Manaslu Circuit Trek in the Himalayas, Nepal

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will be ready with our office vehicle to transfer you to your hotel. Following this, a pre-trek briefing will be arranged to discuss the trekking program and coordinate any last-minute arrangements.

You will have the opportunity to refresh yourself and take a stroll to become acquainted with your surroundings. Later, you can look forward to a delightful dinner featuring local Nepalese cuisine, complemented by a cultural dance performed by local performers. This will be your first overnight stay in the city known for its abundance of temples.

Today, we will embark on an organized sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, with visits to the Bodhnath Stupa, one of the world's largest Buddhist shrines, and Pashupatinath, home to the country's most renowned Hindu temple, located along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. During our visit to Pashupatinath, we will observe Hindu holy men (sadhus) and pilgrims engaging in ritual bathing, and at times, witness funeral pyres burning on the ghats.

The cremation site is utilized by both the royal family and local residents. Following these explorations, you will have the early afternoon free to unwind in the hotel garden or explore the unique shopping experiences of Thamel. Later in the afternoon, you will receive information about your upcoming trek departure.

We begin our journey to Machha Khola in the early morning, departing after breakfast. At around 7:00 am, we board a local bus from Machhapokhari’s New Bus Park. Alternatively, you have the option of a private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola for a more comfortable drive. Opting for a 4WD jeep, specifically designed for off-road terrain, ensures a smooth ride for your Manaslu Circuit adventure.

As we travel along the Prithivi Highway alongside the Trisuli River, we are treated to picturesque countryside views. The road from Kathmandu to Hanuman Danda is well-paved, taking approximately 4 hours to reach the latter and a further 3–4 hours to reach Machha Khola. However, occasional heavy traffic along the route may extend the travel time.

Despite the bumpy and dusty conditions, we eventually arrive at Machha Khola via Soti Khola after an approximately 8-hour drive from Kathmandu, usually reaching our destination around 3-4 pm. Upon arrival, you can freshen up by taking a bath in the river before settling in for the night at one of the local teahouses in Machha Khola.

From Machha Khola we proceed upstream to the small village of Khorla Bensi and the thermal springs at Tatopani. The entire valley becomes increasingly steep until the route switches to the left bank via a suspension bridge, presenting a challenging and exposed trekking trail in some areas. Following a brief stretch of forest trail, we arrive at a solitary teahouse in Doban.

Beyond Doban village, the Budi Gandaki river flows vigorously, with notable rapids. After navigating this challenging steep section, the river becomes more tranquil, meandering across a broad gravel bank. Beyond Lauri, we cross the river using a suspension bridge and ascend to the fields of Jagat along a high trail.

The upcoming 8-hour trek leads us to Deng. The trail ascends through the terraced hill of Salleri village, offering captivating vistas of Sringi Himal (7,177m). We can pause to appreciate the stunning mountain views before continuing the journey. The trail passes through Sirish Gaon, narrow Gandaki valleys, and imposing walls. We will spend the night at a local lodge in Deng.

Following a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a 6-hour trek to Namrung. The journey begins by tracing the Deng River, and then proceeds through a recently constructed rock tunnel. Along the way, you will notice the emergence of Tibetan cultural influences, marked by the presence of Mani stones and Chortens. We will spend the night at a local lodge.

Today, our destination is Syala. While many travelers typically camp in Samagaun after departing from Namrung, we opt to stay in Syala due to the more captivating views it offers.

Given that today's trek involves ascending almost 1000m in elevation, we advise our trekkers to proceed with a gentle and unhurried pace, as we will be gaining altitude rapidly.

As we leave Namrung, the trail takes us through barley fields, ethnic settlements, and the charming villages of Banham, Lihi, Sho, and Lho. Lihi and Sho are traditional Tibetan villages in the Manaslu region.

Lho is one of the largest villages adorned with numerous Buddhist prayer flags, a splendid monastery, and mani walls. Additionally, the sight of the stunning Simnang Himal (6251m), Ganesh Himal I, Manaslu, Kutang Himal, Phungi, Peak 29, and Himalchuli adds a delightful touch to today's challenging hike.

After a long day of strenuous ascents and descents, we arrive at Syala, a picturesque village surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We will spend the night at a local lodge in Syala.

We begin the day by waking up, having breakfast, and then setting off for Samagaun. After a 2-hour trek, the journey takes us across a wooden bridge over the Budi Gandaki River. Continuing on, the trail passes by houses and cultivated fields, following the right bank of the river with views of Peak 29 ahead. Eventually, we reach the first section of Sama Gaon at 3500m.

Along the way, you'll also be treated to views of peaks like Naike peak, Manaslu north (7,774m), and Manaslu (8,150m), which are sure to alleviate any fatigue. We will spend the night at a local lodge. Additionally, we will visit Sama Gompa, which is located 20 minutes beyond the village of Samdo, near the Tibetan border.

In this serene forest retreat nestled amidst mountains, we will dedicate a day to acclimatization and leisurely exploration. You can take the opportunity to relax and unwind, perhaps delving into that beloved book or attending to any laundry needs. Alternatively, you can simply immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.

For those who are keen, an option is to embark on a hike to Manaslu base camp, which typically takes around 7-8 hours, or a 4-hour hike to Birendra Taal, a stunning turquoise lake situated at the base of the Manaslu glacier. We will spend the night at Sama Gaon.

As we proceed along the upper course of the Budi Gandaki, the once thunderous river transforms into a gentle stream, seemingly endless in its meandering path. Throughout this journey, we are enveloped by the awe-inspiring presence of magnificent mountains in every direction.

Upon crossing over to the east bank of the river, the grandeur of Manaslu becomes particularly striking. Our destination for the day is Samdo, the final permanent settlement in the valley, with a well-established community of Tibetan refugees. We will spend the night at Samdo.

Beyond Samdo, we traverse the stream that descends from the Gya La Pass leading to Tibet. Our path leads us to the remnants of a deserted village, once known as Larkya Bazaar. It is speculated that this village may have served as a trading hub with Tibet in the past.

However, the local market appears to have dwindled, prompting the migration of the settlement closer to the Larkya Glacier. Continuing our ascent, we reach Dharmasala at an elevation of 4460m, where teahouses have been established to accommodate travelers before they embark on the crossing of the Larkya La. We will spend the night at a local teahouse.

Today's trek is more challenging and longer than previous days, spanning approximately 9 hours and reaching an altitude of 5,106 meters. Our journey commences after breakfast as we ascend the trail towards Cho Chanda, gradually progressing to a steep climb up to the Larkya La pass, demanding considerable strength and stamina.

Upon reaching the summit, we are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks including Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6,981m), and the imposing Annapurna II (7,937m) standing majestically before us. Following this, we descend to Bhimtang, navigating steep paths. We will spend the night at a local lodge.

Descending from lofty heights, today's trail offers a relatively gentle and straightforward journey. The path to Dharapani descends gradually, leading through meadows, pine forests, and vibrant rhododendron forests before reaching Hampuk.

Continuing onward, we trace the path of the Dudh Koshi River, and the trail further descends to Tilche and Thoche. After crossing the Marshyangdi River, we arrive at the village of Dharapani, where we will spend the night at local lodges.

The journey back to Kathmandu encompasses approximately 9 hours of scenic travel. Initially, we embark on a 4-hour off-road jeep drive from Dharapani to Besishar, followed by an additional 5-hour bus ride to Kathmandu. Along the way, we will have a leisurely a la carte lunch at a reputable roadside restaurant. The return drive to Kathmandu by bus offers picturesque views of the Marshyangdi and Trishuli Rivers, allowing for observations of local communities and their lifestyles adjacent to the highway.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be escorted to your hotel, providing the opportunity to freshen up before enjoying a pleasant evening stroll around the vibrant area of Thamel.

Our office support staff will be available with a vehicle to transport you to the airport for your connecting flight home. Alternatively, if you wish to extend your stay, you can opt for short tours such as game drives, wild safaris at national parks, or perhaps indulge in white water rafting. Additionally, you can experience the thrills of mountain biking or embark on an adventurous journey across the border for fantastic overland tours to Tibet.