Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our team will greet you with traditional khada scarves and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub. After settling in, attend a comprehensive trek briefing where we'll discuss the Manaslu Circuit route in detail, review the challenging itinerary including Larkya La Pass strategy, explain restricted area permit requirements, cover altitude acclimatization protocols, and answer all your questions. This is also when you can rent any needed equipment - sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles. The Manaslu Circuit is a serious high-altitude trek requiring good preparation and understanding of what to expect. We'll check your gear list to ensure you have everything needed for the challenging conditions ahead. In the evening, explore Thamel's restaurants and shops, or simply rest and recover from your journey. Tomorrow we drive to the trek starting point.

After an early breakfast, begin a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710m), the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The drive takes 7-8 hours covering approximately 140km. Leave Kathmandu on the Prithvi Highway heading west toward Pokhara. The road follows the Trishuli River through terraced hillsides and traditional villages. Stop at Malekhu for lunch and a break. At Dhading Besi, turn north onto a rougher mountain road that climbs into the hills. The road becomes bumpy and narrow as you ascend through beautiful countryside. Pass through Abu Khaireni and Arughat, the district headquarters. From Arughat, continue on a rough jeep track along the Budhi Gandaki river valley. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. The road winds along the river, crossing several suspension bridges and passing small villages. Finally reach Soti Khola, a small settlement beside the Budhi Gandaki River. Check into a basic teahouse for the night. The long drive is tiring but necessary to reach the trek starting point. Rest well as tomorrow you begin the actual trekking.

Begin your Manaslu Circuit adventure! The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki river upstream through a beautiful gorge. Start with a gentle walk along the riverbank before crossing a suspension bridge to the east bank. The trail undulates along the river, climbing up and down over rocky sections and through small settlements. Pass through Khursane village with its terraced fields and traditional houses. Continue climbing on a sometimes exposed trail carved into the cliffside high above the rushing river. The gorge is narrow and dramatic with waterfalls cascading down jungle-covered slopes. Cross back to the west bank on another suspension bridge and continue to Labubesi village (880m). The trail continues following the river through lush subtropical forest with bamboo, banana plants, and rich vegetation. Cross several more small streams and pass the hamlet of Khola Beshi before a final climb to Machha Khola (930m), meaning "Fish River." This small village sits at the confluence of two rivers. Check into a basic but comfortable teahouse. Today's relatively easy trek helps you adjust to walking with a backpack and sets the rhythm for the journey ahead.

Today involves more challenging terrain with several steep climbs and descents. The trail crosses to the east bank and climbs steeply through forest before descending to Khorlabesi. Cross a suspension bridge and climb again on a narrow trail that winds high above the river on an exposed cliffside - spectacular but requiring focus. Descend to Tatopani (930m) where natural hot springs emerge beside the river. Continue climbing through terraced fields and small settlements. The trail becomes more dramatic, carved into vertical cliffs hundreds of meters above the raging Budhi Gandaki. This section requires care, especially if wet. Pass through Dobhan (1,070m) and continue ascending. Cross the river again on a suspension bridge and climb steeply to Thado Bharyang. The landscape gradually transitions from subtropical to temperate forest. Finally reach Jagat (1,410m), an important checkpoint village where you'll register your special permits for the Manaslu Conservation Area. Jagat means "stopping place" in Nepali, historically a rest stop for traders and travelers. The village has several teahouses offering more comfort than previous nights. Today was physically demanding but the scenery has been spectacular throughout.

After registering permits at the Jagat checkpoint, continue upstream. The valley begins to widen and the cultural landscape shifts noticeably. Cross to the west bank and climb through beautiful forest with pine, rhododendron, and bamboo. Reach Salleri village and continue to Sirdibas (1,430m), where the valley opens up with terraced fields and a more gentle landscape. Cross a long suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki and climb on the east bank through forest. The vegetation becomes lusher with orchids and ferns. Pass through Philim (1,590m), a large Gurung village with traditional stone houses, prayer wheels, and Buddhist chortens marking the cultural transition into the Tibetan Buddhist region. The architecture changes noticeably - houses now have flat roofs and colorful prayer flags flutter everywhere. Continue climbing through forest before descending slightly to cross a river. Pass through Ekle Bhatti (1,600m) and continue ascending to Deng (1,804m), a small village with a few teahouses. The settlement sits in a narrow valley surrounded by terraced fields. Buddhist influence is strong here with mani walls (stone walls carved with prayers), prayer flags, and small chortens. You're now in the cultural heartland of the Manaslu region.

Today you gain significant altitude, climbing from 1,804m to 2,630m. The trail climbs steeply through forest from Deng before reaching Rana (1,910m), a village with traditional wooden houses. Continue climbing through pine and rhododendron forest with occasional glimpses of Manaslu appearing ahead. The landscape opens up as you gain altitude. Cross a suspension bridge to the west bank and climb to Bihi Phedi (2,130m). The valley widens dramatically and views improve. Continue ascending through alpine meadows and scattered juniper trees. Pass through Ghap (2,160m), a beautiful village with typical flat-roofed stone houses adorned with prayer flags. The architecture is distinctly Tibetan with ornately carved wooden windows and doors. From Ghap, climb steadily with increasingly spectacular mountain views. Manaslu (8,163m) dominates the skyline ahead, its massive north face rising thousands of meters. Also see Ganesh Himal to the south. Finally reach Namrung (2,630m), a large picturesque village built on a hillside with stunning mountain views. The village has several teahouses, a monastery, and traditional houses. Buddhist culture is very strong here - prayer wheels line the trail, flags flutter from every house, and locals practice their ancient traditions. Namrung offers the first really clear views of Manaslu - take lots of photos from the village!

Today you gain significant altitude again, so take it slowly and stay well hydrated. The trail climbs gradually through alpine landscape with spectacular mountain views throughout. Pass through Lihi (2,900m), a beautiful village where locals wear traditional Tibetan-style clothing. Notice the distinct cultural elements - Buddhist stupas, mani walls with thousands of prayer stones, and prayer wheels. The landscape is increasingly barren and high-altitude. Continue climbing with Manaslu dominating the view ahead, joined by Manaslu North, Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli), and other giants. Pass through Sho (3,000m) where you'll register at another permit checkpoint. From here, climb through open terrain with yak pastures and stone corrals. The vegetation is sparse at this altitude - just low shrubs and grasses. Reach Lho (3,180m), a fascinating village built on a hillside with a beautiful monastery (Ribung Gompa) perched above. If you have energy, climb 15 minutes to visit the monastery for stunning views and cultural immersion. Continue ascending gradually to Shyala (3,520m) before a final short climb to Samagaon (3,530m), the largest village in the upper Budhi Gandaki valley. This ancient settlement sits in a dramatic location with Manaslu towering directly above and Pungyen Glacier extending from the mountain. Samagaon has several teahouses, shops, a monastery (Pungyen Gompa), and a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture. The village serves as our acclimatization base for the next two nights. Rest and hydrate well.

Today is a crucial acclimatization day before crossing Larkya La Pass. The principle "climb high, sleep low" helps your body adjust. You have several excellent options: Option 1 - Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m): This challenging 6-7 hour round trip takes you to the base camp used by Manaslu climbing expeditions. Trek north from Samagaon through alpine terrain past Pungyen Glacier. The route offers spectacular close-up views of Manaslu's north face with its hanging glaciers and ice seracs. Reach the rocky amphitheater of Base Camp for incredible views before returning. This is the best acclimatization option. Option 2 - Hike to Birendra Lake (3,691m): A shorter 3-4 hour round trip to a beautiful glacial lake below the Pungyen Glacier. The turquoise lake sits in a dramatic bowl surrounded by high peaks. Excellent views and good acclimatization. Option 3 - Visit Pungyen Gompa and explore Samagaon: Climb 30 minutes to the monastery perched on the hillside above the village. Explore the gompa, spin prayer wheels, and enjoy spectacular views. Then wander through Samagaon visiting the local school, speaking with villagers, and immersing in Tibetan culture. This is the easiest option but still beneficial. Most trekkers choose Option 1 or 2 for maximum acclimatization benefit. After your excursion, rest in the afternoon. Drink plenty of water (3-4 liters today), eat well even if appetite is reduced, avoid alcohol, and prepare gear for the next challenging days. Your guide will check everyone for altitude sickness symptoms.

Today is a short day to aid acclimatization before the pass crossing. The trail descends slightly from Samagaon before climbing gradually along the valley. Walk through alpine meadows with yaks grazing and herders' stone shelters. The landscape is increasingly barren - you're now in the rain shadow of the Himalayas creating a semi-arid, almost Tibetan plateau environment. Pass Kermo Kharka, a yak pasture settlement used seasonally by herders. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki valley northward with dramatic mountain views. The valley is wide and windswept at this altitude. Continue ascending gradually through rocky terrain before reaching Samdo (3,860m), a small ancient trading village that historically did business with Tibet across the Larkya La Pass. The village sits in a stark but beautiful location surrounded by high peaks. Samdo has basic teahouses and a small monastery. The Tibetan Buddhist culture is very strong - this is the last permanent settlement before the pass. After arriving early (around noon), you have the afternoon to rest and acclimatize. Optional short hike: walk 30-45 minutes up the valley toward the Tibetan border for views and acclimatization. Historically, traders from Samdo would cross into Tibet via passes to the north. The border is now closed but the landscape gives a sense of the ancient trade routes. Return to Samdo for the evening. Prepare gear for tomorrow's trek to Dharmasala, the base camp for Larkya La crossing.

Another short but important day preparing for the pass crossing. From Samdo, descend to the Budhi Gandaki river and cross a wooden bridge. The trail turns west and begins climbing toward the Larkya La. Ascend gradually through high-altitude desert landscape with sparse vegetation and dramatic rock formations. The valley is barren and windswept but beautiful in its starkness. Pass occasional mani walls and chortens marking the ancient trade route. Continue ascending steadily through a rocky landscape. The air is noticeably thinner now at this altitude. Reach Dharmasala (4,460m), also called Larkya Phedi (meaning "foot of Larkya"). This is not a village but rather a very basic shelter camp with 2-3 extremely rustic stone lodges built specifically for trekkers preparing to cross the pass. Accommodation is minimal - small wooden rooms with thin mattresses, no electricity, minimal heating, and basic facilities. The lodges are functional shelters, nothing more. However, the location is spectacular - surrounded by high peaks with the Larkya Glacier visible ahead. Arrive early afternoon (around 1-2 PM) giving maximum time to rest. This is the highest you'll sleep before the pass crossing. Drink plenty of water, eat well even without appetite, and rest completely. Prepare all your gear for tomorrow's very long and challenging day. Pack your backpack tonight so you can leave early. Go to bed early (by 8 PM) as you'll wake at 3-4 AM tomorrow for the pass crossing. Your guide will brief everyone on tomorrow's strategy.

Today is the highlight and biggest challenge of the Manaslu Circuit - crossing Larkya La Pass at 5,160m. Wake at 3-4 AM and dress in all your warm layers. Have a quick breakfast and start by 4-5 AM with headlamps. The early start is crucial to cross the pass before afternoon winds and potential weather. Begin climbing in the darkness from Dharmasala on a rocky trail. The climb is gradual initially but steadily ascending. As dawn breaks, watch the surrounding peaks illuminate in spectacular alpenglow. Continue climbing across a rocky landscape with occasional ice and snow patches. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the pass. At this altitude, every step requires effort - walk very slowly and steadily, breathing deeply. Take frequent short breaks but don't stop too long in the cold. After 4-5 hours of climbing, reach Larkya La Pass (5,160m), marked with prayer flags fluttering in the wind and a small stone cairn. The summit panorama is absolutely breathtaking - one of the finest mountain views in Nepal. See Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Kang Guru (6,981m), Annapurna II (7,937m), and dozens of other peaks in every direction. Behind you, Manaslu dominates. The 360-degree vista is overwhelming. Spend 15-30 minutes taking photos, celebrating your achievement, and simply absorbing this incredible moment. Then begin the long descent. The descent from the pass is steep and demanding on knees - use trekking poles. Descend across rocky moraines and scree before the trail becomes more defined. Pass several small frozen lakes in the high valley. Continue descending through increasingly green landscape as you lose altitude. The vegetation gradually returns - first just grasses, then shrubs, then scattered trees. After 3-4 hours of descent, reach Bimthang (3,720m), a beautiful high meadow with several teahouses. The setting is spectacular with Manaslu visible behind and other peaks surrounding the valley. Celebrate your successful pass crossing! You've completed the most challenging section of the trek.

Today you descend significantly, dropping 1,420 meters from Bimthang to Tilije. The descent is good for acclimatization, bringing you back to more comfortable altitudes. Start with a descent across high meadows before the trail drops steeply through forest. The vegetation changes dramatically as you lose altitude - from alpine meadows to rhododendron forests to subtropical vegetation. Descend through beautiful pine and rhododendron forest (spectacular if trekking in spring when rhododendrons bloom). The trail is steep and hard on knees, so take it slowly. Cross several streams and small landslide areas. Pass through Hompuk, a summer grazing area, and continue descending. The valley narrows and the Dudh Khola river rushes below. Reach Karche (2,785m) and continue descending through forest. Pass Gho village and finally reach Tilije (2,300m), a beautiful Manangi village built in traditional style with flat roofs and wooden balconies. The architecture here is similar to what you'll see in the Annapurna Circuit's Manang region - you're now connected to that cultural zone. Tilije has several teahouses offering more comfort than higher elevations. The warmer temperature and thicker air feel wonderful after the high altitude days.

Your final trekking day! Continue descending through the Dudh Khola valley. The trail passes through beautiful forest and traditional villages. Cross the river on a suspension bridge and continue through Thonje village. Soon you'll reach Dharapani (1,860m), a major junction village where the Manaslu Circuit connects with the Annapurna Circuit. This village sits at the confluence of the Dudh Khola and Marsyangdi rivers. Dharapani has several lodges catering to trekkers on both circuits. The village marks the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek - you've successfully circumnavigated the eighth highest mountain in the world! Check into a teahouse and celebrate your achievement with your guide and porters. Reflect on the incredible journey from Soti Khola through remote valleys, Tibetan villages, and over the high Larkya La Pass. Share stories and photos with fellow trekkers. Enjoy a celebratory dinner. Tomorrow you drive back to civilization.

After breakfast, walk 1 hour from Dharapani to the roadhead at Syange (1,100m) or sometimes vehicles can drive to Tal or Jagat depending on road conditions. The road is being extended progressively. Meet your private vehicle and begin the long drive back to either Kathmandu (8-9 hours) or Pokhara (5-6 hours) depending on your plans. The drive retraces the route through the Marsyangdi valley with views of terraced hillsides and traditional villages. Stop for lunch along the way. If driving to Pokhara, arrive in the afternoon and check into your lakeside hotel. If driving to Kathmandu, arrive in the evening. Enjoy a hot shower, charge your devices, and celebrate the completion of one of Nepal's most spectacular treks! In the evening, perhaps enjoy a nice meal at a restaurant and share stories of your adventure. You've completed the Manaslu Circuit - a significant trekking achievement that few people accomplish.

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you have free time in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If in Kathmandu, options include visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square), shopping for souvenirs in Thamel, or simply relaxing and recovering. If in Pokhara, enjoy lakeside cafes, visit the International Mountain Museum, or arrange adventure activities. When it's time, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of circumnavigating Manaslu, crossing Larkya La Pass, experiencing Tibetan Buddhist culture, and completing one of the world's great wilderness treks. The Manaslu Circuit is an achievement to be proud of. Safe travels and thank you for this incredible journey!