Overview And Highlights

Budget Manaslu Circuit Trek basically is an adventurous classic trek to the untouched region of Nepal. Manaslu circuit trek is one of the most popular and spectacular trekking destination which is situated on the west-central part of the Himalayan region of Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit Trek provides the view of Mt. Manaslu which is eighth highest mountain in the world (8,163mtrs), Shringi Himal, Himalchuli, Nagdi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Simnang Himal, Saula Himal, Cheo Himal, Him lung Himal and other hundreds of beautiful peaks.

Budget Manaslu circuit trekking is Government controlled trekking region and need extra permission to organize trekking in this region of Nepal. Trekking in Manaslu region is only possible with government register trekking agencies and requires of at least two people for trekking. This entire region is still restricted area and requires a special permit. The main attraction of this trek around Manaslu region are most challenging and virginity of the trail including authentic Nepali, Tibetan culture and hospitality, influenced ethnic encounters, traditional cultures, breathtaking views of mountains, snow-capped peaks, Buddhist monasteries, architecture, long ridges valley, beautiful suspension bridges, the adventure pass Larkya-La (5,135m), dense forest of rhododendron and oak, abundant wildlife such as rare red panda, snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan thar, wild boar, etc, splendid waterfalls, glaciers, flora and fauna, natural landscape, magical combination of adventure, biodiversity, and so on.

Our especial Budget Manaslu Circuit Trek is a complete wilderness adventure destinations and it will be an experience for a lifetime, exploring the remoteness for certain time period. It is also known as the best alternative trekking destination to the Annapurna trekking region and Everest trekking region. Manaslu Circuit Trek is also known as tea house trek. This trek can be planned any time of the year; however March - May and August - November are more supportive in terms of weather, visibility and trail. Trekkers can see the majestic view of both Manaslu and Annapurna region in this single trek as well interested trekkers can visit Tsum Valley for the Tibetan Buddhism cultural trek. The trek is very moderate so doesn’t demand advanced physical fitness level to the traveler. Knowledge of trails, challenging climates passing through the high altitudes may support the traveler in higher elevation during trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek journey usually begins by sight-seen of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. The trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Arughat which approximately takes the full day. The route begins from Sotikhola, passing through the George of the Budi-Gandaki River with the majestic view of Manaslu with a well-defined path unique landscape. Then we trek through Machhakhola, Dobhan, Philim, Lokpa, Chumling and many other cultural villages. During the trek, we will be walking through long ridges valley, dense forest of rhododendron and oak, and crossing many suspension bridges. Then we will be arriving at Deng, which starts to give us appearances of snow peaks. Giving continuity to trekking, we will reach to Namrung village where it’s popular as amazing viewpoint for Ganesh Himal and Mt. Himalchuli.

After traveling through Lho village, we will enter the Nupri region, inhabited primarily by Tibetan immigrants. The colorful prayer flags, old monasteries, life style are some iconic images of Tibetan culture and religious practice. Trekking a bit further, we will arrive at the highest village in Budi-Gandaki valley; the Samagaon village. We will acclimatize at Samagaun village and interested trekkers can explore to Birendra Tal, Pungyen Gompa as well as Manaslu Base Camp. Then following day we continue our trek, heading towards Samdo followed by Larkya Phedi and Dharmasala. After passing through Dharmasala, we will begin our interesting parts of Manaslu circuit trek to climb Larkya-La Pass (5,106 m) to see the view stunning panoramic view of Mountain around you as well eventually reaching Bhimthang then to Gho. Further moving to Dharapani we will pass through fields and villages, following the Annapurna Circuit trek in another hand. On the last day, we will drive back to Besisahar then drive back to Kathmandu.

If trekkers wants to be the part of the remote, untouched, adventurous and less explored trekking destination in Nepal, Life Himalaya trekking will recommend Budget Manaslu Circuit Trek; where trekkers can get all necessary elements in our one special trekking package. This package can also be flexible with the itinerary and can adjust many more details according to your demand, availability, and timing.

Day to Day Itinerary

1 : Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu (1340m)

Accommodation

Kathmandu

Max Elevation

1340 m.

Starts From

Arrival and Transfer

Ends At

Hotel in Kathmandu

When you arrive in Kathmandu airport, our agency representative will be waiting for you in the airport holding our company and your name play card. From airport our agency representative will escort you to the hotel which takes 20 min of driving. After you check in to the hotel, you will rest and fed your flight sickness till next day. At hotel we will brief you about your schedule and plan of your trip.

2 : Free day in Kathmandu or self sightseeing around Kathmandu valley (option are)

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tours to world heritage sites of Pashupatinath Temple-the holiest Hindu Temple on the bank of sacred Bagmati River, BodhanathStupa-the biggest Buddhist Stupa architecture in the world! Patan Durbar Square is the oldest city in the Kathmandu valley with age old tradition also called Lalitpur-the city of fine arts. The visit covers the Durbar Square, the Krishna temple, the Kumbheswore temple, the Golden temple and many more. SwayambhunathStupa-the 2000 years old legendary stupa on the hillock also nick-named as monkey temple.

3 : Kathmandu to Arughat bazar (870m) by local bus. the bus journey will take 6 -7 hours.

Max Elevation

870 m.

Walking Duration

6-7 hours

Starts From

Kathmandu

Ends At

Arughat bazar

The road till Dhading has a asphalt. The unsealed road from Dhading to Arughat bazaar is sometimes impassable after heavy monsoon rain. In this case it takes 3 to 4 hours of walking.Arughat Bazar is small market town which lies next to BuriGandakiriver. This village is a strategic point of the road from Trisuli bazaar to Gorkha and then to Pokhara. It is the largest village in the BuriGandakigandakibasin and there are many stores.

4 : Arughat to Soti Khola (790m) 4-5 hours of walking

Max Elevation

790 m.

Walking Duration

4-5 hours

Starts From

Arughat

Ends At

Soti Khola

Today path will go along the BuriGandaki all the way to its headwaters. The trail goes across forests populated by monkeys. When you reach wide area of rice paddies you will come to Arkhet. From here trail descend to a high cascading waterfall to kyorpani. This is a small village where there is Magar and Gurung people are living. From here, trail descends to SotiKhola. There is a good swimming hole and a small water fall just above the trail.

5 : Soti khola to Machha Khola (869m) 5 hour of walking

Max Elevation

870 m.

Walking Duration

5 hours

Starts From

Soti khola

Ends At

Machha Khola

After breakfast at Sotikhola we will hike through plane area, following the Budi Gandaki river, small villages , the broad valley narrows and at times the trail is cut into the steep valley side, which is densely forested.. The terraced farmland here belongs to the village of LapuBesi. Treks descend once again to the wide, sandy riverbed and follow a path, which runs below the steep, craggy valley side. At length, we have to climb up once again on a trail to Machhekhaola 870m, Machhekhola means "Fish stream", here we going to have the overnight stay at the tea house.

6 : Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m) 6-7 hour of walking (Resticated area start)

Max Elevation

7187 m.

Walking Duration

6-7 hours

Starts From

Machha Khola

Ends At

Jagat

From MachaKholacross the slope that has farm fields and rice paddies .further ahead the valley will become a wider. There is views of SringiHimal also called Chamar( 7187m) . The path will will go down to the shores of white sand .trail still descends and ascents to mountain flank. After short decent you will reach to KaniGoan. It is one of the big village .soon after passing the village and crossing the MachhaKhola and NamyungKhola you will reach to Kholabesi. Pass the village and the valley , follow the narrow path soon you will reach to Taopani. where it has a hot spring.

7 : Jagat to Nyak Phedi (1760m) 6-7 hour of walking

Max Elevation

1760 m.

Walking Duration

6-7 hours

Starts From

Jagat

Ends At

Nyak Phedi

From Jagat we head through crossing the suspension bridge and passing through forested area. following the path looks like it is carved in the rock to reach to Doban. Soon after crossing villages and suspension bridge in Dobankhola, trail repeating ascents and descents will come to Jagat. It has a beautiful flagstone.

8 : Nyak Phedi to Bi Phedi (1990m) 5-6 hour of walking

Max Elevation

1990 m.

Walking Duration

5-6 hours

Starts From

Nyak Phedi

Ends At

Bi Phedi

Climbing over a rocky ridge of Salleri , there are a good views of SringiHimal. Passing through the Gurung villages to reach to Eklebhati.Where it has strong influence of Tibetan.

9 : Bi Phedi to Namrung ( 2630m) 6-7 hour of walking

Max Elevation

2630 m.

Walking Duration

6-7 hours

Starts From

Bi Phedi

Ends At

Namrung ( 2630m) 6-7 hour of walking

Today the trail head through above the River then descend to cross the SerangKhola and later enters an impressive S bend between sheer basalt walls. To the right, huge rocky crags appear – with a spectacular waterfall above fields of maize and wheat. Beyond the valley broadens and turns northeast; the trail crosses a bridge before attractive village of Ghap (2,250m/7,382ft) on the south bank.The trail then ascends through bamboo, rhododendron and oak above the steeply descending river. For a short section it is forced back to the north bank by sheer walls and re-crosses back to the south bank on a wooden bridge (above a natural stone bridge) at a point where the river thunders down a narrow defile. Before reaching the village, the trail overlooks the Tum Khola from Tibet whose waters considerably increase the BudhiGandaki’s volume at the confluence. Then we will have overnight at lodge in Namrung

10 : Namrung to Sama Goau (3520 ) 6-7 hour of walking

Walking Duration

6-7 hours

Starts From

Namrung

Ends At

Sama Goau (3520 ) 6-7 hour of walking

After passing through Bengsam village, LI and Khani you will come to Hinankhola. Crosses the streams, you will come to Sho village. From here the views are open Naike peak, Manaslu north peak and Manaslu. Lho has wide farm fields on the gentle mountain flank, it is a large village with many houses and a fine Gimpa. Soon after the junction, you will cross the stream using the wooden bridge and zigzag up the forested area to reach to HonsanhoGompa. Where it has an open view. After crossing Pungen glacier valley will become a wider. Move on from one Chorten to another to reach sama. Which is surrounded by a large number of Mani stones and Chortens. The Gompa on the top of the hill is very fine and worth visiting

11 : Sama Gompa to Manasulu base camp and return back to Sama Gompa

Max Elevation

4900 m.

Walking Duration

5-6 hours

Starts From

Sama Gompa

Ends At

Manasulu base camp

Sama is the regional center of Nupri. Explore the village architecture and customs. Cloth weaving for chubas and the manufacture of hooked rugs are important occupations for trade with Tibet. Yak and dzopkyo herds and horses are kept and traded. The LabrangGompa in the lower village and the KargyuChholing Monastery on the rise beyond the village, were established some 500 years ago when this region was first settled by Tibetans. The monastery architecture is unique with fine woodwork. There are eight temple buildings: the largest, Pemba ChholingGompa, contains an impressive statue of Guru Rinpoche. It belongs to the NyingmaBuddhist sect and so most of its Lamas are married and live in dwellings at the complex.An easy and rewarding hike beyond the monastery is to the Birendra Tal (3,450m/11,319ft) below the Manaslu Glacier. It can be viewed from a hilltop or from a stony beach and offers striking views of the mountain. ~3km, 1½hrs After exploring the Sama we will follow the trail towards Samdo to a bridge over the stream from the lake and then ascend the demanding trail that rises ~1 200m above the lake and the snout of the glacier to the Base Camp (~4,900m/16,100ft), ~8km, 5-6 hrs Then a walk to the Pungyen Nunnery (3,870m/12,697ft) that stands on a plateau above the Pungyen Glacier offers unbeatable views of the Nadi ridges and Manaslu from near the gompa. It also adds an illuminating perspective of the mountain and its satellites to the other views seen along the circuit trail. From there we will walk back along the trail, past the school, to the turnoff to the Pungyen Nunnery. It lies over the ridge on a plateau above the glacier, and looks out onto Manaslu (known locally as Kang Pungyen). The ~2½hr trail through summer kharkas (no teahouses) along the NumaKhola and Pungyen Glacier can be icy and slippery. Above the complex is a cave gompa with yet better views. From there we will return back to lodge in Sama for the night stay.

12 : Sama Goau to Samdo (3790m) 3 hour of walking

Max Elevation

6335 m.

Walking Duration

3 hours

Starts From

Sama Goau

Ends At

Samdo

Today we will descend towards the BudhiGandaki, that has turned north, and pass the lake and Base Camp trail as well as several mani walls as the valley begins to widen. This is an easy trail along a shelf above the river past juniper and birch forests that surround KermoKharka. A stone wall divides the region into two with a stileand animal gate that separates the Sama and Samdo herds. Further on, the trail drops to cross the BudhiGandaki on a wooden bridge before climbing steeply onto a promontory above the confluence of the river with the MayolKhola from the Samdo Glacier to the northeast. At the top is a stone arch, followed by fields before a white kani at the entrance to the village: an attractive, cold, yak and goat herding area. Zigzag up yak tracks behind the village to any of several sets of flags on a high ridge for superb 270o views: with Samdo Peak (6,335m/20,785ft) and its dramatic glacial basin to the east; the Sama Valley and its ranges to the south (Manaslu is masked by a rocky peak to the southwest); while to the west is a bird’s eye view over the northern Syacha Glacier from Manaslu (partially hidden) and tomorrow’s trail to Dharamsala and the Larkya La. Samdo is the last village before Gho, in the Manang District. Only informal kharkas (with lodges) lie between these villages. Today we will have overnight at lodge in Samdo.

13 : Samdo to Tibet Border ( Rui-la 5000m) and at the evening return back to Samdo.

Max Elevation

5000 m.

Walking Duration

3 hours

Starts From

Samdo

Ends At

Tibet Border ( Rui-la 5000m)

Trekking through north from Samdo and crossing the AthahraSayaKhola . The trail climbs gradually along the AthahraSayaKhola, then descends gently towards the river bed crossing a side river on a wooden bridge. It then climbs again and goes beside the river on its western side. After 3 hours walk from Samdo the AthahraSayaKhola turns west. On this point there is a small wooden bridge and on the other side of it a clear slope that leads to a distant mountain pass. Cross the bridge and begin to climb on the slope. At its bottom, the trail may seem unclear as there are several Yak trails going up, but as you climb it is clear that your way is… up… The climb to the top of the Rui La pass, at 4998, takes another 2 hours. Along the way there are beautiful sights of Manaslu in the distance, as well as the Hindu and Fukang glaciers just behind you as you climb. The Rui La pass is a "classic” "U” shaped mountain pass. Prayer flags mark the pass and a border stone marks the border between Nepal and "Dzong Who” – China. Numerous mountain ranges can be seen on the Tibetan side, and if you are patient enough, wait to see a Yak caravan crossing the pass to bring goods into Nepal.

14 : Samdo to Larke Bazaar (4460m) 4 hour of walking. it is good day for acclimatization before crossing Larke pass.

Max Elevation

4460 m.

Walking Duration

4 hours

Starts From

Samdo

Ends At

Larke Bazaar

After an easy first part of trek today we cross the BudhiGandaki for a final time before the trail gradually rises through juniper and tundra with a viewpoint overlooking the Larkya La glacier. Climbing further we arrive at the Spartan Larkya Rest House.

15 : Rest house –Larke pass to Bhimathang (4066m) 7-8 hour of walking

Max Elevation

5100 m.

Walking Duration

7-8 hours

Starts From

Rest house –Larke pass

Ends At

Bhimathang

An early morning we will start is needed for what is to be a particularly tough and extended day. After a long gradual climb alongside a moraine we make a short descent to a glacial lake and reach the head of the moraine (4,700m) which we cross to climb to the ridge top. Four frozen lakes lie below and then it is up to the crest of the Larkya La (5,100m).The reward for these difficult trekking conditions is brilliant westerly views of HimlungHimal, Kangurru and Annapurna II as well as the looming omnipresence of Manaslu. On the steep trail we will descent drop around 600m in less than an hour. Our trail then levels off onto yak pastures before finally reaching Bimtang, a collection of typical summer kharkas .

16 : Bhimthang to Dharapani ( 1963m) 8-9 hour of walking

Max Elevation

1963 m.

Walking Duration

8-9 hours

Starts From

Bhimthang

Ends At

Dharapani ( 1963m) 8-9 hour of walking

We will descend on easier terrain through meadows and pine and rhododendron forest, until arriving in Hampuk. Then the path further, following the course of the DudhKhola, crossing the stream fed by the snows of the KichkeHimal and arrive at Karche and then onto the village of Gho – where rice is back on the menu and Nepalese ‘dhal bhat’ is revisited. Keeping to the west bank of the river, the afternoon is one of gradual descent to the Gurung settlement of Tilije which is famous for its apple brandy.

17 : Dharapani to Besisahar by local sharing Jeep

Starts From

Dharapani

Ends At

Besisahar by local sharing Jeep

After breakfast, we will toward the Besisahar with jeep ride along the dusty and bumpy off road .

18 : Local bus to kathmandu

Starts From

Local bus

Ends At

kathmandu

From Besisahar we will drive back to Kathmandu on a local bus through paved road.

19 : Free day in kathmandu or self visiting around the valley

Patan The ancient city of Patan, lying 5 km southwest of kathmandu, is known as the city of fine arts, The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. The diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and Buddhism to flourish has left a rich legacy of impressive sightseeing in this city for today’s visitors. Patan Durbar Square: Situated in the heart of the city, constitutes the focus of visitor’s attraction. The square is full of ancient palaces, Temple and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. The Patan durbar Square consist of three main chowks or countryards, the Central MulChowk, SundariChowk and KesharnarayanChowk, The SundariChowk holds in its center a masterpiece of stone architecture. The Royal Bath called Tushahity. It was listed in the UNESCO world Heritage Monument list in 1979. Bhaktapur durbar Squares: The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main courtyard of the Palace of 55 Windows.Built by King RanjitMalla. The gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters with marvelous intricacy. The palace of 55 windows was built in 1700 AD. Among the brick walls in their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving. The stone temple of Batsala Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple also sets a beautiful example of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. There is a bronze bell on the terrace of the temple which is also known as the Bell of Barking Dogs. This colossal bell, placed in 1737 AD, was rung to signal curfew those days.

20 : Departure to Home

Starts From

kathmandu

Ends At

Home

It is the final Farwell. After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight to your next destination.

Services Included on Price

Selected packageRegular PackageIncludes the services listed below for this package type.

USD 950per person

Book Trip

Regular Package Service Includes

Hotel in Kathmandu with B/B basic (One Night) (Centrally located, attach bathroom, hot and cold shower)
TIMS CARD (Trekking Information Management System). We need two photograph each for permit.
Manaslu Conservation Area Fee
Annapurna Conservation Fee
Manaslu Special Permit
16 days porter wages and his insurances/meals/accommodation/equipments
16 days guide wages and his insurances/meals/accommodation/equpipments
16 nights best Lodge accommodation during the trek on tea house services.
Kathmandu to Arughat by Local Bus
Dharapani to Besisahar by Jeep Sharing
Besisahar to Kathmandu by Local Bus
Rescue arrangement in emergency situation & worst weather condition
Trekking poles, sleeping bag, down jacket/duffle bag (we provide these if necessary).
Trekking maps.
Rubbish disposal.
Our service charge and government taxes.

Regular Package Service Excludes

Extra nights hotel stay in Kathmandu.
Tips to guides and support staff.
Additional costs in case of emergency (You must have adequate travel insurance to cover any kind of emergencies, such as ground transportation & Heli recue/medical/hospitalization. Medical etc).
Your International flight ticket airfare
Energetic chocolate/energy drinks/alcohol/mineral water/cigarettes/packing food snacks etc
Additional medication for altitude sickness (Acetazolamide etc).
Personal expenses and any other unforeseen expenses, such as Laundry/WIFI on trek/phone call
Personal trekking equipment.
Nepal entry visa fees which can get up on your arrival in Kathmandu airport
Sightseeing tour and All the entrance fees of temple in Kathmandu
Services not mentioned herein