Manaslu Circuit Trek

Price USD 1545
Trip Duration 16 Days
DestinationNepal
Trip Difficulty Technical Challenging
Trip StyleTrekking
AccomodationHotel + Teahouses + Lodges

More Info

About Trip

Highlights

Traversing the high-altitude, majestic Larkya La Pass, enveloped by snowy peaks
Beautiful, isolated trail – a perfect alternative to the Annapurna Circuit for those who want more peace and quiet
Connect with the local Tibet Buddhist influenced villagers who offer brilliant hospitality
Circumnavigates the 8th highest mountain in the world, with constant views of numerous other high peaks
Experience a diversity of landscapes – hilly lowlands to subtropical jungles to barren, snowy alpine environments

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered by some guides to be the best all-around trek in Nepal. The 20-day expedition leads deep into the Himalayas on a trail that circumnavigates Manaslu (8163m), the 8th highest mountain in the world. The trek, which joins together the Manaslu and Annapurna regions, is the preferred alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek for those who want to do without the crowds. It is a strenuous trek in northwest Nepal that goes through the Tibetan Buddhist-influenced ethnic communities. Tibet lies just north of the trail, which itself has been part of a trade route for centuries.

Our epic journey starts in Arughat Bazaar (608m), along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. The area is characterized by picturesque terraced rice fields, lots of domestic animals, and kind villagers. We climb north and upward, noticing the drastic changes in scenery as we go. Gaining altitude, not only the landscapes change, but so do the villages. We first pass through Gurung and mixed villages to eventually reach communities where the population is ethnically Tibetan and different dialect is spoken. Local people are Tibetan Buddhist influenced and offer brilliant hospitality. After traversing the hilly lowlands, we soon arrive into the desolate, high alpine landscapes where we are surrounded by a choppy sea of mountain peaks.

A major highlight of the trip is the Larkya La Pass, where trekkers reach an altitude of 5160m. It is the highest point on the circuit, and the setting of the pass is otherworldly. It is usually covered in snow, with peaks extending past the clouds, high into the sky. From here, we descend steeply down back to Besisahar to catch our ride back to Kathmandu. The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be easily combined with other treks (i.e. Tsum Valley Trek), so ask us if you’d like to extend your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Shikhar Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International airport (1345m).

A representative from Shikhar Adventure will welcome you to our hotel. We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02: Pre-trip Meeting and Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.

After breakfast, we’ll brief you on our upcoming adventure and then go on a sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can spend the rest of the day freely or prepare for your upcoming trek. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Machhakhola via Arughat Bazaar (869 meters). About 8/9 hours.

We set off early today for Machhakhola. During the drive, we enjoy views of the countryside, catching glimpses of the typical village lifestyle, enjoying mountain views in the background. We drive on a paved road from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar and on rough roads till we reach Machhakhola. Overnight in a guest house.

Day 04: Trek to Dovan (1070 meters). About 5 hours.

After breakfast, we walk on a narrow and tough trail through Khorlabesi and Tatopani, with its natural hot spring bath. From there, we cross a suspension bridge and walk over a ridge to Dovan. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 05: Trek to Philim (1570 meters). About 5 hours.

We walk through various Gurung ethnic villages and cherish the views of Sringeri Himal as we approach Philim. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 06: Trek to Deng (1860meters). About 6 hours.

We begin our trail after a tasty breakfast. Upon reaching a fork in the road, we choose the left path (the one that does not go to Tsum Valley). The next 3 hours are relatively flat and easy. After lunch, we trek further on to our destination. Soon, we arrive at Deng. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 07: Trek to Namrung (2630 meters). About 7 hours.

After Deng, we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana. We climb a bit more to join a trail from Bhi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through verdant forests. We take the route that goes through Prok village, which has a perfect viewpoint for Siring Himal. The trail follows the river upstream through more forests, which becomes less dense as we climb. The pleasant walk continues and after one last steep climb, we reach Namrung. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 08: Trek to Samagaun (3520 meters). About 4 hours.

Namrung has a nice viewpoint of Siring, Ganesh Himal, and Hiunchuli. We climb steadily, passing through forests to reach Lihi. Here, the trail drops and crosses the valley of Simang Himal with Ganesh Himal nearby. We enjoy incredible views of Manaslu from Lho, a pleasant village with a Gompa. In Shyala, we are surrounded by high mountains with Manaslu and large glaciers straight ahead. Today’s journey ends in Samagaun. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 09: Exploration at Samagaun.

Today, rest and allow our bodies to acclimatize. If you have any interest, we can take a day hike to explore the surrounding area. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 10: Trek to Dharamsala (4460 meters). About 7 hours.

After breakfast, we begin our day. We cross the wooden bridge over Budi Gandaki and begin walking upward. After crossing two streams and seeing the expansive Larkya Glacier, we walk around the valley of the Salka Khola and climb up to Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3590 meters) via Larkya-la Pass(5160 meters). About 7 hours.

After a short climb, we reach a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glacier, where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across moraines of the glacier, and gradually ascend the pass. There are outstanding views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and the massive Annapurna II. It is a long and strenuous day, but being constantly exposed to the amazing scenery makes the hike well worth it. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 12: Trek to Goa (2515 meters). About 6 hours.

From a ridge at Bhimthang, we enjoy great views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal. We descend and cross a high pasture (Sangure Kharka) followed by a bridge over Dudh Khola. Walkthrough rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until reaching the valley at Karcher(2785m). We pass agricultural fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. We go down and a short distance beyond is the village of Goa. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 13: Trek to Chamje (1700 meters). About 6 hours.

After leaving Goa, the last views of Manaslu, Nadi Chuli, and Himal Chuli are cherished. Annapurna II and its surrounding peaks will continue to be visible to the south. Trek back to Thonje and Dharapani, on the Annapurna Circuit trail. Follow the road down to Karte (1850m) and cross the suspension bridge and head back to Tal. Continue down to Chamje. Overnight in the guest house.

Day 14: Drive back to Beshishar and Kathmandu.

An 8/9hour scenic drive takes us back to Kathmandu. We’ll drop you off at your hotel, and you can spend the rest of your day freely. Celebratory dinner in the evening with the crew. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 15: Transfer to the international airport for your onward destination.

Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport. Thank you for choosing Shikhar Adventure as your trekking guide! We look forward to your next adventure with us.

Cost Details:

Cost Includes

Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
All transportation for the trek.
Local guest house accommodation in mountain.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
Manaslu Trekking Permit
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.)

Photos of Manaslu Circuit Trek

‹ › ×

Tom Wilm
United States Published: Thursday, October 31, 2019

Manaslu Trekking
Rating:
Shikhar Adventures is run by a very knowledgeable, and helpful staff. I have used them for Everest and Manaslu treks and each time Dambar and his staff have made the experience unforgettable. In addition to information about the area, they are helpful and adaptable to any need you have. I highly recommend them!!! Looking forward to using them on my next trek.
Mark Leader
United Kingdom Published: Monday, October 28, 2019

Manaslu Circuit Trek
Rating:
We had an amazing trekking experience in a beautiful part of Nepal. Dambar and his team were excellent from planning the trip to guiding us around the trekking circuit that was challenging but very rewarding. Dambar was always conscious of our needs, extremely observant and safety was always first.

I would highly recommend Shikhar Adventure for your Nepal trekking, this was the second trek we booked with them the first being Everest Base Camp with Cho La Pass and both have been excellent.

Note:

Shikhar Adventure is not responsible for any problems due to weather, damages of property, etc. However, we will help you manage your inconveniences to the best of our abilities. Transportation to Arughat Bazaar and from Besisahar can be delayed due to weather conditions and delays may last up to several days. It is best to book flights to and from Kathmandu with a several day margin to avoid missing a flight back to your home country.