Tucked up in the heart of the Himalayan area of Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views, a chance to see local culture, and strenuous physical terrain. This 17-day trip ascends to the foot of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, passing through verdant valleys, snow-capped summits, traditional towns, and alpine meadows. Everything you need to know before setting out on your own amazing journey around the Manaslu Circuit Trail will be covered in this post.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Stay the Night
After landing at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to your accommodation for the night. After spending some time getting used to the altitude, spend some time exploring the energetic streets of Thamel, a popular tourist destination with souvenir stores, mouthwatering local restaurants, and free WiFi cafes. For the remainder of your journey, remember to bring along lots of layers, waterproof clothing, and cosy walking shoes.
Days 2-4: Travel via Arughat Bazar to Soti Khola
Day 2: Get up early and take a beautiful drive to Arughat Bazaar, where your trek to Manaslu Circuit begins. The scenic route, albeit meandering and uneven, provides amazing views of the surrounding landscape, which is filled with charming villages, terraced farms, and a wealth of wildlife-filled woodlands. Drive on till you arrive at Soti Khola, the first campsite on the way to Manaslu Base Camp, after lunch at Dhungidhe. Stay the night here to unwind after the exhausting travel and take in the sounds of the bubbling river below.
Days 4–6: Philim Village & Maccha Khola
Over the next three days, you will hike uphill through dense jungle, cross rushing rivers on suspension bridges, and pass little communities with vibrant Tibetan cultures. During these kinds of journeys, it’s not uncommon to come across people wearing vibrantly coloured clothing and carrying bulky packs on their backs or yaks. After walking for five hours from Soti Khola, arrive in Machha Khola on the fourth day. The next day, make a stop at Philim Village, which has grown in popularity among tourists because of its stunning surroundings and historic monasteries that date back many centuries.
7-9 days: The Tsum Valley
Proceed from Philim in the direction of Ganesh Himal base camp by taking a less-traveled track than the majority of other routes in the area. This side trip takes you to Tsum Valley, a remote region that hasn’t seen much development but has managed to hold onto its natural beauty and distinctive customs. See prayer flags, chortens, and holy temples flying against a clear blue sky. You will also come across kind locals who extend a warm welcome to guests. It’s a profoundly spiritual encounter that transforms your mind and spirit.
Days 10–12: Deng & Lokpa
On day 10, leave the tranquil Tsum Valley behind and head back to the main circuit trail, heading towards Lokpa. Here, you have the option of staying on the original path or taking a shortcut via Sho. Although you get to the same place with both options, the former is more suited for people who want to move more quickly because it requires fewer stops and shorter distances. On the other hand, the second option offers more chances to socialise and discover the customs of the people. Regardless of the route you choose, Deng, a tiny village surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush hills, is where you should end your day.
Days 13–15: Punggyen Monastery and Samagaon
Ascending farther, ascend deeper into the slope to take in the expansive vista of Himchuli, Annapurna II, and Manaslu Peak. Reach Samagaon by crossing the Budhi Gandaki River, which is now only a trickle. Samagaon is a beautiful town with colourful residences, cute cottages, and bustling markets where you can buy fresh fruit and locally crafted goods. Visit Punggyen Monastery, one of the holiest sanctuaries in Tibetan Buddhism, which is located nearby. Its religious significance is matched by the fact that it was formerly home to a community of monks whose unwavering devotion and selflessness won them immortal esteem.
Days 16–17: Bhulbhule & Larke La Pass
Get ready for the last part of the trip, which consists of a difficult ascent followed by a fall in the direction of lower elevations. Discover the Larke La Pass, which is 5160 metres above sea level. As you get closer to Bhulbhule, you may encounter convoys of mules pulling supplies downhill to the lower regions. After saying goodbye to your fellow trekkers when you arrive in Bhulbhule, take a vehicle back to Kathmandu. In your preferred guesthouse, relish a warm meal, a hot shower, and a comfortable bed while thinking back on the amazing experiences of the last two weeks.
In summary, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable experience that blends the grandeur of nature, the legacy of history, and the generosity of people. From the minute you embark on this thrilling journey, each step feels like a step closer to realising what Nepal is really all about.