Manaslu Short Trek

Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights   |   Based on 1 Review
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Style: Trekking
  • Transportation: Private Vehicle / Bus
  • Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation: Hotel & Lodges
  • Group Size: 2-20
  • Max Altitude: 5,160m/16,929ft

Highlights of Manaslu Short Trek

  • Exploration of the least crowded off the beaten path trekking region
  • Diverse flora and fauna found in Manaslu Conservation Area
  • Alluring vistas of 10 peaks over 6,500m and a few above 7,000m including Mount Manalsu (8,156m)
  • Witnessing Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition including some recognized monasteries like Sama Gompa of Samagaun
  • Magnificent beauty of estimated 1,500-2,000 flowering plants with rhododendron plants decorating Manaslu region
  • Experience of Larkya La Pass (5,160m), an adventurous high pass in the Himalayas with the help of crampons

 The Manaslu Short Trek offers a trip around Mt. Manaslu (8,156m), the world's 8th uppermost peak, situated in the Nepalese Himalayas. This famous trek presents pleasing views of the snow-capped peaks in the Manaslu region, also known as the "Mountain of the Spirit." The part features 10 peaks above 6,500m, including numerous that surpass 7,000m, creating an alluring background for tourists. The journey is further accompanied by the mixed flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area and the region's cultural variation, making it a highly gratifying understanding.
 

Manaslu Short Trek

The Short Trek to the Manaslu region starts with an around 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Aarughat in the Budhi Gandaki River valley. The comparatively peaceful paths lead you through culturally rich villages settled by various communities who preserve their traditional rituals, festivals, and customs. As you trip through remote ethnic villages displaying exceptional socio-cultural aspects, the Manaslu short trekking trail ultimately brings you to Larkya La Pass. This is one of Nepal's most bold Himalayan passes, where you might need climbers in December and January to cross and enjoy the remarkable mountain views.

All over the Manaslu short trek, you'll be treated to striking views of snow-covered mountains, including the regal Mt. Manaslu. Other peaks such as Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), Shiringi (7,187m), Langpo (6,668m), and Saula (6,235m) also boost the trekking experience in Nepal, making it truly amazing. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers occasional sights of rare wildlife and plant species, including animals like the snow leopard, Himalayan thar, and blue sheep. The various forests, including rhododendron, pine, oak, and juniper bushes, further improve the trekking venture.

Manaslu Tshum Valley Trek

One of the tourist attractions of the Manaslu Short Trek is Sama Gompa, a well-known Buddhist monastery in Samagaun, a key stop on the journey. On the adaptation day in Samagaun, you can visit Sama Gompa and network with the monks and nuns who live there. The monastery, sited at the base of the Manaslu region, is so remarkable that it makes you forget any travel tiredness. Likewise, Samdo village is important as it is the highest human settled in the complete Budhi Gandaki Valley.

The exciting natural waterfalls, rocky trekking paths, spectacular sceneries, and glacial lakes inspire you to keep going on your trip. Though considered the best remote trek in Nepal, the Manaslu Short Trek is moderately demanding but offers explorers a cherished experience. Birendra Lake, across about 3 square kilometers, is a highlight of the Manaslu Round Trek and is increasing in popularity. This freshwater lake, part of the Manaslu Glacier, is located near Sama Gompa and Pungyen Glacier.

Even though trekking in the Manaslu region trek is probable year-round, winter is less perfect for attaining Larkya La due to the thick snow covering the high-altitude trail, making it quite challenging. The best periods for the Manaslu Short Trek are spring and autumn, as different to summer, when the path becomes unclear from the rain. In spring and autumn, you can enjoy 360-degree scenic views of the royal, snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The forests, covered in exciting rhododendrons, add an amazing touch to your lifelong memories of hiking in the Nepalese Himalayas.

Customised Manaslu Short Trek packages can be organised with Orbit Alpine Adventure based on your vacation timetable and budget. Itineraries for the Manaslu Short Trek range from 10 to 26 days, letting for visits to extra locations. This journey can be combined with the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek, taking you to the concealed valley of the Manaslu Region Trek. In Tsum Valley, you will enjoy the intact Tibetan Buddhist culture and ethnicities, authentic rural lifestyle, and original nature. Moreover, you can advance your experience by merging the Manaslu Circuit with the renowned Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Short Manaslu Trek

Orbit Alpine Adventure has instigated 14 days Manaslu Circuit Short trek itinerary with detailed information about the trekking paths in this article. For further inquiry, you can contact Orbit Alpine Adventure via either email, telephone or online booking facilities as per your comfort.

FAQs:

1. What is the ideal period to trek the Manaslu Circuit?

The ideal periods to journey the Manaslu Circuit are throughout the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) periods. All through these seasons, the climate is steady, and the sights are vibrant.

2. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

This trek is well-thought-out moderately to highly demanding. Explorers should be ready for long days of walking, steep rises, and high elevations, mainly at Larkya La Pass (5,160m).

3. Is a permit necessary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, you need numerous permits: a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A registered guide is also obligatory.

4. What is the duration of Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The journey normally takes between 14 to 21 days, liable on the itinerary and side tours included.

5. Is acclimatization necessary during the trek?

Yes, acclimatization days are vital to help your body adjust to the high altitudes and to avert altitude sickness.

6. What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?

Accommodation is mostly in teahouses, which offer elementary lodging and meals. Rooms are usually shared, and facilities can be quite simple.

7. What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Important items include durable walking boots, warm clothing, a top-class sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, water cleansing tablets, and private items such as toiletries and snacks.

8. Can I trek the Manaslu Circuit independently?

No, solo walking is not permissible in the Manaslu region. You must walk with a certified guide and be part of a group with a least of two trekkers (excluding the guide).
 

Day to Day Itinerary

OPEN ALL DAYS Outline Itinerary

The representative of Orbit Alpine Adventure meets you at the Kathmandu Airport on your arrival schedule. Then s/he leads you to the hotel booked for your accommodation. You can spend the remaining time by strolling around the tourist hub of Nepal, Thamel area. If necessary, you can purchase some trekking gears by consulting with the trekking guide. In the evening, the trekking guide gives you all the information regarding Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary.

  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft

Immediately after taking breakfast, you begin your journey to Soti Khola, the starting of Manaslu region trek by a private jeep. The driving along the Prithvi Highway is really a wonderful experience by observing the beautiful scenario of landscapes and trade centers. After a continuous journey of around 8 hours, you reach Soti Khola for the night stay. The stunning view of snowcapped peaks around Manaslu, Annapurna, Langtang and Ganesh Himal region welcomes you to the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Overnight stay at teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Soti Khola
  • Altitude: 815m/2,674ft
  • Time: 8 Hrs

The epic trek around Manaslu region begins from Soti Khola to stop at Machhi Khola (Fish Stream) through the rugged trail. The path moves ahead by crossing gushing rivers, natural waterfalls and lush valleys full of paddy fields on the way. You have to cross a few suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River to reach the night station. You go along a typical Gurung village, Labubeshi exposing its cultivation and intact culture and tradition.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Machhi Khola
  • Altitude: 930m/3,051ft
  • Time: 6 Hrs

The trekking trail today moves up and down along a few rustic villages in Manaslu region. You have to cross some suspension bridges over some rivulets like the Tharo Khola and the Yura Khola to continue the journey. By walking along a stone staircase, you reach Khorlabesi village and then Tatopani (hot water) where you can take a short break. This natural hot water is believed to heal some skin diseases after taking a bath in it. The Gurung Villages with their traditional housing style, lifestyle, culture and tradition are the attractions until you reach Jagat. Overnight stay at a teahouse by relishing local organic food items served at the best hospitality.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Jagat
  • Altitude: 1,340m/4,396ft
  • Time: 7 Hrs

Today’s path goes along some lush subtropical forests, pastoral villages and cultivated fields to reach Deng for the night stay. You go through some villages like Salleri and Sirdibas before you cross the suspension bridge over the Ghatte Khola. Then, you reach Philim, one of the largest Gurung villages in Manaslu Circuit and move further across Ekle Bhatti area. By leaving the bamboo forests and wide valley behind, the trail takes you to Deng to spend the night at a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Deng
  • Altitude: 1,804m/5,919ft
  • Time: 7 Hrs

The path passes along dense forests, alpine vegetation and remarkable hamlets full of rustic houses reflecting rich culture and tradition. The journey moves ahead offering you with the enchanting vistas of the major peaks of Manalsu region. You can reach Deng by following an alternative way via the village Prok which shows you the thrilling view of the Siringi Himal. You have to cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times by using the suspension bridges to keep going on. This alternative trekking trail of Manaslu region takes you through Manaslu Conservation Area, an in-situ for wildlife and vegetation.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Namrung
  • Altitude: 2,660m/8,727ft
  • Time: 6 Hrs

The trail to Lho village introduces you with the typical lifestyle and Tibetan Buddhist influence in the Nubri Valley. Nubri Valley is one of the two major valleys in Manaslu region besides Tsum Valley, where majority of dwellers are Gurung. Lush forests of rhododendron and oak, deep valley and terraced land with variety of crops accompany the trail until it reaches mani walls of Lho. On the way, you can have an enthralling view of the Pungen Glacier that originates from Peak 29 of Manaslu area. Enjoy the eye-catching picturesque of the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu region unleashed at the fullest. You spend the night at Lho by enjoying the natural vistas and cultural uniqueness along with typical food items.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Lho
  • Altitude: 3,180m/10,433ft
  • Time: 4 Hrs

After the breakfast, stroll around Lho village to have a sunrise view of Mt. Siringi, Mt. Ganesh and Mt. Himalchuli. Don’t forget to take a short visit to Ribung Gompa while in Lho Village. The trail leads you through Lihi which is a beautiful village with monasteries and terraced farmlands with different crops. You go across three other villages naming, Sho, Lho and Shyala which are vantage point to Manaslu region peaks. During the course of the journey, the alluring view of Peak 29, Himal Chuli, Mt. Manaslu and large glaciers are exposing their beauty. You are going to spend the night at Samagaun, which is naturally and culturally attractive throughout Manaslu Circuit trek.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Samagaun
  • Altitude: 3,530m/11,581ft
  • Time: 4 Hrs

Since it is acclimatization day, you can sleep till late in the morning to recover from the trekking fatigue, if any. If you think you need to take a full day rest, no problem, stay right there around Samagaun! However, if you want to explore the Tibetan Buddhist culture and its influences in the region, you can take side trips.

You can take a short hike to Pungyen Gompa (Sama Gompa), close to Samagaun, which offers you an amazing view of Himalayan glaciers. You feel the peace of mind and heart by visiting the Buddhist monastery decorated with prayer flags, mani walls and chortens. You can meet the Sherpa people who (especially, women) are dressed in cultural clothes and ornaments and learn their history. 

You can take another hike to Birendra Lake which is one of the freshwater lakes in Manaslu Himalayan region. Spread in about 3 sq. kilometers, Birendra Lake is becoming more and more famous among the domestic as well as international trekkers to Manaslu Circuit.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Samagaun
  • Altitude: 3,530m/11,581ft

Today’s trekking trail ascend towards the Budhi Gandaki River banks by letting you pass a few suspension bridges and mani walls. The path guides you through the villages reflecting Buddhism in the Himalayas taking you very close to Nepal-Tibet border. This trail used to be the trade route between Nepal and Tibet before other routes were not developed and you can find such practices even today. By crossing Kermo Kharka village among juniper and birch forests, you reach Samdo for the night rest at a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Samdo
  • Altitude: 3,690m/12,106ft
  • Time: 4 Hrs

After taking breakfast, you will walk past a seasonal Tibetan market of the region, also known as Larke Bazaar. The trekking trail then ascend to the Budhi Gandaki River giving you the stunning view of Larkya Glacier. Again, crossing the Salka Khola valley, you reach Dharmasala which is also known as Larkya Phedi (bottom of Larkya La Pass). You can take side trips around Larkya Phedi to acclimatize for crossing 5,160m high pass as the today’s journey was short.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Dharmasala
  • Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft
  • Time: 4 Hrs

Today is the most memorable day of Manaslu Short trek as you are going to cross the highest point of the route. Even though the trekking trail is a bit challenging, you won’t feel worried due to the offerings of the surrounding. The breathtaking vistas of snowcapped peaks, glacial lakes, pastoral hamlets and diverse flora-fauna keep on energizing you throughout the journey.

Travelling around the Larkya Glacial Valley rewards you with the miraculous sight of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. From Larkya La Pass (5,160m), you can have an unforgettable memories of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II. While descending towards Bimtang, you can have a distant view of imminent Manaslu Mountain in the early sunset. You spend the night at a teahouse at Bimtang by enjoying the cuisines prepared and served by the Sherpa people.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Bimtang
  • Altitude: 3,750m/12,303ft
  • Time: 10 Hrs

You take breakfast at Bimtang and begin your trekking today by walking along a ridge having a wonderful mountain view.Enjoy the majestic view of snow-clad peaks of Manaslu, Lamjung, Himlung and Cheo until you cross the Dudh Khola River. Then the trail enters into a lush rhododendron forests and then cultivated land of Karche village. Following the trail that sometimes goes up and the other times down, you reach Tilche (Tilje) for the night rest.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Tilche
  • Altitude: 1,700m/5,577ft
  • Time: 5 Hrs

Today you descend through the trekking route that goes past Thonje village walking along the stone-paved staircase. You meet the main trekking trail to Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani walking for about 2 hours. From there, you catch a private jeep to drive to Beshisahar, the entrance of Annapurna region trekking. Stay at a teahouse there. You can celebrate the accomplishment of Manaslu Circuit Short trek with your colleagues to make this journey more memorable. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Place: Beshisahar
  • Altitude: 760m/2,493ft
  • Time: 2 trek + 6Hrs jeep driving

Today is the last day of Manaslu Round Short trek 15 days itinerary that you have already completed successfully. After having breakfast, you catch a private jeep to Kathmandu which takes 6 hours duration. Enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding landscapes and trade centers on the way to Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
  • Time: 6 Hrs

Cost Details

  • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Complimentary welcome dinner
  • Three nights' accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
  • All necessary trekking permits for Manaslu Special, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS card, etc.
  • All accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day during the trek
  • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
  • If and when available, fresh fruit will be provided
  • Complimentary duffel bag, trekking map, and four-season sleeping bag, if needed.
  • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid-trained guide
  • First-aid kit
  • Kathmandu to Machhakhola by bus
  • Dharapani to either Pokhara or Kathmandu by bus
  • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
  • Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
  • Certificate of achievement, if needed
  • Travel and rescue insurance (which is a must for doing an adventurous journey) covering both medical and emergency evacuation charge
  • On-Arrival Visa fees in Nepal
  • Gratuity (tips) for guide, porters and driver
  • Additional night accommodation and meals in Kathmandu due to early Nepal arrival, late departure and return without completing the trekking itinerary (your own reasons)
  • Altitude chamber or oxygen
  • Personal expenditure like phone calls, bar bills, battery recharging, extra porter, mineral and boiled water, shower, heater, laundry, etc.
  • Additional side trips or sightseeing tour
  • Air ticket fare to and from Nepal

Clients' Reviews

  • Guenther Steaehle
    Guenther Steaehle, Germany

    Manaslu Short Trek

    Me and my son did this Manaslu Short trekking in March of 2022 with Orbit Alpine Adventure. They have really very good knowledge about organizing this manalsu short trek. Orbit ...

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