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Manaslu Highlight Trek

Duration:
17 Days

Max Altitude:
5,160m

Country:
Nepal

Activity:
Hiking & Trekking

Best Season:
Sept-Nov-March-May

Difficulty:
Strenuous

Strenuous

  • Requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
  • Rough trails, high passes, glacier crossings.
  • Altitude up to 5,000 meters.
  • Walking time up to 7-8 hours per day.
Overview
Itinerary & Accommodation
Include
Map
Impact
Review

Price From $2,190

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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.

Manaslu Highlight Trek

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.

  • 1,350m/4,429ft
  • 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.
  • 1,350m/4,429ft
  • Embark on a full-day tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. 
  • Overnight in Kathmandu.
  • 710m/2,330ft
  • 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.
  • 900m/2,953ft
  • Duration: 6-7hrs
  • 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.
  • 1,410m/4,626ft
  • Duration: 6-7hrs
  • 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.
  • 1,804m/5,919ft
  • Duration: 6-7hrs
  • 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.
  • 2,630m/8,629ft
  • Duration: 6-7hrs
  • 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.
  • 3,530m/11,582ft
  • Duration: 6-7 hrs
  • 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.
  • 3,530m/11,582ft
  • Rest and acclimatization day in Samagaon.
  • Explore the village, visit Pungyen Gompa, and enjoy views of Manaslu. 
  • Overnight in Samagaon.
  • 3,860m/12,665ft
  • Duration: 4-5hrs
  • 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.
  • 3,860m/12,665ft
  • 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.
  • 4,460m/14,633ft
  • Duration: 4-5hrs
  • Trek along the edge, cross a bridge, and climb upward. 
  • Cross streams and witness the Larkya Glacier, reaching Dharamsala (Larke Phedi). 
  • Overnight in Dharamsala.
  • 5,160m/16,930ft
  • Duration: 8-9hrs
  • 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.
  • 2,300m/7,546ft
  • Duration: 5-6hrs
  • 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.
  • 1,700m/5,578ft
  • Duration: 5-6hrs
  • 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.
  • Duration: 10-12hrs
  • 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.
  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

Costs Included in Your Package

  • Airport Assistance:

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.

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu:

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

  • Meals During the Trek:

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

  • Accommodation During the Trek:

Trekking lodge (tea house) Twine Sharing Basis accommodation.

  • Permits & Paperwork:

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

  • Domestic Flights & Transfers:
    • Round-trip flight Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap).
    • Private airport transfers and domestic airport taxes included.
  • Trekking Staff:
  • 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.
  • Safety & Health Support:
  • Comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation assistance (to be covered by your travel insurance company).
  • Trekking Gear & Extras:
  • 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.
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing:
  • A guided city tour in Kathmandu with a private car or jeep.
  • Government Taxes & Fees:
  • All necessary government taxes and official expenses.
  • Farewell dinner

Costs Not Included

  • Meals in Kathmandu:

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

  • Visa Fees for Nepal:

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
  • Personal Travel & Medical Insurance.
  • International Airfare.
  • Personal Expenses:
  • 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.
  • Trekking Staff Tips:
Tips for your guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).  
  • Sightseeing Entry Fees in Kathmandu:
  • Monument entrance fees ($10/15 USD per person per a spot).
  • Excess Baggage Fees for Lukla Flight:
  • Baggage over 10 kg may incur additional charges.
  • Early Return Policy:
  • 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

Kantipur Temple House

Thamel, Kathamandu

When we say Kantipur Temple House is more than an
eco-friendly boutique hotel, we seriously mean it.

Every nook and cranny of our property imparts the rich architectural heritage of medieval Nepal and this applies to our rooms as well. Entirely furnished and decorated with local handmade elements that render both elegance and luxury, our rooms give you the sense of living right inside an exotic art gallery.

Explore

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

Manaslu Highlight Trek

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

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.

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 (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

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 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

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:

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 Adventure with Purpose, 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

Step by Step have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Read firsthand accounts of people’s experiences with us

Becky P

Fantastic experience with Krishna who looked after us from the moment we arrived in Kathmandu. We did the Annapurna basecamp trek which was absolutely incredible; Krishna and Bharat ensured that we took in the wildlife, travelled at a steady pace (about 6 hours hiking a day+ stops) and learnt interesting info about the culture and history too.

An all round great guiding experience!

Koniko

Hongkong, China

“I can’t thank our trekking leader enough for the incredible experience we had. His consideration and foresight truly set him apart. He always thought ahead, ensuring that every aspect of our trek was well-planned and enjoyable. When faced with unexpected bad weather, he adeptly adjusted our plans to keep us safe while still making the most of our adventure. His leadership and adaptability made all the difference, and it’s clear that he genuinely cares about the well-being and enjoyment of his group. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a reliable and thoughtful trekking leader!”

Aldila

Indonesia

Unforgettable experience trekking Annapurna Basecamp arranged by Step by Step Treks &Adventure. Our trip was prepared by Krishna, with professional guide Mahendra and porter Nitish who were very polite, professional and helpful.

They can also help us to book bus from pokhara to kathmandu. Really super service and I will definitely recommend to my friends who want to visit Nepal.

RianSetianto

Bandung, Indonesia

I had an amazing journey to Annapurna Basecamp with Step By Step Adventure. The service and the guide were incredibly helpful, friendly, and made the trip unforgettable. Everything was well-organized and taken care of, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. They also took us to the best hospitality of lodges yet still very affordable, even we could get all the experience of trekking to ABC. I took paragliding experience as well with Step By Step and it was totally amazing! Highly recommended!

Michele Y.

Los Angeles, CA

It was always on my bucket list to trek in Nepal so when a friend asked me to join her excursion with Step By Step Treks & Adventures, I jumped at the chance. The trip was exotic and magical. It was hard work too! But every step was fantastic. Krishna, our guide and trip planner was very thorough and helped us prepare perfectly for months leading up to the trip. He was always very prompt to answer any questions we had, no matter how mundane. Anything we could not bring with us from the States, his company provided: poles, warm jackets and sleeping bags to name a few… 

Rosco75 Rouse Hill

Australia

Wandered into Krishna’s office in Pokhara and was looking for help planning a trek.
With Krishnas knowledge he set up a fantastic trek off the beaten path. Shyam a very experienced guide provided excellent knowledge of the trails and places to stay. I had a really authentic experience staying in some smaller places in amazing locations. We we did 3 major climbs to Mardi Himal, Hidden Lake and Khayer Lake out of Kophra. The views were simply stunning and I couldn’t of asked for a better experience.

Mandi

Singapore, Singapore

I cannot stop thinking about my trip in Nepal and putting the beautiful surroundings to a side, I truly believe it’s down to the even more beautiful people that we met at step by step. I’m very fussy when booking trips and Krishna was so patient and helpful throughout the whole process. When I finally met him, I felt like I already knew. In addition, he has a great team who truly took care of us. Bijay was our guide for the trek and sightseeing in Pokhara – he is very knowledgeable and talented and kept us entertained throughout the trip. We were accompanied by Bhim, our supporter, who also looked out for us and kept an eye on us throughout the icy and slippery trails…

Rosoco

Rouse Hill, Australia

Wandered into Krishna’s office in Pokhara and was looking for help planning a trek.
With Krishnas knowledge he set up a fantastic trek off the beaten path. Shyam a very experienced guide provided excellent knowledge of the trails and places to stay. I had a really authentic experience staying in some smaller places in amazing locations. We we did 3 major climbs to Mardi Himal, Hidden Lake and Khayer Lake out of Kophra. The views were simply stunning and I couldn’t of asked for a better experience.

Evamaalouf

Rouse Hill, Australia

First day we arrived to Pokhara, Nepal, we walked in to Step by Step and we were welcomed by the place owner Krishna Lama and we instantly felt that we could trust him for his knowledge and positive energy, so we booked a 4 days trip with well managed prices, fully covered touristic sightseeing and adventures with a well informed great guide, it was all worth it and we definitely recommend it!

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