Manaslu Circuit Trek (10-11 days walking)

Your adventure begins with arrival in Kathmandu (≈1,400 m). Spend the day settling in, collecting permits, and preparing gear. Kathmandu is a lively city with a mix of Himalayan and South Asian culture. You can explore the bustling Thamel district for last-minute supplies, taste local cuisine, or visit ancient temples like Swayambhunath or Boudhanath to soak in the Himalayan atmosphere before heading into the mountains.

Highlights

• Vibrant capital city with rich culture, markets, and temples.
• Introduce yourself to Nepali culture, try momos and dal bhat, and see historic Durbar Square.
• Final equipment checks: clothing layers, sleeping bags, trekking boots.
  

Challenges

• Jet lag and travel fatigue after the long flight.
• Navigating busy city traffic and crowds in Kathmandu.
• Managing permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and Conservation Area Permit) and documentation.
  

Preparation Tips

• Stay hydrated and rest well on arrival to overcome jet lag.
• Double-check all gear (rain jacket, warm layers, first-aid kit).
• Carry local currency (Nepali rupees) for small expenses.
• Engage a registered guide and ensure all trekking permits are arranged​.

Leave Kathmandu early for a day’s drive towards the Manaslu region. The road winds through the lush hills of Gorkha and Dhading. You will drive over steep mountain roads, passing mountain views (Annapurna, Langtang ranges) and roadside villages. After 8–10 hours, you reach Machha Khola (870 m)​ by the Budhi Gandaki River. The river valley is deep and green. A short introduction trek in this area gives you your first taste of trekking in Nepal. Overnight in simple teahouse lodges in Machha Khola.

Highlights

• Scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills with mountain vistas on the horizon.
• Crossing the Budhi Gandaki River and remote villages like Arughat.
• First night in a traditional mountain lodge, surrounded by terraced fields.

Challenges

• Long, winding drive on narrow mountain roads; potential motion sickness.
• Adjusting to the change from city to rural mountain life.
• Ensuring you stay warm and dry on the trek with the early monsoon in mind.

Preparation Tips

• Bring snacks and drinks for the long drive; motion sickness remedies if needed.
• Wear layers: Kathmandu’s weather is mild, but Machha Khola can be chilly at night.
• Keep cameras ready – there will be many photo spots en route.
• Use the evening in Machha Khola to stretch and prepare gear for the first day’s trek.

The trek officially begins as you follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. Starting from Machha Khola (870 m)​, you walk through subtropical forests and small villages. The trail climbs gradually on rocky paths, crossing bamboo forests and ridges. You’ll pass through Khorlabesi, Tatopani (with hot springs), and Doban. Several suspension bridges (Tatopani Bridge, for example) cross the turquoise river below. After 7–8 hours, you reach Jagat (1,410 m) – a lovely Gurung village and entrance to the Manaslu Restricted Area. Your lodge in Jagat offers mountain views and welcomes you with local hospitality.

Highlights

• Trekking through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests (in spring they bloom beautifully).
• Scenic suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River.
• Authentic Gurung village at Jagat with mountain vistas.

Challenges

• Steep ups and downs along the gorge with some rocky or muddy trails.
• The first full day of walking, so pacing is important to conserve energy.
• Carrying a daypack up steep sections, careful footing on bridges and narrow trails.

Preparation Tips

• Wear good hiking shoes with ankle support for rocky terrain.
• Start early when it’s cooler; take frequent breaks and hydrate.
• Use trekking poles for stability on steep ascents and descents.
• Keep your cameras or binoculars handy for river gorge views and birdlife.

Today, the trail becomes more rugged and remote. You start at Jagat (1,410 m​) and trek northeast along the Budhi Gandaki Gorge. The first part descends into a deep, narrow canyon, then climbs up again. You pass through tiny villages and cross several creeks. The forest begins to open up into alpine terrain, giving distant mountain views. After about 6–7 hours, you arrive at Deng (1,804 m)​. This village sits in a broad valley where the forest thins. From Deng onward, the slopes open and snowy peaks start appearing in the distance, hinting at the high mountains to come​.

Highlights

• Dramatic gorge scenery: steep cliffs, waterfalls, and glacial streams.
• Crossing wooden suspension bridges (some over roaring rivers).
• First views of towering peaks beyond the valley (Manaslu’s higher neighbors are visible as you climb).

Challenges

• Rocky, uneven trails with a steep climb out of Jagat require care and stamina.
• Possible rain showers or fog; the trail can be slippery after rain.
• Mosquitoes and tropical insects in the forest sections (use repellent).

Preparation Tips

• Dress in layers: mornings may be cool, afternoons warm.
• Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks for the long trek.
• Keep your gear dry (use rain cover), as river spray and rain are possible.
• Slow and steady pace on climbs; enjoy the changing vegetation from jungle to alpine.

From Deng (1,804 m​), the trail continues steadily upward. You trek along hillsides and into bamboo groves, with views of Manaslu’s rocky ridges coming into view. Cross another suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki and pass through Lho and Ghap villages. After roughly 7–8 hours of hiking and an altitude gain of about +826 m, you reach Namrung (2,630 m)​. Namrung is one of the first Tibetan-influenced villages, with mani walls and simple lodges. The air is much cooler here, and you’ll start to feel the thin mountain atmosphere. The top of a ridge near Namrung offers a dramatic panorama of the valley.

Highlights

• Trekking through vibrant oak and bamboo forests, ascending into the Himalayan terrain.
• Cultural shift: Namrung has Tibetan-style houses, mani walls, and a monastery.
• Views of Manaslu and Himlung Himal from the slopes above Namrung.

Challenges

• Significant uphill trek with sustained climbing; altitude begins to impact endurance.
• Thin air may cause breathlessness (altitude ~2,630 m​).
• Changing weather – be prepared for cool, windy conditions at village elevations.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatize by keeping a steady, moderate pace (avoid rushing up).
• Drink plenty of fluids (hydration helps cope with altitude) and eat carbohydrates.
• Have a light jacket or fleece ready – nights and early mornings are cold.
• Explore Namrung’s village (monastery and prayer stones) to loosen muscles after walking.

Leaving Namrung (2,630 m​), the path climbs more steeply. You pass through an ancient mani temple and enter dense forests of conifers and birch. The trail ascends through beautiful alpine meadows. You will cross ups and downs, but the main push is the final climb to Shyala. Shyala (sometimes spelled Syala) is a small settlement surrounded by horseshoe-shaped peaks (Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, etc.). Though Shyala’s exact altitude is not often listed, it sits high on the valley slope (roughly 3,450 m). The 6–7 hour trek today gains nearly 800+ meters. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping valley views and possibly a sunset glow on Manaslu’s slopes from Shyala.

Highlights

• Trekking through pristine high alpine forests and meadows.
• Spectacular close-up views of mountains like Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli.
• Shyala village: a quiet hamlet in a horseshoe basin (great spot for photography).

Challenges

• Steeper, rocky ascents that demand good balance and endurance.
• High altitude (climbing close to 3,500 m) – symptoms like headache or fatigue can appear.
• Cold winds in the open meadow areas; the weather can change rapidly.

Preparation Tips

• Layer up: the temperature drops significantly above Namrung.
• Use hiking poles, especially on rocky uphill terrain, for support.
• Take short breaks to rest, breathe, and acclimatize (slowly cover the climb).
• Keep snacks handy – energy bars or nuts to replenish calories on the climb.

This morning, you climb out of Shyala into thinner air. After a steep ascent through rhododendron forests, the trail crosses a high ridge at Lho (sometimes called Shya La in the Nepali context) and then descends briefly before rising again. Soon you reach Samagaon (also called Sama Gaon) at 3,530 m​ – the “foot of Manaslu”. Samagaon is a major village with a monastery and stunning glacier views. The 6–7 hour hike gains about +80–100 m from Shyala, but is still a challenging day of altitude. In Samagao, the views of Manaslu’s North Face and nearby glaciers are awe-inspiring. A Buddhist monastery sits on a terrace above the village, offering spiritual respite.

Highlights

• Entering Samagaon with its Tibetan Buddhist monastery and prayer wheels.
• Panoramic views: Manaslu (8,163 m) is visible from Samagaon on clear days.
• The village itself is picturesque, with stone houses and pastoral life.

Challenges

• High elevation: Samagaon is at 3,530 m​, which can strain lungs and cause mild altitude sickness.
• Uphill sections all morning; rocky and sometimes loose trail surfaces.
• Temperatures drop quickly after sunset – freezing nights are common.

Preparation Tips

• Take it slow on the final climb; allow acclimatization by moving at a steady pace.
• Drink warm fluids and have a hearty lunch in Samagaon to refuel.
• Explore the monastery and mani stones, a gentle activity after arriving.
• Check your sleeping bag warmth (sub-zero temps are likely at this altitude).

Day 8 is a rest and acclimatization day. You’re at 3,530 m in Samagaon, which is ideal for adjusting to the thin Himalayan air​. Activities today may include short hikes (e.g., to Pungyen Gompa or the glacial lake above Manaslu Base Camp) and exploring the village. This helps acclimate without too much strain. Resting allows your body to adapt, lowering the risk of altitude sickness when you push higher. Enjoy cultural highlights: visit the local monastery, meet mountain pilgrims, and marvel at prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

Highlights

• Exploring Sama Gompa (the village monastery) and village fields.
• Optional day hike: a gentle walk to Pungyen Gompa (3,680 m) for sunrise views.
• Stunning close views of Manaslu’s glaciers and peaks during short hikes.

Challenges

• Even at rest, high altitude can cause headaches, nausea, or fatigue.
• Cold nights and limited oxygen – avoid overexertion.
• Keeping warm and hydrated indoors.

Preparation Tips

• Keep hydrating (water, electrolyte drinks) and eat calorie-rich meals.
• If feeling unwell, alert a guide/doctor (avoid ignoring altitude sickness).
• Wear warm layers even during the day; rest hours are chilly.
• Use this downtime to enjoy a cultural exchange with villagers.

Continuing up the valley, you start at Samagaon (3,530 m​) and follow a trail of mani stones and prayer flags. Today’s hike is about 5–6 hours, climbing gently to Samdo (3,875 m)​. Samdo is the highest inhabited village in the Budhi Gandaki valley. You pass through juniper and birch forests, then enter wide alpine pastures. The trek levels out around the Larke Glacier, coming into view. Samdo consists of stone houses with flat roofs and colorful prayer flags. This village offers dramatic views of Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal across the valley, with the Tibetan border just beyond.

Highlights

• Trekking through open valleys with wide Himalayan vistas.
• Samdo’s traditional Bhotia culture: houses, mani walls, and spectacular panoramas.
• Glimpses of Pang Phuchuli and the Tibetan plateau in the distance​.

Challenges

• High altitude at Samdo (3,875 m​) – take your time to prevent symptoms of acute mountain sickness.
• Windy, cold conditions as vegetation thins out.
• Possible snow patches on trails late season (carry microspikes if needed).

Preparation Tips

• Keep walking steadily; short breathlessness is normal at this altitude.
• Warm up slowly in the morning, and bring an insulated down jacket for stops.
• If you feel tired, inform your guide and rest more frequently.
• Enjoy the friendly village atmosphere, but turn in early (altitude nights are frigid).

Another rest day at high altitude (Samdo at 3,875 m​). This is crucial before tackling the Larkya La. You can do light activity: explore the small village, hike a little way up the valley toward the glacier (Manaslu Base Camp trail) or nearby hills for acclimatization. The goal is to let your body adjust while still getting some gentle exercise. Today, sights include herds of yaks grazing on alpine meadows and watching weather patterns on the surrounding peaks. Taking it easy helps ensure you’re strong for the next two strenuous days.

Highlights

• Spending time in the highest village: panoramic views of distant Himal peaks.
• Short hikes: walk up to the Dharmasala area (Larkya Base Camp) for breathtaking glacier views​.
• Observing local life at extreme altitude (yaks, shepherds, highland prayer flags).

Challenges

• Day-to-day life at 3,875 m – even simple tasks feel tough.
• The risk of altitude sickness is still present; conserve energy.
• Extremely cold nights (temperatures can fall well below freezing).

Preparation Tips

• Stay warm indoors; midday warming inside is fine, but avoid fatigue.
• Drink hot ginger tea or soup to warm and hydrate.
• Check boots and gear in daylight (no chance to buy new equipment up here).
• Mentally prepare for the Larkya La crossing – get an early bedtime.

This is a big push day. Starting at Samdo (3,875 m​), the trail initially descends through a valley then climbs steeply towards Dharamsala (Larkya Base Camp) at 4,460 m​. Trekking time is 5–6 hours, but the altitude gain (~+585 m) and thinner air make it feel much harder. You’ll pass the small trading post of Larke Bazaar, then cross the Larkya Glacier on wooden bridges. Dharma* sala (meaning “rest house”) is a meadowside camp with mountain huts and tent platforms at the valley’s end. The panorama is unforgettable: surrounded by colossal peaks like Kang Guru, Himlung, and Cheo Himal, and with the Larkya Glacier just above. This is your high camp before the pass, so rest well tonight at nearly 4,500 m.

Highlights

• Trekking through the narrow Larkya Glacier valley with jagged peaks on all sides.
• Reaching Dharamsala (Larkya Base Camp) with stunning views of glaciers and the pass.
• Clear sights of Annapurna II and Larkya Peak opposite the base camp.

Challenges

• High altitude trail: thin air at 4,460 m​ means a slower pace and heavy breathing.
• Possible snow or ice on the trail even outside winter; cold winds on the plateau.
• Physical fatigue from gradual days; the mind must stay determined.

Preparation Tips

• Start the day after a hearty breakfast, wearing all your warm layers.
• Use trekking poles for the steep slope to Base Camp.
• Hydrate frequently – carry water and/or electrolyte powders.
• Arrive at Dharamsala early (weather tends to worsen by afternoon). Wrap up early to rest.

Day 12 is the highlight: crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m)​. Begin before dawn (often around 3–4 AM) with headlamps. The climb to the pass is long, typically 6–8 hours from Dharamsala (4,460 m​) up the steep moraine to the rocky col at 5,106 m​. It is challenging: very thin air and snowfields near the top. However, when you reach Larkya La Pass, the view is epic – a 360° vista of towering peaks (Himlung, Annapurna, etc.). After celebrating at the top, the trail descends for 3–4 hours down to Bimthang (3,590 m)​. Bimthang is a beautiful meadowland beside a small lake, sheltered by rhododendron forests – a comfortable place to rest after the grueling pass.

Highlights

• The triumphant summit of Larkya La (5,106 m) with panoramic Himalayan views.
• Crossing the highest point on the trek – an enormous personal achievement.
• The descent into lush Bimthang (3,590 m​): alpine meadows and diverse flora.

Challenges

• Extreme altitude and steep gain: from 4,460 m to 5,106 m in one go. Hypoxia risk is high.
• Exposed trail: possibly deep snow, ice, and rockfall hazards near the pass.
• Very cold temperatures and strong winds on the pass – proper gear is essential.

Preparation Tips

• Climb with an early start; use crampons or an ice axe if advised by your guide.
• Pack warmest clothing (down jacket, gloves, hat) – it can be frigid at the summit.
• Keep snacks (nuts, chocolate) accessible in pockets; energy and quick fuel are vital.
• After the pass, descend slowly to avoid knee strain; change to a lighter mid-layer as you warm up.

From Bimthang (3,590 m​), the trek heads west and descends sharply into lower hills. You’ll drop through pastures, pine, and rhododendron forests. The path undulates through remote villages like Dharmasala (a different location from Larkya Base Camp), and long ridges with mountain vistas. The descent is long (approx. -1,290 m). In 7–8 hours, you reach Tilije (2,300 m), a small village on the rim of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Tilije welcomes trekkers with tea houses and a real sense of accomplishment. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and other giants as you descend into the lush Marsyangdi River valley.

Highlights

• Entering the Annapurna region: terraced fields and semi-tropical forests below.
• Dramatic descent views over Manaslu (behind you) and Lamjung Himal (ahead).
• Quaint Tilije village: resting in low-altitude comfort and reflecting on the trek.

Challenges

• Long downhill hike: knees and ankles endure a sustained descent.
• Warmer climate: the drop to ~2,300 m​ means hotter sun and more hydration needed.
• Navigating rocky trails and river crossings along the way.

Preparation Tips

• Use poles with rubber tips for the descent to save joints.
• Take sunscreen and reapply – the sun is stronger at lower altitudes on exposed trails.
• Drink plenty of water; consider electrolyte supplements for heat.
• Move carefully on steep sections, but also enjoy the sun and fresh fruits/veggies now available.

On Day 14, you leave Tilije (2,300 m​) behind. First, you trek out of the village down to Syange (1,080 m) by late afternoon (this is about 6–7 hours, altitude loss ~-1,220 m​). At Syange, you meet the road and transfer by jeep/bus back to Kathmandu (arriving in 8–10 hours). The journey back is a sharp return from the Himalayas to the city. You travel through the Marsyangdi Gorge and past Machha Khola and Arughat, retracing the route in reverse. Arrive in Kathmandu by evening, where you can celebrate finishing the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Relax in a comfortable hotel, relish a hot shower, and enjoy the city’s nightlife with your trekking group (Thamel has many restaurants and live music bars).

Highlights

• Stunning drive back through the rivers and hills of Lamjung and Gorkha districts.
• Reflection: thinking back on summiting Larkya La and the village stays as you descend.
• Final night in Kathmandu: enjoy Nepali cuisine and share photos with fellow trekkers.

Challenges

• Long travel day: the jeep/bus ride can be bumpy and tiring.
• Possible highway traffic near Kathmandu.
• Muscles may ache from the descent; take breaks on the ride if needed.

Preparation Tips

• Sit where you can look out the window and enjoy the scenery (often local buses are open-sided!).
• Stretch legs during any stops; keep water and light snacks handy for the road.
• Have some Nepali cash left for souvenirs in Kathmandu.
• Get a good night’s sleep; your journey home starts tomorrow.

After 14 days of trekking, Day 15 is the departure from Kathmandu. Enjoy a leisurely morning; you might have time for last-minute shopping or a Kathmandu sightseeing tour if your flight is later. Ensure all expenses (guide and porter tips, hotel bills) are settled. Pack your bags with souvenir scarves, tea, or Himalayan gifts. Say goodbye to Nepal’s people and mountains, carrying memories of an unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Embark on your flight knowing you conquered one of Nepal’s finest Himalayan treks – from lush river valleys to crossing a 5,100 m mountain pass. You return home with new strength, experiences, and stories from the heart of the Himalaya.