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trip code
TGN-366
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difficulty
Strenuous
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Trip Style
Group
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Start in
Kathmandu
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end in
Kathmandu
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group size
2 - 14 Pax
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max altitude
5216m
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Accommodation
Tea House
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Best Season
Sep to Nov,Mar to May,Dec to Feb
Overview
Table of Contents
Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Remote and Culturally Enriching Journey
Manaslu Circuit Trek is often regarded as one of the best treks in Nepal and is now a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Less than two percent of trekkers go to Manaslu and because of this, the trek is remote and physically demanding, yet at the same time, it is also culturally enriching and uplifting.
Highlights of the Manaslu Trekking Trail
The Manaslu trekking trail takes you from the steam-filled lowlands with their terraces of rice and millet, through the grand gorges of the Budi Gandaki with its turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls. You will also come across cultural diversities and natural scenery with high-altitude dreamy glacier lakes.
Larkya La Pass (5,167m)
Up north is the snowbound Larkya La Pass next to the Tibetan border. At an altitude of 5,167 meters, the mostly snow-covered and icy Larkya La Pass is widely believed to be one of the most dramatic passes crossing the Himalayas.
- As you make your ascent, suddenly a great glacial cirque bursts into view.
- A stupendous wall created by Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru casts down a stream of glaciers, while Annapurna II rises ahead.
In every sense, the 5,200m pass is the high point of the Manaslu Circuit.
Looking back the way you have come gives a clear view. But by far the most amazing view comes after you have left the pass and walk along a corridor to the west. This is where you will encounter Mani Walls, Prayer Wheels, monasteries, Chortens, and other Buddhist monuments.
The Isolated Villages and Cultural Diversity
The isolated villages you encounter on this trail serve as a perfect definition of Nirvana.
- The inhabitants in the highlands of this trek are influenced by Tibetan culture.
- You will encounter few trekkers due to the trail’s remoteness and the moderate fitness required to hike it.
Prior trekking experiences will be beneficial, but those without any experience can prepare by exercising a few weeks before the trek.
Manaslu as a Restricted Area
Manaslu Circuit Trek is government-regulated because it’s a restricted area.
- You must obtain permission before organizing treks in the Manaslu region.
- This adds to the appeal of Manaslu, as the trail receives far fewer travelers compared to Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Base Camp trail.
Trekking Facilities on the Manaslu Circuit
Even though the trail is relatively wild and remote compared to other treks, these regions are well-equipped and have moderately fair trekking facilities.
- Numerous tea houses are available at every stage of your journey.
- There’s no need to bring tents or camping materials.
Scenery and Adventure Await
If you are worried about the scenery, fear not, as Manaslu Trekking provides all that Nepal has to offer:
- Trek through subtropical jungle at lower elevations.
- Experience the Himalayan foothills and high, cold, and challenging crossing of the Larkya La above 5,100m.
Despite being an adventurous 126 km (80 miles) drive from Kathmandu to Soti, the trek is well worth the effort.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect choice for those looking to avoid the beaten path and become one with nature.
- Remote, culturally rich, and physically demanding.
- A trek for true adventurers seeking solitude and untouched beauty.
Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the adventure of a lifetime for trekkers who crave serenity and a connection with nature.
Trip highlights
- Off-The-Beaten-Path
- Little less than 8,000 tourist visits Manaslu every year
- Budget trek
- Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
- Cultural Trail- The Tibetan origin Nepalese live in the area called Tsum Valley. They practice their own ancient form of dialect, art, culture and religion.
- Pristine Budhi Gandaki River Valley.
itinerary
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day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
- Arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Our representative will greet you with warm regards and escort you to the hotel.
- Rest of the day is free for making the preparations of the trek that starts the following day.
- Overnight.
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day 02
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti khola via Arughat. Overnight at Soti Khola [815m]
- Breakfast at hotel.
- Our representative will take you for full day sightseeing Kathmandu valley.
Places like Pashupatinath, Swyambhunath which is also called as monkey temple, Boudhanath, Kathmandu durbar square these are enlisted in - UNESCO world heritage sites.
- Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
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day 03
Trek from Sotikhola to Maccha Khola. Overnight at Maccha Khola [800m]
- Breakfast at hotel.
- We will drive to Soti Khola past Arughat village around Dhading. It will take 8 hrs of drive.
- Overnight at hotel.
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day 04
Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat. Overnight at Jagat [1370m]
- Breakfast at hotel.
- We will start our trek from farm village which will take you to Budi Gandaki river through many farm field and villages, as the walk reaches at Nuali khola with beautiful waterfalls.
- The Machha khola village which means fishing streams. Overnight at Machha khola.
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day 05
Trek from Jagat to Philim. Overnight at Philim [1570m]
- Early morning breakfast at Machha khola.
- We will move to Khorla Beshi which is small farm in village passing through Tatopani “Hot spring” here you can take hot bath and rest for some time. Then we will walk to Yaruphant, following the river to reach Jagat village, after crossing the bridge we will reach to Jagat.
- Overnight at Jagat.
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day 06
Trek from Philim to Deng. Overnight at Deng [1865m]
- Early morning breakfast.
- We will start our trek from Jagat which will follow the many small farm villages of Sidibas Bazaar a beautiful small village in this area.
- After some rest we will do short climb with downhill by crossing the bridges to reach Nagjet, then climb Philim,a large village with scattered farmhouse, from Philim and trek onwards through the fields which are fulfilled by wheat and Barley.
- Then we will climb the rocky ridge top and cross the bamboo forest area to reach Dyang.
- Overnight at Dyang.
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day 07
Trek from Deng to Ghap. Overnight at Ghap [2165m]
- Morning breakfast.
- On this day we will trek steep uphill to the village of ghap via the bank of Budhi Gandaki River. We will reach the village of Bihi in the middle of the way from where we will catch the trail along the northern side of the river. Upon reaching Ghap we will be offered a mesmerizing sight of the Siringi mountain range.
- Overnight at Ghap.
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day 08
Trek from Ghap to Lho. Overnight at Lho [3180m]
- Breakfast at local tea house.
- We will start our trek from Ghap with pretty village walk along the Budhi Gandaki river, crossing the river through scattered small villages and cultivated farms with barley, wheat and millets then reaching Numrung village with superb views of Mt.manaslu North Face with adjoining peaks and will continue our walk by passing few villages of Banjham, Lhi, and Sho then with an altitude of 3180m we reach at Lo-Gaon.
- Overnight at Lo Goan.
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day 09
Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon/Ro. Overnight at Sama Gaon [3525m]
- Breakfast at Lo Gaon.
- After Lo Gaon the temperature will be much cooler. You can also view snowcapped mountains in this trail after we reach Manaslu base camp and Larkay -la pass including way to Tibet border.
- Overnight at Samagaon.
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day 10
Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
- On this day we will do rest and acclimazation. You can visit village and involve with local peoples in their activities.
- Overnight at Samagaon.
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day 11
Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo [3850m]
- Breakfast at Samagaon.
- This day we will walk about 5 hours, heading towards the last village at Samdo which is close to Tibet border, the locals have their traditions which are similar to Tibetan culture. You will find Chinese goods here.
- Early morning walk will lead with a gradual climb into the dry barren country with views of snowcapped peaks and then finally we will reach to Samdo.
- Overnight at Samdo.
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day 12
Acclimatization Day in Samdo
- Breakfast at Samdo.
- A short-day hike to Larkya Phedi or Dharamsala, after a nice stop at Samdo village, crossing an icy stream then heading towards drier barren area.
- This trek is not hard except for rapid altitude gain and then with few short ups and down way to walk.
- To reach Dharamsala we need to cross Larkya Phedi, meaning base of hill or pass. Afternoon is free at leisure for short hike.
- Overnight.
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day 13
Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala [4460m]
- Breakfast at local tea house.
- Starting early morning to reach at the top of Larkya-la pass at 5135m, strenuous and long climb overlooking awesome scenery of surrounding hills and valleys with Mt.Manaslu, Larkya Peak, Bouddha Himal, Himalchuli, after a steep climb reaching top of the pass, prayers flag and stunning views.
- Overnight.
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day 14
Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang [3590m] via Larkya La (5135m)
- Breakfast at local tea house.
- After a tough walk on Larkya la pass, this day will be a pleasant walk on gradual downhill to reach our overnight stop to Gho.
- Overnight.
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day 15
Trek to Dharapani (1860m, 6 hrs of walk)
- Breakfast at Gho.
- Our trek starts from Gho morning walk which is much easier on the downhill path most of the way to Manang area at Tejle village by the Marsyangdi river, after this village an hour climb will bring you to Dharapani.
- Overnight at Dharapani.
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day 16
Trek to Chamje village (1360m, 5 hrs of walk)
- Breakfast at Dharapani.
- After a enjoyable stop in Dharapani village with nice cozy lodge, our last day of trek will be great and wonderful adventure.
- From here we will be pass Lamjung district. Chamje will be a overnight stop of our trek.
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day 17
Drive back to Kathmandu via BeshiSahar 7 hrs of drive
- Breakfast in Chamje.
- We will drive back to Kathmandu and will do via of Beshisahar.
We will have our typical farewell dinner in restaurant and the share memories of your trekking adventure. - Overnight
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day 18
Departure day
On this day you will be escorted to TIA for your final departure.
Farewell
Not satisfied with this itinerary?
Make your own.Price Included
- Airport Pick Up & Drop in a private Car.
- All Ground Transportation as per above itinerary.
- Accommodation on local lodges in the Trekking area.
- 2 night’s accommodation in Kathmandu in a 3-star category hotel with breakfast
- Experienced English Speaking Guide and a porter
- All Government local Taxes
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- Manaslu Conversation Area Permit
- Remote Area Permit
- (TIMS)Trekkers information Management System
- First Aid kit
- All expenses of porter and guide.
- All Staff insurance.
- Farewell Dinner with typical Nepali culture.
Price Excluded
- Trekking equipments
- Any type of personal expenses such as Alcoholic Beverage drinks,phone and Laundry.
- Tips (Not mandatory)
- Lunch and dinner during the trip
- Meals in trekking area.
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your travel insurance company.
- items not included in cost includes.
FAQ
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How difficult is to trek Manaslu Circuit?
Manaslu trekking is a challenging trek and need to be physically fit to do. With the plenty of acclimatization days and preparations, you can do it. Crossing the high pass, many steep descents and ascents is expected during the trek.
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Do I need permits for trekking to Manaslu?
Yes, as this is the restricted area trekking, you need a special permit along with conservation area permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Contact Nepal Tour Guide Team for permits and other necessary documents.
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Do I need a guide for this trek?
Yes. Trekking with a guide is highly recommended for Manaslu trekking. Trekking guide help you on navigation, during emergencies and trip information. They are good friends in need too.
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What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
A challenging, remote trek around Mount Manaslu, offering stunning views, cultural experiences, and high-altitude trekking.
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How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
It’s about 177 kilometers (110 miles) and typically takes 14-18 days to complete.
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What is the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.
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What kind of accommodation is available on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Tea houses with basic accommodations and meals along the route.
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Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, you must trek with a licensed guide due to the restricted area.
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What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Warm clothes, a sleeping bag, first aid kit, trekking boots, sunscreen, and cold-weather gear.
Review
Aristofanes Cedeno
01/01/1970
One Week in Nepal With Tour Guide
I recently spent one week in Nepal and Tour Guide Team Trek provided an extraordinary service with an itinerary suited to my needs and interests, including Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, detailed cultural and historical explanations when visiting different sites in Kathmandu, and above all, a customer and people-oriented approach to all activities, meals, shopping, etc. Kumar Dahal was my tour guide and it was a pleasure for me to have him showing me his native Nepal. Kumar has excellent English speaking skills and he is willing to take the extra mile to help you have the best trip to this beautiful country. I recommend him and Nepal Tour Guide Team Trek wholeheartedly as the best agency to fulfill your expectations.
Adam Szucs
01/01/1970
Memorable 4 Days With Tour Guide
My wife and I had the privilege to enjoy a 4 days long private tour with tourguideinnepal.com. Everything was spot on. We had a private driver and a private tour guide for the entire trip, both extremely polite. I can 100% recommend them to others also. I also found their pricing more than fair. Kumar runs the company, he was very helpful when we put together the custom itinerary. Our tour guide was Suvash, probably the most caring guy I’ve ever met. Thanks for the lifetime experience guys!
Brad Wegner
01/01/1970
Two Nights Was Awesome
I only had two nights in Kathmandu and primarily wanted to do a chopper flight around Everest as well as see as much of Kathmandu as possible. Kumar was amazing and looked after me like family. I did a lot of research and Kumar booked the Chopper flight for me and answered any and all questions I had leading up to it. The Everest day was truly one of the best and awe inspiring days of my life. Kumar also took us to all of the must see sights in Kathmandu. He listened to our needs as well as read our body language for what we required. You must have a guide in places like Kathmandu to understand the history and not miss anything and you won’t regret using Kumar – he is the best!!
Tom And Heide
18/09/2018
AMAZING NEPAL EXPERIENCE WITH Nepal Tour Guide Team
We had the privilege exploring KTM valley with Kumar. He has a way of showing you all facets of Nepal as nobody else will. Not only does he know his country like no other, he also has a special way of connecting you with his culture , people, customs and more like a real tour guide can only do. He is a humanitarian, a good spirit, with a great sense of humor and a heart of gold, someone who CARES about his country and people. You will love the way he guides you and shows you his country. Anything from local foods, to extensive history or just small talk about politics and social issues, Kumar is happy to discuss all. He showed us a side of Nepal, we would have never experienced with a larger bus group. He customized our program to our liking, the way we wanted it, patiently answered all of our questions always friendly , attentive and genuine. We can highly recommend Kumar as your private guide. I have traveled the world extensively (please see my other reviews on tripadvisor) and know the difference between ‘just a guide’ and a true tour director who LOVES his job and connecting with people from all walks of life. Kumar is great in what he does and his personality will make you like him the day you meet. We are still friends and should we return to Nepal, there is no doubt in our minds that we will see him again, not only as our guide but also to reunite with a great friend and human being.
Two Weeks In Nepal
We came to Nepal for just under two weeks in March 2017. My husband and I decided to bring my mom for her 60th birthday as it was her lifelong dream to visit Nepal. But weren’t sure what to do while we were there! Luckily, we found Nepal Tour Guide Team, and after a few emails to Kumar, he set up the whole trip for us. Our trip was incredible, and Kumar was wonderful. From Kathmandu to Chitwan, Pokhara and back, Kumar showed us the whole country, and his knowledge was second to none. He arranged all the hotels, the car and driver, the things we did, showed us great places to eat and most importantly, provided great friendship and conversation along the way! We laughed the whole trip and had a wonderful time. The mountains were beautiful, Chitwan was amazing, and the lakeside at Pokhara was definitely my mom’s favorite part. We’re still positive we had the best tour guide and the most skilled driver in the entire country. Kumar is an incredible person and we made a lifelong friend. Even after coming home, we continue to keep in touch, chatting and making video calls. We can’t wait to go back!
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