DURATION
16 Days
MINIMUM AGE
17
DIFFICULTY
Challenging
ACCOMODATION
Local tea houses
GROUP
7-12 people
SEASON
Fall
The Manaslu Circuit is considered to be among the most challenging treks in Nepal, rewarding the adventurous with an unparalleled alpine experience. This area offers a combination of rich cultural heritage, unsurpassed beauty and biological diversity. We will ascend the river valleys surrounded by endless waterfalls, emerald lakes & alpine forests made of ferns, bamboo & pine trees. A region where yaks outnumber people in the vast rocky landscape. We will hike just 15km away from the Tibetan border, in a land where myths are alive & the sacred monasteries share a place along with the stunning views of the Tibetan plateau.
snow-capped peaks & verdant valleys
On this 16 day-trek, we’ll experience some of the most remote & uncharted trails in Nepal. We’ll climb to an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet) through the Larkya La Pass, one of the longest mountain passes in the Himalayas.
By the end of the trail, you’ll discover why so many consider this trek a life-changing experience.
Where crystal-clear streams weave their way through ancient villages & dense alpine forests.
A thrilling oddisey
Join a spirited group of 7-12 adventure seekers as we venture into a realm where mist-shrouded peaks, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs set the stage for an unforgettable journey. Brace yourself for an expedition that will test our mettle, as we conquer challenging trails, navigate treacherous terrain, and ascend to dizzying heights.
Throughout our journey, we forge deep connections with fellow adventurers, sharing stories, laughter, and the bond of conquering nature’s obstacles together. We become a tight-knit community, encouraging one another and celebrating each small victory, knowing that our collective spirit is stronger than the summits we face.
From the moment we set foot on this remarkable trail until the very end, we were captivated by the wild beauty of the region. Our guides were true gems, Monica & Albert effortlessly navigated the intricacies of the trail, while also being an invaluable source of information about the local culture, history, and natural wonders. Their passion for the Manaslu region was infectious, they turned our journey into a trip of a lifetime!
The Manaslu Circuit itself is a hidden gem, offering an authentic trekking experience away from the crowds. One of the highlights for me was that we were the only foreigners in every village!! Where else can you find this? The sense of achievement as we reached the pass was overwhelming, and the memories forged during this journey will forever hold a special place in my heart.
A unique and rewarding hiking experience that will leave you inspired, humbled, and forever in awe of the beauty that lies within the Manaslu region.
THE CHARM OF LOCAL TEAHOUSES
Overnighting in local teahouses in Nepal amplifies the adventure, immersing you in the heart of the Himalayas. It’s an extraordinary experience that connects you with the local culture, offers a glimpse into the lives of the mountain communities, and fosters a sense of camaraderie with fellow trekkers.
Gather around the communal dining rooms, where stories are exchanged, laughter fills the air, and friendships are forged.
While the comforts may be basic, the experience is anything but ordinary. The absence of modern luxuries is more than compensated by the awe-inspiring beauty that envelopes you and the genuine connections you form along the way. Each night spent in these teahouses becomes a cherished memory, etching a deeper appreciation for the breathtaking landscapes and the resilient spirit of the Himalayan people in your heart.
Itinerary
Your guides will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport with transportation to your accommodation. You’ll have some time to rest at your hotel before we head out for a welcome dinner at a Nepalese restaurant in the heart of the city. Here you’ll get to know your guides and fellow travelers while we have a detailed discussion of the plan ahead.
We’ll spend our first day visiting the many heritage sites of Kathmandu—the Hindu pilgrimage temple of Pashupatinath, the Boudhanath Stupa and the ‘Monkey Temple’ to name a few. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Nepalese culture and traditions before we embark on the renowned sacred pilgrimage of the Manaslu Circuit.
At some point, we’ll double check your hiking equipment and mountain gear in case you need to purchase any extra supplies for the trip.
We’ll set out in the early morning in a passenger van for a 5hr drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. We’ll then transfer to a 4×4 jeep that will take us to Machha Khola, at the bank of Budhi Gandaki River. We’ll stay overnight in our first local teahouse lodge for the journey.
After day 3, we’ll continue our journey along the Budhi Gandaki river, we will cross the Tatopani hot springs, near Budhi Gandaki. The trail is quite exposed and challenging in several places. After a short section of forest path & the impressive series of rapids of Budhi Gandaki river, we’ll reach our accommodation.
We’ll make our way through various landscapes and dense sub-tropical forests, as well as small rivers and rustic villages to get to our final destination for these part of the trip. We will gain altitude as we step slowly into alpine territory and we will get spectacular mountain views. Mani-walls and river crossings on our route to Namrung, after which the valley opens out and we will find extensive pastures until we reach the Tibetan village of Sho. We will stay overnight above the village, where we will get our first stunning views of Manaslu North and Manaslu peak.
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In the morning, we will discuss with the locals what is our best option to get to the Gompa depending on the conditions for each season. We will hike through Lho, a large village at 3.150m where there is a lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and mani-walls. Leaving the village, we will follow the right bank of the river, with views of Peak 29 ahead.
We will head straight towards Peak 29, ahead of us, and then we’ll follow the lateral moraine of the Pungen Glacier towards Sama. Breathtaking views of the Manaslu, Northern Manaslu (7145m) and the Naike Peak. Surrounded by mountains in a peaceful forest, we will stay overnight at one tea-house lodge.
Day 9 will be an active-resting day at Samagaon for getting used to the altitude. We will spend our time exploring the local surroundings.
On Day 10 we will cross a high plateau and skirt around the ridge of the lateral moraine. We’ll then climb a terraced hillside to reach one of the most remote permanent settlements in Nepal. Samdo is only a day’s walk from Tibet by the Lajyang La pass (5098m).
Today we’ll cross the tundra, which winds its way to the foot of the immense Larkya glacier that pours out from Manaslu itself. Everywhere you’ll look there will be mighty mountains and snow capped peaks, as spectacular as they get, including the particularly impressive Manaslu. The once large Bhudi Gandaki is now merely a stream as we continue to follow its course ever upwards.
Today we’ll head towards Cho Chnda, in order to reach the ablation valley on the North side of Larkya Glaciers. Finally, we will walk across the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper only in the last section to the pass. From the top, the panorama that we will be able to contemplate is magnificent: Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6981m) and the Annapurna II (7937m).
The welcomed sight of the colorful Tibetan flags encircling the “Congratulations for the Success!” sign at the top of the pass will overwhelm you with a sense of accomplishment.
We will start with a gentle descent through paddy fields towards the small Karcha La pass and descend through fir tree and rhododendron forests to Tillije.
We will hike gently downstream of the river passing the village of Dharapani. Once there, we will catch a local jeep and drive back to Besisahar, finding a lot of hikers on their way to the Annapurna Circuit Trail.
We will get ready for another big transit day, as we’ll drive back to Kathmandu for approx 6 to 7 hours. Reminiscing of the remote mountain villages and purity of their modest life, Kathmandu is a stark contrast with its swarming businesses and buzzing streets.
Beautiful in its own way, we’ll have time to explore the city before setting out for a celebratory dinner for our last night together as a group.
After breakfast on our last day, your guides will coordinate your transfer back to the Tribhuvan International Airport where our journey began. We’ll say our goodbyes and revel in our accomplishments one last time. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the people, the land, and yourself.
What you
should know
Included
- Certified guide from Amarok Adventures.
- Certified Nepali mountain guide.
- All domestic transfers by jeep & van.
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
- 3* hotel with bed & breakfast (2 nights) in twin rooms.
- Teahouse basic accommodation during the hiking days.
- All meals included during the hiking days.
- Unlimited tea & coffee during the hiking days.
- All the hiking permits & government taxes.
- Restricted area permit.
- Agency support 24/7.
Not included
- International flights.
- Lunches & dinners in Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Sleeping bag & personal hiking gear.
- Porter service (not available).
- Alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, or laundry services.
- Trip insurance with helicopter rescue coverage (mandatory).
- Everything not specified in “Included”.
FAQ
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