A breathtaking image of Mt. Manaslu at sunrise, captured from Lho village. The summit is covered in snow, highlighting its grandeur and magnificence.
A beautiful view of the Taleju Temple, located in the Kathmandu Durbar Square, with a clear blue sky in the background.
A stunning panoramic view of Mt. Manaslu and the Ngadi Chili peak, captured from Lho village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
A scene of the Budi Gandaki river during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The crystal-clear water flows peacefully through a lush green landscape.
A majestic view of the Bouddhanath Stupa, surrounded by prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the iconic Buddha eyes, gazing down upon the scene.

Manaslu Circuit Trek in 17 Days.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Tour Kathmandu and high Pass in the Himalayas.
  • Explore Buddhist Monasteries and Hindu Temples.
  • Visit ancient cities and meet locals in villages. 
  • Discover the Nepal Highland Geography .
  • Trekking in High Himalayas with Local Guide. 
  •  Explore Buddhism and Hinduism in Nepal.  
Mansasl Mountain from Lho Village.
Return Guests get a 10% discount on all Trips!
  • Trip Type:

    Hiking & Trekking. 

  • Group Size:

    2-12 People. 

  • Best Time to Visit:

    April/May and Sept/Oct

  • Max Altitude:

     5,160 meters.

    (16,930 ft.)

  • Start-End:

    Kathmandu - Kathmandu. 

  • Daily Activity:

    Tour, Hiking & Trekking.

Location:

Manaslu Conservation Area, Nepal.  

  • Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

              Connect With Us: 

                            

DESCRIPTION

Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal's best-unexplored destinations by tourists. Trekking in the foothills of the world’s eight-highest mountain Manaslu at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft), and exploring the hidden valley of Nepal beyond the Manaslu range. Manaslu mountain is also known as the Mountain of Spirit among the mountaineers. It is located in the central-western part of Nepal between the two biggest cities of Nepal, Pokhara and Kathmandu. Easily accessible from Kathmandu and Pokhara Manaslu Circuit trekking route is less crowded and offers a unique Himalayas landscape and cultural mixture.

This Trekking offers you the best panoramic view of some highest peaks in Nepal, like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and Manaslu. Starting trekking from 800 meters altitude to pass the Larkya-La pass at 5,160 meters altitude is thrilling and adventurous. During this trek, we passage through some of the particular conserved areas of Nepal, like Samagaun and Lo Village. This trek touches Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) and Manaslu Conservation Area, which is also part of Nepal’s longest trans-Himalayas trail, known as the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT).

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY- 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.

Schedule your flight as your itinerary, and our trekking member will pick you up and drop in hotel. He will brief the next-day schedule.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 2: Kathmandu Heritage tour and sightseeing.

As per the plan, our guide will pick up for city sightseeing. Three primary Kathmandu heritage
sites, Baudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar-Square, are scheduled for this day.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 3: Drive to Soti Khola (720 M./2,362 ft.) - 90 miles.

We start our drive after breakfast. First, we drive to the west via Prithivi Highway and turn north from Dhading. After leaving the highway, we go through the deep gorge of Budi Gandaki with a bumpy road drive. Stay overnight in Soti Khola, located on the bank of the Budi Gandaki river.
 
Stay overnight in the Local Tea House.

DAY- 4: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900 M.) – 15 Km.

Continuing our first-day trek alongside the Budi Gandaki river with a crossing suspension bridge at the beginning and walking towards the north of the river with a view of waterfalls and high cliffs. We mostly walk on the newly built road to Machha Khola.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 5: Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1370 m.) – 21 Km.

Today we continue to follow north of Budi Gandaki river to pass through deep gorges and a suspension bridge. After a couple of ascends and descends, we arrive at a small natural hot spring called Tatopani. After a short climb, we cross the suspension bridge and arrive at Dobhan. Passing through the jungle and small rivers via a suspension bridge, we shortly ascend to the small village of Jagat.

Stay overnight in the local Tea House.

DAY- 6: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,810 M./ 5,925 ft.) – 20 KM.

After breakfast, we ascend to Salleri and descend to Sirdibas village. Continue walking to Philim village, a settlement of the Gurung community, where we turn to the north, and after a few hours' walk, we cross the Budi Gandaki river. Crossing bridges over rivers a couple of times and walking through bamboo forests, we arrived at Deng village.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 7: Trek to Namrung Village (2,635 m./ 8,640 ft.) – 20 KM.

We start our trek after breakfast; at the beginning, we cross the bridge, and after a short ascend, we head in the west direction. After arriving in prok village, we cross the river to view this region's old monasteries and houses. Crossing through the jungle and steep climb at the end, we reached Narmrung Village.

Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House.

DAY- 8: Trek from Namrung to Lho Village (3,180 m./ 10,433 ft.) – 10 Km.

Today is a comparatively short trek; we continue climbing the opposite of the Budi Gandaki river stream. We pass through the Bhaniam village, Lhi, and Shyo villages before arriving at our destination. Today you can see the majestic view of the Manaslu range on the southwest side.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House.

Day- 9: Trek Lho to Samagaon (3,540 m/ 11,590 ft.) – 8 Km.

Start our day with the majestic view of Mt. Manaslu, the Mountain of spirit. After breakfast, we can visit Ribung Monastery in Lho and continue our trek to Shyala village. This region is inhabited by local Tibetan people who practice Tibetan Buddhism. We walk through the rhododendron trees, and early April is the best time to see rhododendron blossom in the mountain region.

Stay Overnight in the Tea House. 

Day- 10: An acclimatization day in Samagaon.

As we enter high altitudes, we have to acclimatize with altitude to prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS) or High-Altitude Sickness. Today we can rest in Samagaon, walk around the village, and explore sherpa culture and lifestyle. An alternative for a day in Samagaon is to hike to the Manaslu Base camp (48,00 meters), which is around 8 kilometers, and back to Samagaon.

Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House. 

Day- 11: Trek to Samdo (3,880 m./12,740 ft.).

After breakfast, we start our trek by descending to Budi Gandaki river and a crossing bridge. We walk around Mani Walls on the way to Samdo, with a majestic view of the surrounding peaks.

Day- 12: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Dharamsala) – 4,465 m./14640 ft.

We start our trek with the descent from Samdo to Budi Gandaki, cross the wooden bridge, and ascend to the northwest. We can see the Larkye glacier and a couple of old Tibetan monasteries along the trail. After arriving in Dharmashala, we can rest in the tea house or walk around the Larkye Phedi.

Stay overnight in The Local Guest House.

Day- 13: Trek to Bimthang (3590 m/11,770 ft.) via Larkya La Pass (5,160 m).

Today is the longest day of the entire trip. We start early morning, around 4 or 5 a.m. On the way to Larkya pass, we can see Larkya Peak and Cho Danda. The Larkya-La Pass is an excellent point to see the surrounding snow peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. After spending a few minutes, we walk steeply down to Bhimthang.

Stay Overnight in the Local Tea House.

Day- 14: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2,300 m/7,546 ft.) – 16 Km.

After breakfast, we continue to descend southwest via crossing Dudha Khola. Walking through the rhododendron forest, we reach the cultivated field at Karche. Continue to walk to Gho village till you reach Tilije village

Stay Overnight in a local tea house. 

Day- 15: Trek Tilije to Tal (3,520 m.) – 12 Km.

Today is our last day of the trek; we continue to follow the Dudha Khola and turn south after crossing the Marsyangdi river. We stop at Dharapani for lunch and continue to descend to Tal, a small village at the bank of the Marsyangdi river in Manang.

Stay Overnight in a Local Guest House.

Day- 16: Drive back to Kathmandu from Tal.

After breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar. Jeep from Tal to Kathmandu depends upon the group size and demand. We recommend public transportation in case of a small group of fewer than three people, whereas a private jeep will provide for more than four people

Stay overnight in a Local Guest House. 

 

Day-17: Final Departure.

Our office staff will drop you at the airport Three hours before the flight schedule.

TRIP DETAILS

WHAT'S INCLUDED

3 nights in Kathmandu in 4 stars hotel on sharing basis. Tea houses on sharing basis during the trek.

All listed transport and activities. 

Entry fees in Heritage site in Kathmandu as per itinerary.

✅  Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner during Trekking.

Trekking permit and national park fees.

Manaslu Trekking Permits. 

Arrival and departure transfers.

Experienced Trekking guide and other support staff.

Proper Insurance for all local staff, including porters.

Service Charge & Government Taxes.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

Personal Travel and Medical Insurance. (Travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers.)
Personal Trekking Gear and Equipment.
Tips and gratitude to the guide and driver.
International flight tickets. 
Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks & soft drinks.
Lunch and Dinner during staying in Kathmandu. 
Extra cost occurs due to unforeseen circumstances during the trip, like flight cancellation and medical issues. 
Visa fees and vaccination. (Covid-19 vaccination is mandatory for all travelers.

 

WHAT GEAR TO BRING

Once you book  this trek you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list.

FAQ

How do I sign up for a trip?

Reserving a trip is easy. Send us a note or call us at  734-997-7229 or contact us directly:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa at 303-834-5512, info@imperialexpedition.com.  Once we have received your information, we will send the trip application.  Please complete and return these forms with your deposit of $500 for each person, which amount is applied toward the cost of your trip.  Full payment is required if you sign up within 45 days of the trip’s departure.  We recommend that you sign up as early as possible.  The trip deposit is fully refundable until 90 days before departure, so there is no risk in reserving your space early.  All prices quoted are in US dollars and are subject to change.  All payments must be made in US dollars.  We accept Visa®, MasterCard®, and American Express® as well as personal checks or PayPal. We are also open to creating trips on a first-come-first-serve basis.  If there is a trip that you have an interest in particular dates that you have in mind, we will organize a trip just for you.  
Once you have paid the deposit, we will finalize your itinerary and send information about health, culture, packing lists, and more to help you get ready.  We can also help you find international flights to your destination.  Full payment will be due about a month before departure.  We will ask for a copy of your passport, a medical form, a release of liability form, an acknowledgment of terms and conditions, a copy of your flights, emergency evacuation insurance, etc.  We will be available by phone and email to answer questions and help you organize your trip's details.  We will pick you up at the airport and make all local arrangements abroad so that you can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO TREK IN THE HIMALAYAS?

You should be moderately fit, exercise regularly, and enjoy active vacations, walking, and hiking in mountainous terrain.  For Trekking in the mountain, you should be able to run for an hour without stopping at any speed and still feel good to continue – OR – walk for 5-6 hours in a day with rests.  Trekking is an endurance sport.  Mostly you need a good attitude, which will go a long way toward the success of reaching your goal.

 

What is the best time to Trek in Manaslu Circuit?

The popular time for the Manaslu circuit trek is Mid-March to Mid-May; this time is warm and the best time to see the changing color of Nature. Another popular time is Mid-September to Mid-November, especially October, considered the best time to trek; during this time temperature is best for hiking. Manaslu circuit is open for all seasons, and you can do any season, but you will need to prepare according to the season and weather conditions in this region. 

Do we need climbing equipment to pass Larkye-La pass?

No, the Larkye-la pass not require any climbing equipment. This pass is, as usual, another trekking train. The problem is when there is high snow or snowstorm during the pass. Please check the weather before passing this trail and make sure the weather is favorable. You must take wark clothes like waterproof, a down jacket, and a windproof jacket to deal with the temperature.

Can we shorten the trek day or itinerary?

 Yes, you can shorten your trekking trip by merging some days in Trek and eliminating acclimatization days of the itinerary. We do not recommend shortening your trip without acclimatization unless you are well acclimatized and trek already this altitude before. If you are physically fit and walk fast enough to cover distances, we can shorten days in Trek. 

Can we fly to Samagaon from Kathmandu or Pokhara?

Yes, We can fly to Samagaon from Kathmandu of Pokhara via Helicopter, which should be charter. There is no airport for commercial flights on Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail. Due to the narrow terrain and high mountain, most trekkers prefer to walk the entire trail. You can see a chopper on the way to the Manaslu circuit for rescue missions or sightseeing purposes. 

How big will the group be?

We try to bring together a small group of like-minded people.  Our trekking groups generally range from 2 to a maximum of 12 members, although we can accommodate smaller groups. You can go for a solo trip to a Manaslu Circuit Trek though the cost is higher than joining the group. 

How difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit trek is for those who regularly hike and are physically fit. This Trek considers a difficult trail due to the high altitude and long walking distance. The main problem during the trek is high altitude sickness in the Mountains, whereas we design our itinerary to acclimatize enough during the walk. Actively hiking in mountain terrain and physically fit travelers can join this trip. 

WHAT SORT OF EXPERIENCE DO YOUR GUIDES HAVE?

Our guides are dependable, competent, and highly qualified, with more than ten years of trekking experience, leading trips, treks, climbs, and expeditions in the Himalayas.  Our guides speak English and the local language.  We are trained in first aid and CPR. Most importantly, our guides are friendly and enjoyable and passionate about sharing Nepal's rich cultures, traditions, and natural beauty.

WHAT IS THE ROUTINE ON THE TREK?

Most trekkers start their day early, around 7:30 to 8:30 am, after a hot breakfast.  The morning sun offers nice mountain views.  You will carry a light pack for your camera, water, a jacket, and a wind layer.  Around noon we will reach the lunch stop, where we will spend time drinking tea, resting, and having lunch.  After lunch, we usually walk for 2 to 3 more hours before arriving, where we will stop for the evening.  Here at the lodge, we will have hot tea and relax for the rest of the day.  Our day ends with dinner, and then off to bed in single or double rooms in the trekking lodge.

 

What if I have to cancel?

If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due to Imperial Expedition prior to departure when we receive written notice of your cancellation. Cancellation Fee Schedule for tours and treks:

  • 90-81 days prior to departure You forfeit half the deposit
  • 80-60 days prior to departure You forfeit the deposit
  • 59-31 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 30 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip

Cancellation Fee Schedule for Climbing Trips and Expeditions:

  • 180-150 days prior to departure You forfeit
  • 149-89 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 90 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip
 



HOW LONG DO WE WALK EACH DAY?

Our trips are classified into three categories according to the level of difficulty.  Easy adventure treks are about a week to 10 days in duration.  They generally don’t go above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  You can expect hiking/walking for around  5-6 hours daily.  Moderate to somewhat challenging treks are longer treks that go into a high mountain country above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  Physically these trips are more demanding and tiring and may involve 6-8 hours of trekking along rocky trails in high Himalayan terrain.  Strenuous treks are longer treks that go beyond the everyday activities of trekkers and tourists.  These include ice climbing and mountaineering expeditions.  Physically challenging, these trips may involve 7-9 hours of trekking in a day and are likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities.  Some level of experience may be required for these trips.

Can we access the internet and use our cell phones during Trek?

Yes, you can activate your international roaming service before entering Nepal, which costs more expensive than your regular service at home. You can use WIFI in the Local Tea House, where you have to charge $2 to $5 to use WIFI, or you can buy a recharge card to use internet data. Specific locations may be out of connection by cell phone service and WIFI where we can use the satellite phone. 

What happens in case of an emergency?

In the case of a serious illness or a life-threatening emergency during your trek, a helicopter rescue will be initiated.  You are responsible for all the expenses incurred in such an evacuation.  It is required that you have insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation throughout your trip.  However unlikely, we are prepared for emergencies, and your guide will respond quickly to get any necessary medical help.  We aim to avoid such circumstances with education and a large dose of preventative medicine.

Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes! A Nepal visa is readily available upon arrival at the entry places. Make the process easier by downloading & completing the application form, having the correct USD cash, and two passport photographs. Visa fees are mention as below: 
Multiple entry15 daysUS$ 25 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry30 daysUS$ 40 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry90 daysUS$ 100 or equivalent Nepali currency

Custom Declaration on Kathmandu, Nepal Arrival (For Foreign Nationals)

1. Travelers must declare goods over permitted personal effects and duty-exempted consumable goods and restricted/prohibited goods and commercial goods at the red channel. Travelers possessing such goods may use the green channel.
2. Export or import narcotics, arms and explosives, wildlife and its products, and commercial goods are restricted/prohibited. Attempt to import or export such goods may lead to confiscation of goods, penalty, and arrest resulting in prosecution.
3. Travelers must declare foreign currency at the red channel if the sum exceeds US$2000 or equivalent.
4. Permitted used personal effects are as follows in condition to return at the time of departure:
1. Binocular one set.
2. Video Camera and still camera one set each.
3. Portable music system one set recorded media 10 pcs.
4. Cloths and goods of day-to-day use.
5. Perambulator and tricycle, one set each.
6. Bicycle one set.
7. Watch one piece.
8. Cellular mobile phone one set
9. Professional hand tools are one set for professional personnel.
5. Duty-exempted consumable goods are as follows:
1. Whiskey/wine not exceeding 1.15 liters or beer up to 12 cans.
2. Cigarettes 200 sticks, cigar 50 sticks, tobacco 250 grams.
3. Camera film up to 15 pcs and movie film 12 reels.
4. Readymade and can foods not exceeding NRs.1000.00.
5. Medicine not exceeding Nrs.1000.00.
6. Fresh fruits not exceeding NRs.1000.00

Is it possible to deviate from the itinerary?

Our specific itineraries are custom crafted with you in mind.  Once we agree on a plan, we can make minor changes and adjustments en route.  The itinerary acts as a general plan for the trip.  However, there are often local events, festivals, and holidays that could affect or change our schedule. As long as everyone agrees on these changes, that is fine. Significant changes to the itinerary may be made if there are political or environmental concerns.  Your guide will be able to help to make any necessary adjustments.  Our trips are adventures that may take you into remote regions where unforeseen circumstances may contribute to the need for a change in the itinerary.

Do you have any suggestions on what to do and what not to do concerning the Nepalese culture?

Nepal has many diverse ethnic groups, traditions, and religions.  Numerous cultural practices may appear unusual to a person on his/her first visit to the country.
  • The most common greeting in Nepal is “Namaste,” performed by placing the palms together and bowing as if praying.
  • Before entering a Nepalese home, temple or monastery, remember to remove your shoes and place them neatly side-by-side.
  • Be careful not to use your spoon, fork, or hands to touch another person’s food, plate, cooking utensils, or even the serving dish.  Do not eat from other people’s plates, and do not drink from other people’s water bottles or glasses.  This is considered to be impure by the Nepalese.
  • Never touch anything with your feet.  The feet and the floor are considered dirty.
  • While traveling, please feel free to dress appropriately.  Women should avoid short skirts and sleeveless shirts.
  • Seek permission before entering a Hindu temple.  Many Hindu temples do not allow non-Hindus to enter.
  • Leather is prohibited inside temples because cows are considered sacred and are not used for slaughter.
  • Walking around temples or Buddhist stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
  •  Ask before taking photographs of the locals.  Some believe part of the soul is taken when a picture is snapped.
  • Public displays of affection between a man and a woman are frowned upon and are not generally accepted.
  • When the Nepalese shake their head from left to right, they may mean, “Yes.”
  • Develop a genuine interest in Nepal and meet and talk to the Nepalese people.  Do your best to respect their local customs and traditions.

Payment methods.

For your convenience, we have different payment methods, as mentioned below. You can choose any of these methods:
1. Bank Transfer (ask for account info) 
2. Mail a check made out to 'Imperial Expedition' to Imperial Expedition  218 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI. 48104
3.  You can also pay by credit card, over the phone, or online

What about transferring trips?

Tours and trekking trips may be transferred to the next year or another date; however, the transfer must be made 90 days or more before departure.  Otherwise, if the transfer is made 90 days or less before departure, you must pay the cancellation fees outlined above.  There are no extra fees for transferring trips more than 90 days before departure.  However, for climbing trips and expeditions, if you would like to change our trip to the next year or different dates, an automatic transfer fee of $1,000 must be paid to Imperial Expedition.

Should I purchase trip cancellation insurance?

Suppose you must cancel your trip due to illness, injury, or death of yourself or an immediate family member, trip cancellation insurance protects all your deposits and payments for air and land costs.  It is recommended that you buy trip cancellation insurance, but optional.

 



What if Of Imperial Expedition cancels my trip?

Imperial Expedition reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due to political or environmental circumstances which may hinder trip operations or for other reasons beyond our control.  In case of such a cancellation, we will give a full refund for the cost of the trip.  However, Imperial Expedition is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by you in preparing for the trip, visa fees, gear, insurance, or medical expenses prior to the trip.  The airline's refund policy applies if international air tickets have been purchased.

What other expenses should I consider?

Medical advice and inoculations, health and travel insurance, travel and trekking gear, international airfare, Nepali visas, airport tax, spending money, and most meals are not included in the cost of your trip.

How much should I budget for tipping?

Your support team will work hard to please you during your trip.  They will appreciate receiving a tip at the end of their service.  The amount you give depends on you and your appreciation of their work.  We recommend giving tips from $200 – $300 to your porters. 

 



Electricity in Nepal

Residential electrical outlets in some countries, including the United States, use 110-120 volts of electricity and accept certain plugs. Many other countries, including Nepal, use 220-240 volts to power their appliances and different plugs. If you try to plug an American device, such as a shaver or hair dryer, into an outlet of a different voltage, you may destroy the appliance and cause yourself injury. Before you travel, you should know a few things about other countries (like Nepal).

Contact Us

We are always available to answer your questions.  Please let us know what’s on your mind.  Good communication is essential for a safe and fulfilling trip!  Send us a note or call us directly:
Name:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa
Phone:  303-834-5512
Email:  info@imperialexpedition.com