MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK – 11 NIGHTS / 12 DAYS
$899
$499
per person
11 NIGHTS / 12 DAYS | Sept 26
Fixed Departure: September 26 | Chinese-Speaking Trekking Guide | Kathmandu to Kathmandu
| Trip Duration: | 11 Nights / 12 Days | Fixed Departure Date: | September 26, 2026 |
| Starting Point: | Kathmandu (Drive to Machha Khola) | Ending Point: | Kathmandu (Drive from Tilije/Besisahar) |
| Fixed Departure Cost: | USD $499 Per Person | Trek Style / Type: | Teahouse Lodge Trek (Sharing Basis) |
| Trekking Guide: | Licensed Chinese-Speaking Guide | Max Elevation: | 5,160 m / 16,929 ft (Larkya La Pass) |
| Difficulty Grade: | Strenuous / High Altitude Alpine Circuit | Permits Included: | Manaslu RAP, MCAP, ACAP & Taxes |
| Transportation: | Local Bus & Sharing 4WD Jeep | Daily Walking Duration: | 5 to 8 Hours per day (~130 km total) |
Tour Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is globally recognized as one of Nepal’s premier wild Himalayan adventures, offering an authentic, pristine alternative to the more crowded Annapurna and Everest routes. Circling the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft)—the world’s eighth-highest peak—this customized 11 Nights / 12 Days expedition takes you on an exhilarating journey through deep gorges, subtropical river valleys, pine-scented alpine forests, and high-altitude glacial landscapes. Originating and concluding in Kathmandu, this itinerary is meticulously optimized to deliver the full wilderness circuit experience with safe acclimatization, culminating in the triumphant crossing of the famed Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft).
This special Fixed Departure departing on September 26 provides outstanding value at USD $499 per person, uniquely supported by a fluent, professional Chinese-speaking trekking guide. Trekkers will discover ancient Tibetan Buddhist heritage in remote stone settlements, witness centuries-old monasteries and chortens decorated with colorful prayer flags, marvel at dramatic close-up panoramas of Himal Chuli, Peak 29, and Ganesh Himal, and encounter the rare flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area. With shared teahouse lodging, complete restricted area permits, local transport, and comprehensive ground arrangements handled by The Regal Retreat, this journey represents the pinnacle of remote Himalayan discovery.
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Each tour package showed is for the general information as all the packages are highly customizable according to our valued guests
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR EXPERIENCE
- Chinese-Speaking Trekking Guide: Services of a government-licensed, experienced, and fluent Chinese-speaking mountain guide throughout the entire trek, including his daily salary, meals, lodge accommodation, transportation, high-altitude gear, and comprehensive insurance.
- • Mountain Teahouse Accommodation: Eleven (11) Nights accommodation in authentic mountain teahouses and lodges along the trekking circuit on a twin/triple sharing basis (from Machha Khola to Tilije).
- All Required Surface Transportation: Land transport throughout the itinerary: Kathmandu to Machha Khola via local bus and sharing jeep; Tilije to Besisahar via local 4WD sharing jeep; Besisahar to Kathmandu via local bus / sharing passenger vehicle.
- All Necessary Trekking Permits & Entry Fees: Special Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP - foreign national government fee), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) entry permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit.
- Government Taxes & Official Fees: All mandatory government taxes, 13% VAT, local municipal council entrance fees, and official document handling charges.
- High-Altitude Medical & First Aid Support: Group comprehensive mountain medical first aid kit including pulse oximeter for daily oxygen/heart rate monitoring, emergency medications, altitude sickness support tablets, and dressing supplies.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Daily Meals along the Trek: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the route (available directly at teahouse dining halls as per individual menu selection; estimated budget USD $25–$35 per person per day).
- Kathmandu Accommodation: Hotel stays and meals in Kathmandu prior to Day 01 and following Day 12 (can be booked independently or added via The Regal Retreat upon request).
- Luggage Porter Service: Personal trekking porters to carry backpacks or duffel bags (available upon request at an additional cost of ~$20–$25 per day; 1 porter can be shared between 2 trekkers, carrying up to 20 kg total).
- International Airfare & Nepal Visa: International flight tickets to/from Kathmandu and Nepal tourist entry visa fees (USD $30 for 15 days or $50 for 30 days, obtainable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport).
- Mandatory Travel & Medical Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive insurance policy covering emergency high-altitude medical treatment, mountain search, and helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 meters.
- Personal Trekking Gear & Equipment: Down jacket, 4-season sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C rating), sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, thermal layers, and personal headlamp.
- Teahouse Personal Extras: Hot showers, electronic device battery charging, Wi-Fi connectivity cards, boiled drinking water, bottled mineral water, hot teas/coffee, soft drinks, beer/spirits, and snacks.
- Gratuities / Tipping: Customary tips for the Chinese-speaking trekking guide and local transport drivers (recommended based on service satisfaction).
Tour Plan
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Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,340m) to Machha Khola (900m) via Arughat & Soti Khola
Driving Distance: ~135 km | Driving Time: ~8–9 Hours | Elevation: 900 m / 2,952 ft | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Your Himalayan adventure begins with an early morning overland departure from Kathmandu. Traveling westbound along the Prithvi Highway, the route winds past terraced hillsides, emerald valleys, and fast-flowing rivers including the Trishuli and Marshyangdi. At Malekhu or Dhading Besi, we transition toward the rugged rural tracks that penetrate deep into the Gorkha region. Crossing Arughat and Soti Khola via local bus and 4WD sharing jeep, we trace the dramatic turquoise waters of the roaring Budhi Gandaki River through steep gorges. By late afternoon, we arrive in Machha Khola ('Fish River'), a vibrant lower-valley hub of stone houses, tea stalls, and suspension bridges. Settle into your local mountain lodge on a sharing basis, meet with your Chinese-speaking trekking guide for a comprehensive trek briefing, and enjoy your first evening in the peaceful rural Himalayan foothills.
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Day 02: Trek from Machha Khola (900m) to Jagat (1,340m)
Trek Distance: ~21 km | Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours | Elevation Gain: +440 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
After breakfast, the trekking phase officially gets underway. The trail follows the winding contours of the Budhi Gandaki River, navigating gentle undulations, exposed rock faces, and fertile terraced farms. We pass Khorlabesi and reach Tatopani, where natural geothermal hot water spouts from the cliffside. Continuing through dense subtropical foliage, the route crosses several dramatic suspension bridges swung high across the river gorge. At Yaruphant, we cross an innovative cantilever bridge anchored directly into sheer cliff walls above cascading rapids. After crossing the river once more, we climb a wide flight of stone staircases into the beautifully paved village of Jagat (1,340m). Jagat serves as the official checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), marked by whitewashed stone houses, prayer flags, and lush slate-roofed courtyards.
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Day 03: Trek from Jagat (1,340m) to Deng (1,860m)
Trek Distance: ~20 km | Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours | Elevation Gain: +520 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Setting out from Jagat, the trail ascends a rocky ridge to Salleri, presenting magnificent glimpses of the Sringi Himal (7,161m). Descending toward Sirdibas, the path crosses a high suspension bridge and leads upward to Philim, a large, prosperous Gurung village featuring a prominent Japanese-assisted secondary school, stone chortens, and extensive millet terraces. Leaving Philim, the canyon narrows sharply into an uninhabited wilderness gorge known as Ekle Bhatti. The trail traverses beneath towering cliffs, crossing back and forth across the Budhi Gandaki. Entering a bamboo-forested valley, we reach the river junction where the trail to the mystical Tsum Valley branches eastward. Continuing straight through lush pine and rhododendron woods, we cross the river once more and make our final ascent to the small Tibetan-influenced hamlet of Deng (1,860m).
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Day 04: Trek from Deng (1,860m) to Namrung (2,630m)
Trek Distance: ~19 km | Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours | Elevation Gain: +770 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Today marks a pronounced cultural transition into the higher Buddhist realm of Nupri. Leaving Deng behind, we cross the Budhi Gandaki onto a trail carved directly into cliff faces, passing through Bhi Phedi. As we climb steadily through dense forests of fir, pine, oak, and rhododendron, the mountain air cools perceptibly. At Ghap, we admire intricate stone carvings of the Buddha and Guru Rinpoche adorning ancient mani walls. The trail crosses the thunderous river twice through deep wooden gorges where troops of gray langur monkeys are frequently spotted. A sustained zigzagging climb leads through bamboo thickets into the charming village of Namrung (2,630m). Namrung features an ancient stone entrance archway (Kani), Tibetan-style flat-roofed houses, and an official police checkpost. Here, we enjoy breathtaking views of Siring and Ganesh Himal.
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Day 05: Trek from Namrung (2,630m) to Lho / Shyala (3,180m)
Trek Distance: ~10 km | Walking Duration: ~4–5 Hours | Elevation Gain: +550 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Leaving Namrung, we enter the upper valley of Nupri, where inhabitants trace their direct lineage and dialect to Tibet. Walking past expansive barley fields enclosed by dry stone walls, we pass through the traditional villages of Lihi and Sho. Intricately carved mani stones line the path, displaying ancient sacred Buddhist mantras. As we emerge into alpine clearings, Mount Manaslu (8,163m)—known in Sanskrit as 'The Mountain of the Spirit'—reveals its staggering twin-peaked summit towering directly ahead. We hike up to Lho village (3,180m), dominated by the grand Ribung Monastery. The monastery grounds offer one of the most celebrated viewpoints in the entire Himalaya, framing Mount Manaslu rising dramatically behind golden chortens and fluttered prayer flags. Spend the afternoon soaking in the monastic chants and panoramic mountain scenery.
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Day 06: Trek from Lho (3,180m) to Samagaon (3,530m)
Trek Distance: ~8 km | Walking Duration: ~3–4 Hours | Elevation Gain: +350 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
An invigorating morning walk leads down from Lho through moss-draped larch and pine woods to the picturesque settlement of Shyala (3,500m). Shyala is enclosed by an awe-inspiring amphitheater of icy giants: Himal Chuli (7,893m) and Peak 29 (7,871m) to the left, Mount Manaslu (8,163m) soaring majestically in the center, and glacier-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Continuing across glacial moraines and over the headwaters of the Budhi Gandaki, the valley opens into an expansive plateau. Here lies Samagaon (3,530m), the historic regional heart of Nupri. Samagaon features rows of stone houses with wooden shingles, bustling yak corrals, and the historic 500-year-old Sama Gompa. We arrive early, allowing ample time to acclimatize, explore local village life, and rest in our mountain teahouse.
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Day 07: Acclimatization & Exploration Day in Samagaon (Excursion to Birendra Tal & Pungyen Gompa)
Day Hike Duration: ~4–5 Hours | Max Elevation Reached: ~3,900 m - 4,400 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Acclimatization is paramount for a safe and successful crossing of Larkya La Pass. Today is dedicated to active acclimatization following the golden rule of mountaineering: 'climb high, sleep low.' Accompanied by your Chinese-speaking guide, we embark on a spectacular day excursion to Birendra Tal (3,691m), a mesmerizing emerald-green glacial lake fed directly by the melting snout of the colossal Manaslu Glacier. The sight of massive ice walls dropping into turquoise waters with Mount Manaslu looming above is truly unforgettable. Trekkers seeking a more strenuous challenge can continue higher toward Pungyen Gompa or the lower slopes of Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m) for sweeping views of the entire valley. Return to Samagaon in the afternoon for a well-earned rest, delicious hot tea, and acclimatization monitoring.
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Day 08: Trek from Samagaon (3,530m) to Samdo (3,860m)
Trek Distance: ~8 km | Walking Duration: ~3–4 Hours | Elevation Gain: +330 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Having properly acclimatized, we resume our journey toward the high pass. The trail descends gently past the pastures of Samagaon, passes long mani walls, and climbs along the banks of the upper Budhi Gandaki. The treeline begins to recede, replaced by stunted juniper bushes, dwarf rhododendrons, and alpine tundra. We cross a sturdy wooden bridge over the river and ascend gradually through the widening valley. After ascending through windswept meadows, we reach the remote Tibetan refugee settlement of Samdo (3,860m). Samdo is the highest year-round inhabited village in the valley, located at the crossroads of ancient trans-Himalayan yak trading routes leading into Tibet via the Lajyang La Pass. Take a gentle acclimatization walk up the surrounding ridges in the afternoon to view Samdo Peak and grazing herds of Himalayan blue sheep (bharal).
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Day 09: Trek from Samdo (3,860m) to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m)
Trek Distance: ~7 km | Walking Duration: ~4–5 Hours | Elevation Gain: +600 m | Accommodation: Mountain High Camp Lodge (Sharing)
Today’s trek is a purposeful, steady ascent into the high-alpine sanctuary of Larkya Phedi. Leaving Samdo, the trail crosses the rugged headwaters of the Budhi Gandaki and climbs over the lateral moraine of the Larkya Glacier. Passing the ruins of an ancient trans-Himalayan trading post (Larkya Bazaar), the terrain turns progressively stark, barren, and dramatic. The path contours across rocky glacial slopes where snow often lingers. We arrive at Dharamsala (4,460m), also known as Larkya Phedi—a high-altitude mountain waystation designed specifically to shelter trekkers before the pass. Accommodations here are basic stone rooms or seasonal tents on a sharing basis. We enjoy an early dinner, double-check all cold-weather gear, drink copious hot liquids, and retire early in anticipation of tomorrow's pre-dawn pass crossing.
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Day 10: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and Descend to Bimthang (3,720m)
Trek Distance: ~16 km | Walking Duration: ~8–9 Hours | Elevation Gain: +700 m / Descent: -1,440 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
The defining climax of the Manaslu Circuit Trek! We wake at 3:30 AM, enjoy a hot beverage, and set out by headlamp around 4:00 AM under a canopy of brilliant Himalayan stars. The trail climbs steadily over frozen moraines and alongside glacial lakes, gradually negotiating the crest of the Larkya Glacier. As dawn breaks, the first rays of golden sunlight illuminate the colossal snowfields. After 4 to 5 hours of patient climbing, we reach the windswept summit of Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft), marked by strings of fluttering Buddhist prayer flags. The 360-degree panorama from the pass is among the finest on Earth, showcasing Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Kang Guru (6,981m), Gyaji Kang, Larkya Peak, and the towering north face of Annapurna II (7,937m). After celebrating this monumental achievement, we begin the steep descent down snowy moraine ridges to the tranquil alpine pastures of Bimthang (3,720m). Rest your tired legs in comfortable lodges beneath the watchful gaze of Mount Manaslu's western face.
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Day 11: Trek from Bimthang (3,720m) to Tilije (2,300m)
Trek Distance: ~15 km | Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours | Elevation Loss: -1,420 m | Accommodation: Mountain Lodge (Sharing)
Waking up in Bimthang, enjoy breathtaking morning vistas as the sun strikes the towering walls of Manaslu, Phungi, and Himlung Himal. Today’s trek is a scenic descent through some of the most enchanted, biodiverse forests in Nepal. The trail drops from high alpine meadows into thick rhododendron, pine, and fir woods following the roaring Dudh Khola ('Milk River'). Passing Hompuk and Karche (2,700m), we cross wooden bridges and traverse open pastures flanked by cascading waterfalls. Continuing downhill, we reach Gho village and soon arrive in Tilije (2,300m), a picturesque Gurung settlement famous for its stone houses, wooden carved balconies, apple orchards, and organic farms. Celebrate the completion of the high-altitude circuit with your trekking crew over dinner at your sharing-basis lodge in Tilije.
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Day 12: Drive from Tilije to Besisahar (Sharing Jeep) and Transfer to Kathmandu (Local Bus / Sharing Vehicle)
Driving Distance: ~195 km total | Driving Duration: ~8–9 Hours total | Ending Point: Kathmandu (1,340m) | Trip Concludes
On our final day, we say goodbye to the trail and embark on our overland return journey to Kathmandu. After breakfast in Tilije, we board a local 4WD sharing jeep for a thrilling downhill ride along the rugged Marsyangdi River valley. Passing through Dharapani—where the Manaslu trail joins the classic Annapurna Circuit—and continuing through Tal and Jagat, we arrive in the bustling district hub of Besisahar within 2 to 3 hours. In Besisahar, we take a hearty lunch and transfer to a local bus or shared passenger vehicle heading toward Kathmandu along the paved Prithvi Highway. Arriving in Kathmandu by late afternoon or early evening, you are transferred back into the vibrant capital city. With a camera full of memories and the unforgettable pride of crossing Larkya La Pass, your 11N/12D Manaslu Circuit Trek officially concludes!
THE REGAL RETREAT • BOUTIQUE HIMALAYAN EXPEDITIONS
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek — Route & Elevation Profile
Kathmandu • Machha Khola • Jagat • Deng • Namrung • Lho • Samagaon • Birendra Lake • Samdo • Larkya La Pass • Bimthang • Tilije
Total Duration
12 Days / 11 Nights
Max Elevation
5,160 m (16,929 ft)
Highest Waypoint
Larkya La Pass (Day 10)
Cultural Hub
Samagaon (3,530 m)
Expedition Style
Alpine Teahouse & 4WD
Trailhead (Machha Khola)
Teahouse Overnight Stops
Samagaon Cultural Hub & Lake
Larkya La Pass (5,160 m)
Manaslu Circuit Route
Elevation Profile (Meters / Feet Above Sea Level)
Hover or tap on points to view day highlights and exact altitudes
Highest Point: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
| Day | Destination / Highlight | Altitude (m / ft) | Key Experience & Activities | Handpicked Mountain Lodge |
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