The Manaslu region is often hidden behind the shadows of its intimidating neighbours, Annapurna and Everest. However, the beauty and experience that it offers are on par with those of both its neighbours. The Manaslu Circuit trek lets you experience this remote and unexplored destination of Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit trek is often called the Tsum Valley Trek. Tsum Valley is a remote destination hidden in the Himalayas. It was a restricted area until the year 2008. It holds sacred pilgrimage values for the people of Tibetan-Buddhist origin. The ancient ruins of the “Tsum Kingdom” are still visible; the unique remoteness and the exhilarating beauty of this valley make this trek extremely desirable among adventure seekers.
The circuit trek provides spectacular views of Mt Manaslu (8163M, the eighth highest mountain in the world), Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal, and much more. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River from our starting point at Arughat Bazar (570 m) up to the highest point of our trek, Larkya Pass (5135M).
Manaslu region is known for its varying landscapes. The trek starts low at just 570M, moving to an altitude of over 5000 m. Thus, the landscapes vary from the vast green fields, lush hills of Rhododendrons and pines, to the beautiful glaciers at soaring altitudes. As we come across Larkya Pass, we see the influence of the Tibetan culture with long, prayer Mani (stone carved) walls. We are also greeted with the breathtaking view of the Manaslu and Annapurna range and beautiful glaciers. The region is blessed with natural, ecological and cultural diversity.
The rocky, rough trails following the beautiful river of Budi Gandaki with a roller coaster of varying landscapes and cultures, leading to the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas and the mesmerising valley of Tsum. Manaslu Circuit Trek will be the most authentic and unforgettable experience you will have in Nepal.
Highlights:
● The beautiful valley of Manaslu/ Tsum and its surroundings
● Experience the rich cultures of the Tibetan Buddhists
● Spectacular view of Mt Manaslu (8163M) (The eighth highest mountain in the World).
● Varying Landscapes from green fields, lush hills, to barren lands and icy glaciers
● Beautiful sunrise and sunset over the Manslu massif seen from the village of Lho
● Larkya Phedi and Larkya Pass (5160M)
● Colourful villages of Samdo, Dharmasala, Lho and much more
13: Days
Age: 8+
Trip Grade: difficult
Max. Altitude: 5106m
Transport: Private vehicle/Bus
Best Season:March-May, October-December
Destination:Nepal
Start/End:Kathmandu-Arughat-Besisahar-Kathmandu
Departure Location:Kathmandu
Included:
Excluded:
Tour Plan / Itinerary
1
Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m / 2,952 ft) – 7-8 hours
Your journey begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu towards Machha Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, terraced fields, and rural villages as you travel along a paved road to Dhading Bensi (1,050m), followed by a rugged off-road adventure via Arughat and Sotikhola. The route passes through dense sal forests, thundering rapids of the Budhi Gandaki River, and traditional Gurung settlements. Overnight at a guesthouse in Machha Khola.
2
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m / 4,625 ft) – 6-7 hours
Begin your trek along a narrow trail with gentle ups and downs, crossing the Tharo Khola before reaching Khorla Besi. After passing Tatopani’s natural hot springs, ascend over ridges and traverse suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail includes steep stone staircases, landslide-prone zones, and riverbanks before reaching the picturesque village of Jagat. Overnight in Jagat.
3
Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m / 5,917 ft) – 6-7 hours
Climb over rocky ridges to Salleri and descend to Sirdibas. The trail widens through the Ghatta Khola valley, leading to Philim, a vibrant Gurung village. Continue through millet fields to Ekle Bhatti before entering a dramatic gorge. Cross the Budhi Gandaki several times and trek through dense bamboo forests until you reach the quaint village of Deng. Overnight in Deng.
4
Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m / 8,626 ft) – 6-7 hours
Cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb to the village of Rana. The trail continues through dense forest, past mani walls, and up to Ghap. Trek via Prok village for a panoramic view of Siringi Himal, and cross the river multiple times. The dense forest gradually opens up as you ascend to the charming village of Namrung. Overnight in Namrung.
5
Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m / 10,433 ft) – 4-5 hours
Enjoy sunrise views of Siring Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Himal Chuli. The trail climbs through forests to Lihi village and crosses the Simnang Himal valley. Arrive at the beautiful village of Lho, home to an ancient Buddhist monastery and one of the best viewpoints for Mt. Manaslu at sunrise. Overnight in Lho.
6
Trek from Lho to Samagaon via Syala and Pungyen Gompa (3,530m / 11,578 ft) – 8-9 hours
Hike through alpine villages like Sho and Shyala with breathtaking views of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29), Manaslu, and surrounding glaciers. Visit Ribung Gompa and continue to Pungyen Gompa for glacier views. Explore rich Sherpa culture, prayer stones, and traditional houses before reaching the beautiful village of Samagaon. Overnight in Samagaon.
7
Acclimatization and Day Hike to Manaslu Base Camp – 7-8 hours
Spend a rest day in Samagaon acclimatising and hiking to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m). Discover the history of the first Japanese expeditions and enjoy awe-inspiring views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Return to Samagaon for an overnight stay.
8
Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,860m / 12,660 ft) – 4-5 hours
Descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and follow a scenic trail past mani walls, juniper forests, and high-altitude pasturelands. Cross wooden bridges and ascend to a ridge leading to the Tibetan-influenced village of Samdo, located near the Nepal-Tibet border. Overnight in Samdo.
9
from Samdo to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460m / 14,628 ft) – 4-5 hours Trek
Trek through alpine terrain, cross glacial streams, and ascend to Dharamsala (also known as Larkya Phedi), a basic stone shelter for trekkers preparing to cross the Larkya La Pass. Take time to rest and acclimatize before the high-altitude crossing. Overnight in Dharamsala.
10
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,924 ft) and Trek to Bimthang (3,720m / 12,201 ft) – 8-9 hours
An early morning start leads to a gradual climb across the Larkya Glacier with magnificent views of Cho Danda, Larkya Peak, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II. The final ascent to Larkya La Pass offers panoramic Himalayan vistas. Descend through glacial moraines and lush pastures to Bimthang, a tranquil alpine meadow. Overnight in Bimthang.
11
Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m / 7,544 ft) – 5-6 hours
Descend along a ridgeline with incredible views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Lamjung Himal. Cross high alpine pastures and enter rhododendron forests. Continue through the scenic Karche village and follow the trail to Tilije, a charming village with comfortable lodges. Overnight in Tilije.
12
Trek from Tilije to Tal (1,700m / 5,576 ft) – 5-6 hours
Pass through Thonje village and undergo a permit check as you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Walk through the picturesque villages of Dharapani and Karte before reaching Tal, located at the base of a spectacular waterfall. This marks the end of the trekking portion. Overnight in Tal.
13
Trek from Tilije to Tal (1,700m / 5,576 ft) – 8-9 hours
Pass through Thonje village and undergo a permit check as you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Walk through the picturesque villages of Dharapani and Karte before reaching Tal, located at the base of a spectacular waterfall. This marks the end of the trekking portion. Overnight in Tal.
Map Overview
Manaslu region is known for the varying landscapes. The trek starts low at just 570M moving to an altitude of over 5000M. Thus the landscapes vary from the vast green fields, lush hills of Rhododendrons and pines to the beautiful glaciers located at soaring altitudes. As we come across Larkya Pass we see the influence of the Tibetan culture with long prayer Mani (stone carved) walls. We are also greeted with the breathtaking view of the Manaslu and Annapurna range and beautiful glaciers. The region is blessed with natural, ecological and cultural diversity.
Similar Trips
21 Day
Manaslu circuit with Tsum Valley Trekking