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Manaslu Circuit Trek

Overview

  • Duration14 Days
  • Trip GradeModerate 
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • ActivityTours, Hiking
  • Group Size2 - 8 People
  • Max Altitude5213m.

About Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the most exciting hiking trips in Nepal. This is a less crowded trek with epic adventures.

This trip will make you discover remote villages and the natural beauty of Nepal. You'll witness rich forests, rivers, and waterfalls right beside the mountain panorama. You will also explore the preserved areas of the trip, which are rare, including plants and locations.

In the Midwest region of the Himalayas, you will see tribal villagers belonging to the Gurung, Magar, and Bhotias divisions. They have a different way of introducing their own authentic culture. Their friendly behavior is bound to make you feel homely welcome.

The 8th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu, also known as Kutang (8163 m), is captivating when it comes to scenic beauty.

Dharamshala is a wonderful place and there are a lot of guest houses at Dharamshala. They are close to the village of Larke Phedi and Samdo. Along with this, you can also discover the Tsum Valley. It is also called a hidden valley. People are following the traditional ways and methods of living.

The locals follow Buddhism. Many peace wheels, monasteries and mani walls add to the ambiance of the place. The people in there are friendly and welcoming. The lifestyle is very simple.

You will walk through the off beaten trails and isolated villages. It will give you the feeling of a different world which is as beautiful as you expect it to be. In addition, if you're looking for a more adventurous trip you can combine this Manaslu Circuit Trek with Larke Peak climbing.

How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is classified as moderately difficult. There's nothing extreme about this trek and the routes are getting better each year. Moreover, you will need a good level of fitness as you'll be trekking a long way each day and climbing over several high passes, including Larke La Pass at 5,150 meters.

The journey is for anyone who wants to enjoy a hike that is not highly commercialized. It is a trek away from the crowds where you can discover the unique cultural setting and also a superb trekking experience in true Nepal.

Here is more information about the trail, the distance, duration, and everything in between to help you make a more informed and personalized decision on whether or not the Manaslu Circuit trek will be difficult for you.

Highlights

  • The opportunity to experience the remote and isolated regions of Nepal
  • A chance to observe Mt. Manaslu, 8th highest mountain in the world.
  • Get the chance to discover the authentic tradition of Buddhists and the lifestyles of the locals

Itinerary

View Map
  1. Day 1Arrive at Kathmandu

    On the first day, you will arrive in Kathmandu. We will meet and greet and take you to your hotel.

    Today is free and rest day in Kathmandu, or you can wander around the city to get familiar with the surrounding. There are varieties of religious and fun places where you can hang out and enjoy the time.

    • Accommodation:Optional
    • Meals:No
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m
    • Time:Rest day

  2. Today, it's free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may want to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old town, where the old Royal Palace with its intricate woodcarving is located. The whole area is a labyrinth of temples and images.

    The narrow alleys that lead away from the square in all directions, 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 the Buddhist Shrine Buddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world.

    Today, there will also be a trip briefing with gear check. If you need to rent or buy equipment locally, there will be time to do this today.

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

  3. After your breakfast and leave for SotiKhola, and it will take around 7 to 8 hours to reach SotiKhola.

    The view from the bus is much more exciting and captivating than you expect the countryside to be. The winding roads and the settlements that combines very well with nature amazes you.

    You will enjoy your ride. The duration of the journey is perfect to admire the beauty of the view from the bus.

    Here, you can take beautiful pictures with ease. The views are beautiful because of the mountains and the gorges of the river.

    After reaching to SotiKhola you'll have your evening meals and rest the night in a lodge.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:710m
    • Time:7 – 8 hours

  4. Today, the trekking begins!You will trek towards MachhaKhola.

    You will have a filling breakfast and then leave for MachhaKhola. On the way, you'll see the rivers and water resources that Nepal is rich in. You will find the rivers beautiful as you will trek from a certain height around the hills. You will also see mountain views.

    You'll pass through suspension bridges from one hill to the other. You pass the trails along the Budhi Gandaki River to reach Macha Khola. You will have dinner and then you will rest for the night.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:930m
    • Time:6 – 7 hours

  5. Today, you will hike to Jagat, which is in the Lamjung District. The trail towards Jagat is also filled with suspension bridges. The trails are on the hillsides.

    You will see local people carrying their loads in a Doko (jute basket) on their backs. They carry food and other necessities on their backs. The normal transportation facilities are not convenient in this place. You will rest for the night here.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1410m
    • Time:5 – 6 hours

  6. Deng is a more rural place than the others you have hiked to until this trek. You will pass through Philim to reach Deng. It takes about 3-hour to reach Philim. This trek consists of climbing a lot of times up and down the hill. 

    The roads are rocky, but as you cross Philim, you will reach a plain trail. You will see millet and corn crops on the way. You will cross through bridges and small wooden bridges which are fun to walk in. 
    The village has people belonging to the community of Magar and Gurung. The Gurungs had migrated from Tibet back in the 6th Century. 

    You will find a different peace there with the Buddhistpeace flags and small Buddhist shrines. You will stay here, have dinner and rest

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:1805m
    • Time:6 hours

  7. Trek to Namrung is the transition from the village to the mountain areas.

    You'll get closer to your destination as you reach Namrung. You can feel it because from here you can see the heads of the mountains. The distance is about 19 kilometers.

    You need to get some rest along the way as you get tired. Take more time to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the fun of the trek. You will pass through Rabagaon, Bihi and the Prok village to reach Namrung.

    Namrung is actually located next to the Budhi Gandaki River. So, you will walk beside the river to reach Namrung. On a way, you will see small villages and the houses are made from stones.

    After reaching to Namrung, you will have your dinner and rest there.

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

  8. Samagaon is also known as the Manaslu Gateway. Samagaon is 1400 meters below Manaslu Base Camp.

    You'll head to Samagaon after breakfast. There are a number of teahouses available. The small place to stay will give you a gorgeous view of the mountains, including Manaslu. The monks there may welcome you to blessings.

    You will also witness the forest of Rhododendron if you go a little below Samagaon. The trails might be a bit muddy on the way to Samagaon, but the views will make you forget all the hassle.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3530m
    • Time:6 hours

  9. The northern side of the Samdo is the border between Nepal and Tibet. It's also the route to discover the view of the 8th highest mountain in the world. The distance between Samagaon and Samdo is 16 km.

    You will also discover various snow-capped mountains there.

    Local lifestyle here is completely different from the way they follow Buddhism. You'll pass Lela Kharka and KhermoKharka on the way. Tibetan villages are also nearby.

    You will spend a night here and will go to Dharamsala in the next morning.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:3860m
    • Time:4 hours

  10. After breakfast, you will head to Dharamsala from Samdo. Dharamsala is famous for its teahouses. It is also the last spot you will rest before reaching the summit ofManaslu Circuit Trek.

    You will find a wide range of guest houses which you can enjoy during the trek. Snow-capped mountains and the scenic beauty will surround you. This place is perfect to spend the night to rest and enjoy the tea.

    You will also pass through Larke Bazaar. Larke Bazaar is a seasonal Tibetan market in Dharamsal. You will see several glaciers and mani walls on the way as well.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:4460m
    • Time:3 - 4 hours

  11. This is the main destination of the trek. You will trek to Bimthang via the trails of Larke Pass. This is the most challenging part of the trek you will face. Make sure you have frequent rest and do not put pressure on yourself.

    Even though it's the most challenging part, it's worth it.

    The reason why this is also the best part is that you'll see the views of Mt. Manaslu, HimlungHimal, Annapurna II, and KangguruHimal. Moreover, you will discover the isolated and preserved areas of Manaslu.You will be staying there overnight.

    • Accommodation:Lodge
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Maximum Altitude:5160m
    • Time:7 – 8 hours

  12. After having a good breakfast, you'll head to Dharapani. You will pass through the Marshyangdi Canyon to reach Dharapani. It's also the trekking routes that connect Annapurna and Manaslu. You will also see the beautiful Marshyangdi River.

    An hour later, you will cross the paths with horses carrying supplies to the village. It is also the route just above the landslide. This hike will also

    After descending down to Dharapani, you will have dinner and stay here.

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

  13. The final day you will arrive in Kathmandu. From Dharapani, we take a local bus/jeep to Beshisahar, which will take about 3,5 hours. Similarly, reaching to Kathmandu from Beshisahar can be just as easy and comfortable, which will take around 5 hours.

    • Accommodation:Optional
    • Meals:Breakfast
    • Maximum Altitude:1400m
    • Time:8 hours

  14. Enjoy the city’s luxuries again! Spend the afternoon shopping in Thamel for souvenirs, or simply relax.

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

    The time has come to say goodbye to Nepal. A representative will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport for your return flight home.

    What's Included

    Included

    • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
    • Manaslu Circuit Trek restricted area permits (USD 110 per week, per person from Septto Nov. It’s USD 95 from Dec to Aug).
    • Transportation from and to Kathmandu by local bus(upgrade to private Jeep/car – USD 150 total, one way).
    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
    • All accommodations during the trek.
    • English speaking Sherpa trek guide.
    • Staff insurance and necessary ground transport for support staffs.
    • Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
    • Magical Summits duffel bag.
    • Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
    • Trek map.
    • Farewell dinner including a cultural show.

    Not Included

    • International airfare and Nepal entry visa.
    • Tips for guide and porter (tipping is expected).
    • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
    • 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. What is the best time to trek Manaslu Circuit Trek?

    Spring and Autumn are the best time for the Manaslu Circuit trek. During the spring (March, April, May) is the best time for this trek, because in these months the weather will be clear and calm, as well as you can get a chance to see the High Mountains, including Manaslu, full of snow.

    Spring is the perfect time for rhododendron blooming; you can see all the rhododendron forest turning into a beautiful garden.

    Autumn (September, October, November) is the peak season for this trek. And the climate is pleasant during the autumn season too. But the nights are pretty chilly, do prepare to keep yourself warm and comfortable.

    The trek requires 5 - 6 hours of walk every day and which is a moderate to difficult trekking grade. But with regular exercises before the trek, anyone can do it. And with the proper equipments, the journey is worth it.

    Likewise, altitude is another precaution that needs to be take care of. So it is important to take regular rests and drink plenty of water. Take as much time as you need to enjoy the trek and take it easy to get the best out of the trek.

    This trek will feed you with some great experiences and challenges.

    The Manaslu Circuit is a longer trek than several other treks in Nepal. This trek can be done in 12 to 17 days. Most travel companies offer 14-day itineraries as it allows for necessary acclimatization and comfort.

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