Source of image: Google
Duration
16 Days
Difficulty Level
strenuous
Maximum Altitude
5,160 M
The Manaslu Trek is a hidden treasure in Nepal, which is less explored and restricted. It entails a 16-day journey ranging from 600 to 5200 meters high and offers diverse experiences of cultures and breathtaking mountain views. This challenging and restricted route is an integral part of the Great Himalayan trails and serves as an excellent alternative to the famous Annapurna trek.
The trek begins in Lapubesi after a scenic drive from Kathmandu, following the Budhi Gandaki River, which flows through a valley. The Manaslu Circuit Trek primarily takes place in Nupri, a region with significant Tibetan influence due to its past as an essential trade route. As one ascends, they notice a shift in culture from Hindu to Buddhist. Instead of temples and ghats, one observes Mani walls, Khanyi gates, and Chortens. This area is also home to rare animals such as snow leopards, grey wolves, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and blue sheep.
Crossing the Larke La pass is the most exciting part of the trek, serving as a trading route that connects two valleys in the mountains. Upon reaching the top, one witnesses some of the most beautiful views, including Himlung, Cheo Himal, Larke Peak, Annapurna II, and Mt. Manaslu. Upon crossing the pass, the trek descends into a valley called Bhimthang, where the path joins the famous Annapurna trek route. The journey concludes with a drive back to Kathmandu.
The Manaslu Trek is an enriching and unforgettable experience, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse cultures, and adventure. We invite you to join us on this 16-day trek in the Spring or Autumn of 2023 and 2024 and explore Nepal’s hidden treasure. The Manaslu Trek is best enjoyed during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). We have planned trips for both 2023 and 2024, and this adventure typically takes around 16 days. If you have a group of friends or family, we can arrange a personalized trip just for you, which would be unforgettable.
Get ready to explore Nepal’s best-kept secret, the Manaslu Trek. Don’t miss this opportunity to have an incredible adventure!
Trip Gallery
Source of image: Google
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport. Trekkers will be there to greet you at the terminal. Once you complete the arrival formalities, you will be transferred to your respective hotel or resort in the city. After checking in, you can take some rest before we meet in your hotel lobby or at our office to discuss the trekking journey. We will also take a short stroll around Kathmandu to familiarize you with the city.
During this day, you will have a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions of Nepal, and also enjoy some delicious local food. A welcome dinner will be provided in the evening.
Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour & Trek Preparation
After enjoying a warm breakfast at the hotel, we will start the day by exploring the other important landmarks of the valley, which are also the world heritage sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa. This will give you a chance to witness the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and learn more about its history.
In the afternoon, we will prepare for the trekking journey, which includes obtaining permits and trekking gear. We will also discuss the itinerary and route for the trek.
Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Drive to Soti-Khola
Today, we will start our Himalayan journey by driving west on the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to the town of Dhading Besi. From there, we will further ride up to Soti Khola. The route throughout the day takes us through rural areas, little towns, grassy terraces, and lush hilltops. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and landscapes of Nepal throughout the day.
The road will ultimately turn into a rutted dirt trail, and we will begin to enjoy the vistas of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal from the southern slopes. After the long and scenic drive, we will reach today’s destination, Soti Khola in the Budhi Gandaki Valley. We will stay overnight at a local teahouse.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Trek to Maccha-Khola
We will start our trekking journey today after enjoying breakfast and looking at the wonderful landscape. We will continue upstream along the Budhi Gandaki following an undulating track through the shady sal forests before ascending sharply uphill along a rocky cliff face.
The river’s white and furious rapids may be seen down from here. The trail eventually descends to Labubesi, a Gurung settlement, and continues along the riverbank until we reach Machha Khola, where we will spend the night.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Trek to Jagat
Duration: 6-7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1370 meters
Today’s trek offers an exciting blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. We will start by heading up the river, following the gorge, and encountering Tharo Khola before arriving at Khola Besi, a Gurung settlement. As we continue our trek, we will pass through several villages such as Tatopani, Dovan, and Thulo Dhunga before reaching Jagat, the first Tibetan Buddhist culture-influenced settlement on this route. Jagat is also the entry point of the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA), where you can explore the region’s unique flora and fauna. The trail today includes multiple uphill and downhill sections, and you will encounter waterfalls, a fascinating Buddha cliff painting, and hot springs.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 6: Trek to Deng
Duration: 6-7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1800 meters
We will start the day with a challenging ascent to Salleri along a rocky ridge, followed by a moderate descent to Sirdibas. From there, we will climb towards Ghatta Khola and cross a long suspension bridge to reach Philim, a big Gurung settlement. The trail now proceeds north to Ekle Bhatti, passing through millet fields. We will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and proceed along the river bank through muddy pastures before entering the bamboo forests of Deng Khola. We will cross the river and reach Deng, where we will stay at a local teahouse.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 7: Trek to Namrung
Duration: 6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2630 meters
Today, we will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb through an impressive valley, passing through some tiny settlements and countless Tibetan mani walls (intricately hand-carved stone walls with Buddhist teachings). Along the way, we will take in some spectacular views of the Singri Himal before reaching Ghap village. From there, we will head towards the little settlement of Prok and walk alongside the river, crossing it several times as we pass through a forest of firs, oaks, and rhododendrons. Finally, we will ascend a difficult incline to reach Namrung, which offers spectacular views of peaks like Ganesh Himal and Mount Himchuli along with Singri Himal.
Throughout this Manaslu Circuit Trek journey, Namrung features some of the best teashops, restaurants, and rest homes. You can find a modern restaurant, hotel, and bakery with Wi-Fi facilities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 8: Trek to Sama Gaon
Duration: 6-7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3530 meters
After enjoying breakfast and the morning views of the Himalayas in Namrung, we will begin our trek with a continual uphill climb through the beautiful green forest to Lihi village. As we continue our walk, we will see that the majority of the residents are dressed in traditional Tibetan garb. We will pass through various isolated settlements such as Sho, Lho, and Shyala.
When we arrive in Lho, we will be treated to a breathtaking vista of Mt. Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak. From Shyala, it is over an hour’s walk to Samagaon where we will conclude our today’s trek. The mountain vistas decrease as you near the village, but the yak pastures and traditional communities will entice you. Samagaon is perhaps the most beautiful village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek trip, offering the best view of Mount Manaslu, and you can explore the famous Ribung monastery if time permits.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Day 9:Acclimatization at Sama Gaon & Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp / Pungyen Gompa.
You will focus on acclimatizing yourself to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness. You will have a full day to do this and two acclimatization hike options to choose from. The first option is to hike up to Manaslu Base Camp, located on the north side of Sama village. The second option is to hike to Pungyen Gompa, a historic monastery with a spectacular view of the glacier. Both options will reward you with breathtaking views of Manaslu and the surrounding area. You may also see many Himalayan Thars and Yaks grazing nearby or en route. You will spend the night at a local lodge and have breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
Accommodation
You will be staying at a local tea house for the night
Meals
You will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 10: Trek to Samdo
you will be trekking to Samdo. This will be a 3-4 hour walk, and you will start your journey up the valley towards Samdo early in the morning. You will cross streams on slick stones and frosty planks, and the valley will rise slowly but steadily. The landscape will continue to change, and you will see tough prickly bushes and dry yellow/green grass with a crown of snowy peaks. After a few hours, you will arrive at Samdo and check into your accommodation at a local teahouse. You will have lunch and then begin exploring the local houses’ winding roads. The stone cottages are brightly colored by billowing prayer flags.
Accommodation
You will be staying at a local teahouse on Day 10.
Meals
You will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided for you.
Day 11: Acclimatization at Samdo
We will be acclimatizing yourself to the high altitude at Samdo. You will have a full day to do this, and you will climb up the valley just behind Samdo village for an acclimatization hike. This hike will take you to one of Tibet’s trade passes, where you will be able to see Mt. Manaslu as well as other Himalayan ranges such as Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo, and probably Kang Guru. You will pass through many seasonal herding towns known as doksas on your way to these vistas and see some lovely mountain birds such as the Lophophorus/Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird), Lammergeyer, and Himalayan Griffin soaring high above you. You will spend the night at a local teahouse, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.
Accommodation
at a local teahouse
Meals
You will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 12: Trek to Dharmashala
You will be trekking to Dharmashala. This will be a 4-5 hour walk, and you will leave Samdo behind and travel down the Samdo edge, passing through meadows and old Mani walls before reaching the Budhi Gandaki River on a wooden bridge. You will keep ascending and come past the valley of Salka Khola and ascend to Dharmasala after crossing two streams and seeing the Larkya Glacier. You will spend the night at a guesthouse, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.
Accommodation
At a guesthouse
Meals
breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 13: Trek to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass Manaslu Circuit
Trekking journey is one of the most anticipated days of the trip. It is the day to cross the magnificent Larkya La Pass, which stands tall at an altitude of 5106 meters. This pass is considered to be one of the most gorgeous and incredible passes in the world, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
To begin our journey to Larkya La Pass, we start before the morning light and follow the path up through the rocky ground. The route to the pass is marked by prayer flags, which give us a sense of where we are on our trip. As we trek along the path, we are surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayan mountains, and it’s an experience that will leave a lasting impression on us.
After crossing the pass, we carefully descend to four frozen lakes before climbing a hard trail. From the Larkya La Pass, we get to enjoy the stunning view of Himalayan peaks such as Himlung Himal (7126m), Chap Himal, Gyaji Kang, Kang Guru (6981m), and Annapurna II. The view is truly awe-inspiring, and it’s an experience that we’ll never forget.
Continuing from the Larkya La Pass, the trail continues for a few hundred meters along the flat, rocky pass before abruptly descending. As we get closer to a little meadow, the trail becomes easier to walk in. As we approach the huge meadow, Mani walls, and little buildings, it is the signal that we have arrived at Bhimtang for an overnight stay. We’ll be staying at a local teahouse and will be served breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 14: Trek to Dharapani
We’ll start our trek to Dharapani after having breakfast with the sunrise over the magnificent landscape of snowy peaks in misty Bimthang. The trail winds down past beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, and we follow the ice-blue river. The track follows Dudh Khola, which is milky blue and swiftly flowing. We’ll continue and reach Soti Khola, where we’ll halt for a lunch break.
We’ll carry on through the jungle where we might see langur monkeys and trek past the villages of Homuk and Gho. From there, we’ll trek through many fields and pastures and settle in Tilije, which is famous for Brandy. We’ll move further, passing Mani Walls, passing Thonje Village, and reaching the destination, Dharapani. We’ll be staying at a local teahouse and will be served breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu
Our trekking journey concludes in Dharapani, and after breakfast, we’ll take a jeep to Besi Sahar. After a short break at Besi Sahar, we’ll hop on the vehicle and further drive to Kathmandu concluding our Manaslu Circuit Trekking journey. As we head east on the Prithivi Highway after getting a bus back to Kathmandu, we’ll pass by the Marsyagdi River meeting the Trishuli River. The drive allows you to take in the natural beauty of the area, which includes terraced lands and towering hills.
Once in the bustling capital, you can freshen up and take a rest. In the evening, you can stroll around the streets of Thamel Market and rejuvenate your tongue with the spices, foods, and drinks of your choice. We’ll be staying at a standard hotel in Kathmandu and will be served breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 16: Departure in Kathmandu
You will be transferred to the airport from the hotel by a representative from Himalayan Trekkers, a few hours before your scheduled flight. You’ll be served breakfast before leaving.
to the airport
Cost Includes:
- Customized airport transfer based on flight details.
- Standard hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-share bed-and-breakfast basis
- Group welcome dinner as per the itinerary.
- Half-day guided city tour with entrance fees to world heritage sites
- Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek.
- Accommodation in tea houses during the trek
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on the trek
- Free use of company trek gear such as sleeping bags, warm jackets, and rain ponchos
- Supplementary oxygen tank with a comprehensive first aid kit
- Trek guide and crew with necessary gear and proper insurance
- Responsible Trek Policy of 01 Trekker: 01 Porter
- Manaslu region special trek permit
- T-shirts, trek duffle bag, and trek map
- TIMS/Trekking permit, Manaslu conservation entry fees, etc.
Cost Excludes:
- Nepal entry visa fees and any travel insurance
- International airfare
- – All drinks and main meals in cities
- Beverage drinks while on the trek
- Tips and personal expenses such as hot showers and battery charges
What are the basic needs to go Ganesh Himal trekking?
- Meals: Breakfast
- Hiking boots
- Sandals/Crocs
- Several sets of undergarments
- Good quality down jacket and pants
- Fleece jacket
- Thermal wear
- T-shirts and pants
- Warm woolen clothes for the night
- Trekking stick
- One set of gloves
- Woolen hat
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle with purifying tablets
- Toiletries
- A medium-sized towel
- Energy bars
- Basic medications
- Rain Gears.
Why is the Ganesh Himal trek Benefits of Booking with Us?
- Best Price Guarantee
- 100% Safe money
- Local Knowledge and On-Ground Attendance
- Customizable Trips
- Guaranteed Departure
- Flexible Departure Dates
- Budget-Friendly Trips
- Based in Nepal
- Quick Response
- Special Care and Consideration