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Short Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days
5/5 based on 37 reviews
Trip Duration
12 Days
Group Sizes
2 to 25 People
Difficulty
Moderate
Max. Altitude
5160 m
Activities
Meals
Accommodation
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great option for travelers who want an engaging Himalayan experience in a short time frame. The trip is a mix of spectacular mountain views, culture, and the difficulty of crossing one of the most renowned high passes in Nepal. During the trek, the trekkers explore remote and isolated valleys, traditional villages, thick forests, alpine meadows, and spectacular mountain scenery as they explore the culture of the Manaslu region.
The trek starts with a picturesque journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, and then the Budhi Gandaki Valley with stops like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Shyala, Sama Gaun, and Samdo. Throughout the path, trekkers pass by old monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and the local population whose culture has been affected by the Tibetan culture since time immemorial. Altering scenery and cultural experiences render each day of the trek special and unforgettable.
Among the biggest attractions of the trek is Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft), the highest point of the trek. The pass also provides splendid sights of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and several other snow-capped mountains. The itinerary also incorporates proper acclimatization to enable the trekkers to adapt to the rising altitude and enjoy the experience without being in danger.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days is an itinerary that offers an equal opportunity to explore adventure and scenery, explore a specific culture, and do so without wasting traveling time. A combination of accommodation is also offered within the local tea houses, and trekkers enjoy the warm hospitality of the mountain during the journey.
Third Eye Adventure provides professional advice and logistical assistance to trekkers so that they spend time on the trail and experienced staff takes care of permits, transportation, and arrangements of the trip. Be it the dramatic Himalayan scenery, authentic cultural exposure, or a less-crowded alternative to some of the busier trekking paths in Nepal, this trek is not to be forgotten as a mountain adventure.
You will drive from Kathmandu (1,324 m / 4,344 ft) to Machha Khola (890 m / 2,965 ft) today. It is approximately 160 km and will take approximately 8 to 9 hours. The road leading out of Kathmandu is a scenic roadway cutting across picturesque countryside scenery with some paved roads and some bad roads. It will take you through terraced agricultural fields, Nepali villages, as well as the lovely Trishuli River. The drive also provides distant views of the major Himalayan ranges, such as Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang and Ganesh Himal.
The trail is now an easy entry point for trekkers who are visiting the Manaslu region. The road conditions may not be easy, during the monsoon season, but the scenery will make the trip worth it. On arrival at Machha Khola, you will be able to rest and look forward to the trekking experience that will commence the next day.
You will trek from Machha Khola (870 m / 2,854 ft) to Jagat (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) today. The path is made in the Budhi Gandaki Valley, and a time of approximately 6 to 7 hours is required to complete the path. Once you have left Machha Khola, you will be walking on the path leading to Khola Beni with amazing rock formations, waterfalls, and views of the river. The trail goes across some areas that have fallen due to landslides and crosses suspension bridges over the flowing streams.
Before you proceed on to Tatopani, with its natural hot springs, you will pass Kholabesi. When you have time, you can take a short rest in the warm waters, and then proceed with the journey. This path passes through Dovan and other little hamlets to Jagat. Jagat serves as an important entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. In this case, trekking permits will be verified and registered before entering the safeguarded area.
You will trek from Jagat (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) to Deng (1,860 m / 6,101 ft). It is a more extensive trekking day with a distance of about 20.5 km and taking about 7 to 8 hours of walking. Following breakfast, you will go along the jeep track to Ghatte Khola, up to Philim, one of the bigger villages in the area. Another checkpoint of the Manaslu Conservation Area, where the permits are confirmed, is in Philim. It is followed to Chisapani, Eklibhatti and Nyak, with a panorama of steep hillsides, river valleys, and primitive villages.
The terrain is slowly getting rougher and mountainous as you ascend in altitude. The path traces the Deng River for some of the day, and then arrives at the village of Deng. In a small valley amidst forested slopes, Deng is a tranquil place to stay overnight, and the start of a more isolated part of the Manaslu Circuit.
You begin your trek from Deng (1,860 m / 6,101 ft) to Namrung (2,660 m / 8,727 ft). The trip takes about 6-7 hours, a distance of about 18.2 km. The trail leading away from Deng slowly ascends through exquisite valleys and ancient mountain villages. Before crossing the Serang Khola and entering Bhiphedi (2,130 m / 6,988 ft), you will pass the Rana Village (1,910 m / 6,266 ft). The path proceeds through woods of bamboo and rhododendron trees over streams and stretches of rocky ground. The higher you go, the more alpine the landscape is, and the nearer the surrounding mountains.
The trail ascends gradually, through forests and traditional stone-constructed villages, after crossing Ghap (2,160 m / 7,087 ft). Later in the afternoon, you will reach Namrung, a beautiful village that is referred to as the entrance to the culturally diverse Nupri Valley and its Tibetan-inspired tradition.
You will trek from Namrung (2,660 m / 8,727 ft) to Shyala (3,500 m / 11,482 ft) today. The path is about 16 km long and can be completed in 6-7 hours. Passing the Namrung Checkpost after breakfast, you will go through beautiful pine forests. The path then slowly ascends to Bhanjam, and then a steeper path brings you to Lhi Monastery. It is a great place where you can have fantastic views of Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and the other mountains.
Moving on, you will enter the ancient villages of Sho and Lho, where monasteries, mani stones, prayer flags, and grazing yaks will bring cultural value to the view. The mountainous landscape is further enhanced as you rise higher. Your walk is accompanied by spectacular sights of Manaslu, Manaslu North and Nike Peak along the route. You will reach a picturesque village known as Shyala by late afternoon, with the towering Himalayan peaks.
You will trek from Shyala (3,500 m / 11,482 ft) to Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) . The distance is given as 16 km, but the tour will visit the historic Pungyen Gompa and will take approximately 6 to 7 hours. When you wake up early in the morning, you can see the top of Manaslu illuminated with the sunrise. The trail starts after breakfast towards one of the oldest monasteries of the Manaslu region, Pungyen Gompa.
On the path, you will have a sightseeing tour of the Pungyen Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The path starts with a steep ascent, then gets less demanding on a flatter surface. The panorama of Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli at the monastery makes it an unforgettable place. On visiting the locality, you will descend several hours to Sama Gaun, which is one of the most significant settlements in the upper Manaslu district.
The day will be spent in Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) to acclimatize. A rest day at a higher altitude will assist your body in getting used to the thin air before proceeding to greater levels. Although this is a rest day, there are several opportunities for exploration. You can go on a tour of the village and get to know about local culture, traditions, and everyday life. Additional charges can be paid to visit local attractions like Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, or Pungyen Monastery.
Birendra Lake is a glacial lake of great beauty found at about (3,450 m / 11,319 ft), where ice fragments are occasionally dropped into the lake. Alternatively, one can hike to Pungyen Monastery, which has spectacular views of glaciers and the mountains around the area. The day gives you a chance to remain active and enhance acclimatization and prepare you for the more challenging phases of the trek that will follow.
You will trek from Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft) to Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) today. It is among the shortest days of trekking in the journey, and it has a distance of roughly 8.2 km, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. The trail takes relatively smooth terrain as compared to past days and hence is more comfortable to walk. You will pass through open fields, and you will come to a broad valley and slowly climb. As you get closer to the Tibetan border area, the scenery gets more and more barren and alpine.
The path goes through zones of Juniper and birch forests and then declines slightly to the Budhi Gandaki River, which is crossed over a wooden bridge. The trek is accompanied throughout the day by magnificent views of Manaslu and other nearby peaks. You will finally arrive at Samdo, which is a typical Tibetan refugee village with its distinct culture, mountainous landscape and breathtaking Himalayan views.
You will trek from Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) to Dharamsala (4,480 m / 14,698 ft). The trip takes about 10km and a time of 3-4 hours. Leaving Samdo, you will pass old mani walls and agricultural fields, and then a wooden bridge will span the Budhi Gandaki River. The path then slowly climbs up along a wide valley along the Athahra Syar River and then the Larke River. The route is culturally enriched with prayer flags and stone carvings.
The landscape gets more dramatic and alpine as you ascend higher. Once across several streams, you will be rewarded with great views of Larkya Glacier. The route then continues along the valley of Salkha Khola and up to Dharamsala or Larkya La Phedi. It is a small settlement that is the last point of passage before the high mountain pass on the next day.
You leave Dharamsala (4,480 m / 14,698 ft) and head towards Bhimtang (3,720 m / 12,205 ft) today by crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft). This is the most difficult day of the trek and is 16km in 8 to 9 hours. The day starts with a slow ascent across glacial moraine and rocky mountainous path. The path goes through little lakes and rugged areas until the last climb to the pass. The route is denoted by prayer flags and also provides a splash of colour to the high-altitude landscape that is dramatic.
As you arrive at Larkya La Pass, you will have a panoramic view of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The trail then branches off down a steep slope of moraine after some time in the pass, then into a broader valley. Slowly, the land is becoming flat, and soon you will arrive at the meadows and stone houses of Bhimtang to spend an overnight.
You start your trek from Bhimtang (3,720 m / 12,205 ft) to Dharapani (1,910 m / 6,266 ft) today. The trek covers a distance of about 20 km and takes about 7 to 8 hours. The trail then passes over glacial moraine and then descends to the headwaters of the Dudh Khola. A wooden bridge will take you across the river, then proceed through beautiful pine and rhododendron woods. All day long, you will have a marvelous sight of Phungi, Manaslu, Manaslu North Peak, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal.
It crosses Hompuk (3,430 m / 11,253 ft), Sangore Kharka and Gho (2,575 m / 8,448 ft) and has a combination of forest tracks, open meadows and agricultural lands. Moving forward, you will come to Tilije, a historic multi-ethnic village. The last part is a continuation of Dudh Khola and Marsyangdi Valley and then reaches Dharapani by crossing a number of bridges and village gateways.
You will drive from Dharapani (1,910 m / 6,266 ft) to Kathmandu today via Besisahar (760 m / 2,493 ft). This is a long travel day, and it is about 224km and takes between 11 and 12 hours. Breakfast will be followed by departure from Dharapani in a local jeep or bus towards Besisahar. The upper part of the drive runs along the Marsyangdi River, then through the traditional villages and beautiful countryside scenery, such as the town of Bhulbhule. At Besisahar, you will resume the road to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway.
The highway runs along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers and has variable scenery of hills, agricultural land, rivers, and villages. This last journey is time to remember the experiences of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. On reaching Kathmandu, the trek comes to an end, and you can rest after having accomplished one of the most satisfying trekking activities in Nepal.
You can cutomize this trip as per your requirements if met the proper guidelines.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a valuable Himalayan adventure that offers a blend of mountain views, local culture and adventure in a restricted time. This is an itinerary that is modeled to suit trekkers who are keen on seeing the best of the Manaslu area without having to take several weeks on the path. The trail goes through ancient villages, river valleys, woodland and mountainous highlands, and then crosses the renowned Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft). During the journey, trekkers will be able to spot Tibetan-inspired culture, old monasteries, prayer flags, as well as amazing scenery of Manaslu and other mountains.
The path ascends slowly through the valleys of the lower rivers to the alps, and is a most varied walk. The trip also involves an acclimatization day as a measure to acclimatize to the elevation. Third Eye Adventure will lead the trek with professional guides and logistics, which will make the experience more pleasant and easier. The trek is appropriate for fairly fit travelers who want to have a memorable Himalayan experience.
The best time for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months are fairly stable in terms of weather; the skies are clear, and mountain views are optimal. Spring is characterized by blooming rhododendron woods and pleasant daytime temperatures, and fall by crisp air and excellent visibility following the monsoon season. It can be done in winter, however when very cold at higher altitude around the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft).
The monsoon season (June to August) may also lead to the trails being sloppy and pose the risk of landslides in areas on the roads. In the mountains, the weather may alter rapidly; thus, trekkers ought to expect the temperature to fluctuate during the trip. It is advisable to pack clothes in different layers, a waterproof jacket, and warm clothes to be sure that it will be comfortable in changing weather conditions, no matter what season it is.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek route starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Thence the path descends along the Budhi Gandaki Valley to the route villages of Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Shyala, Sama Gaun, Samdo, and Dharamsala. As the journey continues, the terrain becomes alpine meadows, and mountainous terrain replaces the subtropical forests and terraced fields. The summit of the trip is Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft), which is one of the most spectacular mountain passes in Nepal.
The reason why it is important is due to proper acclimatization, since the trek will entail a high level of elevation gain over a number of days. The pass is crossed, and then the trail with Bhimtang and Dharapani runs back to Kathmandu via road. Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days itinerary offers a moderate level of pace, which enables trekkers to appreciate the scenery as they progressively acclimatize to higher levels. The trail has excellent mountain and cultural excursions along the way.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers food and accommodation in the form of local tea houses and mountain lodges on the route. In the lower part of the trek, the accommodation is usually comfortable and comprises simple private rooms and shared facilities. Certain places can also provide attached bathrooms. As the trail ascends to greater heights, amenities get progressively simpler because of the remote mountain setting. Food is made fresh and normally consists of Nepali, Tibetan, and simple international foods. Some of the popular dishes are dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, potatoes, eggs, bread, and tea.
There are numerous vegetarian meals that are served during the trek. Consuming lots of water and having healthy meals will keep the energy levels up on prolonged trekking days. Third Eye Adventure also manages the accommodation and meals based on the itinerary, and the trekkers can enjoy themselves. The luxury services are minimal, although the warm hospitality of local tea houses contributes significantly to the entire trekking experience.
Altitude sickness is among the most crucial factors to consider during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek since the path is subjected to high altitude up to 5,160 m / 16,929 ft, which is Larkya La Pass. The higher the altitude, the lower the oxygen concentration, and some of these trekkers can be affected by headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and restlessness. There will be an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun to allow the body to become accustomed to the higher elevation.
Hydration, steady pace, proper eating and avoiding alcohol consumption may aid in decreasing the chances of altitude-related issues. You should also listen to your guide and notify him/her of any symptoms. Severe cases might involve a drop in altitude to recover. When they observe the right acclimatization measures, most trekkers make it through the route. The knowledge of the symptoms and the precautionary measures significantly enhance the safety and comfort during the trek in the upper parts of the Manaslu region.
The majority of foreigners come to Nepal and require a Nepal visa prior to commencing the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport or at Nepal embassies and consulates overseas. Besides a visa, a number of trekking permits are also necessary since the Manaslu region is a restricted trekking area. Trekkers require a Restricted Area Permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. These permits contribute to conservation and control tourism in sensitive mountainous areas.
No independent trekking is permitted in the restricted region, and the trekkers should be accompanied by a registered guide in a registered trekking company. Third Eye Adventure helps to organize all the necessary permits and does all necessary paperwork before the start of the trek. It is advisable to bring a copy of permits and passport IDs on the trip, since at certain spots on the route, trekking permits and travel authorization are often checked.
Health and safety must continue to be a concern during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek. The path goes through isolated mountainous regions with few medical services, especially at the higher altitudes. Trekkers are to bring personal medications, a simple first-aid kit and prescribed medicines they might need. It is crucial to remain hydrated, eat healthy food and get plenty of rest to stay healthy on the trek. The advice of expert trekking personnel also helps in a safer adventure.
The Himalayas weather is unpredictable and thus requires the necessary clothing and equipment. Hiking slowly will aid in fatigue reduction and aid in acclimatization. There are emergency evacuation services in case of need, but this ought to be provided by travel insurance. Third Eye Adventure offers professionally trained guides who ensure the safety of groups and help them when they are faced with difficulties. Best practice trekking can be used to make the Manaslu region a safe, enjoyable, and successful trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days will involve road transportation and trekking. The trek starts with a Kathmandu to Machha Khola drive as the base of the trek. The highway crosses rural areas, valleys of rivers, and ancient villages up to the trailhead. The highway is not in perfect condition, and there are paved and gravelled stretches of the road. In Dharapani, the trek ends with the travelers going back to Besisahar by local jeep or bus and proceeding to Kathmandu.
Such extended tours allow seeing the country of Nepal and its outskirts, the life beyond the big cities. Sometimes weather or road conditions may influence transportation schedules during the monsoon season. Travelers need to expect lengthy travel days and fluctuations in the road. Despite the challenges, the transportation experience adds to the adventure and provides access to one of Nepal’s most spectacular trekking regions.
Another recommendation is to have travel insurance for anyone who has been on the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek. As the journey involves great heights, such as Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft), good and thorough insurance is significant in terms of financial security and peace of mind. High-altitude trekking, emergency medical intervention, hospitalization, cancellation of trips, and helicopter evacuation should be included in an appropriate policy in case of need. Manaslu is a remote area, and emergency evacuations may be costly without adequate coverage.
Travelers must check the terms of the policy carefully before buying the policy and ensure that they have trekking up to the highest point of the itinerary. Digital and hard copies of insurance documents are also useful to bring when going on a trip. The insurance information can be used to help in case of an emergency. Third Eye Adventure suggests that it is best to take out travel insurance prior to traveling to Nepal to make sure that it is effective as long as you stay in Nepal.
Despite the numerous services provided in the trek package, a traveller must allocate money towards personal expenses in the trip. The additional expenses are snacks, bottled water, soft drinks and hot showers, charging electronic devices, laundry, internet, and personal shopping. Remote tea houses also tend to collect extra charges on services which involve transportation of supplies or which have scarce resources. Gratuity to guides, porters, and drivers is also generally treated as a personal cost and is reciprocated with quality service. The overall budget may be supplemented by purchases of souvenirs, gifts at monasteries, and individual purchases of trekking gear.
Most villages prefer cash as a mode of payment since card facilities are usually not available. Before departing Kathmandu, it is prudent to take with you the necessary amount of Nepalese currency because there are only a few banks along the trek route. These extra costs may be planned to make the trekking experience easier and more comfortable.
The official language in Nepal is Nepali; however, there are various local languages and dialects that are used within the Manaslu region. Numerous individuals residing around the trekking path are members of communities affected by the Tibetan culture, and this has been evident in their languages. Simple English is widely spoken by trekking guides, lodge proprietors, and individuals in tourism, so foreign tourists can easily communicate.
Knowing some basic Nepali greetings will help to improve interactions with the local population and establish positive culturally-based interactions. Some parts of the trek are covered by mobile network, but it gets less reliable the higher the altitude and the more remote the part of the trail is. In some tea houses, Internet services can be obtained at a fee, but the connection is likely to be slow. The further up into the mountain areas, the more restricted the communication possibilities are.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek includes respect for local traditions, culture, and natural environment. Do not litter the trail, and be responsible in disposing of trash. Do not disturb wildlife, destroy plants, or take natural or cultural objects out of the area. When visiting monasteries, religious sites, or local homes, dress modestly and obey any guidance given by the locals or guides. Some places might not allow photography in some places of worship, and therefore, one is always advised to seek permission.
Excessive alcohol intake, especially at an elevated level, should be avoided as it may predispose one to altitude-related issues. It is also not recommended to hike too fast without acclimatization. Shouting and being rude and disrespectful to the local traditions should be avoided. Trekking with the direction of your trekking guide will assist in making the experience safe and respectful. Responsible traveling will help the region of Manaslu to maintain its beauty and culture for the future.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek can be incorporated with other trekking or sightseeing tours for travelers who are interested in taking more time and exploring Nepal. Having arrived in Dharapani, many trekkers opt to continue their trek and join the Annapurna Circuit to make their Himalayan experience longer and more varied. Some of them choose to go back to Kathmandu and visit cultural sites, ancient temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Popular tourist spots like Pokhara are places where you can relax, boat, view mountains and enjoy the outdoors. Another destination that wildlife lovers can add to their tour is a visit to Chitwan National Park.
Mountaineering, cultural tours or shorter trekking routes are the interests of travelers in Nepal, and there are numerous options available. Third Eye Adventure can help in organizing tailor-made extensions depending on personal interests, time available and traveling objectives. When you add more days to your itinerary, you will be able to explore even more of the natural beauty, culture, and adventure opportunities that Nepal has to offer.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a wonderful place to capture pictures, whether it be panoramic shots of the mountains and glaciers, or of the ancient villages and monasteries. It is polite to seek permission before taking photos of the locals, religious events, or the monks’ or nuns’ interiors. Certain holy places can be prohibitive to photography. In Nepal, drone operations are controlled, and in most cases, they need to be officially authorized by the respective authorities prior to flying in restricted or sensitive areas. Unauthorized drone flights may result in fines or confiscation of equipment.
Drone operations can also be influenced by weather conditions, strong winds and high elevations. Professional photography or drone filming is also a good option, but travelers should organize permits before the trek. In order to maintain good relationships between visitors and local communities, it is advisable to follow the local rules and consider cultural sensitivities.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is an adventure that can be done by trekkers who are well-fit and have a positive mindset towards mountain adventures. Before visiting Nepal, first-time visitors ought to take time to walk and develop endurance. It will be more fun to pack comfortable trekking shoes, layered clothing and important personal things that will make the trip enjoyable. Walk slowly, take lots of water and give your body time to adapt to the higher altitudes. Pay close attention to the tips given by your guide on weather conditions and awareness of the altitude.
Bring enough cash to spend on personal expenditures as there are few banking facilities on the route. Be considerate of local traditions, and willing to explore the culture of the Manaslu region. By taking a trip with an experienced operator like Third Eye Adventure, the logistics can be simplified and added support during the trek will be available. The correct planning assists in making the Himalayan experience safe, enjoyable and memorable.
It is a fairly difficult hike demanding good physical health and stamina.
The typical route is 12 days Kathmandu-Kathmandu.
Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft) is the highest point.
Prior experience is desirable, though it can be considered compulsory by fit trekkers.
The best time to do this trek is in spring and autumn.
Yes, the Manaslu region requires trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit are required to do this trek.
Yes, it is important due to the high elevation because proper acclimatization is necessary.
No, it is best to carry enough cash from Kathmandu.
There are tea houses and lodges in the mountains along the trek.
Yes, in most villages for an additional fee.
In some tea houses, there is limited Wi-Fi at an additional fee.
There are tea houses that have Nepali, Tibetan and simple international cuisines.
Yes, you can go on extensions to Annapurna, Pokhara, Chitwan or Kathmandu sightseeing.
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