A high-country circumnavigation of Mount Manaslu, this 17-day trek climbs to Larkya La (≈5,125 m), passes glacier-view ridges, and visits Tibetan-influenced villages. Expect teahouses, permit checks, long days, and spectacular 360° summit panoramas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices across terraced fields as you board the jeep out of Kathmandu — dust rises, prayer flags snap, and the Budhi Gandaki dares you to follow it upstream. Over 17 days this route climbs from roughly 700 m in Soti Khola to the high col of Larkya La at about 5,125 m, circling the 8,163 m massif of Manaslu and threading Tibetan-influenced villages, pine and rhododendron forests, and glacier skirted valleys.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
15–17 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness with experience on multi-day hikes and long ascents/descents; ability to carry a daypack and tolerate altitude for several days.
Wildlife
History
The trail links historical trade routes between Nepal and Tibet and passes villages that retain Tibetan-Buddhist monastic life and Gurung cultural practices.
Conservation
The Manaslu Conservation Area manages trekking impact through permit fees and regulated routes; carry out waste, use teahouse services responsibly, and avoid disturbing grazing pastures.
Reserve your spot on the Trek to Manaslu - Trekking Package in the Himalayas today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before high days
Use the scheduled acclimatization day in Sama Gaun and avoid rapid altitude gain—sore heads and fatigue are common if you push too fast.
Start Larkya La at dawn
Begin the pass day very early to avoid afternoon winds and unstable weather on the exposed col.
Carry enough cash
Remote teahouses accept little or no card—bring rupees for food, hot showers and tips for porters and guides.
Footwear traction
Bring sturdy boots with ankle support and microspikes if traveling late season when snow and ice can appear on the pass.
Insulated down jacket
Warmth for high camps and the exposed Larkya La morning.
Sturdy mid/high-ankle hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky, uneven trails and steep descents.
Water purification tablets or filter
Safe drinking water in teahouse and stream-fed sections to prevent illness.
Light crampons or microspikes
Useful for late-season snow or icy patches on the high pass.
winter