The Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the trek’s starting point, Maccha Khola. The journey offers a diverse visual feast, moving from Kathmandu’s urban landscape to terraced fields, quaint villages, and finally to the rugged beauty of the Manaslu region. As you leave the Kathmandu Valley behind, the road winds along the Trishuli River, providing glimpses of rural life and distant mountain views.

Descending through the steep terrain brings you to the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, where Maccha Khola is located. The drive, which takes approximately 9 hours, is an important prelude to the adventure, allowing trekkers to gradually acclimate to the changing altitudes. The altitude at Maccha Khola is 930 meters (3,051 feet), which marks the start of your trekking journey.

When you arrive in Maccha Khola, you will find a comfortable place to rest and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. The rustic charm of this riverside village, combined with the anticipation of what lies ahead, sets the stage for the Manaslu Circuit Trek’s unfolding adventure. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and prepare to embark on the trekking trail the following day, where higher altitudes, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural encounters await.

The second day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting journey from Maccha Khola to the enchanting village of Jagat. The trail begins at Maccha Khola’s riverside and gradually ascends through terraced fields and scattered settlements, giving trekkers a taste of rural life in the Manaslu region.

The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing it on suspension bridges that sway gently over the rushing waters. As you travel through picturesque landscapes, the altitude gradually rises. Jagat, located at 1,340 meters (4,396 feet), is a welcoming village with traditional stone houses and intricate carvings.

The road to Jagat is lined with lush vegetation, and the air is thick with the sound of the river below. The terraced fields highlight the locals’ agricultural lifestyle, providing insight into the region’s self-sufficient communities. As you approach Jagat, the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and distant mountains heighten the trek’s allure.

When you arrive in Jagat, take some time to explore the village, interact with the locals, and perhaps visit one of the nearby monasteries or chortens, which reflect the area’s rich Buddhist heritage. Enjoy a peaceful evening in Jagat, surrounded by the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape, as you prepare for the next few days of adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a captivating trek from Jagat to Deng village. The trail departs from Jagat and meanders through various landscapes, revealing the region’s natural and cultural tapestry.

As you ascend through terraced fields and quaint settlements, the altitude gradually rises, reaching 1,804 meters (5,918 feet) when you arrive in Deng. The trail is lined with blooming rhododendron forests, which add a pop of color against the backdrop of the towering Himalayan peaks.

Crossing the Budhi Gandaki River via suspension bridges adds an element of adventure to the trek. The sound of the rushing river and the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills provide a sensory-rich experience. En route, visit traditional Tibetan-style villages, each with its own charm and cultural nuances.

Deng, located at an elevation of 1,804 meters, is a welcoming village with stone houses and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. Take your time exploring the village, interacting with the locals, and enjoying the tranquility of the Himalayan surroundings. The evening in Deng provides an opportunity to reflect on the day’s trek, enjoy the warmth of local hospitality, and plan for the next stages of the Manaslu Circuit adventure.a

The fourth day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek includes a scenic trek from Deng to the picturesque village of Namrung. As you leave Deng, the trail winds through dense forests and charming villages, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

The day’s trek involves a gradual increase in altitude, bringing you to Namrung at 2,630 metres (8,628 feet). The change in elevation is accompanied by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Manaslu. The diverse landscapes range from lush forests to alpine meadows, resulting in a dynamic and visually appealing trekking experience.

Enroute to Namrung, you’ll see traditional Tibetan-style homes, prayer wheels, and colorful prayer flags, adding to the cultural richness of the journey. The trail winds through the villages of Lihi and Sho, providing glimpses into the local way of life and opportunities for cultural exchange with the friendly locals.

When you arrive in Namrung, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village, which is surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayan range. Namrung, with its traditional architecture and welcoming atmosphere, makes an ideal rest stop. Spend the evening exploring the village, taking in the views, and adjusting to the rising altitude in preparation for the next day’s ascent. Namrung is not only an important stop on the trek, but it is also a peaceful haven where trekkers can immerse themselves in the cultural and natural wonders of the Manaslu region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek, you’ll take a shorter but just as beautiful route from Namrung to the culturally rich village of Lho. After you leave Namrung, the trail keeps going up, slowly getting higher and giving you better views of the Himalayan peaks around you.

Lho is at an elevation of 2,957 meters (9,701 feet) and has unique architecture with Tibetan influences, as well as monasteries and the beautiful Manaslu range in the background. Along the way, you’ll see prayer flags, chortens, and intricate mani walls, all of which show that Buddhism is very important in the area.

The trek isn’t too long, so people can take their time and enjoy Lho’s unique charm. Explore the village and its monasteries, such as the well-known Ribung Gompa, to learn about the area’s spiritual and cultural history. The mysterious atmosphere of Lho is strengthened by the beautiful scenery and the huge presence of Manaslu.

People can spend the afternoon talking to locals, learning about their daily lives, and maybe even exchanging cultural ideas. The peaceful surroundings and friendly people who live in Lho make it a memorable stop on the Manaslu Circuit.

As the day comes to a close, enjoy the peace and quiet of Lho, which is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, and get ready for the next part of the trek’s adventure. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great experience all around, thanks in part to the elevation gain and the chance to learn about local culture in Lho.

Manaslu Circuit Trek entails an enthralling expedition from Lho to Samagaon, a village situated at an elevated altitude. The trail departing from Lho passes through picturesque landscapes and villages that have been influenced by Tibetan culture, thereby fostering an indelible trekking encounter.

Samagaon, which rises to an altitude of 3,530 meters (11,581 feet), is positioned in close proximity to the Manaslu and other nearby summits. A more leisurely tempo is afforded by the trek’s comparatively brief duration, enabling participants to savor the alpine landscape and cultural subtleties throughout the journey.

As the trail winds through dense forests, it provides opportunities to observe the distinctive plant and animal life of the area. The mountain breeze causes prayer flags to flail, and the sound of prayer wheels contributes to the trek’s ethereal atmosphere. Throughout the ascent, the breathtaking vistas of Manaslu and the neighboring mountains provide an ever-present companion.

Tradition-built stone dwellings, monastic edifices, and terraced fields are all that greet one in Samagaon upon arrival. Samagaon serves as more than a mere acclimatization stop; it is also a cultural epicenter where one can immerse oneself in the local way of life and explore ancient monasteries such as the Pungyen Gompa.

One may choose to acclimate by exploring the village, engaging in conversation with the locals, or embarking on supplementary excursions. Samagaon offers a tranquil environment for hikers to familiarize themselves with the increased elevation while taking in the Manaslu region’s cultural and natural splendor.

As the day draws to a close, the serene atmosphere of Samagaon, coupled with its elevated location, establishes an anticipation for the arduous tasks and thrilling experiences that await through the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

One of the most important parts of the seventh day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is getting used to the higher elevations around Sama Gaun. This planned day of rest is meant to help the body get used to the higher elevation, which will make the next few days of climbing safer.

A challenging but rewarding hike to Manaslu Base Camp is one way to get used to the altitude. As you go up to 4,400 meters (14,435 feet), the trail opens up to stunning views of Manaslu and the other peaks in the area. The stark beauty of the glacial landscapes and the closeness to the giant mountain give a glimpse of life at high elevations.

Trekkers could also go to Pungyen Gompa, a monastery tucked away in the rough terrain. At an elevation of 4,400 meters, this spiritual site not only gives you cultural information but also a wide view of the Manaslu range. The peaceful mountain scenery on the way to Pungyen Gompa makes it a good place to meditate.

No matter which acclimatization destination is chosen, both give trekkers a chance to get used to the altitude while experiencing the unique natural and cultural features of the Manaslu region. It might take about 7 hours to do everything for the day, including exploring, taking breaks, and getting used to the altitude.

Return to the village of Sama Gaun in the evening. The higher elevation and cultural experiences of the day will help you get used to the altitude. The activities of the day set the stage for the trek’s continued ascent, making sure that hikers are ready for the challenges of the Manaslu Circuit.

From Sama Gaun to Samdo, the eighth day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is short but thrilling. From Sama Gaun at 4,400 meters (14,435 feet), the trail winds through alpine landscapes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Samdo appears at 3,865 meters (12,680 feet). Though barren and rocky, the trail is captivating due to its contrast with the lush landscapes earlier in the trek. Trekkers can acclimate to the higher altitude while enjoying the stunning scenery on the shorter trek.

A remote mountain village with Tibetan-influenced architecture, Samdo is a vital acclimatization stop on the Manaslu Circuit. Amidst snow-capped peaks, the village offers trekkers a taste of Tibetan culture. Samdo’s special charm and local hospitality make it a memorable place to relax.

Come to Samdo, explore the village, meet the locals, and maybe take some side trips to acclimate. In the afternoon, explore Samdo’s culture and prepare for the climb to Larkya La Pass.

Following the day, trekkers can relax in Samdo, set against the Himalayas, before the next leg of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The strategic altitude gain and cultural experiences make this Himalayan adventure successful and enjoyable.

The eleventh day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the hardest and most scenic as trekkers cross the Larkya Pass from Dharamsala to Bimthang. This 10-hour trek to 3,590 meters (11,778 feet) offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

The steep ascent to Larkya Pass (5,160 meters/16,924 feet), the trek’s highest point, begins early in the morning. The climb requires navigating rocky moraines and difficult terrain.

Larkya Pass offers breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II. Trekkers enjoy a sense of accomplishment and the stunning high-altitude landscapes.

Trekkers descend from Larkya Pass to Bimthang through moraines, rocks, and alpine meadows. The trail offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and pristine nature.

Trekkers can adjust to the elevation change after the pass crossing on the gradual descent to Bimthang at 3,590 meters. The lower altitude makes evenings more comfortable and aids acclimatization.

Trekkers can relax in Bimthang’s broad valley surrounded by high peaks. The village is in lush meadows, a contrast to the rugged terrain earlier in the day.

Today’s trek descends from Bimthang’s alpine heights to Dharapani’s charming village. Trekkers in Bimthang see a stunning sunrise over the Manaslu range at 3,720 meters (12,205 feet).

Trekkers will enjoy a variety of landscapes as they descend through rhododendron forests and lush yak pastures. From Bimthang to Kechakyu Kharka, an intermediate altitude, the views of Manaslu and Himlung Himal are breathtaking.

Sangure Kharka, another picturesque grazing area, is reached as the trail descends from alpine to subtropical. As you descend, the flora and fauna change, making trekking more varied.

Finally, reach Dharapani at 1,970 meters (6,463 feet). The Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit meet here, blending cultures and architecture. Dharapani welcomes trekkers to Annapurna with its warm hospitality and unique atmosphere.
A scenic drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu follows the rewarding trek. The road trip departs from the tranquil mountainous landscapes and passes through picturesque villages and terraced fields.

The remote and serene trekking experience is contrasted by the terrain changing as you drive down. Admire the Himalayan foothills and changing scenery.

At 1,400 meters, you return to Kathmandu to finish the journey. The vibrant capital city welcomes you with its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and a sense of accomplishment after the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Recall the challenging but rewarding adventure and the unforgettable Himalayan scenery.

Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you from Dharapani to Kathmandu, the capital city.Trekkers leave the rustic trails of Dharapani at 1,970 meters (6,463 feet) and head back to Kathmandu by road.Driving from Dharapani to Kathmandu along mountain roads is scenic. As you descend, the Manaslu alpine beauty gives way to the Himalayan foothills.

The drive through charming villages with traditional Nepalese architecture and terraced fields shows local life. Trekkers can reflect on their challenges and enjoy the diverse landscapes during the descent. From Dharapani, the gateway to Annapurna and Manaslu, you descend through the scenic Marsyangdi River valley. The drive descends toward Kathmandu.

Kathmandu’s bustle becomes more apparent as the journey progresses. Trekkers arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city at 1,400 meters (4,593 feet), to find a mix of ancient and modern culture. Enjoy reaching Kathmandu after completing the difficult Manaslu Circuit Trek. The city’s historical sites, bustling markets, and vibrant atmosphere are ideal for reflecting on the extraordinary Nepalese Himalayas journey. Celebrate your trek’s memories and stunning scenery as you finish.