Major Places That You Will See in Manaslu Circuit Trek
Embark on a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, where you’ll pass through charming villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking mountain vistas. From the bustling town of Arughat to the serene haven of Soti Khola, every step of the Manaslu Circuit trek offers new experiences and unforgettable moments.
Explore picturesque villages like Jagat and Deng, each with its own distinct charm, and be awestruck by the grandeur of Samagaun, nestled beneath the towering Manaslu peak. Immerse yourself in the spiritual traditions of Samdo, a village deeply rooted in Tibetan culture. This trek is not just a physical challenge; it is an opportunity for self-discovery and cultural immersion.
Prepare to be awestruck by the grandeur of Samagaun, nestled at the foot of the majestic Manaslu, and delve into the spiritual traditions of Samdo, a village steeped in Tibetan culture. The Manaslu Circuit trek is not just a physical challenge, but a journey of self-discovery and cultural immersion. If you’re curious about how challenging the trek can be, you can learn more about the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty here.
You’ll conquer the awe-inspiring Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek, before descending into the peaceful beauty of Bimthang and finally reaching Dharapani, the gateway to the Annapurna region.
Arughat (620 meters / 2,034 feet)
Your adventure begins in Arughat, a bustling town filled with both modern and traditional buildings. As the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek, Arughat offers trekkers a variety of shops and teahouses for last-minute supplies. Its vibrant atmosphere reflects the rich cultural diversity of the region, where locals from various ethnic backgrounds gather to trade and socialize. Take some time to explore the narrow alleys, interact with the friendly residents, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Soti Khola (730 meters / 2,395 feet)
Following the Budhi Gandaki River, you’ll arrive at the peaceful village of Soti Khola. The slower pace of life here, combined with the soothing sound of the river, creates a perfect atmosphere for rest and reflection. Several cozy teahouses in Soti Khola provide trekkers with a place to unwind after a day on the trail. Don’t miss the picturesque suspension bridge, which offers stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.
Jagat (1,410 meters / 4,626 feet)
As you ascend further, the village of Jagat welcomes you with its traditional stone houses and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Surrounded by terraced fields where barley and potatoes grow, this charming settlement offers trekkers a glimpse into mountain life. Stroll through the village, admire the intricate wood carvings on the houses, and soak in the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
Deng (1,804 meters / 5,919 feet)
Upon entering the Nubri Valley, the landscape becomes more rugged, and you reach the hillside village of Deng. Here, Tibetan Buddhism’s influence is evident, with colorful prayer wheels and chortens dotting the village. Take the opportunity to visit the local gompa (monastery) and explore the unique traditions of this remote community, all while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Namrung (2,630 meters / 8,629 feet)
Further along the trail, Namrung offers a well-developed infrastructure, including more comfortable teahouses and shops. This village is a great place to acclimatize to the higher altitude, with options for short day hikes and visits to nearby monasteries. Whether you’re resting or exploring, Namrung provides incredible views of the snow-capped peaks that frame the horizon.
Samagaun (3,530 meters / 11,581 feet)
Nestled at the base of Mount Manaslu, Samagaun is a highlight of the trek. The towering peak dominates the skyline, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop to this welcoming village. Samagaun is an ideal place to relax, as it offers several comfortable lodges and access to side trips, such as hikes to Manaslu Base Camp and the serene Birendra Lake. The village’s spiritual energy, combined with its breathtaking surroundings, makes it a must-see on the trek.
Samdo (3,860 meters / 12,664 feet)
Close to the Tibetan border, Samdo offers trekkers a deeper connection to Tibetan culture. This small village is surrounded by high-altitude pastures where yaks graze and is home to a strong Tibetan community. Visit the local gompa, engage with the locals, and experience the rich traditions before tackling the trek’s highest point, the Larkya La Pass.
Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters / 17,077 feet)
The Larkya La Pass is the pinnacle of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The climb is demanding, but the rewards are immense: from the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru. The sense of accomplishment, coupled with the incredible scenery, will be one of the trek’s most unforgettable moments.
Bimthang (3,720 meters / 12,205 feet)
After crossing the Larkya La Pass, you’ll descend into the tranquil valley of Bimthang. Surrounded by towering mountains, the village offers a peaceful retreat for trekkers to rest and rejuvenate. Explore the yak pastures, visit the local monastery, or simply enjoy the serenity and views of the surrounding landscape.
Dharapani (1,860 meters / 6,102 feet)
The trek concludes at Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit meets the Annapurna Circuit. This lively village caters to trekkers from both routes, with plenty of teahouses and shops to relax and reflect on your journey. Celebrate your achievement and perhaps start planning your next adventure in the magnificent Himalaya.
