Manaslu Round Trekking - 12 Days | Sawasdee Nepal Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd

Trip Overview
Itinerary
Includes
Equipment List
Usefull Information

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and challenging terrain. Located in the central region of Nepal, the Manaslu Trek takes you through the stunning Manaslu Conservation Area, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, as well as the eighth highest peak in the world, Manaslu (8,163 meters).

The trek starts in Arughat, a small village in the Gorkha district. From there, you’ll follow the Budhi Gandaki River through dense forests, terraced fields, and charming villages, where you’ll get the chance to experience the rich culture of the Gurung and Tamang people. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan Thar, Himalayan Monal, and even the rare snow leopard.

One of the highlights of the Manaslu Trek is reaching the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), which offers breathtaking views of the Manaslu range, as well as the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From the pass, you’ll also have the chance to visit the holy site of Larkya Bazaar, an ancient village with a rich spiritual history.

The Manaslu Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, as the trail can be rough and steep in some places. However, the rewards of completing this trek are well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas, a sense of accomplishment, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Overall, the Manaslu Trek is an exciting and rewarding adventure that offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and culture of Nepal. It’s a must-do for any adventure seeker looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Kathmandu to Machha Khola Drive (900m., 166kms.8 - 9 hrs)

Today, we begin our trekking tour of Manaslu. Because the road has extended further than Soti Khola, Nepal Nirvana Trails recommends driving straight to Machha Khola rather than stopping in Soti Khola or walking the route the next day. We pass through the towns of Arughat and Soti Khola on our long, dusty journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Machha Khola is on the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, which serves as our companion and guide through the Manaslu valley and whose source we will finally touch as we climb to the Larkya La crossing.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

900m.
Day 2: Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m., 5 - 6 hrs treks)

The adventure begins after a hearty breakfast. We will cross a suspension bridge that connects the route to the Budhigandaki River’s shore. The pathway wound through a deep valley with cliffs. We will pass through a few small towns inhabited by the Gurung and Magar tribes. We will stop for lunch in Dovan, near the confluence of Budhigandaki and Dovan Khola. The tranquil settlement of Jagat serves as the region’s entry point. The Gurung tribe, which has a rich culture, heritage, and customs, can be seen here.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

1340m.
Day 3: Jagat to Deng via Phillim (1865m.6 - 7 hrs trek)

We will ascend a rugged hill to Salleri before descending to Sirdibas on this day’s journey. The basin widens as the path climb to Ghatta Khola. We will continue upstream to Philim, a large Gurung settlement with a large suspension bridge. Following a reasonably flat path through millet fields to Ekle Bhatti, the pathway takes a sharp turn to the north just above the community’s lowest dwelling. The trail now descends into a deserted canyon. We now proceed to the meadow terrain slopes, crossing the Budhi Gandaki, then following the western banks for a while before returning via the east bank. As we continue down the route, the valley expands, and we pass through bamboo groves before arriving at the Deng Khola. After crossing the Khola, we arrive at the small settlement of Deng.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

1865m.
Day 4: Deng to Namrung (2630m. 7 - 8 hrs trek)

After breakfast in Deng, we’ll begin one of the most important and culturally significant sections of the trek. Cross the Budhi Gandaki and walk up to the bridges, from which we will continue climbing to connect a route from Bihi. Then turn west and ascend the valley, passing through verdant forests, alpine plants, charming ethnic groups, and tall peaks beginning to appear in the distance. Prok village provides breathtaking views of the snow-covered Siring Himal. Walking further passing through Ghap, we will reach another settlement of Namrung.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

2630m.
Day 5:Namrung to Shyala (3500m, 5 - 6 hrs trek)

From Namrung, enjoy breathtaking mountain views as the valley unfolds before us. The temperate forests gradually give way as the pathway ascends higher, the rich greens of the lowland valley giving way to the faded browns and grays of its Himalayan topography, and the bright blue skies are experienced at altitude. We arrive in Lho, a picturesque settlement with a magnificent view of Manaslu and the tranquil Rebung Gompa monastery perched close to a mountain. We may as well encounter a few yak caravans transporting the timbers while walking through the forest until Shyala.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

3500m.
Day 6: Shyala to Sama Gaon (3520m.,4 - 5 hrs trek)

We will visit the Pungen Gompa carrying out a packed lunch. The drainage slopes of the Pungen glacier cross as we continue on the route until we reach the pleasant flat region inhabited by the charming settlement of Sama Gaon. During the Manaslu climbing expedition season, Sama Gaon, the closest accommodation to the Manaslu Base Camp and appropriately positioned homes with lovely courtyards and pastures on both sides of the village, is active.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

3520m.|
Day 7:Rest in Sama Gaon

Sama Gaon is our resting place for the day, and our bodies adjust to the altitude. The village offers a variety of day excursions, such as a short hike to the nearby Birendra Tal (lake), the incredibly rewarding and dramatic hiking to Manaslu Base Camp, or an alternative walk to Pungen Gompa and its peaceful setting amid the mountains.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Sama Gaon to Samdo (3875m.4 - 5 hrs trek)

Today, the route to the settlement of Samdo makes a northerly bend along the upper reaches of the Budhi Gandaki River. Ascending gradually, we reach the town of Samdo after passing past the confluence of the Larke River and the river created by the Samdo Glacier, which is also the source of the torrent Budhi Gandaki. Before that, on our left and in front of the point where we diverge from the route to Manaslu Base Camp, we walk through the lovely Kermo Kharka juniper and birch forests. We continue across wooden bridges and ascend steeply towards the Samdo, where we can see a huge white Kani. We get to our destination after the Kani.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

3875m.
Day 9: Samdo to Dharamsala (4460m.4 - 5 hrs trek)

Our hiking journey from Samdo to Dharamshala is relatively short. We follow the path as it passes through the Athahra Saya and Larke rivers. As we travel along the route, we gently ascend, passing through Taka Choeling Gumba with views of Naike and Pangboche Peak. We cross a bridge, walk through the Mani walls with stone houses, and then turn left to reach Larkya Bazaar, a small town with lodging. We arrive at Dharamshala or Larke Phedi, the highest point before the Larke Pass, where buildings and tents can be erected. We may see lichened stones, grazing pasture, beautiful trees, and the Syacha Glacier along the way.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

4460m.
Day 10: Dharamshala to Bhimtang (3590m) via Larkya La (5160m., 8 - 9 hrs trek)

Prepare for a physically demanding day as we travel to Bhimtang via the Larkey La Pass (5160m). We began our long walk early this morning. We arrive at the northern end of the Larkya Glacier after a short ascent and enter a valley with breathtaking views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. We continue marching through the moraines, first slowly and then more steeply toward the end of the Larkey-La pass. The pass’s summit offers views of Samdo Peak and other peaks bordering Tibet, the Larkya Peak to the south, the Annapurna area and several other mountains, and Annapurna II to the west.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

5160m.
Day 11: Bhimtang to Dharapani (1930m. 7 - 8 hrs trek)

We leave Bhimthang through yak meadows to the first signs of the Dudh Khola’s sources trickling down the hill, with views of Manaslu and Annapurna to our left and right, respectively. After crossing a bridge, we gradually leave the alpine temperature behind as we descend through well-known rhododendron woods to a small valley with lush greenery and patchwork crops. We arrive in Tilje, a small and charming town, before ascending to Dharapani, the main hiking junction in the area and a modern starting point for trekkers embarking on the Annapurna Circuit.

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

1930m.
Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Pokhara or Kathmandu (8 - 9 hrs drive)

After breakfast in the early morning, we board a jeep from Dharapani and travel to either Kathmandu or Pokhara. The drive will take more or less 8 to 9 hours. After arriving in Kathmandu, we will get our backpacks and move toward our hotel or hostel.

Breakfast and Lunch

What's Included

Included

During treks Standard 3 meals while on the treks and cup of tea or coffee with meals
Best available accommodations during the treks twin sharing basis
Experience and first aid trained English speaking government Licensed trekking guide includes his salary, food, equipment, and insurances
All applicable ACAP, MCAP, TIMS, and Tsum valley Restricted permits
KTM - Barpak and Soti Khola - Pokhara/KTM bus service
Sawasdee Nepal Duffel Bag, Trekking map, and Water purifications drop
Farewell Dinner in a fine Restaurant
Official expense, all local and government tax and vat.

Excluded

International flight tickets and Nepal entry visa fee
Travel and health Insurance which cover emergency Rescues and evacuations
Food in Kathmandu and during trekking time personal expensive snacks, drink Beer coke, juice, water, WI-FI, etc.
Porter (OPTIONAL) If you need $300 one porter between 2 trekkers is recommended
Private jeep (OPTIONAL) KTM – Barpak $225, Soti Khola to KTM $225. It costs extra per Jeep; One JEEP could share between 6 people maximum
Tips for treks guide, porter and driver

Equipment List

Manaslu RoundTrek Packing List

Documents

Passport
Travel insurance
Air tickets
Few passport-sized photos
Map

Clothing and Accessories

Sunglasses
Hat
Scarf
Masks
Neck gaiter
Lightweight thermal gloves
Lightweight towel

Down Jacket
Windproof and waterproof jacket
Windproof and waterproof trousers
Thermals
Sleeping trousers
Shorts
T-Shirts (full/half sleeve)
Underwears

Footwear

Socks
Walking shoes or sandals
Hiking shoes
Sleeping bag

Food & water

Snacks ( Crackers, Chips, Biscuits, etc)
Protein bars
Chocolates
Candies
Dry fruits
Your favorite coffee or tea bags
Water bottle
Water purifier

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries

Hand sanitizer
Quick drying towel
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Multipurpose soap
Deodorant
Nail clipper
Face wash
Body wash
Baby Wipes
Sunscreen with maximum SPF
Moisturizer
Small mirror
Feminine hygiene (Sanitary pads)

Other Essentials

Sleeping bag
Duffel bag
Backpack (45-60 litre)
Swiss knife
Trekking Pole or Stick
Portable charger / power bank
Books
A notebook and a pen is always useful
Binoculars
Alarm clock
Torch/Flashlight/Headlamp
Lighter
Insect repellent
Earplugs
Locks
Sewing kit
Card games (Uno, Skip Bo)
Board games (Ludo, Chess)

Usefull Information

Nepal Country Visa and Entry Procedure
Here are two ways to obtain a Nepalese visa. The first one is via the Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed in your country. As of the second way, you can easily obtain an On-Arrival visa at the entry/exit points stationed across the country. You can fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents to receive an On-Arrival Visa. Travellers can choose different visa types according to the length of their stay in Nepal.
The visa for 15 days costs USD 30, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Also if your visa is about to expire but you are not yet done exploring the country, you can get your visa extended for USD 3 per day and if your visa has already expired, it costs USD 5 per day. This information regarding updated Visa Fees is available at the official website of the Department of Immigration .
You can also head to the following link for more information regarding Tourist visas in Nepal.

How to reach Nepal?
International flights are only available through the only International airport i.e. the Tribhuvan International Airport. If you are planning on travelling to Nepal by air then TIA is your only option. Flights can be boarded from India, Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur among many other destinations.
Travelling by land you have two options, via India and China. There is also a direct railway line connecting India and Nepal along with several bus facilities for travelling across the border from India.
Travelling by road through India is the most easily accessible. You can travel to Nepal through Sunauli- Bhairahawa, Raxaul – Birgunj, Siliguri- Kakarbhitta, Banbasa – Mahendranagar, or Bahraich- Nepalgunj. Kodari and Kerung are two entry/exit points stationed at the Nepal-Tibet border.

Popular Destinations to Visit
There are numerous travel destinations in Nepal; each with a unique identity and story of its own. Kathmandu is one of such destinations, with dozens of sightseeing to do, eateries to try out, and handicrafts to shop. Next up is Pokhara which enchants its visitors with its serene lakes and the enthralling views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Fishtail ranges. Similarly, Lumbini, Chitwan, Bandipur, and Palpa are a few other destinations which are ripe for tours and leisurely vacations. Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park are two of the most popular destinations for jungle safari and wildlife exploration.
As for adventure sports, Kathmandu and Pokhara offer plenty of choices including rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and paragliding. Likewise, the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions stand out as prominent destinations for treks, peak climbing trips, and expeditions.

Things to do in Nepal
The nation is considered to be a paradise for trekkers and grants an exciting number of choices. On these treks, you will witness the grand views of the Himalayas and the cultural prosperity of the ethnic communities along the trails. Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two of the most

popular treks in Nepal.
For those who are not satisfied with just gazing up to the mountains, you can go for a mountaineering expedition and peak climbing. While expeditions take you to mountains above the height of 6,500 meters, the destinations of peak climbing trips are low-lying peaks which can be summited even by amateurs. Everest (8848m), Annapurna (8091m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) are popular expedition sites whereas Island Peak (6189m), Mera Peak (6476m), and Pisang Peak (6091m) are the notable peak climbing destinations.
Short tours and sightseeing in Nepal are also quite popular among travellers in Nepal. Likewise, adventure sports like rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking are also among the things that can be done in Nepal.

Trekking Seasons in Nepal
The country lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct climates: spring, summer (with monsoon), autumn, and winter. Normally, the best time to trek in Nepal is in March-May (spring) when the skies are clear, trails are filled with blooming flora, and the temperature is just right.
Another appropriate season is mid-September to November (autumn), during which the temperature is moderate, skies are clear, and mountain views are stunning. The summer season (June – August) is occupied by heavy rainfall increasing the chances of landslides in the hills, while the winter season brings in harsh weather conditions and extreme cold. However, there are treks which can be done during winter and monsoon as well.
Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang regions lie in the rain-shadow area so, they are ideal trek destinations during monsoon. Likewise, easy and low-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poonhill and Tamang Heritage Trek are perfect during the winter season.

Altitude Sickness
While trekking in Nepal is extremely satisfying, altitude sickness might get a better hold of you at times. The air pressure and oxygen concentration decrease the higher you travel.
As such, altitude sickness is an illness that the human body suffers from due to these reasons. The symptoms of the sickness include lack of appetite, nausea, weakness, lightheartedness, sleep disturbance, tiredness, and headache. These symptoms generally appear when moving upwards of the height of 2,400 meters from sea level.
You can adopt different measures to avoid altitude sickness like a walk at a slow and steady pace, avoiding smoking, and stopping at different stations to acclimatize. Before beginning your trek, make sure you have a first aid kit with ibuprofen or paracetamol and Diamox. If anyone falls victim to altitude sickness, it is necessary to inform the trip leader and descend to a lower altitude. In extreme cases, it might also be necessary to perform Heli rescue and emergency evacuations.

Travel Insurance
Accidents can happen anywhere so, it is recommended for all tourists to get travel insurance before visiting Nepal. Depending upon the insurance policy and the company, the insurance will look after tragic like theft, loss or accidental damage of gears and other belongings, baggage, and medical emergencies. Likewise, the insurance should also include helicopter evacuation and any kinds of mishaps that might occur during adventure sporting like bungee jumping, rafting, and zip-lining. No one is capable of foreseeing the accidents, but each individual can buy themselves an insurance policy to lessen the effects of the accident.

Meals and Accommodations
In major cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu, you will get multiple options to choose from, from cheap lodges to extravagant 5 stars hotels. Likewise, you will also get to choose from a wide range of cuisines while in the major cities. However, once you move away from the cities, the options for meals and accommodations in Nepal will become limited. During the treks, the best accommodations available are lodges and teahouses. They provide basic facilities for dining and lodging. These places mostly serve traditional Nepali food “Daal Bhat Tarkari” (rice, pulses, and vegetables). Similarly, there are several other food varieties like Momo, Thukpa, and Thakali food available across Nepal.

Banking, ATMs, and Money in Nepal
Nepalese Rupees are the official currency of Nepal. The banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 whereas coins of 1 and 2 are available in Nepal.
While travelling to Nepal, banking and money exchange are not a huge deal in big cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu. When you head to rural areas, the availability of banks, ATMs, and money exchange booths becomes fairly scarce. So, it is best to withdraw enough cash and exchange the currency in major cities. You can also exchange foreign currencies for Nepali Rupees at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You need to be updated about the exchange rates which are available at the official website of Nepal Rastra Bank .

Internet and Communication
It is quite easy to access the Internet in Nepal. Using Wi-Fi is a widely used way to communicate and use the Internet. Wi-Fi is easily available in major cities and even in some remote destinations. When trekking to remote locations, Wi-Fi might not always be available; so, using cellular data is the best way to communicate over the Internet. You can buy a Sim-card in Nepal at a reasonable price which allows you to make an international call. Also, you can use mobile data while you are in the areas without Wi-Fi. Telephone, Fax, and newspapers are a few other forms of communication in Nepal.

Internal Flight Delays
Due to the geographical diversity and unpredictable climate in the Himalayas, internal flights are often delayed or cancelled. Weather conditions like heavy rainfall, storms, or fog can disrupt flights. So, it is wise to spare an extra day or two as buffer days, in case of flight delays and cancellations. Likewise, it is also necessary to note that the weather conditions are great during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. If you have enough time, you can also choose road transportation in such cases.

Health and Safety Including Traveling alone in Country
The country is very safe for all tourists and travellers. The country is not experiencing any armed conflicts, religious wars, or grave crimes. Travelling alone is also perfectly sage and you will find willing Nepalese to help you with your travel issues. We also advise solo travellers to inform their loved ones and authorities like local police about their travel destination and itinerary to remain on the safe side. However, there are many issues that you need to consider to trek alone. So, you should have ample knowledge and idea before going on a solo trek.
Likewise, there is a Tourist Police department in Nepal which looks after the welfare and safety of the travellers. You can learn more about them at the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board at
In case of medical emergencies during your trek, you can visit the nearest health post which provides basic medical services. If the medical complication persists, you’ll have to head to the hospitals in towns and cities. Similarly, it is also necessary to follow a healthy and hygienic lifestyle when travelling in Nepal to stay fit and healthy.
Useful Nepali Phrases

English Nepali
Thank You Dhanyabad
How are you? Tapaii lai Kasto Chha?
I am fine. Malai Thick Cha
Have you eaten? (used often as an informal greeting) Khanna khan nu bhayo?
What is your name? Tapako Naam ke ho?
Pardon me/ Sorry Maaf garnu-hola
I don’t understand Maile bhujhina
I understand Maile bhujhe
See you again