Planning for a Holiday?

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Unique Himalaya Treks who will escort you to your hotel. The first day offers an opportunity to relax after your journey and familiarize yourself with Nepal’s bustling capital. During the day, you will attend a comprehensive briefing session where the details of your trek will be discussed, and any remaining preparations, such as gear checks or permit arrangements, will be completed. Kathmandu, a vibrant city known for its rich history and culture, provides a fascinating backdrop as you begin your adventure. You might have time to explore the bustling streets of Thamel or visit nearby landmarks, but the primary focus will be on resting and preparing for the days ahead.

The adventure begins early as you embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of your trek. The journey takes you through winding roads that carve their way through lush green hills, terraced fields, and picturesque villages, offering your first glimpses of Nepal’s countryside. You’ll cross the Trishuli River and follow the Budhi Gandaki River, marveling at the cascading waterfalls and dramatic landscapes along the way. As the drive progresses, the scenery becomes increasingly remote and rugged, signaling the start of your journey into the Manaslu region. After approximately 8-9 hours, you’ll arrive in Soti Khola, a small riverside settlement where you’ll spend the night and prepare for the trekking phase of your adventure.

Your first trekking day begins with a trail that meanders along the Budhi Gandaki River, taking you through dense forests, terraced fields, and small villages. The path is both scenic and diverse, offering views of cascading waterfalls and glimpses of wildlife. As you walk, you’ll pass by traditional Gurung and Magar villages where you can observe the rural lifestyle of the locals. The trail involves crossing several suspension bridges and navigating rocky terrain, adding an element of excitement to the day. After trekking for about 6-7 hours, you’ll reach the village of Machha Khola, a peaceful spot nestled along the river, where you can rest and recharge for the next day.

The journey from Machha Khola to Jagat is both scenic and culturally enriching, as you ascend through picturesque landscapes and charming villages. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, leading you through lush vegetation, rocky paths, and terraced hillsides. You’ll cross suspension bridges and walk along stone-paved trails as you approach Jagat, a beautifully preserved village that serves as the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Jagat is known for its stone-paved lanes, traditional houses, and vibrant local culture, making it a highlight of the trek. The village exudes charm and offers trekkers a warm and welcoming environment to unwind after a day of walking.

The trail to Deng takes you deeper into the Manaslu region, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters. As you leave Jagat, you’ll pass through small settlements, terraced fields, and dense forests filled with rhododendrons and other native flora. The path involves crossing several suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River, providing stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You’ll gradually ascend into the higher-altitude region, where the Tibetan influence becomes more prominent. Deng, a quiet village surrounded by lush greenery, marks the end of the day’s trek and provides a tranquil atmosphere to relax and absorb the beauty of the region.

As you progress further along the trail, the landscape begins to change dramatically, transitioning from subtropical vegetation to more alpine terrain. The trek to Namrung is characterized by dense forests, gushing rivers, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional villages adorned with prayer flags, mani walls, and Buddhist chortens, reflecting the region’s strong Tibetan cultural heritage. The gradual ascent ensures plenty of opportunities to enjoy the stunning views and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Namrung, a picturesque village with a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, serves as an excellent resting point for trekkers.

Today’s trek offers some of the most stunning landscapes of the Manaslu Circuit, as you ascend into the high-altitude region. The trail takes you through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and small settlements with traditional Tibetan architecture. As you approach Samagaun, the surrounding mountains become increasingly prominent, with Mount Manaslu providing a spectacular backdrop. Samagaun is one of the largest and most culturally significant villages in the region, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Tibetan-influenced community. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore local monasteries and enjoy the breathtaking views that surround the village.

To adjust to the increasing altitude and prepare for the challenging days ahead, you’ll spend a day acclimatizing in Samagaun. This is a perfect opportunity to rest and explore the village and its surroundings. You can take a leisurely stroll through the village, interact with the locals, or embark on optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. Both options provide spectacular views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks while helping your body adapt to the high altitude. This day ensures a safer and more enjoyable trek as you continue to ascend.

A shorter trek today ensures better acclimatization as you head to Samdo, a Tibetan village located close to the Nepal-Tibet border. The trail is gentle and scenic, offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. Samdo is a peaceful village with traditional houses, prayer wheels, and friendly locals. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the village or relaxing while enjoying the stunning mountain vistas.

Today’s trek takes you to Dharamsala, also known as High Camp, the staging point for crossing the Larkya La Pass. The trail gradually ascends through rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Dharamsala is surrounded by towering mountains, creating a sense of anticipation for the next day’s adventure. You’ll spend the night here, preparing for the challenging pass crossing.

The most demanding and rewarding day of the trek awaits as you cross the Larkya La Pass. The ascent is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views from the top make it all worthwhile. From the pass, you’ll descend to Bimthang, a serene village surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. The sense of accomplishment from conquering the pass adds to the joy of reaching this beautiful destination.

The descent continues through lush forests and rhododendron-filled trails, offering a stark contrast to the rugged landscapes of the high mountains. The trail takes you through charming villages, where you’ll witness the daily lives of the locals. Tilije is a picturesque village with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, providing a perfect spot to rest after the day’s trek.

On the final day of trekking, you’ll make your way to Dharapani, where the trek officially concludes. From here, a scenic drive takes you to Besisahar, marking the end of your journey through the Manaslu region. The drive offers beautiful views of hills, rivers, and terraced fields, allowing you to reflect on the incredible trek.

A comfortable drive takes you back to Kathmandu, where you can relax and enjoy the comforts of the city. You’ll have time to explore the vibrant markets, visit cultural landmarks, or simply rest after the trek. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on your adventure and celebrate your accomplishment.

As your journey comes to an end, the Unique Himalaya Treks team will ensure a smooth transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. You’ll leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, a sense of accomplishment, and the desire to return for more adventures in the Himalayas.