Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will receive a warm traditional welcome from our airport representative. After transferring to your hotel, you can enjoy some leisure time until the evening’s welcome dinner, where your guide will discuss the trip and provide valuable information.

Your first day begins with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, you’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley to explore this vibrant city. The first stop is the famous Buddhist Stupa Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched on a hill, this ancient shrine offers stunning views of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire attract Buddhists and tourists from all over the world.

Next, you’ll visit Pashupatinath, the temple of Lord Shiva, one of the most renowned Hindu temples in the Indian subcontinent. Here, you’ll witness the traditional cremation rituals performed beside the temple, where bodies are respectfully turned to ashes.

The tour continues with a visit to the fascinating Patan Durbar Square, a magnificent showcase of traditional Nepalese architecture, featuring centuries-old temples and palaces. This area is one of the most glorious examples of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Machhakhola in a 4WD jeep. Along the way, you’ll pass through numerous small villages and towns. Initially, the route follows the Trisuli River, but eventually, you’ll be driving alongside the Budhigandaki River. The journey can be a bit uncomfortable, as half of the road is dirt and quite bumpy. We’ll take breaks along the way for lunch, photography, and restroom stops. Once you arrive in Machhakhola, you’ll check into your room and have some free time in the evening to relax and immerse yourself in the village.

You’ll start by crossing a stream called Machha Khola, navigating a trail full of ups and downs. After crossing the Tharokhola stream, you’ll head upstream to the tiny village of Khorlabesi. A few more ascents and descents will bring you to a small hot spring in Tatopani.

From there, the route switches to the left bank of the river via a suspension bridge. You’ll climb a wide, well-crafted staircase and, after crossing a short section of forest, reach a teahouse in Doban. Continuing on, you’ll cross another suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, climb over a ridge, trek along the river, and finally ascend to the beautiful village of Jagat.

Today’s trek takes you to Namrung. Begin with a 40-minute descent to cross the Budi Gandaki River, arriving at Rana (1910m). From there, climb for about an hour, navigating some ups and downs until you reach Bhi. Continue west along the Budi Gandaki valley, crossing the Serang Khola. The trail winds through a forest adorned with impressive mani stones, eventually leading you to the village of Ghap after roughly two and a half hours. Ghap displays a strong Tibetan influence.

Alternatively, you can take a route through Prok village, which offers a stunning viewpoint of Siringi Himal. Follow the river upstream through a dense forest, enjoying the cool air as you gain elevation and enter an alpine forest of pines and juniper. Cross the river again and ascend some steep staircases to reach the village of Namrung.

Today, you will trek to Samagaon, starting with a journey that offers stunning views of Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Mt. Himal Chuli to the south. As you move through the village, you’ll traverse extensive barley fields and pastures. The trail then climbs steeply to the picturesque village of Lihi (2920m), known for its numerous chortens and barley terraces.

You’ll cross a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glacier and pass through the Tibetan village of Sho, where you’ll get a splendid view of Manaslu North and Manaslu itself. Continuing on, you’ll trek through the villages of Lho and Shyala before reaching Samagaon. Lho is a large village with a charming monastery, numerous chortens, mani walls, and an ornate white stupa. From Lho, you’ll enjoy extraordinary views of Mt. Manaslu and have the opportunity to explore the famous Ribung Gompa.

In Shyala village, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountains: Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Nagi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu and its glaciers straight ahead, and other snow-clad summits to the right, with Ganesh Himal standing majestically at the far end.

Today is a rest day in Samagaon, dedicated to acclimatization. This is essential to prepare both physically and mentally for the upcoming journey and to adapt to the changing climate and environment. You have two options for day trips:

1. Easier Option: Take a trek to Pungen Gompa with a packed lunch. Enjoy the stunning views of Manaslu while exploring this serene monastery.
2. Harder Option: Venture to Manaslu Base Camp, which includes a glacier walk, a visit to Birendra Tal, and incredible views of Manaslu.

Both trips offer the opportunity to marvel at thousands of mani stones adorned with Buddhist texts and images. If neither option appeals to you, you can stay in Samagaon and explore the village. Here, you can see Sherpa women in traditional clothes and ornaments and visit the impressive Sama Gompa. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the granite pyramid of Manaslu throughout the day.

Today, you’ll descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and follow its upward course. Along the way, you’ll be treated to excellent mountain views. Manaslu, now behind you, offers a particularly impressive sight from the meadows at Kermo Kharka, which also marks the start of the trail to Manaslu Base Camp. The trail is relatively easy, running along a shelf above the river and passing through the juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka.

You’ll then drop off the shelf, cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge, and climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river. After crossing to the east bank, you’ll reach Somdo (3860m), the last permanent settlement in the valley.

Today, you’ll continue your trek along the edge of the trail, crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River before ascending again. You’ll also cross a stream that flows from the Gya La Pass, another route into Tibet. Passing through a small village known as Larkya Bazaar, you’ll approach the Larkya Glacier and eventually reach Dewang, also known as Dharmasala.

Dharmasala, or Larkya Phedi, translates to the “Foot of Larkya,” marking the starting point for the climb to Larkya La. Use this time to rest and prepare for the challenging ascent ahead. Ensure you get a good meal and plenty of sleep for the big day tomorrow.

Today’s trek is the longest and the highlight of the entire trip, as we will cross the Larke La pass. The day begins with a climb to the north, reaching the ablation valley of the Larkya Glacier. Along the way, you’ll pass small frozen lakes and enjoy views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak.

The trail crosses boulder fields and crests several times. As you approach the summit cairn adorned with fluttering prayer flags, you’ll have a moment to celebrate this achievement and capture some photos. From the top, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.

After the celebration, the trail descends steeply, likely over snow and then scree, leading to the ablation valley trail toward Dangboche Kharka. This is a good spot to rest before continuing the descent to the welcoming lodges of Bimthang, situated in a broad and level ablation valley. It will be a long, challenging, but ultimately rewarding day of trekking in the Himalayas.

Today is a rest day in Bimthang, allowing you to explore the area and its beautiful surroundings, including a nearby lake. Some people wonder if this rest day is really necessary, especially since many trekkers prefer to head back quickly after crossing Larke La. However, this extra day is useful in case of bad weather, making it a valuable part of the itinerary.

The scenery is breathtaking, offering stunning vistas of mountains such as Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Kangaru, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Lamjung Himal, Phungi Himal, and others. Take this opportunity to relax and soak in the incredible landscape.

Today is a long day. You’ll start by descending further, crossing a high pasture called Sangure Kharka, and then a bridge over the Dudh Khola. The path takes you through a beautiful rhododendron forest and a narrow valley until you reach Karche, the highest cultivated land in the valley at 2785m.

You’ll walk across fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. The trail then descends in a wide arc to the river bank at 2580m. Shortly after, you’ll arrive at the village of Gho, where we’ll take a lunch break. After lunch, continue walking to Dharapani, where we will spend the night.

After the peaceful trek around Manaslu, reaching Dharapani might feel crowded as it connects to the popular Annapurna Circuit trail.

Today is another long day, but this time we’ll be traveling by jeep. After an early breakfast, we’ll take a local jeep to Besisahar.  From there, we’ll continue our journey to Kathmandu in a private vehicle.

Enjoy the scenic drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. Once we reach Kathmandu, check into the hotel, take a hot shower, put on some clean clothes, and relax. Treat yourself to some delicious western food like pizza, steak, and other amazing dishes you’ve missed during the trek.

You have a free day in Kathmandu to relax, shop, or go sightseeing. This extra day is a buffer in case of bad weather. You can also enjoy a spa, sound therapy, and other services to help your body feel better.

You’ll have free time until your departure. Our guide and driver will take you to the airport for your safe journey back home, filled with wonderful memories of Nepal!