Short Manaslu Circuit Trek: 11 Day Itinerary, Cost & Larkya La Pass Guide

29th Oct, 2026

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek squeezes the best of Nepal's quietest big-mountain circuit into 11 days. You walk beneath Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak on Earth, pass through Tibetan-influenced villages, and cross the famous Larkya La Pass (about 5,106 m) before dropping into the green meadows of Bimthang.

This guide gives you everything in one place: a day-by-day itinerary, the 2026–2027 cost, permits, departure dates, best season, difficulty, and a full Larkya La crossing guide. If you want to go straight to dates and prices, see the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek page.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek at a Glance

Why Choose the Short Manaslu Circuit?

It is quieter. Manaslu is a restricted area, so the trail sees a fraction of the foot traffic of the Everest or Annapurna regions. You get wilder scenery, emptier trails and a more authentic cultural experience.

It is varied. In 11 days you go from subtropical river gorges and terraced farms to pine forest, alpine meadows, glacier-fed streams and a high Himalayan pass.

It is culturally rich. You pass Gurung, Magar and Tibetan-influenced communities, mani walls, prayer flags and monasteries, including Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa. The trail follows the old Budhi Gandaki salt-trade route.

It is time-efficient. The full circuit takes 13–16 days. The short version covers the same iconic loop, including Sama Gaon, Samdo, Larkya La and Bimthang, in 11.

It is a strong alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. If you want a classic pass crossing with fewer trekkers, compare it with our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek.

11-Day Short Manaslu Circuit Itinerary

Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900 m) – 160 km, about 8 hours

After an early breakfast you leave Kathmandu and drive through winding hill roads, terraced fields and river valleys to Machha Khola, the trailhead. Rest, repack and prepare for the trek. Overnight in Machha Khola.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat (1,410 m) – 21.5 km, 6–7 hours

Walk along the Budhi Gandaki River past suspension bridges, small villages and farmland, getting your first taste of Gurung and Magar culture. Overnight in Jagat.

Day 3: Trek to Deng via Philim (1,800 m) – 20 km, 6–7 hours

Follow the river through forest and farmland. Philim is known for its monastery and mani walls. Overnight in Deng.

Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m) – 19 km, 5–6 hours

Climb through pine forest and terraces to Namrung, a village of stone houses and Buddhist monasteries. The day is moderate and helps you adapt before the altitude picks up. Overnight in Namrung.

Day 5: Trek to Sama Gaon via Lho (3,530 m) – 19 km, 7–8 hours

A long, rewarding day. From Lho you get stunning views of Manaslu, then reach Sama Gaon, a Tibetan-style village with fluttering prayer flags. Overnight in Sama Gaon.

Day 6: Acclimatization day in Sama Gaon (3,530 m)

Rest day, but not a lazy one. Hike to the turquoise glacial Birendra Lake, visit Pungyen Gompa, or stroll through the village and meet the local community. Light activity at altitude helps your body adapt far better than lying in bed. Overnight in Sama Gaon.

Day 7: Trek to Samdo (3,860 m) – 8 km, 4–5 hours

A short, scenic day through alpine terrain with views of Manaslu's north face and glaciers. Samdo is a small Tibetan-style village close to the border. Overnight in Samdo.

Day 8: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m) – 6.5 km, 4–5 hours

A gradual climb past glacial streams and rocky ground to the base of the pass. Eat well, hydrate and sleep early. Overnight in Dharmasala.

Day 9: Cross Larkya La Pass (about 5,106 m) to Bimthang (3,720 m) – 16 km, 8–9 hours

The big day, covered in detail below. You start in the dark, climb to the pass for a 360-degree Himalayan panorama, then descend steeply to the alpine meadows of Bimthang. Overnight in Bimthang (written "Bhimphedi" in some itinerary versions).

Day 10: Trek to Tilje (2,300 m) – 21.5 km, 6–7 hours

Descend through lush valleys, forest and villages back into warmer, greener country. Overnight in Tilje.

Day 11: Drive Tilje to Kathmandu (1,400 m) – 220 km, 8–9 hours

A scenic road journey back to Kathmandu, where you transfer to your hotel. The package includes your airport transfers, a Kathmandu hotel for the Standard plan, and a farewell evening to celebrate.

Larkya La Pass Guide: Crossing Nepal's Most Famous Manaslu Landmark

Larkya La (also spelled Larke La) is the highlight and the hardest day of the trek. Here is what to expect.

Pass facts

• Height: about 5,106 m (17,000 ft). Different sources quote values between roughly 5,100 and 5,160 m, so you will see small variations.
• Elevation gain: around 650 m from Dharmasala (4,460 m) to the pass.
• Elevation loss: around 1,390 m from the pass down to Bimthang (3,720 m). Your knees will feel it.
• Time: 8–9 hours in total, including breaks and the descent.
• Views: Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Kang Guru.

How the crossing day goes

1. Early start. You leave Dharmasala in the dark, well before sunrise, so that you reach the pass in the stable morning weather and avoid the strong afternoon winds.
2. Steady climb. The trail is a steady uphill over moraine and rocky ground. The pace is slow, because thin air makes every step harder.
3. The pass. Prayer flags mark the top. Take photos, drink something warm and do not linger too long in the wind.
4. The descent. A steep, long descent follows, first over loose rock and then across grassy slopes into Bimthang. Poles help a lot.

Tips for a safe crossing

• Wear layers. It is bitterly cold and windy at the start and at the top, but you warm up quickly on the descent.
• Carry water, snacks, sunglasses and a headlamp with fresh batteries.
• Use trekking poles to protect your knees on the descent.
• Move slowly and steadily. Rest briefly rather than stopping for long.
• Tell your guide at once about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual breathlessness. Your guide will check your oxygen saturation and pulse and decide whether to continue.
• Be ready for a day with a flexible plan. Snow or high winds can delay or block the crossing, and your guide makes the final call.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2026–2027

Mountain Eco Treks offers two packages on this trek.

What both packages include

• Private airport transfers
• All trekking permits (Manaslu RAP, MCAP and ACAP) and government taxes
• A licensed trekking guide with full insurance
• Twin-sharing teahouse accommodation for 10 nights on the trek
• Three meals a day on the trek, plus unlimited treated drinking water
• Local SIM card, oximeter health checks and a first aid kit
• Down sleeping bag, down jacket and duffle bag on request
• Welcome dinner in Kathmandu

What the Standard Plan adds

• 2 nights at a 3-star Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
• Private transport from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and from Tilje back to Kathmandu
• A porter shared between two trekkers
• Trekking snacks such as energy bars and seasonal fruit

What the Budget Plan changes

• Public transport instead of a private vehicle
• No Kathmandu hotel included
• Porter and private transport are available at an extra cost

Not included in either package

• International flights and your Nepal visa
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
• Drinks on the trek (tea, coffee, soft drinks, alcohol)
• Personal expenses (hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, laundry, snacks)
• Travel insurance with high-altitude cover and emergency evacuation
• Personal clothing and gear
• Tips for your guide and porters

Booking terms: A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at booking, with the balance paid on arrival. If you postpone, your deposit is held for future use. Read the full terms and conditions.

Planning your budget

• Visa: Fees vary by length of stay (15 days US$30, 30 days US$50, 90 days US$125 at the time of writing). Check the official immigration website before you travel.
• Cash: Bring Nepali rupees. There are no ATMs on the trail.
• Tips: Tipping guides and porters is customary at the end of the trek.
• Insurance: Make sure your policy covers trekking to at least 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation.

Manaslu Permits for the Short Circuit

Manaslu is a restricted area, so you cannot trek it independently. You need a licensed guide and permits issued through a registered Nepali agency.

Permit costs are already built into your package, and we handle every form. All you need to send us is a clear scan of your passport, a passport photo and your arrival details. Permit prices can change, so confirm the current figures when you book.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Dates: 2026–2027 Group Departures

We run group-joining departures through the year, so solo trekkers can join easily. Current start dates include:

2026

• October: 29, 31
• November: 3, 8, 13, 19, 27, 30
• December: 5, 11, 18, 26

2027

• January: 6, 15, 23, 29
• February: 5, 13, 19, 27
• March: 5, 13, 18, 26, 30
• April: 3, 7, 10, 17, 22, 25, 30
• May: 7, 15, 21, 29

Dates and availability are updated on the trip page. If none suits you, send an enquiry for a private date.

Best Time for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

If you want the safest odds of crossing the pass, choose October–November or April–May. For winter dates, talk to us first about conditions and backup plans.

How Hard Is the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

We rate it moderate to challenging. No technical skill is needed, but several things make it demanding:

• Long days: 5–8 hours on most days and 8–9 hours on the pass day
• Altitude: You sleep above 4,000 m before crossing 5,100 m
• Remote terrain: Trails are rougher and facilities simpler than on busier routes
• Compressed schedule: The short version has just one dedicated rest day, at Sama Gaon

Who it suits: Fit walkers with some multi-day hiking experience. Prior altitude experience is a big advantage. If you are newer to high altitude, consider our 12-day or 14-day options, which add rest time, or read about our full Manaslu Circuit Trek.

How to prepare

• Start training 3–4 months before: cardio 3–4 times a week plus weekend hikes with a loaded pack
• Include stair climbing or hill repeats to build leg strength for the descent
• Break in your boots long before you leave
• Visit your doctor, especially if you have heart, lung or blood-pressure conditions

Altitude sickness tips

• Ascend gradually and do not skip the acclimatization day
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol
• Learn the early signs: headache, nausea, loss of appetite, poor sleep and dizziness
• Report symptoms early. Your guide monitors oxygen saturation and pulse daily
• Talk to your doctor about preventive medication before your trip

What to Pack

Clothing: moisture-wicking T-shirts, fleece, down jacket (essential above 3,000 m), waterproof jacket and trousers, quick-dry trekking pants, thermal layers, wool socks, gloves, warm hat and a buff

Footwear: waterproof boots with ankle support, broken in; sandals for the evenings

Gear: a 10–15 L daypack, trekking poles, a 2-litre water bottle, headlamp with spare batteries, sunglasses (UV400), water purification tablets, and a sleeping bag suited to about -10°C (available on request)

Health: SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm, blister care, pain relief, anti-diarrhea tablets and any personal medication

Documents and money: passport valid for 6+ months, passport photos, Nepal visa, insurance details and Nepali rupees

Electronics: phone with offline maps, power bank, camera, and a Nepal 2-pin adapter

Wi-Fi is available in some lower villages for a small fee, and phone signal becomes very limited above Sama Gaon.

Getting There: Transport on the Short Manaslu Route

• Kathmandu to Machha Khola: 160–180 km, about 7–9 hours by private jeep or 8–11 hours by bus. Roads are smooth to Dhading Besi, mixed to Arughat and off-road along the Budhi Gandaki valley, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
• Tilje to Kathmandu: The package includes the return drive. The route runs through Besisahar and takes a full day.

Add-Ons and Extensions

• Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m): An optional side hike from Sama Gaon for close-up views of the mountain
• Tsum Valley: Combine the circuit with the Tsum Valley Trek, a sacred, rarely visited valley within the same restricted region
• Longer circuit: Choose the full 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek for a more gradual pace

Why Trek With Mountain Eco Treks?

• Local and licensed: Founded by mountain leader Ram Bahadur Tamang, with more than 15 years of trekking and expedition experience. Registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and TAAN.
• Experienced guides: First-aid-trained, government-licensed, English-speaking guides who check your health daily.
• Full logistics: Permits, transport, accommodation, meals and porters handled for you.
• Transparent pricing: The package clearly lists what is and is not included.
• Responsible travel: We support eco-friendly trekking practices and local communities.
• Trusted by trekkers: Past guests describe a well-organized trek, attentive guides and hardworking porters. Read the testimonials or our TripAdvisor reviews.

Learn more about us or meet our team.

How to Book

1. Pick your date on the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek page.
2. Choose Standard or Budget and click Book Now, or send an enquiry with any questions.
3. Send your passport details so we can arrange permits.
4. Arrange flights, visa and insurance (cover to at least 5,500 m with helicopter evacuation).
5. Train and pack, then meet us in Kathmandu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek?

It is an 11-day version of the classic Manaslu Circuit that covers the main highlights, including Sama Gaon, Samdo, Larkya La Pass and Bimthang, in a shorter time.

How much does the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek cost?

The Standard Plan costs US$1,485 per person and the Budget Plan US$1,050. Both include permits, a licensed guide, meals and teahouse accommodation on the trek.

How high is Larkya La Pass?

About 5,106 m, though some sources list slightly different heights up to 5,160 m.

Is the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek difficult?

It is moderate to challenging because of the altitude, the long walking days and the Larkya La crossing. Good fitness and some hiking experience are needed.

What permits do I need?

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. We arrange all of them for you.

Can I trek Manaslu solo?

You cannot trek without a licensed guide, but you can book alone and join one of our group departures.

Do I need a guide?

Yes. A government-licensed guide is required by law in the Manaslu restricted area.

When is the best time to go?

October to November and March to May offer the clearest weather and the most reliable pass conditions.

Can I do the trek in winter?

Departures run in winter, but heavy snow can close Larkya La, so crossing cannot be guaranteed. Ask us about conditions before booking.

What is the accommodation like?

Basic but comfortable teahouse lodges with twin-sharing rooms. Expect dal bhat, noodles, pasta, pancakes and yak cheese at higher altitudes.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. It must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, ideally up to 5,500 m.

Can I combine it with Tsum Valley?

Yes. Tsum Valley is in the same region and can be added for a longer cultural trek.

Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal?

Wi-Fi is available in some lower villages for a fee. Phone signal is limited above Sama Gaon, so a local SIM from Kathmandu helps in the lower sections.

What is the minimum age?

We recommend 13 years or older, with good fitness and proper supervision.

Related Treks

• Manaslu Circuit Trek (14 days)
• Tsum Valley Trek
• Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek (12 days)
• Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
• Everest Base Camp Short Trek

Browse all Manaslu region treks or read more on our trekking blog.

Final Thoughts

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers big-mountain drama, deep culture and quiet trails in just 11 days. If you have the fitness, a little altitude experience and a sense of adventure, standing on Larkya La with Manaslu in view is a memory that will last.

Ready to start planning? Book the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek or contact us with your questions.

Mountain Eco Treks & Expedition Budanilkantha-10, Kathmandu, Nepal WhatsApp / Phone: +977 9803926665 Email: info@mountainecotreks.com Website: https://www.mountainecotreks.com