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Manaslu Circuit Trek

A Classic Himalayan Circuit of an 8000m peak - Challenging crossing of the Larkya La - Quieter Circuit Trekking

All meals on trek included

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Duration

14 Days
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Grade

Very Challenging
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Max Altitude

5135m
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Walking Days

10 Days
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Accommodation

2 Nts Hotels - 12 Nts Trekking Lodges
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Trip Overview

A superb and much quieter circuit trek to an 8000-metre peak, the Manaslu Circuit has always been the more discerning choice to the Annapurna Circuit.

With the encroachment of jeep roads, the Manaslu Circuit perhaps needs to be renamed the Manaslu Horse-Shoe Trek. It remains a very challenging trek, with some very long walking days at high altitudes.  In many ways, the Manaslu Circuit feels more 'remote' and wilder than the Annapurna Circuit. Being a less busy Nepal trek, many of the trekking lodges are much simpler and more basic by default. To the serious and experienced mountain walker, this will be merely incidental, with the attraction being some of the best mountain walking to be found anywhere in the world. Stupendous views of Himalayan giants as well as an opportunity to experience life in isolated villages where the Tibetan culture remains unspoilt. This is very much a trek for the walking connoisseur with a very high level of fitness who thrives in a high mountain wilderness and is capable of trekking for several continuous, lengthy, and tough days. Don't forget, our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and while this itinerary includes acclimatisation, additional acclimatisation and additional contingency days are highly recommended. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

This trek can also be further extended and combined with our Tsum Valley Trek which deviates and then returns to join the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail.

A superb and much quieter circuit trek to an 8000-metre peak, the Manaslu Circuit has always been the more discerning choice to the Annapurna Circuit.

  • With the encroachment of jeep roads, the Manaslu Circuit perhaps needs to be renamed the Manaslu Horse-Shoe Trek. It remains a very challenging trek, with some very long walking days at high altitudes.  In many ways, the Manaslu Circuit feels more 'remote' and wilder than the Annapurna Circuit. Being a less busy Nepal trek, many of the trekking lodges are much simpler and more basic by default. To the serious and experienced mountain walker, this will be merely incidental, with the attraction being some of the best mountain walking to be found anywhere in the world. Stupendous views of Himalayan giants as well as an opportunity to experience life in isolated villages where the Tibetan culture remains unspoilt. This is very much a trek for the walking connoisseur with a very high level of fitness who thrives in a high mountain wilderness and is capable of trekking for several continuous, lengthy, and tough days. Don't forget, our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and while this itinerary includes acclimatisation, additional acclimatisation and additional contingency days are highly recommended. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

    This trek can also be further extended and combined with our Tsum Valley Trek which deviates and then returns to join the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail.

Example Itinerary

    • Day 1
      Arrive Kathmandu
    • Day 2
      Drive to Machha Khola
    • Day 3
      Trek to Doban
    • Day 4
      To Philim
    • Day 5
      Trek to Deng
    • Day 6
      Walk to Namrung
    • Day 7
      Trek to Lho
    • Day 8
      Trek to Samdo
    • Day 9
      Acclimatisation Day
    • Day 10
      To Larkya Phedi
    • Day 11
      The Larkya La to Bimthang
    • Day 12
      Down to Dharapani
    • Day 13
      Dharapani to Kathmandu
    • Day 14
      Depart Nepal
  • DAY
    1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere.

    Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on the many Nepal Public Holiday days. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH HotelKathmandu
    Included Meals: None

    DAY 1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere.

    Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on the many Nepal Public Holiday days. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH HotelKathmandu
    Included Meals: None

    DAY
    2

    Drive to Machha Khola

    It's a full and arduous day's drive today as a private vehicle takes you from Kathmandu along the main highway to then turn towards the mountains on a road that follows the Burhi Gandakhi Valley. At some stage (usually around Arghat), a locally chartered jeep will be used in order to reach Machha Khola. Driving time is approximately 7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Machha Khola
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges

    DAY 2

    Drive to Machha Khola

    It's a full and arduous day's drive today as a private vehicle takes you from Kathmandu along the main highway to then turn towards the mountains on a road that follows the Burhi Gandakhi Valley. At some stage (usually around Arghat), a locally chartered jeep will be used in order to reach Machha Khola. Driving time is approximately 7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Machha Khola
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges

    DAY
    3

    Trek to Doban

    Over the Machha Khola River and up to Tatopani. Across a suspension bridge to the other side of the valley and through forests to Doban (1070m). Around 5 hours walking

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Doban
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 3

    Trek to Doban

    Over the Machha Khola River and up to Tatopani. Across a suspension bridge to the other side of the valley and through forests to Doban (1070m). Around 5 hours walking

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Doban
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    4

    To Philim

    It's a stiff (but relatively short) climb up to Louri, and then just over an hour more walking to Jagat (1410m). Trekking permits having been checked, a stone-stepped trail descends to the river, followed by an ascent through terraced fields to Saguleri and a further climb to Philim. Around 6 hours walking

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Philim
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 4

    To Philim

    It's a stiff (but relatively short) climb up to Louri, and then just over an hour more walking to Jagat (1410m). Trekking permits having been checked, a stone-stepped trail descends to the river, followed by an ascent through terraced fields to Saguleri and a further climb to Philim. Around 6 hours walking

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Philim
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    5

    Trek to Deng

    A little down and then mostly uphil, at times steep. Beyond Chisopani, the trail contours the hillside, and forests of pine become prevalent. Things get interesting as the trail is cut into the walls of a gorge, and it's then up and along to Deng (1860m). Walking time: approx. 5 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Deng
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 5

    Trek to Deng

    A little down and then mostly uphil, at times steep. Beyond Chisopani, the trail contours the hillside, and forests of pine become prevalent. Things get interesting as the trail is cut into the walls of a gorge, and it's then up and along to Deng (1860m). Walking time: approx. 5 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Deng
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    6

    Walk to Namrung

    The valley you're ascending is quite steep, and the first signs of Buddhist influence appear. There are several crossings of rivers (by bridges) today and after around  6-7 hours of fairly tough trekking, you reach Namrung (2540m)

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge,Namrung
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 6

    Walk to Namrung

    The valley you're ascending is quite steep, and the first signs of Buddhist influence appear. There are several crossings of rivers (by bridges) today and after around  6-7 hours of fairly tough trekking, you reach Namrung (2540m)

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge,Namrung
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    7

    Trek to Lho

    Not as long today, and as you'll be going over 3000 m, that is fortunate. Heading deeper, as the valley opens out, there's a steep climb to Lihi (2925 m), and the villages become more Tibetan-influenced. Manaslu presents herself boldly to you today, and her twin peaks will be evident. It's likely that today's destination of Lho (3150m) will take around 4-5 hours of walking.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Lo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 7

    Trek to Lho

    Not as long today, and as you'll be going over 3000 m, that is fortunate. Heading deeper, as the valley opens out, there's a steep climb to Lihi (2925 m), and the villages become more Tibetan-influenced. Manaslu presents herself boldly to you today, and her twin peaks will be evident. It's likely that today's destination of Lho (3150m) will take around 4-5 hours of walking.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Lo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    8

    Trek to Samdo

    Up through pine forests and then a bit of downhill walking followed by a bit of gradual ascent to reach Sama Gaon (3520m).You're still following the Burhi Gandaki upstream, and the scenery now gets seriously spectacular. Samdo (3690m) is today's destination and takes around 6-7 hours of challenging walking to reach. The village itself was established by Tibetan refugees, and Tibet itself is just a day's walk away.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Samdo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 8

    Trek to Samdo

    Up through pine forests and then a bit of downhill walking followed by a bit of gradual ascent to reach Sama Gaon (3520m).You're still following the Burhi Gandaki upstream, and the scenery now gets seriously spectacular. Samdo (3690m) is today's destination and takes around 6-7 hours of challenging walking to reach. The village itself was established by Tibetan refugees, and Tibet itself is just a day's walk away.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Samdo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    9

    Acclimatisation Day

    It's a good idea to aid your acclimatisation by walking to a higher altitude today and then back down to Samdo for the night. You can climb up to the ridge behind Somdu to achieve this. It is a stiff, steep ascent, but it does afford some very good vistas.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Samdo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 9

    Acclimatisation Day

    It's a good idea to aid your acclimatisation by walking to a higher altitude today and then back down to Samdo for the night. You can climb up to the ridge behind Somdu to achieve this. It is a stiff, steep ascent, but it does afford some very good vistas.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Samdo
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    10

    To Larkya Phedi

    Heading towards the Larkya Glacier today is primarily all uphill as you trek to Larkya Phedi, which confusingly is also known as Dharamsala and Duwang. At an altitude of 4460 m, you'll likely not be too bothered by what it's called. The lodge here is particularly basic. Although it's only about 6km from Somdu to here, the higher altitude makes it feel further, progress is slow, and around 3-5 hours of walking are required.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Larkya Phedi
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 10

    To Larkya Phedi

    Heading towards the Larkya Glacier today is primarily all uphill as you trek to Larkya Phedi, which confusingly is also known as Dharamsala and Duwang. At an altitude of 4460 m, you'll likely not be too bothered by what it's called. The lodge here is particularly basic. Although it's only about 6km from Somdu to here, the higher altitude makes it feel further, progress is slow, and around 3-5 hours of walking are required.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Larkya Phedi
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    11

    The Larkya La to Bimthang

    The 'Thorung La' of the Manaslu Circuit is the hardest day of walking, the highest point of the trek, the longest walking day, and essentially the crux of the trek. The crossing of the Larkya La can take 8–10 hours or more, depending on conditions. After an initial steep climb out of Larkya Phedi, it's a steady slog up and up for almost 5 hours. Prayer flags line the pass, and it is usually pretty chilly up here. Enjoy the views quickly, and then begin the steep descent down scree (often snow-covered high up) to a yak pasture (kharka). It's still downhill, but the gradient eases as you make your way to Bimthang (3590m).

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Bimthang
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 11

    The Larkya La to Bimthang

    The 'Thorung La' of the Manaslu Circuit is the hardest day of walking, the highest point of the trek, the longest walking day, and essentially the crux of the trek. The crossing of the Larkya La can take 8–10 hours or more, depending on conditions. After an initial steep climb out of Larkya Phedi, it's a steady slog up and up for almost 5 hours. Prayer flags line the pass, and it is usually pretty chilly up here. Enjoy the views quickly, and then begin the steep descent down scree (often snow-covered high up) to a yak pasture (kharka). It's still downhill, but the gradient eases as you make your way to Bimthang (3590m).

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Bimthang
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    12

    Down to Dharapani

    Dropping down into the Burdin Khola Valley, there's some uphill too. But then it's down again and into woodlands, followed by an ascent to the Karche La. Far below lies the Marsyangdi Valley and your exit route. A lot more downhill will make your knees ache, but after a good 8 hours of walking, you reach Dharapani (1963m). At this point, you've joined the Annapurna Circuit route.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Dharapani
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 12

    Down to Dharapani

    Dropping down into the Burdin Khola Valley, there's some uphill too. But then it's down again and into woodlands, followed by an ascent to the Karche La. Far below lies the Marsyangdi Valley and your exit route. A lot more downhill will make your knees ache, but after a good 8 hours of walking, you reach Dharapani (1963m). At this point, you've joined the Annapurna Circuit route.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Dharapani
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    13

    Dharapani to Kathmandu

    Using locally chartered 4x4 vehicle(s), you'll travel to Besisahar by way of the jeep road. It is very bumpy and dusty. Reaching the tarmac of Besisahar, the onward private vehicle journey to Kathmandu may feel like you're floating on a cloud. But it's a long drive, for sure. If you prefer to break up the journey, then our very own The Old Inn at Bandipur makes for a pleasing overnight respite. However, you may wish to consider some additional contingencies for this trek, whether it be for any overland travel delays that can and do occur or any difficulties that may arise on the trek.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    Included Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY 13

    Dharapani to Kathmandu

    Using locally chartered 4x4 vehicle(s), you'll travel to Besisahar by way of the jeep road. It is very bumpy and dusty. Reaching the tarmac of Besisahar, the onward private vehicle journey to Kathmandu may feel like you're floating on a cloud. But it's a long drive, for sure. If you prefer to break up the journey, then our very own The Old Inn at Bandipur makes for a pleasing overnight respite. However, you may wish to consider some additional contingencies for this trek, whether it be for any overland travel delays that can and do occur or any difficulties that may arise on the trek.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    Included Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY
    14

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Included Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made.

    DAY 14

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Included Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made.

    IMPORTANT

    This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY and can be customised for you accordingly.

    Please consider whether you want your customisable, private trip itinerary to also include CONTINGENCY.

    See our ABOUT CONTINGENCY Information

    Please CONTACT US to discuss CONTINGENCY and ADDITIONAL ACCLIMATISATION, as well as other CUSTOMISATION POSSIBILITES for your PRIVATE CUSTOM TREK

Price Guide

Price based on a private party of 4 persons, twin share rooms, low season.
  • $ US 1595 per person

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT OUR PRICE GUIDES

Restricted Area Permit: A special permit is required for this trek. The current cost of $US 130 per person is NOT INCLUDED in the above price guide. Extra days on trek may increase the cost of the permit and we will advise you of the permit cost applicable to your customised itinerary and indicate this to you separately. The permit cost will be charged in addition to the custom trip cost on your final balance invoice.

What's included

The price shown is for guideline purposes only. The price is inclusive of all accommodation described in the detailed itinerary, all airport and land transfers, private overland travel in the itinerary (all meals on trek), porterage on trek, and a Snow Cat Travel Trekking Guide. All guides are English-speaking professionals and fully licensed.

Restricted Area Permit: In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted, so we are unable to arrange Restricted Area Permits in advance) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office in Kathmandu. Restricted area permits are issued for a minimum of two people only. However, a permit for a solo traveller can be obtained, provided the minimum two-person total cost is paid

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips.

extend. shorten. upgrade

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips to Nepal.

extend. shorten. upgrade

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Snow Cat Travel is the brand name of and trading as Rural Heritage Journeys PVT LTD of Nepal with a Head Office in Kathmandu. Our parent company Rural Heritage Nepal owns and operates select boutique, heritage hotels in Nepal such as the Famous Farm at Nuwakot and the Old Inn at Bandipur.
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