Mt. Manaslu (8,156m) is the world's seventh highest peak in the world. This region was opened for trekking in 1992 by the government of Nepal. The flow of tourists/visitors in the area is very limited. The tendency of less flow of visitors makes the area all the more unique and unspoilt. Manaslu is bordered by River Budi Gandaki in the east and to the west by River Marshyangdi. The region is manifested by two cultural highlights: Gorkha and the temple of Manakamana. Gorkha is the ancestral seat of the reigning Shah dynasty and the temple of Manakamana is believed to be the wish fulfilling shrine. The trekkers will see a wide range of flora typical of the middle hills and alpine regions of Nepal as the treks in the Manaslu region is originating at around 1,000 meters and reach as high as 5,200m. Pine and rhododendron are the plants to be seen around the Manaslu region and the wildlife include barking deer, pika and Himalayan marmots. Pheasant, raven and chough are the birds to be sighted in the region. Several villages are inhabited by the people of Tibetan origin. Gurungs and Tamangs are the other ethnic people residing in the region. Between September and May is the best time to trek here. Limited numbers of teahouses are seen in the Manaslu Conservation Area; however, teahouse trekking is not a suggested option. Camping trek is best suited for this region.
Manaslu, the “mountain of soul”, is one of the imminent geographical charismas dominating the historical kingdom of Gorkha. Its snow-capped conical body sores 8,156m above the sea level to form two cylindrical horns that still appears as a god appeased by daily worship to the local people who otherwise would bring natural catastrophe. Manaslu is known as Pungen Ri to the locals whose embodiment is worshiped in a Gompa couple of hundred meter above the village of Sama Goan.
No doubt, Round Manaslu Trek is an amalgamation of rich culture, adventure, scenic beauty and rudimental rural civilization that represents ancient Tibetan lifestyle. This newly opened trek encircling the entire Manaslu massif, offers an opportunity to comprehensively explore the full range of Nepal’s natural and cultural diversity.
Itinerary :
Day 01:
Arrival in Kathmandu (1320m.)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be received by our representatives and will be transferred to hotel. After checking into our rooms, we could relax at our own.
Day 02:
Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (570m.)
Today we drive from Kathmandu to Aarughat Bazaar (570m.) which takes about 6 to 7 hours. For the first part of the trek, we drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway and we turn of towards to the hill bazaar of Gorkha. When we reach Gorkha, the road gets a bit rough and finally reach Arughat Bazaar. Overnight camping in our tent.
Day 03:
Aarughat Bazaar to Sundi Khola (730m)
Having breakfast at Aarughat Bazaar, we commence our trek to Sundi Khola (730m). We head north following the Budi Gandaki. We would have an opportunity to view the country life of the local people, paddy field and picturesque hamlets on the way. After climbing Kyoropani, we descend once again to the river and reach our campsite at the confluence of Sundi Khola. Camping in the tent.
Day 04:
Sundi Khola to Machha Khola (930m.)
We trek from Sundi Khola to Machha Khola (930m.). It takes about 4 to 5 hours. Now the geography changes, the broad valley narrows and at times the trail is cut into the steep valley side. We would pass a number of small villages, tucked into the hillside, until we reach a widening of the valley. We then reach the terraced farmland of Lapbesi village. We finally reach Machha Khola. Overnight in the camp.
Day 05:
Machha Khola to Jagat (1370m.)
Today we trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1370m.). It takes about 5 to 6 hours. After crossing the Machha Khola , we would cross Fish Stream and arrive at a tiny village of Khola Bensi. From this point, we would go to the hot spring at Tatopani. After a short section of forest path we would reach the single teahouse at Doban. Above Doban, the Budi Gandaki descends an impressive series of rapids. At Lauri, we would cross the river on a suspension bridge and then climb on a high path to the fields of Jagat. We would camp at Jagat.
Day 06:
Jagat to Deng (1860m)
It is our day to trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) which takes about 7 to 8 hours. Descending a long series of stone steps to the river, we would climb a terraced hill to Saguleri. It is also one of the view points of this trek. We would see the impressive Sringi Himal, 7187m.from here. Our route continues upstream through a gorge section with towering walls. After crossing the river three more times in the next two hours, we would reach the village of Deng. Overnight camping at Deng.
Day 07:
Deng to Ghap (2380m.)
Having breakfast at Deng, we would trek to Ghap (2380m.). It is the distance of about seven to eight hours. We would cross the village of Lana and enter into the Buddhist region. We can find mani stones and prayer flags along the way. We would also see mani stones prayers etched onto wayside rocks. We would reach to Ghap trekking about four hours and take rest in our camp. As we have entered the Tibetan areas, the cultural change is obvious and the climate change is also obvious since we have gained the altitude as well.
Day 08:
Ghap to Lho village (3020m)
Today we trek from Ghap to lho village (3020m). It is the distance of about 6 to 7 hours normal walk. Slowly and gradually we would be gaining altitude and with the increase in altitude, we enter into alpine territory and accordingly we would have increasing mountain views. On the way to Manrung, we would find more number of Mani walls and three more crossing of the Budi Gandaki. Leaving the village behind, we get into extensive pastures. We would cross a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glaciers and reach the Tibetan village of Sho (3000m.). From Sho, we would have first incredible views of the Manaslu North and then of Manaslu main ahead. As you continue, we would arrive at Lho (3150m.) where we would have an opportunity to visit th lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and Manis. Overnight camping in the tents.
Day 09:
Lho village to Sama Gaon (3390m)
It is our day to trek from Lho village to Sama Gaon (3390m). Today we would walk around 6 to 7 hours. Leaving the village behind, we follow the right bank of the river. We would view Peak 29 ahead. We soon reach the fields of Sama Gaon (3500m.) after walking for a while. We would take rest today at Sama Gompa which is just 20 minutes beyond the village.
Day 10:
Acclimatization at Sama Gaon
We would take rest at Sama Gaon for acclimatization. We would go around the village, have scenic view of the mountains in a peaceful forest or relax at our own.
Day 11:
Sama Gaon to Larkya Lodge (4460m)
Today we trek from Sama Gaon to Larkya Lodge (Dharamsala) (4460m). It takes about 5 to 6 hours to cover the distance. We would follow the course upwards of Budi Gandaki. Everywhere we find mountains as spectacular as they get and Manaslu is particularly impressive. After crossing to the East bank of the river, we would reach the last permanent settlement in the valley called Sumdu. As we go above the village, we would cross the stream which runs down from the Gya La (Pass). We would find the ruin of another village here known as Larkya Bazaar. It is said that this village thrived on trade with Tibet over the nearby Gya La, a trade that is now much diminished. Approaching near the Larkya Glacier, we would reach a lodge called Larkya Lodge which has been built to serve the travelers who cross the Larkya La.
Day 12:
Larkya Lodge to Bimtang (3590m)
Having breakfast at Larkya Lodge, we trek to Bimtang (3590m) which takes about 7 to 8 hours to cross the distance. After a short climb, we would reach the ablation valley on the North side of the Larkya Glaciers. We would have panoramic views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent, which becomes steeper only in the last section to the pass. From the pass, we would have outstanding views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru and the huge Annapurna II. A further hour of walking on a moraine ridge path leads to Tanbuche (3900m.) in pleasant forest.
Day 13:
Bimtang to Tilje
It is our turn to trek from Bimtang to Tilje. It is the distance of about 4 to 5 hours normal walk. We would find a number of Mani walls and deserted houses on the way. Crossing a high pasture, we would descend the valley of the Burdin Khola to the area of the Base Camp for the West side of Manaslu. From a ridge at 4150m., we would have an excellent view of Manaslu to the South East and Annapurna II to the South West. We descend into a rhododendron forests and follow a trail through a narrow valley until we reach the highest cultivated land in this valley at Karche (2785m.).
Day 14:
Tilje to Bagarchhap (2164m.)
Today we would trek from Tilje to Bagarchhap (2164m.) which takes about 4 to 5 hours of normal walk. We climb through terraced fields to the Karche La (Pass) and can find ahead a green and heavily forested valley. We would cross the Marsyandi River and join the main Annapurna Circuit. We finally arrive at Bagarchhap, a Bhote village with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Overnight at Bagarchhap.
Day 15:
Bagarchhap to Chame (2713m.)
Having breakfast at Bagarchhap, we trek to Chame (2713m.). We would complete the distance at about 5 to 6 hours of normal walk. We would be trekking through forests of pine and oak. We pass through Dhanakyu before coming to a thundering waterfall. As we walk further, the Marsyangdi Khola enters a gorge and the path becomes rough as it consists of steep stone steps. When the steep incline ends, we follow a path amid magnificent rhododendrons to Ratamron and then continue on a gently rising path, crossing a stream before entering a pine forest. We then cut across a loose hillside to the hamlet of Kotho and the trail climbs through a fir and pine forest to Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district.
Day 16:
Chame to Pisang (3185m.)
Today we would trek from Chame to Pisang (3185M.) which takes about 4 to 5 hours.
We set off for Pisang with Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun. We climb up the valley passing a huge apple orchard. We further continue through a fir and pine forest, climbing to a high, rocky area. We then follow the path to Bratang. It was the military station for troops who fought against the Khampa tribal revolution in the past. A short climb from the village brings us to a rock-strewn area where we would cross a wooden bridge and follow a high, winding path, before crossing back to the right bank. We then walk through a pine forest and as the forest ends, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape, opening up a wonderful vista before us. We could see the east peak of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Finally, we come to the village of Pisang.
Day 17:
Pisang to Manang (3450m.)
Having breakfast at Pisang, we trek to Manang (3450m.). We leave Pisang behind and continue our trek to Manang. We would have excellent views of the Manang valley, Tilicho peak (7134m), the northeast face of Annapurna II, Gangapurna (7455m) Annapurna III, Annapurna IV (7525m), etc. We then enter the village of Mungji and then we go to the village of Bryaga with its splendid monastery. After a short steep climb we reach Manang which is a surprisingly large village for this remote mountain region. We would arrange our camp at Manang amidst the fluttering prayer flags which adorn the houses.
Day 18:
Manang to Thorung Phedi (4450m.)
It is our turn to trek from Manang to Thorung Phedi (4450m.). We would trek to the village of Tengi from Manang. We would have magnificent view of Annapurna Himal, Peak 29 and Himalchuli on the way. As the altitude is already increased, we would find the vegetation consists of alpine grasses and scrub juniper. We then leave behind tdhe village of Gunsang crossing the Gundon Khola via a wooden bridge. We come to the small settlement of Letdar. Leaving Letdar, we climb gradually to a ridge before descending to Marsyangdi Finally, we descend to Thorung Phedi.
Day 19:
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3800m.)
We trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3800m.). It takes about 8 to 9 hours to complete the distance between Thorong Phedi to Muktinath. Walking for a while, we cross the Thorung La (5416m). We would find chorten and prayer flags in the pass. Crossing the pass, we head towards the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below the hills of Mustang. The descent to Muktinath is a knee pounding. We would have excellent view of Dhaulagiri. Eventually the moraines give way to grassy slopes along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath.
Day 20:
Muktinath to Jomsom (2713m.)
Today we trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2713m.). We descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, the villages with typical Tibetan architecture, we follow the valley floor to Jomsom. We would be rewarded with tremendous views of both Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Jomsom is a large town sprawled along both banks of the Kali Gandaki River.
Day 21:
Jomsom to Pokhara (914m.)
It is our turn to fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. It takes about 35 minutes to reach Pokhara. Upon arrial, we would go for lunch. The remaining time would be utilized at our own. Overnight at hotel.
Day 22:
Pokhara to Kathmandu
We would board our early flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Flying to Kathmandu from Pokhara provides a spectacular view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), we would go to our hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 23:
Kathmandu
It is our day to explore this lively and exotic city. Our guide will take us to visit the World Heritage Sites of the valley and some other historically and culturally important places of the valley. In the evening, a farewell dinner would be served at Bhojan Griha, the delights of Nepali cuisine.
Bhojan Griha is one of the exclusive Nepali restaurants in the valley which serves the very best of traditional, organic and ethnic cuisine of Nepal. The grand old building which was built almost 150 years ago has been renovated and converted into a fascinating restaurant with intricate décor, subtle setting and nostalgic atmosphere. Traditional folk music and dances are performed in full costume every evening over savory meals. No doubt, to dine at Bhojan Griha is a cultural rejuvenation.
Price for the Trip :
Group Size
1 - 2 Pax
2 - 4 Pax
4 - 8 Pax
8 -15 Pax
Budget Trip
US$ 1334.00
US$ 1288.00
US$ 1242.00
US$ 1196.00
Standard Trip
US$ 1564.00
US$ 1518.00
US$ 1472.00
US$ 1426.00
Deluxe Trip
US$ 1794.00
US$ 1748.00
US$ 1702.00
US$ 1656.00
Price Includes:
All ground transportation, all meals during the trek (Breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee), Camping equipments (tents, dining tents, kitchen tents, toilet tents, sleeping bags, mattresses), a guide, a cook, cook helper, porter, other helping staff, entry permits, all necessary requirements for Nepalese staff (meals, insurance, equipments, ground transportation etc.
Price Excludes:
Any bar bills (alcoholic drinks, mineral water, cold drinks), cigarettes, clients personal insurance, any kind of unforeseen expenses etc.
Flight ticket for guest and guide Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
Note: The departure schedule can be changed on any unavoidable circumstances such as weather hazards, trail slides, and avalanches.
