Kathmandu, Nepal
Private Tour
Trekkers on the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek can expect an exhilarating blend of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural experiences, and opportunities for personal challenge as they navigate through remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes. The trek offers a unique chance to witness the stunning biodiversity of the region, encounter traditional Tibetan lifestyles, and enjoy panoramic views of majestic peaks, all while benefiting from the comprehensive support and guidance provided by Ghale Treks. With each day revealing new scenic vistas and cultural treasures, trekkers will build unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Himalayas.
Welcome to Nepal! A representative from Ghale Treks will greet you at the international airport and escort you to your hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. After a short rest, we will convene to discuss the itinerary and provide an overview of the upcoming days. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
As per Ghale Treks’ itinerary, your adventure on the Manaslu Circuit begins with a scenic drive to Machha Khola. Early in the morning, you will head west from Kathmandu, following the Prithvi Highway. After approximately two hours of driving from Machhapokhara Buspark, you will reach Galchhi, where the bus will continue to Malakhe and then take a right turn toward Arughat. Along this route, you’ll pass through charming hills and villages, including Arkhet Bazar, Keurinipani, Soti Khola, and Lapubesi. Eventually, you will arrive at Machha Khola, situated at an elevation of 930 meters, after a 15-kilometer journey from Arughat, which takes about 2-3 hours amidst stunning landscapes. Please note that road conditions vary: the stretch from Kathmandu to Arughat is paved, while the section from Arughat to Machha Khola consists of gravel and rocky terrain. Enjoy lunch en route before settling in for dinner and an overnight stay at Machha Khola.
After a restful night at the tea house in Machha Khola, savor a hearty breakfast while enjoying the stunning views surrounding you. Once you finish breakfast, you will embark on your trekking journey toward Jagat, located at an elevation of 1,410 meters. As you start your trek, follow the Budhi Gandaki River and cross two suspension bridges to reach Khorlabesi. A short and easy walk from Khorlabesi leads you to Tatopani, a natural hot spring where many trekkers enjoy a rejuvenating soak to relieve skin conditions and other ailments. Continuing past another suspension bridge after Tatopani, you will arrive at the charming village of Dobhan. From there, traverse several more suspension bridges, ascend steep stone staircases, and navigate ridges until you reach Jagat. The distance from Machha Khola to Jagat is approximately 22 kilometers, which typically takes around 5-6 hours. Enjoy lunch at Tatopani and then settle in for dinner and an overnight stay in Jagat.
After breakfast at the tea house in Jagat, you’ll embark on your trek toward Dyang via Stony Ridge. Leaving Jagat, you will cross two suspension bridges to reach Salleri, where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Shringi Himal. Your journey continues as you walk alongside the Budhi Gandaki River and past Mani walls, culminating in another suspension bridge that leads you to Philim. Take some time to explore the monasteries in Philim before heading to Ekle Bhatti for lunch. After your meal, you’ll continue your trek to Nyak and then on to Dyang, located at an elevation of 1,800 meters. Along the way, enjoy the sights of enchanting waterfalls, vibrant rhododendron forests, and serene bamboo groves. The trek from Jagat to Dyang spans approximately 20 kilometers, requiring about 5 hours of walking. Conclude your day with a well-deserved dinner and a restful night at the tea house in Dyang.
Embarking on your trek from Dyang, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of majestic snow-capped mountains following a hearty breakfast. Your journey leads you northward along the winding path of the Budhi Gandaki River. As you cross the suspension bridge, you will pass through the villages of Ranagaon, Bihi, and Prok, encountering chortens and mani walls that enrich the cultural landscape of the trail. Namrung, your destination for the day at an elevation of 2,660 meters, awaits after traversing three more suspension bridges from Ghap while walking through a serene rhododendron forest. Be sure to admire the charming settlements of Gapsya and Nedung nestled between Namrung and Ghap villages. The trek from Dyang to Namrung spans approximately 19 kilometers, though trekking time may vary based on your pace. Enjoy lunch in Ghap before settling in for dinner and a restful overnight stay at the cozy tea house in Namrung.
Starting your day with breakfast at the charming tea house in Namrung, you’ll be welcomed by the impressive Manaslu Mountain range as you set off for Samagaon, which sits at an elevation of 3,530 meters. The trail leads you through a beautiful forested area, providing a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for your journey. As you trek from Namrung to Samagaon, immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural tapestry, passing by various monasteries and chortens that share stories of tradition and spirituality. You’ll also encounter delightful settlements such as Ligaon, Syogaon, Lhogaon, and Shyalagaon along the way. The trek includes several suspension bridges, adding an adventurous twist, and covers approximately 17.7 kilometers, typically taking 5 to 6 hours to complete. Upon reaching Samagaon, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and an overnight stay, complete with dinner at the cozy tea house.
Upon reaching Samagaon, situated at an altitude above 3,500 meters, it’s essential to give your body time to adjust to the thinner air and cooler temperatures, making this village an ideal spot for acclimatization. On your acclimatization day, take the opportunity to rest and consider exploring the surrounding areas. You can embark on the Birendra Tal trek (3,450 m), which showcases stunning views and allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, or opt for the more challenging Manaslu Base Camp trek (4,400 m) for breathtaking vistas of the Manaslu Mountain range. While both options are rewarding, the Birendra Tal trek is recommended for a more gentle ascent. After your day of exploration, return to your tea house in Samagaon, where you can interact with locals to learn about their culture, and enjoy a cozy overnight stay along with a hearty dinner.
On the seventh day, after your restful time in Samagaon, prepare for an adventurous trek to Samdo, starting with breakfast at the tea house. The journey, spanning approximately 9 kilometers and taking around 4 hours, is both thrilling and challenging as you navigate an isolated trail with steep ascents. Surrounded by pine, juniper, and birch trees, the scenery becomes more breathtaking as you approach Samdo village, revealing stunning views of Mount Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Simnang Himal, and the Manaslu icefall along the way. You’ll cross two wooden suspension bridges at Lela Kharka and Kyonggma Kharka, while also having the chance to admire the intricate Mani walls. Once you reach Samdo, located at 3,690 meters, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and dinner, followed by a cozy overnight stay in this picturesque mountain village.
After a hearty breakfast in Samdo, you’ll embark on your trek to Dharmashala, also known as Larke Phedi, situated at an elevation of 4,090 meters. This relatively short journey covers 8 kilometers and typically takes 3 to 4 hours, allowing you to walk leisurely and acclimate to the higher altitude. As you trek, you’ll gain elevation, so it’s vital to listen to your body. Along the way, prepare to be captivated by stunning views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier. Upon reaching Dharmashala, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of Jarkya Himal, Nysing Himal, and Lamjung Himal, along with the surrounding glaciers—Fukang, Larkya, Syacha, Yamnang, and Manaslu. After soaking in the beauty, enjoy your lunch, dinner, and a cozy overnight stay at the teahouse in Dharmashala.
The tenth day of your Manaslu Circuit trek is a highlight, as you ascend to the stunning Larkya La Pass, the highest point on the trail. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Dharamshala and packing a lunch, you’ll start your journey by climbing Cho Chanda, followed by a steady ascent up the snow-covered pass. At an altitude of 5,160 meters, reaching Larkya La Pass is a remarkable achievement, offering breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Manaslu, Himlung, Annapurna, and Ganesh Himal, among others. Take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery before descending to Bhimthang Phedi at 3,720 meters. This adventurous day concludes with a sense of accomplishment, followed by a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay at Bhimthang.
On the 11th day of your trek, you’ll start the return journey after reaching the highest point, with an early morning treat of a spectacular sunrise illuminating the majestic peaks of Lamjung Himal, Mount Manaslu, Phungi, Himlung, and Cheo Himal. Following a hearty breakfast at Bhimthang, you’ll descend to Tilje at an elevation of 2,300 meters. This journey involves both ascents and descents through diverse forests of rhododendrons and pine trees; it’s essential to be mindful of your knees and descend slowly to prevent any strain. Along the route, you’ll visit traditional villages like Hampuk, Puktu Kharka, Karche, and Gho, crossing several suspension bridges and Kharche Pass. Covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometers, this trek typically takes around 6 hours, with a lunch stop in Karche, concluding with dinner and an overnight stay in Tilje.
On the 12th day, your Manaslu Circuit trek concludes with a shorter walking schedule and more bus travel. After breakfast at Tilje’s tea house, you’ll begin your descent toward Dharapani, navigating a trail that follows the Marsyangdi riverside, characterized by various uphill and downhill sections. Once you reach Dharapani, catch a bus to Besisahar where you can take time to rest and enjoy lunch. The scenic bus ride from Besisahar to Kathmandu typically takes around 6 hours, showcasing Nepal’s diverse landscapes of hills, rivers, and traditional villages. As you arrive in Kathmandu, head back to your hotel, where a warm dinner and an overnight stay await you, marking the end of your memorable journey.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, the day is yours to explore Kathmandu at your leisure. Feel free to shop for local crafts, visit historical sites, or wander through the vibrant streets, taking in the culture and atmosphere of the city. For those seeking more adventure, consider optional activities such as a one-hour Everest Base Camp exploration by plane for breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, or a 3 to 4-hour helicopter tour to experience the stunning landscapes from above. You might also opt for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, delve into the beauty of Bhaktapur City, or catch a mesmerizing sunset in Nagarkot, among other exciting adventures.
After completing your Manaslu Circuit Trail adventure, a representative from Ghale Treks will ensure a seamless departure by dropping you off at the international airport at your scheduled time. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to have served you during your trekking experience. Please be aware that the check-out time at the hotel is noon, so plan accordingly for your airport transfer.
Know Before You Go: Essential Traveler Information for the 14-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trekking Permits:
Before embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, travelers need to obtain several permits, including the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Restricted Area Permit (RAP). It is advisable to arrange these permits through a qualified trekking agency like Ghale Treks, as the process can be complex and requires proper documentation.
Physical Preparation:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. It is recommended to engage in regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hiking on varied terrains in the months leading up to your trek. A training regimen that includes walking with a backpack will help you acclimatize to the trek’s demands.
Acclimatization:
Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. The trek reaches elevations of over 5,100 meters (16,730 feet) at Larkya Pass. To ensure proper acclimatization, follow the planned itinerary strictly, which includes rest days and gradual ascents to higher altitudes. Recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, nausea, dizziness) and communicate any concerns to your guide immediately.
Packing Essentials:
A well-planned packing list can make or break your trekking experience. Essential items include a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, waterproof jackets, thermal layers, hiking boots, a first-aid kit, reusable water bottles, and high-energy snacks. Ensure you have proper sun protection, including sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun’s intensity increases at higher altitudes.
Local Culture and Etiquette:
The trek takes you through culturally rich villages inhabited by the Gurung and Tibetan communities. It’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, particularly in religious sites. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries or local homes, and be considerate in your interactions.
Connectivity and Communication:
While trekking through the Manaslu region, internet and mobile connectivity can be limited. It’s advisable to purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu for basic connectivity. Expect to find Wi-Fi in some teahouses, but it may come at an additional cost. Engage fully with the trekking experience, as the breathtaking landscapes provide a perfect opportunity for digital detox.
Health and Safety:
Travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes is a must. Ensure your policy includes emergency evacuation, medical coverage, and trip cancellations. Carry a personal first-aid kit with necessary medications, including those for altitude sickness, pain relief, and basic gastroenteritis. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet will also play a crucial role in your overall health during the trek.
Environmental Responsibility:
As part of sustainable tourism, it’s vital to minimize your environmental impact. Carry reusable water bottles and purification systems, use eco-friendly trekking gear, and practice the “Leave No Trace” principle. Respect the local environment by following designated trails and avoiding littering.
By being aware of these essential factors, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience on the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas while immersing yourself in the rich culture of Nepal.
When preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it’s crucial to pack wisely to ensure your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here’s a detailed list of recommended items to bring:
Extras (Personal Documents)
Note:
The key to a successful trek is balancing your pack’s weight with the essential items you need. Aim to keep your backpack weight to around 1015% of your body weight, as this will help you stay comfortable and agile on the trail. Remember that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so having versatile clothing and gear will ensure you are well prepared for any situation. Happy trekking!
Our adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Ghale Treks was nothing short of spectacular! This trek around the eighth highest mountain in the world allowed us to immerse ourselves in breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the serene beauty of the Himalayas. The diverse scenery, from lush subtropical forests to stark mountain terrains, kept us constantly amazed. Our guide was fantastic, sharing insights about the local culture and ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the trek. Reaching the Larkya La Pass was a highlight, offering panoramic views that took our breath away. We highly recommend the Manaslu Circuit Trek for those seeking a unique and memorable trekking experience!
