Short Manaslu Trekking

Duration: 11 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration 11 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 2-12
  • Max. Altitude 5160

Highlights

  • Get to see majestic views of Mt. Manaslu, the 8th-highest mountain in the world.
  • A perfect short adventurous trek in Nepal for adventures looking to challenge themselves
  • Traverse through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, dense forests, meadows, river valleys, and glacial moraines.
  • Get to see the exotic flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
  • The Short Manaslu Trekking trail goes through lush rhododendron forests, Himalayan pine, bamboo forests, and picturesque villages.
  • Witness breathtaking landscapes and experience a remote mountain lifestyle.
  • Cross Larkya La pass
  • Visit notable landmarks such as Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake.
  • Witness panoramic views of Himalayan Mountains, gushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, rocky hills, and stunning glaciers.

Short Manaslu Trek 11 Days

The short Manaslu Trek is carefully crafted to span 11 days, which offers an extraordinary opportunity to discover the remote and beautiful Manaslu region. This immersing adventure Holiday allows you to witness the stunning Himalayan Mountains, a vast expanse of diverse scenery, and the rich cultural heritage of the Nubri community. From lush green valleys adorned with vibrant flora to rugged terrain dotted with ancient monasteries and Mani walls, the Manaslu trek for 11 days promises a lifetime venture in Nepal.

One of the prominent highlights of the short Manaslu trek is the majestic presence of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters), the 8th highest mountain in the world. The trail likewise follows the dense forests, meadows, river valleys, and moraines inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. From monkeys and exotic birds to rhododendrons, Himalayan pine, and bamboo forests, the Manaslu trail has a vast range of flora and fauna, which enriches the overall trekking experience.

Situated in the northeastern part of the Gorkha district in Nepal, the Manaslu region is home to some of the most adventurous and remote trekking routes. The walking route has tea house accommodations for the trekkers, making the journey more accessible and enjoyable. The proximity to the Tibet border has restricted this region to Nepal.

Beyond the mesmerizing scenery and all the adventure, the short Manaslu trekking offers an immersive cultural experience. Along the way, you'll encounter various communities, each with unique traditions and ways of life. You'll have the chance to interact with the friendly and hospitable locals. Discover their age-old customs, taste authentic cuisine, and witness traditional ceremonies that have withstood the test of time.

Suppose you're a physically fit trekker seeking an unforgettable experience in Nepal's High Himalayas within a limited timeframe. In that case, the short Manaslu trek adventure is worth undertaking. It allows you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Manaslu region and savor the wonders of the Himalayas, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Short Manaslu trek route

The short Manaslu trek commences at 930 meters above sea level in Machha Khola and gradually ascends to Larkya La pass at 5,160 meters. The trail mostly follows the picturesque banks of the Budhi Gandaki River and dense forests until you go above the tree line and walk through moraines, pastures, and glaciers. Some of the major highlights of this trek are excursions to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m), Birendra Lake (3,691 m), and Pungyen Gompa (3,870 m).

Mountain views and landscapes

From the lowlands at an elevation of 600 meters to the breathtaking highlands reaching approximately 5,100 meters, the Manaslu short trek offers panoramic views of majestic Himalayan mountains, gushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, rocky & lush hills, and stunning glaciers.

Trekkers are rewarded with an unparalleled sense of serenity and an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life during the trek. The pristine landscapes, untouched by mass tourism, provide an immersive experience in the lap of nature.

Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Ganesh Himal (7,406 m), Shringi Himal (7,155 m), Mt. Kang Guru (6,981 m), Larkya Peak (6,249 m), and numerous others are seen along the trekking route. You will also see Manaslu Glacier and Pungen Glacier views.

Difficulty and trek preparation

The Manaslu circuit short trek is classified as a challenging level trip, requiring thorough preparation before embarking on the adventure. To ensure you are adequately prepared, engaging in various physical activities is essential. Regular yoga practice, morning jogs, weekend hikes with a small backpack, frequent stair climbing, gym workouts, and cardiovascular exercises can significantly contribute to your physical fitness.

In addition to physical preparation, mental willingness is equally essential. The trek entails walking for 6 to 7 hours on most days, except for a long day of 8 to 9 hours when crossing the Larkya La pass (5,106 m). This demanding journey requires mental strength and resilience. Therefore, having a positive mindset, building mental endurance, and developing a determination to overcome challenges is crucial.

Alternative trekking packages in Nepal

Join the Short Manaslu trekking venture with Outfitter Himalaya at the best cost. You can also customize the itinerary as per your requirements. We also have some other packages in the region, which are Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek and Manaslu-Tsum Valley Trek.

You'll Experience

MAMANSLU TREK REVIEW

Itinerary

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The short Manaslu Trek begins with a long scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning and take a local bus. Up to Arughat Bazar, the ride is comfortable, and from here onwards, the road gets a bit bumpy. We will enjoy beautiful views of lush green hills, rivers, waterfalls, small towns, and mountains on the way.

  • MealsL, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude870

Today, we'll start trekking. After a good breakfast, we will leave Machha Khola and begin walking, following a winding road along the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail then goes through dense forests, where we may encounter monkeys.

Passing by Khorlabesi, a Gurung village, we will trek further to Tatopani. Here, we can see natural hot springs. We can take a small break to indulge in it and then continue walking, crossing a new suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River.

We will reach Dovan and trek past a landslide area to Yaruphant. The trail then crosses a wooden bridge and goes along the river. We will cross a long cantilever bridge just before reaching Jagat for the night stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1340

The walking trail from Jagat goes to Salleri and descends to Sirdibas. We can see many gompas and prayer flags in this village. From here, we'll continue walking toward Phillim, where we will register our trek permits and trek further along the western bank of the Budhi Gandaki River. We can see boulders with unique sculptures around the riverbank.

The trail gradually ascends through forests of pine and rhododendrons. We will cross the Siyar Khola Bridge and reach a junction that separates the trail to Tsum Valley on the right. Passing by Pewa, ascend on a winding trail across the bamboo forest to Deng. The view of Siringi Himal from Deng is fantastic.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1860

We continue trekking from Deng village to Ghap. The trail goes through Bihi Phedi and Bihi. After a short descent, the trail sharply ascends to Rana Bridge. We will then trek by pine forests and cross a bridge to Bihi Phedi.

The trail from here onward has numerous mani walls and stupas. Crossing one more suspension bridge, the trail goes to Ghap village. It passes by a lush forest of oak, rhododendron, fir, and bamboo. We will ascend crossing bridges and stone stairs to Namrung village.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2630

Namrung offers the lifestyle of the Nubri community. The day begins with a delicious breakfast and a striking landscape. We will pass by traditional Tibetan-style houses and walk past many mani walls and terraced fields. The trail soon enters a dense oak and rhododendron forest and gradually ascends to Lihi. From here, we will trek to Lho village and walk along the hillsides to Lho.

We can see stunning views of Manaslu and Manaslu north on the way. Trekking past Shyla village, the trail goes via a gully adorned with pine, moss, and rhododendrons. From Shyala, it takes one hour of walking to reach Sama Gaun. Sama Gaun is the main village of the Nubri people and has a health post, helipad, large gompa, and many shops.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3520

Today, we will spend an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun. We will hike and return to the village to adjust to the thin air and avoid altitude sickness further on the trail. We can go to ancient Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake for the hike. Both options are fantastic and offer breathtaking mountain panoramas.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3520

We will begin trekking gradually on an uneven path. There are yak pastures up the valley with long mani walls. From here, the trail leaves the tree line and ascends to a ridge, crossing a wooden bridge over the Buri Gandaki River. We will reach White Kani, which is a neighboring village of Samdo. It is a short walk from White Kani to Samdo.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3875

The trail from Samdo descends via fields and mani walls. We will cross a bridge and trek past the Athahra Saya River and then the Larke River. The mani walls and prayer flags along the trail show the closeness of Larkya La pass. Further, we will come across Larkya Glacier. The views are outstanding.

From here, the trail goes to Salkha Khola Valley. It ascends to a stone guest house at 4450 meters, known as Dharamsala or Larkya La Phedi. The views of Mt. Manaslu and Larkya Glacier are lovely from this place.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4460

Today, we will cross the Larkya La pass, the most exciting and challenging part of our short Manaslu trek. We will leave Larkya La Phedi early in the morning & begin walking via moraines, and descend to a small lake. From here, the trail gets rough and unclear.

We will cross the south steep grassy slope and walk to the edge. The trail then drops to frozen lakes and ascends, following a steep, rocky trail to Larkya La pass. The views of Himlung Himal, Mt. Kang Guru, Annapurna II, etc, from the top of Larkya La Pass are surreal.

Further, we will continue walking to the top of the moraine and descend to a grassy moraine at 4,450 meters. From here, we will reach a small meadow and walk to Bhimtang.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5160

This is our last day of trekking. We will descend from Bhimtang through lush forests and rhododendron bushes. The trail goes across the Dudh Khola to Karche.

Here, we will take a small break for lunch and continue trekking, witnessing views of many signs of glacial floods. As we descend, the trail gets more agricultural and lush. Traveling past oak & rhododendron forests and farming fields, we will pass by Tilije before reaching Dharapani.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1860

After a big breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu. The drive will be 9 to 10 hours long and gorgeous. The guide will drop you at the hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy the remaining day unpacking and shopping. We will meet you in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

  • MealsB, L
  • Max. Altitude1345

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

Map & Altitude Graph

Short Manaslu Trekking map

Inclusions

  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek
  • Transportation by local bus from Kathmandu to Machha khola
  • Transport by local bus from Dharapani to Kathmandu
  • Conservation entry permits, restricted area permit, and TIMS permit
  • 10-night accommodations in lodges/tea houses on the trekking
  • Local certified guide
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket, and a duffel bag (return after the trek)
  • Seasonal fruits after dinner while on trek
  • Company T-shirt & trekking map
  • A farewell dinner
  • First Aid & oximeter
  • Official expenses and service charge

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Accommodation and meals while you are in Kathmandu
  • The bar bills, hot and cold drinks, water, internet, and telephone charge
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in the included sectio

Add-Ons & Options

Upgrade Transport to Private jeep

  • Day 01: There is an option to upgrade the transportation to private jeep instead of the local bus drive on day 1 from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. The Jeep cost US $300.00 and 6 passenger can drive on one Jeep.
  • Day 11: There is an option to upgrade the transportation to private jeep instead of the local bus drive on day 12 from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The Jeep cost US $300.00 and 6 passenger can drive on one Jeep.

Porters Services

Initially, we have not included porter services in the package as not all the people prefer to take porter services as they want to challenge to trek without a porter. We have kept the optional porter service, add it when you book.

  • A porter cost 220.00 USD for 11 days short Manaslu Trek and a porter will carry about 20-22 Kg, which is good enough for 2 trekkers.

Group Departures

We at Outfitter Himalaya offers small group trek to Short Manaslu Trek. Find the fixed dates below to join the group trip and book your most suitable date.

The size for the group trek would be from 1 person to 12 people. If you are more than 12, contact us for the discounts and booking process.

If the offered dates are not suitable for you, or want to have private trip, Proceed booking from the right bar on your own date.

Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: MondayNov 18, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayNov 28, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$800StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayNov 25, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayDec 05, 2024PricePrice Per PersonUS$800StatusAvailable

Essential Info

Solo Travellers

Solo travelers are not allowed to trek in Manaslu Region; there should be a minimum of 2 people to obtain a special trekking permit to travel in Manaslu. If you are a single traveler, you must join other people. So, contact us for the date when we have people already booked So You can join.

Guide and Porter

An Experienced trekking guide is included in the short Manaslu Trek Cost, and there will be an assistant guide for more than eight people in the group. Initially, we did not include porter services in the package. Not all people prefer to take a porter because they want to challenge themselves to trek without one. We have kept the optional porter service; add it when you book.

  • A porter costs 220.00 USD for 11 days of short Manaslu Trek, and a porter will carry about 20-22 kg, which is good enough for two trekkers.

Transportation on the Short Manaslu Trek

We provide public local bus transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu. These drives are long and adventurous. If you want to drive at your own pace with multiple stops in more comfort, there are options to upgrade it to a private Jeep, and the cost will be as below:

  • Personal Jeep Upgrade from Kathmandu to Machha Khola: US $275.00
  • Private Jeep Transportation from Dharapani to Kathmandu: US $300.00

Best Time to do the Short Manaslu Trek

The ideal time to undertake the Short Manaslu Trek is between March and May and September and November. During these months, you can expect clear weather and moderate temperatures to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience. However, checking the weather forecast before planning your trek is always recommended to avoid any unexpected weather surprises.

Accommodation on Short Manaslu Trek in Himalaya

  • Ten nights' accommodation is included in the Short Manaslu Package cost, and they are in guest houses/tea houses along the trail as per the itinerary.
  • The accommodation on the Short Manaslu Trekking route is simple and comfortable.

Meals and drinks on the Short Manaslu Trekking in Nepal

Thirty-two meals (10 breakfasts, 11 Lunch & 11 dinners) are included in the short Manaslu Trekking Package price. Breakfast and dinners are provided in the guest houses where we stay overnight, and lunches are along the trail.

Drinks are not included in our package cost. Drinks like water, tea, coffee, cold drinks, and hot drinks are available in the guest houses, and you can buy them.

Extra money for the Short Manaslu Trek

The accommodation, meals, permits, and transport are included in the price. However, you need money for the extra expenses such as internet, telephone, drinks, laundry, and hot showers.

US $15-20 per day should be enough for these extra expenses. However, these expenses depend on you. You may need more if you want to shop for souvenirs, which are available along the trail.

Trek permits for the Short Manaslu Trek

The short Manaslu Trek route is located in the restricted trekking area in Nepal, and trekkers need special permits to trek in the region. Here are the types of permits required for the Manaslu Trekking:

Restricted Area Permit

All trekkers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit for the short Manaslu Trek in Nepal. The permits are available through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, Outfitter Himalaya. The cost of the Permits varies depending on the season and duration of the trek.

  • From September to November, US$ 100.00 per week per person and US$ 15 per day per person after seven days.
  • From December to August, US$ 75 per week per person, and after seven days, US$ 10.00 per day per person or equivalent convertible foreign currency.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This permit is also required to trek in the Manaslu Conservation Area. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or through a trekking company.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The Manaslu Trekking route passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, and therefore, trekkers need to obtain the ACAP permit as well. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board individually or through a trekking company.

FAQs

  • Q1. Is the Short Manaslu Trekking safe?

    Yes, the Short Manaslu Trekking is a safe destination in Nepal if you take the necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines.

    • Like any trekking or adventure activity in Nepal, some inherent risks are involved, such as altitude sickness, slippery trails, and unpredictable weather. However, with proper planning, preparation, and an experienced guide, these can be minimized.
    • The Nepalese government requires trekkers to obtain a special trekking permit and be accompanied by a licensed guide to trek in the Manaslu region, which helps to ensure safety and minimize risks.
    • It is also essential to be physically prepared for the trek and to take time to acclimatize to the altitude. Follow your guide's guidance, stay hydrated, and take proper rest breaks.

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