15 Days Manasulu Circuit Trek

Highlights

A challenging yet rewarding trek around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak
Exploration of remote and less-crowded trails through the Manaslu Conservation Area
Crossing the spectacular Larkya La Pass at 5,135 meters with panoramic Himalayan views
Trekking through diverse landscapes including subtropical forests, deep river gorges, and alpine meadows
Visits to traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages and ancient monasteries
Cultural immersion with local Gurung, Tibetan, and Sherpa communities
Opportunities for wildlife sightings in pristine natural habitats
Gradual acclimatization with an acclimatization day in Samagaon
Comfortable lodges and teahouses serving authentic Nepali and Tibetan cuisine
Support from experienced guides, porters, and a fully managed trekking team
Scenic drives connecting Kathmandu to the trekking trailhead and return journey
Spectacular mountain vistas including Annapurna II, Himalchuli, Gangapurna, and Manaslu

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and less-traveled trekking routes, encircling Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters. This challenging yet rewarding trek offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and traditional Himalayan lifestyles. Unlike the more popular Annapurna or Everest circuits, the Manaslu trek provides solitude and pristine landscapes, making it perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path regions.

Trekking through the Manaslu Conservation Area, you will experience diverse ecosystems ranging from lush subtropical forests to high alpine meadows and glacial valleys. Along the route, ancient monasteries, remote villages, and friendly mountain communities offer fascinating cultural encounters. The highlight of the trek is crossing the impressive Larkya La Pass (5,135m), one of Nepal’s highest mountain passes, providing breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan giants including Annapurna II, Himalchuli, and Gangapurna.

This 17-day itinerary is thoughtfully designed to allow gradual altitude acclimatization and includes guided sightseeing in Kathmandu. Trekkers will enjoy comfortable lodges and teahouses, local cuisine, and the support of experienced guides and porters throughout the journey. The Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable Himalayan adventure blending physical challenge, cultural richness, and natural splendor.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m / 4,264ft)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a traditional welcome dinner and trip briefing.

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m / 2,953ft)

Begin your journey with a scenic drive via Arughat to Machha Khola. This full-day drive offers views of terraced hillsides, river valleys, and rural villages.

Day 3 : Trek to Jagat (1,410m / 4,626ft)

Follow the trail alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross suspension bridges and walk past waterfalls, terraced rice fields, and traditional Gurung settlements. Stop at Tatopani for a soak in natural hot springs before reaching Jagat.

Day 4 : Trek to Deng (1,804m / 5,919ft)

Climb to Salleri and descend to Sirdibas. Continue through the village of Philim and Ekle Bhatti, entering a narrow gorge of bamboo and pine. After crossing Deng Khola, reach the peaceful village of Deng.

Day 5 : Trek to Ghap (2,380m / 7,806ft)

Enjoy a gradual ascent along the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross bridges, pass Buddhist mani walls and remote settlements. Enter forested areas rich in wildlife and reach Ghap.

Day 6 : Trek to Lho (3,180m / 10,430ft)

Trek through rhododendron and oak forests to Namrung, a great spot for views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal. Continue to Lho, a beautiful village with stone houses and a large monastery facing Manaslu.

Day 7 : Trek to Samagaon (3,530m / 11,581ft)

A scenic trail with views of Peak 29, Himalchuli, and Manaslu. Pass through the picturesque village of Shyala before arriving in Samagaon, a traditional Tibetan-influenced village.

Day 8 : Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Take a rest day to acclimatize. Optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake are available. Explore monasteries, yak pastures, and the daily lives of locals.

Day 9 : Trek to Samdo (3,860m / 12,660ft)

Today’s trek passes alpine pastures, yak herds, and mani stones. Enjoy striking views as you make your way to Samdo, the last village before the high pass.

Day 10 : Trek to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) (4,460m / 14,628ft)

A shorter day, trekking to the base of the Larkya La Pass. Hike through rocky terrain with increasing elevation. Early dinner and rest in preparation for the next day's ascent.

Day 11 : Cross Larkya La Pass (5,135m / 16,847ft), Trek to Bimthang (3,590m / 11,811ft)

Begin early to cross Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy stunning views of Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. Descend into the glacial valley of Bimthang.

Day 12 : Trek to Tilje (2,300m / 7,546ft)

Descend through dense forests with panoramic views behind you. Pass yak pastures, rhododendron groves, and charming villages until you arrive at Tilje.

Day 13 : Trek to Chamje (1,430m / 4,690ft)

Follow a trail that slowly brings you back to the lush lowlands. Trek through farmlands and hillside villages, eventually joining the Annapurna Circuit at Chamje.

Day 14 : Drive Back to Kathmandu

Enjoy a full-day drive from Chamje to Kathmandu, passing rural landscapes and riverside towns. Transfer to your hotel upon arrival.

Day 15 : Final Departure

After breakfast, our team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

Trip code
Package name	15 Days Manasulu Circuit Trek
Duration	15
Max. elevation	5135 m
Level	Moderate
Transportation	Private tourist vehicle, Public bus or local jeep (Kathmandu to Machha Khola and return)<br data-start="206" data-end="209"><br>
Accomodation	3-star hotels in Kathmandu, Teahouses and mountain lodges along the trekking route
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route	Kathmandu – Arughat – Machha Khola – Jagat – Deng – Ghap – Lho – Samagaon – Samdo – Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) – Larkya La Pass – Bimthang – Tilje – Chamje – Kathmandu
Cost	USD 0 per person