Manaslu Circuit Trek- 16 Days

When you will arrive, you will welcome by a representative of Ama adventure. Furthermore check in at the Hotel and you explore around your neighborhoods.

Note: On the second day of your arrival, we’ll hold a short meeting around 9 a.m. after breakfast, just before the Swayambhunath tour. During this session, we’ll check your trekking gear, introduce the team, provide a detailed briefing about the trek, and share some insights about Ama Adventure and how we work.

After breakfast, you will head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname.

After breakfast, we begin our journey to Machha Khola in a private 4WD vehicle, heading out of the Kathmandu Valley. The first part of the drive takes us along a well-paved road to Dhading Besi, which takes around 3 to 4 hours. From there, the road turns rough and bumpy as we continue on a dirt track for another 5 to 7 hours, passing through scenic countryside and remote villages.

The entire drive takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions. Along the way, you’ll experience a dramatic shift in landscapes as we transition from city roads to rugged mountain trails. Your journey will be made comfortable and safe with a reliable vehicle and an experienced driver.

Today, our trek begins from Machha Khola to Jagat, leaving the road behind to follow mountain trails.

It takes about an hour to reach Khorlabesi (970 m), where you might spot wild marijuana plants. Next, we cross the natural hot spring called ‘Tatopani’ and walk alongside the Budi Gandaki River, observing local wildlife. After another hour, we stop for lunch at Dovan (1,070 m), meaning riverside.

The trail then leads us through traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Yaruphat and Thulo Dhunga, where you’ll see their unique culture and homes. As we gain elevation, the landscape changes beautifully.

After about two more hours on an easy path, we arrive at Jagat (1,340 m). Here, you’ll pass an MCAP checkpoint to show your permit. Jagat is a charming village surrounded by fields, with a Mani wall at its center reflecting Tibetan Buddhist culture. We stay overnight in Jagat, enjoying warm local hospitality.

After breakfast, we start the day by descending to Dudh Pokhari Khola and crossing a suspension bridge to see a beautiful waterfall just past Jagat.

A short 15-minute walk brings us to Salleri, known for its rice and millet fields and offering stunning views of Shringi Himal, which rises to 7,187 meters.

Along the way, we will pass several waterfalls and cross another suspension bridge before climbing to Ghatte Khola via jeep trails. After a 45-minute uphill walk, we reach Philim, where there is another MCAP checkpoint.

From Philim to Chisapani, we will meet locals and observe their farming practices. We will stop in Chisapani for lunch, then continue through rhododendron forests and bamboo groves, passing Eleklibhatti.

The Gandaki Valley narrows here, with steep cliffs on both sides. Near Nyak, the Tsum Valley Trek and Larkya La Pass routes split. From Nyak, we ascend to Pewa and then continue upward to Deng village, following the Deng River upstream.

Today will be a longer day than before. After breakfast, we start by crossing a bridge and descending briefly, then climb steeply in a zigzag for about 20 minutes to reach Rana village. From there, it takes two hours of steep uphill hiking to Bihi Phedi.

Along the way, you’ll see strong Tibetan cultural signs like Mani walls, monasteries, and prayer flags. The sound of waterfalls, ancient stone carvings, and fields of blooming mustard flowers add to the trek’s charm.

We’ll enter a beautiful, dense forest of blue pine, oak, and rhododendron before reaching the Budi Gandaki River. Our day ends at Namrung village, where we’ll rest overnight.

Today brings one of the most scenic highlights of the trek , a clear view of the Twin Manaslu peaks from the charming village of Lho (3,180 m).

After a relaxed breakfast, we follow a gentle trail to Banjam, then climb a steep path for about an hour and a half to reach Lihi. The village offers a picturesque setting with traditional houses roofed in pine shingles, set against a backdrop of Ganesh Himal and a local gompa.

As we continue, the trail leads us through Lamagaon and over the Hinan River, which flows from the Linda Glacier. We pass through Sho village (2,880 m), then make our way to Lho Gaon , our stop for the night.

We begin our day with a visit to Lho Ribang Monastery, where we observe the peaceful morning rituals of the monks amidst a stunning Himalayan backdrop. After the monastery, the trail leads through pine forests and climbs steadily for about two hours to the village of Shyala (3,500 m), offering magnificent views of peaks such as Simnang Himal, Ngadi Chuli, Manaslu, Manaslu North, and Naike Peak.

From Shyala, a gentle descent of about an hour and a half brings us to Samagaon (3,520 m), a traditional mountain village rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Here, stone houses are uniquely designed with livestock kept on the ground floor to provide warmth for the families living above.

Samagaon will be our resting place for the night and the next day, allowing time to acclimatize and absorb the quiet charm of this remote Himalayan settlement.

Today is all about slowing down, adjusting to the altitude, and soaking in the unique charm of Samagaon. Nestled beneath the towering peaks, this beautiful village offers more than just a place to rest, it’s a window into the high Himalayan lifestyle. You’ll have the chance to interact with the locals and learn about traditional practices like yak herding and wool spinning, which are deeply rooted in the daily lives of the people here.

For those feeling adventurous, there are two scenic options for exploration. One route leads to Pungyen Gompa and the serene Birendra Lake, a 4 to 5-hour hike filled with cultural and natural highlights. Alternatively, a longer and more challenging hike takes you to Manaslu Base Camp (4,895 m/16,060 ft), offering breathtaking views and a sense of achievement.

Whichever path you choose, today helps you acclimatize while discovering the beauty and rhythm of mountain life. Rest well in Samagaon tonight, your journey continues tomorrow.

After a peaceful acclimatization day in Samagaon, we begin our journey to Samdo. The trail today is short and not too demanding, following a gentle path with occasional dry patches. The landscape slowly changes, vegetation becomes sparse, and the terrain takes on a rugged, almost desert-like feel.

We cross to the other side of the Budi Gandaki River and climb a terraced hill. A brief but steep 30-minute section leads us to Samdo, sitting at 3,875 meters. This small village, close to the Tibetan border, offers a glimpse into a different way of life. The houses are built strong and low, designed to endure the high-altitude conditions.

With enough time in the afternoon, we can explore the village and take in the views around us. The mountains feel closer here, and the quiet atmosphere of Samdo makes it a special stop on the way.

Leaving Samdo behind, we make our way toward Dharmashala (also known as Larke Phedi), a gradual uphill walk that takes around 4 to 5 hours. The trail is mostly level at the start, weaving through an open and barren landscape. Along the way, we pass Larkya Bazar, a once-thriving Tibetan trading point that now stands quiet, holding stories of the past.

As we continue climbing, the altitude becomes more noticeable. The scenery feels raw and remote, with wide valleys and rocky terrain. Dharmashala sits at 4,460 meters and is the final resting point before we cross the high Larkya La Pass. Facilities here are simple, basic food, lodging, and shelter from the cold winds.

Due to the altitude, some trekkers may begin to feel its effects. It’s important to rest well, stay hydrated, and be mindful of how your body is responding.

Today is one of the most important and demanding days of the trek. We begin early, setting out before sunrise to avoid the cold, harsh winds that usually sweep across the pass by midday. The trail ahead is rocky and steady, and it takes patience and a slow, consistent pace to gain altitude safely.

Our first ascent leads us to Cho Chanda, after which the trail becomes steeper as we make our way toward the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). The key is to go slow, breathe deeply, and keep moving with determination. The climb is tough, but the reward is unforgettable.

From the top of the pass, the views open wide, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru, and even Annapurna II rise like giants on the horizon. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and take in the power of the mountains.

The descent to Bhimthang (3,590 m) is long but scenic, with sweeping valleys, glacial landscapes, and occasional sightings of yaks grazing in the meadows. After hours of effort, the peaceful setting of Bhimthang offers rest, beauty, and a sense of deep accomplishment.

After the tough crossing of Larkya La Pass, today’s walk brings a welcome change of pace. The trail is easier and more relaxed, guiding us through a beautiful mix of forest, fields, and quiet mountain villages.

We begin with a light ascent, passing through peaceful landscapes filled with terraced fields and thick woodlands. Along the way, we walk through the settlements of Hampuk, Yak Kharka, and Kharche, each offering a glimpse into local life in the high hills.

The scenery is stunning throughout the day. Snow-covered peaks like Mount Manaslu, South Manaslu, Nemjung, and others stand tall in the distance. You’ll also spot the striking white glaciers of Ponkar and Changri, adding to the magic of the trail.

As we continue, the trail descends through alpine meadows into forests of pine and rhododendron, filling the air with the scent of the wild. This lesser-traveled path offers a peaceful and authentic experience, far from the crowds.

We begin climbing over a ridge on the stone-paved stairs pass the isolated village and powering river. Trek crosses the suspension bridge over the Dudhakhola climb through Chorten shape Arch. We will cross the stone-carved Mani walls then reach the Thong Village. Exit at the police checkpoint then continues our trek to the Dharapani trail joins the major route of Annapurna Circuit upon crossing the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River. From Dharapani We will Drive to Besisahar various beautiful villages and waterfalls. Overnight.

We travel to Kathmandu and pass the amazing countryside and amazing view through the window. After a long drive, we finally reached Kathmandu. In the evening, join the farewell dinner to celebrate our successful journey. overnight in Kathmandu.

Today is the final day of our trip. An Ama Adventure representative drops you at the airport, wishes you a safe journey, and hopes to see you at the next adventure.