The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular journey through the remote Manaslu Conservation Area, offering an untouched alternative to the more commercialized treks of Nepal. This trek takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, through lush forests, deep gorges, glacial valleys, and Tibetan Buddhist villages.
With fewer crowds than the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit remains an off-the-beaten-path adventure, filled with rich culture, towering peaks, and thrilling high-altitude crossings. The highlight of the trek is the Larkya La Pass (5,220m), one of Nepal’s longest and most dramatic mountain passes, offering jaw-dropping views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
For those seeking a challenging, less-traveled, and deeply immersive Himalayan experience, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect choice.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
- Highlights: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) – A sacred Buddhist stupa offering panoramic city views.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square – A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Nepali architecture.
- Thamel – A vibrant tourist hub with shops, trekking gear, and cozy cafés.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you'll be greeted by the Tidy Himalaya team and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, we'll have a pre-trek briefing, where you’ll meet your guide and team members. Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner before resting for the adventure ahead.
Day 02: Drive to Machha Khola (930m / 3,051ft) – 8-9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Scenic drive along Trishuli River, lush countryside views
A long but scenic drive through winding hills, rivers, and villages brings you to Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek.
Day 03: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m / 4,395ft) – 6-7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Suspension bridges, riverside trails, waterfalls
Following the Budhi Gandaki River, the trail passes through dense forests and charming Gurung villages, reaching Jagat, a checkpoint for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Deng (2,095m / 6,871ft) – 8-9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Stone-paved trails, Buddhist chortens, stunning valley views
A challenging trek with steep ascents and river crossings leads to Deng, where the Tibetan culture of the high Himalayan region begins to unfold.
Day 05: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,900m / 9,512ft) – 5-6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Breathtaking views of Siringi Himal, traditional villages
The trail gradually climbs through forests, mani walls, and suspension bridges, reaching the beautiful village of Namrung, known for its spectacular mountain vistas.
Day 06: Trek from Namrung to Lo Gaun (3,180m / 10,430ft) – 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Views of Manaslu, Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries
A short but scenic trek brings you to Lo Gaun, a village steeped in Tibetan Buddhist heritage with monasteries and breathtaking Himalayan backdrops.
Day 07: Trek from Lo Gaun to Samagaun (3,520m / 11,480ft) – 4-5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Tibetan villages, yak pastures, breathtaking landscapes
The trek leads to Samagaun, the largest village of the Manaslu region, where you’ll notice an increase in Tibetan cultural influences.
Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Side trip to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp (optional)
A rest day to adjust to the altitude, with the option to explore Pungyen Gompa, Birendra Lake, or hike toward Manaslu Base Camp.
Day 09: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875m / 12,713ft) – 4-5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Remote landscapes, Tibetan refugee settlements
A short but gradual ascent takes you to Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village near the Tibetan border.
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460m / 14,596ft) – 4-5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Barren landscapes, high-altitude trekking experience
The trail continues through rocky terrain and yak pastures to Dharmasala, the last stop before the Larkya La Pass.
Day 11: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimphedi (3,590m / 11,775ft) via Larkya La Pass (5,220m / 17,122ft) – 8-9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Larkya La Pass crossing, breathtaking views of Manaslu and Annapurna
A challenging but rewarding day, as you cross Larkya La Pass, offering one of the most stunning viewpoints in the Himalayas, before descending to Bhimphedi.
Day 12: Trek from Bhimphedi to Goa (2,300m / 7,544ft) – 5-6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Lush forests, waterfalls, riverside trails
The trail descends into greenery and dense forests, marking a transition from the high-altitude landscapes to warmer climates.
Day 13: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,102ft) – 5-6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlights: Stone-paved trails, scenic mountain villages
A pleasant descent leads to Dharapani, where the Annapurna Circuit Trek route meets the Manaslu Circuit.
Day 14: Farewell and Departure
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highlights: Final moments in Nepal
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your incredible Manaslu Circuit adventure.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an incredible mix of cultural richness, remote wilderness, and high-altitude challenges. With Tidy Himalaya, you’ll have an expert team, carefully planned itinerary, and personalized service, ensuring a safe and memorable Himalayan adventure.
Ready to embark on this epic journey? Let’s make your Himalayan dream a reality!