The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting adventure in the Himalayas. The trek encircles Mount Manaslu (8,167m), the world’s 8th-highest peak. It is a challenging journey that takes around 14 days to complete depending on the individual’s fitness and pace. It is an off-the-beaten-path trek that offers unique scenery of mountains, diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, rich biodiversity, and high-altitude passes.
The itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit trek offers flexibility based on weather conditions, physical fitness, and preferences of the individual. Weather in high altitudes can be unpredictable, itinerary can have buffer days in case of delays due to rain or snow storms. It can be customized with additional acclimatization days for those with limited fitness and additional preferences for cultural exploration.
Pre-Trek Preparations
After you arrive in Kathmandu, you will check into your hotel booked by our agency. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted region, so must obtain permits for trekking. Here are the necessary permits:
Restricted Area Permits: It is required for trekking in the restricted region of Manaslu.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit: It is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: It is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area just after crossing the Larkya La Pass.
These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu. Our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes, will arrange these permits.
You will have a briefing with us about the trekking. Then, you will do final checks for packing lists and essential gear.
You can have the option of a guided city tour and acclimatization for a day. The guided city tour will take you around World Heritage sites like Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swoyambhunath Temple, Bouddhanath, etc.
Day-by-day Itinerary
Drive to Machhakhola
From Kathmandu, you will travel to Machhakhola in a private jeep. The scenic drive will take you through the Prithivi highway along the banks of the Trishuli followed by the Marshyangdi river. You will observe the hills, lush forests, and waterfalls along the way.
Trek to Jagat
From Machhakhola, you will formally start your trek. You will notice the rugged trails and cultural villages of the Gurung people. The traditional houses, stone stairs, and village life are interesting experiences. After walking for about 6 hours, you will reach Jagat and rest at a teahouse.
Trek to Deng
From Jagat, you will move through lush subtropical forests, serene villages, and cultivated fields. You will enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and pass through the villages including Salleri, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and reach Deng. You will stay overnight at a teahouse and enjoy the dinner.
Trek to Namrung
From Deng, you will continue your trek towards Namrung. You will have first glimpses of snow-capped peaks while crossing the suspension bridges above the Budhi Gandaki River.
Trek to Lho
From Namrung, you will walk past Nubri Valley with the Gurung community along the lush forests of oak and rhododendrons. As you approach the Lho village, you will notice the terraced fields and mani walls. You can visit Ribung Gompa in the Lho village.
Trek to Samagaun
From Lho, you will trek toward a Tibetan-influenced village with majestic mountain views of Peak 29, Himal Chuli, Mt. Manaslu, and dazzling glaciers. At Samagaun, you will stay in a teahouse.
Acclimatization Day
You will have an acclimatization day at Samagaun. You can take a side trip to Pungyen Gompa for stunning vistas of the Manaslu Glacier and observe the monastery, chortens, and spin the prayer wheels. Alternatively, you can also hike to Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake.
Trek to Samdo
From Samagaun, you will trek closer to the Tibetan border. You will cross suspension bridges, and pass through charming villages and dense forests. After walking for 6 hours, you will reach Samdo and stay overnight at a teahouse.
Trek to Dharmasala
From Samdo, you will continue your trek enjoying the view of Larkya Glacier. After walking for about 4 hours, you will reach Dharmasala. Here, you will prepare for the Larkya La Pass crossing.
Cross the Larkya La Pass and trek to Bimtang
From Dharmasala, you will walk toward the Larkya La Pass enjoying the views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and serene valleys. As you cross the Larkya La Pass, you can have panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Then, you will descend towards Bimtang and stay overnight at a teahouse and enjoy the hospitality of Sherpa People.
Trek to Tilche
From Bimtang, you will descend through alpine forests and fields to reach Tilche.
Trek to Dharapani and Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara
From Tilche, you will walk toward Dharapani which ends the trek. From Dharapani you can drive to Besisahar, then you can travel to Pokhara or Kathmandu. You can either relax for a few days or travel further.
Key Highlights of the Itinerary
- One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the diverse landscapes. It starts from the subtropical forests to the alpine regions.
- The trek offers cultural experiences in Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaun and Samdo. You can learn about the traditions and village life, visit monasteries, and enjoy interacting with local people.
- Crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass is a challenging part of the adventure in the Manaslu Circuit.
- You can explore more of the Manaslu region by taking optional side trips adding depth to the experience.
Challenges to Expect during the Trek
- Long trekking days are physically exhausting, so be prepared by training and building endurance. Significant altitude gain during the ascent to Larkya La Pass is challenging. Make sure you acclimatize properly.
- Steep ascents and uneven trails, especially near Larkya La Pass can be tough to navigate. Use proper gear like trekking poles for balance and support.
- Be aware and check weather forecasts for potential weather changes and cold temperatures. Have warm clothing and consult with your guide for further instruction.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an incredible journey for adventure seekers. It offers breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, cultural experience, the thrill of crossing high passes, and optional side trips. It is a challenging adventure which requires physical and mental preparation.
For a successful trek, choose a trusted trekking agency like Nepal Trekking Routes. We provide a well-planned itinerary and professional guidance so that you can have a safe and enjoyable journey.
