Crossing the Larke La Pass on Manaslu Circuit | Eloise Weston
Crossing the Larke La Pass on Manaslu Circuit  | Eloise Weston
Trekking through peaceful villages in Manaslu | Graham North
Trekking through peaceful villages in Manaslu  | Graham North
Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit
Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit
Camp on Manaslu Circuit
Camp on Manaslu Circuit
Mansiri Himal Peaks on the Manaslu Circuit
Mansiri Himal Peaks on the Manaslu Circuit
One of many suspension bridge crossings on the Manaslu Circuit
One of many suspension bridge crossings on the Manaslu Circuit
Updated

Manaslu Circuit and Larkya La Pass

Trek the spectacular Manaslu Circuit via Larkya La Pass

20 Days from

$3690 USD

Trip Code: MCR
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Tent Only Single Supplement (where available)
$280 USD
Single Supplement (where available)
$420 USD

Duration

  • 20 Days

Activities

  • 14 Day Trek

Style

  • Classic Adventures  

Accommodation

  • 4 Nights Hotel
  • 14 Nights Lodge
  • 1 Night Tent

Meals

Valued at USD$800

  • 15 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 19 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

22kg of CO2-e PP per day

(409kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Trek the spectacular Manaslu Circuit via Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,752ft), one of Nepal's finest high mountain crossings.
  • Journey through the remote Manaslu Conservation Area, rich in Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries and traditional mountain villages.
  • Explore the sacred Pungen Gompa and enjoy an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Taal.
  • Relax in comfortable lodges throughout the trek, with just one night in tents at Dharmasala before crossing the pass.
  • Enjoy a fully supported trek led by experienced local guides, with dedicated cooks and porter support throughout.

Overview

Rising to 8,167m (26,795ft), Manaslu is the world's eighth highest mountain and the centrepiece of one of Nepal's most spectacular trekking adventures. Open to trekkers only in recent decades, the Manaslu Circuit combines dramatic Himalayan scenery, remote Buddhist villages and rich Tibetan influenced culture on a journey through one of the country's most unspoilt mountain regions.

Beginning among the terraced fields and subtropical forests of the Budhi Gandaki Valley, the trail gradually climbs into an ever changing landscape of deep river gorges, alpine meadows and high mountain wilderness. Along the way, you'll pass ancient monasteries, colourful prayer walls and welcoming villages where centuries old traditions continue to shape daily life.

Generous acclimatisation days allow time to explore the region, including an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp, before the unforgettable crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,752ft). Surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of snow covered Himalayan peaks, this high mountain pass is the defining highlight of the trek and one of the finest crossings in Nepal.

The journey concludes with a descent into the greener valleys of the Annapurna region, completing an unforgettable circuit around the majestic Manaslu Massif.

Itinerary

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On arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred by private vehicle to the Radisson Hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax after your journey or begin exploring the vibrant streets and nearby attractions at your own pace. In the late afternoon, between 4.30pm and 5.00pm, you will meet your trekking guide for a comprehensive pre trek briefing. During this session, your guide will outline the adventure ahead and distribute your trekking equipment, including your kit bag, sleeping bag, and down or fibre fill jacket. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, a wonderful opportunity to get to know the group before your Himalayan adventure begins. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: Nil

Today is yours to discover the many cultural treasures of Kathmandu. You may choose to visit two of the valley's most revered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Pashupatinath is Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple and an important pilgrimage and cremation site, while nearby Boudhanath is the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the spiritual heart of the country's Tibetan Buddhist community. Alternatively, spend time exploring the bustling streets, markets and cafés of the vibrant Thamel district, or visit Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, where panoramic views stretch across the Kathmandu Valley. The beautifully preserved Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur also offer a fascinating insight into Nepal's rich history, intricate architecture and living cultural traditions. The day also provides an opportunity to make any final preparations before your Himalayan adventure begins. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B

Leaving Kathmandu behind, you travel west towards the trailhead, following scenic mountain roads through the rolling hills of central Nepal. Passing through Arughat and Soti Khola, the journey reveals an ever changing landscape of terraced rice fields, traditional villages, forested hillsides and fertile river valleys. For much of the drive, you follow the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki Rivers, gaining a glimpse of rural life as you pass small farming communities and bustling roadside settlements. By late afternoon, you arrive at Machha Khola, a peaceful village in the Gorkha district nestled beside the Budhi Gandaki River, where your Himalayan trekking adventure begins. Accommodation: Lodge, Machha Khola

Meals: B,L,D

Today your trek begins as you follow the Budhi Gandaki River through a landscape of terraced fields, traditional villages and subtropical forest. Crossing a series of suspension bridges, the trail offers an introduction to the spectacular river gorge that will accompany much of your journey through the Manaslu region. As you make your way deeper into the valley, the scenery becomes increasingly remote and the rhythm of life slows. By afternoon, you arrive at the peaceful village of Yaruphant, where you settle into a local guesthouse for your first night on the trail. Accommodation: Lodge, Yaruphant

Meals: B,L,D

Today's walk continues along the Budhi Gandaki Valley, where the trail winds through forests, terraced farmland and small hillside settlements. Steady ascents and descents, together with several suspension bridge crossings, provide an enjoyable introduction to the varied terrain of the Manaslu region. Along the way, you'll pass cascading waterfalls and enjoy ever changing views across the surrounding hills and cultivated valleys. By afternoon, you arrive at the village of Chisapani, where you settle into a welcoming local teahouse for the night. Accommodation: Lodge, Chisapani

Meals: B,L,D

Today's trek continues deeper into the Budhi Gandaki Valley as the trail leads through a series of traditional mountain villages, including Redodrean, Saco, Pew, Dang and Rana. These settlements offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities that have called this remote valley home for generations. Crossing a number of suspension bridges, you follow the river through a landscape of lush forest, cultivated terraces and rugged hillsides, with the valley becoming increasingly dramatic as you gain altitude. By afternoon, you arrive at the peaceful village of Bihi, where you can relax and soak up the tranquillity of your mountain surroundings. Accommodation: Lodge, Bihi

Meals: B,L,D

Today's trail begins with a climb before descending to cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki. Beyond the river, the path follows a series of gentle ascents and descents, passing mani walls and chortens that signal your arrival into the culturally rich Tibetan influenced villages of the upper valley. Continuing along the northern bank of the Budhi Gandaki, you pass the village of Bihi, renowned for its master stone carvers, where intricately carved mani stones line sections of the trail. As the valley narrows, there are occasional views of Shringi Himal before you reach the Tibetan village of Ghap, an ideal place to pause for lunch. The afternoon climb leads through beautiful pine and birch forest before arriving at the village of Namrung. This welcoming mountain settlement marks the gateway to the upper Manaslu region, where Tibetan culture becomes even more pronounced. Accommodation: Lodge, Namrung

Meals: B,L,D

Today's walk begins with a descent to cross the Damonan Khola before climbing steadily through cool forests to the village of Namru. The trail continues through a series of small Tibetan villages towards Ligaon, where the cultural character of the region becomes increasingly evident. Keep an eye out for yaks grazing on the hillsides and, if you're fortunate, you may also spot troops of monkeys coming down to the river to drink. As you gain altitude, the mountain scenery becomes increasingly spectacular. Looking back, uninterrupted views stretch across the Ganesh and Baudha Himal ranges, while the Kutang Himal forms a dramatic natural border between Nepal and Tibet. Ahead, your first great Himalayan panorama unfolds, revealing the towering peaks of Himalchuli (7,893m / 25,896ft), Peak 29 (7,871m / 25,823ft) and the magnificent Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft), the world's eighth highest mountain. By afternoon, you arrive at the traditional village of Shyalaa, surrounded by some of the finest mountain scenery on the Manaslu Circuit. Accommodation: Lodge, Shyalaa

Meals: B,L,D

Today's walk is one of the scenic highlights of the Manaslu Circuit. Leaving Shyalaa behind, you follow a moderate trail with a steady climb before reaching a small mani wall draped with colourful prayer flags, a peaceful vantage point overlooking the spectacular glacial valley below. From here, the trail leads to Pungen Gompa, set beneath the immense south face of Mt Manaslu and surrounded by an awe inspiring amphitheatre of Himalayan peaks. This sacred monastery is an important place of worship for the local Nubri people and provides a tranquil setting to pause and absorb the grandeur of the mountains. After visiting the gompa, you continue to the traditional village of Samagaun, where Tibetan culture remains deeply rooted in everyday life. Nestled beneath the towering peaks, Samagaun is one of the largest and most picturesque villages on the Manaslu Circuit and an ideal place to spend the night. Accommodation: Lodge, Samagaun

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside for rest and acclimatisation, an essential part of preparing your body for the higher elevations and the crossing of Larkya La Pass. You may choose to relax and explore the traditional village of Samagaun, gaining a deeper appreciation of its Tibetan influenced culture and mountain setting, or enjoy a short acclimatisation walk nearby. For those seeking a more challenging day, an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp is highly recommended. The return walk takes around 7 to 8 hours and passes the striking turquoise waters of Birendra Taal before climbing to Manaslu base camp at approximately 4,800m / 15,748ft. Rewarding views of Manaslu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks make this one of the most memorable excursions of the trek. Accommodation: Lodge, Samagaun

Meals: B,L,D

Today's trek is a shorter but important stage as you continue higher into the Manaslu region. Following the Budhi Gandaki upstream, the trail climbs gradually through alpine landscapes, with expansive views of the surrounding snow capped peaks becoming ever more impressive as you gain altitude. By early afternoon, you arrive at Samdo, the final permanent settlement before crossing Larkya La Pass. Perched high in the mountains near the Tibetan border, this traditional village is home to a community whose culture and way of life remain closely connected to neighbouring Tibet. Spend the remainder of the day exploring the village and its monastery, or simply relax and take in the magnificent mountain scenery while continuing to acclimatise for the days ahead. Accommodation: Lodge, Samdo

Meals: B,L,D

Today is another important acclimatisation day, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before the crossing of Larkya La Pass. Set high in the mountains near the Tibetan border, Samdo provides an ideal setting to rest while taking in the spectacular alpine scenery. You may choose to relax in the village or join an optional acclimatisation walk to the surrounding hills. These short hikes not only assist with acclimatisation but also reward you with sweeping views of the Manaslu range and the rugged landscapes that stretch towards Tibet. Along the way, there are opportunities to observe the unique traditions and daily life of the local community, whose culture has long been shaped by its close ties with Tibet. After another night at altitude, you will be well prepared for the higher elevations that lie ahead. Accommodation: Lodge, Samdo

Meals: B,L,D

Today's walk is one of the most spectacular of the trek as you make your way towards Dharmasala, the final stop before crossing Larkya La Pass. The trail climbs steadily through an increasingly stark alpine landscape, with magnificent mountain views accompanying you throughout the day. Towering above are the impressive peaks of Naike Peak, Manaslu North and Larke Peak, their snow covered slopes becoming ever more dramatic as you gain altitude. The thinner air may slow your pace, providing the perfect opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of your surroundings. This high mountain environment is also an excellent wildlife habitat, where Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, pikas and, on occasion, wild dogs may be seen. This evening you stay in tents at Dharmasala. While basic dormitory style lodge accommodation is available here, we use tents to provide greater comfort and consistency with the rest of your trekking experience before tomorrow's crossing of Larkya La Pass. Accommodation: Tent, Dharmasala

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the defining stage of the Manaslu Circuit as you cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass. Setting out before dawn, the trail climbs steadily through a dramatic alpine landscape, with the distinctive summit of Larkya Peak guiding your way. Although much of the ascent is gradual, the high altitude calls for a slow, measured pace, with the climb to the pass taking around five hours. The final approach becomes steeper before you reach the prayer flag adorned summit of Larkya La Pass. From this remarkable vantage point, you'll be rewarded with magnificent views across the Himalaya, including Himlung Himal (7,126m / 23,379ft), Gyaji Kang (7,074m / 23,209ft), Kang Guru (6,981m / 22,903ft), Annapurna II (7,937m / 26,040ft) and a panorama of surrounding snow covered peaks. From the pass, begin a long descent across glacial moraine, scree and occasional icy sections, following the edge of the glacier with careful footing. As you lose altitude, the rugged alpine terrain gradually gives way to the broad, beautiful valley of Bhimtang, where towering mountains provide a spectacular backdrop to the end of one of the Himalaya's great trekking days. Accommodation: Lodge, Bhimtang

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a well deserved opportunity to rest and recover in the beautiful alpine valley of Bhimtang after yesterday's rewarding crossing of Larkya La Pass. Surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, this peaceful setting provides the perfect place to relax and reflect on one of the highlights of your journey. If you feel energetic, you may wish to explore the surrounding valley on a short walk, where glaciers, alpine meadows and magnificent mountain scenery await. Whether you choose to venture further or simply enjoy the tranquillity of your surroundings, this recovery day allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Manaslu region before beginning the gradual descent. Accommodation: Lodge, Bhimtang

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving the high mountains behind, today's trail descends into the beautiful Marsyangdi Valley, following the river through an ever changing landscape. As you lose altitude, the rugged alpine terrain gradually gives way to forests of pine and rhododendron, which burst into colour during the spring flowering season. Looking back, magnificent views of Himlung Himal (7,126m / 23,379ft) and Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft) provide a fitting farewell to the high Himalaya. By afternoon, you arrive at the peaceful village of Goa, where you can relax and enjoy the warmer temperatures of the lower valley. Accommodation: Lodge, Goa

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you set out on the final stage of your trek, descending through forests and traditional villages towards Dharapani. The trail follows the Marsyangdi Valley, with pleasant views across terraced farmland and the surrounding hills as you leave the high mountains behind. On reaching Dharapani, you farewell the trekking trail and meet your waiting vehicle for the drive to Besisahar. Following the Marsyangdi River, the road winds through rural villages and fertile valleys before arriving in Besisahar, the administrative centre of Lamjung District, where you can enjoy a comfortable evening after completing your remarkable journey through the Manaslu region. Accommodation: Lodge, Besisaha

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu, travelling through the valleys and rolling hills of central Nepal. Joining the main Kathmandu to Pokhara Highway at Dumre, the journey passes lively roadside towns, terraced farmland and river valleys, offering a final glimpse of rural Nepal after your time in the Himalaya. On arrival in Kathmandu, the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to relax with a well earned hot shower, do some last minute shopping or explore the cafés and vibrant streets around your hotel. This evening, celebrate the completion of your Manaslu adventure with an optional farewell dinner alongside your fellow travellers, sharing stories and memories from an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal's most spectacular mountain regions. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B,L

After your journey through the Manaslu region, today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax and recharge or head out to explore, this is the perfect opportunity to experience more of Nepal's vibrant capital before your journey home. You may wish to wander through the lively streets of Thamel, browse its colourful markets and boutique shops, or relax in one of its many cafés. Alternatively, visit one of Kathmandu's renowned cultural landmarks, enjoy a traditional Nepali meal, or simply take time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your Himalayan adventure. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B

After breakfast, your arrangements conclude unless additional services have been booked. If you are departing today, you will be transferred to Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

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What's included?

Included

  • 19 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 15 dinners, including all meals on trek
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and departing on Day 20, or when pre or post tour accommodation at the Radisson Hotel is booked through World Expeditions
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • Restricted area trekking permit (valued at US$205)
  • Expert bilingual local guide
  • Comprehensive group medical kit
  • Quality accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • Private group transportation
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Porter support to carry personal and group equipment, including porter insurance
  • Accommodation during the trek in fully serviced Lodges and Tent

Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses such as laundry etc.
  • Tips and gratuities

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