From CAD 4,275
Guarantee
Small Group
Demanding
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
This spectacular and isolated circular trek skirts around the eighth highest mountain in the world, formidable Manaslu (28,258ft/8,163m). We follow the mighty Buri Gandaki River as it narrows into a spectacular gorge, passing through tiny villages perched on valley sides. Eventually, the gorge opens out into alpine meadows inhabited by a cluster of Tibetan communities below the north face of Manaslu. Crossing the Larkya Pass, we see the snow-capped peaks of Himalchuli, Manaslu, Cheo Himal and Himlung Himal, before descending through forest to join the main Annapurna Circuit route.
Why trek with Exodus?
One of the highest staff-to-traveller ratios on the trek with one staff member to every four travellers
More than 30 years’ experience organising treks in Nepal
Carefully planned ascent rates and itineraries with built-in acclimatisation and contingency days
Experienced English-speaking local leaders who are qualified in first aid and trained to recognise and deal with altitude sickness
All staff (leaders, guides and porters) are fully insured and paid a fair wage
Staff carry oxygen, a first-aid kit, and self-assessment acute mountain sickness cards, used to monitor every traveller at altitude
Speak to Exodus office staff who have done the trek themselves
Profile
— Accommodation: 3 Classic nights (hotels), 14 Simple nights (13 teahouses/mountain lodges, 1 hut) — 14 days of point-to-point walking with full porterage — Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader and local staff (staff to client ratio of 1:4 on trek). Minimum age: 16 — Altitude maximum: 16,830ft (5,130m); average: 8,860ft (2,700m) — Between five and eight hours of walking per day; the Larkya La day is approximately 11 hours of walking — Staff carry oxygen and a first-aid kit on trek — 17 October 2024 led by Valerie Parkinson, Wanderlust World Guide Awards winner 2021
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 3 Classic nights (hotels), 14 Simple nights (13 teahouses/mountain lodges, 1 hut) — 14 days of point-to-point walking with full porterage — Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader and local staff (staff to client ratio of 1:4 on trek). Minimum age: 16 — Altitude maximum: 16,830ft (5,130m); average: 8,860ft (2,700m) — Between five and eight hours of walking per day; the Larkya La day is approximately 11 hours of walking — Staff carry oxygen and a first-aid kit on trek — 17 October 2024 led by Valerie Parkinson, Wanderlust World Guide Awards winner 2021
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 5 (Challenging), mainly due to the varied and changeable terrain. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It’s a lodge-based trek with 14 days of walking and full porterage throughout – you need only carry your backpack.
The itinerary is very well staged for acclimatisation. There are some long days at the lower altitudes; as we get higher, the days are shorter to allow for acclimatisation. The maximum altitude is 16,830ft (5,130m), and the average is approximately 8,860ft (2,700m). As this trip spends considerable time at altitude, we ask you to refer to the altitude warning within the Trip Notes.
Much of this trek is on established trails and is within the capabilities of a fit and experienced walker. The first half of the trek is at low altitude with approximately five to eight hours of walking a day on reasonably well-maintained trails. However, it can be very hot, dusty and humid at the lower altitudes (especially in spring) and there are some narrow and steep sections on the trails, which may not be suitable for those with a strong fear of heights. The crossing of the Larkya La is over rough, rocky glacial moraine and some of the descent is very steep. The day over the pass is approximately 11 to 12 hours. You should be a confident walker and be comfortable walking for five to eight hours a day, with an occasional longer day. The trails in the Manaslu region are less well-used than those in the Everest and Annapurna regions and are often rocky and uneven, requiring steady footing and concentration. This area was quite badly affected by an earthquake in 2015. Many of the trails have now been repaired but there are still landslides to cross and there may be changes to the descriptions below based on the seasonal monsoon weather bringing the potential for further landslides.
The trail crosses numerous modern suspension bridges over rivers and valleys, all with mesh sides. Anyone with a strong fear of heights or vertigo may find them difficult.
Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings stated exclude lunch stops and vary depending on the group’s pace.
Nepal flight safety
Many of our treks in Nepal use domestic flights to reach the trekking areas. The mountainous Nepalese terrain is subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex and challenging and, unfortunately, there are significantly more incidents here than in other countries, including fatalities. The EU highlighted the poor safety record in Nepal in 2013 by including all Nepalese-registered airlines on the EU banned list, which prevents them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. These airlines are unlikely to be members of any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.
Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk and we strongly encourage you to consider this carefully before booking. We suggest you refer to the following sources:
The current travel advice for Nepal issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeThe Air Safety Network entry for Nepal
In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use to only those approved as part of this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters, so we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Should concerns arise regarding the safety of an airline on our approved list, we will remove the carrier from the list immediately, and it would only be reinstated once our air-safety auditors are confident the airline meets acceptable safety standards.
We appreciate you may have concerns about flying within Nepal, so we ask that you consider all the information above when deciding to book this trip.
Group Description
The group is generally between four and 16 people.
We have representatives in Kathmandu who look after your transfers to and from the airport and are around to answer other questions you may have about your trek. There is an Exodus desk and noticeboard in the Royal Singi Hotel in Kathmandu. The desk is manned morning and evening.
The departure starting in Kathmandu on 17 October 2024 will be led by Valerie Parkinson who has been leading treks in the Himalaya for more than 35 years. Valerie was the first British woman to summit Manaslu. She will share her mountaineering experience, including talking about her Everest summit expedition and Everest North Col Expedition with you along the way! Valerie won Best Tour Leader in the prestigious annual Wanderlust World Guide Awards in 2021.
All other departures will have an English-speaking Nepali tour leader throughout the trip who will be assisted by Nepali trekking guides. All Exodus leaders are highly experienced, take Exodus leader training courses, and are trained in wilderness first aid. The trekking guides are licensed by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and receive additional training through Exodus. The trekking guides will walk with the group, spacing themselves out to ensure the pace is appropriate for careful acclimatisation and to ensure the safety of all trekkers in the group, helping those who may need some encouragement or support.
On all our Nepal treks, there is one member of trek staff for every four clients – this ratio may change if a guide must stay behind with a member of the group. The leaders are assisted by additional guides and as many porters as necessary to carry the kitbags. All your main gear is carried for you and you only carry whatever you require for that day’s trek. Porters are offered porter clothing for treks above 14,765ft (4,500m), which includes waterproofs, boots, socks, gloves, hats and sunglasses. All the trekking staff are insured by our local partner in Nepal.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16. Anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.
Eating Drinking
Breakfast is included throughout the trip.
In teahouses, breakfast comprises a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried or omelette), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot tea/coffee is also served. On specific days, there will not be a choice for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey is served – these options are not available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations where they can be guaranteed. You may also be able to supplement your included breakfast with additional items on the teahouse menu should you wish, additional items that are not included in the set menu should be ordered and paid for separately.
Please note, some more remote teahouses/lodges are unable to provide an extensive menu due to irregular delivery schedules and during periods of bad weather or a high volume of trekkers, there may be a more limited menu choice. Also, the higher altitude the more expenses the menus and extras generally are.
Lunch is at a teahouse en route – sometimes one of your guides will go ahead with the group’s order to make it more expedient. Dinner is in the same teahouse you sleep at (this is custom in Nepal as teahouses base their room rate on it).
Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentils and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos, a Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed and filled with meat or vegetables.
Meat is available in the teahouses but we advise against eating it on trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or illness.
If you have a gluten-free diet, we strongly recommend you bring extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will be little variety available for you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten-free breakfast options will be limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg, and on specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the toast/with an extra egg) will be served. Breakfast options for vegans will be limited to a choice of muesli/porridge with water each day, and on specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the egg), or vegetable fried rice will be served. If you are lactose intolerant, the same will apply although you will also have a choice of egg each day.
If you buy imported food and drink on trek, you will spend more than the suggested amount.
Drinking water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 100floz-135floz (3-4 litres) per day.
However, we strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.
The teahouses sell boiled water for approximately 150-300 (US$1.15-US$2.30) per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot-water bottle.
Alternatively, all teahouses provide free cold water. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend you bring a reusable bottle/water bladder/Camelpak (ideally two) and use an effective form of water treatment. There are a wide range of products available including Steripens or purification tablets, which are the quickest and easiest options to use on trek – we recommend talking to an outdoor retailer for the latest advice as technologies are improving all the time. Make sure to check the product’s performance in cold/freezing conditions and consider battery life (lithium batteries are best in cold conditions).
Exodus has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates more than 99.99 percent of all microbiological contaminants from any non-saltwater source – visit Water-to-Go for more information. Exodus customers can claim 15 percent off their first order and, better still, 15 percent of the purchase value will be donated to the Exodus Travels Foundation. These bottles filter the water as you drink through the spout may not be the most efficient while on the go on a trek. Please note, if the water freezes it will clog up the filter. In this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
Transportation
For airport transfers, we use a private minibus/vehicle. For the journeys to Arket Bazaar and from Ngaddi, we use a local bus (sometimes from Ngaddi to Besisahar your guide will have to book transport locally). Please note, often the local buses are not equipped with seatbelts.
This point-to-point trek requires customers to walk between each overnight stay under their own steam. Other forms of transport may be available along the route (horses, 4x4s etc) but Exodus is not able to take responsibility for the safety or the cost of any transport that customers choose to take even if provided with the assistance of our leader or staff.
Nepal flight safety
Many of our treks in Nepal use domestic flights to reach the trekking areas. The mountainous Nepalese terrain is subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex and challenging, and unfortunately there are significantly more incidents here than in other countries, including fatalities. The EU highlighted the poor safety record in Nepal in 2013 by including all Nepalese-registered airlines on the EU banned list, which prevents them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. These airlines are unlikely to be members of any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.
Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk, and we strongly encourage you to consider this carefully before booking. We suggest you refer to the following sources:
The current travel advice for Nepal issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeThe Air Safety Network entry for Nepal
In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use to only those approved as part of this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters, so we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Should concerns arise regarding the safety of an airline on our approved list, we will remove the carrier from the list immediately, and it would only be reinstated once our air-safety auditors are confident the airline meets acceptable safety standards.
We appreciate you may have concerns about flying within Nepal, so we ask that you consider all the information above when deciding to book this trip.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Royal Singi Hotel, Lal Durbar, Kamaladi, Kathmandu
Phone: +977 144 24190
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Kathmandu Airport (KTM)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Kathmandu Airport (KTM) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time, and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures vary from 15C to 35C (59F to 95F) in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10C (50C) at 11,810ft (3,600m) and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking:
Post monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are generally above 20C (68F). For the first few days of the trek, at the lower altitudes, the temperatures can be very hot (up to 30C/86F) and it can be very humid. Once you are over 6,560ft (2,000m), temperatures are more pleasant. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping to -5C (23F) or lower at the higher altitudes.
Pre-monsoon: March to May. Both day and night temperatures are warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot and humid at the start and end of the trek at the lower altitudes and temperatures rise to 30C/35C (86F/95F) in Kathmandu and the lower parts of the trek. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.
The crossing of the Larkya La is cold at any time of year. There is sometimes a high wind over the pass, which makes the crossing extremely cold and you must have adequate protection for very low temperatures for this section. There is sometimes snow and ice on the pass. You need to be prepared for this. We recommend you carry yaktrax/microspikes in case of snow on the pass.
Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes above Samdo.
In any mountain area, the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.
Spending Money
We recommend taking your personal spending money in cash (US dollars, British pounds or euros can all be changed easily). Please note that any marked, torn or damaged notes may not be accepted. Please remember, £50 notes, Scottish or Irish currency cannot be changed in Nepal. Cash can be changed easily at the airport on arrival in Kathmandu or at money changers in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. Hotels in Nepal can also change up to US$300 per person. Please note, travellers cheques can NOT be exchanged in Nepal. Our staff will advise you about how much money to take with you on the trek.
You need to withdraw/exchange enough money in Kathmandu to last the duration of your trek – to cover meals, drinks, tipping and other incidentals. It is a good idea to carry spare cash on the trek in case of an emergency. Carrying a large amount of cash is unavoidable so we suggest splitting it up into a few different places – but remember to keep track of how much you have stashed where.
Prices of food and amenities in teahouses generally become more expensive the higher altitude/more remote you are and access to ATMs/money changes are extremely limited. Please allow 4,400 - 5,800 rupees (US$33-US44) per day for lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, showers, toilet roll and charging on trek, and for meals not included in Kathmandu. This amount is given as a rough guideline only.
Your expenditure will be towards the top end if you buy boiled water rather than treating cold water, and depending on how many hot showers you take, if you pay to charge electrical devices, drink alcohol, use wifi on the trek and so on.
If you'd like to purchase a trekking map for 500 rupees (US$4), please speak to your Leader at the welcome briefing and he will provide the relevant map for you.
Optional excursions
Several optional tours and activities are available from Kathmandu.
Prices for a half-day sightseeing tour start from approximately 4,650 rupees (US$35) per person, based on a group of six or more. For all trips, return transport and a qualified sightseeing guide are included. The price does not include lunch or entry fees. Please enquire with your leader in Kathmandu, who can provide further information.
An optional Everest sightseeing flight is available on your free day (weather permitting) from around 27,810 rupees (US$210) per person (price subject to change). If you intend to book, please refer to the Transport section for information about the safety of flying in Nepal.
Tipping
Tipping is part of the culture in Nepal and usually expected. Tipping can often be an awkward affair, especially when in an unfamiliar country where you are not sure when or how much to tip. As such, your tour leader will usually offer to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty, which will be used to tip porters in hotels, local guides, assistant guides, porters and the drivers. Your leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but a rough guideline is provided below.
Tipping of the leader is at your discretion and separate to the amount he will suggest for the other staff. We suggest you send an envelope around the group at the end of the trip and you can put in what you like and give to the leader on the last evening.
The following are guideline amounts received by each staff member from the group as a whole…
Tour leader: 40,000-45,000 rupees (usually tipped on the last night in Kathmandu)
Your trekking crew (tips are usually given on the last evening of the trek in Jagat):
Head trekking guide and assistant guides: 25,000-30,000 rupees for each guideTrek porters: 15,000-17,000 rupees for each porter
General tipping guidelines:
Drivers: Kathmandu to trek start point (full day): 2,000 rupees in total from the group. Besisahar to Kathmandu (full day) – 2,000 rupees in total from the group.Hotel porters: 100 rupees each time for each roomTeahouses and lunch stops on the trek: It’s customary to round your bill up to the nearest 50 or 100 rupeesRestaurants: 10% of the bill if good service
To help budget for the tips, generally there will be one member of trek staff (guide/assistant) for every four clients. You also have one porter for every two clients to carry your luggage. If you are unsure on how much to budget, check with your leader when you arrive in Kathmandu. Please try to give all tips in local currency.
Highlights
— Take a magnificent off-the-beaten-track circular trek around Manaslu — Cross the remote Larkya La — Enjoy rare views of Manaslu — Trek through picturesque traditional Tibetan villages
Trip Details
Product Code: 4261
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: his trip.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TNA
Starts: Kathmandu, Nepal
Finishes: Kathmandu, Nepal
Duration: 18 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Demanding
Includes
— All breakfasts included — Morning bed-tea on trek — Welcome drink at each overnight lodge — Three nights in standard hotels, 13 nights in teahouses and one night fixed tent — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout, plus local staff (staff to client ratio of 1:4 on trek) — Free arrival and departure transfers for everyone — Full porterage throughout trek — Exodus kitbag — Trekking permit and national park feesAccommodation
Manaslu Lodge CircuitSpend 13 nights on trek in teahouses/lodges, one night in Dharamsala in three-person prefab huts, and three nights in a hotel in Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, we usually stay at the Hotel Royal Singi, located within walking distance of the buzzy Thamel district. There is a restaurant, bar and an outdoor courtyard, plus free wifi in the lobby and login codes for the rooms are available at reception. There is an Exodus desk in the hotel reception area and an Exodus representative is usually available daily in the mornings and evenings. The teahouses are basic (especially the ones in Samdo and Dharamsala) but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains. In Dharamsala, we use three-person prefab huts. Mattresses are provided in the huts and there is a basic dining room and basic toilets. The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with colourful traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on). Some tea houses above 9,845ft (3,000m) may not be heated due to local environmental restrictions. Occasionally, kerosene burners can be used to heat common areas if requested. We recommend against using these due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and your leader will not offer this to you. Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper. Almost all lodges have electricity, but it is not wholly reliable, and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch (flashlight) is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room, charged at approximately 150-350 Nepalese rupees (US$1.15/US$2.65) per hour per device. Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. A few of the lodges on this trek have wifi – in some areas it works well but in others it is slow and temperamental. The bedrooms are now almost all twin-share (although very occasionally during peak seasons you may be asked to share with three to a room for the odd night). Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are unheated and can get cold at night, so you need to bring or hire a sleeping bag. Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian squat style; although some lodges have now installed seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided, so bring your own or buy it locally (please dispose of it in the waste can provided – do not put it in the bowl). If there is not a flush handle, there should be a container of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it or ask the lodge to. Some lodges now have hot showers, charged at approximately 250-500 rupees (US$1.90- US$3.80) per shower. Sometimes a hot shower is simply a bucket of hot water and not a shower head. Standards of cleanliness vary, especially in the peak trekking season and in winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your leader or the lodge and be vigilant in your personal hygiene regime – use soap or hand-sanitiser gel before and after toilet breaks, snacks, mealtimes and after handling money. As a rule, the higher you go, the more basic the lodges and the more expensive food and services become. Extra accommodation If you would like to extend your stay, speak to your sales representative about booking extra nights before or after the tour in Kathmandu – please enquire at the time of booking. Single supplements If you prefer your own room, we offer a single supplement for the hotel nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara only (subject to availability). While in the tea houses, single rooms cannot be guaranteed so these have not been included in the single supplement price paid in advance. However, if a single room is available on arrival to a teahouse, you can pay locally on a day-by-day basis.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4275 (CAD 238 /day)
Itinerary
The tour starts at the hotel in Kathmandu. Free arrival transfers are available for any flight, provided you have supplied Exodus with your flight details in advance and have requested a transfer. There are no planned activities today so you may arrive at any time; however, tomorrow is a long drive so it’s better not to arrive too late. Upon arrival at the hotel, look out for an Exodus noticeboard with details of where and when the welcome/trek briefing is held this evening. Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
We have an early start for the long drive to Arket Bazaar (approximately seven hours). We drive out of the Kathmandu Valley and head west following the Trisuli River towards Pokhara. At Dading, we turn off the main road and drive into the hills through Dading Besi and Arughat in the Buri Gandaki Valley. From Arughat, we continue on a rough road to Arkhet Bazaar (be prepared for an adventure). From here, we walk (approximately two hours) to Soti Khola. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: approximately 2,360ft/720m)
The first few days of this trek are quite long in terms of hours walked due to the lower altitudes and availability of decent lodges. It can, therefore, be very hot, especially in the spring trekking season. Our route begins by following the Buri Gandaki Valley north. There is a road being blasted out of the hillsides and we try to avoid it where possible. From Soti Khola, we drop to the river and cross to the other side of the valley where the trail climbs steeply for a while through forested areas and small villages and then undulates through farmland and finally drops to cross the river again to lunch at Lapu Besi. From Lapu Besi, we follow the undulating jeep track to Machha Khola Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 2,870ft/875m)
We have another quite long day as the trail undulates throughout, sometimes by the river and sometimes high above the river, passing several small hamlets and farms. The valley narrows and there are spectacular waterfalls. We start with a short climb followed by a descent to Khorla Besi. From here, we follow the wide track to Tatopani (which means hot water). The water from the natural hot springs here is funnelled through a few taps in the centre of the village. We continue up to Dovan and then to Shyauli, where we have lunch. From there, we face more ups and downs (some quite steep sections) until we drop to the river at Yaruphant. The trail levels out for a while and then we cross a suspension bridge, after which the trail undulates to Jagat, a well-kept paved village, where we see the first signs of Tibetan Buddhism. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 4,495ft/1,370m)
We have a long day due to the lack of decent lodges. From Jagat, the trail continues up the valley through the villages of Salleri, Sirdabas and Ghate Khola, offering great views of Chamar ahead. We then drop down to the river, cross a long suspension bridge and climb steeply up to lunch at Philim (5,135ft/1,565m). From Philim, the trail undulates spectacularly with impressive waterfalls on either side of the valley. Passing the small settlements of Chisapani and Eklabatti, where we have lunch, we descend a little and cross the river by suspension bridge. The trail splits at the bridge, the right-hand side of the valley leads to the remote Tsum Valley. We cross to the left and continue following the Buri Gandaki, climbing up at first as the trail rounds the valley, which becomes narrower. We cross the river twice more as we undulate up the valley through forest to Phewa, and further on to the small village of Deng. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 6,135ft/1,870m)
A shorter day today. From Deng, we descend to the river and cross by bridge. After the river, our route climbs, steeply in places, up onto a spectacular trail. We pass through small settlements as we ascend the impressive valley. We see mani stones (prayer stones) carved into wayside rocks, a sign we are now in a Buddhist area. We pass through the small settlements of Rana and Bihi Phedi. The trail continues ascending (sometimes steeply) but at one point descends to cross the river. We get to Ghap by lunchtime; in the afternoon, there is an optional walk up the hill behind the lodge for spectacular views across to Prok and of the whole valley. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 6,925ft/2,110m)
Today is quite a strenuous day with a lot of ascent. The valley widens and there is extensive farmland all around where we may see the occasional lookout platform, built to ward off bears. From Ghap, we cross the river three times and have a long steady climb through the forest (look out for langur monkeys) to Namrung. A short descent followed by another climb brings us to Lihi, where we have a simple lunch. Another descent to the river and climb brings us to Sho, after which we climb further to Lho. We are now passing through Tibetan-style villages and we start to see the magnificent mountains all around. From Lho, we get our first view of the Manaslu and Naike peaks Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 10,400ft/3,170m)
A short but magnificent walk as we continue up the valley and gain altitude. The trail climbs out of Lho to the monastery, which we can visit. We then follow the valley with great views of Manaslu ahead. The trail climbs for a couple of hours to Shyaula village, from where we are surrounded by amazing views. Manaslu is ahead and we can see Himalchuli and Naike peaks. Soon we reach the fields and stone houses of Samagaon, where we stay for the night. From the lodge, there are magnificent views of Manaslu. We should arrive at Samagaon by lunchtime so there is time to explore the village and visit the monastery and Birendra Tal, a glacial lake, in the afternoon. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 11,580ft/3,530m)
The trail crosses grazing areas and gradually climbs the valley. We have fantastic views of the mountains, especially Himalchuli, behind us. We can also still see Manaslu. As we reach our destination, Samdo Peak rears up behind us. It’s an easy half-day walk to Samdo, the last permanent settlement in the valley. This remote village is only a day’s walk from the Tibetan border. In the afternoon, there is time for an acclimatisation walk and to explore the village. Please note, the lodges in Samdo are basic. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 12,665ft/3,860m)
Leaving the village, we cross a stream (the last time we see the Buri Gandaki) and climb steadily to the deserted Larkya Bazaar. Years ago, this village thrived off trade with Tibet. Behind we can see Samdo Peak and, as we climb, Manaslu comes into view to our left and we can see the whole spectacular climbing route to the summit. Climbing all the time with a few steep sections, we reach a very basic lodge at Dharamsala, which is the last place to stay before the pass. Look out for blue sheep, which often come down to the small stream near the lodge. In the afternoon, the energetic can climb a hill behind the lodge for even better views of the surrounding mountains. Please note, the accommodation at Dharamsala is extremely basic due to limited properties in this location. There are three-person prefab huts or, where available, tents are provided for those that do not wish to triple-share. Mattresses are provided in the huts and there is a basic dining room and basic toilets. Accommodation: Three-person huts (sleeping altitude: 14,700ft/4,480m)
We have an early start (usually in the dark). Today is a long day and if there is any snow it can take us a long time to cross the pass, especially the descent. The trail leaves Dharamsala and climbs steeply at first but then more gradually by the side of the moraine of the glacier with great views of Larkya Peak. The ascent is gradual most of the way and is easy if there is no snow (if there is snow or ice it takes much longer). As dawn nears, Hindu Peak glows orange with the first sun rays. It’s a long and rocky ascent on the moraine with some short steeper sections all the way to the top of the Larkya Pass. The first area of prayer flags at 16,830ft (5,130m) is the official Larkya La from where the views are outstanding – a wonderful panorama of peaks including Larkya Peak, Cheo Himal and Hindu Peak and, in the distance, we can see the tip of Annapurna 2. From the top, there is a 10-minute almost-level walk to the second summit (which is a little higher and is also marked with a few prayer flags). From here, the long, very steep descent starts. We need to take care as the path is steep and narrow. It is a sandy scree trail when there is no snow but if there is snow and ice, we need to take care. There is a landslide we must cross carefully. The steep part of the trail eventually eases off onto a path, which takes us down to the glacial moraine. The views are superb as we descend, and we can just spot Pongkar Lake, a brilliant-blue glacial lake amid the three glaciers below us. We stop for a well-deserved rest at the bottom of the steep part of the descent, surrounded by immense snow-capped peaks. The descent now becomes a bit easier, but no less spectacular, as we descend the valley to Bimthang, where we stay tonight. If it’s clear, we can just see the summit of Manaslu high above. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 12,140ft/3,700m)
A spare day to be used as and when required – if the weather is good and everything runs to schedule, we spend the day exploring the area around Bimthang and resting after the pass. There is a half-day walk to a beautiful glacial lake, Pongkar Lake, which we can do in the morning, then return to the lodge for lunch and have a free afternoon to rest. If, however, there has been a delay earlier in the trek, the group needs more acclimatisation or rest before the pass, or if there is poor weather, your leader may decide to use the spare day earlier in the trek. Also, if the weather is bad at Bimthang, your leader may suggest trekking down the valley earlier. This is at the leader’s discretion. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 12,140ft/3,700m)
From Bimthang, we cross high pastureland and have a magnificent walk down into the valley of the Burdin Khola. The walk from Bimthang is one of the most spectacular of the trek as a wall of mountains lies behind and in front. We pass the terminal moraine of the Cheo Himal and cross a small wooden bridge. Ahead, we have our last magnificent views of Manaslu. We now descend into rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley to Karche and the Soti Khola. A short climb past terraced fields brings us to the Karche La, where we are in sight of the Marsyangdi River below. Descending through forest, we come to Tilje, where we spend the night. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 7,350ft/2,240m)
From Tilje, we walk through the village and cross the river by bridge. A small footpath then leads away from the main trail and we follow this uphill through the forest. A higher path takes us to a small monastery among pine forests. We get great views of Dharapani below and Annapurna 2 above. We then descend past terraces to a suspension bridge, which we cross. The trail then climbs up to Nache village. This old village rarely sees trekkers and has beautiful traditional Gurung houses. We can also see Manaslu and Himalchuli. We then descend quite steeply to the main Annapurna trail at Korto. Staying on the same side of the river, we follow the old trail, which climbs high above the river and undulates until we descend to Tal for the night. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 5,580ft/1,700m)
A short climb out of Tal brings us to a long descent to cross the Marsyangdi by bridge, followed by a short climb to Chyamje. From Chyamje to Jagat, we can climb above the road and follow the old trekking trail through the forest to Jagat. From Jagat to Syange, we have to walk on the jeep track for a short while for our last night of the trek. Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 3,545ft/1,080m)
Leaving early, we take a local private bus to Besishar on a rough road for approximately 2hr 30min. From here, we meet our next transfer for the long drive to Kathmandu (approximately five to six hours). We should arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon. Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit the monkey temple at Swayambunath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world at Boudhanath, or the most important Hindu temple in the valley at Pashupatinath. We offer a full range of sightseeing tours, which can be booked and paid for locally. Please see the Optional Excursions section of the Trip Notes or the Exodus notice board in the hotel in Kathmandu. Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
The trip ends after breakfast. Free departure transfers are available for any flight, provided you have supplied us with your flight details in advance and have requested a transfer.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
John Mitchell - Traveled, January 2024
An outstanding glimpse into the past I last trekked in Nepal 35 years ago, when there were no roads in the mountains and everything was carried on the backs of humans or mules. In the intervening years I had become increasingly reluctant to return, watching the gradual encroachment of the car into these pristine areas, but the Exodus PR for this trip was too good to resist. I was not disappointed. Once we had left the “railhead” end of the road behind, we were back into a land of mule trains, farming and herding, in a chaotic wilderness of gorges, waterfalls, landslides and suspension bridges leading to the wild uplands at the snow line, a slow but remarkable change in geology, architecture, religion and culture as we climbed further and further away from the lowlands. I can’t imagine a better insight than this trip into the differences in lived experience of those of us who live in the northern hemisphere (or even between those who live in Kathmandu and the mountains). Most Inspirational Moment For a one-off inspiration: seeing yak herders on the open mountainside collecting yak dung for fuel and realising that a way of life which has existed for hundreds of years is still practised. For the more gradual inspiration more appropriate to a long-distance walk, it was the slow change in colour and vegetation from late summer in the lowlands to autumn in the uplands. For the small things in life it was realising in Samdo at 3,860 m that the sun on the tin roof of the shower cabin outside the teahouse meant that a hot bucket shower was not only possible but actually desirable. Thoughts on Group Leader I have been on many Exodus trips, but for sheer unconfined, unabashed, joyful exuberance and enthusiasm Chandra takes the prize. The image of him singing and dancing in the local bus on the way back from the end of the trip, as we swayed and lurched millimeters away from a drop of hundreds of metres into the gorge below will stay with me for the rest of my life. In terms of practical competence, the three trekking guides we had were outstanding: Prasan (the head guide), Sagar and Mingma. Advice for Potential Travellers If your fitness is not permanently high, make sure you do (as a minimum of preparation) the Exodus training plan. Then you won't notice the long distances and hard ascents and will have plenty of time to take in what you are walking through. Don't arrive expecting to be able to buy the snow spikes from the guide as you can't: you will need to walk into Thamel to get some. If you want to save space on your packing for the flight, the down jackets and sleeping bags you can hire from the guides are really good quality. Suggestions Although you lose the motor traffic after the second day, you don't lose the road for much longer: it's been blasted a lot further. What prevents the traffic from using it is the lack of bridges to connect the blasted sections, but once the funding is found to build these the jeeps will be there. Fortunately the guides have found paths and sections which, in the main, avoid the need to walk on or even near the road, but its use by motor traffic will inevitably change the way of life, just as it has in other valleys and locations. Despite all that is said about plastic drinks bottles, they are still on offer in every teahouse and they just end up being burnt in stinking heaps. A Steripen or filter bottle might seem to be an expensive investment even after netting off the cost of bottled water, but for the sake of this environment it must be worth it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/30/2024
Mark Green - Traveled, December 2023
Manaslu Circuit quiet and authentically enchanting. A beautiful journey with a great variety of culture and landscape from agricultural to forest and mountain scenery. It’s a peaceful trek away from crowded routes but get there as soon as you can before the road that is being built changes everything. The route is occasionally just a little exposed due to landslides caused by the recent long monsoon. A gentle acclimatisation schedule leads up to highest point at Larkya La just a little over 5000m. There are wonderful mountain views of Manaslu from a number of various aspects and distances. Most Inspirational Moment Being lucky enough to be on this trip with of our wonderful guide Valerie Parkinson who was the first British woman to complete a successful Manaslu ascent without oxygen. Her bedtime stories of her mountain adventures kept us enthralled. . Thoughts on Group Leader I have travelled previously with Valerie and her gentle encouragement, expert care, attention to detail and ability to keep an entire group motivated, combined with keeping expectations realistic, led to an unforgettable and happy experience for all of us. Advice for Potential Travellers Get friendly and make connections with the local guides, porters and the lodge owners to genuinely enhance your understanding of what goes into making these trips work so well. Some of the lodges are quite basic so please don’t expect too much in terms of amenity or comfort. However, I was genuinely surprised that some had Wi-Fi (payable),decent hot showers (payable) and occasional power sockets (free) in the rooms to keep devices charged up and that really did feel like luxury! Suggestions Read the trip notes thoroughly and be prepared physically and mentally ready for quite a long walk. There are optional beautiful afternoon walks available on some of the shorter days which I highly recommend as most of us only have the opportunity to visit these special places just once in our lifetimes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/28/2023
Euan Stanwix - Traveled, November 2022
ntastic Scenery but tougher than Annapurna Circuit This is an amazing trip which, unlike the Annapurna Circuit (which I did in 2019) brings you far closer to the big mountains including the 8,000 metre massif of Manaslu. Due to the recent hard monsoon on 2022 the trail had been recently modified and included a number of narrow paths across landslides (think traversing high screes in rthe UK) which wouldn’t be to everyone’s tastes but were necessary in the circumstances. The Manaslu Circuit is much quieter than the Annapurna Circuit, takes in a lot more villages and general culture of Nepal and doesn’t include the dusty main roads that seem a feature of the Annapurna Circuit nowadays. As such, the whole group found it more authentic, the scenery a lot more spectacular and a thoroughly enjoyable trip from start to finish. In teh Exodus brochure it has teh same difficulty rating as the Annapurna Circuit but our group thought it was a few grades harder and because of the time of the year we were wearing crampons for 4-5 hours on the ‘pass day’ due to amount of compacted snow on the ground. A thoroughly memorable trip in an amazing region. Most Inspirational Moment We had a number of health issues within the group due to the altitude, cold and a few bugs which spread around. The way the group, which was largely the same as on the Annapurna Circuit in 2019, pulled together and everyone supported each other was inspirational. It just goes to show that when you get really good people around you it makes a huge difference and we all felt that a bit of adversity helped the group really bond together Thoughts on Group Leader We wre a tailormade trip so we requested to have Tsering Dorje Sherpa as our Guide as he was the guide on our 2019 Annapurna Trip. We also had Tsering and Kaji who were both multiple 8,000-metre peak summiteers! To say we felt humbled was an understatement but they were all absolutely fantastic and we really appreciated their company, their experience and their shared recollections of time on the big peaks Advice for Potential Travellers Read the trip notes well, be prepared for all weathers and eventualities and enjoy it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2022
Gerard Feeney - Traveled, October 2022
Manasalu Nov A challenging and adventurous trip which I thoroughly enjoyed Most Inspirational Moment Seeing Manasalu at sunrise Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent and very helpful Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you are fit, there are some long trekking days Suggestions The day we crossed the Larke Pass we were trekking for 12 hours. On the descent I felt light headed due to lack of of food, I asked for the group to have a rest to eat which we were given. I felt the time between setting out and reaching the lunch stop was too long. I was not the only one of the group who felt like this. I would like to suggest a packed lunch is provided for everyone and this is eaten at the shelter passed on the ascent to the pass.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/22/2022
Paul Bacon - Traveled, October 2022
Amazing adventure with stunning views 3rd time in Nepal after doing Annapurna and Base Camp. This trek was by far the best views of all 3. Tough trek with lots of up and down but well worth it Most Inspirational Moment Crossing the high pass after getting up at 2.30am. It was hard but the views are worth it. Thoughts on Group Leader Sukman was a great leader. Always happy and smiling and kept our spirits high. Advice for Potential Travellers Hardest of all the treks in Nepal so need a good level of fitness. Also take snacks to keep your energy levels up. Suggestions Well worth doing the trek now while its still relativity quiet compared to other treks on Nepal. A road is slowly being built which could ruin some of the trail so best to do it now
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2022
Karen Munro - Traveled, September 2022
Amazing Experience with a Superb Leader Overall the trip was well planned – mainly due to our leader Sukman Pakhrin. Sukman and the experienced guides supported us as a whole group through the trip, managing difficulties of skills, illness and being on hand 24/7. Even after an exhausting day Sukman organised arrival teas, organised dinner, beds, paying bills and with a positive attitude inspired us all for the next days adventure of trials and difficulties. Giving us clear understanding of next days adventure, Sukman was the glue that made the team great and worked together well. I can’t thank Sukman and his guides enough for the patience he offered me for helping me get over the pass as I found that day really challenging. Thank you Karen Most Inspirational Moment Getting over the pass with a chest infection Thoughts on Group Leader amazing leader and couldn't thank him enough for his patience on my difficult day Advice for Potential Travellers be prepared for hard and some long days Suggestions I would like to nominate my leader Sukman Pakhrin
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2022
Jerry Holmes - Traveled, May 2022
5 years and 4 rebooking’s later finally completed the trek and it was so worth the wait! It is hard to summarize such a great trek, with outstanding leadership (Bikash/Kushman) and trail buddies, but I’ll try. Having trekked in the Everest Region twice with Exodus (2015/2017), I didn’t know if the Manaslu Circuit trek could match those experiences – it did and even surpassed them in some areas. The trip notes are pretty spot on with regards to the trek and while the road continues to push further, our guides did a great job of avoiding it in parts and minimizing the road sections. As a result, it doesn’t really dimmish the trek (yet), which is still remote and goes through multiple climate and cultural zones as you ascend to, and descend from, Larke La. It is very hot at the lower altitudes and it is cold at the around the pass – so you have to pack accordingly. The daily schedule works very well and we had no acclimatization issues within the group, which was of varied ages and experience. The scenery is dramatic and ever-changing, the views of Manaslu are excellent – showing its different faces over multiple days. Take advantage of the acclimatization opportunities and in Samagaun and Samdo do make an effort to get into the heart of the villages as the culture and architecture is authentic and you can see daily life play out. Make sure you visit Birendra Tal outside Samaguan. The lodges were good but mostly more basic than the Khumbu. Dharamsala is no longer just tents but is still very basic. So happy to have completed this trek with Exodus – 192miles / 32,000ft of ascent over 14 days, with a high point of 16,945ft/5165m. Most Inspirational Moment Three things for me personally – 1) crossing the Larke La and being over 5000m again, 2) the rest day in Bhimtang was so welcome with great weather, views, and a quiet teahouse, and 3) the last night's celebration in Bhundanda, which fell on Nepali New Year, so much drinking and dancing – never to be forgotten! Thoughts on Group Leader Bikash was an outstanding leader. Always present, always well organized, always supportive and encouraging. Above all reassuring and confident. I’d trek with him and Kushman, our guide, again anytime. Our porters were great people also. Advice for Potential Travellers Do it – this is an outstanding trek for so many reasons. Be patient in the first couple of days as it is very hot and the road plays its part, but that’s all quickly forgotten as you push on. Suggestions Do the trek soon as the road is going further and will be increasingly difficult to avoid. It will inventively make the area more accessible, which is really good for the local communities but will lessen the trekking experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2022
Richard Christie - Traveled, December 2019
Walking the quieter circuit brings its own reward. This is a fantastic trek through scenery varying from: farmland, forests of pine trees, walking along river gorges beside foaming rivers, through villages full of character and smiling children and finally beside amazing snow clad high mountain peaks. All of which we did with very few other trekkers. Most Inspirational Moment Walking up to the Larkya Pass as the dawn slowly broke behind us revealing snow covered mountains all around. Thoughts on Group Leader As always Valerie looked after us really well and added that bit extra to the enjoyment of the trip. This time sharing her experiences of climbing Manaslu by reading excerpts from her diary of the trip. Advice for Potential Travellers I was pleasantly surprised with my first experience of a lodge (Teahouse) based trip. Remember you need to budget for buying your own lunches and evening meals on this trip but the food available is tasty and the choice varied enough to cover most desires. if you need a 'pick me up' along the way then try the Apple Fritters with Custard! Although the rooms in the lodges are basic they were all clean and the beds comfortable. Remember a supply of wet wipes for the nights when it is too cool for a proper wash. Suggestions A fantastic, quieter alternative to the more well known Annapurna Circuit but don't wait too long before doing this trip. Roads are slowly being driven in from both ends which will be good for the local population but could detract from the scenic value of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/27/2019
Sandra Strange - Traveled, November 2019
Highly recommend this trek. This is my fifth trek in Nepal and definitely my favourite. Happy to have done this before the road is complete as this will change the remote nature of this trek. We had a fantastic group who supported each other, particularly on the day crossing the pass. This trek is more challenging than Annapurna Circuit and Gokyo/Everest. Our guide Keshar was simply the best, can’t say enough about him. Also great to have Zoe from Exodus London office as my roommate. I feel very fortunate to have been on this trek. Most Inspirational Moment Hard to choose as each day was inspirational for different reasons.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2019
Moira Chaplin - Traveled, October 2019
Manaslu Lodge Circuit A wonderful and inspiring experience Crossing the Most Inspirational Moment Crossing the Larke pass was awesome even to the point of being spiritual. Visiting the Tibetan villages high up near the border was a privilege and seeing how the villagers live and survive in such austere circumstances given the altitude and logistical challenges with getting supplies across the mountain passes Thoughts on Group Leader Dorjee was just brilliant; intelligent, entertaining , respectful, attentive and informative. He ran an excellent team of porters and guides who all got on very well together Advice for Potential Travellers Potential travellers do need a certain level of fitness but you don’t need to be an elite Athlete or a regular on the triathlon circuit. The main issues that can cause pain and grief are of course the lower limb joints namely feet, ankles, knees and hips, so be prepared. The trip allows for good acclimatisation for the high pass at just over 5100 meters. Personally, I did take diamox which caused me no side effects although I did continue to suffer from early morning headaches over 3,000 meters and I would definitely take it again if I do another high altitude walk. I suppose in some ways I was using the diamox as an insurance against feeling very unwell with the altitude. The exodus team also insisted we complete the lake louise scoring system for AMS every day which ensured that appropriate action could be taken in good time in case of AMS Suggestions Considering I was very apprehensive when the holiday was approaching in case I wouldn’t cope with the physical challenges and fitness required, I managed extremely well; just sore knees on the last day. The trip proved to be a memorable experience and I would not have missed it for the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/29/2019
Mark Smith - Traveled, November 2018
Do it while you can This is a slightly tougher trek than say EBC or Annapurna Circuit, but you cover all the usual habitat zones via stunning valleys and incredible panoramas that I had no idea existed. I had a smile on my face every day from little children saying ‘Namaste’ to use as we walked by, and my mouth open at jaw-dropping views, particularly on the pass crossing and descent the following day. You cover quite some distance on a few days, but others are shorter as you get higher giving you plenty of time to admire the views, acclimatise and explore. It’s a beautiful and quiet place, so if you’re tempted, the I’d recommend doing it sooner rather than later before the road changes things too much. Most Inspirational Moment Interestingly it was the day after the pass crossing. With the uphill sections behind us and the tiring pass crossing behind us, it was possible to fully relax on a long downhill day through stunning forests. The autumn colours were out, the sun was shining, the birds were tweeting, and the moneys were monkeying. All the while the white peaks of Manaslu, Peak 29 and Himal Chuli towered over us and could be seen between the tall trees or from clearings. We were so lucky with the weather, if it had been cloudy then it wouldn't have looked the same, but the yellows and reds of autumn, coupled with the blue sky and the white mountains meant it was a photographer's dream. My advice is spread out, find a gap for some quiet-time and stop from time to time to listen and look. I saw four langur monkey family groups because I was quiet. The birds were fast and harder to photograph, but the whole day was a treat for the senses, Thoughts on Group Leader Keshar was outstanding. All the guides I've had in Nepal have been. As with most trips, there can be unexpected things to sort out and without going into detail, Keshar sorted them. We had snow for a couple of days before the pass crossing, and Keshar was planing our exit strategy and preparing us for that should it be needed, luckily the snow simply made things pretty. There are so many little (and big) things all the guides and support crew do make our treks a success, and this is why I've returned to Exodus again and again. We didn't need our spare day, and Keshar decided to use it to split the last long walking day onto 2 shorter days. This was an excellent idea, we had an intermediate night in Tal on the Annapurna Circuit, and the two shorter days meant we had time to relax rather than blasting out of the mountains as often seems to be the case when the main objective of the trek has been achieved. Advice for Potential Travellers Time is running out. The 'road' is encroaching at both ends. The first 3 days were long and mostly on the dusty road, there is very little traffic at the moment but it won't last. Landslides make the road turn into narrow ledge paths from time to time and at the moment it's hard to see how a permanent road could hope to exist in such a dynamic landscape, but you can see people working to repair damage and hacking away at the mountainside to further its progress. The road brings people/tourists and other developments like new lodges. There are new lodges springing up all over the place, so the Manaslu Circuit will soon be as commercial as the Annapurna or Everest areas, so I'm pleased I've seen it when I have. My advice is to do it now whilst it's still a more remote trekking route and before it gets too 'touristy' Take ear plugs for the lodges at night. Take one of those concentrated squash things to mix your own drink for lunch and dinner, no need to buy plastic fizzy drink bottles (or water bottles). Take a light-weight buff to breath through to keep dust out of your lungs. If you can spare the time, fly out a day or two early to get over the jet lag. I went with Qatar Airways this time and I have to say it was a much nicer experience than the usual Jet flights. Suggestions I've done many Nepal treks and this is one of the tougher ones. Mainly because of the pass crossing. The pass is a more gradual approach than say the Thorong La, so nothing too steep, but once on top it's a chaotic jumble of moraine to cross. There is a trampled path to follow, but there's a lot of slow up and down over the waves of rubble. We didn't have lying snow on the pass or down the other side, but I can see how this would slow you down further if the conditions were bad. A frozen lake provided a nice flat section, but the rest is tiring and cold. The rewards are the views, the panorama that greets you once you can see over the other side is out of this world. The lodges were all fine. Deng was draughty and the whole building moved, but still warm at night, and Dharamasala was a sort of pre-fab box with 4 people to a box on a mattress on the floor, but all quite acceptable given what you are doing. Our trip was made by the amazing crew and by the weather, so I suggest you do your homework and go when statistically the weather looks best. It's beautiful, the valleys, people, mountains, rivers, trees, wildlife, waterfalls, glaciers... the list goes on.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/27/2018
Dorian Moss - Traveled, April 2018
Manaslu circuit: a little-visited gem away from the crowds The Manaslu trek takes one up a very remote valley through villages where life seems to have changed little for centuries, and gives the chance to see Buddhist people of Tibetan origins. This valley is now threatened by a road being built to the Tibetan border – go there soon before it is completed! The scenery in the upper valley is stunning. The Larkye La pass was very tough for me and I was most relieved to have completed it. Most Inspirational Moment Walking under clear blue skies between the towering snowy peaks (especially from Sama to Samdo). Seeing these peaks at sunrise from Lho and Sama. Feeling of achievement once the Larkye La pass was behind us! Thoughts on Group Leader (Lakpa) Tsheten is a great leader, very caring, intelligent and informative about Nepal, the people and the mountains around us. He looked after me (the oldest in our group) especially well. I was glad he got us to complete a health-check sheet every day. Advice for Potential Travellers You need to be ready for tea houses which are in remote locations and fall well below the standards you might be used to in European mountain refuges. Their standards vary, some are clean and comfortable but others are not. Dharamsala is as bad as the trip notes suggest, but is a necessary overnight stop to be able to cross the pass. It is well worth taking extra food such as energy bars to supplement the monotonous food and fill gaps during the days' walks. Suggestions The nine days spent approaching the pass paid off as nobody suffered from altitude sickness. I don't understand why there were only four of us while Annapurna treks were full. This is an excellent trek - go now before it changes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2018
Chris Durham - Traveled, March 2018
A marvel, get it while you can Most first time trekkers go for Everest or Annapurna but Manaslu Circuit is a trek for the more discerning customer. It is a busy route, but not so much with tourists. It may take a little longer and is a little more challenging but the pay-off is huge. Sure, you trek around the 8th highest peak on the planet but if your interests extend beyond the magnificence of the mountains into the cultural heritage of the region then an education in remote living awaits. The route passes through many ancient Tibetan settlements where little has changed in hundreds of years. In contrast, the tea houses are nearly all recently built on this circuit so, apart from a couple of high altitude stops, they are more spacious and cleaner than those I’ve seen in the past. I wondered if a couple of the shorter days could be done in one but the longer approach provides excellent acclimatisation time which is much needed as Larke La is a significant challenge, especially in the unusually deep snow we had; it would certainly be easier in the Autumn season. This well planned trip has everything really, small monasteries to visit as well as is plenty for wild-life enthusiasts. Against all odds a road is being built to the Tibetan border which, as always, will bring many benefits but at a cost. Best to go in the next couple of years as I fear this route is changing forever. Most Inspirational Moment Obviously there is great joy getting over Larke La but that's almost missing the point. For me, experiencing each medieval settlement and learning more about the remote life-style is utterly humbling. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader, Tsheten Sherpa, never tired of looking after us, nothing was too much trouble. He had extensive local knowledge which he shared constantly. If you did this trek alone you would certainly miss a lot. I was particularly pleased to see how sensitive and caring he was to the villagers we passed en route. This man is a gem. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared to learn, travel with an open mind and heart at all times. Suggestions Make every effort to socialise with your porters, these are excellent young men who are often very shy with few words of English. They have no idea what you are thinking otherwise and teaching them a little English is great for them and may well be very entertaining for you too. Show less
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2018
Neil Bowman Carole Mahoney - Traveled, January 2018
Trekking at its best As many of the other travellers who were on the same trek have said, this was one of the best. We’ve trekked many times in the Himalaya without visiting the Annapurna or Everest regions, so all our experiences have been in less visited and quite remote areas. With this in mind, this trip was still exceptional. We passed through a wide variety of environments, were rewarded with spectacular high peak scenery, and observed traditional life in villages which gradually evolved from Nepalese to Tibetan culture the higher we trekked. This part of our experience was enhanced by staying mainly in lodges in the villages rather than wild camping which is what we’ve mostly done previously. Even though the lodges were basic (and referring to them as ‘lodges’ may be rather misleading!), they were nevertheless adequate for our needs. Most Inspirational Moment For us, a very personal example was, after getting up at 3am in the freezing cold, walking in the dark for three hours under the stars, seeing the sun rise over the mountains, reaching the hundreds of prayer flags on the Larkye La, then struggling in the buffeting cold wind and bright sunshine to add a string of our own. We did this for a very special reason - our prayer flags were for the well-being of a friend with whom we've previously trekked in the Himalaya but who at the time was suffering from cancer. Apart from the many moments that have been described by our fellow trekkers which we also shared, we were very aware of the liberated but seemingly responsible lives the young children in the traditional villages led. Some examples - being in charge of goats or cows/zhos on the hillsides, collecting firewood, helping with farm chores (even burning stubble in the fields using firebrands!), but also being free to play unsupervised. And not a high-vis vest to be seen!! Thoughts on Group Leader We've trekked with Valerie many times and without a doubt, she's second to none. She also tells a good story or two! Advice for Potential Travellers Yes, a Steripen is essential for this trek. Water off the mountains was in good supply and this is all you needed to keep your water bottles filled and treated. Don't take too much stuff - our experience has always been to wear the same clothes for days and not to be obsessed with cleanliness (ie take a leaf out of the locals' book!). Suggestions Big thanks to the support team who were always ready to lend a hand on dodgy paths, fulfil our needs in the lodges and of course carry all the 'stuff' many of us didn't need!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/28/2018
Wolfgang Dohne - Traveled, April 2024
Excellent Hiking Experience This was a great trip, first and formost due to the very professional and experienced support team lead by Kumar. Most Inspirational Moment The morning after passing Larke Pass. After a very cold night, we found ourselves surrounded by a beautiful mountain panorama. Thoughts on Group Leader Absolutely brilliant ! I can’t praise Kumar high enough. His default reply to pretty much all our needs and questions was positive and he made it happen. Always attentive and during thye whole trip super professional and helpful. Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure that you bring a good sleeping bag ! Suggestions Great support also from Max and from the customer care team leading up to the trip and from the Footloose Team when I needed urgent dental care just before the trip was starting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/29/2024
Kris and Garth Brookes - Traveled, November 2017
Manaslu Lodge Circuit One of the best treks that we have done in Nepal fulfilling all our expectations and more! A brilliant blend of valleys, gorges, forests and unforgettable surprise views of the Himalaya. Villages are relatively unspoilt as the area does not receive the volume of tourists as on the Circuit or Everest treks. If interested in nature the area abounds with birds and butterflies plus some mammals. Lodges, although basic, were perfectly adequate and the standard of food generally very good. However the lodge at Dharamsala was very basic. We stayed in a room as opposed to a tent but the fact that you get up at 3am it really does not matter. Food was fine. Most Inspirational Moment Possibly too many to list. Scenery above Samdo. Walk to Tilje - keep looking back! Not a moment but the variety of butterflies. Lammergeiers and Griffon Vultures. Thoughts on Group Leader What can one say about Valerie that has not already been said! Amazing as always. Local leaders were excellent caring for us whilst walking and in the lodges. Advice for Potential Travellers Go on this trek you will not regret it. There are numerous high bridges but if like me, Kris, you are not very keen they are best crossed on ones own to reduce any movement. Suggestions Definitely purchase a SteriPen.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2017
Julia Stevenson - Traveled, November 2017
Manaslu Circuit This is a highly recommended adventure. The Manaslu Circuit is all it says it will be and much more. It is a truly spectacular, isolated circuit around the world’s eighth highest mountain but weaves through sub-tropical settlements, before climbing into bamboo and rhododendron forest and ultimately, opens out into moraine, glacial lakes and majestic panoramic views of Manaslu, Naike, Peak 29 et al. If you like your treks remote and rugged, this is for you but don’t leave it too long because the Manaslu circuit is already beginning to attract attention and in a few years may be as popular as its neighbour, the Annapurna Circuit. Most Inspirational Moment There were far too many high points to pick out a single moment. Reaching a Tibetan style village for tea and for the first time, seeing the whole of Manaslu and neighbouring peaks before us. Rapidly escaping the chaotic urgency of a yak on a mission and then, from the safety of a wall, watching it break into a stone courtyard to raid the meal of other young life stock. Fleeing for a second time, as the yak was rudely evicted. Witnessing an elderly woman carefully light and attend to butter lamps in gloom of a monastery. Watching shooting stars from the lofty perch of the camp site at Dharamsala. Getting up at 3am for the climb over Larkya La. Stumbling along into freezing driving sleet, head torch carefully trained on the ankles of the the trekker in front of me, aware of the silent brooding peaks unseen in the darkness. The windy euphoria of reaching the long awaited summit prayer flags and the sublime views looking across and down. The glorious walk to the beautiful glacial Pongkar Lake. The unparalleled views walking down the valley to Burdin Khola. Thoughts on Group Leader Unlike others in the group, I had never been on a trek with Valerie Parkinson but found her to be extremely knowledgeable and very passionate about all things Nepali. As noted elsewhere, Valerie was the first British woman to climb Manaslu and has also reached the south summit of Everest. She was encouraged to talk about her experiences over a mug of tea post dinner one evening. This too, was a highlight. Advice for Potential Travellers Do buy a Steripen. I too was sceptical and drank my first two litres of Steripened water with some trepidation but I survived. Don't eat the spaghetti in tomato (?) sauce at the lodge in Samdo. I did and for some days rather wished I hadn't. Suggestions This was my third Himalayan trek and the one I have enjoyed the most. Thank you to my fellow trekkers for their humour, warmth and camaraderie but the biggest thanks goes to Exodus, Valerie and the boys for a well organised, very memorable adventure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/08/2017
Jayne Potter - Traveled, November 2017
Manasulu Trek I have just returned from this trek and after many years of travelling with Exodus I have to say that this trip is second to none and is far better than the Everest region, or Nanda Devi. Being a circular trip you are able to have an amphitheatre of high peaks over 7,000m+ nearly every day, once out of the initial valley. The daily walks were very varied with steep ravines, village life and extraordinary mountain ranges in front and behind you. The days are long in the beginning but you always have something to look at that makes you smile. Some of the tea houses are very basic the higher you go and make sure you have warm gear for the evenings. Gaining altitude is gradual with half days and afternoon walks to acclimatise you. The very early start to get over the pass was very cold and a tough day but if the weather is good the scenery is superb. Be sure to have a good working head torch with lithium batteries. If you area seasoned trekker do this one. You will not be disappointed. Do not lave it too long as the Nepalese are likely to get the road built and this valley will become like Annapurna and possible spoilt for those that like remoteness with beauty. Most Inspirational Moment Beginning to descend after the Larkye La pass and looking across at the Annapurna mountain range. Thoughts on Group Leader Valley was, as usual brilliant in all aspects. Advice for Potential Travellers Have very warm gear for the tea houses over 2,000m and the high pass. Ensure you bring Lithium batteries with spare ones and a good head torch. You will need quite a lot of cash as you buy everything including hot water. Suggestions I think Exodus need to take a little more care in choosing the airlines they work with. Some of the budget airlines are not performing well and problems can detract from the good holiday experience. In the past two years I have got caught in Argentina for nearly three days and recently I took 39 hours to get back from Nepal. Both due to local airlines being extremely poor at coping with problems. Passengers are dealt with very badly by the cheaper companies.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/14/2017
Dave Tyas - Traveled, October 2017
Manaslu Circuit I came on to write a review of the trip I have just returned from and found that two other group members, Irene Neilson & Steve Terry have already submitted reviews. What they have written is almost exactly what I intended to write so there is no point in simply duplicating. I travelled with my wife & son. We have travelled & trekked extensively for many years but consider this particular trek to be one of the very special ones. It was truly superb, with every day a new experience. Manaslu isn’t as well recognised as the Everest or Annapurna regions and is all the better for it. We travelled towards the end of the trekking season and on some days only saw two other trekkers. Near the high pass where routes & itineraries converged we saw more people, but then only around 20-30 trekkers per day. Most of the time we felt we had the trail to ourselves except for the occasional mule train carrying goods to outlying villages. We were particularly pleased to pass through many villages which seemed to have changed little since medieval times, with weaving, spinning, winnowing & haymaking abundantly evident. We also saw several monasteries and many chortens, stupas & prayer wheels. Several villages had tea shops & lodges, suggesting the route had capacity for many trekkers, but we certainly didn’t see large numbers. Most Inspirational Moment Almost every day was superb, but perhaps the morning walk on the rest day to Ponkar lake was the best. It is one of those walks where the views are largely hidden until you are almost there, but when they reveal themselves they are truly breathtaking. Glacial valleys, moraines, seracs, ice fields, frozen lakes, soaring mountains literally surround you. Thoughts on Group Leader Our trip was lead by Valerie Parkinson who has worked in the Himalaya for Exodus for over 31 years. Most people in our group had chosen this departure because they had already trekked with her before. We had too, but 30 years ago! Valerie is an absolutely outstanding person to lead group in this region as her knowledge is unparalleled. She is also extremely friendly and sociable both to trekkers and the guides and porters. Advice for Potential Travellers This is a remote area and as such, conditions can be fairly basic at times. The term "lodge" could be misinterpreted by some. There is no element of luxury here and some can be extremely basic. Although a more comfortable option than camping expect no more than a flat bed with a foam mattress (which might be rather thin) and a shared squat toilet which might be frozen. The menus at all the lodges are virtually identical with generally bland hi-carb dishes based on potato, pasta or rice. Standards of cooking can be extremely variable. We found pizzas to be constently the best option. On two days the food was exrtremely poor and on one day so overcooked it was inedible. This isn't the fault of Exodus, just a consequence of the area you are travelling in. Take plenty of chewy bars to compensate and keep several handy for the long day over the pass. This is not a strenuous trek, but the timings on the trip notes are accurate. Several days involve many hours walking and there are no opt-outs. A reasonable degree of preparation is essential in order to properly enjoy the trip. Also, be aware that the journeys between Kathmandu and the start/finish points are quite long an arduous. Suggestions The Annapurna Circuit route has suffered a lot from encroaching "roads". The neighbouring Manaslu route is not nearly so affected and, according to Valerie, resembles the how the Annapurna route was 20 years ago. However, there are new roads already under construction which will ultimately have a detrimental effect on the route, but they will take many years to complete. There is still a chance to visit a relatively unspoilt part of Nepal, but don't leave it too long or the opportunity will be lost.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/10/2017
Irene Neilson - Traveled, October 2017
Truly spectacular mountain scenery Wonderful trek that far exceeded our expectations. Our enjoyment of trekking comes from a love of the high mountains so while the walk up the valley was enjoyable albeit hot and a bit dusty, for us, day 8 onwards was truly fantastic – pristine mountain scenery set against azure blue skies, all enhanced by Tibetan stone houses, yaks and remote village life. The mountains- from Manaslu onwards – were breathtakingly beautiful and the weather excellent. The acclimatization walks from Samagaon/Samdo to monasteries and a lake were both enjoyable and interesting. The climb over the Larkya La pass began at 4am and was tough with high winds buffeting us but again the mountain scenery and the starry sky overhead was breathtaking. Fortunately, there wasn’t much ice on the descent from the pass so, although long, the scree slopes weren’t too bad and one was easily distracted by more wonderful mountain views. Bimthang proved a comfortable lodge for a two night stay. Our rest day incorporated a walk in the morning to Pongkar Lake, a lovely glacier lake set in an amphitheatre of mountains and a bonfire singsong in the afternoon. We were lucky to have several musicians in our group so we could match the porters’ renderings of Resham Firiri with UK favorites. The combination of surrounding mountains, fire and song made a slight feeling of deflation after crossing the pass disappear. The descent to Tilje continues to move through lovely mountain scenery then attractive forest. It’s really only when you hit Dharapani and the dust tracks of the Annapurna roadworks that the mountain magic disappears a little. We were lucky with wildlife – Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, pika, lammergeyer, griffin vultures, golden eagles, red monkey, langur monkeys, musk deer, barking deer were all spotted. Most Inspirational Moment Day 8: wonderful weather made the mountains truly spectacular and we had our first glimpse of Manaslu. The mountain scenery at the heart of this trek is phenomenal and remains so over several days. Thoughts on Group Leader Our trip was led by Valerie Parkinson. It was great to hear Valerie’s first hand account of climbing Manaslu and have her point out the ascent route from base camp. Her willingness to share her knowledge of Nepal and the changes in its culture over the last 30 yrs makes walking with her extremely enjoyable. Her account of climbing Everest and having to turn back after the South summit and suffering severe frostbite in her feet was also amazing. She is an extremely nice, kind person. Advice for Potential Travellers Beginning of the trek really is very hot and dusty but at altitude, particularly late November it can be very cold so a range of trekking clothes is needed. It certainly surprised us how cold it could be in the evenings. Some of the more basic high altitude lodges really were drafty. Curiously we found the fixed tent at Dharamsala warm. Lithium batteries coped best with the cold. Several people brought hot chocolate sachets that proved a rather nice treat. Some also had duck tape wrapped on their walking stick which proved handy. Excellent trail mix for snacks can be bought in the Supermarket opposite the Royal Singhi. If you stay in the Hotel Ambassador, as our group did, the hotel restaurant on the first floor -the Diplomat- serves excellent South Asian food- the homemade kulfi was fantastic. We bough the new Qantum steripen and bag as it does 4 liters of water at a time but found it was more convenient just to use the steripen with a Nalgene bottle. We forgot that hydration bladder tubes freeze in the cold and this was a problem on the Larkya La pass. Guess best bet is to have some form of insulation for the tube at altitude. Few lodges had functioning wifi and some had no electricity - power packs are useful. Ncell local sim does not work on the Manaslu circuit. Exodus have replaced elephant safaris with jeep based safaris in their bookings for the Chitwan extension. If you want to go to Chitwan and experience elephant safaris and bathing -which we personally would highly recommend- you may want to consider booking direct with Safari Narayani Hotel. Suggestions This really is a great trek taking you into remote mountain scenery and fascinating traditional village life. Do it now before roads and dams are built.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/06/2017
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