The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful journey right through the middle of the Himalayas and normally takes 14 days to complete. In this itinerary, you find an all-inclusive day-to-day description of what the trekkers can expect in terms of distance covered, elevation gained or lost, accommodation, and the essence of the experiences. Organized by Mountain Treks Nepal, a trusted travel agency specializing in treks such as this one, you’ll be guided through breathtaking landscapes and cultural encounters that really define this remarkable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters
Your journey starts with your arrival at Kathmandu, the beautiful capital of Nepal. Here, you will be received by your trekking agency and then transferred to the hotel. Have some rest, explore the bustling streets, and taste some local dishes.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhi Khola via Arughat Bazar Elevation: 890 meters
Next morning, driving by scenic road to Machhi Khola takes about 7-8 hours. The route snakes its way through green hills, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. Drive also involves stops at Arughat Bazar, a busy market town where you can see people going about their daily lives. The day ends at Machhi Khola, a place with basic lodge accommodation.
Day 3: Machhi Khola to Jagat Altitude: 1,410 meters
You trek from Machhi Khola to Jagat on the third day. This section covers 6-7 hours of trekking where you cross suspension bridges and make an ascent through magnificent forests. The Budhi Gandaki River could also be viewed from this part of the trek. At the stoppage, Jagat has basic teahouses for the overnight stay.
Day 4: Deng: 1860m
The trek is towards Deng, which takes almost 6-7 hours of trekking. You pass through rocky roads, feel the difference in landscapes, and go up into the mountains. This day’s trek offers fantastic views of the peaks around you and also of the local culture. The night can be spent in simple lodges in Deng.
Day 5: Trek to Namrung Elevation: 2,630 meters
Descend to Namrung, a culturally rich and viewed village. About a 6-hour trek, the path goes through terraces and ancient monasteries. Accommodation at Namrung is modest, which is enough to rest the night.
Day 6: Trek to Lho Elevation: 3,150 meters
While ascending, catch a glimpse of the mind-blowing views of Manaslu and the peaks surrounding it. Lho boasts of the great Lho Gompa, where you will be taken aback by the culture. Basic overnight lodges are available here.
Day 7: Trek to Samagaun Elevation: 3,530 meters
It is a cultural village and also one of the acclimatization bases. You will never be disappointed by the friendly locals and mountain scenery. There are lodges serving as your retreat after you have trekked from somewhere far.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun
Acclimatization is paramount; hence, Day 8 is a rest and exploration day in Samagaun. You can hike up to Pungyen Gompa close by for panoramic views of Manaslu. This day lets your body get acclimatized to the elevation, hence making sure the further trek is safer.
Day 9: Trek to Samdo Elevation: 3,860 meters
The hike to Samdo takes about 4-5 hours. This village is a picturesque one and represents the rich culture of Tibet with full views of the mountains. Basic and simple, but warm, accommodations can be found there.
Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala Elevation: 4,450 meters
From here starts the trek to Dharmasala, commonly known as Duwang. Today is the last stop before challenging Larkya La Pass. The area is surrounded by high peaks, and thus it’s a serene and beautiful place to rest.
Day 11: Trek to Bimthang, altitude: 3855 meters.
Cross the Larkya La Pass, one of the highest points on the trek, at 5,106 meters. Very spectacular views of surrounding mountains and glaciers. Descent will bring you to Bimthang, where lodges await your arrival to rest and recover.
Day 12: Dharapani: elevation 1,963 meters
We dropped down to reach Dharapani, where we joined the Annapurna Circuit trail via villages of Kharche, Gho, and Tilje. We get panoramic views of Manaslu and Annapurna II. Overnight at a lodge in Dharapani.
Day 13: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
After a long trek, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu, which takes around 9-10 hours. Reflect on your journey and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Day 14: Departure
On your last day, you will be transferred to the airport for departure. You take lifetime memories of diverse cultural variance along with breathtaking landscapes of the Manaslu Circuit Trek back home with you.
Feel varieties of assurances from Mountain Treks Nepal to make your adventurous journey through the majestic Himalayas truly unforgettable.