Trip Overview
10-day Manaslu Circuit Trek for those fit and experienced trekkers seeking a life-changing trekking adventure in the Himalayas, Nepal, in the route of a naturally blessed and culturally unique area away from the congested. This is probably the shortest 10-day Manaslu Circuit Trek we offer for altitude trek seekers in Nepal. Even if this demanding adventure trek tests your physical endurance, hike 8 hours a day on a mountain trail without major problems. The hard work will be well worth it when you see the amazing view that lies ahead. Picture yourself encircled by soaring, snow-capped peaks, with 8,163-meter-tall Manaslu—the eighth-highest mountain in the world—rising above the clouds.
Top Highlights of the 10-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Restricted area and less touristic trekking route.
- Spectacular mountain views, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), one 8th highest peaks in the world.
- Trek through the thrilling Larke Pass ( 5160 m) that creates goosebumps in your skin.
- Explore and discover the historic and cultural Tibetan settlements on the way.
The 10-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is a multi-day hiking tour that is restricted but allowed entering only after attaining a restricted area trek permit through the Department of Immigration. There must be a minimum of two parties. Foreign trekkers must be accompanied by a registered local guide, arranged by a certified Nepali trekking agency. So this trek is regarded as being a "less touristic trekking route in a controlled area," which makes it a less traveled route than other well-known normal treks in Nepal. The area is categorized as a restricted area and requires specific permits for admission. Trekking was first permitted there in 1991.
This restricted access aids in preserving the trail's natural, unspoiled beauty. You can have a more tranquil and pleasant experience without the crowds that are usually present on other well-known treks because there are fewer trekkers on the path. Genuine cultural interactions with the Nubri and Tsum ethnic populations, who have managed to maintain their traditional ways of life, can be had via the Manaslu Trek.
Spectacular Mountain views, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), the 8th highest peaks in the world.
In this 10-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, you'll be astonished by seeing such towering, snowy peaks, including Mount Manaslu (8163 meters / 26775 feet), which is the eighth tallest mountain in the world. This 10-day walking tour encircles the mighty Mount Manaslu and the adventure ends at Besishahar, Kathmandu, followed by a day-long drive. You will feel as though you could touch mountains like Mt. Himalchuli (7,893 m), Mt. Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), and, of course, Mt. Manaslu itself. The mountain view from Larke Pass is the top highlight of the entire route.
Trek through the thrilling Larke Pass ( 5160 m) that gives one of the best altitude trek expereince.
Trek through the thrilling Larke Pass (5160 m) is adventurous and life-changing and it is regarded as a life-changing adrenaline hike. Larkya La Crossing is a magnificent mountain pass in Nepal's Manaslu region that is well-known for being both difficult and rewarding. At 5,160 meters (16,800 ft) above sea level, it provides stunning, all-encompassing vistas of snow-capped summits like Manaslu and Annapurnas. One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the pass, which puts hikers' physical and mental fortitude to the test.
It facilitates cultural contacts and provides insights into the local populations by acting as a cultural bridge between the Manaslu and Annapurna regions. It is necessary to navigate carefully over snowfields and rocky terrain on the ascent and descent. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, climbing atop Larkya La Pass is an experience of triumph and amazement, despite the hardships.
Explore and discover the historic and cultural Tibetan settlements on the way.
10 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is not just about the mountain but also a very unique cultural and historical discovery. Learn some important facts that will amaze your travel experience in Nepal. As we begin our walk at Machha Khola and finish the adventure at Besisahar,. You will find mixed ethnic groups and religious believers in low altitudes. Most are Hindus and Brahmins, with minor groups of low caste in the first two days. As our trek goes higher in Nupri also known as Kutang in the Manaslu area, we find people whose customs and traditions are very similar to Tibetan, as the area is close to Tibet. Since several centuries back; they have a strong bond with Tibetan Buddhist culture and way of life. There are centuries-old Buddhist monasteries and retreat centers along the route. You can meditate in some of those highly sacred sites to give your mind a calm and tranquil feeling. One will find many walls with prayers engraved on them and kani (Buddhist entrance gate) in every small village. You will reach Lho hamlet, an ancient Tibetan settlement, as a result of your trip, where the spirituality and extensive history of the area will captivate you. As a sign of respect and devotion, keep the shrine on the right side while passing, that brings us good fortune and positive vibes, generating compassion and loving-kindness within our hearts.
Geographical diversity and natural beauty in 10-day Manaslu Trek
The journey starts at a mere 700 meters, reaches 5160 meters Larke Pass and drops down to Besishahar at 760 meters. The vegetation ranges from subtropical plants to the alpine zone and reaches up to tundras at higher altitudes. Firstly; you'll travel alongside the trail that winds through the scenic Budhi Gandaki Valley, passing rivers, to arrive at the magical Pungen Glacier. The scenery is awe-inspiring, taking you through deep gorges, lush forests, terraced fields, and high alpine terrain with stunning views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The remote villages along the trail provide an intimate and genuine experience, as they are not heavily influenced by tourism. Likewise, all these factors combine to make the Manaslu Circuit Trek an off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for those seeking a unique and less touristy trekking experience in Nepal.
Is this trek for you?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately challenging trekking that involves long hours of continuous hiking, steep ascents and descents, and high altitudes. And you are out of your comfort zone but adventuring to enriched adventure trekking spirit. To prepare for the trek, it's important to engage in regular physical activity, such as cardio exercises and strength training, to build your stamina and endurance. This 10 days short version tour of usual 12 to 14 days traditional Manaslu Trek. If you are not sure of your confident tackling altitude sickness we strongly advise you to follow proper acclimatization protocol allowing a couple of days to rest and let your body to get adapted in the mountain environment to ensure your trek goes smoothly and well-enjoyed. Check our 14 days Manaslu trek
Brief itinerary
Day 01: Pick up from hotel in KTM and ride a public bus to Machh Khola (910 m) (8/9 h)
Day 02: Machha Khola to Jagat (1340 m) Trek. Walking distance: 6 to 7 hours.
Day 03: Jagat to Deng (2095 m) Trekking. Walking distance: 7 hours.
Day 04: Deng to Namrung (2900 m) Trekking. Walking distance: 8 hours.
Day 05: Namrung to Samagaun (3500 m) Trekking. Walking distance: 7 to 8 hours.
Day 06: Samagaun to Samdo (3690 m) Trekking. Walking distance: 4 hours.
Day 07: Samdo to Dharmasala (4600 m) Trekking. Walking distance: 4 to 5 hours.
Day 08: Cross the Larkya La Pass (5106 m), then trek to Bhimtang (3700 m) for 7 to 8 hours.
Day 09: Bimthang to Dharapani (1860 m)) trekking. Walking distance: 8 to 9 hours.
Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara via Besisahar (1350 m) for 9 to 10 hours.
