Expedition Overview


Facts of the trip

  • Destination
    Nepal
  • Arrival On
    Kathmandu
  • Departure From
    Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Accommodation
    Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Teahouse basis accommodation during trekking
  • Meals
    BB plan in Kathmandu and All meals during the trek
  • Best Time
    October-December, February- Jun
  • Transportation
    Private Car, Jeep or Van

The Round Manaslu Trek in Nepal stands as a pinnacle of adventure, captivating trekkers with its formidable challenges and unparalleled beauty since its opening in 1992. Beginning with an ascent along the Gandaki River valley, where cascading waterfalls and inviting bathing pools dot the landscape, the journey quickly transitions into a strenuous endeavor as yaks outnumber human travelers amidst the rocky terrain. En route to Samagoan at 3450 meters, where the glacial green lake of Birendra beckons, and further to mystical Samdo near the Tibetan border, the trek unveils a tapestry of cultural richness with Tibetan monks inhabiting sacred monasteries against the backdrop of the Tibetan plateau and the majestic Himalayas, evoking a profound sense of spirituality.

The ultimate challenge presents itself as trekkers face the daunting task of crossing the snow-bound Larkya La pass towering at 5213 meters, granting awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped peaks rising above 6500 meters. As the descent unfolds, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation, transitioning from alpine to tropical realms adorned with lush ferns, bamboo groves, pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and aquamarine lakes embraced by cotton-white beaches. Finally, as trekkers descend to Besisahar at 832 meters, the journey culminates with a profound sense of tranquility and admiration for the resilience of the Nepalese people and the ecological wonders that adorn this remarkable region, leaving an indelible imprint of reverence for the natural world and its inhabitants.

Here are some highlights of Round Manaslu Trek in Nepal:

1. Circumnavigation of Mt. Manaslu: Trek around the world’s eighth highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu, towering at an impressive 8,163 meters. The awe-inspiring views of this majestic peak change as you navigate around its base, providing an unparalleled experience for trekkers.

2. Larkya La Pass: Embark on the thrilling journey of crossing Larkya La Pass, one of the most significant high mountain passes on the trek, situated at an altitude of 5,116 meters. The pass rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rugged terrain, offering a true test of endurance and adventure.

3. Manaslu Conservation Area: Traverse through the restricted area within the Manaslu Conservation Area, renowned for its pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including lush rhododendron forests, wildflowers, and protected wildlife species such as the elusive snow leopard and the Himalayan tahr.

4. Cultural Diversity: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region as you interact with local communities along the trekking route. Experience a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu traditions, visit ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags, and witness colorful festivals and rituals that highlight the spiritual essence of the Himalayan way of life.

5. Annapurna Conservation Area Connection: Towards the end of the trek, the route connects with the Annapurna Conservation Area, providing trekkers with the opportunity to explore another iconic region of Nepal known for its diverse landscapes, picturesque villages, and warm hospitality.

6. Spectacular Mountain Vistas: Throughout the trek, marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas that surround you at every turn. From towering peaks to cascading waterfalls, the scenery is simply awe-inspiring and offers countless opportunities for photography and contemplation.

7. Adventure and Exploration: Navigate raging rivers, traverse challenging terrain, and conquer high mountain passes as you embark on this epic adventure. The Round Manaslu Trek promises an exhilarating journey filled with excitement, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

Overall, the Round Manaslu Trek is a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling challenges in the heart of the Himalayas.

 

Itinerary

Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu (1,400m). After time to get refreshed, evening you will meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and after meal briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.

  • Accommodation :
    Hotel
  • Time :
    30 Min
  • Altitude :
    1,400m
  • Meals :
    Dinner

Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel.

  •  Accommodation: Hotel
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 1400m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After the breakfast, we drive to Gorkha Bazar which is approximately 5 hours drive. En route, one can observe beautiful landscapes, various streams and following the Trishuli and Darundi Khola. In the evening excursion to Gorkha Durbar at the top of hill, from where you will good mountain panaromic and sunset views. Overnight at hotel.

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 5
  •  Altitude: 1,135m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After the breakfast we will take local jeep to Rangun Khola then walk to Baprak. Barpak lies at a distance of 45km towards north from Gorkha at the elevation of 1,945m, situated perfectly on a green ridge overlooking the misty valley below. We are towered over by Bouddha Himal, a high, snow-capped peak which makes for wonderful sunrise and sunset photos.Overnight in Barpak.

  •  Accommodation: Hotel
  •  Hours: 5
  •  Altitude: 1,945m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After the breakfast, we take the small stone trail to the right of the main trail with Bouddha Hial providing a spectactacular back-drop of scenic Parpak, after an hour or so, and a total of three hours later, we reach the ridge, officially a pass, Gupsi Dada (2,950m) which separates Laprak and Barpak, and are rewarded with panoramic mountain views along with herds of sheep grazing on the grassy hillsides from the peak. Bouddha Himal, Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal and the Langtang range all span the horizon; a truly breath-taking view.We walk through the rhodondendrons forest, about 2 hours steep descend we will reach another large Gurung village Laprak. Overnight in Laprak.

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 2,100m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As usual we will start our journy after the breakfast. We descend to the Jyabru Khola where we will be crossing a suspension bridge, we climb equally steeply back up, past terraced fields of pink sorghum and rice. We walk through several hillsides on a narrow trail, barely visible at times, up to a small chorten just below the village of Singla where we will enjoy the views of Kutang Himal and Sringi Himal to the north as we walk down through more terraced fields and papaya trees, through the Gurung village of Khorla, and then down along a narrow, winding trail to Khorlebeshi on the Budhi Gandaki River. Overnight in Khorlabensi.

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 975m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We continue our journey along the Budhi Gandaki river, we cross  the hot springs at Tatopani. The trail is quite exposed and challenging in places. After a short section of forest path we reach the single tea house at Doban. Above Doban, you can see an impressive series rapids of Budhi Gandaki. We climb short steep section, the river is much more placid, meandering across a broad gravel bed. We cross the river on a suspension bridge and another short climb to Jagat. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Tea house lodge
  •  Hours: 5
  •  Altitude: 1,410m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After descending a long series of stone steps to the river,trek climb a terraced hill to Saguleri, from where we can see the impressive Sringi Himal, 7187m. We Cross the river again at Ghata Khola, the path splits, with the right–hand branch heading off towards the Mustang. Our route continues upstream, through a gorge section with towering walls. We cross the river three more times in the next two hours to avoid difficult valley sides and then climb up over a further steep spur to reach the village of Deng. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp)

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 1800m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

About 5 hrs walk. The path goes through dense jungle up the narrow western gorge of the Buri Gandaki heading towards Manaslu. At times the path is high above the river which we will cross and re-cross on an incredible variety of bridges. In Ghap, we will admire some fine sculptures, mostly representing meditating Buddhas. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 2160m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We gain altitude to take us into alpine territory and increasing mountain views. There are more mani walls and 3 more crossing of the Buri Gandaki on our route to Namrung, where our permit is checked. Above this village the valley opens out and there are extensive pastures. Climbing climb gently now, and cross a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glaciers, and reach the Tibetan village of Sho, 3000m. We camp just above the village we get our first incredible views of the Manaslu North and then of Manaslu main ahead. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp)

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 2550m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Let the exploring start! We will discuss with locals what our best option is to get to the gompa. Our sherpas reckon it could be a very nice walk to take the smaller direct trail…. We pass thru Lho, a large village at 3150m where there is a lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and manis. Looking back Ganesh I is visible. Leaving the village, we follow the right bank of the river, with views of Peak 29 ahead. At a fork in the trail, we take a detour to the left, which leads up to Honsansho Gompa and the Pungen Glaciers, from where there is a stunning view of Peak 29 and Manaslu. We will camp somewhere around here and explore and acclimatize for the next few days. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp)

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 5
  •  Altitude: 3180m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We head straight towards Peak 29, ahead of us, then follow the lateral moraine of the Pungen Glacier towards Sama. Breathtaking views of the Manaslu, Northern Manaslu (7145m) and the Naike. Surrounded by mountains in a peaceful forest, we take a rest day to acclimatize and relax. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 3530m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rest day, explore around the valley. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 3530m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We cross a high plateau and skirt around the ridge of the lateral moraine. We then climb a terraced hillside to reach one of the most remote permanent settlements in Nepal. Samdo is only a day’s walk from Tibet by the Lajyang La pass (5098m). Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 3
  •  Altitude: 3690m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Crossing the tundra, it winds its way to the foot of the immense Larkya glacier which pours out of the Manaslu. Everywhere you look are mountains, as spectacular as they get and Manaslu is particularly impressive. The once large Bhudi Gandaki is now merely a stream as we continue to follow its course ever upwards. After crossing to the East bank of the river, we reach the last permanent settlement in the valley which is called Sumdu. Above the village we cross the stream which runs down the Gya La (pass), the pass to Tibet, and there are the ruins of another village Larkya Bazaa, which is village thrived on trade with Tibet over the nearby Gya La, a trade which is now much diminished. We continue another couple hours to Dharmasala. Overnighat at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 2
  •  Altitude: 4470m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We first head towards Cho Chnda, then we reach the ablation valley on the North side of the Larkya Glaciers. There are views of Cho Danda and then of Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper only in the last section to the pass. From the top the panorama is magnificent: Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6981m) and the Annapurna II (7937m). Steep descent through moraines towards Bimtang. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

  •  Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
  •  Hours: 8
  •  Altitude: 3720m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The route gets easier. We start with a gentle descend through paddy fields towards the small Karcha La pass and descend through fir tree and rhododendron forests to Tillije. Overnight at tea-house lodge (tented camp).

Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp
Hours: 5
Altitude: 2300m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

oday the trail runs gently downstream of the river passing the village of Dharapani. We catch local jeep and drive to Beshisahar. Overnight at lodge.

 

  •  Accommodation: Lodge
  •  Hours: 6
  •  Altitude: 760m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we drive back to Kathmandu. Overnight a hotel.

  •  Accommodation: Hotel
  •  Hours: 7
  •  Altitude: 1400m
  •   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Transfer to airport for final departure to onward destination.

  •  Accommodation: No
  •  Hours: 30 Min
  •  Altitude: 1400m
  •   Meals: Breakfast

Check Available Dates
Start Finish Duration Gurop Size Price Status
01/10/2024 19/10/2024 19 02-10
From  
$1600
guaranteed
08/10/2024 26/10/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
guaranteed
15/10/2024 02/11/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
guaranteed
22/10/2024 09/11/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
guaranteed
04/11/2024 22/11/2024 19 02-10
From  
$1600
guaranteed
11/11/2024 29/11/2024 19 02-10
From  
$1600
guaranteed
18/11/2024 06/12/2024 19 02-10
From  
$1600
guaranteed
25/11/2024 13/12/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
guaranteed
02/12/2024 20/12/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
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09/12/2024 27/12/2024 19 02-10
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$1600
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16/12/2024 03/01/2025 19 02-10
From  
$1600
guaranteed

Cost Details


What's Included
  • Arrival and Departure: Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop)
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights in 2-3 star level tourist standard hotel with breakfast included, other possibilities on demand)
  • Welcome Dinner: One Welcome Dinner in tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staffs.
  • Sightseeing tour with an experienced local guide..
  • Meals (3 meals / B.L.D) while on the trek (if camping food prepared by our cook cook with Tea & coffee).
  • Accommodation: Tea house (twin sharing basis room)/ Camping (twin sharing two men tent), dining tent, toilet tent.
  • AA local government license holder Trekking Guide during the trek and necessary helpers (if camping a cook the required number of porters) – Staff’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and a general first aid kit.
  • National Park, Conservation Area entry permit fees:
  • Manaslu Restricted area entry fees: US$90 per person per week
  • Manaslu conservation entry permit (USD20 per person), and all necessary permits
  • Annapurna conservation Entry permit USD20 pp
  • Trekking Permit TIMS (USD20)
  • All land transfer as per given itinerary.
  • Map: Trekking map.
  • Program according to the itinerary
  • Government tax and Company service charges
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
  • Air Fare: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
  • Nepal entry Visa fee: Nepali Visa fee $50 USD per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days is $100 USD).
  • Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, Helicopter medical & emergency evacuation. *Mandatory
  • Entrance fees for monasteries, temples, world heritage sites.
  • Lunch & Dinner: Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking)
  • Extra night in Kathmandu: Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking
  • Personal Expenses: Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu).
  • Personal Equipment: Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears.
  • Toiletries: Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
  • Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Filming: Special Filming, Drone permit fee and Photography charges (if and when applicable).
  • Tips to guides, restaurants, hotel lobby, porters and trekking staff. (Tipping is expected.)

What to Expect

Accommodation:

We will be staying at 2/3 star hotel in Kathmandu, and in tea-houses during the trek. All rooms are on twin-shared basis. Single bedroom will be arranged on request and will cost additional. Fourteen Summit will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, tea-houses at some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and in trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher altitude.

Meals:

All meals will be provided during trekking (On demand, we can arrange only breakfast during the trek and trekkers can order lunch and dinner individually from the tea-house menu). In Kathmandu, breakfast will be available. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners taking place for guests. While on trek, we have breakfast and dinner in the tea-houses/lodges where we spend the night and lunch on our way to next destination. Authentic Nepalese, Tibetan, continental meals and Indian cuisine are common choices in the menu.

Physical Condition & Experience Requirements:

Manaslu circuit trek is a moderate trek. Travelers who can walk up to 5-6 hours a day on an uphill and downhill trail will consider this trip fulfilling and enjoyable. It is a good idea to prepare for the Manaslu trek by jogging and exercising regularly at least for a month prior to the start. Trekking to the Round Manaslu should be relatively easy for those who have experience in walking/trekking in high altitudes. Determination, good physical health, positive attitude and average physical fitness are good preconditions for a successful accomplishment of the trek. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skills are required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases should inform Fourteen Summit before booking the trek.

Best Time to Travel:

The best time for trekking to the Round Manaslu Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The temperature is moderate and guarantees amazing views throughout the trip. Although this trek can be undertaken during winter, the cold temperature might not be suitable for everyone.

Equipment List

Fourteen Summit has compiled a list of necessary equipment, personal medical supplies and symptoms of medical condition likely to face during trekking / peak climbing. Also, please do understand that items listed below should be considered as an essential summary.
We highly recommend you to be familiar with all of your equipment and basic understanding of medical Conditions related to high elevation.

Your document to travel to Nepal:
Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport)
Dollars in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport
Credit cards, bank/ATM/cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines

Accessories:
Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees F
Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside trek bag
Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
Water bottles
Toiletries
Small wash towel
Rain coat

Personal Clothing items
Head:
Sun hat or scarf
Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
Sunglasses with UV protection

Upper Body:
T-shirts
Weight thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
Down vest and/or jacket (optional)

Hands:
Lightweight gloves
Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer

Lower Body:
Underwear
Hiking shorts
Lightweight cotton long pants
Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
Fleece or wool pants
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants

Feet:
Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Hiking boots with spare laces
Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)

Personal Hygiene:
Personal hygiene supplies;
Two tubes lip sun cream, at least 1 large tube regular sun cream (min. factor 30), some after-sun lotion in case you do get a sunburn
One toothpaste/brush set;
One hand sanitizer gel
1 (fast drying) synthetic towel

Medical Supplies:
Personal prescription medications; Please let your leader know about any medical issues before the climb.
Small personal first-aid kit; (Simple and Light): first-aid tape, plasters (Band-Aids),alcohol-free wipes for cuts, personal medications, etc. (The leaders will have more extensive first-aid kits)
One skin blister repair kit
Anti-diarrhea pills (Imodium) (one regular package)
Anti-headache medication (Aspirin or Ibuprofen) (one regular package)
One small bottle cough and/or cold medicine.
One course antibiotics for chest infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One course antibiotics for stomach infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One small bottle anti-altitude sickness medication: Diamox (Acetylzolamide), available locally, for more about this medication, please contact us or your doctor
One small bottle of water purification tablets (needs to contain silver-ions AND chlorine) or a water filter or UV sterilizer.
Earplugs
Extra prescription glasses/contact lens. Contact lens wearers, please bring glasses in case of emergency.

Photo and Video