Manaslu Circuit & Thorong La Pass Trek is the incredible cocktail of Manaslu and Annapurna region. It blends the routes of both Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, ultimately taking you through the two incredible high passes. What’s more, this trek is the best option for those who wish to explore the charisma of both the Manaslu and Annapurna region.
Some of the highlights of this trek are the classic palace of Ghale Kingdom at Tinsule Danda, two high passes (Larkya La Pass and Thorong La Pass), breathtaking glimpses of the mountains, surreal landscapes, raging rivers and waterfalls, authentic culture at first hand, unexplored routes of Baseri, Homestay facility for real-life experiences, a man-sized golden statue of Lord Vishnu at Muktinath, old and Tibetan styled monasteries, turquoise (greenish-blue) glacial lakes, traditional stone houses, and hundreds of other inexplicable beauties.
Manaslu Circuit & Thorong La Pass trek is indeed one of the fabulous ways to enjoy the Himalayan beauties of Nepal.
The Manaslu Circuit and Thorong La Pass Trek are fascinating excursions, but because of their difficulty, they require meticulous preparation. Obtaining required permits, choosing the appropriate season, planning a detailed trekking itinerary, considering hiring a local guide and porter, physical training, acquiring appropriate gear and equipment, preparing a comprehensive packing list, understanding altitude sickness prevention, obtaining travel insurance, ensuring access to safe food and water, arranging for communication and emergency equipment, budgeting for expenses, and practicing responsibility are all part of trekking. Adaptability and safety are critical on this arduous high-altitude journey over the Himalayas.
The spring season (March to May) delivers a stunning tapestry of colors and scents on this tour. With consistent weather and comfortable daytime temps. Rhododendron forests are in bloom, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your walk. There are frequently clear skies, providing unobstructed views of the soaring peaks.
Another fantastic choice is the autumn (September to November). Following the monsoon season, this time of year brings continuous, dry weather. The lush and verdant trails left by the monsoon rains have painted the landscape. The mountain vistas are stunning, and the sky is always clear. The chilly yet mild temperatures provide delightful trekking conditions.
The monsoon season and the summer (June, July, and August) months are not advised for the Manaslu Circuit & Throng La Pass Trek. The ordinary trekker cannot tolerate the bitter cold of winter (December, January, and February).
Along the Manaslu Circuit and Thorong La Pass Trek, your sustenance and shelter are primarily provided by teahouses or guesthouses. These lodges offer a range of accommodation options, from basic rooms with shared facilities to slightly more comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms in some places. While the rooms are modest, often equipped with twin beds, blankets, and occasionally heating stoves, they don't offer luxury amenities. teahouses serve a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat and some international options. You can also find familiar items such as pasta, noodles, and pizza. It's wise to opt for vegetarian meals to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and carrying snacks and energy bars for quick fuel while on the trail is a practical idea.
It is also recommended to consult your guide for better and hygienic options.
The trek typically begins from Maccha Khola(starting point). Our journey begins from Kathmandu where we will travel in a shared vehicle(Jeep) and the journey can take around 9-10 hours(via local bus) or 7-8 hours (Jeep), depending on the route and road conditions. Once we arrive in Machha Khola, our trek officially begins. we will continue on foot from here, following the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail. This trek will take you through various villages, terraced fields, forests, and eventually to higher altitudes as you make your way towards Lho, Samagaon, and other key stops on the trek.
Our trekking will finally end at Jomsom where you have the option to fly back to Pokhara or Travel through Jeep which will take about 8-9 hours depending upon road conditions.
The Nepal government has recently decided to prohibit solo travel in the Manasalu Region (between Jagat and Dharapani) in order to restrict tourism in this region. As a result, independent trekkers are not permitted in Manaslu, and hikers in this zone must receive special entrance permits. The government has also set a law requiring a minimum of two hikers in a group, accompanied by a local guide.
There are 3 types of necessary permits required in this region to ensure your entry into the restricted area and to support conservation efforts. An addition of a TIMS permit might is also required throughout this trek. These permits must be processed by a licensed agency.
(Freelance guides are unable to obtain the appropriate permissions for the Manaslu Circuit.)
1. Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (RAP):
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu is a legal document given by the Government of Nepal that allows trekkers to visit and trek in particular restricted regions, including the Manaslu region. This Manaslu trek permit is necessary from Jagat till you pass Sama Gaun.
Cost: USD 100 per person for the first seven days (September to November) and an extra USD 15 per person per day beginning on the eighth day. And USD 75 per person for the first seven days (December to August) and an extra USD 10 per person per day beginning on the eighth day.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP):
To visit the Manaslu region, you must first get a Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit. This permission is necessary to enter the Manaslu Conversation Area from Philim.
Cost: Nrs 3000 per person. There are no restrictions or pricing changes based on the number of days spent inside MCAP.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit):
ACAP Permit is required for trekkers and visitors to visit inside Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) in Nepal, which includes the Thorong La Pass. This permit is necessary from Dharapani till you depart ACAP in Beshi Sahar.
Cost: Nrs 3000 per person. There are no restrictions or pricing changes based on the number of days spent inside ACAP.
4. Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS):
The Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card was required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. TIMS is required since it assists trekkers in ensuring their safety and security when trekking in the Himalayas.
Cost: Around Nrs 3000 per person and for SAARC tourists Nrs 1000 per person
All the Permits and TIMs cards are included in this package.
Day 01: Kathmandu to Maccha Khola by bus /jeep (900m 10h-11h)
Day 02: Trek to Jagat (1,410m): 6 – 7 hrs
Day 03: Trek to Deng (1,804m): 6 – 7 hrs
Day 04: Trek to Namrung (2,630m): 6 – 7 hrs
Day 05: Trek to Lho (3,180m): 4 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Samagaon (3,530m): 4 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Pungyen Gompa: 6 – 7 hours exploration
Day 08: Trek to Samdo (3,860m): 4 – 5 hours
Day 09: Trek to Dharamsala [4460m): 4 – 5 hours
Day 10: Trek to Larkya la Pass (5160m) to Bimthang (3720m): 8 – 9 hours
Day 11: Trek to Tilije or Darapani (2300m): 5 – 6 hours (after dharapani by local jeep to Manag)
Day 12: Trek to Chame (2,630 m)
Day 13: Trek to Pisang (3,200 m)
Day 14: Trek to Manang (3,540 m)
Day 15: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110 m)
Day 16: Trek to Throng Phedi (4,420 m)
Day 17: Trek to Thorong La pass (5,416 m) to Muktinath (3,800 m)
Day 18: Trek to Jomsom (2,700 m)
Day 19: Flight to Pokhara (1,400 m)
The path from Baseri to Maccha Khola is mostly descending. Through the lush terraces, you will pass by several ethnic settlements of Gurung people. At times, the fleeting glimpses of the Ganesh Himal and its glacier buttresses peek on you. But, it is the walk that you enjoy the most. Some parts of the trail are exposed, which makes a perfect sense in terms of views and so. Once you arrive at Maccha Khola, engage in a village walk to create some real-life experiences. Maccha Khola is a tranquil and surreal station.
From Jagat, proceed along the easier track through the lush fields of the marijuana plants. Once you arrive at the Budhi Gandaki ravine, continue through the ancient yak caravan routes and gradually step up to the Tatopani, meaning ‘Hot water’. In Nepal, there are many places named ‘Tatopani’, each of them characterized by the hot water spring. Soon, the trail sees some of the spectacular waterfalls and gorgeous cliffs before entering into the exquisite village of Jagat through Dovan. The glimpses of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal add up the charm of the trek
The trek to Deng begins by climbing over the steep ridge at Salleri and descending to narrow Budhi Gandaki ravine. You will progress through a long suspension bridge to Philim, where the trail turns north along the fairly leveled trail to take you to Ekle Bhatti. Here, the views of the Shringi Himal and Langju Himal appear distinct and shiny in the daylight. Soon, cross a suspension bridge across the Budhi Gandaki River and progress through the beautiful sub-tropical forest. Within a short while, you will reach Deng, a cultural settlement of the Manaslu region.
Bihi Phedi is the first village after Deng, but you won’t realize when you have passed by this village. Within a while from Bihi Phedi, you will reach Ghap that shows the further way through the beautiful Buddhist Monastery (Serang) and Chortens. Prayer flags crisscross the short stretches of the trail. Then, you will intrude through the aromatic forest of Pine and Juniper before arriving at the Namrung. It is a traditional village where the people’ language and culture are influenced by the traditional Tibetan people. It feels so exotic to be at Namrung.
As you leave Namrung, the views start to grow better and better. At Banjam, a magical panorama of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu range shine over the elegantly carved terraces for cultivation. The views are simply amazing. Within a couple of minutes, you will arrive at a big Tibetan styled monastery, inkling the arrival at Lihi. Then, through the one-side exposed trail, the path continues to the village of Sho. Lho is not very distant from Sho, just a matter of few kilometers walk along the fair track. Like Namrung, Lho is also a cultural village.
From Lho, you will follow a finely-fluted forest of Pine and Juniper Shrubs. The ridge of the Ngadi Chuli stands quite far away from there. Through the exquisite Tibetan-styled monastery of Hongsangbu, proceed along the ups and downs until Shyala. Then, cross an icy river, and walk for 45 minutes to arrive at a junction leading to Pungyen monastery. Continue downhill to the Samagaon without stopping by in the middle. It is a traditional village, saturated by the Tibetan people
Retrace your steps back to the junction, and head up straight uphill to the Pungyen monastery. A small Chorten, by the side of the trail, marks the further way to the Gompa. Once you rise to the monastery, you will see the classic paintings and carvings of various Buddhist deities in the walls of the gompa and Chortens. A few distances up to the monastery, there is a green lake of Pungyen Tal, guarded by the splendid mountain sentinels. It is simply a fabulous glimpse of nature. Descend back to the Pungyen Gompa for the night stay.
The major highlight of the trek to Samdo is Birendra Tal, a few kilometers away from the Samagaon. It is a clean, turquoise and pristine location to feel the charm of the mountains. Further up the ridge, guarding the lake, the exquisite panorama of the mountains appears spectacular. Then, walk through the snow-covered trail towards Samdo. As you cross 2/3rd of the way, the beautiful Samdo peak shows its glamour in the full shine. It takes just a few minutes more to reach the wonderful village of Samdo
The path to Dharamsala is pretty taxing because of the sharp increases in altitude. Be aware of your breathing speed to minimize the altitude effects as much as possible. Walk to the ancient market of Larkya bazaar and pass by several Chortens and Mani walls. Through the juniper bushes, progress to the incredible Larkya Phedi. The views are unbiased at this point. Across the bridge, the gorgeous panorama of the mountains shows up. Standing there for a while is simply worthy of everything.
This day is the most rewarding day of the overall trekking in the Manaslu region because all that was hidden show up in their full vigor from the top of the pass. You will walk over the moraine, exposed on both sides, towards the Larkya La Pass. From there, the stunning glimpses of the Manaslu, Syacha glacier, glacial lakes, and other incredible icy structures will overwhelm your heart with smile and pleasure. What’s more, the peaks of the Kang Guru add up an extra thrill in the view. It is simply incredible. Then, through the Chortens and prayer inscribed stones, you will descend to the Bimthang.
Even after Bimthang, the views remain intact. Continue down the pleasant Jungles of the rhododendron, pine, oak, and birch towards the Dharapani. The fleeting glimpses of the Manaslu range randomly appear at many times on the trail. Cross a suspension bridge, across the Dudh Khola River, to go down to the Yak Kharka. From Yak Kharka (yak pastures), Tilje is just a couple of minutes away. The views are simply spectacular from Tilje. Continue to the Dharapani and spend the overnight there.
From Dharapani, the trail to Chame takes you through the Marsyangdi river valley, accompanying a series of fabulous landscape views and mountain glimpses. Some sections of the trail are flat, but mostly, the trail fluctuates up and down. The dramatic rock cliffs and the eye-popping panoramic glimpses of the mountains follow you throughout the trail. You will come across several quaint local settlements on the way, which allows you to savor traditional hospitality. It is indeed an amazing walk to Chame.
The way to Pisang is full of excellent vistas. While many trekkers opt-out for the drive to Pisang, only the luckiest few people get the chance to enjoy the surreal vistas accompanying from the Chame to Pisang. The large overhanging rocks and the views of the surreal glacier walls make up a perfect setting. Once you arrive at Lower Pisang, the views overwhelm your heart. But, it is just quarter exposure to the grand Himalayas. About 15 min up from Lower Pisang, you will reach the Upper Pisang overlooking the incredible panorama of snow-clad mountains.
From Upper Pisang, the way to Manang is indeed incredible. The rewarding village of Braka is the major highlight of the trip. But, before reaching there, you will go through some of the exquisite monasteries, viewpoints, and villages of Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Julu. While on the way, you will cross several exciting bridges- sometimes over the wooden log and at other times over the metal suspension bridges, constantly threatened by the heavy pace of the wind. Once you arrive at Braka, spend a couple of minutes hanging around and then only, proceed to Manang, the liver of Annapurna.
It is quite a strenuous day because the altitude plays its part here. Walk slowly and calmly over the beautiful pastures and enjoy the views of the surprising landscapes and rocky architectures. The trees of Pine, Juniper and Birch are ubiquitous, and they are the key ingredient to enhance the tone of the walk. On the way, you will pass by the cultural hamlets of Gunsang and Khangsar before arriving at the Yak Kharka. It is simply a cool walk. Don’t head to the Churi Ledar (as instructed by many guide books) because you might have altitude-related complications while ascending to the Thorong La Pass.
The distance between Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi is short but walking is enjoyable. As you approach closer to the Phedi, the mountains appear to be standing at a touchable distance. Yet, they are still miles away. Smoothly lurching suspension bridges and the fanning prayer flags add up an extra charm in the journey. The major highlight of this day is the mountains. They appear in different forms- sometimes glaciers and other times just icy walls. This trek is indeed very much gratifying and rewarding as well.
From Thorong Phedi, the Thorong La pass is just a few distances away. The path is pretty steep, but once you rise on to the top of the pass, the views are all yours. At a glance, Thorong La pass is a heaven, with splendid icy architectures and glacial lakes surrounding you. The whitish peak of Dhaulagiri and the formidable chain of prodigious icy cliffs have a special appearance on the different sides of the pass. Around the pass, there are Mani Stones (prayer inscribed stones) wrapped by the prayer flags. These are kept to ward off the spirits and demons as far as possible. Within a short while, descend to the Muktinath for the overnight stay.
With a large man-sized golden statue of Lord Bishnu, the temple of Muktinath becomes a special attraction for tourists. There are 108 natural stone taps, an eternal flame, and 2 wonderful holy ponds, but beyond that, it is the extreme faith of the pilgrims towards this temple that makes this temple more vibrant and amazing. Literally, Muktinath means the ‘Site of Liberation’.
From Muktinath, the way to Jomsom is fascinating. While most of the people choose the route of Jharkot to reach Jomsom, you may as well walk through the Kagbeni. Both routes are incredibly rewarding. You just need to put an eye on the monasteries, you are passing by, as they are the major highlight of this day. The mountains will be following you, throughout the journey. Once you reach Jomsom, take your time out to explore the markets of Jomsom.
Catch the earliest possible flight to Pokhara, and explore this natural city, full of natural lakes and waterfalls.
