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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trekking route in Nepal that encircles the imposing Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world.
This 13-day trek takes you through diverse landscapes, snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, lush valleys, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is known for its remote and pristine beauty, offering an authentic Himalayan experience away from the crowds of more popular trekking routes.
Things To Know Before Embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
High Altitude
The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches elevations exceeding 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), including the challenging Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, requiring acclimatization and careful monitoring of symptoms.
Remote and Isolated Terrain
The Manaslu Circuit traverses remote and rugged terrain, far from major urban centers. Facilities such as lodges and medical assistance are limited, necessitating self-sufficiency and emergency preparedness.
Variable Weather Conditions
Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, with conditions ranging from clear skies to heavy snowfall and blizzards. you must be prepared for cold temperatures, high winds, and potential weather-related challenges.
Long Trekking Days
The trek typically involves long days of hiking, often spanning 6 to 8 hours or more, with steep ascents and descents. Stamina and physical fitness are essential for completing each day’s trekking itinerary.
Permits and Regulations
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires obtaining special permits from the Nepalese government. Independent trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu Region. Only a local registered local company can issue the permit.
Itinerary For The Manaslu Circuit Trek
Day 1: Kathmandu To Macha Khola
Your adventure begins with a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Macha Khola. This can be done either by private jeep or local bus. The drive takes approximately 6-8 hours, offering glimpses of the countryside and the foothills of the Himalayas.
Macha Khola, a small village nestled along the Budhi Gandaki River, serves as the official starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Here, you’ll settle into your teahouse accommodation and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Machha Khola To Jagat
The trail from Machha Khola follows the Budhi Gandaki River, initially through a narrow path along the Khoralabesi village. You’ll encounter several small streams cascading down the mountainsides, eventually merging with the Budhi Gandaki.
One of the highlights of this day is Tatopani, a natural hot spring where you can take a relaxing dip to soothe your tired muscles after the first day’s travel.
Day 3: Jagat To Deng
You’ll begin by climbing a rocky ridge to reach Salleri, a small village with captivating views of Mount Sringi. As you descend towards Setibas, you’ll notice the increasing presence of mani walls, indicating the growing influence of Tibetan culture in the region.
The valley widens, and the trail continues past stone houses along Ghat Khola. You’ll encounter a long suspension bridge, offering a thrilling experience as you cross the roaring river below.
The trail climbs towards Philim, a large Gurung village showcasing traditional architecture and local life.
After traversing through lush millet fields, you’ll reach Ekle Bhatti, a small teahouse settlement, which serves as your lunch stop or overnight stay depending on your pace.
The final stretch to Deng involves a gradual ascent through farmlands and meadows.
Day 4: Deng To Namrung
The trek from Deng to Namrung is the fourth day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering a beautiful journey with diverse landscapes and cultural encounters. Here’s what you can expect:
The trail from Deng takes you through a fascinating mix of valleys, rivers, and quaint villages, gradually ascending towards Namrung. You’ll begin with a short descent to the Budhi Gandaki Riverbed, offering a different perspective of the valley.
The trail then leads you across a suspension bridge to Rana Gaon, a small village with traditional stone houses and agricultural fields. Next, you’ll encounter Bhimphedi, a picturesque spot with teahouses, followed by a gentle climb to Gap, a village known for its apple orchards.
Enjoy the scenic views and potentially savor some fresh apples during the season. Ghap is a good spot to take a lunch break and refuel for the remaining trek. After Ghap, the trail enters a captivating section with dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flora and fauna.
Keep an eye out for colorful birds and interesting plant life. As you approach Namrung, you’ll start noticing an increase in mani walls and colorful prayer flags, reflecting the growing Tibetan Buddhist influence in the region.
Namrung, a charming village nestled at an altitude of 2660 meters (8727 ft), is your destination for the day. Here, you’ll find comfortable teahouses with breathtaking views of the Manaslu Himal, including Manaslu itself.
Day 5: Namrung To Lho
As you leave Namrung, the trail is adorned with many mani walls and colorful prayer flags, signifying the strong Tibetan Buddhist influence in the region.
The initial part of the trek takes you through Upper Nupri, a beautiful area with traditional stone houses and yak pastures.
The path then enters a scenic forest section with towering fir, rhododendrons, and oak trees. Keep an eye out for interesting birdlife and the vibrant flora of the region.
You’ll reach Lihi village, showcasing unique architectural styles with flat roofs and stone houses. Interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
As you ascend further, the trail opens up to spectacular views of the Manaslu range, including Manaslu itself, Peak 29, and the Naike Peak. The landscape becomes more dramatic, offering a glimpse of the beauty that awaits you on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Day 6: Lho To Samagaun
You will follow a higher trail along the lateral moraine of the Pungen Glacier. This route offers closer views of the glacier and Peak 29 but may involve some rocky sections.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll eventually reach Shyaula Kharka, a small herder settlement with traditional stone houses and yak pastures.
The trail then opens up to breathtaking views of the Manaslu range, including Manaslu itself, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli.
Samagaun, a beautiful village nestled at an altitude of 3530 meters (11,581 ft), is your destination for the day. Here, you’ll find comfortable teahouses with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
On this day you will hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4500 meters) – This is a more challenging hike that offers stunning views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks.
Be sure to discuss this option with your guide to ensure it’s suitable for your acclimatization progress
A successful acclimatization day in Samagaun paves the way for a safe and enjoyable journey through the higher sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Listen to your body, prioritize rest, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
Day 8: Samagaun To Samdo
You’ll begin with a gradual descent towards the Budhi Gandaki River, offering a different perspective of the valley.
After crossing the river on a suspension bridge, the landscape transforms into a more arid and rocky terrain, resembling a high-altitude desert.
You’ll encounter yak herder settlements and their grazing pastures along the way.
The trail then steadily ascends through this unique landscape, offering panoramic views of the Manaslu range, including Manaslu itself and the surrounding peaks.
Samdo, a small village nestled at an altitude of 3875 meters (12,713 ft), is your destination for the day. You’ll find comfortable teahouses with even more dramatic close-up views of Manaslu.
Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Similar to your acclimatization day in Samagaun, spending an acclimatization day in Samdo (at 3875 meters) is crucial for success on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
You will hike to the Tibetan border on this day. This can be a challenging but rewarding hike depending on the specific route chosen. It helps your body to acclimatize your body for Larke Pass.
Day 10: Samdo To Dharamsala
It’s a challenging yet rewarding leg that takes you through a high-altitude landscape with dramatic scenery and prepares you for the upcoming Larkya La pass crossing.
You’ll start with a steep and challenging climb through scree slopes, demanding a slow and steady pace.
The trail continues alongside the Larkya Glacier, offering a unique perspective of the glacial terrain. Keep an eye out for crevasses and follow your guide’s instructions carefully.
Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, is a small village situated at an altitude of 4470 meters (14,665 ft). This is your destination for the day and serves as the base camp before tackling the Larkya La pass.
Day 11: Dharamsala To Bhimthang Via Larke Pass
This is the day you have been waiting for. You’ll wake up very early for a pre-dawn start to avoid the afternoon sun and potential snowmelt on the pass.
The initial ascent from Dharamsala involves a steep climb through moraine and scree slopes, demanding a slow and steady pace with frequent breaks.
As you gain altitude, the air will become thinner, so listen to your body and take rest breaks whenever needed.
The final push to the pass involves a rocky section that might require using your hands for balance.
Reaching Larkya La, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, is a moment of immense achievement.
Here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Manaslu, Himchuli, and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. On a clear day, you might even see glimpses of Annapurna peaks in the distance.
The descent from Larkya La towards Bimthang is initially steep and involves navigating loose scree slopes. Use hiking poles for extra support and stability.
The trail then enters a more scenic valley with pastures and streams.
Day 12: Bhimthang To Dharapani
You’ll begin with a gradual descent through a scenic valley with pastures, streams, and lush vegetation. Enjoy the contrasting landscape compared to the previous day’s terrain.
The trail then leads you to a suspension bridge over the mighty Budhi Gandaki River. As you descend further, you’ll enter the lower Manaslu region, with more permanent settlements and cultivated fields.
Dharapani, a charming village nestled at an altitude of 3720 meters (12,205 ft), is your destination for the day. This is a popular stop on the Annapurna Circuit Trek as well.
Day 13: Dharapani To Besisahar
The trail leads you to a suspension bridge over the mighty Budhi Gandaki River.
As you descend, you’ll enter the lower Manaslu region, with more permanent settlements and cultivated fields.
Besisahar, a bustling town nestled at an altitude of 794 meters (2,605 ft), is your final destination on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is also the starting point for the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Day 14: Besisahar To Kathmandu
From Besisahar, you can take a local bus back to Kathmandu. The journey takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The bus ride can be quite bumpy and dusty, so be prepared for a long journey. Tickets can be purchased at the bus station in Besisahar.
I hope this inspires you to hike the Manaslu Circuit Trek, I certainly want to do it after reading this!
