Manaslu Circuit Trekking

Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our friendly TH staff who will provide a complimentary transfer to your hotel located in the vibrant Thamel area of Kathmandu. Thamel is a captivating place known for its bustling markets, where you can enjoy shopping for unique items and indulge in delicious meals at one of the many renowned restaurants, pubs, and bakeries. Our experienced team member from Team Himalaya will also brief you on the exciting trek around the world's eighth-highest peak, Mt. Manaslu, and the breathtaking Larkya La Pass. After a fulfilling day, you can relax and unwind at your hotel, which offers comfortable accommodations and a scrumptious breakfast to start your day off right.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, take the morning to explore the fascinating Kathmandu Valley. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this enchanting city by visiting its iconic landmarks and soaking up its vibrant atmosphere.

Major attractions to be visited will include Kathmandu Durbar Square (a historic and culturally rich UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, showcasing ancient palaces, temples, and intricate architecture reflecting the city's royal past). Soyambhunath(Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient and sacred Buddhist stupa perched atop a hill in Kathmandu, Nepal, offering panoramic views of the city and a serene atmosphere for spiritual reflection.), Pashupatinath(Pashupatinath is a revered Hindu temple complex in Kathmandu, Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is a significant pilgrimage site known for its rich religious and cultural heritage.), and Boudhanath (Boudhanath is one of the largest and most iconic stupas in Nepal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism, attracting visitors from all over the world.). Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in some shopping, pick up souvenirs, and trekking essentials for your upcoming Manaslu Circuit Trek. We will be using this time to make any necessary preparations and ensure you have everything you need for a memorable adventure.

Embark on an early-morning, captivating journey as you leave the enchanting Kathmandu Valley behind. The scenic drive takes you along the bustling Prithvi Highway, offering breathtaking views along the way. As you continue, you'll pass through the charming town of Malekhu, nestled near the Trisuli River. We eventually arrive at Khanigaon, a quaint farm village. After a few hours of walking, we reached a bridge over Machha Khola. Crossing the suspension bridge, we embark on a short ascent to our overnight stop at Machha Khola village. This small settlement is named after the Fish River, which offers a serene spot for catching smaller fish. This less-crowded destination offers a peaceful atmosphere, allowing trekkers to connect intimately with nature while experiencing the genuine hospitality of the locals, making it a delightful and memorable part of the trek.

After a pleasant overnight stay in Jagat village, start your morning with a refreshing walk along the river. As you continue your journey, you'll pass through a series of charming farm villages, each offering a glimpse into the local way of life. One such village is Sidibas Bazaar, a quaint settlement with a few shops and stores. From here, the trail leads you on a short climb followed by a descent, bringing you to a small suspension bridge known as Nagjet. Cross this bridge to reach another delightful farm village called Philim. This village holds special significance as it has a primary school supported by the people of Japan, who have a strong affinity for this region due to the first Japanese ascent of Mt. Manaslu. From Philim, continue your walk through picturesque golden fields and terraced wheat and barley fields. As you ascend a rocky ridge and make your way through enchanting bamboo forests, you'll embark on a one-hour climb that will lead you to your overnight stop in the charming village of Deng.
Before continuing their journey across the untamed and spectacular landscapes of the Manaslu region, trekkers can recuperate and take a breather in the town of Deng. Terraced farms, lush forests, and majestic mountains, including glimpses of Mt. Manaslu, all contribute to an unforgettable and picturesque environment.
Deng is a charming jewel on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering a unique combination of cultural immersion, scenic splendor, and the sincere friendliness of the locals.

As you continue your trek, you'll start to notice the captivating influence of Tibetan culture and way of life. Leaving Deng, you'll embark on a gentle downhill descent before following the riverbank and crossing a roaring river. This will lead you to the charming settlement of Bihi Bazaar, where you'll find small shops and tea stalls. Beyond this delightful farm village, you'll find yourself nearing the Tibetan frontier area. 

Enjoy a pleasant few hours of walking before reaching your overnight stop at Ghap village. The people of Ghap are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, welcoming trekkers and sharing their unique cultural traditions. A remarkable and enlightening aspect of the trekking experience is the chance for visitors to engage with the locals and learn about their daily activities and customs. From here onward, you'll be immersed in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture and religion, which will accompany you to Larkya La and eventually to Dharapani village.

Start your morning with a delightful walk to the picturesque Budhi Gandaki River. After crossing the river, the path meanders through a series of scattered small farm huts and charming villages, surrounded by terraced fields of millets, wheat, and barley. (Rice is mainly grown in warmer areas below 2,000 meters.) Along the way, you'll pass by the enchanting Numrung village, offering breathtaking views of the majestic North Face of Mt. Manaslu and other snow-capped peaks. As you continue your journey, the beautiful scenery unfolds, taking you through several small villages such as Banjham and Lhi, until you reach the quaint town of Sho. From here, you'll trek for a few more hours, passing through the small settlement of Shrip, before finally arriving at Lho Bazaar. This charming village will serve as your overnight stop, offering a perfect end to the day's walk.

Lho provides trekkers with the ideal location to connect with nature and admire the pure beauty of the Himalayas, surrounded by lush forests, terraced meadows, and snow-capped peaks. Lho is an unforgettable and treasured stop on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, thanks to its unique blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery, and peaceful atmosphere.
 

As the sun rises over the majestic Mt. Manaslu, Lho village offers a breathtaking view that will leave you in awe. Take your time to admire the mesmerizing landscapes and towering mountains before embarking on today's walk. This scenic trek will lead you to one of the largest villages in the upper Manaslu area, Samagaon. As you continue on your journey, you'll pass through a dense forest adorned with vibrant rhododendrons, junipers, firs, and pine trees. After a few hours of walking, you'll leave the treeline behind and ascend the uphill slopes, witnessing a dramatic change in vegetation and landscapes as the altitude increases. The path will then take you over the remnants of the Phungen Glacier for a couple more hours, eventually bringing you to your overnight stop in Sama village. Take some time to explore this fascinating Highlander village, where you can enjoy a short walk and immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.

Surrounded by breathtaking alpine landscapes, glacial rivers, and dense forests, Samagaon is an ideal spot for trekkers to immerse themselves in nature's grandeur. The stunning scenery, spiritual ambiance, and warm hospitality of the locals make Samagaon a cherished and unforgettable destination on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Acclimatization allows the body to gradually adapt to high altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude-related illnesses and improving overall trekking performance. It enhances oxygen uptake, helps prevent altitude sickness, and ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

After an exhilarating journey to Larkya-la and higher elevations, it is essential to take a well-deserved rest day to acclimatize. This day allows your body to adjust to the altitude, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek ahead. Utilize this free day to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of this charming village, which is deeply influenced by Tibetan customs. Explore the local attractions, interact with the friendly villagers, and gain a deeper understanding of their unique way of life. 

After a delightful stay in Samagaon, where you were treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and Mt. Manaslu, you'll begin your morning walk along an exposed valley. As you ascend higher, the tree line gradually disappears, leaving behind a landscape adorned with a few rhododendrons and juniper bushes. The trail will take you over the majestic Manaslu Glacier, offering a mesmerizing view of Birendra Lake, also known as Samagaon Lake. This route will lead you to the village of Samdo, situated much closer to the Tibetan border. Along the way, you may encounter traders from Tibet and witness yaks carrying Chinese and Tibetan goods. The journey continues as you follow a stream and eventually cross it, bringing you to Samdo village, where you'll spend the night. It is worth noting that Samdo is the last village before reaching Dharapani, which lies on the other side of Larkya La.

Samdo offers trekkers the opportunity to experience the majestic natural beauty of the Himalayas in all its splendor. Surrounding it are rocky terrain, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows. Samdo is a unique and treasured stop on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering a blend of cultural attractions, breathtaking scenery, and high-altitude experiences.

Today, you'll embark on a short walk to the bottom and base of Larkya La pass. As you start your morning walk, you'll follow the glacier-fed icy river and then cross a stream that originates from Gya La. At this point, you'll notice a trail on the right side that leads to the Tibetan border. However, your route will divert onto the path to Larkya Bazaar, also known as Dharamsala, which means guest house in Nepali.

Before the late 1960s, there was a thriving trade between Tibet and Nepal at this location. That is why it is still referred to as Larkya Bazaar today. After passing through Larkya Bazaar, you'll continue on a gentle walk for a few hours until you reach Dharamsala, your overnight stop located at the bottom of Larkya La pass. This will be a perfect opportunity to rest and enjoy a short walk while taking in the magnificent surrounding scenery.

Dharmasala offers trekkers a memorable, exciting experience, surrounded by pristine alpine scenery, stunning glaciers, and towering peaks. It is an important turning point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as it prepares hikers for the thrilling, spectacular journey through the magnificent Larkya La Pass.

Today is a big day! Get an early start and follow the path that leads to a steep uphill climb after leaving Dharmashala. Along the way, you'll come across four frozen ponds before making your way up to the top ridge of Larkya La Pass, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet).

Once you reach the top, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking views that surround you. Take in the awe-inspiring sights of Mt. Manaslu, Larkya Peak, Himlung Himal, and Ganesh Himal on the eastern horizon. Keep in mind that the high altitude and snowy conditions on the pass may present some obstacles as you traverse the glacier moraines. However, the memorable moments and incredible scenery make it all worthwhile.

Trekkers can see stunning panoramic views of snow-covered mountains, including Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest summit in the world, as they cross the pass. The pass is renowned for its rocky, glaciated terrain, which makes the ascent and descent difficult yet breathtakingly beautiful. As Larkya La Pass offers a memorable and adventurous experience on the Manaslu Circuit, trekkers must be well-acclimatized and ready for high-altitude conditions.

After soaking in the beauty of the past, the path will lead you on a long downhill journey. Eventually, you'll reach your overnight stop at Bhimthang, a picturesque green valley adorned with grassy meadows. The valley is lined with majestic coniferous pines and rhododendrons, adding to its natural charm and tranquility. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and rest up for the next leg of your adventure.
 

After completing the challenging trek of the previous day, today's journey offers a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience. You'll embark on a gentle and downhill path that winds through enchanting and untouched forests filled with rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. As you stroll along, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, characterized by rolling hills and majestic snow-capped mountains. After a pleasant walk of approximately five hours, you'll arrive at the small temporary settlement of Gho, where you'll spend the night. Take your time to unwind and appreciate the tranquility of this charming location.

Gho provides a perfect spot for trekkers to rest and rejuvenate before continuing their journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Manaslu region. The village offers basic teahouses and lodges that provide comfortable accommodations and nourishing meals for tired trekkers.

Today, you'll continue your journey on a gradual and pleasant trail toward Dharapani and beyond. As you begin your morning walk, you'll find yourself surrounded by dense forests and summer pasture areas, dotted with a few shepherd's huts and shade. This picturesque walk will lead you to the charming village of Tiliche, located on the banks of the Marsyangdi River, just below Dharapani. After passing through Tiliche, you'll embark on a steep walk for about an hour, crossing a bridge over the roaring Marsyangdi River. This will bring you to Dharapani village, where you'll spend the night in the comfort of a cozy lodge. Dharapani is a popular stop on the Annapurna Circuit trek route to Manang, and as such, it offers a variety of lodges and guesthouses to cater to trekkers' needs.

Dharapani offers trekkers a sense of peace and immersion in the Himalayan landscape, surrounded by breathtaking natural splendor. Dharapani is a remarkable and crucial stop on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, thanks to the warm hospitality of the villagers, who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere.

After an incredible and memorable time in the breathtaking mountain wilderness, our trekking adventure concludes today at Beshishar, our final overnight stop in the mid-hills. We will pass through the scenic village of Jagat before driving back to Kathmandu.

Our morning walk will take us through several charming villages, including Tal Besi, Tal Karte, and Sattale. After a few hours of pleasant hiking along a winding trail, we will come to a suspension bridge offering superb views of the majestic Annapurna Mountain range to the west. We will then continue through a lovely forest along the banks of the Marshyangdi River, gradually descending to Jagat, where we will spend the night.

Trekkers are welcomed with breathtaking views of the area's scenery, which is characterized by terraced farms, lush vegetation, and the rushing waters of the Budhi Gandaki River, as they make their way toward Jagat. The village itself is a lovely community with traditional stone homes and elaborate sculptures that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.

Upon reaching Jagat Village, we will embark on an interesting drive along a dirt jeep track, following the Marsyangdi River below and passing by the picturesque Syange Village. From there, our drive will be smooth as we pass through the villages of Ngadi, Bulbule, and Khude, and finally arrive in the bustling town of Beshisahar, where we will spend our last night.

After enjoying our final breakfast in the breathtaking North Mid-West Himalayas, we will embark on an exciting drive along a dirt jeep track road that runs parallel to the Marsyangdi River, passing through the charming village of Syange. From there, we will continue our journey on a smooth drive, passing through the picturesque villages of Ngadi, Bulbule, and Khude, before reaching the bustling town of Beshisahar.

From Beshisahar, we will head east towards Kathmandu on a busy and captivating highway that takes us through a multitude of interesting towns and villages. As we approach the Kathmandu Valley, we will be mesmerized by the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel. This marks the end of an incredible adventure in the high Himalayas, made even more memorable by the exceptional service provided by Team Himalaya

On your last day in Nepal, you will reflect on the incredible, unforgettable experience of trekking around the world's 8th-highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu, under the exceptional guidance of Team Himalaya. As you bid farewell to the majestic Himalayas, you will head to the airport for your flight back home or to your respective destination. Cherish the memories of this remarkable journey and carry them with you as you embark on your next adventure.