Manaslu Circuit Trek as the name suggests is a trek that makes a complete circuit of the Mt. Manaslu (8156 m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. This trek takes you to off the beaten path and provides you a chance to explore some of the remote areas of Nepal. The Manaslu region is geographically and culturally very close to Tibet. This trail is visited only by few trekkers so it is less crowded as compared to other popular trails of Annapurna and Everest. The trail passes through Manaslu Base Camp (4665 m) and Larkey La (5160 m), a pass in the mountain. Crossing the Larkey La is the most challenging point on this trek. From Manaslu Base Camp we can observe the close-up views of Mt. Manaslu, Samdo, Khayang, Saula, Nireyka and Larkya peak. During your walk along this trail you will find many old Buddhist Monasteries and the existence of culture of Tibetan Buddhism among the people here. Also you will get to learn about some of the remaining practices of Bon, an ancient Himalayan religion that prdates Buddhism and it is on the verge of extinction. The trek starts from the lush and green Budhi Gandaki Valley where it follows Budhi Gandaki River and ascends towards Nubri Valley. The Nubri Valley lies very close to Tibet. Then it passes through Larkey La. After crossing the Larkey La you will reach Marshyangdi Valley. You will be fascinated to experience the cultural diversity in Nepal. Nepalese Hindu culture prevails in the lower elevations whereas Tibatan Buddhist and Bon culture dominates the upper reaches of the region. Share narrow trails carved on cliff sides with mule and yak caravans.
The trail passes through Manaslu Conservation Area, home to rare Himalayan flora and fauna such as snow leopard, red panda, blue sheep, Himalayan thar, etc.. The cool breeze brushes your face when you pass through pine forests. The area is dotted with traditional villages. On the way you can see many raging glacial rivers and waterfalls. There is a point where you will follow the Himalayan salt-trail, an ancient trade route used by traders of Nepal, Tibet and India in ancient time. At completion of this trek, you will be proud to realize that you have already walked across three Himalayan valleys – Budhi Gandaki, Nubri and Marshyangdi and crossed the Larkya Pass in a matter of two weeks. Our experienced local guide will be guiding you throughout the trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek is often taken as an alternative to Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a teahouse (Mountain lodges) trek. The trek is comparatively tough and demands a good physical fitness and previous experience of trekking in the mountains.
Overview
Facts of the Trip
Total Days 18 Days
Type of trek Tea house/ Mountain lodge
Grade Strenuous
Maximum Altitude 5160 m (Larkey Pass)
Best season February, March, April, September, October, November
Trip Highlights
- UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
- Off the beaten and less crowded trail
- Manaslu Base Camp and Larkey La, a mountain pass on the trail
- The splendid views of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest peak and other peaks from Manaslu Base Camp and en route
- Magnificient Himalayan valleys: Budhi Gandaki Valley, Nubri Valley and Marshyangdi Valley
- Manaslu Conservation Area and rare flora and fauna it contains
- Unique Himalayan Bhotia culture in the upper reaches that resembles Tibettan culture
Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m)
Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour (1350 m)
Day 3: Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730 m)
Day 4: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930 m)
Day 5: Machha Khola to Jagat (1300 m)
Day 6: Jagat to Deng (1805 m)
Day 7: Deng to Namrung (2630 m)
Day 8: Namrung to Samagaon (3530 m)
Day 9: Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m) to Samagaon
Day 10: Samagaon to Samdo (3860 m)
Day 11: Rest Day at Samdo (3860 m)
Day 12: Samdo to Dharmasala (4460 m)
Day 13: Dharmasala to Larkey Pass (5160 m) to Bimthang (3720 m)
Day 14: Bimthang to Tilije (2300 m)
Day 15: Tilije to Tal (1700 m)
Day 16: Tal to Syange (1080 m)
Day 17: Syange to Kathamandu (1350 m)
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu (1350 m)