Manaslu Circuit Trekking

The Manaslu circuit was opened for trekking in 1991 but it is rapidly gaining popularity as thousands of trekkers undertake this trek every year. The main objective of Manaslu Circuit trekking is to cross the Larkya (Larke) La pass situated at an altitude of 5160 meters. It is not difficult to cross this high pass and it does not require any technical experience but it is one of the longest trekking passes in Nepal Himalayas. Manaslu circuit is a beautiful trekking circuit, this trek allows you to circle around the Manaslu mountain. Manaslu (8163 m) is the eighth highest mountain in the world. The Manaslu circuit is in a restricted (controlled) area and a special permit is required to trek, at least two people are required to obtain a permit.

This trek route feels like a never-before-seen piece of heaven. Its geography, culture, natural beauty, wildlife, birds, and poor rural settlements delight the mind. Not only that, but you will also walk through rough terrain and off-the-beaten-path. At every step of your walk, you will get to see different looks of mountains and cultural diversity.

This trekking offers a unique opportunity to experience the relatively "untouched" region of Nepal. It is also connected to the border of Nepal and Tibet (China). A diverse range of ecosystems and ethnic cultures, and a trail that places it physically closer to Tibet than any other trekking in Nepal. People of the Manaslu region travel to Tibet to buy essentials like rice, clothes and Tibetan beer, which are cheaper than buying in Nepalese market.

The trek always provides amazing views of Mount Manaslu and other Himalayan peaks in the background. The trek follows an altitude of 570 to 5160 meters. Manaslu, known as the "Three Peaks". Trek through a vast precipitous valley to the opposite world of Sama, crossing the Larkya La pass and descending to Marshyangdi Khola.

Since it is a long journey, you should be in the good physical condition and have extra days for rest during the trek. Sama gaun, before you cross the pass, it is ideal for; You can enjoy a walk to a glacial lake and the Pugen Glacier. There is an alternative walk up to Manaslu Base Camp (4500 m) to get spectacular views of Manaslu, glaciers, and lakes.

The trek starts from Arughat Bazaar or Soti Khola. Most of the road from Kathmandu between Arughat and Soti Khola is off-road, so it would be a good idea to use a four-wheeler jeep. The trek ends at Bhulbhule or Besi Sahar. If you have limited time then it is possible to drive off-road from Dharapani to Besi Sahar in a single day except in monsoon. Traveling from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu by public bus would be fine.

Manaslu Circuit Trek en route has good availability of teahouse/lodge facilities, provides basic accommodation and hygienic food to trekkers. Almost all tea houses offer twin rooms, two beds in one room. The beds are available very simple and basic with a pillow and cushion sheets for a good sleep.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival and transfer to hotel
Day 02 Sightseeing to Swayambhunath, Kathmandu and Patan
Day 03: Kathmandu drive bus to Arughat (570m)
Day 04: Arughat trek to Soti Khola (730m)
Day 05: Soti Khola trek to Machha Khola (930m)
Day 06: Machha Khola trek to Dobhan (1070m)
Day 07: Doban trek to Philim (1570m)
Day 08: Philim trek to Deng (1860m)
Day 09: Deng trek to Ghap (2380m)
Day 10: Ghap trek to Lho Gaun (3020m)
Day 11: Lho trek to Sama Gaun / Sama Gompa (3390m)
Day 12: Rest day in Sama Gaun
Day 13: Sama Gaun trek to Samdo (3690m)
Day 14: Samdo trek to Dharamsala (4460m)
Day 15: Dharamsala trek to Bimtang (3590m) over the Larkya La Pass (5160m)
Day 16: Bimtang trek to Gho (2510m)
Day 17: Gho trek to Dharapani (1960m)
Day 18 Dharapani trek to Jagat (1300m)
Day 19 Jagat trek to Bhulbhule (840m)
Day 20 Bhulbhule drive bus to Kathmandu
Day 21 Sightseeing to Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur
Day 22 Free day in Kathmandu for shopping or relax
Day 23 Drive to Airport for flying your own destination