| Trip code | |
| Package name | Manaslu Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 16 |
| Max. elevation | 5106 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge / Tea House during trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the local neighborhood or enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner.
Today begins with a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. In the afternoon, there will be a trek briefing and gear check at Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels’ office. You’ll meet your trekking guide and finalize permits and equipment to ensure everything is in place for the adventure ahead.
After breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, passing through the picturesque countryside and following the Budhi Gandaki River. The drive, though long (approximately 8–9 hours), offers beautiful glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and small settlements. We overnight in a teahouse at Machha Khola, a small riverside village.
Today’s trek starts along a narrow trail with gradual ups and downs. We cross several suspension bridges and pass through tropical forests and charming villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani (natural hot spring). The trail climbs further through Dovan before finally reaching the village of Jagat, a well-managed settlement marking the entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area.
After checking in at the conservation office, we continue our trek through lush forests, waterfalls, and stone steps. We pass through the lovely village of Philim, a Gurung community known for its traditional culture and millet fields. The trail traverses through Ekle Bhatti and narrow gorges before arriving at Deng, a small hamlet nestled amidst forested hills.
Today we begin to notice a shift in vegetation and culture. As we gain elevation, pine forests replace subtropical plants, and Tibetan Buddhist influence becomes more apparent. The trail ascends through forested valleys, crosses a series of bridges, and offers glimpses of snow-capped peaks. We reach Namrung, a village with traditional houses and a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.
From Namrung, we trek through alpine forests and pastures. En route, we pass picturesque villages like Lihi and Sho, each offering a unique insight into local Tibetan-influenced life. We eventually reach Lo-Gaon (also known as Lho), home to an impressive monastery and expansive views of Manaslu and other Himalayan peaks.
Today’s trek leads us to the beautiful village of Sama-Gaon, the cultural heart of the Nubri people. The trail continues with gradual ascents through forests and yak pastures. Upon arrival, we’re greeted by spectacular views of Manaslu (8,163 m), and the village’s large gompa (monastery) and chortens add to the serene ambiance.
To aid acclimatization, we spend the day exploring the surroundings of Sama-Gaon. Optional hikes include a visit to Pungyen Gompa, which provides panoramic views of Manaslu and the glaciers, or a trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m), depending on your fitness and acclimatization status. It’s a day to rest, explore, and enjoy the high Himalayan environment.
The trail to Samdo is shorter but set in a stark and rugged landscape. We ascend gradually through barren fields and glacial moraines, with ever-expanding views of the surrounding mountains. Samdo is a traditional Tibetan refugee village located near the Tibetan border, where you can observe yak herding and unique high-altitude culture.
Today’s trek is relatively short but at higher altitude, so we take it slow. The trail winds through alpine meadows and across small streams before reaching Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi. This is the last stop before the Larkya La Pass. We rest and prepare for the challenging but rewarding day ahead.
We begin early to cross the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The ascent is demanding but offers incredible views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After celebrating the summit, we descend steeply to Bhimtang, a beautiful meadow surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers.
Today’s trail descends through rhododendron and pine forests, with the changing landscape marking our return to lower altitudes. We pass through the picturesque village of Karche and cross rivers on suspension bridges. We reach Gowa, a peaceful village ideal for a relaxing evening after the long descent.
Our final trekking day leads us to Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit connects with the Annapurna Circuit. From here, we drive along a rugged road to Besisahar, a bustling town and transport hub. We celebrate the successful completion of our trek and rest for the return journey to Kathmandu.
We embark on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the changing landscape as we leave the mountains behind. After arrival in the city, you can check into your hotel and enjoy some free time—perhaps for souvenir shopping or a farewell dinner organized by Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels.
After breakfast, a representative from Ideal Nepal Tours and Travels will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. As you bid farewell to Nepal, you take with you unforgettable memories of the majestic Manaslu region, cultural richness, and personal accomplishment.