Trip Overview

• Destination: Nepal
• Max Elevation: 5416 m
• Best Season: Spring(March – May) and Autumn(Sept – November)
• Total Duration: 23 Days

Manaslu Annapurna Trek offers you the unique itinerary to take you around Manaslu and Annapurna range. The trail offers you the two most popular high passes The Larkey La Pass (5100m ) and The Thorang La Pass (5416m).

 The rewarding panoramic view of the finest Mountain range is an outstanding feature of this trek. Your  Trek begins from Arughat and runs along the Budhi Gandaki River northwards to the village of Deng. The Manaslu trekking region lies in the restricted zone which means, it shares the open border with the autonomous region of Tibet.  The trekkers need to have a special permit to trek in this region also, as the trail continues along  Ghap, Namrung, Shyo and Lho, typical Tibetan villages. the prayer wheels, Mani stones, Chortens, and stupas give the reflection of the Tibetan Buddhist Culture. The trail gradually descents down to Dharapani and joins the Annapurna Circuit Trail.

The Annapurna circuit advances along  The Pisang valley, Humde valley, and  Manang.  The variation in the vegetation with the altitude can best be observed on this part. the moraine and the naked high hills closer to the Thorang la pass is an amazing feature. The trail continues to gain altitude up to The Thorang La and drops to the Muktinath. Muktinath is the highly religious pilgrimage site of the Hindus all over the world. the desert-like land feature in Mustang as a result of the rain shadow zone due to the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains is an attractive feature.

 This Manaslu Annapurna circuit trek can give an exquisite experience of the two renowned Pass crossing. the two delightful Manaslu Range and Annapurna Range in the closer approach you can feel the divinity of walking into the Nepali Mountain.

Itinerary

• - Day 01 : Arrival to Kathmandu (1380mtrs)

  Upon your arrival in Kathmandu (TIA), our representative from Hillstrek team will be there to pick you up. You will be transfer to hotel in half an hour drive wit private vehicle. We discuss about our trip and you have time for refreshment. In the evening we are together again for welcome dinner in typical nepalese restaurant with cultural program

• Day-2 - Half day sightseeing Kathmandu (1380mtrs)

  After breakfast, your tour guide will pick you up for half day sightseeing in Kathmandu valley UNESCO protected world heritage sites .You will have your lunch in the restaurant with the view of Stupa then you will be back to hotel. You will meet your tour leader and discuss about the trek and do last minutes arrangements

• Day-3 - Drive to Sotikhola via Arughat (710mtrs) 8-9 hours

  We start early drive today for Sotikhola. During the drive, we enjoy views of Nepalese countryside along with the mountain sceneries. We drive on a pitched road from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi, district headquarters of Dhading, but the drive from Dhanding Besi to Arughat will be on a rough road.  Upon reaching Arughat, a major town in the region we drive further towards Sotikhola through Arkhet bazar which place supply all the goods and materials for Manashlu region.

• Day-4 - Trek to Maccha Khola (900mtrs) 5-6 hours

  In the beginning of the day, we cross the bridge, we trek through the beautiful forests, then climb onto a ridge above huge rapids on the Budhi Gandaki. Then we reach Khursanibari/Liding upon which the rocky trail weaves its way up and down. The trail to Machhakhola goes through the sand bank of Budhigandaki River and the village Lapubesi.

• Day-5 - Trek to Jagat (1410mtrs) 6-7 hours

  The narrow trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Thado Khola and reaching Khorlabesi. After a few more ascends and descends we come across a small Hotspring called Tatopani. From the hot spring, we climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki once again. We climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Yarubagar via Dobhan.Crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we climb over a ridge, trek along the river and then climb towards the village of Jagat.

• Day-6 - Trek to Deng (1804mtrs) 6-7 hours

  We begin today’s trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatte Khola. We further continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge to Philim, a large Gurung village. The trail turns north just above the lowest house in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet and corn fields to Ekle Bhatti.The trail derived into the Manashlu circuit and Tsum Valley. At this point, we descend to the grassland slopes, cross the Budhi Gandaki, then trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank and then back again. As we continue through the trail we pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola. Upon crossing the Khola, we reach the tiny village, Deng.

• - Trek to Namrung (2630mtrs) 6-7 hours

  The day begins with crossing the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana. From the bridge, we climb a bit to join a trail from Bihi fedi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through forests and manewall where we turn towards a corner that enters to Ghap.We further cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and come across several gompas enroute. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and the trail is fine again. The pleasant walk continues and after a last steep climb we reach Namrung.

• Day- 8 - Trek to Samagaon (3530mtrs) 6-7 hours

  Namrung village is a good viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal and from the village we can also see Mount. Himal Chuli in the south. We climb steadily and pass through forests and reach Lihi, a fine village with many chortens and barley terraces. The trail drops and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal with Ganesh Himal always closed by. We further pass through Shyo, Lho and Shyala villages before reaching Sama Village. We enjoy extraordianary views of Mt. Manashlu from Lho village and also explore the famous Ribung Gompa. In Shyala village we will be surrounded by high mountains like Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu and large glaciers straight ahead, and other snow summits to the right, and at the far end stands Ganesh Himal. Today’s journey ends in Samagaon.

• Day- 9 - Acclimatization day at Samagaon

  We spend the day at Samagaon both for rest and acclimatization. Today, we get acquainted with the rich Sherpa culture. We enjoy the sight of thousands of mane stones with Buddhist texts and pictures. We explore the monastery (Pungyen Gompa), with great views of the glacier. It is named after Manashlu, Pungyen means bracelet, a good description of the two peaks. It was destroyed a year after the first unsuccessful Japanese attempt to climb Manashlu. The locals believed that the climb angered the gods, and when the Japanese came back a year later they met with a lot of resistance that they had to give up their attempt. They were finally successful in 1959

• Day- 10 - Trek to Samdo (3860mtrs) 2-3 hours

  Today, we descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, that has turned north and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. The trail to the left leads to the Manashlu Base camp. The Larkya la Trail passes several mane walls as the valley begins to widen. It is an easy trail on a shelf above the river passing the juniper and birch forests of Kermu Kharka. We drop to the river, cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge and climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river and on the top is Samdo.

• Day- 11 - Trek to Dharamsala/Larke Fedi (4460mtrs) 3-4 hours

  Even today, we continue our walk down the edge, cross the wooden bridge over Budi Gandaki and begin walking upward. Upon crossing two streams and witnessing the Larkya Glacier we go around the valley of the Salka Khola and climb up again to the stone guest house (4450 m), which is not a lodge but a kind of shelter called Dharmshala, also known as Larke Phedi. Way to the north goes to the Tibet boarder on the way. The short walk today also leaves plenty of time for acclimatization and relaxing in the afternoon.

• Day- 12 - Trek to Bhimthang (3720mtrs) via Larke-La (5106mtrs) 8-9 hours

  After a short climb, we reach a valley on the north side of the Larke Glaciers from where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larke Peak. Finally, we walk across moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper only in the last section of the pass. From the pass, there are outstanding views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru and the huge Annapurna II. The downhill trail from Larke-La to the bottom is amazing but tough.To walk into these low pastures with the evening mist coming in with Mt. Manashlu looming close by is an overwhelming experience.

• Day- 13 - Trek to Tilche (2300mtrs) 5-6 hours

  From a ridge at Bhimthang, we can enjoy great views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal. We descend further and cross a high pasture (Sangure Kharka) followed by a bridge over Dudh Khola. We walk through rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until we reach the highest cultivated land of the valley at Karche. We pass across fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. The trail comes off the ridge in a big, sweeping arc to the river bank. A short distance beyond is the village of Gowa. Due to yesterday’s tiredness we might take an overnight rest at Gowa but better settlements are available at Tilche

• Day- 14 - Trek to Chame 2,630mtrs 6-7 hours

  We will negotiate a few steep forested landscapes, along with several landslides on route; remember to look up though, as you will receive some sensational views of major Himalayan peaks. Today you will encounter some typical Tibetan villages’ en-route before to reach Chame. Chame is districts headquarter of Manang. Beautiful views of the Mt. Lamjung and Annapurna II can be seen from your Lodge. Stay overnight at Lodge

• Day- 15 - Trek to Pisang 3,200mtrs 5-6 hours

  A narrow steep path through a very dense pine forest will bring you to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. As the trail opens up you will be surrounded by Himalayan Peaks all the way to Pisang. You will have an extra half an hour climb towards a big hill to reach Upper Pisang. Stay overnight at Lodge.

• Day- 15 - Trek to Manang Valley 3,450mtrs 4-5 hours

  We continue trek to Manang village walking across the riverside. Here, you will notice a contrast with the landscape and vegetation. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Incredible views of the towering Himalayan Peaks. Manang is a great Mt. Valley which has a rich customs & tradition and gives you an opportunity to observe a traditional lifestyle of Manangi People (one of the Ethnic Group people of Nepal). Stay overnight at Lodge.

• Day- 17 - Trek to Yak Kharka 4,110mtrs 4-5 hours

  We start trek after breakfast and leave the trail off to Tilicho Lake on the left corner and continue a short walk up to Yak Kharka, a small settlement set at 4,110mtrs. We will have a gradual ascent towards a little hill and way goes more right behind the hill and reach yak kharka. Stay overnight at Lodge.

• Day- 18 - Trek to Thorong Pedi 4,600m/5hrs

  Make your way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi. A small places although busy settlement catering to the needs of trekkers and climbers. It is situated at the bottom of the thorong la and the trails continually step up to Thorong-La afterwards. Stay overnight at Lodge.

• Day- 19 - Trek to Muktinath 3800mtrs via Thorong-La 5,416mtrs 9-10 hours

  An early start is most important to begin a long day trek over the pass. Crossing this fabulous Throng-La pass {5,416m/17,769ft} will be an unforgettable experience. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It may causes problem to cross the pass if it is covered by snow. The views from the trail and from the pass itself are outstanding high Himalayan scenes. We will enjoy the top with a hot cup of tea/coffee (But not available at Dec – Feb) and enjoy the celebration of success at the pass. And start a long descent to another part of the Annapurna and reach Muktinath. Stay overnight at Lodge

• Day- 20 - Trek to Jomsom 2,800mtrs 5-6 hours

  The day begin with the view of Dhaulagiri Range and on the way to Jomsom you will have to face just opposite way of the wind but there is still worthy to trek down because of magnificent view of Nilgiri. The trail is 1000 meters down to eklebhatti and then on almost flat to Jomsom.

• Day- 21 - Fly to Pokhara

  You board an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Receive at the airport in Pokhara and transfer to the hotel. Overnight  at Pokhara.

• Day- 22 - Drive to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours

  After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive towards Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening.

• Day- 23 - Departure

  We will transfer you to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onwards destination. You must leave hotel  3 hours earlier than your scheduled flight time.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu (1380mtrs)

Day 02 : Half day sightseeing Kathmandu (1380mtrs)

Day 03 : Drive to Sotikhola via Arughat (710mtrs) 8-9 hours

Day 04 : Trek to Maccha Khola (900mtrs) 5-6 hours

Day 05 : Trek to Jagat (1410mtrs) 6-7 hours

Day 06 : Trek to Deng (1804mtrs) 6-7 hours

Day 07 : Trek to Namrung (2630mtrs) 6-7 hours

Day 08 : Trek to Samagaon (3530mtrs) 6-7 hours

Day 09 : Acclimatization day at Samagaon

Day 10 : Trek to Samdo (3860mtrs) 2-3 hours

Day 11 : Trek to Dharamsala/Larke Fedi (4460mtrs) 3-4 hours

Day 12 : Trek to Bhimthang (3720mtrs) via Larke-La (5106mtrs) 8-9 hours

Day 13 : Trek to Tilche (2300mtrs) 5-6 hours

Day 14: Trek  to Chame 2,630mtrs 6-7 hours

Day 15: Trek  to Pisang 3,200mtrs 5-6 hours

Day 16: Trek to Manang Valley 3,450mtrs 4-5 hours

Day 17: Trek  to Yak Kharka 4,110mtrs 4-5 hours

Day 18: Trek  to Thorong Pedi 4,600m/5hrs,

Day 19: Trek to Muktinath 3800mtrs via Thorong-La 5,416mtrs 9-10 hours

Day 20: Trek to Jomsom 2,800mtrs 5-6 hours

Day 21: Fly to Pokhara

Day 22: Drive to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours

Day 23: Departure

Cost Included/Excluded

     Cost Included

• Airport picks up and drops off by private transport.
• Accommodation: bed and breakfast basis at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu. (According to Itinerary)
• Kathmandu city tours, including all entry fees, tour guides, and private vehicle transfer.
• Accommodation: bed and breakfast basis at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara. (According to Itinerary)
• Surface transfer on private transport/ tourist bus. (According to Itinerary)
• Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
• Best available twin sharing room at  lodge/tea house accommodation during the trek
• An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide)
• Porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
• Salary, insurance, equipment, meals, and accommodation for the guide and porters.
• A comprehensive first aid medical kit
• All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP and TIMS)
• All government and local taxes.

     Cost Excluded

• International flights and Nepal entry visa.
• Nepal entry visa. (http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa)
• Travel insurance.
• Foods, beverages and bar bills.
• Dinner and lunch at Kathmandu and Pokhara except as in the itinerary.
• All kinds of Personal equipment and expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Emergency evacuation.
• Gratitudes to the guide and porters.

Trip Highlights

• The Larkey La Pass (5100m ) and The Thorang La Pass (5416m).
•  Ghap, Namrung, Shyo and Lho, typical Tibetan styled villages.
• The prayer wheels, Mani stones, Chortens, and stupas give the reflection of the Buddhist Culture.
• The Pisang, Humde and the Manag valley situated on the lap of the Mt. Annapurna.
• The mountain floras and the faunas.