Trip Information:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular and less crowded trekking route in Nepal, circling around Mount Manaslu (8,163m)—the eighth highest peak in the world. This trek offers stunning Himalayan vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, passing through remote villages inhabited by the Tamang, Gurung, and Buddhist communities.
The trail takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes such as the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal. The trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, making it suitable for experienced trekkers.
The region is a designated Restricted Area, so trekkers need special permits to enter, which helps preserve the environment and culture.
Highlights:
- Trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world
- Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m) with breathtaking views
- Explore traditional Tamang and Gurung villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries
- Experience diverse landscapes—from subtropical forests to alpine terrain
- Enjoy views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and other prominent peaks
- Trek in a restricted, less crowded area with rich cultural heritage
- Opportunity to witness traditional festivals and local customs
Day 01 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
- Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
- Free time to explore the vibrant city or rest.
- Evening trek briefing with your guide.
- Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02 :
Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (870m)
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, passing through rural landscapes.
- Driving Time: 7 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Machhakhola.
Day 03 :
Machhakhola to Jagat (1,350m)
- Trek 18km (8-9 hours) through lush forests and traditional villages.
- Ascend along the trail with scenic views of the surrounding hills.
- Elevation: ↑1,500m, ↓1,000m.
- Trekking Time: 8-9 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat
Day 04 :
Jagat to Deng (1,340m) via Philim and Nyak (2,340m)
- Trek 18km (8-9 hours), passing through Philim and Nyak villages.
- Enjoy views of terraced fields and the Budhi Gandaki River.
- Elevation: ↑1,500m, ↓1,000m.
- Trekking Time: 8-9 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Deng.
Day 05 :
Deng to Namrung (2,650m) via Ghap (2,160m)
- Trek 16km (8-9 hours) through forests and small settlements like Ghap.
- Gradual ascent with views of the Manaslu range.
- Elevation: ↑1,500m, ↓750m.
- Trekking Time: 8-9 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung.
Day 06 :
Namrung to Lho (3,180m) via Shyo (2,880m)
- Trek 9km (4-5 hours) through alpine scenery and traditional villages.
- Pass Shyo and enjoy closer views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
- Elevation: ↑750m, ↓200m.
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Lho.
Day 07 :
Detour to Punggen Gompa (4,200m), Overnight in Sama Gaon (3,530m)
- Trek 17km (8-9 hours), including a detour to the scenic Punggen Gompa.
- Descend to Sama Gaon, a vibrant village in the Manaslu region.
- Elevation: ↑1,050m, ↓700m.
- Trekking Time: 8-9 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Sama Gaon.
Day 08 :
Sama Gaon, Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m)
- Day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (10km, 5 hours) for stunning views of Manaslu.
- Return to Sama Gaon for the night.
- Elevation: ↑↓850m.
- Trekking Time: 5 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Sama Gaon.
Day 09 :
Sama Gaon to Samdo (3,870m), Acclimatization Tour to Samdo Ri (5,140m)
- Short trek (8km, 2-3 hours) to Samdo, a remote village.
- Optional acclimatization hike to Samdo Ri (7-8 hours) for panoramic views.
- Elevation: ↑↓1,300m (if hiking Samdo Ri).
- Trekking Time: 2-3 hours (to Samdo), 7-8 hours (if hiking Samdo Ri).
- Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo.
Day 10 :
Samdo to Dharmasala/Larkya La Base Camp (4,470m) via Larke Bazar (4,090m)
- Trek 6km (3-4 hours) through rugged terrain to Dharmasala, the base camp for Larkya La.
- Pass through the small settlement of Larke Bazar.
- Elevation: ↑650m, ↓50m.
- Trekking Time: 3-4 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Dharmasala.
Day 11 :
Dharmasala to Bhimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La (5,105m)
- Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,105m) with spectacular views.
- Descend to Bhimthang, surrounded by meadows and forests.
- Trek 15km (8-9 hours).
- Elevation: ↑700m, ↓1,450m.
- Trekking Time: 8-9 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Bhimthang.
Day 12 :
Bhimthang to Dharapani (1,950m) via Yak Kharka and Tilije (2,300m)
- Trek 23km (7 hours) through Yak Kharka and Tilije, descending along the Marsyangdi River.
- Enjoy lush forests and village scenery.
- Elevation: ↑300m, ↓2,100m.
- Trekking Time: 7 hours.
- Overnight: Teahouse in Dharapani.
Day 13 :
Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu or Pokhara (Optional)
- Drive by jeep and bus to Kathmandu (approx. 8-10 hours) or Pokhara (approx. 6-7 hours).
- Relax and reflect on the trek upon arrival.
- Travel Time: 8-10 hours (Kathmandu) or 6-7 hours (Pokhara).
- Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara.