Manaslu Circuit Trek – closer to Himalaya
There used to be a time when trekking in the Manaslu region was only reserved for the travelers who could camp out in the wilderness, who dared face the elements of nature in their raw form. Since Manaslu Circuit Trek was open for trekking relatively late, the off-beaten path surely deterred the travelers who preferred some level of comfort and attracted those who wanted nothing less than being as close to nature as possible.
Thankfully, in the present-day, a lot of tea houses are open throughout the route and it gives options for travelers of all shades, whether they prefer the relative comfort of tea houses or camping out in the wilderness during Manaslu Circuit Trek.
That being said, the Manaslu Circuit Trek route still retains the ancient vibe when it comes to its cultural traditions and the pristine eco-system only helps on adding a layer of untouched, unconquered feel to it. It is almost as if, one is traveling back in time, encountering the ways of life that have been preserved to be seen, touched, and experienced.
Manaslu Circuit Trek package will offer a combination of both diverse cultural experiences as well as, diversity in the natural eco-system. A complete package in its own regard, one will get to enjoy the panorama of Mt.Manaslu along with other surrounding peaks like Annapurna II, Sringi Himal, Himlung, Cheo Peak, Gyagi Kung, etc. This classic trek begins from Arughat (695m/2280ft) and passes through the bamboo forests and Gurung villages, following the ancient salt trading route along the Budhi Gandaki river.
The green vegetation on the way complement the Mani stone-wall carvings as the hike progresses, like rhododendron, pine, and cedar trees provide an excellent contrast to the majestic mountain range. Apart from that, various rare species of flora and fauna will add an extra dimension to an already unique experience.
The bamboo forests on the way serenading the distant vistas and picturesque mountains, colorful prayer flags dancing along with the wind, ancient monasteries that embody the essence of Tibetan Buddhism and the indigenous villages carrying the soul of Gurung, Magar, Tamang, and Limbu culture is an experience that will be etched in your heart forever. Though strenuous, Manaslu Circuit Trek will prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences for those who venture in this direction.
Tsum Valley Trek takes you to one of the most remote Himalayan valleys which lie on the backdrop of Ganesh Himal. This trek follows the same trail of Manaslu Circuit Trek until the 4th day and switches its way to another beautiful landscape towards Tsum valley. It is as popular as Manaslu Circuit Trek due to its unique settlements. Both Manaslu and Tsum valley trek can be combined trek in 24 days’ time.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Itinerary
Day | Description | Overnight | Altitude |
Day 1 | Welcome to Kathmandu! | Kathmandu | 1400m |
Day 2 | Explore Kathmandu | Kathmandu | — |
Day 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Arughat | Sotikhola | 815m |
Day 4 | Trek from Sotikhola to Maccha Khola | Maccha Khola | 1370m |
Day 5 | Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat | Jagat | |
Day 6 | Trek from Jagat to Philim | Philim | 1570m |
Day 7 | Trek from Philim to Deng | Deng | 1865m |
Day 8 | Trek from Deng to Ghap Ghap | Ghapghap | 2165m |
Day 9 | Trek from Ghap to Lho | Lho | 3180m |
Day 10 | Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon | Samagaun | 3525m |
Day 11 | Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon | ———— | ——- |
Day 12 | Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo | Samdo | 3850m |
Day 13 | Acclimatization Day in Samdo | Samdo | 3850m |
Day 14 | Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala | Dharamsala | 4460m |
Day 15 | Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang via Larkya La (5135m) | Bimtang | 3590m |
Day 16 | Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani | Dharapani | 1860m |
Day 17 | Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu | Kathmandu | 1400m |
Day 18 | Depart to onward destination |