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Manaslu Round Trek – 15 Days | HGI Nepal
Mount Manaslu on the Manaslu Round Trek
15 Days Itinerary

Manaslu Round Trek

Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth highest mountain in the world, on a remote restricted-area trek along the Budhi Gandaki. Walk through Tibetan-influenced villages, cross Larkya La (5,106 m) and finish in the Marsyangdi valley.

15 DaysMax 5,106 mChallengingTeahouse Stay
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Trip Facts

CountryNepal
Duration15 Days
DifficultyChallenging
ActivityTrekking / Hiking
Max. Altitude5,106 m / 16,752 ft
Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov
AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel
MealsFull Board on Trek
Start / EndKathmandu

Manaslu Round Trek Overview & Highlights

The Manaslu Round Trek is one of Nepal’s classic remote treks. This 15-day journey begins and ends in Kathmandu and follows the Budhi Gandaki river around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth highest mountain in the world, before crossing Larkya La (5,106 m) into the Marsyangdi valley.

The route passes through a restricted area that opened to trekkers in 1992. Subtropical forest, terraced fields, waterfalls and suspension bridges give way to high valleys, stone villages and the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the Nubri and Tsum regions, with long mani walls, chortens and monasteries.

An acclimatization day at Samagaon (3,530 m) allows time to explore the village and visit Pungyen Gompa or Birendra Tal before the climb to Samdo and Dharamsala at the foot of Larkya La.

After the pass, the trek descends past Bimthang and Tilije to Dharapani, where it joins the Annapurna Circuit route. The journey finishes with a drive to Besisahar and Kathmandu.

Trek Highlights

  • Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth highest peak in the world
  • Cross Larkya La (5,106 m)
  • Walk through a remote restricted area with fewer trekkers
  • Tibetan-influenced villages, mani walls and monasteries
  • Acclimatization day at Samagaon with views of Manaslu
  • Dramatic Budhi Gandaki gorge, forests and waterfalls
  • Views of Himlung, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II near Bimthang
  • Join the Annapurna Circuit route at Dharapani

Manaslu Round Trek Detailed Itinerary

15-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Soti Khola (Drive)

Soti Khola · 710 m
Day 2

Soti Khola → Machha Khola

Machha Khola · 870 m
Day 3

Machha Khola → Jagat

Jagat · 1,340 m
Day 4

Jagat → Deng

Deng · 1,860 m
Day 5

Deng → Namrung

Namrung · 2,630 m
Day 6

Namrung → Samagaon

Samagaon · 3,530 m
Day 7

Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Samagaon · 3,530 m
Day 8

Samagaon → Samdo

Samdo · 3,860 m
Day 9

Samdo → Dharamsala

Dharamsala · 4,460 m
Day 10

Dharamsala → Larkya La → Bimthang

Bimthang · 3,590 m
Day 11

Bimthang → Tilije

Tilije · 2,300 m
Day 12

Tilije → Dharapani

Dharapani · 1,860 m
Day 13

Dharapani → Besisahar (Drive)

Besisahar · 760 m
Day 14

Besisahar → Kathmandu (Drive)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m
Day 15

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Drive west through hills and river valleys via Dhading Besi to Soti Khola, where the trek begins beside the Budhi Gandaki river.

  • Max. altitudeSoti Khola (710 m)
  • Duration8–9 hrs drive
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 2

Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Follow the river through sal forest and terraced fields, crossing suspension bridges and passing small Gurung villages, to Machha Khola.

  • Max. altitudeMachha Khola (870 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 3

Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

Walk through the narrowing gorge, crossing the river several times and passing hot springs at Tatopani, to Jagat, the checkpoint village.

  • Max. altitudeJagat (1,340 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 4

Trek from Jagat to Deng

Climb over a ridge and follow the trail high above the river through forest and across suspension bridges to Deng, entering the Nubri region.

  • Max. altitudeDeng (1,860 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 5

Trek from Deng to Namrung

Cross the river and climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest, passing Ghap and its mani walls, to Namrung with views of Siringi Himal.

  • Max. altitudeNamrung (2,630 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 6

Trek from Namrung to Samagaon

Walk through Lho, with its monastery and views of Manaslu, and continue through Shyo to Samagaon, the largest village in the Nubri valley.

  • Max. altitudeSamagaon (3,530 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 7

Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Rest and acclimatize in Samagaon. Visit Pungyen Gompa, hike toward Manaslu Base Camp or walk to Birendra Tal for close views of the glacier and peaks.

  • Max. altitudeSamagaon (3,530 m)
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 8

Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

Follow the valley beside the Budhi Gandaki past mani walls and yak pastures to Samdo, the last village before Larkya La.

  • Max. altitudeSamdo (3,860 m)
  • Duration3–4 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 9

Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala

Climb across the river and up the moraine to Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, a simple stone shelter at the foot of the pass.

  • Max. altitudeDharamsala (4,460 m)
  • Duration3–4 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 10

Cross Larkya La Pass to Bimthang

Start before dawn for the long climb over Larkya La (5,106 m), with views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II. Descend steeply to the green valley at Bimthang.

  • Max. altitudeLarkya La (5,106 m)
  • Duration8–10 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 11

Trek from Bimthang to Tilije

Descend through rhododendron and pine forest, crossing the Dudh Khola, to Gho and Tilije, a village in the Marsyangdi valley.

  • Max. altitudeTilije (2,300 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 12

Trek from Tilije to Dharapani

Walk down the Dudh Khola valley to Dharapani, where the route joins the Annapurna Circuit, and celebrate the completion of the trek with your crew.

  • Max. altitudeDharapani (1,860 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 13

Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar

Travel by local four-wheel-drive vehicle down the Marsyangdi valley through forested gorges to Besisahar.

  • Max. altitudeBesisahar (760 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Besisahar
DAY 14

Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway, following scenic river valleys and hillside settlements. Arrive in Kathmandu, marking the completion of your Manaslu adventure.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Kathmandu
DAY 15

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

This day is kept in reserve in case of delays on the trail or roads. If not needed, explore Kathmandu or depart.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, road conditions, health or other factors beyond our control. Snow or adverse weather may delay the Larkya La crossing. We recommend keeping one or two additional days available.

Manaslu Round Trek Route Map

Manaslu Round Trek map showing the route from Soti Khola through Jagat, Namrung, Samagaon, Larkya La, Bimthang and Dharapani

Route: Kathmandu – Soti Khola – Machha Khola – Jagat – Deng – Namrung – Samagaon – Samdo – Dharamsala – Larkya La – Bimthang – Tilije – Dharapani – Besisahar – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek follows the Budhi Gandaki gradually uphill through Jagat, Deng and Namrung to Samagaon (3,530 m), where an acclimatization day is included. The highest point is Larkya La (5,106 m) on Day 10, followed by a long descent to Bimthang, Tilije and Dharapani.

01,0002,0003,0004,0005,000 m7108701,3401,8602,6303,5303,5303,8604,4602,3001,8607601,4001,400Larkya La Pass5,106 mD1Soti KholaD2Machha KholaD3JagatD4DengD5NamrungD6SamagaonD7SamagaonD8SamdoD9DharamsalaD10Larkya LaD11TilijeD12DharapaniD13BesisaharD14KathmanduD15Kathmandu
Highest Point5,106 mLarkya La Pass, Day 10
AcclimatizationDay 7Samagaon
DifficultyChallengingRemote high-altitude trek

Main altitude point each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 15.

Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Round Trek is a challenging remote trek. Expect 5–9 hours of walking on trekking days, long ascents and descents, cold conditions at higher elevations and simple teahouses. The most demanding day is crossing Larkya La, which requires an early start and good physical preparation. No technical climbing is required.

Physical Effort
Altitude
Technical Difficulty
Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons and beautiful mountain scenery.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Monsoon rain, leeches and landslides affect the lower valley and views.

Winter

December–February. Very cold conditions and possible snow closure of Larkya La.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
  • Shared bathrooms in many locations
  • Hot showers may cost extra
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Besisahar is not included unless specified

Meals

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
  • Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
  • Tea and coffee
  • Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

  • Four-season sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Down jacket
  • 30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm beanie
  • Neck gaiter
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses

Torso

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof shell

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking trousers
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

  • Liner and insulated gloves
  • Warm hiking socks
  • Waterproof trekking boots
  • Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

  • Personal medication
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Blister plasters
  • Throat lozenges

Essentials

  • Passport and photocopies
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toiletries and towel
  • Trekking poles
  • Energy snacks

Optional

  • Power bank
  • Camera or phone
  • Book or cards
  • Binoculars
  • Microspikes if conditions require

Safety & Altitude

This trek crosses Larkya La at 5,106 m, making altitude sickness a real risk. The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Samagaon. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

  • Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
  • Stay hydrated throughout the trek
  • Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
  • Descend if symptoms worsen
  • Guides carry a first aid kit
  • Insurance must cover trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation

Manaslu Round Trek Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

  • Kathmandu – Soti Khola (road)
  • Dharapani – Besisahar (road)
  • Besisahar – Kathmandu (road)

Meals & Accommodation

  • Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
  • Tea and coffee
  • Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

  • Professional licensed trekking guide
  • Porter service
  • Guide and porter wages
  • Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

  • Manaslu restricted area permit
  • Manaslu Conservation Area permit
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Government and local taxes

Safety

  • First aid kit

Not Included

  • Hotels in Kathmandu and Besisahar
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Besisahar
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • International airfare
  • Extra nights due to delays
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers and device charging
  • Additional snacks and beverages
  • Optional sightseeing
  • Medical and emergency expenses
  • Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain park entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Manaslu Round Trek is remote and strenuous and crosses a 5,106 m pass, so it is not recommended for children. Please contact us to discuss suitable alternatives.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

Cancel within 7 days of booking and receive a 25% refund.

After 7 Days

Cancellations after 7 days are not refundable.

Last-Minute

Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Full payment: If you have paid the full amount, you receive 25% of the total payment back when cancelling within the refund window.

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

 
 
 
 
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HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Matt  
 
 
 
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I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Campbell Clan  
 
 
 
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The crew at HGI are exceptional.  Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained,  the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome,  and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly.  If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made,  make a great decision and go with HGI.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Mark Walker  
 
 
 
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Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI.  Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games.  The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip.  Thank you.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
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Manaslu Round Trek FAQs

General

How many days does the Manaslu Round Trek take?

The itinerary takes 15 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including the Larkya La crossing, an acclimatization day and a reserve day.

How high is Larkya La?

Larkya La reaches 5,106 metres (16,752 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

Manaslu is a restricted area, so a licensed guide is required. We can also arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. Good fitness and preparation are important for the long walking days and the high pass.

How difficult is the Manaslu Round Trek?

The trek is challenging due to altitude, cold weather, remote conditions and the Larkya La crossing. It does not require technical climbing.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

A Manaslu restricted area permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area permit and ACAP are required, and current regulations, including group size rules, should be confirmed before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Besisahar and Kathmandu according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Charging and Wi-Fi may be limited or unavailable in the upper villages.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 metres. Follow acclimatization guidance and report symptoms to your guide immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 5,500 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if Larkya La is closed?

Your guide will assess weather and trail conditions. If the pass is unsafe, the crossing may be delayed or the itinerary adjusted.

How to Book

  1. Fill in the Booking Form

    Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.

  2. We Get in Touch

    Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.

  3. Confirm and Pay the Deposit

    Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.

  4. Pre-Trip Briefing

    Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.