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Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Short Manaslu Trek
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10 Nights 11 Days
Availability : Whole Year
Thamel Kathmandu
Manaslu Region
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Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

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  • Hike
    Grade-Moderate
  • Human Clip Art
    Maximum Altitude: 5106m/16752 ft
  • Walking: 5 to 7 hours /day

This Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a really cool adventure in Nepal. You get to explore places that not many people visit. It goes around Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The trek is tough, but it’s worth it. You walk through different kinds of places like forests, fields, and meadows with awesome views of snowy mountains.

The Manaslu short Trek is a captivating journey that circumnavigates the spectacular Manaslu massif in the Gorkha district of Nepal, providing trekkers with a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Starting in the village of Macchi Khola at an elevation of approximately 930 meters (3051 feet), the trek gradually ascends, taking trekkers through diverse landscapes.

As the trail winds its way through lush subtropical forests and terraced fields, trekkers encounter traditional Gurung and Magar villages at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 meters (2,625 to 3,937 feet). Villages like Lapubesi and Machha Khola offer cultural insights and warm hospitality as trekkers acclimate to the increasing altitude.

The trek gains elevation steadily as it progresses, reaching higher altitudes and colder temperatures. Villages such as Deng (1,800 meters or 5,905 feet) and Namrung (2660m/8727 ft) provide a glimpse into the unique lifestyle and cultural practices of the local communities residing in these remote mountainous areas.

The highlight of the trek is the formidable Larkya La Pass, standing at an imposing altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Crossing this pass is a challenging but exhilarating experience, rewarding trekkers with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Manaslu range. The descent from the pass takes trekkers through the alpine meadows of Bimthang at an elevation of around 3,720 meters (12,204 feet), surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.

Throughout the manaslu circuit short trek, trekkers encounter suspension bridges hanging over rushing rivers at various altitudes, adding a sense of adventure to the journey. As the route transitions from the Manaslu region to the Annapurna region, the landscape changes, offering a diverse range of elevations, from high mountain passes to terraced fields and subtropical forests.

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out not only for its stunning landscapes and physical challenges but also for the opportunity it provides to explore the cultural richness of the region at different altitudes. Trekkers can experience the varied elevations, ecosystems, and cultural nuances that make this trek a truly unique Himalayan adventure.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

  • Destination: Short Manaslu Circuit trek
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Number of days: 11 days
  • Meals: All meals 
  • Difficulty/grade: Hard
  • Group size: 2-12 people
  • Transportation: Sharing Local Vehicle
  • Activity: Trekking / Hiking
  • Ideal seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
  • Max. Altitude: 5106m/16752 ft

 Highlights of Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Explore less-trodden regions of Nepal encircling Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak.
  • Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, and high alpine meadows.
  • Visit picturesque villages, experiencing the rich local culture of Gurungs and Tamangs.
  • Enjoy a secluded and authentic Himalayan trek compared to more popular routes.
  • Witness breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and stunning landscapes.
  • Conquer high-altitude passes, including the formidable Larkya La Pass.
  • Experience a rewarding trek that typically takes 11 days.
  • Ideal for those seeking a less crowded and more remote trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Short Trek Itinerary

  • Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m/3051 ft) 8-10 Hrs Drive
  • Day 02: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m/4625 ft) 5-6 Hrs Trek
  • Day 03: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1800m/5905 ft) 5 Hrs Trek
  • Day 04: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2660m/8727 ft) 5-6 Hrs Trek
  • Day 05: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3530 m/11581 ft) 5-7 Hrs
  • Day 06:  Adaptation Day – Side trip to either Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base camp (4,800 m/15,748 ft) 6-7 Hrs Hike
  • Day 07: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3690m/12106 ft) 3-4 Hrs Trek
  • Day 08: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4470m/14665 ft)
  • Day 09: Trek from Darmasala to Larkya La Pass (5106m/16752 ft) to Bhimthang (3720m/ 12204 ft) 7-9 Hrs Trek
  • Day 10: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani (1860m/6102 ft) 6-7 Hrs Trek
  • Day 11: Drive to Beshisahar by local Jeep from Dharapani and drive to Kathmandu (1360 m/4462 ft)  9-11 Hrs Drive

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost And Itinerary

The cost of the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek and its itinerary can vary based on factors such as the trekking agency, services included, and the duration of the trek. On average, the cost ranges from $1,099 to $12,00 per person. This typically covers permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide/porter services. The trek itinerary usually spans around 11 to 15 days, beginning and ending in the city of Kathmandu. Below you can find detail itinerary of this trip which give you more clear idea.

The journey takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, quaint villages, and challenging mountain passes, including the notable Larkya La Pass. Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning views of Mount Manaslu and other snow-capped peaks. The itinerary allows for acclimatization, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure through the remote and less-traveled regions of the Manaslu Region.

Best Time For Manaslu Short Trek

The best time to embark on the Manaslu short Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. The optimal months for this trek are from late September to November and from March to May. During these periods, the weather is generally stable, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.

Spring brings vibrant rhododendron blooms, adding a splash of color to the landscapes, while the autumn months provide crisp, clear visibility for panoramic mountain vistas. The winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold, with higher chances of snow and challenging trekking conditions, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain and the risk of landslides, making it less favorable for trekking.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulties

The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents several challenges that trekkers should be prepared for. One of the main difficulties is the high altitude, with the trek reaching its climax at the challenging Larkya La Pass, standing at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Altitude sickness is a concern, and acclimatization is crucial to mitigate its effects.

The trek also involves varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and potentially icy or snowy conditions, particularly around the pass. Trekkers should be physically fit and mentally prepared for long days of walking in diverse landscapes.

Additionally, the remote and less-developed nature of the trail means that facilities and accommodations may be basic, and trekking days can be demanding. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures even in the warmer months, and trekkers should be equipped for changing weather patterns.

Price Includes

Price Excludes

  • Airport pick up & final departure by private vehicle.(Open Date)
  • Welcome & farewell cultural dinner.
  • An excellent government licensed holder guide including all his meals, accommodation, salary, transportation, insurance & many more…
  • All needed sharing public ground transportation mention on the itinerary.
  • A day three meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) on your choice from the menu during the treks.
  • Standard tea house during the treks.
  • Equipment as like (sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, walking poles, crampons) to be returned after the trip is complete.
  • All needed permit & national park fees.
  • Trekking route map.
  • First aid kit box.
  • An achievement certificate.
  • Government tax & service charge.
  • Personal expenses as like the phone & camera charging, hot shower, wifi
  • Tips to guide (expected)
  • Extra an activities, in case if you have an extra day on your holidays.
  • All kind of drinks as like mineral water, beer, tea, coffee, juice, Coke, Fanta, and hard drinks.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Hotel, Touring, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during stay in Kathmandu city.

What to Expect During Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Explore less-trodden regions of Nepal encircling Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak.
  • Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, and high alpine meadows.
  • Visit picturesque villages, experiencing the rich local culture of Gurungs and Tamangs.
  • Enjoy a secluded and authentic Himalayan trek compared to more popular routes.
  • Enjoy a secluded and authentic Himalayan trek compared to more popular routes.
  • Conquer high-altitude passes, including the formidable Larkya La Pass.
  • Experience a rewarding trek that typically takes 11 days.
  • Ideal for those seeking a less crowded and more remote trekking experience.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Photos

  • Manaslu Circuit trek nepal
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek Through Pungyen Gumba bhimthang village
  • Manaslu Bhimthang Trek himalayan-mountain-ranges-manaslu

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m/3051 ft) 8-10 Hrs Drive

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today your trip begins. After you are done with your breakfast at the hotel, you will take a direct bus to Gongabu Buspark from Kathmandu to Arughat. Other than that, you will have an alternative of taking the bus to Malekhu on the Prithivi Highway, and then you can take a jeep or local bus as per your comfort.

This route can be pretty uncomfortable to you as the roads are dusty and bumpy. Despite this, you will catch the beautiful scenario from the window seat. After a few ups and downs, you will get to Gurung village witnessing paddy field .You can take a rest from your continued travel by taking short breaks for snacks. You will arrive at Machha Khola by the time of dinner. Then you will be taken to your respective teahouse to stay overnight in Machha Khola.

Overnight in Machha Khola.

Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m/4625 ft) 5-6 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today your destination is Jagat which is 22.5 km far from Machha Khola. Once you leave Machha Khola, the trail enters the dense forest. Crossing the suspension bridge you can see various waterfalls and rivers.

On your other walk, you will reach Tatopani, the place with cultural beliefs where you can enjoy hot showers. After you are done easing yourself, you come to Doban by crossing another suspension bridge. After a while, you will again get to travel a wooden bridge left to the river. Following your route, you will find yourself at Yaru, where again you will cross a long arch bridge that will finally lead you to Jagat, which is again a beautiful Gurung village.

Most importantly, after you get into this village, you have to get your trekking permits verified at the check post as from the day you will be walking in the restricted zone.

Today you will have your comfortable night stay at Jagat; enjoy!

Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1800m/5905 ft) 5 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After having breakfast, we will continue our trek. Leaving Jagta, we will cross a ridge that leads us to the village of Salleri. Then we will descend to Sirdibas and cross a long suspension bridge. We will ascend to Philim and cross the hillside. Finally, a steep climb after crossing the river takes us to Deng. You will have some leisure time left in the evening too so you can explore around the village interacting with local people.

Here you can have your best meal and make yourself comfortable staying overnight at Deng.

Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2660m/8727 ft) 5-6 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After you are done with your breakfast, you are ready to start today’s trek. Our destination is Namrung for today. You create your walk through the bamboo trees and reach Deng. Moving forward, you will witness the swing bridge which you have to cross through. On the way, you can observe white-faced monkeys coming to villages in search of food.

The stream then leads to many landslips areas. So, here you should tell me more carefully as you walk and more alert to your guide’s command for your security. After the landslip area, you will head towards Namrung.

After an hour of your walk on an uneven line, you will hike to the beautiful village of Namrung, which is at the altitude of 2660m. You can now enjoy locally available tea, some different cuisines.

You will stay overnight at Namrung.

Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3530 m/11581 ft) 5-7 Hrs

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is the 8th day of your trek. You may need time to adapt to the altitude as we are climbing high day by day. As your tour starts, you will be fascinated with the magnificent view of Manaslu. You will trek to the easy path leading to Shyapla. The beautiful pine and rhododendron trees will always come your way. After an hour’s walk from Shyapla, you reach Sama Gaun.

Sama Gaun is a beautiful village where you can witness typical settlements and yak grazings; mountain views might fade away.

You will stay overnight in Sama Gaun.

Day 6:Adaptation Day – Side trip to either Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base camp (4,800 m/15,748 ft) 6-7 Hrs Hike

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is your adaptation day. As we are climbing higher elevations day by day, we need to prevent ourselves from altitude sickness. That is why we have Adaptation Day. So today, we will hike to Pungyen Gompa on the east of Nubri Valley. Today you can bring your meals and have them when you feel necessary. For two hours, you will walk across the river, which will keep you busy for a while.

Then to the hills, you will get to see the fantastic view of Manaslu. Also, by the side, yak pastures will excite you. As told, you will have an alternative to trek for Manaslu Base Camp, which is on the Northern side. You can also follow the track to the Birendra Tal and turn left to the base camp path.

Now you will get to climb the stable paths where you can feel altitude sickness like difficulty breathing. For that, you need to walk slowly and keep your body hydrated. Beginning slowly, you will hike to Manaslu Glacier to basecamp at 15,748 ft and return.

As another alternative, you can also trek to Birendra Tal, which is a short distance from Sama Gaun. This alternative is good if you feel altitude sickness and feel the necessity to rest.

Overnight in Sama Gaun.

Day 7: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3690m/12106 ft) 3-4 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On your 10th day of the trek, your destination will be Samdo. We need to be more careful on our walk and stroll as we are at a high altitude. Here you witness yak grazing, varieties of birds, and beautiful nature.

On the other walk, you get to cross the bridge of Budi Gandaki. Then you reach white Kani, the neighboring village of Samdo. After a while, you call our destination Samdo. Once you get there, you can tour other nearby towns and trek to Samdo Peak as per your desire. You can also hike to Tibetan border if you have time.

You get a beautiful chance to stay overnight in Samdo.

Day 8:Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4470m/14665 ft)

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Coming to the 11th day of your trek, it is becoming more daring and exciting as you walk into the higher altitude. As you want to enjoy every bit of your journey, you need to take care of yourself to prevent high altitude.

Hence, it would help if you looked after your body postures, signs carefully. You reach Dharmasala by amusing yourself with majestic views of series of Himalayas and trek slowly to the uneven landscape of the Manaslu region.

Overnight at Dharmasala

Day 9: Trek from Darmasala to Larkya La Pass (5106m/16752 ft) to Bhimthang (3720m/ 12204 ft) 7-9 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is the most adventurous day of your trek as you will climb to the highest altitude of your trip. On this day, you will hike to Larkya La Pass, which is situated at 5106m. If it’s snowing, then it can be pretty daring due to bad weather conditions. You need to be early for this trek as you need to cross Larkya La Pass before the afternoon. Do not forget this is the most daring part of your journey, but if you manage to stabilize yourself during the walk, you can successfully cross the Pass.

After you manage to stand at the Pass, you will feel more soothing as you get to observe majestic views, views of Himlung situated at 7126m near Tibet. Not only that, you too get to watch Kang Guru at 6981m and Annapurna II at 7937m in the beautiful range of Annapurna.

When you are done spending your time with the beautiful views at the Pass, you will now move down three hours watching the views of ice blocks and glaciers to Bhimthang and stay overnight.

Overnight in Bhimthang.

Day 10: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani (1860m/6102 ft) 6-7 Hrs Trek

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Giving a farewell to Manaslu Region, we will head towards Dharapani. Today is our last day of the trek. We will descend from Bhimthang through the yak pastures. Then we will cross a bridge down the Dudh Khola which takes us down to the rhododendron forest. The trail takes us down to the beautiful rhododendron forest. After reaching Tilije village, we will hike uphill and enter Dharapani.

Dharapani is the major starting point of many treks of this region. Overnight stay in Dharapani

Day 11: Drive to Beshisahar by local Jeep from Dharapani and drive to Kathmandu on same day (1360 m/4462 ft) 9-11 Hrs Drive

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is the last day of your trip. After the long journey of eleven days, you are returning to Kathmandu, packing all your beautiful memories with you. You can get a connecting bus to Kathmandu from Dharapani. You can take Lunch breaks as per your demand and have a comfortable drive to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your own booked hotel.

Overnight At Kathmandu.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

FAQ

How many days does the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek take?

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Mountain Adventure takes 10 to 12 days, covering the most dramatic high altitude sections of the full circuit including the Larkya La Pass crossing at 5,160 m while skipping the longer lower valley approach sections.

How much does the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek cost?

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from USD 1,299 per person with Nepal Mountain Adventure, including restricted area permits, a licensed guide, porter, teahouse accommodation, and all meals for the condensed but complete circuit experience.

Does the short version still include the Larkya La Pass crossing?

Yes, the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m is fully included in the short circuit itinerary. The shorter duration is achieved by driving the lower Budhi Gandaki valley section from Arughat to Jagat or Deng, preserving the high altitude highlights while saving 4 to 5 days of lower valley walking.

Is the Short Manaslu Circuit suitable for trekkers with limited time?

Yes, the short version is specifically designed for travelers who have 10 to 12 days available and want to experience the Manaslu restricted area, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and the famous Larkya La Pass without committing to the full 16 to 18 day circuit itinerary.

How difficult is the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The short circuit is rated challenging  because reaching the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m in fewer days means the acclimatization schedule is more compressed than the full circuit. Trekkers need strong prior high altitude experience and excellent physical fitness to safely manage the condensed itinerary.

What permits are needed for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The same three permits apply which are the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (USD 30), and the TIMS card (USD 20). Nepal Mountain Adventure processes all restricted area permits before departure as these cannot be obtained on the trail.

What is the best time for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Autumn (October to November) is the top recommended season for the short circuit because the condensed schedule has less buffer for weather delays. Post-monsoon October skies are reliably clear making the Larkya La Pass crossing safer and more predictable for tighter itineraries.

How does the short version start differently from the full Manaslu Circuit?

Instead of starting the trek on foot from Arughat (635 m), the short circuit begins with a jeep or bus ride from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,410 m) or Deng (1,804 m), cutting 3 to 4 lower valley walking days that cover road accessible terrain and focusing the trek entirely on the remote high altitude sections above Namrung.

What acclimatization stops are included in the short circuit?

Even in the compressed itinerary Nepal Mountain Adventure includes essential acclimatization time at Samagaon (3,530 m) before pushing higher to Samdo and Dharamsala. Skipping this acclimatization stop is not recommended and NMA guides will not proceed if a trekker shows AMS symptoms before the Larkya La attempt.

Is a guide mandatory on the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, a licensed guide is legally mandatory for all Manaslu restricted area trekking under Nepal government law regardless of the itinerary length. Nepal Mountain Adventure assigns experienced Manaslu specialist guides for every short circuit departure who carry emergency equipment and have full knowledge of the Larkya La Pass conditions.

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