Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to rest from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a bustling tourist hub filled with cafes, shops, and local eateries. In the evening, you will meet your guide for a trek briefing and gear check to ensure everything is ready. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions about the adventure ahead and enjoy a traditional welcome dinner, setting the tone for the exciting journey around the Manaslu Circuit.
Your journey begins early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The road winds through picturesque countryside, terraced fields, and along the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki Rivers. You’ll pass through bustling towns like Dhading and Arughat before the road turns rugged and remote. The last stretch of the drive is on a dirt road, offering your first glimpse of rural Nepal. You’ll reach Machha Khola, a small village nestled beside the river, in the evening. Overnight in a teahouse, listening to the gentle flow of the river and preparing for the trek that begins the next day.
Today, your trek officially begins as you follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. The trail includes several ups and downs, narrow ridges, and thrilling suspension bridges. You’ll pass through Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where you can enjoy natural hot springs. After crossing a steel bridge and climbing a ridge, you’ll reach the charming village of Jagat. This village marks the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Here, you’ll register your permits and take in the stone-paved lanes and traditional Gurung architecture. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you gain elevation and get closer to the Himalayas.
Leaving Jagat, the trail ascends through lush forests and small settlements. You'll cross a series of suspension bridges and pass through Salleri and Philim, an ethnically diverse village with a Buddhist influence. The gorge narrows, and waterfalls cascade along the trail. Enjoy panoramic views of distant snow-capped peaks as you walk through bamboo forests. The path becomes more remote and peaceful as you near Deng, a small hamlet perched on a hillside. Deng marks the start of the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley and introduces Tibetan-style culture, which becomes more prominent as you ascend further into the region.
Today's journey takes you deeper into the mountains as the landscape and culture start to change. You’ll climb steadily through forests of pine and fir, crossing wooden bridges and walking through villages like Rana and Bhi. Mani walls and chortens begin to appear, signaling the strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. The trail offers splendid views of the Shringi Himal. Upon arrival in Namrung, you'll be greeted by stone houses, fertile fields, and a stunning Himalayan backdrop. Namrung is an ideal place to observe traditional Tibetan customs and enjoy the hospitality of the local people in a quiet, beautiful setting.
Start your day with a gradual climb through picturesque alpine forests and quaint villages like Lihi and Lho, where you’ll encounter intricately carved mani stones and towering prayer wheels. The trail rewards you with panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163m) and other nearby peaks. After crossing the Sho and Shyala villages, you’ll finally reach the expansive Samagaun valley. This is one of the larger settlements in the region, with rows of stone houses and yak pastures surrounded by towering mountains. In the evening, explore the village and visit the ancient monastery, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Himalayas.
Today’s hike is relatively short, allowing you to acclimatize to the higher elevation. Leaving Samagaun, the trail ascends gently through yak pastures and alpine landscapes. The valley opens wide with stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu and its glaciers. After a peaceful walk along the river, you'll arrive in Samdo, a beautiful village just a few kilometers from the Tibetan border. This is the highest permanent settlement in the region, and it’s a great place to learn about traditional mountain life. Spend the afternoon exploring the village or hiking to a nearby viewpoint for better acclimatization.
Today, the trail becomes more rugged and remote as you head toward the base of the Larkya La Pass. The path gradually ascends through desolate landscapes with sparse vegetation and occasional herds of blue sheep. You'll pass the remnants of old market trails used for trade with Tibet. Upon reaching Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, you’ll find a basic but welcoming shelter for trekkers. This area lies at the foot of the Larkya La Pass, and resting here is crucial before the challenging pass crossing. The air is thin, so stay warm, hydrated, and get a good night's rest.
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You’ll begin the climb before sunrise to avoid strong winds and afternoon weather. The ascent to Larkya La is gradual but demanding due to the altitude. Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and the Manaslu range. After soaking in the panoramic vistas, descend steeply to Bimthang through a beautiful moraine valley. The scenery transitions from barren highlands to lush meadows surrounded by snow peaks. Bimthang is a serene place to relax after an epic and unforgettable day.
The trail descends steeply through alpine forests and pastures, passing through settlements like Yak Kharka and Karche. You’ll walk along the Dudh Khola, crossing lush rhododendron forests and witnessing the rapid change in vegetation as you lose altitude. Enjoy views of Mount Manaslu from a new angle as you approach Tilje village, a vibrant Gurung settlement. After crossing a suspension bridge, you’ll reach Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit joins the popular Annapurna Circuit trail. This is your final trekking night, and it's a great time to reflect on your journey and celebrate with your trekking team.
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Kathmandu. The road to Besisahar is rough and adventurous, passing waterfalls, steep cliffs, and hillside villages. From Besisahar, the road improves, and you’ll journey along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers with views of rice terraces and green hills. After a long but scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a hot shower and some leisure time. In the evening, join your team and guides for a farewell dinner hosted by Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions, celebrating the successful completion of your Manaslu Circuit adventure.
After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. As you leave Nepal with memories of high mountain passes, remote villages, and breathtaking landscapes, we hope your journey with Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions was unforgettable. If you have extra time, we’re happy to help arrange additional adventures, sightseeing, or cultural tours. Until next time—safe travels and Namaste!
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning high-altitude journey around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). This 12-day trek with Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions offers a remote, less-crowded alternative to the Annapurna and Everest regions. With a maximum elevation of 5,106m at Larkya La Pass, the trek is moderately to strenuously difficult, suitable for those with good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience at altitude. The route takes you through deep river gorges, remote villages, Buddhist monasteries, and high alpine scenery.
Yes, all necessary trekking permits are included in the package. The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so you'll need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions takes care of all these arrangements on your behalf.
During the trek, accommodation is in local tea houses—basic yet comfortable lodges offering twin-sharing rooms. Meals typically include traditional Nepali dal bhat, Tibetan bread, pasta, soups, rice, vegetables, and occasional Western dishes. In Kathmandu, you'll stay in a well-appointed 3-star hotel. The company ensures hygienic food, warm hospitality, and cozy rest stops throughout the journey.
To fully enjoy and safely complete the Manaslu Circuit, it's recommended to start training at least 4–6 weeks prior. Cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or swimming, combined with strength training and endurance workouts, can help. Also, practice walking with a daypack. Mental preparation is equally important as the trek includes long days, high altitude, and limited connectivity. The company provides pre-trip guidance to ensure you are ready.
Yes, altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 meters. The itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization days and gradual altitude gain to minimize this risk. Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions' experienced guides are trained in first aid and altitude-related illness management. In severe cases, evacuation is arranged promptly. Drinking plenty of water, walking slowly, and avoiding alcohol will also help.
The package includes:
Airport transfers
2 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu (with breakfast)
All ground transportation
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and accommodation during the trek
Licensed English-speaking guide and porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
All permits (RAP, ACAP, MCAP)
First aid kit and safety gear
Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions welcome/farewell dinner
Government taxes and official service charges
Flights, insurance, personal expenses, tips, and emergency evacuation (if needed) are not included.
The two best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. Winter can be extremely cold and the pass may be closed due to snow, while the monsoon season (June–August) brings heavy rain and landslides.
Safety is a top priority for Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions. The guides are certified, carry communication devices, and monitor your health daily. However, comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking up to 6,000 meters, medical emergencies, and evacuation is mandatory. This ensures quick helicopter rescue or treatment if required.
Due to the restricted nature of the Manaslu region, solo trekking is not allowed. You must be accompanied by a licensed guide and at least one other registered trekker. Hidden Path Treks can pair you with another traveler or arrange a private group. The itinerary can be customized for extra rest days, cultural experiences, or extending the trek into the Annapurna Circuit.
