The journey
The Manaslu Circuit is Nepal's hidden gem, a wild, remote trek that rivals the Annapurna Circuit with a fraction of the crowds. Circle the world's eighth-highest mountain through pristine valleys, ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages, and over the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres.
This restricted-area trek requires a special permit, keeping trekker numbers low and the experience authentic. You'll pass through landscapes that shift from subtropical forest to high-altitude desert, with views of Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli, and the Ganesh Himal range.
The Manaslu Circuit is for trekkers who want the real Nepal: remote, rugged, and utterly unforgettable.
Trek Photos
Larke Pass
Mountain Lodge
Trail Mates
The Journey InThe trail
Route overview: Kathmandu to Dharapani via Larkya La Pass
The day to day
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
+Airport pickup, hotel transfer, trek briefing with your guide.
Drive to Soti Khola (710m)
+7-8 hour drive through river valleys to the trailhead. The adventure begins.
Soti Khola to Machha Khola (870m)
+Trek through subtropical forest along the Budhi Gandaki river. Waterfalls and suspension bridges.
Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)
+Enter the restricted area. The valley narrows with dramatic cliffs and rapids below.
Jagat to Deng (1,860m)
+Cross to the west side of the river. Tibetan influence begins, with prayer flags and mani walls appearing along the trail.
Deng to Namrung (2,660m)
+Gain altitude through pine forests. First clear views of Manaslu. Arrive in the traditional village of Namrung.
Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)
+Trek past chortens and monasteries into the Manaslu heartland. Samagaon sits beneath the towering face of Manaslu.
Acclimatisation Day in Samagaon
+Rest day. Optional hike to Birendra Lake or the Pungyen Gompa for stunning Manaslu views.
Samagaon to Samdo (3,860m)
+Short trek to the last village before the pass. Near the Tibetan border with trading history.
Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m)
+Trek to the high camp below Larkya La. Basic stone shelter, so get an early night for the pass crossing.
Larkya La Pass (5,160m) to Bimthang (3,590m)
+The big day. Pre-dawn start, 5-6 hours to the pass with 360-degree views, then steep descent to Bimthang.
Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860m)
+Dramatic descent through rhododendron forest back to the Annapurna region. Rejoin the Marsyangdi Valley.
Drive to Kathmandu
+Drive back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel or airport. Trek complete.
What you get
Included
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- All accommodation (hotels + teahouses)
- Three meals per day on trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter service
- All permits (Manaslu restricted area, MCAP, TIMS)
- Ground transport (Kathmandu–Soti Khola, Dharapani–Kathmandu)
- First aid kit and oximeter
- Trek briefing and gear check
Not Included
- International flights to/from Kathmandu
- Travel insurance (required)
- Nepal tourist visa
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Hot showers and device charging on trek
- Tips for guide and porters
- Personal expenses