Description
Manaslu Trek, Manaslu Circuit
- Drive Kathmandu to so Khola (710m) :
Start early after breakfast. Drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi on a nice, paved road enjoying the views of the hilly areas, terrains, fields, and rivers. The drive from Dhading Besi to Arughat is a little rough one on rocky trails. From Arughat, one can decide either to trek or to drive to Soti Khola, where the night stay would be organized. - Trek to Machha Khola (870m) :
Start on the early hour so that to reach the destination in time, which will normally take about 6-7 hours. After crossing a popular suspension bridge of Soti Khola, trek through Sal forests to reach a ridge above the splashing rapids of the Budhi Gandaki River. From Khursane onwards, the trail becomes rocky, passing through waterfalls and cliffs. The journey passes through terraced rice fields and up to a Gurung village of Labubesi. Finally reach village nearby Machcha Khola for an overnight stay at a tea house. - Trek to Jagat (1340m) :
From Machhakhola, walk through a narrow trail that takes to Tharo Khola and finally to Khorlabesi. After a few ascends and descends, reach a popular hot-spring, Tatopani. Spend some time here and enjoy the natural sauna in the hot -spring and relieve all of the tiredness and stress of the trek. Then, proceed towards Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. After this, climb a staircase and then a ridge to reach Doban followed by a stone staircase down a river to reach Thado Bharyang. Then, cross the west bank of Budhi Gandaki, climb over a ridge, walk along the river to reach the village of Jagat for an overnight stay. - Trek to Deng (1860m)Â :
On this day, first reach Salleri after climbing a rocky ridge and then go towards Sirdibas. Continue to Ghatta Khola and then walk upstream through a long suspension bridge to reach a Gurung village in Phillim. From the lower points of the village, the trail turns north and through leveled trails amidst maize fields, and then reach Ekle Bhatti, where one can have lunch and thenafter continue the trip. As the trail widens, pass through bamboo forests to reach Deng Khola. After crossing the river, reach the tiny Deng village for overnight stay. - Trek to Namrung (2630m) :
Take a brief walk from Deng and then cross the Budhi Gandaki to reach Rana. From here, climb for a while and then head west to Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through forests and painted Mani stones and a corner from where one can reach Gap. Then take the trail through Prok village which allows to witness the beautiful view of Siring Himal. Follow the river, crossing it at many places and pass through dense forests and Gompas along the way. After crossing the river at a gorge, the trail becomes leveled and after a last steep climb, Namrung arrives where overnight stay take place. Namrung is the best viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal as well as Mt. Himal Chuli. - Trek to lho (3180m) :
From Namrung, a steep climb awaits and a passage through forests that will take to Lihi, a village well known for its chortens and barley terraces. After crossing the side valley of Simnang, pass through Sho and then reach Lho for an overnight stay. - Trek to Samagaun (3500m)Â :
After crossing the Shyala village, reach the Sama village where one gets to witness the amazing views of Mount Manaslu and explore the famous Ribung Gompa. The breathtaking view of the high mountains along with glaciers is the highlight of the trip. Night overstay in Samagaon. - Acclimatizing day at samagaun :
This day is set aside to rest and acclimatize to the increasing altitudes. Stay in Samagaon and explore the surrounding areas or visit Birendra Tal and Anie Gompa. The main attraction of the day is the Pungyen Gompa with a spectacular view of the glaciers. Glaciers itself is only recommended for the fit hikers. It is situated on a hill near Samagaon. Hike up to the Gompa named after the two peaks of Manaslu which means bracelet. This was destroyed once when a Japanese team first tried to summit the peaks. It was believed that the expedition to reach the summit might have angered the Gods. After the detour, come back to Samagaon and spend the night there. - Trek to sambo (3860m)Â :
Follow the Budhi Gandaki River up to a stream and cross through a suspension bridge. From here take the trail on the right to Larkya La. It is a fairly easy trail, passing through Mani walls and juniper and birch forests. Again cross a bridge over Budhi Gandaki and continue forward. From a stone arch, one can see Kani and after crossing it, reach Samdo and night overstay. - Trek Dharamsala guesthouse (4480m) :
Start the day trip by crossing a wooden bridge over Budhi Gandaki River and begin a hike upwards. After crossing a few streams and seeing a glimpse of the Larkya glacier, go around a valley and make a way upwards again to reach a guesthouse. This short walk to Larke Phedi provides enough time and rest to acclimatize for the further trek. - Larke Pass (5,213m) to Bhimtang (3,720m) :
Start with a short climb until a valley is reached on the north side of Larkya glacier with exquisite views of Larkya peak. Ascend the moraines of a glacier which becomes quite steep at the end before reaching the pass. From here one can enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung, Cheo, Kanguru, and the Annapurna. It is a longer walk than other days and you reach the guesthouse among the low pastures at the dim lights of dusk. When finally Bhimtang is reached, the exquisite view of Mount Manaslu makes every step worth it. - Bhimtang to Tilije (2,300m) :
After enjoying the splendid views of the mountains from a ridge in Bhimtang, a way down towards a high pasture is made and then a bridge over Dudh Khola. Thenafter walk through rhododendron forests, narrow valleys and fields before making a climb to the river bank that leads to the village of Gho. A short walk takes to Tilize with better accommodation options where overnight stay takes place. - Dharapani to Besi Sahar(760m) :
Move further over a stone paved path passing through a beautiful village and then cross a bridge over Dudh Khola, move past an arch and Mani walls to get to the Thonje village. After passing through a police checkpoint, a way towards Dharapani is made. From where the Annapurna circuit section starts. From Dharapani, take a jeep or bus from to Basisahar for an overnight stay. - Besishar – Kathmandu :
Drive along the banks of Marsyangdi and Trishuli River, witnessing the beautiful scenery of rice fields, terraced farms, rivers and valleys and refreshing views of the hilly areas and mountains. After a few hours’ journey, reach Kathmandu for last night in Nepal.
Nepal Highlights:
Best time to visit Nepal – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal can be visited all year round, but a few natural hazards are worth noting: heavy flooding during the monsoon (mid-July to mid-August) and extreme cold in the high Himalaya (late November to mid-December). Nepal is a land of hills and mountains, and its high peaks are one reason the country is so rich in water resources – fast-flowing rivers and beautiful lakes. Heavy rain, or even several days of light rain, can cause flooding in the lowland Terai region, so extra caution is advised there during the monsoon. Away from the monsoon, the hill regions enjoy sunny days even in winter, making for a pleasantly mild travel season.
Seasons in Nepal – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal recognises six seasons: Basanta Ritu (spring), Grishma Ritu (early summer), Barkha Ritu (monsoon), Sharad Ritu (early autumn), Hemanta Ritu (late autumn) and Shishir Ritu (winter).
Outside the monsoon (early July to late August), any season is suitable for a trip – Yetiland-nepal.de advises against travelling in the Terai lowlands during the monsoon.
Summers can be hot, with temperatures ranging from around 25 to 40°C depending on location. In the upper Himalayan region, summer temperatures reach up to about 30°C, while the lower Terai plains in southern Nepal can see highs of 40°C or more.
Winter days are mostly sunny, with cold mornings and evenings. If you’ve experienced winter in Greece, the feeling in Kathmandu is similar – from mid-December the sun keeps days pleasantly warm, while evening temperatures can drop to around 5°C. In the high Himalaya, however, temperatures fall well below 0°C.
Buddha was born in Nepal – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
This is a matter of pride for Nepalis: neighbouring countries, India in particular, sometimes claim Buddha’s origins lie there, which stirs up debate from time to time. In fact, Buddha was born in Nepal.
Well worth a visit is Lumbini, his birthplace southwest of Kathmandu. The prince who left his palace in search of lasting peace and meaning in life attained enlightenment (Nirvana) there. His teachings have since spread across the world and are followed by millions of people; in modern Western society too, Buddhism and meditation – a path to self-awareness and inner peace – have become popular everyday practices.
Take a look at our tours that include a visit to Lumbini.
8 of the world’s 10 highest mountains are in Nepal – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal is home to 8 of the world’s 10 highest mountains: Mount Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). Yetiland-Nepal offers three categories of trip in these regions: Expedition – climbing an eight-thousander (for experienced professionals only); Trek – trekking through the same region at much lower altitude (ideal for those who want to experience Nepal’s mountains without climbing them); and Holiday – for enjoying Nepal’s nature, scenery and leisure activities.
One of the world’s most dangerous airports
Lukla Airport, the gateway to the Everest region, is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world. Wedged between steep hills, it makes for a genuinely challenging landing and take-off. Pilots speak of a “point of no return”, beyond which all preparation and technical alignment must already be complete to bring the aircraft in safely. Thousands of passengers fly in during peak season each month – a truly unique experience. Thanks to their extensive experience across almost all of Nepal’s hill regions, Nepali pilots rank among the most skilled in the world.
New Year in Nepal – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal follows its own calendar, the Vikram Sambat. Nepali New Year falls around mid-April, marking the start of the Nepali summer. People also follow the lunar calendar for religious festivals and family celebrations. As Nepal is home to many ethnic groups, each with its own history, several local New Year dates exist side by side – a well-known example is Losar, celebrated among others by the Sherpa community.
Nepal’s unique flag – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal’s flag is the world’s only non-rectangular national flag, formed of two stacked triangles bearing the sun and the moon. These symbols reflect the character of the Nepali people: the moon for humility, the sun for courage. Nepalis are famed for their hospitality towards visitors – in the hill regions, hosts will traditionally slaughter their own livestock (such as chickens or goats) to honour guests. To this day, many Nepali soldiers, known as Gurkhas, serve in armies around the world.
A one-of-a-kind weapon
The handcrafted khukuri knife is world-famous and originates from Nepal. Carried by Nepali soldiers and used in both World Wars, it is credited in veterans’ accounts with contributing to the legendary fighting prowess of the Gurkha regiments. A khukuri also makes an excellent souvenir.
Suspension bridges – additional information on the “Manaslu Circuit”
Nepal is famous for its many suspension bridges spanning valleys between its hills, long a practical way of life for people in the mountainous regions. The idea even inspired Germany’s own Geierlay suspension bridge in Rhineland-Palatinate, built as a nod to Nepal’s example.
Landslides
As a very hilly country, Nepal is prone to flooding and landslides during the monsoon, especially in the lower-lying Terai region with its year-round vegetation. The combination of Nepal’s fast-flowing rivers and sustained monsoon rain can trigger landslides in the hill regions, so travel during the monsoon season is best avoided.
Earthquakes
Nepal sits in a zone of high seismic risk. This doesn’t mean major earthquakes happen constantly, but history shows a serious quake roughly every 50 years. The cause lies beneath the surface: the Indian Plate shifts about 5cm against the Eurasian Plate every year, gradually pushing the Himalaya upward over millions of years. The April 2015 earthquake (magnitude 7.8, at a depth of 8.2km) was one of the most recent major quakes, causing severe economic and geographic damage, killing around 9,000 people and injuring roughly 22,000.
Flying in Nepal
Nepal’s civil aviation is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal: CAAN – Nepal.
A number of airlines operate in Nepal, including Yeti Airlines, Buddha Air, Himalaya Airlines, Simrik Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Shree Airlines, Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air.
Private helicopter charters are also available, including through Air Dynasty, Simrik Air, Prabhu Helicopters, Altitude Air, Fishtail Air, Manang Air, Makalu Air, Kailash Helicopter Services and Heli Everest.
Airports in Nepal
Numerous domestic airlines operate flights throughout the year. Nepal stretches roughly 880km along the Himalayan axis and 150–250km across, covering a total area of 147,516km². With an average domestic flight time of just 1.5–2 hours, all major airports are reachable within a maximum of 3 flying hours: Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu), Tenzing-Hillary Airport (Lukla), Pokhara Airport, Simara Airport, Bharatpur Airport, Biratnagar Airport, Surkhet Airport, Nepalgunj Airport and Jomsom Airport.
Of these, Lukla Airport is considered one of the most dangerous in the world – a unique experience that thousands of travellers still make every month. When you book a complete package with Yetiland-Nepal, you don’t need to arrange any of this yourself.
Note that during winter (November to December), heavy morning fog often causes flight delays, and in some cases full-day cancellations after long waits. For this reason, Yetiland-nepal.de typically relies on tourist buses rather than domestic flights during this season.
Similar tour: Arun Valley
More background on Manaslu
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