Manaslu Circuit Trek: Around the Eighth Peak Trek

Starting early in the morning from Kathmandu, you’ll leave the urban landscape behind and enter the scenic countryside of Nepal. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway, offering picturesque views of terraced fields, traditional villages, and glimpses of the Trishuli River.

As you continue, the road gradually becomes more rugged, and you’ll begin to ascend into the hills. The journey takes you through narrow mountain roads with hairpin turns, passing through charming towns like Gorkha, famous for its historical significance and ancient palace.

The road conditions can vary, with some stretches being bumpy and unpaved. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills, glimpses of distant Himalayan peaks, and the opportunity to observe local life and culture.

As you approach Machha Khola, the road descends steeply towards the Budi Gandaki River. The village is situated by the river and marks the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The day’s drive culminates with a sense of accomplishment as you reach this remote village, surrounded by lush greenery and the promise of adventure.

Leaving Machha Khola, the trail leads you through a mix of rocky terrain and dense forests. You’ll cross the Machha Khola (Fish River) on a suspension bridge and trek alongside the river, ascending and descending along the way. The path offers glimpses of beautiful waterfalls and terraced fields as you pass through small villages.

After trekking for around 2-3 hours, you’ll reach Khorlabesi, a quaint village located at the confluence of the Soti Khola and the Budhi Gandaki Rivers. It serves as a potential lunch spot and a place to rest. After that, the trail takes you through narrow and rocky sections, accompanied by the soothing sound of the Budhi Gandaki River. The path winds through lush forests, where you can spot various bird species and enjoy the tranquility of nature. You’ll pass through the village of Yaru Khola and continue trekking amidst terraced fields and quaint settlements.

After trekking for 4-5 hours, you’ll reach Jagat, a scenic village that marks the entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area. This picturesque village is characterized by its traditional houses, prayer wheels, and stone-paved streets. It’s an ideal place to spend the night, immersing yourself in the local culture and preparing for the next leg of the trek.

Leaving Jagat, the trail gradually ascends through a mixture of rocky terrain and forests. You’ll pass through the village of Sirdibas, where you can observe the traditional culture and lifestyle of the local Gurung community.

Continuing along the Budhi Gandaki River, the trail leads to Philim, a beautiful village adorned with terraced fields and picturesque surroundings. Trekking for approximately 4-5 hours, you’ll reach Philim, which serves as a common resting point with basic amenities and accommodation.

From Philim, the trail meanders through scenic landscapes, including forests and agricultural fields. As you trek deeper into the valley, you’ll cross several suspension bridges and encounter charming villages along the way. After trekking for around 4-5 hours, you’ll reach Deng, a tranquil village. Deng offers a serene ambiance, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and rich cultural heritage. Spend the night in a teahouse, savoring the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.

Leaving Deng, the trail gradually ascends through a mix of forests and terraced fields. You’ll trek alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through small villages along the way. The trail offers glimpses of beautiful landscapes and mountain views. After trekking for approximately 4-5 hours, you’ll reach Ghap, a peaceful village situated at an elevation of around 2,160 meters. Ghap provides a pleasant resting place with teahouses and basic facilities.

Continuing from Ghap, the trail continues through lush forests, crossing several streams and waterfalls. The path gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As you ascend, you’ll pass through Tibetan-style villages where you may learn about the native way of life and mingle with the hospitable locals.

Finally, you will arrive in Namrung, a traditional town perched at a height of around 2,660 meters, after trekking for about 5–6 hours. Namrung offers a variety of lodging options with breathtaking views of the adjacent Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal peaks.

From Lihi, the trail continues through an exquisite region with breathtaking views of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal peaks. As you walk along the ridge, you will pass through small towns and suspension bridges.

You will reach Sho after a 3- to 4-hour hike on the gently ascending trail. With tall mountains and verdant foliage all around, this village offers a tranquil and beautiful setting. The trek commences from Sho and takes you to Lho, a hamlet renowned for its historic monasteries and breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu. You may see the local way of life and traditional Tibetan-style homes here.

After trekking for approximately 3-4 hours, you’ll reach Samagaon, a highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Samagaon is a beautiful village situated at the foot of the Manaslu Glacier, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Here, you can explore the ancient Pungyen Gompa, interact with the locals, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the region.

To aid in acclimatization, spend an extra day in Samagaon. This allows your body to adjust to the higher altitude and helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Take a short hike to explore the surrounding areas, such as the glacial Birendra Tal (Lake), offering stunning views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. Immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly locals, and witness their daily way of life. This rest day also provides an opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation before the challenging sections of the trek.

On the last day of our trek, we will catch a jeep and drive to Besi Sahar. It will take about 3 hours to reach Besi Sahar.

On reaching Besi Sahar we will again drive on the bank of the Marshyangdi river to reach Kathmandu. On the way enjoying amazing views of green hills, mountains, farming terraces, and villages on both sides of roads we will reach Kathmandu after about 7 hours.

Our team will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to Nepal with memories of an unforgettable trek.