MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK 10 DAYS

Your journey begins with a scenic drive out of Kathmandu, following winding highways toward the lush middle hills of the Manaslu region. As the landscape shifts from urban bustle to terraced fields and river canyons, you’ll travel along the Budhi Gandaki River, eventually reaching the riverside village of Machha Khola for your first night in the region.

The trail traces the Budhi Gandaki through narrow gorges and small Gurung settlements. You’ll walk past hot springs at Tatopani, cross suspension bridges, and follow a gradually rising path until the stone-paved entrance of Jagat, a traditional checkpoint village surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls.

Today’s route meanders through subtropical forests, riverside terraces, and steep upland trails. The valley grows wilder and more dramatic as you pass Philim and the beautiful Ekle Bhatti stretch. By afternoon, the trail narrows into a rugged gorge leading to Deng, a small village influenced by Tibetan culture.

The path climbs steadily through dense pine and fir forests, with glimpses of snow peaks appearing as you ascend. After crossing several wooden bridges and walking through hamlets like Ghap, you’ll follow a forest trail decorated with mani walls and prayer stones before reaching Namrung, a viewpoint village with stunning Himalayan scenery.

A beautiful day of trekking brings you through alpine meadows, traditional stone houses, and panoramic ridge lines. The trail passes through Lho and Shyala, offering sweeping views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and other peaks. You’ll continue into the wide valley of Samagaun, one of the region’s largest and most culturally rich villages.

This day is dedicated to altitude adaptation. You can choose a rewarding side hike to Pungen Gompa, a serene monastery beneath Manaslu’s massive south face, or tackle the longer, more challenging hike to Manaslu Base Camp. After exploring, return to Samagaun to rest and enjoy the peaceful alpine atmosphere.

The trail leaves Samagaon with a gradual rise through open yak pastures and glacial terrain, offering uninterrupted views of Manaslu’s massive north face. As you continue climbing, the valley narrows and the air grows thinner, signaling your approach to higher altitude. The final section leads to Dharamsala (Larke Phedi), a rugged high camp nestled below the pass. This simple but strategic stop provides the perfect place to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the upcoming crossing of Larkya La.

With an early start under starlit skies, you ascend gently toward the high point of the trek—Larkya La Pass. The climb is steady and rewarding, unfolding across glacial basins, frozen lakes, and wide snowy ridges. From the pass, the panorama opens dramatically to reveal Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, the Kang Guru range, and distant peaks of the Annapurna region. After enjoying the views and photos, you begin a long descent toward Bimthang, traversing rocky slopes and grassy meadows until you reach this beautiful high-valley settlement, a welcome rest spot after a big mountain day.

After the high mountain drama, the trail drops into forests of rhododendron and oak, passing through pastoral landscapes and small villages. Clear streams and distant peaks accompany your descent into the Marsyangdi Valley, where you end the day in Dharapani, a gateway town connected to the Annapurna Circuit.

A scenic drive brings you back toward the bustling capital. As the mountains fade into the distance, you retrace your way to Kathmandu, where your journey around the Manaslu region concludes with unforgettable memories of both adventure and culture.