Tour Overview
Manaslu (8167m) is the 7th highest mountain in the world and it is only in recent years that trekkers have begun to explore this rugged area. Trekking around Manaslu offers awesome mountain views, remote Buddhist villages close to the Tibetan border and cultural and geographic diversity that rivals any other trek in the Himalaya. The trek commences amidst the terraced fields and sub-tropical forests of the foothills. Climbing north, the landscape gradually transforms into the arid, high altitude landscapes associated with Tibetan culture. Traversing to the north of Manaslu, with time to visit the Base Camp that is used by expeditions, is a highlight of this trek. Beyond Manaslu, the climb continues until we reach the majestic Larkya La, which affords outstanding views in every direction of the Himalaya. After crossing the pass, we complete this rewarding circuit of Manaslu in the bustling villages of the Annapurna region. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel
You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel ...more ...less
Day 2 : Free day in Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Thamel, Swayambhunath, Patan, Bhaktapur, Durbar Square
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel
Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square.
Overnight: Radisson Hotel
Day 3 : Drive to Liding (830m). Drive approx 8-9 hours
Location: Kathmandu, Trisuli River, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Liding
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
We travel west from Kathmandu towards Pokhara, following the winding road over the valley rim and down alongside the Trisuli River. After crossing Trisuli River, we enjoy clear views of the Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal as we pass through numerous villages before reaching our camp in a small village above the river at Liding.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 4 : To Khorlabesi (970m) - Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Buri Gandakhi, Khorlabesi
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Today we follow a road track of constant ups and downs through forest as we continue to head upstream along the Buri Gandakhi. We descend to the wide, sandy riverbed for lunch then continue along a winding mountain path overlooking the river. After crossing many suspension bridges, we stop in small village of Khorlabesi.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 5 : To Jagat (1340m). Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Tatopani, Manaslu Conservation Area
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
The Buri Gandakhi gorge is narrow with sheer cliffs on either side and the morning’s trail begins by following a cliff path along the east bank before passing hot springs at Tatopani and then crossing the Dodan Khola. Today we enter inside Manaslu Conservation area and we camp in a Rocky Valley above Buri Gandakhi.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 6 : To Chisapani. Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Chisapani
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Today will be an easy walk to Chisapani following the trails alongside scenic views of natural waterfalls and rustic villages.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 7 : To Bihi Phedi (1990m). Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Bihi Phedi
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Continuing on, we occasionally have to trek high above the river to skirt around narrow gorges that prohibit a path. Today we also have chance to meet a mules on the very narrow trail. The trail takes us through pine forest scattered with rhododendron.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 8 : To Namrung (2900m). Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Bih, Ghap, Namrung
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
We climb initially and then descend to cross a suspension bridge to the opposite bank. There are more riverside undulations and mani walls and chortens may be seen, signs of the distinctly Tibetan territory into which we are entering. The valley trail keeps to the northern bank below the village of Bih. Bih is known for its family of master stone carvers and along the trail today we see flat stones carved with intricate figures and stupas. Just past Bih we catch glimpses of the Shringi Himal and continue along the northern bank of the Buri Gandakhi until we reach the dominantly Tibetan village of Ghap for lunch. We then continue up through the forest densely vegetated with pine and birch to our jungle camp amongst the trees just before Namrung.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 9 : To Shyala (3500m). Walk approx 6-7 hours
Location: Namru, Ligaon, Ganesh Himal, Baudha Himal, Kutang Himal, Himalchuli, Peak 29, Manaslu
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
We descend to cross the Damonan Khola then ascend again along a narrow path through the forest to Namru then continue through the forest path past small Tibetan villages towards Ligaon. It is likely that we will encounter our first yak today and there is also a troop of monkeys who often come down to the river here to drink. We have uninterrupted views behind us of Ganesh and Baudha Himal range and to our right the Kutang Himal stands high as the natural border between Nepal and Tibet. Before us our first real mountain panorama opens up with the peaks of Himalchuli (7893m), Peak 29 (7871m) and finally Manaslu (8163m).
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 10 : To Pungyen Gompa (4100m) Walk approx 3-4 hours
Location: Pungyen Gompa
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Pungyen Gompa is one of the best spots on the trail, offering breathtaking views of Manaslu. The walk from Shyala takes approximately 3-4 hours and while the trail is mostly easy the first half of the trek with see us ascending. As we reach the top of the ascent, we see a small mani with prayer flags. From here we begin our descent into the valley where we reach Pungyen Gompa, situated in a beautiful glacial valley surrounded by mountain peaks. Located near the base of Mt Manaslu, the gompa is a significant site for the local Nubri people.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 11 : To Kermo Kharka (3500m). Walk approx 3-4 hours
Location: Samagoan
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
The walk today starts with a descent as we make our way to the other side of the Pungyen Khola. After about an hour we arrive in a beautiful flat pasture which leads us to the picturesque village of Samagoan, after a look around the town we will continue another half an hour to reach our campsite at Kermo Kharka.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 12 : Rest day Kermo Kharka. Optional walk to Manaslu Base Camp (4500m).
Location: Manaslu
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Today has been set aside for acclimatisation. There is an optional walk up the ridge below Manaslu to base camp (4500m), approximately 1500ft, in snow, to gain spectacular views of Manaslu, glaciers and lakes.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 13 : To Samdo (3900m). Walk approx. 2 hours
Location: Samdo, Manaslu
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
The trail takes us out of the grasslands and into wilder territory as we skirt around some glacial moraine then descend to the riverbed. Excellent views of the peak of Manaslu today. We soon reach the Tibetan Refugee village of Samdo, a wild place with a substantial village of some 200 permanent residents.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 14 : To Larkya Phedi (4400m). Walk approx. 3/4 hours.
Location: Larkya Phedi, Larkya La
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
After a couple of stream crossings, the Larkya Glacier appears on the opposite bank. We steadily climb, skirting around the Sarka Khola to camp at a small brick hut at the base of the Larkya La (pass).
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 15 : Cross Larkya La (5140) to Bimtang (3590m) 9/10hrs.
Location: Larkya La, Bimtang
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Soon after setting off today the unique shape of Larkya Peak becomes visible. The trail upwards is very gradual but at this altitude we take our time. It takes us approximately 5 hours to reach the pass, with the last section becoming quite steep but it is well worth the effort. The mountain vista to the west is incredible - Himlung Himal (7126m), Chap Himal, Gyaji Kang, Kang Guru (6981m) and Annapurna II (7937m). The descent from the pass is very steep across ice and scree as we follow the glacier. Progress is slow and careful but eventually we enter the valley of the Burdin Khola and continue to Bimtang and our camp for the night.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 16 : Rest day Bimtang (3590m)
Location: Bimthang
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
We'll enjoy a rest day here following our long day over the pass yesterday.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 17 : To Ghoa (2515m). Walk approx. 6/7 hours.
Location: Marsyangdi, Manaslu
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
The trail now basically follows the Marsyangdi downstream, before entering a pristine forest of pine and rhododendron which during the spring months puts on a brilliant display of color. Keep your camera handy today as the views of the Himlung and Manaslu Himal are again spectacular.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 18 : To Besisahar (3-4 hours walk and 4-5 hours drive)
Location: Dharapani, Besisahar
Accommodation Name: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
After a morning walk of 3-4 hours, we will reach Dharapani and meet our vehicle at the roadhead for the drive onwards to Besisahar where we will spend the night. The village is set in the Marsyangdi valley on a plateau high above the river.
Overnight: Wilderness camp or eco-lodge
Day 19 : Drive to Kathmandu. Approx 5-6 hours drive
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel
Today after breakfast we will drive to Kathmandu, joining the Kathmandu to Pokhara highway at the bustling town of Dumre. On arrival the rest of the day is free to relax.
Overnight Radisson Hotel.
Day 20 : Trip concludes in Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
After breakfast arrangements cease unless further arrangements have been made. Those people travelling by aircraft to further destinations will be transferred to the airport.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3 nights hotel -
19 breakfasts, 17 lunches and 16 dinners including all meals on trek valued at $800
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airport transfers if arriving on day 1 and 20 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
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special permit US$205
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expert bilingual guide
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medical kit
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good quality accommodation in Kathmandu
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use of a World Expeditions trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
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souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
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private group transportation
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all park entrance fees and trekking permits
What's Not Included
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Bottled Water and Drinks
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks are not included.
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Personal Items
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc. are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included in the tour package.
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International Flights
International flights are not included in the tour package.
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Airport and Departure Taxes
Airport and departure taxes are not included.
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Visa
Visa costs are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is the responsibility of the traveler.
Accommodation
3 nights hotel
In Kathmandu we stay at the comfortable, well located Radisson Hotel. The Radisson Hotel is situated in Lazimpat, a quiet and central area of Kathmandu. Only a short 12 minute walk to the main tourist district of Thamel, the Radisson acts as a base for World Expeditions travellers. The hotel has a World Expeditions tour desk in the foyer, free WIFI, a pool and bar, gymnasium, restaurants, room service, currency exchange and free luggage storage whilst you are on trip. A hearty buffet breakfast is included.
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What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc. Porters carry all group gear and your trek pack.
Grading
This expedition involves trekking through undulating country, often untracked, for up to eight hours a day at a steady pace. To undertake this level of activity you will need a good level of trekking fitness and be sure-footed. Some days involve walking over rugged terrain, including boulders, scree and heavily vegetated ground. As a minimum, we recommend 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for three months leading up to your trek. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
The tour includes private group transportation with airport transfers on specific days. The journey combines driving and trekking, with drives to and from Kathmandu and various trekking locations, ensuring a seamless travel experience throughout the adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included in the Manaslu Circuit & Base Camp Trek?
The tour includes private group transportation with airport transfers available on specific days. The journey involves a mix of driving and trekking, with drives to and from Kathmandu and various trekking locations.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?
In Kathmandu, accommodation is provided at the Radisson Hotel, which offers amenities such as free WiFi, a pool, gymnasium, and restaurants. During the trek, accommodation is in fully serviced wilderness campsites or eco lodges.
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What meals are included in the trek package?
The package includes 19 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 16 dinners, covering all meals during the trek.
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What equipment is provided for the trek?
Participants are provided with a World Expeditions trek pack, which includes a quality sleeping bag, a down or fibre fill jacket, and an insulated mat.
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Are there any rest days included in the itinerary?
Yes, there are rest days included in the itinerary, such as a rest day at Bimtang after crossing the Larkya La pass.
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What is the level of fitness required for this trek?
A good level of trekking fitness is required, as the expedition involves trekking through undulating country, often untracked, for up to eight hours a day. Some days involve walking over rugged terrain, including boulders and scree.
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What cultural experiences can be expected during the trek?
The trek offers cultural experiences such as visiting remote Buddhist villages close to the Tibetan border and seeing mani walls and chortens, which are signs of the distinctly Tibetan territory.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Manaslu Circuit & Base Camp Trek
20 Days Starting in Kathmandu and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal
Visiting: Kathmandu, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Thamel, Swayambhunath, Patan, Bhaktapur, Durbar Square, Trisuli River, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Liding, Buri Gandakhi, Khorlabesi, Tatopani, Manaslu Conservation Area, Chisapani, Bihi Phedi, Bih, Ghap, Namrung, Namru, Ligaon, Baudha Himal, Kutang Himal, Himalchuli, Peak 29, Manaslu, Pungyen Gompa, Samagoan, Samdo, Larkya Phedi, Larkya La, Bimtang, Bimthang, Marsyangdi, Dharapani, Besisahar ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MCR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 14
