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

• Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), our airport representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. A brief pre-trip group discussion will follow, along with a welcome dinner in the evening.

• Embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the renowned "Monkey Temple" (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine of Bouddhanath, all designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Embark on a scenic drive to Machha Khola, enjoying panoramic views of the landscape and mountains. The journey follows a smooth road from Kathmandu to Dhading Bensi, while the road from Dhading Bensi to Machha Khola via Arughat town is a bit rugged.

• Trek along a narrow trail with ups and downs, crossing Tharo Khola and reaching Khorlabesi.
• Encounter a small hot spring in Tatopani, climb over ridges, cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge, and navigate a well-crafted staircase and a landslide to reach Dobhan.
• After crossing the suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, proceed towards Jagat via Tharo Bharyang.

• Trek up to Ghatta Khola, passing through Salleri and Sirdibas.
• Continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, surrounded by beautiful Gurung settlements.
• Traverse a steep, uninhabited gorge from Ekle Bhatti, descend to grassy land slopes, and cross the Budhi Gandaki.
• Proceed through bamboo forests to a tiny village.

• After leaving Deng, cross the Budi Gandaki multiple times and encounter Bombas along the route.
• Follow the river upstream through a dense forest, enjoying a pleasant walk after crossing the river at an impressive spot.
• After a final steep climb, reach Namrung, an excellent viewpoint for Siring, Ganesh Himal, and distant Mt. Himal Chuli in the south.

• Reach Lihi, a village with chortens and barley terraces, passing by Sho, Lho, and Shyala villages before arriving in Sama Village.
• Explore the famous Ribung Gompa and enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu from Lho village. Shyala village is surrounded by high mountains, glaciers, and distant Ganesh Himal.

• Today's trek is relatively easy. Descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, walk on a shelf above the river through juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka, cross the Budhi Gandaki bridge, and climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river. Pass by the kani and head to Samdo.

• Choose between hiking behind Samdo village for panoramic views or taking a longer trip to the Gya La high pass in the north of Samdo, a frequently used trading route to Tibet.

• Continue walking down the edge, cross the wooden bridge over the Budi Gandaki, and begin a gradual ascent.
• Pass two streams, witness the Larkya Glacier, walk around the Salka Khola valley, and ascend to the shelter called Dharmshala at an altitude of 4450 m, also known as Larke Phedi. Today's short walk is worthwhile for acclimatization.

• Experience the most challenging day of the entire journey. Head to a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers for fantastic views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak.
• The trail gradually climbs from the glacier until crossing the Larkya Pass. Enjoy magnificent views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and the vast Annapurna II from Larkya Pass at 5160 m.
• The rest of the trail is easier as you trek to Bimthang, offering outstanding panoramas of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal.

• Walk through a rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until reaching Karche at 2785 meters, the highest cultivated land in the valley.
• Make a steep climb over a ridge, cross a bridge over Dudh Khola, pass through Thonje village, go through a police check post, and continue toward Dharapani.

• Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar by jeep, then continue by private vehicle to Kathmandu along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli river banks.

Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is an ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, rich culture, and vibrant traditions. Here is a suggested itinerary for sightseeing in Bhaktapur City:

1. Durbar Square:

   • Start your exploration in Bhaktapur at Durbar Square, the historic heart of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of ancient architecture, temples, and palaces.
   • Marvel at the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and the intricately carved Peacock Window.
   • Visit the Golden Gate, a stunning entrance to the main courtyard, adorned with intricate details.

2. Nyatapola Temple:

   • Nyatapola is a five-story pagoda-style temple, the tallest in Nepal, located in Taumadhi Square. Each tier has intricately carved figures and represents different deities.

3. Bhairab Nath Temple:

   • Adjacent to Nyatapola Temple, Bhairab Nath Temple is dedicated to Bhairab, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple's unique architecture and the intimidating idol make it a must-visit.

4. Pottery Square (Kumari Ghar):

   • Explore Pottery Square, where you can witness traditional pottery-making techniques. The area is filled with locals shaping clay on wheels and creating beautiful pottery.

5. Dattatreya Square:

   • Visit Dattatreya Square, surrounded by ancient temples and buildings. The main attraction is the Dattatreya Temple, an embodiment of the Hindu trinity - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

• Transfer to the airport. Enjoy free time for last-minute shopping until your departure.