Around Manaslu

One of the finest treks in the Himalaya is the challenging circuit around Manaslu (26,758'), the eighth highest mountain in the world. This little-frequented route close to the Tibet border is often referred to as a “connoisseur’s treks” by old Nepal hands for its combination of stunning mountain scenery and fascinating cultures. With revered Trip Leader Hashmat Singh—a veteran of more than 100 WT trips—we’ll enjoy unsurpassed views of the many faces of Manaslu, whose name is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning “Mountain of the Spirit,” and the spectacular snowy summits of the Annapurna, Ganesh, and Chuling Himals. Our journey also reveals a stunning landscape of untouched steep-sided valleys, deep gorges traced by roaring rivers and tumbling waterfalls, dramatic high passes, pristine turquoise glacial lakes, an incredible diversity of ecosystems, and a rich patchwork of ethnic cultures whose traditional hamlets rarely see outsiders. Join us for an unparalleled experience of the Himalaya!

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Kathmandu

We explore the Buddhist stupa at Boudha and nearby Bhaktapur, listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO for its abundant rich culture, temples, and artworks in wood, metal, and stone.

Days 3-9
Gorkha / Rupina La

From Gorkha, a picturesque medieval hilltown west of Kathmandu, we trek along ridgelines and through river valleys cultivated with rice and millet, enjoying breathtaking views of the Chuling Himal range and the peaks of Himalchuli (25,896') and Boudha (21,890'). Climbing ever higher, we pass through forests of rhododendrons and conifers as we approach our first pass, the Rupina La. After crossing it, we descend steeply to a camp near the Boudha Glacier, with views of the Ganesh Himal in the distance.

Days 10-13
Chhulung and Buri Gandaki Gorges

Crossing the Boudha Glacier, with its incredible views of Himalchuli and Shringi Himal (23,579'), we hike high above the Chhulung Gorge and descend to the village of Nyak, the last Gurung Hindu village on the Buri Gandaki River. Climbing through the gorge of the Buri Gandaki, we enter a world of ancient Buddhist gompas, beautifully carved mani walls, and small villages inhabited by farmers and shepherds of Tibetan origin, and begin to have our first views of Manaslu towering above us.

Days 14-25
Nupri / Larkya La / Kathmandu

Here in the region called Nupri, close to the Tibet border, we have dramatic views of the high mountains and enjoy a chance to hike to the base camp of Manaslu. Climbing opposite the Larkya glacier plummeting from Manaslu, we head to the Larkya La (17,124'), described as having the best views from any high pass in Nepal. The peaks of the Lamjung and Annapurna Himals fill our sight, as well as all the peaks we have seen so far. Our descent brings us to a serene mountain-ringed valley and eventually to the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Dudh Kosi Rivers at Dharapani, where we join the main trail leading around the Annapurna massif. We continue to descend along the Marsyangdi River and end our trek at Syanje, from where we return to Kathmandu. Depart on Day 25.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:

• Scenic Everest Flight (1 days)
• Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge Extension (3 days)
• Tiger Tops: Royal Chitwan National Park Extension (3 days)
• Lhasa, Sacred City of Tibet Extension (5 days)
• Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension (4 days)

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 6, very strenuous. Hiking elevations range from 6,000 to 14,000 feet, with two pass crossings at 15,480 and 17,124 feet and many steep ascents and descents. Trip members carry only a daypack with camera, jacket, rain gear, water bottle, and other small necessities. Our camp crew of Sherpa guides and porters carries all the rest of the equipment; a cook prepares all meals. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed; the group will spread out along the trail during the day to cover a normal maximum of 7 to 12 miles per day (5-10 hours of hiking). There are a few days on this trek when the walks are shorter, as well as rest days, allowing opportunity for day hikes and for exploring the villages, monasteries, and beautiful surroundings near our campsites. Trail conditions are primitive and there will be streams and rivers to wade across as well as bridges to traverse. In addition, we may encounter snow on the two high passes.

Explanation of Trip Levels