Manaslu Express
A shorter Manaslu Circuit trek with fewer detours and no compromise on acclimatization or safety.
Trip Overview
- Best season
- Spring · Autumn
- Group size
- 2 – 12 People
- Start & end
- Kathmandu
Highlights
- Short, yet magnificent: Shorter Manaslu Circuit itinerary with fewer side trips, without compromising on acclimatization and safety.
- Off the Beaten Track Walk the trails under the foothill of Manaslu that retain their remoteness.
- Vibrant Culture Explore the Tibetan Buddhist tradition as you walk past mane walls, prayer wheels and chortens along the route.
- Ancient Settlements Visit ancient Tibetan villages such as Prok, Shyala, Sama Gaon and Samdo where centuries old Nubri traditions and customs are still preserved.
- Majestic View of Mount Manaslu. Enjoy the close up views of Mount Manaslu 8163 m, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal and Naike Peak.
- Buddhist Monasteries Visit or walk past Buddhist Monasteries in Lho, Pungyen, Samagaon and Samdo
- The Formidable Layka La Cross the Larkya La 5106m, the highest point of the trek and embrace the achievement.
- Diverse Landscapes Experience the variations in landscapes and topography as you trek through the river valleys, forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, moraines and glaciers.
About this trek
Fancy doing the Manaslu Circuit but don’t have enough time? The Manaslu Express is designed for trekkers who want to experience the highlights of this classic Himalayan route within a shorter timeframe, without compromising on acclimatization or safety.
The difference lies in the itinerary. Rather than adding extra days for side trips, Manaslu Express follows the main circuit through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, rugged mountain landscapes, and across Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). The itinerary includes a hike to Pungen Gompa but leaves out other optional detours, making the journey more time-efficient without rushing the daily walks.
Join Junkiri Treks on the Manaslu Express for a focused Himalayan adventure that brings together high-altitude trekking, cultural encounters, and the challenge of crossing one of the region’s major mountain passes—with fewer detours and more efficient use of your time.
Day by Day Itinerary
Welcome to Kathmandu, the valley of gods. Upon arrival, complete the visa process and proceed to the arrival terminal from where our staff will drive to your hotel. At the hotel, meet our team and get the information about the group meeting and dinner.
After breakfast, we begin our journey by driving through small towns and river valleys to reach Machha Khola. The journey negotiates paved roads most of the time, except for the last leg. Machha Khola is a small town by the confluence of Machha Khola and Budhi Gandaki.
Walk off road until reaching Dobato and cross the Budhi Gandaki River via suspension bridge. Follow the eastern bank of Budhi Gandaki River, ascending gently to Thulo Dhunga for lunch. After lunch, cross a landslide and walk down to the riverbed of the Budhi Gandaki. Then climb to another suspension bridge, cross the Budhi Gandaki River, and continue to Jagat.
Continue following the western bank of Budhi Gandaki and cross the river near Nagjet and climb to Philim (1519m). Ascending gradually we reach Chisapani for lunch. After lunch follow the cliffside trail through bamboo forest and gorge. Cross the Budhi Gandaki near Nyak and climb gently through forest and narrow river valleys to Deng.
Walk through the forest and cross the Budhi Gandaki River before climbing steeply towards Bihi village. Continue through bamboo forests and past fields of potatoes and buckwheat. A large Tibetan chorten and mani wall mark your arrival in Ghap, where you cross the river again via an iron bridge. After lunch in Ghap, climb through the forest to a ridge and take a short break to enjoy views of Ganesh Himal. From here, follow a gentler trail for about 30 minutes to reach Namrung, where you settle into a local teahouse for the night.
Wake up to views of Naike Peak in Namrung before following a gradual uphill trail to Shyo. Cross a small river by suspension bridge and continue towards Lho, passing chortens and apple orchards along the way. After lunch, take time to observe local life and visit Ribung Monastery, with Mount Manaslu rising in the background.
From Lho, continue climbing gradually through beautiful fir forests before reaching the plateau where Shyala village sits. End the day with sunset views over Mount Manaslu before settling in for the night.
Enjoy the sunrise as its golden hues paint Mt. Manaslu in shades of gold. After breakfast, walk above the village to the snout of the Pungyen glacier. Walk through the narrow valley where you might spot Himalayan goats and marmots. The narrow valley ends at the large and wide plateau with Pungyen Monastery at the end of it. The views of Manaslu, Peak 29, and Hiun Chuli will leave you stunned. Visit Pungyen Monastery, one of the most secluded monasteries in the region, before retracing your steps to the glacier's snout. From here, follow the trail alongside the glacial river on the left bank. As you continue descending, rejoin the main trail and veer left towards the village of Samagaon. The entrance to the village is marked by ancient chortens, mani walls, and rows of traditional stone houses.
After lunch, visit Pema Dejo Ling Monastery which is perched atop a small hill close to Samagaon.
From Samagaun, the trail heads north, gradually ascending through open pastures and sparse birch forests. With views of Naike Peak to the left and Pangboche Peak to the right, cross the Budhi Gandaki River for the last time via a wooden bridge before reaching Samdo, an ancient village that was once an important trading post along the route to Tibet and the last permanent settlement in the valley. Settle into your teahouse and enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings.
The trail veers westward, ascending gradually across alpine meadows. Cross an iron bridge near Larkya Bazaar and several mountain streams along the way. While much of the route is relatively gentle, a few steeper sections can feel demanding due to the increasing altitude and thinner air. Arrive at Dharamshala around lunchtime. After lunch, take a short acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint before returning to the lodge.
Dharamshala is the last settlement before crossing the Larkya Pass. Accommodation here is very basic, with communal sleeping arrangements where you might have to share a room with other trekkers. Facilities are limited, with no electricity, simple toilets, and closely spaced beds. While comfort is minimal, it provides an essential resting point before the most demanding day of the trek.
We begin walking at around 4:00 a.m., following a trail that climbs gradually, with only a few short steep sections. As you gain elevation, the terrain becomes increasingly rugged, with moraines and glacial terrain appearing along the route. As you make it to around the halfway point. enjoy the sunrise as its golden light slowly illuminates the surrounding peaks.
Eventually, you will find yourself standing atop Larke Pass (5,106 m), rewarded with magical views of Panbuche, Naike Peak, and Larkya Peak. Take a moment to catch your breath and appreciate the achievement.
From the pass, descend a steep trail followed by a series of switchbacks to Larke Phedi, where you will stop for lunch. Afterward, continue downhill to Bhimtang village.
Wake up in the beautiful village of Bhimtang, cradled by beautiful mountains, with Phungi Himal to the south, Manaslu to the east, and Himlung Himal to the west. After breakfast, leave Bhimtang and descend through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, stopping for lunch at Kharche. From there, follow the jeep road to Gowa, where you will spend the night.
Continue following the road to Tilje, cross the Dudh Khola, hop in the jeep, and drive down to Dharapani meeting the Annapurna circuit route. Continue driving downhill following the Marshyangdi river downstream to Besisahar. Then switch to another vehicle and continue towars Kathmandu
Your standard itinerary ends here. We will arrange a transfer for your departure if you are heading home. Or you can proceed on your own if you have any plans.
Route & Elevation
Trip Map
12 stops · 11 places · 823–5,106 m
Kathmandu
1400
Machha Khola
823mDrive
Jagat
1340m
Deng
1860m
Namrung
2630m
Shyala
3500m
Samagaon
3521m
Samdo
3875m
Dharamshala
4460m
Larke la-BimthangHigh
5106m | 3590m
Gowa
2300m
Kathmandu
1400mDrive
Elevation
Photographs
Good to Know
Permits, insurance, altitude and the rest of the small print.
Due to the construction of roads in lower Budhi Gandaki Valley, the length of Manaslu Circuit trek is shrinking. To complete the trek it takes you 12 days but ongoing road construction along the western bank of Budhi Gandaki River can reduce the length of trekking in the future by a couple of days. If you have flexibility, you can combine Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley Trek which can offer you an immersive experience.
The Manaslu Express trek starts from Kathmandu, with a drive to Machha Khola, followed by a trek to Jagat. The trail crosses the Budhi Gandaki River a couple of times on suspension bridge, before veering towards the westward from Nyak village. Walking through lush forest, gorges and ravines the path leads you to Deng village.
The route crosses the Budhi Gandaki River near Bhi and climbs on a side trail to Prok village. After an overnight stay at Prok village, the path drops to Ghyapsa, meeting the main trail again. After walking through the village of Namrung, the path leads us to the village of Shyala Village.
Unlike most itineraries, ours includes a night in Shyala Village, instead of two nights in Smagaon, as it offers an opportunity for a side trip to Pungyen Monastery, hidden gem of Manaslu Express Trek. Enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Pangboche from Pungyen Monastery. Rejoin the main trail upon descending, and overnight in Samagaon. From Samagaon, trek to Samdo and further to Dharamshala, the last resort before crossing the pass. The path to Larkya La pass goes through moraine, glaciers and lakes. Upon crossing pass, you enter Annapurna Conservation Area and spend two overnights in the villages of Bimthang and Gowa, before meeting Annapurna Circuit Trek at Dharapani. Drive further to Bandipur and spend a night. Drive back to Kathmandu the next day.
The stunning mountain views and immediate variations in landscapes, unique terrain and rich culture make the Manaslu Express Trek one of the best high-altitude treks in the Himalayas. The trekking trails are not crowded, even in the high trekking season. The tea houses are cozy and retain their authentic charm, unspoilt by mass tourism. The food options in Manaslu Express trek are limited but taste great. As you trek higher up you will have panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu and its neighbouring peaks. Moreover, the ancient Tibetan settlements, Buddhist chortens and mane walls and monasteries provide rich cultural experience. Scaling the formidable height of Larkya La Pass at 5160m provides you a sense of accomplishment. Manaslu Express trek has an extra layer of beauty that you won’t find elsewhere.
Manaslu Express is leveled as moderate to strenuous for its length, remoteness and the elevation profile. Being one of the best high altitude treks in the Himalayan foothills, this involves 10 days of walking on the remote trails, leading to the Larky La at the elevation of 5106m above the sea.
Your journey begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. To ensure a smooth start to your Manaslu Express adventure, plan to arrive before 3 PM local time on your scheduled arrival day. This allows time for a group meeting, gear check, and a welcome dinner.
Tourists can easily obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After landing, complete the visa form at a kiosk, pay the required fee at the payment counter (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days), and proceed to the immigration counter for your visa.
Tip: Bring cash (preferably USD) to avoid delays, as card payments may not always be reliable.
Passport Photos?
You don’t need to bring passport-sized photos for the visa—photos are taken digitally at the kiosk.After clearing customs, look for our team member holding a Junkiri Treks sign with your name at the arrival gate. You’ll be escorted to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you'll relax before the trek.
All ground transportation mentioned in the itinerary, including transfers to and from the trailhead, is by public vehicle to help reduce our environmental footprint. Private airport pick-up and drop-off are included in the package, while private transportation for other journeys can be arranged on request at an additional cost.
The Manaslu Express Trek lies in a restricted area, so special permits are mandatory:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- These permits are handled by Junkiri Treks and will be arranged before the trek begins.
Weather in the Manaslu region can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. Even during the main trekking seasons of spring and autumn, be prepared for rain, cloudy skies, and snowfall.
If your schedule is flexible, we recommend trekking from mid-April to May or from mid-October onward, when conditions are generally more stable. This does not mean the rest of spring and autumn are unsuitable for trekking, but recent local weather patterns suggest these periods often offer more reliable conditions. Mountain weather can change quickly, so always be prepared for unexpected changes.
- Listen to your guide for advice on pacing, rest stops, and acclimatization.
- Trek with a first aid kit and personal medication.
- Hydrate and pace yourself, especially above 3,000 meters.
The Manaslu region is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Respect local customs and avoid giving money or sweets to children. Bargaining is accepted in local markets, but prices in restaurants and tea houses in the mountains are fixed.
Most restaurants close by 9–10 PM in Kathmandu, but a few pubs stay open later.
From serene valleys and terraced hillsides to high mountain passes and glaciers, the Manaslu Express offers breathtaking contrasts. Mornings bring crisp mountain air and clear views, while evenings invite warm conversations around the fire.
As you approach Larkya La Pass (5,106m), the trek becomes more physically demanding, offering a true sense of accomplishment.Start trekking by 7-8 AM
- Tea break mid-morning
- Lunch around noon at a local lodge
- Arrive at the destination by late afternoon
- Evening briefing and social time in the dining hall
- Dinner served by 6:30–7 PM
You’ll stay in local tea houses with basic but cozy amenities. Accommodations typically feature:
- Twin-sharing rooms
- Communal dining halls
- Shared toilets and bathrooms
- Limited hot water and electricity at higher elevations
- At Dharamsala, facilities are minimal due to remoteness.
Common Questions
The trek is considered moderate to challenging, covering approximately 175 km over 10 days, with daily walking durations ranging from 4 to 10 hours. The route involves significant elevation changes, rugged terrain and long distances, requiring a good level of physical fitness. Pre-trek training is strongly recommended.
While the trek is challenging, beginners who lead an active lifestyle and engage in adequate pre-trek training can undertake the Manaslu Express Trek successfully. Hiring support staff to carry your backpack and customizing the itinerary to match your fitness level can enhance the experience.
The trek spans approximately 150 km (93 miles), excluding overland travel and flights to and from the trailhead.
Yes, due to the high elevations reached during the trek, there's a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms can include headaches and nausea. To mitigate this risk, it's important to acclimatize properly, maintain a steady pace, stay hydrated, and listen to your body's signals. For comprehensive information, read our blog on Altitude Sickness: What Every Trekker Should Know.
No. The Manaslu Express follows a carefully planned itinerary that maintains essential acclimatization days. It is shorter because it omits additional side trips and day hikes, not because it rushes the ascent.
Do not underestimate the crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Although the ascent is relatively gradual compared with some other high mountain passes, the altitude and overall effort make it a demanding day. The descent is long, steep, and strenuous, requiring care and steady footing.
Snow and ice can cover sections of the trail in early spring and late autumn, making the crossing more challenging. Microspikes are strongly recommended when icy conditions are expected, while trekking poles can help with balance and reduce strain on your knees, particularly during the descent. Conditions vary, so be prepared for changes in weather and trail conditions.
Given the trek's demands, it's essential to engage in physical training before the journey. This should include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hikes to build endurance and prepare your body for the challenges ahead.
Access to clean drinking water is crucial. Trekkers have several options: using purification tablets (available in Kathmandu pharmacies), carrying water filters (either external or integrated into bottles), purchasing boiled water at tea houses (costing between NPR 200 to NPR 600 per liter), or buying bottled water (ranging from NPR 100 to NPR 400 per liter). While bottled water is convenient, it's less environmentally friendly; therefore, using purification methods or boiled water is recommended.
The tea houses offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables), momos (dumplings), Tibetan bread, and Sherpa stew. Western options such as pasta, pizza, burgers, pancakes, porridge, and eggs are also commonly available. Garlic soup is a popular choice among trekkers for its reputed benefits in preventing altitude sickness.
Accommodations are primarily in tea houses, which offer basic yet functional lodging. Rooms usually have twin beds with minimal furnishings. While blankets are provided, bringing a personal sleeping bag is advisable. Most tea houses have shared squat-style toilets and limited electricity, except in areas like Dharamshala, where facilities are more basic and electricity is unavailable.
Internet services are available at most tea houses, typically for an additional charge ranging from NPR 100 to NPR 200. However, 4G services are not accessible in the Manaslu region, so relying on local SIM cards for internet connectivity is not advisable.
You can store your excess luggage at the hotel free of cost. Fill up the luggage storage and bring it back on collecting.
While the core components of the trek—such as accommodation, internal transportation, staff wages, and permits—are covered, trekkers should allocate an additional $35 to $40 per day for personal expenses. This budget should cover meals, extra snacks or drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi access, charging electronic devices, and tips for the trekking staff.
Yes, it's prudent to have a contingency fund for unforeseen circumstances that may alter the itinerary. Situations such as extreme weather, natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest, road closures due to landslides or accidents, and personal health issues can lead to additional expenses that are not covered in the standard package.
Nepal operates on the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). It's advisable to exchange major currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, or AUD in Kathmandu before commencing the trek. Banks typically offer better exchange rates than private booths; however, note that banks are closed on Saturdays. ATMs in areas like Thamel allow withdrawals of NPR 25,000 to NPR 35,000 per transaction, usually with a fee of around $5. Informing your bank about international transactions beforehand can prevent any unexpected blocks on your card.
Junkiri Treks provides an experienced trekking team to ensure safety and comfort. This includes a licensed lead guide for the group, one assistant guide for every four trekkers, and one porter per two trekkers. All team members are insured and trained in altitude safety and mountain rescue protocols.
In Kathmandu, trekkers can rent essential gear such as sleeping bags and down jackets. These items are available at approximately NPR 250 per day per item. Renting equipment locally is a convenient option, especially for those who prefer to travel light or are on a budget.
The optimal trekking seasons are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and favorable trail conditions. Planning your trek during these periods ensures a more enjoyable and safer experience.
Solo trekking is not permitted in the Manaslu region, as it's designated a restricted area. Trekkers must be in a group of at least two and accompanied by a licensed guide from a registered trekking company. Traveling with a guide also offers benefits such as assistance with accommodations, navigation, and handling unforeseen situations.
Yes, you can! After the trek, we can arrange a public bus or private jeep to Pokhara or Chitwan, where you can enjoy activities such as boating, paragliding, and jungle safaris.
Ready when you are
Walk into Manaslu
Tell us when you'd like to go and we'll shape the route, the pace and the team around you.
