Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal

Guided Remote Trekking Across Larke La Pass (5,106m).

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s classic high-altitude journeys, circling Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The route takes you from the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley through remote mountain villages, dramatic gorges, ancient Buddhist monasteries and the high Himalayan landscape of the Manaslu region.
As the trail climbs north, the landscape gradually changes from lush forests and terraced hillsides to alpine terrain and Tibetan-influenced villages. Samagaon provides an important acclimatization stop, with spectacular views of Manaslu and access to nearby cultural and scenic highlights.
The defining challenge of the circuit is the crossing of Larkya La Pass (approximately 5,100–5,160 m). The long crossing leads from the high Manaslu Valley into the Marsyangdi Valley, with outstanding views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and surrounding peaks.
Manaslu offers a more remote and quieter Himalayan experience than Nepal’s better-known trekking routes. Its combination of high mountain scenery, rich Himalayan culture, challenging terrain and limited visitor numbers makes it an exceptional choice for trekkers looking for a genuine adventure in Nepal.

Leadership

A seasoned veteran trekking guide with multiple trips to Manaslu region will assist a trekkers during this Trek.

Transportation

We utilize 4 wheel drive from Kathmandu to Jagat based on road condition. At the conclusion of the trek we will be taking jeep from bhimtang back to Kathmandu.

Manaslu circuit route

After arriving at the trailhead, we begin our classic Manaslu Circuit trek, following the Budhi Gandaki Valley through traditional villages, forests, and high Himalayan landscapes. We will trek at a steady pace with careful acclimatization, including rest days at key elevations such as Samagaon, before crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) and descending toward the lower valleys. Throughout the trek, our experienced Sherpa team will oversee the logistics and ensure the group is well supported along the route.

The Route

• Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit. From here, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through dramatic gorges, suspension bridges, waterfalls, forests and traditional mountain villages.
• The trek continues through Jagat, Deng and Namrung, with the landscape gradually changing from lush lower valleys to higher alpine terrain. As you approach Lho and Samagaon, Tibetan Buddhist culture becomes increasingly prominent, with traditional stone villages, monasteries, prayer flags and mani walls.
• At Samagaon (3,530 m), we take time to acclimatize and explore the surrounding Himalayan landscape, with spectacular views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). Depending on the itinerary, there is also an opportunity to hike toward Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake.
• From Samagaon, the trail climbs further to Samdo (3,875 m) and then Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m), the final overnight stop before crossing the high pass.
• The highlight of the circuit is the crossing of Larkya La Pass (approximately 5,100–5,160 m). The long ascent and descent take you through a spectacular high-altitude landscape, with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and the surrounding peaks.
• After crossing Larkya La, the trail descends to Bimthang, where the landscape changes again as you move back toward forests and lower valleys. The journey continues through Tilije to Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit meets the Annapurna region and the trekking portion concludes.
• From Dharapani, we continue by road back toward Kathmandu, completing a spectacular circuit around one of Nepal’s great Himalayan peaks.
• Route: Kathmandu → Machha Khola → Jagat → Deng → Namrung → Lho → Samagaon → Samdo → Dharamsala → Larkya La Pass → Bimthang → Tilije → Dharapani → Kathmandu.

Itinerary

Expedition Gear

Insurance

Climbers and trekkers are required to have evacuation and medical insurance and we recommend using Global Rescue

Cost Includes

• Twin Sharing accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu as per itinerary
• Sightseeing of Kathmandu, including guide and entrance fees.
• All ground transfers are as mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicles
• All meals (B, L, D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on the trek with tea & coffee.
• Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio
• Full support crew with one porter for every two trekkers
• Guides and porters salary, Insurance, food and accommodation through out the trip
• Guide and porter transportation
• All required permit for trek (ACAP,MCAP and Restricted area permit fee)
• Comprehensive first aid kit with oxygen mask and regulator.
• AJ Duffel bag, hat, T-shirt and Sleeping bag (Sleeping bag must be returned after completion of trek)

Cost Excludes

• Airfare to and from Nepal
• Meals and drinks in Kathmandu
• Alcoholic beverages during the trek and in Kathmandu
• Bottled beverages, showers and snack food on trek
• Nepal visa costs
• Evacuation costs, medical and rescue insurance
• Gratuities for staff
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on a trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).

Altitude Junkies (P) Ltd. does not allow any solo climbing above base camp on any of our expeditions.