Hi, I’m Teri. Whether it’s hiking with my family or embarking on solo backpacking trips, I’m passionate about outdoor adventures. My goal is to inspire others to get outside and explore. I created this trip in Nepal to bring together like-minded people and experience the magic and breathtaking scenery of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Having hiked in Nepal before, I was struck by the warmth of the people and the jaw-dropping landscapes. This trek offers a unique blend of culture, stunning views, and an escape from the crowds.
If bucket list adventures and wild, off-the-grid experiences are calling your name, this epic 14-day trek through Nepal is your next great story waiting to happen. We’re talking jaw-dropping mountain views, hidden monasteries, bamboo forests, and glacier-fed lakes, all with the iconic Mount Manaslu watching over you. This isn’t just another hike – it’s a journey through ancient villages, suspension bridges straight out of a movie, and trails where every step feels like stepping into another world. You'll swap your daily grind for tea houses and mountain vibes, climb to 5,000+ meters at Larke Pass, and come back with tales no one else can top. Whether you're chasing that next big adventure or just need to shake up life with some epic trail time, this trek will leave you feeling stronger, freer, and forever connected to the Himalayas. Book now!
-Namaste, Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, your group will be greeted and whisked away to your cozy base in the city that’s equal parts ancient history and modern hustle.
-After check-in, take some time to relax, explore Thamel’s lively streets, or just soak in the views from the rooftop terrace (hello, Instagram!).
-In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of Nepal’s legendary hospitality and a crash course in navigating momos like a pro. Let the adventure begin!
-Rise and shine – it’s time to hit the road and head for Machha Khola, a charming riverside village that translates to “Fish River” in Nepali. After breakfast and checkout, we’ll embark on a full-day journey that starts smooth but quickly turns into an adventure of its own.
-The first few hours are a breeze, cruising along paved roads through the lush Dhading Besi region. But buckle up – things get real as we switch to bumpy dirt roads, winding through dense forests, crossing suspension bridges, and hugging steep cliffs along the beautiful Budhi Gandaki River. The scenic route is filled with waterfalls, terraced hillsides, and even the occasional mountain peek-through.
-By the time we reach Machha Khola, you'll feel like you're worlds away from Kathmandu. After checking in at a local tea house, enjoy some free time to stretch, explore the village, or just take in the peaceful riverside vibes.
-Dinner will be served in classic trekking fashion – cozy and communal, perfect for swapping stories about the road adventure.
Trekking distance: 22 km; elevation gain of 470 m; descent of 150 m
-Lace up those hiking boots – it’s trekking day one! After breakfast, we’ll set out on a 22 km trek to Jagat, following the narrowing Budhi Gandaki River valley.
-The trail starts with a steady walk to Khorla Besi, passing through traditional Gurung and Magar villages where life feels beautifully untouched by time. After crossing a suspension bridge, we’ll reach Dovan, a great spot to refuel with lunch before continuing on.
-The journey gets more dramatic as we ascend along stone stairs, cross cliff-hugging cantilever bridges, and marvel at gigantic stone hills rising all around. Expect to see unique village architecture and get a glimpse into local mountain life as we trek toward Jagat, a charming hilltop village where we’ll check into another tea house. The changing landscapes – waterfalls, lush forests, and towering cliffs – will keep your camera busy, but don't forget to take it all in with your own eyes.
-Enjoy a much-deserved dinner and a great night’s rest.
Trekking distance: 20 km; elevation gain of 520 m; descent of 300 m
-Today’s trek is a 20 km adventure that will take you through gorgeous gorges, bamboo forests, and countless river crossings. We’ll start the day descending to the Ghatta Khola River, where a long suspension bridge leads to Philim village, a peaceful spot for a well-deserved lunch break. Philim is known for its vibrant local culture and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys, making it a perfect midpoint.
-After lunch, the trail takes you along grassy slopes and through a narrow gorge, with the Budhi Gandaki River as your constant companion. You’ll zigzag across the river several times, walking along both its east and west banks before entering a serene bamboo forest, where the only sounds are your footsteps and the wind in the trees.
-A final river crossing brings you to Deng, a quiet village with a mix of Gurung and Tibetan influences, where we’ll settle into a tea house for the night.
Trekking distance: 17 km; elevation gain of 1,500 m; descent of 780 m
-Today’s trek is a 17 km journey that takes you deeper into remote mountain terrain and higher altitudes. Departing Deng, you’ll cross the Budhi Gandaki River once again, entering a dense forest where the sounds of rustling leaves and rushing water create a peaceful rhythm for your hike. The trail weaves through lush greenery, crisscrossing the river on suspension bridges, each offering breathtaking views of the fast-flowing waters below.
-As you continue to follow the river upstream, the landscape shifts to reveal towering cliffs and snow-dusted peaks in the distance.
-Your destination, Namrung village, is a picturesque mountain settlement known for its Buddhist culture and stone houses, as well as a local monastery that offers insight into the spiritual traditions of the region.
-Once you’ve checked into the tea house, take some time to explore the village and take in the stunning Himalayan views – a glimpse of what’s to come as you climb higher.
Trekking distance: 13.5 km; elevation gain of 1,200 m; descent of 300 m
-Leaving Namrung behind, the trail opens up to epic views of Ganesh Himal and Mount Himal Chuli before weaving through forests and barley terraces. Your first stop is the charming village of Lihi, followed by the picturesque settlements of Sho and Lho. At Lho, keep your eyes peeled – on a clear day, you’ll get your first jaw-dropping glimpse of Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak.
-Take a break to explore Ribung Gompa, a centuries-old Buddhist monastery perched against the mountains, where prayer flags flutter in the breeze.
-After soaking in the spiritual vibes, the trek continues to Shyala, a village surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks and massive glaciers.
-Once you’ve checked into your tea house, take a moment to breathe it all in – this is the kind of view that leaves you speechless.
Trekking distance: 11 km; elevation gain of 660 m; descent of 630 m
-Time to climb high and sleep low – a key strategy for conquering the altitude. Today’s trek takes you to Pung Gyen Gompa, a hidden monastery perched on a green plateau surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The walk up is challenging, but the wide, open landscapes and sense of peace at the top make it more than worth the effort. Remember, it’s not about fitness – altitude can affect anyone, so taking it slow and steady is key.
-After soaking in the Himalayan serenity at the monastery, you’ll descend to Samagaon, a remote mountain village that feels like a scene from another world.
-Once you check into your tea house, enjoy some free time to explore the Buddhist prayer wheels and mani walls scattered throughout the village, or simply rest up and enjoy the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Manaslu towering overhead.
Trekking distance: 11 km; elevation gain of 550 m; descent of 200 m
-Start your day with a short detour to Birendra Lake, a turquoise glacial gem sitting at the base of Manaslu – the perfect spot for a quiet moment of awe (and maybe a few snaps for the ‘Gram).
-Back on the trail, follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream, winding through juniper and birch forests that give way to open, rugged landscapes. You’ll cross the river on a wooden bridge, then take on a steep climb that leads to a stone archway, marking your arrival in Samdo, one of the last Tibetan villages before the border. With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and stone houses scattered across the hillside, Samdo feels like stepping back in time.
-After checking into your tea house, take some free time to wander the village and soak in the raw, untouched beauty of the Himalayas before dinner.
Trekking distance: 7 km; elevation gain of 660 m; descent of 60 m
-Today’s trek may be shorter, but the scenery is next-level stunning. Starting with a descent to the Budhi Gandaki River, you’ll cross streams fed by glacial meltwaters, with the massive Larkya Glacier looming in the distance.
-The trail steadily climbs toward Larke Phedi (also called Dharamshala), a base camp-style settlement perched at the foot of Larkya La Pass, your next big challenge. This final stretch offers a taste of the remote wilderness that awaits.
-After checking into the tea house, take some time to rest and recharge – you’ll want to be well-rested for the high-altitude adventure ahead. With snow-capped peaks and glacial streams all around, you’re officially in serious mountain territory now!
Trekking distance: 16 km; elevation gain of 1,480 m; descent of 700 m
-Today’s trek is the ultimate challenge and a major highlight of the journey. Starting before sunrise, you’ll tackle the Larke Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the trek. The initial climb takes you along the north side of Larkya Glacier, with jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II – peak Instagram moments guaranteed (pun intended)!
-After reaching the pass, the descent to Bimthang offers even more stunning scenery, with Manaslu standing tall in the background.
-By the time you arrive in Bimthang, a serene mountain village at 3,590 m, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. Check into your tea house and celebrate with dinner – you just crossed one of the most breathtaking passes in the Himalayas!
Trekking distance: 18 km; elevation gain of 1,230 m; descent of 1,660 m
-After days of high-altitude adventure, it’s time to descend into greener pastures. The trail winds down along the Dudh Khola River, passing through dense rhododendron forests that bloom with bursts of color in spring. It’s a gentle hike that feels like a well-earned breather, but there’s still a bit of climbing as you cross a ridge before returning to the riverbank.
-Along the way, you’ll pass through Gowa, a charming mountain village where life moves at a slower pace. With stone houses, prayer flags, and smiling locals, it’s the perfect spot to take in authentic Himalayan culture.
-By the time you reach Tilje, you’ll be ready to kick back at the tea house, reflecting on how far you’ve come – literally and figuratively.
Trekking distance: 5.5 km; elevation gain of 190 m; descent of 600 m
-After one last short trek to Dharapani (5.5 km), it’s time to say goodbye to the mountain trails and start your journey back to bustling Kathmandu.
-Hop into your private vehicle for the 9-hour drive, giving you plenty of time to rest those tired legs or just zone out with your favorite playlist as the Himalayas fade into the distance.
-Once back in the city, check in at the hotel for a well-earned hot shower and a cozy bed.
-Enjoy a free night in the city, reflecting on the incredible journey you've just completed.
-After breakfast at the hotel, the day is yours to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. Wander through the lively streets for some last-minute souvenir shopping, or visit Durbar Square to admire the city’s rich history and architecture. Feeling adventurous? Head to Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple) for sweeping city views, or unwind with a relaxing spa treatment to soothe your post-trek muscles.
-After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to pack up your memories and check out.
-A group transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport marks the end of your incredible adventure through Nepal.
-As you head back home, take one last look at the Himalayan skyline and reflect on the once-in-a-lifetime journey you’ve just completed. The mountains may be behind you, but the stories, friendships, and epic photos will last forever. Safe travels!
