Manaslu Circuit Trek-16 Days

Manaslu Region

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Tour Code:

MCT-16

Duration

15 Nights/16 Days

Country

Nepal

Activity Type

Trekking/Hiking

Max. Altitude

5106 M

Best Season

Mar to May, Sep to Nov

Group Size

min 2-12 pax

Accommodation

Hotel and Tea Houses

Moderate Difficulty

Difficulty

Moderate

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private vehicle

Start / End Point

Kathmandu

This 16- days Manaslu Circuit Trek with Trek Me Nepal is an incredible journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Nepalese Himalayas. This trek, typically spanning 16 days, follows a circular route around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters.

Starting from the bustling city of Kathmandu, the trek quickly transports you into a world of lush green valleys, terraced fields, pristine rivers, and dense forests. Along the way, you will visit traditional mountain villages and ancient monasteries, allowing you to deeply connect with the rich culture and traditions of local communities.

The trail passes through remote villages such as Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaun, and Samdo, each offering unique cultural and scenic experiences. One of the major highlights of this trek is the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, the highest point on the circuit.

This challenging ascent rewards trekkers with panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks, including Mount Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, and more. The trek also features picturesque rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and high mountain pastures that offer an unforgettable natural experience.

Throughout the journey, you will stay in comfortable tea houses run by warm and welcoming locals, where you can enjoy hearty meals and learn about the region’s culture firsthand. The Manaslu Circuit is more than just a trek — it’s a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are during the spring and autumn seasons. Spring offers mild weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons, while autumn brings cool, comfortable temperatures, vibrant foliage, and crystal-clear mountain views. Both seasons provide excellent trekking conditions and unforgettable scenery.

For travelers interested in exploring beyond the Manaslu Circuit, the region offers several alternative treks such as the Tsum Valley Trek, the Manaslu Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Valley Trek, and the Ganesh Himal Trek. These options cater to different fitness levels and preferences, offering unique cultural and scenic experiences in Nepal’s Himalayas.

With Trek Me Nepal, you receive personalized support and expert guidance, ensuring your Manaslu Circuit adventure is safe, memorable, and deeply rewarding. Whether you are drawn by the allure of remote mountain villages, high passes, or Himalayan vistas, this trek offers a transformative journey that you will cherish for a lifetime.

  •   Reach the laps of the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
  •   Have spectacular and immersive views of peaks like Annapurna II, Himlung, Manaslu, and several other beautiful peaks including the high-altitude pass of Larkya-La (5,106m).
  •   Discover traditions and mores at the remote locations of Nepal, see their unique mountain-based lifestyles, and their ancient practices of religion.
  •   Trek inside Manaslu Conservation Area, home to unique flora and fauna — including snow leopards, Himalayan thār, and Lophophorus.
  •   Enjoy trekking in one of the least explored regions of the Himalayas, a pristine landscape with less number of trekkers.
  •   Cross suspension bridges over the several rivers, witness glaciers, glacial lakes, and the beautiful Dudh Khola River Valley.
  •   Take thrilling ascents and descents through the Larkya-La Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the landscapes.
  •   Stay in teahouses, tiny lodges and experience the hospitality at some of the remotest regions close to the mountains.

The Manaslu Circuit trek 13 days is a popular trekking route in the Nepalese Himalayas, offering an exhilarating journey through stunning landscapes, towering peaks, lush valleys, and traditional mountain villages.

Max. Altitude

1,350 M

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Not Included

Once you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, you’ll be received by our Trek Me Nepal staff and transported to your hotel. After some rest and refreshments, we’ll provide you a brief about your upcoming trek to several parts of Nepal.

You will be briefed about the documents and essential gear if any, and at night you will have a welcome dinner of Nepali cuisine before heading on your epic adventure the following day.

Day 1 Summary Details
Altitude1,400 m (Kathmandu)
ActivityArrival, Trek Briefing, Welcome Dinner
Overnight StayHotel in Kathmandu

Accommodation

1,350 M

Meals

Breakfast

Kathmandu Valley has the highest concentration of World Heritage Sites, and it’s only fitting not to miss them while you’re staying in the valley itself. A great start to an exciting itinerary, you can visit numerous places in this capital city rich in heritage.

You will visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (aka “Monkey Temple”) in the morning. Later on, have a sumptuous lunch at a restaurant in Kathmandu Durbar Square - one of the three medieval Durbar Squares inside the Valley.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the temple of Pashupatinath, belonging to Lord Shiva, where you can soak in the atmosphere and watch the world go by from a quiet bench above the bank of Bagmati.

Later in the afternoon, you will circumnavigate the renowned Stupa of Bauddhanath - probably the largest stupa in the world. Feel free to customise a day-trip from a number of choices.

Day 2 SummaryDetails
ActivityCultural Sightseeing, Trip Preparation
Major HighlightsMonkey Temple, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath
Overnight StayHotel in Kathmandu

Max. Altitude

8,70 M

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Duration

8 hrs

The trip to Manaslu Circuit begins with a good breakfast in Kathmandu. Travelling in a private jeep, you will head along the Prithvi Highway. At several turns, you will get a peek of Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu peaks.

From the road that winds alongside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, you will enjoy scenic landscapes throughout the eight-hour drive. Later in the day you will reach Budhi-Gandaki Valley, arriving at Machha Khola.

In the evening, explore the village, savour the view of the peaks, and settle in a cosy teahouse for a well-deserved rest. Each passing hour grows with excitement as you prepare for the trek that awaits you in the coming days.

Day 3 SummaryDetails
Altitude870 m (Machha Khola)
Drive Duration8 Hours
Major HighlightsScenic mountain drive, river valleys
Overnight StayTeahouse in Machha Khola

Max. Altitude

1,340 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You begin the day early in Machha Khola, followed by a good breakfast before hitting the trail. You begin by crossing a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, and then trekking uphill through forests of pines and bushes of rhododendrons.

As you ascend further, the sound of rushing water will entice you as it guides you to a tiny hamlet called Kholabesi. A little further, and you will pause for some relaxation in the hot springs at Tatopani.

After this perfect mid-day break, you will continue through suspension bridges, climb stone stairs, and enjoy the marvellous views of Ganesh Himal. Finally, at the end of the day you will arrive at the charming village of Jagat, where dinner and a restful night awaits you.

Day 4 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain870 m → 1,360 m
Drive Duration6 Hours
Major HighlightsHot springs, Waterfalls, Forest trail
Overnight StayTeahouse in Jagat

Max. Altitude

1,860 M

Hike Duration

7-8 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin the day after breakfast, walking through rich subtropical forests and pastoral villages. Trek past the villages of Salleri and Sirdibas, before crossing a suspension bridge over the Ghatte Khola.

More walking will bring you to Philim, a large Gurung village where you can admire the terraced fields and farming. After a brief pause, you will continue along the Budhi Gandaki River through bamboo forests.

Further up, you will enjoy views of wide valleys and have glimpses of the majestic Shringi Himal. The tranquil sounds of nature will surround you as you ascend further, finally arriving at the tiny village of Deng. Hop in a teahouse, have dinner, and go to bed early so that you will conserve energy for tomorrow’s adventure.

Day 5 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain1,360 m → 1,860 m
Trek Duration7–8 hours
Major HighlightsGurung villages, Shringi Himal views
Overnight StayTeahouse in Deng

Max. Altitude

2,600 M

Hike Duration

7 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You begin the day early, embarking on an uphill trek for most of the day. The trail first leads you through dense forests and alpine vegetation. The sounds of nature surround you, as you keep climbing higher and cheering with fellow trekkers.

You cross Budhi Gandaki River several times on suspension bridges, and enjoy stunning views of several majestic peaks of the Manaslu region. Crossing the villages of Rana and Ghap, you will come to carved mani stones depicting Tibetan culture.

The scenic route has enchanting views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. Trekking further, you will arrive at an impressive mani wall. This is the village of Lho, where you will spend the night.

Day 6 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain1,860 m → 2,600 m
Trek Duration7 hours
Major HighlightsSuspension bridges, mani walls, forest trail
Overnight StayTeahouse in Namrung

Max. Altitude

3,180 M

Hike Duration

5 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After a filling breakfast in Namrung, you will begin the trek to Lho. Out of Namrung, the trail leads you through bushes of rhododendron and forests of oak. From several turns, you will have glimpses of the enchanting Nubri Valley.

As you ascend further, stunning views of the snow-capped Manaslu and Shringi ranges will inspire you. As you pass through the charming little villages of Lihi and Sho, you will see barley plantations in terraced farms.

The views of ancient chortens there might even remind you of a cinema set. Trekking further, you will arrive at an impressive mani wall. This is the village of Lho, where you will spend the night.

Day 7 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain2,600 m → 3,180 m
Trek Duration5 hours
Major HighlightsChortens, Nubri Valley, barley fields
Overnight StayTeahouse in Lho

Max. Altitude

3,520 M

Hike Duration

3-4 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your day in Namrung with a breathtaking sunrise view of Ganesh Himal, Naike Peak, and Mt. Manaslu North. You will travel towards Sama from Lho, the destination for tonight.

Passing through suspension bridge, stream, lush forest and picturesque villages with terraced fields, you will move ahead. Along the route, mesmerising views of several peaks of Manaslu region will capture your attention, including Himlachuli and Peak 29.

As you approach Sama, the unmissable and most-prominent village on the route, you will be welcomed by stunning glaciers and a centuries-old monastery. Hop into a teahouse, take a little break and then explore the enchanting village before calling it a day.

Day 8 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain3,180 m → 3,520 m
Trek Duration3-4 hours
Major HighlightsGlacier views, Himlachuli, Peak 29
Overnight StayTeahouse in Sama Gaun

Max. Altitude

3,520 M

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Staying this close to mountains has its own benefits — like having a breakfast with sumptuous views of Mt. Manaslu. As excitement builds up, you will realise that it’s a day of relaxation and enjoyment in this mountain village — with only short hikes for the sake of acclimatisation.

Today is also your chance to catch some breath and let your body adjust to the thinner air at this altitude. As options, you can either hike to the ancient Pungyen Gumba or trek to the beautiful Lake Birendra — a serene glacial lake nestled among the giant peaks.

If you choose to visit the Gumba, you will have panoramic views of Manaslu Glacier. And if you feel like it, you can take a third option — a longer challenge — where you reach Manaslu Base Camp.

Whichever activity you choose to take, you will return to Sama after mid-day, rest, and bask at the natural beauty of the place.

Day 9 SummaryDetails
Option 1Hike to Pungyen Gumba – views of Manaslu Glacier
Option 2Visit Birendra Lake – scenic and serene
Option 3Trek to Manaslu Base Camp – adventurous option
Overnight StayTeahouse in Sama Gaun

Max. Altitude

3,860 M

Hike Duration

3 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo, situated at 3,800 meters, takes approximately 3 hours and offers stunning views. The trail follows a gentle ascent through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

As you progress, you’ll gain altitude, passing through pine and juniper forests and observing wildlife like Himalayan marmots and blue sheep. After 3 hours, you’ll arrive at Samdo, a traditional Tibetan village with colorful prayer flags and snow-capped peaks.

You’ll stay in a tea house, where you can explore the village, interact with locals, and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by your hosts.

Day 10 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain3,520 m → 3,860 m
Trek Duration3 hours
HighlightsWildlife, Tibetan culture, Alpine Meadows
Overnight StayTeahouse in Samdo

Max. Altitude

4,460 M

Hike Duration

4 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Get up at leisure, have breakfast, and set off towards Larkya Bazaar — a barren land with just a suspension bridge and pure green river flowing underneath. The word ‘Bazaar’, aka market, comes from the seasonal market this place hosts from time to time.

If you happen to be here at the time of the markets, you will see Nepali and Tibetan vendors and barters going about their business. Cross the bridge and head slowly and steadily past streams, ascending gradually along the way.

After about four hours of challenging trek, you will arrive at Dharmashala, a picturesque campsite and an acclimatisation stop. Here, sights of the stunning Larkya Glacier will melt your heart.

Settle in a cosy teahouse in order to rest for the challenging ascent to Larkya-La Pass tomorrow — at a whopping altitude of 5,106 metres.

Day 11 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain3,860 m → 4,460 m
Trek Duration4 hours
HighlightsLarkya Bazaar, Larkya Glacier views
Overnight StayTeahouse in Dharmashala

Max. Altitude

3,590 M

Hike Duration

8-9 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up well before dawn to embark on the challenging trek to Larkya-La Pass, the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit trail. As you trek higher and higher through the barren terrain, the breathtaking snowcapped peaks of Annapurna II and Himlung Himal will become visible.

The terrain is rocky, but views of glaciers and glacial lakes down below will bring some respite to the aching muscles. Keeping your determination at an all time high, you should tread slowly Larkya Glacial Valley in order to avoid altitude sickness.

And when you reach the summit at 5,106 metres, you will be greeted by a stunning panorama of the Himalayas. Continue the slow and careful descent as the trail is steep and difficult, and much later you’ll come to the highland pastures of Bimthang, your stop for tonight.

The most difficult part of the trek being over, you’ll spend the night in a cosy teahouse, reflecting on the day’s incredible journey.

Day 12 SummaryDetails
Altitude Gain4,460 m → 5,106 m → 3,590 m
Trek Duration8 hours
HighlightsLarkya-La Pass, glaciers, Annapurna views
Overnight StayTeahouse in Bimthang

Max. Altitude

2,300 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Set off from Bimthang after breakfast, following views of stunning sunrise over the majestic Cheo, Himlung, Lamjung, and Manaslu peaks. The challenging trail descends along a ridge, so tread carefully.

High up, you will have breathtaking mountain vistas but put your attention on the trail below for a safe descent. As you cross Dudh Khola, a river with the whitest white water, you will have entered the district of Manang.

Trek further through beautiful rhododendron forests and cultivated farmlands dotted with houses and hamlets. The undulating rugged path will test your knees, no doubt.

Stops at traditional villages like Karche and Hampuk will allow for brief rests and hot drinks, and also lunch. Later in the day you will arrive at Tilje, a charming village where you’ll spend the night.

Day 13 SummaryDetails
Altitude Loss3,590 m → 2,300 m
Trek Duration6 hours
HighlightsDudh Khola, Manang culture, village life
Overnight StayTeahouse in Tilje

Max. Altitude

1,290 M

Hike Duration

6-7 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Although the name is the same, 'Jagat', which you will be reaching today, is a completely different place from 'Jagat' that you set off from, towards the beginning of this trek.

Today, starting after breakfast from Tilche, you'll first walk through beautiful highland pastures and later, through forests of rhododendron trees. Mani walls and prayer flags will greet you along the way; and as you come near Dharapani, you will walk along the riverbank on stone-paved stairs.

Thus, after about three hours out of Tilche, you'll have arrived at the popular village of Dharapani at the bank of Marsyangdi River. Dharapani is a place where the Manaslu Circuit connects with the Annapurna Circuit.

Trekkers coming in for Annapurna region will mingle with trekkers coming out of Manaslu region, making for a spectacular sight of several nationalities from around the world.

Sharing laughter and speaking a dozen languages, the ambience at Dharapani, one of the remotest locations on the planet, is unique in itself.

Day 14 SummaryDetails
Altitude Loss2,300 m → 1,290 m
Trek Duration6–7 hours
HighlightsMulti-trekker junction, forest trail
Overnight StayTeahouse in Jagat

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Duration

7 hrs

In the morning, begin a winding drive from Jagat to Kathmandu. For about eight hours you will see views of the Nepalese hilly terrain, including terraced paddies and countless valleys.

Except where the highway is under construction, the ride is comfortable. After a brief refreshment at Besisahar, you will continue the drive to Kathmandu. Along the long winding way, you will enjoy the beauty of rivers, waterfalls, and villages, before finally arriving in Kathmandu.

Once here, you will check into the hotel and have rest and refreshments. Later, as we gather for the dinner, we will share stories of our unforgettable trip of the past two weeks.

As you prepare to unwind for the night, you will reflect on the essence and beauty of the regions that you just visited. The tiresome but a soul-satisfying journey that you just undertook in Nepal will be in your memories, which you will cherish throughout your life.

Day 15 SummaryDetails
Travel ModePrivate Vehicle
Drive Duration~7–8 hours
HighlightsRiver valleys, waterfalls, farewell dinner
Overnight StayHotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast or depending upon your flight schedule, we will transfer you to the airport. As your plane takes off from the runway in Kathmandu, your journey to Nepal comes to an end for this time — until you decide to visit again for some memorable and soul-searching trip in the Himalayas.

Whats Included:

  •   All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle.
  •   2 nights in Kathmandu at a 3-star hotel in twin-sharing/double rooms with breakfast.
  •   Three-time meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), including tea/coffee in the morning & seasonal fruits in the evening.
  •   Twin-sharing teahouse accommodation during the trek for 10 nights in the Manaslu region.
  •   Highly experienced guide and porter, including their wages, food, accommodation, equipment, and insurance (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
  •   An assistant guide is provided for groups of 6 or more.
  •   Administrative expenses and government taxes.
  •   A farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant.
  •   Emergency rescue operation assistance (covered by your travel insurance).
  •   A TMN t-shirt, duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket are provided for use during the trek (if required).
  •   Manaslu trekking special fee (Manaslu region is in a restricted zone, requiring a special permit to visit this area).
  •   Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation permit fee and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  •   Private transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (starting point) and Jagat (ending point) to Kathmandu.
  •   First aid medical kit, oxi-meter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes.

Whats Excluded:

  •   Extra night accommodation and meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
  •   Travel insurance.
  •   International flight tickets to and from Nepal.
  •   Hot showers, battery charging, internet, and phone calls unless provided for free in mountains.
  •   Personal clothing and gear.
  •   Personal expenses and medical kits.
  •   Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and hot drinks during the trek.
  •   Nepal entry visa (Visa can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for a 30-day visa and USD 125 for a 90-day visa).
  •   Tips for field staff.
Number of PAXPrice per PAX
1 paxUSD 1720
2-6 PaxUSD 1610
7-10 PaxUSD 1,550
11-15 PaxUSD 1,500
16+USD 1,460
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