Highlights of the Manaslu Base Camp Trek
- An adventure around the world’s 8th highest Mt. Manaslu and its base camp.
- Enjoy the stunning views of majestic peaks of Manaslu throughout the treks.
- Explore Manaslu and traditional villages steeped with ancient heritage cultures.
- Trekking on the foot of Mt. Manaslu amidst remorseless fields of ice and glaciers.
- Beautiful scenery of Birendra Tal, a glacial lake and cross high Larke-La Pass.
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Manaslu
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Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,930ft)
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15 Days
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Overview
Manaslu Base Camp and Larke-La Pass Trekking an adventures around the massif ranges of Mt. Manaslu. The trek takes you to the foot of the world’s 8th highest peak Mt. Manaslu. The mountain with massive snowy ridges towers high at 8,163m / 26,781ft with its adjoining peaks.
Mt. Manaslu is located in the district of Gorkha around Central and Mid-West Nepal. The route to Manaslu Valley and base camp also extends towards the Nepal and Tibet, China borders. The region at one time was a popular Trans Himalayan Trade Route between the two countries.
The Caravan of mules, horses, and Yaks laden with goods from both sides of the borders passed through Manaslu Valley.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek is an exciting adventure, although it leads to a strenuous climb uphill. But enjoyable as you walk through lovely traditional mountain villages enriched with ancient cultures of strong Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The most interesting about this adventure is following the Budhi Gandaki River to its glacial source at Manaslu base camp.
In the beginning, the walk starts from lower warm farm areas and then heads towards cooler mid-hills. As the walk progresses through a lovely forest of pines and rhododendrons, facing views of Ganesh and Manaslu Himal. Then slowly the walk enters the picturesque Manaslu Valley, after trekking past Namrung and Lo Gaon villages.
The route follows on pleasant trail with a short climb to reach Sama Gaon, located in the heart of Manaslu Valley. Enjoy the rest days in Sama Gaon and explore its scenic viewpoints and traditional villages, steeped with cultures.
From Sama Gaon, the adventure leads towards our main highlights at Manaslu Base Camp. A lovely hike within the beautiful forest and heading closer to scenic calm Birendra Tal, a glacial lake. Then reach the foot of staggering Mt. Manaslu at base camp enclosed by towering giant snow peaks.
Spending a day to explore around the magnificent location at base camp. Then on the return journey to Sama Gaon, follow the main trail towards high Larke-La Pass. After achieving the first main highlights of the adventures, the trek continues heading towards the end of Manaslu Valley.
Reaching the base of Larke-La Pass in a small settlement of Dharmasala, or Larke Phedi. An early morning adventure leads to a long steep climb on winding ridges walking over a moraine of rocks and glaciers.
Then finally the walk reaches on top of Larke-La Pass, the highest point of the journey. Larke-La is also a boundary of Gorkha and Manang districts, enjoy the spectacular panorama of massive mountain ranges. From the top a slow and gradual descent towards Manang areas at Bhimthang or Bhimphedi.
Lovely settlements surrounded by beautiful rhododendrons and pine trees, staying overnight after a long day crossing Larke-La pass.
The walk finally comes to an end, upon reaching Dharapani Village, located on the midways of the Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit routes. From Dharapani, take the comfort of a vehicle for an exciting long drive to Kathmandu. At Kathmandu, the marvelous adventure of great experience at Manaslu Base Camp concludes.
This trek has it all – culture, spirituality, awesome scenery and adventure. What are you waiting for?
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (Accommodation: Hotel)
- Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Tour (preparation for the trek) (Accommodation: Hotel)
- Day 3: 8-hour jeep drive to Soti Khola (starting point of the trek) (Accommodation: Tea house) – This day involves an 8-hour drive on a rough road.
- Day 4: Trek to Machha Khola (890m/2,920ft) – Estimated trek time: 5-6 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 5: Trek to Jagat and enter the restricted trekking area – Estimated trek time: 6-7 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 6: Trek to Dyang/Deng – Estimated trek time: 5-6 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 7: Trek to Namrung – Estimated trek time: 4-5 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 8: Trek to Sama Gaon (Sama Village) – Estimated trek time: 3-4 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 9: Rest day in Sama Gaon with optional Manaslu Base Camp hike – This day is a good opportunity to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
- Day 10: Trek to Samdo – Estimated trek time: 4-5 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 11: Hike to Larkya Phedi (Dharmasala) – Estimated trek time: 3-4 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 12: Trek from Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,930ft) and descend to Bimthang – Estimated trek time: 8-10 hours (This is a challenging day with the crossing of the Larkya La Pass) (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 13: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani – Estimated trek time: 5-6 hours (Accommodation: Tea house)
- Day 14: Jeep drive back to Kathmandu via Besi-Sahar – Estimated travel time: 7-8 hours (Accommodation: Hotel)
- Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
Manaslu Base Camp Trek itinerary
Altitude: 1,350 m/ 4,428 feet. Overnight at Tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu.
Meal Included: Welcome Dinner in a nice typical Nepalese Restaurants.
On first arrival in Kathmandu at Nepal International Airport received by our staff and guide, with warm Nepali traditional welcome. After, getting organized and then a short transfer to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city.
At the hotel check into your lovely rooms with refreshing rest after a jet-leg.
Then join in with other members of the group, for briefing at meeting halls or garden.
Our guide and leader will provide you with useful information regarding the trek, standard of lodge, foods and so on. If in doubt, can ask questions to make yourself at ease, after briefing enjoy the dinner in a typical Nepalese Restaurant.
Meal Included: Breakfast only. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Moring after a hearty breakfast, as per the time informed by our guide and staff our tour guide will meet. A short drive and walk in the heart of Kathmandu city, where the famous old Durbar Square located. An ancient palace and courtyard of earlier kings from Malla to former Shah Period. Interesting areas adorned with temples and old palace, as well with resident of famous Living Goddess the Kumari. Includes a temple of Kasthamandap, where Kathmandu name derived from, meaning a temple built from the wood of a single tree.
The temples and monuments of Durbar Square, listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After an interesting tour, a short drive leads west of the city to another famous landmark of Nepal. The Swyambhunath Stupa of Buddhist monuments, located on a hillock, one can enjoy views of Kathmandu city and the valley.
The Stupa one of the oldest in Nepal and probably in the world of more than 2,600 years of history. After an impressive morning tour back to hotel, rest of the day preparation for the wonderful Manaslu Base Camp hike.
Altitude: 930 m/ 350 ft. Approx. 6 hour walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / local lodge.
Meal Included: Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner
Depart for wonderful adventure to Manaslu Base Camp Trek, taking a private car, comfortable tourist standard bus, or coach. As per the size of a group, a long drive takes you beyond Kathmandu valley towards the Gorkha district.
Located Nepal Mid-West around Gandaki Zone, a country of low and mid-hills, heavily cultivated farm areas. The drive follows Nepal’s main busy highway for some hours and then diverts heading north to Arughat town.
Arughat town is situated on low farm areas close to the raging Buri Gandaki River, from here another few hours of drive on the dirt country road to Soti-Khola.
The drive continues further for another hour or more following the Buri Gandaki upstream. Heading through farm villages then reaching Machha Khola.
A moderate size farm village with a number of simple and basic lodges for an overnight stop. The name Machha Khola means a Fishing stream.
Altitude: 1,340 m/ 4,395 feet. Approx. 6 hour walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / local lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
From Machha Khola, after a pleasant overnight stop, the second-day walks lead to cooler hills. On leaving the low sub-tropical heavily farmed areas, the route follows slow ups and downs. Walking through a patch of forest reaching Tatopani, a place with a natural hot spring, enjoy the refreshing bathing as time permits.
Walk to Khola Besi and then to Dovan, a nice farm village for a short refreshing stop and continue the climb. As the day ends reach a nice moderate size hill village at Jagat for an overnight halt.
At Jagat, with time a short walk around to observe the local cultures, a blend of Hindu and Buddhism religions.
Altitude: 1,625 m / 5,330 feet. Approx. 6 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
After a pleasant time at Jagat, from here onwards starts the Restricted Area of Upper Manaslu.
Where all foreign visitors need to obtain a special permit to enter Upper Manaslu till Dharapani villages if reached. The walk leads to climbing and then crossing a bridge to Nagjet and Philim villages, a lovely farm area.
As route leads past the neatly tended farm terraces reaching a cool shade of the forest on reaching Deng.
From here onwards into strong Buddhism culture, as walk follows higher past the village of Deng. Slowly the long day trek comes to an end on reaching a small village of Pewa, for an overnight stop.
Altitude: 2,630 m. / 8,626 ft. Approx. 6 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
From the small village of Pewa, the climb leads to a forested ridge lined with tall rhododendron, pine, and fir trees.
A slow and steady downhill to Bhi Bazaar, situated near the riverside, after a pleasant stop. The walk continues heading towards farm areas with nice cultivated terraces of millets and barley and then reaching Namrung. After checking into the best available lodge, enjoy the grand views of Mt. Manaslu North Face with an array of peaks.
Altitude: 2,957 m / 9,698 ft. Approx. 4 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge.
Meal Included: Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner.
Adventure today leads into the high Manaslu valley on entering one of the prettiest and charming village of Lo Gaon. Having goof breakfast, then setting off for the long enjoyable scenic trek to Lo-Gaon. As walk follows to a slow gradual climb, and within cool shade of forest lined with pine and rhododendron trees.
Trek heads high above the Buri Gandaki River, and then on winding up past few summer settlements of cattle herder. Then finally ending the enjoyable pleasant day walk on reaching at nice large village of Lo-Gaon.
Lo-Gaon is a beautiful village within the shadow of majestic Mt. Manaslu with a contrast of green forest and white snow peaks. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of wonderful landscapes and snow peaks.
Altitude: 3,530 m/ 11, 582 feet. Approx. 7 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
Enjoy the morning picturesque scenery of wonderful landscapes and snow peaks, as the walk continues heading due west.
Adventure follows on gradual uphill trail around Upper Manaslu through a number of farm villages and Yak herder camps. An interesting walk on high Manaslu valley, enclosed by high rocky cliff and snow peaks.
The view of Mt. Manaslu and Sringi Himal remains constant for some hours as walk finally comes to an end on reaching at Sama-Gaon.
Sama-Gaon, the main village of high Manaslu valley as well one of the highlights of the adventure. Check into a nice lodge, with time to browse around the village and witness the local fascinating culture of Buddhism.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
Day Hike either Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Tal, or Pungyen Gompa.
A free day as well to support acclimatization, a perfect height at 3,550 m for a local short hike. Several best places for interested and eager trekkers and adventurers, one can enjoy a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp.
A long full day walk of more than 6 hours both ways, the best hike is to Birendra Tal. A glacial pond on route Manaslu base camp, a walk of a few hours uphill facing grand views of Mt. Manaslu.
One can enjoy the rest day with a leisure walk exploring the village and visiting the old Pungyen Gompa
Altitude: 4,400 m / 14, 435 feet at Base Camp. Approx. 05 hours.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meal Included: Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner.
After an easy day at Sama Gompa, today’s trek climbs slowly towards the Base Camp. The trails meanders on the winding track towards south and beyond, it is quite strange coming across green trees. Against the sheer mountain wilderness of ice, snow and glaciers, which makes a great picturesque scenery to experience.
The walk follows on off-the-beaten trails, only used by the mountaineers rather than by trekkers. The trail then leads close to a serene emerald Birendra Tal, a glacial lake. The reach around the glaciers of moraine of ice beneath the towering Mt. Manaslu. The walk to Base Camp is not too far can be done within 3-4 hours. But due to the increase in altitude and with dry air makes the walk slower to base camp. Enjoy the first overnight in tented camp, it is well worth an experience a classic way of trekking.
Enjoy a free day exploring around the base camp and Birendra Tal, lake amidst stunning scenery of snow mountains.
After an enjoyable and exciting time at Manaslu Base Camp and with great experience with tented camping. Retrace the journey back Sama-Gaon on the same scenic route and back into a nice lodge rooms for overnight.
Altitude: 3,865 m/ 12,677 feet. Approx. 4 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Adventure gets more exciting on reaching the high scenic Manaslu valley, from Sama-Gaon walk get interesting. The route follows the windswept terrain where tree lines disappear for high-altitude shrubs and bushes.
The valley gets narrow as the trek leads towards a mountainous country facing grand views of wonderful landscapes. A few hours walk to Samdo but taking it slow due to the rise of altitude. After a pleasant trek of and then a climb to a short steep up to Samdo for lunch and overnight. Samdo is the last village before reaching the other side of Larke-La Pass around Manang areas.
The village with more than forty houses with typical Tibetan style for more than two hundred inhabitants. Rest of the afternoon explore this last village of Samdo located on route Larke-La Pass and to the Tibet border.
Altitude: 4,460 m / 14,628 feet. Approx. 4 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch and Dinner.
Walk today a short and pleasant day reaching the highest overnight stop.
The route leads to the end of Manaslu valley and the last of the Gorkha district at Dharmasala or Larke Phedi. The base of Larke-La pass from the Manaslu side of the valley, a place with few huts that serve as lodge and guest-house.
In high times, of trekking season this place is crowded with trekkers.
Where some groups have to spend on tented camps provided by the lodge owners. In the early days, it was known as Larke Bazaar, where the market was held with buyers and sellers. Merchants, and traders from across the country as far from Tibet and Manang region used to sell and exchange their products.
At Dharmasala arriving at lunchtime, and for overnight stop.
Rest of the afternoon relax and prepare for the adventure climb to Larke Peak.
Altitude: 5,106 m / 16, 752 feet at Larke-La 3, 700 m/ 12,201 feet at Bhimthang Approx. 8-hour walk. Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
The last final highlight of the adventure, after an early breakfast, carrying pack lunch for the long day’s walk. Start the climb before break of dawn, heading towards a high slope on rocky gravel path above the lodge of Dharmasala.
Climb contours on winding steep uphill path, after hours of strenuous walk reaching on top of Larke-La Pass. The top is adorned with prayer flags and a signpost with the name of Pass and heights.
Every hard effort rewards you with an astonishing panorama of Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayan peaks. Includes views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru, as far as Ganesh Himal Far East direction.
After a tough climb, a long downhill takes you to the other side of Phedi at Bhimthang for an overnight stop. A long descent through moraine and Larcia glacier then reach Tambuche, the base of Larke-La Pass on Manang side.
From the bottom walk to Bhimthang overnight after a long, hard day, a lovely spot amidst green forest surroundings.
Altitude: 1, 800 m / 5,904 feet. Approx. 7 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Enjoy the last final trek of the Manaslu Circuit adventure, although a long walk to end the trek at Dharapani village. But an easy pleasant downhill trek compared to the previous tough day, start early having a good breakfast.
Walk heads towards a forested path with a few short ups and down to a small settlement of Gho. After a refreshing stop, continue to walk into the cool shade of the dense forest to Tilje, a nice village above Masrsyangdi River.
Stopping at Tilje for a possible lunch break, the last phase of the walk with a short climb over a bridge. Afternoon walk to a bridge and then a short climb to our final overnight destination at Dharapani village. Located on the famous and popular Annapurna and Manaslu Circuit route, a lovely village for the last day.
Dharapani offers many good lodges with nice rooms, having a comprehensive food menu to enjoy the last day party.
Altitude: 1,350 m. / 4,428 feet at Kathmandu.
Drive approx. 8-9 hour sharing jeep or Bus. Overnight in Hotel at Kathmandu.
Final day around the Himalayan hills of Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayas, an exciting drive to Kathmandu. Having a good breakfast, board on a local vehicle, depending upon the size of a group.
A long overland journey but interesting winding downhill to low warm farm areas of Lamjung district. As drive stops for short while at Bhesishar, the headquarters town of Lamjung. From Bhesishar on a good road, then joining on the main Pokhara and Kathmandu highway at Dumre town.
Drive more than four hours from Dumre town on winding uphill to the outskirt of Kathmandu valley. Finally drive ends on reaching your hotel, arriving by late afternoon or evening time. After a most mesmerizing adventure of a lifetime experience on Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb.
Meal Included: Breakfast Only.
Last day in Kathmandu and Nepal, after a great memorable adventure on Manaslu Base Camp and Larke-La Pass Trekking. Our staff transfer you to the international airport terminal, and then bidding farewell to the guide and staff. As you head for the smooth flight homeward bound.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Service
Includes
- Airport pick up, drop by private vehicles.
- 03 night’s standard twin- sharing accommodation in a 3 star hotel in Kathmandu.
- 12 nights twin sharing accommodation during trek.
- Guided sightseeing tours with private vehicle in Kathmandu. (Entrance Fee Extra)
- Local Transportation Jeep/ Bus Kathmandu –Soti Khola & returning back to Kathmandu.
- (If you want both ways private vehicle also available on additional cost).
- Three meals a day, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Tea/ Coffee in during the meals time.
- MACP/ ACAP & Manaslu special trekking permit as well.
- One highly experienced, helpful and friendly license holder guide. His food, accommodation, salary, equipment and accident insurance for all staff.
- Welcoming Dinner in a traditional Nepali restaurant with culture performance.
- Four seasonal sleeping bag. (if necessary)
- Company Duffle Bag, T- shirt.
- A self-sufficient medical first aid Kit containing vital medications.
- Company branded 01 water bottle.
- Local taxes.
Excludes
- All kind of beverage.
- Dinner and Lunch in Kathmandu.
- Porter Service, Do you need a porter? Ask to our trek expert.
- Personal travel and health insurance, insurance for helicopter evacuation.
- Tipping to staffs.
- Personal mountaineering gears
- Optional trips if extended
- International airfare.
- Visa fee, you obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu.
- Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out our control.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The total distance covered on the Manaslu Base Camp Trek is approximately 177 kilometers over 10 days, with daily trekking distances ranging from 15-20 kilometers.
Terrain difficulty is also a factor, as the trail frequently involves steep ascents and descents along the Budhi Gandaki River corridor. The trek up to Larkya La Pass at 5,213 meters presents a particularly challenging elevation gain.
Operating at high altitude carries risks of altitude sickness, as the Manaslu Circuit reaches over 5,000 meters at Larkya La Pass. Moreover, winds can make trail conditions cold at higher elevations.
Considering the total distance, daily exertion levels, elevation extremes, and environmental conditions, the trek should be undertaken only by physically fit individuals who are prepared to trek in demanding mountain environments. Successful completion typically requires a minimum 2-3 month regimen of conditioning including endurance training to build cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength appropriate for the trek.
Essentials
Manaslu Base Camp Trek Permits and Cost
Permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Permit:
- Cost: Varies by season:
- High Season (Sept-Nov): $100 for first 7 days, $15/day extra.
- Low Season (Dec-Aug): $75 for first 7 days, $10/day extra.
- Cost: Varies by season:
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):
- Foreigners: 3,000 NRS (~$24)
- SAARC Nationals: 1,000 NRS (~$8)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): (Optional for some routes)
- Foreigners: 3,000 NRS (~$24)
- SAARC Nationals: 1,000 NRS (~$8)
- Tsum Valley Permit (Optional): (Applicable only if including Tsum Valley)
- Cost: $40 for first 7 days, $5/day extra.
Total Permit Cost: Ranges from USD 120 to 140 depending on season and chosen route.
Accommodation:
- Twin sharing accommodation in Kathmandu for a night before and after the trek
- Tea house accommodation during the trek
Meals:
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Tea/coffee with breakfast
Transportation:
- Airport pickup and drop off by private car in Kathmandu
- Local transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Dharapani
- Transportation from Besisahar to Kathmandu
Guide and Staff:
- Government-registered, experienced trekking guide
- Assistant guide (depending on group size)
- Porters to carry your luggage (optional)
Other:
- Domestic airport taxes
- Farewell dinner
Optional Extras:
- Single room supplement (if you prefer not to share your accommodation)
- Peak climbing permit (if you want to climb a peak above 6,000 meters)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, tips, etc.)
Things to Note:
It is important to check the weather conditions before you go on the trek, as this can affect the difficulty of the trek.
Here are some additional things to consider bringing on the Manaslu Base Camp Trek:
- Clothing:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Trekking pants
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Thermal underwear
- Fleece jacket
- Down jacket
- Rain jacket and pants
- Hat and gloves
- Buff or scarf
- Gear:
- Backpack (40-50 liters)
- Sleeping bag (rated to -15°C)
- Sleeping pad
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottle or hydration bladder
- First-aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries
- Camera
- Personal items:
- Passport and visa copies
- Travel insurance documents
- Cash (Nepalese rupees) for personal expenses
- Medications
- Books or playing cards
Manaslu Base Camp Best Time to go
The most popular time period for the trek is autumn (September, October, and November). During this season, views of both Manaslu and other mountains within the Annapurna Range are at their most visually striking.
The second most popular timeframe is spring (March, April, and May). Rhododendron forests throughout the Manaslu Conservation Area burst vividly into bloom, presenting a picturesque landscape. Comparatively lower rainfall during spring further contributes to the popularity of this period.
Trekkers should note that the circuit ascends to over 5,000 meters in elevation. As such, winter months (December, January, and February) can prove bitterly frigid, with temperatures plunging to -20 degrees Celsius or below. Similarly, the summer wet season (June, July, and August) brings heavy monsoonal precipitation, necessitating thoroughly prepared equipment and supplies. Factoring in these climatic challenges, autumn and spring generally offer the most favorable conditions.
Accommodation During Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu:
You’ll be staying in 3-star hotels for 3 nights with breakfast included.
Manaslu Trek:
- You’ll spend 14 nights in teahouses and local lodges along the trail.
- Accommodation is basic and cozy, primarily offering twin or triple-sharing rooms.
- Shared toilet facilities are typically located outside the room within the building.
Important Points:
- Standards: Lodges in Nepal, even those with star ratings, might not meet European standards.
- Focus: The emphasis is on enjoying the outdoors and experiencing nature, not luxurious accommodations.
- Room Options:
- Standard package: Twin or triple-sharing rooms.
- Single supplement: Upgrade to a private room for the entire trip for an additional $350 per person. (Note: Single rooms might not be available at high-altitude points.)
Additional Information: Due to a rise in trekking in the Manaslu region, sharing a room with other trekkers might be necessary, particularly in Dharamsala (Larkya La Phedi) before the high pass.
Meals During Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Food Variety:
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek offers a diverse culinary experience, featuring:
- Nepalese staples: Dal Bhat, Thukpa, Momos
- International influences: Chinese, Indian, Italian, and Tibetan cuisine
- Additional options: Pizza, Macaroni, Paratha, Pasta
- Snacks and Drinks: Fresh fruits, hot/cold beverages, alcoholic drinks (optional)
Meal Schedule and Locations:
- Breakfast and Dinner: Served at the campsite.
- Lunch: Enjoyed at local lodges along the trekking trail.
Freshness and Hygiene:
- You can be assured of:
- Fresh, healthy, and organic ingredients.
- Hygienic preparation and serving practices.
- Local vegetables are often sourced from organic farms.
- Clean water is used for cooking and cleaning.
Additional Information:
- A variety of hot and cold beverages are available throughout the trek.
- Garden-fresh homemade soup adds another dimension to the culinary adventure.
Terrain and Difficulty of the Manaslu Base Camp Trek
The Base Camp trek, incorporating a circuit route, exposes you to diverse landscapes. Expect rugged and unique terrain, with some sections located in remote areas within the Himalayas. Daily hikes range from 10 to 13 miles.
Key Challenges:
- Off-the-beaten-path trails: These require stamina and physical endurance due to uneven surfaces and potentially challenging inclines.
- Increasing difficulty: The initial days are generally easier, traversing along the Budi Gandaki Valley. However, the difficulty level progressively increases with each passing day.
- High altitude: Descending and ascending trails in thin air add significant challenges.
- Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters): This is the highest point of the trek and presents the most demanding section. It tests your physical and mental strength due to the steep climbs and descents.
Preparation:
- Physical fitness: While good physical condition is crucial, mental perseverance is equally important for successfully navigating challenging terrain.
- Early start for Larkya La Pass: To avoid complications on the pass day, trekkers typically start very early before sunrise.
Accommodation Options
Your Manaslu Base Camp Trek gives you a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Throughout your journey, you’ll be well-rested and prepared for the next day’s exploration.
In Kathmandu, you’ll unwind in comfortable 3-star hotels. This provides a relaxing start and end point to your adventure.
As you embark on the trek, nights will be spent in cozy teahouses nestled within the charming villages along the route. These traditional guesthouses offer a unique cultural experience and a chance to connect with the local way of life. All accommodations are based on twin sharing, meaning you’ll share a room with another trekker.
For those seeking more privacy, single rooms can be requested for an additional USD 290 per person. However, it’s important to note that some teahouses in more remote locations may not have single rooms available.
While luxuries are limited on the trek, most teahouses now provide electricity for charging essential devices like mobile phones and cameras. This allows you to capture precious memories and stay connected during your adventure.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
There are several regions in Nepal listed as Restricted Areas like Manaslu, due to its close frontier with Tibet / China.
Where trekkers require a special permit to enter the Restricted Areas, which should be accompanied by government-registered local company guides.
The other reason is to control the mass flow of tourists and to protect its fragile environment.
The only tough day is long hours of walking for some days, the trail is well established for safe trekking. The hardest part of trekking is a long climb to Larke-La Pass, and then the long stretch of downhill.
Most large villages like Jagat, Namrung, Sama-Gaon, and Samdo do have hydroelectricity power. Some villages and lodges have their own private solar power as well so that you can charge your electronic gadgets and items.
Yes, for using hot/cold showers as for charging electronic items one needs to pay a fee. The price differs from one village lodge to another, first ask your guide if the cost is reasonable.
From Sama Gaon to Manaslu base camp for 2 overnights, tents will be supplied by the company. Includes separate kitchen with cook and kitchen staff.
All meals cooked and served by our expert cook and kitchen hands, meals are set on a dining tents depending upon the size of a group.
But we don’t make this package for tent camping. If you need camping, please visit our Manaslu Camping Trek.
Depending upon own expenses for extra snacks, soft drinks or having a beer as well buying local souvenirs on treks. Average of US $ 300 to 500 per person, the money required for tipping the guide, staff, and porters also at the end of the trek.
For mild sickness, our guide carries First Aid and a comprehensive medical kit, for serious unfortunate accidents and illness. Immediate evacuation by fastest means of transport to nearest medical center or hospitals.
The best and fastest means is using Helicopter Services that is why all trekkers have to purchase Medical and Travel Insurance in case of emergency situations.
Manaslu Base Camp trek is not popular, except for the mountaineering expeditions. On normal Manaslu Circuit trekking, few groups of trekkers seldom visit. As Manaslu base camp is not located on the main trail of Manaslu Circuit route.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek distance:
Originally (1991): 175 km (109 miles) from Arughat Bazar to Besi Sahar.
Currently: 117 km (73 miles) due to the development of motorable roads. The new trek starts at Soti Khola and ends in Dharapani.
Deciding between Manaslu Base Camp and Everest Base Camp depends on your priorities as a trekker. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose:
Everest Base Camp (EBC):
Pros:
- More established route with better infrastructure (tea houses, lodges)
- Iconic – a chance to get close to the world’s tallest mountain
- Generally considered moderately difficult, achievable for a wider range of trekkers
Cons:
- More crowded, especially during peak season
- Higher altitude can increase risk of altitude sickness (highest point: Kala Patthar – 5,555 meters)
- Less off-the-beaten-path experience
Manaslu Base Camp (MBC):
Pros:
- Less crowded, more chance for solitude in nature
- Rich cultural experience in the Tsum Valley region
- Considered a challenging trek with a higher success rate due to a more gradual ascent (highest point: Larkya La pass – 5,106 meters)
Cons:
- Less developed infrastructure – basic tea houses and lodges
- Requires good fitness and experience for challenging terrain
- Permit fees can be slightly higher
In short:
- Choose EBC if: You prioritize seeing Everest and a well-maintained trail with good amenities. You’re comfortable with crowds and a moderate challenge.
- Choose MBC if: You prefer a less crowded, more adventurous trek with cultural immersion. You’re an experienced trekker with good fitness looking for a challenge at a slightly lower altitude.
Ultimately, the best base camp for you depends on your personal preferences and trekking experience.
Overall Company Rating:
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Trek To Base Camp of Manaslu Trek to Manaslu Base Camp was an unparalleled experience, offering stunning vistas as we ascended higher into the mountains. The beauty of the peaks and the charm of the surrounding villages captivated us. We particularly enjoyed the delicious local cuisine, which was perfect for the chilly weather. The entire trek was incredible, and we were very pleased with the arrangements made by the MCT, which allowed us to fully enjoy the journey without any worries. Thank you, MCT, for an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommended!
Emmafrom United States
