Experience the magical moment in Manaslu Trek and embark on a life-enhancing adventure.
Overview
The 15-day Manaslu Trek offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of Nepal’s most beautiful and remote regions. The trek takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters. This adventure leads through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and river valleys to alpine meadows and high mountain passes. The cultural experience is equally rich, with a chance to observe the lifestyle of the local Tibetan communities and visit ancient monasteries. This trek is perfect for those seeking a less crowded but equally thrilling alternative to the Annapurna Circuit.
Trip highlights
- Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other peaks.
- Cultural Experience: Explore the Tibetan-influenced culture and visit ancient monasteries.
- Larkya La Pass: Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, one of the most dramatic passes in the Himalayas.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through varied terrains, from lush forests to alpine meadows and arid highlands.
- Local Villages: Experience the unique lifestyle of the inhabitants of the remote villages.
- Flora and Fauna: Discover the rich biodiversity of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, meet with the trekking guide and have a trip briefing session. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Today, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley with a knowledgeable guide. Visit the famous Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
After an early breakfast, embark on a long drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The journey takes you through the scenic countryside, passing through small towns, lush forests, and terraced fields. You will drive along the Trishuli River, enjoying the picturesque landscapes. Overnight at a guesthouse in Machha Khola.
Start your trek from Machha Khola, following the Budi Gandaki River. The trail passes through charming villages, dense forests, and suspension bridges. You will walk through the villages of Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where you can enjoy natural hot springs. Continue to Dobhan and then to Jagat, a beautiful village with traditional stone houses. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Today's trek takes you through a mix of terrains, including riverbanks, forested paths, and terraced fields. Pass through the villages of Salleri and Sirdibas before reaching Philim, a large Gurung village. The trail continues through bamboo forests and narrow gorges. Finally, reach Deng, a small village with a few lodges. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Continue your trek from Deng, crossing the Budi Gandaki River several times via suspension bridges. The trail passes through the villages of Bihi Phedi and Ghap, where you will see Mani walls and prayer flags. As you ascend, the landscape changes, and you start to get glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Reach Namrung, a picturesque village with stunning views of the mountains. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Today's trek is shorter but offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. Pass through the villages of Lihi and Sho, surrounded by barley fields and apple orchards. The trail continues to Lho Gaun, where you will visit the Ribung Monastery and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. Overnight at a guesthouse.
The trail from Lho Gaun to Samagaon offers breathtaking mountain views. Pass through the villages of Shyala and Pung Gyen Gompa, with spectacular views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and other peaks. Samagaon is a traditional Tibetan village with a large monastery and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Spend a day at Samagaon to acclimatize to the altitude. You can take a side trip to the Pung Gyen Monastery or hike to the Manaslu Base Camp for stunning views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Another option is to visit the Birendra Lake, a glacial lake with crystal-clear waters. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Today's trek is relatively short and easy, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery. The trail passes through yak pastures and small villages. As you approach Samdo, you will have amazing views of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes. Samdo is a small village inhabited by Tibetan refugees. Overnight at a guesthouse.
The trek to Dharmasala (also known as Larkya Phedi) is a gradual ascent through barren landscapes. The trail offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. Dharmasala is a small settlement with a few lodges, located at the base of the Larkya La Pass. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Start early to cross the Larkya La Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The trail is steep and can be challenging, especially in snowy conditions. After crossing the pass, descend to Bhimtang, a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Descend from Bhimtang to Goa, passing through lush forests and rhododendron bushes. The trail offers stunning views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. Pass through the villages of Karche and Gho before reaching Goa, a picturesque village with traditional houses. Overnight at a guesthouse.
A short trek from Goa to Tilije, passing through charming villages and terraced fields. From Tilije, drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. The drive takes approximately 10 hours. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner. Overnight at a 3-star hotel.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Bid farewell to Nepal, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Manaslu Trek.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle.
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- Twin-sharing or dormitory guesthouse accommodation during the trek in the Manaslu region for 12 nights.
- All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), including seasonal fruits.
- Surface transfer from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Tilije to Kathmandu in a private tourist vehicle.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS), and Restricted Area fee for trekking.
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients).
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff.
- Filtered water in the trails using water filters or purification tablets.
- Duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jackets.
- Welcome dinner and farewell dinner.
- All administrative expenses and government taxes.
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses.
- Water, coke, Wi-Fi, hot showers, etc., during the trek.
- Tips for guide and porter.
- Nepal visa fee.
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
FAQs
There are no specific age restrictions, but trekkers should be in good health and physical condition. We recommend the trek for individuals aged 12 and above. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which is at an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,750 feet).