Manaslu Circuit Trek – 14 Days

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable Himalayan journey through one of Nepal’s most beautiful and culturally rich mountain regions. Circling Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain, the trail leads through deep river valleys, forested hills, remote villages and dramatic alpine landscapes.

Discover traditional settlements, Buddhist monasteries, mani walls and Tibetan-influenced mountain culture as you travel deeper into the Manaslu Conservation Area. The journey reaches its highlight at Larkya La Pass, approximately 5,106 meters above sea level, where spectacular mountain and glacier views reward your effort. With a dedicated acclimatization day and the support of a licensed guide, this trek is ideal for fit travelers seeking a challenging, culturally immersive adventure in Nepal.

Trip Facts

Duration 14 Days
Max. Altitude: Approx. 5,106 m at Larkya La Pass
Group size Available on request
Best Season March–May and September–November
Trip Mode Teahouse Trekking
Activity Trekking & Adventure
Meals Breakfast, lunch and dinner during trekking, according to package
DIFFICULTY Challenging
TRANSPORTATION Road transportation by jeep or bus, according to package
LOCATION Manaslu Region, Gorkha, Nepal
Start/End Kathmandu

Trip Highlights

  • Trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m)
  • Cross Larkya La Pass (approx. 5,106 m)
  • Explore traditional Himalayan villages and Buddhist monasteries
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks
  • Discover the landscapes of the Manaslu Conservation Area
  • Experience Tibetan-influenced mountain culture
  • Dedicated acclimatization day in Sama Gaun
  • 14-day guided Himalayan adventure

Trip Note

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude adventure, so good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential. Trekkers must carry valid permits and travel with a licensed guide as required by current regulations. We recommend travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation. The itinerary may change due to weather, trail conditions, road access, or safety concerns. Follow your guide’s advice and allow enough time to adjust to the altitude for a safer and more enjoyable journey.

Overview

Experience one of Nepal’s most rewarding Himalayan adventures on the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek with Mings Adventure Nepal. This journey circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, through remote mountain villages, dramatic river valleys, ancient Buddhist monasteries and spectacular alpine landscapes.

Follow the Budhi Gandaki Valley, explore traditional settlements such as Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaun and Samdo, and enjoy the cultural heritage of the Himalayan communities. The highlight of the trek is crossing Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,106 m, with breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and glaciers.

With a dedicated acclimatization day in Sama Gaun, local teahouse accommodation and a licensed trekking guide, this adventure offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking remote Himalayan scenery, cultural discovery and a challenging high-altitude trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – 14 Days / 13 Nights

Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, then trek through traditional Himalayan villages to Sama Gaun for acclimatization. Continue to Samdo and Dharamsala before crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Descend through Bimthang and Dharapani, then return to Kathmandu.

Arrive in Kathmandu, where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, relax following your journey or explore the nearby streets at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit local markets or cultural landmarks. Meet your trekking team for an initial briefing and discuss the route, equipment and preparations for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Activity: Airport transfer and trek briefing
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive toward Machha Khola via the countryside of central Nepal, Arughat and Soti Khola. Travel through river valleys, terraced hillsides, traditional settlements and winding mountain roads. As you approach the Budhi Gandaki Valley, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and remote. Arrive at Machha Khola, check into your teahouse and prepare for the first trekking day.

Driving duration: Approximately 7–9 hours, depending on road conditions
Overnight: Teahouse in Machha Khola

Begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River, following winding trails through forested hills, rocky paths and small mountain settlements. Cross suspension bridges, pass waterfalls and enjoy views of the deep river gorge. The route includes several ascents and descents before reaching Jagat, a traditional stone-built village that marks an important point on the Manaslu trekking route.

Walking duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat

Continue through the Budhi Gandaki Valley, passing cultivated fields, forested slopes and traditional settlements. The trail crosses suspension bridges and follows sections of the river gorge, with gradual climbs through the mountain landscape. Along the way, observe local village life and Buddhist cultural features. Arrive in Deng, a peaceful settlement that introduces you to the Tibetan-influenced culture of the upper Manaslu region.

Walking duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Deng

Today’s trail climbs gradually through forests and mountain villages as you move deeper into the Himalayas. Cross small streams and pass mani walls, prayer flags and traditional settlements reflecting the region’s Buddhist heritage. As the elevation increases, the surrounding landscape becomes more dramatic and mountain views begin to open up. Arrive at Namrung, a beautiful village with traditional architecture and views of nearby Himalayan peaks.

Walking duration: Approximately 5–7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung

After breakfast, continue along forest trails and cultivated hillsides toward Lho. Pass traditional villages and Buddhist landmarks while enjoying increasingly impressive views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks, weather permitting. Lho is known for its cultural atmosphere, stone houses, prayer flags and mountain scenery. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the higher-altitude sections ahead.

Walking duration: Approximately 4–6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Lho

Continue through the upper Manaslu region toward Sama Gaun, one of the most significant villages on the circuit. Walk through open landscapes and traditional settlements, with spectacular mountain views along the way. As you approach Sama Gaun, the terrain becomes more alpine and the air noticeably thinner. On arrival, settle into your teahouse and take time to rest and hydrate in preparation for the acclimatization day.

Walking duration: Approximately 4–6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Sama Gaun

Spend the day acclimatizing before continuing to higher elevations. After breakfast, your guide may arrange a gradual hike to Birendra Lake or another suitable viewpoint, depending on weather, fitness and local trail conditions. A longer excursion toward Manaslu Base Camp may be possible for suitably prepared trekkers if included in the agreed itinerary. Return to Sama Gaun and spend the evening resting, enjoying the village atmosphere and preparing for the journey toward Samdo.

Activity: Acclimatization hike and village exploration
Overnight: Teahouse in Sama Gaun

Leave Sama Gaun and follow the trail through open alpine terrain, grazing areas and the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley. The route gradually climbs through a wide, rugged landscape with views of surrounding mountains. Arrive at Samdo, a traditional Himalayan settlement near the Tibetan border region. Spend the afternoon resting, exploring the village if conditions permit and allowing your body to adjust to the altitude.

Walking duration: Approximately 3–5 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo

Continue ascending through sparse alpine terrain toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail passes rocky slopes, high mountain landscapes and glacial surroundings. The thin air and colder temperatures make a steady pace and regular breaks important. On arrival, rest at the basic mountain lodge, prepare warm clothing and organize your equipment for the early start across Larkya La Pass.

Walking duration: Approximately 4–5 hours
Overnight: Basic lodge or teahouse at Dharamsala

Start early with your guide for the most demanding day of the trek. Ascend gradually toward Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey at approximately 5,106 m. The route can be cold, windy and snow-covered depending on the season. From the pass, enjoy panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciers when the weather is clear. After crossing the pass, descend carefully through alpine terrain toward Bimthang, where you can rest after a challenging day.

Walking duration: Approximately 8–10 hours
Highest point: Larkya La Pass, approx. 5,106 m
Overnight: Teahouse in Bimthang

After breakfast, descend from Bimthang through beautiful mountain landscapes, alpine meadows and forested trails. The route follows the Dudh Khola Valley through changing vegetation and small settlements. As you lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and the landscape greener. Continue via villages such as Gho and Tilije toward Dharapani, where the Manaslu route connects with the Annapurna trekking area.

Walking duration: Approximately 6–8 hours
Overnight: Teahouse or lodge in Dharapani

After breakfast, begin the return journey by road toward Kathmandu. Depending on road conditions and vehicle availability, the drive may include a transfer via Besisahar. Enjoy the changing scenery of river valleys, hills and rural settlements along the way. Arrive in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest after completing the circuit.

Driving duration: Approximately 8–10 hours or longer, depending on road conditions and transfers
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

After breakfast, enjoy free time depending on your flight schedule. Our representative can arrange an airport transfer according to your departure time. Leave Nepal with lasting memories of remote Himalayan villages, Buddhist culture, dramatic mountain scenery and your crossing of Larkya La Pass.

Activity: Airport transfer, if included in the package
Trip ends: Kathmandu

A licensed guide and required permits are mandatory for this restricted-area trek. Good fitness and travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation are essential. The itinerary may change due to weather, trail conditions, altitude-related concerns, or road access.

Includes

  • Airport transfers, if included in the selected package
  • Ground transportation as specified in the itinerary
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as specified
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Licensed trekking guide
  • Required trekking permits arranged through the agency
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during trekking, if included in the package
  • Guide accommodation, meals and applicable staff costs, as specified
  • Basic trip coordination and assistance

Excludes

  • International flights and Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • Personal expenses, snacks and extra drinks
  • Personal trekking equipment and clothing
  • Hot showers, device charging and Wi-Fi where charged separately
  • Tips for the guide, porter and driver
  • Extra accommodation or meals caused by delays
  • Porter service unless specifically included
  • Any service not mentioned under Includes

Equipment

At Mings Adventure Nepal, with over 10 years of trekking experience, we recommend the following equipment to ensure your trek in Nepal is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. This checklist is a general guideline and may vary depending on the trek, season, and altitude.


🥾 Footwear

  • Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots
  • Lightweight shoes or sandals (for evenings)
  • Gaiters (optional, useful in snow or mud)

🧼 Personal Items

  • Personal toiletries
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  • Basic personal medication
  • Earplugs (optional)

💊 Health & First Aid

  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Blister treatment
  • Pain relief and altitude medication (if prescribed)
  • Rehydration salts

📄 Documents & Money

  • Passport with valid visa
  • Travel insurance documents (mandatory)
  • Trekking permits (arranged by us)
  • Cash (small denominations)

🔌 Electronics (Optional)

  • Camera or smartphone
  • Power bank or spare batteries
  • Charging cables

♻️ Responsible Trekking Items

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Eco-friendly toiletries

Important Notes

  • Do not overpack — porters have weight limits
  • Quality gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Our team will advise you on trek-specific equipment before departure

  Essential Trekking Gear

  • Trekking backpack or duffel bag (50–70 liters)
  • Daypack (20–30 liters)
  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Sunscreen, lip balm (SPF)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)

  Upper Body

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket

  👕 Clothing Lower Body

  • Trekking pants
  • Thermal underwear
  • Waterproof trousers

  Other Clothing

  • Warm hat or beanie
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Gloves (lightweight & insulated)
  • Comfortable trekking socks (wool or synthetic)

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