26/01/2022
USD 1,300
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MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK 16 DAYS
Here is an opportunity to return to the wild on this 16 day Manaslu Circuit Trek, an adventure to a region where fewer travelers visit. Those who go to this region of the Himalayas will see well-preserved natural beauty, isolation and witness the peaceful lifestyles of the deeply spiritual Tibetan Buddhists and their smiling faces. This is a great escape from the jostle and commotion of suburban lifestyles. The trail will take you through remote Tamang and Sherpa villages where you will witness their everyday lifestyle in this rugged region of the Himalayas. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is like stepping back in time. It will leave you with a greater appreciation of what is really important in life. These people endure severe extremes of weather yet somehow remain content while living a spiritually rich life.
On the trek you will have regular views of many magnificent snow capped peaks, particularly the iconic Mt. Manaslu (8156m), meaning “Spirit of the mountain”- and the world’s 8th highest peak. The trail offers a incredible variety of photo opportunities, such as glaciers, moraines, exposed barren landscapes, waterfalls, wild alpine rivers and of course Buddhist Gompas (temples), mani stones and the ever-present Tibetan prayer flags.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the impressive Budi Gandaki River as you head north to Deng village. The valley becomes narrower which necessitates having to walk on narrow paths above the river. As we head further north the valley widens and reveals unspoiled views of alpine meadows and small Tibetan villages at the base of Manaslu's unparalleled north face. We then come to Samagaun, the 3rd largest village in the region. We will then head west and cross the Larkya La Pass at (5213m), a trail that connects the Budi Gandaki and the Marsyangdi rivers. We then head lower and pass through the beautiful alpine meadows at Bhimthang before linking with the main Annapurna Circuit route. We then head back to Besisahar.
The trek begins at Soti Khola and passes through numerous alpine villages in the Manaslu region before finishing at Besisahar. We will pass through the village of Arughat and then head to Soti Khola where we begin our trek to: Machhakhola, Jagat, Deng, Lho, Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala. After heading to Larke La Pass (5106m), the highest altitude of this trek we descend to Bimtang and then drive to Besisahar before heading back to Kathmandu.
Trekking will take care of all paperwork required for this trek. A trekking permit is necessary before you can enter this region. We have more than 40 years experience in Trekking and can be trusted to take good care of you and ensure your experience is memorable one. Your safety is paramount!
The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be tailored to suit your needs and can be from between 18-20 days. The ideal time to do this trek is in spring, from March to May, or in winter, from September to December.
ITINERARY
Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
On your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be met by a representative out Trekking guide who will take you to your 3-star hotels. You can rest at your hotel or wander around Thamel and do some last-minute shopping and take in the sights. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner and a short briefing.
Day 02 : Explore Kathmandu Valley & trek preparation day.
After breakfast, you will meet your trekking leader when he will go over what is required for the trek, such as your Manaslu trekking permit. You will also need 3 passport size photos and a copy of your travel insurance policy. The rest of the day is free and will allow you to explore Kathmandu and visit many famous landmarks, such as Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. If you wish to have a guided tour then the cost will be USD 45.
Day 03 : Drive form Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Your guide will pick you up at around 5:30 am from your hotel for an approximate eight-hour drive to Soti Khola. For the first four hours, the road is sealed to Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters of Dhading (1050m). After Dhading the road to Arughat deteriorates and is quite rough going. From Arughat, you will drive for another hour and a half until reaching Soti Khola. You will stay in Soti Khola overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Day 04 : Trek from Sotikhola to Machha Khola (950m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today follows a mule track and ascends on a spectacular path cut into the face of the cliff and then descends to Lapubesi (880m). Some care is required here! We will then continue to Nauli Khola, crossing a suspension bridge on the way and then follow the trail beside the Budi Gandaki River before reaching Machha Khola (900m). This is where many trekkers were stranded after the earthquake in 2015 and had to be rescued, Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse at Machha Khola. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 05 : Machhakhola to Jagat (1,450m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today follows the river to Khorlabesi and the hot spring at Tatopani (meaning hot water) (930m), and then continues on the eastern bank of the Budi Gandaki River to Doban, Thulo Dunga and Yara Bagar (1370m). The trail zigzags across the river with a number of suspension bridges to cross before we reach the entrance gate to Manaslu Conservation Area and Jagat (1410m) - with its unique flagstone village square. Permits are checked by authorities. Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will check that the route is passable, and may suggest we take an alternative route taking a much higher path on the east side of the river before descending to the old trail near Doban. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 06 : Jagat to Deng(1,850m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving Jagat the trail ascends to Salleri and Sirdibas before reaching Philim. The landscape becomes progressively more barren as the trail winds past several waterfalls until reaching a crossroads at Ekle Bhatti where the trail leads to Lokpa a village on the trail to the Tsum Valley. We then climb above the junction of the Buri Gandaki and Shar Khola Rivers and head to Pewa and finally reach Deng (1860m) where we will stay the night. Many villages in this area suffered widespread damage in the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.
Day 07 : Deng to Namrung (2,500m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we ascend above the Tom (tum) Khola to Longa Chuta and then come to a fascinating fir and rhododendron forest alive with birds and Langur monkeys - located on the north side of the Buri Gandaki River. We then re-cross the river before reaching Namrung (2660m), which was a previous customs post, in the days when this was a route for transporting salt from Tibet. Namrung, like many mountain villages, also suffered extensive damage from the 2015 earthquake, but today it has been restored to its previous charm. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 08 : Namrung to Lho Gaun (3180m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trek today is about 5 hours and along the trail, we have fantastic views of Sringi and Ganesh Himal. Namrung village is where you will see Tibetan religious symbols and monasteries. We will then pass through forests and farmlands where barley is grown on the terraced slopes of the hills. The trail gradually opens up and exposes the giant peak of Manaslu and views right up to Lho Gaun Village where we stay the night. Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included
Day 09 : Lho Gaun to Samagaun (3500m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we pass through several Tibetan villages and past several Gompas (monasteries). After a 4 hour trek, we reach Samagaun where we will have a break before heading to higher altitudes. The architecture here is distinctly Tibetan and their costumes reflect their Tibetan origins. We can also take a short walk up to a Gompa above the town or wander the streets and chat with the locals – a very gratifying experience. Tonight we stay at Samagaun. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Acclimatization Day at Samagaun.
At these higher altitudes, it is essential to get acclimatized, for at least one day, before ascending to higher altitudes. Health specialists suggest that you stay active. One way to stay active is to explore the Gompa at Pugyen (4070m), a one day hike that leaves the trail between Syaula and Sama. If we have time, it is possible for you to carry on up this valley to the rugged rocks and terrain of the Pugin glacier. Another option is a trek to the lake at Birendra Tal (3450m) and then a challenging ascent to Manaslu Base Camp (4900m). It is said that north of Birendra Tal is Milarepa's Cave (famous Buddha) said to have been used as a meditation retreat by the Buddhist saint. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Day 11 : Samagaun to Samdo (3,785m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today we descend and head back to the Buri Gandaki River passing the cross-road to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp. The valley then opens up before reaching Kermo Khadka and then continues to the white Kani Gateway signifying the entrance to Samdo (3860m). We may also trek to the peak above the village for remarkable views of Mount Manaslu. If there is a need to further acclimatize, there is a 6 to 7-hour trek, climbing 640 meters, to the moraine of the Fukang Glacier, where you will be pleased with the extensive views towards several passes used by locals to cross over into Tibet. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 12 : Samdo to Dharmashala (4,450m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
We have a short day on the trail. We first descend through fields before starting our climb towards the Larkya-La Pass, a trail that offers amazing views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier. You are likely to see Himalayan blue sheep on your trek to Dharamsala (4480m). This is as high as we ascend today without risking altitude sickness. This is the last safe shelter before reaching the pass. This sector of the trek is often subject to snowfall between mid - December to mid -March when snow often blocks access through the Larkya-La Pass. Samdo Lodge is usually closed. Your guide will know in advance if the lodge is closed. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 13 : Dharmashala to Bhimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
Today we are on the trail for about 8 to 9 hours. We begin with a short climb to the north side of Larkya Glacier from where we have excellent views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. The climb to the Larkya La Pass (5100m) is initially a gradual ascent but gradually becomes steeper as we reach the pass. After arriving at the top of the pass we are blessed with unbelievable panoramic views of various mountain ranges. The descent from the pass is also physically demanding. We will stay at Bhimthang the night in a tent. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 14 : Bhimthang to Dharapani (1900m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Walking up through paddy fields we will head towards the small Karcher La Pass. The trail descends through fig trees and rhododendron forests before reaching Tilje Village. We will stay in Dharapani at the guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Day 15 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (1,350m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
On our last day of this adventure, we take a jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar from where we will take a bus to Kathmandu. We will then take you to your hotel where you can relax and take a moment to reflect on what you have achieved and the memorable moments on the trek to Manaslu. Tonight you will stay at a 3-star hotel. Breakfast included
Day 16 : Transfer to the International airport for your final departure.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking team will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Breakfast included.
SERVICES
What is Included
Three nights standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
Trekking lodge (Tea House) accommodations during the trek.
A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
Strong, helpful porters with proper equipment (one porter for two people).
All necessary permits for the trek.
Bus from Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Bus back to Kathmandu from Besishar.
Shared Jeep from Dharapani- Besishar.
Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance company.
Use of Sleeping bags, Down Jacket, Duffel bag and Walking Poles will be provided (if you needed, to be returned after the trip)
Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
Guided city tour Kathmandu valley with private vehicles.
Oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
Assistant guide group size above 6 + person.
What is Excluded
Nepal entry visa fee (You can easily issue a visa on arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu). $40 USD for 30 days visa.
Your Trekking and medical insurance (compulsory).
International airfare.
Your personal expenses.
All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic hot and cold drinks.
Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (Tipping is expected).
Laundry, telephone and personal trekking equipment.
Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
Duffle bag we provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
A pair of half gloves
A warmer hat that covers the ears
Sunglasses
Neckwarmer
Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
long sleeve t-shirts
Thermal tops
wool jacket or pullover
Sports bras for women and girls
Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
windproof and waterproof trousers
warmer trousers
Comfortable trekking pants
Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
Pair of sandals
4-5 pairs of woolen socks
Sock liners
Light shoes and sneakers
First Aid Kits and Medicines
Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
4 passport size photos with original passport
Water bottle & filter
Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
Comfortable trekking poles
Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
Power bank and music players
Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfortable and better quality teahouses at lower altitudes. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food in the mountainous regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Physical fitness
Some days can be challenging where you often have to walk 6-8 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Best season to travel
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is usually done in autumn (Sept. to November) and spring (March to May) when you are much more likely to get to have crystal clear views of the mountains and can also enjoy the lush vegetation in the lower regions of the trail - particularly during spring..
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We take the bus from Bensisahar to Kathmandu. In the past Aarughat used to be the starting point of the trek but nowadays, due to better road conditions we can travel by bus direct to the Soti Khola. We will travel along secondary (rough) roads all the way to Soti Khola by local bus and from Dharapani to Besishahar we will be traveling by private jeep
Guide and Porter on the trek
We provide you trained & certified trekking guides and porters who will take care of all logistics and a porter for every two trekkers who will each carry about 20 kg ( 10 kg for each trekker). An experienced guide and porter will be the difference between success and failure. They will also save you from taking unnecessary risks during poor weather conditions.
MAP
PHOTOS/VIDEOS
DEPARTURES
Upcoming
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ACTIVITIES
8000M EXPEDITION
7000M EXPEDITION
6000M PEAK CLIMBING
POPULAR PEAK CLIMBING
HIKING AND EXCURSION
EXPEDITIONS
EVEREST EXPEDITION (SOUTH)
EVEREST EXPEDITION ( NORTH)
EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK
GOKYO VALLEY TREK
