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Experience breathtaking views of mountains intertwined with rich culture in the Manaslu region of Nepal with Himalayan Dream Team’s Manaslu Circuit Trek. It all begins in Kathmandu which is known for its ancient UNESCO heritage sites and ends in breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8163m). Further, the trek encompasses the renowned Larkya La Pass which lies at a breathtaking altitude of 5,106 meters, ranking it among the most striking treks of the Himalayas.. Because the trek is designed for adventurers who appreciate nature as well as possess great physical endurance, it does include planned accommodation break for safety and pleasure at high altitude sights.
With lush green ecosystems, ancient Buddhist regions, and friendly locals at the foot of majestic snow capped mountains, this remote trek has something for everyone. Himalayan Dream Team appreciates the authentic charm of Nepal which gives us the opportunity to introduce the unmatchable charm of Nepalese culture and nature. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is sure to leave a mark on your heart.
1st Day- Manaslu Circuit Trek
Welcome to Nepal! A Himalayan Dream Team representative will welcome you with a Nepali flower at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and facilitate your private transfer to the hotel. You can relax and recover from your journey at the hotel and, when you feel ready, enjoy a gentle stroll around the neighborhood to get your first taste of the city.
As an introduction to your journey, we would like to treat you to dinner at one of best restaurant, which is guaranteed to give you the best impression of authentic local cuisine and hospitality.
2nd Day- Manaslu Circuit Trek
Following your breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a full day exploration of the profound cultural and spiritual heritage of Kathmandu, taking you to multiple UNESCO world heritage sites.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): You will start the day at this lofty Buddhist stupa resting on a hill with its eye catching views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. This site is one of the oldest by gaining importance as a relious center in Nepal where it is worshiped by Buddhists and Hindus.
Pashupatinath Temple: You will then proceed to Nepal’s most revered Hindu temple complex located on the banks of Bagmati River. Here, you will observe traditional cremation services and you will see sadhus (Hindu religious hermits) practicing their spirituality.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: You can take a walk at the serene old royal palace region of historic Kathmandu after lunch. This square is a living exposition of older temples and courtyards along with houses sculptured and wooden buildings in newari style architecture.
Local Markets Visit: To end the day, you can roam around kathmandu spice and vegetable markets which will allow you to experience the daily life of Kathmandan locals and provide opportunities for street photography.
3rd Day- Manaslu Circuit Trek
Your Machhakhola Drive begins with a beautiful panoramic view of Kathmandu which looks different from places like the temple. It shows you the magic of how far you have come down Mahadevsthan and the marvelous view of Ganesh Himal shows you the promise of the road ahead. That view is something every traveler dreams of. If you are the lucky one with perfect timing, you will also catch a glimpse of sunset over Mount Manaslu, Machapucharre, and all those unnamed beauties which are embedded in their deep white blanket of snow.
Before I forget, make sure to join the journey from Malekhu because the best part of Trishuli river is after your syngong laung disstict. This is around 30KM from your spot with Trishuli. It gets super romantic from Dhading as the road is bumpy and rustic while offers amazing views. As a bonus, riding along with you are amazing forts and Ganesh Hills that tilt in praise to Mount Manaslu.
Within the next 1.5 hours of driving, we will reach beautiful settlement of Soti Khola.
You can also explore Machhakhola and rest at the lodge before you get the chance to see mother nature in her true beauty and a magical treat to your eyes.
4rd Day- Manaslu Circuit Trek
Today our trekking begins with a descrend of hundreds of stone steps down to the BudhiGandaki. We cross it by a spectacular suspension bridge. We again follow the river which allows us to see the beautiful river valley and at the horizon the snow capped mountains lie like Buddha Himal and Sirangi Himal. On this day we formally enter the Mansalu Conservation area and finish up our overnight stop Jagat.
5th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
Today we will first trek over the rocky ridge reaching Salleri, head towards Sirdibas. From Sirdibas We continue with the trek passing a long suspension bridge reaching Philim where we need entry our special permits in the check post within philim. Next we cross the fields and reach Ekle Bhatti where we will have our lunch. The high suspension bridge can be seen from afar as we pass through the bamboo forest and cross a stream reaching Deng.
6th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
Our day begins with breakfast, and we will be following the trail upstream the river of Deng towards the tiny village of 4 houses. From here we walk through a newly built rock tunnel, avoiding the steep traditional climb. At Ghap, tibetan culture begins to influence our trail, as there are many mani stones and chortens scattered around. Mani stones are stone plates, rocks and/or pebbles inscribed with the six syllabled mantra of Avalokiteshvara (Om mani padme hum, hence the name “Mani stone”) as a form of prayer in Tibetan buddhism
7th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
Today is an especially splendid trekking day; on our way through the apparently deserted Nambachhe seasonal village with its barley fields and mani walls, we ascend through a cool, dense forest for half an hour. Again, we'll be crossing the Budi Gandaki on another wooden bridge, this time to Namrung at 2540 meters where we stop for tea at a lodge run by a Tibetan family. Above this village the valley opens out and gives us wide colored vistas. A few hours later, we reach the village of Lihi at 2840 meters, which is a substantial altitude gain. Our climb will be gentle from here, after crossing a large stream that flows down from the Lidanda Glaciers. We are aiming for the picturesque Tibetan village of Sho at 3000m where we will have lunch. Remember to check the upper deck for the bear claw and the old Tibetan Fort ruins across the river.
The sights of Himal Chuli from Sho are breathtaking, and moving on towards Lho, we get the views of Manaslu itself. That was an amazing afternoon! We camped in Lho, a vibrant village with numerous prayer flags which is was a great location to watch the sunset and sunrise.
8th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
we start off from Lho while having a view of Manaslu at the snowy peaks during breakfast. After we go past the new gompa and cross the small river, we reach the Tibetan village Shyla. The miost stunning view of Manaslu is from Shyala. The villagers can also be seen working in their fields. After lunch, we reach Pung Gyan Gompa. From Shyala, the last village before all the designated spots or ro as is commonly known in English is where most of the scenic spots are located is another few hours of scenic trekking. Samurai or ro is monastic outpost which is bordered by a bowl (village) that contains pastures along with the verdant peaks. The gumbas you see while clearing the main road were built more than five centuries ago by people from Tibet who immigrated down into these regions. Unlike the ones in the majestic brick structures, these two gumbas constructed out of wood with splendid intricte carvings though dated are unique in design.
Tibetan settlements here possess distinctive entrance gates that are different from the traditional Tibetan ones, and they actively participate in commerce with their co-religionists in Tibet (note the alcoholic Chinese brandy and beer on offer). In case the weather is pleasant, one can observe the women of the village weaving gowns from wool (baal) that is brought from Tibet – these gowns are then shipped back to Tibet. It is said that taxes were still being collected to the Dzongka Dzong (fortress) which is located a few days walk from Sama Gaon, right up to the 1940’s till it got overrun by the Gorkas in the late 19th century. Later on, this area served as a base for Tibetan guerillas, which locked the region to trekkers until 1992.
9th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
For optimal body adjustment, prepare for a rest day in Sama Gaon (3,530 m). Those wanting a challenge can try the optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) with magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m) and its neighboring glaciers.
Birendra Tal Partly frozen glacial lakes tend to be astonishing, and this one near the village is no exception. For those preferring something easier, it is possible to go on a gentle stroll to the lake as it offers a perfect relaxing break whilst looking at beautiful scenery.
Regardless of the chosen activities, all participants should return to Sama Gaon for capturing a good overnight stay.
10th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
Today after breakfast, we start with an easy 3 hours trek. We pass the long mani walls at Kermo Kharka, from where we spot the entrance chorten of Samdo high up on a bluff. From the viewpoint we descend back to the Bhudi Gandaki and cross a small bridge followed by a short climb to the ‘kane’ entrance of Samdo. Look back down valley for great views. The villagers of Samdo crossed over the border from the village of Riu after 1959 and built their new village here at their old herding settlement. Samdo village is a collection of houses and lodges at 3850 meters, and most trekkers from the heat of a week ago while we are huddled around the stove and a wind from Tibet is battering the windowpanes. Get out and take a walk around the village, where the inhabitants live an essentially Tibetan yak, sheep and goat herding, horse training and barley planting lifestyle.
11th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
This day we will be following the old trade route to Tibet and we will continue to hike through the remnants of Larkya bazaar; one of the markets that flourished in trade. After two hours of climbing through glaciers, which is accompanied by stunning views, we reach the campsite at Dharamsala where we feast on lunch and admire the views. The altitude and cold will definitely be felt here; hence we recommend a more relaxed afternoon, ensuring warmth.
12th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
The most memorable highlights of the trip are perhaps unto today, when we go to the highest point of the trek. After a moderate climb from the campsite, we arrive at the ablation valley on the North side of the Larkya Glaciers where we first see Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. We traverse the moraines of the glacier where we do a gentle climb which only becomes steeper toward the end of the pass. The panoramic views from the pass are magnificent. Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru and the gigantic Annapurna II range are all in the line of vision. The region is a habitat for Bharal (Blue Sheep) and Snow Cock, and with new snow on the ground there might be Snow Leopard tracks from the night before. And I mean the views literally, the height of the Pass is 5.215m and they are simply mind-blowing.
As we hang the Tibetan prayer flags and chant ‘Ki ki so so lha gyalo’ (may the Gods be victorious), we prepare for a trail with a steep slope followed by a glacial Moraine. There’s an ‘ankle bothering’ drop that is slippery if snow covered, so ensure you have your ‘Yak Tracks’ ready. Trekking poles are a must. The descent is boulder-strewn so make appreciate the views around you as they lead to Bimtang. This brings us to our overnight stop at Bimtang. Every now and then you can catch a glimpse of Manaslu in the distance succumbing to the evening mist. It's a sight that I couldn't get enough of.
13th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
We will start our day rough in a ridge in Bhimtang which gives us stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal. After a break, we move down through high pastures (Sangure Kharka) and cross a bridge over the Dudh Khola. The ‘Rhododendron’ forest is one of the featured spots on the trekking trail along with a narrow valley which guides us to Karche at 2,785 meters, the highest cultivated land in the valley.
We make our way passes to fields and make a steep climb over a ridge which descends in a sweeping arc to the river bank at the altitude of 2,580. As we approach Dharapani, we spot a police check point, a town developed in the Annapurna Circuit. We are now able to view the snowcapped mountains and can stay overnight here.
14th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
Drive back to Kathmandu
As part of the package with Himalayan Dream Team, on the final day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, we will scenic drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu. After having breakfast, we will go through the town, tip our guides and porters and board the private Jeep. The drive takes roughly four hours all the way to Besishar, where the road is sealed from . There is also a direct road from Duharpani to Besishar blocked in the beginning.
While traveling by car along the Prithvi Highway, you will be met with new sites like luscious hills, deep mountain valleys, open meadows, and steep gorges. The drive will take an approximate 7 to 9 hours. After reaching Kathmandu, you will be accommodated at a downtown hotel where you can unwind and contemplate your remarkable trekking adventure.
15th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
After an epic experience in the Himalayas, you can sit back, relax and enjoy this day on your own. From this point the tourist hub of Kathmandu is in your walking distance. If you walk through Thamel, you will notice Handicrafts, Singing bowls, Pashmina shawWe’ll have breakfast and then head to the international airport, alternatively if you have a later flight you can leave your baggage at the hotel and do some last minute sightseeing in Kathmandu, in which case we would then take you to the airport after sightseeing.ls, Prayer flags, and a number of other items available for a serious bargain.
Grab this last chance to purchase items that will serve as wonderful and meaningful memories for you. The mountains, culture, and your journey can be distilled into small mementos which you can cherish for life.
Feel free to explore, grab a snack with a cup of Nepali tea from a local restaurant and enjoy your last full day in this amazing city.
15th Day - Manaslu Circuit Trek
We’ll have breakfast and then head to the international airport, alternatively if you have a later flight you can leave your baggage at the hotel and do some last minute sightseeing in Kathmandu, in which case we would then take you to the airport after sightseeing.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek: Ideal Season & Weather Guide:
Are you planning your Manaslu Circuit trek? If so, read on to find out the best seasons that will make your trek truly unforgettable. The best time for undertaking a Manaslu Circuit trek falls in the early spring-more precisely, March to May-and late autumn, between September and November. In these months, temperatures are moderate with little rainfall; thus, the weather is generally stable for comfortable trekking and viewing the Himalayas in their brilliance.
Why Spring and Autumn are Perfect for Manaslu Circuit Trek:
In spring (March to May): the weather on the Manaslu Circuit is generally mild and stable, making it a fantastic time for trekking. Normally, you can expect:
Autumn (September-November):
This season is marked by cool, dry weather with minimal precipitation, making the skies clear for spectacular mountain vistas. The lush post-monsoon landscapes and crisp autumn air enhance the beauty of the trek.
Occasional snowfall might occur at higher elevations later in the season, with calm to moderate winds near Larkya La Pass.
Best Trekking Experience in Spring and Autumn:
Both spring and autumn offer warm days and cool nights, providing ideal trekking conditions in the Manaslu region. These seasons boast stable weather, clear blue skies, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Whether it’s the vivid rhododendrons of spring or the crisp air and post-monsoon greenery of autumn, your trek will be enriched by the natural beauty these seasons bring.
By choosing to trek during these times, you’ll ensure an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most stunning regions.
1. Scenic Mountain View: Manaslu Circuit is a trekking route that offers great views of snow-capped peaks, green hills, waterfalls, and meadows under clear blue skies. Every sunrise and sunset brings up panoramic views that are unforgettable, thus making this trek a dream for any nature lover.
2. Adventurous and Uncrowded Trails This is a great expedition that takes one through the most varied landscapes and tranquil trails. You will come across blooming rhododendrons, juniper, and oak trees on less-traveled pathways, creating a tranquil, uncrowded adventure in the Manaslu region.
3. Rich Cultural Encounters Explore the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the region. En route, you see monasteries, mani walls, and traditional chortens showing the deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Interacting with the locals, the inhabitants, seeing them practice their rituals adds a rich cultural touch to your trek.
4. Excellent Wildlife Manaslu provides a habitat for rare wildlife such as the Himalayan Tahr, snow leopards, and many species of birds. Since you will be trekking in a conservation area, you are sure to encounter nature's best, knowing full well these habits are protected.
Daily Trekking Routine
Your day gets up pretty early in the morning with breakfast around 7:00 AM. The whole day you trek, with meal stops and scenic view stops. The evenings are taken up relaxing at teahouses, sharing stories with other trekkers.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you'll need to secure a trekking permit due to its location in a restricted region of Nepal. Solo trekking is not permitted; a minimum group size of two people is required to embark on this adventure. Ensure you have the necessary permits and travel with a group to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Manaslu region.
| Permit Type | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit | Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek | Rs 3000 |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit | Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek | Rs 3000 |
| Restricted Area Permit (September – November) | Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek | USD 100 per person/week USD 15 per person/day (beyond 1 week) |
| Restricted Area Permit (December – August) | Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek | USD 75 per person/week USD 10 per person/day (beyond 1 week) |
| Tsum Valley Permit (September – November) | Required for Tsum Valley Trekking | USD 40 per person/week USD 7 per person/day (beyond 1 week) |
| Tsum Valley Permit (December – August) | Required for Tsum Valley Trekking | USD 30 per person/week USD 7 per person/day (beyond 1 week) |
| No TIMS Card Required | TIMS card is not required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek | |
| Required Documents | Description |
|---|---|
| Scanned Copy of Passport | A clear, scanned copy of your passport is needed for permit applications and identification. |
| Passport-Sized Photos | Recent passport-sized photos are required for permit applications and identification purposes. |
| Proof of Travel Insurance | Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is essential. |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | This permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and is mandatory for all trekkers. |
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit | Issued by the Government of Nepal, this permit is necessary for trekking in the restricted Manaslu region. |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Required as the trek concludes in the Annapurna region, this permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. |
| Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card | A TIMS card is required for safety and monitoring purposes and must be obtained before starting the trek. |
Required Equipment/Gears For Manaslu Circuit Trek:
| Essential Equipment/Gear | Description |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack | A durable and comfortable backpack is essential for carrying your gear and supplies throughout the trek. |
| Hiking Boots | Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for navigating the rugged terrain. |
| Warm Clothing Layers | Layering is key to staying warm; pack thermal layers, fleece, and an insulated jacket. |
| Sleeping Bag | A high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures is necessary for staying warm at high altitudes. |
| Waterproof Jacket | A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential for protection against rain, snow, and wind. |
| Trekking Poles | Trekking poles provide stability and reduce strain on your legs during steep ascents and descents. |
| Headlamp | A reliable headlamp with extra batteries is important for early morning starts and evenings in teahouses. |
| Water Purification Tablets | Water purification tablets or a portable filter are necessary for ensuring safe drinking water. |
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Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2025.
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Pieter Posthuma
Belgium
Fantastic holiday to Manaslu with HDT
30th November, 2017
Our experience with the Himalayan Dream Team was truly incredible. We did the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Om as our guide, and since we were a small group, we got to enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds.
Om, along with our porters Raju and Probin, took great care of us throughout the journey. Their support and attention to our well-being made the trek even more enjoyable. We especially appreciated the flexibility to adjust the route based on how we were feeling, which helped us feel safe and comfortable at all times.
Rik from My Himalaya and Indira from Himalayan Dream Team worked together to make this trip unforgettable. We can’t wait to return!
Greetings,
Pieter, Jan, Kees and Tim
Yves V.
Belgium
An Unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalayan Dream Team
7th January, 2024
In November 2023, our group of 13 in a group from Belgium completed the incredible Manaslu Circuit trek. We booked through the Belgian travel company, My Himalaya / Rik Van Bell, and in Nepal, we were guided by the outstanding team at Himalayan Dream Team. Once again, they proved to be the perfect tour operator.
Many in our group, including myself, have been to Nepal several times, exploring different treks, and each time we've been fortunate to share these experiences with Indira and her fantastic team. From the moment we arrived to the day we departed, everything was flawlessly organized, and the warm hospitality made it all the more special.
After our trek, we had the privilege of celebrating the Tihar Festival in Kathmandu, which was simply unforgettable. The vibrant colors, traditions, and festive atmosphere were a perfect way to wrap up our journey.
This won't be our last time here. We'll be back again soon to continue our adventures in Nepal. A big thank you to the entire team for making this holiday truly remarkable!