Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of Nepal's most beautiful and least-crowded off-the-beaten-path adventures. This trek circumnavigates Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth highest peak. Because this is a government-designated restricted area, a special permit and a minimum of two foreign trekkers with a licensed guide is mandatory. The journey follows the dramatic Budhi Gandaki River gorge, ascending into the high-Himalayan realm where the Nubri and Tsum communities preserve genuine Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture and ancient art. The circuit culminates with the thrilling crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,165m) before descending into the lush Bimtang valley.
Trek Route Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Thamel. Welcome briefing with your guide and permit preparation. Overnight in Kathmandu (1,400m).
A free day in Kathmandu for sightseeing — visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath. This day is also used for finalizing trek permits, equipment checks, and completing any remaining preparations. Overnight in Kathmandu.
A long 7-8 hour drive takes us from Kathmandu through Arughat to Machha Khola (900m), following the Budhi Gandaki River. The road winds through villages and riverside terrain. Overnight at Machha Khola.
We begin our trek, climbing through forest and crossing suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki. We pass natural hot springs at Tatopani and reach Jagat (1,340m), the checkpoint and gateway to Manaslu Conservation Area. Approx. 6-7 hrs.
The trail crosses and re-crosses the Budhi Gandaki through forests and past small settlements. We reach Deng (1,865m), where the influence of Tibetan culture begins to emerge with mani walls and prayer flags. Approx. 6-7 hrs.
We continue climbing through rhododendron and pine forests, crossing the river and ascending to the beautiful Buddhist village of Namrung (2,630m). Here, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags mark the beginning of authentic high-Himalayan culture. Approx. 5-6 hrs.
Today's trail offers dramatic, close-up views of Mt. Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Passing through the village of Lho, we arrive at Sama Gaon (3,520m), the largest high-altitude settlement on the circuit with a spectacular backdrop of Manaslu. Approx. 7-8 hrs.
A crucial acclimatization day in Sama Gaon. For an optional morning hike, we can trek toward Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m) or visit the sacred Birendra Lake for outstanding views of the glacier and the mountain. Rest in Sama Gaon for the night.
We make a short but steep climb to Samado (3,875m), a small village close to the Tibetan border where snow leopards and wild blue sheep are occasionally spotted. The surrounding landscape grows dramatically more barren and high-alpine. Approx. 3-4 hrs.
We climb past the Larkya Glacier base camp to reach Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi, 4,460m), the last tea house before the pass. The path is short but steep and dry. We rest early tonight to prepare for tomorrow's long, high-altitude crossing. Approx. 4-5 hrs.
The most important and challenging day of the journey. Starting very early (around 4:00 AM), we climb steeply for 4-5 hours across glaciated terrain to reach Larkya La Pass (5,165m). The summit offers a breathtaking panorama of Himalayan giants. After celebrating, we make a long descent to the lush green valley of Bimtang (3,590m). Approx. 8-9 hrs.
We descend through forests along the Dudh Khola river, passing through the villages of Goa and Tilche, arriving at Tilije (2,300m) where the Manaslu Circuit meets the Annapurna Circuit route. We celebrate the completion of the circuit with our guides and porters. Approx. 6-7 hrs.
A long 8-9 hour drive takes us from Tilije back to Kathmandu along the Marsyangdi valley. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional Nepalese farewell dinner in Thamel.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Depart with lasting memories of Nepal's most remote and spectacular mountain circuit.
What's Included
- All overland transportation between Kathmandu and the trek start/end points
- Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP), and ACAP permit fees
- Three daily meals and tea house/lodge accommodation throughout the 14-day trek
- Licensed, English-speaking guide and experienced porters
- All government taxes and agency service charges
What's Excluded
- International flights and Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal trekking gear, clothing, and personal medications
- Lodge services like Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers
- Mandatory travel insurance covering high-altitude helicopter evacuation
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters
Important Information
Restricted Area Rules: Solo trekking is not permitted in the Manaslu region. A minimum of two foreign trekkers and a government-licensed guide are mandatory. The Restricted Area Permit requires your original passport.
Physical Fitness & Preparation: This trek involves long daily walks and significant altitude gain. Good cardiovascular fitness is essential. Trekkers with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before booking.
Mandatory Insurance: A valid travel insurance policy specifying high-altitude helicopter rescue is strictly required prior to booking, as emergency evacuation may be necessary in remote sections of the route.
Photo Gallery
Budhi Gandaki gorge, Day 4
Jagat, Day 4
Lho village, Day 7
Larkya La Pass, Day 11What Trekkers Say
★★★★★
"Manaslu felt wonderfully remote compared to the busier trails. Crossing Larkya La with our small group was the highlight of our year, and our guide knew every village along the Budhi Gandaki by name."
★★★★★
"The restricted-area permit process was handled entirely by TerraBlaze, which saved us a lot of stress. Sama Gaon and the Tibetan villages near the border were unforgettable."