Manaslu Circuit Trek
Off-the-beaten-path adventure around the world's eighth highest peak
Trip Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a pristine, off-the-beaten-path adventure that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth highest peak. This challenging trek offers a more authentic and less crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, taking you through remote Tibetan-influenced villages, pristine forests, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
Experience the rich culture of the Nubri and Tsum Valley peoples, whose Tibetan Buddhist traditions have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The trek requires a special restricted area permit, ensuring fewer crowds and a more intimate wilderness experience. The highlight is crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m), offering spectacular views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, and other peaks.
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu
- Day 2 : Drive to Soti Khola (700m) - 8-9 hours
- Day 3 : Soti Khola → Machha Khola (930m) - 6-7 hours
- Day 4 : Machha Khola → Jagat (1,340m) - 6-7 hours
- Day 5 : Jagat → Deng (1,860m) - 7-8 hours
- Day 6 : Deng → Namrung (2,630m) - 6-7 hours
- Day 7 : Namrung → Samagaon (3,530m) - 6-7 hours
- Day 8 : Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
- Day 9 : Samagaon → Samdo (3,875m) - 3-4 hours
- Day 10 : Samdo → Dharmasala (4,460m) - 4-5 hours
- Day 11 : Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) → Bimthang (3,590m)
- Day 12 : Bimthang → Tilije (2,300m) - 6-7 hours
- Day 13 : Tilije → Tal (1,700m) - 5-6 hours
- Day 14 : Tal → Syange (1,100m) - 5-6 hours
- Day 15 : Drive to Kathmandu - 7-8 hours
- Day 16 : Final Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Welcome to Nepal! Transfer to hotel, meet your guide, and attend pre-trek briefing. Complete Manaslu restricted area permit formalities.
Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola (700m) - 8-9 hours
Long but scenic drive through the countryside to Soti Khola, following the Budhi Gandaki River. First views of Manaslu on clear days.
Day 3: Soti Khola → Machha Khola (930m) - 6-7 hours
Begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River through subtropical forests and traditional villages. Cross suspension bridges over the river.
Day 4: Machha Khola → Jagat (1,340m) - 6-7 hours
Continue along the river, passing Tatopani (hot springs). Enter Manaslu Conservation Area. Checkpoint at Jagat for permit verification.
Day 5: Jagat → Deng (1,860m) - 7-8 hours
Steep ascent through forests to Philim village. Continue to Deng, experiencing the dramatic change in landscape and culture.
Day 6: Deng → Namrung (2,630m) - 6-7 hours
Enter the Nubri Valley, marked by Tibetan-influenced architecture and culture. Gradual ascent to Namrung with mountain views.
Day 7: Namrung → Samagaon (3,530m) - 6-7 hours
Trek through beautiful forests and meadows with first views of Manaslu. Reach Samagaon, the largest village in the Nubri Valley.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Rest day for acclimatization. Visit Pungyen Gompa (monastery), Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint, or explore the village and its ancient monasteries.
Day 9: Samagaon → Samdo (3,875m) - 3-4 hours
Short trek to Samdo, a traditional Tibetan refugee village. Excellent views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Prepare for pass crossing.
Day 10: Samdo → Dharmasala (4,460m) - 4-5 hours
Trek to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi), the base camp before Larkya La Pass. Short day to prepare for the challenging pass crossing tomorrow.
Day 11: Dharmasala → Larkya La Pass (5,160m) → Bimthang (3,590m) - 8-10 hours
Early start (around 4 AM) to cross Larkya La Pass at sunrise. Spectacular views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, and other peaks. Descend to Bimthang through beautiful alpine meadows.
Day 12–16: Descent via Tilije, Tal, Syange; drive to Kathmandu; Departure
Descent through rhododendron and birch forests to Tilije, Tal, and Syange. Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to airport for departure.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Essential Gear
- Trekking boots (well broken in), large backpack (50-70L) + daypack (30-40L)
- Sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C rated), trekking poles (essential for pass crossing)
- Headlamp with extra batteries, water bottles/hydration system (3-4L capacity)
- Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3-4), sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom), fleece jacket and pants
- Down jacket (heavy, for high altitude), waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants (convertible preferred), warm hat, sun hat, and buff
- Gloves (lightweight and heavy mittens), wool hiking socks (6-8 pairs)
Accessories & Essentials
- Comprehensive first aid kit, water purification tablets/filter
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox), personal medications
- Camera with extra batteries, power bank (20,000mAh recommended)
- Cash (Nepali rupees) - extra for restricted area permit
Your trek cost includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1 night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis
- All meals on full board basis (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- All permits, conservation area and restricted area fees
- Porters; insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance; group medical kit
Your trek cost does NOT include
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (evacuation cover mandatory; ensure correct altitude cover)
- Personal expenses (drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during trek, etc.)
- Meals unless specified; sightseeing; gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges due to delays beyond our control
