Manaslu Circuit Trek

On the second day, you’ll embark on a long yet scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, bypassing Soti Khola to save time and begin your trek from a higher point. The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours, offering stunning views of terraced fields, rivers, and small hillside villages. You’ll travel along winding roads and cross several suspension bridges as the landscape transitions into lush greenery. Upon arrival at Machhakhola, you’ll check into a teahouse, rest, and prepare for the trekking adventure ahead.

• Drive Duration: 8–9 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Machhakhola.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Your first day of trekking begins as you follow a narrow trail along the Budhi Gandaki River. The route takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages such as Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where you’ll pass by natural hot springs. As you continue, you’ll cross several suspension bridges, climb ridges, and experience a mix of ascents and descents. The day ends at Jagat, a stone-paved village marking the entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Leaving Jagat, the trail ascends through Salleri and descends to Sirdibas, a charming Gurung village. You’ll then cross a long suspension bridge and climb to Philim, a large village with terraced fields and breathtaking views. From there, the path meanders through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, eventually leading you to the small settlement of Deng.

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Deng.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

The trail today offers a mix of dense forests, narrow gorges, and river crossings. Passing through small settlements like Rana and Bihi Phedi, you’ll notice increasing Tibetan cultural influences, including mani walls and prayer wheels. The steady climb rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, and you’ll arrive in Namrung, a village known for its warm hospitality and stunning mountain vistas.

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

This day’s trek takes you through picturesque villages like Lho, where you’ll visit the iconic Ribung Gompa. The trail winds through alpine meadows, forests, and traditional Tibetan settlements with views of Mount Manaslu. As you approach Samagaon, the majestic mountain stands tall in the backdrop, creating a mesmerizing setting for the evening.

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaon.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

To acclimatize to the high altitude, you’ll spend a rest day in Samagaon. Explore the village and its Tibetan culture or take optional hikes:

• Manaslu Base Camp: A challenging but rewarding hike offering stunning glacier views.
• Pungyen Gompa: A serene monastery surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

This day ensures your body adjusts to the altitude while you enjoy the beauty of the region.

• Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaon.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Continuing through high-altitude terrain, today’s trek is relatively short and scenic. The trail ascends gradually along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing yak pastures, mani walls, and small settlements. Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village with incredible views of surrounding peaks, will be your stop for the night.

• Trek Duration: 3–4 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

A gradual ascent leads you to Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, the base camp for crossing the Larkya La Pass. The trail becomes more rugged, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Dharmasala offers basic accommodation, and you’ll rest here in preparation for the most challenging day of the trek.

• Trek Duration: 3–4 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Dharmasala.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

This is the most exhilarating day of the trek. Starting early, you’ll ascend to the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey. The pass offers stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After taking in the views, begin a steep descent to Bimthang, a beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks.

• Trek Duration: 8–9 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Bimthang.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

The trail descends through lush rhododendron and pine forests, crossing rivers and terraced fields. You’ll pass through charming villages like Tilije before reaching Dharapani, where you’ll celebrate the end of your trek.

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
• Overnight: Teahouse in Dharapani.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar. The journey takes around 8-9 hours, giving you time to reflect on the incredible trek. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner with the team.

• Drive Duration: 8–9 hours.
• Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

After returning from the incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek, take this day to relax and recover in Kathmandu. You can spend the day exploring the city’s cultural treasures, such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, and the Boudhanath Stupa, or simply unwind at your hotel.

For those who wish to indulge in shopping, the vibrant streets of Thamel offer a variety of trekking gear, handicrafts, and souvenirs to take back home. Alternatively, enjoy a rejuvenating massage or spa session to ease any post-trek fatigue.

In the evening, join a celebratory farewell dinner hosted by Annapurna Trekking to mark the successful completion of your adventure, sharing stories and memories with your fellow trekkers and guides.

• Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner.