19 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Duration 19 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate To Adventurous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Kathmandu
  • Style Lodge/Tea House
  • Group Size 2+
  • Max Altitude 5,106 m/16752 ft
  • Best Time March to June and September to December
All Inclusive PriceUS $1699US $1799
See Group Price
  
1 - 1 PaxUS $1899
2 - 4 PaxUS $1799
5 - 10 PaxUS $1699
11 - 20 PaxUS $1599
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Highlights

  • An exciting trek from the lower warm agricultural farms to the alpine hills and into arctic cold
  • Adventure of great fascination from scenic views to impressive local cultures
  • Enjoy daily walks with a dramatic change in temperatures, landscapes, and people
  • Explore the beautiful country of high Manaslu valley enclosed within high snow peaks
  • Following the ancient Trans Himalaya Trade route, Caravan trails of Nepal to Tibet
  • Cross high and Larke-La pass facing a spectacular panorama of Mid-West Himalaya

Trip Introduction: Mansalu Circuit Trek-‘adventure around beautiful valley of Mt. Manaslu and cross high Larke-la pass’

19 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek; It is an adventurous off-the-beaten trekking trail glorified by the 8th highest peak in the world, Manasalu (8,156m/26.758ft).

Embark on one of the finest remote treks adorned with quaint breath-taking mountain views, forests, and alpine habitats. The 19 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail journey is one of Nepal's best-hidden gems.

The trekking journey takes you through the wild landscapes ascending from lush jungles to high-altitude mountain passes. The Manaslu Circuit Trekking takes you to the foothills of the eighth highest peak, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m).

Throughout the 19 Days Manaslu Circuit trekking tour trail, you will be trekking around the Nepal-Tibet border. Despite being remote and isolated, Manaslu Circuit Treks is one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal. The trekking trail offers excellent mountain vistas of the highest mountain, including the Mt. Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

This trek allows exploring a variety of cultural experiences of the diverse ethnic communities of the Manalsu region. This trek is an ideal mix of rich Himalayan culture, exotic wildlife, and stunning views of mountains.

Off-late the Manaslu region has become a more popular alternative trekking destination than the Annapurna and Everest region. It is one of the less frequented trekking trails making this region unique and unspoiled. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek- The start of the Journey 

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking tour begins in Kathmandu with a scenic 7-8 hours of drive through to the historic town of Gorkha we reach at Arughat, Sotikhola. We follow the trail that climbs up towards the valley of the Budhi Gandaki River through wild and farmlands. This region belongs to the ethnic Gurung communities. The spectacular view of the towering peak, Mt. Manaslu, is eternal.

The trail circumnavigates the towering Manaslu peak (8156m.) crosses the Larkya-La pass at 5106m and becomes evident the Marshyangdi river valley. We then make an ideal descent through moraines to Bhimphedi and through small passes, some scattered settlements.

Moving on further through to the terraced fields and the cultivations, the trail then meets the main Annapurna Circuit Trek at the Gurung settlement of Dharapani. As you constantly trek in the 8,000-meter shadow of the Manaslu circuit. 

From Dharapani we drive to Besi Sahar along the mighty Marshayangdi River through the settlements of mid-hills such as Tal, Chamje, Jagat. From Besi Sahara you drive back to Kathmandu or if you want to visiti Pokhara city we take you to there.

Manaslu Trekking is a moderate to strenuous level trek. It is suitable for all walks of life having a good fitness level. Our 19-day itinerary best fits your time and interest. If you have a plans, Trekking Planner allows you to customize the trek itineraries the way you want them to be.

Best Season to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail can be attempted throughout the year. But the best time is during autumn (September- November). In the autumn months, the temperature goes up to 20°C in the daytime and falls to -6 °C at night. Similarly in the months of spring temperatures can reach 18°C in the daytime and drop to -4°C at night.  

The spring season is considered to be the perfect month for trekking in the Manaslu region. As the trek weather remains stable and comfortable. The temperatures during these months are neither too hot nor too cold.

The monsoon and winter months are a bit unfavorable for trekking. But, with proper gear and preparations, you can even trek during Monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon, the trail becomes more slippery and wet, so you need to walk carefully. Similarly in winter due to the occurrence of heavy snowfall, the high-altitude pass  will be close. Trekking is not impossible but few precautionary measures can make it possible without causing too much of problems.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty Level

Manaslu Circuit trekking tour covers long distances. So, the first-time or novice trekkers might find this trek a bit challenging. On average, you need to cover 10 to 15 kilometers each day. Walking into the most remote trail is no doubt exciting and adventurous, but at the same time, it is challenging.

It is advisable to take part in stamina-building exercises regularly at least one month before the trek. If you are ready to walk for about 5-6 hours and not feel frustrated then the difficulties won’t bother you much.

Please be reminded that the trek routes involve long climbs, steep descents, and forward trails in the rocky paths and forests. This trek is unsuitable for those who suffer from sensitive medical conditions like heart or lung diseases. Since the trekking trail is less crowded the rewards for the hard work are plenty for the takings.

Electricity, and water drinking facilities during the trek

During the 19 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking, you will get an uninterrupted electricity supply for the camera and mobile batter. However, for recharge you need to pay extra charges in all the lodges we will be staying in.

You can either buy bottled mineral water from local lodges or the shops on route while trekking. Besides that, you can also fill your water bottle with boiled water at lodges. Trekking Planner provides you with purification pills to make water drinkable.

Manaslu Circuit Trek-Food and accommodation

Throughout your 19 Days Manaslu trekking journey the food and accommodation in the tea houses are basic in nature. They provide standard meal and accommodation services. You will get the best benefits of a room with twin beds, a pillow, a mattress, and a warm blanket.  You get to taste various kind of meals but "Dal Bhaat," is the staple diet. It includes rice, dal, lentils, vegetables, pickles, and others. 

To get these facilities it is always best to book it in advance to be safe from any kind of last-minute hassles. Toilets in these teahouses are generally outside of teahouses and are in squat style. 

For breakfast, you will get eggs, bread toasts, and porridge. Tea, garlic soup, hot beverages, coffee, and others are also served in these teahouses. Besides that, you can also carry protein bars, dry fruits, and other snacks while trekking on this tour.

A TYPICAL DAY AT THE MANASLU CIRCUIT TREKKING REGION

Every morning after packing our bags and having a good wholesome breakfast, you set out on the day's walk. After walking for 3-4 hours you stop by for a lunch around midday. The afternoon walk during your trekking journey is shorter. You usually arrive at your destination around 3 in the afternoon. The latter half of the day in the afternoon is for exploring the village.  You can also do a bit of washing or read a book. On a few occasions, you might arrive at the destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free.

After dinner, you will be playing cards, and reliving the day's adventures. Next you will be heading off to bed for a well-needed sleep.

Itinerary

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You will be arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, in Kathmandu. Trekking Planner staff will pick you up from the arrival gate and transfer you to the hotel.

Check in the hotel, you will get enough time for rest and relaxation. Later in the evening you will be introduced to your guide for a short meeting about your trek brief.  It is then followed by a welcome dinner held in your honor with the local cultural program for a refreshing change. After enjoying your dinner and the program you will retire to your room. Overnight in the hotel

    After breakfast in the morning you set out on a cultural and historical sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Kathmandu is one of the world’s great historic capitals, where a tremendous sense of history prevails. In each of its steps, you will be surprised by its architectural and religious marvels.

    You will visit several attractions listed on UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Hindu temple Pashupatinath and the former royal palace at Kathmandu Durbar Square.

    You’ll also get the chance to visit the enormous Boudhanath and Swayambhunath stupas. These stupas hold great religious significance for both the Buddhist and Hindu followers. By evening we will complete our city tour and then return back to the hotel to spend the night. Overnight at the hotel.

      An early morning start today takes us for a cross-country drive down to the town of Soti Khola. This 7 hours of scenic trip, serves as an excellent opportunity to get a closer look at Nepal’s varied landscapes. We travel through the paved roads alongside terraced fields and forested hillsides.
      After reaching the headquarters of the Dhading District, you’ll continue on an unpaved road to the settlement of Arughat. A stop over here for some time to stretch our legs to get our energy back is needed.

       Later on we move on to make the final stretch to Soti Khola, which takes another brief walk. Upon arrival here in the bright afternoon we get to enjoy the incredible views from Soti Khola’s steep hills. After sometime the sun fades away and the evening draws in. Overnight at the hotel 

        Today’s morning trail begins gently taking us through the grassy woodland, leading you upstream alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. This waterway cascades down from Manaslu itself. 
        From here you’ll climb a ridge above its turbulent waters to gain a fantastic view of the entire river valley. The cascading waterfalls and green rice fields is a treat to the eye. Continuing, you’ll pass through the Gurung settlement of Labubesi until we reach Machha Khola. Overnight at Guesthouse.

          After having breakfast, we leave Machha Khola behind following the scattered vegetation that soon changes as altitude gains momentum. A morning walk takes you over a stream where Machha Khola (Fish stream) then the route heads upstream to Khola-Besi village and at Tatopani a place with natural 'hot spring'.

          Walk continues as valley turns into narrow and steep, and then trail reach to cross suspension bridge, after a short period of walk entering patch of forest and then reaching at Dovan located on high shelf of Budi-Gandaki River.
           

            The morning starts with an ideal walk over a field near Lauri stream crossing the suspension bridge with climb to a high ridge then descend into a valley around Yara Khola (stream). From here a walk of an hour reaches us to the place called Jagat.

            Jagat, is a nice and interesting typical hill farm village. This diverse village is occupied by ethnic tribes of the Magar, Gurungs, Manslu Bhotias, Chettries, and Brahman along with some Newar people. They have settled here since decades and run most of the lodge and shops making their living. Overnight at a lodge.

              Today after having our hearty breakfast in the morning we prepare to leave Jagat. The trail today first climbs a valley to the quaint village of Sirdibas. A great village lined up with traditional stone built homes and scenic streets.  

              A great place from where you get the views of Sringi Himal range. After admiring the view, you’ll descend to the Budhi Gandaki and cross a long suspension bridge to pick up the trail leading to Philim. Beautiful terraced fields surround the Gurung village of Philim. Then we past the settlement of reaching Ekle Bhatti(Lonely Inn) a bamboo forested area. 

              Then we return to the Budhi Gandaki and use suspension bridges to cross the river twice more. You’ll trek through the village of Pewa and continue through the valley past a small campsite before finally reaching today’s destination, a small town: Dyan. Overnight in a lodge

                Our trek day begins with a river crossing and a steep ascent through lush greenery. As the trail continues, you’ll begin to see mani stones along the path in the small villages. Each stone is inscribed with a Buddhist mantra giving you a fair idea that this region is under the firm influence of the Tibetan culture. 

                Consider stopping for lunch in the nearby village of Ghap you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot to take your meal. After our meeal we then make a cross over to a large stream flowing from the glacier of Lidana.

                Surprisingly as we walk beholding glimpses of Manaslu in our sights we come across other mountain peaks too. The likes of Kutang Himal with Pang Phuchin 6,335 m, Saula Himal 6,235 m with dozens of unnamed peaks of above 6,000 m. From here as we make an ascent the dense forest starts to thin out and the trail begins its final ascent to Namrung. Overnight at a lodge

                  Enjoying the breakfast in the morning on a clear day is a tempting affair as the splendid views of Sringi Himal and Ganesh Himal from Namrung is refreshing. If lucky you also spot Himalchuli to the south, which at over 7,000 meters is one of the mightiest peaks of the Mansiri Himal range. 
                  We then start our hike along a forested trail to reach the picturesque village of Lihi. This is a pleasant spot to take a break. The terraced fields surround the town, and pine-clad hills are dotted with chortens and colourful prayer flags. 

                  Continuing past Lihi, you’ll keep ascending through the forest to reach the village of Lho Gaun. This village is best known for its hilltop monastery, Ribung Gompa. 

                  It offers splendid views of Manaslu and Ngadi Chuli (sometimes called Peak 29). You’ll return to Lho Gaun after visiting the Pungyen Glacier and spend the night at a local lodge.

                    As we leave Lho Gaun spectacular mountain views enthrals us as we ascend steadily to reach a plateau, to reach for the village of Shyala. Crossing a ridge before descending to a rocky moraine leads us towards the Pungen Glacier. 

                    From here, your path continues to the pastoral settlement of Samagaon. This village is regarded by many travellers as one of the most beautiful villages of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

                    The houses here are slate-roofed, stone-built houses cluster beneath some of the most prominent peaks in the region. You will be spending the next two nights in this village before moving on with the trek. Overnight at a lodge

                      The day today is meant for acclimatization; as you ascend to higher altitudes with less oxygen in the atmosphere, your body needs time to adapt. 

                      Though it’s meant for rest you get enough time to visit few interesting sights around Samagaon. You can have a look at the Pungyen Gompa or trek to the Birendra Tal, a glacier-fed lake famous for its turquoise waters.

                      At Samagaon traditionally attired villagers can be noticed going about your daily chores against a backdrop of mani walls and chortens.  It is one of the most pleasant sightings of the afternoon. Overnight at a guesthouse
                       

                        Cherishing glorious memories of Samagaun we begin our walk that takes us to the last village of Gorkha and Manaslu valley at Samdo. We then make a slow climb as the elevation gains height that heads into much barren country facing beautiful views of surrounding landscapes.

                        The walk continues taking us to reaching at Samdo the last village, at end of Manaslu and Gorkha district. Samdo is a moderate size village with more than fifty houses. Around two hundred villagers live around this high harsh and dry country. Overnight at a lodge

                          Today’s morning trek begins by taking on a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki. Next you will be making a climb for making a cross over a couple of smaller streams near the massive Larkya Glacier. 

                          After making a cross we then find ourselves in a seasonally active little community of Larkya Bazaar. This small town is an important centre of trade and commerce between Tibet and Nepal. 
                          After passing through the village making a steady climb all along the Sarka Khola valley, you’ll arrive at Dharmasala. 

                          Also known as the Larkya Phedi, Dharmasala has a few exciting mani walls from here the views of Larkya Peak and Manaslu are second to none. There are some basic guesthouse and an assortment of campsites. This is the place where you will spend the night for tomorrows climb. Overnight at a lodge
                           

                            The 14th Day of your 20 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most memorable days. Your goal is to reach the village of Bhimthang by crossing the high-altitude pass called Larkya La. 
                            The route takes about eight to nine hours that involves a good ascend over a ridge but with rewards of splendid views overlooking the valley. Larkya Peak and Cho Danda are especially magnificent from this vantage point. 

                            As you continue to hike, you’ll cross the moraines of the Larkya Glacier, a path leading to the incredible Larkya La. Situated at an altitude of about 5106 meters, is perfect to get excellent panoramic view of multiple 7,000-meter mountains. 

                            Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II are just a few of the snow-capped giants visible from the pass. After that you make a descent from Larkya La will take you across the other moraines. 

                            The descent will bring you into lower-altitude pastures, to the village of Bhimthang. An excellent flat mead owed area lapped under the towering mountains. Overnight at a lodge
                             

                              The morning is quite pleasant today as after the breakfast the trail that you follow is a pleasant downhill walk. You are in for a few short climbs that reaches you to Gho and then to Dharapani. 
                              Moving on a gradual path into dense woodland the day finally is completed upon reaching the woodland at Gho. This place is a summer pasture for the yak herders and cattle grazers. Overnight at a lodge

                                The 16th Day of your Manasalu Circuit Trek is the last day of your trekking journey up in to the mountains. The morning starts with a pleasant downhill walk. 

                                Following it under the cool shade of the forest it reaches you to the lovely village of Telje. It is a picturesque village, located near the Masrsyangdi River. Upon reaching here you push up for one last time to reach the large village at Dharapani.

                                It is an extended village where the trail merges with the traditional Annapurna trekking circuit. The lovely village of Dharapani stands above river gorge within lovely treelines. This village offers excellent lodges for travellers. Overnight at a lodge

                                  Today after a few hours of interesting drive reaches us to the lower warmer farmlands and then further down to the village of Lamjung. The ride then heads on winding downhill to Syange before it reaches the town of Besisahar.

                                  From Besisahar, you’ll board a private vehicle back to Kathmandu. The drive offers an excellent opportunity to get one final look at Nepal’s timeless rural landscapes along the way. 

                                  Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll check in at your hotel to enjoy a hot shower and much needed nap. Later in the evening, you can visit the nearby restaurants and the local colourful markets to enjoy the moments. Overnight at a hotel

                                    A splendid fun filled day in the making for you to enjoy and relive the moments spends during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

                                    The day is meant for individual activities offering you lots of variations. You can either go out on a shopping spree to gather souvenirs or venture out for an interesting sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu city. Overnight at a hotel

                                      We ideally hope that the 20 Days of Manaslu Circuit trekking journey in Nepal must have been a rewarding encounter with the mountains. 

                                      In the morning, after your breakfast a representative from Trekking Planner Team will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport. Taking memories of this fabulous trek you will fly home carrying a belief to be back again in Nepal for the next adventure.

                                        While it is our intention to adhere to the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route as described. However there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. 

                                        The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable.

                                        The Trip Details document is a general guide to the trekking tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

                                        Cost Details

                                        Includes

                                        • All airport pick up drop by private vehicle
                                        • Twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation at three star hotel with brekafast in Kathmandu
                                        • Welcome dinner in Authentic Restaurant and farewell dinner 
                                        • Guided sightseeing tours with private vehicle in Kathmandu
                                        • Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu by public bus (if you want both way private vehicle also available on additional cost)
                                        • ACAP and MCAP Permit and Special permit for Manaslu trek
                                        • twin/double shearing lodge accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
                                        • Three meals a day; breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking
                                        • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport and insurance.
                                        • 02 guest=01 porter with their Insurance, Salary, Food, accommodation and equipment
                                        • We provide assistant guide his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport and insurance walking with group to support where necessary as per the group size
                                        • Safe drinking water and first add kid box
                                        • Trekking Planner Inc’s sleeping bag, down jackets, Ti-shirt, Cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
                                        • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
                                        • Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily during the trekking(Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible
                                        • All applicable government and local taxes as per the itinerary

                                        Excludes

                                        • Nepal Visa fee (Bring accurate fee in USD and two Passport size Photo)
                                        • International airfare to and from Kathmandu (no need to pay departure tax for international flight)
                                        • Diner and lunch in Kathmandu
                                        • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
                                        • Extra night accommodation and lunch and dinner in city because of early arrival, late departure and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) then the scheduled itinerary
                                        • Personal expenses (phone calls, baggage charge, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
                                        • Tips to the trekking crews and drive
                                        • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control
                                        • Anything not included in service includes column

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