The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and pristine trekking routes. Offering unparalleled views, cultural immersion, and remote Himalayan landscapes, this 12-day trek is the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and challenge. If you are looking for a unique experience that takes you away from the crowds and closer to the wild heart of the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days is an ideal choice.
This circuit circles around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet), providing an experience that is both majestic and authentic. The trek winds through lush forests, traditional villages, and high-altitude landscapes, culminating in the breathtaking crossing of the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). Despite its remote nature, the trek offers excellent amenities, friendly local guides, and a well-planned itinerary suitable for those with moderate trekking experience.
Day-by-Day Itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Your adventure begins in Nepal’s vibrant capital, Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you can explore the bustling streets of Thamel or visit some of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the evening, your trekking guide will brief you on the journey ahead.
Day 2: Drive to Soti Khola (710m)
A scenic drive through picturesque landscapes takes you to Soti Khola. The journey passes through winding mountain roads, terraced fields, and charming villages. This is the starting point of your trek. After a 6-8 hour drive, you’ll settle into a teahouse and prepare for the adventure to come.
Day 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m)
Today, the trek begins with a moderate hike along the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll traverse through sal forests, cross suspension bridges, and pass small Gurung villages. The lush environment and waterfalls along the trail make for a refreshing start.
Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m)
The trail today offers more rugged paths and frequent ascents and descents. You’ll follow the river, cross several suspension bridges, and pass through the village of Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs. The day ends at Jagat, a charming village with stone-paved streets.
Day 5: Jagat to Deng (1,804m)
Leaving Jagat, the trail leads through terraced fields and dense subtropical forests. You’ll cross several rivers and ascend to Deng, where you’ll notice the culture beginning to shift towards Tibetan influences.
Day 6: Deng to Namrung (2,630m)
The trail climbs steadily, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks. You’ll pass through beautiful villages like Ghap and Prok, where the local culture and Buddhist monasteries become more prominent. The day ends at Namrung, known for its spectacular mountain views.
Day 7: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)
As you gain altitude, the landscapes open up to wide pastures and majestic views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Samagaon is a beautiful Tibetan-influenced village with gompas, chortens, and stunning mountain backdrops.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
To adapt to the higher altitude, today is a rest and acclimatization day. You can explore the nearby Pungyen Gompa or hike to the Manaslu Base Camp for extraordinary views of the mountain.
Day 9: Samagaon to Samdo (3,860m)
A shorter trek today leads you to Samdo, a village just a day’s walk from the Tibetan border. You’ll encounter yaks, mani walls, and panoramic mountain views.
Day 10: Samdo to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460m)
This challenging section takes you to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail climbs through barren landscapes and offers views of the Larkya Glacier. Prepare for an early start tomorrow to cross the pass.
Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) and Descend to Bimthang (3,720m)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. An early start takes you to the summit of Larkya La Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The descent to Bimthang is long but offers incredible scenery.
Day 12: Bimthang to Dharapani and Drive Back to Kathmandu
Your final trek descends through lush forests and charming villages until you reach Dharapani. From here, a drive will take you back to Kathmandu, concluding your 12-day Manaslu Circuit adventure.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
- Remote and Less Crowded: Unlike the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit Trek remains relatively untouched and offers a quieter experience.
- Diverse Landscapes: From subtropical forests to high-altitude mountain passes, the trail offers stunning and diverse scenery.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic Tibetan culture and explore remote villages with ancient Buddhist traditions.
- Thrilling Adventure: The challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass adds a sense of accomplishment and exhilaration.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a unique Himalayan adventure that offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and challenge. Over 12 unforgettable days, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, experience rich cultural heritage, and achieve the thrill of crossing one of Nepal’s highest passes. If you seek a trek that combines raw beauty, adventure, and tranquility, the Manaslu Circuit Trek will leave you with lifelong memories.