This offbeat trek is one of the quietest, yet most thrilling treks in Nepal

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is regarded as one of Nepal’s finest treks. Despite its recent popularity, the Manaslu Trek is still isolated and off-the-beaten-path in comparison to Nepal’s more well known teahouse treks. The half loop leads from Arughat in the Gorkha district up the Buri Gandaki Valley to the culturally Tibetan village of Sama, crossing the 5,100m Larkya La to end at Dharapani on the Annapurna Circuit. There are fine views of Manaslu, the world’s eighth-tallest mountain, and some great side trips to lakes and glaciers. The early stages of the trek were badly hit by the earthquake but lodges have reopened and some sections of the trail have been rerouted.

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Brief Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola

Day 3 : Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat

Day 4 : Trek from Jagat to Deng

Day 5 : Trek from Deng to Namrung

Day 6 : Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon

Day 7 : Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon – hike to Manaslu Base Camp

Day 8 : Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo

Day 9 : Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala

Day 10 : Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang via Larkya La (5,135m)

Day 11 : Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani

Day 12 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Day 13 : Final Departure from Kathmandu

Inclusions & Exclusions

Trip Cost Includes:

  • Group transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (trek start point) 
  • Group transportation from Dharapani to Kathmandu. 
  • 3 meals a day during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & tea or coffee)
  • Accommodation during the trekking in standard room on twin sharing basis
  • Water purification tablets or liquor for safe drinking water
  • Professional government license holder trekking guide and his salary.
  • Transport, food & accommodation for guide, assistant guide & Porters
  • Backpack off loading (Maximum 12 kg each person)
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit 
  • Manaslu Conservation area permit (MCAP) Fee
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit
  • Annapurna Conservation area permit (ACAP)
  • Kathmandu to Machhakhola & Dharapani to Kathmandu transport for porters
  • Insurance for Nepali staffs.
  • Basic medical kit.
  • All government, local taxes and company expenses.

Trip Cost DOES NOT Include:

  •  International air fare to/ from Nepal.
  • Entry Visa fees - for foreigners.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Insurance which covers, medical, emergency evacuation, lost, etc.
  • Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, bottled water or boiled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Personal gear and expenses.
  • Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
  • Single occupancy and/ attached bathroom rooms in tea houses.

Things to carry

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Extreme temperature variations, high altitude, snow glare & proximity to sun are certain factors which necessitate the need to for proper mountaineering equipment. In order to enjoy your experience in the mountains, we have recommended that you carry the following with you.

Apparel

  • Thermal Inners - At least 1 pair of Top and Leggings
  • 6-8 t-shirts or long-sleeve shirt (cotton / dryfit)
  • 2-3 pairs of trekking pants (no denim!)
  • 1 Sweater/Sweatshirt
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Down Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Layer like raincoat or wind-cheater
  • 1 pair of hiking boots
  • 1 pair of comfortable sandals/floaters/sneakers
  • 6-8 pairs of cotton socks (for day)
  • 2 pairs of thick/woollen socks (for night)
  • Gloves - liner and outer
  • Sun hat
  • Woollen cap
  • Buff

 

Accessories

  • Duffel bag / Rucksack (60L+)
  • Daypack / Backpack (20-30L capacity)
  • Sleeping bag (can be bought or rented in Kathmandu)
  • 2x 1L Bottles (to carry drinking water)
  • Lunchbox
  • Torch + Batteries / Headlamp
  • Knee/Ankle/Wrist Guards
  • Trekking Poles
  • Sunblock
  • Sunglasses
  • Moisturiser
  • Hand Sanitiser
  • Personal Medical Kit
  • Personal Toiletries Kit
  • Snacks!

 

Fitness

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  • There are three main aspects of training to focus on – strength training, cardiovascular training, and trekking + trekking alternatives.
     
  • Strength training involves training different muscle groups, so that they can become stronger. There are different exercises for each muscle group, and working them all out 2x-3x a week should be enough to help you get comfortable trekking.
     
  • Legs / lower body - exercises like squats, glute bridges, step ups and leg presses with help you develop stronger muscles in the lower body. 

    Core - Exercises like planks, bicycle crunches and leg raises can help with core stability; Pilates is also a core-intensive type of workout that will help.

    Upper body - Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups and dips will help develop these muscles. You can also use resistance bands or light weights to develop them further.
     
  • It’s vital to do plenty of cardio training before your trek, so that you can get the most out of your experience
     
  • Running - This is the most recommended form of cardio activity, as it activates a lot of the same muscles as trekking. Being able to run 10km in 60 minutes will allow you to get the most out of your trek.

    Cycling / Swimming - If you have knee issues, or don’t enjoy running, you can also opt for cycling and swimming. Being able to cycling 30-50km or swim for 30-40 minutes, thrice a week, should be good to help you with treks like EBC.

    HIIT training / Crossfit - Another option to level up your cardio training is to opt for high intensity aerobic exercises like HIIT or Crossfit, 2-3 times a week
    The aim is to get your heart rate up, so you do not get winded on long days of trekking
     
  • Hiking
    Try to get outdoors and go for a hike on the weekends! Uphill trails of 4-8 kilometres are will help you get used to trekking. Make it a point to carry a loaded backpack, and walk in your trekking shoes.
     
  • Hiking Alternatives
    Climbing stairs, and using the treadmill or stairmaster on an incline, will help prepare you for treks. Make it a point to carry a loaded backpack so that you can get used to the extra weight; and use your trekking boots, so that you can break them in and walk comfortably.
     
  • If you’re confused with all this information, no need to worry! The most important thing with training is consistency, and staying injury-free. Your training week should ideally have
    Strength training - 3 sessions
    Cardio training - 3 sessions
    Hiking - 1 long session, best on the weekends
    Rest and stretching - at least 1 day

FAQs

Manaslu Circuit Trek

What kind of physical shape do I need to be in to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek ?

This trek into the Manaslu region is strenuous but does not require any previous trekking, mountaineering or technical climbing experience; only that you be in good physical conditioning. The trek requires you to be able to hike for 6 to 7 hours over hilly terrain with a light day pack for 09 days. Good cardio-vascular conditioning and exercises for muscles that are used to hiking will make your trip much more enjoyable.

What are the entry and exit points of the trek ?

Your itinerary starts from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. We receive you at the Kathmandu International Airport and transfer you to your hotel located in Thamel, the tourist district of the city. You spend this day in the city and the next morning we drive to a place called Macchakhola from where we start trekking. This is a 7 to 8 hours drive.

On the way back we have a similar journey back as well from Dharapani to Kathmandu.

What are the stay arrangements like ?

Accommodation in Kathmandu on arrival and post the trek will be in a standard 3-star hotel in Thamel district, on double sharing basis.

Our base package contains all accommodation of twin sharing basis, however, on request we can arrange for upgrades to single occupancy in Kathmandu and also to 4 star or 5 star hotels in Kathmandu at an additional charge.

Accommodation during the trek will be arranged in mountain lodges/tea houses. These tea houses are standard lodged with rooms containing a bed, mattresses, warm blanket and a pillow. The base package we provide has rooms on twin sharing, with common bathrooms.

Do I need any climbing equipment for this trek ?

No, as the trek does not involve any technical climbs, no special climbing equipment is required. A rucksack (60-70 lts), good pair of trekking shoes, a warm jacket and a pair of thermals are good enough. Also, we will be sending you a comprehensive mail on the list of Items to be carried which will help you pack rucksack better.

What is the max altitude I will be gaining on the trek ?

The highest altitude that you gain while on the trek is 5160 Meters while we climb over the Larky La pass.

 

What are the kind of temperatures we will be dealing with ?

The temperature in Kathmandu shall be in a range of around 10 – 15 Degrees Celsius. Afternoons are usually hot and humid and evenings are towards the colder sides. The temperature during the first 2 to 3 days of the trek are pleasant during the day and can be expected to be around 08 - 12 degree Celsius.

As and how we proceed and gain attitude, the temperatures will fall by 2 to 3 degrees every day and go below sub-zero when we cross 4000 M, hence layering oneself well will be of utmost importance. Even though you may be trekking during peak season time, one can always expect drizzles in the mountains. Carrying a rain jacket or a poncho during the trek shall be mandatory.

What are the communictation systems on the trek ?

The communication systems on the trek are very well established. There are multiple options to be in touch with your friends and family while on the trek. You can activate international roaming on your phone or even buy a local sim card in Nepal. The sim card will cost anywhere between NR 600 - 700 depending on the plan you would like to purchases.

However, your sim-card will lose network you after Day 3. You can purchase wifi at the tea house. Different tea houses charge different amount for purchase of wifi usually ranging anywhere between 600 – 800 Nepali rupees for a 24 hour cycle.

What happens in case of a medical emergency ?

Our team carries a full-fledged medical kit that contains generic as well as high altitude medicines. We will be doing oxygen level checks everyday as well, and our team leaders will also be doing physical examination to ensure how the trekkers are feeling.

In case anyone shows any signs of high altitude sickness, medicines will be given by our leaders according to the symptoms shown.

Most tea houses also have access to emergency oxygen cylinders that be rented from the tea house if needed.

In case a person cannot continue further up ahead on the trek, if he/she is not physically fit or is unable to acclimatize etc. he/she will be advised by the leader on whether he can continue the trek or should go back with one of our guides. Owing to safety protocols, the trek leaders decision shall be final and binding.

 

Depending on the condition of the trekker, a helicopter evacuation or a horse – either could be used to go back, the cost of which will have to be borne by the trekker himself.

What kind of clothing will I need ?

Carrying good apparels and accessories plays a very vital role in ensuring a good experience while exploring the mountains. We have provided a detailed list on our website for all the clothes and accessories that will be mandatory to carry on the trek.

What are the food arrangements like ?

In the hotel, our base package covers bed and breakfast plan, so breakfast will be included which will be organized as a buffet. Lunch and dinner/anything ordered from the menu, will be on actuals.

While on the trek our base package covers 3 meals and 3 beverages daily. One order/item is considered as one meal/beverage. These meals can be decided by the individual basis his/her preference. The tea houses have a variety of options for meals ranging from bread with butter/Jam/honey, porridge, oats, pancakes, etc. to Daalbhat tarkari, spaghetti, fried rice, and even burgers and pizza etc. Beverages include hot water, tea, coffee, milk, ginger lemon water, etc.

Do I need to carry a sleeping bag ?

Temperature in the mountains can be very cold compared to what we experience in our cities. After 3000 M the nights are a lot colder, hence we do recommend you carry sleeping bags.

Despite the fact, that the tea houses provide good warm shelter in the harsh conditions and also one blanket to each trekkers, having a sleeping bag always comes in handy. You can opt to rent out sleeping bags in Kathmandu in case you don’t wish to purchase one. Our team in Kathmandu will be able to assist you for the rentals.

How do I acclimatize for the trek ?

Acclimatization basically means enabling your body to adapt to the altitude, heat, cold, air, etc. In the mountains, this becomes very important to ensure a comfortable trekking experience.

The basic 5 things to do in order to acclimatize well is –

  1. Keep your hydration levels high. One needs to consume minimum 4 litres of water on a daily basis.
  2. Keep your appetite going well. Loss of appetite is one of the first signs of being affected by AMS. Keeping a decent appetite from day 1 is important and it will also give your body the required nutrition.
  3. Sleep – It is of utmost importance that your body is well rested. Minimum 7-9 hours of sleep is recommended to rest, recover and recharge yourself for the next day.
  4. Protecting your eyes – Wearing sunglasses in the mountains is a must. The sun glares are much stronger in the high altitudes than our cities, and can often lead to headaches which can stay for very long.
  5. Walk and talk pace – your pace of walking should be such that you should be able to talk. Especially when gaining altitude, it is advisable to walk slower as you gain the height, which allows your body to adapt better.

What medicines should I carry ?

Our team usually carries a full fledge medical kit which include generic medicines ranging from headache, indigestion, allergies, anti-inflammatory, to high altitude medicines like Diamox etc. from oxy meters, thermometers, bandages, water purification drops

But apart from that in case there are specific medicines that work for you or your doctor has prescribed, you should carry those. The list of medicines you can carry has also been highlighted in the ‘Things to carry’ tab on our website.

Is a medical certificate needed for the trek ?

Yes. A medical certificate is compulsory for this trek.

It is important that you have yourself assessed by a qualified doctor before the trek. The physical examination conducted by the doctor will include a check of your blood pressure, pulse, recording your blood group, mentioning any previous injuries/accidents or allergies, etc. This assessment will be beneficial not only for the trekker but also the team in case if any medical situation arises.

The format of the certificate will be shared by our team to all the participants and needs to be submitted as per the deadlines mentioned by a representative from Adventure Pulse.

Will I have to carry my entire bag during the trek ?

No. As part of the premium services we provide at Adventure Pulse, backpack off-loading is also included. The main bag/duffle bag that you will need through your journey will be our teams responsibility and be carried from Syabrubesi onwards and be loaded either on jobgyors or carried by our porter staff, which has a weight limit of 12 Kgs. In case your bag weighs more than 12 Kg, extra porter charges will be applicable.

The only bag that you will be carrying with you, will be a small day bag which can be between a 20-30 L capacity bag, to accommodate your water bottle, snack, thin jacket, poncho etc.

In case you would like a personal assistant to carry your day bag as well, the same can be arranged and hired at an additional cost.

How will I get to my hotel in Kathmandu ?

We will be organizing group pickups in cars from the airport to the hotel. There will be around 4-6 people who will be picked together depending on their arrival timings. Since these are group pick ups there will be a certain amount of waiting time involved. However, if you wish to opt for a personal vehicle, the same can be arranged on additional charges.

How much extra money should I carry for the trek ?

The package covers your food, accommodation, on ground transport etc. but you will need money for either personal expenses like – shopping, purchase of hot shower facilities, wifi, food in café’s, patisseries, tips to the guides etc.

For Kathmandu you can budget around 3000 to 3500 Nepali rupees per day & for your trek you can budget around 2000 to 2500 Nepali Rupees per day for any extras and additional expenses.

Will my debit/credit cards work in Nepal ?

Your credit/debit cards will work in Nepal if they are activated internationally. Even UPI payments option through Google pay, Paytm, etc. are available provided you have a working sim associated with that bank account. However, in the mountains there will be no access to ATM’s except at Namche Bazaar. The only way to make expenses in the mountains is by paying in cash, strictly in Nepali currency only. It is safer to keep cash handy with you.

How can I convert my currency ?

In case you would like to convert your currency to Nepali, there are multiple forex shops in Thamel itself who can do that.

In case you’d like our team to help you with the conversion, you can inform our representative accordingly, at least 2 days in advance, and the amount you would like to convert, so that necessary arrangements can be made.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Our team will be at the airport to receive you when you land in Kathmandu. Look out for beaming faces, frantic hands waving at you, and of course, signboards bearing our logo. We will personally escort you to your hotel, located in Thamel, which we dare-say is Kathmandu’s most exciting district! Lined (in every conceivable direction) with pubs, restaurants and shops offering everything from expedition gear to local souvenirs. Thamel’s musical, aromatic and bustling streets will keep you entertained, leaving you wanting to come back for more, every single time! We’ve done this trek 39 times and still can’t quite get enough of Thamel! Once the entire group arrives and checks into their rooms, a short but comprehensive briefing is done in order to prepare everyone for the journey to come and to resolve any queries that you might have before the trek begins. Our team will check your equipment to ensure that you are sufficiently prepared for the trek and will assist you with any last minute shopping that needs to be done before we set off. After that, the day is entirely yours. Our drive to Macchakhola is usually an early morning affair and while it’s important to get an adequate amount of rest on your first night, it’s also true that a little party never hurt anyone.

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola

We can get an early morning private 4wd Jeep from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (130 km). The ride begins on the Prithvi highway, then through the country roads. You pass many suspension bridges on the way to the elevation of 930m in Machhakhola. The highest elevation today will be 1,300 in Kathmandu from where you will drive towards the lower elevation. Overall 8/9 hrs drive, overnight at Machhakhola.

Day 3

Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat

You will start an early morning trek from Machhakhola to Jagat. Beginning from a steep climb, you will walk past Tatopani (hot spring). You walk with the Budhigandaki River on the way to Jagat, the entry point of Manaslu Conservation Area. Overall 7/8 hrs trek, overnight at Jagat.

Day 4

Trek from Jagat to Deng

The trail from Jagat descends to the pleasant village of Salleri, and then to Setibas (1430m). Decrepit stone kani and several Mani walls indicate that the trek is now entering a region of Tibetan influence, although the people are still Gurung. We pass the small village of Ghate Khola with two water-operated mills and reach a police check post where we have to show our permits. Immediately after that, we board one of the longest suspension bridges of this trek, crossing the Budhi Gandaki following by a steep climb to Philim (1590m), a central village in the area. We then pass by Ekle Bhatti from where the Pines start to dot the landscape and the gorge of Chilung Khola joins the Budhi Gandaki. Near this point (About an hour walk from Ekle Bhatti), there is a branch in the trail. Note to visitors to Tsum Valley. Tsum Valley visitors will have a half a day trek from Philim to Lokpa. Continuing on the main trail, tropical atmosphere accompanies us as we continue up the Budhi Gandaki. In order to avoid some cliffs, the trail crosses the Budhi Gandaki to the eastern side and back on two dilapidated suspension bridges, giving us an impressive sense of suspense. A new one is currently replacing one of these bridges. After a bit more walk, we reach Deng (1,860m).

Day 5

Trek from Deng to Namrung

After a brief walk beyond Deng, we pass through the tiny village of Rana gaon (1980m) with some dramatic views of the Budhi Gandaki gorge. From the bridge, we climb a bit to join a trail from Bhi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through forest and Mani where we turn towards a corner that to Ghap. Even though there is another route, we take the route through Prok village. Prok village has a viewpoint for a beautiful sight of Siringi Himal. We further cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and come across several gompas en route. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and the trail is fine again. The pleasant walk continues and after a last steep climb, we reach Namrung. Namrung feels touristic, although not so much as Deng. Namrung village is a good viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal and from the village one can see Mt. Himal Chuli in the south.

Day 6

Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon

The trail from Namrung climbs steadily, passes through forests, and reaches Lihi. Lihi is a recommended base to visit Hinang Gompa and Himal Chuli range. The trail drops and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal and Ganesh Himal always closes by. We further pass through Sho, Lho or Lhogaon and Shyala villages before reaching Samagaon. A large Gompa that includes a home for more than 150 children that get their education here dominates Lho. Shyala and Samagaon are good bases for a visit to Punggen Gompa. The trail from Shyala on crosses the slope that drains Punggen glacier and reaches Samagaon through a nice flat area, where we can at last view lovely Yaks grazing.

Day 7

Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon – hike to Manaslu Base Camp

To adjust to the higher elevation, we will acclimatize here in Sama Gaon. You will not be heading towards another destination but exploring around Sama Gaon. We suggest you stay active for the rest day. You can visit to Birendra Tal and then to Manaslu Base Camp (4,500 m). You can also explore the Sama Gompa, and return back to Sama Gaon. Samagaon is a lovely village with houses aligned in rows along a small river and face nice courtyards. The fields are located on both sides of the village above its houses level. Lodges are located north of the village,

Day 8

Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo

The trail from Samagaon to Samdo goes north on the upper part of the Budhi Gandaki with another day of incredible mountain views, past craggy woods of Himalayan Birch. En route we pass the long Mani walls at Kermo Kharka, after which we spot the entrance chorten of Samdo high on a bluff. Just before entering, the villagepasses through the point where the Budhi Gandaki actually starts at the confluence of Larke Khola and the river coming from Samdo Glacier. Samdo is a tiny lovely village located just under the majestic Samdo peak (6.335 m) and the Samdo Glacier. There are two lodges here – “Yak Lodge” and “Tibetan Twins Lodge” named after the twin children of the family. We are at high and the wind can be chilling in the evenings, so tuck into the little teahouse for a cup of salt-butter tea to warm you up.

Day 9

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala

The trail from Samdo continues on the old trade route towards Tibet, cross the Athahra Saya Khola and goes along the Larke bazaar, one of the trade markets that flourished years back. After about three hours of climbing past glaciers with increasingly awe-inspiring panoramas, until reaching the highest point before Larke La pass is Dharmasala where it is possible to construct a campsite and some structures. Dharamshala is a wide gradual mountain slope with campsite and a lodge called “Larke Rest House”. Here we will have lunch and gaze out at the views. We will really feel the altitude and the cold here, so enjoy a more leisurely afternoon and keep warm. We will have an early dinner in preparation for our pass crossing tomorrow.

Day 10

Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang via Larkya La (5,135m)

The exciting part of the journey awaits us, as we will be trekking around the Manaslu circuit, crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,100m). After early morning breakfast, we will leave Dharamsala as it will be a long trek. The weather is the most important factor as the weather decides if the trek becomes more challenging due to strong winds or storms. We begin by crossing the moraine, and descending to a small lake. The trail begins to be rough and unclear as we cross the south of a steep grassy slope. Our route stays on the moraine to an edge, marked by two landmarks. The prayer flags mark the route giving us a sense of trek direction. We descend carefully to four frozen lakes, then finally climb a steep trail to the Larkya La Pass.

Day 11

Trek from Bimthang to Tal or Dharapani

Through the lush forest, you will climb down towards Tal. On this last day in the Manaslu region, you will walk across Dudh Khola, to reach Tal. After about 9 hours of walk, you spend your night in Tal at the elevation of 1,699 m.

Day 12

Drive from Tal to Kathmandu

Bidding goodbyes to your wonderful and adventurous trip in the Himalayas, you drive back to Kathmandu by private 4wd Jeep.

Day 13

International Departure

Our team will organize group drops to the airport for your departure. We bid goodbye to each other, with a promise to meet on yet another epic journey in the mountains soon!

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