The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a variety of routes that reveal the hidden beauty of the iconic yet less-explored Manaslu region located in the Manaslu Conservation Area. This trek provides a comprehensive itinerary that allows you to experience the entire area in a single journey. Although it is often underrated, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is gaining popularity due to its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. If you're looking for a classic trekking experience in Nepal, the Manaslu Base Camp Trek is one you shouldn’t overlook. Himalayan Trekking Path, a well-known local trekking company, offers multiple itineraries to explore the lesser-known aspects of the Manaslu Trek. Among these options, the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice for those wanting to experience this beautiful region within a limited timeframe. Our 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek package features a condensed itinerary that allows you to explore the entire Manaslu region in just two weeks. Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world at 8,163 meters above sea level, is a highlight of this trek. The journey begins in Machhe Khola, following a scenic drive from Kathmandu, and continues along the Budi Gandaki River valley to Larkey La, the trek's highest point at 5,106 meters. Along the way, trekkers will encounter charming villages, ancient monasteries, diverse flora and fauna, towering peaks, glaciers, beautiful streams, and cascading waterfalls, all set against breathtaking landscapes. During this adventure, you can visit Pungen Gomba (4000m), just below Mt.Manaslu and Nadi Chuli, a significant hiking destination that offers stunning views of the majestic Manaslu range and its historic monastery. The trek also includes hiking to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 meters) and the picturesque Birendra Lake. Wildlife such as Himalayan Thar, Yaks, and blue sheep can often be spotted throughout the journey. After reaching Larkey La and taking in the spectacular Himalayan vistas, the trek descends to Bhimthang, passing by the Pugker Glacier and Lake, as well as the impressive Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which offers great accommodation and stunning mountain views. From here, the trek continues down through dense pine forests towards Surke Khola, eventually leading to Tilche and Dharapani, where you can catch a ride back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Additional services included in a Manasalu Circuit Trek package are hiring a porter and whether it includes private vehicles i.e. jeep. A private jeep for this trek can cost between $220 to $360 per vehicle, depending upon the route of the trek.
Welcome to Nepal, the country epitomizing the perfect combination of cultural and natural diversity. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you’ll meet up with us. Following the exchange of warm greetings, you’ll be escorted to your hotel, where you can freshen up as well as loosen up your tired muscles, enjoying the amenities offered by the hotel. In the evening, you can wander around the radiant marketplace of Thamel and get familiar with the new surroundings and people.
The second day of the escapade is designated as “Free Day,” during which; you can independently explore the time-honored valley of Kathmandu. Of course, we are here to provide you with the necessary pieces of information and directions to the major landmarks of the valley. The valley is made up of three cities, i.e., Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. Traverse these sister cities, which are home to the Durbar Square Complex, an ancient Nepalese architectural marvel. You can also visit the Hindu temples of Pashupatinath and Changunarayan or the Buddhist stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. All of these monuments and buildings are listed as UNESCO Cultural World Heritage sites. Witness the magnificent architecture as well as the artistic skills of medieval craftsmen.
After some healthy breakfast early in the morning, we’ll set off from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi via public vehicle on a paved highway. The continuous drive leads to a rock-strewn and bumpy path, which eventually arrives at Jyamire and then prolongs to Machhakhola (930m): the organic village of Nepal. Along the way, we’ll get glimpses of picturesque countryside embracing verdant valleys, terraces, paddy fields, raging rivers, and green hills. You’ll also observe rustic villages settled alongside the highway and catch sight of the traditional way of life.
Starting from Machhe Khola, the trek to Jagat (1340m) begins on the most favorable day of the journey. The distance to be covered is 23 km, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours of walking. Departing from Machhakhola, we will embark on our trekking expedition. We will follow the winding mountain path that ascends uphill along the Budhi Gandaki River. With a few ups and downs, the trail gradually leads us across the Tharo Khola and eventually reaches Khorlabesi. After encountering some more undulations, we will arrive at Tatopani and then ascend over another ridge to cross the Budhi Gandaki via a suspension bridge. Along the trail, we will come across a wide and well-constructed staircase. Continuing forward over another ridge, we will reach Doban. From there, we will navigate through the challenging trail beyond Dobhan Khola, Duman, and Yaru Khola, and finally arrive at Tharo Bharyang. As we cross to the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we will ascend uphill and continue alongside the river until we reach Jagat (1,340m).
Today, we will venture into the restricted area beyond Jagat. The trek from Jagat to Deng covers a distance of 20km and typically takes around 7 to 8 hours to complete. Along the way, we will pass through picturesque villages such as Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, Nyak, and finally Deng. Continuing our journey, we will climb a rocky ridge to reach Salleri (1,440m) where we can enjoy breathtaking views of the Sringi Himal. Descending to Setibas (1,430m), we will follow the path to Ghatta Khola before ascending to Nyak via Philim and Ekle Bhatti. Nyak is one of the largest settlements we will encounter on this route. With the majestic Mt. Lapuchun (5,950m) in sight, we will reach the Manaslu Conservation Area Project office. As we make our way through the lush slopes and dense woodland of the narrow valley, the scenery will gradually open up, providing a pleasant walk through the bamboo forest towards Deng (1,860m/6102ft).
We’ll forge ahead to the north and press on beyond the tiny settlement of Ranagaon (1,980m) to Bihi Phedi (1,985 m), with some noteworthy vistas of the Budhi Gandaki gorge en route. Eventually, we’ll end up at Prok (2380m), a beautiful village with traditional houses, large fields, welcoming residents and a gompa. Descending to Ghap, the trail goes into dreamy woodland, then traverses Budhi Gandaki twice on wooden bridges above splendid gorges to Namrung (2,630m). This lovely village offers some sublime views of Himalayan summits encompassing Himal Chuli (7,893m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422m). Deng and Namrung are separated by a distance of 19.5 km, which can be covered by walking for approximately 6 to 7 hours. Indulge in a delightful evening at the charming wooden lodge in Namrung.
Following breakfast, we will travel from Namrung to Shyala, passing through 10 km of stunning terrain with magnificent mountain views. The journey will take us across the charming Bhanzam plateau, where we can admire barley fields and stone houses. Our next stop will be Lihi Village, where a small flat area on the right offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the area. After crossing the Hinang Khola, we will pass through Sho village before continuing to Lho and finally reaching Shyala.
The picturesque village of Shyala is widely regarded as one of the most stunning destinations, offering panoramic views of the entire mountain range and captivating monasteries. After a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a 3-hour uphill hike to Pungen Gompa (4800m), nestled at the base of Mt. Manaslu (8163m). This is an ideal opportunity to witness the grandeur of the mountains and immerse yourself in the ancient monastery's tranquility. As we descend, you will be filled with a sense of delight, and we will continue our journey to Sama Gaun (3550m). This day is considered a highlight of the short Manaslu Circuit trek, as it provides the closest vantage point and aids in acclimatization for the Larkey La pass. Indulge in a scrumptious lunch in Sama and take the time to explore the surroundings before spending the night in Sama.
This very day, we’ll take a rest at Samagoan. Since it is the closest village to Manaslu Base Camp and other beautiful tourist attractions such as Birendra Lake; we’ll explore these places and again return to the village. Options can be discussed with your guide depending on your fitness and requirements. Birendra Tal is a turquoise lake at the foot of the Manaslu glacier. You can take a dip in its pristine water and enjoy the scenery around. If you intend to set your foot at the foothills of an eight-thousander, you can hike up to Manaslu Base Camp. On the way to the Base Camp, the landscapes become more and more spectacular as the elevation increases, with a turquoise lake underneath, the glacier close by, and snow-capped mountaintops as far as the eye can see.
As our journey proceeds further to the north, the trekking pathway heads to the upper part of the Budhi Gandaki. It then negotiates uphill towards Samdo (3,860m). This adorable settlement is overlooked by the majestic Samdo Peak (6,335m) and the frozen Samdo Glacier. Just before gaining access to the village’s territory; we’ll come across the spot where the Budhi Gandaki begins – at the conflux of Larke Khola and the river originated from Samdo Glacier.
We’ll progress on the way to Larke La (5,160m) ahead of sunrise. This is the back-breaking and strenuous journey to make. The route becomes wearisome as it ascends on several rocky glacial moraines, dominated by hills and snowy ridges. We’ll come across numerous small shallow lakes, before the final ascent to the prayer flags indicating the top of the pass. We’ll then happily commence our descent along the trail towards the moraine of Salpudanda Glacier. Adjacent to Bhimtang glacier, the trail gradually makes it to Bhimthang (3,590m). Rejoice in the delightful scenery around you during your stay in this village.
This stretch of trail is lush and colorful. We’ll pass by the foot of the Bhimtang glacier, observing elegant scenery. Beyond the spell-binding landscapes adorned with prayer flags, we can grasp the wonderful sight of mountains around us, with the Manaslu Range to the southeast. Pursuing the trail, we’ll move through the mystical fir woods to Yak Kharka. Navigating to the other end of the woodland, we’ll settle Gho (2,560m). Past the lovely village of Tilche (2,300m); the trail steers over the Dudh Khola via a long suspension bridge and appears at Thonche, which marks the official ending of the Manaslu trail. We’ll finally move on the bridge spanning over the Masryangdi River to Dharapani.
