MANASLU CIRCUIT
Max Altitude: 5,125m
Walking Per Day: 5-7 Hours
Group Size: 8-16
Land Only Package
Accommodation: Hotels and Teahouses
Moderate / Hard Difficulty
13 Trekking Days - 20 Days Total
Bespoke expeditions available
£2,250
£300 deposit to secure your place
Final balance paid 8 weeks before departure
Our adventure will start in the bustling capital, Kathmandu before making our way via private bus to the start of our trail in the heart of the Himalaya. This remote mountain trek will see us hiking along an ancient salt-trading route, whilst witnessing the wild rapids of the Bhuri Gandhaki River. Enjoy the splendour of pine, bamboo and rhododendron forests, explore monasteries and experience the culture of this diverse region. We will climb many times higher than any mountain here in the UK and witness views that you wouldn’t ever be able to conjure up in your imagination. We will of course see Manaslu, the mountain of Spirit, amongst other peaks as we enjoy 13 days of trekking in this remote region. Once back in Kathmandu you will of course get a chance to explore the markets, buy some souvenirs or simply relax your weary feet. A celebratory meal will round off our trip of a lifetime.
ABOUT THE MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK ITINERARY
Days 1 & 2 are spent leaving the UK and arriving in Kathmandu. Upon our arrival we are transported to our deluxe accommodation.
Day 3 is spent finalising documents and our kit before enjoying a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.
Day 4 An 8 hour drive from Kathmandu to Arughat. Alt.570m
On Day 5 Trek to Soti Khola – We follow the Buri Gandaki river northwards, climbing to Keurenipani before descending down to Soti Khola. Alt 730m. 5-6 hours walking.
Day 6 Trek to Machha Khola – After crossing a bridge we climb to a ridge above the rapids of the Buri Gadaki. The trail now gets a bit more challenging, especially when we cross a stream on a single log bridge. The trail follows the undulating banks of the river before heading up a steep slope to the Gurung village of Labishe. More challenging trail ahead, but topped with amazing bridges and views of waterfalls. Alt.930. 6-8 hours walking.
Day 7 Trek to Jagat – Another challenging day of crossing broad ridges, scree slopes and and ravines. More suspension bridges await, as well as stone structures and trailside teahouses. Alt 1,440m. 6-8 hours walking.
Day 8 Trek to Deng – This day boasts excellent views of Shringi Himal (7,187m) and also an area of increased Tibetan influence. Alt.1,860m. 7 Hours Walking.
We spend Day 9 Trekking to Namrung – A day spent climbing high above the river, passing intricate mani walls, which all concludes with a long climb up through the beautiful rhododendron forests. Hopefully on this day we will also see some grey Langur monkeys! Alt. 2,540m. 7 hours walking.
Day 10 Trek to Lho – A shorter day to aid our acclimatisation, but one that makes you feel like you are getting into the heart of the Himalaya as we enjoy vistas of Ganesh Himal, Kutang Himal and now Manaslu. In the afternoon we may choose to visit Ribang Gompa, as well as exploring the stupas, mani walls and kani gateway. Alt. 3,020m. 4 hours walking.
On Day 11 Trek to Sama Gompa – A day of trekking through rock strewn terrain and lush pastures to a traditional Tibetan villages. Again a shorter day to aid acclimatisation and provide some relief for the legs. More epic views of Manaslu. Alt. 3,450m. 4 hours walking.
Day 12 Trek to Somdu – Another shorter day, but no less beautiful! Alt. 3,860. 4 Hours walking.
Day 13 Rest Day at Somdu – Our first rest day after over a week of walking, and also a vital acclimatisation day. Take the chance to rest the feet, sort kit and experience life in a remote Himalayan village.
Day 14 Trek to Duwang – The aim of this day is to get ourselves to the base of the Larkya La Pass. We will experience the trail climbing through tundra and juniper, and will also lay our eyes on the sensational Larkya Glacier which leads from Manaslu. Alt. 4,550m. 4 hours walking.
Day 15 Trek across the Larkya La (5,125m) to Bimthang - An early start is required for this challenging day. Steep climbs, slopes scattered with moraine, snow and ice. We will trek to our highest point, the Larkya La at 5,125m. A day to savour for sure, especially as we see Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), Kang Guru (6981m) and Annapurna II (7937). A long descent takes us to our next overnight stop at Bimthang. Alt.3,590m. 8 hours walking.
Day 16 Trek to Dharapani – With the crux of the route complete, we spend the day mostly descending. We drop to the headwaters of the a glacial stream, the Dudh Khola and begin to follow this. Enjoyable and good trails are walked, and the day is culminated with a long suspension bridge. Alt.1,860m. 8 hours walking.
Day 17 Trek to Jagat – Our final day of trekking sees us join the more popular Annapurna circuit. We follow this section of the route in reverse and we pass through the steepest section of the Marsyangdi gorge. Alt. 1,430m. 6 hours walking.
Day 18 Drive to Ngadi and then on to Kathmandu.
Day 19 Rest & Recovery – A day to enjoy Kathmandu once again. There is plenty to do, or a few nice places to go just to relax. We will round off the trip with a celebratory meal in Kathmandu.
Day 20 A final day to pick up those souvenirs before our afternoon flight and by Day 21 we'll be back in the UK.
EXCLUSIONS
INCLUSIONS
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Internal Transfers
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All Accommodation throughout, inclusive of high spec accommodation in Kathmandu
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All food on the trek, and breakfasts in Kathmandu
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Trekking Permits
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Trekking Staff, including English speaking Nepali Guides
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Experienced LMG Trek Manager
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Medical Kit and Portable Altitude Chamber carried on the expedition
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Team t-shirt & Duffel Bag
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International Flights from your destination country
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Personal Trekking Insurance - To cover trekking to over 5,125m. This is mandatory to join us on a trip.
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Trips for the trekking team (Roughly £50)
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Lunches and Dinners outside of the trekking phase
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Nepal Entry Visa £50
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Souvenirs
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Additional food and beverages
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Communications / Charging cost (Wifi / Sim Card)
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Personal trekking kit (Boots,rucksacks etc)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why the Manaslu Circuit?
The Manaslu circuit is without a doubt one of the best trekking circuits on offer in Nepal. Although not new, it is one of the newer circuits and as such is less developed (and commercial) than some of the popular trade names such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit.
What about Altitude Sickness?
Having concerns about AMS is very natural and it unfortunately unpredictable. Even the experienced could struggle to get over 5,000m if they get ill. We have however designed our itinerary to help us best acclimatise. The fitter you are, the less exhausted you'll get, which in turn has an impact on bringing on symptoms of AMS. These points combined with walking slowly, drinking lots and eating well all give you the best possible chance.
How fit do I really need to be and what skills do I require?
The fitter you are the more you will enjoy it, and the more chance you'll have of getting to the top. Being able to complete 2-3 days of big hill walks in the UK is a good gauge that you're ready. Matt is also a qualified Personal Trainer so if you want some formal training just get in touch with us via LMG Personal Training
What Technical Kit do I require?
No technical kit is required for this trip. We do however recommend purchasing or renting a high quality sleeping bag that can go to -15 degrees C.
What about the Food and Accommodation?
The food in Nepal is fab. Expect a lot of rice, noodles and vegetables. If you have specific allergies or dietary requirements it may be worth researching what's on offer before committing. Eating well throughout is key to success on such an expedition. Our accommodation whilst on the trek will be teahouses, apart from 1 nights that will be spent in tents.
Should you need to leave the expedition early, any additional accommodation costs will need to be covered by you (or depending on the circumstance, your insurance)
Do I require Travel Insurance?
Most certainly. Travelling, let alone adventure travel, can throw up all sorts of incidents or circumstances that need to be covered by insurance otherwise you could face a very hefty bill. As a minimum your insurance must cover the dates of the trip, the altitude you are trekking to and helicopter evacuation. Our recommendation for travel insurance is Campbell Irvine
Why should I trek with LMG?
Join our trek if you want a personal experience right from the start. We will help you get ready for this trip here in the UK, both physically and mentally. We'll do what we can to get you prepared and you'll then have our friendly faces to guide you through the experience once in Nepal. We work closely with an agent in Nepal to ensure we have the best possible service throughout.
You are not 'just another booking' to us. We value your booking, and we will ensure that you know that throughout your time with us.
As a company, although small, we will operate responsibly, giving back where we can. One of our best partnerships is that with Trees4Travel. We will plant 2 trees on the behalf of every booking we get, and we will plant enough trees to offset the travel of our trek manager too. Click here to see our Responsible Tourism Policy
More info can be found in our Resources section
