Manaslu Circuit Trek: Wild Circles Around Nepal's Secret Giant - 14 Days

Imagine wandering ancient paths laced with glacial grit, where Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft) – the Mountain of the Spirit – unveils its timeless lore amid rhododendron symphonies, yak-shadowed meadows, and Gurung hamlets stitched with prayer-wheel whispers.

Trek summary

Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days with Ascent Himalaya, a serene loop around Mount Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft) through Nepal's remote Gurung valleys and rhododendron forests. Starting with a scenic jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, you'll wander hidden villages like Sama Gaon, where monk chants and turquoise Birendra Lake invite quiet reflection. The heart of the adventure unfolds at Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft), offering breathtaking panoramas of icy ridges and the chance to spot elusive blue sheep. Tailored for intermediate explorers, this restricted trek blends moderate challenges with acclimatization rests, all in intimate groups of up to 10, fostering bonds that linger long after. Join us from $1,250 USD in spring or fall 2026 – a gentle invitation to rediscover your wild spirit in the Himalayas.

Trek Highlights

  • Larkya La Rush: 5,106m triumph with Manaslu's undivided stare – grit meets glory.
  • Sama Serenity: Birch forests, lake laps, and chants that quiet the chaos.
  • Wild Spotting: Tahrs on ledges, orchids in bloom – nature's unscripted show.
  • Gurung Glow: Tsampa tastes, frescoed walls – cultures that wrap like wool.
  • Eco Echo: Restricted funds save snow leopards; your steps seed trees.
  • Crew Magic: 10 max for laughs that bounce off peaks like echoes.

Itinerary

Land in vibrant Kathmandu, where your Himalayan dream takes flight. Our Ascent Himalaya team welcomes you with a warm smile. Stroll through colorful markets, visit ancient temples, or relax in your cozy hotel. Feel the buzz—tomorrow, the mountains call!

Tip: Jet lag? Take it easy and explore nearby temples.

Rumble 6-7 hours by jeep from Kathmandu's temples through rolling rice terraces to Soti Khola's gentle riverside start. Unwind in a guesthouse with fresh trout dinner and firefly twinkles—trail nerves turn to excitement here!

Tip: Pack your playlist—scenic drives beg for epic tunes.

Follow the Budhi Gandaki's frothy flow for 5-6 hours over bamboo bridges and past leaping langurs. Arrive in fish-creek Machha Khola for hot springs dips and lemon tea toasts—canyon's got that cozy grip already.

Tip: Spot the langurs? They're the trail's furry cheer squad—wave hello!

Hug sheer cliffs for 6-7 hours with waterfall scrambles and a steamy hot spring pause that melts the miles. Slide into Jagat's etched-stone charm, where Tibetan prayers and thukpa warm your evening bones.

Tip: Soak those feet post-spring—bliss before the beds call.

Enter Manaslu's protected realm (permits stamped!) with 5-6 hours past golden fields and scree slides to Deng's Gurung glow. Mani walls murmur blessings; raksi by the fire sparks yeti tales.

Tip: Spin a prayer wheel at borders—good vibes for the heights ahead.

Climb through walnut shades and apple bursts for 6 hours to Namrung's cliff-clung views of Ganesh Himal. Chortens light up like beacons; snag pie from a bakery perch—sweet fuel for the soul.

Tip: Eyes on the skyline—Ganesh's spikes are your first "wow" warmup.

Barley terraces frame your 5-6 hour push to Lho, where Manaslu bursts bold—a snowy hello that steals breaths. Gompa butter lamps flicker wishes; dal bhat feasts the acclimatization ease.

Tip: Ridge ramble optional—clears clouds for Manaslu's full flirt.

Yak bells guide 4-5 hours into Sama's birch bowl—glaciers sparkle, blue sheep shadow cliffs. Monastery chants at dusk wrap you in sacred hush; this spot's pure recharge.

Tip: Forest wander? Hunt those elusive sheep—nature's hide-and-seek thrill.

Chill with optional 4km to Birendra Lake's emerald shine or Pungen Gompa's prayer perch. Yoga at dawn, stew for lunch—clouds tag peaks while you tune inward.

Tip: Journal splash—Sama's silence turns scribbles into secrets.

Steep 4-5 hours over rubble to Dharmasala's high camp edge—icefalls tumble, Manaslu's face fills frames. 360° drama with cocoa; altitude's hum feels alive now.

Tip: Poles in hand—rubble's rough, but the views smooth every step.

Boulder hop 3-4 hours to flag-flicked high camp—pass previews tease from afternoon jaunts. Winds whisper wild; stars overhead hype tomorrow's roar.

Tip: Early nest—dreams sharpen the Larkya charge.

Dawn dash 2-3 hours to Larkya La (5,106m/16,752ft)—Manaslu's north roar, ridges ripple endless. Snow-field slide 4-5 hours to Bimthang; barley cheers your boundless "yes!"

Tip: Gloves tight—icy grips won't dim the summit high-fives.

Pine slides and apple grabs ease 6-7 hours down—Annapurna winks afar. Gho's cascades rinse dust; millet warmth echoes the high's sweet ache.

Tip: Berry hunt—wild sweets turn descent into delight.

Trek 5-6 hours to Dharapani, jeep 3-4 hours through green quilts back to Kathmandu's buzz. Thamel debriefs with momos and masks—you've looped the wild, forever changed.

Tip: Haggle light—Thamel treasures pack light, memories heavy.

What's Included in the Package

  • Transport Magic: Round-trip jeep from Kathmandu to Besisahar (trailhead shuttles included), plus airport pickups/drop-offs to kick things off smooth.
  • Cozy Stays: 13 nights in twin-share teahouses or cozy tents (think Dharmasala's high-camp vibes – blankets and all!).
  • Trail Fuel: All your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners on the trek – hearty dal bhat, Sherpa stews, and veggie/gluten-free tweaks to keep you buzzing.
  • Your Dream Team: A local Sherpa guide (English-speaking, Manaslu expert), porter for up to 15kg of your gear, and all permits sorted (MCAP, restricted area, TIMS – no paperwork pain).
  • Gear Essentials: Sleeping bag, duffel bag, detailed trek map, and full safety kit (Gamow bag for altitude, satellite phone, first-aid – we've got backups).

What's Not Included in the Package

  • International Flights: Travel to and from Kathmandu, serving as your inspiring entry to Nepal.
  • Single Room Upgrades: For those preferring private accommodations in teahouses or tents, an additional $200 USD may be arranged.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Besisahar: Opportunities to enjoy local cuisine beyond the trek's provisions.
  • Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, additional snacks, or celebratory beverages along the way.
  • Tips for Guides and Porters: A suggested $12 USD total per day, graciously shared among the group as a token of appreciation for their exceptional support.
  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended coverage for high-altitude experiences.  we advise securing this in advance for your peace of mind.
  • Alcoholic or Soft Drinks: While water and tea are complimentary, other beverages are available for your personal enjoyment.

FAQ's

It's best for intermediate trekkers with some hiking experience – think 6-8 hours daily on varied terrain, including steep ascents to Larkya La (5,106m/16,752ft). If you're fit from regular walks or gym sessions, you'll thrive with our built-in acclimatization days. Beginners? We recommend starting with a shorter Nepal trek first. Our small groups (max 10) ensure supportive paces every step.

Spring (March-May) brings rhododendron blooms and mild temps (10-20°C/50-68°F days), while fall (October-November) offers crisp skies and golden foliage – both ideal for clear Manaslu views. Avoid monsoons (June-September) for rain risks and winter (December-February) for snow-blocked passes. For 2026 departures, book early – our spring slots fill like high-camp tents!

Moderate to challenging, with rewarding highs: Steady climbs through gorges, a thrilling Larkya La crossing (possible snow/ice), and downhill drifts. Expect uneven paths, some boulder scrambles, and altitude up to 5,106m – but we ease it with rest days and expert pacing. Prior prep? 4-5 hour hikes weekly. It's tough enough for growth, gentle enough for joy.

Yes, as a restricted area, you'll need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit , Restricted Area Permit, and TIMS card. Rest easy – Ascent Himalaya handles all paperwork pre-trek. English-speaking guides are mandatory here, and ours are Manaslu locals for that authentic edge.

Absolutely recommended – and practically essential for high-altitude treks like this. Cover medical evacuations (helicopter ~$5,000+ otherwise), trip cancellation, and altitude issues (at least $100,000 USD coverage). We provide group safety gear like Gamow bags, but personal insurance gives you that worry-free wild.

Of course! Opt for the Tsum side valley (extra 3-4 days for mystic monasteries and bonus views), yoga sessions at high camp, or photography workshops amid glacial glows. Our flexible itineraries bend to your dreams – inquire for seamless add-ons.

Layered thermals, waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, trekking poles, sun hat/sunglasses, reusable bottle, and personal meds (plus altitude tabs like Diamox). We supply sleeping bags and duffels. Full checklist arrives post-booking – simple and sorted!

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