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Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Tea House Trek: 15 Days

A Hidden Gem: The Manaslu Trek – Remote, Untouched, and Off the Beaten Path

Private Guided

Manaslu Circuit Tea House Trek: 15 Days

A Hidden Gem: The Manaslu Trek – Remote, Untouched, and Off the Beaten Path

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to the heart of Nepal’s remote Himalayan wilderness, offering an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, dominates the Manaslu Himalaya range, flanked by the Ganesh Himal to the east and the Annapurna range to the west.

As a restricted trekking region, the Manaslu area retains its authenticity and remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, though its popularity has been steadily growing as trekkers seek alternatives to busier trails. Trekking here requires a fully organized trip with a registered adventure travel agency, ensuring a seamless and well-supported experience.

The journey begins in the quaint village of Soti Khola, reached after an 8-hour jeep ride from Kathmandu. The trek leads you through lush hills, deep canyons, and traditional villages, offering glimpses into the lives of the Gurung and Tibetan communities who call this region home. As you ascend, the trail takes you to the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,135 m), one of Nepal’s most stunning high-altitude passes. Descending from the pass, you’ll enter the Marshyangdi Valley, part of the legendary Annapurna Circuit, before returning to Kathmandu by road.

With the Annapurna Circuit Trek impacted by road construction, the Manaslu Circuit is quickly gaining recognition as one of the most rewarding trekking destinations in Nepal. Its remote trails, unspoiled landscapes, and serene mountain views make it a must-do for avid trekkers.

Why Choose This Trek?

  • Remote and Untouched: The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a chance to explore one of Nepal’s most pristine and less-traveled regions, far from the crowded trails of Annapurna and Everest.
  • Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy unparalleled views of Mt. Manaslu, the Ganesh Himal, and parts of the Annapurna range, along with lush forests, glacial rivers, and rugged mountain terrain.
  • Authentic Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Gurung and Tibetan communities, visiting traditional villages and monasteries along the way.
  • Challenging Adventure: With its high-altitude passes, diverse landscapes, and remote trails, this trek is perfect for seasoned trekkers looking for a rewarding challenge.
  • Ideal Alternative to Annapurna Circuit: As the Annapurna Circuit becomes more accessible by road, the Manaslu Circuit remains a true trekking experience with minimal modern disruptions.

Highlights:

  • Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and scenic regions, untouched by mass tourism.
  • Cross the breathtaking Larkya La Pass (5,135 m) with stunning views of the Himalayas.
  • Experience authentic Gurung and Tibetan cultures in traditional villages along the route.
  • Witness awe-inspiring vistas of Mt. Manaslu, the Ganesh Himal, and parts of the Annapurna range.
  • Journey through lush hills, enchanting forests, and rugged mountain trails.
  • Discover why the Manaslu Circuit is becoming a preferred alternative to the Annapurna Circuit.
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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the day resting or exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the afternoon, finalize any last-minute preparations for the trek.

  • Hiking Distance: None (Sightseeing Day)
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710 m / 2,329 ft)

Embark on an 8–9-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu to the village of Soti Khola, passing through lush hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages.

  • Driving Time: 8–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 4: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900 m / 2,952 ft)

Start your trek along a trail that follows the Budhi Gandaki River. Pass through small villages, forests, and rice paddies.

  • Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 5: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft)

Continue along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through hot springs at Tatopani before reaching Jagat, a checkpoint for permits.

  • Hiking Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
  • Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 6: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860 m / 6,102 ft)

The trail ascends through lush forests and small villages, offering your first glimpses of Himalayan peaks. Cross the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times on suspension bridges.

  • Hiking Distance: 20 km / 12.4 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 7 & 8: Trek from Deng to Namrung - Namrung to Samagaun

Day 7: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8,629 ft)
Ascend through rhododendron and pine forests, passing small settlements and chortens. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as you approach Namrung.

  • Hiking Distance: 19 km / 11.8 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 8: Trek from Namrung to Samagaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft)
Trek through picturesque villages such as Lho and Shyala, with stunning views of Mount Manaslu and other peaks. Arrive in the charming village of Samagaun, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas.

  • Hiking Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 9 & 10: Rest and Acclimatization Day in Samagaun - Samagaun to Samdo

Day 9: Rest and Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
Take a day to acclimatize and explore the area. Visit Pungyen Gompa or hike to the glacial lake at the foot of Manaslu for incredible views.

  • Hiking Distance: 2–4 km / 1.2–2.5 miles (optional hikes)
  • Hiking Time: 2–3 hours (optional hikes)
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 10: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860 m / 12,664 ft)
Trek along a gradual trail with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Pass by mani walls and chortens as you make your way to Samdo, a Tibetan-influenced village near the border with Tibet.

  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft)

Today’s trek is shorter as you ascend to Dharamsala, the base camp for the Larkya La Pass. The trail offers dramatic views of surrounding mountains and glaciers.

  • Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, shared room

Day 12 & 13: Cross Larkya La Pass - Bimthang to Dharapani

Day 12: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,135 m / 16,847 ft) and Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m / 12,204 ft)
Begin early to tackle the challenging Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The ascent is steep but rewarding with spectacular views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other peaks. Descend to Bimthang, a serene valley surrounded by towering mountains.

  • Hiking Distance: 24 km / 14.9 miles
  • Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 13: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,960 m / 6,430 ft)
Descend through forests of rhododendron and pine, passing waterfalls and terraced fields. Reach Dharapani, where the trail intersects with the Annapurna Circuit.

  • Hiking Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
  • Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse, private room

Day 14: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Take a scenic jeep ride back to Kathmandu, retracing your journey through beautiful mountain landscapes.

  • Driving Time: 8–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 15: Final Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible journey through the remote and pristine landscapes of the Manaslu Circuit.

  • Accommodation: None (departure day)

Additional Trip Info

Transportation

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services.
  • Transfers between Kathmandu and Pokhara (round trip).

Permits and Documentation

  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card.
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).

Accommodation

  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (Kathmandu Guest House or similar).
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek (private rooms where available).

Meals and Beverages

  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • A cup of hot drink (tea or coffee) with each meal.

Guides and Support Staff

  • Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed mountain Sherpa guide.
  • Porters to assist with luggage (shared between trekkers).

Other Inclusions

  • Trekking map for route reference.
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing and monument visits as per the itinerary.
  • Comprehensive staff costs, including salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food, and accommodation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu.
  • Extra Food and Drinks: Additional snacks, beverages, or meals outside of those provided during the trek.
  • Travel Insurance - We recommend  World Nomads, or Global Rescue
  • Personal Expenses: Such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, additional tea, and hot showers.

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