Manaslu Circuit Trek – 21 Days

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, in Nepal’s remote Gorkha region. Renowned for its pristine landscapes and cultural richness, this 14–21-day trek combines dramatic Himalayan vistas, lush forests, glacial rivers, and ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages. Unlike the more crowded Everest or Annapurna trails, the Manaslu Circuit offers a secluded adventure, passing through terraced fields, rhododendron groves, and high-altitude deserts. Trekkers encounter traditional Gurung and Nubri communities, where time-honored customs and monasteries like Serang Gompa and Hinang Gompa reflect the region’s spiritual heritage. The trail peaks at the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m), rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and the Annapurna massif. A restricted area permit ensures limited foot traffic, preserving its unspoiled charm.

This trek demands moderate fitness but rewards with unparalleled diversity. From subtropical valleys to alpine zones, the route transitions between suspension bridges, rocky moraines, and serene glacial lakes like Birendra Tal. Key highlights include the Tibetan-influenced villages of Samdo and Samagaun, hot springs at Tatopani, and the dramatic Pungen Glacier. The best seasons are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May), avoiding monsoon landslides and winter snow. Teahouse lodgings provide basic comforts, while eco-conscious practices help protect the fragile ecosystem. The Manaslu Circuit is ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, cultural immersion, and a raw Himalayan experience beyond the beaten path.

Details Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, a staff representative will greet you with an auspicious garland and escort you to your hotel. After check-in, you’ll receive details about your upcoming briefing session.

Day 2: Trek Preparation Day
This day is dedicated to final preparations, including last-minute shopping for trekking essentials. Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and prepare thoroughly for the journey ahead.

Day 3: Drive to Machha Khola
Depart early by private jeep/bus (8–9 hours). The road transitions from paved to rough, uneven terrain. Breakfast and lunch will be en route. Upon arrival in Machha Khola, check into Hotel Nirvana, a comfortable lodge at the trailhead. Enjoy views from your room or visit the nearby hot spring if time permits.

Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat
Begin your trek with a warm-up walk. Choose between the shorter road route or the scenic original trail through shaded forests. Both paths lead to Jagat, offering glimpses of pristine landscapes.

Day 5: Jagat to Pewa
Start early and present permits at Philim Village (checked twice). Cross suspension bridges and pause for lunch at Bihi Phedi. Arrive in Pewa by afternoon; unwind by the river or explore the serene forest.

Day 6: Pewa to Krak
Trek along riverside trails and through forests, crossing multiple suspension bridges. After 3–4 hours, stop for lunch before continuing to Krak, a small settlement with limited lodging.

Day 7: Krak to Serang Gompa
Begin with a flat trail, then ascend steeply for an hour. Traverse gentle slopes and bridges to reach Serang Gompa by lunchtime (5–6 hours total). The monastery operates on a fixed $40/person rate (meals, lodging, and beverages included). Explore its ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance.

Day 8: Serang Gompa to Ghap
Descend, cross a bridge, and hike through dense forests. Lunch at Kwak Village precedes the final stretch to Ghap. Consider extending to Prok (45 minutes) to shorten the next day’s hike.

Day 9: Hike to Kaltal
Trek 4 hours to Kaltal, then descend 2 hours to Prok. A local guide (mandatory, 2000 NPR) is required. Carry packed lunch (no teahouses en route). Return early to Prok.

Day 10: Prok to Hinang Gompa
Descend 40 minutes, follow the Budigandaki River, and cross two bridges. Ascend 1.5 hours to a bakery for coffee/apple treats. After lunch in Namrung (permit check), trek 5–6 hours to Hinang Gompa.

Day 11: Hinang Gompa to Shyala Village
Descend, cross a bridge, and reach Lho Village in 2 hours. Enjoy Manaslu views from Hotel Blue Sky’s rooftop. Opt for the monastery route for better vistas. Continue to Shyala (45-minute ascent) for stunning mountain views.

Day 12: Samagaun via Pungen Glacier
Hike 7–8 hours to Samagaun, detouring to Pungen Glacier (4 hours). Marvel at Manaslu’s proximity and refuel at the glacier’s teahouse. Rejoin the main trail to Samagaun and present permits.

Day 13: Hike to Manaslu Base Camp
Acclimatize with a challenging 7–8 hour round-trip hike to the base camp (4,800m). Pack lunch (no teahouses except seasonal tents). Enjoy panoramic views of Samagaun, Birendra Lake, and monasteries.

Day 14: Samagaun to Samdo
A short 3-hour trek to Tibetan-influenced Samdo. Extend to Larke Bazar (15 minutes from Samdo) for exploration.

Day 15: Hike to Tibet Border
Depart early for a 6–7 hour desert-like hike to the Tibet border. Brave cold winds for breathtaking mountain vistas. Return to Samdo for a well-earned rest.

Day 16: Samdo to Dharmasala
A shorter but strenuous high-elevation trek. Start early due to limited connectivity for bookings. Rest upon arrival.

Day 17: Dharmasala to Bimtang
The longest trekking day (8–9 hours). Cross Larkya Pass (5,160m) with a brief teahouse stop. Lunch at Phedi precedes the final 1.5-hour climb to Bimtang. Secure lodging early during peak season.

Day 18: Bimtang to Dharapani
Descend through forests and rivers into the Annapurna Conservation Area. Lunch in Kharche or Goa. Take a jeep from Tilije to Dharapani and check out permits.

Day 19: Dharapani to Kathmandu
Drive 4–5 hours to Besisahar for lunch, then return to Kathmandu.

Day 20: Contingency Day in Kathmandu
Explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or relax.

Day 21: Final Departure
Transfer to the airport with a farewell from our team, accompanied by traditional garlands or khada scarves.

Cost Details

                            Cost Includes
- Airport to hotel pick and drop
- Two-night hotel in Kathmandu at three-star categories in BB plan
- Accommodation in Mountain lodge run by local people during a trek
- All meals during trekking
- One highly experienced mountain Guide and Porter
- Accommodation food, drinks, salary, insurance, transportation of both trek guide and Porter
- All necessary paper works and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System card)
- Bus or jeep fare.

                      Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Travelers insurance
Cold drinks (Alcohol and cold drinks)
- Boiled water, Hot shower, Mineral water, Batteries charge and hot drinks (in pot)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (Approx. 10-12 USD

Map

FAQs

• Trek Documentation
• Choosing a Provider
• Food, Accommodation & Facilities
• Travel

• Clothing & Equipment

• Acclimatisation & Oxygen

• Guides, Sherpas & Team Members

• Health & Fitness

• Communication & Electronic Devices

  Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If yes then what would be the charges for usage?
  Yes, most of our expedition guides take satellite phones and you are welcome to use these at wifi and local moble call Most often, your guide will post daily dispatches on the Nhh website in which your friends and family can follow your progress.

  I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
  Many of our treks and climbs send daily internet dispatches, and we receive updates from our guides while they are in the field. The best place to reach a loved one is through our office.

  Will there be any power source for charging batteries, etc. available throughout the trek?
  For lodge-bassed treks, many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs (two nail like horizontal prongs) and offer to recharge for a fee. 

  We can cater for special power requirements at an extra cost or advise on the purchase of a suitable personal solar charging system - please enquire with our office.

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