Women Only Trek to Manaslu Circuit

Warm Welcome to the Women-Only Manaslu Circuit Trek

Your adventure begins as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where a friendly representative from Himalayan Dream Team will greet you with a traditional Nepali flower garland. From there, you'll be privately transferred to your hotel for some well-deserved rest after your journey.

Once you're settled in, feel free to explore the nearby surroundings at your own pace and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. In the evening, we invite you to a special welcome dinner at one of Kathmandu’s finest local restaurants—an ideal way to introduce you to Nepali flavors and warm hospitality.

After breakfast, the day continues with a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu for your second day in Nepal.

The first visit is Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), which is a famous ancient Buddhist site that sits on top of a hill, offering amazing city views. It holds immense religious value for Buddhists and Hindus.

Then you are going to visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, the most revered Hindu Temple in Nepal. Its located by the Bagmati River. You will observe traditional cremation ceremonies and the serene worship of the saffron-robed sadhus.

Lunch is served at a restaurant close to Kathmandu Durbar Square, you will enjoy a charming heritage setting while savoring traditional Nepali dishes.

After lunch, you will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is a medieval Newari palace complex. It has a lot of lively courtyards, and intricately carved temples.

End your day with an energizing walk around the local spice and vegetable market, where you can experince the heart of Kathmandu life.

Today's Route: Kathmandu → Thankot Pass → Malekhu → Dhading Besi → Arughat → Arkhet → Soti Khola → Machha Khola

Today, your Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek officially begins with a scenic and adventurous drive from Kathmandu (1,335 m) to Machha Khola (870 m). After an early breakfast, your female trekking guide and private vehicle will meet you at the hotel before you leave the vibrant capital behind.

The journey initially follows the Prithvi Highway beside the Trishuli River, passing green hills, terraced farmland and traditional roadside settlements. After leaving the main highway, the route continues through Dhading Besi and toward Arughat, once an important trading town in the lower Manaslu region.

From Arughat, the road follows the Budhi Gandaki River through Arkhet Bazaar, Soti Khola and several small Gurung and Magar villages. This section is more rugged, with narrow mountain roads, waterfalls, forests and deep river valleys creating an exciting introduction to rural Nepal.

The road can be dusty and uneven in places, particularly after Arughat, but regular stops will be made for lunch, tea and photographs. Depending on the weather, you may also enjoy distant views of Ganesh Himal and the surrounding foothills.

By late afternoon, you will reach Machha Khola, a peaceful riverside settlement beside the Budhi Gandaki River. After checking into your teahouse, you can relax, meet your fellow women trekkers and prepare for your first full day of walking.

Today's Route:

Machha Khola → Khorlabesi → Tatopani → Doban → Yaru Khola → Thado Bharyang → Jagat

Today marks the beginning of your trekking adventure on the Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek. Leaving Machha Khola (870 m) after breakfast, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, small farming settlements, and dramatic river gorges as you gradually make your way into the remote Manaslu Conservation Area.

The morning begins with a gentle walk to the traditional village of Khorlabesi, followed by a scenic climb to Tatopani, a natural hot spring where many trekkers pause for a short rest. Continuing along the trail, you cross several suspension bridges and pass beautiful waterfalls before reaching Doban, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense subtropical forest.

After lunch, the trail follows the rushing Budhi Gandaki River before crossing Yaru Khola on another suspension bridge. A steady climb up the famous stone staircase of Thado Bharyang rewards you with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and river valley below.

By late afternoon, you arrive at the charming village of Jagat (1,330 m), the official gateway to the restricted Manaslu region. Your guide will complete the required permit formalities while you explore the village's narrow stone-paved streets, traditional houses, colourful prayer flags, and peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Tonight, relax in a comfortable teahouse and enjoy your first overnight stay deep in the Himalayas as your unforgettable Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek continues toward the spectacular high mountains of Nepal.

Today's Route:
Jagat → Salleri → Sirdibas → Philim → Ekle Bhatti → Lokpa Junction → Pewa → Deng

After breakfast, today's Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek continues deeper into the remote Manaslu Conservation Area. The trail climbs to Salleri, offering beautiful views of the Budhi Gandaki Valley, before descending to the traditional village of Sirdibas.

Continuing to Philim, one of the largest Gurung villages on the route, your guide completes the required permit check before you trek through peaceful pine and bamboo forests to Ekle Bhatti, a popular lunch stop. Shortly afterwards, you pass Lokpa Junction (1,860 m), where the trail to the hidden Tsum Valley branches off from the main Manaslu Circuit.

The afternoon follows scenic forest trails and crosses several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River before reaching Deng (1,800 m). This charming Himalayan village marks the beginning of the culturally rich Nubri Valley, where Tibetan Buddhist traditions, prayer flags, and warm mountain hospitality become an unforgettable part of your trekking experience.

Today's Route:
Deng → Rana → Bihi Phedi → Ghap
Leaving Deng after breakfast, today's Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River through peaceful pine forests and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. The trail passes small settlements, crosses several suspension bridges, and winds through narrow gorges surrounded by towering cliffs.

As you gain altitude, you'll notice an increasing number of mani walls, chortens, and colourful prayer flags, reflecting the rich Buddhist culture of the upper Manaslu region. Passing through Rana and Bihi Phedi, the scenery becomes even more spectacular, with dense forests, waterfalls, and mountain streams accompanying your walk.

By early afternoon, you arrive at the quiet village of Ghap (2,160 m), nestled among beautiful forests in the heart of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your teahouse while preparing for tomorrow's journey into the higher Himalayas.

Today's Route:
Ghap → Namrung → Lihi → Sho → Lho

Today's trek is one of the most rewarding days of the Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek as you enter the beautiful Nubri Valley. The trail climbs steadily through rhododendron and pine forests before reaching the traditional village of Namrung, where magnificent Himalayan views begin to unfold.

Beyond Namrung, you continue through the picturesque villages of Lihi and Sho, surrounded by ancient monasteries, mani walls, and traditional stone houses. As the landscape opens up, breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Naike Peak accompany your journey.

By late afternoon, you reach the charming village of Lho (3,180 m), famous for its impressive monastery and spectacular sunset views over Mount Manaslu. The peaceful atmosphere and warm local hospitality make Lho one of the highlights of the entire trek.

Today's Route:
Lho → Shyala → Pungyen Gompa → Samagaun

After breakfast, enjoy stunning morning views of Mount Manaslu before continuing through alpine forests and open yak pastures toward the peaceful village of Shyala. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Shyala offers one of the finest panoramic viewpoints on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

From here, a scenic side trail leads to Pungyen Gompa (4,000 m), a beautiful Buddhist monastery located beneath the dramatic Manaslu Glacier. The monastery provides breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and the surrounding Himalayan landscape, making it one of the trek's most memorable highlights.

After spending time at the monastery, you descend to the traditional Tibetan village of Samagaun (3,530 m). Surrounded by towering mountains, ancient mani walls, and welcoming stone houses, Samagaun is the perfect place to acclimatise before heading towards the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106 m).

Today's Route:
Samagaun → Birendra Lake / Manaslu Base Camp → Samagaun

Today is an important acclimatization day on your Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek, helping your body adjust to the increasing altitude before crossing Larkya La Pass. Rather than resting completely, light activity is recommended for better acclimatization.

For adventurous trekkers, an optional hike leads to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m), offering breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), glaciers, icefalls, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Although challenging, the hike is one of the most rewarding experiences of the trek.

If you prefer a shorter excursion, a gentle walk to the beautiful Birendra Lake provides equally spectacular scenery. This turquoise glacial lake, located beneath the Manaslu Glacier, is one of the most photogenic places in the region.

After returning to Samagaun (3530 m), you can relax at the teahouse, visit the village monastery, or explore the traditional Tibetan settlement before preparing for the higher elevations ahead.

Today's Route:
Samagaun → Kermo Kharka → White Kani → Samdo

Leaving Samagaun after breakfast, today's trek is relatively short, allowing plenty of time for gradual acclimatization. The trail follows the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley, passing long mani walls, yak pastures, and wide alpine landscapes surrounded by magnificent Himalayan scenery.

Walking through Kermo Kharka, you enjoy spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, Samdo Peak, and the surrounding snow-covered mountains. As you approach the traditional entrance gate known as the White Kani, the picturesque village of Samdo (3875 m) comes into view.

Located just a few kilometres from the Tibetan border, Samdo is a traditional Tibetan refugee village where local families continue to practise yak herding, barley farming, and centuries-old Buddhist traditions. Spend the afternoon exploring the village or enjoying panoramic mountain views before resting for tomorrow's ascent toward Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi).

Today's Route:
Samdo → Larkya Bazaar → Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi)

Today's trek takes you into the high alpine wilderness as you leave Samdo and follow the historic trading route once used by merchants travelling between Nepal and Tibet. The trail climbs gradually across open valleys with breathtaking views of Larkya Peak, Manaslu North, Naike Peak, and the surrounding glaciers.

After crossing several streams and glacial moraines, you pass the remains of the historic Larkya Bazaar, which once served as an important seasonal trading centre for local communities.

A final steady ascent brings you to Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi (4460 m), the last settlement before crossing the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5106 m). Surrounded by rugged mountains and dramatic alpine scenery, this is the perfect place to rest, stay hydrated, and prepare for tomorrow's unforgettable journey across one of Nepal's most beautiful high mountain passes.

Today's Route:
Dharmasala → Larkya La Pass → Taboche → Bhimtang

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of your Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek. Before sunrise, you begin the gradual ascent from Dharmasala (4,460 m) toward the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the trek.

The trail crosses glacial moraines and rugged alpine terrain before reaching the colourful prayer flags at the summit. From the pass, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Larkya Peak, and the towering Annapurna II. On clear days, you may even spot Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep or soaring Himalayan griffons.

After celebrating your achievement, the trail descends carefully over rocky paths and alpine meadows to Taboche, before continuing through beautiful glacial valleys to Bhimtang (3,720 m). Surrounded by magnificent snow-capped peaks, this peaceful alpine settlement provides a well-earned overnight stop after crossing one of Nepal's most spectacular Himalayan mountain passes.

Today's Route:
Bhimtang → Sangure Kharka → Karche → Tilije → Thonje → Dharapani

After breakfast, you leave the beautiful alpine valley of Bhimtang and begin a long descent through some of the most diverse landscapes of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trail offers magnificent morning views of Mount Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal before descending through rhododendron forests and open yak pastures.

Crossing the Dudh Khola River, you pass Sangure Kharka and Karche, the highest cultivated farmland in the valley. Continuing downhill, the trail leads through lush pine forests and traditional villages before reaching Tilije, where you can enjoy a well-deserved break.

After crossing a suspension bridge and passing through Thonje, you officially leave the Manaslu region and rejoin the famous Annapurna Circuit Trail. A short walk brings you to Dharapani (1,990 m), where you celebrate the successful completion of your trekking adventure with a comfortable overnight stay.

Today's Route:
Dharapani → Besisahar → Dumre → Mugling → Kathmandu

After breakfast, you bid farewell to the Himalayas and begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu (1,335 m). The journey follows the Marsyangdi River through picturesque villages, waterfalls, terraced hillsides, and lush forests before reaching Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region.

From Besisahar, you continue along the Prithvi Highway, passing Dumre, Mugling, and the beautiful Trishuli River as you travel through the rolling hills of central Nepal. Along the way, there will be several stops for lunch, refreshments, and photographs.

By late afternoon, you arrive back in Kathmandu, where you'll be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, enjoy a hot shower, or celebrate the successful completion of your unforgettable Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek with your fellow travellers while reflecting on the incredible memories made in the Nepal Himalayas.

After completing your unforgettable Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek, today is yours to relax and enjoy Kathmandu at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind at the hotel or explore the city's vibrant streets, it's the perfect opportunity to reflect on your incredible Himalayan adventure.

The bustling neighbourhood of Thamel is just a short walk away and offers a wonderful selection of handicraft shops, pashmina scarves, singing bowls, prayer flags, local artwork, trekking gear, and authentic Nepali souvenirs. It's an ideal place to find memorable gifts for family and friends.

You may also wish to visit a local café, sample traditional Nepali cuisine, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere of Nepal's historic capital. In the evening, celebrate the successful completion of your journey with your fellow trekkers while sharing unforgettable memories from the spectacular Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Depending on your flight schedule, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

As your Women Only Manaslu Circuit Trek comes to an end, we hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, warm mountain hospitality, and the lasting friendships made along the trail.

Thank you for choosing Himalayan Dream Team for your adventure in Nepal. We look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable trekking or cultural journey in the Himalayas. Until next time, safe travels and Namaste!