Best alternative walking adventure to the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek – Manaslu Circuit Trek, witnessing rich local heritage in the Lap of stunning Mt. Manaslu and crossing over the most dramatic Larkya Pass (5160 m).
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is an ideal trek that holds the blend of wonderful cultural heritage, unparalleled Himalayan vistas, pure Himalayan ecosystem, and a great walking experience following the ancient salt trading route of Tibet along the Budi Gandaki river.
Since 1992, Manaslu Circuit Trek has been the best alternative trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek begins with a drive to Arughat and chases the traverses uphill beside the rushing Budi Gandaki River. The walkthrough uneven gorges sliced between Himachuli Peak 7890m, the Manaslu Circuit Trek most of the time covers wilderness walk.
Adventurous trek, which has been partly affected by the quake despite lying in the district that epicenter of the devastating quake, Manaslu Circuit Trek also highlights the beautiful cultural blend of different ethnic tribes. The landscape dominated by the wonderful Budi Gandaki River Valley, the views of majestic Manaslu (eighth highest peak in the world), Mt. Himachuli, and Mt Ganesh among others are other major highlights of the trek. Moreover, the latter half of the trek caters to the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass 5153m. The culture of Nuri, which manifests little Tibet in the mountains below Mt. Manaslu is a great cultural encounter during the trek. After crossing the wide Larkya pass, it finally enters Annapurna Conservation Area Project and treads along the trails of the famous Round Annapurna Trek before it ends at Besisahar.
Trekkers in Nepal are allowed to trek as FIT (Free Individual Trekker) or in a group of various sizes. However, there are certain trekking regions known as ‘Restricted Areas’ that are highly regulated by the Government of Nepal, and hence FITs are strictly forbidden. Trekking in these areas is allowed only upon acquiring a permit from the Department of Immigration.
Interested trekkers should contact the authorized trekking agencies who then can apply for permits (on behalf of trekkers) at the Department of Immigration fulfilling all the necessary formalities. Trekkers should be trekking in a group (of a minimum of two persons) accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. Individual trekkers cannot apply for the permit.
Outline Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Dinner)
Day 02: Trekking Preparation Day
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat (Altitude: 700-m/2296 ft. 6/7 hour’s drive. Meal: BLD)
Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machhakhola (Altitude: 870 m/2952 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 05: Trek from Machhakhola Gaon to Jagat (Altitude: 2340 m/7676 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 06: Trek to Deng (Altitude: 1870m/6170 ft. Trek: 6-7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 07: Trek to Ghap (Altitude: 2,160m/7,086ft. Trek: 4-5 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 08: Trek to Lho (Altitude: 3150m/10395 ft. Trek: 6/ hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 09: Trek to Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 10: Rest day at Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 11: Trek to Samdo (Altitude: 3,690m/12,106 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 12: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 13: Trek to Bimtang crossing Larkya La Pass (Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5153 m/ 17005 ft. Bimtang: 3,720m/12,204ft. Trek: 8/9 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 14: Trek to Dharapani (Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 15: Trek to Syange and Jeep/Public Bus drive to Besisahar (Altitude: 60 m/2,493ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Drive: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD
Day 16: Drive to Kathmandu (Altitude: 1,300m/4,264 ft. Drive: 7/8 hrs. Meal: BD)
Day 17: Departure day (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Breakfast)
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Dinner)+
On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, one of our representatives will pick up you and escort you to the hotel as well as help you to check-in at the hotel. After your refreshment, you will be briefed about the next day trip. In the evening, we, the Hiking Nepal will offer you a welcome dinner introducing Nepalese cuisine and culture.
Day 2: Trek Preparation Day+
It is not obvious that the flight you are taking will arrive Kathmandu by Day time. Hence, this is actually a spare day kept in the package with the intention to provide a comfortable environment with a rest day in Kathmandu. The day off in Kathmandu does not mean you are staying whole day leisure. Kathmandu itself is one of the cultural hubs of Nepal. Hence, you can explore this cultural city after having a delightful breakfast at the Hotel. if you wish us to organize a Day Tour, we are always here for you. Visit the UNESCO Heritage sites of the valley where you will observe living heritage of Medieval Nepal – Witness the biggest Hindu temple of Nepal, Pashupatinath and capture the sacred moments of Hindu death ritual at Aryaghat in Pashupatinath. Stroll the lively streets of Kathmandu Old Market Asan to Kathmandu Durbar Square and visit the home of The Living Goddess Kumari, Nepalese style of Architecture as well as astonishing wooden carving. A short drive from Kathmandu Durbar Square will take you to a hill top stupa called as “Swyambhu” meaning “self -emerge” and belief that the hill emerged impulsively from the great lake that once covered Kathmandu valley. Also famous as a Monkey Temple.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat (Altitude: 700-m/2296 ft. 6/7 hour’s drive. Meal: BLD)+
Wake up early morning and get ready after having breakfast at the hotel, also re-check your luggage. Our driver will escort you to the Bus Park to catch a bus to Arughat. You will be driving towards the western part of the valley following a black topped Prithvi Highway. Crossing the Trishuli River, you will drive towards Dhading Besi from where you will have a bumpy drive of around 3 hours to Arughat. On the way, you can view the beautiful landscape, countryside lifestyle, terraced fields, rivers, and waterfalls. Arughat is a small town mostly settled by the Newar ethnic group.
Resting for a while at Arughat starts a journey towards Soti Khola. Crossing a bridge across the Budhi Gandaki River, you will pass small villages settled by Gurung and Magar ethnic groups, beautiful field of millet and Paddy and landscape along the Sotikhola. Spend overnight at the local lodge.
Day 4: Trek from Soti Khola to Machhakhola (Altitude: 870 m/2952 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Begins trek on few ups/down rocky trail after crossing a suspension bridge passing beautiful Sal forest. Viewing tropical waterfalls and passing terraces, you will walk up to the village of Lapubesi settled by traditional Gurung. Resting for a while, you will start walking uphill along the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River till Khanibesi. Here, you can click North-east view of Ganesh Himal and a beautiful waterfall and then starts descending towards the village at Macchakhola. You can take a relaxing dip in a hot spring and explore the surrounding. Spend overnight at the local lodge.
Day 5: Trek from Machhakhola Gaon to Jagat (Altitude: 2340 m/7676 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Today, you will start walking in a narrow trail following the Budhi Gandaki River. Just walking in a zigzag trail and crossing a suspension bridge will take you to the Khorlabesi that offers a fantastic view of Ganesh Himal. Now onwards, you will walk in ascending and descending trails, crosses several suspension bridges, passes landslides, rock falls, and small hamlets; even walk in a stone step along with rocky trail en-route to Jagat. On reaching Jagat, see the fabulous view of Sringi Himal; mani walls and Chortens representing the Himalayan culture. Spend overnight at the local lodge.
Day 6: Trek to Deng (Altitude: 1870m/6170 ft. Trek: 6-7 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
After sliding down a long chain of stone steps to the river, you will climb on a terraced hill to Saguleri. See the impressive view of Singri Himal, 7187m from Saguleri. At Saguleri, the path splits. You will continue with the left-hand branch heading upstream, through a gorge section with towering walls. Thrice you cross the river in next couple of hours to avoid difficult valley sides and then slide up over a further steep spur to reach the village of Deng. Spend overnight at Deng local lodge/camping.
Day 7: Trek to Ghap (Altitude: 2,160m/7,086ft. Trek: 4-5 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Today, you will cross the village of Lamaistic Buddhism, see the some Mani walls/ Chortens and flattering flags while entering the elevated Buddhist Community. Since today’s trek is relatively short you reach the village of Ghap in about four hours, which straddles the river. Officially, you have entered the Tibetan Region as you feel the perceptible change in the climate and culture. Spend overnight at Ghap local lodge/camping.
Day 8: Trek to Lho (Altitude: 3150m/10395 ft. Trek: 6/ hrs. Meal: BLD)+
The clear sighs of gaining the elevation are visible as you move into alpine territory where the mountain views are more than terrific. Myriads of mani stone walls and crossings of the Buri Gandaki thrice en-route will bring to Namrung. At Namrung, you need to issue trekking permits and MCAP permit. Beyond Namrung, the valley opens out and there are extensive pastures. Then, a gradual up climb followed by crossing a bridge over a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glaciers, you reach the Tibetan village of Sho, 3000m. Beyond Sho, you get first incredible views of the Manaslu North and then of Manaslu Main. A further trek will bring you to Lho, a large village at 3150 meters where there is a lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and Manis. Looking back, Ganesh I is visible. Spend overnight at Lho local lodge/camping.
Day 9: Trek to Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Beyond Lho, chase the right bank of the river, with views of Peak 29 ahead. Continuing along the main trail, you will reach Sama Gaon 3500m after a while trek. You can visit Sama Gompa which is just 20 minutes’ walk from Sama. Spend overnight at Sama local lodge/camping.
Day 10: Rest day at Sama Gaon (Altitude: 3500m/11550 ft. Trek: 3-4 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
It is wise to rest during trek for proper acclimatization before gaining the height. Spend your time at Sama Village enjoying the culture, lifestyle, and people following Lamaism. You can either hike to a ridge to view the stunning mountain including Nadi CHuli, Manaslu, Larke, and Naike. Or, you can also go to visit the Pung Gyen Gompa, capture the fabulous view of Puggen Glacier. Your walk on rest will let you familiarize with height. Retrace Back to Sama Goan for the overnight stay.
Day 11: Trek to Samdo (Altitude: 3,690m/12,106 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Today, you will trek to the Manaslu Base Camp that is incredibly a great trip. You will walk up for around 5 hours to base camp. Explore the surrounding and continue walking for your final destination towards Samdo. Todays’ trail will be a bit longer enjoying the sunlight on the mountains and glaciers. The best part of the trek is the incredible turquoise view of Birendra Lake. Spend some time in the base camp, then trek to Samdo. From now, you will enter the forest filled with birch, juniper, rhododendron, moss, and Lichen. The trail will take you towards the Kyonggma Kharka that manifests small huts made with stones and a long Mani walls. Crossing a bridge over Budhi Gandaki River, you will enter the village of Samdo. It is a very close village to Tibet settled by the Tibetan Refugee community, have Taka Choeling Gompa, big Mani wall and close to Sonam Glacier as well as a viewpoint of Naike and Pangboche Peaks. Spend overnight at Local lodge/camping.
Day 12: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Today, you will gain a significant height. Beyond Samdo 3780m, you will trek along Larke Khola to Dharmashala (Stone Hut) 4460 along the steep trail above the river. At a point on today’s trek, you will be mesmerized with the incredible view of Larke Kunda. Keeping on gaining the height, you will arrive in Larkya Phedi 5105 crossing Larkya-La Pass 5153m. The trail passes through the Mani walls and Stone Huts while walking towards Larke Phedi. Larke Phedi is also called as Dharmasala or Rest House, is a seasonal village that provides rooms and tents for the trekkers. On reaching, you can hike the hills for acclimatization and retrace back to Phedi for the overnight stay at Resthouse/camping.
Day 13: Trek to Bimtang crossing Larkya La Pass (Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5153 m/ 17005 ft. Bimtang: 3,720m/12,204ft. Trek: 8/9 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Today will be the most exciting day crossing a Larkya-la Pass gaining an ultimate altitude of this trek. Just starts walking in the early morning, you will pass the moraine route of the Larkya Glacier, cross frozen lakes and follow the steep up will takes you to Larkya-La. You will see the flattering colorful flags in a place, make your day a wonderful time catching the magnificent view of the snowcapped peaks including Annapurna II, Kangguru, Himlung, Larkey and many more. Continue walking following the guide in a steep descend on a high moraine ridge of Salpudanda glacier. Now onwards, the trail will be grassy moraine rock fall of Dangboche Kharka. Walking for a while will take you to the beautiful Bimthang Village. From here, you can view the fantastic scene of the peaks like the Lamjung, Manaslu, Phungi, Himlung and Cheo Himal. Spend overnight at Local lodge/ Camping at Bimthang. Today’s trek gains significant height. Beyond Samdo 3780m, you will trek along Larke Khola to Dharmashala (Stone Hut) 4460 along the steep trail above the river. At a point on today’s trek, we will be mesmerized with the incredible view of Larke Kunda. Keeping on gaining the height we will arrive in Larkya Phedi 5105 crossing Larkya Pass 5153m. We will camp for the night at Larkya Phedi.
Day 14: Trek to Dharapani (Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD)+
Begins the trail to the Hampuk, a rock shelter cave, and crossing a bridge, you will continue walking down through the forest of Rhododendron and Pine, passing several villages and cultivated land, explore the Gho Village settled by the Gurung community as well as the Kilpu waterfall. You will reach Tilje, where you can rest for a while. Explore traditional Gurung Village. From now, you will continue walking towards Dharapani after crossing a bridge over the Dudh River. Explore the village and spend time enjoying the surrounding. Spend overnight at Local Lodge.
Day 15: Trek to Syange and Jeep/Public Bus drive to Besisahar (Altitude: 60 m/2,493ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Drive: 5/6 hrs. Meal: BLD+
From Today, your trek will officially enter the Annapurna Conservation Area Project and Marshyangdi Valley. Show the TIMS and ACAP at Check Post while leaving Dharapani. Dharapani is a knot of Annapurna and Manaslu Trail as well as a junction of Dudh Khola and Marshyandgi River. Begins walking in a downhill trail passing Tal Village, you will continue a steep stone trail and cross a suspension bridge over Marshyangdi River, you will reach Chamje. From here, a steep descend towards the Syange village and crossing a bridge will take you to the bus stop. Driving for hours down in a snaky road will take you to Besisahar. Spend overnight at lodge.
Day 16: Drive to Kathmandu (Altitude: 1,300m/4,264 ft. Drive: 7/8 hrs. Meal: BD)+
Wake up and get ready to return back to Kathmandu after breakfast. Catch a bus to Kathmandu. Along the serpentine mountain mishmash road followed by snaky Prithivi Highway the journey longs for 7-8 hours. The journey on this highway is also a highlighting part of the trip. The cultural practices in the semi-urban areas of Nepal, the fast flowing Himalayan Rivers and the ongoing adventurous activities there and most importantly the hilly landscapes on the roadsides represents different Nepal. You will be having your lunch at one of the highway resorts and in the late afternoon, you will be arriving in Kathmandu. Rest of the time in Kathmandu you can unleash your trekking tiredness hunting the souvenirs on the streets of Thamel or simply chill in your hotel room. In the evening, we, Hiking Nepal, will offer you a farewell dinner at the authentic restaurant. You can share your experience, feedback us and give us a chance to make your evening a wonderful time. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 17: Departure day (Altitude: 1300 m/4264 ft. Meal: Breakfast)+
It is the last day with us. Our supporting team will take you to the airport for your final departure. We hope to see you again. Additionally, if you have the plan of any adjoining trip, you can let us to organize.
What is included?
Airport transfer with an escort in a private vehicle.
3 nights’ accommodation at Tourist Standard Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast in twin accommodation
13 nights’ accommodation at Mountain Lodge or tent on a sharing basis during the trek
Full board meal during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, tea & coffee, seasonal fruits, chocolate/s & biscuits)
English speaking, First Aid and Eco-trained local trekking guide, Assistance guide as per the group size(4+), porters (2:1)
All the expenses for guide and porters along with Insurance
Manaslu Special Permit being Restricted Area – 2 trekkers is compulsory
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) fee
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) fee
Public Sharing Bus transfer for Kathmandu/Arughat- private transfer upon request
Public Sharing Bus transfer for Besisahar/Kathmandu – private transfer upon request
Exclusive medical kit bag, Duffle Bag, Trekking T-shirt, Adventure Certificate
Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket during Trek- must return back after the trek
All government and local taxes as applicable
What is not included?
Nepal Visa – (Cost- US$- 30 for 15 days & $- 50 for 30 days)
Lunch & evening meals while in Kathmandu (Except welcome/farewell dinner)
Travel insurance
Cost of personal nature expenses, Beverages (Mineral water or coca-cola), cost of extra meals, snacks, phones bills, Internet, WiFi, laundry etc.
The cost incurred during emergencies, evacuations
Tips for Guide/porters/driver …
Nepal Visa & Getting in to Nepal
All the foreign nationals (except Indian nationals) are required to display Visa while entering Nepal. Nepalese Visa can be obtained either at Nepalese Embassy of respective country or can be obtained during your arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu or from the Nepal’s border entry point. However, certain nationals are requested to arrange Visa prior to arrival in Nepal. The listed countries are- Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Liberia and cannot secure Nepalese Visa on arrival.
Requirements: Traveler should have a valid passport for at least six months, recent digital photos (size: 1.5″ x 1.5″) and Visa fees (either US$ or equivalent) mentioned as below:
Visa Facility Duration Fee
Multiple entry 15 days US$ 30 or equivalent Nepalese currency
Multiple entry 30 days US$ 50 or equivalent Nepalese currency
Multiple entry 90 days US$ 125 or equivalent Nepalese currency
You can also download VISA form and fill up. Please go through the link as below:
http://www.online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa
Group Size:
For group, we normally run with minimum 2 person to maximum 10 in our published group departure program. However, there is no barrier for a private trip. We can run a trip for single person and even more than 10 in a group. Normally for a group, we provide 1 main guide, 1 assistance guide along with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers. Moreover, for every additional 2 trekkers, 1 more assistance and a porter will be provided making a team combination as follows:
Minimum to 2 PAX: 1 Guide and 1 porter
4-6 PAX: 1 guide, 1 assistance guide and 3 porter
7-10 PAX: 1 guide, 2 assistance guide and 4/5 Porter
Guide and Trip Safety
Once, you confirm your trip, it is our responsibility to make your trip wonderful without creating any difficulties. Hence, we have prepared our itinerary in such a way that it will properly acclimatize you. Also, we request you in advance to have regular exercises and make habits to walk in a daily basis. Similarly, during trek, you will be fully guided by our professional trekking guides and supporting team. They are properly trained in regards to safety and first aid. Even, we have every set up in case of emergency such as high altitude medicine and Gammow Bag (High altitude Chamber bag). Please note High altitude Chamber Bag is used to provide heat in your body and it is available on certain cost. Moreover, to let you familiar with altitude, you are suggested to walk slow and steady and ensure for proper acclimatization.
For trekking, we provide local experienced guide speaking fluent English and familiar with the local routes, landscape, flora, fauna as well as culture, and tradition of certain areas and let you feel comfortable. We do not encourage for child labor, hence, our porter will be above 16 years that are living in the Himalayas of Nepal; as well as carries only 20-22 kg weight per porter. Normally, the guide and support teams are selected with proper analyzing of their experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude. Our guides are well familiar with different societies of all caste and customs along the trail and share the insight culture with you that are not even noted in guide book.
To make our staffs more fluent and experienced, we consistently provide trainings. They have been participating in special training programs like Trekking guide training, Rock climbing, Ice climbing, Intensive Wilderness first Aid and many more that has been certified and approved by Nepal Government.
Meals and Accommodation
During your stay in Kathmandu, we accommodate you in 3 star category hotel in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Breakfast is included with room accommodation. Normally, based on your group size, you will be accommodated in twin and triple sharing basis. Likewise, in case of single room stay in a group, you will require to pay single supplement charge mentioned in our trip cost. Also, if you wish to upgrade hotel accommodation, we can accommodate you in respective hotels with surcharge. On your arrival in Kathmandu and a day before your departure for homeland, we Hiking Nepal Team will invite you for Welcome and Farewell dinner. You will be taken to an authentic restaurant serving Nepali Cuisine with some cultural Dance Show. For your other day’s meals, you can get hygienic restaurants providing verities of taste including continental, Chinese, Italian, Nepalese and many more.
Similarly, for your stay during trek, we shall accommodate you in local lodge available en-route. Normally, the rooms are basic and in a twin sharing basis. Some lodges offer shower system and hot water.
For meals, you will be served sufficient hygienic food. Our service includes a full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea/Coffee) based on lodge menu. Normally, for breakfast; porridge, cereals, toast or chapattis, omelets and a range of hot drinks are served. Likewise for Lunch and Dinner; you can taste some Nepalese food (esp. rice, lentils and curry), Sherpa food, Indian food, Italian Spaghetti, noodles, potatoes, even Pizza in some areas. It is obvious that you will receive fresh and organic food in the Himalayas of Nepal. Your breakfast and dinner will be served in lodge where you stay and lunch on the way during trek.
Travel Insurance
While travelling to Nepal, you are requested to have a travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delay and cancellations. We suggest you to bring you travel insurance certificate or send us scan copy and required to issue from your home land and we do not arrange or sell insurance.
Travelling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. Your insurer should be well familiar with our itinerary that you have booked and must have agreed to cover all activities being undertaken during trip. Meantime, it is not compulsory that our all the assigned trip are facilities with Heli-rescue. You will not require heli rescue insurance for Tibet Tour as it is not possible to provide such facility.
Vaccination
It is better to follow the precaution given by World Health Organization and other international health related institutions that recommend having vaccines before travelling Nepal to prevent from certain fatal illness. If possible, we suggest you to bring your medical certificate however, it is not required to show but for safety. The recommended vaccines are polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus, typhoid, yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, Influenza (Flu), Japanese encephalitis, and Tuberculosis. Meantime, it is better to consult your professional doctor about your travel and he might recommend you properly. You can also take suggestion of local travelers who have travelled Nepal before and know more about the required precautions. Please note that the protection that can be gained from vaccines varies from 50% to almost 100%. So remember that even if you have taken a vaccine you might still get the disease, although you will have greatly reduced your chances of getting ill.
Guide and Trip Safety
Once, you confirm your trip, it is our responsibility to make your trip wonderful without creating any difficulties. Hence, we have prepared our itinerary in such a way that it will properly acclimatize you. Also, we request you in advance to have regular exercises and make habits to walk in a daily basis. Similarly, during trek, you will be fully guided by our professional trekking guides and supporting team. They are properly trained in regards to safety and first aid. Even, we have every set up in case of emergency such as high altitude medicine and Gammow Bag (High altitude Chamber bag)- will charge additional cost. Please note High altitude Chamber Bag is used to provide heat in your body and it is available on certain cost. Moreover, to let you familiar with altitude, you are suggested to walk slow and steady and ensure for proper acclimatization.
For trekking, we provide local experienced guide speaking fluent English and familiar with the local routes, landscape, flora, fauna as well as culture, and tradition of certain areas and let you feel comfortable. We do not encourage for child labor, hence, our porter will be above 16 years that are living in the Himalayas of Nepal; as well as carries only 20-22 kg weight per porter. Normally, the guide and support teams are selected with proper analyzing of their experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude. Our guides are well familiar with different societies of all caste and customs along the trail and share the insight culture with you that are not even noted in guide book. To make our staffs more fluent and experienced, we consistently provide trainings. They have been participating in special training programs like Trekking guide training, Rock climbing, Ice climbing, Intensive Wilderness first Aid and many more that has been certified and approved by Nepal Government.
Health and Fitness
While Trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal, you will be hiking up in high altitude, hence slow and steady is main concern which helps you to acclimatize properly with the altitude. During trekking, you will required to walk for 5-6 hours in average. If you are planning to trek in Nepal, make sure that you are in good shape and fitness, and consult your doctor or general physicians about your health. You should be physically and mentally prepared. Before commencing a trek, we recommend you to do some regular exercises, make habits to use stairs than elevator that makes your knees strong, and, if possible, join some aerobics, gyms and make sure about your good health. If you are used to with these habits, you will definitely walk in the Himalayas of Nepal. Sincere preparation and strong determination for the trip is very important making your trip a wonderful memory of your life. It is not compulsory to have any previous experience. Follow the guidance and enjoy the trip.
High Altitude Sickness
At the higher altitude, you will feel a decrease in availability of oxygen and shorten in oxygen cause an altitude sickness. If a person walk in the high altitude particularly climbs up too quickly, he might suffer from High altitude sickness. Hence, proper rest is required at that altitude. You can cure at right time knowing certain symptoms of Altitude Sickness. Common symptoms are headache, loss of appetite, tiredness and nausea, vomiting, dizziness and difficulty in sleeping. The best remedies that local belief and take is taking garlic, or ginger in mouth. Eat dry food and take liquid as much as possible. We recommend Diamox if there is no any options. Also, we provide experienced guide and staffs in dealing with the effects of higher altitudes. As they are natives of Nepal, they easily acclimatize and therefore can care for their clients. They are equipped with necessary medical supplies and will assist with basic first aid treatment. We design our tours to ensure clients are ready for high altitude, and arrange alternative itineraries for those at risk.
Acclimatization
While, trekking in the Himalayas, you will walk in the Ups down trail taking you to the elevation over 2500 m. Hence, you might feel difficult to breathe or your breathe speed up. Hence, it is most important to familiarize with the altitude and let you adjust with the decreased availability of oxygen at high altitude. Our itinerary is designed with sufficient days to acclimatize. In case of gaining certain height, there is a rest day when you can explore the area as well as walk to high altitude and sleep at low land. Likewise, you are suggested to walk slowly and carefully without getting any stresses. Also, for proper acclimatization, you should care about your eating habits. Don’t focus on Junk food and eat as much liquid as possible. Hard drinks are not recommended. The right way to acclimatize properly is walk high, sleep low. Medicines can be taken but we suggest to take advice from your physician.
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Tour Reviews
My words are not enough to thanks the team of Hiking Nepal for organizing the best trekking experience of my life to Manaslu. I recently completed a trip of my life time yet and definitely more to come for sure! I highly recommend Hiking for their professionalism, expert knowledge, friendly staff services which I enjoyed thoroughly through my trip.
I was travelling solo, I always felt that I am travelling with someone very close!! I cannot thanks in words to Hari and Ganesh for all their support and timely response which helped me to plan my trip eternity quickly and they make sure to stay in touch until I landed my home safely which is amazing. I was having wonderful time with them throughout my journey. It’s been few months now since I completed my trek but I still feel I am in same mountains hangover. I will surely be coming to Nepal very soon and sign up for special trip next with the same group for sure if I am lucky enough!! Thanks for everything……
I’ve had a great time doing the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit combination trek. My guide Sudarson Bastakoti and my porter Kamal provided great and professional service and guidance. It is an adventurous trek with sometimes hard parts to traverse, but Sudarson always kept an eye on me.
The Teahouses are basic, but provide enough comfort to easily finish this trek. Unfortunately due to lots of snow we were not able to do the full Manaslu Circuit. So make sure to choose the right month to to travel: I was in the region from the end of february untill the middle of march. Tsum valley however made the whole trip worth it. We were the first people to reach Mu Gompa in 2019, and it was definitely worth it: such a beautiful scene with the few monks and the endless mountains around you. The company and Sudi did everything in their power to create a nice solution for the days that I now had to spend elsewhere as the trek was shortened due to the snow.
Great Experience!
My wife and I tried the Manaslu Circuit in October 2022.
Preparation of the trek:
Communication with Rusha from Hikingnepal was fast and very efficient. All our questions were answered in depth and fast.
The trek:
Anoj was very flexible and adjusted our daily program to our actual fitness conditions. That was important for us because we are around 70 years old.
Unfortunately, we had to endure a full week of almost uninterrupted rain on the trek. In consequence, Larkya pass was closed due to heavy snowfall and unpassable landslides. We had to return after reaching Lho. Anoj managed to bring us down from the mountains safely by finding detours avoiding the most serious landslides. He kept our moral up even in really frustrating situations. The team Anoj with Suraj cooperated perfectly.
Outlook:
We plan to do the trek again in 2023 with HikingNepal, hoping for much better weather conditions, and perhaps the team Anoj and Suraj can accopmpany us again.
We did the Manaslu trek in November of 2022. It was in the making for 2 years due to COVID restrictions.
We worked with Nittam throughout the booking process. There were a few small issues that came up, but she communicated quickly and clearly, so it wasn’t a big deal at all.
The hike itself was absolute amazing. Our guide (Om Prakash) and our porter (Ganesh) were the best. Informative, funny, and a joy to be around. They went above and beyond to make sure our trek was best it could be!
This was our first Himalayan trek, but we spoke with a lot of people who have done multiple and said Manaslu was their favorite. The people were some of the nicest we have ever met traveling and the views are second to none.
I would go back to Nepal tomorrow if I could, and wouldn’t hesitate to use hikingnepal again!
We did the Manaslu Trek from 9-19 November together with our guide Rajin and porter Anan. We had a very good time and were so lucky with beautiful weather every day and fresh snow at Larkya Pass, which made the Pass beautiful. Rajin was very caring for us. Everyday he and Anan surprised us with apples and pomme granates, a welcoming fruity dish! His slowly, slowly helped us to finish the trek without any problems. During the Trek he suggested to stop the next day a bit further or less far than planned. This resulted in some short trekking days in which we could climb a bit in the afternoon and so we were getting very good acclimatized. Also for this he was very caring, checking our oxygen level every evening. The accommodations should be very basic but we found them very good, and the food during the whole trek was amazing. In every lodge there was an extensive menu and all food was prepared freshly as soon as you ordered. We highly recommend Raijin as your guide, and together with Anan, they are a very nice couple to be accompanied by during this heavy trekking. But besides this Hiking Nepal also took care of other parts of our visit to Nepal. It was very nice that Rajin welcomed us at the airport and brought us to our hotel, what was booked by Hiking Nepal. We stayed in Hotel Blue Horizon, a perfect choice. In a very quiet street in Tamelijk with a lovely garden, very friendly staff en perfect rooms. They also arranged our shuttles from the trekking to Pokhara and the last day to the airport. During our stay we contacted Rusha many times and she reacted always immediately. We felt very good about their help and choices they made for us to make our Nepal adventure very beautiful and unforgettable. Thank you Rajin, Anan and Rusha. Menno and Karin
All around incredible experience. Don’t want to say life-changing (time will tell), but I will say that this trip helped me put things into perspective. And I was dealing with a lot before I came to Nepal. I did the Manaslu trek (Larkye Pass), and Nittam allowed me to tack on a few extra days for “side quests.” We went to Manaslu Base Camp (highly recommend) our second day in Samagaun, and took an extra day in Samdo to go off-piste for a look at Nepal.
What I really want to say though, is how much I enjoyed my guide Om, my porter Ganess, and all the beautiful people of Nepal who graciously hosted us in their teahouses along the way. The landscape here is second to none, but I wasn’t expecting the same from the people! Truly, the Nepalese are some of the kindest, most amazing humans you will ever come across on this planet.
Om was an excellent guide. He never seemed bothered at all when I would stop to take photos (often) or pester him with a million questions every day. Just one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet, and count yourself lucky if you can get him as your guide. He also knows how to get things done. He has personal connections with all of the owners of the teahouses we stayed at, and it really made a difference. Whenever we stayed with other travelers, we were regularly the first served for breakfast so we could be out the door and chasing down them miles! Om has an incredibly vast knowledge base of every area we wandered through, along with his expertise on all the flora and fauna as the elevation changed.
Ganess was a wonderful porter. Although his English is limited, he made me smile all the time because he was always in a good mood. That positive energy is infectious, and it made some of the longer days so much easier. And he’s a total machine on the ascents, carrying a lot of weight and just straight up the mountain every time!
I will certainly be back to Nepal for another trek, and I will be using Hiking Nepal again. Nittam likes to use guides and porters who are local to the area of the trek you select, so I don’t know if I’ll be able to get Om and Ganess again, but I am definitely going to try! All around amazing experience. If you’ve experienced some recent troubles in your life and you’re able to take time away, it’s cheaper than therapy in the US!!! Just do it!!
My friend and myself went on a hiking trip to Nepal. We chose to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Hiking Nepal. I was on a tight schedule and had only 13 days to complete the circuit including the transfers to and from Kathmandu. Hiking Nepal was very accommodating and did adjust the circuit to fit my requirements.
Before the trip, Rusha was very helpful to help my friend and I get ready for it. She answered all of our questions quickly and diligently.
During the trip, our guide Sudi and our porter Suman were absolutely great. They did a wonderful job. They were always taking care of my friend and I, making sure we were fine and never missed anything.
Regarding the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it was really a unique experience, it was just amazing. It was the first time I did such an extensive trekking but I don’t regret it at all. I saw some of the most beautiful landscapes I have ever seen in my entire life even though I am an experienced traveler. The time of the year – beginning of May – was also perfect for us to do the trekking as there were almost no other travelers on the trail. The only difficultly I encountered was altitude sickness. After 3,500 meters or so, I was always short of breath when going up. If I had to do it again, I would definitely take the pills against altitude sickness. That said, I still made it to the highest point of larke pass at 5,160 meters which was one of the highlights of the trip.
Thank you again Sudi, Suman and Rusha for this great experience! I recommend Hiking Nepal 100%!
Michèle
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