Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - 13 Days

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Trip Video
  • Duration:13 Days
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Trip Grade: Moderate to Challenging
  • Max. Altitude: 5106 M.
  • Starts at: Kathmandu
  • Ends at: Kathmandu
  • Best Time: March-May, and September-November
Highlights
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhe Khola
  • Views of the world's highest peaks- including Manaslu mountain (8,156m), LamjungHimal, Mt.Annapurna II, etc.
  • Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River Gorge
  • The highest point on the trek - Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,751ft)
  • Rich biodiversity and beautiful natural scenery
  •  Flora and fauna
  • Insight into Hindu and Buddhist Culture
  • Possibility of Spotting Wild Endangered Species

What to Know Before You Go Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

  • Location: Mount Manaslu Located in the central-western part of Nepal. Which belongs to the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP).
  • Trip Duration: 13 Days
  • Max Elevation: 5,106 m / 16,747 ft (Larkya-La Pass)
  • Trip grade: Moderate-challenging
  • Accommodations: Basic trekking teahouses and lodges
  • Meals: Nepali Dish (Dal Bhat), soups, noodles, porridge, spaghetti, macaroni, and Fried Potato, Pizza, etc., but the meals are tasty.
  • Hiking Distance: 177 km
  • Manaslu Trek Start point: Our Short Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Machhe Khola and ends at Dharapani. Kathmandu to Machhe Khola drive 7-8 hours, cozy bus ride. Similarly, the Dharapani to Besishar drive takes 4 hours, and the Kathmandu 5 hours.
  • Manaslu Trekking Permits: Manaslu restricted area permit, Manaslu Conservation Area, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
  • Guide and Porters: The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so you have to hire a trekking guide. Porters are optional; if you hike freely, you can hike porter. Why hire guides and porters from Ace Vision Treks? The Team of Ace Vision was born, grew up, and studied in the Manaslu region, so they know the terrain and culture.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek takes place in the once-restricted area of the Manaslu region. The Manaslu circuit in Nepal revolves around the Manaslu Mountain, which locals consider a holy deity. Why Manaslu Circuit Trekking? Giant soaring mountains, diverse wildlife, and the amicable hospitality of the locals, Manaslu has so much to offer.

It is a classic trek and is considered the best of its kind by experts. There are many mysteries that the Manaslu region quietly covers in its shadows. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less touristy and remote area of Himalayan Nepal. We highly recommend traveling and trekking in the Manaslu region.

Our 13-day Manaslu circuit trek begins as you arrive in Kathmandu, and explore Thamel yourself. The next day, we drive to a village named Machhe Khola in Gorkha district. Local Bus or Private Vehicle takes us there through the beautiful Prithivi highway with a dazzling view of rivers, landscapes, forests, and many picturesque villages.

Along the drive,  you cross Sotikhola and Lapubesi, and you find yourself in the vicinity of Maccha Khola.

Rest for a while in Tatopani, and after some heavy climbing, you reach Jagat. With extreme isolation and the influence of Tibetan Buddhism, you proceed toward Deng. Move past Mani walls and prayer flags to reach the quaint settlement of Namrung.

Breathe in Tibetan culture and admire the tranquil scene of the Himalayan Mountains like Manaslu and Ganesh Himal, to reach the stopping point of Samagaon. The Manaslu trek trail takes a steep turn to Manaslu base camp, which is simply magical. Observe the Himalayan panorama and find yourself hiking to Samdo.

As you hike on the banks of the Budi Gandaki River, you reach a stone cottage called Dharmashala. Rest here for a day and finally head out to conquer the Manaslu Larkya-La Pass. Descending path now takes us to Dharapani via Dudh Khola River. The road leads us to Shyange, and from there, we take a bus that leads us to Kathmandu, where this trip will end.

What Makes the Short Manaslu Trek Special?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trek that offers an authentic experience in remote regions of the Himalayas.  Key highlights of this trek are:

  • The trek takes you through the beautiful Manaslu region. You witness the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, including the eighth-highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m).
  • Unlike the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded. Manaslu Trek allows travelers to experience the off-the-beaten-path in the Nepalese Himalayas.
  • Manaslu Circuit includes a high pass, including Larkya La Pass (5,106m). Larkya La Pass is one of the most challenging passes in the Himalayas.
  • The Manaslu region has diverse wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, blue sheep, and Himalayan Thar.
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek provides an authentic trekking experience. You explore ancient monasteries and observe traditional culture.

What are the Booking Benefits for Manaslu Circuit Trek with Ace Vision Treks?

Ace Vision Treks is a reliable tour trekking agency based in Kathmandu. We specialize in organizing adventure trips in the Himalayas. With our long history of service, we take pride in offering the Manaslu Circuit Trek as one of our top packages. When you choose to trek with us, here are the benefits you get with Ace Vision Treks. We have different Travel packages for your vacation!  Are you planning 2 weeks to Manaslu Circuit Trek? So, visit our Manaslu Circuit Trek package to complete the Himalayan trekking experience.

Booking Benefits

  • Local Travel Expertise
  • Trip Success Rate
  • Easy Online Booking System
  • Zero Hidden Costs
  • Trip Flexibility
  • Customer support
  • Our Hospitality
  • Guides Preference
  • Tailor-made trip package
  • Providing Care
  • Private Tours
  • Last-minute Booking: Quick inquiry, [email protected] or [email protected] and +977 9851025312 on what’s app.

Itinerary

On your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative from Ace Vision Treks & Tours will pick you up at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You can rest for the day and enjoy your own time. 

Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 400m
  • Accommodation:Hotel

We drive out early from the Kathmandu Valley following the road alongside the Trishuli River. View of rivers and lush forests with beautiful villages will ease your eyes. The drive is comfortable at first and a little bumpy towards the end of the 8-9 hours journey. We drive to Machhe Khola in Gorkha district, which resides right next to the raging Budi Gandaki River.

Machha Khola is a well-maintained trail that goes through the fine forests with varieties of flora and fauna. The road takes us to Khursane Bari and past two waterfalls that cling to a rocky cliff. As we proceed forward, we take a quick rest in the Gurung village of Lapubesi. The trail meanders through the rice terraces and it later gives way to the Maccha Khola.

Overnight in Machhe Khola.

  • Max. Altitude:930
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

The road to Jagat takes us across the Tharo Khola and stops at Khorlabesi. The elevated trail takes us to Tatopani, where we can relax for a while. You need to climb well-crafted staircases to reach a ridge that overlooks Dovan. Gradually you make your way up Dovan until you arrive at Tharo Bharyang. Finally, cross the western bank of Budi Gandaki to reach the stopping point for today, Jagat. This is a famous resting point for travelers on the road to the Manaslu circuit.

Overnight in Jagat.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 370 m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

Today we trek through the sub-tropical forest of oak, birch, and pine trees which is home to many different species of birds here. This region is ideal for bird watching. We also pass through some villages namely Salleri, Eaklibatti(Chisapani), Nyak, and some others. Suspension bridges every now and then over the beautifully bluish Budigandaki River add to the beauty of the journey. We stay overnight at the village of Deng after 6-8 hours of walk. This small village is home to people that follow Tibetan Buddhism.

Overnight in Deng.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 860 m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

We start walking early after breakfast. The trail is steep initially but gets easy as we go ahead. We cross the Mani walls before reaching the gorgeous village of Ghap. From Ghap we move further ahead following the road through Prok village. Pork is an amazing viewpoint for the Siring Himal. The trail meanders along with the dense forests. Passing the deep intense bamboo forests, we reach Namrung. Take some time to admire the dramatic scenery that engulfs this majestic village.

Overnight in Namrung.

  • Max. Altitude:2, 540 m.
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

The trek on this day is comparatively easy. The distance we cover is 17.7 km. But, the significant gain in altitude makes it a little tough. We pass through villages like Lihi, Sho, and Lho village. Mani walls and prayer wheels add beauty to the trail. The culture here seems to be highly influenced by Tibetan culture. But still remains untouched and uninfluenced by the modern world. We can get unblemished views of mountains like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna along the way. After 5-6 hours of walking, we reach Samagaon for the night stay.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 390 m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

This is the day when we explore some side trips and hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m). Early in the morning, we hike to the base camp. The journey to base camp is extremely satisfying with views unlike anywhere. Majestic Manaslu with its striking shape shines in glory right in the front, this is serene. It normally takes 3 hours to reach the base camp. You might also enjoy the side trips to Birendra Tal: a glacial lake on the base of Manaslu Peak, and Pungyen Gompa (4,060m): a divine religious institution with amazing serenity.

Overnight in the same tea house.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

The walk is pleasant from Sama Gaon to Samdo on this day. We cross suspension bridges pass through birch and rhododendron forests walking up and down the hills alongside the Budi Gandaki River. The view on the way is soul-satisfying. Samdo is known for its striking view of Manaslu. After crossing the Kermo Kharka, we arrive at Samdo. Tibetan culture prevails here and can be seen in the lifestyle of locals.

Overnight in Samdo.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 690 m.
  • Time:2-3 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

Today is an easy day comparatively. Crossing a wooden bridge over the Budi Gandaki River, we start our walk for the day. Mani stones and prayer flags add beauty to the trail. After crossing a few streams, along the trail, we get a stunning view of Larkya Glacier. Further up a little, we reach a stoned guest house named Dharamsala. We walk for 4-5 hours this day which provides us plenty of time to rest and acclimatize.

Overnight in Dharmasala

  • Max. Altitude:4,460 m.
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

On this day, we cross the famous Larke La pass. This is the highest point in our trek taking us up to an altitude of (5106m/ 16,747 ft). From here, the view is out of the world. Mountains surrounding us in all directions, and glacial lakes adding colors to the view are all stupendously beautiful. Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Kangaroo Himal, Manaslu, and many more peaks are all around this giant formation. The trail this day mostly passes through moraines. We trek down crossing the pass walking through grassy moraines.

Overnight in Bimthang.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 590 m.
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

From this day, the trek gets easy gradually. Crossing a wooden bridge over the Dudh Koshi River takes us to Sangure Kharka and we will walk into dense pine and rhododendron forests. Expect to see some Langur on your way through. We walk through the banks of the river. Passing villages like Goa we continue our walk to Tilije. Tilije is a village for brandy produced here locally. Mani stones and Chortens can be seen down the way up to Thorge village after crossing the Dudh Koshi River. We check out from Manaslu Conservation Area and check in to Annapurna Conservation Area. Dharapani is an absolutely picturesque village by the banks of Marsayangdi with waterfalls and beautiful colored guesthouses and houses.

Overnight in Dharapani.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 860 m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

On the day, We are heading to Kathmandu by our private vehicle, passing, Taal, Chamja, Jagat, Syange, and Besishar then Kathmandu. The drive takes around 8-9 Hours.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 400 m.
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast

A representative from Ace Vision Treks & Tours will escort you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. On our way home, we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

    Cost Details
    What is Included
    • Kathmandu Tribhuvan International airport pick-up and drop by private vehicle
    • 2 night deluxe accommodation in Kathmandu, on B.B. Plan
    • Kathmandu - Machhe Khola by public bus
    • Manaslu Conservation Area entry Permits
    • Annapurna Conservation Area entry Permits
    • Manaslu Restricted Area's Permits
    • An experienced English-speaking Himalayan trekking-guide
    •  Accommodations and Meals During trekking
    • Guide food, accommodation, salary & insurance
    • Dharapani - Besishar by public bus
    • Besishar to Pokhara or kathmandu by public bus
    • Souvenir a Company T-shirt/cap
    • Complimentary (-20c) Sleeping Bag and Dawn Jacket (return to Ace Vision Treks Company after completing your trek)
    • Ace Vision treks & Tours Achievement Certificate after the successful Trek (if required)
    • All Governmental procedures and paperwork
    What is not Included
    • Your Travel Insurance
    • Your Nepal visa
    • You will require 2 passport size photos
    • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
    • Personal trekking Equipment
    • Tips for trekking crews
    • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the price include sections
    Add-ons & Options

    We Local travel Company Ace Vision Trek menimize travel packages. Use us our add-on features to add services per your interest and comfertable trekking in Nepal. 

    • Trekking Porter Service USD 240: The Porter carry Travelers heavey backpack. If you want to comfortable trekking! hire porter.
    • Private Jeep Cost USD 200: Local bus are cozy! if you want to stopping along the way per your interest! private jeep is best option for you.

     

    Useful Information

    What are the Required Trekking permits for Manaslu Circuit?

    To trek in Manaslu Circuit, trekkers need to obtain several permits. Here are permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trekking:

    Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

    The Manaslu region is restricted and only open to group trekkers. So, permits are not being issued to individual trekkers. Trekking permit fee for Manaslu region trek varies depending on time of the year.

    Between December to August, cost is USD 50 per person per week. If you plan to stay for more than seven days, additional USD 7 per person per day for each day beyond the first seven days.

    If you plan to trek in Manaslu region between December to August, cost is USD 50 per person per week. For each additional day beyond seven days, charged USD 7 per person per day.

    Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

    The cost of  ACAP is USD 30 per person. Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Trekkers must also obtain the TIMS Card, which costs USD 10 for individual trekkers and USD 20 for group trekkers.

    Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)

    Trekkers need to obtain a local permit from the MCAP, which costs USD 30 per person.

    Trekking in restricted areas is available only through a travel agency, and we can help manage your trip to Manaslu.

    If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

    Ace Vision Treks & Tours (P.) Ltd

    Paknajol Marg 43 Thamel, (Chhetrapati Chowk)
    Kathmandu, Nepal
    Email: [email protected], [email protected]
    Call: +977-9851025312 [Same Number for WhatsApp]

    What are Meal and Accommodation service for Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

    Manaslu Circuit Trekking offers a variety of accommodation options, including tea houses and camping. Here's what you expect in terms of accommodation and meals during our Short Manaslu Circuit Trek:

    Accommodation

    The teahouses available during Manaslu short Trekking are simple guesthouses that typically provide a bed, shared bathroom, and basic meals.  Quality of accommodation are vary based on the location. Local teahouses tend more comfortable in lower regions, such as the villages of "Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, Samdo, and Dharmasala".

    However, as you ascend higher, lodges become more basic. Despite the varying levels of comfort, you can expect a warm bed, hot meals, and friendly hospitality at these tea houses.

    Camping is also an option for those who prefer a more adventurous experience. The camping sites are usually located away from villages. Facilities during camping include high-quality tent, sleeping bags, and camping mats for each trekker. Cost of camping during Manaslu Circuit Trekking is generally higher than staying in tea houses.

    Meals

    Meals during trekking are typically served in teahouses along the route. Food options are limited, but a variety of local dishes are available. Typical local dishes include Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables). Other popular dishes include chapati (flatbread), omelets, fried rice, and noodles.

    In addition to Nepali cuisine, travelers can find Chinese, Indian, and continental dishes. Food options on trail may vary depending on season and availability of ingredients.

    Is Wi-Fi and Cell Phone works in Manaslu region?

    Wi-Fi and phone connectivity are available on the Manaslu Trekking but  limited in some areas.

    Wi-Fi

    Tea Houses: Most tea houses along the trail offer Wi-Fi. However, limited bandwidth and slow.

    Cellular Data: Trekkers can purchase a local SIM card with a data plan. However, connectivity are limited in this areas, and  slow. Nepal Telecom and NCELL are the top mobile providers in Nepal.

    Phone

    Tea Houses: Most tea houses have a landline telephone facility for making local and international calls, but the call rates is expensive.

    Satellite Phone: Trekkers can rent a satellite phone for emergency use. The cost of renting a satellite phone varies. You can rent it in Kathmandu.

    Note: Nepal Telecom SIM (Namaste) covers the Manaslu region. If you communicate with your family, friends, and relatives.  

    When is the Best Time for Short Manaslu Circuit Trekking?

    The Manaslu Trekking best season is September to November and March to May. Here's why:

    September to November (Autumn)

     Weather during autumn is stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. This makes the autumn season ideal for trekking.

    •  Autumn offers clear views of the mountain peaks, making it a popular season among trekkers.
    • The autumn season is time for major festivals in Nepal. Dashain and Tihar are main festivals that are celebrated in autumn.

    March to May (Spring)

    • The spring season also offers stable weather conditions, with moderate temperatures and clear skies.
    •  Spring season is when flora along the trail starts blooming, adding to scenic beauty of trekking.
    • The spring season is  time for Nepali New Year and Buddha Jayanti festival, which provide a unique cultural experience for trekkers.

    Note: Updated free information to Manaslu Trekking weather Tempatature Month-wise

    Manaslu Circuit Larkya-La Pass Trek Altitude-Chart

    Our Short Manaslu Circuit Trek begins at Kathmandu at an altitude of 1400m and goes up to highest point at Larkya-La Pass at 5106m/16,747 ft.

    First day of the trek is spent in Kathmandu at an altitude of 1400m. Second day starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which is at an altitude of 930m. On third day, trekkers ascend to Jagat at 1370m. On day four, ascend to Deng at 1860m, followed by Namrung on day five at 2540m. Day six involves reaching Sama Gaon at 3390m. On day seven, trekkers can hike to Manaslu Base Camp at 4400m or visit Pungyen Gompa. Day eight involves trekking to Samdo at 3690m, and on day nine, trekkers reach Dharamsala at 4460m.

    Day Destination   Altitude (meter and feet)
    1Kathmandu  1,400/4,492
    2Machha Khola 930/3,050
    3Jagat 1,370/4,493
    4Deng 1,860/6,100
    5Namrung2,540/8,331
    6Sama Gaon3,390/11,119
    7 Pungyen Gompa4060/13,316
    8Samdo 3,690/12,103
    9 Dharamsala  4,460/14,628
    10Larkya La Pass5,106/16,747
    11Bimthang  3,560/11,676
    12Dharapani 1,860/6,100
    13Kathmandu1,400/4,592

    The altitude gains between Namrung, and Sama Gaon is significant, which may cause some difficulties for trekkers.  So, trekkers should take adequate precautions. On day seven, trekkers visit Pungyen Gompa to best panoramic snow-capped peaks. Day eight involves trekking to Samdo at 3690m, and on day nine, trekkers reach Dharamsala at 4460m.

    Finally, on day ten, trekkers reach highest point at Larkya-La Pass at an altitude of 5106m. After that, trek descends gradually, with trekkers reaching Dharapani at 1860m on day eleven and Tal at 1680m on day twelve before returning to Kathmandu.

    Ace Vision Treks has been organizing treks to Short Manaslu Circuit Trek and many others for the past long time. Local Reliable Tour Trekking Company's experienced trek guide brief you completely during the treks and ensure you have a pleasant private tour. We offer quality service at a genuine cost.

    Client Reviews

    • Ace Vision Treks & Tours is outstanding

      Ace Vision Treks & Tours is outstanding. The owner, Ganesh, is an amazing person who is filled with positivity, energy, and generosity. This alone will make your experience on any trek with him once in a lifetime (I did the Manaslu Circuit Trek with him, and it was incredible). Beyond that, he has been leading Himalayan treks for 15+ years and is an extremely knowledgeable guide. He is also just a highly trustworthy person and great friend. He cared so much about every detail of the trip and has the unbounding optimism you need to motivate you over 5000m passes :). Cannot recommend him highly enough and will certainly select him as my guide if I return to Nepal and recommend him to my friends/families. I have memories from our trip that I will cherish for a lifetime.

      G
      Gabriella WallkUnited States,May, 2024
      Google
    Tripadvisor5.0Tripadvisor74 reviews
    Price Per PersonUS$798US$1165
    Group Price
    1 pax
    US$1165
    2 - 3 pax
    US$905
    4 - 6 pax
    US$798
    Total PriceUS$1165
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