The 9-day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a condensed version of the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek, specifically designed for travelers who are short on time but still wish to experience the beauty of the region. This itinerary allows trekkers to complete the route safely and efficiently without the need for helicopter transfers, keeping the adventure affordable and within a reasonable timeframe.
Our shorter Manaslu trek is a budget-conscious option, perfect for those who want to explore the area but have limited vacation days. We ensure that the trek is completed swiftly, but without the high cost of helicopter rides or other expensive transport methods.
However, if you are new to trekking in Nepal or an inexperienced hiker, we highly suggest choosing the full-length, traditional Manaslu Circuit Trek. This iconic route offers a more gradual pace, allowing for better acclimatization and a more immersive trekking experience.
Itinerary
Kathmandu drive 4*4 jeep to Machha Khola
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu. Hop into a sturdy 4x4 jeep for a scenic drive through hilly terrain and winding roads. As you leave the bustling city, you'll pass through picturesque villages and terraced farmlands, soaking in the beauty of rural Nepal. The drive takes around 7-8 hours, bringing you to Machha Khola, a peaceful village along the banks of the Budi Gandaki River. Overnight stay in Machha Khola.
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
After breakfast, you set out on the trail, crossing the Machha Khola (Fish River). The trail winds through lush forests, passing several waterfalls and crossing suspension bridges over deep gorges. You'll hike past villages like Khorla Besi and Tatopani (meaning hot water), where you can take a quick dip in natural hot springs if you wish. The trail continues with a gradual ascent to the village of Jagat, which marks the entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trek takes about 6-7 hours. Overnight stay in Jagat.
Trek from Jagat to Deng
Today’s trek begins with a climb over a ridge to Salleri, followed by a descending trail towards Sirdibas. The path then levels out as you head towards the Gurung village of Philim, known for its terraced fields and traditional houses. After crossing the suspension bridge at Ekle Bhatti, the trail takes you through a forested area. The trek gets more scenic as you pass small settlements and enter the narrow Budi Gandaki gorge. After approximately 7-8 hours of walking, you’ll reach Deng, a small village nestled between the hills. Overnight stay in Deng.
Trek from Deng to Namrung
Today’s trek is a mixture of ascents and descents. The trail crosses a series of suspension bridges and passes through pine and rhododendron forests. After a steady climb, you will start to see glimpses of snow-capped peaks. As you approach Namrung, the trail winds through steep ridges and dense forests. Namrung is a beautiful village with stone houses and stupas, offering stunning views of Ganesh Himal and other peaks. The day’s trek takes about 6-7 hours. Overnight stay in Namrung.
Trek from Namrung to Samagaun
Today's trek takes you deeper into the mountains. The trail climbs steadily through forests and alongside terraced fields, passing through villages like Lho, which offers a magnificent view of Mount Manaslu. As you trek further, you’ll encounter many Buddhist shrines, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Samagaun, a picturesque village at the foot of Manaslu. Samagaun is a great place to acclimatize, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay in Samagaun.
Trek from Samgaun to Dharamsala
After enjoying the morning views in Samagaun, the trek continues towards Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail is relatively gentle at first, passing through yak pastures and alpine meadows. As you move higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and barren, with the air getting thinner. The path offers spectacular views of snow-covered peaks as you near Dharamsala, a high-altitude rest stop at the base of the Larkya La Pass. The trek takes about 6-7 hours. Overnight stay in Dharamsala.
Trek from Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and descend to Bhimtang
This is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. An early start is essential as you make your way up the steep and rocky trail towards the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,160 meters. The ascent can be tough due to the altitude, but the panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal, make it all worthwhile. After reaching the top, you'll descend carefully on a long, rugged trail towards Bhimtang, a beautiful alpine valley. The trek today takes about 8-9 hours. Overnight stay in Bhimtang.
Trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani
Today’s trek is mostly downhill as you descend from Bhimtang towards Dharapani. The trail takes you through lush forests of pine and rhododendron, past small streams, and across wooden bridges. You’ll pass through several villages, soaking in the local culture and enjoying the tranquility of the mountains. The landscape gradually transitions from alpine meadows to dense forest. After 6-7 hours of trekking, you will reach Dharapani, a larger village where the Annapurna Circuit route meets the Manaslu trek. Overnight stay in Dharapani.
Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar and to Kathmandu
On the final day of your adventure, you’ll take a jeep from Dharapani, following a bumpy yet scenic road down to Besisahar. The drive offers beautiful views of waterfalls, rivers, and terraced hillsides. Once in Besisahar, you’ll transfer to a private vehicle for the journey back to Kathmandu, which takes around 6-7 hours. Upon arrival in the capital, you can enjoy a relaxing evening and reflect on your incredible journey through the Manaslu region.
Inclusion
- 4*4 Jeep to Machha Khola and back from Dharpani to Besisahar by public jeep and from there to Kathmandu by public bus
- Special Permit Cards Expenses
- MCAP and ACAP entry pass Expenses
- Experienced Himalayan trek guide for 9 days
- One porter for two of you for trekking for 7 days (prepare to give max. 15 kgs’ luggage from each of you so that it will not exceed 30 kg. for your porter)
- Basic yet comfortable accommodation for 08 nights on a twin-sharing basis during the trekking as per itinerary.
- Staff insurance
- 08 x set breakfast, 09 x set lunch and 08 x set dinner while on the trek
- Purified drinking water during the entire trekking as per itinerary
- General first aid medicine kit
- Complimentary T-shirt
- Duffle bag during the trek
Exclusions
- International Flight Fare
- Food and Accommodation in Kathmandu since there are many possibilities for you.
- Personnel expenses of any kind
- Any Travel Insurance
- Any additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstances that may lead to a change in itinerary.
- Tips for any staff and guide
Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above
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Expedition Information
$999
Manaslu Circuit
Trekking
Fitness Level
4
Technical Level
3
Group Size
2-17
Ratio
1:8
Continent:
AsiaCountry:
NepalLocation:
Manaslu CircuitElevation:
5,106 m / 16,752 ftGPS:
27.7194 N°, 85.3217 E°