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Route Itinerary

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

13 Days · Full Journey
1

Day 1

Arrival In Kathmandu(1,350m)

Our team(trek guide/representatives) will be waiting for you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with garland of marigold flowers to have a warm welcome in the land of mountains. Transfer to hotel by a private car/vehicle then you will be briefing for preparation of the trek, shopping and rest time. Explore: Thamel's vibrant streets, traditional markets, visit Boudhanath/Swayambhunath if you arrived in time. Vibe: Buzzing cultural atmosphere, pre-trek excitement. Overnight at a 4 star hotel at Thamel in Kathmandu.  

2

Day 2

Drive From Kathmandu To Jagat(1,340m) Via Machhakhola(930m)

Route: Kathmandu-Dhading Bazaar-Arughat Bazaar-Machhakhola-Jagat. Drive Distance: 200 Km. Drive Duration: 8-10 hours. Elevation Loss: -10m.   You leave Kathmandu(1,350m) early in the morning and begin your scenic overland journey toward the Manaslu trekking region . The drive starts along the Prithvi Highway , heading west out of the Kathmandu Valley. For the first few hours, you enjoy a smooth paved road with views of terraced hills, rural villages and the flowing Trishuli River . After passing town such as Malekhu and Dhading Bazaar you gradually move toward the Gorkha region . The scenery becomes increasingly rural as you approach Arughat Bazaar , a lively market town that traditionally marks the gateway to the Manaslu area. Up to this point, the road conditions are mostly good and paved. Beyond Arughat, the journey becomes more adventurous. The road narrows and turns into a rough mountain track as you enter the Budhi Gandaki Valley. You drive slowly along cliff-hugging roads , crossing landslide-prone sections and passing waterfalls cascading down steep rock faces. Dense forests, suspension bridges and deep river gorges dominate the landscape.    By afternoon, you reach Machhakhola(930m) , a small riverside settlement named after the "fish river" . This is a common rest or stop and marks a major transition from road travel to trekking terrain. After Machhakhola, you continue driving upstream along the Budhi Gandaki River. The road climbs gradually, passing remote villages and terraced fields. The surroundings feel quieter and more alpine as the elevation increases. After a final rugged stretch, you arrive at Jagat(1,340m) , a traditional stone village and official checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project(MCAP) . You reach Jagat by late afternoon or early evening, ready to begin your trek the following day.  

3

Day 3

Trek From Jagat To Deng(1,860m)

Trek Distance: 19 km. Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs. Elevation Gain: +520m.   You begin your morning walking out of Jagat, a stone-paved village with mani walls and a conservation checkpoint . The trail immediately offers a mix of stone staircases, suspension bridges and forested paths . The Budhi Gandaki River roars below as you move along cliffside trails . Soon, you pass through Sirdibas(1,430m ), a small Buddhist village with prayer flags and peaceful vib e. The mani walls and chortens here remind you that you are slowly entering Tibetan-influenced territory . Crossing a long suspension bridge , you ascend to Philim(1,570m) , a lager Gurung village . Here, neat houses, terraced fields and school supported by Japanese aid give the village a unique character. It's a perfect place to rest, sip tea and enjoy wide valley views.    Beyond Philim, the valley opens into golden fields, then narrows again into a gorge with sheer cliffs . You walk under rocky overhang , where the river squeezes through dramatic stone walls . At Ekle Bhatti , you find a teahouse junction-one trail leads toward Tsum Valley , while your path continues along the Manaslu Circuit . The trail winds through forested slopes with tall pines and bamboo , where you may hear the calls of langurs or spot colorful Himalayan birds . You continue past Nyak and cross several small s treams on wooden planks or suspension bridges . Finally, after a long but gradual climb along the riverbank, you reach Deng(1,860m) , a small village with Tibetan-style houses . Smoke rises from the kitchens and you sense you are now deeper in Buddhist territory .  Overnight at a teahouse in Deng.

4

Day 4

Trek From Deng To Namrung(2,630m)

Trek Distance: 18 km. Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs. Elevation Gain: +770m.   Your trek begins in the early morning, crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki Rive r. The trail climbs steadily through dark pine and fir forests, where the sound of the river echoes below and sunlight filters through the trees. The air feels cooler now-you're climbing higher into the Himalayas.   Soon, you pass Bihi Phedi(2,130m) , a small settlement where children may run out to greet you. From here, you catch glimpses of Kutang Himal(7,923m) rising sharply to the north, its white peak gleaming in the distance. Prayer flags and mani walls remind you that you are entering deeper into Tibetan Buddhist territory . The trail then meanders through forests and farmlands dotted with potatoes, barley, and buckwheat . You continue past several small hamlets, following the river and crossing wooden and suspension bridges . The gorge here feels narrower and steeper, with the Budhi Gandaki surging between high cliffs.    As you climb further, you reach Ghap(2,160m ), a picturesque village with mani walls and colorful chortens. This is a good place for lunch break. Beyond Ghap, the trail enters enchanting forests of fir, rhododendron and bamboo , where you may hear the hooting of Himalayan pheasants or see troops of gray langur monkeys . You cross the river several times on suspension bridges , each crossing bringing new perspectives of the gorge and surrounding peaks .   The path climbs steadily through forested slopes and farmland until you finally arrive at Namrung(2,630m) . Namrung feels different-it is a gateway village with a strong Tibetan Buddhist presence . Stone houses , prayer wheels , carved mani stones and the friendly smiles of villagers welcome you.  Overnight at a lodge in Namrung.

5

Day 5

Trek From Namrung To Lho Gaon(3,180m)

Trek Distance: 11 km. Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs. Elevation Gain: +550m.   After having your breakfast, you leave Namrung , a stone-built Buddhist village where prayer wheels line the pathways and the morning sun strikes the snow peaks above. From the village, the trail climbs gently through forests or fir, rhododendron and oak , opening occasionally to reveal terraces of barley, potatoes and wheat .   As you walk, the valley widens and you are rewarded with stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli(7,893m) and Mount Manaslu(8,163m) ; the world 8th highest peak, towering above. The trail passes through small hamlets where children smile shyly, and farmers tend to their high-altitude crops . You reach Lihi Gaon(2,900m ), a beautiful village surrounded by chortens, barley fields and mani walls . The trail continues with short climbs and descents across steams and landslide sections until you arrive at Sho Gaon(2,950m) , another peaceful settlement. Here, the first full views of the giant Mountain; Manaslu's north face appear , a breathtaking sight that reminds you why this trek is so special.    Finnally, you arrive at Lho Gaon(3,180m) , a spectacular village dominated by the majestic Ribung Gompa Monastery , which sits above the village like a guardian. From Lho , you enjoy sweeping views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli and Ngadi Chuli glowing golden at sunset. Overnight at a lodge in Lho Gaon.  

6

Day 6

Trek From Lho Gaon To Sama Gaon(3,530m)

Trek Distance: 12 km. Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs. Elevation Gain: +350m.   You trek starts early in the morning from Lho Gaon , a village dominated by the imposing Ribung Monastery and backed by the mighty Manaslu(8,163m) glowing in the morning sun. As you leave the village, you follow a forested trail where rhododendrons, pines and oaks give you refreshing shade. The walk feels gentle at first and you keep looking back for stunning views of Manaslu and Manaslu North standing tall behind you.   Soon, you pass small chortens, mani walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind-each reminding you that you're deep in the Nubri Valley , where Tibetan Buddhist culture is alive and thriving. The trail ascends gradually and after about an hour, you reach Shyala Village(3,500m) . Here, you're treated to a panoramic amphitheater of peaks : Himal Chuli(7,893m), Ngadi Chuli(7,871m), Manaslu and Ganesh Himal all surround you. You pause here, amazed at the sheer scale of the mountains. From Shyal, the trail becomes more open and you cross yak pastures where you might see herders tending their animals. You pass through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in spring, while in autumn, the golden colors of the landscape take over. The air feels thinner, but the beauty of the surroundings keeps you energy high. Continuing on, you pass through the charming settlement of Pungen Gompa trail junction (a side trip option to Pungen Monastery , an ancient meditation site with a glorious view of the Manaslu glacier).   If you don't take the side trip, you continue along the main trail toward Sama Gaon . The path now follows the valley floor beside the Budhi Gandaki River , its icy blue water rushing below you. The sound of the river accompanies your steps as you approach the broad and fertile valley of Sama Gaon . Before you arrive, you cross cultivated field s where locals grow barley and potatoes and you see children playing near stone houses with wooden roofs .    Finally, you step into Sama Gaon(3,530m) , one of the most significant villages on the Manaslu Circuit . Here, you find yourself surrounded by a breathtaking mountain panorama, dominated by Manaslu's east face towering above the village. Sama Gaon is rich in Tibetan culture with mani walls, old monasteries and traditional stone houses welcoming you into this highland world. Overnight at a lodge in Sama Gaon.

7

Day 7

Acclimatization Day In Sama Gaon.

Optional Hiking Distance: 10 km round trip from Sama Gaon to Pungen Gompa(4,000m). Optional Hiking Distance: 10-12 km round trip from Sama Gaon to Manaslu Base Camp(4,800m) Hiking Duration: 4-5 hr for Pungen Gompa and 6-7 hrs for Base Camp. Elevation Gain: +470m at Pungen Gompa and +1,270m at Base Camp.   Two Options for hiking: Pungen Gompa(4,000m)  - Starts south of Sama Gaon, gradually ascends through yak pastures, Scenic views of Manaslu, glaciers and beautiful glacial valley and reach Pungen Gompa with panoramic mountainous views. Ideal acclimatization hike; fewer crowds than the base camp route.   Manaslu Base Camp(4,800m) - Steep uphill trail starting from Sama Gaon heading north toward the Base Camp of Manaslu, you will pass the forests of birch and rhododendron, glacier moraines and icy streams. More challenging but rewarding hike; spectacular close-up views of Mt. Manaslu, glaciers, and potential sightings of Himalayan wildlife. Overnight at the same lodge in Sama Gaon.  

8

Day 8

Trek From Sama Gaon To Samdo(3,860m)

Trek Distance: 8 km. Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs. Elevation Gain: +330m.   You begin your trek in the crisp morning air of Sama Gaon, surrounded by the towering Manaslu(8,163m) to the west. The village itself is a cultural gem , with mani walls, chortens and stone houses that make you feel as if time moves slower here.   As you leave Sama, the trail gently ascends through alpine meadows dotted with grazing yaks . You follow the Budhi Gandaki River , its icy waters rushing alongside, carving a deep gorge into steps, rocky trails and open meadows , giving you a sense of variety with each turn. The valley narrows as you continue and the terrain becomes more rugged . You cross a few wooden bridge over icy steams and the higher altitude makes each step feel more purposeful. The yak herders' settlements you pass give you glimpses of high-altitude Himalayan life-men in traditional Tibetan dress, yaks grazing and stone houses with prayer flags fluttering in the wind.   Finally, after a gradual climb through rocky terrain and past small herder shelters, you arrive at Samdo(3,860m) . The village sits like a jewel at the base of Manaslu's glacier, surrounded by dramatic peaks and barren slopes. Samdo marks the beginning of the high-altitude section of the Manaslu Circuit and you immediately feel the thin air, the silent grandeur and the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Overnight at a teahouse in Samdo Village.  

9

Day 9

Trek From Samdo To Dharmashala(4,460m)

Trek Distance: 7 km. Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs. Elevation Gain: +600m.   You wake up at Samdo , surrounded by the raw grandeur of the Himalayas . The morning light illuminates Manaslu's east face , glaciers sparkling in the sun . As you step onto the trail, the air feels crisp, thinner and every breath reminds you of the altitude. The trail ascends gradually along rocky slopes and moraine-strewn paths . You pass through yak pastures where herders guide their flocks and notice traditional Tibetan-style houses perched precariously on the slopes. Prayer flags flap in the wind, offering a spiritual blessing for your journey.    As you climb higher, the vegetation disappears, replaced by barren alpine terrain, glacial rocks and ice-melt steams . The path winds steadily upward toward Dharmashala/Larkya Phedi , the high camp at the base of the Larkya La Pass(5,160m) .  Along the way, you may see the way for Tibet border, trekkers resting, caravan of yaks and donkeys, flock of blue sheep, marmots and small chortens , symbols of human endurance in this extreme environment.    Reaching Dharmashala(4,460m) in the early afternoon, you are greeted by panoramic views of Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli and Himal Chuli . The campsite sits on a wide moraine, providing space for tents and lodges. The wind is strong and the air thin, reminding you that this is high Himalayan territory and tomorrow's pass will be the most challenging and rewarding part of your trek. Overnight at a teahouse in Dharmashala.    

10

Day 10

Trek From Dharamshala To Bhimtang(3,720m) Via Larkya La Pass(5,106m)

  Trek Distance: 16 km. Trek Duration: 8-9 hrs. Elevation Gain/Loss: +700m at Larkya La Pass and -1,440m loss at Bhimtang.   You wake long before dawn at Dharmashala , the icy wind howling through the moraine camp. The air is freezing, your breath visible as you gear up with warm layers, headlamp and walking sticks. This is the day you've been waiting for: the crossing of the Larkya La Pass(5,160m) , the highest point of your trek.    You begin in darkness, your footsteps crunching on frozen ground. The trail climbs gradually at first, skirting glacial moraines and frozen steams. As the first light of dawn touches touches the snow peaks, the jagged silhouettes of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal and Kang Guru glow golden against the deep blue sky. The climb is steady but relentless. You pass frozen lakes and rocky ridges, zigzagging upward. The air is thin, every breath heavy and you pace slows to a careful rhythm; step, breath, step, breath. Prayer flags flutter faintly in the distance, the signal that the pass is near. Finally, after about 3-4 hours of climbing, you stand at the Larkya La Pass(5,160m) . The moment is unforgettable. Prayer flags whip wildly in the wind , tied around a cairn marking the summit. From here, you're rewarded with a panoramic amphitheater of Himalayan giants . After the top, the descent begins cautiously. The trail is steep, winding down loose gravel, icy patches and snowfields. You tread carefully, as you descend, the barren high-altitude landscape gives way to greener alpine meadows , dotted with juniper and dwarf rhododendron.    After a long and tiring descent, the valley opens wide, and you enter Bhimtang(3,720m), a breathtaking meadow surrounded by peaks. The village sits in a broad glacial basin, with jaw-dropping views of Mt. Manaslu(8,163m), Himlung Himal(7,126m), Cheo Himal(6,820m) and Lamjung Himal(6,983m) . Prayer flags flutter above the rooftops, yaks graze nearby and the exhaustion of the day melts away into sheer triumph. Overnight at a lodge in Bhimtang.  

11

Day 11

Trek From Bhimtang To Dharapani(1,960m)

Trek Distance: 18 Km. Trek Duration: 7-8 hours. Elevation Loss: -1,860m.   You leave Bhimtang(3,720m) after breakfast, beginning a long but rewarding descent into greener landscapes. The trail drops steadily through open alpine meadows, where you enjoy final close-up views of Manaslu(8,163m), Himalchuli(7,893m) and Lamjung Himal(6,983m) glowing above the valley. As you descend , the terrain gradually changes. Snowy slopes give way to grassy pastures and then dense forests of pine, fir, oak and rhododendron. The air becomes warmer and richer with oxygen and your pace feels noticeably easier after the high pass days. You follow a beautiful trail along the Dudh Khola , crossing wooden bridges and passing cascading waterfalls . Further down, you enter cultivated land and traditional Gurung villages such as Tilje , where stone houses, prayer flags and terraced fields reflect a blend of Tibetan Buddhist and Himalayan hill cultures.    After Tilje, the trail continues gently downhill, eventually joining the main Annapurna Circuit route. The path widens and becomes more populated as you approach Dharapani(1,960m) , a major trekking hub where the Manaslu Circuit officially reconnects with Annapurna Region. Arriving in Dharapani by late afternoon, you feel a deep sense of completion. This day marks your full transition from the high Himalayan wilderness back into forested mid-hills, closing one of the most scenic final stages of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

12

Day 12

Drive From Dharapani To Kathmandu(1,350m)

Route: Dharapani-Beshisahar-Kathmandu Drive Distance: 230 Km. Drive Duration: 8-10 hours. Elevation Loss: -610m   After your last mountain breakfast, you'll leave Dharapani early in the morning, marking the end of your trekking journey and the beginning of your return to the capital city. The drive starts along a mountain road that follows the Marshyangdi River, gradually descending through forested hills and terraced farmland. As you travel downhill, the landscape changes quickly-from alpine forests to warmer mid-hill vegetation. You pass t raditional villages such as Taal, Chamje , where waterfalls tumble down steep cliffs and prayer flags still flutter above stone houses. The road condition is a mix of rough mountain track and partially paved sections and the journey feels adventurous yet scenic.    After several hours, you reach Besisahar , the main administrative town of the Lamjung region and common exit point of the Annapurna region. From here, the road improves significantly as you join the main highway. Continuing onward, you drive alongside the Marshyangdi and then the Trishuli River corridors, enjoying views of green hills, riverside settlements and cultivated valleys. The journey becomes smoother and faster as you move closer to the Kathmandu Valley. By late afternoon or evening, you arrived back in Kathmandu(1,350m) . After days spent in the high Himalayas, the return to city life feels both lively and reflective, marking the completion of an unforgettable trekking adventure in Nepal.

13

Day 13

Final Departure, Fly Back To Home Country

Transfer to airport by private vehicle; included, final goodbye, End of an epic Himalayan experience; unforgettable mountain memories.  Thank You Very Much for being with us.

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