15 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
15 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
This 15 day Manaslu Circuit Trek heads to a region where less trekkers visit. Trekkers who head to this region of the Himalayas will see unspoiled natural beauty, experience isolation and see the peaceful lifestyles of the deeply religious Tibetan Buddhists and their constant smiling faces. The trail takes you through remote Tamang and Sherpa villages in this harsh region of the Himalayas. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is like visiting a place where time has stood still. These people tolerate severe extremes of weather and yet still remain satisfied while living a spiritually rich life.
You will have numerous views of many magnificent snow covered peaks, and particularly the iconic Mt. Manaslu (8156m), meaning “Spirit of the mountain”- and the world’s 8th highest peak. The trail offers an astonishing range of photo opportunities of glaciers, moraines, exposed barren landscapes, waterfalls, and wild alpine rivers and of course Buddhist Gompas (temples), Mani stones and the ever-present and colorful Tibetan prayer flags.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the Budi Gandaki River as you head north to Deng village. The valley becomes narrower which means having to walk on narrow paths high above the river. Further north the valley widens and exposes panoramic views of alpine meadows and small Tibetan villages at the base of Manaslu's north face. We then arrive at Samagaun, the 3rd largest village in the region. From here we head west and cross the Larkya La Pass at (5213m) an alpine trail that connects the Budi Gandaki and the Marsyangdi River. Descending we pass through the beautiful alpine meadows at Bhimthang before linking with the main Annapurna Circuit route. We then return to Besisahar.
The trek begins at Soti Khola and passes through many alpine villages in the Manaslu region before ending at Besisahar. We will pass through Arughat and then head to Soti Khola where we begin our trek to: Machhakhola, Jagat, Deng, Lho, Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala. We then head to Larke La Pass (5106m), the highest altitude reached on this trek, and then head down to Bimtang from where we drive to Besisahar and then back to Kathmandu.
Sherpa Expedition Teams will take care of all paperwork required for this trek. A trekking permit is necessary before you can enter this region. We will also take care of all meals and accommodation on the trek.
The best time of the year to do this trek is in spring, from March to May, or in winter, from September to December.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition Teams will pick you up from the airport and take you to your 3 star hotel in Thamel.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to SotiKhola (710m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
This morning your guide will pick you up at around 5:30 am from your hotel. We then head on a road trip to Soti Khola. For the first four hours the road is sealed up to Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters of Dhading (1050m). From Dhading the road to Arughat is unsealed and quite bumpy. We will then drive for another hour and a half until we come to Soti Khola where we will stay the night at a guesthouse.
Day 3 : Trek from Sotikhola to Machhakhola (870m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we follow a mule track and ascend on an extraordinary path cut into the face of the cliff and then descend to Lapubesi Village (880m). We need to be careful and exercise caution on this stretch of the trail. We then head to Nauli Khola, cross a suspension bridge and then follow the trail next to the Budi Gandaki River before coming to Machha Khola (900m), a place where many trekkers were stranded after the earthquake in 2015 and had to be rescued, We will stay at a guesthouse here tonight.
Day 4 : Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1,340m) 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail alongside the river to Khorlabesi and the hot spring at Tatopani (meaning hot water) (930m), and then trek along the eastern bank of the Budi Gandaki River to Doban, Thulo Dunga and Yara Bagar (1370m). The trail zigzags and repeatedly crosses the river over suspension bridges before we come to the entrance gate to Manaslu Conservation Area and Jagat (1410m) - with its characteristic flagstone village square. We will check that this route is passable, and may decide to take an alternative route along a higher path on the east side of the river before descending to the old trail near Doban. We will stay overnight at Jagat.
Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (2,095m) 5-6 hours.
The trail begins as we head up to Salleri and Sirdibas before arriving at Philim. The terrain becomes gradually more barren as the trail passes several waterfalls until we reach a crossroad at Ekle Bhatti where the trail leads to Lokpa - a village on the trail to the Tsum Valley. We then follow the trail above the junction of the Buri Gandaki and Shar Khola Rivers and continue on to Pewa and Deng (1860m) where we will stay the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,900m) 5-6 hours.
Today the trail takes us above the Tom Khola (river) to Longa Chuta before passing through a delightful fir and rhododendron forest filled with birds and Langur monkeys on the north side of the Buri Gandaki River. We then cross over to the other side of the river before arriving at Namrung (2660m) that was previously a customs post in the days when this was a route frequently used for transporting salt from Tibet. Namrung is yet another village that suffered widespread damage from the 2015 earthquake, but today it has been rebuilt.
Day 7 : Trek from Namrung to Samagaon, (3,530m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we will walk past a long Mani stone wall in the village of Lho and have a startling view of Peak 29 in front of us. We will take a minor detour to the Pungen Glacier for an up-close view of the conspicuous Mt. Manaslu. We will stay in Samagaun at guesthouse overnight.
Day 8 : Acclimatization day at Samagaon.
Before we head higher we need to acclimatize. Health professionals strongly suggest that you stay active and not just sit idle. Today we will go to the Gompa at Pugyen (4070m), a one day trek that leaves the trail between the villages of Syaula and Sama. We may also head up this valley to the rugged terrain at the Pugin Glacier. Another option is a trek to Birendra Tal (lake - 3450m) and then a physically tough climb up to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m). It is said that to the north of Birendra Tal is Milarepa's Cave (famous Buddha sage) that he used as a meditation retreat.
Day 9 : Trek from Samagaon to to Samdo (3,860m) Duration: 4- 5 hours.
The trail today initially ascends and heads back to the Buri Gandaki River and passes the crossroads of Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. The valley then broadens before coming to Kermo Khadka and then to the white Kani Gateway - the entrance to Samdo (3860m). If we have enough time we will trek to the peak above the village for remarkable views of Mt. Manaslu. If it is necessary to further acclimatize there is a 6 to 7 hour trek of 640 meters up to the moraine of the Fukang Glacier where you will have panoramic views to several passes that locals use to cross into Tibet.
Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala. (4,460m) Duration 4-5 hours.
This morning we begin our climb to Larkya La Pass, a trail that offers grand views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier. It is likely you will see Himalayan blue sheep on the trail leading to Dharamsala (4480m). This is as high as we go today without risking altitude sickness. This is also the last safe haven before the pass. This section of the trek is often subject to snowfall between mid - December to mid - March, when snow frequently prevents passage through Larkya La Pass. Samdo Lodge is generally closed in winter months. Your guide will be informed earlier if the lodge is closed.
Day 11 : Cross Larkya La (5,160m) to Bimtang (3,720m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
This morning we have a short climb to the north side of Larkya Glacier from where we have outstanding views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. The climb to the Larkya La Pass begins with a gradual ascent but then becomes steeper as we get nearer to the pass. At the top of the pass we have surprising panoramic views of several mountain ranges. The descent from the pass is also hard on the legs. Our next stop is at Bhimthang where we camp overnight in a tent.
Day 12 : Trek from Bhimthang to Trek to Tilije (2,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow a ridge along a beautiful trail in alpine meadows, cross the Dudh Khola (river) and walk through rhododendron forest before coming to the village of Gho. The next stop is Tilije where we will stay at a guesthouse overnight.
Day 13 : Trek from Tilije to Tal (1700m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today heads to Tal that known for its beautiful waterfall. The trail takes us across ridges, along stone trails and past Mani walls and Chorten until we arrive at Thonje. From Thonje we head to Dharapani along a section of the Annapurna Circuit trek route. Prior to arriving at Tal we cross the Marsyangdi River.
Day 14 : Drive from Tal to Kathmandu Duration: 8-9 hours.
Today we head to Syange from where there are buses that will take us to Kathmandu. We will be on the road for 8 to 9 hours passing through hills and mountains before arriving back at Kathmandu.
Day 15 : Transfer to the International airport for your final departure.
Today our representative will take you to the airport at least three hours prior to your scheduled departure. If your flight is later in the day or in the evening you will have time to do some last minute shopping around Thamel or go sightseeing. We look forward to seeing you again and being able to take you to some more beautiful places in the Himalayan Mountains.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and from Dharapani to Kathmandu by public bus.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
- Best Possible Teahouse, lodge accommodation during the trek
- One night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Government License holder English Speaking Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Trekking experienced and qualified trek leader,(8 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Coverage of Guides and Porters, Their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
- Manaslu special permit with Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- Souvenir - A company's T-shirt
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Cost Excludes
- International flight airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- All Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after we start our journey
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek.
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, tea, coffee, pie, pudding, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters etc
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for guide and porters (Recommended by the Culture)
- Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes etc.
- All the costs and expenses which are not listed in "cost includes" will be counted as Excludes
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfortable and better quality teahouses at lower altitudes. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food in the mountainous regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We take the bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu. In the past Arughat used to be the starting point of the trek but nowadays, due to better road conditions we can travel by bus direct to the Soti Khola. We will travel along secondary (rough) roads all the way to Soti Khola by local bus and from Dharapani to Besisahar we will be traveling by private jeep
Guide and Porter on the trek
We provide you trained & certified trekking guides and porters who will take care of all logistics and a porter for every two trekkers who will each carry about 20 kg (10 kg for each trekker). An experienced guide and porter will be the difference between success and failure. They will also save you from taking unnecessary risks during poor weather conditions.
Physical fitness
Some days can be challenging where you often have to walk 6-8 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Best season to travel
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is usually done in autumn (Sept. to November) and spring (March to May) when you are much more likely to get to have crystal clear views of the mountains and can also enjoy the lush vegetation in the lower regions of the trail - particularly during spring..
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
I have never hike before, can I make Manaslu Trekking?
Yes, you can. No matter who you are, as long as you are reasonably fit, can walk for 5-6 hours a day and trek/hike a few uphills, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking team will support you to the fullest to transform your dream into reality.
What is the best Season for trek to Manaslu Trekking?
Spring and autumn are the best season for Manaslu Circuit trek. Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November) are the best months for trekking as weather will be clear and calm. Also you can get opportunity to view High mountains including Manaslu with the full of Snow.
How much does it costs for Permit?
The permit cost depends on the month and number of days you will spend in the Manaslu region. You will need three kinds of permits issued by the Government of Nepal. Manaslu Restricted Permit Manaslu trek permit costs USD 100.00 for the first seven days and USD 15.00 each additional day during September to November Manaslu trek permit costs USD 75.00 for first 7 days and USD 10.00 each extra day from December to August. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Entry fee for SAARC Nationals is Nepali Currency 200 per person and for other Nationals is Nepali Currency 3,000 per person. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Entry fee for SAARC Nationals is Nepali Currency 200 per person and for other Nationals is Nepali Currency 3,000 per person. Tsum Valley Restricted Permit (Optional: if you want to go to the Tsum Valley) If you choose the Tsum Valley trek, it costs USD 40 for each person per week.
Is there an age limit for Manaslu trekking?
No, there is no age limit for the trek to Manaslu Trekking but, you need to be in good physical shape and have a positive attitude. We also suggest you to prior to the excursion though we suggest you to please see your doctor and obtain necessary permission and advice, as well as medications for traveling in extreme altitude prior to the excursion.
What are the meals on the Manaslu trekking like?
During trekking, you will be served meals in the teahouses. Typical meals are noodles, rice, pasta or potato dishes along with vegetables and egg/chicken/meat dishes. Other items mostly served as breakfasts include egg, pancake, bread, porridge, muesli, and toasts with peanut butter and honey.
What kind of accommodation will be provided during the Manaslu trekking?
Accommodation is not an issue in Manaslu Trek as trails are usually less crowded and new and improved tea houses are opening up all the time. The tea houses and lodges are ready to serve trekkers.
Are there toilet facilities at the tea houses? What opportunities will I have for shower during trekking?
Most of the teahouses on the Manaslu Trekking trail have squat toilet facilities but recently built lodges have western-style toilets as well. Nowadays, flush toilets are also being introduced with number of increasing trekkers each year. It is highly recommended to carry your own toilet paper and other required toiletries. Do not expect full bath or daily showers while on the Manaslu trek. If you insist on taking a hot shower daily, spare a lot of money for that. For hot water showers in the trek, you have to pay a few dollars at a time.
What kind of clothes do we require for the trekking and is it possible to purchase it in Kathmandu before the start of the trip?
What you want to wear depends on you but we suggest you wear warm clothes during the Manaslu trekking. A down jacket, thermal longs and top, comfortable trekking trousers, t-shirts, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves might be useful. There are numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area of Kathmandu where you can get all of these items in both local and branded stores alike. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking may also accompany and assist you if required.
Do I need to bring any bags for trekking? If yes, what kind?
During the Manaslu trekking, you will be on a long journey for which you will need two bags to keep your belongings. A rucksack/duffle bag and a day bag for personal items. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you with a duffle bag (which is need to refund after the trek) that you can use throughout your entire journey and even afterward. These bags are durable and hence perfect for any kind of trekking journey. While the duffle bag will be carried by the potters, you will have to carry a day bag on your own. A day bag is a small backpack that has enough room for everything you will need on a day hike such as lunch, water, extra clothing and perhaps a few personnel items like camera, battery chargers, etc.
Do I need to bring any personal equipment like sleeping bags, down jackets, Trekking poles etc?
If possible, we suggest you bring your own equipment. However, sleeping bags and down jackets will be provided to you by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking. With regards to trekking poles, if you are used to walking with it then take them with you, as you will probably find them useful especially on the way down. They are not essential though and the walk is manageable without them. It is mostly a personal preference. If you prefer to take the trekking poles with you on the trekking then you can either bring your own pole or buy it from numerous options available in Kathmandu itself.
Is it possible for me to store extra clothing that I will not need?
Yes, if you have a bag of extra clothing for when you return from the trekking, you will be able to store it safely in Kathmandu at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking office. Also, the storage facility is provided by most hotels and lodges in Kathmandu or you can also store it in our office for the duration of the trekking.
What problems can arise on high altitude?
Our itinerary has been specially tailored to prevent any kind of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) while moving up to higher altitudes. Normally, altitude sickness starts from 3,600 meters and above. You will be trekking at a relatively slow and gradual pace as part of the acclimatization process. Cut off caffeinated, alcoholic and smoking items. Drink at least 4 liters of water a day. Trek slow. Don't skip the acclimatization days. Better to continue with Diamox (if any symptoms show up). Drink Garlic Soup. In the higher elevation, there is less oxygen in the air and this is more so while crossing high passes. Our expert guides will advise you on how to avoid AMS and treat it when/ if required.
Do I need insurance for Manaslu trekking?
Make sure to have both medical and evacuation insurance before coming to Nepal for Manaslu trekking. You should be careful in choosing a policy while traveling to a Himalayan country like Nepal as some insurance companies may make special exceptions for adventure travel. If you are confused about the insurance, please inform us and we will help you. It is usually better to arrange your insurance in your country before travel.
How long do I need to walk per day during my trek to Manaslu Trek?
The trekking will be 5-7 hours a day depending upon the landscape and destination.
How long will it take to reach Manaslu Trekking?
It takes 6 to 21 days to complete Manaslu Trek depending upon the mode of transportation and packages of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking offers.
How safe is Manaslu trekking?
We at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team always have the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of our valued customers as our foremost priority at all times, and we assure you a wonderful and unforgettable time with us in our beautiful country. Sherpa team members of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will be carrying all the necessary gear, equipment, and first aid kits and they have extensive first aid training. If a trekker falls sick on high altitude, the leader will decide whether to continue the trek. In case of emergency, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking have a rescue helicopter to bring you back from the higher elevation. Moreover, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also provides oximeter to monitor the oxygen level at high altitude and offers regular health check-up facilities.
What is the mode of transportation?
As Manaslu has recently gained popularity among trekkers, not many facilities are available on the trails. Due to its isolation and off-road trails, the region is not yet connected to the outer world via proper roads. So, you will need to take local buses or hire a private jeep to reach the starting point of the trek to Arughat or Sotikhola. A local bus would cost around US $10 per person whereas a jeep would cost between $150 and $200 each way but is worth the convenience than the packed buses. If you are traveling in a group, the cost can be shared by all and would be around $30 per person. The same rate would apply to your return trip from Tal or Besisahar to Kathmandu.
What is the luggage limit for porter?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide one porter for two trekkers to carry 20 kgs of luggage (maximum 10 kg for each trekker). Please be sure your porters are not overloaded because they do not carry only your equipment but also lift your spirit to reach new heights, and your love, affection, and generosity can be the reason for them to work hard to take you to your destination.
What types of liquid do I need to drink at high altitude?
Garlic soup is a must while trekking. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking recommend trekkers to drink green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon ginger tea and drink at least 2-4 liters of water a day. However, it is better to avoid alcohol and alcoholic beverages, caffeinated items, and hot-chocolates at high altitude.
I am a vegetarian. Am I supposed to get enough meal on my trek?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also encourage to avoid dairy and cheesy items and strongly suggest not to consume them during the trek. Our packages are suitable for both vegan and vegetarians.
Do I need to tip my porter and guide?
Your guide and porters are a big reason why you got a chance to feel something very few can have. Apart from guiding and carrying your necessities and being mindful of your safety, they want to see you happily succeeded more than anyone like family and help you successfully complete the trek safely. So, your tips reflect gratitude towards them. So, tipping is a recommended culture for porters and guide in Nepal as a gesture of thankfulness.
Can I buy the gear in Nepal and sell it afterwards?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will introduce dozens of shops selling knock-off gear in Kathmandu. You can also barter those gears at the knock-off places but be sure you keep the receipt safely. Moreover, you can rent the needed gears if you do not want to buy them.
Is there Wi-Fi on the trek?
You can have WiFi a few places such as Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, Bhimthang, Dharapni, etc.
Are there ATMs available during the Manaslu trekking?
ATM services are not available only during the trekking. So be sure you carry enough cash with you.
Will I be able to charge my batteries during trekking in the Manslu Trekking?
Most of the tea houses/ lodges have electricity whereby you will be able to charge your iPod or camera batteries. Please note that lodges/tea houses will charge you some extra money for the services. The fee may vary from 1 USD to 3 USD per hour.
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