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    At a Glance

    • Destination
      Nepal
    • Durations
      15 days
    • Trip Difficulty
      Moderate to Strenuous
    • Activities
      Trekking
    • Accommodation
      Hotel/Guesthouse
    • Meals
      Breakfast in KTM | Full Board Meals on trek
    • Max.altitude
      5106m.
    • Group Size
      Min. 2 Pax
    • Best Time
      March - May & Sept - Nov

    Trip Overview

    The Manaslu Circuit is an off-the-beaten track and is highly recommended if you are looking for a secluded but qualitative trek. Encircling Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, the circuit trek was opened to the public in 1992. Today, it boasts of increased popularity, and on the trail, you get splendid vistas of Mt. Manaslu flanked by Himalculi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II.

    Situated in Nepal’s western central region, the 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek has rich biodiversity and deeply assimilates Tibetan Buddhist culture. You will be taken back in time as you trod the steps of ancient pilgrims and earlier explorers. Colorful prayer flags, mani walls and chortens, spiritual prayer wheels, and age-old monasteries await you. Withstanding the passage of time, Tibetan traditions greatly influence the Manaslu region. Moreover, the changing scenery of subtropical Himalayan foothills to the arid desert-like landscapes bordering Tibet will spellbound you.

    Treading the Footsteps of Ancient Pilgrims and Earlier Explorers

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a path less trodden. If you are seeking solitude, serenity, and sacred pathways, then this is the trek for you! It is aptly named after Mount Manaslu, meaning “mountain of the spirit,” and Japanese climbers Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu ascended the peak in 1956.

    You will be drawn to the mystique and majesty of the mountains, strong Tibetan cultural influences, and the habitation of the Gurung, Bhutia, and Tamang ethnic groups. A coveted passage, you will travel in the Manaslu Conservation Area, where elusive flora and fauna, pristine streams and rivers, and friendly hospitality abound.

    Experience the Marvels of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

    • Walk the off-the-beaten-pathway. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is perfect for those looking for respite from heavy crowds.
    • Witness the astounding views of the Manaslu Peak (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
    • Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), which offers astounding panoramic views of the Himalayas: the ethereal Manaslu Peak (8,163m), Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), and Annapurna II (7937m).
    • Explore the Manaslu Conservation Area known for its rich biodiversity and wild natural beauty. The trek takes you through diverse ecosystems and pristine flora and fauna.
    • Experience the unique Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang cultures, their authentic lifestyles, and age-old Himalayan customs. Interact with the locals, enjoy their hospitality, and learn about them.
    • Enjoy the unique culture of the Nubri and Tsum valleys, where the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism are a way of life.
    • Trek through the diverse landscapes that range from Himalayan foothills to alpine terrains to lush emerald forests to mighty mountains adorned with glaciers, rivers, and cascading waterfalls.
    • Experience exhilaration while crossing long suspension bridges that guide you over the flowing Budhi Gandaki River and deep gorges. 
      Taste beverages prepared in local tea houses that offer an insight into the local way of life.
    • Visit Kathmandu Valley’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

    Journey to the Sanctuary of the Manaslu Conservation Area

    Your 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival in Kathmandu. A Nepal Hiking Team representative, your introductory guide for the expedition, will be standing with a display board waiting for you.

    You also have a choice whether to do the Kathmandu Valley tour before or after the trek, depending on what you feel comfortable with. The tour includes exploring the valley’s prominent and archaeologically significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, imposing Boudhanath Stupa, impressive Kathmandu Durbar Square, and ageless Swayambhunath Stupa. All of them will provide you with architecturally and historically profound legends and varied cultural and spiritual learning.

    Upon making your decision, your trek journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola. After driving through Tari Bensi and a rugged, dirt-laden road, you will reach your destination. Along the way, you will be allured with Nepal’s beautiful rustic countryside. From Machha Khola, you hike uphill and downhill until you reach Khorlabesi Village. Your next stop is the natural hot spring of Tatopani.

    A trading post between Nepal and China, you will witness the hustle and bustle of entrepreneurs, teahouse owners, shoppers, travelers, etc. From Tatopani, we will cross a wild, forested area and reach Dovan, where we can have lunch. After passing through Sal forests, small rivers, streams, and gushing waterfalls, we finally reach the trail’s jewel in the crown: Jagat. It is a small, scattered village and welcomes travelers with its rural appeal and warm hospitality. Small mani walls and chortens also adorn the pathways.

    As we head towards Deng and Namrung, the landscape becomes more rugged. We also observe a gradual change in the influences of Tibetan culture. Gompas (Buddhist monasteries) and mani walls create a rich cultural ambiance.

    While passing the villages, you may taste locally made alcohol prepared from fermented barley. Ascending towards the rhododendron-covered valley hills, you will reach Lho Gaun and Samagaon for respite and acclimatization (needed for your body’s adjustment to the high altitude). Here, you take pride and satisfaction in knowing you have achieved a milestone: reaching the Manaslu Base Camp (4750m).

    After that, we continue to Samdo, which is a small Tibetan refugee village and offers stunning mountain views. Our last stop is Dharmasala before moving towards the challenging Larkya La Mountain Pass (5106m). Viewing the mountains from the pass will be a memory forever etched in your mind.

    On the horizon, you will see the spectacular Himalayan range of Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), and Annapurna II (7937m) – towering mightily and arrayed beautifully with Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) magnificent in the backdrop.

    Thereafter, we descend to Bhimtang, hiking through diverse terrains filled with plush forests and roaring rivers. We then continue to Goa and stay overnight. We end our trek in Tilije and then catch a jeep to Beshishahar, bidding farewell to the mountains. A drive from Beshishahar brings us to Kathmandu, where you'll have time to rest and reflect on your amazing Himalayan journey.

    Similar Trips to Manaslu Circuit Trek

    For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you have alternate options depending on whether you wish to include the Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tour or skip it. We do recommend the one-day city tour, as it will provide you with a very good insight into Nepal’s historical and sociocultural roots and development.

    Thus, the 15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek includes an extra day. The 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek also covers the same route as the 15-day package, except it omits the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Apart from this difference, both packages follow identical routes.

    Secondly, for those seeking longer trekking days and a deeper experience and learning of the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the valley, the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek is the ideal choice, spanning 20 days. This exceptional package incorporates a trek to the scenic Tsum Valley, enhancing the overall journey with its cultural significance. It gives you time to traverse wild and geographically unique landscapes as you immerse yourself in the rich sociocultural mountainous way of life.

    Best Time for the Trekking

    The prime time for the Manaslu Circuit trek is during spring: March, April, or May. This period is strongly recommended and is before the monsoon season. The reason is that the temperatures rise, creating a warmer trekking climate enhanced by the blossoming of flowers and plants, bright colors, and greenery.

    The high-altitude lakes start to thaw, and villagers who had sought refuge in lower villages to evade the harsh winter begin to return to their homes. The surrounding peaks also still retain a considerable amount of snow, creating surreally picturesque mountain views that inspire.  

    Dry paths, consistent and most-of-the-time stable weather, excellent visibility, and extended hiking hours are strong features of Nepal’s spring trekking season.

    Similarly, the autumn season is another ideal time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Extended over September, October, and November, the period is a huge favorite among trekkers owing to the season’s mild temperatures and breathtakingly magical mountain vistas.

    A golden time for trekking, the autumn season is a post-monsoon phase when the environment starts clearing up, and enchantment is in the air. The skies are filled with rich hues, the weather is delightful, the mountain panoramas have their own allure, and the snowfall is minimal.

    It is also a suitable and achievable time to conquer the Larkya La Mountain Pass (5106m).

    Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek is categorized as a moderate-to-difficult-level trek depending upon your level of physical and mental preparedness and state. The journey covers an approximate distance of 177 kilometers (110 miles) and reaches an altitude of (5,165m) when crossing the Larkya La pass (5106m).

    Accommodations are basic, and food options are rather limited. Also, the trails in the Manaslu region can be steep and slippery. While walking, you need to be vigilant and wear a suitable pair of trekking boots that have a good grip. Along the trail, you may come across narrow bridges that hang over fast-flowing rivers. During these times, you should be careful while crossing. A few valuable and best tips are to properly acclimate during the trek, stay hydrated, have rest days, and make a gradual ascent.

    In this way, it is very important that you understand and know your needs, as the Manaslu area is remote and challenging. Previous trekking experiences and know-how are an added advantage. However, even if it’s your first trek, NHT will ensure you are properly oriented, informed, and prepared for this secluded and immensely rewarding trek.

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you a stimulating and enriching outdoor journey. While you are challenged physically and mentally, you will see stunning, diverse landscapes, experience rich cultural heritage, and go beyond the limits of your adventurous spirit. It is a highly recommended trek for the avid, explorative trekker. So, if you’re up to a daring Himalayan experience, please inquire and book your trip now to start your adventure in the Himalayan nation of Nepal!

    Itinerary

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    Cost Includes

    • All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers
    • Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
    • Kathmandu city tours including all entry fees, tour guide, and private vehicle
    • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
    • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
    • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porter (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
    • Manaslu trekking special permit fee (Manaslu region is in a restricted zone, we need a special permit to visit this area)
    • TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
    • Annapurna and Manaslu conservation fees
    • First aid medical kit with the provision of an Oximeter to monitor oxygen level and heartbeat
    • Government taxes and office service charge

    Cost Excludes

    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
    • Travel Insurance
    • International airfare
    • Nepal entry visa.
    • Drinks coke, Fanta, juice, water, etc.
    • snacks and other personal expenses
    • Hot shower during the trek
    • Personal trekking equipment
    • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

    Cost and Date

    Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the -days Manaslu Circuit Trek departure dates don't fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.

    March, 2024
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