Manaslu Circuit Trek
A lesser-known alternative to the Annapurna Circuit
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Kathmandu
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Soti Khola
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Machha Khola
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Philim
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Deng
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Namrung
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Lho
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Samdo
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Larkya Glacier
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Larkya La Pass
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Dharapani
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Kathmandu
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The Manaslu Circuit, probably my single favourite route of all the major Nepal treks, has become established as the discerning trekker's alternative to the wildly popular and sadly spoiled Annapurna Circuit.
This route involves some of the best mountain walking in the world. The route features some tough days, but with stupendous views of Himalayan peaks as well as opportunities to experience villages with unspoiled Tibetan culture.
Bear in mind though that although the Larkya La is a little lower than similar passes on the Annapurna Circuit or Everest base camp treks, this is generally harder and facilities are much more basic than on the other two. Don’t expect apple pie and wi-fi at the end of the day.
Key information
| Destinations | Kathmandu, Manaslu region |
|---|---|
| Activity | Adventure, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Culture |
| Physical Level | Strenuous |
 Season |
September - May |
Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary
Arrive Kathmandu
Day 1 in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you’ll be met and receive a private transfer to the Hotel. Get a briefing and enjoy dinner in the city. A special permit ($500 USD) is required for this trek, so it’s required to present hard copies of your passport by 10:00hrs to the permit issuing office. The office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, closed Saturday/public holidays. This requires extra days in Kathmandu.
Drive to Soti Khola
Day 2 in Soti Khola
It's a full days drive today as a private vehicle takes you from Kathmandu along the main highway to then turn toward the mountains on a road that follows the Burhi Gandakhi Valley. At some stage (usually around Arghat) you’ll take a locally chartered jeep in order to reach Soti Khola.
Trek to Machha Khola and on to Doban
Day 3–4 in Machha Khola
The climate remains sub-tropical and the altitude remains low as you begin the circuit of Manaslu by essentially following the river to the Machha Khola (930m). Although still low, there is both uphill and downhill walking, but nothing like what will come later in the journey. Approx. 7hrs walking.
On the second day, you’ll cross over the Machha Khola River and up to Tatopani, across a suspension bridge to the other side of the valley and through forests to Doban (1070m). Around 5hrs walking.
Walk to Philim
Day 5 in Philim
It's a steep (but relatively short) climb up to Louri and then just over an hour’s walk to Jagat (1410m). Trekking permits having been checked, a stone-stepped trail descends to the river followed by an ascent through terraced fields to Saguleri and a further climb to Philim. Around 6hrs walking.
Trek to Deng
Day 6 in Deng
Beyond Chisopani the trail follows the hillside and you’ll see pine forests. The train cuts into the walls of a gorge and then goes up and along to Deng (1860m). Walking time approx 5hrs.
Walk to Namrung
Day 7 in Namrung
The valley you're ascending is quite steep-sided and the first signs of the Buddhist influence begin to appear. There are several river crossings (by bridge) today and after around 6-7hrs of fairly tough trekking you reach Namrung (2540m)
Trek to Lho
Day 8 in Lho
Today is not as long of a day, as you'll be going over 3000m. Heading deeper, as the valley opens out there's a steep climb to Lihi (2925m) and the villages become more Tibetan influenced. Manaslu will be visible today, and the twin peaks will be evident. Your walk to today’s destination of Lho (3150m) will likely take around 4-5hrs of walking.
Trek to Samdo and acclimatise
Day 9–10 in Samdo
Today the trek leads up through pine forests followed by some downhill walking, then a gradual ascent to reach Sama Gaon (3520m). As you follow the Burhi Gandaki, the scenery starts to become particularly impressive. Samdo (3690m) is today’s destination and requires around 6-7hrs of challenging walking. The village was established by Tibetan refugees and Tibet is a days walk away.
On your second day it's a good idea to help your acclimatisation by walking to a higher altitude and then back down to Samdo for the night. You can climb up to the ridge behind Samdu to do this. It is a stiff, steep ascent but does provide some excellent vistas.
Trek to Larkya Phedi
Day 11 in Larkya Glacier
Heading towards the Larkya Glacier, today is primarily all uphill as you trek to Larkya Phedi, which is also confusingly known as Dharamsala and Duwang. Altitude is approximately 4460m. The lodge here is particularly basic. Although it’s only about 6km from Somdu to here, the higher altitude means progress is slow. Approximately 3-5hrs walking.
Larkya La Crossing to Bimthang
Day 12 in Larkya La Pass
This is the hardest/longest day of walking, as well as the highest point. The Larkya La crossing takes 8-10hrs, conditions permitting. After a steep climb leaving Larkya Phedi, you walk steadily upwards 5hrs. Prayer flags line the pass and the temperature is usually quite cold. Enjoy the views, then begin the steep descent down scree on your way to Bimthang (3590m).
Down to Dharapani
Day 13 in Dharapani
You’ll drop into Burdin Khola Valley, followed by some uphill. Then it’s downhill again and into woodlands, then an ascent to the Karche La. Below lies the Marsyangdi Valley and your exit route. A lot more downhill will make your knees ache, but after approximately 8hrs you reach Dharapani (1963m). Now, you've joined the Annapurna Circuit.
Dharapani to Kathmandu and depart
Day 14–15 in Kathmandu
Using locally chartered 4x4 vehicle(s) you'll travel to Besisahar via a bumpy/dusty road, and from Besisahar the road is tarmac. It’s a long day, so this journey can be broken up with a stay at The Old Inn at Bandipur. However, it’s probably necessary to add some additional contingency days, in case of delays/difficulties.
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight
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