The Manaslu Circuit Trek has recently increased in popularity among trekkers. The trail is along the valley of the Budi Gandaki River all the way up to the Larkya La pass (5160m). The first 4-5 days follow the narrow valley up via Machha Khola, Jagat, Ghap, Namrung and Lho. Samagaon, the biggest village, is one of the highlights of the trek; people here follow Buddhism. The major peaks are Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29), Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and Sonam Samdo.
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the historical Gorkha district of Nepal; sightings of high mountains, canyons, wild ponies and ethnic villages are common. Some even call it the best all-round trek in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit trek is certainly a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit trek. Trekking here uses lodges more often now, making the camping choice a less popular option.
Trip Highlights
- Spectacular mountain scenery, including views of Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world.
- Immersion in local culture and interactions with diverse ethnic communities.
- Visits to Buddhist monasteries and gompas.
- Cross-cultural interactions with fellow trekkers.
- Remote and less crowded villages, offering an authentic experience.
Itinerary
Today is the day of your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. As soon as you come out of the Kathmandu airport, you will find our representative waiting for you in the waiting area right outside the arrival lounge. You will be warmly greeted and welcomed by the representative and led to the vehicle. Our vehicle will take you to the trip hotel, most of the time in Thamel, that is 20-30 minutes drive, depending upon traffic, from the airport.
After you check into the hotel, you can take relaxing time on your own as there are no activities scheduled for today, except our trip briefing meeting. We will let you know about the briefing timing upon your arrival.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. We come to take your for a wonderful cultural heritage tour of Kathmandu valley. As part of the tour, we are going to visit four of the UNESCO Heritage monuments in Kathmandu valley. The places we visit today are incredible mixture of culture, history, spirituality, art and stories. Overnight in Hote.
Swoyambhunath
Believed to have been created on its own, this Budhhist stupa is the oldest of all the monuments in Kathmandu valley. Standing atop a small hillock, Swoyambunath, known as monkey temple amongst tourists, provides a fascinating view of the valley, surrounding hills and snow-capped mountain at the distance on a clear day.
Patan Durbar Square
One of the three medieval palace squares, Patan Durbar Square holds its medieval art and architectural grandeur. Amazing skill of the artisans is evident in each and every building that stands in the square. The square comprises of medieval palace, temples and museum.
Pashupatinath
This site is the most sacred Hindu temple area in the country. But, as the temple is strictly a Hindu only area, non-Hindu tourists go there to watch the unique Hindu cremation rituals on the bank of River Bagmati. The death rites of Hindu family there are so engrossing and heart-touching which make you feel the moment. It’s not any kind of intrusion in being there and watching somebody being cremated in an open ground. It’s a great cultural experience.
Boudhanath
This giant Buddhist stupa is considered as the biggest one in the world. This small square with giant shrine has a powerful presence of the spiritual vibrations. It’s an important pilgrimage site for the people following Tibetan Buddhism.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through Arughat to Soti Khola (700 meters). Along the way, you will be fascinated by the diverse landscapes of Nepal. On arrival you will check in at the hotel for the night.
The trek officially begins today as you head to Machha Khola (869 metres). You will walk through beautiful scenery and spend the night in a local hotel.
Continuing the trek, you head to Jagat (1340m), which is another scenic village on your way. Here, you will find accommodation in a local hotel for the night.
The trek continues by climbing to Deng (1860m), where you will spend the night in a tea house. The soil becomes more rugged and clean, giving the Himalayan grass a sweetness.
Today’s trek takes you to Namrung (2630m), where you will be accommodated in a tea house. The elevation brings you close to the center of the mountain, and the views are sure to amaze you.
Your journey takes you to Lho (3180m), a Himalayan village with spectacular views of the high mountains. The tranquil atmosphere and unique culture will enhance your experience. Overnight in a tea house in Lho.
A recent trip to the most important village in the region, Samagoun (3390 m). Here, you get the chance to interact with the locals and immerse yourself in their traditions. Accommodation is provided in the Tea House.
Another day was spent at Sama Gaun (3390m) to ensure safe weather conditions. This gives you the chance to explore the village and enjoy the stunning mountain views. You will spend the night in a tea room.
Continuing the climb will take you on foot to the high altitude village of Samado (3690m). The rugged beauty of this land is really mesmerizing and you spend the night in a tea room.
Your journey takes you to Dharamshala (4460m), an important stop before crossing the challenging Larke La Pass (5,160m). Overnight accommodation will be in a tea house, preparing you for passporting the next day.
Today is a challenging but rewarding day as you traverse the formidable Larke La Pass (5,160m) to Bhimtang (3590m). The mountain views are truly spectacular and you will spend the night in the tea house.
Descending from the high mountains you will trek to Tilije (2300m), where the landscape changes again. Overnight in a hotel in Tilije.
Continuing the descent, you will reach Dharpani (1300m), where you will spend the night in a hotel. The trail is a transition from the high mountains to the lower valleys.
Today you will drive to Benisahar, which is the end of your road trip. You will spend the night in a hotel.
After leaving the walking area, you will drive back to Kathmandu. Once in town, you will check into your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on your travel experience.
On the final day, you will depart from Kathmandu, with tailored activities for your flight planning and departure plans. Your memorable trip in the Himalayas ends when you leave Nepal behind.
The Trip Cost Includes
- Airport Pick and Drop for both International and Domestic flight by Private vehicle.
- Welcome, Farewell dinner with cultural program.
- 3 Nights Tourist Standard Hotel Accmmodiation in Kathmandu with B/B basis.
- Half Day Guided Cultural Tours in Kathmandu with all the Entrance fees.
- 2 Nights Tourist Standard Hotel Accmmodiation in Pokhara with B/B basis.
- Transportation from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Coach.
- Transportation from Pokhara-Nayapul-Pokhara by local jeep.
- Standard Lodge Accommodation (best available) with twin sharing basis during the trek.
- Full Board Meals (3 Meals a day) while on the trek.
- Trekking Permit (ACCAP) and Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.
- Professional & highly expertise Government Licensed holder Trekking Guide.
- 2:1 Porters to carry luggages.
- All expenses of the staffs (Guides/Porters) that includes Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance, Equipment during your travel period.
- All the necessary trekking gear for porters like jacket /trousers, trekking shoes, gloves, shocks, sunglasses etc.
- Friends Adventure Team's Sleeping Bag, Walking Poles and Duffel Bag, to be return after trip completed.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kit.
- Arrangement of all rescue and evacuation promptly, in Worst Condition
- Group Trekking Gears.
- Trekking Map, Friends Adventure Team's special Souvenir.
The Trip Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars.
- All desserts, sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses.
- Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears.
- Any additional staff other than specified.
- Medical and Travel Insurance and Emergency rescue by any means of Transportation including Helicopter evacuation if required.
- Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses.
- Airfare of international flights.
- Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance is easy at the arrival).
- Gratuities to guide, porters and driver (Not mandatory but expected as customizetripomary thank you for the service).
- Any other item not included in "Cost Includes" Section.
Frequently asked Questions
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a Hard trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will to, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 5,160m. This is the elevation of Larke La (5,160m). Larke La is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, hot water facility could be free at lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, Manaslu Circuit Trek can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during off season.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For Restricted Area Trek, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
