Manaslu Circuit Trek

Your free day in Kathmandu. This day is required to make Manaslu Circuit Trek special permit with your original passport. Later in the evening, there will be a pre-trek briefing where you’ll meet your trek leader, receive additional information about the journey, and have any queries addressed. Overnight in Kathmandu.

We'll journey to Machhakhola either by local bus or private vehicle, depending on your group size and package. Our route will take us along the scenic Prithvi Highway, traversing through the stunning highlands. Upon passing Dhading Besi, the road becomes rugged as we ascend towards Gola Bhanjyang, treating us to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Following the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, we'll continue our journey until we reach Soti Khola. From there, it's approximately another hour to reach Machhakhola. Enjoy your stay at the guest house upon arrival.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek commences today, tracing the course alongside the Budhigandaki River from Khorlabesi, passing by the rejuvenating warm spring at Tatopani. Crossing the river, our path continues along the eastern banks, leading us to an impressive 195m cantilever bridge anchored into the cliff at Yarubagar. Along the way, we're treated to the sight of gracefully cascading waterfalls before pausing for a lunch break at Dobhan. Progressing past Yaruphant, we transition to the western banks of the Budhigandaki, trekking for approximately half an hour until we officially enter the Manaslu Conservation Area at Jagat. We'll spend the night at Jagat, ready for the adventures that lie ahead.

Continuing our trek, we follow the slate-paved path descending to a suspension bridge, then embark on a gradual ascent past Salleri and Sirdibas. En route, captivating Buddhist monuments adorn the trail, adding to the allure of the journey. After nearly two hours of walking beyond Philim along the western banks, we encounter a junction where the path to Tsum Valley diverges to our right. Opting to proceed straight ahead, we cross a metal bridge over the Budhigandaki and continue our trek westward along the river. As we advance, the terrain transitions into a forested trail, and a steady uphill climb brings us into the Nubri Valley, where the presence of Tibetan Buddhist symbols becomes more pronounced. After a bit more walking, we finally reach Deng, where we will spend the night, ready to recharge for the adventures ahead.

Today's trek continues alongside the river on its northeastern bank. As we progress, we'll reach Ghap, a charming Buddhist village adorned with numerous Mani stones and Chortens. After Ghap, we'll cross a wooden bridge spanning the Budhigandaki River and ascend through a gentle rhododendron forest to reach Namrung. This picturesque highland village is steeped in Buddhist culture. Overnight stay in Namrung.

After breakfast, we resume our trek along a trail that leads into the inner Himalayan range. Crossing the glacial Hinang River at Lamagaon, we make our way towards Lho. Along the trail, we're treated to breathtaking views of peaks such as Mt. Manaslu, Gorkha Himal, Dwijen Himal, Saula Himal, and Lajing Peak, captivating us at every turn. As we ascend, the landscape transitions to sparse alpine vegetation. Our short trek today concludes as we encounter mani walls, Chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries, indicating our arrival in the highland village of Lho, where we'll spend the night. The Ribung Gompa stands majestically against the backdrop of Mt. Manaslu, offering a spectacular sight.

Today's trek is designed to aid in acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness, with shorter distances covered over the next few days. We begin our journey through a stone gate adorned with colorful mani walls, offering a striking view of Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) directly ahead. Trekking onwards, we ascend to Punggen Glacier, where we're treated to a close-up view of the majestic Manaslu. Finally, we follow the trail along the lateral moraine of Punggen Glacier until we reach Sama Gaon, where we'll spend the night.

After trekking for over a week, it's important to acclimatize properly before ascending to higher elevations, particularly towards Larkya La Pass (5106m). Therefore, we'll take a day to rest and explore Sama Gaon. During this day hike, you'll visit Manaslu Base Camp, offering stunning views of Manaslu, Larke, and Naike Peak, as well as the Punggen and Manaslu glaciers, among other natural wonders. Additionally, we'll take a walk to Birendra Lake, which boasts crystal blue waters in the summer and glistening ice formations in the winter, providing a spectacular sight year-round.

We have a leisurely day ahead as we embark on a gentle ascent towards Samdo, following the tranquil path through the windswept valley. Just 4 kilometers north lies the Tibetan border, lending Samdo its distinctive Tibetan influence. As we approach, we'll notice plenty of Tibetan traces in the settlement. Moreover, we'll be treated to mesmerizing vistas of Mt. Manaslu, Samdo (Pang Chuli), Ngadi Chuli, Simnang Himal, Manaslu glacier, Manaslu Icefall, and numerous other majestic peaks that adorn the horizon, creating a truly awe-inspiring scene.

The trail leads us along the ancient trade route to Tibet, crossing a bridge and ascending through the bustling markets of Larkya bazaar. After approximately three hours of hiking past glaciers and increasingly stunning panoramas, we reach the high camp at Dharamsala, also known as Larke La Phedi. Here, amidst breathtaking alpine scenery, we enjoy lunch while observing blue sheep grazing on the desolate hill-sides nearby. The altitude and cold at Dharamsala are noticeable, so it's important to take it easy and stay warm as we prepare for the next day's journey over Larke La Pass. Overall, this leg of the trek entails a 5-hour hike from the departure point at our accommodation early in the morning.

The highlight of our trek is reaching the summit of the highest point, Larkya La pass. We begin with a short hike up to Larkya Glacier, where the surrounding area offers stunning views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. As we continue, the terrain becomes steeper until we finally reach the summit at 5,106m. Despite the challenging ascent, the reward is immense as we are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayas. The majestic peaks of Cheo Himal, Annapurna II, Kangguru Himal, and Himlung Himal come into view, leaving an indelible impression on us. After soaking in the magnificent scenery, we descend to Taubuche. Eventually, we arrive at Bimthang, where we'll spend the night at a tea house, reflecting on the incredible experience of summiting Larkya La Pass.

After breakfast, we'll embark on our final day of trekking towards Dharapani, passing through the charming villages of Gowa and Tilche along the way. We'll cross the Dudh Khola using a suspension bridge before following the path through the lower valley to reach Dharapani. Notably, both the Manaslu circuit trek permits and the Annapurna circuit trek permits are issued in Dharapani, indicating its significance as a trekking hub. Here, we'll join the well-known Annapurna circuit trekking trail.Note: If you have ample time and are interested, you can extend your trek to the Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La Pass 5,416m) or embark on the Tilicho Lake Trek from this point onwards.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we'll set off on a picturesque journey alongside the Marsyangdi River, passing through quaint settlements until we reach Besisahar. From there, we'll transition to a private car and continue our journey along the Prithivi Highway, following the course of the Trishuli River. En route, we'll be treated to scenic vistas of rice fields, terraced farms, lush valleys, and captivating mountain landscapes. After a 7 to 8-hour drive by Jeep and Microbus, we'll safely arrive back in Kathmandu, marking the end of our unforgettable trekking adventure.

As our journey draws to a close, we'll ensure you reach the airport three hours prior to your departure. We trust your trip was fulfilling, brimming with unforgettable experiences. Until we meet again in this charming, breathtaking, and awe-inspiring nation, farewell. Safe travels!