Manaslu Highlight Trek

Duration:
16 Days

Max Altitude:
5,160m

Country:
Nepal

Activity:
Hiking & Trekking

Best Season:
Sept-Nov-March-May

Difficulty:
Strenuous

Price From $1,790

A glittering array of panoramas, peaks and a hidden valley of Tsum awaits you! Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek offers beautiful landscapes, lush valleys, unique Buddhist culture and above all the soft spot of all adventurous explorers- spectacular Himalayan views.

Manaslu, the ‘Mountain of Spirit,’ beckons with a profound trekking experience that intertwines natural splendor with a deeply rooted cultural heritage. Venture into the Mansiri Himal, where remote villages and ancient monasteries, particularly within the hidden Tsum Valley, offer a glimpse into a world reminiscent of ancient Tibet. Experience the unique customs and dialect of the Tibetan-descended inhabitants, and witness the intricate artistry of the mani walls. This is a journey to a region where time- honored traditions thrive, revealing ancient ruins, sacred temples, and the enduring soul of the Himalayas.

Trip Highlight

Explore the world’s most iconic UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu
Experience the thrill of flying into the world’s most exciting airport in Lukla
Enjoy an aerial view of the Dudh Koshi River and its suspension bridges
Discover historical Buddhist stone inscriptions along the trail
Visit Tibetan and Sherpa-influenced stupas and monasteries
Witness the centuries-old Buddhist Tengboche Monastery
Explore the Khumbu Glacier and Namche Bazaar
Marvel at sunrise and sunset from Kala Patthar with spectacular views of Everest
Marvel at sunrise and sunset from Kala Patthar with spectacular views of Everest
Visit the famous Everest View Hotel and the Hillary Foundation School in Khumjung

Guidelines Itinerary

Suggested itinerary: If itinerary is not suitable to your needs then no problems, we can tailor any of our itineraries or build a trip from scratch to meet your needs and preferences.

Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), where our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
In the evening, explore the vibrant Thamel area and experience Nepali culture through food and drinks.

Day 2 - Drive to Sotikhola

Begin your journey with an early drive to Sotikhola, enjoying scenic views of the Nepalese countryside and mountains.
Drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Bensi on a paved road, and then continue on a rougher road to Arughat and Sotikhola.
Overnight in Sotikhola.

Day 3 - Trek to Machha Khola

Cross a bridge and trek through Sal forests, climbing above the Budhi Gandaki rapids.
Pass through Khursane, traverse rocky trails and waterfalls, and reach Labubesi.
Continue along the Budhi Gandaki, crossing a suspension bridge to Machha Khola.
Overnight in Machha Khola.

Day 4 - Trek to Jagat

Trek along a narrow trail, crossing the Tharo Khola and reaching Khorlabesi.
Enjoy a natural hot spring at Tatopani.
Cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki and Yaru Khola, and climb stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang and Jagat.
Overnight in Jagat.

Day 5 - Trek to Deng

Climb to Salleri, descend to Sirdibas, and continue to Ghatta Khola.
Cross a long suspension bridge to Philim and trek through millet fields to Ekle Bhatti.
Descend into a gorge, cross the Budhi Gandaki multiple times, and reach Deng.
Overnight in Deng.

Day 6 - Trek to Namrung

Cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana.
Trek through forests and mani walls, passing through Prok village with views of Siringi Himal.
Cross the Budhi Gandaki several times and reach Namrung.
Overnight in Namrung.

Day 7 - Trek to Samagaon

Enjoy views of Siringi, Ganesh Himal, and Himal Chuli from Namrung.
Trek through forests to Lihi, Sho, Lho, and Shyala villages, with stunning mountain views.
Explore Ribung Gompa and reach Samagaon.
Overnight in Samagaon.

Day 8 - Samagaon Acclimatization

Rest and acclimatization day in Samagaon.
Explore the village, visit Pungyen Gompa, and enjoy views of Manaslu.
Overnight in Samagaon.

Day 9 - Trek to Samdo

Descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and follow it to a bridge.
Trek past mani walls and juniper/birch forests to Kermo Kharka.
Cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Samdo.
Overnight in Samdo.

Day 10 - Samdo Acclimatization

Acclimatization day in Samdo.
Hike to a trade pass for views of Manaslu and other Himalayan ranges.
Optional longer hike to Gya La.
Overnight in Samdo.

Day 11 - Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya B.C.

Trek along the edge, cross a bridge, and climb upward.
Cross streams and witness the Larkya Glacier, reaching Dharamsala (Larke Phedi).
Overnight in Dharamsala.

Day 12 - Cross Larkya La Pass to Bimthang

Climb to the Larkya Glacier’s north side, with views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak.
Cross the glacier’s moraines and ascend to the pass, enjoying views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and Annapurna II.
Descend to Bimthang.
Overnight in Bimthang.

Day 13 - Trek to Tilije

Enjoy views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal from Bimthang.
Descend through high pastures, cross the Dudh Khola, and trek through forests to Karche and Gho.
Continue to Tilije.
Overnight in Tilije.

Day 14 - Trek to Taal

Climb a ridge, pass through a village, and cross the Dudh Khola.
Pass through Thonje and Dharapani, entering the Annapurna Circuit.
Trek to Taal, situated at the foot of a waterfall.
Overnight in Taal.

Day 15 - Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar

Drive from Taal to Kathmandu via Besisahar, enjoying scenic landscapes along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 16 - Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

Message today to Get the Best Deals Trek in Nepal

Costs Included in Your Package

Personalized assistance at the International Airport by a Step By Step Treks & Adventures representative (your guide) upon arrival and departure, as per your flight details.

Three nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.

Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dianner or soups). Three times a tea, coffee or hot drinks.

Trekking lodge (tea house) Twine Sharing Basis accommodation.

All necessary permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.

- Round-trip flight Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap).
- Private airport transfers and domestic airport taxes included.

A highly experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly English-speaking guide, trained and licensed by the Government. The guide’s salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance are covered.
Strong and reliable Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers) with proper safety and trekking equipment. Their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance are covered.
Assistant guide provided for groups of five or more.

Comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
Emergency helicopter evacuation assistance (to be covered by your travel insurance company).

Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed, to be returned after the trek).
Step By Step Treks & Adventures T-shirt.
Trip achievement certificate upon successful trek completion.

All necessary government taxes and official expenses.
Farewell dinner

Costs Not Included

Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu ($20-25 per a day)

Easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu):

$30 USD for a 15-day visa
$50 USD for a 30-day visa
$125 USD for a 90-day visa

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and extra food purchased along the trek or in the tea houses.
Desserts and sweet items (chocolates, cakes, pies, puddings, etc.).
Hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses.

Tips for your guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).

Baggage over 10 kg may incur additional charges.

If you return early from the trek due to illness or other reasons, the money paid for flights, hotels, food, and accommodation is non-refundable

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Thrive

Thamel, Kathamandu

Embrace Nature’s Tranquil Haven in the Heart of Thamel

Experience the perfect blend of urban convenience and lush greenery at our hotel. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Thamel, our tropical oasis awaits, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling city.

Tea house & Lodges in Everest region

We use tea houses for lodging on all of our treks. This is probably the most popular style of trekking and simply involves going from teahouse to teahouse. Teahouses are essentially small hotels found in local villages that offer both a place to sleep as well as home cooked meals. Rooms are typically shared with 2 trekkers per/room. Bathrooms are shared as well and in the Everest region they usually have running cold water and western style toilets

MAP

How Your Adventure Makes a Difference

Climate Action in the Himalayas:

Supporting tree planting and carbon offsetting initiatives to reduce our environmental impact.

Expanding Education Access

Providing textbooks, stationery, and learning resources to rural schools in Nepal.

School Renovation

Rebuilding and improving schools to create safe, supportive learning environments for vulnerable children in rural Nepal

Community Empowerment

Equipping communities with vocational training in sustainable agriculture and tourism, fostering economic independence

Transparent Giving

100% of our trip-based commissions go to FourPOSE Charity, driving real and lasting social change.

Essential Info

Nepal Tourist Visa – Entry & Regulations

Passports & Visas for Nepal

All travelers entering Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months validity and a full blank page for the visa stamp. A Nepal tourist visa is required and must be paid for in cash upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at border entry points. You will also need a passport-sized photo (photo booths are available at the airport if needed).

Current Visa Fees (Single-Entry Tourist Visa):

15 Days – $30 USD
30 Days – $50 USD
90 Days – $125 USD

Visa extensions are available for $3–5 per day, with a minimum charge of $30 for 15 days or less. Nationals of SAARC countries (except India) can obtain a Gratis (Free) 30-day Visa, but extensions follow standard visa rules. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal. For full visa details, visit Nepal’s official immigration website.

Choosing the right season is paramount for a safe and unforgettable Everest experience. At Step By Step Adventure with Purpose, we prioritize your comfort and safety, recommending the spring and autumn seasons for the most favorable conditions.

Best Trekking & Tour Seasons in Nepal

Nepal’s trekking seasons vary based on weather conditions and altitude. Understanding the best times to trek helps ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.

Spring Trekking (March–May)
Spring is a fantastic season for trekking with warmer temperatures at higher altitudes and rhododendron forests in full bloom. It is also a peak season for mountaineering expeditions.

Summer & Monsoon Season (June–Mid-September)
The monsoon season brings heavy rain and humidity, making most trekking routes challenging. However, Upper Mustang and Manaslu remain great options as they fall in rain-shadow areas and receive less rainfall.

Autumn Trekking (Mid-September–November)
This is the best trekking season in Nepal, with clear skies, stunning mountain views, and stable weather. Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley treks are most popular during this time.

Winter Trekking (December–February)
Winter trekking is possible but very cold at higher elevations. Lower-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Helambu are great choices for winter trekking.

Altitude Sickness & Prevention

Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) is common above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) due to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms include:

Headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and confusion
Shortness of breath and loss of appetite

Prevention Tips:

✔Acclimatize properly – Follow the rule: climb high, sleep low
✔Stay hydrated – Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily
✔Avoid alcohol & sleeping pills – These worsen AMS symptoms
✔Ascend gradually – Over 3,000m, increase altitude by 300m per day
✔Consider medication – Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125mg may help prevent AMS

Golden Rules for AMS:

Recognize symptoms early and stop ascending if mild AMS develops
If symptoms worsen, descend immediately
Never leave a teammate behind unattended

Essential Trekking Equipment & Packing List

Having the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety. Most trekking equipment can be bought or rented in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Must-Have Gear:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, thick socks, and camp shoes
Accessories: Sunglasses, gloves, hat, trekking poles
Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag rated to -10°C to -20°C
Backpack: Daypack with waterproof cover
First Aid Kit: Diamox, pain relievers, blister treatment, personal medication
Hydration & Snacks: Water bottles, energy bars, and hydration tablets.

Tea House Lodging & Trekking Food in Nepal

Tea houses are small guesthouses found along trekking routes, providing basic accommodation and meals.

Accommodation:

Twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and blankets
Shared bathrooms with either squat or western-style toilets
Dining areas with a communal heater (common in higher elevations)
Limited electricity & Wi-Fi – Charging devices may cost extra

Meals & Beverages:

Dal Bhat – Traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentils, and vegetable curry
Soups & Noodles – Garlic soup, Sherpa stew, and fried noodles
Breakfast Options – Porridge, pancakes, Tibetan bread, eggs
Tea & Coffee – Black tea, milk tea, hot chocolate, and herbal tea
Limited beverages – Beer and soft drinks available at extra cost

Travel & Trekking Insurance

Trekking in Nepal involves risks, so comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks.

Insurance Coverage Should Include:

Medical emergencies & helicopter evacuation (above 5,600m)
Trip cancellations, delays & lost baggage
Personal accident & repatriation

Recommended Insurance Providers:

Trekking Grades – Choosing the Right Trek

Nepal treks are categorized by difficulty based on altitude, terrain, and trekking duration.

Trek Difficulty Levels:

🔹 Easy Treks (Grade 1) – Suitable for beginners, below 3,000m, 4–5 hours walking per day (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley)
🔹 Moderate Treks (Grade 2) – Slightly challenging, reaching 3,500m, 5–6 hours walking per day (e.g., Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal)
🔹 Strenuous Treks (Grade 3) – High-altitude treks above 4,000m, requiring prior trekking experience (e.g., Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit)
🔹 Very Strenuous Treks (Grade 4–5) – Remote, high-altitude expeditions over 5,500m (e.g., Everest Three Passes, Island Peak Climb)

Final Thoughts

At Step By Step Treks And Adventure, we are committed to providing safe, sustainable, and meaningful travel experiences. Whether you are trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Nepal’s rich culture, or contributing to local communities through FourPOSE Charity, every journey with us leaves a positive impact.

Walk. Explore. Experience. Give Back.

Start Planning Our Trip

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