"The Manaslu Circuit Trek invites adventurers to explore the majestic beauty of the Himalayas in Nepal. This succinct abstract provides an overview of the trek, highlighting its stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and challenging trails. Trekkers will traverse through remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, including the iconic Larke Pass. With its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a rewarding journey for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Himalayan experience."
Trip Fact
DestinationNepal
Durations16 days
Trip DifficultyChallenging
ActivitiesTour and Trekking
AccommodationHotel/Resort in City and Guest House during Trek
MealsBreakfast Lunch Dinner(BLD)
Mx.altitude5135m.
VehicleDrive
Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
Overview
Highlights
Remarkable hospitality and ethnic Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Larke La Pass (5135m), which leaves you surrounded by a choppy sea of snowy peaks.
Underrated and unpopulated trail that gives you more solitude than the more well-known treks..
Manaslu Circuit Trek circumnavigates the majestic Mount Manaslu (8163m) by hiking through one of the most quietest and beautiful trekking trails. Manaslu Circuit Trek is popular among trekkers who prefer quieter trail, high alpine scenery, and who have a fascination with Tibetan Buddhist culture. The Manaslu region was opened for the trekkers in 1995. The trail is very peaceful and few trekkers make their way to the area. The residents of the area are direct descendants of Tibetan immigrants who settled here during early 16th century. Because of this, their dialect, dress and customs resemble those of Nepal’s norther neighbors in Tibet. The mountain views in the area are sensational, unlike anywhere else in the world.
Manaslu Circuit trek takes you into the lap of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges. These mountains will give you astonishing views. In the initial days of the trek, we explore the Budhi Gandaki Valley through a mix of dense forest, terraced agricultural fields and rolling hills. Throughout the trek, we pass through alpine forests, glacial rivers, and enjoy the warm hospitality of people living in passing villages. The dramatic Larke Pass towards the end of the trek is a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experience. After descending to Jagat, we end the trek and drive back to Kathmandu.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered to be the best season because of the fine weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, whereas in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer and the mountains are more visible. The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires basic fitness and acclimatization to avoid Acute mountain sickness. Shepherd Holidays arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.
Detail Itinerary
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1Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to hotel.
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our airport representative will greet you and escort you to the hotel. In the afternoon, you can take rest or explore the streets of Thamel nearby your hotel. In the evening, we will organize a short pre-trip meeting and introduce you with your tour and trekking guides, who will brief you about the preparations to be done for the trip.
Overnight at Hotel
2Day 02
Full day Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.
After breakfast at around 9am, our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and you will go for sightseeing of famous UNESCO world heritage sites around Kathmandu valley.
You will visit the following sites:
Pashupatinath (World heritage site):
The world famous Hindu temple, Pashupatinath is regarded as one of the holiest and oldest Hindu temple in the world. This temple is located 5km east from the city center at the bank of the holy Bagmati River. Pashupatinath area is widely decorated by various ornaments dedicated to Lord Shiva. As followed by the Hindu Culture, the cremation of the dead is done in Pashupatinath area by the side of the bank of the holy Bagmati River.
Swayambhunath, also named as the monkey temple is surrounded by monkeys all over the area. Famous for people following both Hinduism and Buddhism, this temple not only provides the cultural and religious aspects but also offers various arts, architecture and the magnificent view of Kathmandu valley from the western side of its hillock. Swyambhunath Stupa is imprinted by the eye of Lord Buddha, which stands for peace and knowledge.
Boudhanath (World heritage site):
Boudhanath is the oldest and largest stupa in the valley, which was built during the Licchhavi dynasty in the 5th century around 2500 years ago. Its old name is ‘Khasa’ but later it was changed to Boudhanath by the government. You will find many Buddhist pilgrims and monks from Tibet and various places going round the stupa spinning the prayer wheels.
Patan Durbar Square (World heritage site):
Patan Durbar Square is situated at the center of the Lalitpur district. The main attraction of Patan Durbar Square is the ancient royal palace, where the Malla Kings of Lalitpur resided. There are many temples and idols in this area. You can also explore the Newari lifestyle, food and culture in the square and visit museums that contain many ancient and antique items that have a lot of historical significance.
Overnight at hotel
3Day 03
Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Arughat : 140 km, 7-8 hours
After an early morning breakfast, we'll drive to Soltikhola which is located in Budhi Gandaki valley via Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway which passes through the beautiful village, green lush hillsides and small towns. Actually the path is rugged and dirty, but offers the stunning views of snowcapped mountains including Annpurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtang Himal.
Overnight at guesthouse
4Day 04
Trek from Sotikhola to Maccha Khola : 14.1 km, 6-7 hours
After breakfast, you will go through the trail that ascends and descends through various landscapes. While trekking, you will be rewarded with green lush forest including various flora and fauna, waterfalls, paddy fields and a rushing river. You'll then need to cross the Suspension bridge of Budhi Gandaki River which is joined from the Tum Khola River in the Tibetan Highlands. After crossing the river the trail becomes rugged and opens the valley. Again the trail descends to the bank of Budhi Gandaki River and then you'll finally reach to village of Machha Khola.
Overnight at guesthouse
5Day 05
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat via Tatopani : 23 km, 6-7 hours
After breakfast, you will follow the trail that follows the gorge and and ascends to Tharo Khola. You will cross the suspension bridge of Tharo khola to reach Khorlabesi village. After crossing the beautiful village, your trail ascends and descends through various landscapes and takes you to Tatopani- a small hot spring. You can take rest or spend some time by taking a bath in that hot spring to relax your body.
From here, again you will follow the trail that ascends to beautiful Gurung Village through the green lush forest. On the way you need to cross two Suspension bridge of Budhi Gandaki River and Yarlu Khola. The trail is rugged and steepy. Then you will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and ascend to Jagat.
Overnight at guesthouse in Jagat
6Day 06
Trek from Jagat to Deng : 20.67 km, 6-7 hours
After breakfast, you will climb the rocky ridge to Salleri that further descends to Sirdibas. You will cross the suspension bridge of Philim, a large and beautiful Gurung village. Then your trail changes its direction and takes you to the north of Ekle Bhatti.
Then your trail descends via steep and cross the Suspension bridge of Budhi Gandaki River. Again the trail enters to the bamboo forest and exit to Deng Khola upon crossing the suspension bridge of Deng Khola finally reaching the Deng village.
Overnight at guest house
7Day 07
Trek from Deng to Namrung : 19.4 km, 5-6 hours
After breakfast in Deng, you will proceed to Namrung, the important and culturally remarkable segment of this trek. Your trail again crosses the suspension bridge of Budhi Gandaki River and joins the Bhi. You will pass through the green lush forest, alpine vegetation beautiful village of Gurung ethnic groups, which offers the stunning views of Mountain ranges.
Then again you will follow the trail; you will cross the Suspension bridge of Budhi Gandaki River and visit several Gompas on the way. Then your trail follows the river upstream via dense forest which is also a Mansalu conservation area enjoying with the various flora and fauna it leads to a narrow gorge. Then, you will finally reach the beautiful Namrung village.
Overnight at guest House.
8Day 08
Trek from Namrung to Samagaon : 20.7 km, 6-7 hours
After breakfast, you will follow the trail that ascends to Lhi. You trail passes via various landscapes, forests and beautiful several villages. You can enjoy the magnificent views of stunning Himalayas including Ganesh Himal, several Gompas and barley fields.
Then the trail descends through the village of Sho, Lho and Shyala before reaching to Samagaon village. This village offers the stunning views of Mountain ranges including Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
Overnight at Samagaon.
9Day 09
Rest day in Samagaon
Today is your rest day, so you can take a rest for the entire day or you can explore the village after taking breakfast. You can explore the culture and tradition of Sherpa's. You can also visit Pungyen Gompa, the oldest Gompa of the village. If you want, you can hike to nearby places to take some glimpse of mountain ranges.
Overnight at Samagaon village
10Day 10
Trek from Samagaon to Samdo: 16 km, 4-5 hours
After breakfast, you will proceed to Samdo form Samagaon. You will follow the trail that again descends to Budhi Gandaki River and you'll need to cross the wooden bridge of the river. While walking, you can explore the several Mani Walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
This is an easy and short walk that offers stunning mountain peaks along the route and takes you closer to Tibetan border. While walking via beautiful forest of Juniper and birch, you can explore various flora and fauna.
Overnight at Samdo village
11Day 11
Acclimatization day at Samdo
oday you can take rest for the entire day and relax your body. Or you have another two options
Option 1: You can hike to another valley, trading center of Tibet and Nepal located just behind to Samdo village. This valley is also known as the view point which offers amazing views of Mountains including Manalsu, Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larke and many more. While walking, you can explore various birds and animals including Lophophorus, the national bird of Nepal.
Option 2: You can trek to Gya La, one of the largest and challenging pass located north of Samdo village. If you choose option 2, you need to walk for an entire day. So make sure that your stamina is enough and you don’t need a rest.
Overnight at Samdo village
12Day 12
Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala : 11.7 km, 4-5 hours
After breakfast, you will proceed to Dharamsala which is often khown as Larke Phedi. You will follow the trail that ascends to Larke Bazaar and descend to Budhi Gandaki River. You will cross the wooden bridge of Budhi Gandaki River that ascends to Larkya Glacier. After crossing two streams, you will reach to Salka Khola and you will climb the hill exploring several traditional monasteries to reach Dharamasala.
Overnight at Dharamsala
13Day 13
Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass : 24.7 km, 7-8 hours
After breakfast, you will proceed to Bimthang. This is more challenging in comparison to other days because of the increasing elevation and altitude. Your trail enters via several beautiful villages exploring the barely fields, local peoples and their culture. While walking, you will witness several lakes with blue colored water, beautiful valleys, stunning snow capped peaks and dense forest with various flora and fauna.
Today you will cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass, the highest and challenging pass of the Masalu trek. This pass rewards trekkers with the amazing views of snow capped peaks including Himlung HImal, Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and many more.
Overnight at Bimthang
14Day 14
Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani: 14.1 km, 4-5 hours
After breakfast, you will proceed to Dharapani (ending point) from Bimtang. It is an easy walk because your trail mostly descends with the mesmerizing views of snow capped peaks and amazing surrounding.
Overnight at Dharapani
15Day 15
Drive to Kathmandu from Dharapani : 220 km, 7-8 hours
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani. After your arrival in Kathmandu, our driver and guide will drop you to the hotel. You can take rest or explore the streets of Thamel shopping for various antique and exotic things. In the evening, we will organize farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant. You can enjoy cultural dance and songs overnight.
Overnight at Hotel.
16Day 16
Departure Day
Today is the last day of your trip. If you would like to stay more in Nepal; you have many options which can be shared with us upon request. Else, we will transfer you to the airport for your departure. We thank you for the opportunity of being your travel partner and wish to serve you in your next vacation. Have a nice journey.
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
Three nights in a 3 star or above hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
All transportation for the trek.
Local guest house accommodation in mountain.
Manaslu Permit.
TIMS Card.
Government-authorized, experienced guide and porters.
Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters.
Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
All equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.).
First Aid Kit.
Maps.
Service charge and government taxes.
Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu.
Cost Excludes
International Airfare.
Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast).
Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek.
Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee.
Tips for guide and porter.
Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary.
Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.).
Good to Know
Permits: Obtain the necessary permits for the trek, including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and must be obtained through a registered trekking agency.
Guide and Porter: While it's not mandatory, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. They can assist with navigation, provide valuable insights into the local culture, and ensure safety throughout the trek.
Physical Fitness: The Manaslu Circuit Trek involves long days of hiking at high altitudes and crossing challenging mountain passes such as the Larke Pass (5,106 meters). Prior physical fitness and some hiking experience are essential to enjoy the trek and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Altitude Acclimatization: Adequate acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude-related illnesses. Plan for rest days during the trek to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. It's also essential to stay hydrated and ascend gradually.
Packing Essentials: Pack appropriately for varying weather conditions, including warm layers, rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, and basic first aid supplies. Don't forget essential items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle.
Accommodation and Meals: Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit Trek primarily consists of teahouses or guesthouses offering basic amenities. Meals are usually provided at the teahouses and include a variety of Nepali and international dishes. Bring some snacks and energy bars for additional sustenance.
Weather Conditions: Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season (June to September) and the winter months (December to February). Check the weather forecast before starting the trek and pack accordingly.
Responsible Trekking: Practice responsible trekking by respecting local customs and traditions, minimizing waste, and leaving no trace. Support local communities by purchasing goods and services locally and respecting their culture and environment.
Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Carry a fully charged phone, emergency contacts, and any necessary medications with you at all times.
Trekking Season: The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally stable, and the views are stunning. However, be prepared for crowded trails during peak seasons.
Manaslu Circuit with Shepherd Holidays - An Outstanding Experience
My Manaslu Circuit Trek with Shepherd Holidays exceeded all expectations. The trek offered a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, and Shepherd Holidays played a crucial role in making it unforgettable. Their attention to detail, safety, and responsible trekking practices were evident in every aspect of the journey. Our guide's knowledge of the region and the local way of life added depth to the experience. The accommodations and meals were consistently excellent, considering the remote locations. If you're looking for an outstanding trekking experience in Nepal, Shepherd Holidays is the agency to choose. I'm grateful for the memories and the exceptional service they provided throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
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Ms. Sophie
15 12th 2022
A Well-Organized Manaslu Trek with Shepherd Holidays
Shepherd Holidays organized a flawless Manaslu Circuit Trek for us. From the permits and logistics to the guide's expertise, everything was top-notch. The trail itself was stunning, taking us through diverse landscapes and remote villages. Our guide Ankita was a wealth of information and made the journey enjoyable with her warmth and humor. Shepherd Holidays' commitment to eco-friendly trekking practices was evident throughout the trip, and their responsible tourism approach was highly appreciated. If you're considering the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Shepherd Holidays is the perfect choice for a memorable and well-organized adventure.
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Mr. Nicole
07 9th 2022
Unforgettable Trek with Shepherd Holidays
The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Shepherd Holidays was an unforgettable adventure. Their team's dedication to customer satisfaction is commendable. Our guide was not only experienced but also personable, sharing stories about the local culture and traditions. The trek itself was challenging yet incredibly rewarding, with ever-changing landscapes and stunning views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. Shepherd Holidays ensured our safety and comfort at all times, from well-planned accommodations to delicious meals. If you're looking for a fantastic trekking experience in Nepal, Shepherd Holidays is the way to go.
M
Mrs. Mia
01 6th 2022
Incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek Experience!
I recently completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Shepherd Holidays, and I can't express how incredible the journey was. From the moment I arrived in Nepal, the team at Shepherd Holidays was attentive and professional, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. The Manaslu region's pristine beauty and rich culture were brought to life by our knowledgeable guide, who shared fascinating insights throughout the trek. The accommodations and meals were consistently excellent, even in remote villages. Shepherd Holidays' attention to safety and their commitment to responsible trekking made this adventure not only breathtaking but also socially and environmentally conscious. I highly recommend Shepherd Holidays for anyone considering the Manaslu Circuit Trek; they truly go above and beyond to make it an unforgettable experience.
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Mrs. Ruby
20 2nd 2020
Manslu Trekking
We just finished a customized 16 days trek to Manaslu region. The trek was awesome. Exploring the mountains enjoying with snow was the best feeling ever. The trek was well organized and the hospitality was great. Larklya Pass was a bit dangerous but the view it offers was breathtaking. In short, we had a great time in Manaslu, enjoyed a lot!
