MANASLU TREK 12 DAYS ENDING IN POKHARA
MANASLU TREK 12 DAYS ENDING IN POKHARA
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 days ending in Pokhara, expertly designed by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking. This trek offers an exceptional experience through the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal, combining cultural immersion, challenging high-altitude trekking, and stunning mountain vistas. Starting right after your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be picked up from the airport early in the morning and driven to Machhakhola, the gateway to the Manaslu region. This scenic drive sets the tone for the journey ahead, as you prepare to explore remote villages and pristine nature.
From Machhakhola, the trek begins with a hike to Jagat, passing through picturesque riverside trails surrounded by lush forests. The trail is rich in cultural diversity, with small villages showcasing the traditional lifestyles of the local communities. After Jagat, your journey continues to Deng, where you will be greeted by the magnificent views of the towering mountains and the serene Budhi Gandaki River. The route to Deng is a gradual ascent through bamboo forests and beautiful landscapes.
Next, the trek leads to Namrung, a village known for its Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning natural surroundings. The path from Deng to Namrung passes through rhododendron forests and terraced fields, making the trek rich in biodiversity and visual beauty. After Namrung, you head towards Samagaon, a significant stop where you’ll rest and acclimatize. Samagaon offers awe-inspiring views of Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, making it a perfect spot for trekkers to rejuvenate before the high passes ahead.
An acclimatization day at Samagaon includes an optional hike to either Manaslu Base Camp or Pungoin Gompa, both of which provide spectacular panoramic views and insight into local Buddhist culture. This day is crucial for adjusting to the altitude and preparing for the challenging days to come.
From Samagaon, the trail continues to Samdo, a Tibetan-style village nestled amidst alpine meadows. The journey from Samdo to Dharmasala involves trekking through rugged terrain and offers an intimate encounter with the remote Himalayan environment. Dharmasala is the last settlement before the tough but rewarding Larke La Pass.
Crossing Larke La Pass at 5016 meters is the highlight of the trek. This high mountain pass offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and is a true test of endurance and determination. After conquering the pass, you descend to Bhimthang, a peaceful village surrounded by rhododendron forests and towering peaks.
The trek then continues downhill to Dharapani, where the landscape changes to a more temperate zone with lush greenery. From Dharapani, you will take a shared jeep to Besisahar, a bustling town that marks the end of the trekking trail. Finally, a private jeep or car will take you on a scenic drive to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city perfect for relaxing and celebrating the completion of your trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 days ending in Pokhara is ideal for adventurers seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling trekking challenges. With Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s expert guidance, you will experience this journey safely and memorably, making it an adventure of a lifetime.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel.
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you will be warmly greeted by your Sherpa Expedition team. You will be transferred to your hotel in the city. Spend the day relaxing, preparing your gear, and attending a pre-trek briefing to learn more about the Manaslu Circuit route and safety tips.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (869m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Machhakhola, the gateway to the Manaslu region. The drive offers stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, terraced fields, and the Budhi Gandaki River. This village is the starting point of your trek. Overnight stay in Machhakhola.
Day 3 : Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1300m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today, begin your trek by following the Budhi Gandaki River through forests, crossing suspension bridges and small villages. You will experience the rural lifestyle of local communities. Jagat, a small village, is your destination where you will rest for the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail gradually ascends through dense forests and terraced farmland. You’ll pass by several traditional villages and cross mountain streams. Deng village offers comfortable teahouses and is a perfect place to rest and acclimatize.
Day 5 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2630m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Your trek continues with a steady climb through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and bamboo groves. Namrung is a charming village with traditional stone houses and Buddhist monasteries. The views of surrounding peaks are spectacular here.
Day 6 : Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail becomes more alpine as you trek higher into the mountains. Samagaon is a larger village known as the “Gateway to Manaslu Base Camp.” The village has several lodges, monasteries, and a vibrant local culture to explore.
Day 7 : Acclimatization Day at Samagaon – Hike to Pungin Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp.
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude by hiking to the sacred Pungin Gompa or venturing further to the Manaslu Base Camp. This optional hike helps your body adjust, reducing the risk of altitude sickness while offering breathtaking mountain views.
Day 8 : Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m) – Duration: 3-4 hours.
A shorter trekking day as you move towards Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village near the Nepal-China border. This village is known for its unique culture and stunning landscapes. Prepare for the high-altitude trek ahead.
Day 9 : Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m) – Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today, trek through rocky terrain ascending towards Dharamsala, the base camp for crossing the Larke La Pass. Take time to rest and prepare for the challenging pass crossing early the next day.
Day 10 : Trek to Bimtang (3,720m) via Larke La Pass (5,106m) – Duration: 8-9 hours.
Cross the breathtaking Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters, the highest point of your trek. Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views before descending into the lush valley of Bimtang for a well-earned rest.
Day 11 : Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,960m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Descend through rhododendron forests and terraced fields as you trek down to Dharapani. This section of the trek is less demanding and offers a chance to enjoy the changing flora and fauna.
Day 12 : Drive from Dharapani to Pokhara via Besisahar – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Conclude your trek with a jeep ride from Dharapani to Besisahar, then continue by private car or jeep to Pokhara. Celebrate your successful Manaslu Circuit trek in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
SERVICES
Costs Include In Your Package
- International Airport Pick Up: Convenient pick-up services by car for international airports.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu: One night of standard accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, on a twin-sharing basis, including breakfast.
- Private Ground Transportation: Comfortable private jeep from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, local shared jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar, and a private jeep/car transfer from Besisahar to Pokhara.
- All Meals During the Trek: Enjoy three standard meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—featuring local and hygienic mountain cuisine.
- Lodge/Teahouse Accommodation: Best available teahouse or lodge accommodation along the trekking route (typically on a twin-sharing basis).
- Experienced Trekking Guide: A professional, government-licensed English-speaking trek leader, with an assistant guide for groups of 10 or more.
- Reliable Sherpa Porters: Friendly and experienced Sherpa porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers), including all their meals, accommodation, equipment, salary, and insurance.
- Fully Equipped Crew: All guides and porters provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking are fully insured and properly equipped for safe, responsible trekking.
- All Required Permits: Includes the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Trekking Gear on Loan: Complimentary use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking poles (to be returned after the trek if not personally owned).
- Government & Local Taxes: All national park fees, local taxes, official paperwork, and trekking registration charges are fully covered.
- Emergency Assistance: Coordination and assistance for rescue operations in case of severe altitude sickness or health emergencies (note: expenses must be covered by your travel insurance).
- Complimentary Souvenir: A Sherpa Expedition & Trekking T-shirt as a souvenir of your Himalayan adventure.
- Certificate of Completion: Receive a Sherpa Expedition and Trekking appreciation certificate upon successful completion of the trek.
- Daily Health Monitoring: Regular health checks with a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen level, pulse, and heart rate, ensuring your safety at high altitudes.
- Extra Assistant Guide: An additional assistant guide for groups of 8 or more to ensure personalized attention and safety.
Costs Exclude
- International airfares: Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the package.
- Nepal entry visa fee: Payable upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport – $30 USD (15 days), $50 USD (30 days), $125 USD (90 days).
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu: Meals in the city before or after the trek are at your own expense.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu: Not included before or after the trek (can be arranged on request).
- Extra nights in Kathmandu: Any additional nights due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek are not covered.
- Personal drinks and snacks on the trek: Includes alcohol, bottled water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and other items bought individually.
- Desserts and sweet items: Such as chocolate, cake, pie, and puddings purchased along the trail.
- Hot showers and battery charging: Available at some teahouses for an extra fee, not included in the package.
- Travel insurance: Must cover emergency rescue, medical treatment, and high-altitude evacuation – compulsory but not included.
- Tips for guide and porters: Not included – tipping is customary and highly appreciated in Nepali culture.
- Unexpected costs due to force majeure: Includes delays or changes caused by weather, landslides, illness, strikes, or other uncontrollable events.
- Any other expenses not mentioned in “Costs Include”: Any item or service not clearly listed in the included section is excluded.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Altitude and Acclimatization
The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches high altitudes, with the highest point being the Larke La Pass at 5016 meters. Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. The itinerary includes rest and acclimatization days, especially at Samagaon, allowing your body to adjust to the thinning air. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and following your guide’s advice on pacing will help you stay healthy throughout the trek.
Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit
The optimal trekking seasons for the Manaslu Circuit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for mountain views and safe trekking conditions. Monsoon months (June to August) bring heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides, while winter can be very cold with heavy snowfall on higher passes.
Permits and Regulations
Trekking in the Manaslu region requires special permits to preserve the natural environment and local culture. You will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will assist in arranging these permits, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience.
Accommodation and Food
Along the Manaslu Circuit, accommodation is mostly in teahouses and lodges offering basic but comfortable twin-sharing rooms. Meals typically include Nepalese staples like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Hot showers and charging facilities are available in some lodges but may incur extra charges. It's recommended to carry some snacks and energy bars for long trekking days.
Physical Fitness and Trek Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek due to the long days, high altitude, and rugged terrain, especially crossing the Larke La Pass. It is suitable for trekkers with a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Preparing with cardio exercises, strength training, and practice hikes before the trip will greatly enhance your trekking experience and help you enjoy the spectacular scenery without unnecessary fatigue.
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FAQS
How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately to highly challenging due to long trekking days, rugged trails, and high altitude, especially crossing the Larke La Pass at 5016m. It requires good physical fitness and previous trekking experience is recommended.
What is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The best trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and safer trail conditions, providing stunning mountain views and comfortable trekking weather.
Do I need any special permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, trekkers need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits regulate trekking in the region and help preserve its unique environment and culture.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Altitude sickness can affect trekkers above 3000 meters. The itinerary includes acclimatization days, especially in Samagaon, to help your body adjust. Drinking plenty of water, pacing yourself, and using oxygen meters if available are important precautions.
What kind of accommodation is available on the Manaslu Circuit?
Accommodation is primarily in teahouses and lodges offering basic twin-sharing rooms. Facilities include beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some lodges provide hot showers and charging points for electronic devices, usually for an additional fee.
What meals can I expect during the trek?
Meals mainly consist of traditional Nepalese dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, vegetables, and occasional meat dishes. Many teahouses also serve continental food, tea, coffee, and snacks. It’s advisable to carry energy bars for extra nutrition on long days.
How is the weather during the trek?
Weather varies with the season. Spring and autumn have stable, clear weather and mild temperatures. Monsoon season (June-August) brings heavy rain and slippery trails, while winter can be extremely cold with snow on the passes.
Can beginners do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
This trek is best suited for those with some prior trekking experience and a good fitness level due to its challenging terrain and altitude. Beginners are encouraged to train beforehand and consider trekking with an experienced guide.
What safety measures are in place during the trek?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking provides experienced English-speaking guides, porters, and necessary safety equipment. They carry oxygen meters to monitor altitude sickness symptoms and have procedures to arrange emergency rescues if required.
How do I get from Dharapani to Pokhara after the trek?
From Dharapani, trekkers take a shared local jeep to Besisahar, then transfer to a private jeep or car for a scenic drive to Pokhara. The journey takes about 7-8 hours and offers beautiful views of the countryside and Himalayan foothills.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5472 Reviews
Emily Zhao
Singapore
May 28, 2025
Professional Trek, Heartfelt Memories – Led by Tshering
I signed up for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition based on a friend’s recommendation, and now I can confidently say it was the best travel decision I’ve ever made. Our guide, Tshering, was truly special. Calm, experienced, and incredibly warm-hearted, he guided us through every step with confidence and care. What I admired most was how he made sure everyone in the group felt supported. Whether it was helping with altitude or simply offering a kind word during steep climbs, he was always there. The trek itself was stunning—every day revealed a new landscape and view. We trekked through rhododendron forests, past rivers and waterfalls, and finally reached the snow-filled amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp. Sherpa Expedition managed all logistics perfectly—from flights to accommodation to delicious meals at the tea houses. Tshering taught us about the culture, pointed out peaks, and even made us laugh during the tough sections. The views from base camp were beyond anything I’ve ever seen—pure magic. I left Nepal with new friendships and a heart full of gratitude. Thank you, Tshering, and thank you, Sherpa Expedition, for an unforgettable experience.
Laura Petrovic
Canada
May 13, 2025
Absolutely Magical Trek with Guide Dendi
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp was one of the most magical experiences of my life. Sherpa Expedition made the entire journey smooth and stress-free, and a huge part of that was thanks to our guide, Dendi. His professionalism, combined with his kindness, made him the perfect companion for this adventure. Dendi was extremely knowledgeable and knew the region inside out—he explained the culture, the peaks, and ensured we were adjusting well to the altitude. Every day was an adventure—crossing rivers, walking through thick forest trails, and climbing toward snow-covered landscapes. Sherpa Expedition’s planning was excellent. The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara was on time, the porters were friendly and hardworking, and the tea houses we stayed in were comfortable and offered surprisingly good food. Dendi checked our health daily, helped with gear issues, and created a supportive group atmosphere. When we finally reached base camp, the sheer beauty brought tears to my eyes. It felt like standing in the heart of nature. This was not just a trek, but an emotional and beautiful journey. I’m thankful to Dendi and the Sherpa Expedition team. I would absolutely recommend this company for anyone looking to experience the Himalayas.
Marcel Mastenbroek
Netherlands
April 9, 2025
Beautiful adventure
My brother and I had a great trip to the Everest Base Camp. Together with Santa our very well informed gide, who took care of us in a fantastic way and gave us much information during the hike, and Gulzen our porter (who carried each day our two bags of 10kg each plus his own bag....unbelievable). We had a wonderful time in the beautiful Himalayas, it was a lifetime experience!
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