The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Treks and Tour is one of Nepal's premier trekking routes, offering breathtaking views of the Manaslu range, rich cultural experiences, and an immersive adventure in a less-crowded region. Known for its remote beauty and the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), it offers trekkers a chance to explore not only the spectacular Himalayas but also Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes.
Here's your complete guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
1. Key Details
Duration: 14-18 days (depends on acclimatization and route taken)
Region: Manaslu Conservation Area, Gandaki Province, Nepal
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Maximum Altitude: 5,160 meters (Larkya La Pass)
Best Time to Trek:
Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, moderate temperatures.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers.
Avoid:
Monsoon (June-August): Rainy season, slippery trails, leeches.
Winter (December-February): Extreme cold, heavy snow, trail closures.
Permits: You will need the following:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: This can only be obtained via a licensed agency and requires a guide.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (if returning via the Annapurna Circuit).
2. Trek Difficulty
Challenge Level: Moderate to Difficult
Altitude: Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters) means dealing with high altitude, so acclimatization is essential.
Terrain: Rough, rocky paths, steep ascents, suspension bridges, and high-altitude passes.
Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes.
Altitude Sickness: You must take care with acclimatization, as altitude sickness is common above 3,500 meters.
3. Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Larkya La Pass: The highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), and more.
Cultural Experience: The trek passes through villages that are heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, including Sama Gaon and Samdo.
Diverse Landscapes: From subtropical forests to alpine meadows, glaciers, and high-altitude deserts.
Less Crowded: Compared to other popular treks like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit remains quieter and offers more solitude.
4. Trekking Itinerary (Typical 14-Day Trek)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Activity: Arrive in Kathmandu, explore the city, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Durbar Square.
Overnight: Stay in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710m)
Duration: Approx. 8-9 hours drive.
Activity: A scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, passing through the town of Arughat to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek.
Overnight: Stay in a teahouse in Soti Khola.
Day 3: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m)
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Activity: Trek through subtropical forests, crossing suspension bridges and passing small villages.
Overnight: Stay in Machha Khola.
Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Activity: Pass through the village of Philim (which has stunning views of Manaslu and Himalchuli), and reach Jagat, the entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Overnight: Stay in Jagat.
Day 5: Jagat to Deng (1,860m)
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Activity: Continue through forests and along rivers, reaching the village of Deng.
Overnight: Stay in Deng.
Day 6: Deng to Namrung (2,630m)
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Activity: The trail begins to climb through forests and pastures. You’ll start to notice the Tibetan culture in the villages, including Tibetan prayer flags and gompas.
Overnight: Stay in Namrung.
Day 7: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)
Duration: Approx. 6 hours.
Activity: Enjoy spectacular views of Manaslu and Manaslu North. Arrive at Samagaon, a Tibetan-influenced village.
Overnight: Stay in Samagaon.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Activity: Take a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,480m) or Pungyen Gompa for better acclimatization. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight: Stay in Samagaon.
Day 9: Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m)
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hours.
Activity: Trek through more remote terrain, passing through small Tibetan villages. You'll get closer to the Tibetan border as you reach Samdo.
Overnight: Stay in Samdo.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Activity: Another rest day for acclimatization. You can hike to the Tibetan Border or a nearby ridge for panoramic views of Larkya Peak and the surrounding Himalayas.
Overnight: Stay in Samdo.
Day 11: Samdo to Dharmashala (4,460m)
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hours.
Activity: Continue trekking through a beautiful, isolated area with high-altitude desert-like landscapes.
Overnight: Stay in Dharmashala (also known as Larkya Phedi), which is the final stop before the pass.
Day 12: Dharmashala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
Duration: Approx. 9-11 hours.
Activity: Early morning start. The ascent to Larkya La Pass is challenging, but the panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and others make it unforgettable. After crossing the pass, descend to Bimthang, a beautiful alpine meadow.
Overnight: Stay in Bimthang.
Day 13: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m)
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours.
Activity: The trail descends through rhododendron forests, passing by traditional villages such as Gho and Tilije. You’ll be able to see wonderful views of Manaslu and Himalchuli.
Overnight: Stay in Tilije.
Day 14: Tilije to Kathmandu via Dharapani (1,960m)
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours by jeep/bus.
Activity: The trail descends to Dharapani, where you can catch a jeep or bus to Besisahar and then drive back to Kathmandu.
Overnight: Stay in Kathmandu.
5. Accommodation and Meals
Teahouses: You'll stay in simple teahouses along the route. Most offer basic facilities like a bed and shared bathrooms.
Meals: Teahouses typically serve traditional Nepali food like dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), noodles, and Tibetan bread. The further you go, the more limited the menu becomes, but high-energy foods are available to sustain you during your trek.
6. Packing List
Essential Gear:
Trekking Boots: Waterproof, comfortable boots with good ankle support.
Clothing: Layered clothing (including thermal layers, fleece, waterproof jacket, and down jacket).
Sleeping Bag: Warm enough for sub-zero temperatures at high altitudes.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and support.
Headlamp: With extra batteries for any late starts.
Water Bottles: To stay hydrated; consider water purification tablets or a filter.
Personal Items:
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: The higher you go, the more intense the sun.
First Aid Kit: Basic supplies like bandages, painkillers, anti-diarrheal medication, and altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox).
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, nuts, etc.
Camera: For capturing the stunning scenery.
7. Important Tips
Book with a Licensed Agency: Since the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area, you need to trek with a licensed guide and porter.
Acclimatize Properly: Allow your body to adjust to the altitude by taking rest days, staying hydrated, and eating properly.
Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers trekking at high altitudes and any emergency evacuations.
Pack Light: Only bring essentials as your porter will carry your bags. The lighter your load, the easier the trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Treks and Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Himalayas, rich Tibetan culture, and the thrill of high-altitude trekking. It’s a journey for those looking for adventure, serenity, and a challenge.