Trip Code: | MSL 12 |
Trip Duration: | 21 days |
Max. Altitude: | 5464m |
Grade: | Challenging |
Program Type: | Trekking |
Trek Start Point: | Gorkha |
Trek End Point: | Muktinath |
Accommodation: | Teahouse |
Meals: | Breakfast, lunch , Dinner with tea/coffee |
Mode of Travel: | Adventures |
Transportation: | Car / Bus |
Minimum Pax: | 05 |
Best season: | February to May / September to November |
Manaslu, trekking is about the Manaslu Massif (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Compared to other trekking routes in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded. Moreover, it passes through traditional villages that feature both Hindu and Buddhist settlements. As a result, this trek offers an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine landscapes
The Manaslu Circuit Trek provides a perfect blend of adventure and solitude, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking mountain views, and diverse ecosystems. Unlike the busier Everest and Annapurna trails, Manaslu remains relatively untouched, offering a more authentic Himalayan experience.
Crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) is challenging but rewarding, revealing panoramic views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The journey includes encounters with Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and diverse wildlife, adding immense charm.
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path trek rich in culture and dramatic landscapes, the Manaslu Circuit is the perfect choice. It promises solitude, adventure, and a deep connection with Nepal’s natural and cultural beauty. The region features stunning landscapes, green countryside, lush forests, and enormous glaciers alongside majestic snow-capped peaks.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area trek. Solo trekking is not allowed—you need at least two trekkers and a registered local trekking guide. Entry was restricted until 1991. It became popular after a Japanese expedition successfully climbed Manaslu, earning it the nickname “Japanese Mountain.”
Permits cost USD $90 per person per week from October to November and USD $75 per person per week during the rest of the year.
The trek typically begins from Gorkha or Trishuli Bazaar in Dhading. Trishuli Bazaar and Dhunche serve as alternative entry points, with early morning bus departures from Kathmandu. These towns offer convenient starting points for exploring the Manaslu region.
The trail is rough, steep, and often clings to cliffs high above rivers. While the Larkya La Pass is not technically difficult, the remoteness of the area and lack of rescue services make the trek physically demanding. It’s not suitable for those expecting easy access or support facilities.
The trek passes through Nupri in the upper Budhi Gandaki, home to Tibetan descendants. Their language, dress, and customs are purely Tibetan, and trade with Tibet still continues today. The mountain views in Nupri are sensational, and Larkya La Pass is considered one of the most dramatic in the Himalayas. Tibetan influence dominates the region, with many places retaining Tibetan rather than Nepali names.
The eighth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu dominates the landscape throughout the trek. With its towering presence, this majestic peak offers awe-inspiring views from various points along the trail. Whether seen during sunrise or silhouetted against the evening sky, the mountain becomes a constant and captivating companion throughout the journey.
The Larkya La Pass is the highest and one of the most thrilling sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. At 5,160 meters, this pass offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks, including Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The climb is demanding but rewards trekkers with an unforgettable Himalayan panorama and a great sense of accomplishment.
Explore the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Gurung and Tamang communities in villages like Samagaon and Samdo. Discover ancient monasteries, spin prayer wheels, and walk past colorful mani walls. These cultural elements, paired with warm local hospitality, create a deeply spiritual and immersive trekking experience.
Unlike the more crowded Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit remains relatively untouched. The trail offers solitude, serenity, and unspoiled natural beauty, making it perfect for trekkers seeking a peaceful and less commercialized experience in the Himalayas.
The trek takes you through a variety of ecosystems, starting from subtropical forests and terraced rice fields to alpine meadows and glacial valleys. This dramatic shift in terrain not only keeps the trek visually stimulating but also showcases the incredible biodiversity of Nepal’s mountain regions.
Near Samagaon lies Birendra Tal, a stunning glacial lake nestled at the base of Manaslu. Its calm, turquoise waters mirror the snowy peaks, making it a peaceful place to rest, reflect, or simply absorb the surrounding beauty. It’s a hidden gem that adds a magical touch to the trek.
For those seeking even more cultural immersion and solitude, the Tsum Valley is an excellent side trip. This hidden valley offers a glimpse into ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, with centuries-old monasteries, chortens, and timeless customs. It provides a deeper connection to the spiritual and cultural richness of the region.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is a haven for biodiversity. Trekkers may encounter rare species such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red pandas. The rich ecosystem, including alpine flowers and dense forests, enhances the journey for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Picturesque settlements like Jagat, Namrung, and Lho blend natural beauty with traditional charm. These villages offer insight into daily mountain life, showcasing wooden houses, terraced fields, and stunning mountain backdrops. Interacting with locals here makes the experience more authentic and memorable.
One of the joys of the Manaslu Circuit is the availability of comfortable tea houses. These lodges offer cozy rooms and authentic Nepali meals, creating a welcoming rest stop after a day’s trek. Sharing stories around the hearth with fellow trekkers and locals adds warmth to the adventure.
The vegetation in the Manaslu region transitions through several distinct ecological zones, each characterized by unique plant life that corresponds to changes in altitude, climate, and soil conditions.
Found in the lower stretches of the trek, including areas like Arughat, Soti Khola, and Machha Khola, the subtropical zone is characterized by:
This zone is rich in biodiversity, especially birdlife, and supports traditional Nepali farming villages with rice paddies and millet fields.
As you ascend towards Deng, Namrung, and Lho, you enter the temperate forest zone, where vegetation becomes denser and the climate cooler.
The temperate zone offers some of the most scenic and peaceful forest trails on the entire trek.
This zone includes Sama Gaun and Samdo, where forests begin to thin, and the landscape opens into high alpine meadows.
The vegetation here reflects a Tibetan alpine ecosystem, and grazing livestock like yaks and sheep are commonly seen.
As you approach Dharamsala and cross the Larke La Pass, the vegetation becomes sparse due to high altitude, wind exposure, and cold temperatures.
Despite the harshness, this zone offers a surreal and starkly beautiful Himalayan landscape—ideal for photography and high-altitude exploration.
Atmosphere and Climate of the Manaslu Trekking Area
The atmosphere of the Manaslu region is dynamic and influenced by both elevation and seasonal changes. The weather can vary significantly between valleys and higher ridges, and it’s essential to prepare for diverse atmospheric conditions.
This lower section feels tropical or subtropical and is teeming with birdlife and greenery.
This is the most comfortable atmospheric zone for trekkers and offers excellent views and vibrant forest life.
Above 4,500 meters, especially near Larke La Pass, trekkers often experience strong UV radiation, reduced oxygen, and sharp cold winds, making proper gear essential.
Seasonal Highlights
Explore the Manaslu Circuit with a Trusted Nepal Freelance Guide
Personalized, Affordable, Authentic
Are you looking for a more intimate and authentic way to experience the breathtaking Manaslu Circuit Trek? Join me—your local, government-licensed freelance trekking guide in Nepal—for a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure tailored to your pace, interests, and budget.
With years of hands-on experience and deep knowledge of the Manaslu region, I offer personalized service, flexible itineraries, and genuine cultural immersion. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, I’ll guide you safely through rugged trails, remote mountain villages, and across the majestic Larke La Pass (5,160m).
Why Trek with Nepal freelance guide?
Customized itinerary based on your preferences and fitness level. Affordable, direct service with no middleman fees. Government-licensed and trained in high-altitude safety. Deep knowledge of local culture, traditions, and hidden trails. Fluent English communication and warm, friendly guidance. Ethical and eco-friendly trekking practices. Support for reliable porter services and permit arrangements
From securing permits to coordinating logistics and accommodations, I’ll take care of every detail. This way, you can fully focus on enjoying the stunning views, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and peaceful trails of one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks.. Let’s make your Manaslu trekking dream a reality—authentic, meaningful, and unforgettable.
Contact me today to start planning your personalized Himalayan adventure!
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a truly rewarding Himalayan adventure, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and remote mountain charm.
Along the way, the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and deep gorges, ultimately leading to the stunning Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.
In contrast to the heavily trekked trails of the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit remains remarkably less traveled. This makes it an ideal option for trekkers in search of solitude and authenticity. Furthermore, its restricted area status has played a crucial role in preserving both its pristine natural environment and its centuries-old, Tibetan-influenced culture.
As you journey through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes, the sense of tranquility and raw beauty is unmatched. The fewer crowds also mean a more peaceful trekking experience and closer interactions with locals.
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal—with all the thrill of the Himalayas but fewer tourists—the Manaslu Circuit Trek, therefore, stands out as an exceptional choice It’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhading to Kafalpani
Day 02: Kafalpani to Aarughat
Day 03: Aarughat to Sati Khola
Day 04: Sati Khola to Labu Besi
Day 05: Labu Besi to Doban
Day 06: Doban to Jagat
Day 07: Jagat to Serson
Day 08: Serson to Deng
Day 09: Deng to Ghap
Day 10: Ghap to namrung
Day 11: Namrung to Shya
Day 12: Shya to Gompa
Day 13: Sama Gompa to Samdo
Day 14: Samdo to Larkya Rest house
Day 15: Larkya Rest house to Bimtang
Day 16: Bimatang to Gho
Day 17: Gho to Dharapani
Day 18: Dharapani to Syange
Day 19: Syange to Bulbule
Day 20: Bulbule to Besishahar
Day 21: Besi shahar to Kathmandu
Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhading to Kafalpani: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi and cross the dense sal forest along the way to Buchung village in a steep valley’ then enter to Dhading village from where peaks of Ganesh Himal are visible to the north. The trail goes ahead to Nigalapani, from where the views of Annapurna II, Manaslu can be seen. Afterward, the trail crests the ridge at Kafalpani (1350m.), The beautiful sight of Annapurna, Manaslu (8163m.), Shringi Himal (7187m.) and Ganesh Himal (7406m.) are visible from here.
Day 02: Kafalpani to Aarughat: On this day, the trek descends to Chainpur and again descends steeply to a stream, then crosses a long suspension bridge over Ankhu Khola and climbs to Salyan Taar, after walking a few km. the trail enters the valley of Budhi Gandaki. The flat trail through the forest reaches to Doren and then Aarughat. There is a trail junction here turns west across the bridge over Budhi Gandaki and continue the trek’ the eastern route is joining from Trishuli Bazaar. In the west of the bridge through the Bazaar there is Cheak post. Then, pass the hydroelectric. power plant through rice and millet fields and reach to Aarughat for rest overnight.
Day 03: Aarughat to Sati Khola: The trek starts to go ahead to Sati Khola via Sante Bazaar and Budhi Gandaki valley and reaches to Koirpani, a small village of Magar and Gurung. The trail descends to Ahati Khola. There is a small waterfall just above the trail, a larger waterfall with a 60-meter drop is visible by climbing upstream. This valley is famous for honey, which is harvested in a manner as described in the book “Honey Hunters of Nepal”.
Day 04: Sati Khola to Labu Besi: After crossing the bridge, the trek climbs up onto a ridge above the huge rapids of Budhi Gandaki and reaches to Khorsaani. Then it, the trail, gets a bit precarious as it passes over a big rock and crosses a stream. The rocky trail then goes up and down through a large stand of nettles, passes tropical waterfalls and again backs down to the bank of Budhi Gandaki. The trek goes up again on a steep rocky trail and down then up around to the Gurung village of Labu Besi and rests overnight.
Day 05: Labu Besi to Doban: The trek forwards to Machha Khola after crossing several streams on the way and reaches to the place where a cable ropeway is hanging over Budhi Gandaki, it should be crossed in a small cable car called “Girling”. The trail again forwards to Doban Khola via Khorlavesi, Tatopani, etc.
Day 06: Doban to Jagat: The route climbs on a Rugged Rocky trail to Duman. Then passes the villages of Yaru Khola, Thado Bharyang and crosses Budhi Gandaki again and climbs over a ridge; trek along the river for a while and reaches to the compact village of Jagat at 1410 meters.
Day 07: Jagat to Serson: The trek climbs over a rocky ridge up to salleri. Shringi Himal offers good views from this Village. The trail descends to Setibas (Tara) a Gurung village influenced by Tibetan culture. Continuing upstream, the trail follows the best and new route to Manaslu via Ngyuak (Nyak), climbs up to Philim (Dodang) at 1550 meters. The trail then leads to Ganesh Himal is called Tsum. It is still off-limits to foreigners. This village of Tsum is inhabited by Tibetans and is towards Tibet across to passes ahead of the Shar Khola ( East River ) Valley. Later on, the trail reaches to serson.
Day 08: Serson to Deng: After serson, The trail enters a steep uninhabited gorge and descends through grassy slopes dotted with tall pine trees then, the trail hangs on a cliff after crossing the Budi Gandaki. The tiny village Deng comes after crossing a bamboo forest and Deng Khola (river)
Day 09: Deng to Ghap: today the trail re-crosses Budi Gandaki and climbs up then passes a waterfall after crossing a stream it continues to climb ahead before dropping to Shring Khola crosses it and climbs steeply to reach to Ghap( task) Many of the carvings of Buddha in various meditative poses and others are of the Tibetan saint Milarepa who is said to have travel and meditated in this valley.
Day 10: Ghap to Namrung: The trail then crosses a 26 meters long bridge over Budi Gandaki at 2100Meters and passes more many stones to enter in to the woods then, the trail climbs two long main walls and a waterfall will be on the way to village at Budi Gandaki Valley which is a trading route to Tibet. The trek climbs over a big rock and continues up through deep fir and Rhododendron. the forest entering Namrung (Nsamdru) through a stone archway at 2600 meters, there are excellent camps in the forest, another part of Namrung remains across the bridge.
Day 11: Namrung to Shya: After Numrung the trail follows the Nupri region, a region, a region of Tibetan immigration. On the way village Li at 2900meters, the trail passes village Barcham (Bartsam) and the forest of fire and rhododendron. The trail leaves the village and crosses Hinan Khola and reaches to Sho Sho, where children demand Shim a Tibetan word for Sweets or candy. After leaving Budi Gandaki valley, the spectaculars views of Mt. Manaslu, Manaslu north (7154m) and Naike Peak come into sight. The Trail then follows to Lho ( Lo) at 3100meters pass Shrimp, a small settlement. Lho is a big village with gompa (Monastery) a stone Archway at the entrance of a Tibetan style Chorten and a huge Mani wall. The Trail drops down to cross Damonan Khola, Starts to ascend again and finally emerges onto a platue at shya (3520m.) with wide views of Himal chuli, Ngadi chuli, and Manaslu.
Day 12: Shya to Gompa: The trail crosses a ridge and descends on to a tock- strewn Moraine then emerges on to a ridge overlooking pastures and fields of Samagaon (Ro) the samaGompa is nestled against a wooded moraine at the far end of the valley. Spare a day to climb the ridge to the south of Samagaon to the Pung- Gyen Gompa hidden behind the ridge in front of Manaslu. The Japanese call this Honsanso Gompa. An avalanche destroyed it in the winter of 1953, killing 18 inhabitants.
Day 13: Sama Gompa to Samdo: The trail descends to Budhi Gandaki and leads to Manaslu Base “Camp. The Larkya La trail passes several Manmu walls and reaches to Kermo Kharka after crossing the Juniper, Birch forest. The trail then climbs steeply to find Samdo nestled behind a bridge at 3860m. Somewhere in the village, a police Cheak post lurks’ a major trade route to Tibet heads ahead east through the village over Lajyang La at 5098m. A day’s walk from here.
Day 14: Samdo to Larkya Resthouse: The trek descends to the river and crosses it then proceeds on to climb to Larkya La. Again climb gently through Juniper and Tundra opposite to Larkya La Glacier. The trail gets steeper and climbs the side of the ridge about 4000m. Where there is a viewpoint at the edge of a huge gorge. The trail climbs in and out of the and reaches the only shelter on the route to the pass, a rest house at 4480.
Day 15: Larkya Resthouse to Bimtang: Starting up the ridge in front of the rest house the trail reaches at the top of the moraine at 7400m. And climbs steeply to the pass at 5100m. It takes about 3/4hrs. To reach the pass so, it is best to start earlier. The tremendous views of Himlung Himal (7126m.) Cheo Himal (6820m.) Gyaji Kung, Kang Guru (6981m.) and Annapurna II (7937m.) can be seen on the west from here. Then the trail descends to Bimtang (3720m.), which means “Plain of Sand” in the Tibetan language. This a huge valley surrounded by high peaks.
Day 16: Bimatang to Gho: The trek descends to Dudh Khola and reaches to Gho at 2560m. crossing Pine and Rhododendron forest via Hompuk, Karchep village. At foot of the valley, part of Lamjung peak above the Marsyangdi valley comes into sight.
Day 17: Gho to Dharapani: The trail continues through the fields with rhododendron Oak forests to Dharapani via Tilje (Tiljet), Thonje (Thangjet villages. In Thonje, the Sirdar of Liaison Officer will contact the police to show off the collected garbage to obtain a clearance certificate. Afterward, the trek follows the trail to Dharapani (1920m.) for rest overnight.
Day 18: Dharapani to Syange: on this day the trek goes to south through steeps part the Marshyangdi Gorge.
Day 19: Syange to Bulbule: the trek again follows Marshyangdi south and enters into terraced rice field countryside.
Day 20: Bulbule to Besishahar: today, the trek goes ahead to Besishahar and rests overnight.
Day 21: Besi Shahar to Kathmandu: From beshi Shahar vehicles are available to Kathmandu.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
---|
COST INCLUDED
COST IS NOT INCLUDED
Dammaru Niraula was our guide and confidant for our recent visit to Nepal. We went on a humanitarian visit to build a hothouse in the village of Phortse in the Khumbu region of Nepal but also included some trekking on a personal level before and after our project. Dammaru was a vital link in getting the project off the ground and then…
Dammaru Niraula Trekking Guide Trip Leader I have had an association with Dammaru over the last three years. My first trek with Dammaru was to the Solu Khumbu region where he tailored a trek to suit our request to climb some remote passes and stay off the main tourist routes where possible. His knowledge of the area was very impressive and his attention to our safety was always his major concern. The second trek I did with Dammaru two years…
Dear Dammaru I have been trekking to Ghorepani poon hill on Jan 07 for 6 days with Mr. Dammaru. Poonhill is so beautiful, so all I can do is just taking pictures on poon hill. If you were planning to trek in Nepal, I…
I was a member of a group of nine friends from Northamptonshire in 204 from the UK, on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Apart from one member, we were all approaching or over the age of 60 and were all well aware of the difficulties we could encounter at Thorong La which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769…
My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon…
My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. We live in a plain and therefore training for the trek was a challenge in itself. We spent our weekends climbing up and down a 700metre high hill that was regarded as sufficiently steep for our training needs. However, we were unsure of what to expect in Nepal and were concerned about our levels of fitness for the trek that we had in mind. We were introduced to our guide, Dammaru at the hotel we were staying in Kathmandu and our anxieties were quickly alleviated. This diminutive gentleman exuded confidence and assured us that he was able to accommodate our individual fitness levels and ensure that our time in his country was hassle free. And indeed he did! Without it being particularly noticeable, Dammaru controlled the tempo of our daily treks in order that the enjoyment factor always exceeded any physical discomfort. His relationship with the locals was both real & genuine which meant we never felt like intruders or uncomfortable in their presence. Dammaru's keen negotiation skills with the local tea house proprietors' meant the delay between arriving & unwinding from the challenges of our daily treks was minimal with the accommodation always being appropriate to our needs. His professionalism was faultless. He provided us with a wealth of information on all aspects of the history, culture, flora, and fauna of this remarkable country. Not only was he a fantastic guide, but his cheeky grin and sense of humor ensured Dammaru to be a fantastic traveling companion. Our dealings with Dammaru exceeded all expectations and we hope to make a return visit to this stunningly beautiful country.
Dear valuable guest, I would like to inform all of you that the coming year 2020 is declared as “The year of Tourism”? Sep-15-2019
Nepal celebrates 34th World Tourism Day with the aim to promote water tourism in Nepal. This year’s theme celebration “Tourism and…
Jan-28-2015