Trip Facts

Duration

17 days

Trip Grade

Expert

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5,160m

Group Size

2–12

Starts

Machha Khola

Ends

Dharapani

Activities

Trekking, Culture

Best Time

Spring, Autumn

Highlights

  • Drive through Arughat on the way from Kathmandu to Soti Khola this way.
  • Walk through remote villages of Nubri and Tsum region
  • Cross the stunning Larkya La Pass (5,160m) with incredible Himalayan views
  • Culturally rich trek with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and ancient gompas
  • Less-crowded alternative to Annapurna and Everest regions
  • Close-up views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) the eighth highest mountain in the world
  • Walk along the Budhi Gandaki River and through deep gorges and pine forests
  • Perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure

Overview

Manasulu Circuit Trekking is one of Nepal’s most stunning off-the-beaten-path adventures, offering a blend of raw Himalayan beauty, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and thrilling mountain passes. This 17-day journey takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), through charming Gurung villages, alpine meadows, and across the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m)—one of the highest and most scenic passes in the Himalayas.

The trail starts at Soti Khola and slowly goes up through lush forests, suspension bridges, terraced fields, and high mountain scenery until it reaches the magical lands of Samagaon and Samdo. In these towns, you can see old monasteries, yak pastures, and a way of life that hasn’t changed much in recent years. Crossing Larkya La is difficult and satisfying because you can see Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II in a wide view.

You’ll need a special permit and a professional guide for this hike because it’s in a restricted area. Even though the path is very far away, there are basic teahouses along the way. If you’re an experienced trekker or adventurer looking for a more peaceful Himalayan experience, Manasulu Circuit Trekking is a wild and rewarding way to get into the heart of Nepal.

Gallery

Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, a team member from Eco Himalaya will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city. After check-in, we’ll conduct a trek briefing, check your gear, and assist with any final shopping if needed. Enjoy a welcome dinner and get ready for the adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu. Dinner included.

We begin the journey with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat. The road winds past lush hills, rivers, and terraced farms, slowly shifting to more rural, rugged terrain. Though the road can be bumpy, the views are worth it. Overnight at a riverside teahouse. Dinner included.

Your first trekking day kicks off along a narrow trail above the Budhi Gandaki River. You'll pass waterfalls, local farmlands, and occasional monkeys swinging through the trees. Cross suspension bridges and small Gurung settlements before reaching Machha Khola. Dinner included.

Walk along ridges and forest paths, crossing several suspension bridges. Stop by the natural hot springs at Tatopani before a gradual climb through forested ridges to reach the charming stone village of Jagat—a checkpoint for the restricted area. Dinner included.

The trail continues through dense forests and crosses the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times. You’ll encounter mani walls, stone steps, and Buddhist chortens as you move deeper into the mountains. The cultural shift begins to show here. Dinner included.

Today’s trail leads through alpine forest, beautiful stone houses, and high waterfalls. As you gain elevation, you’ll notice Tibetan Buddhist influences with prayer wheels and chortens along the trail. Namrung offers amazing views of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. Dinner included.

Trek through quaint villages like Sho and Lho, with monasteries perched on ridges. As you enter Samagaon, Mount Manaslu begins to dominate the skyline. This large village sits beside yak pastures and is rich in Sherpa culture. Dinner included.

Rest day to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. You can explore Pungyen Gompa with views of the Manaslu Glacier or trek to Manaslu Base Camp if you're feeling strong. This acclimatization helps prepare for the higher elevations ahead. Dinner included.

An easy and scenic walk along yak pastures with minimal elevation gain. The landscape becomes more barren and dramatic as you reach Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village just 15 km from the Chinese border. Dinner included.

Take it slow today. You may hike to a viewpoint for glimpses of Manaslu, Simnang Himal, and even the border trade route. This rest day is essential to reduce altitude sickness risk before crossing the pass. Dinner included.

A short trek brings you to the last settlement before the pass. You’ll traverse glacial moraines and rocky trails to reach the small lodge at Dharmasala, also called Larkya Phedi. Rest well—tomorrow’s a big day. Dinner included.

Start early to cross Larkya La Pass, the trek’s high point. It’s a challenging ascent but the view from the top is extraordinary—panoramas of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The descent to Bimthang is steep but rewarding. Dinner included.

Descend into lush valleys with blooming rhododendrons, pine forests, and river crossings. You’ll start noticing signs of the Annapurna region now. Tilije is a mixed village with both Tibetan and Hindu influence. Dinner included.

Trek to Dharapani, a village that connects to the famous Annapurna Circuit. From here, drive along a bumpy road to Besisahar—a small but lively town in Lamjung District. Dinner included.

Enjoy a scenic return to Kathmandu, with views of mountains, rivers, and hillside villages. Once back, check into your hotel and relax. You can explore nearby markets or rest at a local café. Dinner included

This extra day allows for any unexpected delays during the trek. Use it to explore UNESCO sites like Swayambhunath or Patan Durbar Square, or enjoy a relaxing day at the hotel. We also organize a farewell dinner if you're still in town. Dinner included.

Time to say goodbye. We’ll drop you at the airport according to your flight time. Safe travels and thank you for trekking with Eco Himalaya!

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Kathmandu–Soti Khola & Besisahar–Kathmandu transfers
  • Government-licensed English-speaking guide and porter (1 per 2 trekkers)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Twin-sharing teahouse accommodation on trek
  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (2 nights)
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, and ACAP fees
  • First aid kit and necessary safety equipment
  • Eco Himalaya trekking T-shirt and duffel bag
  • All government taxes and service charges

Excluded

  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu (if early return or late departure)
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging during trek
  • Tips for guide and porter (expected)
  • Travel insurance (must include high-altitude rescue)

Useful Information

Permit Requirements
This is a restricted area trek. You’ll need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide are mandatory for permit approval.

Altitude and Acclimatization
The trek crosses 5,160 meters at Larkya La, so altitude sickness is a real risk. Two acclimatization days (Samagaon & Samdo) are included. You should ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol.

Best Time to Trek
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months offer clear views, stable weather, and moderate temperatures. Avoid monsoon (June–August) and mid-winter (December–February) due to snow and landslides.

Fitness Level and Difficulty
This is an easy to moderately difficult hike. Every day, you’ll walk for 5 to 8 hours through rough terrain, up and down stone steps, and over high passes. Trekking knowledge is helpful, but fit beginners can do it with the right gear and planning.

A Place to Stay and Food
Teahouses are simple and clean. You can share a bathroom with two other people in most rooms. There is dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, and pancakes for dinner. Bring some energy snacks with you, like bars or nuts, to give you extra energy.

Charging and Wi-Fi
After Jagat, there is little to no Wi-Fi. Some teahouses charge a small fee. You can stay charged on the hike by bringing a power bank or a portable charger.

Hot Showers
Available in select villages like Jagat, Samagaon, and Samdo—usually for an extra charge. In colder areas, expect hot water buckets instead of showers.

Health & Safety
Our guides carry a first-aid kit and are trained in altitude sickness response. You should carry Diamox, rehydration salts, and personal medicines. A travel insurance policy covering high-altitude rescue is essential.

Communication & Emergency
Local NTC sim cards may work in lower areas, but there’s no signal at high elevations. In emergencies, our guides have access to satellite communication or evacuation services via helicopter (insurance needed).

Packing Tips
Essentials include: warm layers, down jacket, trekking boots, gloves, headlamp, reusable water bottle with filter, sleeping bag (rated to -15°C), and personal toiletries. We provide a duffel bag and map for your trek.

Official Manasulu Circuit Trekking (17 days) Map

FAQs

It’s moderately difficult. The trail includes long walking days, river crossings, and high altitude. Larkya La Pass is physically demanding.

Yes. Due to the restricted area, trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and have proper permits.

The highest point is Larkya La Pass (5,160m) crossed on Day 12.

This trek is best for experienced or fit trekkers. Beginners with strong fitness and preparation can attempt it.