12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days

Duration

12 Days

Age Range 10 - 70  years
Arrival City

Kathmandu

Accomodation

Hotel/Lodge/Tea House

Free Cancellation

30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)

Guide

Guided Tour

Insurance Coverage

Covered

Language

English, Deutsch

Maximum Altitude

5,213 meters

Meals

BLD During Trek

Transportation

Private/Public Vehicle

Walking Hours

6-7 Hours Trek

Wifi

Available

Hotel Transfer

Available

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12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek is an epic Himalayan expedition that circumambulates the eight tallest snow-clad peaks in the world. Mt. Manaslu at an elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). This exhilarating and epic adventure explores the remote terrains and tampered regions of the northern Himalayan prospects of the country. Opened to tourists in 1991, this mixed trekking adventure explores the protected Manaslu Conservation Area and offers a glimpse of the endangered flora and fauna of the region. The cultural and traditional prospects of the charming Himalayan settlements across the trail. Manaslu trek is one of the off-beaten trekking trail of Nepal with its pristine beauty.

As one of the most easily accessible trekking adventures from Kathmandu, this Himalayan adventure takes you to the region where technological advancement has had very little impact. So, it will be like an unprecedented journey in the truest form of nature, farther from the human array, and just into the wilderness. If you are looking for a journey into solitude away from the crowd of mainstream trekking routes. Great Adventure Treks offers a fully guided expedition, prioritizing your experience and safety. We take care of every minor detail so can just truly relish this spectacular Himalayan exploration.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Genuine remote exploration of the unhindered natural allurements on the off-beaten path
  • Circumambulate journey of the eigh-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters)
  • Spectacular views of the Himalayan massifs like Himalchuli , Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chulu , Cheo Himal , Himlung Himal , Annapurna II , and Manaslu
  • Immersive exploration following the Budhi Gandaki Valley
  • Captivating the diverse flora and fauna of the protected area, Manaslu Conservation Area
  • One of the high Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass (5,213 meters)
  • Religious, cultural, and traditional prospects of the high Himalayan settlement influenced by Buddhist and Hindu culture

Best Season for 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

The best season for the 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be peak seasons like autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). Although both of these seasons see a lot of trekkers from all over the world, each season has its own specialty and allurements. For instance, the spring season in the Himalayas is particularly known as the blooming season, where the whole trail is decorated with wildflowers and filled with their scent.

If you are a nature lover, you don’t want to miss out on the adventure of the Himalayas in its peak season, you also have a high chance of catching a glimpse of the Himalayan wildlife enjoying the nectar of nature. The temperature of the Manaslu region is on the warmer side during the spring as it averages between 15°C to 20°C during the daytime and averages around 5°C at night.

As for the autumn season, it is the best and most favorite season among trekking enthusiasts and mountaineers for the Himalayan expedition. The fresh trails washed by the monsoon rain, stable weather, clear, beautiful days with blue skies, and the most amazing wide, unobstructed Himalayan vistas make it one of the most suitable times for the 12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek. The mild day temperatures, which hover around 15°C to 16°C on average, and the cool-chilly morning and evening make every day’s trekking a truly gratifying experience. However, the temperature can drop to  -1°C or lower in altitudes over 4,000 meters, and there is also the possibility of light snowfall if you are trekking in the latter part of November as winter closes by; you are recommended to pack your clothes and gear accordingly.

Trek Difficulty

The overall 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek has been graded a ‘Moderately Difficult’ level, although the trails in this beautiful expedition are not technical or strenuous, it is still a high-altitude adventure that requires an adequate amount of preparation. There are several difficulty factors that contribute to the overall difficulty level of this expedition, like the elevation gain that stretches to an altitude of 5,213 meters at the highest point of this expedition, Larkya La Pass. Similarly, as for the trekking route, you will cover an approximate distance of 177 km (110 miles) in this entire trekking adventure, with the average trekking distance of 5- 6 hours each day.

Although it may not seem like a big deal for an experienced trekker, it is a challenging factor for budding trekkers who are completely new to the high-altitude adventure. But, it doesn’t mean that this beautiful Himalayan exploration isn’t for the new trekkers. In fact, whether you are a new or seasonal trekker, if you make enough preparation, you will be able to complete this trek easily. Just make sure you give enough time for the preparation so you can truly relish the experience and not just drag yourself from one point to another (recommended period of training: 8- 12 weeks. If you have good health conditions and a basic level of fitness 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek won’t be a big deal for you. This beautiful trekking adventure in the Himalayas, with a success rate of 99%, has even been completed by trekkers above the age of 70 and below 10.

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Outline 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

Day 2: Trekking from Machha Khola to Jagat

Day 3: Jagat to Deng trek

Day 4: Deng to Namrung

Day 5: Trekking from Namrung to Lho

Day 6: Trek from Lho to Samagaon

Day 7: Acclimatization and exploration day at Samagaon

Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo trek

Day 9: Trekking from Samdo to Dharamsala

Day 10: Dharamsala to Bimthang trek

Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani

Detailed 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

Highest Altitude 1400 m

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters

Machha Khola Elevation: 850 meters

Elevation Loss: 550 meters

Kick-starting your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will start your adventure early on this day. Following the Prithivi Highway you will move along the scenic trails that follow the Marysangdi and Trishuli Rivers, green lush valley, waterfalls, Himalayan vistas at the far right corner from the window frame and cultural settlements along the trail. The route from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi is smooth on paved roads, however, after reaching Arughat you will switch to little rough trails.

Moving along the rocky trail, you will also pass Soti Khola, which is the traditional starting point for trekking adventures in the Manaslu region. From here you will pass several beautiful Magar and Gurung ethnic villages like Khursane and Labubesi before finally reaching Machha Khola.

Day 2: Trekking from Machha Khola to Jagat

Highest Altitude 1,350 m

Machha Khola Elevation: 850 meters

Jagat Elevation: 1,350 meters

Elevation Gain: 500 meters

On the second day of your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, your trekking adventure will finally begin. Leaving the Machha Khola behind, you will follow the trail with several ascends and descends alongside the riverbed and cross the Tharo Khola to reach the Kholrabesi Village. The moving along a small ridge with several steep sections your trail will lead you to Tatopani Village , known for the natural hot spring with healing properties.

Then, the trekking route follows another ridge that takes you to the riverbed of the Budhi Gandaki River, here, you will cross a suspension bridge to arrive at the Doban. Moving ahead, you will cross another long suspension bridge and proceed towards Lauri, from here the trail drops to the Yaru Khola. During the final stretch of this day’s trek, you will climb to Tharo Bharyang from Yaru Khola and the trail will further lead to the beautiful Jagat Village, the checkpoint of the Mansalu Conservation Area.

Day 3: Jagat to Deng trek

Highest Altitude 2,130 m

Jagat Elevation: 1,350 meters

Deng Elevation: 2,130 meters

Elevation Gain: 780 meters

On the third day of your Himalayan expedition, you will leave the Jagat Village behind and climb over the rocky ridge to reach the Salleri Village. Moving along the scenic trails of this day’s adventure in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will descend down to Setibas Village passing the religious trails with mani walls and chortens which will indicate that you are now entering the Tibetan culture-influenced routes.

From there, the trail will widen and stretch toward the stone houses of the Ghat Khola, moving along the upstream route, you will cross a long suspension bridge over the river that will take you to Philim, a beautiful Gurung settlement. Proceeding forward on the beautiful trail across the millet field you will arrive at Ekle Bhatti, from here the trail follows the steep inhabited gorge of the Budhi Gandaki River alongside the bamboo forest. Then, during the last part of this day’s trek, you will be able to see the Shar Khola and Tsum Valley on the opposite bank of the river, you will take the western side moving across the lush bamboo forest to reach Deng, the beautiful Buddhist culture influenced village.

Day 4: Deng to Namrung

Highest Altitude 2,630 m

Deng Elevation: 2,130 meters

Namrung Elevation: 2,630 meters

Elevation Gain: 500 meters

It’s another day of spectacular adventure in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, starting your adventure after breakfast, you will leave Deng behind and cross the Budhi Gandaki River then switch to the ascending route toward Rana Village. This day’s trekking route that stretches toward the west of the Budhi Gandaki Valley passes through waterfalls and streams leading you to a charming settlement of Bhi. The crossing the Budhi Gandaki River again, you will switch to the steep climbing route above the river with several ascend and descend that will lead you to Ghap Village.

Following elegant mani walls, spiritual routes with prayer flags, and chortens of the Ghap Village, you will enter the fir forest area which will lead you to the wooden bridge. Crossing this scenic bridge in the middle of the forest, you will proceed with your ascending route alongside the bamboo and rhododendron forest which will take you to the Namrung Village.

Day 5: Trekking from Namrung to Lho

Highest Altitude 3,180 m

Namrung Elevation: 2,630 meters

Lho Elevation: 3,180 meters

Elevation Gain: 550 meters

On Day 5 of your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek will follow the trail in the Upper Nupri Valley which is immensely influenced by the Buddhist tradition. Following the spiritual trail decorated with prayer flags, you will pass mani walls and chortens, which will gradually switch to the trails with wide fields and lush forests with firs, oak, and rhododendron trees. Moving ahead, you will arrive at the Lihi Village with its unique architecture, then as you proceed along the trail you will arrive at the Sho Village which offers stunning views of the Manaslu and Naike Peak.

During the final part of this day’s adventure, you will pass a Kani with prayer wheels that will lead you to the Lho Village, a large charming settlement with gigantic mani walls and Tibetan-influenced chortens.

Day 6: Trek from Lho to Samagaon

Highest Altitude 3,520 m

Lho Elevation: 3,180 meters

Samagaon Elevation: 3,520 meters

Elevation Gain: 340 meters

During the first part of this day’s trekking, the trail drops down to a stream as you leave the Lho Village behind. Then moving along the damp forest areas you will follow the route heading toward the Shyala Village which offers wide vistas of the Himalayas that include charming Himalayan peas like Himalchuli , and Ngadi Chuli Peak in its frame. From there, the path drops down to the river nourished by the Pungyen Glacier , proceeding along the spiritual trail decorated with prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and gompa you will arrive at Thosang Khola.

Samagaon is just a little bit further ahead, as you descend down a rocky moraine to reach the charming high Himalayan village with extensive field and pasture grounds. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Samagaon.

Day 7: Acclimatization and exploration day at Samagaon

Highest Altitude 4,800 m

Samagaon Elevation: 3,520 meters

As you have to ascend way over the 2,500-meter margin (above which there is risk of altitude sickness), Day 7 in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek will be acclimatization and exploration day. For effective acclimatization, physical activity is recommended, so, you will use this day to do some short hikes and explore the alluring beauty of this charming Himalayan settlement.

Biredendra Tal (3,450 meters): This is one of the most popular hikes during the acclimatization day in Samagaon. Birendra Tak which is approximately just 2-3 hours away from Samagaon is a glacial lake that offers magnificent views of the surroundings.

Phungen Gompa (4,050 meters): The hike to Phungen Gompa is another popular activity during the acclimatization day in Samagaon. It is almost 2.5 hours of hiking adventure which will offer spectacular views of the Manaslu and surrounding peaks.

Manasalu Base Camp (4,800 meters): If you want to extend your adventure in the region, you can also do the optional hike to the Manaslu Base Camp which is approximately 6- 7 km from Samagaon. From here, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayan gems like Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Himalchuli including Manaslu.

Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo trek

Highest Altitude 3,875 m

Samagaon Elevation: 3,520 meters

Samdo Elevation: 3,875 meters

Elevation Gain: 355 meters

After acclimatizing properly at Samagaon, on Day 8 of your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will continue your trekking adventure following the descending path to the Budhi Gandaki River during the first part. You will further come across several mani walls as the valley widens after you cross a bridge over the side stream and pass charming jumper and birch forests making your way toward Kermo Kharka close to the Tibetan border.

Then the trail drops off the shelf and you will cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River; you will climb a steep section continuing your trail along the White Kani, the gateway of Samdo. On this day’s scenic route, you will be able to enjoy amazing views of the Manaslu as you reach the Tibetan refugee village.

Day 9: Trekking from Samdo to Dharamsala

Highest Altitude 4,450 m

Samdo Elevation: 3,875 meters

Dharamsala Elevation: 4,450 meters

Elevation Gain: 575 meters

Day 9 in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure will follow a gentle trail as you move along the mani wall and stone archway after breakfast. The trail then drops to the riverbed of the Budhi Fandaki River then you will make you ascend to the Larkya Bazaar following the scenic tundra and juniper forest after crossing a bridge.

You will also be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Larkya Glacier in this day’s trek as you proceed on the trail of the Salkha Khola Valley, which will lead you across the gorge that stretches all the way upto Dharamsala which is also known as Larkya Phedi. This stone guest house isn’t typically a lodge but more of a shelter that offers rooms to the trekkers and is seasonally operative.

Day 10: Dharamsala to Bimthang trek

Highest Altitude 5,213 m

Dharamsala Elevation: 4,450 meters

Larkya La Pass: 5,213 meters

Bimthang Elevation: 3,720 meters

Elevation Gain: 763 meters

Day 10 of your Himalayan exploration is a little bit challenging and daunting day’s trek, as in this day’s trekking adventure of your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek expedition, you will overcome the highest elevation point of this entire trek, Larkya La Pass. Staring your adventure early in the morning, you will follow the ridge in front of the Dharmsala crossing the moraine (4,690 meters) then move along the trail that switches to the steep grassy slopes on the south side of the moraine. Continuing your trail along the cairns and prayer flags you will descend down to the four frozen leaks that will lead you to the steep climbing section of the Larkya La Pass.

From the vantage point of the Larkya La Pass, you will be able to enjoy the incredible views of the Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and Kang Garu Peak. It can be extremely windy and cold at the top of this pass so you are recommended to wear warm clothes, after relishing in the Himalayan beauty from one of the highest passes in the Himalayas, you will descend down moraine to the west that steeply drops to the Dangboche Kharka. Moving ahead, you will trek along the grassy moraine, across the small meadow and a spring (4,080 meters) which will further lead to the larger meadow as you finally arrive at Bimthang, one of the significant trading posts along the Tibetan route in the past.

Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani

Highest Altitude 3,720 m

Bimthang Elevation: 3,720 meters

Dharapani Elevation: 1,860 meters

Elevation Loss: 1,860 meters

After overcoming one of the highest passes in the Himalayas, on this day’s adventure in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will descend down to the Dudh Khola and Soti Khola which is also known as Khare. During the first part of this day’s trek, you will follow the trail alongside the Dudh Khola passing across the charming forested area, and the landslide area pushing forward for the Gho Village. Then, the trail continues along the oak and rhododendron forests which will lead you to the Tilje Village.

After taking a breather at Tilje, you will proceed along the trekking route alongside the small ridge on the stone-paved trail that stretches all the way upto a bridge over the Marsyangdi River. Crossing the long suspension bridge over the river leads to the spiritual trails decorated with praying flags and chorterns, you will toward Thonje Village , then a short descending trail from here will lead you to Dharapani

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani

Highest Altitude 1,860 m

Dharapani Elevation: 1,860 meters

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters

Elevation Loss: 460 meters

This will be the final adventure day in your 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, after breakfast, you will drive to Beshishar during the first part of the day which will take approximately 2- 3 hours. Then switching to a more convenient vehicle at Behishar you will continue your drive toward Kathmandu , following the scenic trail alongside the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers. This day’s immersive drive will take take you across the soaring rivers, water falls, charming villages, and the Himalayan vistas as you slowly enter the capital valley.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, our representative will drop you at your respective hotel, depending on the hour of arrival, you can do a short excursion in the bustling city or check out the cultural sites to buy souvenirs as a memory of this great Himalayan adventure.

Thank you for traveling with Great Adventure Treks , we hope to see you again. Have a safe journey!!

Reviews

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Oilcut
Aug 25, 2025

Good experience in Buthan tour

I joined the tour of Buthan for 3 nights. Although the price is high because I am in a solo trip, the quality is good! Buthan is the cleanest country in the world! You don’t need to worry about anything just be happy and excited to join the tour! I just went for 3nights-tour, but I did visit Paro, Thimpu, Punakha ! Although not every sighting sites that would visit, the important sites would not miss! This is my second time join the tour in this travel agency, and I was satiated with it every time ! They will handle everything well.

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xing p
Aug 24, 2025

Amazing treking and very helpful s ta f f.

We finished 20 days ACt trekking it was amaging . The great adventure treks and expedition is really great. The owner is amazing ,He can speak Chinese very perfectly , He is very kind and polite . First I want to thanks him for amaging this trekking. The guide and potter they are very kind helpful. In 20 days they care us like family member. I will definetly come here next time to finish EBC. I am really excited for that.

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ZhengHeng W
Aug 23, 2025

Amazing trips in Nepal 🤩

It was our first time in Nepal, and we spent 7 wonderful days visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara. Sudam was an excellent guide — professional, friendly, and very thoughtful. He introduced us to local restaurants and unique spots, making the trip more authentic. Thanks to him, we enjoyed not only the amazing scenery but also the local lifestyle. Unforgettable memories! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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md prijom mia
Aug 26, 2025

it was fantastic trip in Nepal, we enjoyed ,thanks for all

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Derin Eriş
Aug 25, 2025

Çok güzeldi. Yapabileceğimiz her şeyi yaptık. Bize çok yardımcı oldular. Kesinlikle öneririm.

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J J WANG
Aug 23, 2025

Very nice 😍😍😍 The tour guide is very nice and considerate.

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