The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an incredible 15 days of authentic nature and cultural experience while encircling the world's 8th highest mountain, Manaslu (8163 M). The government of Nepal opened up this region to foreigners in 1991. Lately, this trek is getting popular as an alternative to the more busy Annapurna region. Most of the trek lies within the Manaslu Conservation Area, which comprises sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to arid Trans-Himalayan high pastures bordering Tibet.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins from the tropical lowlands to the high alpine regions exceeding 5000 meters in altitude. The initial 4 to 5 days of the trek follow the trail along the Budhigandaki River, an ancient salt trading route. Then after about a week of trekking, it concludes in the Annapurna region via the traverse of Larke La Pass (5160 M). The trek passes through numerous beautiful villages of diverse ethnic communities, terraced fields, pleasantly mixed forests, lakes, and plenty of thrilling suspension bridges. One prime example of the exciting suspension bridge is the cantilever bridge in Yaaru Bagar that connects the seven other northern villages of the Manaslu region. The fascinating sceneries of various mountains such as the Manaslu, Annapurna 2, Himlung, Kangguru, Cheo Himal, Lamjung Himal, Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, Shringi Himal, and many more during the trek please anyone who comes across it. Diverse wildlife is one of the chief features of this trek. Himalayan Tahr, Gray Langur, and Blue sheep are common sightings along the trail.
The people around here practice Bon (Pre-Buddhist religion) and Tibetan Buddhism. The lower region is inhabited by the Gurungs who are followers of the Bon, whereas the upper region people are closely tied to Tibetan culture and practice Tibetan Buddhism. Stupas, monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens can be seen a lot in this region. On the trek, one can experience the well-preserved culture of these people.
Our 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary starts from Machhakhola and ends at Tilje. If you would like to customize the itinerary according to your desire, physical fitness level, and time frame, please feel free to contact us. Our experts will help you craft a perfect itinerary that ensures a top-notch experience with safety.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 M) and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Trek preparation and Kathmandu valley sightseeing
Day 03: Drive to Machhakhola (869m) via Sotikhola (700 M)
Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1340 M)
Day 05: Trek to Dang (1860 M)
Day 06: Trek to Namrung (2630 M)
Day 07: Trek to Shyala (3500 M)
Day 08: Trek to Sama (3520 M)
Day 09: Acclimatization Day and explore Birendra lake
Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3875 M)
Day 11: Trek to Dharamshala (4450 M)
Day 12: Trek to Bimtang (3590 M) via Larke La Pass (5160 M)
Day 13: Trek to Tilje (2300 M)
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu (1350 M) via Besi Sahar (760 M)
Day 15: Final departure