Manaslu Circuit Trek

Today begins with a guided heritage tour through Kathmandu Valley, visiting iconic sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath. These sacred landmarks reflect Nepal’s ancient spiritual traditions and offer a peaceful contrast to the dramatic scenery awaiting you in Manaslu.

In the afternoon, your guide double-checks your trekking gear and ensures all Manaslu Restricted Area and Conservation Area permits are finalized. You enjoy a relaxing evening in Kathmandu, preparing for tomorrow’s drive into the wilderness.

You leave Kathmandu early and begin a long but scenic drive along winding highways, terraced farmlands, and deep river valleys. The journey provides your first views of rural Nepal and the lush landscapes of the mid-hills.

As you approach Soti Khola, the terrain becomes more rugged, with waterfalls cascading from cliffs and the Budhi Gandaki River roaring nearby. You settle into a riverside lodge and enjoy the peaceful mountain ambiance that marks the beginning of your trek.

Your Manaslu trek officially begins as you follow a narrow path carved along the Budhi Gandaki Gorge. The trail passes through subtropical forests, cliffside pathways, and small Gurung villages. Waterfalls drape the rocky walls, creating a dramatic first day of walking.

After navigating rocky staircases and crossing suspension bridges, you reach Machha Khola, a friendly riverside settlement. The warm hospitality and gentle rhythm of village life prepare you for the deeper Himalayan wilderness ahead.

This morning, you walk along undulating trails past hot springs, small hamlets, and densely forested slopes. The rocky climbs and narrow paths offer a taste of the rugged terrain that defines the Manaslu region.

You continue your ascent through the gorge until reaching Jagat, the official entry checkpoint of the Manaslu Restricted Area. The stone-paved lanes and traditional houses create a picturesque setting for the night.

The landscape gradually opens up as you climb along terraced fields and beautiful riverside trails. Mani walls begin to appear, signaling your entry into Buddhist-influenced communities.

Today’s trek offers a mix of uphill climbs, suspension bridges, and lush forests before arriving in Deng, a small village surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs. The culture begins to shift toward Tibetan influence, preparing you for the Nubri Valley ahead.

You begin the day with a steady ascent through forests and narrow valleys, gradually gaining altitude. The Budhi Gandaki River flows powerfully below, carving dramatic landscapes around every bend.

As you approach Namrung, the scenery expands toward higher alpine terrain. The village welcomes you with traditional stone houses, fine mountain views, and the unmistakable ambiance of Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The trail leads through rhododendron forests and small farming settlements, offering increasing glimpses of snowy giants like Manaslu and Himalchuli. Prayer walls, carved mani stones, and chortens guide your path.

Reaching Lho feels magical. The village is crowned by Ribung Monastery, where monks chant in the evening and prayer flags flutter above terraced fields. The sunset and sunrise views of Manaslu from Lho are among the trek’s finest.

Today’s trek is short but visually spectacular. You walk through alpine forests, wide pastures, and glacial landscapes, moving deeper into the Nubri Valley. The snowy wall of Manaslu begins to dominate the horizon.

When you arrive at Samagaon, one of the most culturally immersive villages of the region, you feel embraced by ancient Tibetan traditions. The village’s carved gates, monasteries, and mountain backdrop create a serene atmosphere perfect for acclimatization.

This acclimatization day is essential as you prepare for the high altitude of Larkya La Pass. You can hike to Pungyen Gompa, a peaceful monastery surrounded by vast yak pastures and breathtaking views of Manaslu’s massive ice wall.

Another option is to hike toward the Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint, offering dramatic glacier views and high-altitude scenery. After exploring, you return to Samagaon to rest, hydrate, and enjoy its calm Tibetan ambiance.

The trail to Samdo is gentle and pleasant, following a high alpine ridge with wide valley views. Yak caravans, mani walls, and traditional stone huts dot the path, creating a beautiful Himalayan scene.

Samdo, a settlement near the Tibetan border, embodies the essence of remote mountain life. The air is crisp, the landscapes wide and silent, and the atmosphere deeply spiritual. You settle in for the night surrounded by pristine mountain wilderness.

Your second acclimatization day provides an opportunity to explore the ridge leading toward the Tibetan border. This hike offers magnificent views of Manaslu, Pang Phuchi Peak, and the glacial valleys surrounding Samdo.

Returning to the village, you spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the upcoming high pass. The calm mountain environment, prayer flags, and local hospitality help you recharge before the demanding days ahead.

Today’s trek is short but climbs steadily into harsher alpine terrain. The environment changes dramatically, vegetation thins and icy winds brush across the mountainsides.

Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, serves as the final stop before the high pass. You rest early, hydrate well, and mentally prepare for your biggest day of the trek, crossing Larkya La Pass.

You begin before dawn, ascending slowly along a snowy, glacial trail illuminated by headlamps. As the sky brightens, panoramic views of Cheo Himal, Himlung, Kang Guru, and Manaslu emerge, turning the cold morning into a breathtaking spectacle.

Standing atop Larkya La Pass feels like standing at the edge of the world. After enjoying the views, you descend carefully into Bimthang, a beautiful alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks. This is one of the most rewarding days of your entire journey.

Your descent continues through enchanted forests, moss-covered slopes, and glacial streams. The scenery transforms from stark alpine wilderness back into lush greenery, creating a magical transition.

Upon reaching Dharapani, you officially reconnect with the Annapurna Circuit trail. You enjoy a comfortable evening in this lively village, celebrating the completion of your high mountain challenge.

This morning, you board a jeep and begin the drive through rugged mountain roads, terraced hillsides, and lower valleys toward Besisahar. From there, the highway leads back to Kathmandu.

As you arrive in the capital, the comforts of city life welcome you once again. You enjoy a farewell evening, reflecting on your extraordinary Manaslu Circuit adventure, one that will remain etched in your memory forever.