Nepal — Kathmandu
Nepal's Manaslu Base Camp Trek offers a remote, tea-house 177km route around the "Mountain of the Spirit." This challenging 12-14 day walk transitions from subtropical Budhi Gandaki river valley lowlands to high alpine wilderness, showcasing Mount Manaslu's grandeur. Expect varied terrain, from lush vegetation to rugged scree slopes, with spectacular panoramas.
Distance: 177.0 km
Elevation Gain: 8130 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 12-14 days
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most profound and visually spectacular mountain journeys, offering a raw, tea-house-based alternative to the more crowded Everest and Annapurna circuits. Centred around Mount Manaslu (8,163 metres), the eighth-highest peak in the world, this 177-kilometre trek circumnavigates the "Mountain of the Spirit" in a dramatic display of ecological and cultural transition. The route begins in the lush, subtropical lowlands of the Budhi Gandaki River valley, where rice paddies and banana trees thrive, and ascends through ancient rhododendron forests and alpine meadows before culminating in the high-altitude drama of the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres. This is a restricted area trek, meaning it remains less commercialised and more pristine than its counterparts, requiring a special permit and a mandatory licensed guide. For the intrepid trekker, it offers a rare opportunity to witness the authentic Tibetan-influenced culture of the Nubri and Tsum people, set against a backdrop of some of the most formidable granite spires and glacial icefalls on the planet.
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a masterclass in Himalayan diversity. Unlike many treks that stay within a single climatic zone, this journey is a vertical odyssey that spans nearly 4,500 metres of elevation gain. The trek is traditionally walked in a counter-clockwise direction to allow for safe, gradual acclimatisation as you follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. The lower sections of the trail are characterised by deep, humid gorges, suspension bridges that sway hundreds of metres above thundering white water, and a landscape that feels more like a jungle than a mountain range. As you gain altitude, the scenery undergoes a radical transformation. The broad-leafed forests give way to pine, then larch, and finally the stark, wind-scoured beauty of the high alpine zone where only the hardiest shrubs and lichens survive.
The cultural transition is equally striking. In the lower villages like Soti Khola and Machha Khola, the population is predominantly Hindu, with terraced fields of millet and corn. However, as you cross into the "Restricted Area" beyond Jagat, the influence of Tibetan Buddhism becomes dominant. You will pass through villages adorned with colourful prayer flags, intricately carved mani walls (prayer stones), and ancient monasteries (gompas) that have stood for centuries. The peak of Mount Manaslu itself—a double-headed summit that resembles a serrated tooth—dominates the skyline for much of the upper trek, particularly from the villages of Lho and Samagaon. The side trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) from Samagaon is a highlight of the journey, offering trekkers a close-up view of the massive Manaslu Glacier and the technical climbing routes used by mountaineers attempting the summit.
The final challenge of the trek is the crossing of the Larkya La Pass. This is a long, demanding day that requires an early start (often 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM) to avoid the fierce afternoon winds that scour the pass. The descent from the pass into the Bimthang Valley offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Himalayas, with the massive peaks of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II framing the horizon. This trek is not merely a physical challenge; it is a journey through a living museum of Himalayan life, where the pace of existence is still dictated by the seasons and the mountains.
Mount Manaslu, known in Sanskrit as "Manasa" (meaning "intellect" or "soul"), is often referred to as the "Mountain of the Spirit." Its history is deeply intertwined with Japanese mountaineering. While the British claimed Everest and the French claimed Annapurna, Manaslu became known as "the Japanese mountain." The first successful ascent was made in 1956 by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu, members of a Japanese expedition. This connection remains strong today, with many Japanese trekkers and climbers visiting the region to pay their respects to the peak that defined their nation's golden age of exploration.
The region is home to two distinct ethnic groups: the Nubri and the Tsum. The Nubri people inhabit the upper Manaslu valley, and their culture, language, and dress are almost identical to those of their neighbours in Tibet. For centuries, this valley served as a vital trade route between Nepal and Tibet, with salt and wool being exchanged for grain and spices. The closure of the border in the mid-20th century changed the economic landscape, but the cultural ties remain unbreakable. The Tsum Valley, which branches off the main Manaslu circuit, is a "Beyul"—a sacred hidden valley of Buddhism where the killing of any living being is strictly prohibited. This spiritual ethos permeates the entire region, creating an atmosphere of profound peace and reverence for nature.
The Manaslu region was significantly impacted by the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, as the epicentre was located nearby. Many teahouses and trails were damaged or destroyed. However, the resilience of the local people and international aid efforts have seen the region fully recover. Today, the teahouses are newer and more robust than before, and the trail has been meticulously rebuilt, often with improved safety features. Walking this track today is not only a personal adventure but also a way to support the continued economic recovery of these remote mountain communities.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
Timing is everything when planning a trek in the Manaslu region. The weather dictates not only the views but also the safety of the Larkya La Pass crossing. There are two primary windows for trekking: autumn and spring.
Autumn (October to November): This is widely considered the "gold standard" for Manaslu. Following the monsoon, the air is scrubbed clean of dust, offering the sharpest, most crystalline views of the peaks. The weather is generally stable, with clear blue skies during the day. However, temperatures drop significantly at night, especially above 3,500 metres, where they can easily reach -10°C or -15°C. This is also the busiest time on the trail, though "busy" here is still a fraction of the crowds found in the Everest region.
Spring (April to May): This is the season of rebirth. The lower forests erupt in a riot of colour as the rhododendrons—Nepal’s national flower—bloom in shades of red, pink, and white. The weather is warmer than in autumn, but there is a higher chance of afternoon clouds and occasional spring showers. For those interested in mountaineering culture, this is when the Manaslu Base Camp is most active with expeditions preparing for summit attempts. The Larkya La Pass usually has more snow in spring, which can make the crossing more physically demanding but visually stunning.
Winter (December to February): Trekking during winter is possible but extremely challenging. Most teahouses above 3,500 metres close as the locals migrate to lower elevations to escape the cold. The Larkya La Pass is often blocked by deep snow, requiring technical skills and equipment. Temperatures can plummet to -25°C at high altitudes. This is only for highly experienced winter trekkers who are prepared for self-sufficiency.
Monsoon (June to September): This is the least desirable time to trek. The region experiences heavy rainfall, leading to frequent landslides and leeches in the lower forest sections. Clouds usually obscure the mountain views, and the humidity makes the lower sections of the trek uncomfortable. However, the Tsum Valley, which sits partially in a rain shadow, can be a viable option for those who don't mind the logistical challenges of reaching it during the rains.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Soti Khola
Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola
Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat
Day 4: Jagat to Deng
Day 5: Deng to Namrung
Day 6: Namrung to Lho
Day 7: Lho to Samagaon
Day 8: Samagaon (Acclimatisation & Manaslu Base Camp)
Day 9: Samagaon to Samdo
Day 10: Samdo to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi)
Day 11: Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass
Day 12: Bimthang to Dharapani
Day 13: Dharapani to Besisahar
Day 14: Besisahar to Kathmandu
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a serious undertaking that requires meticulous preparation. Unlike the Everest region, you cannot trek here independently; Nepal law mandates that all trekkers in restricted areas must be accompanied by a licensed guide and be part of a group of at least two people (though "ghost" permits can sometimes be arranged for solo travellers at extra cost). Physical fitness is paramount. You should be capable of walking 6–8 hours a day with a 10 kg pack for two weeks. Focus your training on cardiovascular endurance (running, swimming, cycling) and leg strength (weighted lunges, squats, and stair climbing). If possible, perform several full-day hikes in your trekking boots before arriving in Nepal.
Logistically, Kathmandu is your base. You will need at least two working days in the city before your trek to allow your trekking agency to process your restricted area permits, which require your original passport and visa. Ensure your travel insurance specifically covers "trekking up to 6,000 metres" and includes emergency helicopter evacuation—standard policies often exclude high-altitude activities.
Accommodation on the Manaslu circuit consists of teahouses, which are small, family-run lodges. While the quality has improved significantly since the 2015 earthquake, they remain basic compared to Western standards.
Teahouse Facilities:
What Teahouses Don't Provide:
Booking Requirements:
The Manaslu region is a designated Restricted Area, which means the permit process is more complex and expensive than for the Everest or Annapurna regions. You cannot apply for these permits yourself; they must be processed by a government-authorised trekking agency in Kathmandu.
Required Permits and Costs:
Important Regulations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Manaslu Base Camp Trek Day Section (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Manaslu Base Camp Trek Day Section, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
If you have extra time or wish to expand your Himalayan experience, consider these additions:
Altitude Sickness (AMS): This is the primary safety concern on the Manaslu trek. You will be spending several nights above 3,500 metres and crossing a pass over 5,000 metres. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. The key is to "climb high, sleep low" and never ascend more than 500 metres of sleeping altitude per day once above 3,000 metres. Recognise the symptoms: persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite. If symptoms persist or worsen, you must descend immediately. High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE) are life-threatening conditions that require immediate helicopter evacuation.
Weather and Pass Conditions: The Larkya La Pass is notorious for its afternoon winds and potential for sudden snowstorms. Always follow your guide’s advice regarding the timing of the crossing. If the guide says the weather is too dangerous, do not attempt the pass. In early spring or late autumn, the descent from the pass can be icy; micro-spikes provide essential traction.
Water Safety: Never drink untreated tap or stream water. Waterborne illnesses like Giardia are common. Use a reliable purification method (tablets or UV) for all water, including water used for brushing teeth. Stay hydrated by drinking 3–4 litres of treated water daily to help with acclimatisation.
Communication: Mobile signal is non-existent for much of the trek. Some teahouses have satellite phones or basic WiFi, but these are unreliable. It is highly recommended that your guide carries a satellite communication device (like a Garmin inReach) for emergencies. Ensure your family has the contact details of your trekking agency in Kathmandu.
Trail Hazards: The trail involves narrow sections with steep drop-offs. Always stay on the "mountain side" of the trail when passing mule or yak caravans to avoid being accidentally pushed off the edge. Be cautious on suspension bridges, especially in windy conditions.
Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m): The ultimate side trip from Samagaon. The trail climbs steeply through birch forests and then onto the lateral moraine of the Manaslu Glacier. At the base camp, you can see the colourful tents of mountaineering expeditions and look directly up at the "Killer Mountain." The sheer scale of the icefall and the surrounding peaks is humbling. It is a long day (7–8 hours return), but essential for acclimatisation before the pass.
Birendra Tal: This glacial lake is fed by the Manaslu Glacier. It is a short, relatively flat walk from Samagaon, making it an ideal "active recovery" activity. The water is a striking emerald green, and the silence of the lake, broken only by the occasional crack of the glacier, is deeply peaceful.
Lho Monastery (Ribung Gompa): Located on a hill overlooking the village of Lho, this monastery is one of the most picturesque in the Himalayas. It houses a school for young monks, and visitors are often welcome to observe the morning or evening chanting sessions. The view of Manaslu from the monastery courtyard at sunrise is arguably the best on the entire trek.
Samdo Ri: A peak located directly behind the village of Samdo. Climbing partway up its slopes (to around 4,200 m) offers a spectacular view of the Tibetan border and the ancient trade routes. It is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon while acclimatising in Samdo.
The Manaslu region is a fragile ecosystem that is under increasing pressure from tourism. As a trekker, you have a responsibility to minimise your impact on this pristine environment and respect the local culture.
Environmental Responsibility:
Cultural Respect:
