Manaslu Expedition

Your expedition to the eighth-highest mountain in the world begins the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, a representative of our expedition agency will transfer you to Hotel Yak and Yeti or a similar hotel in Nepal’s Capital.

Once you check in at the hotel, take ample rest and recover from jet lag. If you have free time, you may go around the places near your hotel and get yourself acquainted with the vibes of Kathmandu. You can also utilize the time to check if anything is missing from your climbing gear or other essentials. If so, you need to arrange them for the expedition.

Today, you will get one step closer to your mountain expedition with a face-to-face meeting with your guide and expedition members for the official briefing. The guide will discuss the trek and expedition route, logistics, and summit strategies with all the climbers of the expedition.

If you had checked your gear the day before and identified if anything was missing, then you could go shopping. The gear shops in Thamel have almost everything you need. You can either buy or rent them, as per your needs. This is the day to opt for last-minute shopping for anything else, other than the gear, needed for climbing.

We will also assist you with completing all permit formalities for the expedition. Generally, the paperwork is done by the afternoon. Once you are ready with all the basics, you can explore the city on your own or request a guided tour, too.

You leave for the Mt. Manaslu expedition on the third day of your arrival in Kathmandu. You will drive to Arughat, located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. The drive takes place on the blacktopped road along the Prithvi Highway until Dhading Besi. But the road from here onwards is a mix of dirt and gravel. The drive feels quite bumpy and rough as you move ahead.

Along the drive, you will pass through small villages before descending to the Budhi Gandaki River. Crossing through bridges, streams, and ridges, the overland journey finally takes you to Arughat Bazaar. Along the way, you can see traditional homes. Terraced fields are also on both sides of the trail. On a clear day, you can even see views of Ganesh Himal. Once you arrive at Arughat, you will stay at a local tea house.

This is the first day of your trek in the Manaslu Himalayan expedition since you set out for it. After breakfast, you will start the trek following the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki River. You can see scattered houses, rice fields, and banana groves along the Manaslu trek route, which comprises either stone paving or a dirt path. Some of the settlements you will pass through during this day are Mangaltar and Shanti Bazaar.

The route is all about ascent as you arrive at Arkhet, crossing a suspension bridge. Then you will climb a steep rocky trail to reach Kurepani. From here, the route requires you to descend to the Budhi Gandaki riverbanks to arrive at Sotikhola. The small settlement has tea houses as well as camping spots. You can choose to stay at a tea house overnight or even opt for camping.

Today’s Manaslu climbing journey entails trekking through steep ascents and descents. The paths are rocky and forested trails. There are several suspension bridges as well. As the trail begins from Sotikhola, you will enter a dense Saal forest and walk along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. You continue the uphill journey through the narrow and rocky route. Some of the sections are carved into the cliffside, too.

The trail takes you through small settlements of the Gurung and Magar communities until you arrive at Lapurbesi. Lapurbesi is a charming Gurung village in the wider part of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Here, you can rest for a while before going ahead on the Manaslu route and crossing Nauli Khola. Eventually, you will arrive at Machha Khola. It is a small settlement with several tea houses, basic lodges, and camping spots. Overnight stay either at a tea house or a camp.

The trek to Jagat from Machhakhola begins with a walk along a narrow trail. The Manaslu expedition route first goes through the Budhi Gandaki River, as you cross small areas that seem quite prone to landslides. Passing through a winding route, you will first arrive at Gurung village named Khorlabesi.

From here, you will make a gradual climb to Tatopani. Tatopani is named for its natural hot springs. Many trekkers pause here to dip in the hot springs. The route is also known for porters and mule caravans carrying supplies. After a short rest, you will continue on your Manaslu journey and climb a stone staircase to cross a ridge. Then you will descend to the river, cross a suspension bridge, and arrive at another village called Dovan.

Ascend through a narrow and steep trail from here. Then you will need to pass the rest point of Thulo Dhunga before arriving at another village called Yaruphant. The final push of the day is a gradual ascent to reach Jagat. It is a small village on a ridge. A checkpoint here verifies your Manaslu area permit to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, a restricted zone. Overnight at Jagat.

Day 7 trek takes you from Jagat to Deng. Along the Mt Manaslu expedition trail, you will soak in the scenic views of different mountains and valleys. As you step out of Jagat, a gradual ascent will take you to Salleri. Saalleri offers great views of Shringi Himal on a clear day. The next notable destination you will reach is Sirdibas. It is also a Gurung village featuring traditional stone houses and prayer flags.

Then, you will find a suspension bridge over Ghatta Khola, which you need to cross to reach Philim. At Philim, you need to show your Manaslu Restricted Area Conservation Permit. Once you have registered your permit, head to Ekle Bhatti. At Ekle Bhatti, you will have your lunch and then move towards Deng/Dyang.

The trail to Tsum Valley splits from here. You will take the main trail to Deng/Dyang. You will then pass through a forested gorge to arrive at Nyak Phedi and climb further. Soon after you arrive at your destination for the day, Deng. You rest overnight at Deng/Dyang.

As you leave Deng/Dyang, the path once again crosses the Budhi Gandaki River. Then it winds through hamlets like Rana, Bihi Phedi, and Ghap before arriving at Namrung. The first walk of the day, through a rocky and shaded trail, will take you to Rana. The trail from here requires gradual ascents and descents along the cliffside. Then you will head to Bihi Phedi through a winding path along the north side of the river.

The next part of the journey passes through a natural trail with roots and wet leaves. And then you will arrive at the quiet village of Ghap with stone houses and chortens. You might spot langur and different colorful birds en route to Ghap. From Ghap, you will ascend to steep sections through dense alpine forest.

The air feels cooler and less humid as you climb higher and arrive at Namrung. The vegetation also transitions from subtropical to alpine. The influence of Buddhist culture is more evident as chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags are abundant along the route. Once you arrive at Namrung, you will see beautiful views of Ganesh Himal and Him Chuli. Overnight at Namrung.

It is one of the picturesque and culturally rich sections of the Mt. Manaslu expedition. The trail from Namrung requires a gradual ascent through pine and fir forests. You will pass through the Lihi village, where you can see barley fields along with chortens and mani walls. The views of the mountains like Manaslu Peak and Ganesh Himal also come into sight as you climb higher.

Next, you will arrive at Sho village after trekking through the rolling terrain. You also need to cross a small stream before the final ascent to Lho. One of the attractions at Lho is the  Ribung Monastery. The locals value it for its religious and cultural importance. Lhosar is a significant festival celebrated here. The other festive celebrations include that of Dumje, Saga Dawa, and Buddha Purnima. Overnight at a tea house or lodge.

Following the Manaslu Expedition itinerary, on this day, you will start the trek with a descent to a stream from Lho. You need to trek down through rhododendron and fir forest. Then the Manaslu trek trail rises gradually, leading you to a wide and open valley. You will reach Shyala, a settlement with yak pastures and farmlands protected by stone walls. It is a rest point as well as a viewpoint that offers a complete view of Himal Chuli, Nagdi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.

From there, you will walk further along the yak pastures and glacial moraines. The trails are steep yet easier to traverse. You will also pass through prayer wheels, mani walls, and a stone wall before you enter Sama Gaun. Sama Gaun is a large village featuring monasteries and yak herders. Plus, it is a great acclimatization spot for those heading to the Manaslu Circuit trek or Manaslu expedition.

ay is a rest and acclimatization day at Sama Gaun. Since you are already at a high altitude (3,780 meters), it’s important to let your body adjust before heading higher. Taking a break here helps lower the risk of altitude sickness and keeps you strong for the tougher days ahead on the Manaslu climbing journey.

There are a few great acclimatization hikes you can do today. One popular option is a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp. This is a tough uphill walk along a steep and sometimes slippery trail, but it’s rewarding. You’ll reach a higher altitude, enjoy stunning views of Mount Manaslu, and return to sleep lower. It is a smart way to help your body adapt during the trek to Manaslu Base Camp.

Another option is a short hike to Pung Gyen Gompa. It is a peaceful monastery sitting on a wide plateau. It features a prayer hall and monk dormitories. Add to that the best views of Manaslu that can be seen from here. If you prefer a shorter, easier hike, then you can head to Birendra Tal, a beautiful glacial lake near the Manaslu Glacier. It’s a peaceful spot and perfect for a calm walk and a quick rest.

You can also spend the day exploring Sama Gaun itself. This traditional Himalayan village is home to the Nubri people, known for their rich Tibetan culture. You’ll see yak pastures, stone houses, Buddhist shrines, and prayer flags waving in the mountain wind.

No matter which activity you choose, don’t forget to drink plenty of water and eat healthy meals. Rest is just as important as walking today. Staying hydrated and well-fed is the key to staying strong for the rest of your Manaslu Expedition itinerary.

Today, you begin the most exciting part of the Manaslu expedition as you will trek to Manaslu Base Camp, the starting point for climbing the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The day starts early. You will leave Sama Gaun and walk through open yak pastures with gentle uphill slopes. As you gain altitude, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. You’ll pass through forests of rhododendron and juniper, then hike above the treeline, where the path becomes rocky and exposed.

The final section of the Manaslu Base Camp trail is the toughest. You must walk along glacial moraines and a narrow ridge beside the Manaslu Glacier. Take your time here. This part is physically demanding and at high altitude. Starting early helps avoid strong winds and allows for better visibility. Throughout the trek, you’ll see stunning mountain views, including Mount Manaslu, Naike Peak, and Himal Chuli.

Once you reach Manaslu Base Camp, you’ll notice the colorful prayer flags and bright expedition tents set up against the snowy backdrop. Our support team will set up your camp here. From now on, you’ll be sleeping in tents as you prepare for the high climbs ahead. Your true climb of Mt. Manaslu will begin soon.

Your actual climb to Mount Manaslu begins on Day 13 and continues up to Day 31. This period includes acclimatization, practice, setting up camps, and finally, summiting and back to Base Camp. The timelines are not specific as they depend on the weather and team strategy.

At first, you’ll stay at Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) for a few days to rest and prepare. You’ll receive training from your guides on using gear like ropes, ascenders, crampons, and ice axes. You’ll also practice walking on snow, crossing crevasses, and climbing steep ice slopes. This training helps you get used to the mountain conditions and builds your confidence. Further, there will be a puja (worshipping deity) before the climbing period. It is done, praying for a safe and successful expedition.

Once ready, you’ll begin your climb to Camp I at 5,800 m. The route involves snow and glaciers with crevasses. After reaching Camp I, you’ll return to Base Camp and climb again. This up-and-down movement, called rotation, helps your body adjust to the altitude.

Next, you’ll move up to Camp II (6,400 m), which is technically challenging. It includes steep ice walls and crevasse crossings. After spending time here, you’ll again descend and climb the same route until your body is ready for higher camps.

Then, you’ll climb to Camp III (6,900 m). It is a short climb to Camp III from Camp II. This section is easier without any ladder crossings, but you still need to cross crevasses and walk on icy slopes. Expect to jump from one crevasse to another that is nearly half a meter apart.

From Camp III, you’ll head to Camp IV (7,300 m). It is a tough climb with steep angles and low oxygen. Slopes are covered with layers of ice, too. Plus, this section is prone to avalanches.

Finally, you’ll go for the Manaslu Summit (8,163 m). The climb from Camp IV to the summit push starts at around 1:00 a.m., so you can reach the top by 10:00 a.m. The climb begins gradually but becomes harder near the end. You’ll pass a false summit before walking along a narrow ridge to reach the true summit of Mount Manaslu.

Reaching the top of Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain, is an unforgettable achievement. From the summit of Manaslu, you can get panoramic views of Manaslu Mountain, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and many more. After celebrating your success, you’ll carefully descend back to Camp III, then continue down to Base Camp over the next few days. Taking your time on the way down is important to stay safe. Your climbing Sherpa guides will lead the way and help you return safely after this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

After the summit of Manaslu and return to its Base Camp at an altitude of 4,700 m, it is time to prepare to leave the area. You will spend a day getting ready to return to Kathmandu and cleaning the Base Camp.

Along with your expedition team, you need to pack out the tent, fixed ropes, collect used oxygen bottles, food wrappers, and other equipment used during the peak expedition. They are either disposed of in Sama Gaun or Kathmandu, as you are not allowed to leave them in the Base Camp. It’s a part of sustainable climbing practices and helps keep Manaslu clean for future climbers.

Once cleanup is done, you’ll pack your personal gear and prepare for the journey back the next day. This final night at Base Camp is a chance to reflect on your achievement before you start the return trek. Overnight is spent at the Base Camp.

Finally, you will depart from Manaslu Base Camp and descend towards Sama Gaun. In the beginning, you need to trek down through rough terrain. Afterwards, you will enter a forested route. Following a steady descent, you will arrive at the beautiful Birendra Lake. From there, you head down through alpine meadows and juniper bushes. Then continue down via pine forest, pass cultivated fields, and mani walls. The comfortable walk ultimately brings you back to Sama Gaun. You will rest here for the night at a tea house.

Today, you will leave Sama Gaun and begin descending toward Namrung. The trail starts along the Budhi Gandaki River and soon takes you through peaceful rhododendron forests and wide yak pastures. As you walk, the air becomes warmer, and the vegetation turns greener. These are the signs that you’re losing significant altitude.

Now, you will cross wooden bridges and pass by small villages like Shyala and Lho. Along the way, you’ll walk past ancient mani walls, fluttering prayer flags, and stone chortens that reflect the deep-rooted Buddhist culture of the region. After passing Sho and Lihi villages, you will make a final descent through pine-covered trails and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Namrung. Now at a much lower elevation, the surroundings feel lush and inviting at Namrung. Overnight at Namrung.

Once again, on the descent journey of the Manaslu climb, you will follow the Budhi Gandaki River downstream. The first section of this downhill trek reaches Ghap village, and then descends to Deng/Dyang and Bihi Phedi. You will shift from a narrower section of the valley to an open area. As you lose elevation, the scenery begins to change. The landscape opens up with bamboo groves, millet fields, and warmer weather.

Except for occasional short climbs, the trek is mostly downhill until you reach Philim. Philim village is surrounded by hills covered by forests. And millet fields are the highlights of this area. After a long day of descent, this is a relaxing place to rest, enjoy your dinner, and prepare for the final days of your trek.

You will start an uphill walk from Philim to Sirdibas before descending to Salleri and Jagat. You need to pass through a rocky ridge as you descend. Dovaan and Tatopani are other villages you will pass once again as you head downwards. Expect to walk on stone staircases, across rice terraces, and to meet mule trains along the route before arriving at Machhakhola.

The final stretch to Machhakhola requires you to make a few steep descents as well as climbs. And you have to do that along the cliff edge. Be careful during the descent to prevent getting injured or hurting your body. Rest and relax upon arriving at Machhakhola.

Today is the final walking day as per the Manaslu expedition itinerary. It is also one of the longest walking days of the entire trip. The trek is mostly descent as you get out of Machhakhola. Retrace your steps through Nauli Khola, Lapubesi, and Liding before arriving at Soti Khola. Soti Khola was your overnight stay when starting the expedition. But during the return journey, you won’t stop here. Rather, walk down the trail passing through Kuerepani, Kokhetar, Arkhet, Shanti Bazar, and Mangaltar before arriving at Arughat.

The elevation transition not only brings changes in terrain and vegetation. Even the area seems more vibrant and colorful with access to modern facilities as compared to the mountains. Take a well-deserved overnight rest here at Arughat.

You will travel to Kathmandu via a tourist minibus on this day. The drive begins with an early start from Arughat. It then heads to Dhading Besi through a bumpy road. The drive becomes smoother once the road joins the main highway.

You can enjoy the interesting market towns along the Trishuli River valley. The vibrancy of the city is felt as you approach the Capital City of Nepal. You are dropped off at your hotel once you arrive in Kathmandu. You rest and relax for the day.

After over a month in the mountains, today is a well-earned rest day for you. You can use the time to rest and just sleep in, or choose to go around town. You can visit famous places, including the Narayanhiti Palace Museum and Swoyambhunath, popularly known as Monkey Temple. Boudhanath Stupa and the Pashuptinath Temple are other places to visit.

You can also opt for souvenir shopping during this exploration. You can buy Nepal’s unique items, including handmade pashmina, prayer flags, or singing bowls. In the evening, we will organise a farewell dinner for you and your team. The event also includes a cultural program. You make sure the evening’s memorable for you as you enjoy Nepali food and culture while spending quality time with fellow climbers and expedition staff.

The fortieth day in the Manaslu expedition itinerary marks the formal end to your mountain journey as you return to your home. Our team at My Everst Trip will arrange a transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport from your hotel. Once at the airport, you fly to your next destination carrying with you memorable Manaslu memories. We hope you had a great time.