Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, challenging, and culturally immersive trek in western Nepal, circling Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. This trek lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region that features pristine forests, alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and towering Himalayan peaks.
The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Arughat, followed by trekking through traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Along the trail, trekkers experience rich cultural heritage, monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and local festivals, offering insight into the lifestyle and spirituality of the Himalayan people.
Highlights of the trek include Larke Pass (5,160 m), which is the highest point of the circuit, Samagaon, the picturesque village below the base of Manaslu, and Manaslu Base Camp (4,560 m), offering breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung, Ngadi, and other surrounding peaks. The trek also passes through lush rhododendron forests, deep valleys, and glacial moraines, providing a diverse trekking experience.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is strenuous, suitable for experienced trekkers with high-altitude trekking experience, with altitudes ranging from 600 m at Soti Khola to over 5,160 m at Larke Pass. Proper acclimatization, fitness, and preparation are essential. This trek provides a remote, untouched Himalayan experience, combining adventure, cultural exploration, and majestic mountain scenery.
Highlights
- Trek around Mt. Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world
- Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) – a major highlight of the trek
- Experience traditional Gurung, Tibetan, and Manang cultures
- Explore remote villages, high ridges, and pristine rivers
- Off-the-beaten-path trekking with minimal tourist traffic
Basic Information
- Destination
- Duration
- Start / End Location
- Accommodation Type
- Difficulty Level
- Max Altitude
- Age Limit
- Transportation Mode
- Manaslu
- 17 Days
- Kathmandu / Kathmandu
- -
- Moderate
- 5160m
- -
- -
Best Season
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, pleasant temperatures – best season Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures – second best Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, possible snow – for experienced trekkers Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Trails muddy, slippery – not recommended
Tour Plan
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Transfer to hotel.
- Overnight in Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
- Highlights: Arrival briefing, welcome dinner, explore local surroundings.
- Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
- Overnight in Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Hindu and Buddhist cultural immersion.
- Scenic drive through hills, rivers, and countryside villages.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Trishuli River valley, lush green hills, local villages.
- Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River through forest and rice fields.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Beautiful river gorge, waterfalls, Gurung villages.
- Cross suspension bridges and pass through Tatopani hot springs.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Natural hot springs, Buddhist mani walls, deep valleys.
- Ascend along riverbanks, passing Philim and Ekle Bhatti.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Waterfalls, millet fields, views of Shringi Himal.
- Enter culturally Tibetan region with monasteries and stone houses.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Bamboo forest, river crossings, Buddhist culture.
- Pass through Lihi, Sho, and Lho village with stunning Manaslu views.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Ribung Gompa, clear views of Mt. Manaslu.
- Optional hike to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Acclimatization, side hike with Manaslu and glacier views.
- Short trek to Tibetan refugee village.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Barren landscapes, yak herders, Tibetan culture.
- Trek toward Larkya La Pass base.
- Overnight in Lodge or basic shelter
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Alpine terrain, glacier views, peaceful setting.
- Early morning climb to the pass with stunning Himalayan panorama.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Magnificent views of Himlung, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, challenging descent
- Descend into rhododendron forest and cultivated land.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Scenic forest trails, traditional houses, fresh mountain air.
- Join Annapurna Circuit trail.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Marshyangdi River valley, waterfall near Tal village.
- Gradual descent through subtropical forest and terrace farms.
- Overnight in Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Lush landscapes, cultural villages, Marsyangdi views.
- Scenic drive back to Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Rivers, rural hills, Trishuli valley road journey.
- Transfer to airport for international departure.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highlights: Farewell and departure from the Himalayas.