- 10 Days
- Nepal
- Manaslu Region
- 5160 meters
- Guest House
- Min. 1 Pax
The 10-Day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that circles the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). Perfect for trekkers with limited time, this short yet rewarding journey combines breathtaking mountain scenery, rich cultural encounters, and diverse landscapes, making it one of Nepal’s most scenic off-the-beaten-path trekking experiences.
Unlike the busier trekking routes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through the remote and unspoiled valleys of the Manaslu region, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the Himalayas. The trail gradually ascends from subtropical forests and terraced hillsides to alpine meadows, glacier-fed rivers, and the rugged terrain surrounding the spectacular Larke Pass, offering an incredible variety of landscapes within just 10 days.
Beyond its natural beauty, the trek provides a unique opportunity to experience the authentic culture of the region. Along the route, you’ll pass through traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Nubri, and Tibetan-influenced communities, where ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, and colorful mani walls reflect centuries-old Buddhist traditions. As the trail approaches the Tibetan border, the cultural influence becomes even more evident, creating a fascinating blend of Himalayan heritage and stunning mountain scenery.
The trek also passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, Himalayan wildlife, and pristine alpine ecosystems. Combining dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and authentic local culture, the 10-Day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an extraordinary adventure for travelers seeking a quieter and more rewarding alternative to Nepal’s more crowded trekking routes.
Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
- Walking in a remote setting with uncrowded trails
- Discover the landscapes of the Nubri, Marshyanmgdi, and Budhi Gandaki Valley
- Diverse flora and fauna of Manaslu conservation area
- The feeling of accomplishment by crossing one of the highest mountain passes of Nepal, Larke Pass ( 5,165m/16,929ft)
Itinerary
The exciting journey of a 10 days short Manaslu circuit trek begins with a scenic drive heading northwest from the busy metropolis, Kathmandu. The bus will move over the black-topped Prithvi highway along the trails, followed by the swiftly flowing Trishuli River.
Driving past the charming village of Dhading Besi, you will come across various pasture lands, meadows, and lush forests before arriving at Arughat. You will take a short break in this small town before proceeding with your drive towards the route shown by the natural direction of Budhi Gandaki River. You can feel how the distant views of panoramic mountains are coming closer as you are moving to your destination today.
Continuing your ride for a few more miles against the lofty hills on a bumpy road, you will finally arrive at your overnight stay in Machha Khola, a gateway to the Manaslu trek.
As you are back on the trails today, you will encounter Maccha Khola and Tharo Khola flowing at their pace. Then, you will take an uphill climb to Khorla Besi. From here, the path will be narrowed down. You will make your way past Tatopani and climb the ravine before crossing a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. After a few hours of good walking, the trail will start to widen up, connecting you to Doban. In Dobhan, you can see the beautiful confluence of Shari Khola and Sarpu Khola.
After walking on the suspension bridge, you will ascend the steep uphill decorated by wildflowers to reach a rock wall at Yaruphat. do not forget to capture these memories with both your eyes and a camera. Then, you will walk past Louri before hiking the stony staircase to reach Tharo Bharyang. Just a few miles away from Tharo Bharyang, after ascending over the ridge, you will reach Jagat.
After having a hearty breakfast in the morning, you will once again connect with the trail you left yesterday. In the initial leg of the day, you will ascend the rocky ridge line that will lead you to Salleri Village. Then, you will descend to Sridibas, which offers a magical view of Shringi Himal.
After having a fulfilling look at Shringi Himal, you will hike on the trail heading towards Ghatte Khola before crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River to arrive at a Gurung village called Philim. The beautiful village is surrounded by the majestic view of Tewa Himal (6,008m), Lumbo Himal (6,250m), Lapuchen (5,996m), Dwijen Himal (6,309m), and Shiringi Himal (7,161m).
Now, the trail will head northward from Philim alongside the lush forest of rhododendrons. you will make your way through Lokwa and Ekle Bhatti village, which will later ascent steeply towards the sharp canyons to the bank of Budhi Gandaki river. Following the bank of the river, you will come across a bamboo forest. Getting deeper into the Manaslu region, you will cross the seasonal stream, Deng Khola, to finally arrive at the Tibetan influence village of Deng.
You may feel like this short Manaslu circuit trek is progressing too fast. But the fact is you are enjoying this trek to the fullest, and you feel like time is passing at a rapid speed. With more things to catch on, you will leave the tea house early in the morning to head towards Namrung today.
The trek kicks off with a steep ascent towards the Rana Bridge. Crossing the bridge, you will start to walk on the trail surrounded by coniferous pine forests to arrive at Bihi Phedi. You can catch your breath by taking quick glimpses of Kutang Himal. Continuing further with the journey, you will have to make various steep ascents and descents alongside the forest area before arriving at Ghap.
While pushing yourself towards the charming village of Prok, you can interact with other trekkers on the trail during peak seasons. With the companionship of Shringi Himal, you will have to cross the Budhi Gandaki River a few more times, followed by a narrow gorge to reach Namrung.
Since this village is a few distances away from the Tibetan border, you can find the influence of Tibetan culture and practice in this region.
In the initial stretch of the trek, you will take an uphill route of the forest trail to reach a beautiful Buddhist influence village called Lihi. Now, you will make your descent toward the Simang Himal valley, which offers you a close-up view of Ganesh Himal.
From here, you will cross a freshwater stream firmed by the Lindanda Glacier that will need you towards Sho Village. As you explore the remote area of Nubra Valley, you will follow the trail towards Lho Valley, which is under the care of Ribum Gompa. During the last leg of the trek, you will have to stride along the rhododendron and pine forest to reach Shyala village. The Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Mt. Manaslu and its glacier ahead, and Ganesh Himal on the far right encircle this beautiful agricultural village.
Leaving the Shyala village behind, you will cross a stream that emerges out of Punggen Glacier to finally arrive at the final destination for today, Sama Gaon.
Today will be a short hike to Samdo. Leaving behind Sama Gaon, you will cross the pasture land that opens up to two paths. One path takes you to Manaslu base camp, while the other trail will take you to Samdo. Taking the Samdo trial, you will traverse the forest of juniper and birch. After making your way through the forest, you will cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River before taking a steep uphill.
Finally, you will arrive at the last high-altitude settlement area before crossing the Larke La Pass. Upon arriving at the Tibetan refugee village, Samdo, you will explore the village for the rest of the day.
Today You will cross several streams on your to Larkya Bazaar. The trail is steep and passes through Mani walls leading you to the base of the dramatic Larkya La (5160m) pass. A steady climb from Larkya Bazaar takes you to the stone hut of Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi where you will spend an exciting night just before crossing the a beautiful Larkyo Pass, a main highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Today you will ascend along the lateral moraine of Larkya Glacier to reach the frozen pass of Larkya La (5160m), the major highlight and attraction of Manaslu Circuit Trek. The top of the pass provides you with magnificent views of the Mt. Manaslu (8163m.) and Annapurna massifs. You will then descend the icy path passing stunning glaciers to reach Bimthang to spend the night.
After conquering victory against the Larke La Pass, you definitely deserve a pat on your back. Leaving Bhimthang, you will join the southern trail of a moraine wall that will extend further toward the Budhi Gandaki valley. Further proceeding with the trek, you will traverse the lush forest and verdant meadows to reach Karcher.
The trek is downhill, so it will be less taxing. Taking the downhill route, you will cross the Gho village, situated at the river bank. Moving further, you can have a picturesque view of mountains along with a beautiful trail to reach Tilje village, where Tibetan and Chettri people inhabit.
Now, you will head to Dharapani via Thongje village as you cross the Annapurna circuit trail. You will cross the Dudh Koshi River and Marshyangdi River to arrive at Dharapani. Upon arriving at the final destination for today. You will stay at a local tea house and enjoy your last day of trekking on the trails of the short Manaslu circuit trek.
Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani, leaving behind the Marshland Valley. You will pass settlement areas like Bhulbhule, Khudi, and Besisahar as you make your way back to the metropolis.
You will have a scenic drive as you are accompanied by the Marsyangdi River and Triahuli River as you retrace the path of Prithvi Highway.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Package Includes
- Airport transfers for your arrival and departure in a comfortable car or van.
- Clean and comfortable local guesthouse accommodation, normally arranged on a twin-sharing basis.
- Three meals a day - breakfast, lunch, and dinner - during the trek.
- An experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide who is deeply familiar with the local communities, language, traditions, and culture, and has completed this trek many times.
- Complete food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicines, and transportation for all trekking staff.
- All necessary trekking permits, conservation fees, and entry permits.
- Free use of a sleeping bag, duffel bag, and trekking poles during the trekking period.
- Manaslu Base Camp Trekking map to help you understand and follow the route.
- First aid medical kit carried by your trekking guide for added support during the trek.
- Pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation, pulse, and heart rate during the trek.
- Comprehensive first aid medical kit.
- Surface transportation by bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.
- Jeep drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, and then bus drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Convenient baggage storage in Kathmandu while you are enjoying your trek.
Package Excludes
- Nepal visa and applicable fees, currently USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa.
- Private Jeep: USD 250 per vehicle, per way (Kathmandu–Machhakhola or Besisahar–Kathmandu or Pokhara).
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu unless included in the confirmed itinerary.
- International flights and airport departure taxes.
- Your travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Porter Service: Not included in the package but available as an optional add-on at USD 200 per porter, with a maximum carrying capacity of 20 to 22 kg per porter.
- Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, tea, coffee, snacks, and other personal drinks or refreshments.
- Laundry and other personal expenses during the trip.
- Personal trekking clothes, boots, backpacks, jackets, and other individual gear.
- Tips and gratuities for your guide, porters, drivers, and support team.
- Any other services, activities, or expenses not specifically mentioned in the Package Includes section.
Useful Info:
Best Time For Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
One of the factors that trekkers need to look out for in their planning phase is the time of the year. With ever-changing weather, climate, and atmospheric conditions, the Manaslu circuit also changes in terms of vegetation and landscapes to show its unparalleled beauty in different seasons. Usually, people prefer the autumn season ( September to November ) and spring season ( March to May) to embark on any trekking route, and the short Manalsu circuit trek is no exception.
Autumn offers warm and stable weather with a hint of cool breeze during the day. The average temperature of the region hovers around 8 to 12 degrees Celsius with longer hours of sunlight. Less humidity in the air leads to no clouds with blue skies during this season. Moreover, trekkers can have panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas without any obstruction. The vibrant foliage contrasting with white snow-capped mountains is like a picturesque backdrop from a movie. Moreover, the festival delights of this season add a different kind of joy among trekkers.
Likewise, during spring, the temperature gradually starts to rise from the freezing cold of winter. Snow starts to melt down, nourishing the vegetation and adding life to frozen rivers and waterfalls. Moreover, the lush forest starts to unfurl its leaves along with different bases of rhododendrons and wildflowers, enhancing the beauty of the green canopy. Moreover, as the season progresses, spring offers incredibly pleasant weather, suitable for trekking.
Summer and Winter are generally called off seasons for short Manaslu circuit treks, as not many trekkers prefer to explore the region during these times of the year. However, the Manaslu region is delightful all 12 months of the year, and trekking to the Manaslu circuit is open all year around.
During Summer ( June to August), the Manalsu circuit experienced heavy rainfall with scorching hot temperatures in Nepal. The trails will be wet and slippery, with many bugs and leaves enjoying their life out in nature. The beautiful vegetation during monsoon can captivate the hearts of many trekkers, but there is some risk of landslides and floods.
Similarly during winter, the temperature of the Manaslu region will drop into minus with a remorseless frigid zone near Larke La Pass and other landscapes being covered in snow. So, if you are trying to explore the untouched beauty of the Manaslu region during winter and summer, you will have to be well prepared for drastic weather changes.
Difficulty level
The short Manaslu circuit trek is a wonderful journey on the off-the-beaten path with a moderate level of difficulty. However, this trek does not have any technical section to cover, which will make this journey comparatively less tiring or taxing.
One of the major difficulty factors is altitude. This trek will elevate you to an incredible height of 5106 m at Larke La Pass. Moreover, you will have to traverse lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and verdant Meadows on those rugged landscapes. Moreover, the total distance to be covered during this trek is about 130 km in 10 days. You will have to hike for about 6 to 8 hours daily to cover approximately about 9 km per day.
Foods and Accommodations
Since the Manaslu circuit trek falls under the secluded and isolated part lying on the border of Annapurna sanctuary and the Tibetan plateau, you can expect a basic level of services and amenities in this region.
Accommodations
Tea houses and lodges are the common modes of accommodation. These tea houses will have the option of twin sharing rooms or a private room. If you opt for twin-sharing rooms, then you will be provided with two or three adjacent beds. The beds will be well-equipped with blankets, mattresses and pillows.
Moreover, you can find western-style attached bathrooms in lower elevations, but as you rise to higher elevations, only traditional squat-style bathrooms under shared vicinity may be available. Furthermore, teahouses will have a communal dinner where you can share your experiences and stories with fellow trekkers.
Foods
The teahouse and lodge owners will offer you a wide menu comprising the foods to suit your palate. You can taste regional food, Nepalese food, Indian and Tibetan cuisines, and even foreign specialties.
For breakfast, you can expect Cereals, Oatmeals, Cornflakes, Pancakes, Pudding, Soups, Congee, Toast, Paratha, Bread and butter, Roti tarkari, Selroti, and many more.
For lunch and dinner, you can expect similar types of food like Traditional Daal Bhaat Tarkari, Momo, Dumplings, different khana sets, Spaghetti, Dhindo gundruk, etc.
You can have access to different cold, hot, and even hard drinks in these teahouses. However, this package does not include drinks (bottled and bar drinks) and additional expenses out of the 3-time meal facility, so you will have to pay for other foods and drinks from your own pocket.
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Packing list
Clothing
- Moisture-soaking base
- Insulating layers or thermals
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell of a jacket and pants
- Convertible trekking shorts
- Long-sleeved shirts and T-shirts
- Sun hat, cap, and woolen beanie
- Extra pairs of socks and underwear
- Pair of gloves
- Neck gaiter
Shoes
- Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots
- Comfortable sandals or shoes for evenings
Equipment
- Trekking poles
- Duffle bag
- Backpack
- Camera with chargers
- Sleeping bag
- Headlamps and extra batteries for it
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Reusable water bottles and Thermos flask
- Water-purifying iodine tablets or filters
- Power bank
- Universal charging cord
- Crampons
- Ice axe
Toiletries and personal hygiene
- Toothpaste, toothbrush
- Sunscreen with SPF, body lotion, and lip balm
- facewash, Hand sanitizer
- Soap, shampoo and conditioner
- Quick dry towels, toilet paper, Wet wipes, and face towel
- Deodorants
- Personal medication (if any)
- Small first aid kit with all basic medications
Travel Insurance
When traveling with Base Camp Adventure, getting insured with travel insurance is mandatory. You will be exploring the secluded part amidst the mountain ranges and lush forest. Any mishaps and accidents are possible. So, getting insured is like taking precautions for your financial safety.
You have to take an insurance policy from a trustworthy insurer with some reputation in the market. The policy you take shall cover all your medical expenses, hospital bills, air ambulance, and evacuation costs. Most insurance companies don’t include the clause of cancellation in their travel insurance. But we recommend you add the cancellation clause as it will mitigate the risk of economic outflow when you have to cancel the plans due to any reason.
Guides And Porters
Guides and porters are an inseparable part of your short Manaslu circuit trek. The guides we provide are knowledgeable and have years of experience in this field. Moreover, they are well-English-spoken, so they can be a mediator between you and other local people in the Manaslu region. They will navigate the path and give you the necessary information on the history, cultures, and traditions of the region.
Similarly, the porters we provide are experienced and friendly. One porter will carry the luggage of two trekkers. They can carry about 15 to 25 kgs of weight. Porters will meet you once you start to walk on the trail. They will reduce the burden of your luggage and equipment and make your journey more comfortable and somewhat easy.
What Permits Are Required To Complete This Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?
You will need to acquire four permits to complete this trek. Since the Manaslu circuit trek converges around the Manaslu conservation area, you will need to obtain a Manaslu conservation area permit. This will cost around USD 30 for foreigners except the SAARC nationals. SAARC nationals will have to pay around USD 10 to acquire this permit.
Moreover, the short Manaslu circuit trek covers a certain area of the Annapurna conservation area, so the second permit you will need to obtain is the Annapurna conservation area permit. This will also cost around USD 30 for foreign nationals except the SAARC nationals. For SAARC nationals, it will cost approximately USD 10.
Similarly, the Manaslu region is known for its remoteness and untouched beauty, along with being close to the border with Tibet. So, this region has been classified as a restricted area. Hence, you will need to obtain a restricted area permit to complete the short Manaslu circuit trek.
From September to November, this permit will cost USD 100 for 7 days per person. However, once you exceed 7 days, you will have to pay an extra USD 15 per day per person. Likewise, from December to August, this permit will cost about USD 75 for 7 days per person. But once you exceed the 7th day, you will have to pay an additional USD 10 per day per person. This differential charge is applied to protect the area and control the tourist inflow of the region.
Another documentation you will require for the short Manaslu circuit trek is the Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS) card. This card will cost Nrs. 300 for the SAARC nationals, while foreigners other than SAARC nationals will have to pay Nrs. 1000.
Packing list
Clothing
- Moisture-soaking base
- Insulating layers or thermals
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell of a jacket and pants
- Convertible trekking shorts
- Long-sleeved shirts and T-shirts
- Sun hat, cap, and woolen beanie
- Extra pairs of socks and underwear
- Pair of gloves
- Neck gaiter
Shoes
- Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots
- Comfortable sandals or shoes for evenings
Equipment
- Trekking poles
- Duffle bag
- Backpack
- Camera with chargers
- Sleeping bag
- Headlamps and extra batteries for it
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Reusable water bottles and Thermos flask
- Water-purifying iodine tablets or filters
- Power bank
- Universal charging cord
- Crampons
- Ice axe
Toiletries and personal hygiene
- Toothpaste, toothbrush
- Sunscreen with SPF, body lotion, and lip balm
- facewash, Hand sanitizer
- Soap, shampoo and conditioner
- Quick dry towels, toilet paper, Wet wipes, and face towel
- Deodorants
- Personal medication (if any)
- Small first aid kit with all basic medications
Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs
General
No, you will not require any supplementary oxygen during the trek.
The price for this short Manaslu Circuit trek will cost about USD 1000 to USD 1300.
