Ancient monasteries, diverse landscapes, and the breathtaking Larke Pass await you.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and less-crowded trekking adventures, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich Himalayan culture. This classic trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) — the world’s eighth-highest peak — and takes you through remote mountain villages, ancient monasteries, and diverse landscapes ranging from lush subtropical forests to high alpine passes. Crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Manaslu, Himlung, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal ranges. Ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Manaslu Circuit Trek combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, making it one of the best treks in Nepal.
Highlights
- Breathtaking Himalayan Views
- Rich Cultural Experience
- Challenging but Rewarding
- Larkya La Pass (5,160 m)
- Glacial Lakes and Rivers
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary typically spans upto 14 days, taking trekkers through remote villages, lush forests, and high alpine landscapes. Starting from Soti Khola or Machha Khola, the route passes through charming settlements like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, and Sama Gaun, offering glimpses of Tibetan culture and traditional Himalayan life. The trek’s highlight is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), providing breathtaking panoramic views of Manaslu, Himlung, and Annapurna ranges. With well-planned acclimatization days and teahouse stays along the way, this trek combines adventure, culture, and stunning natural scenery for an unforgettable Himalayan experience
Highlights: Cultural immersion, trek preparation.
Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Settle into a hotel in Thamel and explore the city's UNESCO heritage sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Pro Tip: Visit a trekking gear shop for last-minute essentials and enjoy a traditional Nepali Dal Bhat meal.
Highlights: Scenic countryside, riverside landscapes.
A long but scenic drive (8-9 hours) through Nepal’s mid-hills, passing terraced fields, small villages, and waterfalls.
Stay overnight in a teahouse near the Budi Gandaki River.
Highlights: Suspension bridges, subtropical forests.
Trek along rugged trails, crossing the Budi Gandaki River multiple times via suspension bridges.
Pass through Gurung villages and waterfalls before reaching Machha Khola.
Highlights: Hot springs, traditional villages.
Hike through forests, past waterfalls, and the natural hot springs of Tatopani.
Climb stone staircases leading to Jagat, a charming village with Tibetan influences.
Highlights: Gorge trails, Buddhist stupas.
Enter restricted trekking zones as you hike past small settlements, Buddhist mani walls, and lush forests.
The valley narrows, and you begin to see hints of the high Himalayas ahead.
Highlights: Buddhist monasteries, changing landscapes.
The trek gains altitude as you enter a more Tibetan-influenced region.
Cross suspension bridges and visit monasteries before reaching Namrung, a key cultural stop.
Highlights: Stunning views of Manaslu, Tibetan culture.
A scenic trek past barley fields and chortens with spectacular views of Manaslu.
Visit Ribung Monastery in Lho and immerse yourself in Buddhist traditions.
Highlights: Close-up views of Manaslu, acclimatization.
A gradual ascent to Samagaon, a picturesque village at the base of Mt. Manaslu.
Visit Pungyen Gompa or take a short hike to Birendra Lake for acclimatization.
Highlights: Side trips, monastery visits.
Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp or an easy walk to the nearby glaciers.
Interact with the locals and explore Samagaon’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Highlights: Remote landscapes, yak pastures.
A short trek to Samdo, the last major settlement before crossing Larke Pass.
Visit the Samdo Monastery or hike towards the Tibet border viewpoint.
Highlights: High-altitude trekking, panoramic mountain views.
A steady uphill climb to Dharamsala (also known as Larke Phedi), the last stop before the pass.
Prepare for the most challenging part of the trek!
Highlights: Summit day, glacier views, alpine scenery.
An early morning start to cross Larke Pass, the highest point of the trek.
Marvel at views of Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II before descending to Bimthang.
Highlights: Forested descents, diverse landscapes.
Trek through rhododendron forests, past glacial rivers, and traditional villages.
Enjoy your last night in the mountains at Dharapani.
Highlights: Scenic farewell journey.
A long drive back to Kathmandu through the Marsyangdi Valley.
Celebrate your trek with a farewell dinner and cultural performance.
What the Cost Includes
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Accommodation in tea houses, homestays, or hotels along the trek
- Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Trekking permits
- Transportation to the trek starting point and back
- Basic support and logistics during the trek
What the Cost Excludes
- Visa fees for entering Nepal
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Accidental or medical costs
- Personal expenses, snacks, or drinks outside the included meals
- Tips for guide or porter (optional)