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Manaslu Circuit and Larke Peak Climbing

Overview

  • Duration20 Days
  • Trip GradeVery Strenuous 
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • ActivityHiking, Climbing, Discovery
  • Group Size8 People Maximum
  • Max Altitude6249m

About Manaslu Circuit and Larke Peak Climbing

Manaslu Circuit and Larke Peak Climbing is one of the most thrilling trips in Nepal. This is a less crowded trek that offers epic adventures. 

This trip will take you to remote villages and the natural beauty of Nepal. You will witness lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls beside the snowcapped mountains. You'll also discover the preserved areas of the trip, which are rare, including plants and places.

Larke Peak is a rewarding peak to climb in combination with the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is a relatively easy climb with spectacular views of Manaslu, the Annapurnas, Ganesh Himal, and beyond. However, there is sometimes confusion about which peak it is, and groups are often lead up a steep line to a subsidiary peak known as Sano (small) Larke (5,807m).

The base camp is close to the 5,135 m of Larke La pass. From this base camp, Sano Larke Peak can be climbed in a single day. However, to climb Thulo (big) Larke (6,249 m), a high camp is required. This ultimate Larke Peak is a long but easy climb on snow slopes that are slightly less steep than Sano Larke Peak. The best option for climbers is to make a high camp and then summit the real Larke Peak.

Larke Peak is a rarely climbed peak in Nepal that has been open for climbers since 2002. Larke Peak has been graded as an "A" category climbing peak in Nepal by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Beside magical mountain views, Larke Peak climbing offers a unique combination of culturally rich heritages, unrivaled natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Climbing Larke Peak with the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek 
  • A unique and improved version of the classic Manaslu Circuit with stunning views from start to finish
  • Excellent acclimatization with rest days before and after crossing the Larke La. 
  • Discover picturesque Tibetan villages full of historic attractions

Itinerary

  1. Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

    Welcome to the Himalayas, one of our representatives will pick you from the airport and drive you to your respective hotel.

    Once you reach the hotel you will check in and rest for a while. The remaining day you can discover Thamel looking at shops and eating at a restaurant.

    • Accommodation:Optional
    • Meals:Optional
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m.
    • Time:Rest day

  2. Today in the morning, our team will meet you to review the equipment you have brought and take you to the gear rental shop. Before you head off to the Himalayas, we will make sure that you have quality climbing boots that fit well.

    Today, there will also be a trip briefing on last-minute specifics about your trek and an early lights-out: you have a big day ahead.

    You may wish to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old city where the old Royal Palace, with its intricate woodcarving is located. The whole area is a maze of temples and images.

    Leading away from the square in all directions are narrow alleys, full of the most amazing variety of shops and stalls. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ Swayambhunath and Buddhists shrine Buddhanath which is one of the largest Stupas in the world.

    • Accommodation:Optional
    • Meals:Optional
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m.
    • Time:Free day

  3. After an early morning breakfast, we'll drive to Soti Khola by Jeep. You will follow the Budhi Gandaki River towards the northern side and passing through Simre and Morder villages. It will be a bumpy and winding dirt road journey that will take approximately 7 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:810m.
    • Time:7 hours

  4. After breakfast, we cross the Soti Khola suspension bridge and trek through the forest on a narrow and rocky trail. Along the trail, there are many waterfalls. You make your way through the paddy fields and arrive in the lovely Gurung village of Lapubesi.

    Further hiking through the sandy riverbed and stone ridges will take you to Machha Khola, then trail continue until reaching the village of Khorlabesi. This trek will take roughly 5 - 6 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:920m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  5. Today, we will climb to Tatopani, which is also known for its relaxing hot springs. We refresh ourselves and continue along the cliffs.

    We cross a large suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and then ascend through a narrow valley to Dobhan. Admiring the easy up and downs along the river we will reach Jagat. Overnight at a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1340m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  6. We will pass through rocky ridges to Salleri, we will see the beautiful Shringi Himal (7131m) and then descends to Sirdibas. The trail from here crosses the left bank of the river to the largest suspension bridge on the east side, which takes us to Philim.

    Continuing on, we will reach Tsum valley and, after passing a few suspension bridges, Nupri and then Deng. Overnight at a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1860m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  7. Today, we will ascend the trail to Rana and then to Bhi, crossing through many canyons. The path crosses Sarang Khola and widens round the Ghap Valley.

    We will enter the forest area of rhododendron, birch, and pine from Ghap. On our way, we'll cross by many Mani walls and prayer flags. The trail is fascinating as we'll be experiencing Tibetan culture. Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:2630m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  8. We will pass through a few Mani walls, fields, and houses before entering the dense rhododendron forests. The trail follows the forested landscapes until it ascends to Lihi and then to Sho. A pleasant walk along stupas and monastery will take us to Samagaon.

    We will cross many large Mani walls and see many peace flags hanging along the way to Samagaon, where we will enjoy views of Manaslu (8163m) and Manaslu North (7157m). Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3520m.
    • Time:6 - 7 hours

  9. Today, the day will be for acclimatization to the higher altitude. Because we'll have gained a massive altitude and our journey continues above 3000m, we will acclimatize ourselves with the climate.

    We will use this day to hike up the Manaslu Base Camp and enjoy the views of mountain vistas in the Manaslu region and then return to Samagaon. Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3520m.
    • Time:Free day

  10. The route for today will be along the Birendra Lake (tal), which runs beneath the Manaslu Glacier. The trail will initially pass through juniper forests before ascending to the cliff and leaving the tree-line below.

    From there, we will ascend along the ridges before descending to the Budhi Gandaki River. After some time, the trail will take us to Samdo. Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3875m.
    • Time:3 - 4 hours

  11. We will descend along the Budhi Gandaki River and pass via another Tibetan trail. After reaching a large Mani wall, we'll head left and walk through the dense forest.

    The trail continues to ascend along the dense forest area and settlements along the riverbank to the Larke Phedi. The mountain views are breathtaking. Overnight in a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:4460m.
    • Time:4 hours

  12. We will ascend slowly through the lateral moraines of the Larke Glaciers. The journey is long and mostly passes via the rocky ridgeline up to the moraine. From here, we will descend to the four frozen lakes before ascending to the Larke-La pass (5160m).

    We can see beautiful peace flags hanging with stunning view of Himlung (7126m), Annapurna II (7937m), and other Annapurna Range mountains. Stay overnight at tented camp.

    • Accommodation:Tent Camp
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:5160m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  13. Our journey today starts as we continue on a gradual climb to reach high camp. We will trek on steep trails and narrow rocky channels which make the walk all the more challenging.

    When we arrive at high Camp, we can explore the area to acclimate to the climate. We can also practice for the climb the next day. We will learn how to use some of the climbing equipment and gear. Overnight in a tented camp.

    • Accommodation:Tent Camp
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:5600m.
    • Time:4 - 5 hours

  14. We start the climb to the summit early in the morning. We will not have to deal with the strong midday winds around the mountains this way.

    Once we reach the top of Larke Peak, we will be greeted by the now-familiar Himalayan air, revealing a stunning range of peaks in the Mount Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. After enjoying the joyful moment for a while, we descend back to high Camp. Overnight in a tented camp.

    • Accommodation:Tent Camp
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:6249m.
    • Time:8 hours

  15. This day will be set aside as a contingency in case we are unable to reach the summit of the Mera peak on the desired day due to bad weather or any other unforeseen reason. However, this day will not be required if the trip goes smoothly.

    • Accommodation:Tent Camp
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  16. Today, we will climb along the lateral moraine and then descend via the loose rocks. At times, we may need to fix a rope to descend back to the grassy moraine.

    Enjoying the beautiful snow-capped mountains, we'll descend to the sandy village Bimthang. Upon reaching at Bimthang, we will get a chance to see the medial glacial lake called Pongkar Tal which lies just between Pongkar and Salpudanda glaciers. Overnight at a guesthouse.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3590m.
    • Time:4 - 5 hours

  17. We trek up to the Bimthang glaciers, then quickly ascend to the far moraine wall to avoid the stone falls in this area. From here, we'll reach the beautiful dense forests of rhododendron and pine.

    We'll continue along the riverbank, then into the forests, crossing Karche and the Gurung Gho. Crossing a suspension bridge, we will reach Dharapani. Overnight at a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1860m.
    • Time:6 - 7 hours

  18. We'll walk through the descending path along the Marsayangdi River until we reach the iron bridge. The trek ascends to Koto and we continue ahead to cross few villages and guesthouses and descend to the sandy area of Tal Village. We'll continue on the trail until we reach Chyamje. We then head to Jagat. Spend the night at a guesthouse. 

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m.
    • Time:5 - 6 hours

  19. We will drive back to Kathmandu while enjoying the beautiful views of green valleys and tranquil villages, passing through numerous settlements and verdant hills along the way.

    On reaching Kathmandu we'll drive you back to your hotel. Enjoy the delights of city, listening to live music.

    In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with culture show.

    • Accommodation:Optinal
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m.
    • Time:7 - 8 hours

  20. Today you can either stay back and enjoy a free day in Kathmandu or leave for your respective countries.

    Our representatives will drop you off at the airport according to your flight schedule.

    What's Included

    Included

    • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
    • Transportation from and to Kathmandu by private vehicle.
    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trip.
    • All accommodations during the trek.
    • English speaking Sherpa trek guide.
    • Larke Peak climbing permit and Manaslu restricted area permit.
    • Annapurna Conservation Area permit and necessary permits (TIMS).
    • Tent camp during the climbing period. (twin sharing trekking tent, dining tent, toilet tent, Kitchen tent, staff tent, chairs and Kitchen utensil etc.)
    • Peak climbing a native Sherpa guide with his equipment.
    • Staff insurances and necessary ground transport for support staffs.
    • Garbage deposit.
    • Necessary porters to carry your luggage/equipment during the trip.
    • Magical Summits duffel bags.
    • Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
    • Trek map.
    • Farewell dinner including a cultural show.

    Not Included

    • International airfare and Nepal visa.
    • Personal trekking and peak climbing gears.
    • Climbing rope, crampons, climbing shoes, raincoat.
    • Personal clothing and equipment, down jacket, Gore-Tex jacket, available on hire in Kathmandu.
    • Any personal medical or evacuation expenses incur.
    • International Travel insurance which included rescue.
    • Tips for the guide & porters (tipping is expected).
    • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the 'Included' section.

    Our published dates are guaranteed departures. If the dates don't match with your travel plans, we are more than happy to create your desired date.

    Useful Info

    Accommodation

    Accommodations are provided on the twin-sharing basis. If you are a solo traveler, a single supplement will be served. Accommodations during the trek in the Himalayas, you will be staying at basic mountain lodges where you'll have a nice and clean room with the warm blankets, pillows, and comfortable matrices (matrices may not be very thick size but they’re comfortable).

    Meals

    During the trek, we can enjoy authentic Nepalese food as well the more common international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.). Breakfast and dinner will be served from a lodge menu where we spend the night whereas lunch will be served on the way to the next destination. All meals will be provided during trekking, there will also be farewell dinner.

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Himalayas is between September to December and March to May, when the skies are a clear blue and the views spectacular. The weather remains dry until about May, with temperatures varying between regions.

    Nepal is good for trekking throughout the year. Autumn and spring seasons are the most famous trekking seasons in the Himalayan region of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet. It has beautiful, cool, blue skies, clear weather conditions and amazing views of the white mountains and the countryside.

    During the spring season, this time of year offers a breathtaking view of the Rhododendron flowers and lush forests.

    FAQs

    1. Do I need permits for Manaslu Circuit and Larke Peak Climbing?

    Yes, you'll need permits for Manaslu Circuit and Larke Peak Climbing trip unless you are Nepali. Along with Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit, you will also need a special restricted area permit to do trekking in this Manaslu region.

    Well, as you know that there are three different permits that you should acquire before visiting Manaslu area.

    Manaslu Circuit trek permit costs USD 110 for the first 7 days and USD 15 for each additional day between September to November and USD 90 for the first 7 days and USD 10 for each additional day between December to August. And Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit fee is USD 30

    The Larke Peak climbing permit costs for Spring: Mar-Apr-May USD 250 and for Autumn: Sep-Oct-Nov USD 125

    No, you do not need a TIMS permit, if you choose to trek in any restricted areas in Nepal.

    There is not uniformity in price for Manaslu Circuit and Larke peak climbing. However, if you choose a local travel agency, you expect to pay around USD 2400 to USD 3000, this is an all-inclusive cost.

    No, a recent change in government policy requires a group of at least two people, led by a government-registered guide.

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