Trekking through the hidden trails of Manaslu region which is relatively unexplored and has a lesser crowd than other popular trekking routes in Nepal.
Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,160 meters, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II.
Getting to experience the unique culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the ethnic communities living in the Manaslu region such as Tamang, Sherpa, and Gurung.
Walking through the dense bamboo forests and narrow Gurung settlements.
Encountering yaks and other domestic animals grazing on the alpine terrains.
Visiting the ancient monasteries and gompas along the trekking route such as the Rupina La Phedi Monastery and the Pungyen Gompa.
Admiring the majestic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks throughout the trek.
Witnessing the stunning landscapes of the Manaslu region including rivers, waterfalls, and glaciers.
Exploring the traditional villages and interacting with the hospitable locals who will give you insights into their unique way of life.
Enjoying the peaceful and tranquil environment of the Manaslu region away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Trip Overview
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit has recently famous among trekkers. Eco Holidays Nepal brings to you there Short Manaslu Circuit trek 10 days itinerary.
Manaslu set in the northern Himalayan range of the Gorkha district is considered the 8th highest mountain in the world.
Apart from climbing Mt. Manaslu, this region is also famous for trekking. Manaslu circuit trek is a remarkable path for trekkers in Nepal. It is the hidden trail of the Manaslu region.
This Short Manaslu circuit trek for 10 days is filled with nature, culture, and adventure. This trek passes through bamboo forests and narrow Gurung settlements.
While trekking in this region provides views of the snow-covered mountains of the Himalayas. It also gives you a chance to have close interaction with the different ethnic groups that live there and are scattered along the trekking route.
The people living in this region are usually Tamang, sherpas, and Gurung. They each have their own culture and traditions which are unique in their way.
This region is an untouched and newly famous spot for trekkers. It is a trek through alpine terrains as well as you will encounter passing yaks. Trekking in this region is a test of endurance.
You will begin your short Manaslu circuit trek 10 days from Machha Khola. You will drive to Machha Khola and start your trek from there. You will walk past many forests, villages, monasteries, mountains, etc.
If you are an adventure lover then this trek is perfect for you. The mind-blowing cultural feel you get while walking these trails covered with Tibetan prayer flags, monasteries, etc is something to be felt and experienced.
Short Trek to Manaslu Circuit- Best Time
Most people consider autumn (September, October, November) and spring (March, April, May) season the best time to trek in the Manaslu region.
Autumn and Spring are both considered the peak season for trekking in Nepal. During the Autumn season, the weather and temperature both are pleasant.
The skies are clear with the perfect visibility of the mountains. The temperature in the Manaslu region is neither hot nor cold. To cross Larke La pass this is the ideal time.
Spring is the beautiful season of them all, as nature starts to regain its beauty. Fallen leaves start to regain their greenery and spread all around the region.
Flowers start to bloom making everything look fresh and new. While walking through the forest with the beautiful fragrance coming from the flowers.
You can expect irregular rainfall and snowfall during late May but the weather will be warm in lower elevations.
If you want to trek in winter and monsoon seasons you can. But the trek will be thrilling as there will be a temperature rise. Few people trek during this time of year making it peaceful.
Trekking in monsoon season will be quite adventurous as the trails are wet and muddy and there are chances of landslides and floods due to rain.
If you are an adventurer who likes thrilling experiences then Monsoon season is for you. As you climb higher altitude you will get some breathtaking views and awesome natural phenomenon that only happens there.
As the rain dies down you will be astounded by the clear view you get of the mountains.
Manaslu Circuit trails have dry weather and clearer skies during winter seasons. Due to snowfalls, the routes might get disturbed which can result in getting stuck between the ways.
But it is warm in the daytime and gets cold as night falls. It gets up to -20ºC during the early morning and nighttime. The scenery you sight along the way makes the trek worth it.
If you have decided to go on a trek during winter and monsoon seasons then pack yourself some warm clothes and a raincoat for rainy days. Because as you climb higher altitude it tends to get colder.
Manaslu circuit trek covers a total distance of 177 kilometers. The trek is widely diverse as it ranges from its lowest point 228 m to its highest point 8163 m.
While trekking in these regions you have to be mentally and physically prepared. The routes are uneven and rocky which might be fatiguing for the less fit people. So before going on a trek train yourself and get used to walking on uneven surfaces.
You can be walking about 6 to 8 hours per day with a light bag pack at higher altitudes. Thus, the preparation of mind and body is important to make the trek enjoyable and memorable.
In this trek, you will be traveling through different climates, altitudes, and landscapes. Many trekkers start to feel altitude sickness above 2500m. No matter if you are a novice or an experienced trekker, if you don’t trek properly and take care of your body you will suffer from altitude sickness.
So, while trekking to the higher elevation you have to adjust your body. To help your body adjust acclimatization is held in places. Some ways to stay away from altitude sickness are walking slowly, taking regular rest, and drinking plenty of water.
Weather always plays a crucial part while going on a trek. During day time it is quite warm but at night it is near freezing.
During the winter season, the roads might be blocked due to thick snow. High passes like Larkya La Pass might get closed due to heavy snowfall. However, it is possible to trek to the Manaslu Circuit Region in the winter season also.
Manaslu Circuit Region receives a decent amount of rainfall during the summer season. The trails can be slippery and full of leeches. But the view you get after the rain-washed environment will be worth it.
You should be well prepared in any season as climate change cannot be said beforehand.
Cost Details
What's Included in Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle.
Three times meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
Trekking lodge (Tea House) accommodations during the trek.
A highly experience and helpful guide including his all expenses.
All necessary permits Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Area.
Manaslu Restricted permit.
Manaslu Conservation Permit.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
Transportation: Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Dharapani to Kathmandu by Jeep/ bus.
Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available) provide by company.
Emergency Helicopter service will be paid by your Travel Insurance.
Use of Sleeping bags, Down Jacket and Duffel bag will be provided (if you needed, to be returned after the trip).
Official expenses.
Short Manaslu Circuit trek route map.
Assistance guide group size 5 +.
What's Excluded in Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Meals in City (lunch and dinner).
Hotel in Kathmandu.
Porter if needed($220)
Your personal expenses.
All kind of soft and hard drinks.
Nepal entry visa and international airfare.
Private transports.
Price & Availability
Group Discount Available
1 Person
US$ 950
2 - 5 Person
US$ 865
6 - 10 Person
US$ 775
Itinerary of Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - 10 days
Day 01
Drive to Machha Khola from Kathmandu
Destination: Machha Khola
Altitude: 930m
Overnight: Machha Khola
The first day of your trek is going to be a drive from the cultural capital Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The drive is about 7 to 8 hours covering a distance of 165 km. On your way to Macha Khola, you will pass many villages and view the beautiful scenery of mountains and hills.
You will Pass the towns of Arughat and Soti Khola are active villages in the lower Gorkha district. They have many shops and stores that people living in villages around the Gorkha and Dhading areas visit to buy local commodities.
It is the beginning part of your trail where you experience unspoiled cultures. As you drive uphill along the Budhi Gandaki River you pass through many villages i.e. Armala, Lapubesi, Khanibesi, etc.
The routes are filled with eye-pleasingly green forests, blue rivers, unique landscapes, rich flora, fauna, etc. You will witness the changes in the landscape as you climb higher in altitude.
As you drive through suspension bridges, forests, and pasture land you reach Machha Khola.
Today you will stay at Machha Khola and call it a night.
Max. Elevation:930
Duration:7-8 hrs
Distance:165km
Day 02
Machha Khola to Jagat
Destination: Jagat
Overnight: Tea House
The first day of your trek, you will be traveling from Machha Khola to Jagat covering a distance of 22.2 km. It takes about 7to 8 hours to reach there as you will be passing Gurung villages along the way. This path is exotic and has remained isolated and unspoiled so far.
The walk is going to be adventurous as you will be passing through rugged terrains viewing the magnificent mountains and exploring the culture. You will be walking through the uphills and downhills path.
About an hour’s walk, you reach khorla besi village and then arrive at Tatopani known for its natural hot springs. From there you walk through the suspension bridge built above the flowing Budhi Gandaki River.
As you arrive in Doban you take a sharp decline towards the Budhi Gandaki banks reaching Jagat.
Jagat is situated at an elevation of 1410 m where you will be spending your night.
Max. Elevation:1410
Duration:7-8 hrs
Distance:22.2 km
Day 03
Trek towards Deng
Destination: Deng
Overnight: Tea House
On the third day, you travel from Jagat to Deng covering a distance of 19.9 km. It takes about 7 to 8 hours to reach the destination.
You will be trekking through the river banks and hills experiencing the different natural beauties. It is very populated by thick forests filled with oak, birch, and pine trees.
Today also you will be crossing several suspension bridges while crossing over Budhi Gandaki and several small rivers. On your way, you will enter Philim, one of the Gurung villages in the Manaslu region. They have a large number of small monasteries, mani walls, and flags.
The trek will be somewhat different as you will be able to see different species of flora and fauna. The village of Deng is situated 1800 m above sea level and is one of the best places for viewing the mountains.
You will rest here tonight.
Max. Elevation:1860
Duration:7-8 hrs
Distance:19.9km
Day 04
Trek towards Namrung
Destination: Namrung
Overnight: Tea House
You will be walking from Deng to Namrung covering a distance of 19.5 km. It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Namrung from Deng.
Along the way, you get to see many Buddhist mani walls, monasteries, and flags. Numerous worshippers of Buddha live in this part of the Manaslu region.
You will notice the beauty this region has to show as you trail in these paths. You will stay the night in Namrung which is situated at an altitude of 2660 m.
Max. Elevation:2660
Duration:5-6 hrs
Distance:19.5 km
Day 05
Namrung to Samagaon
Destination: Samagaon
Overnight: Tea house
On your fifth day, you will be heading towards Samagaon covering the distance of 18.6 m. You will walk past the alpine forest and be able to sight Mount Manaslu.
After walking for about 6 hours you reach Samagaon where you will call it night and rest there.
Max. Elevation:3530
Duration:7-8 hrs
Distance:18.6 km
Day 06
Rest Day
Rest and Acclimatization Day
Today is your acclimatization day, you will be resting and helping your body adjust to the climate at a higher altitude. Acclimatization is done to prevent your body from altitude sickness.
As it’s your rest day, you can explore the Buddhist village of Samagaon. And learn the lifestyle and culture of the people living in that area.
You can also hike up to Manaslu base camp or visit the Pungyen Monastery. Pungyen monastery is situated in the south of Samagaon which takes two and a half hours to reach.
It is a Buddhist temple surrounded by many high mountains. You get a view of Majestic Manaslu and other mountains. You can also see the yak and thars grazing in the pasture land.
When you reach the monastery you also get a striking view of glaciers. The glacier melts into Birendra tal one of the turquoise glacier lakes.
Whereas Manaslu Base Campis situated on the north side of Samagaon. If you want to prepare yourself for Larke La Pass it is suggested that you should visit the base camp.
You have to climb the steady trails so walk slowly and keep your body hydrated.
After spending your day exploring the village you return and call it a night.
Max. Elevation:3530
Day 07
Samagaon to Dharmasala(Larke Phedi)
Destination: Dharmasala
Overnight: Tea House
Today you will wake up early to view the beautiful sunrise and head toward Dharmasala. You will be walking for about 3 to 4 hours.
You will be crossing the field and climbing towards the valley. On the way, yaks can be seen grazing in the pasture lands. While walking the paths you will enter forests filled with juniper and birch.
Also, the dazzling view of the Landscape from the Tibetan border will astound you. You will be passing through Larke Bazaar a Tibetan Seasonal Market.
Nature will astound you with its beauty as you observe mother nature in Dharamshala.
Walking these trails, you get to sight hanging glaciers, mani walls, monasteries, etc. And you will also view the Larke glacier as you cross the streams.
Gradually ascending after trekking around Salka Khola a valley before you reach Dharmasala.
Dharmashala was once a trading spot but it is now used as a resting stop for trekkers. Trekkers spent the night here to regain energy after a long walk.
Max. Elevation:4460
Duration:3-4 hrs
Distance:6.1 km
Day 08
Dharmasala(Larke Phedi) to Bimthang
Destination: Bimthang
Overnight: Tea House
On your eight day, you will trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang covering a distance of 24.7 km. You will be walking for about 8 to 9 hours today.
Your trek begins from Dharmasala crossing Larke La pass and reaching Bimthang. The paths between them surround the unstained natural beauty that has remained isolated so far.
This area is owned by Tamang and Gurung people who have their own extraordinary culture and tradition. The culture they have is similar to Tibetans which you will get to experience.
Larke La pass requires a special restricted area permit to trek in this area. It is the highest point you have to reach on the trek. From the Larke La Pass, you can view the high Himalayan scenario.
Walking through these trails you sight different mountains like Manaslu, Annapurna, Himlung, etc. The exotic landscape, beautiful valley, flora, and fauna make your journey an unforgettable one.
From the majestic pass, you start heading towards Bimtang situated at an altitude of 3590 m. After a long walk, you will stay your night here.
Max. Elevation:3590
Duration:8-9 hrs
Distance:24.7 km
Day 09
Bimthang to Dharapani
Destination: Dharapani
Overnight: Tea house
Today is the second last day of your trek and the last day in the Manaslu region. You will be traveling from Bimthang to Dharapani. You will be covering a distance of 19 km traveling for about 8 to 9 hours.
You will begin your journey by crossing the Bimthang Glaciers in the south. Then you will climb uphill entering a beautiful forest filled with colorful rhododendron between huge pine trees with a marvelous view of Manaslu at the back.
As you descend and walk along the banks of Dudh Khola and cross it using the wooden bridge you will enter a village named Goa. The valley begins to get agricultural as you pass through fields.
Again, you reach another village Tilje and pass under a stone arch crossing the Dudh Khola and descending to Marsyangdi village in the north. You will then climb up and walk the suspension bridge over the Marsyandi River to join the Annapurna trail.
Reaching the trails, you turn left to reach Dharapani situated at an altitude of 1963 m, and spend the night there.
Max. Elevation:1963
Duration:8-9 hrs
Distance:19 km
Day 10
Back to Kathmandu from Dharapani by jeep or bus
Final day and return back to Kathmandu
Today you will be returning back to Kathmandu covering a distance of 118 km. The drive will be about 9 to 10 hours this day.
From Dharapani you can choose either jeep or bus as your transportation to return back. The drive will be via Besi Sahar giving you the opportunity to enjoy the Landscapes as you drive through the banks of the Marsyandi and Trishuli rivers.
Hope you enjoyed your trek and had several memorable moments.
Max. Elevation:1400
Duration:9-10 hrs
Distance:118km
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we can create personalized travel arrangements.
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