Manaslu Round Trek
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Explore Tours
The Manaslu Round Trek circles the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,156m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. Opened for commercial trekking after 1991, this route originally allowed only camping treks, following trails pioneered by mountaineering legends like H.W. Tilman and Jimmy Roberts in the 1950s.
Known as the Mountain of Spirit, Manaslu offers one of Nepal’s most challenging and strenuous trekking experiences. It combines unique Himalayan cultural encounters with a remarkably pristine environment. The trek showcases rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes with diverse geographical features. Many consider this trek among the best in Nepal due to its high passes and breathtaking panoramic views.
Before the devastating 2015 earthquakes, the Manaslu Round Trek was rapidly gaining popularity as a prime teahouse trek rivaling the Annapurna and Everest regions. The earthquake, which had its epicenter near Gorkha, caused extensive damage along the trail—blocking paths with landslides and destroying lodges, including those on the side trek to the Tsum Valley.
Since then, the region has been rebuilt, and many teahouses and lodges have reopened, making it safe and accessible for trekkers once again.
Trek Highlights from Manaslu Round Trek:
Mount Manaslu (8,156m):
Towering above the surrounding landscape, Mount Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world and the crowning jewel of this trek. The mountain’s name means “Mountain of the Spirit,” and its presence dominates the skyline throughout the journey. Trekkers enjoy multiple viewpoints of this majestic peak from different angles, especially during the ascent to the higher sections of the trail.
Larkya La Pass (4,930m):
The Larkya La Pass is one of the highest and most dramatic mountain passes in Nepal. Crossing it is a highlight of the trek, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped giants like Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Mount Manaslu itself. The trail leading to the pass is both challenging and awe-inspiring, rewarding trekkers with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment and natural beauty.
Rich Cultural Diversity:
The Manaslu region is home to Tibetan-influenced ethnic groups, particularly the Nubri and Tsum Valley communities. Their unique Buddhist traditions, colorful prayer flags, monasteries, and handcrafted stone houses provide a deep cultural immersion. Along the way, you’ll be greeted with genuine hospitality in traditional villages untouched by mass tourism.
Diverse Landscapes:
This trek offers an exceptional variety of scenery, ranging from lush subtropical forests and river gorges to alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and rugged high-altitude terrain. The changing environment makes each day on the trail visually stunning and incredibly diverse.
Tour Amenities
Our company representative will be waiting for you just outside the airport arrival area holding a board with your name. Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Optional half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley or rest at the hotel. Meanwhile, we will process all permits and government paperwork for the trek.
After breakfast, we start the journey at 6:30 AM towards Soti Khola, aiming to arrive by 3–4 PM. We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant between 12 and 1 PM. The road after Arughat can be rough and bumpy; if traveling by public bus, a vehicle change will be required after Arughat.
Trek begins on a mule track, climbing along cliff steps before descending to Lyabrubesi (880m). Cross suspension bridges and follow the Buri Gandaki River to Machhakhola (900m). Start around 8–8:30 AM with a lunch break from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, reaching the teahouse by 3–4 PM.
Follow the river to Khorlabesi and the warm springs at Tatopani (930m), continuing along the eastern bank of Buri Gandaki through Dhovan, Thulo Dunga, and Yara Bagar. Cross suspension bridges to reach Jagat (1410m), the gateway to Manaslu Conservation Area. Restricted area permits are checked here. Trek starts around 8–8:30 AM, lunch at 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, arriving at teahouse by 3–4 PM.
The trail climbs above Jagat, passing through Salleri and Sirdibas (earthquake damaged), before reaching Philim (minor damage). Terrain becomes arid as we hike past waterfalls to Ekle Bhatti, then turnoff to Lokpa toward Tsum Valley. Climb above the confluence of Buri Gandaki and Shar Khola to Pewa and reach Deng (1860m). Start around 8–8:30 AM, lunch 11:30 AM–12:30 PM, arrive 3–4 PM.
From Deng, the trail passes Bhi (stone-carving village) and Bhijam, continuing along Buri Gandaki to Ghap. Many villages were damaged by the earthquake, but Ghap’s teahouses have been rebuilt and are ready to accommodate trekkers.
Climb above Tum Khola to Longa Chuta, entering a forest of fir and rhododendron. Spot local wildlife such as langur monkeys. Namrung, a former customs post on the mountain salt route to Tibet, suffered earthquake damage but now offers guesthouses for food and lodging.
Entering upper Nupri, the dialect and culture become Tibetan. Pass through Barsam and Lihi (earthquake damage), then Sho. Views of North Manaslu (7157m) and Naike Peak (5515m) are stunning here
Pass several rural Gompas, many damaged in the earthquake, en route to Sama. The village is surrounded by beautiful valley and mountain scenery with notable monasteries.
Acclimatize with a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m) and back to Sama (3530m), gaining about 870m altitude. Alternatively, explore nearby Pungyen Gompa (4070m) or hike to Puggen Tal (Green Lake). The more adventurous may opt to climb up to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m).
Descend slightly to the Buri Gandaki, pass the turnoff to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. Continue to Kermo Kharka, then reach the gateway to Samdo, a village recovering from earthquake damage but now open for guests. Some may rest here to explore local glaciers.
Short climb toward Larkya La with views of Manaslu and Syacha Glacier. Spot blue sheep en route. Dharamshala is the last shelter before Larkya La pass and is often closed in winter due to snow.
Cross Larkya La Pass (5100m), the highest point of the trek. The ascent can be cold and windy; trail markers may be obscured by snow. Enjoy views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. Descend to Bimthang, once a major Tibetan salt trade post.
Descend through scenic valleys to Dhudh Khola and then to Soti Khola (Khare) beneath Phung Peak (6258m), finally reaching Gho village
Descend through fields and forests along the Dhudh Khola to Tilje (2300m), home to Gurung culture. Cross suspension bridge over Marsyangdi River, connecting with the Annapurna Circuit trek at Dharapani.
Follow Marsyangdi River valley through green forests to Jagat. Overnight in local guesthouse.
Arrange a jeep to Bulbule (1–2 hours) and then take a bus to Kathmandu (6–7 hours). Transfer to hotel upon arrival.
Free day for shopping, rest, and a farewell dinner with the trekking team to share memories and photos.
Our staff will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.
