The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and less crowded trekking routes. It takes you around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, offering stunning landscapes, remote trails, and rich cultural experiences. The trek follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing through deep gorges, waterfalls, and lush forests before reaching high-altitude areas. Unlike the more popular Everest and Annapurna treks, this route provides a peaceful and untouched experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Organized by Monviso Trek, this trek offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture. Along the way, you will pass through traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, where you can experience the unique lifestyle of the local people. Many villages have ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and mani walls, reflecting strong Tibetan Buddhist influences. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which offers breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The journey is challenging but rewarding, making it an excellent choice for adventure seekers.
The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from green hills and terraced fields to snow-covered mountains and glaciers. You will start at lower elevations, where the climate is warm, and gradually move to alpine zones, experiencing dramatic changes in scenery. Monviso Trek ensures that you have proper acclimatization days, experienced guides, and the best logistical support to complete the trek safely. Since the trail is remote and demanding, having a well-organized trekking company like Monviso Trek is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
As this is a restricted area trek, a special trekking permit is required. Monviso Trek takes care of all the necessary permits, accommodations, and transportation, so you can fully focus on your journey. The best time for this trek is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is stable, and the views are crystal clear. During these seasons, the trail is at its best, with blooming rhododendrons in spring and golden landscapes in autumn.
If you are looking for a trek that combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice. With expert guidance from Monviso Trek, you will have an unforgettable experience in one of Nepal’s most stunning and remote trekking destinations. Whether you are an experienced trekker or someone looking for a less crowded alternative to Everest and Annapurna, this trek promises an incredible journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
Your journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. A representative from Monviso Trek will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular area for trekkers. In the evening, Monviso Trek will organize a briefing about the trek and check your equipment to ensure you are well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
Today, you will explore Kathmandu’s famous cultural and historical sites. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sites give you an insight into Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. In the afternoon, you will meet your guide from Monviso Trek, do a final gear check, and prepare for the trek.
Early in the morning, you will take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek. The journey takes you through winding mountain roads, lush green hills, and charming villages. You will pass through Arughat, a busy market town, before continuing along the Budi Gandaki River to reach Soti Khola, where you will spend the night in a local teahouse arranged by Monviso Trek.
The trek begins with a beautiful trail through dense forests, terraced fields, and small waterfalls. You will cross suspension bridges over the Budi Gandaki River and pass through small villages where you can see locals working in their fields. The trail has some steep ascents and descents, making it a challenging but enjoyable walk. By evening, you will reach Machha Khola, where Monviso Trek has arranged comfortable accommodation.
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the valley as you walk along the river, crossing several bridges and climbing steep ridges. The landscapes change from forests to more rugged terrain. You will pass through Tatopani, a small village known for its natural hot springs, and then continue towards Jagat, a beautiful village with stone-paved streets. This is also where the restricted area of the Manaslu region officially begins. Monviso Trek will take care of all the permit checks at the entry point.
The trail continues along the river, passing through lush forests and charming villages. You will cross long suspension bridges, climb stone staircases, and walk past terraced fields. As you gain altitude, the landscape starts changing, and you will notice more Buddhist influences in the villages. By late afternoon, you will reach Deng, a small village surrounded by beautiful green hills. Monviso Trek ensures a comfortable stay in a cozy teahouse.
Today, the trek takes you into the higher region of the Manaslu area. You will walk through forests of pine and rhododendron, cross wooden bridges, and pass through traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages. The views of the Shiringi Himal and Ganesh Himal peaks begin to appear as you climb higher. You will reach Namrung, a culturally rich village where you can see beautiful prayer wheels, mani walls, and ancient monasteries. Monviso Trek will arrange a comfortable stay with great mountain views.
The trek today offers some of the best scenery in the Manaslu region. You will walk past charming villages like Lho and Shyala, where you get your first clear view of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). The trail is filled with monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags, giving a deep sense of Buddhist culture. After a long but scenic walk, you will reach Samagaon, one of the biggest villages in the region. Monviso Trek arranges a comfortable teahouse where you will stay for two nights.
Since you are now at high altitude, this is a rest day to help your body adjust. You can take a short hike to Pungyen Gompa, a beautiful monastery with stunning views of Manaslu Glacier. Another option is a hike to Birendra Lake, a glacial lake with crystal-clear waters. Monviso Trek ensures you have enough rest and hydration to prepare for the next challenging days.
Today’s trek is short but important for acclimatization. You will walk along the Budi Gandaki River, enjoying views of Manaslu, Pangboche, and Himal Chuli. The trail is mostly flat but gets windy as you approach Samdo, the last major village before the pass. Samdo is a Tibetan refugee village with a rich history. You can explore the village and interact with the locals.
This is a short but steep trek as you gain altitude. You will pass through rocky terrain with fewer trees, making the landscape feel like a high-altitude desert. The views of Larkya Peak and surrounding mountains become more impressive. You will reach Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi), a small settlement with basic teahouses. Monviso Trek ensures you have warm meals and a good rest before the big pass crossing.
This is the toughest but most rewarding day of the trek. You will wake up early and climb towards Larkya La Pass (5,160m), the highest point of the trek. The trail is steep and covered with snow in some seasons, but the views from the top are breathtaking. You can see Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After spending some time at the pass, you will descend to Bimthang, a beautiful valley surrounded by snowy peaks. Monviso Trek ensures your safety and comfort throughout this challenging day.
You will descend through rhododendron forests, passing small villages along the way. The trail follows a river and offers stunning views of Mt. Manaslu from a different angle. You will finally reach Dharapani, where the trek ends.
After breakfast, you will take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can relax and enjoy a farewell dinner organized by Monviso Trek.