall and from mid-December to mid-March, when snow blocks the Larkya-La Pass, the Samdo Lodge is typically closed. Your guide will know in advance if the lodge is closed. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY11: Trek from Dharmasha to Bimtang (3,720m) Via Larkya la Pass (5,106m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
A 4 to 6-hour trek will see us cross Lakya-La Pass (5100m) and is the highest elevation on this trek. The climb is wintry and blustery and can often be hazardous, especially if there is snow on the pass. Your guide will check the condition of the crossing before leaving Samdo. The trail passes many cairns that are often covered in snow. It then traverses the moraine to four frozen lakes before ascending to the pass where a majestic number of peaks take your breath away. These include Himlung Himal(7126m), Cheo Himal(6820m), Gyaji Kung(7030m), Kang Guru(6981m) and Annapurna II(7937m). After this fantastic photo opportunity we descend in a westerly direction along a dangerous track before reaching Taubuche, where the trail becomes less demanding. The valley gradually opens up and then descends to Bimtang(3720m), one of the many trading posts along the Tibetan salt route. An appealing detour leads to a trail follows a trail above Bimtang to the translucent glacial lake of Pungkar Tal(4100m). Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 12: Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,960m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we descend to Dudh Khola and Soti Khola(2700m) also known as Khare, following a trail directly below the enormous Phunki Peak(6258m). We then take a trail across the ridge heading downhill to the river before reaching Gho village. At this lower altitude it is noticeable greener as we descend through cultivated fields and forests and take the trail on the north bank of the Dudh Khola before reaching Tilche(2300m) the largest village since leaving Samdo. The village is well known for its flagstone paved streets and the home of Gurung. After passing Tilche through the Kani (gateway arches) we, then cross the stream before reaching Thonje. The trail to Dharapani(1920m) requires crossing a suspension-bridge over the Marsyangdi river. We are soon at the junction of the Annapurna Circuit trek where the going gets easier before descending to Bensi Sahar and ultimately Kathmandu. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
DAY 13: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Beshisahar Duration: 7-8 hours.
We leave Dharapani by jeep heading to Bensisahar – the final leg of our trek. You will take with you memories that will last a lifetime and photos of some of the most spectacular mountains in the world. We take the bus from Bensisahar to Kathmandu. Breakfast & Lunch Included!
Day 14: Transfer to International airport.
You will leave Nepal, but will never forget this great adventure and the laughs you shared on this journey to some of the world’s most spectacular peaks. A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking representative will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Breakfast included.
SERVICES
Costs Include:
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Arughat to Soti Khola By Public bus and from Dharapani to Besisahar by Sharing Jeep & Besisahar to Kathmandu via public bus.
- All standard meals 3 meals a day (lunch, dinners & breakfast) during the trek.
- Best possible teahouses, lodge accommodation (generally twin share rooms)- during the trek
- Government licensed holder English speaking trek leader (10 or more trekkers an assistant guide) and porter to help carry your luggage.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Guides and porters provided by Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions, including their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
- Manaslu special permit to travel within the Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions such as altitude sickness (funded by travel insurance)
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after the trip is completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s certificate of appreciation & completion after the successful trek
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people
Costs Exclude:
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu – lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
Route Map
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
GOOD TO KNOW
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique and rewarding trekking experience in the remote Himalayan region of Nepal. Here are some essential points to know about the trek:
Accommodation:
Accommodation options along the Manaslu Circuit Trek range from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. Teahouses provide simple rooms with basic amenities such as beds and shared bathrooms. Lodges offer slightly more comfort with private rooms and attached bathrooms in some cases. It’s advisable to be prepared for rustic accommodation in remote areas.
Food:
Local teahouses and lodges serve a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes, as well as international cuisine such as pasta and noodles. It’s recommended to eat cooked and hot meals to avoid food-related illnesses. Carry snacks and energy bars for additional sustenance during the trek.
Water:
It’s crucial to stay hydrated while trekking. Carry a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or filters to ensure safe drinking water. You can also purchase bottled water at teahouses, but it’s environmentally friendly to use a refillable bottle.
Physical Fitness:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek that involves long hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and high-altitude passes. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are essential to tackle the challenges of the trek. Regular cardio and strength training exercises can help prepare your body for the trek.
Best Time to Travel:
The ideal time to undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
Transportation:
The trek typically starts from the village of Arughat Bazaar, accessible by road from Kathmandu. You can hire a private vehicle or take a local bus to reach the starting point of the trek. Return transportation is available from the trek endpoint in Besisahar back to Kathmandu.
Guide and Porter:
Hiring a local guide is recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, especially for navigation, cultural insights, and safety. Porters can also be hired to carry your belongings, easing the physical load on your trek. Ensure that your guide and porter are experienced, licensed, and well-equipped for the trek.
Solo Travel:
While solo trekking is possible on the Manaslu Circuit, it’s advisable to trek with a guide or join a trekking group for safety and support. Solo trekkers should inform someone about their itinerary, carry necessary supplies, and be prepared for the challenges of trekking alone in remote areas.
By being well-prepared and informed about accommodation, food, water, physical fitness, best timing, transportation, guide and porter services, and solo trekking considerations, you can enhance your Manaslu Circuit Trek experience and enjoy the beauty and adventure of this remote Himalayan journey.