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Nepal Expedition: Manaslu Circuit Trek

Nepal Expedition: Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Nepal Expedition: Manaslu Circuit Trek

16 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu

Visiting: Kathmandu, Barpak, Gumda, Khorlabesi, Salleri, Deng, Namrung, Shyala, Samagaon, Samdo, Larke Phedi, Bimthang, Tilje, Dharapani to Kathmandu

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HNXM

Group size:

2 - 12

Physical rating:

High

Age range:

15-99 years

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Immerse yourself in the stillness of the Himalayas on a 16-day adventure along the Manalsu Circuit Trek. This quieter, less-travelled route takes you through blooming rhododendron forests, remote Buddhist monasteries and through the shadow of the world’s eight-highest mountain. Embark along a trail that follows the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing above its flowing waters by day and staying in teahouses by night, taking in the grandeur of the Himalayas as you reach altitudes of over 5000 m. With plenty of chances to spot the area’s protected wildlife and an experienced guide leading the way, this is a trek that must be seen to be believed.

Highlights

  • Reach an altitude of 5106 m as you cross the Larke Pass along the Manaslu Circuit. Testing your mind and body this is quite the accomplishment.

  • Pass through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to 11 types of forest and over 2000 species of plants, on a far less busy route than the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.

  • Get to know the unique culture of the small communities along the Nepali and Tibetan border, meeting locals and other trekkers in teahouses along the way, as you weave through the wildly rugged and less-explored landscape.

  • Discover Nepal’s compact capital in Kathmandu. With a limited amount of time spent here to discover its bazaars and temples, why not extend your stay beforehand to get a real feel of Nepalese culture?

  • Be accompanied by an experienced trek leader along with assistant guides and porters, who will not only give you all the support and guidance you need along the way, but also introduce you to the rich local Sherpa culture.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Seven Women. Donations help them empower marginalised women in Nepal by providing cooking lessons, skills training and educational classes.

  • Be accompanied by an experienced trek leader along with assistant guides and porters, who will not only give you all the support and guidance you need along the way, but also introduce you to the rich local culture.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Sagarmatha Next. Donations help them remove waste responsibly and turn rubbish into art in the Everest region.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel Moonlight

Namaste! Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal’s colourful capital. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm where you'll meet your leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life, and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu’s fine Nepali restaurants.

Day 2: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel Moonlight

Get your bearings in Nepal as you embark on a full day of sightseeing. Start by exploring Bhaktapur's famous temples, starting at Durbar Square – said to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal, home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. Then visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here, you'll see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. Finally, take in the sight of Bodhnath Stupa – one of the most significant Buddhist shrines in the world – where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. The evening is yours to explore the city as you wish.

Included Activities:
-Bhaktapur - Walking tour

Day 3: Barpak

Location: Barpak

Today you'll leave your hotel early and hit the road to Barpak. Needless to say, you should arm yourself with your favourite book or music for the journey! When you arrive, you can stretch your legs with a walk around the hilltop village. Located in the Gorkha district of Nepal, almost every household has a connection to the legendary Gorkha army units. Settle into your accommodation, which from here on will be small, basic teahouses. These cosy, remote houses are operated by the mountain Nepalese to cater for trekkers and offer simple yet filling and delicious meals to sustain your efforts.

Day 4: Gumda

Location: Gumda

Get excited for your first day of trekking! Say farewell to Barpak as you begin walking east to Gumda. Pass through rhododendron forest on your way to a viewpoint looking back over Barpak, and take in the incredible sights of the Ganesh Himal Range and Buddha Himal. Then, continue to your Gumda teahouse.

Included Activities:
-Manalsu Circuit – 12D/11N Trek
-Manalsu Circuit – Porterage of One Bag (10kg/22lbs max)

Day 5: Khorlabesi

Location: Khorlabesi

This morning, you’ll pass through small villages like Yamgaun and Lapsibot, before meeting the classic Manaslu route in Machhakhola. A long descent will take you to Khorlabesi, where you'll stay for the night.

Day 6: Salleri

Location: Salleri

Today’s trek continues along the Budhi Gandaki River, visiting Tatopani (where a dip in a natural hot spring can provide a refreshing break) before ending in Salleri.

Day 7: Deng

Location: Deng

Begin your day with a descent to the valley floor, before making your way to the Ghatta Khola River. Cross over a long suspension bridge to Philim village, where you’ll pause for a spot of lunch. After, head to the grassy slopes of a gorge before crossing back over the Budhi Gandaki River. Follow the river‘s west bank, then head over to the east side, then back over to the west side before passing through bamboo forests. A final river crossing will then see you to Deng, where you’ll be staying for the night.

Day 8: Namrung

Location: Namrung

Depart Deng, you’ll again cross the Budhi Gandaki River before the trail takes you through dense forest. Rejoin the river and continue following it upstream, crisscrossing the flowing waters on suspension bridges. Your destination today is Namrung village, where you can explore or visit the local monastery.

Day 9: Shyala

Location: Shyala

Leaving Namrung’s views of Ganesh Himal and Mount Himal Chuli behind, pass through forests before reaching the village of Lihi. Admire the barley terraces, then continue to the villages of Sho and Lho. At Lho, (on a clear day) there will be rewarding views of Manaslu, and you’ll also have the chance to explore Ribung Gompa – a major Buddhist monastery. Finally, make your way to Shyala. Settle into tonight’s teahouse as you take in the sights of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Manaslu and large glaciers.

Day 10: Samagaon

Location: Samagaon

One of the best ways to acclimatise today is to walk up to a high-altitude point, and then come back down to sleep. Remember, it doesn't matter how fit you are, anyone can be affected by the altitude! An acclimatisation walk is on today’s agenda, as you’ll walk to Pung Gyen Gompa. The monastery lies on a beautiful green plateau with wide-ranging mountain views. Then, head down from that highpoint to Samagaon for that all-important sleep.

Day 11: Samdo

Location: Samdo

From Samagaon, take a short hike to the turquoise waters of Birendra Lake. Find the Budhi Gandaki and again follow it upstream through juniper and birch forests. Cross the river on a wooden bridge, tackling a steep climb until you reach a stone archway. Then, continue walking to the village of Samdo.

Day 12: Larke Phedi

Location: Larke Phedi

Enjoy a short and easy trek today to Larke Phedi, also known as Dharmashala. Start with a descent back to the Budhi Gandaki River, cross over a few streams within sight of the Larkya Glacier, then ascend again to Larke Phedi/Dharmashala.

Day 13: Bimthang

Location: Bimthang

While today is the longest trek of the trip, it’s a high point for many travellers! Set out from Larke Phedi/Dharmashala very early to cross the Larke Pass (5106 m) and start a short climb to the north side of Larkya Glacier, continuing to ascend as you walk along the glacier. You’ll have commanding views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II in the distance, then a descent will take you to Bimthang with Manaslu towering in the background.

Day 14: Tilje

Location: Tilje

Begin your descent along the trail and over the Dudh Khola River, then enjoy a gentle walk through dense rhododendron forest. Climb over a ridge, then head back to the riverbank and pass through the beautiful village of Gowa. Then, continue to your teahouse in Tilje for the night.

Day 15: Dharapani To Kathmandu

Location: Dharapani to Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel Moonlight

After a short morning walk to Dharapani, hop into your private vehicle for the drive back to Kathmandu. It’ll be a long journey, giving you plenty of time to rest tired legs or take a well-deserved nap! Once back in Kathmandu, enjoy a final night together reliving the trek and your extraordinary achievements. Why not head out to dinner and find your find your favourite drink to cheers with?

Day 16: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

With no further activities planned, your trip ends this morning. There's plenty more to see in Kathmandu for those who wish to stay, just speak to your booking agent. If you do, you might like to check out an Urban Adventures tour, like the Rickshaw Night Explorer.

Optional Activities:
-Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure
-Kathmandu - Rickshaw Night Explorer Urban Adventure
-Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure
-Kathmandu - Home Cooking Class Urban Adventure

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (3 nights), Teahouse (12 nights)

  • Bhaktapur - Walking tour

  • Meals

  • Manalsu Circuit – 12D/11N Trek

  • Manalsu Circuit – Porterage of One Bag (10kg/22lbs max)

Transport

  • LUGGAGE LIMITS:
  • Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits - 10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged at your own expense.
  • TRAVEL BETWEEN KATHMANDU & POKHARA:
  • On itineraries that include road travel between these destinations, past travellers have often decided to fly this route independently to avoid the long overland journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35mins. Should you decide to fly, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for road travel available.
  • ROAD TRAVEL:
  • Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
  • MONSOON:
  • The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.

Accommodation

  • TEAHOUSES:
  • Accommodation at local lodges - better known as teahouses - are simple but comfortable. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and rudimentary, and the food is plain and filling. In a teahouse, travellers are provided with small twin share rooms with twin beds, mattresses and pillows. At times, in high seasons, and in places where there are limited number of teahouses, travellers may have to make do with dormitories. In some places, teahouses don't have access to electricity, depending on solar powered lighting instead. In more remote regions, teahouses don't have running water and toilets can mean just a hole in the ground. Hot shower facilities are available in some teahouses for a price but occasionally a hot shower means a bucket of hot water, enough to wash your body. Electricity to charge devices as well as WiFi is usually for an additional fee when available.

Important Information

  • 1. This trip starts in Kathmandu on Day 1 at 2 pm. This allows time after the joining meeting to explore Kathmandu.
  • 2. Due to the demands of travelling at high altitudes a Passenger Self Assessment Form is required for this trip. You will be trekking on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths, walking anywhere between 2–7 hours per day, on average about 5 hours a day. Altitude may exceed 5545 metres.
  • 3. The minimum age for this trip is 15 at time of travel.
  • 4. Please note that while we endeavour to assist all our clients in achieving their goals, there may be times your leader makes the decision to either delay or stop your ascent based on your medical conditions and AMS symptoms.
  • 5. You may be asked to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit.
  • 6. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement will only be included on Days 1,15 (Hotel) and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 7. This trip requires at least 2 travellers booked per departure date in order to obtain trekking permits. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Mode of Transport

  • LUGGAGE LIMITS:
  • Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits - 10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged at your own expense.
  • TRAVEL BETWEEN KATHMANDU & POKHARA:
  • On itineraries that include road travel between these destinations, past travellers have often decided to fly this route independently to avoid the long overland journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35mins. Should you decide to fly, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for road travel available.
  • ROAD TRAVEL:
  • Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
  • MONSOON:
  • The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    There are 13 days of strenuous trekking on this trip. You’ll be trekking up to 8 hours a day and at altitudes over 5000 m at times, so you need to be aware of altitude sickness. Visit intrepidtravel.com/altitude-sickness for more information.

    What you need to take will vary depending on the season you are trekking in and it’s important to be prepared. See some tips for what to pack here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/packing-guide-for-trekking-in-nepal

    It’s very important it is to be in excellent fitness and health, which means training in the lead up to your trip in order to be best prepared.

    The trekking lodges, known as teahouses, that you stay in on the trek are very simple with only basic facilities. Hot water may not always be available and may cost extra, as will access to electricity points for charging devices. Wifi is available at some locations, but connections may be poor.

    Due to the nature of outdoor travel, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in high risk weather conditions.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

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    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

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