Nepal · Trekking

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

15 Days Round trip from Kathmandu Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Cross the legendary Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres for breathtaking Himalayan panoramas
  • 02 Trek through diverse landscapes from subtropical forests and river valleys to high alpine terrain
  • 03 Explore traditional Tibetan-influenced villages including Samagaon and experience authentic local culture
  • 04 Discover the pristine Manaslu Conservation Area, rich in biodiversity, monasteries, and remote Himalayan beauty

Embark on the 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, a guided adventure through one of Nepal's most remote and breathtaking regions. This challenging journey leads across dramatic Himalayan landscapes, traditional Tibetan villages, and the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres. Along the way, enjoy teahouse stays, cultural encounters, and stunning views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks. With experienced guides, permits, accommodation, meals during the trek, and full logistical support included, this trek offers a rewarding blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure.

This challenging journey leads across dramatic Himalayan landscapes, traditional Tibetan villages, and the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 15 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Manaslu, Annapurna, Besisahar, Dharapani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Briefing

  • Warm airport welcome from our team at Tribhuvan International Airport, followed by a smooth transfer to your hotel.
  • Comfortable hotel check-in in the heart of Kathmandu, with time to rest after your journey.
  • Evening briefing and introduction to your trekking team, including an itinerary overview, safety information, and permit details.
  • Enjoy an authentic Nepali welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, featuring local cuisine and a cultural experience.
  • Final preparation session and Q&A to get ready for your Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure.
2
Day 02

Scenic Drive to Machha Khola

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola in Gorkha district, covering approximately 160 km through changing landscapes.
  • The journey begins on a sparsely paved highway, followed by increasingly rugged off-road mountain roads.
  • Pass through key local hubs such as Dhading Besi and Arughat, following the Budhi Gandaki River.
  • Enjoy views of lush hills, traditional villages, terraced fields, and cascading waterfalls along the route.
  • Experience a true Himalayan road adventure with a 4x4 drive, setting the tone for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Driving Distance: 160 km
Driving Duration: 7-9 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 930 m

3
Day 03

Trek Along the Budhi Gandaki to Jagat

  • Start the day by crossing Tharo Khola, followed by a gentle walk towards Khorlabesi.
  • Pass natural hot springs along the trail, offering a unique Himalayan experience.
  • Cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River and continue through scenic valleys.
  • Trek through Dovan and navigate a landslide section before gradually ascending toward Yaru Khola.
  • Climb stone staircases and follow the river's west bank to reach Jagat village, the entry point of the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Trekking Distance: 17 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

Sleeping Elevation: 1,340 m

4
Day 04

Trek Through Filim to Deng

  • Begin the trek towards Deng, passing through traditional villages such as Salleri, Sirdibas, and Ghatta Khola.
  • Cross a long suspension bridge at Ghatta Khola, followed by a short climb to Filim village.
  • Entry checkpoint and permit verification typically take place in the Jagat area, a culturally rich Gurung settlement with strong local traditions.
  • Continue through Ekle Bhatti and enter a steep, narrow gorge with fewer settlements.
  • Cross the Budhi Gandaki River and walk through dense bamboo forests and Pewa village before reaching Deng.

Trekking Distance: 20 km
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,860 m

5
Day 05

Trek to Namrung via Forest Trails and Mani Walls

  • Start with a gentle walk to the Budhi Gandaki River, followed by a bridge crossing and a gradual ascent to Rana village.
  • Trek through forested trails lined with traditional Mani walls, reflecting strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.
  • Pass through Prok village, offering stunning views of Siringi Himal and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Cross the river at a dramatic gorge where the water flows powerfully through narrow cliffs.
  • Continue on a scenic trail with a final steep climb leading to Namrung village.
  • Enjoy impressive mountain views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal from the village.

Trekking Distance: 17 km
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours

6
Day 06

Trek to Lho with First Close Views of Manaslu

  • Trek through peaceful forest trails and reach Lihi village, known for its traditional houses and ancient stupas.
  • Enjoy a relatively shorter and scenic walk, ideal for gradual altitude gain and acclimatization.
  • Continue along a gentle trail with expanding mountain views as you approach Lho village.
  • Witness your first close and clear views of Mount Manaslu, creating a major highlight of the trek.
  • Visit the local monastery where monks perform daily rituals, offering a unique cultural experience.

Trekking Distance: 9.5 km
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,180 m

7
Day 07

Trek to Samagaon Through Shyala Village

  • Trek via Shyala village, known for its scenic beauty and a historic monastery with deep cultural significance.
  • Enjoy stunning views of Peak 29 and surrounding Himalayan ranges along the trail.
  • Cross a suspension bridge and enter Samagaon, one of the largest and most important villages in the Manaslu region.
  • Explore a village rich in Tibetan culture, featuring numerous Mani walls and prayer wheels with Buddhist inscriptions.
  • Visit the hillside monastery near Samagaon for panoramic views and deeper cultural insight into local traditions.

Trekking Distance: 7.5 km
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,520 m

8
Day 08

Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

  • Essential acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude before crossing Larkya La Pass.
  • Option to hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), offering close-up glacier views and a more challenging ascent.
  • Alternative hike to Pungyen Gompa (4,000m) for a peaceful cultural experience with panoramic mountain scenery.
  • Both routes provide excellent views of Mount Manaslu, surrounding peaks, and glacial landscapes.
  • Return to Samagaon for an overnight stay, ensuring proper rest and altitude adaptation.

Trekking Distance: ~11 km (round trip)
Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours
Hiking Elevation Options: 4,800 m / 4,000 m
Sleeping Elevation: 3,520 m

9
Day 09

High-Altitude Trek to Samdo

  • Short but scenic high-altitude trek from Samagaon to Samdo with a steady and gradual ascent.
  • Walk through wide yak pastures, long Mani walls, and open alpine landscapes.
  • Cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and continue along a ridge with expanding mountain views.
  • Pass White Kani, a small settlement known for traditional yak-herding culture.
  • Arrive at Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village near the border, offering deep cultural insight and mountain scenery.
  • Optional short hikes around the village, including viewpoints of the Larkya La route and surrounding valleys.

Trekking Distance: 8.2 km
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,875 m

10
Day 10

Acclimatization Day at Samdo

  • Rest and acclimatization day at Samdo (3,875m).
  • Optional hike toward Rui La viewpoint, near the Tibetan border direction, subject to restrictions.
  • Enjoy views of both Nepal and Tibet landscapes from the border area.
  • Chance to witness traditional yak caravans crossing the border.
  • Capture stunning views of the Samdo Glacier.
  • Spot a massive serac formation near the glacier summit.
  • Opportunity to see Himalayan wildlife such as:
    • Blue sheep
    • Pikas
    • Marmots (seasonal)
  • An ideal day to adapt to the altitude before ascending to higher elevations.

Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,875 m

11
Day 11

Trek to Dharmasala Base Camp

  • Leave Samdo and follow a gradual high-altitude trail toward Dharmasala.
  • Trek through rugged mountain terrain with views of snow peaks and glacier landscapes.
  • Pass old herders' shelters and remote alpine sections along the route.
  • Reach Dharmasala, the base camp area before crossing Larkya La Pass.
  • Rest and prepare for the most challenging day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek ahead.

Trekking Distance: 6 km
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 4,460 m

12
Day 12

Cross Larkya La Pass and Descend to Bimthang

  • Start early from Dharmasala and ascend steadily toward Larkya La Pass.
  • Reach the highest point of the trek with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks.
  • Cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass, the highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
  • Descend through glacial terrain and dramatic mountain scenery toward Bimthang.
  • Arrive at Bimthang after one of the most rewarding days of the journey.

Trekking Distance: 16 km
Trekking Duration: 8-10 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 3,720 m

13
Day 13

Descend to Dharapani via the Marsyangdi Valley

  • Descend from Bimthang through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests.
  • Cross glacial streams and enjoy views of the surrounding peaks.
  • Pass through villages such as Gho and Tilije along the Marsyangdi Valley.
  • Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and connect with the lower Marsyangdi Valley route.
  • Experience a noticeable drop in altitude and warmer surroundings.

Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 1,960 m

14
Day 14

Drive Back to Kathmandu

  • Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar through scenic hills and rural landscapes.
  • Continue the journey to Kathmandu via Prithvi Highway.
  • Enjoy views of rivers, terraces, and local villages along the way.
  • Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
  • Free time for rest, shopping, or personal exploration.

Driving Duration: 8-10 hours

15
Day 15

Final Departure from Kathmandu

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
  • Assistance with airport formalities and luggage handling.
  • End of your Manaslu Circuit Trek journey.
Larkya La Pass, Mount Manaslu, Manaslu Base Camp

Where this trip takes you

Larkya La Pass, Mount Manaslu, Manaslu Base Camp

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 5 cities · 15 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle, along with all domestic transportation as per the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu at a 3-star hotel on a twin-sharing, bed and breakfast (BB) basis.
  • All necessary trekking permits.
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek as per the itinerary.
  • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Hot drinks, snacks, and purified drinking water throughout the trekking period.
  • First aid and a basic medical kit.
  • Experienced, licensed trekking guide(s) and porters for baggage support.
  • All expenses for guides and porters, including accommodation, meals, salary, insurance, transportation, and equipment.
  • All applicable government and local taxes.
  • All required paperwork and documentation.
  • Lhasso Adventure duffle bag, cap, and T-shirt.
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.

What's Not Included

  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (recommended 10%-20% of total trip cost).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except welcome and farewell dinners).
  • Personal expenses such as bar bills, telephone, shopping, laundry, and internet.
  • Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (e.g. illness, strikes, delays).
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation coverage (mandatory).
  • Personal trekking equipment (boots, sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, etc.) - available for purchase or rent in Kathmandu.
  • Any services not mentioned under

What to bring

A detailed packing guideline will be provided after booking, and our team can help you customize your gear based on the season and your experience level.

Know before you go

Important information before booking the Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Restricted Area Permit
    • Special permits are required for the Manaslu region.
    • Trekking must be done with a licensed guide.
    • A minimum of 2 trekkers is required as per government rules.
  • Difficulty & Fitness Level
    • Moderate to challenging trek.
    • Maximum altitude: 5,106 m (Larkya La Pass).
    • Good physical fitness is required; prior trekking experience is recommended.
  • Altitude & Acclimatization
    • High-altitude trekking carries a risk of altitude sickness.
    • An acclimatization day is included in Samagaon.
    • A slow pace and proper hydration are essential.
  • Accommodation
    • Basic teahouses/lodges are used throughout the trek.
    • Twin-sharing rooms with simple facilities.
    • Shared bathrooms are common at higher elevations.
    • No luxury accommodation is available.
  • Transportation & Road Conditions
    • Long drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.
    • Combination of paved roads and rough off-road terrain.
    • Possible delays due to weather or road conditions.
  • Food & Drinking Water
    • Meals include Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western options.
    • Drinking water options include boiled water, purification tablets, or bottled water.
    • Prices increase with altitude.
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
    • Must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,000 m.
    • Must include emergency helicopter evacuation.
  • Connectivity & Charging
    • Limited mobile network and Wi-Fi availability.
    • Charging devices may cost extra at teahouses.
  • Best Time to Visit
    • Spring (Mar-May): blooming landscapes and clear views.
    • Autumn (Sep-Nov): stable weather and best visibility.
    • Winter/Monsoon: more challenging conditions.
  • Additional Costs
    • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging fees.
    • Personal expenses such as snacks and drinks.
    • Tips for guides and porters.
  • Itinerary Flexibility
    • The itinerary may change due to weather, health, or trail conditions.
    • Guides may adjust plans for safety.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Lamingtan Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 15 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu.

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Starting from

USD 1,363 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,363.00 — $1,700.00
Double Sharing $1,363.00 — $1,700.00

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