Manaslu Circuit Trek
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking Himalayan journey that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. This trek offers a unique combination of high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning mountain vistas, taking you through remote villages, lush river valleys, dense forests, and alpine meadows. Trekking through the Manaslu Restricted Area, you’ll encounter traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements, ancient monasteries, and prayer-strewn passes, all in a relatively uncrowded and authentic environment. This 14-day itinerary balances moderate and challenging trekking days with strategic acclimatisation stops, ensuring you can safely enjoy the adventure while taking in the spectacular Himalayan scenery. Supported by experienced licensed guides and porters, staying in cosy teahouses, and enjoying local Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine, this trek is ideal for those seeking a rewarding high-altitude adventure combined with cultural discovery and the thrill of crossing the iconic Larkya La Pass (5,106 m).Private Touring
- Flexible Dates
- 24-Hour Local Assistance
- Flexible Itinerary
- Upgrade Accommodation
- Local Guide Service
- Modern Airconditioned Vehicle
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to rest, explore the vibrant streets, or visit nearby temples such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Enjoy a trek briefing covering gear, permits, safety, and logistics, preparing you for the journey ahead. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Meal Plan: No Meal
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive following the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers. Pass terraced farmland, small towns, and lush green hills on your way to Soti Khola, the starting point of your trek. The road winds through dramatic valleys and riverside villages, giving a glimpse of rural Nepalese life. Overnight at a riverside teahouse in Soti Khola.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and walking through forests of tropical and subtropical vegetation. Watch cascading waterfalls and interact with locals in scattered riverside villages. The trail is mostly gentle, ideal for your first day of trekking. Arrive at Machha Khola in the afternoon and settle in at the teahouse.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
The trail begins to climb steadily as you trek through terraced fields, forested hills, and traditional stone villages. Jagat is the first checkpoint for Manaslu Restricted Area Permits, where officials check trekking documents. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of Himalayan peaks and the tranquil river valley below. Overnight in Jagat.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Follow the Budhi Gandaki Valley, walking through scenic forests, waterfalls, and small hamlets. The trail ascends gradually, offering dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and river gorges. Deng is a small settlement with teahouses, providing a cozy stop and a chance to interact with the local community.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
The trekking path leads through pine and rhododendron forests, climbing steadily with increasingly spectacular views of snow-capped peaks. Namrung is a charming village perched on the mountainside, rich in Tibetan-influenced culture, with stone houses and prayer flags lining the trail. Overnight at Namrung.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Trek through rugged valleys and past small villages to reach Samagaun, one of the largest villages in the Manaslu region. The path rises gently into alpine terrain, offering stunning views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Samagaun is ideal for acclimatization and cultural exploration, including local monasteries and traditional houses.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Take a rest day to acclimatise. Optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp (~4,500 m) or Pungyen Gompa (~4,100 m) provide breathtaking glacier views and the opportunity to explore local Tibetan Buddhist culture. Proper acclimatization ensures safety for the upcoming high passes.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Trek through stony alpine landscapes and scattered villages to reach Samdo, the last village before the high pass. The trail is shorter today, giving time to rest and enjoy the panoramic snow-capped peaks, prayer flags, and serene high-altitude environment. Overnight in Samdo.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
The ascent continues to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi). This short but steep trek prepares you for Larkya La Pass. The trail passes rocky terrain, moraine fields, and high alpine landscapes. Arrive in the afternoon and rest early for the early start tomorrow. Overnight at Dharamsala.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
The trek’s highlight day: rise early to cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). The ascent takes 3–4 hours, rewarding trekkers with panoramic Himalayan views. After crossing, descend steeply into the Marsyangdi Valley to Bimtang, passing alpine meadows and glaciers. Overnight in Bimtang.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Descend through forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages along the Marsyangdi River. The trek is moderate, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and interact with local communities. Arrive at Dharapani for the final night on the trail.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar, passing terraced hills, rivers, and towns. Arrive in Kathmandu in the evening, where you can relax, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. End of your unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Inclusions
Airport pick-up & drop-off in Kathmandu
All necessary permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit + ACAP + MCAP
Licensed English-speaking guide and porter services
Ground transport according to the itinerary
Accommodation in teahouses on trek and hotels in Kathmandu
Full board meals (B/L/D) during trekking days; breakfast in hotels
Sleeping bag & duffel bag (agency-provided on request)
Emergency rescue coordination & government taxes
Exclusions
International airfare & Nepal visa
Travel insurance (mandatory with high-altitude cover)
Personal trekking gear & equipment
Drinks, bottled water, snacks
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, or charging fees on trek
Tips for guides & porters, optional activities
Notes
Trek Details
• Duration: 14 Days
• Start / End: Kathmandu
• Highest Point: Larkya La Pass – 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Daily Trekking Hours: 3–9 hrs
• Accommodation: Teahouses on trek, 3-star hotels in Kathmandu
• Meals: Full board (B/L/D) during trekking, breakfast in Kathmandu
• Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, ACAP & MCAP
• Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Trek Highlights
• Larkya La Pass (5,106 m): Iconic high Himalayan pass with panoramic views
• Manaslu Base Camp (optional): Glacier and peak views, photo opportunities
• Samagaun & Samdo Villages: Tibetan-influenced settlements with monasteries
• Alpine & Forest Landscapes: Rhododendron forests, moraine fields, and valleys
• Remote Trails: Authentic experience away from crowded trekking routes
• Cultural Immersion: Stone houses, prayer flags, local customs, and festivals
• Panoramic Mountain Views: Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and surrounding peaks
