The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, which follows the Trishuli River. The scenery along the way is breathtaking—traditional villages, terraced fields, white-water rivers, lush forests, and towering mountains, including Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal. We will continue our journey by bus until we reach Soti Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu trek. Our first night in the trekking region will be spent in Soti Khola. Overnight stay at a hotel with an attached bathroom.

This is the first day on the trails. We wake up in Soti Khola, prepare for a long trek, and head toward Machha Khola. The trail is breathtaking, with waterfalls along the way. Caution is needed, as the path includes steep ascents and descents. We pass through Sal forests, walk beside towering cliffs, and may occasionally encounter mules on the trail. Our route takes us through Khursani village and the Lububesi Gurung settlement before finally reaching Machha Khola. Overnight stay at a local lodge with a scenic view.

We haven’t gained much altitude yet, as seen from the subtropical vegetation along the trail. However, be prepared for several ascents and descents. We will cross two major rivers—Tharo Khola and Machha Khola. After crossing Machha Khola via a suspension bridge, we reach Tatopani, but continue on the trail through forested paths until we arrive at Doban. In Nepali, "Doban" means the confluence of two rivers, and appropriately, it lies where the Shari Khola and Sarpu Khola meet.
Overnight stay at a local lodge or guest house.

fter breakfast at Doban, we continue our journey toward Philim. The trek begins with a steep ascent to Louri and continues to Thado Bharyang, located just below Jagat. After crossing a river, we reach Jagat—a Tibetan-style settlement—then cross another river to arrive at Philim, a traditional Gurung village. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

We continue our trek northward through terraced millet fields, eventually reaching Ekle Bhatti. The trail becomes steeper as we pass through narrow gorges and cross the Budhi Gandaki River. We follow its banks and walk through bamboo forests leading to the Deng Khola River. After crossing it, we arrive at Deng—our destination. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

Our journey continues after a hearty breakfast, aiming to reach Ghap. The trail begins with a short descent followed by a steep ascent leading to Rana Bridge. We proceed through pine forests and cross another bridge to reach Bihi Phedi. Once across, you'll notice Mani walls and images of deities—signs that we've entered a Buddhist region. After one more suspension bridge, we finally arrive at Ghap. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

From Ghap, we trek through dense forests of fir, rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, crossing steep ascents, stone steps, and suspension bridges to reach Namrung, surrounded by scenic barley fields. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

After breakfast, we trek through Lihi and Sho villages with views of Simnang Himal, then continue to Lho—a culturally rich village filled with prayer flags, Mani walls, and Chortens.
Overnight stay at a local lodge.

We trek from Lho to Samagaun via Shyala village, crossing forests and glacial streams near Punggen Glacier. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

Acclimatization day at Samagaon with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, or Pungyen Monastery. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

The trek today is comparatively more interesting and pleasant. We will be crossing pasture areas and ascending into the valley. The trail leads us through forests of juniper and birch. As we descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, we will cross a wooden bridge over it and climb steeply up the opposite side. Along the way, we will be rewarded with amazing views of the mountains, especially Manaslu, as we reach Samdo—a Tibetan refugee village. Upon reaching Samdo, we will also explore the village and the surrounding hills. Overnight stay at a local lodge.

We walk down the edge of Samdo through fields and old Mani walls, crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. We then pass the Athahra Saya River and continue along the Larke River. Along the way, you'll notice Mani walls and prayer flags lining the route, signifying our approach to the Larkya La Pass.

Soon, we encounter the magnificent Larkya Glacier, offering spectacular views. Continuing on, we trek around the valley of the Salkha Khola and climb again to reach the stone guest house at 4,450m. This guest house is not a typical lodge, but rather a community dormitory better known as Dharamsala or Larkya La Phedi. This day is truly rewarding, with breathtaking views of the Larkya Glacier and Mt. Manaslu.

Overnight stay at Dormitory / Tent.

The most exciting part of the journey awaits us as we trek around the Manaslu Circuit, crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,100m). After an early morning breakfast, we leave Dharamsala for a long and demanding day. Weather plays a crucial role today, as strong winds or storms can make the trek more challenging.

We begin by crossing a moraine and descending to a small lake. The trail becomes rough and less defined as we traverse the south side of a steep, grassy slope. Our route continues along the moraine to a ridge marked by two landmarks. Prayer flags help guide the way. We carefully descend past four frozen lakes before making a final steep climb to the Larkya La Pass.

From the pass, you'll witness breathtaking panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and the majestic Annapurna II. The trail then leads us across a moraine, heading west and navigating steep, rough switchbacks. Eventually, we descend gently to a grassy moraine at 4,450m. As we continue, the path becomes easier, leading us into a wide valley with a meadow, Mani walls, and scattered houses—signaling our arrival at Bhimtang.

Overnight stay at local lodge.

The previous day’s trek may have been challenging, but you can rest assured that today’s walk will be much easier. We begin by descending to the Budhi Gandaki River and crossing it to enter a beautiful rhododendron forest. The trail then opens up to Karche, a cultivated area near the top of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. We continue along the riverbank until we reach Gho.

Overnight stay at a local lodge.

This will be the last day on the trail. After waking up at Gho, we head toward Dharapani. The route descends gradually, making the trek relatively easy. We’ll pass through numerous fields and pastures before reaching Tilje, a large Gurung settlement known for its homemade brandy. Continuing on, we pass several Mani walls and eventually arrive at Thonje village. From there, we enter Dharapani village.

Overnight stay at Heaven Guest House.

Today will be your last day on the road. After an early morning breakfast, we leave Dharapani for Besisahar by local bus, which takes about six to seven hours. The scenic drive passes through several villages, along the Marsyangdi River, and through towns like Bhulbhule and Khudi. We aim to reach Besisahar before 3 PM to catch the last bus to Kathmandu. If delayed, we may need to extend the itinerary by a day.

On the way back to Kathmandu, you’ll witness the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers as we head east on the Prithvi Highway. The journey offers breathtaking views of terraced landscapes and towering peaks.

Overnight stay at Ashram Guest House.

On departure day from the ashram, after a profound journey through Manaslu’s sacred trails, a quiet sense of completion lingers. The morning unfolds slowly and softly, inviting one last breath of stillness. You rise early, perhaps for a final meditation, allowing mountain memories to settle like snow in the soul. A light meal is shared in gratitude. With mindful packing and a gentle farewell, the heart carries not weight, but light—the silence, the teachings, and the sacred stories now woven into your being.