Description
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you around the Manaslu Himal, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, as well as the opportunity to experience the rich culture of the Manang and Gurung people.
The trek starts in the village of Soti Khola, which is about 7-8 hours drive from Kathmandu. From there, it follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley for most of the way, passing through traditional villages, terraced fields, and dense forests. The trail gradually ascends to the high alpine meadows of the Manaslu region, where the views of the Himalayas are simply breathtaking.
The highest point on the trek is Larkya La, a pass that is situated at an altitude of 5,160 meters. Crossing Larkya La is a challenging but rewarding experience, and it offers stunning views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks.
The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), when the weather is generally mild and sunny. However, the trek is possible year-round, but be prepared for more extreme weather conditions in the winter and summer.
Highlights:
- Trekking around Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
- Crossing the Larkya La, a high mountain pass with stunning views.
- Visiting the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region with diverse wildlife.
- Experiencing the traditional culture of the Gurung and Tibetan people.
Detailed Itinerary
Explore our comprehensive day-by-day itinerary to discover the
highlights and activities planned for each day of your trek.
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by our local representative and transferred to our hotel. We will have the rest of the day to explore the vibrant city, visiting iconic landmarks such as Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 2 Scenic Drive to Soti Khola
After a filling breakfast, we bid farewell to the bustling city and embark on a scenic drive to Soti Khola, our starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The journey takes us through the Trishuli River valley, offering panoramic vistas of lush green hills, terraced fields, and meandering rivers. We'll arrive in Soti Khola, a charming village nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas.
Day 3 Trek from Soti Khola to Jagat
Our trek begins in earnest as we embark on a gradual ascent along the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail winds through traditional villages and terraced fields, offering glimpses of local life in the foothills of the Himalayas. We'll cross a suspension bridge over the gurgling river, marveling at the power of nature. Our destination for the day is Jagat, a small village with a few tea houses and lodges, where we'll rest and prepare for the next day's adventure.
Day 4 Trek from Jagat to Deng
As we continue our journey, the trail takes us through dense forests of bamboo and rhododendrons, creating a verdant tunnel overhead. We'll cross another suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, admiring the river's impressive flow. The trail gradually ascends, leading us to Deng, a village situated at an altitude of 1,860 meters. Deng offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5 Trek from Deng to Namrung
Today's trek takes us through the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region renowned for its diverse wildlife and pristine natural beauty. We'll pass through the village of Lho, where we may catch a glimpse of Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, peeking over the horizon. The trail continues to climb, and we'll reach Namrung, a village situated at an altitude of 2,630 meters, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding peaks.
Day 6 Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun and Acclimatization Day
Today's trek continues our ascent through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Manaslu region. We'll cross the Budhi Gandaki River once again, its turquoise waters contrasting with the rugged terrain. The trail leads us to Sama Gaun, a village situated at an altitude of 3,520 meters, surrounded by towering peaks. To aid our acclimatization to the high altitude, we'll spend the rest of the day exploring the village, immersing ourselves in its unique culture and traditions.
Day 7 Hike to Manaslu Base Camp
To further acclimatize and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the region, we'll embark on a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp. Manaslu Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,400 meters, offers stunning views of Manaslu, its snow-capped peak piercing the sky.
Day 8 Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo
Today's trek takes us through the high alpine meadows of the Manaslu region, where the air is crisp and the views are breathtaking. We'll cross the Budhi Gandaki River again, its icy waters flowing down from the mountains above. The trail gradually ascends, leading us to Samdo, a village situated at an altitude of 3,860 meters, surrounded by towering peaks and offering a sense.
Day 9 Trek to Bimthang
Today's trek takes us downhill to Bimthang, a village situated at an altitude of 3,720 meters. We will pass through the village of Gho, where we can see the Manaslu Glacier.
Day 10 Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani
Today's trek takes us through the valleys of the Budhi Gandaki and Marshyangdi Rivers. We will reach Dharapani, a large village with a variety of shops and restaurants.
Day 11 Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
We will drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu, where we will have the opportunity to explore the city's many temples, shrines, and museums.
Note: This is just a suggested itinerary, and the actual trek may vary depending on the weather conditions and the pace of the group.