Manaslu Circuit
Into the Soul of the Mountains
Trek Details
The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, bordering the Tibetan Plateau and through the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is known for its raw beauty and relatively untouched landscapes. It provides a more remote and adventurous alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. The trek will take you through a variety of landscapes from subtropical forests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows and high-altitude mountain areas near the Tibetan border. You will be surrounded by spectacular mountain views, especially of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 m).
You will also meet the local Tibetan Buddhist culture, especially in the upper section of the trek. This trek will bring you in Gurung villages and several Buddhist monasteries, adding a deep spiritual essence to the trek.
A major highlight of the trek is crossing the Larke La Pass at 5,106 m, which is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. The climb to the pass is challenging but offers an unforgettable experience, with jaw-dropping views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and surrounding peaks.
Duration from Kathmandu to Kathmandu : 13 days
Trek level : challenging 3/4
It’s good to have previous experience of hiking and/or trekking but a beginner in good condition can do it. You must be able to hike 6 to 8 hours and climb at least 1,000 m (3,300 ft) per day, for several days in a row.
Altitude : 818 m - 5,153 m
Accommodation : guesthouses
Positive elevation : 9,014 m / Negative elevation : 7,914 m
Travel tips : Everything you need to know before trekking with us HERE
Cost : From 1,300 EUR per person (rate based on 4 people minimum).
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Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Transportation until the trekking departure point
Trekking permit and TIMS fee
Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
English or French speaking trekking guide as well as his necessary insurance, accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Supporting staff (porters), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day, tea-coffee, seasonal fruits, and overnight in double rooms in local lodge along the trek
First aid kit box
You can hire our services for your stay in Kathmandu (accommodation, cultural guide and excursions).
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International flight ticket and airport tax
Lunch and dinner during the Kathmandu and other cities’ stay
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Tips for guide and porter
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral water) during the trek
Additional costs due to extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear for the trip
Itinerary
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A long, scenic drive, along terraced fields, following the Trisuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers. The road will be bumpy and rough as you approach Soti Khola. Arrival at Machha Khola (820 m). Approx. 8/9 hours drive.
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A gentle climb to Jagat (1,340 m) along terraced fields, and the Budhi Gandaki River. You will enter the Manaslu Conservation Area through a narrow natural gateway, crossing rivers across suspension bridges. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 620 m and descending 100 m.
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The trek brings you through steep valleys, crossing bamboo forests and rivers multiple times. You’ll pass through Philim, a large Gurung village, and ascend towards Deng (1,860 m). The landscape starts to transform, with Tibetan Buddhist influence more apparent and several mani walls along the trail. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 720 m and descending 200 m.
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This day begins into bamboo forest and continues into rhododendron and juniper forests to Namrung (2,630m). As you ascend, you may observe sheeps, deers and himalayan birds. Pangboche Himal and other peaks start coming into view. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 1,200 m and descending 300 m.
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A climb through forests of birch, pine and rhododendron takes you to Lho (3,100 m), a typical Gurung village with mani walls, chortens and stupas. This village of Lho offers the first close-up views of Mount Manaslu and Himalchuli and you can visit the Lho Monastery. Approx 4/5 hours hike, ascending 770 m and descending 200 m.
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The trail gradually climbs to the Nubri Valley and reaches Samagaon (3,530m), the largest settlement on the trek, known for its Buddhist culture and Tibetan-style houses. From the village of Shyala, you get stunning 360° views over Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Naike peak. Approx 4/5 hours hike, ascending 500 m and descending 160 m.
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Free day for acclimatization and explore the village, discover Gurung culture and himalayan landscape. Visit of Pungyen Gompa, a remote monastery with breathtaking mountain views.
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A relatively short and easy trek along the Budhi Gandaki river toward the Tibetan border to Samdo (3,875 m). You will pass mani walls, chortens, and remote Tibetan villages during the climb. Approx 3 hours hike, ascending 340 m.
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A short and steep climb leads to Dharmasala (4,460 m), also known as Larke Phedi. This is the last stop before the pass.The trail passes through high altitude landscapes with stunning views of the mountains all around. A short overnight at a basic tea house. Approx 4 hours hike, ascending 730 m and descending 100 m
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This is a long day trek from Larke Phedi to Bhimtang (3,720 m) through Larke La Pass (5,106 m). Certainly the toughest and most thrilling day of the trek, with an early start to cross Larke La Pass before the wind picks up. The ascent offers panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, among others.After crossing the pass, a long descent takes you to Bhimtang, a picturesque valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Approx 8/10 hours hike, ascending 680 m and descending 1,220 m.
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Back to dense forests, terraced fields till Tilche (2,300 m). The trail descends through rhododendron and pine forests, past glaciers, rivers, and into the lower valley. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 140 m and descending 1,820 m.
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A pleasant walk takes you through villages until you reach Dharapani (1,860 m), where you join the Annapurna Circuit trail. From Dharapani, a jeep ride takes you to Besisahar, marking the end of the trek. Approx 2 hours hike, ascending m and descending m and 3 hours drive.
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Back to Kathmandu by jeep or microbus and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. Approx 6/7 hours drive.
Gallery
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