12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, which circumnavigates around the eighth highest peak in the world, Mt. Manaslu at an elevation of 8,156 meters (26,758 feet) is famous for its unique remote and untampered natural trails that are still completely intact with nature. Opened for exploration in 1991, this restricted area of the Himalayas lets you explore the preserved and raw splendor of the Himalayan region. This beautiful expedition dives into the heart of the Manaslu Conservation Area, in the west-central part of the Himalayas, is a wonderful quest that takes you across sacred religious monasteries, soaring rivers and waterfalls, high Himalayan pass, pasture land, and beautiful cultural settlements.

This amazing trekking experience is one of the most easily accessible trekking experiences from Kathmandu and dives into a full-on exploration of the remote and natural aspects of the fascinating Himalayan region. Nepal Guides Trek, a pioneer in the trekking sector has been offering the best value packages for trekking enthusiasts all over the world. Prioritizing customer satisfaction and safety factors, our core value is forging strong bonds with our clients, with trust and honesty working as the foundation pillars. If you are interested in this Manaslu Trek 12 Days or any other Himalayan adventure, you contact us at our contact page; our representatives are available 24/7.

Highlights of 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Exploration of the foothills of the eight-tallest mountain in the world. Mt. Manaslu
• Traversing across the Budhi Gandakli River, Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Dudh Khola, Sringeri Khola
• One of the highest Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass (5,213 meters)
• Trekking through the restricted area, Manaslu Conservation Area
• Genuine off-beaten trail that explores the untampered Himalayan wilderness
• Spectualar views of Himlayan massifs like Ganesh Hima, Himal Chuli, Siring Himal, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II
• Opportunity to relish the Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions of the high Himalayan settlements
• Diverse endangered species of flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area

What is the Best Season for 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek?

This remote exploration of the Himalayan region’s western-central prospects of Nepal is best suited for the peak seasons like spring (March to May) and autumn (September). Although this Himalayan trekking adventure can be done year-round the off-seasons like winter (December to February) and monsoon (July to August) bring their own set of challenges.

During the peak seasons like spring and autumn, the temperature of the Manaslu region is on a warmer scale; the days are bright and longer with stable Manaslu circuit weather. Spring in particular is known as the blooming season that enthralls the heart of trekking enthusiasts with its charms. The temperature of the Manaslu region is around 15°C to 20 °C on average during the daytime and drop upto 6°C and even at minus degrees at higher region during the night time.

Similarly, the autumn season, one of the most popular seasons for high-altitude adventure in Nepal offers the clearest vistas of the Himalayas accompanied by mild temperatures. The mornings and evenings in this season are particularly cool and chilly making it a perfect time for an outdoor adventure; the temperature of the Manaslu region in autumn hovers around 13°C to 19 °C on average.

How Difficult is 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Trek 12 Days explores the fascinating wilderness of the Himalayan region and takes place on an off-beaten remote trail of the Himalayas. There are several factors that contribute to the difficulty level of this Himalayan expedition, however, in overall, Manaslu Circuit Trekking has been graded a ‘Moderate’ difficulty level. This means that you will not need any prior trekking experience or any kind of technical skills to do this trek.

However, this trekking adventure is still a high-altitude Himalayan adventure and comes with several challenges, so it would be wise not to take it lightly. Let’s take a look at some of the major difficulty factors of this adventure:

Altitude Gain

Altitude gain is no joke when it comes to Himalayan expeditions, with the increase in significant altitude, it will also pose the risk of altitude sickness. It is hard for the human body to cope with the thinning air above an altitude of 2,500 meters, starting your adventure at Soti Khola (710 meters), you keep ascending on the high elevation points of this trek like Namrung (2,900 meters), Samagaon (3,500 meters), Dharamsala (4,450 meters) and the highest elevation point of the entire trek Larkya La Pass (5,213 meters).

Thus, you have to be careful about acclimatizing properly, eating balanced healthy meals, getting enough rest, and staying hydrated throughout the adventure. Adequate physical preparation also significantly helps to reduce to risk of altitude sickness.

Trekking Route

This Manaslu Trek 12 Days explores the rugged and remote part of the Himalayas, you will cover an approximate distance of 177 km in this expedition with an approximately 6- 7 hours of trekking per day. So, it is no way anything like a hiking adventure in your backyard, without stamina and endurance level to complete the long hours of trekking in the rising altitude, you might not be able to particularly enjoy this beautiful Himalayan exploration.

Remoteness

The remoteness of the Manaslu region is another factor that contributes to the overall difficulty level of this trek. As there isn’t any mode of transportation in the region, pretty much every kind of service here is limited as the region has to depend on the mules, yaks, and porters for the goods transfer. The food and accommodation facilities along the region are basic, the electricity is limited to the lower regions so are the internet services; the same goes for the health facilities and other modern amenities.

Is This Trek for Me?

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the best Himalayan expeditions in Nepal and is one of the easily accessible adventures from Kathmandu. The exploration of the remote untamed wilderness of the Himalayas that is still intact with mother nature is something of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So if you are curious about this epic adventure and wondering whether it is designed for you or not, here is your answer.

Anyone with a basic level of fitness and good health condition can easily do this trek. If you give enough time for the preparation which is approximately 8- 12 weeks (if you don’t workout), even without any prior high-altitude trekking experience you will be able to complete this trek. As for the question regarding the age limit for this trek, besides the children below the age of 10 (not recommended), anyone with good health and the right amount of determination can do this trek. Even elderly trekking enthusiasts above the age of 70 have done this trek without any issues, however, if you have any medical conditions consult your doctor about the expedition.

Nepal Guide Treks has designed Manaslu Trek 12 Days to be enjoyed in a slow-paced manner, which will not only enhance the immersive experience but also help with the acclimatization process. Furthermore, our expert team will always prioritize your experience and safety, so our team will conduct thorough physical evaluations to check your conditions. And you can also easily communicate with the guides and team leader in case of any difficulties and discomfort.

You may also like:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Larke Pass Trek
• Manaslu Trek without Guide

Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters

Soti Khola Elevation: 710 meters

Elevation Loss: 690

On Day 1 of your Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary, you will drive to Soti Khola from Kathmandu traversing across the Prithvi Highway. Enjoying this scenic drive you will pass over the green hills, soaring rivers, and beautiful towns enjoying the beautiful picturesque views of the Himalayas from your window frame. After arriving at Arughat (941 meters), you will switch to a more convenient vehicle and cover the distance of about 2 hours on a dusty bumpy road to finally arrive at Soti Khola.

Day 2: Trekking from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Soti Khola Elevation: 710 meters

Machha Khola Elevation: 900 meters

Elevation Gain: 190 meters

Your trekking expedition will finally start on this day, following the trail of the Budhi Gandaki River in your second day of Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary. This day’s adventure will take you across the terraced farmlands, waterfalls, rivers, and sal forest. Trekking across the uneven trails with frequent ascend and descend, during the first segment of this day’s trek you will push for the beautiful Gurung village, Labubesi (884 meters), from there the path stretches towards Nyali Khola.

During the last segment of this day’s adventure, you will descend down the route to the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a suspension bridge over the river to finally arrive at Machha Khola.

Day 3: Maccha Khola to Jagat trek

Machha Khola Elevation: 900 meters

Jagat Elevation: 2,095 meters

Elevation Gain: 1,195 meters

Day 3 is another scenic day’s adventure in your Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary, following lush trails on the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, you will cross a suspension bridge as you leave the Machha Khola behind. Trekking across the gorge of high cliffs, you will also pass several beautiful settlements of Gurung and Magar communities. Then the path heads towards the natural hot spring ‘Tatopani’ and moving ahead you will arrive at Dovan at the banks of the Dobhan Khola, you will have lunch here enjoying the magnificent views of the riverbase valley.

From here, your trail will proceed toward Yuri Bagar, and moving ahead after crossing a 158-meter-long cantilever bridge you will finally reach Jagat which is also known as the entrance point of the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Day 4: Jagat to Deng

Jagat Elevation: 2,095 meters

Deng Elevation: 1,340 meters

Elevation Loss: 755 meters

From Day 4 of your Manaslu Trek 12 Days, you will be trekking in a restricted area, so you will have to verify your permits at the checkpoint. During the first part of this day’s adventure, you will trek across the well-paved road as you leave Jagat behind and push for the Sirdabas. From here you will enter the scenic trails decorated with rhododendrons and pine forests as you move toward the Philim Village; you will also pass through other several Himalayan settlements like Chisapani, Nayak Phedi, Pewa, and Ekle Bhatti in this day’s trek.

During the final part of this day’s trek, you will follow a steep gorge that continues across the bamboo forest and finally leads you to Deng. This is a small village with awe-inspiring natural surroundings, you will rest here tonight at a warm cozy teahouse preparing for the adventure tomorrow.

Day 5: Trekking from Deng to Namrung

Deng Elevation: 1,340 meters

Namrung Elevation: 2,900 meters

Elevation Gain: 1,560 meters

This day’s adventure kick-starts with a downhill trek to the Budhi Fandaki River as you leave Deng behind. Then the trail switched to an uphill route that takes you to the Rana Gaon, moving ahead, you will pass several other Himalayan settlements like Bhimphedi and Ghap (2,380 meters). From Ghap the path stretches alongside the bamboo, rhododendron, and oaks forest, if you are lucky, you might also get to witness the langur monkey and Danphe, the national bird of Nepal on this day’s route.

During the last stretch of this day’s trek, you will trek alongside the west coast of the Budhi Gandaki River as you cross several waterfalls and move across the Sringeri Khola. Then passing the stone archway, you will enter Namrung, a beautiful Tibetan culture and tradition-influenced Buddhist village. From its vantage point, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan ranges like Ganesh Himal, Siring Himal, Himal Chuli, and other adjacent peaks.

Day 6: Trek to Samagaon from Namrung

Namrung Elevation: 2,900 meters

Samagaon Elevation: 3,500 meters

Elevation Gain: 600 meters

Walking past the mani walls and the spiritual trails of the Namrung Village, on Day 6 of your Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary, you will enter the forested area of the Upper Nupri region. You will also traverse across the suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River as you make your way toward Lho (3,180 meters) after passing Sho (2,880 meters). From Lho, your lunch destination, you will be able to enjoy up-close spectacular views of Manaslu, Manaslu North, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, and Peak 29.

From Lho, you will cover several ascending and descending sections of the trails that stretch the Shyala and switch to a descending trail to the river nourished by the Pungyen Glacier. You will continue your trek towards Thosang Khola as you pass several chortens and gompas in the path decorated with prayer flags, then a little further descent on the rocky moraine leads you to Samagaon.

Day 7: Acclimatization and exploration day at Samagaon

Samagaon Elevation: 3,500 meters

As you have ascended significantly over the altitude of 2,500 meters (an altitude above which the human body poses risks for altitude sickness), Day 7 of your Manaslu Trek 12 Days will be acclimatization and exploration day. You have several exploration options for this day’s adventure, you can do a short hike to Biredendra Taal (3,450 meters) just beneath the Manaslu Glacier or hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 meters)- at a distance of 6 km from Samaogaon.

Or, visit the religious sites of the region like Ribung Gompa and Pungen Gompa (at a distance of 6- 7 km from the village) for spiritual aspirations.

Day 8: Trekking to Samdo from Samagaon

Samagaon Elevation: 3,500 meters

Samdo Elevation: 3,690 meters

Elevation Gain: 190 meters

After acclimatizing properly at Samagaon, on Day 8 of your Manaslu Trek 12 Days Itinerary, you will follow the pleasant flatland trails as you follow the gradually ascending trails to the valley. You will traverse across the scenic pasture lands, famous as the grazing area of the Bleu sheep then the trails switch to the charming routes of birch and juniper forest.

Moving ahead, you will subside down to the trails of the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge over the river that leads you toward the stone archway of the Samdo Village, inhabitants of the Tibetan refugee. As this day’s trek is very close to the Tibetan border, today’s trail will provide breathtaking views of mountain ranges like Pang Phuchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Manaslu, and Simnang Himal.

Day 9: Samdo to Dharamsala

Samdo Elevation: 3,690 meters

Dharamsala Elevation: 4,450 meters

Elevation Gain: 760 meters

Today’s adventure will commence after a hearty breakfast as you will descend down the passing the old mani walls and terraced farmlands to the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. Then crossing a wooden bridge over the river, you will ascend uphill to the Larkya Bazaar; in this day’s adventure, you will also hike past the Athahra Syar River and Larke River. The mid-point of this day’s adventure Samdo Village (3,875 meters) will be your lunch stop as you move along your ascending route crossing a steel bridge during the final stretch.

After climbing uphill from the Salkha Khola, you will finally arrive at Dharamsala, which is not typically a guest house but more of a shelter which is also known as ‘Larkya La Phedi’. This day’s adventure will reward you with magnificent views of the Himalayas like Larkya Peak, Naike Peak, Tatna Chuli, Cheo Himal, Manaslu, and Siachen Glacier.

Day 10: Trek to Bimthang from Dharamsala via Larkya La Pass

Dharamsala Elevation: 4,450 meters

Bimthang Elevation: 3,720 meters

Larkya La Pass: 5,213 meters

Elevation Gain: 763 meters

Day 10 in your Manaslu Trek 12 Days is a challenging day’s adventure as you trek to Bimthang from Dharamsala over passing one of the highest Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass. In the first segment of this day’s adventure, you will trek across the glacier moraines of the Larkkya Glacier from the northern side and descend down to a small lake that marks the start of your ascend on the Larkya La Pass. Following the south trails of the steep grassy slope, you will descend down to the four frozen lakes and move along the path that stretches over the Larkya La Pass.

From the vantage point of this high Himalayan pass, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayan gems like Annapurna II, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Larkya Peak and Ratna Chuli. Then following the descending steep trail to the west over the moraines of the Salphudanda Glacier, you will move along the path toward Dangboche Kharka. It is a relatively leveled and easy trail from here onwards as the valley widens from slow meadows to larger and you will finally arrive at Bhimtang.

Day 11: Trek down to Dharapani from Bimthang

Bimthang Elevation: 3,720 meters

Dharapani Elevation: 1,860 meters

Elevation Loss: 1,860 meters

Leaving the Bimthang behind, you will descend down from the Burdin Khola Valley traversing across the high pasturelands as you make your way toward the headwater of the Dudh Khola. After crossing a wooden bridge here, you will continue your trek on the scenic route of pine and rhododendron forest that touches Hompuk (3,430 meters). Enjoying the southwestern face of the Manaslu, Phungi, Himlung, and Cheo Himal, you will continue walking on your descending trail to Sangore Kharka from where you will move across the landslide region towards Gho.

During the last segment of this day’s adventure, you will trek along several ascending and descending segments through the dense pine and rhododendron forest as you head toward Tilije from Gho. Then, moving alongside the trail of Dudh Khola, passing through Thonje over an hour of uphill ascend, and finally crossing a suspension bridge over Marsyangdi River brings you to Dharapani.

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani

Dharapani Elevation: 1,860 meters

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters

Elevation Loss: 460 meters

It is finally time to conclude your Manaslu Trek 12 Days, bidding farewell to the beautiful Himalayan region, you will start your drive back to Kathmandu after a healthy breakfast. During the first part of this day’s adventure, you will drive to Besishar (7760 meters), which will take approximately 2- 3 hours, then from here you will switch to a more comfortable vehicle as you head back to Kathmandu (approx 6- 7 hours).

Moving along the Prithivi Highway, in this day’s adventure, you will drive alongside the soaring Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers enjoying the refreshing views of the green lush hills, vibrant towns, and the Himalayan massifs at the distance. After your arrival at Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your respective hotels, if you have time you can do some sightseeing and check out the nightlife of this bustling city to end your adventure on a high note.

Thank you for traveling with us. Have a safe journey!