Manaslu Circuit Trekking & Larke Peak Climb Quick Facts
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19 days, 18 nights (arrival to departure)
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10 walking days, 2 rest days, 1 summit day, 1 reserve day, 2 driving days
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Larke Peak summit at 6,249 m / 20,502 ft (Larkya La Pass 5,106 m / 16,752 ft)
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Gorkha and Manang districts, Gandaki Province, west-central Nepal
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RAP, MCAP, ACAP, Larke Peak climbing permit
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September to November and March to May
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Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek and climb. Breakfast in Kathmandu, plus a welcome dinner.
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Local jeep or bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. Private airport transfers and sightseeing transport. A private vehicle both ways costs extra.
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1 - 12
Trip Highlights
- Summit Larke Peak (6,249 m), a quiet 6,000 m peak right above Larkya La
- Walk the full Manaslu Circuit around the world's eighth-highest mountain
- Cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m with views of Himlung, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II
- Acclimatize in Tibetan Buddhist villages such as Lho, Sama Gaun and Samdo
- Sleep at high camp below the peak, with a cook and kitchen tent
- Licensed climbing guide, all permits and a reserve day for weather
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Online nowOverview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb joins the full trek around Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, with a guided climb of Larke Peak (6,249 m). In 19 days you walk up the Budhi Gandaki valley, rest at Sama Gaun, climb Larke Peak from a high camp above Dharmasala, then cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m and walk out to Dharapani.
It is the same trail as our Manaslu Circuit Trek. You start at Machha Khola and walk through Jagat, Namrung, Lho and Sama Gaun. The difference comes at the top. Instead of crossing Larkya La straight away, you spend extra days at Dharmasala, sleep one night at high camp and go for the summit.
Manaslu is a restricted area, so you need a licensed guide and several permits, plus a separate climbing permit for Larke Peak. We arrange all of them. See the Manaslu permit guide for the trekking permits.
This trip suits fit trekkers who want their first 6,000 m summit, and climbers looking for a quiet peak. If you only want the pass, look at the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek. For a much bigger goal, see Mt. Manaslu Mountaineering Expeditions.
This trip combines the full Manaslu Circuit with a climb of Larke Peak (6,249 m). You get 15 days in the mountains, a licensed climbing guide and a spare day for bad weather.
What Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb is a 19-day guided trip in Nepal that adds a summit of Larke Peak (6,249 m) to the classic trek around Manaslu. It is strenuous, with steep snow and ice near the top. Go in spring or autumn. It suits fit trekkers who have used crampons before.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb
- A real 6,000 m summit. Larke Peak (6,249 m) is a big step up from a trekking pass, without the time and cost of an expedition.
- A quiet peak. Far fewer climbers go to Larke Peak than to well-known peaks such as Island Peak or Mera Peak, so you share the mountain with few other groups.
- Built-in acclimatization. You walk for a week up the Budhi Gandaki valley and rest at Sama Gaun and Dharmasala before you climb.
- A spare day for weather. Day 15 is held in reserve in case storms or fresh snow delay the summit.
- The full Manaslu Circuit. You still walk the whole loop, cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) and finish at Dharapani.
- Tibetan Buddhist villages. From Namrung onward you pass monasteries, chortens and mani walls on the old salt-trade route to Tibet.
| Manaslu Circuit + Larke Peak | Manaslu Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 19 days | 14 days |
| Highest point | Larke Peak, 6,249 m | Larkya La Pass, 5,106 m |
| Highest night | High camp, about 5,050 m | Dharmasala, 4,460 m |
| Nights in a tent | 1 | None |
| Skills needed | Crampons, ice axe and fixed ropes | Good fitness only |
| Extra permit | Larke Peak climbing permit | None |
Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb Itinerary: 19 Days at a Glance
| Day | Route | Overnight altitude | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu | 1,340 m | Airport transfer |
| 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing and climb preparation | 1,340 m | Day tour |
| 3 | Drive to Machha Khola | 930 m | About 8 hours |
| 4 | Machha Khola to Jagat | 1,345 m | About 6 hours |
| 5 | Jagat to Pewa via Philim and Deng | 1,625 m | About 6 hours |
| 6 | Pewa to Namrung | 2,630 m | About 6 hours |
| 7 | Namrung to Lho | 3,185 m | About 4 hours |
| 8 | Lho to Sama Gaun | 3,530 m | 6 to 7 hours |
| 9 | Acclimatization day at Sama Gaun (optional hike) | 3,530 m | Rest or hike |
| 10 | Sama Gaun to Samdo | 3,875 m | About 4 hours |
| 11 | Samdo to Dharmasala (Larke Phedi) | 4,460 m | About 4 hours |
| 12 | Rest and climb preparation at Dharmasala | 4,460 m | Short scouting walk |
| 13 | Dharmasala to Larke Peak high camp | About 5,050 m | About 4 hours |
| 14 | Summit Larke Peak (6,249 m), back down to Dharmasala | 4,460 m | Long day, pre-dawn start |
| 15 | Reserve day for weather | 4,460 m | Rest |
| 16 | Cross Larkya La (5,106 m) to Bhimthang | 3,590 m | About 8 hours |
| 17 | Bhimthang to Dharapani | 1,963 m | About 7 hours |
| 18 | Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar | 1,340 m | 8 to 9 hours |
| 19 | International departure | – | Airport transfer |
Altitude and Acclimatization on the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb
You sleep above 3,000 m for ten nights: Lho, Sama Gaun (two nights), Samdo, Dharmasala (four nights), high camp and Bhimthang. That slow build-up gives your body time to adjust before summit day.
High camp at about 5,050 m is the highest night of the trip. On summit day you climb about 1,200 m to 6,249 m and then come all the way back down to Dharmasala, so it is a long and very cold day.
Watch for these signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): headache, nausea, dizziness and loss of appetite. Mild symptoms often ease with rest and water. Worsening symptoms mean going down, and nobody goes to high camp with them. Your guide checks on you each evening.
How Difficult Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb?
It is strenuous, and technical in places. The trek part is the same as the normal circuit. Summit day is different: you climb steep snow and ice up to about 45 degrees, with fixed ropes on the hardest sections.
- Hardest day: Day 14, summit day. You leave high camp before dawn and finish back at Dharmasala.
- Skills: you should know how to walk in crampons, use an ice axe and move on a fixed rope with a jumar. Your guide goes over these skills at Dharmasala, but a basic course at home helps a lot.
- Best preparation: about three months of long hikes with a loaded pack, stair climbing, leg strength work and cardio.
- Talk to your doctor first if you have a heart, lung or blood pressure condition, or any condition that high altitude can make worse.
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Online nowItinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Written & checked by Nim Bhatta
Licensed by the Nepal Department of Tourism, Nim has led treks on the Manaslu Circuit since 2009 and is trained in wilderness first aid and altitude sickness response. He last walked the full Manaslu Circuit in spring 2025 to check lodges and trail conditions.
Last updated:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft- Accommodation: Tourist standard hotel
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.
Day 02: Trekking Preparation day and Sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft- Accommodation: Hotel
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 Swayambhunath 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 Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Machha Khola 930 m / 3,051 ft 8 hrs- 8 hours drive by bus
- Accommodation: Guesthouse or local lodge
Depart for wonderful adventure Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb, 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 Machha Khola for an overnight halt.
Day 04: Trek to Jagat from Maccha Khola
Jagat 1,345 m / 4,413 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / local lodge
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.
Day 05: Trek to Pewa from Jagat
Pewa 1,625 m / 5,331 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
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.
Day 06: Trek to Namrung from Pewa
Namrung 2,630 m / 8,629 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
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.
Day 07: Trek to Lo-Gaon from Namrung
Lo-Gaon 3,185 m / 10,449 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge
Adventure today leads into the high Manaslu valley on entering one of the prettiest and charming village of Lo Gaon. Having good 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.
Day 08: Trek to Sama Gaon from Lo-Gaon
Sama Gaon 3,530 m / 11,581 ft 7 hrs- 7 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
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.
Day 09: Acclimatization day at Sama-Gaon
Sama-Gaon 3,530 m / 11,581 ft- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
Day Hike either Manaslu Base Camp, Bhirendra Tal, or Pungyen Gompa.
A free day as well to support acclimatization, a perfect height at 3,530 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 Bhirendra 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.
Day 10: Trek to Samdo from Sama-Gaon
Samdo 3,875 m / 12,713 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
Adventure gets more exciting on reaching the high scenic Manaslu valley, from Sama-Gaon walk get interesting.
The route follows 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 short half-day walk to Samdo but taking it slow due to the rise of altitude.
After a pleasant trek of some hours and then a short steep up to Samdo for lunch and overnight halt. Samdo is the last village before reaching the other side of Larke-La Pass to the 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.
Day 11: Trek to Larke Phedi / Dharmasala as Base Camp
Larke Phedi / Dharmasala 4,460 m / 14,633 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
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 an overnight stop.
Rest of the afternoon relax and prepare for the adventure climb to Larke Peak.
Day 12: Acclimatization day and climb preparation
Dharmasala 4,460 m / 14,633 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
A free day for acclimatization and preparation for the climb a short walk around and to scout the area of climbing routes, with time to explore this un-explored areas with stunning views of mountains of Manaslu.
Day 13: Trek to High Camp from Dharmasala as Base Camp
High Camp 5,050 m / 16,568 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Tented Camping
From the Base Camp at Larke Phedi, adventure starts with short morning climb across the base of Nike Peak. Walk follows crossing few icy streams and then heading south, where our first overnight camps is set. A High Camp with tented camping, where our expert cook and kitchen staff will provide all meals from our camping kitchen. The High Camp is places right beneath towering Larke Peak, the camp is set at approx. 5,050 m high. With time here for enough preparation for the climb, our expert climbing guide will make all necessary arrangement for the climb, fixing ropes and pitching snow bars where necessary on technical section of the climb.
Day 14: Climbing Day to the peak at Larke Peak
High Camp 6,249 m / 20,502 ft 8 hrs- 8 hours walk
- Accommodation: Tented Camping
As Larke Peak is least visited and climbed, requires a day to scout the safe accessible route for safe and successful climb.
Thus we have reserved two days for the adventurous exciting climb to the top of Larke Peak summit. First day our guide will check the possible and safe route, as well other members can have practice on rocks and ice climbing exercise.
After making full survey of the route, start the climb early morning before dawn, and follow the lead guide. The first phase of climb can be quite strenuous encountering some technical sections. After using all strength and effort on steep ridges of ice, rock and snow. The last push leads you on top of Larke Peak summit at 6,249 m / 20,502 feet high. Having rest and feeling in high spirit enjoy the mind-blowing panorama of all Manaslu Himalaya range of peaks.
Includes Annapurna and Ganesh Himal in the Far East, with some peaks of Manang looking at Himlung and Chulu’s peaks.
Enjoy more close views of North Peak 7,154 m and Boudha, Manaslu and Himal Chuli peaks, after a wonderful and tough morning climb. Descend safely back to High Camp, and then towards the base camp at Dharmasala for overnight stop and rest.
Day 15: Reserve and contingency day in case of unfavourable weather
4,460 m / 14,633 ftWe have spared a reserve day as contingency, in case of bad unfavorable weather condition. The Himalayan weather can be unpredictable sometimes even in best time of the year. The spare day allows you with complete rest after a great technical climb, if not necessary can enjoy the extra day on route to Dharapani making the walk much shorter than actual itinerary days.
Day 16: Trek to Bhimthang via Larke-La Pass
Bhimthang 3,590 m / 11,778 ft High point 5,106 m 8 hrs- 8 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
The last final highlight of the adventure, after an early breakfast, and 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.
Day 17: Trek to Dharapani from Bhimthang
Dharapani 1,963 m / 6,440 ft 7 hrs- 7 hours walk
- Accommodation: 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.
Day 18: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisar
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft 8–9 hrs- 8-9 hours drive by shared jeep or bus
- Accommodation: Hotel
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 Besisar, the headquarters town of Lamjung. From Besisar 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.
Day 19: Final International Flight Departure for Homeward Bound
1,340 m / 4,396 ftLast day in Kathmandu and Nepal, after a great memorable adventure on Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb. 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
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Online now1,340 m4,396 ftDay 02 Trekking Preparation day and Sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa
1,340 m4,396 ftDay 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
930 m3,051 ftDay 04 Trek to Jagat from Maccha Khola
1,345 m4,413 ftDay 05 Trek to Pewa from Jagat
1,625 m5,331 ftDay 06 Trek to Namrung from Pewa
2,630 m8,629 ftDay 07 Trek to Lo-Gaon from Namrung
3,185 m10,449 ftDay 08 Trek to Sama Gaon from Lo-Gaon
3,530 m11,581 ftDay 09 Acclimatization day at Sama-Gaon
3,530 m11,581 ftDay 10 Trek to Samdo from Sama-Gaon
3,875 m12,713 ftDay 11 Trek to Larke Phedi / Dharmasala as Base Camp
4,460 m14,633 ftDay 12 Acclimatization day and climb preparation
4,460 m14,633 ftDay 13 Trek to High Camp from Dharmasala as Base Camp
5,050 m16,568 ftDay 14 Climbing Day to the peak at Larke Peak
6,249 m20,502 ft6,249 m20,502 ftDay 15 Reserve and contingency day in case of unfavourable weather
4,460 m14,633 ftDay 16 Trek to Bhimthang via Larke-La Pass
5,106 m16,752 ftDay 17 Trek to Dharapani from Bhimthang
1,963 m6,440 ftDay 18 Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisar
1,340 m4,396 ftDay 19 Final International Flight Departure for Homeward Bound
1,340 m4,396 ft135791113151719
High 17°C63°F · Low 6°C43°FJanFeb Machha Khola
High 19°C66°F · Low 8°C46°FFebMar Machha Khola
High 23°C73°F · Low 11°C52°FMarApr Machha Khola
High 26°C79°F · Low 14°C57°FAprMay Machha Khola
High 27°C81°F · Low 18°C64°FMayJun Machha Khola
High 28°C82°F · Low 22°C72°FJunJul Machha Khola
High 27°C81°F · Low 23°C73°FJulAug Machha Khola
High 27°C81°F · Low 23°C73°FAugSep Machha Khola
High 27°C81°F · Low 21°C70°FSepOct Machha Khola
High 25°C77°F · Low 17°C63°FOctNov Machha Khola
High 22°C72°F · Low 12°C54°FNovDec Machha Khola
High 18°C64°F · Low 8°C46°FDec
High -1°C30°F · Low -10°C14°FJanFeb Samagaon
High 1°C34°F · Low -9°C16°FFebMar Samagaon
High 3°C37°F · Low -5°C23°FMarApr Samagaon
High 6°C43°F · Low -1°C30°FAprMay Samagaon
High 8°C46°F · Low 3°C37°FMayJun Samagaon
High 13°C55°F · Low 7°C45°FJunJul Samagaon
High 15°C59°F · Low 10°C50°FJulAug Samagaon
High 15°C59°F · Low 10°C50°FAugSep Samagaon
High 13°C55°F · Low 8°C46°FSepOct Samagaon
High 8°C46°F · Low 2°C36°FOctNov Samagaon
High 5°C41°F · Low -3°C27°FNovDec Samagaon
High 3°C37°F · Low -8°C18°FDec
Average temperatures (approx.), 2015 to 2024. Source: Open-Meteo, adjusted to each village's altitude.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
- 3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, twin sharing.
- Twin-sharing lodge (teahouse) rooms during the trek.
- Tented camping at Larke Peak high camp: two-person tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, table, chairs and mattresses.
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with private transport.
- Local jeep or bus from Kathmandu to the trailhead and from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. A private vehicle both ways is available at extra cost.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek and climb, with tea or coffee at meal times.
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP and the Larke Peak climbing permit.
- One licensed climbing guide and a porter, with their food, lodging, wages, equipment and accident insurance.
- Group climbing equipment: ice axes, helmets and crampons.
- Welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant with a cultural show.
- Four-season sleeping bag if you need one.
- Company duffel bag and T-shirt.
- Company water bottle.
- First aid kit with essential medicines.
- Climbing certificate.
- Local taxes.
Cost Excludes
- All drinks.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Personal travel and health insurance, including helicopter evacuation cover.
- Tips for staff.
- Personal mountaineering gear.
- Optional trips and extensions.
- International flights.
- Nepal visa fee. You can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
- Extra costs from flight delays, strikes, weather or other events outside our control.
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Online nowBest Time to Climb Larke Peak
| Season | Months | What to expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | September to November | Clear skies and the most settled weather, very cold summit mornings | Best overall |
| Spring | March to May | Longer days, more snow on the route early in the season, afternoon cloud, cheaper permit rate | Good choice |
| Winter | December to February | Deep snow, extreme cold, Larkya La often closed, many lodges shut | Not recommended |
| Monsoon | June to August | Heavy rain, landslides on the approach, cloud hides the peak | Not recommended |
- Autumn: the most reliable summit weather. Expect sharp cold at high camp and short days.
- Spring: warmer days and rhododendrons lower down. Early spring can leave deep snow on the upper route, and afternoons often cloud over.
- Winter: not suitable for the climb. Snow and wind make the summit and the pass unsafe.
- Monsoon: roads to Machha Khola and from Dharapani can wash out, and the peak is rarely clear.
Read more: Best Time for Manaslu Trek: A Season-by-Season Guide
Required Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb
Manaslu is a restricted area and Larke Peak is a permit peak. You cannot do this trip without permits and a licensed guide. We apply for every permit, so you only send your passport copy, visa details, passport-size photos and insurance information.
| Permit | Where it applies | Fee for foreign visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | From Jagat through the upper Manaslu valley | September to November: USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per extra day. December to August: USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per extra day. |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | The protected Manaslu area | NPR 3,000 |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | The final section after the pass, because the trip ends at Dharapani | NPR 3,000 |
| Chumnubri Rural Municipality fee | The Chumnubri section of the trail | NPR 1,000 |
| Larke Peak climbing permit | The climb above Dharmasala | Set by the Nepal Mountaineering Association and varies by season. Included in this package. |
Rules to know:
- A licensed guide is required for every trekker and climber.
- Only a registered agency can apply for the restricted area permit and the climbing permit. You cannot apply yourself.
- Solo travellers can now apply alone. The old two-trekker rule was removed on 22 March 2026. The guide and agency rules did not change.
- Leave nothing at high camp. Everything you carry up comes back down.
- Fees are set by the government and the Nepal Mountaineering Association and can change. We confirm current figures before you travel.
Last checked: October 2026. Read our full Manaslu trekking permit guide.
Larke Peak Climb Packing List
| Head and hands | Sun hat, warm hat, glacier sunglasses (category 4), liner gloves, warm insulated gloves and summit mittens |
|---|---|
| Upper body | Quick-dry T-shirts, thermal base layers, fleece jacket, waterproof shell jacket, warm down jacket for summit day |
| Lower body | Trekking pants, thermal base layer pants, waterproof shell pants, insulated pants for high camp and summit day |
| Feet | Mountaineering boots that take crampons for the climb, broken-in trekking boots for the trail, liner and wool socks, camp shoes |
| Climbing gear | Climbing harness, jumar (ascender), belay or descender device, locking carabiners and slings. Ice axe, crampons and helmets are part of the group climbing gear in the package. We confirm sizes and exactly what we supply before you travel. |
| Other gear | Four-season sleeping bag (we lend one if you need it), headlamp with spare batteries, trekking poles, daypack, water bottles plus a filter or purification tablets, power bank, high-factor sunscreen and lip balm |
| Documents and money | Passport with visa, insurance that covers climbing to 6,500 m and helicopter evacuation, passport-size photos for permits, enough Nepali rupees for the whole trip |
For the trekking side, see what to carry for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Accommodation & Food
Kathmandu: 3 nights in a 3-star hotel, twin sharing, with breakfast.
Lodges (teahouses): on the trail you stay in simple lodges, twin share. Most have shared bathrooms. Hot showers cost extra in most villages.
High camp: two-person tents with mattresses, plus a dining tent, kitchen tent and toilet tent. Our cook prepares your meals and hot drinks.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on the trek and climb, with tea or coffee at meal times. You also get a welcome dinner in Kathmandu. Other lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, and all other drinks, are extra.
Drinking water: lodges sell boiled or filtered water. Bring a filter or purification tablets and refill from taps.
Power and Wi-Fi: charging and Wi-Fi cost a small fee and the signal drops in the high valleys. There is no power at high camp, so carry a charged power bank.
Dharmasala: the lodges at Larke Phedi are basic and fill up in peak season. You spend four nights here, so bring a sleeping bag liner and warm layers for the evenings.
Safety & Guide Information
Your guide: a licensed climbing guide leads the trip. On the climb he checks the route, fixes ropes on the steep sections and sets the pace. His call on the mountain is final.
Summit day: your guide sets a turnaround time. If the group has not reached the top by then, or the weather turns, you come down. The reserve day can give a second try if conditions allow.
Emergencies: if someone has serious AMS, an injury or an illness, we organize a descent to a safe altitude. If needed, we arrange a helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu. Evacuation costs are your responsibility, so you need insurance that covers climbing to at least 6,500 m and helicopter rescue.
Medical kit: your guide carries a first aid kit with essential medicines.
Communication: mobile coverage exists along much of the trail but is unreliable in deep valleys and at high camp.
Seasons to avoid: the monsoon from June to August brings landslides on the approach. Winter snow makes the summit and Larkya La unsafe.
- A Rarely Climbed PeakLarke Peak (6,249 m) is one of Nepal's least climbed trekking peaks.
- Climbing Done SafelyGraded TD (very difficult), so we plan the summit day with care and turn back if conditions are wrong.
- Acclimatize on the CircuitTrekking the Manaslu Circuit first prepares your body before the summit push.
- Trek Plus SummitWalk the full circuit and cross Larke La as part of the same 19-day trip.
- Peak and Trek PermitsWe arrange the climbing permit, restricted area permit and conservation permits.
- 24/7 SupportOur team stays on call for the whole trip, including emergency evacuation coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
The trip runs 19 days from arrival in Kathmandu to departure. You walk on 10 days, rest on 2, climb on 1, keep 1 reserve day for weather and spend 2 days driving to and from the trail.
Our route goes to the 6,249 m (20,502 ft) summit of Larke Peak, also written Larkya Peak. The name covers more than one summit, so you may see other heights quoted elsewhere.
It is strenuous and technical in places. Summit day starts before dawn from high camp, climbs steep snow and ice up to about 45 degrees with fixed ropes, and ends back at Dharmasala.
You should be able to walk in crampons, use an ice axe and move on a fixed rope with a jumar. Your guide reviews these skills at Dharmasala, but a basic mountaineering course before the trip makes summit day much safer and easier.
You need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a Larke Peak climbing permit. A small Chumnubri Rural Municipality fee may also apply. All are included and we handle the paperwork.
High camp sits at about 5,050 m below Larke Peak. You reach it from Dharmasala in about 4 hours on Day 13 and spend one night there in tents before summit day.
Bring mountaineering boots that take crampons, a harness, a jumar, a belay or descender device, locking carabiners and warm summit clothing. Ice axe, crampons and helmets are part of the group gear. Most items can be rented in Kathmandu.
Day 15 is a reserve day. If storms or fresh snow stop the first attempt, your guide may use it for a second try. If conditions stay unsafe, you skip the summit and continue over Larkya La.
Yes. Since 22 March 2026 you can apply for the restricted area permit as one person. You still need a registered agency and a licensed guide, which we provide.
Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on the trek and climb, with tea or coffee at meal times. In Kathmandu you get breakfast and a welcome dinner. Other drinks are extra.
September to November gives the most settled weather. March to May also works, with longer days but more snow early in the season. Winter and the June to August monsoon are not suitable.
No. Larkya La is the 5,106 m pass on the Manaslu Circuit. Larke Peak is the 6,249 m mountain that rises above it. On this trip you climb the peak first, then cross the pass.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking & Larke Peak Climb Map
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