13 Days
Daily Tour
18 people
English
| 🌍 Destination: Nepal |
🏔️ Trek Region: Manaslu |
| 📅 Duration: 13 Days |
⛰️ Max Altitude: 5,106 m (Larkya Pass) |
| 🚩 Starts At: Macha Khola |
🥾 Activity: Trekking |
| 💪 Trip Grade: Challenging |
🏡 Accommodation: Hotel / Teahouse |
| 🚌 Transport: Public Bus |
👥 Group Size: Minimum 2 Pax |
| 🏁 Ends At: Dharapani |
🌤️ Best Season: Sep–Dec & Mar–May |
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of Nepal’s finest long-distance trekking experiences, offering a rare blend of dramatic Himalayan scenery, cultural richness, and peaceful trails. Encircling the pristine Manaslu Conservation Area, this trek rewards adventurers with close-up views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak in the world, along with an ever-changing landscape that stretches from subtropical lowlands to high alpine passes.
This 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is an ideal alternative for trekkers who have already completed popular routes such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp and are seeking a quieter yet equally rewarding challenge. Unlike Nepal’s more crowded trekking regions, Manaslu remains relatively uncrowded due to its remoteness and regulated permit system, preserving a sense of exclusivity and authenticity that feels like stepping back into the early days of Himalayan exploration.
The journey typically begins at Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani, gradually ascending through warm, humid valleys lined with terraced rice and millet fields. The trail follows the dramatic gorges of the Budi Gandaki River, where trekkers encounter striking turquoise waters, thunderous waterfalls, and some of the longest and highest suspension bridges in Nepal. During the monsoon season, sections of the trail become more adventurous, occasionally requiring careful crossings over partially submerged rocks where smaller bridges may have been swept away.
As the trek progresses northward toward the Tibetan border, the scenery becomes increasingly rugged and alpine. The Manaslu Himal stands proudly between the Annapurna range to the west and the Ganesh Himal range to the east, forming an awe-inspiring Himalayan corridor. Along the way, trekkers may encounter rare wildlife and experience the vibrant cultures of remote mountain communities that remain deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions.
First opened to foreign trekkers in 1992 with strict annual limits, the Manaslu Circuit continues to evoke the spirit of a pioneering journey. Its physical demands and high-altitude terrain make it best suited for trekkers with good fitness levels, but the rewards are immense. For those with extra time, the trek can be extended up to 18 days by including a side trip to the culturally rich Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley, adding another layer of spiritual and cultural depth to the adventure.
The high point of the trek is the crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,167 m / 16,952 ft), a dramatic, snow-covered ascent that often requires an early start around 4 a.m. to avoid strong winds. The pass is frequently icy, making micro crampons a useful addition to trekking gear. While altitude presents a challenge, the breathtaking mountain views provide constant motivation.
From the pass, the panorama becomes truly unforgettable. After descending and heading west, trekkers are greeted by a vast glacial amphitheater framed by towering peaks such as Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru, with Annapurna II dominating the horizon ahead. Glaciers cascade down massive rock faces, creating a landscape so dramatic and remote that it alone justifies undertaking the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Combining natural beauty, solitude, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an authentic Himalayan experience that stands apart from Nepal’s busier trails, making it a truly unforgettable journey for those seeking both challenge and inspiration.
| Day | Route | Details |
| Day 1 | Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870m) | Scenic 10-hour drive from Kathmandu along the Budhi Gandaki River valley. Your trekking adventure officially begins here. |
| Day 2 | Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) | A 6-hour, 16km walk through subtropical forests and suspension bridges along the Budhi Gandaki River. First permit checkpoint of the trek. |
| Day 3 | Jagat to Deng (1,860m) | Trek 20km through rocky gorges and bamboo forests. Tibetan Buddhist culture begins to appear with mani walls and prayer flags along the trail. |
| Day 4 | Deng to Namrung (2,630m) | A 20km trek through rhododendron forests with your first clear views of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal at the day’s end. |
| Day 5 | Namrung to Lho (3,180m) | An easier 11km walk with your first stunning close-up views of mighty Mount Manaslu (8,163m). Visit the beautiful Lho Monastery in the afternoon. |
| Day 6 | Lho to Samagaun (3,530m) via Pungen Gompa (4,000m) | Trek 15km with a rewarding detour to Pungen Gompa, the best viewpoint of Mount Manaslu on the entire circuit. |
| Day 7 | Rest Day in Samagaun (3,530m) | A full acclimatization day. Explore Birendra Lake, visit Manaslu Base Camp, or discover the local Tibetan culture of Samagaun village. |
| Day 8 | Samagaun to Samdo (3,875m) | A short and easy 9km walk to the remote village of Samdo, located right on the Tibetan border with stunning cross-border views. |
| Day 9 | Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya La Phedi (4,460m) | A short 7km trek to the base camp of Larkya Pass. Rest well and prepare early, tomorrow is the biggest day of the trek. |
| Day 10 | Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m) | The highlight of the trek! An early 2 AM start for the thrilling Larkya La Pass crossing (5,160m), followed by a long descent to beautiful Bimthang. |
| Day 11 | Bimthang to Gho (2,550m) | A relaxed 14km descent through alpine meadows and pine forests. Enjoy the warmer air and peaceful surroundings after yesterday’s big challenge. |
| Day 12 | Gho to Dharapani (1,860m) | Final day of trekking! A gentle 10km walk down to Dharapani where the Manaslu Circuit meets the famous Annapurna Circuit trail. |
| Day 13 | Dharapani to Kathmandu (1,324m) | A scenic 10-hour, 240km drive back to Kathmandu. Celebrate your achievement with a well-deserved farewell dinner in the evening. |
Scroll down to explore our detailed day-by-day itinerary and find out exactly what awaits you on each day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Note – The Manaslu Trek is considered a restricted trekking route, so you need a minimum of 2 people for this trip. Alternatively, you may need to purchase an extra permit, as single travellers are not permitted on this trail.
This 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is a budget-friendly and spectacular journey filled with breathtaking views, unique cultural encounters, and challenging terrains. We are offering this Manaslu Circuit Trek at the lowest price, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking exceptional value without compromising on experience or safety. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, proper preparation is key.
At HimalayaHub, we take care of every transport detail so your journey is smooth from the moment you leave the city until you return from the mountains. Whether you choose the comfort of a private vehicle or the authentic experience of local transport, all logistics are managed for you, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the trek and the spectacular Himalayan landscapes.
Your adventure starts with a memorable drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, traveling via Soti Khola. Covering roughly 160 kilometers, the route winds through rural Nepal and combines paved highways with rugged off-road sections, offering stunning countryside views along the way.
For those choosing private transport, a jeep will collect you directly from your hotel, with your guide accompanying you from the very beginning. We suggest departing at around 8:00 a.m. to avoid heavy city traffic and to allow for a comfortable lunch stop en route. This timing also gives you the chance to enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before setting off.
If you opt for local transportation, your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you by taxi to the bus station. Local buses usually depart between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m., and the exact schedule will be confirmed during your pre-trek briefing. As the departure is early, we recommend requesting a packed breakfast from your hotel the night before.
After completing the trek, your return journey begins in the mountain village of Dharapani. From here, you’ll travel by local jeep to Besisahar, a drive of approximately 6 hours along dramatic mountain roads. This transfer is arranged in advance, so you can sit back and enjoy the final views of the Himalayas. If you have chosen private transport, it will be organized locally, as this section involves off-road travel.
From Besisahar, onward travel can be arranged based on your plans:
We are happy to organize transportation to whichever destination you require, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free conclusion to your Manaslu adventure.
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is more than a journey through mountains, it’s an immersion into a world where time flows differently. In these remote Himalayan villages, perched on steep slopes and framed by towering snow-capped peaks, the wind carries the soft hum of prayer wheels. Ancient mani walls line the trails, and prayer flags flutter with messages sent skyward.
This region is home to the Nubri people, whose lives are closely tied to Tibetan Buddhism. Stone houses, flickering butter lamps in temples, and the warm hospitality of locals define the villages of Lho, Shyala, Samagaun, and Samdo. You’ll notice monks in crimson robes, elderly women softly chanting mantras, and children running barefoot through barley fields, all beneath the watchful presence of Mt. Manaslu.
Being here comes with respect. You are a guest in sacred spaces. Walk on the left side of the mani walls, turn prayer wheels clockwise, and always ask before photographing anyone. Dress modestly, cover your shoulders and legs when entering villages. Remove your shoes before entering homes or monasteries. Approach each interaction with calmness and courtesy.
Every step offers a chance to connect, not just with the mountains, but with a culture that has endured for centuries. Trek gently, speak with kindness, and open yourself to the stories of the people around you. These mountains will remember your respect.
The Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse-based trek, where accommodation is provided in simple, family-run lodges scattered along the route. Each night, you’ll stay in a basic twin room furnished with two single beds, thin mattresses, and pillows.
These teahouses offer an authentic Himalayan experience, but the facilities are quite simple. Bathrooms are usually shared and are often located outside the main lodge building.
Guest rooms are not heated; however, the dining area is typically warm and welcoming, usually heated by a wood or yak-dung stove. This communal space becomes the heart of the teahouse in the evenings, where trekkers gather to relax and share stories.
All meals are prepared and served at the teahouses, with menus commonly featuring dal bhat, noodles, soups, and a small selection of basic international dishes. Lunch is taken at teahouses along the trail, except during acclimatization hikes from Samagaun and Samdo, where no teahouses are available. On those days, your guide will arrange packed lunches for you to carry.
Although the amenities are minimal, the teahouses provide warm hospitality, hearty meals, and a wonderful chance to connect with local communities and fellow trekkers in the remote Himalayan setting.
Explore the available Manaslu Circuit accommodation options for more details.
A teahouse on the Manaslu Circuit is a modest, family-run lodge located along the trekking route. It provides simple lodging, home-cooked meals, and a shared common area where trekkers can unwind and mingle after a day on the trails. Most teahouses offer twin rooms with basic beds, often equipped with thin mattresses and blankets.
Bathrooms and toilets are shared, with a combination of Western-style and squat toilets depending on the village and altitude. Despite the simplicity of the facilities, teahouses provide a welcoming, authentic Himalayan experience and a cozy refuge in the mountains.
Spring (March–May)
Autumn Season (September to November)
Winter (December–February)
The optimal time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November). During these months, you can expect stable weather, unobstructed mountain views, and favorable trail conditions for crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass (5,167 m). Each season brings its own unique charm, so the best choice depends on your personal trekking goals and what kind of experience you’re seeking.
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For an optimal trekking experience, autumn (September–November) is the best season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering stable weather, crystal-clear mountain views, and excellent trail conditions. If you love vibrant landscapes and blooming forests, spring (March–May) is a great alternative. Trekking during winter or the monsoon is suited for adventurous travelers seeking solitude, but it requires extra preparation and flexibility.
Pick the season that matches your style of adventure, and let HimalayaHub handle everything, from trekking permits and expert guides to comfortable teahouse accommodations and trail safety.
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Mountain weather in the Manaslu region can change quickly, causing occasional delays. Staying flexible and prepared will help you enjoy the trek no matter the conditions.
Spring (March–May)
Mild temperatures and stable conditions make this a comfortable trekking season.
Summer / Monsoon (June–August)
Warm temperatures with frequent rain; trails can be wet and humid.
Autumn (September–mid-December)
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures are one of the best times to trek.
Winter (mid-December–February)
Cold conditions, especially at night, but quieter trails and crisp mountain views.
| Item | Description | Qty |
| Underwear | Breathable synthetic material (BYO) | 3 |
| Socks | Wool socks (BYO) | 3 |
| Sports Bra | Supportive sports bra (BYO) | As needed |
| Base Layer Pants | Merino wool thermal bottoms (BYO) | 1 |
| Trekking Shirts | Lightweight synthetic; bring your own or buy in Kathmandu | 2 |
| Rain Pants | Lightweight synthetic; Frogg Toggs recommended | 1 |
| Trekking Pants | Lightweight synthetic; BYO or purchase in Kathmandu | 2 |
| Hiking Shoes / Boots | Well-broken-in trekking boots (e.g. Salomon Quest 4D, X Ultra 3 or 4) | 1 pair |
| Camp Shoes | Down booties; BYO or available in Kathmandu | 1 pair |
| Gloves | One thin merino pair and one thick insulated pair | 2 pairs |
| Hat | Sun hat or cap with neck protection (BYO) | 1 |
| Down Jacket | Warm insulated jacket (BYO) | 1 |
| Windbreaker | Lightweight windproof jacket (BYO) | 1 |
On the Manaslu Circuit, meals are simple yet comforting. You’ll savor each serving of hot dal bhat, enjoy freshly made pancakes, and relish a warm cup of tea after a chilly day on the trail. Make sure to eat well, stay hydrated, and bring along a few snacks to keep your energy and morale up. You can view the full food menu here.
| Meal | Options |
| Breakfast | Porridge / Oatmeal, Tibetan Bread, Eggs (boiled, fried, or omelet), Pancakes, Muesli, Chapatis, Boiled Potatoes, Swiss Rösti, Tea. |
| Lunch & Dinner | Dal Bhat (rice with lentils & vegetables), Momo (Tibetan dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), Chow Mein (stir-fried noodles with vegetables or egg), Macaroni/Pasta (with egg or vegetables), Soups (vegetable or garlic), Spring Rolls (egg, tuna, or potato), Fried Rice (egg, vegetables, or tuna), Noodles (vegetable or egg), Spaghetti (with tomato sauce), Curry (vegetable, egg, or potato). |
Each day on the Manaslu Circuit begins early to make the most of daylight. After a restful night in a cozy teahouse, you’ll enjoy breakfast at your lodge to fuel up for the day ahead. The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes, crossing rivers, navigating rocky paths, wandering through forests, and occasionally sharing the trail with mules, all while soaking in the grandeur of the surrounding mountains.
Due to the region’s closeness to Tibet, you’ll notice Tibetan cultural influences along the way, from colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind to ancient Buddhist artifacts scattered along the paths.
The highlight of the trek, naturally, is Mount Manaslu, standing tall amidst a range of breathtaking, snow-capped peaks in this remote and tranquil area.
Lunch is usually taken on the trail at small local eateries that serve travelers, though on some days a packed lunch may be necessary depending on the route and conditions.
Dinner is enjoyed back at the teahouse, where you’ll stay for the night. This is the perfect opportunity to share stories and connect with fellow trekkers and guides. During dinner, your guide will also brief you on the next day’s trek, pointing out key sights and answering any questions. It’s common practice to pre-order your breakfast the night before so it’s ready for an early start and another day of Himalayan adventure.
Above all, relax and embrace your journey, enjoy the adventure with HimalayaHub!
It’s advisable to carry around USD 15–20 per day during your trek. This amount can cover extras such as hot showers, device charging, and the occasional soft drink or beer. Please note that this does not include tips for your guide or trekking crew. Learn more about the overall cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered challenging to strenuous, depending on your experience, fitness, and the season. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its difficulty:
Nepal is known for its friendly hospitality and is generally a safe destination for visitors. That said, trekking in remote, high-altitude regions such as the Manaslu Circuit requires awareness and sensible preparation. At Himalaya Hub, your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we take every measure to ensure a secure and rewarding trekking experience. Below are key safety considerations to help you trek with confidence.
High-altitude trekking comes with the possibility of Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Typical symptoms may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and a reduced appetite. The most effective prevention is gradual ascent, proper acclimatization, and staying well hydrated. Trek at a steady pace, give your body time to adapt, and avoid alcohol or heavy meals at higher elevations.
If you experience any symptoms, inform your guide immediately. Our guides are fully trained to identify and manage altitude-related conditions and will take appropriate action if needed. For more detailed information, please refer to our dedicated Altitude Sickness guide.
Although uncommon, emergencies such as landslides, avalanches, or sudden health issues can occur in mountainous terrain. In such situations, it is essential to follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Our team is trained in first aid and emergency response and can arrange further assistance, including helicopter evacuation, when necessary.
We strongly advise all trekkers to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation services. This provides added security and ensures quick access to support if required.
Before traveling to Nepal, consult your healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations. Commonly advised immunizations include hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and others depending on your health history and travel itinerary.
Carrying a small personal first-aid kit is also recommended. Essentials may include antiseptic cream, blister treatment, oral rehydration salts, pain relief medication, and any prescribed medicines. While basic medical supplies can be found in Kathmandu, bringing your own ensures familiarity and convenience during the trek.
Choose HimalayaHub for the Manaslu Circuit Trek to experience expert organization, knowledgeable guides, and a less-crowded Himalayan adventure. We are the best tracking company in Nepal. We ensure seamless trips with positive traveler feedback. Their focus on sustainable tourism enhances your journey around Mount Manaslu.
We provide deep insights into local culture, peaks, and safe navigation over Larkya La Pass. They foster a supportive team atmosphere, making challenging sections enjoyable. Personalized care ensures comfort throughout the 13-day itinerary.
From Kathmandu headquarters in Thamel, Himalaya Hub handles permits, logistics, and responsive planning flawlessly. Travelers praise affordable packages, group discounts, and impeccable execution for treks like Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley. Government-authorized status guarantees reliability.
Access remote trails along the Budhi Gandaki River, ancient salt routes, and Tibetan-influenced villages for cultural immersion. Fewer crowds mean pristine views of Manaslu (8,163m) and surrounding peaks. Testimonials highlight unforgettable scenery and rewarding challenges.
Your adventure begins today with an early morning departure from Kathmandu. You will travel by private jeep or local bus along the Prithvi Highway, following the beautiful Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers. The drive takes you through green terraced hills, small roadside towns, and rural Nepali villages, a great introduction to the country's stunning landscapes.
After a long but scenic 10-hour drive, you arrive at Machha Khola, a small riverside village sitting at 870 meters. Tonight you settle into your teahouse, enjoy a warm meal, and get a good night's rest before your first real trekking day tomorrow.
Today is your first full day of walking on the Manaslu Circuit trail, and it's a beautiful one! The path follows alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing several traditional suspension bridges as you make your way upstream. You walk through lush subtropical forests, past terraced farmlands, and through small ethnic villages where life has remained simple and peaceful for centuries.
The trail is relatively manageable today, a perfect warm-up for the bigger days ahead. You finish the day in Jagat, which is the first official checkpoint village on the Manaslu Circuit. Your permits will be checked here by the authorities.
Leaving Jagat behind, the trail today takes you deeper into the Budhi Gandaki River valley. The path winds through rocky gorges, dense bamboo forests, and narrow canyon sections that hug the riverbanks tightly. You will cross the river several more times on swinging suspension bridges, great fun and great photo opportunities!
As you walk further, you will begin to notice a gradual shift in culture. The villages here start showing more and more Tibetan Buddhist influence, you'll spot mani walls (carved stone prayer walls), colorful prayer flags strung between houses, and the sound of spinning prayer wheels. By the time you reach Deng, you'll feel like you've stepped into an entirely different world.
Today is another rewarding full day on the trail. The path climbs steadily through a mix of rhododendron and oak forests, with the roaring Budhi Gandaki River as your constant companion below. The landscape grows more dramatic with every step, steep valley walls, cascading waterfalls, and the first hints of snowcapped peaks appearing through the clouds above.
You pass through several remote villages along the way, each one more traditional and charming than the last. As you arrive in Namrung, you are rewarded with your first truly impressive mountain views. On a clear evening, you can see the magnificent Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal glowing in the golden light of sunset.
Today is a shorter but very scenic day as you make your way to the beautiful village of Lho. The trail climbs gently through high-altitude terrain, and the mountain views just keep getting better. This is the day when Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the 8th highest mountain in the world, truly reveals itself in all its glory. Seeing Manaslu up close for the first time is a moment you will never forget.
Lho is a traditional Tibetan-style village with stone houses, winding alleyways, and a beautiful old monastery overlooking the valley. We highly recommend taking a short walk up to the Lho Monastery in the afternoon, the views of Manaslu from there are absolutely spectacular and the monks are very welcoming.
Today's route is one of the most memorable days of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek. You begin by climbing up to the stunning Pungen Gompa (4,000m), an ancient monastery dramatically perched high above the valley with jaw-dropping, unobstructed views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding glaciers. This is arguably the best viewpoint of Manaslu on the entire circuit and a truly magical place to spend some time.
After soaking in the views and exploring the monastery, you descend and continue along the trail toward Samagaun. This large and welcoming village sits in a wide open valley completely surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Samagaun has a strong Tibetan cultural identity, you can see traditional stone houses, local people in traditional dress, yaks grazing nearby, and beautiful monasteries dotting the hillsides.
Today is your important acclimatization day in Samagaun, and this rest day is not just recommended, it is essential for your safety. Spending a full extra day at this altitude allows your body to slowly and naturally adjust before you climb higher. Skipping this day would put you at serious risk of altitude sickness at the Larkya Pass.
But don't worry, "rest day" doesn't mean you have to stay in bed! There are plenty of wonderful things to do in and around Samagaun:
Today is a short and relatively easy walking day, but that is completely intentional. This shorter day gives your body one more opportunity to continue acclimatizing as you gradually gain altitude. The trail from Samagaun to Samdo crosses open, high-altitude terrain with wide valley views and a landscape that feels increasingly remote and wild.
Samdo is a tiny but fascinating village located very close to the Tibetan border. On a clear day, you can actually see across into Tibet from the village, a remarkable feeling. The village has a small but lively local market where Tibetan and Nepali traders exchange goods. It's a great place to explore in the afternoon.
Today's walk is short in distance but big in importance. You make your way from Samdo up to Dharamsala (also known as Larkya La Phedi, meaning "foot of Larkya Pass"), which serves as the base camp for tomorrow's big pass crossing. The trail climbs steadily through a wide glacial valley, and the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and barren as you gain altitude.
The teahouse facilities at Dharamsala are very basic, this is one of the most remote points on the entire trek. Arrive early, eat a filling meal, stay well hydrated, and go to bed as early as possible. You will be waking up in the middle of the night tomorrow for the biggest challenge of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Tip: Lay out all your cold-weather gear tonight. Pack your bag the night before so you don't have to do it in the dark at 2 AM!
⭐ This is the most thrilling and challenging day of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek!
Your alarm goes off at 2:00 AM. You pull on your warmest layers, strap on your headlamp, and step out into the cold, dark mountain night. The climb to Larkya La Pass (5,160m) begins immediately and is steep, snowy, and physically demanding, but absolutely worth every single step.
As you near the top of the pass, the first light of sunrise begins to paint the Himalayan peaks in shades of orange and gold. And then, as you step onto the summit of Larkya La, the world opens up in front of you. The panoramic views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking, you can see Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyagi Kung, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and countless other Himalayan giants stretching endlessly in every direction.
Take your photos, celebrate with your team, and then begin the long descent down the other side. The path down to Bimthang is steep and can be icy in sections, so careful footing is essential. As you lose altitude, the air gets warmer, the vegetation returns, and the beautiful valley of Bimthang welcomes you like a reward at the end of a hard day's work.
⚠️ Note: This day involves an early 2 AM start, 10 hours of walking, freezing temperatures, and high altitude. Your guide will be with you every single step of the way. Follow their instructions closely and walk at a slow, steady pace.
After yesterday's epic Larkya Pass crossing, today is a well-deserved easier descent day. The trail drops steadily from Bimthang through gorgeous high-altitude meadows, crossing rocky streams and passing through patches of pine and rhododendron forest. The air is noticeably warmer and thicker at this altitude, and your legs, while tired, will feel the joy of the descent.
You pass by the beautiful Ponkar Lake and enjoy wide open views of the Manaslu massif from behind as you walk away from it for the first time on the trek. By the time you reach the small and peaceful village of Gho, your body is ready for a good meal and a long, deep sleep.
Today is your final day of trekking on the Manaslu Circuit, and it ends on a wonderful note. The trail descends gently through terraced fields, small villages, and lush lower-valley forests as you make your way down to Dharapani. The air is warm, the sounds of birds fill the trees, and the weight of the high Himalayas slowly gives way to a more relaxed, comfortable feeling.
At Dharapani, the Manaslu Circuit trail officially connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail. This is a significant junction, a place where two of Nepal's greatest trekking routes meet. Take a moment to look back at the mountains behind you and let it all sink in. You have just completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek!
Tonight, celebrate with your guide over a warm dinner and a well-earned rest.
On your final day, you board a private jeep or local bus from Dharapani for the long but scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The road winds through beautiful mountain valleys, terraced hillsides, and the busy highway towns of the Gandaki Province. It's a long journey, but you'll have plenty of great memories to replay in your mind as you watch the mountains slowly disappear behind you.
When you arrive back in Kathmandu, our team will be there to welcome you. In the evening, we invite you to a farewell dinner to celebrate your incredible achievement. You have trekked through one of Nepal's most remote and beautiful regions, crossed a 5,160-meter mountain pass, and experienced a side of the Himalayas that very few people in the world ever get to see.
Congratulations, you did it!
Mt. Manaslu, also known as Kampunge is located in the west-central part of Nepal. It is part of Manisiri himal, Nepalese Himalayas.
Entire trek takes around 13 days for completion (18 days if you count transport time and days in Kathmandu).
Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderately challenging because of the remote landscapes and long walk.
For a good trekking experience in Manaslu Circuit Trek, the spring season (March-June) gives you the best experience.
For a Manaslu Circuit Trek, you need special permission in addition to the regular trekking permit. This requirement stems from the region's proximity to Tibet, which designates it as a restricted area. The need for a restricted area permit ensures regulated access, preserving the delicate cultural and environmental balance of this remote region. On the upside, this restriction means fewer trekkers on the trail. As a result, the experience feels more like an authentic expedition rather than a bustling commercial trek, allowing for a more intimate encounter with the stunning landscapes and unique local cultures.
At 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) above sea level, Manaslu ranks as the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
No, it is strictly prohibited because of the dangers of landscape and weather.
Completing a trek can cost you anywhere from 1000$ to 2000$ approximately depending upon your expense.
Trekking without a guide is banned therefore, it is mandatory to hire at least one guide to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The section between Jagat and Bhimthang that has been declared a restricted area is covered by the Manaslu Trail.
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Wonderful experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trek