Gongabu, Kathmandu, Nepal
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal
  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Regions

    Manaslu Region

  • Activity

    Trekking

  • Accomodation

    Hotel/Lodge

  • Transportation

    Drive

  • Duration

    15 Days

  • Trip Grade

    Moderate/Challenging

  • Altitude

    The trek starts at a low elevation (700 meters at Soti Khola) and gradually ascends to the highest point at Larke Pass (5,106 meters).

  • Best Season

    Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November):

  • Start/End Point

    Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Dharapani to Besisahar to Kathmandu:

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Nepal Manaslu Region Trekking Hotel/Lodge Drive
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
15 Days Moderate/Challenging The trek starts at a low elevation (700 meters at Soti Khola) and gradually ascends to the highest point at Larke Pass (5,106 meters). Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November): Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Dharapani to Besisahar to Kathmandu:

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek, including the Larke Pass, is a spectacular trek in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It offers a blend of cultural heritage, remote villages, diverse landscapes, and stunning views of the Manaslu range. The trek involves high altitude, long days, and challenging terrain.

Trip Highlights

  • Manaslu Base Camp: Offers stunning views of Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth-highest peak in the world.
  • Larke Pass (5,106 meters): The highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Cultural Experience: Explore traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and monasteries.
  • Diverse Landscapes: From subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glaciers.
  • Less Crowded: Compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, providing a more remote and peaceful trekking experience.

Itinerary

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Transfer to your hotel.
  • Briefing about the trek and preparation of necessary permits.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • Duration: 8-9 hours.
  • Scenic drive through the countryside, passing by rivers, terraced fields, and local villages.
  • Overnight stay in Soti Khola.

  • Duration: 6-7 hours.
  • Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges, and passing through forests and small villages.
  • Overnight stay in Machha Khola.

  • Duration: 6-7 hours.
  • Continue trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through hot springs at Tatopani and climbing stone steps.
  • Enter the restricted area at Jagat.
  • Overnight stay in Jagat.

  • Duration: 6-7 hours.
  • Pass through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and walk through villages like Philim.
  • Continue trekking through terraced fields and reach Deng.
  • Overnight stay in Deng.

  • Duration: 6-7 hours.
  • Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests.
  • Pass by Mani walls and small villages.
  • Ascend gradually to reach Namrung, a Tibetan-influenced village.
  • Overnight stay in Namrung.

  • Duration: 6-7 hours.
  • Trek through picturesque villages like Lho and Shyala.
  • Enjoy stunning views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and other peaks.
  • Reach Samagaon, a large village with a strong Tibetan culture.
  • Overnight stay in Samagaon.

  • Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 meters) or Pungyen Gompa.
  • Explore the village and visit the monastery.
  • Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Overnight stay in Samagaon.

  • Duration: 3-4 hours.
  • Gradual ascent through yak pastures and small settlements.
  • Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Reach Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village near the Tibetan border.
  • Overnight stay in Samdo.

  • Duration: 3-4 hours.
  • Short trek with gradual ascent to the base of Larke Pass.
  • Pass through the remnants of an old monastery and stone huts.
  • Overnight stay in Dharamsala (also known as Larke Phedi).

  • Duration: 8-9 hours.
  • Start early for the long day ahead.
  • Climb gradually and then more steeply towards Larke Pass.
  • Enjoy panoramic views from the pass.
  • Descend carefully on the other side, passing by glaciers and moraines.
  • Reach Bimthang, a beautiful valley with great mountain views.
  • Overnight stay in Bimthang.

  • Duration: 5-6 hours.
  • Descend through rhododendron and pine forests.
  • Cross the Dudh Khola River and pass by small settlements.
  • Reach Tilije, a Gurung village.
  • Overnight stay in Tilije.

  • Duration: 4-5 hours.
  • Descend further, joining the Annapurna Circuit trail.
  • Trek through forests and terraced fields.
  • Reach Dharapani, where the trek officially ends.
  • Overnight stay in Dharapani.

  • Duration: 8-9 hours.
  • Drive through the Marsyangdi Valley to Besisahar.
  • Continue the drive to Kathmandu.
  • Transfer to your hotel.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and from Dharapani to Kathmandu.
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (usually 2-3 nights, depending on the package).
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit, Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide.
  • Basic first aid kit and Oxygen cylinder or portable altitude chamber (for emergencies).
  • Duffel bag for trekking gear (if needed).

Cost Exclusion

  • Flights to and from Kathmandu.
  • Visa fees for entry to Nepal.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, evacuation, and medical expenses.
  • Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.).
  • Hot showers, battery charging, internet, and other personal expenses during the trek.
  • Snacks, drinks, and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).
  • Costs associated with emergency evacuation (helicopter, medical treatment, etc.).
  • Additional accommodation and meals outside the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances like flight cancellation or natural disasters.