Trip Highlights
- Extraordinary visit to the base camp of the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters)
- Traverse the remote villages of the Manaslu region of Nepal
- Reach and cross the highest point of the region, Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,160 meters
- Witness high mountains like Mount Manaslu, Annapurna, Larkya, Himlung, Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal, Himal Chuli, Shringi Himal, Nirekha, Saula, Panbari, Khayang, and many more
- Encounter with Gurungs and Nepali-Tibetan people and get to know about them
- Trekking through the restricted areas of Nepal
- Trail passing through the forests, monasteries, suspension bridges, rivers, streams, cascades, gorges, and settlement areas of local inhabitants
- Enjoy a bath at a natural hot spring, Tato Pani
Manaslu Trek Overview
Manaslu Trek is also the challenging yet satisfactory journey towards the base camp of the eighth highest mountain of the world, Mount Manaslu. It is also regarded as the trek under off-the-beat journey along the remote Himalayas of western Nepal. It is one of the nearest trekking trails from Capital. Trek to Manaslu base camp also offers a much pristine view of high mountains, an encounter with Nepali-Tibetan cultures, and exploration around the Tibet border alongside diverse geographical topography. During summer season, Manaslu Trek is an excellent option as mention in best trekking seasons
The major highlights of the Manaslu base camp trek are also reaching the base camp of Manaslu marked by the summit expeditors, crossing a pass, Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,160 meters above sea level, and also enjoying a hot sauna bath at a natural hot spring, Tato Pani. Likewise, the chance to witness sky-touching mountains such as Mount Manaslu, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Larkya, Buddha Himal, Shringi Himal, Himal Chuli, etc. from close. It is also the mesmerizing factor of this trekking.
17 days of Manaslu base camp trek facts
- Trekking destination: Manaslu region, Nepal
- Meaning of the mountain: Manaslu - “Mountain of the Spirit”
- Trip starting point: Kathmandu
- Trip ending point: Kathmandu
- Trek starting point: Arughat
- Trek ending point: Bhulbhule
- Total trekking time per day: 2 to 8 hours (as per itinerary)
- Maximum altitude: 5,160 meters (Larkya La Pass)
- Trip grade: Moderate to challenging
- Group size: Minimum of 2 persons in a group
Manaslu base camp trekking route
Manaslu base camp trekking starts and ends in Kathmandu. Here is a short description of the trail route you will follow along with the time taken to complete the distance by walking or road transport.
- Kathmandu to Arughat: Around 4.5 hours (by road)
- Arughat to Soti Khola: Around 5 hours
- Soti Khola to Machha Khola (River): Around 5 hours
- Machha Khola to Jagat: Around 6 hours
- Jagat to Deng: Around 6 hours
- Trek From Deng to Namrung: Around 6 hours
- Namrung to Lho Gaon: Around 4 hours
- Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon: Around 2 hours
- Sama Gaon to Samdo: Around 4 hours
- Samdo to Dharmasala: Around 4 to 5 hours
- Dharmasala to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass: Around 7 to 8 hours
- Bhimtang to Goa: Around 5 hours
- Goa to Tal: Around 4 to 5 hours
- Tal to Ghermu Phant: Around 3 to 4 hours
- Ghermu Phant to Bhulbhule: Around 3 hours
- Bhulbhule to Besisahar: Around 50 minutes (by road)
- Besisahar to Kathmandu: Around 5 to 6 hours
These are only the estimated time, as the time may vary as per the walking pace and endurance level of the traveler.
How does the Manaslu base camp trek operate?
Manaslu base camp trek operates with a minimum of 2 persons in a group. It is because, the permit - Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit, is issued for the travelers only if they are dual on one trip. Looking over the route, you will start the trip from a minimum height of 1400 meters (Kathmandu) exceed to 5160 meters (Larkya La Pass) above sea level. In route, you will also go through the places like Arughat, Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho Gaon, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Dharmasala, Bhimtang, Goa, Tal, Ghermu Phant, Bhulbhule, and Besisahar. All these day-to-day destinations will be accomplished via walking and road drives.
In the first place, it is an adventurous venture towards one of the remotest points of Nepal. One can complete the trek within around 17 days. It also includes the days of acclimatization and encounters with various natural and artistic attractions. Join us for the trek to the base of the eighth highest mountain in the world with minimum cost and a modifiable itinerary.
Manaslu trek Difficulty:
The Manaslu trek is challenging. The terrain is steep and rugged. The trekking route is isolated. It is suggested to summit this trek before Everest Base camp trek for familiarity. Everyday walking is a minimum of 5 to 6 hours. With the increase in altitude, you will see different weather and climates. Both physical and mental fitness are required if you want to do this trek.
Along the Manaslu trek route, you will encounter numerous rocky and slippery tracks. The facilities along the trail are also limited. Trekkers have to adjust a lot. Overall, the journey is very adventurous. If you are well prepared and supported, you will highly enjoy the Manaslu trekking in Nepal.
How to avoid altitude sickness during the Manaslu trek?
Trekkers usually suffer from altitude sickness during trekking in the Himalayas because of high elevation and thin air. It is quite common, and you can take care of the symptoms without any worry as well. Moreover, the risks of altitude sickness following our trek itinerary are also very low because we have a rest day.
- Symptoms: These are some of the symptoms of altitude sickness- headache, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, vomiting, nausea, etc. If you get any of these symptoms, inform your guide and follow his first aid instructions.
- Preventive measures: To prevent altitude sickness, you have to drink at least 2 liters of water every day, take plenty of rest, maintain your pace, get good sleep, and have nutritious food. Also, stay away from alcohol or smoke during trekking, as it will dehydrate your body and increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Accommodation:
- Type: The lodgings along the trek are basic tea houses, primarily located in the major villages.
- Facilities: Rooms are simple and generally shared with other trekkers. Expect shared washrooms.
- Extras: Amenities such as single rooms, charging facilities, WiFi, hot showers, and drinking water are available but usually come at an additional cost.
- Water: Free tap water is available, but it’s safer to purchase boiled water for drinking to avoid any health issues.
Food:
- Breakfast: Typical offerings include toast, eggs, muesli, oats, pancakes, Tibetan bread, chapati, and soup.
- Lunch and Dinner: Expect a variety of local dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), thukpa (noodle soup), momo (dumplings), curries, roti, sandwiches, and noodles. Some tea houses also offer pies, rice pudding, pastries, and other bakery items.
- Boiled Water: Available in all lodges, and it’s the recommended option for safe drinking water.
Trip Outline
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat
Day 02: Arughat to Soti Khola
Day 03: Trek From Soti Khola to Machha Khola (River)
Day 04: Trek From Machha Khola to Jagat
Day 05: Trek From Jagat to Deng
Day 06: Trek From Deng to Namrung
Day 07: Trek From Namrung to Lho Gaon
Day 08: Trek From Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon
Day 09: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
Day 10: Trek From Sama Gaon to Samdo
Day 11: Trek From Samdo to Dharmasala
Day 12: Dharmasala-Cross Larkya La Pass and trek to Bhimtang
Day 13: Trek From Bhimtang to Goa
Day 14: Trek From Goa to Tal
Day 15: Trek From Tal to Ghermu Phant
Day 16: Trek From Ghermu Phant to Bhulbhule and drive to Besisahar
Day 17: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat
Today, the Manaslu base camp trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu. It takes around 4.5 hours to reach Arughat from Kathmandu via Prithvi Highway. On this day, you will have breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu, lunch on the way, and dinner at the hotel in Arughat. Stay overnight at a hotel in Arughat.
The actual trekking begins today with an early morning breakfast. You will walk through valleys of lush green forest, paddy and rice fields, different local settlements, rivers, and so on. You will trace the corridor of Budi Gandaki river, and with slight up and downhill climbs, you will reach the destination of the day. It will take around 5 hours to complete the distance of the day.
Note: You can also drive directly to Soti Khola from Kathmandu, and save one acclimatization day for the trek. It will take around 8 hours drive to reach Soti Khola from Kathmandu.
Day 03: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (River)
On this day, you will head towards Machha Khola from Soti Khola. The walking distance between these places is around 24 kilometers and it will take around 5 hours to complete the trekking trail of the day. En route, you will be strolling through a lush forest of Sal, ridges, rivers, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and so on. You will pass along the places like Khursane, Lapubesi (one of the Gurung villages), Naulikhola, and finally reach the destination of the day.
Day 04: Trek From Machha Khola to Jagat
Jagat village is the entry checkpoint for Manaslu Conservation Area. It is about 23 kilometers away from Machha Khola and will take around 6 hours to complete the distance. Trekking on this day is quite challenging as you will be moving through steep uphill and downhill trails. En route, you will cross the points like Tharokhola (river), Khorla Besi (another Gurung village in the region), Tatopani, Budi Gandaki River, Doban, Thado Bharyang, and finally, reach Jagat. The major attractions of the day remain crossing rivers from suspension bridges, lush forests, village settlements, natural hot-spring, staircases and stone-paved ways, and so on.
Day 05: Trek From Jagat to Deng
Deng is around 21 kilometers away from Jagat and it will take around 6 hours to complete the walking distance of the day. En route, you will pass through the points like Sirdibas, Ghatta Khola, Phillim (another Gurung village in the region with a huge number of settling locales), Ekle Bhatti, Budi Gandaki bridge, and Deng Khola (River). Just after crossing the Deng river, you will reach Den village. Stay overnight at a local tea house in Deng.
Day 06: Trek From Deng to Namrung
Namrung is around 20 kilometers away from Deng and will take around 6 hours of walking to complete the distance. On the route, you will pass through the villages named Ghap, Pork (this village is known as the viewpoint for Siring mountain), and finally reach Namrung. The major attractions of the day remain upstream, steep uphill climb, forests of bamboo, Budhi Gandaki river, and so on. Stay overnight at a tea house in Namrung.
Day 07: Trek From Namrung to Lho Gaon
Lho gaon is around 11 kilometers away from Namrung and will take around 4 hours of walking to complete the distance. Lho is one of the biggest settlement areas in the region and accommodates a number of tea houses and is a center for monasteries too. On the way, you will cross the points like Budhi Gandaki River, Lhi village (this village is popular for barley fields, stone arch, and Chortens), Simnag, Sho, and finally, reach Lho Gaon (village). Upon arrival at Lho village, you can explore and around the monastery as well. Stay overnight at a local tea house.
Day 08: Trek From Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon
Samagaon is about 17.51 kilometers away from Lho and it will take around 2 hours of walking to complete the distance. You will start the hike of the day after breakfast. On the way, you will cross Shyala village. Trek on this day will be filled with the sight of majestic mountains, ridges, monasteries, Chortens, rivers (formed from Pungyen glacier), and more. You will also encounter the locals of Nepali-Tibetan culture and tradition and will have the opportunity to interact with them. Upon arrival at Samagaon, you can wander around Pungyen monastery and glacier lake - Birendra Taal (lake) with a few hours of walking. Stay overnight at the local teahouse.
Day 09: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
Today is the rest day and only rest/acclimatization day of this trekking journey to Manaslu base camp. On this day, you will walk towards the base camp and return to Sama Gaon and stay overnight. It will take around 2 hours to complete the distance between Sama Gaon and the base camp (one way). Enjoy the vista of mystic mountain peaks and ranges throughout the day including Manaslu Himal (8153m), Himal Chuli (7893m), Ganesh Himal (7319m), and Shringi Himal (7187m). Stay overnight at the local tea house in Sama Gaon.
Day 10: Trek From Sama Gaon to Samdo
Samdo is a village of Tibetan refugees that is around 16.6 kilometers away from Sama Gaon and it will take around 4 hours of walking to complete the distance. En route, you will pass through the suspension bridges, forests of birch and juniper, rivers, tea houses, and different settlement areas. Likewise, you will be accompanied by the skyscraping mountains including Mt. Manaslu and many more. Stay overnight at a tea house in Samdo.
Day 11: Trek From Samdo to Dharmasala
Today, you will start the trek after early morning breakfast. Dharmasala is around 11.7 kilometers away from Samdo and it will take around 4 to 5 hours of walk to complete the distance. On the way, you will pass a marketplace called Larke Bazaar - a seasonal Tibetan market in the area. Walking on the side of mighty streams and the slight ascent from Budhi Gandaki will take you to Dharmasala via Sumdu village. Upon arrival at the destination of the day, stay overnight at a local tea house.
Day 12: Dharmasala-Cross Larkya La Pass and trek to Bhimtang
Today, you will cross the Larkya La Pass (5106 meters above sea level), and trek towards Bhimtang. The distance between Dharmasala and Bhimtang is around 24.7 kilometers and it will take around 7 to 8 hours of walking to complete the trek of the day. Throughout the trail, you will witness the sight of high mountains such as Manaslu, Himlung, Buddha Himal, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, and more. Also, you will encounter the exotic Himalayan landscape, valleys, clusters of settlement areas, glacier lakes, rivers, diverse flora and fauna, etc. Stay overnight at a local tea house in Bhimtang.
Day 13: Trek From Bhimtang to Goa
After the morning rituals and breakfast, you will start your trek of the day towards Goa. It will take around 5 hours to complete the journey of the day. With the sight of high mountains like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna II, etc, you will walk through the forest of rhododendron, pine, and oak, diverse flora, and fauna, stunning waterfalls, cascades, rivers, suspension bridges, etc. Upon arrival, spend the rest of the day and night at a tea house in Goa.
Tal is around 15 kilometers away from Goa, and it will take around 4 to 5 hours to accomplish the destination of the day. On the route, you will pass through the suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi River and Marshyangdi River, Various Mani walls, and settlement areas. Stay overnight at a local tea house in Tal.
Day 15: Trek From Tal to Ghermu Phant
Ghermu Phant is around 14.4 kilometers away from Tal. It will take around 3 to 4 hours to cover the distance between these two places. Similarly, you can skip the trekking of this route and catch a vehicle. It will take around 55 minutes to complete the distance by road drive. En route, you will be accompanied by different mountain peaks and ranges of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain chains. Stay overnight at a local tea house at Ghermi Phant.
Day 16: Trek From Ghermu Phant to Bhulbhule and drive to Besisahar
This is the last day of trekking, as you will be trekking towards Bulbule and taking a road drive to Besisahar. On the first phase of the day, you will pass through the suspension bridge (over Marshyangdi River), Bahundanda, Nagdi village, and finally walk towards the paddy fields of Bhulbhule. It will take around 3 hours to complete the walking distance of 13.9 kilometers. You can also take a vehicle to complete the distance, as it will take around 1 hour only.
From Bhulbhule, you will drive towards Besisahar which will take around only 50 minutes to reach the destination.
Day 17: Drive back to Kathmandu
Today is the last day of 17 days long Manaslu base camp trekking. You will drive back to Kathmandu in a public vehicle. It will take around 5 to 6 hours to reach Kathmandu from Besisahar. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a hotel where you can freshen up and take a rest for the day.
What's included?
- Pick up from and drop off at the airport upon arrival and departure from Nepal
- Manaslu Special Restricted Area Permit (a minimum of 2 people in the group is required)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project ( MCAP Permit)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems)
- Road transportation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Full board (BLD) and accommodation on a twin-sharing basis during the trek
- Experienced, licensed, and dedicated trek guides, porters, and drivers
- First aid kit
What's not included?
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Any kinds of meal not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any charges for extra facilities like hot shower, internet, hot water, alcohol, etc
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
- Any kinds of changes/modifications in an itinerary
Essential Information
Manaslu Trek Packing List
Follow the below packing list for the Manaslu trek. You have the option to buy or rent all trekking clothes and equipment in Kathmandu at a fraction of the cost. So, do consider before you purchase and bring it from your country.
Head & Hand
- Wind Stopper Fleece Gloves: For warmth in cold weather.
- Sun Cap: To protect your face from the sun.
- Wool/Fleece Hat: Essential for warmth at higher altitudes.
- Neck Gaiter/High Neck: For extra warmth and protection against wind.
Upper Body
- Short-Sleeved Shirts/T-shirts: Lightweight and breathable for daytime trekking.
- Lightweight Top/Thermo Coat: To layer under your outer jackets.
- Synthetic or Fleece Jacket: For insulation and warmth.
- Down Insulated Jacket: Essential for very cold temperatures.
Lower Body
- Underwear: Comfortable and moisture-wicking.
- Lightweight Long Underpants: For layering in colder weather.
- Insulated Trekking Pants: For warmth and protection.
- Trekking Socks: Moisture-wicking and cushioned.
- Trekking Boots: Durable, waterproof, and well-broken-in.
Technical Gears
- Sleeping Bag: Rated -30°C to -40°C to ensure warmth at higher altitudes.
- Sunglasses with UV Protection: To protect your eyes from the sun and glare.
- Extendable Trekking Poles (BD Alpine Flz): For stability and support on rugged terrain.
Toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+): High protection for your skin.
- Lips Guard (SPF 20/50): To prevent chapped lips.
- Baby Wipes or Wet Towels: For cleaning up on the go.
- Hand Sanitizers and Hand Wash: To maintain hygiene.
- Wet Tissues: For quick clean-ups.
- Toothpaste and Toothbrush: Personal dental hygiene.
- Bath Soap and Shampoo: Travel-sized, eco-friendly options are best.
- Moisturizers: To combat dry skin from the cold and altitude.
- Laundry Soap: For washing clothes.
- Garbage Bag: To keep your waste contained.
Miscellaneous
- Swiss Knife (optional): For various uses, though it’s optional.
- Water Purification Tablets: To ensure safe drinking water.
- Sandals: For comfort at the lodges and river crossings.
- Rucksack (45-55 Ltr.): For carrying your gear during the trek.
- Duffel Bag: Provided by the trek organizers for porters to carry.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Hydration on the go.
- Umbrella/Raincoat: For unexpected weather.
- Spare Batteries: For electronic devices.
- Waterproof Stuff Sacks: To keep gear dry.
- Solar Chargeable Power Bank (optional): For charging electronic devices.
- Journal/Pen: To document your trek.
- Book/Board Game: For leisure time.
- Bars & Snacks: High-energy food for the trail.
Travel Documents
- Valid Passport: Ensure it’s up to date.
- Valid Visa: Required for entry into Nepal.
- 4 Passport-Sized Photos: For permits and documentation.
- Insurance Paper (Medical & Rescue) & Contact Address: Essential for emergency situations.
- Family/Company Contact Number & Address: For emergency communication.
- Credit Card: For any additional expenses.
First Aid
- Handy Plaster: For minor cuts and blisters.
- Crack Bandage: For larger injuries.
- Tincture, Iodine, Strepsils: For antiseptic and throat care.
- Antibiotic: For treating infections.
- Paracetamol, Aspirin, Sinex, Anti-Diarrhea Capsule/Eldoper, Brufen/Ibuprofen, Diamox: For pain relief, altitude sickness, and other common ailments.
- Any Personal Medicine: Any specific medications you require.
- Eye Drops: For dry or irritated eyes.
- Zip-Lock Bags: For keeping medical supplies and small items organized.
FAQ for Manaslu base camp trek
What is the highest altitude that we reach during the Manaslu base camp trek?
The highest altitude that you reach during the Manaslu base camp trek is 5,160 meters (Larkya La Pass).
What is the height of Mount Manaslu and Manaslu base camp?
The height of Mount Manaslu is 8,163 meters (the eighth highest mountain in the world) and the height of Mount Manaslu base camp is 4,800 meters.
What are the best months for Manaslu base camp trekking?
The best months for Manaslu base camp trekking are March, April, May, September, October, November, and mid-December. Yet, peak time is marked as October, as the trail remains less difficult to conquer.
Can I have altitude sickness during the trek to Manaslu base camp?
Indeed. There is a chance that you can have altitude sickness during the trek to Manaslu base camp. It is because altitude sickness occurs due to the presence of lesser air at high altitudes beginning from 3,000 meters, and the maximum altitude that we reach during this trail is 5,160 meters (Larkya La Pass). If you feel any discomfort in breathing or have symptoms like fatigue, nausea, breath shortness, or lesser appetite, consult with your guide, and s/he will take an action appropriate for you.
The trail goes near the border of Tibet. So, I can go to Tibet during trekking?
No, you cannot go to Tibet during trekking. Rather, the border is nearer to Samdo, so, you can have a hike and get a sneaky peek from a distance.
