Manaslu Circuit Trek

Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel in the city. After check-in, you can rest and recover from your journey or take a short walk around Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively tourist hub filled with shops, cafés, and cultural charm.

In the evening, you’ll attend a short trek briefing where you’ll meet your guide and learn important details about the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, permits, and preparations.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

After an early breakfast, we begin our scenic journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River, offering views of lush hills, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages.

As we approach Arughat and Soti Khola, the road becomes more rugged and adventurous, giving a taste of the remote beauty that awaits. You’ll pass by waterfalls, small settlements, and green valleys along the Budhi Gandaki River.

After a long but rewarding drive, we reach Machha Khola, a charming riverside village where we rest for the night.

Overnight stay in Machha Khola.

Today’s trek begins with a pleasant walk along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing several suspension bridges and small Gurung villages. The trail gradually ascends and descends through narrow gorges, lush forests, and terraced farmlands.

We pass Khorlabesi, a beautiful village known for its natural hot springs — a perfect place to rest and relax for a while. Continuing on, we cross the Tatopani (hot spring) area and traverse rocky ridges before reaching Dobhan and then Yaru Khola.

After a few more ups and downs along the river valley, we finally reach Jagat, a picturesque village that marks the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Here, you’ll notice the beginning of stronger Tibetan cultural influences in the architecture and local lifestyle.

Overnight stay in Jagat.

After breakfast, we begin our trek with a gradual climb through stone-paved trails and charming villages surrounded by terraced fields. The route takes us through Sirdibas, a beautiful Gurung village, and continues toward Philim, known for its scenic landscapes and friendly locals.

As we move ahead, the trail opens up with breathtaking views of the Shringi Himal range. We cross several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River and pass through dense pine and rhododendron forests, listening to the soothing sounds of flowing water.

Continuing along the narrow valley, we finally reach Dyang, a small village nestled among the hills. It’s a peaceful place to rest and enjoy the serenity of the mountains after a long trekking day.

Overnight stay in Dyang.

Today’s journey takes you deeper into the Manaslu region, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through small settlements and dense forests filled with pine, oak, and rhododendron trees.

We begin with a gentle walk and then ascend gradually toward Bihi Phedi, where you’ll start to notice strong Tibetan Buddhist influences — colorful prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens decorating the trail. The views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal become increasingly striking as we gain altitude.

The final stretch involves a steady climb through forests and terraced fields before reaching Namrung, a charming village with teahouses and a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks. Namrung also serves as a checkpoint for trekkers entering higher altitudes in the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Overnight stay in Namrung.

After breakfast, we leave Namrung and begin a gradual ascent through dense forests and picturesque villages. The trail passes through Lihi and Lho, both traditional Buddhist villages decorated with mani walls, chortens, and beautifully carved prayer wheels. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himal Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.

At Lho Village, you can visit the famous Ribung Monastery, where the magnificent Manaslu massif dominates the horizon. From here, the trail continues uphill through alpine meadows and yak pastures, leading us to the serene village of Shyala.

Shyala offers a breathtaking 360° panorama of the surrounding peaks — including Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Peak 29. The crisp mountain air and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place to rest and admire the beauty of the Himalayas.

Overnight stay in Shyala.

Today begins with a short hike to the historic Pungyen Monastery, one of the oldest and most sacred sites in the Manaslu region. Located on a ridge with sweeping views of Manaslu and the surrounding glaciers, this monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere where trekkers can observe local monks in prayer and learn about the deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist traditions of the area.

After exploring the monastery, we descend back to the main trail and continue our trek toward Samagaun, a beautiful and culturally rich village nestled at the base of Mount Manaslu. Along the way, we pass through open fields, yak pastures, and small stone houses adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the cold mountain breeze.

Upon arrival, you can explore Samagaun’s ancient monastery, interact with locals, or simply enjoy the incredible mountain views surrounding the village.

Overnight stay in Samagaun.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Samagaun, helping your body adjust to the higher altitude while still enjoying a rewarding hike. After breakfast, we set out on an exciting day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), one of the major highlights of the trek.

The trail ascends gradually through rocky terrain and glacial moraines, offering breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163m), Naike Peak, and the surrounding snow-clad giants. As we climb higher, the air gets thinner, and the landscape transforms into a rugged alpine world of ice and rock.

Upon reaching Manaslu Base Camp, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the majestic Manaslu massif and its glaciers — a perfect spot for photography and reflection. After spending some time soaking in the views, we descend back to Samagaun for rest and a warm meal.

Overnight stay in Samagaun.

After breakfast, we begin our gradual ascent toward Dharmasala (also known as Larkya La Phedi) — the base camp for the famous Larkya La Pass crossing. The trail climbs steadily through juniper and birch forests, past yak pastures and alpine meadows with occasional sightings of blue sheep grazing on the slopes.

As we move higher, the scenery becomes more rugged and open, surrounded by towering snow peaks. You’ll notice fewer settlements as we approach the high Himalayan zone. Dharmasala offers basic accommodation but stunning mountain views, providing the perfect resting point before the big pass day.

We arrive by afternoon to allow plenty of time for rest, hydration, and preparation for the next day’s challenging yet rewarding trek over Larkya La Pass.

Overnight stay in Dharmasala / Larkya La Phedi.

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the entire trek — the crossing of the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), one of the highest and most scenic passes in the Himalayas. We start early before sunrise to ensure safe and comfortable conditions for the climb.

The trail ascends gradually on a rocky and snowy path with panoramic views of Larkya Peak, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. As we reach the top of the pass, colorful prayer flags flutter in the cold breeze, marking an unforgettable achievement. Take some time to enjoy the breathtaking 360° views and capture the moment.

The descent is long but rewarding, leading through glacial moraine and alpine meadows before reaching the serene Bhimthang Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. After the long and adventurous day, relax and celebrate your successful crossing of Larkya La Pass.

Overnight stay in Bhimthang.

After conquering Larkya La Pass, today’s trek is a pleasant descent through lush landscapes and tranquil forests. The trail begins with a gentle walk down from Bhimtang, offering mesmerizing views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal in the background.

You’ll pass through beautiful alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and rhododendron forests, enjoying the gradual transition from a high-altitude environment to a more temperate climate. Along the way, small settlements and mani walls add cultural charm to the journey.

Reaching Gho village (2,550 m), you’ll find warm hospitality and a peaceful setting perfect for resting after the long days of trekking.

Overnight stay in Gho.

Today marks the final trekking day of your Manaslu Circuit adventure. The trail from Gho gently descends through dense forests, charming Gurung villages, and cultivated farmlands, showcasing the gradual shift from the high Himalayas to the mid-hills.

After about 3 to 4 hours of pleasant walking, you’ll arrive at Dharapani, a key junction that connects the Manaslu Circuit with the famous Annapurna Circuit Trail. From here, you can either rest or continue with a scenic drive to Besishahar Bazaar (1,910 m), the gateway to the Annapurna region.

Enjoy the final moments of your trek, celebrating the incredible journey that took you around Mt. Manaslu, through remote valleys, and across one of Nepal’s most challenging high passes.

Overnight stay in Dharapani or Besishahar.

Today marks the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek. After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, descending through lush hills, terraced fields, and vibrant villages that showcase rural Nepal’s beauty.

Upon reaching Besisahar (760 m), you’ll switch vehicles for a comfortable long drive back to Kathmandu (224 km). The journey offers glimpses of rivers, rolling green hills, and local life along the Prithvi Highway.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can relax, enjoy a warm shower, and celebrate the completion of your unforgettable Manaslu Circuit adventure.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Your incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure comes to an end today. After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.

As you head home, take with you unforgettable memories of the majestic Himalayas, warm Nepali hospitality, and the spiritual serenity of the Manaslu region.

We hope your journey has been truly rewarding and that you’ll cherish the experience for a lifetime.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant flight — Namaste and see you again!