All treksManaslu region

Manaslu Circuit Trek

A remote-feeling circuit around Manaslu with Tibetan-influenced villages and the Larkya La crossing.

Duration

15 days

Difficulty

Challenging

Max altitude

5,106 m at Larkya La

Best months

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Route overview

Manaslu Circuit is a demanding trek with a strong expedition feel. The route follows the Budhi Gandaki valley, climbs through Samagaon and Samdo, and crosses Larkya La before meeting the Annapurna-side exit.

Trail sequence

Soti Khola

Machha Khola

Jagat

Deng

Namrung

Samagaon

Samdo

Larkya La

Bimthang

Dharapani

Highlights

Remote valley progression around Manaslu

Samagaon and Samdo cultural sections

Larkya La pass crossing

A less commercial alternative to the busiest classics

Preparation

Build up to 4-6 hour hikes with a loaded daypack

Practice steady uphill pacing and stair climbs

Carry tested layers, rain protection, and broken-in boots

Plan an acclimatization buffer around high-altitude days

Expect more remote logistics and longer days than shorter Annapurna routes

Day-wise itinerary

Drive to Soti Khola

710 m

Complete the long road approach and review permits and route notes.

Soti Khola to Machha Khola

900 m

Follow the Budhi Gandaki with warm lower-valley walking.

Machha Khola to Jagat

1,410 m

Move through river gorges, bridges, and checkpoint villages.

Jagat to Deng

1,804 m

Enter narrowing valleys and begin seeing cultural transitions.

Deng to Namrung

2,630 m

Gain altitude through forest and hillside settlements.

Namrung to Samagaon

3,530 m

Reach one of the main villages below Manaslu.

Acclimatization in Samagaon

3,800 m

Use a day hike and prepare for the upper valley.

Samagaon to Samdo

3,875 m

Walk a shorter day to protect acclimatization.

Samdo to Dharamsala

4,460 m

Position below the pass and keep the evening quiet.

Cross Larkya La to Bimthang

5,106 m

Start early for the long pass crossing and descend into Bimthang.

Bimthang to Tilije

2,300 m

Descend through forest and recover from the pass day.

Tilije to Dharapani and drive out

1,860 m

Meet the Annapurna-side road head and begin the return journey.