Nepal · Trekking

14-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal with Larkya La Pass

14 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 One of Nepal's finest off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures, far less crowded than classic routes
  • 02 Follow the dramatic Budhi Gandaki River Gorge from Machha Khola into the Manaslu region
  • 03 Experience the Nuri people's Tibetan-influenced culture and traditional mountain lifestyle
  • 04 Visit ancient monasteries, Tibetan villages, and remote settlements near the Tibetan border
  • 05 Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Ganesh, and surrounding Himalayan peaks
  • 06 Cross the challenging yet rewarding Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) with panoramic Himalayan vistas
  • 07 Walk through lush green hills, terraced farmland, and pine and oak forests in the lower sections
  • 08 Relax in teahouses and homestays while passing waterfalls, lakes, and natural bathing pools

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path adventures, combining pristine Himalayan scenery, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and remarkable biodiversity. This physically demanding trek follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley through suspension bridges, roaring rivers, waterfalls, traditional villages, and high alpine terrain before crossing the snow-clad Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m. Along the way, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Gyaji Kang, and Annapurna II, while experiencing a fascinating mix of Hindu villages and Tibetan Buddhist settlements. With basic teahouse accommodation and expert local guidance, this 14-day itinerary offers a safe and unforgettable Himalayan journey far from Nepal's busier trekking routes.

Along the way, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Gyaji Kang, and Annapurna II, while experiencing a fascinating mix of Hindu villages and Tibetan Buddhist settlements.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 14 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Budget
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Manaslu, Besisahar
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Manaslu Trek Preparation

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Marvel Treks will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You may relax after your journey or visit the office to receive detailed information about the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

Day 2: Permit Preparation & Trek Briefing

After breakfast, your trek leader will meet you at the hotel for a comprehensive trek briefing. This session covers the Manaslu Circuit route, safety guidelines, altitude awareness, and logistics. Please bring your passport, three passport-size photos, and a copy of your travel insurance. The remainder of the day is free for rest or last-minute shopping.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (890 m / 2,920 ft)

Today begins your journey toward the Manaslu region. You will travel by public bus via Arughat and Soti Khola to Machha Khola. The drive transitions from smooth highways to rugged mountain roads, offering spectacular views of Nepal's countryside, rivers, and terraced hills.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 9-10 hours
Distance: 150 km

Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft)

The trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through Khorlabesi and Tatopani (natural hot springs). You cross several suspension bridges and walk through narrow gorges before entering the Manaslu Conservation Area at Jagat, where permits are registered.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 22 km

Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860 m / 6,102 ft)

The trail ascends over stone paths with distant views of Sringi Himal. You pass through Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim (a Gurung village), and Ekle Bhatti. After crossing the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times, the trail leads through bamboo forests to Deng village.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 20 km

Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8,629 ft)

From Deng, the trail climbs steadily through forests, mani walls, and traditional villages such as Ghap and Prok. Views of Sringi Himal become more dramatic as you cross landslide areas and river valleys before reaching Namrung.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 19 km

Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180 m / 10,433 ft)

You trek through forests and barley fields with views of Saula Himal, Pangkar Himal, Kutang Himal, and the first clear sight of Mount Manaslu. Passing through Lihi and Sho villages, you reach Lho, home to an impressive monastery and stunning glacier views.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: 11 km

Day 8: Trek from Lho to Samagaon (3,520 m / 11,549 ft)

A scenic and relatively short trek through Shyala village offers close-up views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and surrounding peaks. After lunch in Samagaon, you may explore Birendra Lake or Pungyen Monastery.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7 km

Day 9: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon

A full day for acclimatization and exploration. Optional hikes include:

  • Birendra Lake (3,450 m)
  • Pungyen Monastery
  • Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m)

These hikes help your body adjust to altitude while offering unforgettable scenery.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,860 m / 12,664 ft)

The trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain along the Budhi Gandaki River. Passing Kermo Kharka and mani walls, you reach Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village near the Nepal-Tibet border with views of glaciers and Himalayan peaks.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 9 km

Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Larkya Phedi (Dharamshala) (4,480 m / 14,698 ft)

A shorter trekking day allows further acclimatization. The route crosses streams and glacial terrain with excellent views of Larkya, Syacha, and Manaslu Glaciers. Dharamshala serves as the base camp for crossing Larkya La Pass.

Accommodation: Dormitory Room
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 8 km

Day 12: Trek from Larkya Phedi to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft)

The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You start early to cross Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, followed by a long descent to Bimthang.

Accommodation: Tea House / Dormitory
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hours
Distance: 24.7 km

Day 13: Trek from Bimthang to Tiliche (2,560 m / 8,399 ft)

A scenic descent through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and river valleys. Views include Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Himlung Himal as you pass Yak Kharka, Gho village, and finally reach Tiliche.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 5-6 hours
Distance: 26 km

Day 14: Drive from Tiliche to Kathmandu or Pokhara

You will take a shared jeep from Tiliche to Besisahar, then continue by public bus to Kathmandu or Pokhara. In the evening, celebrate the successful completion of the trek with a farewell dinner.

Meals: Not Included
Duration: 9-10 hours
Distance: 220 km

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
4 cities · 14 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport Transfers

  • Private airport pickup and hotel transfer on arrival

Transportation

  • Taxi transfer to Kathmandu bus station
  • Public bus: Kathmandu → Machha Khola
  • Shared jeep: Tiliche → Besisahar
  • Public bus: Besisahar → Kathmandu or Pokhara

Accommodation

  • 2 nights in Kathmandu (BB basis)
  • 10 nights in teahouses (twin sharing)
  • 1 night dormitory accommodation at Dharamshala

Meals & Drinking Water

  • 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinners during the trek
  • Purified drinking water (water-purification tablets)

Guides, Permits & Support

  • Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (first-aid trained)
  • Assistant guide for groups above six
  • All staff wages, insurance, meals, and equipment
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and conservation permits
  • Government taxes, VAT, and service charges

Trekking Essentials & Safety

  • Pocket map of the Manaslu region
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -20°C)
  • Duffel bag (70-80 L, if porter service is used)
  • Comprehensive first-aid kit

Additional Benefits

  • Free luggage storage in Kathmandu
  • Trek completion certificate

What's Not Included

Travel & Insurance

  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Travel and medical insurance

Porter Services (Optional)

  • USD 240 per porter (one porter for two trekkers recommended)

Private Transportation (Optional)

  • Private Jeep: Kathmandu → Machha Khola (USD 200)
  • Private Jeep: Tiliche → Kathmandu/Pokhara (USD 250)

Personal Expenses

  • Hot showers, drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, charging, extra meals
  • Additional accommodation and meals in Kathmandu

Gratuities & Miscellaneous

  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Any services not mentioned in

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants and shirts
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
  • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
  • Daypack (30-40L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle / purification tablets
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
  • Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
  • Passport, permits, and some cash

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 14 days finish where they began.

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