Trip Highlights

• Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote Himalayan regions: The Manaslu Circuit remains far less crowded than other routes, offering a quieter, more immersive journey through dramatic valleys, alpine forests, and high mountain terrain.

• Experience authentic Himalayan village life: Along the trail, we pass through traditional stone villages where Tibetan Buddhist culture, prayer flags, monasteries, and centuries-old trade routes are still part of daily life.

• Cross the legendary Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,752 ft): Stand in the shadow of Manaslu as we cross one of the most spectacular high mountain passes in the Himalayas, surrounded by towering glaciers and panoramic peaks.

• Visit monasteries and sacred mountain landscapes: Explore places like Ribung Gompa near Samagaon while trekking through regions shaped by deep spiritual traditions and Himalayan history.

• Hike to Birendra Lake and optional Manaslu Base Camp: On our acclimatization day, we explore the stunning turquoise Birendra Glacier Lake, with the option to continue higher toward Manaslu Base Camp.

• Supported expedition-style trekking: Our local guides and porter team help carry duffel bags and manage logistics so we can focus on the experience, the movement, and the mountains.

• Build strength, resilience, and connection through movement: This journey is about more than reaching a destination—it’s about moving through the mountains together, pushing limits, and experiencing the Himalayas in a powerful and meaningful way.
  

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable Himalayan journey in a shorter timeframe, with an 8-day route from Soti Khola to Dharapani that crosses the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,123 m). 

Along the way, the trail winds past glaciers, powerful rivers, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. For those wanting to push a little farther, an additional acclimatization day allows for a rewarding hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,900 m), bringing trekkers even closer to the towering peaks of the region.

Compared to other famous routes in Nepal, the Manaslu trail remains quieter due to its protected status and special trekking permits required by the Nepalese government. This helps preserve the wilderness feel of the region while still making the trek accessible to well-prepared hikers. 

The journey passes through both the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Areas and offers views of several Himalayan giants, including Manaslu, Annapurna, Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Cheo Himal, while also passing through traditional mountain villages and the historic monastery at Sama Gaun.

*Note: This is a demanding adventure designed for those ready to push themselves. The trek includes 8 full days of hiking in terrain that can be steep, rugged, and challenging, with longer distances as the trek progresses. You’ll gradually climb from 4,386 ft (1,340 m) to a high point of 16,752 ft (5,106 m). You should either have hiking experience or be regularly training at a high level of physical intensity.

We offer curated training through our Move Adventure Mountain Fitness program to help you prepare. Reach out if you’re interested in learning more at info@move-adventures.com.

Book your international flight to leave on November 17th and arrive in Kathmandu by November 18th. When you begin the booking process for your flights, be sure to reach out with any questions!  

• Local Travel Tip: From experience, flights to Kathmandu can sometimes be pricey. A strategy I often suggest is booking a round-trip ticket to a major hub like Dubai, Doha, or Bangkok first, then purchasing a separate round-trip flight into Kathmandu. It can occasionally save you a significant amount and give you more flexibility with routing. If you’d like guidance on the best options, we’re always willing to point you in the right direction.

• Whether you’ve found a few options you’d like a second opinion on or you’re not sure where to begin, send us a message or email, and we’ll help you sort through the best choices. We’ll be actively supporting everyone with flight planning, so don’t hesitate to reach out. 
  

Day overview: Arrival day, rest and trip prep (~2-4 hours light activity depending on arrival time).

Welcome to Kathmandu, where your Himalayan journey begins– the heart of Nepal’s mountain culture and the doorway to towering peaks and ancient traditions!

• Arrive in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Here you will be welcomed to Nepal by Move Adventures' group leader, Micaela, and our partnering local Nepalese guide company, Discover Altitude Treks.

• After landing in Kathmandu, we’ll gather as a group and transfer together to our hotel in Thamel— the city’s lively and colorful tourist district. Known for its energetic atmosphere, Thamel is packed with restaurants, cozy cafés, trekking gear shops, artisan boutiques, buzzing pubs, and vibrant nightspots, making it the perfect place to settle in and begin soaking up the culture.

• After checking into our hotel and getting settled, we’ll begin exploring — whether that means venturing into the surrounding streets, diving into the local cuisine, or simply relaxing after a long day of travel. Here is where you’ll start to catch your first glimpses of Kathmandu’s layered skyline: temple spires, prayer flags, and distant hills— a beautiful introduction to the adventure that lies ahead.

• In the evening, we’ll come together for a welcome dinner, giving everyone a chance to meet and connect with your fellow travelers and hikers. It’s the perfect way to start experiencing Nepal’s local cuisine. The restaurants we visit will have a wide variety of flavorful options to suit every palate.

Day overview: Breakfast at the hotel, sightseeing private day tour (5-7 hours), meet the guides and organize gear in the afternoon, and an optional group dinner in the evening. 

• After enjoying an included breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set off together as a group to explore some of Kathmandu Valley’s most iconic World Heritage Sites.

• Our first stop is Swoyambhunath, also known as the “Monkey Temple,” where private transportation and a local guide will walk us through its history and cultural significance.

• Next, we’ll visit Patan Durbar Square, whose outer complex is home to several 16th-century temples. One of these temples is the residence of the Kumari, the living embodiment of the Hindu Goddess Durga.

• In the evening, the local guides will lead a hiking briefing to ensure everyone is fully prepared for the trek. This session will include: introductions to your guides and porters, a detailed review of the trek itinerary, a check of each traveler’s gear and clothing to ensure readiness, and final tips on pacing, rest breaks, and nutrition to help you feel your best on the trail. 

• After our hiking briefing, there will be an optional dinner with the group.

Meals included: Breakfast

Day overview: Entering the Manaslu Region - ​​After an early breakfast in Kathmandu, we depart by private jeep toward the remote Manaslu region. The drive is part of the adventure, winding through terraced hillsides and rural villages as we follow the Budhi Gandaki River north toward the Himalayas.

• Passing through Arughat, Soti Khola, and Machhakhola, the road gradually narrows into rugged mountain tracks. Along the way, we pass roadside markets and riverside settlements as the valley tightens and the mountains begin to rise around us.

• We’ll stop for lunch in Soti Khola, a lively trekking hub along the Budhi Gandaki River.

• Continuing deeper into the gorge, we arrive in Jagat, a historic stone village and the official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

• Local Insight: Jagat once served as a checkpoint along ancient Himalayan trade routes connecting Nepal and Tibet, where traders transported salt, wool, and grain across high mountain passes.

• Tonight we stay in a traditional Nepali teahouse, simple mountain lodges with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Hot showers may be available depending on the lodge.

• Dinner will be served at the teahouse and typically includes hearty trekking staples such as dal bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetable curry with unlimited refills), handmade momos, noodle soups, and other warming Himalayan dishes.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

Following the Budhi Gandaki

Day overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 1 - estimated 6-7 hour trek; 19 km (12 miles). 

• Each morning will begin with a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of intentional movement to prepare the body for the day ahead. Breakfast options include omelets, oatmeal, fresh Tibetan bread (a lightly fried local specialty), porridge, and toast, all served with a warm drink to start the day energized.

• The journey follows the Budhi Gandaki River through dramatic Himalayan landscapes of terraced hillsides, glacial rivers, and rugged valley walls. Approaching Ghatta Khola, we pause at a welcoming teahouse for a warm lunch.

• Continuing across a long suspension bridge, the trail winds through fields and into a remote canyon. Slopes descend along the river, crossing several suspension bridges before opening into peaceful bamboo forests.

• Local Insight: These forests host langur monkeys and a variety of alpine birds, part of the rich Himalayan ecosystem.

• By late afternoon, we arrive in Deng, a quiet village where Tibetan Buddhist traditions begin to shape daily life.

• We settle into a traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, simple yet comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Dinner features dal bhat, noodle soups, vegetables, and handmade momos, hearty dishes to refuel after a full day on the trail.

• Evenings are spent settling into our lodges, refueling with a nourishing dinner, and resting for the journey ahead. This is also a time to connect with the group—sharing stories and photos from the day’s adventures, reflecting on highlights, and enjoying light games or conversation before calling it a day in the mountains.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

A Cultural and Mountain Journey

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 2 - estimated 6-8 hour trek; 18.5 km (11.5 miles) 

• After a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of morning movement to wake the body, the group sets off ready to embrace the day’s journey.

• The journey begins with a crossing of the Budhi Gandaki River and a series of bridges connecting us toward Bihi. Turning west, the trail ascends through green forests, alpine plants, and villages, with towering Himalayan peaks appearing in the distance.

• Local Insight: Along the way, we pass apple orchards where fresh local apple pie may be available. Ancient gompas and long mani walls line the trail, offering insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture. In one of the villages, we pause to admire breathtaking views of the snow-covered Shringi Himal before stopping at a welcoming teahouse for a warm lunch.

• The afternoon trail continues upward, crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, before a steady climb along a stone stairway brings us to the village of Namrung, a quiet settlement rich in local traditions.
  

• We will reach our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, simple yet comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms.
  Dinner features a menu that will vary by the menu of the teahouse, but travelers can expect traditional cuisine like dal bhat, noodle soups, vegetables, and handmade momos, providing hearty fuel after a full day on the trail. 

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

Entering the High Himalayas

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 3 - estimated 6-8 hour trek; 17 km (10.5 miles

• After a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of morning movement to wake the body, the group sets off ready to embrace the day’s journey.

• The trail climbs higher into the Himalayas, leaving the lush lower forests behind for rugged, rocky landscapes. Early in the day, trekkers are greeted by their first views of Manaslu, with the peaceful Rebung Gompa monastery perched nearby. Monks, prayer flags, and traditional stone houses reflect the enduring Tibetan culture that shapes this valley.

• Local Insight: The gompa has been a center of learning and spiritual practice for centuries, giving insight into the daily lives of Himalayan monks.

• After exploring the gompa, we continue toward a teahouse for lunch. In the afternoon, the trek crosses the drainage slopes of the Pungen Glacier, winding over rocky terrain and high alpine fields. The valley gradually opens into the flat terrain of Samagaun, one of the largest and most important villages on the circuit. During the climbing season, Samagaun becomes a busy hub as the closest settlement to Manaslu Base Camp, offering a glimpse of local life and Himalayan mountain culture at high altitude.

• We arrive at our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms, offering a warm retreat after a full day on the trail. We will settle in to rest, sharing moments from the day and enjoying quiet time together before the next adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Acclimatization and High-Altitude Exploration 

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 4 - acclimatisation day and optional exploration, distances vary. 

*Optional exploration: Pungyen Gompa, Birendra Lake, or Manaslu Base Camp. 

• After a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of reflection and morning movement to wake the body, we set off ready to embrace the day’s adventures. 

• We are now over halfway through this journey together, and it’s a moment to pause and feel gratitude— for our bodies, for each day we’ve chosen to challenge ourselves, and for the opportunity to explore new places and seek adventure in the Himalayas.

• Today is dedicated to acclimatization, giving our bodies time to adjust to a higher altitude in preparation for the upcoming Larkya La Pass. From Samagaun, we take in stunning views of Manaslu and explore the nearby Ribung Gompa, a monastery that highlights the village’s rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Panoramic sights of glaciers, farmland, and the village’s flat terrain provide a vivid sense of the surrounding Himalayan environment.

• Local Insight: Ribung Gompa has served as a spiritual and cultural hub for the community for generations, offering insight into Tibetan monastic practices and Himalayan village life.

• Lake Birendra, a glacial lake 3 km from the village at 3,610 m (12,100 ft) is our first stop this morning. For those feeling ambitious, we can continue to Manaslu Base Camp, gaining another 900 m (3,000 ft) in elevation, with spectacular views of the Manaslu Glacier and icefall. Both options follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle, helping our bodies adjust to altitude. As an alternative, we can explore the village, observing the traditional lifestyle of local families.

• We arrive back at our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. We take time to relax and reflect on the day’s journey, reconnecting and recharging for tomorrow’s trek.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Alpine Passage and Cultural Immersion

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 5 - estimated 3-5 hour trek; 8km (5 miles).

-Shorter days ahead for acclimatization before Larkya La Pass.*

• After a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of morning movement to wake the body, we set off ready for another day in the mountains.

• The trail gradually ascends as we leave Samagaun, passing the confluence of the Larkya River and the river flowing from the Samdo Glacier. Walking through the Kermo Kharka forests, the path steepens and becomes more rugged, with several wooden bridges to cross. The climb is challenging, but the surrounding Himalayan landscapes are breathtaking.

• We arrive at Samdo, a remote high-altitude settlement near the Tibetan border, where we stop for lunch at the teahouse where we will stay that night. Here, we can connect with local people who continue traditional practices like yak herding and seasonal trade, experiencing a way of life that has endured for generations. The afternoon is free for acclimatization walks, quiet reflection, games, or exploring the village.

• Local Insight: Samdo is one of the last villages before the Tibetan border and has long been a center for high-altitude trade, giving a rare glimpse into traditional Himalayan livelihoods.

• We will settle once again into our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. The day closes with time to unwind, share stories, and enjoy our shared adventures in the mountains.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Scenic High-Altitude Trek and Preparation for The Climb 

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 6 - 3-4 hour trek; 8km (5 miles).

• After a nourishing breakfast and a few minutes of morning movement to wake the body, we set off ready for a shorter but beautiful day on the trail. We take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and prepare ourselves—physically and mentally—for tomorrow’s demanding Larkya La Pass.

• The trail passes the Athahra Saya and Larkya Rivers, gradually ascending through rugged terrain. Along the way, we pass Taka Choeling Gumba, where we pause to take in stunning views of Naike and Pangboche Peaks. Mani walls, stone houses, and small bridges guide us toward Larkya Bazaar, a quiet settlement with a few teahouses, before continuing to Dharamshala (Larkya Phedi), the highest point before the pass. Grazing pastures and the Syancha Glacier highlight the high-altitude landscape and the rugged beauty of the region.

• Local Insight: Dharamshala marks the last inhabited settlement before Larkya La Pass, traditionally serving as a seasonal stopover for traders and herders navigating this remote Himalayan corridor.

• We arrive at our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. The day closes with time to rest, reflect, and recharge together, readying ourselves for tomorrow’s high-altitude challenge.

• We take a moment to appreciate that the views we’ll witness tomorrow are found nowhere else in the world, and they carry deep history and meaning.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

The Ultimate Manaslu Circuit Challenge

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 7 - estimated 8-10 hour trek; 24 km (15 miles). 

• After a pre-dawn breakfast, a few minutes of movement to wake our bodies, and taking a moment to remember: This is why we chose this journey—to embrace challenges, move often, and venture to new places. Today will challenge us in the best way, and most importantly reward us— standing here in the shadow of Manaslu, the “Mountain of the Spirit,” the 8th highest peak in the world at 8,163 meters, just east of Mount Annapurna. 

• As we begin our hike on the north side of the Larkya Glacier, the towering peaks of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak greet us, reminding us why we came here—to push limits and embrace the Himalayan adventure.

• The ascent continues steadily until we reach the Larkya La Pass (Larke Pass), the highest point of the trek. From the top, we are treated to panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Himlung Himal. Snow and ice may line the trail, adding to the sense of expedition, before we begin our steep descent along the high moraine ridge of the Salpudanda Glacier.

• As we descend, the trail gradually eases, passing grassy moraines at Dangboche Kharka and a large meadow with a Mani Wall. Lunch is a stop at a teahouse along the way, giving a moment to rest and reflect on the morning’s achievement. Finally, we arrive at Bimtang, a peaceful high-altitude village, where we will spend the night.

• Local Insight: Larkya La Pass has long been a natural corridor for seasonal herders and traders, and standing atop the pass, we follow in the footsteps of generations who navigated this remote Himalayan region.

• We settle into our traditional Himalayan teahouse lodge, comfortable with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. We take time to unwind, reflect on the day’s triumphs, and enjoy the shared adventure of moving through this extraordinary landscape.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Descent Through the Manaslu Valley

Overview: Manaslu Circuit Trek Day 8 - estimated 6-8 hour trek; 24 km (15 miles).

Transport at Tilje* (before Dharapani 1,900m) → drive to Beshisahar (2-4 hours).

• We will begin the morning with our usual routine—breakfast, tea, and a gentle stretch to loosen the legs after yesterday’s long pass day. Today’s trail offers a steady descent as we leave the high alpine landscape behind and begin moving toward greener terrain. As we walk, we’ll pass through lush forests and open meadows, often turning back for beautiful morning views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks that watch over us in the high Himalaya.

• The path winds through small villages and terraced hillsides, where the rhythm of daily life slowly returns—fields, stone homes, and prayer walls lining the trail. Along the way, we will cross several rivers and pass Mani walls carved with ancient prayers. Lunch will be at a peaceful riverside teahouse, a perfect place to rest our legs and enjoy the sound of the water rushing past.

• Local Insight: Mani walls are sacred stone structures carved with the Tibetan Buddhist mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum.” As we pass them along the trail, it is customary to walk to the left side of the wall, keeping it on our right as a sign of respect for local tradition.

• After a few more hours on the trail, we will arrive at our final teahouse for the day. This evening is a chance to slow down, reflect on the pass we crossed together, and appreciate how far we have come— step by step through the mountains.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Overview: Drive from Beshisahar to Kathmandu by tourist bus 1400m (4,593 ft) - estimated 7-9 hour drive. 

• After breakfast, we’ll begin a scenic four-hour jeep ride to Besisahar. The road winds through dramatic mountain terrain with beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna II and Manaslu, as well as small villages tucked into the hillsides. Following the Marshyangdi River, the drive offers glimpses of cascading waterfalls, terraced farmland, and dense green forests that mark our gradual return to lower elevations.

• Local Insight: Besisahar serves as the traditional gateway to the Annapurna region. For decades, trekkers beginning the famous Annapurna Circuit would start their journey here, making the town an important crossroads for both trekkers and local traders traveling between mountain communities and the lowlands.

• As the journey continues, we’ll begin to notice more traffic and roadside teahouses as we reconnect with the busier Annapurna Conservation Area. Near Besisahar, the valley opens up with sweeping views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding countryside.

• We’ll stop along the way for lunch before transferring to a van for the six-hour drive back to Kathmandu.

• Once we arrive and settle into our hotel, we’ll come back together for one final evening as a group— sharing a celebratory dinner, reflecting on the miles we’ve walked, and honoring the unforgettable journey we’ve completed together.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch 

Overview: Included Private Transport to the International Airport and departure formalities (~2-4 hours).

• Our final morning together is a slow and meaningful close to the journey. We’ll share one last breakfast as a group while enjoying the rooftop views of Kathmandu, reminiscing about the miles we covered, the challenges we overcame, and the memories we created along the Manaslu Circuit.

• Transportation from the hotel to Kathmandu International Airport is included for your departure.

• If you’d like a little more time to explore Nepal, you can also choose to add an optional extra night before traveling home.

Meals included: Breakfast