Luxury Manaslu Circuit Trek

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to one of the best hotels in Kathmandu. After check-in, there is time to rest from the flight. In the late afternoon or evening, a detailed trek briefing takes place covering route conditions, permits, altitude planning, and weather expectations. Final gear check is done to ensure everything is ready for the Manaslu region. Any last-minute rental items can be arranged in Thamel. Overnight in a premium hotel with breakfast included.

Early breakfast at the hotel before departure by private jeep. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River and then turns toward the Budhi Gandaki valley. The road becomes narrower and more rugged after Arughat and Soti Khola. The scenery changes from busy towns to terraced hillsides and river gorges.

The final section of the road is off-road and can be dusty or muddy depending on the season. Machha Khola is a small riverside settlement and the starting point of the trek. Overnight in a comfortable tea house.

The first walking day follows the Budhi Gandaki River with gradual ascents and descents. The trail crosses several suspension bridges and passes through small settlements such as Khorlabesi and Tatopani. Natural hot springs are located near Tatopani, though access depends on current trail conditions.

The route includes some stone stair sections and narrow paths carved into the hillside. Jagat is a traditional Gurung village and the official entry point to the Manaslu restricted area, where permits are checked. Overnight in a well-selected tea house with private room arrangement where available.

The trail gradually climbs above the river and passes through Salleri and Sirdibas villages. Stone-paved paths, mani walls, and chortens begin to appear more frequently, showing stronger Tibetan cultural influence.

After crossing several suspension bridges and walking through forest sections, the valley becomes narrower. The trail continues through Philim, a larger Gurung settlement, and then enters more remote terrain before reaching Deng. Deng has limited infrastructure compared to lower villages. Overnight stay in the best available tea house.

This section marks a noticeable cultural and landscape transition. The trail moves through pine forests and along quieter river sections. Villages such as Rana and Bihi reflect stronger Tibetan architectural style, with prayer flags, mani stones, and traditional stone houses.

Gradual altitude gain continues throughout the day. Before reaching Namrung, the valley opens slightly and mountain views begin to appear on clear days. Namrung is a well-established village with improved lodge standards compared to lower sections. It is an important acclimatization point before moving toward the higher Manaslu valley.

The trail climbs steadily through Banjam and Lho villages. After Lho, clear views of Manaslu (8,163m) appear on good weather days, especially from the monastery viewpoint above the village. The route continues through forested sections and open terrain before reaching Shyala.

Shyala sits in a wide valley surrounded by Himalayan peaks including Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu. The altitude gain is significant but manageable with a steady pace. Shyala offers better lodge comfort compared to many higher villages.

The route from Shyala to Samagaun is gradual and comfortable, making it suitable for steady altitude gain. The trail moves through open alpine landscape with wide valley views and grazing yak pastures along the way.

Samagaun is one of the main villages in the upper Manaslu valley, known for its Tibetan-influenced culture, stone-built houses, and close mountain surroundings. Walking pace remains controlled due to the elevation.

It is also possible to reach Samagaun via Pungyen Gompa, which is a beautiful alternative route. This monastery sits beneath the Manaslu Glacier and offers impressive glacier and mountain views. Taking this route adds extra walking time but provides a more scenic and rewarding approach to the village.

A full acclimatization day is scheduled to allow proper adjustment before moving higher. Short hikes are recommended to gain altitude gradually and return to sleep lower.

Popular options include Birendra Lake (a short walk from the village) or a longer hike toward Manaslu Base Camp for those feeling strong and well-acclimatized. The base camp route involves a steeper climb and takes more time, but offers impressive glacier views.

The rest of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for higher elevation trekking.

The trail gradually ascends along the Budhi Gandaki River. The terrain becomes more open and dry as the tree line fades. Yak caravans are common along this section.

Samdo is a small settlement close to the Tibetan border and serves as an important trading village. The altitude gain is moderate, and the shorter distance helps reduce fatigue before the pass approach. Afternoon rest is important at this elevation. Overnight in the best available tea house.

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala shorter but important preparation day before crossing Larkya La Pass. The trail climbs gradually across glacial moraine terrain and exposed high-altitude landscape.

Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, is a basic settlement primarily used by trekkers preparing for the pass crossing. Lodge facilities here are limited compared to lower villages due to the extreme altitude and remoteness.

Early dinner and proper rest are essential in preparation for the longest and most demanding day of the trek.

Today is the most challenging day of the trek. You’ll start very early to cross the majestic Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. From the pass, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Manaslu massif, Himalchuli, and surrounding peaks. The descent to Bimthang is long and gradual, passing alpine meadows, small streams, and traditional Tibetan-style villages.

Luxury Experience: In Bimthang, enjoy your stay in comfortable lodges or tea houses with upgraded rooms, hot showers, and high-quality meals. Your guides and porters will assist with your luggage, ensuring a stress-free experience after this demanding day.

The trek continues downhill through forests of rhododendron and pine, crossing small villages and rivers along the way. You will pass local farms and interact with ethnic Gurung and Manangi communities, experiencing authentic village life. The terrain is easier compared to yesterday, giving your body time to recover from the high-altitude crossing.

Luxury Touch: Enjoy spacious rooms and hot meals in Tilije

After breakfast, you’ll drive down from the mountains to the lowlands. For Kathmandu, the journey is approximately 210 km and takes 9–10 hours; to Pokhara, it’s 180 km and takes around 7–8 hours. The route winds through beautiful valleys, terraced fields, and rivers, giving a final glimpse of rural Nepal.

• Luxury Experience: Private vehicle with experienced driver, bottled water, snacks, and stops for photography or refreshment. You can relax in comfort after the trek’s physical demands.

Take this day to rest, shop, or explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu at your own pace. Optional activities include a spa session, guided city tour, or a visit to Pashupatinath or Boudhanath. No trekking today, allowing your body to fully recover.

• Luxury Touch: Private guide available for city tours and personal arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience.