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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking adventure through Nepal’s remote Manaslu region, offering an alternative to the more frequented Annapurna and Everest circuits. Spanning approximately 12 to 18 days, the trek features stunning views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world, and diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude deserts. One of the trek’s highlights is crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,930 feet), which provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to significant altitude gains and rugged terrain, making it suitable for experienced trekkers. Permits required include the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and, if crossing into the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. The best times to embark on this trek are during the autumn months (September to November) and spring (March to May), when the weather is stable and the skies are clear. Accommodations are primarily in teahouses, offering traditional Nepali cuisine like dal bhat, momo, and tsampa. The trek typically begins in Arughat or Soti Khola, reachable by a drive from Kathmandu, and ends in Besi Sahar, from where you can return to Kathmandu. Overall, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice for those seeking a more secluded trekking experience with rich cultural encounters and magnificent scenery.
John F.K. International Airport (Google Map)
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through beautiful countryside, terraced fields, and small villages along the way. You’ll travel alongside the Budhigandaki River and enjoy stunning views of Ganesh Himal.
The trek starts with a gentle walk along the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll cross several suspension bridges and pass through small villages like Khorla Besi and Tatopani. After Tatopani, the trail becomes more challenging, leading to the village of Jagat, a traditional checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area.
The trail from Jagat ascends to Salleri and descends to Sirdibas. Crossing a long suspension bridge at Philim, you will pass through millet and maize fields. The landscape starts changing as you enter the Himalayan region. After Philim, the trail goes through a narrow gorge and lush forests before reaching Deng.
Today’s trek starts with a crossing of the Budhi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge. The trail then ascends through lush pine and rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Passing through the villages of Rana and Bihi Phedi, you’ll arrive in Namrung, a great place for mountain views.
The trail ascends steeply, passing through forests and small settlements. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up to offer panoramic views of Himal Chuli and Ganesh Himal. You’ll reach the picturesque Shyala Village, surrounded by high mountains.
Start your trek from Shyala to Samagaon, with an optional side trip to Pungen Monastery, which offers a closer view of Mount Manaslu. After the visit, continue the trek to Samagaon, a large village with a rich Tibetan culture and surrounded by stunning mountains.
Spend the day acclimatizing in Samagaon. You can explore the village, visit the ancient Pungyen Gompa (monastery), or take a short hike to the Manaslu Base Camp for closer views of the mountains. This day is crucial for acclimatization to prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
Continue the trek with a gradual ascent to Samdo, a small Tibetan refugee village. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and you’ll pass through yak pastures and mani walls. Samdo is a traditional village where you can experience authentic Tibetan culture.
Today’s trek involves a gradual climb from Samdo to Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharamsala. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the Larkya Glacier. You’ll reach Larkya Phedi, which serves as the base camp for the challenging Larkya La Pass.
This is the most challenging day of the trek, as you’ll cross the Larkya La Pass (5106m). The trek begins early in the morning to avoid the strong winds at the pass. The trail ascends steeply and offers breathtaking views of peaks like Himlung, Cheo, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After crossing the pass, the trail descends steeply to Bimthang.
The trek descends through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests to the village of Tilije. You’ll continue descending through a series of switchbacks and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Dharapani, a village on the Annapurna Circuit route.
