Manaslu Circuit Trek

Begin your trek with a scenic and bumpy drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola via Arughat. The journey includes rest stops for meals and stunning views of the countryside. Overnight at a teahouse in Maccha Khola.

Trek along the Budi Gandaki River, spotting monkeys and langurs in the forest. Pass through Gurung villages like Khorlabeshi, where shepherds wear traditional Bokkhu capes. Reach Tatopani for a relaxing hot spring soak before crossing a suspension bridge to Doban. After passing landslides and Yaruphant, cross a cantilever bridge to Jagat. At Jagat, check in at the trekking permit post as you enter the restricted area.

Begin with a walk to Salleri, then descend to Sirdibas, passing several gompas and Buddhist prayer flags. Continue along the river’s western bank, passing unique sculptures carved by the river’s water. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests and Himalayan pines, with impressive overhanging rocks and towering peaks.

Cross the Siyar Khola bridge and reach a junction with Tsum Valley on the right. Finally, reach Deng to rest for the night, where you can relax around a fireplace and share stories with fellow trekkers and locals.

After breakfast, begin your trek by walking through bamboo forests towards Deng. From there, cross a suspension bridge and ascend to Rana and Bihi Phedi, where you may encounter white-faced monkeys in search of food. Continue past several landslide zones—remain cautious and follow your guide’s safety instructions.

After navigating through the landslides, the trail leads you up to Namrung, a charming village at 2,660 m. The last hour of the trek involves a zigzag climb from the river, bringing you to Namrung.

Begin your day by immersing yourself in the unique Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of the Nubri people. Pass by mani walls, lush terraces, and traditional houses as you make your way through Banjam, entering a forest of fir, rhododendron, and oak. Continue to Lihi and Sho, where you will encounter locals in traditional Tibetan dress and beautiful Kani (gate arches) adorned with intricate paintings.

The rocky hillside trail leads you to Lho, offering breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 m) and Manaslu North (7,157 m).

After waking up to the stunning view of Mt. Manaslu, begin your trek along an easy trail that leads to Shyala. The path takes you through a serene pine and rhododendron gully, accompanied by moss-covered trees and crystal-clear streams.

From Shyala, continue for nearly an hour to reach Sama Gaun. Upon arrival, the mountain views may recede, but the sight of yak pastures and traditional settlements offers its own charm.

Sama Gaun is the main village of the Nubri people, featuring a large gompa, various shops, a health post, a heliport, and even Wi-Fi access.

Today, you’ll acclimatize with a hike to either Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp. The hike to Pungyen offers stunning views of Manaslu and local wildlife like Himalayan Thars and yaks. For a more challenging option, trek to Manaslu Base Camp at 4,400m, passing Birendra Tal.

Both hikes are designed to help you adjust to the altitude. If needed, a shorter walk to Birendra Tal is also available.

On this day, the trek to Samdo will be short due to the high altitude. The route passes through vast yak pastures, long mani walls, and birdlife. After crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, the path leads to White Kani, a picturesque village.

Upon reaching Samdo, there’s an opportunity to explore nearby villages or hike to Samdo Peak, offering views of the Larkya La trail and the Tibetan track.

This day is dedicated to acclimatization with a short excursion to the Tibetan border. From the border, enjoy views of both Tibet and Nepal, and if lucky, spot a Yak caravan crossing the border.

South of Samdo Glacier, there are fantastic photo opportunities, including a massive serac at the glacier's top, and wildlife such as Blue Sheep, picas, and Marmots in season.

A relatively easy 3-hour hike, though the high altitude makes the journey feel longer. While Dharamsala appears close to Samdo, the terrain and altitude demand careful pacing.

A special and challenging day, reaching the trek’s highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929 ft). The hike can be tough in bad weather, so we start early (around 3 a.m.) to cross before noon.

Steady walking leads to stunning Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II views. After time at the pass, descend for about 3 hours toward Bimthang, passing icefalls, mountains, and Pongkar Tal for an overnight stay.

On the final day of the trek, descend through lush forests filled with rhododendron, passing the Dudh Khola. Stop for lunch at Karche, then observe signs of glacial floods as you move toward Gurung Goa, the first village since Samdo.

The valley becomes more agricultural, with oak and rhododendron trees. Stay on the north bank until Tilije, then continue to Dharapani for the day.

Take a jeep from Tilije to Beshi Sahar, followed by a 6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu.