Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Quick Facts:

Destination Introduction:

The Manaslu Himalayan region opened to tourism in 1991, where foreign visitors are now allowed to hike here with special permits. The region is also declared as Manaslu Conservation Area, which is important progress in efforts to preserve the nature and culture resources of this area. 

It is another less travelled trail that goes through terraced fields, beautiful meadows, lush forests, river valleys and snowcapped mountain scenery. This trek begins in Bhulbule in the foothills. We will hike along the Marshyangdi River to Dharapani following the Annapurna Circuit trail and then eastward along the Dudh Khola (river) which begins at Larkya Glacier on the Westside.

People and cultural experience along this route:

While hiking in the lower foothills, we will see mixed ethnic groups, and in the upper foothills the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups until around Bimthang. On the eastside are Tibetan ethnic groups who are Nepali nationals today; however, their main cultural practice is Tibetan in every aspect of the life they live. They dwell in villages in the upper Manaslu valleys and lead traditional lifestyles. They raise Yaks, sheep, horses and other life stock. They practice limited farming in challenging soils and climates that include potatoes, barley, buckwheat, radish, and mustard greens. The cultural heritage and bonds continue and enhanced with their ongoing trade with Tibet.

Since the opening of Manaslu region for tourism, some of the villagers are operating lodges and teahouses to cater the growing number of visitors. However, the tourism infrastructures are still very basic and limited. We hope to see more comfortable lodging developments along this route soon.

The Westside of Manaslu including the Dudh Khola valley is spectacular. The forest is pristine and well preserved in this part of the world. The local inhabitants living along the Dudh Khola are mostly Gurung, Magar and Tibetan ethnic groups. Whether we hike from the east or west, we will see people of mixed ethnic groups. Whoever they are, they greet us with a smile and Namaste.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1 Arrive Kathmandu (4,400ft)

Meet on arrival, be welcomed and then transfer to your hotel for check in. 

Evening-trip briefing and welcome dinner. Two overnight at hotel.

Day 2 Kathmandu World Heritage Site Tour

Breakfast will be served at your hotel, and then depart to visit various Cultural World Heritage Sites to see ancient Nepalese arts and architect. This is an easy day which allows you to overcome your jetlag after a long flight. Afternoon return to hotel and remainder of the day free.

Day 3 Road to Bhulbule (2,755ft)

Breakfast at hotel and travel overland to Bhulbule for about 6-7 hours depending on traffic. We will stop en-route for lunch. Bhulbule is a small town located at the bank of the Marshyangdi River and surrounded by scenic farmlands and villages. It is much lower than Kathmandu Valley. Overnight in Lodge.

Day 4 Hike to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft)

We will hike to Jagat via Bahun Danda, a hilltop village and through scenic slopes, farmlands and villages. It is an easy hike at start and then a small uphill until we reach Bahun Danda. Then rest of the afternoon is fairly easy with small downhill, straight and uphill trails. In the afternoon we will cross over the Marshyangdi River to Jagat. 

Overnight in Lodge.

Day 5 Hike to Dharapani (1,860m/6,100ft)

We will hike up along the Marshyangdi River crossing it twice by the time we reach our evening stop. It is a scenic river valley trail with sheer rock cliffs and scenic green. 

Overnight in Lodge.

Day 6 Trek to Gho (8,249ft) via Tilche (7,544ft)

Breakfast and then trek along the Dudh Khola gorge to Gho. We will stop for lunch in Tilche Village, which has a medieval appearance. It is Gurung and Tibetan ethnic village surrounded by beautiful forests and farmland below the sheer rocky walls. After lunch, continue trek to our evening stop in Gho.

Day 7 Trek to Bhimathang (11,775ft),

Breakfast and then hike along the Dudh Khola and through the scenic forest trail.

It is a gradual upriver valley hike with several small uphill trails. En route, we will see Manaslu’s northwest ridge, Pungge Himal, Purdi Glacier and scenic views.

Day 8 Trek to Larche (4,215m/13,825ft)

Late Breakfast and trek uphill to Larche, Larkya Pass base camp on the Westside. We will walk in the surrounding hill to the southeast to enjoy an excellent view of the valley and Manalsu.

Day 9 Trek over Larkya Pass (16,925ft) and to Samdo (12,703ft)

We will wake up early morning, eat breakfast and trek up the moraine glacier trail. We will reach the Larkya Pass (16,925ft) around 9:00AM, enjoy the stunning views on both sides of the pass, celebrate and then trek downhill to Larkya base camp (14,629ft) on the eastside. We will stop here for tea and coffee to warm up and then continue hike downhill to Samdo overnight.

Day 10 Trek to Samagaon (11,565ft)

We will eat breakfast, and hike along the most scenic Burignadaki River to Sama Gaon, which is the biggest village in the area. We will have an excellent view Manaslu and Himal Chuli peaks above the beautiful valley. We will each Sama for lunch and then explore its village and monastery in the afternoon. 

Day 11 Lho Gaon (3,180m/10,435ft)

Lho Gaon is a very traditional Tibetan settlement with monasteries, stupas, mani walls and terraced farms. The view of Manaslu and scenic vistas are excellent from here.

After breakfast, hike through the scenic trail to Lho. It is a beautiful walk through open space and forested area. It is mostly downhill and straight trail rest of the day.

Day 12 Helicopter to Kathmandu

Breakfast and prepare for helicopter flight to Kathmandu. 

Arrive Kathmandu Airport and transfer to your hotel. 

Farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at hotel / 2 nights.

Day 13 Free Day in Kathmandu

Breakfast served at hotel and free for your own activities. 

Options today are shopping or visit some of the attractions of Kathmandu Valley you have not seen yet.

Day 14 Departure from Nepal

Breakfast served at your hotel, and then our complimentary transfer will take you to Kathmandu Airport for your flight. End of service.