Manaslu Short Trek 2024 Highlights
- Adventure around world’s 8th highest Mt. Manaslu and its massif range
- Change of landscapes, climate, vegetation and culture on day to day walks
- From low warm sub-tropical to cooler hills and to arctic mountainous zone
- Explore lovely traditional villages enriched with age-old heritage and cultures
- Crossing high larkya la pass facing spectacular panorama of high snow peaks
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12 Days
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Moderate to Adventurous walks
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Min 2
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Private Vehicle
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Exciting drives and trekking
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Nepal Far North Mid-West around Gorkha district to Manang area.
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Hotels in Kathmandu and in local standard to basic, simple lodges on treks.
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Manaslu Short Trek Outline Itinerary
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Don’t wait, book your Short Manaslu Trek today and create memories that will last a lifetime! Explore the beauty of Nepal’s Manaslu region with our short trek package. Experience the stunning mountain views, unique cultural encounters, and challenging terrain that make this trek a truly unforgettable experience.
Located in the Gorkha district in Nepal, Short Manaslu Trek 2024 in Nepal provides an astounding trekking experience in Nepal. The 12-day trek is the most compact trekking package in the Manaslu Region by MCT(Manaslu Circuit Treks).
Following the same trails that our ancestors used along the greatest Budhi Gandaki River. Signing up for this trip sets you up for a mesmerizing trekking experience in Nepal.
As you gain altitude the Himalayas serve you with amazing snow-capped panoramic views of more than 10 peaks over 6,500m and some even higher than 7,000 m.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is specially tailored for those with limited time but who wish to experience trekking in Nepal to its fullest. The trek takes you closer to the lap of the Himalayas.
The pristine vegetation of the Manaslu Region with endangered flora and fauna. It gives you a heavenly experience and syncs you with nature.
Bhimthang is our main destination located east of Manang in Tilje VDC at an elevation of 3,590 m on the lap of Himalaya. The place is truly a piece of paradise.
Some of the mountains that can be observed during the trek include Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Manaslu North (7,157 m), Larke Peak (6,249 m), Cheo (6,812 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Nemjung Himal (7,140 m), Kangaru Himal and many others beautiful mountains.
Why Choose Manaslu Short Trek?
Short Manaslu circuit trek understands that no trip is the same and is open to adapting accordingly. Traveling could be a headache if you do not understand the local regulations.
Utilizing our expertise and connections to all the local bodies that control traveling and touring in Nepal. We guarantee safe and sound trekking in Nepal accompanied by professional guides with well over 10 years of guiding experience.
Read more: Everything you should know about Manaslu Circuit Trek
Therefore, we welcome you to Nepal. Book with us now to enjoy a lifetime experience that is bound to fill you with joy and fulfillment with a short Manaslu circuit trek. We are always open to inquiries if any please feel free to contact us.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Soti Khola
Altitude: 930m/ 350 ft. Drive approx. 9 hours by Bus
Overnight at Guesthouse or local lodge
Day 02: Trek to Jagat.
Altitude: 1,340 m/ 4,395 feet. Approx. 6 hour walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / local lodge.
Day 03: Jagat to Pewa.
Altitude: 1,625 m / 5,330 feet. Approx. 6 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 04: Trek to Namrung.
Altitude: 2,630 m. / 8,626 ft. Approx. 6 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 05: Trek to Sama Gaon.
Altitude: 3,530 m/ 11, 582 feet. Approx. 7 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day Hike either Manaslu Base Camp, Bhirendra Tal or Pungyen Gompa.
Day 07: Trek to Samdo.
Altitude: 3,865 m/ 12,677 feet. Approx. 4 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 08: Trek to Dharmasala.
Altitude: 4,460 m / 14,628 feet. Approx. 4 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 09: Trek to Bhimthang via Larke-La Pass.
Altitude: 5,106 m / 16, 752 feet at Larke-La
3, 700 m/ 12,201 feet at Bhimthang Approx. 8 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 10: Trek to Dharapani.
Altitude: 1, 800 m / 5,904 feet. Approx. 7 hours walks.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Day 11: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisar.
Altitude: 1,350 m. / 4,428 feet at Kathmandu.
Drive approx. 8-9 hour sharing jeep or Bus.
Overnight in Hotel at Kathmandu.
2024 Manaslu Short Trek Itinerary
Altitude: 930m/ 350 ft. Drive approx. 9hours by Bus
Overnight at Guesthouse or local lodge
Depart for wonderful adventure Short Manaslu Circuit Trek, taking a private car, 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 Budhi Gandaki River, from here another few hours of drive on the dirt country road to Soti-Khola.
Soti-Khola a small farming area slowly growing into a town, as the motorable road has been connected.
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.
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.
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.
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: 3,530 m/ 11, 582 feet. Approx. 7 hours walk.
Overnight at Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House.
Adventure today leads to one of the longest walks of the journey, having an early breakfast. Then set off for the long enjoyable scenic trek to Sama-Gaon, where the route follows a slow gradual climb. Walk into the cool shade of lovely alpine forest above the Buri Gandaki River to the 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, as the walk continues heading due west.
Following the trail of Upper Manaslu through a number of farm villages and Yak herder camps then ending the day. On reaching Sama-Gaun, 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.
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: 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 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 larkya 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 larkya la pass and to the Tibet border.
Altitude: 4,460 m / 14,628 feet. Approx. 4 hours walk.
Overnight at 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 larkya 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 long day walk the next day to cross high Larke-La Pass.
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 final highlight of the adventure, having a hearty breakfast and carrying pack lunch for the long day’s walk. An early start before the break of dawn, head for the climb, on the 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 larkya 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 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 Short Trek.
Manaslu Short Trek Cost
Includes
- 10 nights of twin sharing accommodation during the Manaslu Short Trek.
- Local Transportation Jeep/ Bus Kathmandu –Soti Khola & Dharapani – Kathmandu.
- (If you want both ways private vehicle is also available at an additional cost).
- Three meals a day, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Tea/ Coffee in during meal time.
- MACP & ACAP permits & Manaslu special permit as well.
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly license holder guide. His food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accident insurance for all staff.
- Four seasonal sleeping bags. (if necessary)
- Company Duffel Bag, T-shirt.
- A self-sufficient medical first aid Kit containing vital medications.
- Company branded 01 water bottle.
- Local and government taxes.
Excludes
- All kinds of beverages.
- Personal travel and health insurance, insurance for helicopter evacuation.
- Porter service. Do you need a porter? Inquire to our trek expert.
- Tipping to staff.
- 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 conditions, or any event out of our control.
Major Information
Best Seasons:
The best seasons for wonderful Manaslu circuit short Trek are spring and autumn, spring begins from March to May. Autumn starts from September to November, and the spring season with longer days due to much sunlight hours.
Days are mostly bright with sunshine for clear views and pleasant walking can get cloudy in the late afternoon. Chances of light rains and snowfall around higher elevations sometimes, and the temperature drops in the early morning and night times.
During springtime, the hills are bright with wildflowers in bloom, especially the rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal.
The next best season is autumn from September to November, days are much clear for views and walks. But days are much short due to sunlight hours, pleasant and peak times for trekking around the Himalayas.
Much colder morning and late afternoon till night time, and chances of snowfall on higher elevations sometimes.
Culture, Religion & History:
The lower warm areas of the Gorkha district where Manaslu high valley is located, are of mixed tribes of hill people. Gurung, Magar, Hindu Bharamins, Chettries, and Newars with some Bhot migrated from high Manaslu and Tsum areas.
The culture and religions are mixed with Hinduism and Buddhism around low land to mid-hills till Jagat and Philim villages.
But from Jagat village onwards the native of the higher Manaslu valley till Dharapani in Manang are interwoven with the strong Buddhism religion. Follows the ancient heritage and culture similar to its Tibetan predecessor, as the border to Tibet is at a mere distance.
The people of higher Manaslu are known as the Bhotia people, which means descent from Tibet. Most villages around higher Manaslu from Namrung onwards have a monastery, with many rows of prayer walls and spinning wheels.
The Manaslu region, where the ancient Trans Himalaya Salt Trade Route passed to and from Nepal / Tibet. Yaks and pack animals laden with goods from the good side of the country.
The base of the Larkya La pass at present known as Dharmasala or Phedi in the early days was called Larke Bazaar. Where traders, and merchants from Tibet, Gorkha, and Manaslu as far from Manang use to visit on the market day.
The Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word meaning Soul or mind of the god or holy spirits. For Manaslu natives calls Kutang means land that has been blessed, to raise livestock and a good farm field.
Mt. Manaslu stands as the world’s 8th highest peak at 8,163m and 26, 781 feet, the first ascent by Japanese Expeditions. Which was conquered on May 9th, 1956 with the support of Nepalese guide Gyalzen Norbu Sherpa.
Since then it remained closed to outside visitors and flung its door open from 1991 onwards. Trekkers can enter and enjoy the walk around Manaslu, on obtaining a special permit, as Manaslu is a restricted region.
Due to its close border with Tibet/China, as well as to control the main flow of trekkers. As well to retain and preserve the country’s pristine environment, the area is under the protection of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project.
Some Useful Tips for Short Manaslu Trek
- Be mindful of the weather conditions and pack accordingly, prioritizing lightweight and practical items.
- Ensure you have a reliable and comfortable pair of sturdy boots for the trek.
- Take regular rest breaks whenever you feel the need to and avoid rushing through the journey.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the trek.
- Carry sufficient cash in Nepali rupees as ATMs are not available in remote regions.
- It is advisable to refrain from consuming alcohol during the trek.
- Carry a first aid kit to be prepared for any emergencies that may arise.
- If you experience any issues such as altitude sickness, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from your guide or fellow trekkers.
Accommodation:
In the Manaslu trek, you will be provided with twin-sharing comfortable tea houses for accommodation. These tea houses offer basic amenities such as a bed, pillow, and blanket. However, it is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag for added comfort.
Meals:
Throughout the trek, breakfast and dinner will be provided at the tea houses where you stay. Lunch will be available at teahouses or guesthouses along the route to your destination. The meal options may not be as varied as in other treks like Annapurna and Everest, but you can enjoy dishes like Tibetan bread, Dal Bhat, porridge, noodle soup, muesli, omelet, boiled eggs, and tea/coffee.
Permits:
As the Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal, specific permits are required for trekking. These include:
1. Restricted Area Permit: The cost ranges from US$75 to 100 per week, depending on the season you choose.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit: NRs. 3,000 or US$30.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit: NRs. 3,000 or US$30.
Physical Fitness:
The Manaslu trek involves daily walks of approximately 6 to 8 hours. Therefore, it is essential to have proper physical training, a positive attitude, and a strong determination to successfully complete the trek.
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 Regisrated local company guides. The other reason is to control the mass flow of tourists and to protect its fragile environment.
Many beautiful and good things that one can expect on this wonderful Manaslu Circuit trekking.
The change and great diversity of landscapes in a short duration of time. From low warm paddy fields to cooler hills and towards an arctic cold zone of remorseless fields of ice and snow. Various cultures of Nepalese hills and mountain people, with a breathtaking panorama of Himalayan peaks.
As well as testing your own endurance, and how fit and capable you are for this adventurous trekking.
Yes, certainly quite different from other popular mainstream trekking of Annapurna and Everest region. Encountering a few groups of trekkers and walking on a tranquil trail within a beautiful forest to arid and barren windswept country.
At the end of the trek, one will be in high spirits and feel glad that one made this trekking. A great adventure of a lifetime experience to enjoy.
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.
In springtime from Jagat onwards to Dharapani at the end of the trekking, the morning and late afternoon till night time are cold. Depending upon the altitude from a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 15 to 20 degrees Celsius.
The wind chill factor adds extra cold, but most days are warm and pleasant except for the morning and nighttime.
In the autumn/fall seasons, the sunlight reaches late morning can be much colder morning, late afternoon, and nighttime. Can reach a minimum of 0 to -5 degrees Celsius with a maximum of + 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Days are shorter during autumn times to sunlight hours, but pleasant late morning till mid-day.
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.
Overall Company Rating:
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Exceptional Experience Upon completing the Manaslu short trek, we couldn't have asked for more; it was an unforgettable experience. The company of four, including two newhammers, greatly enhanced our trip. The trek itself was truly breathtaking, made even more remarkable by the scarcity of other trekkers. Consequently, we found ourselves almost alone in the mountains, allowing us to enjoy a special connection with them all to ourselves. Our guide, Rajan from MCT, was fantastic in meeting our every need. The seamless travel experience, from our arrival in Kathmandu (where Nim and Rajan met us at the airport) to our departure (where Nim arranged an airport taxi and bid us farewell in person), provided us with a clear demonstration of their hospitality and professionalism.
Carlafrom Spain -
A Majestic Adventure: Manaslu Trek Please, allow me to narrate about our hyperactive adventure on the Manaslu. The view was incredible, and the trail calm. We had different perceptions,such as lovely rhododendron forests and great snow-capped peaks. Our guide, Sai, was a great teacher who knew a lot and was helpful to understand the people and nature there It was a priority that every person in our group would have a good time - it did not matter how much hiking they did during any other day. This was set up by the MCT right from the very point where they picked us up from the airport. Ramkrishna informed us of it the first night before, and both he and Sai took us for a great dinner with dancing in Kathmandu. We were really, really satisfied with them and if you as a traveler in search of a cool adventure, I can highly recommend you to do it with them at Manaslu. It's a keeper. Do not throw it away! Hector & Familyfrom UK
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Amazing times on Manaslu Amazing times on Manaslu Luxury Trek and in the comfort of nice lodges on route with warm friendly services of Coretreks guide and staff. Enjoyed every day of my time in Nepal, and well worth joining on this wonderful adventure. Caroline Leslie Smithfrom United Kingdom (UK)
