The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents a picturesque and often overlooked journey in Nepal,
offering an off-the-beaten-path experience. Despite its underrated status, it stands as
one of the most popular restricted treks in the Manaslu Region.
This challenging trek encircles the majestic Manaslu, the eighth highest peak globally,
officially welcoming trekkers since 1991. While demanding, it offers unparalleled vistas
of the Ganesh and Manaslu Himal ranges, along with immersive encounters with
various ethnic Nepalese tribes and cultures.
Commencing from Arughat, the trail traces the banks of the Budi Gandaki River,
traversing middle hills before ascending into the high, arid desert terrain—a segment
intricately linked to the Tibetan Plateau. Here, dwellers of Tibetan descent practice
Tibetan Buddhism, providing unique cultural insights not readily available on other treks.
MCT
Basic teahouses
Private
4660m.
Sep-Dec & Mar-May
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• Transfer to your hotel.
• Explore the vibrant streets of Thamel and prepare for the trek.
• Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley.
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and
Pashupatinath.
• Final trek preparation and gear check.
• Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (approximately 8-9 hours).
• Enjoy scenic views of the countryside and rural life.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Soti Khola.
• Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River.
• Pass through lush forests and several small villages.
• Reach Machha Khola and rest for the night at a teahouse.
• Continue trekking upstream along the river.
• Cross the Tharo Khola and trek through forests and terraced fields.
• Reach the village of Jagat and spend the night at a teahouse.
• Trek through the rocky gorge of Budhi Gandaki.
• Pass through small settlements and terraced fields.
• Reach the village of Deng and stay overnight at a teahouse.
• Trek through dense forests of pine and rhododendron.
• Enjoy views of Manaslu and other surrounding peaks.
• Arrive at the village of Namrung and spend the night at a teahouse.
• Trek through picturesque villages and barley fields.
• Pass through the village of Lho with its Tibetan influenced architecture.
• Reach Samagaon, a major Tibetan village, and stay overnight at a teahouse.
• Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
• Optional day hike to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp for acclimatization.
• Explore the village and interact with locals.
• Trek through beautiful landscapes with views of Manaslu and its neighboring peaks.
• Cross several streams and ascend gradually to Samdo.
• Spend the night at a teahouse in Samdo.
• Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River towards Larkya Bazaar.
• Ascend gradually to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi.
• Prepare for the challenging Larkya La Pass crossing the next day.
• Early morning start to cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the pass.
• Descend to Bhimthang and stay overnight at a teahouse.
• Descend through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
• Trek through picturesque villages like Gho and Tilije.
• Reach Tilije and spend the night at a teahouse.
• Trek through terraced fields and forests.
• Pass through the village of Dharapani and continue towards Tal.
• Overnight stay at a teahouse in Tal.
• Trek to Syange, passing through Chamje.
• Drive back to Kathmandu from Syange (approximately 8-9 hours).
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
• Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
