This 17 day Manaslu Circuit Trek is an adventure to a region where very few travelers visit. Those who choose this less touristy trek to this region of the Himalayas will see its natural beauty, experience remoteness and the peaceful lifestyles of the deeply spiritual Tibetan Buddhists - and their smiling faces. This is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of other trekking routes in Nepal. The trail takes you through distant Tamang and Sherpa villages in remote and harsh regions of the Himalayas. These people withstand harsh extremes of weather and yet somehow remain contented living a spiritually fulfilling and rich life.
On the trek you will have constant views of many amazing snow covered peaks, particularly the iconic Mt. Manaslu (8156m), meaning “Spirit of the mountain” (the world’s 8th highest peak). There are countless photo opportunities of glaciers, moraines, barren landscapes, waterfalls, wild alpine rivers, and of course Buddhist Gompas (temples), Mani stones (stones engraved in Sanskrit prayers) and the omnipresent multi-colored Tibetan prayer flags.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the incredible Budi Gandaki River as you head north to Deng village. The valley narrows forcing you to walk on narrow paths above the river. Further north the valley opens up and exposes unspoiled views of alpine meadows and small Tibetan villages at the base of Manaslu's overwhelming north face. We then arrive at Samagaun, the 3rd largest village in the region. We then follow the trail west and cross the Larkya La Pass at (5106m), a route that connects the Budi Gandaki and the Marsyangdi rivers. As we head to lower altitudes we cross the beautiful alpine meadows at Bhimthang before connecting with the main Annapurna Circuit trail. We then head back to Besisahar.
The trek starts at Soti Khola and passes through many alpine villages in the Manaslu region: Arughat and then to Soti Khola where we begin our trek to Machhakhola, Jagat, Deng, Lho, Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala.
Sherpa Expedition Teams will take care of all paperwork required for this trek such as the trekking permit that is required before you can venture into this region. The best time to do this trek is in spring, from March to May, or in winter, from September to December.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be met by a representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking who will take you to your 3-star hotels. You can rest at your hotel or stroll around Thamel and do some last-minute shopping and take in the sights.
After breakfast, you will meet your trekking leader when he will go over what is required for the trek, such as your Manaslu trekking permit. You will also need 3 passport size photos and a copy of your travel insurance policy. The rest of the day is free and will allow you to explore Kathmandu and visit many famous landmarks, such as Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. You may also wish to catch up on shopping for any last-minute requirements for your trek.
We will take a public bus, stopping along the way for a lunch break. Tonight we will stay at Soti Khola near the river..
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Our trek today traverses a mule track and ascends on a breathtaking path cut into the face of the cliff, then descends to Lapubesi (880m). Caution is required here! We then continue to Nauli Khola, crossing a suspension bridge on the way and then take the trail beside the Budi Gandaki River before reaching Machha Khola(900m). This so happens to be where many trekkers were stranded after the earthquake in 2015 and had to be rescued, Depending on current conditions, there is an alternative overnight stop in Kashi Gaun located on the east side of the river.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Our route today follows the river to Khorlabesi and the tepid spring at Tatopani (meaning hot water) (930m), and then continues on the eastern bank of the Budi Gandaki River to Doban, Thulo Dunga and Yara Bagar (1370m). The trail zigzags across the river with several suspension bridges to cross before reaching the entrance gate to Manaslu Conservation Area and Jagat (1410m), with its unique flagstone village square. Permits are checked by authorities. Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will check that the route is passable, and may suggest we take an alternative route taking a much higher path on the east side of the river before descending to the old trail near Doban.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Above Jagat, the trail climbs to Salleri and Sirdibas before reaching Philim. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as the trail winds past several waterfalls until reaching a junction at Ekle Bhatti where the trail leads to Lokpa a village on the trail to the Tsum Valley. We then climb above the junction of the Buri Gandaki and Shar Khola Rivers and then head to Pewa and finally Deng (1860m). Many villages in this area suffered extensive damage in the 2015 earthquake.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Today we climb beyond the Tom (tum) Khola to Longa Chuta and then come into a captivating fir and rhododendron forest filled with birds and Langur monkeys located on the north side of the Buri Gandaki River. We then cross back to the other side of the river before reaching Namrung (2660m), an earlier customs post in the days when this was a route for transporting salt from Tibet. Namrung also suffered extensive damage from the 2015 earthquake, but today it has been restored to its previous charm.
.Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Our trek today is about 5 hours and along the way we have spectacular views of Sringi and Ganesh Himal. The village of Namrung is where from here on you will see mostly Tibetan villages and their religious symbols and monasteries. As the trail continues we will pass through forests and farmlands where barley is grown on the terraced hillsides. The trail starts to expose the giant peak of Manaslu right up to Lho Gham Village where we stay the night. In the morning we have a great opportunity of capturing the mountain views from our lodge or the Gompa.
Today the trail passes through several Tibetan villages and past Gompas. After a 4 hour trek, we reach Samagaun where we will stop and relax and get used to the higher altitudes. While here we can explore the village and enjoy the welcoming smiling faces of the people. The architecture here is distinctly Tibetan and their costumes reflect their Tibetan origins. We can also take a short hike up to a Gompa above the town or wander the streets and chit-chat with the locals – a very heartwarming experience. Tonight we stay at Samgaun.
At these higher altitudes, it is necessary to get acclimatized, for at least one day, before attempting climbs to higher altitudes. Health specialists suggest that you move about and don’t sit idly. A good way to stay active is to explore the Gompa at Pugyen (4070m), a one day hike that leaves the trail between Syaula and Sama. If time permits, it is possible for you to carry on up this valley to the rugged rocks and terrain of the Pugin glacier. Another option is a trip to the lake at Birendra Tal (3450m) and a demanding ascent to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m). It is believed that north of Birendra Tal is Milarepa's Cave (famous Buddha) claimed to have been used as a meditation retreat by the Buddhist saint.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Today the trail descends and heads back to the Budi Gandaki River passing the junction of Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. The valley expands before reaching Kermo Khadka and then continuing to the white Kani Gateway signaling the entrance to Samdo (3860m). If time permits we may trek to the peak above the village for impressive views of Mount Manaslu. If it is necessary to further acclimatize, there is a 6 to 7-hour trek climbing 640m to the moraine of the Fukang Glacier, where you will be rewarded with far-reaching views towards several passes used by locals to cross over into Tibet.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
A relatively short day sees us descending through fields prior to starting our climb towards the Larkya-La Pass, a trek offering dazzling views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier, and a likelihood of spotting Himalayan blue sheep on your trek to Dharamsala (4480m). This is as high as we go today without risking altitude sickness. This is the last safe haven before reaching the pass. This sector of the trek is often subject to snowfall and from mid-December to mid-March, when snow blocks the Larkya-La Pass, the Samdo Lodge is typically closed. Your guide will know in advance if the lodge is closed.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Today’s trek is about 8 to 9 hours but it first starts with a short climb to the north side of Larkya Glacier. From this vantage point we have excellent views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. The climb to the Larkya La (5100m) pass initially is quite a gradual ascent but gradually becomes steeper as we reach the pass. After arriving at the top of the pass we are blessed with incredible panorama views of various mountain ranges. The descent from the pass is equally physically demanding. We soon arrive at Bhimthang where we stay the night in a teahouse.
Today we have awesome views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal along with views to the valley and forests below. We cross the Dudh Khola (river) and trek through rhododendron forests, and past the village of.Karche (2785m) which you will find is the highest farmland in the region. We stop for a brief rest at Gho Village before making our way to our overnight stop at Tilje.
The trail today follows a rocky path to Dudh Khola past Mani stones until we reach Thonje Village. We pass through a police checkpoint and then head to Dharapani at which point we connect with the main Annapurna trail. From Dharapani we take a Jeep to Besisahar, a journey of about 4 to 5 hours. Our last night is spent at Besisahar.
Today we drive back by public transport or private vehicle to Kathmandu following the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers and passing through Besisahar Village, the district headquarter of Lamjung Province. Tonight we stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Our representative will take you to the airport around 3 hours before departure. This is only ‘farewell’ until we see you again for your next expedition into the Himalaya region.
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.
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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..
Fill out the form below and a Travel Expert will reach out to create your perfect tour.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The trekking will be 5-7 hours a day depending upon the landscape and destination.
It takes 6 to 21 days to complete Manaslu Trek depending upon the mode of transportation and packages of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking offers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You can have WiFi a few places such as Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, Bhimthang, Dharapni, etc.
ATM services are not available only during the trekking. SO be sure you carry enough cash with you.
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.
100%
Based On 57 Reviews
Sherpa Expedition provided excellent service and support during our Manaslu Circuit Trek. The team’s organization and attention to detail were impressive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trek. Our guide was knowledgeable and offered valuable insights into the region’s culture and environment. The porters were reliable and made sure our needs were met. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to high-quality service and safety made this trek both memorable and rewarding. Highly recommended for a top-notch trekking experience.
Sherpa Expedition provided a fantastic experience on our Manaslu Circuit Trek. The team’s attention to detail and organization were evident throughout the journey. Our guide’s in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for the region made the trek enjoyable and informative. The porters were hardworking and ensured our comfort. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to delivering a high-quality and safe trekking experience made the adventure truly special. For a top-quality trekking experience, Sherpa Expedition is highly recommended.
Our trek with Sherpa Expedition around the Manaslu Circuit was seamless and impressive. The team’s professionalism and meticulous planning ensured a smooth journey through challenging terrain. Our guide’s expertise and support made the trek enjoyable and educational. The porters were efficient and courteous, taking great care of our gear. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to safety and client satisfaction made this trek exceptional. For a hassle-free and memorable adventure, Sherpa Expedition is a top choice.
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
55
2
0
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked*
Your email address is required for downloading package details.*
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is one of the pioneers of Trekking, tour and expedition in Nepal which was established on January 07, 1977, with a motto: ‘Enhancing Tourism possibilities across the Globe’. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is proud to be recognized as the fifth Trekking and Adventure company authorized by the Tourism Board of Nepal.
© Copyright Sherpa Expedition And Trekking. All rights reserved.
Made with in Nepal by TECH 101