Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Starts from Kathmandu and begins the trekking journey from Machhakhola through the remote Manaslu Conservation Area.
• Circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, through deep river gorges, alpine valleys, and traditional mountain villages.
• Passes through culturally rich settlements including Jagat, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, showcasing strong Tibetan Buddhist influences.
• Features Sama Gaon as a major acclimatization stop before ascending toward the high mountain passes.
• Crosses the spectacular Larkya La Pass at approximately 17,100 ft (5,160 m), the highest point of the trek.
• Offers dramatic views of Mount Manaslu, glaciers, snow-covered peaks, alpine valleys, and high mountain landscapes.
• Descends through the beautiful Bimthang Valley, featuring alpine meadows, forests, glacial scenery, and spectacular mountain views.
• Combines river valleys, suspension bridges, forests, stone stairways, alpine meadows, glacial terrain, and snow-covered passes.
• Considered a difficult high-altitude trek, requiring strong endurance, previous trekking experience, and preparation for long days and the challenging Larkya La crossing.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most spectacular long-distance Himalayan journeys. The route circles the world's eighth-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), taking trekkers through deep river gorges, remote mountain villages, Buddhist settlements, high alpine valleys, and the dramatic Larkya La Pass. The trek is known for offering a more secluded and authentic experience than the popular Everest and Annapurna regions.

Because the route passes through a restricted border region near Tibet, permits and a licensed guide are generally required. This restriction has helped preserve the area's culture and wilderness character.

Day 1 — Arrival in Kathmandu
Airport arrival followed by trek briefing and equipment checks.

Day 2 — Kathmandu to Machhakhola
Long scenic drive through the hills, valleys, and river landscapes of Nepal.
160 km drive

Day 3 — Machhakhola to Jagat
Trek through river gorges and traditional settlements, crossing scenic suspension bridges along the way.

Day 4 — Jagat to Deng
Continue through forest trails and river crossings as the mountain scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.

Day 5 — Deng to Namrung
Gradually enter higher Himalayan terrain as the trail climbs towards Namrung.

Day 6 — Namrung to Lho
Trek through Tibetan-influenced villages and visit local monasteries, with the first major views of Manaslu.

Day 7 — Lho to Sama Gaon
A scenic trekking day through spectacular Himalayan landscapes towards the high-altitude village of Sama Gaon.

Day 8 — Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon
Rest and acclimatization with options for monastery visits, exploration hikes, and excursions towards the Manaslu Base Camp area.

Day 9 — Sama Gaon to Samdo
Shorter trekking day designed to support acclimatization as the route continues towards the higher Himalayan terrain.

Day 10 — Samdo to Dharamsala
Trek towards Dharamsala and prepare for the challenging Larkya La Pass crossing.

Day 11 — Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass to Bimthang
The most challenging and rewarding day, involving the Larkya La Pass crossing, snowfields, panoramic mountain views, and a long descent into Bimthang.

Day 12 — Bimthang to Dharapani
Descend through forests and alpine valleys towards Dharapani.

Day 13 — Drive Back to Kathmandu
Long scenic return drive through central Nepal to Kathmandu.

Day 14 — Departure
End of the expedition and onward departure from Kathmandu.

Participants should ideally be capable of:

• Trekking 6–9 hours daily
• Covering long distances for consecutive days
• Carrying a daypack comfortably
• Managing sustained altitude gain

Recommended training includes:

• Running
• Stair climbing
• Cycling
• Hiking with elevation gain
• Strength and endurance workouts

Starting Point

Kathmandu, Nepal

Nearest Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Nearest Major Railway Station

Gorakhpur Railway Station, India

Most trekkers arrive in Kathmandu and travel by road to Machha Khola, the usual trailhead for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Clothing

• 2 full-sleeve & 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirts

• 2 fleece T-shirts

• 1 wind-stopper/fleece jacket

• 1 windproof jacket

• 1 down feather/hollow jacket

• 1 pair thermal innerwear (upper & lower)

• 3 synthetic quick-dry trekking pants

• 1 wind-stopper/fleece pant

• 1 pair waterproof gloves

• 1 pair fleece/woollen gloves

• 1 waterproof poncho/jacket and pant

Footwear

• 1 pair of good-quality, water-resistant trekking shoes with ankle support and a good grip

• 1 pair floaters/flip-flops

• 8 pairs cotton socks

• 3 pairs woollen socks

• 1 pair gaiters (if required/provided by TTH)

• 1 pair micro spikes (if required/provided by TTH)

Head Gear

• 1 head torch

• 1 sun cap

• 1 woollen cap

• 1 balaclava

• 1 synthetic & 1 woollen buff/neck-gaiter

• Sunglasses with UV protection and dark side cover; contact-lens users should avoid contact lenses and use photochromatic glasses

Backpack & Basic Gear

• 1 backpack (50–60 L) with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps

• 1 daypack (20–30 L) with rain cover if off-load is opted

• 1 walking stick (at least one is advisable)

• 2 × 1 L water bottles

• If using a hydration pack: 1 hydration pack + 1 × 1 L bottle

• At least 1 thermos flask

• 1 small-size tiffin/lunch box

• Personal medical kit as advised by your doctor

Food/Snacks

• Energy bars

• Dry fruits

• Electrolytes/ORS

Personal Essentials

• Sunscreen

• Moisturiser

• Chap-stick/lip balm

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Toilet paper & wipes

• Soap/hand sanitizer

• Antibacterial powder

• Quick-dry towel

Tip: Don't overpack. For a trek longer than 11 days, prioritize comfortable trekking shoes, sufficient clothing layers, rain protection, hydration, and sun protection while keeping your backpack manageable.

Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:

• Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
• Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.