Take a moment and visualize yourself, immersed in the remote villages where ancient monasteries are surrounded by the echo of the chant of monks with the soothing sounds of flagging of prayer flags, where Tibetan locals of Nubri communities fascinate you more than the high towering mountains.
Yes! such a gem exists in the west-central part of Nepal. This is the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, which gives you a ticket to circle the iconic Mt. Manaslu passing by the rugged trails that demonstrate pristine wildlife and richly varied landscape in each stride offering a sense of accomplishment by attaining to Larkya La Pass (5106 meters).
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Overview:
Thinking about Nepal, the first thing that might even come to anyone’s mind is the expedition to Annapurna and the Everest region. Still, many places, valleys, and trails remain unexplored that’s when a hidden treasure such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek exists far away from the influence of modern lifestyle where the rich culture of Tibetans is preserved to date at its ancient era that surely promises to transport you back somewhere in the 1980’s livelihood.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal stands out being one of the most remote trails in the Himalayas, which circulates the whole corner of Mount Manaslu- 8163 meters, the world’s eighth highest peak also considered as “Killer Mountain” across the globe. Located at the heart of Gorkha District and bordered by Tibet (China), this trailhead offers Buddhist landmarks engraved with art, fascinating paintings, and classical sculpture.
Going a little forward in time, trekking to the Manaslu Circuit was out of bounds till the year 1991. Even though it was initiated back then, a real game-changer for the region began when 300 foreign explorers like us visited the trails of Manaslu highlighting how raw and authentic this region is protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area than any other crowded famous expedition like Everest Base Camp.
Since then, it has been captivating enthusiastic trekkers worldwide who want to feel how trekking in the ’90s feels with a sense of accomplishment reaching the vantage point of Larkya La Pass (5106 m./16754 ft.). A glacial icy and snow-covered trail where the prominent views of several snow-capped peaks such as Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Mt. Manaslu itself will undoubtedly leave you speechless after a long tiring hike to the top of Larkya la.
In the present day, it requires a special permit to access the restricted area of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route, with strict rules limiting the tourist flow. Due to the less footprinted area, the pristine lakes, wildlife diversity, and ancient gompas surrounded by mani walls and chortens, remote villages are still preserved in their natural state and pristine form. So, one can imagine why the trek to the Manaslu region is exceptional among all.
While we might perceive that the 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek ends with the fascinating mountain views, the ancient monasteries such as Syangen Gompa, Lho Gompa, Sama Gompa, and not to forget the Pungen Gompa that has been residing here in the middle of landscapes, since 500 years will surely takes us to 90's alley. The red shrines, mani walls, chortens, prayer wheels, and the Tibetan prayer flags fluttering in the echo of the monks meditating accompany us throughout the 16-day odyssey.
Flanked between the famous Budhi Gandaki River and Marshyangdi River, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is once in a lifetime opportunity that lets you walk along the cascading waterfalls, river streams, and deep gorges, and crossing long suspension bridges while making jokes and swaying the bridge remains in your heart forever.
Well! This 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is tailored by our pro expert team ensuring that you get to visit every corner of the region without missing out on anything. If you are someone who craves discovering something new, and unique and loves the tranquility of nature far away from the busy crowded city life, then this wilderness adventure to the Himalayas fits perfectly for you where several mountains and diverse towering landscapes await to welcome you!
Note: This itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 days includes a sightseeing tour with arrival day. However, if you are already here in Kathmandu then, you can opt for our 13 days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary that starts and ends here in Kathmandu which is slightly more cheaper. Otherwise, the trip can also be customized as per your time duration and budget as well.
Major Highlights of 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Walk along the less crowded trail on the off-beaten trails exploring the pristineness of the Himalayas
- Discover the famous Birendra Lake, and reach the Tibet Border- Rui La Pass (4998 m.)
- Get to learn about the ancient Tibetan lifestyle with a glimpse of their daily livelihood of animal husbandry, wood carvings, and agricultural farming
- Reach the lap of the world's eighth-highest peak- Manaslu Base Camp (4880 m.) and get the prominent panoramic view of none other than Mt. Manaslu with other iconic peaks
- Pay a visit to the ancient monasteries and caves such as Pungyen Gompa and Mirapa Cave
- Traverse through the pristine woodlands, remote villages, and terraced fields crossing over the large suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River
- Cross the highest point of Larkya La Pass (5106m./16754 ft) and feel the achievement connecting with nature thrills
- Witness the marvelous transition of lush green valleys to the alpine tundra of several mountains
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Route
First and foremost, after you arrive in Kathmandu, we’ll head on a sightseeing tour to some of the greatest UNESCO world heritage sites exploring the courtyards, Malla-era palaces, and temples. The journey to the Manaslu Circuit begins as soon as we depart from Kathmandu through a private/shared jeep to Maccha Khola via Aarughat and Soti Khola. Maccha Khola is the starting point of our trek.
From Machakhola, our walking trail begins to Jagat by entering the Manaslu Conservation Area passing by the rugged landscape, and beautiful forest that leads us to Khorla Besi- a culturally rich small village where the “Gurung people” referred to be the brave Gurkha warriors reside. Moving a bit further, we’ll reach Tatopani- a famous natural hot spring nestled in the middle of the Himalayas. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, the pathway takes us to the village of Doban and navigates to the village of Jagat (1349 m.).
Continuing our trek, from Jagat we’ll move further to Deng by traversing through Philim- a large settlement of Gurung and Magar. Enjoying the agricultural terraces of millet where yaks and buffalos are grazing stunningly, the route traverses through Ekle Bhatti then, Deng village (1804 m.). Deng is a Buddhist village surrounded by mani walls, and chortens, where the first glimpse of Mount Manaslu can be seen.
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking continues where the trail passes through Namrung (2630 m.) to Shyala via Lho village on the seventh day. Exploring the famous Nyingma Rimjung Gompa, a famous monastery believed to be 600 years old that sits in the historically rich village of Lho. On the eighth day, we’ll trek to Samagaon from Shyala where the prominent view of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, and Peak 29 reward us.
As soon as we reach the Samagaun (3530 m.), the altitude increases to adopt the rising elevation, we’ve set this day as an acclimatization day. Exploring the village means learning a remote lifestyle and culture of Tibetan lifestyle within this culturally rich white stone-built house with ancient roofs and ancient monasteries. During the acclimatization day, we’ll be exploring Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa, and reaching the Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m.)- the lap of the world’s eighth highest peak.
On the next day, we’ll leave for Samdo- a village of Tibetan refugees surrounded by the panoramic view of several snowcapped peaks such as Cheo Himal, Simrang Himal, Hiunchul, and Mt. Manaslu itself. Another acclimatization/excursion day is set for the 11th day to undertake the trip to the Tibet Border Rui La Pass (4998 meters) through Lajyung Pass. Leaving Samdo behind, we continue the Manaslu Trek by navigating to the Dharamsala or Larkya Phedi- the last stop before reaching the highest point of Larkya La Pass.
From Dharamsala, the trek descends to Bhimtang by crossing over the enchanting Larkya La Pass (5106 m./16754 ft) from where the alluring views of several snowcapped peaks such as Annapurna II, Kanguru, Himlung Himal wrap around us. The Manaslu Trek concludes after we descend towards Dharapani along the Dudh Koshi River (milky river) where the famous trail of Annapurna Circuit Trek gets connected. Taking a bus drive from Dharapani, our trek ends after we get back to Kathamandu or Pokhara by bus.
Customizing the Manaslu Trek itineraries as per your price and holiday duration for 2025 and 2026
Doesn’t match your timebound and estimated cost with us? Well! Do not worry! Our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary can be easily customizable with the help of our pro expert teams within just a few minutes, that too with the best pricing possible and your time constraints. Every year, we lead many enthusiastic hikers like you around the Manaslu region in Nepal, keeping in mind that you get to explore the best of the isolated Himalayas.
Let us craft your packages for 2025 and 2026; the idea and plans are yours! But to safely execute the trips with a safely customized itinerary and assist you in every step within the territory of the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Do not wait any longer! It’s your time to discover what trekking Manaslu feels like as per your preference, without burning your pockets. For more details, contact us.
If you want to combine this trek to Manaslu Circuit with other famous treks in Nepal (additional 2-3 days only)
Every step at the Manaslu is a dreamy adventure as it is known as the best trek in Nepal that everyone must undertake once in a lifetime. While being one of the most loved regions that cater to all the tastes of hikers, whether they are beginners or not, no matter what age and experiences you have, you can surely undertake this Manaslu Circuit Trail with ease. The fascinating part is! There are several combo packages available, extending 2 to 5 days if your time fits. To know more, you can visit our Manaslu region packages.
To enrich the trip even more, you can combine this trek with Tsum Valley as well by extending it 3-4 days. Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek encircles the whole of Mount Manaslu at the same time with an exploration of the Nubri communities and several monasteries, visiting ancient hamlets that also visit Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and the lower trail. Or else, you can just add Barpak Village (the valley that was destroyed in the earthquake of 2015).
Whereas this trekking route also meanders through the Annapurna Circuit Trail, you can even do the combo of trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit that ascends to both the thrilling passes of Larkya La and Thorong La at once within just 23 days.
No matter what you choose, you will surely cross this enchanting Larkya La Pass (5106 meters) and enjoy the panoramic vista of several high mountains with the rich tapestry of Tibetan-influenced culture.
Benefits of Booking with Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition
Having served more than a hundred hikers in every corner of Nepal, Destination Himalaya Treks carries a great expertise on serving the best guided teams who have experience of 10+ years. Our trekking guides are professional and medically equipped, ensuring that safety is your first and foremost priority. We also believe that transparency shall always be there, hence, our Manaslu Circuit Trek cost doesn't have any hidden costs. We even provide many other benefits, so you can enrich the trek even more with the best exploration of every corner of this territory:
- (Airport shuttle) Free airport pick up and drop off in a private transportation
- If you are extending your holiday in Nepal then, we can offer you a 1-2 days staycation at our "Hotel Bihani" for free of cost
- Customizing itinerary as per budget and time duration
- Luxury staycation at a 4-star hotel with a cultural program dinner in Kathmandu
- Private exclusive tour (must be minimum 2)
- 8% special discount to the family group (must be over 4)
- Free excess luggage at our office during the trek with safety assurance
- Online Pre Trip Booking and In Person Booking after arrival
- Easy and safe payment system
- 24/7 hour communication at +977 9851016814 or mail at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com
- Sleeping Bags, Jackets, Caps, Oximeters- to check oxygen level, Water purification tablet- to purify the water, Satellite phone to communicate, and Basic First Aid Kits