Manaslu Circuit Trek - 15 Days

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by the Expedition Himalaya team and transferred to a comfortable 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free to rest and recover from international travel or take a short walk around the city to experience Nepal’s vibrant atmosphere.  

This day is reserved for trek preparation and final arrangements. Equipment checks, packing assistance, and permit verification are completed, followed by a detailed trek briefing covering route conditions, altitude safety, and daily walking expectations.

In the evening, a welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant is hosted, offering an introduction to Nepali cuisine and an opportunity to meet your trekking team.  

A scenic drive takes you west from Kathmandu, following the Trishuli River before entering the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The road passes terraced farmland, small roadside towns, waterfalls, and deep river gorges. As the road narrows, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged, marking the transition into the remote Manaslu region.

The trek begins along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and winding through forested hillsides. The trail passes traditional Gurung villages, cultivated fields, and steep rocky sections carved into the cliffs. Subtropical vegetation such as banana plants, bamboo, and ferns dominate this lower section.

Continuing upstream, the valley narrows and the trail follows dramatic gorges and cascading waterfalls. Stone villages and terraced farms line the route. As altitude increases, the influence of Tibetan culture becomes noticeable in architecture, prayer flags, and mani walls.

The trail climbs steadily through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Cooler air and quieter surroundings signal entry into the upper Manaslu region. From Namrung, clear views of Manaslu (8,163 m) and Manaslu North begin to appear on clear days.  

The landscape opens into wide alpine valleys dotted with yak pastures. Traditional Tibetan-style houses, chortens, and long mani walls line the trail. Panoramic views of Manaslu, Naike Peak, and surrounding glaciers dominate the horizon. Sama Gaun is one of the largest villages in the region and a key cultural and acclimatization point.  

A planned acclimatization hike leads toward Birendra Lake and Manaslu Base Camp, offering close-up views of Manaslu’s massive north face and surrounding icefalls. The trail passes alpine meadows and glacial terrain. Blue sheep and Himalayan birds are often spotted in this area. After spending time at higher elevation, descend gradually to support proper acclimatization.  

The route follows an open valley with expansive mountain views and sparse vegetation. The environment becomes crisp and wind-swept. Samdo is a small Tibetan-influenced settlement near the border, historically used as a trading point between Nepal and Tibet.

The trail climbs steadily over rocky terrain and glacial moraines. Vegetation is minimal, replaced by barren alpine landscapes. Snow-capped peaks surround the route as you approach the high pass area. This day focuses on altitude gain and preparation for the crossing ahead.

An early start is essential today for the crossing of Larke La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trail ascends gradually over rocky terrain and glacial moraines, with expansive views of surrounding Himalayan peaks as daylight spreads across the high alpine landscape. As you approach the pass at 5,106 m / 16,929 ft, the environment becomes stark and dramatic, dominated by snowfields, wind-sculpted ridges, and vast open horizons.

From the top of the pass, panoramic views unfold across Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, marking one of the most rewarding viewpoints of the entire trek. After spending time at the pass, the route descends steadily into the broad glacial valley of Bimthang.

Descending further, the trail enters forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron. Wildlife such as langur monkeys and Himalayan birds may be seen. Rivers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows accompany the trail as temperatures gradually become warmer.

The trail passes cultivated farmland and traditional villages, rejoining more populated areas. From Tilje, a drive takes you to Besisahar, marking the completion of the trekking section of the Manaslu Circuit.

A scenic drive returns you to Kathmandu via river valleys and mid-hill settlements. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel, with time to relax or explore the city independently.  

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. The Manaslu Circuit Trek concludes with lasting memories of remote valleys, dramatic Himalayan scenery, and rich cultural landscapes.