Manaslu Circuit Trek

The adventure begins with a 6-8 hour (160km) drive from Kathmandu along Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River. Enjoy breathtaking views of traditional villages, terraced fields, rushing rivers, and lush forests, with giant peaks like Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal in the distance. The journey ends at Soti Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu trek, where we'll spend our first night.

Today's 6-7 hour trek (9.7km) takes us from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890 m). The trail winds through beautiful Sal forests, past waterfalls, and along steep cliffs - with some challenging ups and downs. We'll pass through Khursani village and the Gurung settlement of Lububesi, sharing the path with mule caravans along the way. The diverse landscapes make this first trekking day both exciting and rewarding.

Today's shorter 4-5 hour trek (9.5km) follows the Budhi Gandaki valley with minimal altitude gain. The subtropical landscape remains lush as we cross two major rivers - Tharo Khola and Machha Khola (via suspension bridge). Passing through Tatopani area, we continue through forests to reach Doban (meaning "river confluence" in Nepali), situated where Shari Khola and Sarpu Khola rivers meet. Expect some ups and downs along the trail.

Today's 5-6 hour trek (13km) begins with a steep climb from Doban to Louri, then continues to Thado Bharyang below Jagat. We'll cross rivers twice - first to reach Jagat, a charming Tibetan-style village, then again to arrive at Philim, a traditional Gurung settlement. The trail gains moderate altitude, taking us from 1,070m to 1,570m by day's end.

Today's 4-5 hour trek (11km) takes us north through millet fields to Ekle Bhatti, then up steeper trails along the Budhi Gandaki River's dramatic gorges. We'll cross the river and walk through bamboo forests before reaching the Deng Khola, which we cross to arrive at Deng village (1,860m). The day's gentle 290m altitude gain brings us deeper into the Himalayan landscape.

Today's 4-5 hour trek (11.5km) starts with a descent followed by a steep climb to Rana Bridge. We'll walk through pine forests, cross multiple suspension bridges, and pass Bihi village. As we enter Buddhist territory, you'll notice Mani walls and religious carvings. The trail gains 390m in altitude, ending at Ghap (2,250m), a village marking our gradual transition into higher Himalayan landscapes.

Today's 4-5 hour trek (9km) climbs through beautiful forests of fir, rhododendron, oak and bamboo. The trail includes steep sections, suspension bridges and stone staircases before reaching Namrung (2,660m). As we approach the village, you'll see expansive barley fields surrounding this traditional settlement. The day's trek gains 410m in altitude.

Today's 5-6 hour trek (11km) takes us through Lihi village and across a glacial stream from Lindanda Glacier. Enjoy views of Simnang Himal (6,251m) as we climb to Lho (3,180m), a traditional village decorated with prayer flags, Mani walls, and Buddhist stupas. The trail gains 520m in altitude through stunning Himalayan landscapes.

Today's 4-5 hour trek (17.2km) starts early through forests to Shyala village, nestled among farmlands with wooden shelters. After crossing a stream from Punggen glacier, we reach the flat valley of Samagaun (3,530m) - the nearest village to Manaslu Base Camp. The trail gains 350m in altitude through stunning high-mountain scenery.

Today is our rest day for acclimatization, but we'll stay active exploring Samagaun and its surroundings. You can observe local lifestyles and culture, or choose between several short hikes: to Manaslu Base Camp, the stunning Birendra Lake (3,450m) where glaciers calve into the water, or Pungyen Monastery (2.5 hours hike) offering incredible glacier views. These activities help our bodies adjust while discovering this fascinating high-altitude environment.

Today's shorter 3-4 hour trek (8.2km) takes us through scenic pastures and juniper/birch forests. After descending to Budhi Gandaki river and crossing a wooden bridge, we climb steeply with stunning views of Manaslu. We'll reach Samdo (3,875m), a Tibetan refugee village, where we'll explore the settlement and surrounding hills. The trail gains 345m in altitude through beautiful high-mountain landscapes.

The trek from Samdo (3,875m) to Dharamsala (4,480m) covers 11.7km and takes about 3-4 hours. The trail starts by descending through fields and old Mani walls before crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll pass the Athahra Saya River and walk alongside the Larke River, seeing prayer flags and Mani walls, which mark the approach to Larkya La Pass.

Next, you’ll see the stunning Larkya Glacier. After enjoying the view, the trail goes around the Salkha Khola valley before climbing up to Dharamsala (also called Larkya La Phedi). This is a simple stone guesthouse, more like a dormitory, at 4,450m. The day offers incredible views of Larkya Glacier and Mt. Manaslu, making it a memorable part of the trek.

The trek from Dharamsala (4,480m) to Bhimtang (3,720m) crosses the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and covers 24.7km in 7-8 hours. Starting early, the trail crosses a moraine, passes a small lake, and follows a rough, steep slope with prayer flags marking the way. After descending past four frozen lakes, a steep climb leads to the pass, offering stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.

From the pass, the trail descends over rocky moraines before easing into grassy slopes. As the valley widens, you’ll reach Bhimtang, marked by meadows, Mani walls, and small houses, ending a long but rewarding day. Weather plays a key role, as strong winds or storms can make the trek more difficult.

Today's trek from Bhimtang (3,720m) to Gho (2,550m) is easier, covering 10km in 4-5 hours. You’ll descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, cross it, and walk through a beautiful rhododendron forest before reaching Karche, a cultivated area in the valley. The trail then follows the riverbank until you arrive at Gho, making for a relaxing day after yesterday's challenging pass.

The final trek from Gho (2,550m) to Dharapani (1,910m) is a short and easy 6km walk, taking 3-4 hours. The trail descends through fields and pastures, leading to Tilje, a Gurung village known for its brandy. Continuing past Mani walls, you’ll reach Thonje before finally arriving at Dharapani, marking the end of your trekking journey.

Today marks the end of your journey as you travel from Dharapani (1,910m) to Besisahar (760m) by local bus, a scenic 6-7 hour ride passing villages, the Marsyangdi River, Bhulbhule, and Khudi. From Besisahar, you’ll catch the last bus to Kathmandu—if delayed, an extra day may be needed. The drive along Prithivi Highway offers stunning views of terraced fields, rivers, and mountains, including where the Marsyangdi meets the Trishuli, before arriving back in Kathmandu.

Final Departure from Nepal to your country with wonderful memories and relaxation.