Trip Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most stunning and culturally rich Himalayan journeys, offering an adventurous alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit. Encircling the eighth-highest mountain in the world; Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) — this trek combines breathtaking mountain scenery with deep cultural immersion in remote Tibetan-influenced villages.
The trail begins at Machha Khola and follows the rugged Budi Gandaki River valley, gradually ascending through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and narrow gorges before entering the high alpine region. You’ll encounter monasteries, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags that reveal the spiritual life of the Nubri and Tsum ethnic communities.
The high point of the trek, Larkya La Pass (5,160m), rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II, one of the most spectacular Himalayan crossings in Nepal. The descent leads to the serene valley of Bhimthang and then to Tilje, marking a beautiful transition from alpine wilderness back to verdant lowlands.
This 15-day adventure is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that blends natural grandeur, cultural depth, and physical challenge — all while staying in welcoming tea houses along the route.
-
Complete circuit trek around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak
Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m) with breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II
Explore remote Tibetan-influenced villages like Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo rich in Buddhist culture and tradition
Visit ancient monasteries, mani walls, and chortens that line the highland trails
Acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,620m) or Birendra Lake from Samagaun
Experience diverse landscapes — from subtropical forests and river valleys to alpine meadows and glacial terrain
Enjoy traditional hospitality in authentic Gurung and Nubri communities
Scenic overland drive through rural Nepal from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back
A perfect blend of adventure, remoteness, and cultural discovery, away from the crowded trekking routes
Itinerary
Day 1Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. After check-in, the day is free for rest or light exploration. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2Sightseeing and Trek Preparation in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft)
Today, you’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage sites including Patan Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa. In the afternoon, your guide will help check your trekking gear, and you’ll have time to rent or buy anything needed in Thamel. Meanwhile, your trek permits will be processed. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3Drive to Machha Khola (8–9 hrs / 52 km) – (900m / 2,953ft)
An early start takes you on a scenic jeep drive through hilly roads and river valleys to reach Machha Khola. Enjoy changing landscapes, traditional villages, and glimpses of the Himalayas along the Budi Gandaki River. Overnight in Machha Khola.
Day 4Trek to Jagat (5–6 hrs / 14 km) – (1,410m / 4,625ft)
Following the Budi Gandaki River, the trail leads through Khorla Besi and the natural hot springs at Tatopani. After crossing several suspension bridges and forested paths, you’ll reach the entry point of the restricted area at Jagat. Overnight in Jagat.
Day 5Trek to Deng (6–7 hrs / 19 km) – (1,860m / 6,102ft)
Today’s trail passes through the villages of Philim and Pewa, lush bamboo forests, and terraced farmlands. You’ll gradually ascend to reach the Tibetan-influenced village of Deng, a peaceful settlement near the Siyar Khola. Overnight in Deng.
Day 6Trek to Namrung (6–7 hrs / 20 km) – (2,660m / 8,727ft)
Walk through dense forests, cross suspension bridges, and encounter mani walls as the trail gains altitude. The landscape turns alpine as you pass through Ghap and reach Namrung, a village with stone houses and great mountain views. Overnight in Namrung.
Day 7Trek to Lho (5–6 hrs / 9.8 km) – (2,170m / 7,120ft)
Today’s trail passes charming Nubri villages, ancient monasteries, and terrace fields as you trek toward Lho. With its traditional Tibetan architecture and large monastery, Lho offers a cultural immersion and views of Mt. Manaslu. Overnight in Lho.
Day 8Trek to Samagaun (5–6 hrs / 8.7 km) – (3,530m / 11,580ft)
Leaving Lho, pass through the village of Shyala and marvel at panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu and nearby peaks. The trail leads you into the culturally rich village of Samagaun, the largest settlement in the upper Budi Gandaki Valley. Overnight in Samagaun.
Day 9 Acclimatization Day in Samagaun – Hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake (3,530m / 11,580ft)
Use this day to adjust to the altitude. You can take a challenging hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,620m) or an easier one to Birendra Tal. Both options offer stunning views and help your body prepare for the higher elevations ahead. Overnight in Samagaun.
Day 10 Trek to Samdo (4–5 hrs / 6.8 km) – (3,875m / 12,713ft)
Today’s shorter trek leads to Samdo, the last village before Larkya La Pass. You’ll cross the Budi Gandaki once more and ascend gradually to this remote, Tibetan-style village near the Chinese border. Overnight in Samdo.
Day 11 Trek to Dharmashala (3–4 hrs / 3 km) – (4,460m / 14,672ft)
A relatively easy trek takes you to Dharmashala (also called Larkya Phedi), the base camp for Larkya La Pass. Due to the altitude, take it slow. After reaching the lodge, you can take a short hike in the area for acclimatization. Overnight in Dharmashala.
Day 12Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and Trek to Bhimthang (8–9 hrs / 18 km) – (3,750m / 12,303ft)
Start early for the most demanding yet rewarding day of the trek. The climb to Larkya La Pass (5,160m) is tough but offers stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. After the pass, descend to Bhimthang, a scenic valley surrounded by glaciers and peaks. Overnight in Bhimthang.
Day 13Trek to Tilje (5–6 hrs / 16 km) – (2,300m / 7,545ft)
The trail continues downhill through rhododendron and oak forests, passing through Gho and other small settlements. You’ll re-enter lower elevation greenery and finally arrive at Tilje, a charming Gurung village. Overnight in Tilje.
Day 14Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar (8–9 hrs / 250 km) – (1,350m / 4,429ft)
After breakfast, take a local jeep from Tilje to Besisahar, then drive back to Kathmandu. The journey through winding mountain roads brings you back to city life. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15Free day in Kathmandu
It is a contingency day in Kathmandu as a precaution to the Lukla Kathmandu sector flight. As the flight to High Mountain regions are highly dependent on weather conditions there might cancellation in flights due to bad weather. So contingency day helps us to ensure we don’t miss the international flight. This day can be used for personal activities, shopping and also some sightseeing around the monument sites of Kathmandu valley.
Day 16Final Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, concluding your incredible Manaslu Circuit adventure.
Route Map
What’s Included
-
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB Meal Plan (pre- and post-trek)
-
Accommodation in local tea houses/lodges during the trek
-
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
-
Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
-
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
-
Necessary Trekking Staffs
-
All necessary trekking permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS, Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit Fee)
-
Private ground transportation as per itinerary (including to/from trek trail head)
-
Insurance for guide and porter
-
Farewell dinner at a local Nepali restaurant
What’s Not Included
-
International flights and Nepal visa fees -
Personal trekking gear and equipment
-
Travel and medical insurance (including emergency evacuation)
-
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
-
Tips for guide, porter, and drivers
-
Personal expenses: beverages, snacks, laundry, phone/internet, etc.
-
Additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather delays, landslides, political strikes)
