Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

As you follow Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, you’ll pass through incredibly varied landscapes encircling Mount Manaslu.

You’ll start your trek at around 700 meters and all go along the green and lush forests to the spectacular high alpine pass with huge glaciers.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is new openly trekking trail and a perfect alternative to classic Annapurna Circuit trek.

Beautiful scenery, untouched culture, unique landscape makes Manaslu Circuit trek popular among the avid trekkers and adventure seekers.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a great opportunity to explore one of the unspoiled trekking regions of Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit route is considered one of the less crowded trekking routes in Nepal.

Following the off-beaten trail, this amazing journey takes you around the eighth highest mountain in the world.

The regular trekking route begins from Arughat, 7-8 hours drive from Kathmandu.

Nowadays, as roads are constructed to reach further destinations, many trekkers follow an itinerary that starts this trek from Soti Khola.

This demanding trek requires good physical condition and having past trekking experience will enhance your enjoyment of this trip.

The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki river all the way from Soti Khola to the last trekking point Larkya La Pass.

Larkya La pass is one of the dramatic passes of the Himalayas.

The main challenging point of the trek is crossing the snow-clad Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters / 16,751 feet).

But while you cross it, you will be rewarded with some breathtaking views of Mt. Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kang and Kang guru.

Manaslu Circuit trek ends in Besisahar, which also the starting point of classic Annapurna Circuit trek.

The Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary can depend on the length of walking days, acclimatization day and starting point.

Thus, the itinerary that we are going to outline below is one of the few possibilities.

You can also combine the Manaslu Circuit trek with the beautiful Tsum Valley, a beautiful highland valley.

Along with various itineraries that we offer, this 17 days Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is one of the best sellers which includes arrival, departure, Kathmandu hotel, sightseeing, enough acclimatization days etc along with great trekking experience on this trail.

This itinerary will ensure sufficient time for suitable acclimatization and for you to enjoy trek without rushing yourself.

The amazing dramatic landscapes and unspoiled culture will amaze you throughout the journey. En route you’ll pass some interesting mix of Hindu and Tibetan-style Buddhist villages.

If you have any queries, please free feel to contact us at any time.

We’ll be more happy to serve you !!!

Though the Manaslu Circuit trek trail is newly opened, we are sure it’ll be your trip of the lifetime !!!

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Brief Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Deng

Day 07: Trek from Deng to Namrung

Day 08: Trek from Namrung to Lohegaon

Day 09: Trek from Lohegaon to Samagaon

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon

Day 11: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

Day 12: Hike to Larka la Phedi

Day 13: Trek to Bumthang via the Larkya La Pass and Glacier

Day 14: Trek from Bumthang to Tilche

Day 15: Trek to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar

Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 17: Goodbye and farewell from Nepal !!!

Detailed Daily Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Highlights: Land to Kathmandu, a vibrant capital city of Nepal

Welcome to Nepal !!!!

Our representative will receive you from Tribhuvan International Airport and drop you at respective hotel.

On this day, you’ll take some rest and if you wish you can go around the hotel area.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meal: Breakfast.

Highlights: Explore Kathmandu city, visit some world heritage sites, and trek preparation

On the second day, you’ll explore the beautiful Kathmandu valley.

You’ll get a chance to visit different world heritage sites like Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and UNESCO listed squares and courts.

After a short tour, you’ll return back to the hotel and take some rest.

After refreshment, you’ll have a small team meeting where you’ll get a brief description of upcoming trek.

This meeting offers you a chance to get introduced to your trekking guide and fellow trekkers.

After this, you can finalize your trekking gears and clothing.

If you forget to bring any essential gear don’t panic you’ll get the stuff around the Thamel area, one of the popular tourist hub.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Max Elevation: 710m

Travel Distance: 141.3 km

Traveling Hours: 9-10 hours drive

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

On the third day, early in the morning, you’ll drive to Soti Khola via Arughat.

Normally, from Kathmandu to Arughat takes 7-8 hours. From Arughat it takes another 1:30-2 hours to reach Soti Khola.

While this drive, you’ll pass via some beautiful landscape.

Soti Khola is situated at the altitude 7,10 meters above the sea level.

It is also an important point for the Manaslu Circuit trek and Manaslu Tsum valley trek.

Overnight stay in the local teahouse of Soti Khola.

Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Max Elevation: 1,000m

Trekking Hours: 5-6 hours trek

Trek Distance: 14.1 Km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Explore the Gurung village of Lapubesi and Khanibesi

Today, you’ll start your trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola.

The trail is steeply uphill and you’ll pass through several settlements like Armala, Lapubesi, Khanibesi, and Lapubesi along Budhi Gandaki river.

On the trail, you’ll explore Gurung culture in Lapubesi and Khanibesi villages.

The rich flora and fauna, blue river, mountain ridges, and unique landscapes make this day trek naturally captivating.

Overnight stay in the local teahouse of Machha Khola

Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

Max Elevation: 1,410 m

Trekking Hours: 5-6 hours trek

Trek Distance: 22.2 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Walk via pristine Himalayan foothills and remote settlements

On the fifth day, the trail move towards to Jagat passing via the Gurung village like Khorla Besi, Tatopani, Dobhan, and Yuru Khola along the Budhi Gandaki valley.

The trek between Machha Khola to Jagat is an adventure walk on rugged terrains with the jaw-dropping views of snow-capped mountains.

As you move towards the high altitude, you’ll witness the change in the landscape.

Overnight stay in the local teahouse of Jagat.

Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Dyang

Max Elevation: 2,120m

Trekking Hours: 6-7 hours trek

Trek Distance: 19.9 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Explore a village highly influenced by Buddhist religion like Philim, Salieri, Ekla Bhatti, Sirdibas, Nyak, and Paimo

On the sixth day, you’ll head forwards to Dyang, leaving behind the beautiful village Jagat.

Yes, another great place to get the prominent view of the snow-capped mountains.

The trail passes through some dense subtropical forests of oak, pine, and birch.

Here you’ll witness different species of flora and fauna.

To cross Budhi Gandaki and other small rivers you’ll have to cross several suspension bridges.

Before you reached Dyang, you’ll come across several villages highly dominated by the Buddhist religion.

Some villages are Philim. Salieri, Ekla Bhatti, Nyak, Paimo, and Sirdibas.

With a great mountain view, you’ll also explore the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the different Himalayan people.

Overnight stay at the local tea house of Dyang.

Day 07: Trek from Dyang to Namrung

Max Elevation: 2,660m

Trekking Hours: 5-6 hours trek

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Explore Namrung village, a start of Nubri- a region of pure Tibetan inhabitants

On the seventh day, you’ll head towards Namrung village here you’ll find a strong influence of Tibetan culture.

From Dyang the house and terrains completely change to more like Tibetan.

The culture and lifestyle of local people are highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Along the trail, you’ll pass via some Mani prayer stones and reach Ghap village.

Again the walk continues steeper up as the valley opens with the magnificent view of Kutang Himal range on the north, Pang Phuchin, Saula Himal, and other peaks of over 6,000 m.

After a short pleasant walk over the gradual uphill, you’ll reach farm village Namrung for an overnight stay.

Day 08: Trek from Namrung to Lohegaon

Max Elevation: 3,200m

Trekking Hours: 8-9 hours trek

Trek Distance: 10.5 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Explore massive Gompa and Lho village

On the eighth day, you’ll continue your trek toward Lohegaon dominated by a large Gompa.

This Gompa is home to more than 150 children that get an education here.

From the top of the hill, you’ll get the best first view of Mt. Manaslu.

Manaslu is seen here at its best, with its fishtail twin peaks.

You’ll get a super up views of Manaslu during the sunrise when the first sun ray lies on its top and shines. This stunning view will definitely take your breath away !!!

The one good thing is, you don’t have to climb up to the hill, as the Gompa gate is a perfect viewpoint.

Overnight stay at local tea house of Lohegaon.

Day 09: Trek from Lohegaon to Samagaon

Max Elevation: 3,530m

Trekking Hours: 8-9 hours trek

Trek Distance: 8 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Walking through a dramatic landscape and crossing metal suspension bridge hanging over the roaring river.

On a ninth day, the trail leads you to the Samagaon at 3,530 meters above the sea level.

It is also one of the largest villages in the Manaslu region.

The trek from Lohegaon to Samagaon offer a spectacular view of Mt. Manaslu and other surrounding peaks.

Here most of the people are farmers and the people in this area still trade with Tibet taking 2 or 3 days to a week.

It is one of the old salt trade route from Nepal to Tibet.

From here, it only takes one day to reach the border of Tibet. Along the way, you’ll witness several mani walls, prayer wheels, and Buddhists monasteries.

Normally, most of the trekkers spend at least one day for acclimatization in Samagaon.

Overnight stay at the local tea house at Samagaon.

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon

Trekking Hours: 4-5 hours trek

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Explore Birendra Tal (Lake)

Today is the acclimatization day at Samagaon.

But don’t get confused between the rest day and acclimatize day.

To adjust your body to increasing elevation you need to explore the surrounding places instead of taking rest.

You’ll hike up to the Birendra Lake, monastery, and explore Sama Gompa village.

Once again you’ll be rewarded with the striking view of Manalsu and back for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

Max Elevation: 3,740m / 12,270 ft

Trekking Hours: 3-4 hours trek

Trek Distance: 7.8 m

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Experience the authentic Tibetan culture

After acclimatization day, on the eleventh day, you’ll climb slowly toward Samdo village.

Actually, walk to Samdo is not too far but as you gain altitude it makes the walk little slow.

Thus, enjoying the surrounding view you’ll reach the Samdo village.

It is one of the remote settlement in Nepal. There are some 40 houses with 200 villagers and last village before Larkya La Pass.

Here you’ll notice that local people follow a quite strong agriculture culture. The villagers grow their own potatoes and vegetables.

Basic tea houses are available for overnight stay.

Day 12: Hike to Larka la Phedi

Max Elevation: 4,470m / 13,780 ft

Trekking Hours: 4-5 hours trek

Trek Distance: 6.5 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Enjoy the pristine environment and explore the Larkya Bazaar, a seasonal Tibetan market.

Larkya Phedi is also known as Dharmasala or Larkya base camp situated at 4,470 meters above sea level.

On the twelfth day, you’ll begin your walk on the wild mountain path, cross the Gayala Khola and ascend to the ridge and reach Larkya Bazaar.

There is only one teahouse/lodge in Dharamshala so it’s better to book advance to secure the space.

While ascending up you’ll get to see many Buddhist monasteries, hanging glaciers, and Mani walls too.

Overnight stay at the local tea house at Dharamshala.

Day 13: Trek to Bimthang via the Larkya La Pass and Glacier

Max Elevation: 5,135 m Larkya La Pass and 3,700 m, Bimthang

Trekking Hours: 9-10 hours trek

Trek Distance: 24.7 km, 15.3 miles

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Outstanding mountain views from the top of Larkya La Pass and Larkya Glacier

On the thirteen days, you’ll reach Bimthang via crossing Larkya La Pass.

It will be quite demanding part of the Manaslu Circuit trek.

It is considered as one of the finest vantage points to see the high mountain’s scenery.

From this high Pass, you’ll get a picturesque view of Annapurna II, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru.

After getting astonishing views, you’ll descend back Bimthang via Tanbuche. At Tanbuche you’ll come across snow and moraines.

After a short distance walk, you’ll reach Bimthang village.

It is a nice place with a number of mani walls and deserted house.

Day 14: Trek from Bimthang to Tilche

Max Elevation: 1,900 m

Trekking Hours: 6-8 hours trek

Trek Distance: 26.3 km

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Scenic mountain view of Annapurna range and Manalsu range.

Trek from Bimthang to Tilche will be your final part of the Manaslu Circuit trek.

The trail pass via hidden valley, rocky cliff, and dense forests.

It is a very nice downhill trek that starts from alpine area and end at subtropical climate.

Yes, in one day you’ll get a chance to experience two distinct climates by traveling on foot.

As soon as you leave Bimthang, you’ll pass via Mani walls, a lower part of Bimthang glacier, alpine forest and reach the Marshyangdi valley.

On the trail, you’ll get to observe different species of flora and fauna. Besides, you’ll witness cave, Kharka, Mani walls, and Gompas.

It is a rural valley where you can enjoy the beauty of nature with unique culture influenced by Buddhism religion.

Passing through a summer settlement at Goh and village including Thonje where there is a check post finally you’ll reach Tiliche.

Day 15: Trek from Tiliche to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar

Trekking Hours: 1-hour trek

Traveling Hours: 4-5 hours jeep drive

Accommodation: Basic Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Highlights: Scenic jeep drive from Dharapani to Besisahar

On the fifteen days, you’ll trek from Tiliche to Dharapani which connect world-famous Annapurna Circuit route with Manaslu Circuit trek.

The walk from Tiliche to Dharapani is one hour walk and pleasant through the rhododendron and pine forests.

Once you reach Dharapani, you’ll take some rest and have a jeep ride from Dharapani to Besisahar which approximately takes 4-5 hours.

Overnight in the local tea house in Besisahar.

Note: The jeep drive may not be available during the monsoon season due to the flood and landslides.

Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu

Traveling Hours: 8-9 hours

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch.

Highlights: Scenic drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu, Shopping and explore the near touristic area, farewell dinner

On the sixteen days, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu.

The drive will be scenic as you’ll pass through countryside and headquarters of Lamjung called Besisahar.

Once you reach Kathmandu, you’ll check in to the respective hotel.

After taking refreshment for a while, you can explore the near touristic Thamel area.

Here you can do shopping and buy gift or souvenirs for your loved one. And at evening you’ll have a farewell dinner and overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 17: Final Departure

This is the final day of your trip to Nepal.

With the final goodbye, you’ll depart from Nepal to your home country.

According to your flight schedule, our representative will drop you at the airport.

If you enjoy the Manaslu Circuit trek with us, then you can share your amazing experience with your friends.

If you also want to extend your vacation in Nepal, then we’re happy to serve you with several trekking packages in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.

Alternative 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

If you would like to arrange your own hotel in Kathmandu, sightseeing, etc. and are interested in booking the trekking part only, then the below 12-day itinerary can be suitable.

On this itinerary, you will be picked up from your hotel in Kathmandu on Day 1 and dropped off back at the hotel in Kathmandu on Day 12.

Day 1: Begin the journey by driving to Soti Khola(710m/ 2329ft), which takes around 7.5 hours on a local bus.

Alternatively, you have the option to hire a private jeep at an additional cost.

Day 2: Start  trek to Machha Khola (890m / 2919 ft), a scenic trail that takes approximately 6 hours.

Day 3: Continue trekking to Jagat (1350m / 4429 ft) for about 6 hours, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.

Day 4: Trek to Deng (1860m / 6102 ft) in a exciting journey lasting around 7.5 hours.

Day 5: Reach Namrung (2660m / 8727 ft) after a rewarding trek of approximately 6 hours.

Day 6: Head to Samagaon (3525m / 11,565 ft), a wonderful journey that takes about 7 hours.

Day 7: Take a day to acclimatize and explore the surroundings.

Day 8: Trek to Samdo (3860m / 12,664 ft) in a roughly 4-hour hike.

Day 9: Continue to Larka La Phedi (4460m / 14,632 ft) in about 4 hours, appreciating the awe-inspiring views.

Day 10: Trek to Bimthang (3610m / 11,844 ft) and cross the challenging Larkya La pass (5106m / 16,751 ft) in an adventurous 8-hour journey.

Day 11: Descend to Dharapani (1920m / 6299 ft) during a scenic trek lasting approximately 7 hours.

Day 12: Finally, return to Kathmandu via Besi Sahar, which takes around 9 hours on a local vehicle.

Alternatively, you can opt for a private jeep at an additional cost.

Note:
If you are planning to visit Pokhara after the trek instead of returning to Kathmandu, it is also possible.

In conclusion,

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers various options for completing the itinerary, allowing you to customize the trip according to your preferences.

You can extend the duration by adding extra days along the way, taking rest at specific places, exploring additional side trips or simply relaxing to acclimatize.

One possible alteration to the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is adding a side trip to the Tsum Valley Area, a highly recommended isolated destination if you have sufficient time.

Regardless of the itinerary you choose, the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises incredible rewards, including breathtaking views, opportunities to immerse in different cultures, meeting new people and forging lifelong friendships, journeying through amazing high altitude landscapes and experiencing a life-changing adventure.

Please get in touch with us, and we can work on the itinerary according to your preferences.