The Manaslu Circuit trekking presents a remarkable alternative to the Around Annapurna trek, eliminating the need for a camping itinerary. This trek is an integral part of the Great Himalayan Trail, linking Tsum Valley, Ganesh Himal, and Paldor Peak Base Camp. Since its opening in 1992, the Manaslu Circuit trek, which leads to Manaslu Base Camp at the base of the world’s eighth highest peak, standing at 8,156 meters, offers breathtaking mountain vistas, a rich cultural tapestry, and genuine experiences.
This region is characterized by a rich cultural heritage, unparalleled beauty, and ecological diversity. Highlights of the trek include traversing the homeland of the renowned Gorkha soldiers and visiting the historic palace of King Prithivi Narayan Shah.
From this point, the ascent begins through the Gandaki River valley, nourished by numerous streams and waterfalls, inviting trekkers to immerse themselves in its refreshing pools. The challenging terrain soon emerges, with yaks towering over individuals in the rugged landscape of Sama Gaon. Here, one can visit the glacial green lake of Birendra before crossing into the enchanting village of Samdo, located a mere 15 kilometers from the Tibetan border. This area is home to Tibetan monks residing in sacred monasteries, where the view of the Tibetan plateau against the stark white Himalayas creates a profoundly spiritual atmosphere. Continuing onward, more monasteries await in Larkya Bazzar, leading to the grand challenge of crossing the Larkya La Pass. This snow-covered pass, at an elevation of 5,160 meters, demands utmost respect. Towering snow-capped peaks exceeding 6,500 meters loom above as trekkers navigate the crossing. The descent from the snow leads through high-altitude terrain and eventually into tropical regions, bursting with flora, bamboo, pine trees, waterfalls, and turquoise lakes adorned with cotton-white beaches.
Trip Info
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Hotel/Lodge
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Spring/Autumn
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5160m
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Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
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Local Bus/Jeep
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7-8 hours
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Some places
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14 days
Highlights
- remarkable alternative to the Around Annapurna trek, eliminating the need for a camping itinerary.
- Integral part of the Great Himalayan Trail, linking Tsum Valley, Ganesh Himal, and Paldor Peak Base Camp
- Home to Tibetan monks residing in sacred monasteries, where the view of the Tibetan plateau against the stark white Himalayas creates a profoundly spiritual atmosphere.
Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, Welcome diner
Transport, private vehicle
A drive along the Prithvi Highway takes us to Malekhu. After passing Dhading Besi, the road climbs up to Gola Bhanjyang. From there, you can see the snow-covered mountains. The road descends to cross the Ankhu Khola and then crosses the Budhi Gandaki River at Arughat. We finally reach Machha Khola by travelling up the Budhi Gandaki.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
Transport, Bus and jeep
Walk along the river, past the hot springs at Tatopani village, and through typical villages that join a paved path. This is the actual entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area of Jagat. Overnight at Jagat.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
We ascend a rocky ridge from Jagat to Saguleri, then descend to Sirdabas. Before ascending to Philim, a Gurung village, we descend to a river and cross a lengthy suspension bridge, where we can see Shringi Himal. There are multiple waterfalls en route to Ekle Bhatti. We then move forward along the west bank, cross to the east bank, descend and cross Budhigandaki, and then return. The trail leads through bamboo forests to the Deng River, which we cross to arrive at the settlement of Deng.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
Today’s trek is slightly longer and harder than the previous days. We can see incredible fields of flowering mustard. After a considerable amount of walking, we arrive at Ghap (2160m) Upon reaching Ghap, we are able to experience the soothing sound of the waterfall and observe ancient writings and art in the rocks. After a duration of four hours of walking, we finally arrive at Namrung. Overnight in Namrung.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
Following breakfast, we cross the Hinan River, which rises in Linda Glacier, and proceed to Sho. From here, you can see Manaslu (8,163m), Naike Peak, and Manaslu North (7,774 m). We arrive at Lho Gaon, a lovely village with a pleasant view of Mount Manaslu, after several hours of walking. We can view the Buddhist monastery Ribung Gompa from the top of the hill. We will then proceed to Samagaon, which is our destination village. Overnight at Samagaon.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
A day of exploration and acclimatization, with the possibility of ascending to the edge of the Punggen glacier and the foot of the impressive Manaslu. It is highly recommended to visit the magnificent and expansive village of Samagaon.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
A short walk. The climb is gentle up the Budhi Gandaki. Here, birches follow larches. We cross the river and begin a climb to reach the small plateau where the village of Samdo is located. It is the last village before the Larkya pass and the highest of all the villages around the Manaslu massif. The Tsum valley has animals that warm the room. Afternoon with the people who live there. We suggest that you rest to prepare for the next day because we will soon cross a mountain pass that is over 5000 meters high. Overnight at Samdo Village.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
After traversing several streams, we shall arrive at Larkya Bazaar. This village began to prosper due to trade with Tibet many years ago. After a steady climb, we will reach our lodge at Dharmasala where we will spend the night. We will then prepare for the big climb up the pass tomorrow. We will spend the night at Dharmasala.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
After a short climb, we reach a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across moraines of the glacier and climb uphill. From the pass, you can see Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and Annapurna II. It’s a longer day to Bimtang than usual, but it’s amazing to walk into the low pastures with the evening mist and Mt. Manaslu nearby.
Overnight at guest house.
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
The descent is steep, crossing the rhododendron forest, which is populated with langur monkeys. Arrival in the village of Tilche (gurung).
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
Go down to Tal and its stunning waterfall by following the Marsyangdi River. Spending the night in Tal, learning about the culture of the locals and the terraced fields that are grown so near to the peaks.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, Breakfast, lunch and diner
Return to Kathmandu by private transportation via Besi Sahar. Transfer at hotel in Kathmandu.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, Breakfast and lunch
Transport, Bus and jeep
Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your final departure.
Meals, Breakfast
Transport, private vehicle
