Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Duration: 21 Days
- Activities: Religious and Nature
- Trip Grade: Strenuous
- Departure from: Kathmandu,Nepal
- Arrival on: Kathmandu,Nepal
- Destination: Nepal
- Group size: 2-15
- Best Seasons: March - May / September - November
- Trip Mode: Hotel and Local homestays
Trip Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek via Serang Gompa is a rewarding 21-day adventure that combines the classic Manaslu Circuit with a peaceful visit to the sacred Serang Gompa. This unique route leads you through remote mountain villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, lush forests, and high alpine landscapes before crossing the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106 m).
Along the journey, you will experience the rich culture of the Nubri people, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and neighboring Himalayan peaks, and stay in traditional tea houses and a monastery. Side trips to Kal Tal, Manaslu Base Camp, Pungen Gompa, and Ponker Lake make the trek even more memorable.
Perfect for trekkers seeking authentic culture, fewer crowds, and outstanding mountain scenery, the Manaslu Circuit Trek via Serang Gompa offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience with a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and local tradition.
Highlights
- Follow the less-traveled route to the sacred Serang Gompa.
- Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and mountain villages.
- Cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Visit Sama Gaon, Samdo, Prok, and other traditional settlements.
- Explore Kal Tal and Ponker Lake during scenic side trips.
- Stay in local tea houses and a monastery for a unique cultural experience.
Outline Itinerary
01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
02: Kathmandu sightseeing, trek preparation, and welcome dinner
03: Drive to Machha Khola (900 m / 2,953 ft) – 8–9 hrs
04: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft) – 10–11 hrs
05: Trek to Deng via Phillim (1,865 m / 6,102 ft) – 6–7 hrs
06: Trek to Bihi Village (2,130 m / 6,988 ft) – 3 hrs
07: Trek to Serang Gompa (3,100 m / 10,170 ft) – Overnight at the monastery (5–6 hrs)
08: Trek to Prok (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) – 5–6 hrs
09: Hike to Kal Tal and return to Prok (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) – 5–6 hrs
10: Trek to Lho Village (3,180 m / 10,433 ft) – 5–6 hrs
11: Trek to Sama Gaon (3,520 m / 11,549 ft) – 4–5 hrs
12: Acclimatization day at Sama Gaon with an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa
13: Trek to Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) – 3–4 hrs
14: Acclimatization day at Samdo with an optional hike to Rui La Pass (4,998 m / 16,397 ft) near the Tibetan border
15: Trek to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) (4,460 m / 14,633 ft) – 4–5 hrs
16: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,751 ft) and trek to Bhimtang (3,590 m / 11,775 ft) – 8–9 hrs
17: Hike to Ponker Lake, then trek to Gho (Goa)
18: Trek to Dharapani, then drive to Besisahar
19: Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara (5–6 hrs)
20: Leisure day in Kathmandu with a complimentary trekkers’ spa and farewell dinner
21: Departure from Kathmandu
Detail Itinerary
Day
01
01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Welcome to Nepal! After you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Once you have checked in, you can relax after your journey or take a short walk around the lively streets of Thamel. In the evening, you will receive a briefing about the upcoming trek.
Meals: Not Included
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day
02
02
Kathmandu Sightseeing, Trek Preparation, and Welcome Dinner
Today after breakfast we shall take a first half on sightseeing Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sightseeing covering Swyambhu Stupa (Monkey temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Later back to hotel and last minute trek gear preparation. Evening a cultural welcome dinner followed by trek briefing. (Guide can test your ability as well preparation while visiting Swyambhu stupa as on descend crossing long 380 stoned paved steps)
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day
3
3
Drive to Machha Khola (900 m / 2,953 ft) – 8–9 Hours
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu through rolling hills, terraced farmland, and traditional villages. The paved highway gradually changes into a rugged mountain road as you enter the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The journey offers beautiful views of rivers, waterfalls, and rural landscapes before reaching Machha Khola.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Machha Khola
Day
4
4
Trek to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft) – 10–11 Hours
Today’s day will be one of the longest trekking days. Follow the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, suspension bridges, and small settlements. The trail passes Tatopani’s natural hot springs before climbing steadily toward Jagat, a charming stone-built village that serves as the official entrance to the restricted Manaslu region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Jagat
Day
5
5
Trek to Deng via Phillim (1,865 m / 6,102 ft) – 6–7 Hours
The trail climbs through beautiful forests and crosses several suspension bridges before reaching the large Gurung village of Phillim. As you continue north, the valley becomes narrower, and Tibetan cultural influences begin to appear. After passing small settlements and riverside trails, you arrive at Deng.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Deng
Day
6
6
Trek to Bihi Village (2,130 m / 6,988 ft) – 3 Hours
Today’s walk is relatively short, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. The trail winds through pine forests, crosses wooden bridges, and passes several Mani walls and prayer flags. Bihi is a peaceful village where traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture remains well preserved.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Bihi Village
Day
7
7
Trek to Serang Gompa (3,100 m / 10,170 ft) – 5–6 Hours
Leave the main Manaslu Circuit Trail and follow a quieter mountain path toward the sacred Serang Gompa. The climb passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and peaceful hillsides with magnificent mountain scenery. Upon arrival, experience the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery and, if permitted, observe the daily prayers of resident monks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Monastery Guesthouse at Serang Gompa
Day
8
8
Trek to Prok (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) – 5–6 Hours
Descend through forests and traditional yak grazing areas before joining the trail leading to Prok Village. This authentic Himalayan settlement is known for its rich Buddhist heritage, ancient monasteries, and excellent views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Prok
Day
9
9
Hike to Kal Tal and Return to Prok – 5–6 Hours
Spend the day exploring Kal Tal, a beautiful alpine lake hidden above Prok Village. The trail climbs gradually through forests and open meadows before reaching the peaceful lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. After enjoying the tranquil surroundings, return to Prok for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Prok
Day
10
10
Trek to Lho Village (3,180 m / 10,433 ft) – 5–6 Hours
Rejoin the main trekking route and continue toward Lho Village. The trail passes through forests, traditional settlements, and colorful prayer wheels. Upon reaching Lho, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Manaslu and visit Ribung Monastery, one of the region’s most important Buddhist monasteries.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Lho Village
Day
11
11
Trek to Sama Gaon (3,520 m / 11,549 ft) – 4–5 Hours
Today’s trail offers some of the finest mountain scenery on the trek. Walk through alpine forests and yak pastures before arriving at Sama Gaon, the largest village in the upper Manaslu region. The village provides magnificent views of Mount Manaslu while preserving its strong Tibetan cultural traditions.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Sama Gaon
Day
12
12
Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon
Take a well-earned rest day to adapt to the higher elevation. You may choose to hike to Manaslu Base Camp for breathtaking glacier views or visit the peaceful Pungen Gompa, located beneath the towering south face of Mount Manaslu. Return to Sama Gaon for another night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Sama Gaon
Day
13
13
Trek to Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft) – 3–4 Hours
The trail climbs gradually through open alpine terrain with spectacular mountain views. After crossing grazing fields and glacial streams, reach Samdo, a traditional Tibetan village located close to the Nepal-Tibet border.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Samdo
Day
14
14
Acclimatization Day at Samdo
Spend another acclimatization day with an optional hike toward Rui La Pass near the Tibetan frontier. The route rewards you with outstanding views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and the remote Himalayan landscape before returning to Samdo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Samdo
Day
15
15
Trek to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) (4,460 m / 14,633 ft) – 4–5 Hours
Today’s trail gradually ascends across rocky terrain toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. This small settlement serves as the final overnight stop before crossing the highest point of the trek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Dharamsala
Day
16
16
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,751 ft) and Trek to Bhimtang (3,590 m / 11,775 ft) – 8–9 Hours
Begin early for the challenging ascent to Larkya La Pass, one of Nepal’s most spectacular Himalayan passes. The summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and Mount Manaslu. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully through glacial valleys to Bhimtang.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Bhimtang
Day
17
17
Hike to Ponker Lake and Trek to Gho (Goa) – 6–7 Hours
Start the morning with a rewarding hike to the beautiful turquoise waters of Ponker Lake, surrounded by glaciers and towering mountains. After returning to Bhimtang, continue descending through forests of pine and rhododendron before reaching the peaceful village of Gho.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Tea House in Gho
Day
18
18
Trek to Dharapani and Drive to Besisahar – 6–7 Hours
Walk through beautiful forests and traditional Gurung villages while descending toward Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit joins the Annapurna Circuit. From here, drive along mountain roads to Besisahar for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Besisahar
Day
19
19
Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara – 5–6 Hours
Leave the mountains behind as you travel back to Kathmandu or continue to Pokhara. Along the way, enjoy views of rivers, hills, and picturesque countryside. The evening is free for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Day
20
20
LEISURE DAY, SHOPPING AND COMPLIMENTARY TREKKERS’ SPA
Today it’s your day with easy and leisure. Shopping Afternoon a Complimentary FREE SPA (Trekkers spa) at best spa center of Kathmandu. Evening celebration with farewell dinner with all groups. Back to hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day
21
21
Departure from Kathmandu
Your trip concludes today. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of the Manaslu region.
Meals: Breakfast
Equipment List
- Fleece beanie
- Sunglasses
- Chapstick / Sunscreen
- Face mask or Scarf
- Hand towel
- Wind stopper / waterproof top and bottom
- Cold weather down jacket below the waist
- Fleece jacket and trousers
- Trekking trouser
- T-Shirts(short or long sleeves) dry fit is better
- Polypropylene thermal tops and bottom, at least 2pairs,
- Wind stopper and fleece gloves
- Socks and underwears
- Trekking boot
- Snow Gaiter (optional)
- Runners / Snickers for camps
- Head torch
- Personal medical kit
- Water Bottle/Camel Pak
- Trekking / Ski pole (optional. Handy for anyone with knee problem)
- Spare batteries for the camera and flashlight. Check the charging facility along your journey
- Day pack Minimum 25L with a side pocket for a water bottle
Cost Included
- Airport Pickup and Drop
- Full board meals with tea or coffee during the trek and climb
- Government-licensed English-speaking trekking and climbing guide during climb and trek
- All Trekking Permit
- Kathmandu – Macha Khola by Public Bus
- Sharing Jeep From Dharapani – Kathmandu
- Transportation from Beshisahar – Kathmandu
- Gear and Equipment
- First aid medical kit
- Taxes and office service charges
- Required porters
- Two nights hotel in Kathmandu
- Porter and guide insurance
Cost not Include
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Soft drinks, hard drinks, mineral water, Battery charge and Wi-FI.
- Extra accommodation cost in Kathmandu, due to early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking and expedition due to any reason
- Helicopter or chartered flight cost
- Tips for Guide and Porter.
0 Reviews on Manaslu Circuit Trek
Leave a Reply