Conquer the Manaslu Circuit
A dramatic odyssey through Nepal's pristine heart, traversing deep gorges, scaling high passes, and immersing you in ancient Himalayan culture.
A dramatic odyssey through Nepal's pristine heart, traversing deep gorges, scaling high passes, and immersing you in ancient Himalayan culture.
Discover the untouched beauty of Nepal's Himalayas with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, a 13-day journey into the heart of the Manaslu region. This challenging trek offers unparalleled views of majestic peaks, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), and a deep dive into the region's rich cultural heritage. Experience the spiritual significance of 'The Spirit Mountain' as you explore ancient monasteries and pilgrimage sites within the Tsum Valley.
Your adventure begins along the scenic Budhi Gandaki River gorge, leading you through diverse landscapes and varying altitudes. The trek culminates in the crossing of the demanding Larkya La Pass (5,150m), rewarding you with panoramic glacial vistas. The trail then descends alongside the Dudh River, eventually merging with the Marsyangdi River.
This trek presents a unique opportunity to witness the changing Himalayan scenery, from lush lower hills to high-altitude landscapes. The trails include both gradual paths and steep stone steps, offering a varied trekking experience. As a controlled trekking route, the Manaslu Circuit requires special permits, ensuring the preservation of its pristine environment. Spanning altitudes from 575m to 5,150m, this trek provides an authentic and unforgettable Himalayan adventure along the Nepal-Tibet border.
Join Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal's Manaslu Circuit Trek for a memory of a lifetime.
The following are the list of services, also defined in the itinerary, included in the package cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
Best Season: Similar to Kanchenjunga, the prime seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).
Difficulty Level: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally considered moderately challenging to difficult. Key factors influencing its difficulty include:
Permits Required: The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and trekking independently is not allowed. You must trek with a licensed Nepali guide and a group of at least two trekkers. The following permits are mandatory:
General Expectations:
RELEASE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK:
You should be content and willing to cope with the situations, conditions, and circumstances made clear to you by subsidiaries, associates, agents, and employees of Himalayan Ecstasy (H.E) Nepal. You should recognize and agree that the realities made clear in this website the inherent characteristics of adventure travel, and not least the matters of flexibility, adaptability, practical personal contribution to the lifestyle, and the fact that not all situations, conditions, or circumstances encountered on the trip are identical to those pre-existing and prevailing at the time of booking.
You should also recognize that you are undertaking a journey in a remote area and that there is a significant amount of personal risk that sometimes becomes a reality. You should fully understand the relative remoteness, the rough travel, weather conditions, landslides, the relatively limited medical services, as well as the greater potential dangers, which you have chosen, on your own accord, to undertake a journey of this nature. You should fully recognize "H.E Nepal" and the representatives of H.E Nepal in respect to the journey that you have applied to join.
Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is not responsible for changes made to the program due to the following circumstances:
Success and comfort on your Manaslu Circuit Trek hinge on proper preparation, and your equipment list is central to this. This comprehensive guide outlines every essential item, from high-performance apparel to specialized trekking tools, ensuring your safety and readiness for the diverse Himalayan environment. We urge you to review this list thoroughly; having the right gear is non-negotiable for an enjoyable and secure adventure.
Sun Hat (Wide-Brimmed or Baseball Cap):
Beanie / Warm Fleece Hat:
Buff / Neck Gaiter / Balaclava:
Headlamp (with extra batteries):
Headband (Optional but useful):
Key Considerations for all Headgear:
Base Layers (Wicking/Thermal Undershirts):
Mid-Layers (Insulating/Fleece Jackets):
Outer Shell (Waterproof & Windproof Jacket):
Down Jacket (or Heavy Synthetic Puffy Jacket):
Key Considerations for Upper Body Protection:
Lightweight Liner Gloves (Fleece or Merino Wool):
Warm Fleece Gloves / Softshell Gloves:
Insulated Mittens (Waterproof/Windproof):
Heavy Duty Gloves (Optional but recommended for very cold sensitive hands or harsher conditions):
Key Considerations for Hand Protection:
Base Layers (Thermal Leggings / Long Underwear):
Trekking Trousers (Durable & Quick-Drying):
Softshell Trousers (Optional but Highly Recommended for Higher Altitudes):
Hardshell / Rain Trousers (Waterproof & Windproof):
Warm Camp Trousers (Optional but adds great comfort):
Key Considerations for Lower Body Protection:
Waterproof Trekking Boots (Mid to High-Cut):
Camp Shoes / Lodge Shoes / Sandals:
Trekking Socks:
Gaiters (Optional but Recommended):
Key Considerations for Your Footwear:
Passport:
Nepal Visa:
Airline Tickets / E-tickets:
Travel and Medical Insurance Policy:
Medical Information (Highly Recommended):
Emergency Contact Information:
Credit/Debit Cards & Cash (Nepalese Rupees):
Passport-sized Photographs:
Key Considerations for Your Travel Documents:
Toothbrush & Toothpaste:
Biodegradable Soap / All-in-One Wash:
Dry Shampoo / Cleansing Wipes:
Moisturizer / Lotion:
Lip Balm (with SPF):
Sunscreen (High SPF):
Hand Sanitizer:
Toilet Paper:
Small Quick-Drying Towel (Microfiber):
Personal Medications:
Feminine Hygiene Products (if applicable):
Key Tips for Trekking Toiletries:
Energy Bars / Granola Bars:
Nuts & Seeds:
Dried Fruits:
Trail Mix (DIY or Pre-packaged):
Hard Candies / Gummy Bears / Jelly Beans:
Chocolate (Dark Chocolate Recommended):
Protein Bars / Jerky:
Nut Butter Packets:
Crackers / Biscuits:
Key Considerations for Your Trekking Snacks:
Sleeping bag liner and a Synthetic/Down Sleeping Bag:
Key Considerations for Your Sleeping Bag:
For summer a fleece or silk sleeping liner will be enough till the lower elevation as most teahouses offering warm duvets and if available will also provide an additional (if available).
For winter, we recomment you choose a good quality light sleeping bag that can be compressed down into a small stuff sack.
Your Daypack: The Essential Trail Companion
Your daypack is your constant partner on the Manaslu CIrcuit Trek, carrying all the immediate essentials you need for comfort, safety, and convenience during your daily hikes. Unlike your main duffel, which is carried by porters, your daypack stays with you, ensuring quick access to vital items. This is where you'll keep everything you might need between teahouse stops. Think of it as your portable base for a day's adventure – from staying hydrated and fueled to adapting to sudden weather changes.
Key Features to Look For:
Beyond your clothing, personal gear, and sleeping bag, certain specialized equipment is crucial for enhancing your safety, efficiency, and comfort on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Trekking Poles (Pair):
Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir:
Small Repair Kit / Multi-tool:
Dry Bags / Waterproof Stuff Sacks:
Power Bank / Portable Charger:
Sunglasses (High UV Protection):
Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to rendezvous at your hotel in Thamel. In most cases, you will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport where you will meet your guide.
In the evening, you will join for a program briefing with your group members. In case you arrive late at night, you will meet your group members next day at breakfast during which you will also be briefed about your program.
Your Manaslu Circuit adventure begins with a scenic and exciting drive from Kathmandu, taking you deep into the heart of Nepal's rugged landscape. We'll pick you up from your hotel in a private 4x4, ensuring a comfortable and personalized journey.
Leaving Kathmandu, we'll head northwest out of the valley via Nagdhunga, immediately starting a winding descent with picturesque views of the Nepali countryside. This winding road continues all the way to Galchi, an important junction where a diversion leads north towards Rasuwa district and the Chinese border at Kyirong. This area is a gateway to renowned treks like the Langtang Valley, Tamang Heritage Trail, Gosainkunda, and Ganesh Himal Base Camp treks.
From Galchi, the descent eases as we drive mostly parallel to the Trishuli River for approximately 20 km, reaching Malekhu. Here, we'll cross a bridge and head north onto the Kalu Pande Highway towards Arughat via Dhading Besi. From Dhading Besi, the road becomes winding again, meandering through the hills. Just below Thumki, the paved road gives way to an off-road section as we descend to a river crossing at Aankhu Khola.
After crossing the Aankhu Khola, you'll find a paved road leading to Salyantar. From there, it's a dirt road to the next significant crossing: the Budhi Gandaki River. This bridge marks the boundary between Dhading and Gorkha districts, and upon crossing, you'll arrive at Arughat Bazar.
The journey intensifies from Arughat. The road becomes more challenging, but incredibly exciting, as you drive almost parallel to the Budhi Gandaki River all the way to Machha Khola. This section offers thrilling views of cascading waterfalls amidst remote wilderness, making the challenging terrain feel adventurous and rewarding. From Machha Khola, we'll continue for another 50 km to reach Jagat, a small settlement nestled in a deep valley and our final destination for the drive.
The drive to Jagat strategically bypasses an initial day of trekking in potentially hot and humid lower altitudes, allowing you to begin your hike refreshed and ready for the higher elevations.
From Jagat, your Manaslu Circuit adventure takes you further into the heart of this pristine region as you trek to Deng. This segment marks a significant shift in the landscape and culture, leading you deeper along the dramatic Budhi Gandaki River.
Departing from Jagat, a key entry point and checkpoint for the restricted Manaslu region, the trail immediately becomes more rugged and wild. You'll navigate through narrow sections of the Budhi Gandaki gorge, where the river carves its way through steep cliffs. The path often involves winding along rocky stretches and ascending through dense subtropical forests, rich with bamboo groves and various deciduous trees. Even from Jagat, you may start catching impressive glimpses of Mount Manaslu, and as you ascend, peaks like Shringi Himal become more visible. You'll pass through the large Gurung village of Philim, a significant milestone known for its impressive views and traditional stone houses, a welcome sight along the challenging trail. Beyond Philim, the valley gradually opens and closes, with the river remaining your constant companion.
As you continue north from Philim, you'll cross several suspension bridges spanning tributaries of the Budhi Gandaki, adding an adventurous thrill to your day. Here, you'll visibly begin to notice the subtle transition in culture: the Hindu-influenced lower hills gradually give way to areas where Tibetan Buddhist traditions become more prominent, marked by the increasing presence of prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens. The vegetation also shifts, moving towards more temperate forests of pine and rhododendron. Your day culminates in your arrival at Deng, a small village that signifies your deeper penetration into the remote, high-mountain terrain of the Manaslu region and a true threshold into the strong Tibetan Buddhist cultural zone.
Entering the High Valley of Nupri
Right out of Deng, the trail immediately begins a steady climb northward, navigating through increasingly dense coniferous forests of pine and fir, with rhododendron thickets along the way. You'll follow the ever-present Budhi Gandaki River, often winding along its banks and crossing it multiple times on sturdy suspension bridges, as your Manaslu Circuit trek leads you further into the spectacular high valleys towards Namrung. This segment of the trail offers a tangible shift in culture and a continuous ascent through breathtaking landscapes.
As you trek, you'll distinctly notice the architecture of the villages change, featuring the characteristic flat-roofed stone houses of the Nupri people. Passing through Bihi Phedi, you gain a deeper sense of immersion into the truly remote mountain communities. A significant milestone for the day is the village of Ghap, where you'll find impressive mani walls adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, clearly signaling the strong Buddhist influence.
As you continue to ascend, the valley begins to open slightly, offering your first truly grand views of the towering peaks. You might catch impressive glimpses of Ganesh Himal (Ganesh I), and the majestic Manaslu will begin to reveal more of its formidable presence. Your day culminates upon arrival at Namrung (approximately 2,630 m). This large and important Nupri village, with its ancient monastery and traditional stone houses, provides clear, close-up views of the Manaslu range, offering a deep sense of accomplishment as you reach this significant high-altitude settlement.
Leaving Namrung, a vibrant Nupri village, your trek immediately begins with a gradual but steady ascent eastward. The trail, well-defined and often winding, quickly leads you into a landscape dominated by increasingly sparse coniferous forests of pine and fir, with junipers beginning to appear. As you trek, you'll feel a palpable sense of moving deeper into the high mountains, with the air growing crisper.
You'll pass through several smaller, traditional Nupri villages like Lihi and Sho, each adorned with extensive mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags that vividly underscore the deeply entrenched Tibetan Buddhist culture of this region. The unique architecture of flat-roofed stone houses becomes even more prevalent here. As the valley widens slightly with your ascent, the views begin to truly open up, offering tantalizing glimpses of what lies ahead.
This segment of the trek is renowned for its increasingly grand mountain panoramas. You'll soon find yourself face-to-face with the immense peaks of the Manaslu range. The majestic Manaslu (8,163m) itself, along with Himal Chuli (7,893m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), will dominate the skyline, offering breathtaking, close-up views. Your day culminates upon arrival at Shyala (approximately 3,500 m). This picturesque village is nestled in a stunning setting, famous for its unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding giants, providing a profound sense of awe as you settle into this high-mountain sanctuary.
From Shyala, your Manaslu Circuit trek today leads you towards Samagaun, the largest village in the Nupri Valley. This segment offers a profound spiritual and visual experience by incorporating a special detour.
Right out of Shyala, the trail guides you to a river crossing. Instead of immediately heading north-west towards Samagaun, you'll take the south-west trail towards Pungyen Gumba. This path is a deliberate ascent through open expanses dominated by sparse alpine shrubs, junipers, and high-altitude grasses. As you trek, the views of the surrounding peaks, especially the majestic Manaslu (8,163m), Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli, remain constant companions.
Your efforts are rewarded as you reach Pungyen Gumba (approximately 4,000 m), a significant milestone for the day not just in terms of altitude, but also spiritual immersion. This ancient monastery, nestled on a hillside directly facing the immense Manaslu, offers a powerful sense of sanctity. From Pungyen Gumba, the views of Manaslu are exceptionally close and awe-inspiring, providing a unique perspective of its towering face. You’ll likely enjoy your packed lunch here amidst these incredible vistas and the monastery's tranquil ambiance.
After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking panoramas at Pungyen Gumba, you'll begin your descent back to the main trail fork. From there, your path continues towards Samagaun (approximately 3,540 m). This large and vital village in the Nupri Valley, a true cultural hub, is where you'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant community, ancient mani walls, and impressive chortens, reinforcing the deeply entrenched Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.
Today is a crucial acclimatization day in Samagaun (approximately 3,540 m), the vibrant cultural heart of the Nupri Valley. This day offers you the flexibility to either embrace the peaceful serenity of this large village or embark on an exhilarating excursion to the foot of Mount Manaslu.
If you choose to rest, you can explore Samagaun's rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, wandering among its ancient mani walls and impressive chortens, or visiting its main monastery, Samagaun Gompa. This is an ideal chance to restore your energy and immerse yourself in the daily life of this high-altitude Sherpa community, preparing you for the higher altitudes ahead.
Optional Excursion: Manaslu Base Camp (MBC)
For those seeking an unparalleled close-up encounter with Mount Manaslu, an invigorating full-day trek to Manaslu Base Camp is highly recommended. This challenging ascent serves as an excellent "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy.
The trail from Samagaun to MBC involves a sustained and significant elevation gain of approximately 1,250-1,300 meters. You'll trek steadily upwards, initially crossing open alpine pastures and grassy slopes near Samagaun. As you climb higher, the terrain becomes progressively more challenging, transforming into rocky paths and scree fields. You'll navigate across and along the lateral moraines of the Manaslu Glacier, a rugged landscape of loose rocks and glacial debris, leading you steadily towards the base of the massive icefall. Along the way, you'll also encounter the stunning Birendra Tal, a beautiful turquoise glacial lake fed by the Manaslu Glacier, offering a picturesque pause amidst the rugged landscape. Upon reaching MBC, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable, incredibly close perspective of Mount Manaslu's towering north face, along with awe-inspiring vistas of Manaslu North, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and the immense Manaslu Glacier. This iconic milestone places you at the very doorstep of an 8,000-meter giant.
After soaking in this extraordinary atmosphere and immense mountain views, you'll embark on the long descent back to Samagaun, carrying profound memories of standing at the foot of the "Spirit Mountain." The remainder of your day is yours to unwind and prepare for the next stage of your adventure.
Leaving Samagaun, the largest village in the Nupri Valley, your Manaslu Circuit trek today follows a path that leads you further into the high, vast landscapes towards Samdo. The trail begins with a gentle, steady ascent eastward out of the village, almost immediately separating from the route to Manaslu Base Camp.
You'll traverse largely open, high-alpine terrain, characterized by expansive pastures and sparse vegetation consisting primarily of grasses, dwarf shrubs, and junipers – clear signs that you are now well above the main treeline. The route, while steadily gaining altitude, is often described as one of the easier days, providing comfortable trekking amidst incredible scenery. You'll pass by Kermo Kharka, a seasonal yak herders' camp, hinting at the nomadic lifestyle of this elevation. All along the way, the towering presence of Manaslu, Manaslu North, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) remains an awe-inspiring backdrop, growing ever more magnificent.
Your day culminates upon arrival at Samdo, a significant village and the last permanent settlement before the challenging Larkya La Pass. Samdo is renowned for its close ties to the Tibetan border and is home to a community with strong Tibetan cultural influences, including a local monastery. This strategically positioned village provides crucial acclimatization as you prepare for the highest pass crossing of your trek.
Beyond Samdo, the last permanent village before the formidable Larkye La Pass, your Manaslu Circuit trek today delves further into an increasingly remote and austere high-mountain landscape towards Dharamsala. The trail initially descends gently to cross the Budhi Gandaki River for the final time, a significant milestone marking your departure from its main valley.
After the river crossing, the path begins a steady, consistent ascent, leading you into a truly barren and rocky alpine environment. You'll be well above the treeline now, with vegetation limited to hardy lichens, mosses, and sparse dwarf grasses clinging to the ground. The air feels crisper, and the silence is profound, broken only by the wind. The towering presence of the Manaslu range continues to dominate your views, with the vast expanse of the Larkya Glacier becoming increasingly prominent. The path may occasionally traverse rocky moraines, preparing you for the terrain of the pass ahead.
Your day culminates upon arrival at Dharamsala (a.k.a. Larkye Phedi) (approximately 4,460 m). This is not a village, but rather a basic collection of lodges and teahouses, serving as the crucial high camp and staging post for your crossing of the formidable Larkya La Pass tomorrow. Despite its basic amenities, finding shelter here offers a profound sense of accomplishment and anticipation, as you are now at the very foot of the pass, ready for an early start.
Today is undoubtedly the most challenging, yet profoundly rewarding, day of your Manaslu Circuit adventure, as you prepare to cross the mighty Larkya La Pass. Your day begins well before dawn, as you set out from Dharamsala (Larkye Phedi) into the crisp, cold high-alpine air.
The trail to the pass is a sustained and arduous ascent, navigating over rocky moraines, steep scree slopes, and potentially icy sections, especially in the early hours. You'll be trekking high above the treeline, with the landscape dominated by stark rock formations, snow, and ice, revealing the raw power of the Himalayas. The climb demands every ounce of your determination, but every step brings you closer to an unparalleled reward.
Upon reaching the summit of Larkya La Pass (5,150 m), a triumphant sense of accomplishment will wash over you. From this highest point of your trek, you'll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama that is simply awe-inspiring. Gaze upon the colossal peaks of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Gyaji Kang, and from a new perspective, the majestic Manaslu itself, along with vast glacial landscapes.
The descent from Larkya La is long, steep, and often challenging, making it a test of endurance and careful footing. You'll navigate through rugged, rocky terrain and eventually traverse lateral moraines as you gradually make your way down into a different valley. As you lose significant altitude, the landscape slowly transforms, and sparse alpine shrubs and hardy rhododendron bushes begin to reappear, signaling your return to more hospitable elevations. Your day culminates upon arrival at Bimthang (approximately 3,720 m). This beautiful post-pass village offers a sense of immense relief and provides stunning views back towards the pass and surrounding peaks, a perfect place to recover after conquering the Manaslu Circuit's greatest challenge.
Leaving the serene village of Bimthang, your Manaslu Circuit trek ends today as you begin a long and substantial descent towards Dharapani. This segment offers a dramatic and rapid return to lower altitudes, transforming the landscape with every step.
The trail immediately drops down, following the course of the Dudh Khola (river) downstream. You'll quickly notice a remarkable change in the environment: the sparse high-alpine terrain gives way to increasingly dense and lush rhododendron and pine forests, which will be your constant companions throughout much of the day. The air grows warmer and more humid, providing a refreshing contrast after days in the cold, thin air of the high passes. You'll pass through smaller settlements like Gho (Gua), continuing your continuous downward journey.
Further down the valley, you'll reach Tilje, a larger and more established village with its own monastery, signaling your return to more populated areas. Here, you'll observe a clear cultural shift, as the predominantly Tibetan Buddhist influence of the Nupri Valley gradually blends with the mixed communities of Gurung, Manangi, and other groups reflecting the lower altitude. Finally, your long day culminates upon arrival at Dharapani. This bustling village is a significant hub, marking the official completion point of your Manaslu Circuit trek as it reconnects with the famous Annapurna Circuit trail. Here, you can truly celebrate your successful circumambulation of the Manaslu massif amidst a more comfortable, vibrant setting.
Your Manaslu Circuit adventure culminates with the long and scenic drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. This journey offers a dramatic transition from the pristine mountain trails you've just conquered back to the bustling energy of the capital.
Your drive begins from Dharapani, the very point where the Manaslu Circuit reconnects with the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. The road from Dharapani is initially typically rougher, winding through dramatic river valleys and charming rural villages. This section takes approximately 3 hours in a 4x4 vehicle. As you descend, the landscape transforms rapidly: the high-altitude forests give way to lush terraced farmlands, verdant hills, and a growing presence of local life. You'll pass areas that are familiar to those trekking the Annapurna Circuit, perhaps spotting trekkers setting out or returning from their own Himalayan explorations, with distant views hinting at the formidable Thorung La Pass that defines that iconic trek.
Upon reaching Besisahar, a larger town that serves as a key transportation hub, you'll pause for a well-deserved lunch and change vehicles. From here, your journey continues on the well-paved Prithvi Highway towards Kathmandu, a segment that typically takes around 6 hours. The scenery continues to evolve, from winding river gorges to expansive farmland and then into the increasingly populated and developed areas leading towards the Kathmandu Valley. This drive offers a final, sweeping overview of Nepal's diverse geographical tapestry, from its rugged foothills to its thriving plains.
As you near Kathmandu, the urban landscape gradually emerges, replacing the tranquility of the mountains with the familiar sights and sounds of city life. This final segment of your journey provides ample time to reflect on the immense challenges you've overcome, the breathtaking beauty you've witnessed, and the profound cultural experiences you've gathered on your Manaslu Circuit adventure.
Depending upon your exit plans, with the most probable being your return flight back home, your guide or a representative will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport.