Nepal · Trekking

15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal with Larkya La and Tibetan Culture

15 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Cross the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,213 m, one of the highest Himalayan passes
02 Explore Tibetan Buddhist villages with prayer wheels, Mani walls, monasteries, and local traditions
03 Take in panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Chap Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II
04 Relax at Tatopani hot springs along the Budhi Gandaki trekking route
05 Discover Kathmandu Valley's sacred landmarks, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square

Embark on an unforgettable 15-day adventure on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and vibrant local cultures await. Experience challenging yet rewarding trails as you pass through charming villages, interact with Tibetan Buddhist communities, and cross the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,213 m. Along the way, enjoy authentic meals, expert guidance, and pristine mountain scenery far from the crowds. This trek offers a remarkable blend of high-altitude adventure, cultural insight, and remote natural beauty in one of Nepal's most stunning regions.

Experience challenging yet rewarding trails as you pass through charming villages, interact with Tibetan Buddhist communities, and cross the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,213 m.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 15 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Hard

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Kathmandu, Manaslu, Patan, Besisahar, Salleri, Tatopani, Dharapani

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Pre-Trek Briefing

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and meet our representative.
Transfer to your pre-booked hotel in Kathmandu.
Attend a pre-trip briefing and meet your trekking guide.
Enjoy an optional short walk to nearby cultural sites or the Thamel area.

Day 02

Kathmandu Valley Heritage Sightseeing

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Kathmandu Valley in a private vehicle.
Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple.
Explore Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal's most important Hindu pilgrimage sites.
See Boudhanath Stupa and experience Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Visit Patan Durbar Square and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Day 03

Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola

Have an early breakfast and depart for Machhakhola.
Enjoy a scenic 7-8 hour drive through rural villages and terraced fields.
Take in views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Shingri Himal.

Overnight stay in the riverside settlement of Machhakhola.

Day 04

Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat

Trek for 6-7 hours along the Budhi Gandaki River.
Pass through Tharo Khola and Khorlabesi villages.
Visit Tatopani hot springs for rest and relaxation.
Ascend through Dobhan forests and ridges to reach Jagat.

Day 05

Trek from Jagat to Deng

Trek through lush sub-tropical forests, waterfalls, and terraced hills.
Pass Salleri, Sirdibas, and Philim village, known for its Gurung culture.
Cross suspension bridges and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.
Arrive at Deng for an overnight stay.

Day 06

Trek from Deng to Namrung

Ascend gradually into the Tibetan-influenced region.
Walk through forests, Buddhist shrines, prayer wheels, and Mani walls.
Pass picturesque villages such as Pork.
Arrive in Namrung village for an overnight stay.

Day 07

Trek from Namrung to Lho

Enjoy early morning views of Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Buddha Himal.
Trek through pine and rhododendron forests, monasteries, and barley fields.
Witness your first close views of Mount Manaslu.

Overnight stay in Lho village.

Day 08

Trek from Lho to Samagaun

Follow a trail through alpine meadows, Mani walls, and prayer flags.
Visit Ribung Monastery and Shyala Village.
Explore panoramic views of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.
Optional side trips include Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, or Birendra Tal.

Day 09

Acclimatization Day in Samagaun

Rest and acclimatize for the high-altitude trekking ahead.
Enjoy optional short hikes for views, photography, or local village exploration.

Day 10

Trek from Samagaun to Samdo

Trek through scenic valleys with Tibetan Buddhist villages.
Witness yak herding, sheep farming, and barley fields.
Explore remote culture and local village life.

Day 11

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala Base Camp

Cross wooden bridges and approach the Larkya Glacier.
Ascend steadily through high-altitude alpine terrain.

Overnight stay at Dharmasala base camp, preparing for the Larkya La Pass crossing.

Day 12

Cross Larkya La Pass and Descend to Bhimtang

Cross one of the highest Himalayan passes.
Enjoy panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Chap Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Descend to Bhimtang through alpine meadows and forests.

Day 13

Trek from Bhimtang via Tilje to Dharapani

Trek downhill through rhododendron forests and narrow valleys.
Pass the villages of Gho and Tilje.
Reach Dharapani for an overnight stay.

Day 14

Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar and Kathmandu

Take a scenic jeep drive to Besisahar.
Continue by private vehicle transfer to Kathmandu.
Enjoy a farewell dinner with cultural performances.

Day 15

Departure from Kathmandu

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or souvenir shopping in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Where this trip takes you

Larkya La Pass, Mount Manaslu, Tatopani hot springs

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 7 cities · 15 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All airport-hotel transfers by private vehicle
3 nights' 3-star hotel stay in Kathmandu
Guided sightseeing tour with a tour guide and private vehicle
Kathmandu to Machhakhola by private jeep
Dharapani to Besisahar by public sharing jeep
All accommodation during the trek
All meals (breakfast, tea break, lunch, and dinner) with seasonal fruits during the trek
All necessary paperwork and permits (TIMS and Manaslu & Annapurna Conservation Area permits)
All government and local taxes
Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
Assistant trekking guide (1 assistant guide for every 5 trekkers)
Support staff/Sherpa porters (1 staff member for every 2 trekkers), including salary, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Personalized virtual consultation before finalizing the Manaslu Circuit Trek booking
Online pre-trip briefing after booking confirmation
Free excess luggage storage at the office store
Duffle bag
T-shirt
Trekking map
Trekking poles (to be returned after trip completion)
Self-sufficient medical first aid kit with essential medications
Oximeter to monitor pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily (for AMS symptoms)
Hand sanitizer

What's Not Included

Nepal visa fee (lowest fee for a 15-day visa: $30 per person)
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Accommodation in Kathmandu if there is an early return from the mountain
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, personal drinks, battery charges, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, Wi-Fi or internet, etc.)
Meals in Kathmandu
Tips for guides and porters

What to bring

Sun hat or scarf
Warm fleece hat
Sunglasses
Under garments
Hiking shorts
Lightweight cotton long pants
Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
Waterproof pants
Thin, lightweight inner socks
Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Hiking boots with spare laces
Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
T-shirts
Fleece jacket or pullover
Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
Waterproof (breathable) shell jacket
Down jacket (# provided)
Lightweight gloves
Heavyweight gloves
Sleeping bag (# provided)
Headlamp
Duffle bag (# provided)
Daypack (approx. 2500-3000 cubic inches)
Trekking poles (# provided)
Water bottles
Medium-sized quick-drying towel
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Multipurpose soap
Deodorants
Nail clippers
Face and body moisturizer
Female hygiene products
Wet wipes (baby wipes)
Tissue / toilet roll
Anti-bacterial hand wash
Reading book
Trail map / guidebook
Journal and pen
iPod
Pencils and small notebooks
Travelling games (Uno, playing cards, dice, etc.)

Know before you go

Moderate to strenuous trek with steep ascents and descents, long trekking days, and a high-altitude pass at Larke La (5,213 m).
Trail can be rugged, rocky, and slippery near the pass.
Requires good cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and stamina.
Daily trekking: 4-8 hours.
Cold temperatures at higher elevations; consult a doctor if you have heart or respiratory conditions.
Regular aerobic exercises such as jogging, cycling, swimming, or hiking are recommended 8-12 weeks prior.
Strength training for legs, core, and back muscles.
Practice hiking with a loaded backpack on varied terrain.
Learn acclimatization techniques and mental preparation for high altitude.
Proper gear: layered clothing, waterproof trekking boots, sub-zero sleeping bag, trekking poles, and sun protection.
Trek up to 5,213 m at Larke La Pass.
Altitude sickness risk exists for anyone regardless of fitness.
Acclimatization days are included, such as the rest day at Sama Gaun.
Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
Preventive measures: stay hydrated, maintain a slow pace, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Carrying medication like Acetazolamide (Diamox) is recommended after consulting a doctor.
Limited medical facilities; basic first aid posts are available.
Serious emergencies may require helicopter evacuation, which can be costly.
Guides and support team are trained in emergency procedures and basic care.
Carry a personal first aid kit.
Discuss emergency evacuation plans with your trekking agency.
Ensure travel insurance covers helicopter rescue.
Travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude trekking, up to at least 6,000 m.
Insurance should cover emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation.
Confirm coverage for high-altitude trekking and helicopter rescue.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) may be required depending on the route.
Trekking is only allowed in groups with a registered guide.
The region is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities, including Gurung, Sherpa, and Tibetan refugees.
Villages feature prayer flags, Mani walls, stupas, and monasteries.
Respect local customs, religious sites, and dress codes.
Take photographs respectfully, especially of monks and ceremonies.
Engage with locals for authentic cultural experiences.
A Nepal tourist visa is required and can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport or in advance.
Visa durations are 15, 30, or 90 days; fees vary by nationality.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Carry multiple passport-sized photos and photocopies of your passport and visa.
Most travellers arrive via Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Domestic flights to Arughat or Pokhara may be used depending on the itinerary.
Road travel involves long, bumpy mountain roads; public jeeps or private vehicles are used.
Expect delays due to weather or road conditions.
Wi-Fi and 3G/4G are available in Kathmandu and larger towns.
Internet is limited or unavailable in remote villages and at higher elevations.
Cellular coverage varies by provider and altitude.
An Ncell or Nepal Telecom SIM is recommended; an unlocked phone is needed.
Satellite phones can be rented for remote areas.
The official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
Most trekking areas are cash-only, and ATMs are limited.
Carry sufficient cash before starting the trek.
Currency exchange is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Credit cards are rarely accepted in remote areas.
Tips for guides and porters are customary; carry small denominations.