12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu via Larkya La Pass

Altitude: 869 m / 2851 ft

Duration: 7-8 hours

• Begin the journey with a scenic drive through winding roads, terraced hillsides, and riverside villages. Reach Machha Khola, a small settlement on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, and prepare for the trek ahead.

Altitude: 1340 m / 4396 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

• Follow the trail along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and walking through small settlements. Arrive at Jagat, a charming village with stone-paved streets and traditional houses.

Altitude: 1860 m / 6102 ft

Duration: 7-8 hours

• Walk past lush forests, terraced fields, and steep ridges. Cross multiple bridges and enter the culturally rich Tibetan-influenced region. Reach Deng village, surrounded by alpine scenery.

Altitude: 2630 m / 8628 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

• Ascend gradually through rhododendron and pine forests. Witness Buddhist Mani walls, stupas, and prayer flags along the route. Arrive in Namrung, a beautiful village offering the first close views of Manaslu.

Altitude: 3500 m / 11483 ft

Duration: 4-5 hours

• Walk past traditional Tibetan villages with stone houses, terraced fields, and monasteries. Reach Shyala Village, surrounded by snowy peaks including Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.

Altitude: 3530 m / 11581 ft

Duration: 4-5 hours

• Visit Pungen Monastery, one of the best viewpoints of Mount Manaslu. Continue towards Samagaon, a large village known for its traditional culture, yak pastures, and dramatic Himalayan scenery.

• Optional side trip: Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m / 15748 ft)
• Duration: 7-8 hours for side trip
• Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Explore the village, monasteries, and surrounding landscapes. For adventurous trekkers, take a challenging hike to Manaslu Base Camp for breathtaking views.

Altitude: 3875 m / 12713 ft

Duration: 2-3 hours

• Hike gradually upward along yak pastures and barren landscapes. Arrive at Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village located near the border with Tibet, rich in Buddhist traditions.

Altitude: 4460 m / 14633 ft

Duration: 3-4 hours

• Climb steadily through rocky terrain and high-altitude landscapes. Reach Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi), the base camp for crossing the Larkya La Pass.

Highest Point: Larkya La Pass (5106 m / 16752 ft)

Overnight Altitude: 3590 m / 11778 ft

Duration: 8 hours

• Begin early in the morning to cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass, the highlight of the trek. Admire panoramic views of Himalayan peaks including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Descend towards Bhimtang, a beautiful valley settlement.

Altitude: 2300 m / 7546 ft

Duration: 5-6 hours

• Descend through dense pine and rhododendron forests with views of waterfalls and mountain ridges. Arrive in Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit connects with the Annapurna Circuit trail.

Duration: 8-9 hours

• Take a jeep ride from Dharapani to Besisahar, passing through rugged mountain roads. From Besisahar, continue the journey back to Kathmandu by private jeep. Conclude the trek with memories of the Manaslu Himalayas and their rich cultural heritage.