The drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, spanning around 160 km, takes 7–9 hours and offers a mix of scenic views and rugged adventure. Starting on the smooth Prithvi Highway, the route transitions to off-road trails, passing through Dhading Besi, Arughat, and alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. Highlights include lush hills, traditional villages, and waterfalls. A 4×4 vehicle is ideal for navigating the challenging terrain, making this journey a thrilling prelude to the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Today in the beginning, cross the Tharo Khola and a couple of hour gentle walk to Khorlabesi. It’s a great opportunity to see the natural hot spring along the way. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river, we gradually climb up to Dovanathen and walk through the big landslide after that gradually accent to the Yaru Khola. Upon crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, walk on a well-crafted staircase, after crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we will enter Jagat Village. Overnight at Jagat.

Today, trek towards Deng, along the walk passing through several traditional villages such as Salleri, Sirdibas and GhattaKhola. As you reach at Ghatta Khola should go over the long suspension bridge and short climb up to Filim village. This is the place where travels should check in their permit, and also it is one of the reach ethnic Gurung cultural village. After crossing a Eklee Bhatti, the route now enters a steep uninhabited gorge. You will cross the Budhi Gandaki river. The trail passes via bamboo forests and Pewa village before it reachingto Deng. Overnight at Deng.

Today after breakfast, around 45 minutes gentle walk to Budhi Gandki river, as you cross the bridge begin ascent to Rana village. The trail passes through forests and Mani walls. You will take the route via Prok village, upon arrival to the village will see spectacular view of Siringi Himal. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and path is normal. The pleasant walk continues to the bridge and start steep climb up before reaching Namrung. From the village you’ll have thrilling view of Ganesh Himal Siringi Himal. Overnight at Namrung.

We will walk through a forest and reach to Lihi village; it is a beautiful village and can see several ancient stupas. After couple of hors easy walking arrive to Lho, as you reach in to the villageappear Mt. Manaslu and more. Don’t miss to visit ancient monastery, there are fifty monks live in the monastery and they do ritual ceremony morning and evening, which is very interesting. Overnight Lho.

Today’s hiking via Shyla village to Samagaun, there is a monastery in Shyla village. It was built in 7^th century and  4 years ago reconstructed. From Shyla will have gorgeous view of peak 29. After crossing the bridge, enters in to Samagaon, a large village before the larke pass. The village has thousands of Mani wheels with Buddhist texts and picture inscribed on them. You will get a chance to explore and learn the Tibetan culture and lifestyle. On a little hill near the Sama village is an old monastery with great views. Overnight in Samagaun.

On the acclimatization day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, choose between a hike to Manaslu Base Camp (~4,800m) or Pungyen Gompa (~4,000m). The base camp offers stunning glacier views and a challenging ascent, while Pungyen Gompa provides a serene cultural experience with panoramic mountain vistas. Both hikes take 5–7 hours round trip and help you adjust to the altitude while exploring the region’s natural and cultural beauty.

On this day of rest, you will stop at Samdo and then go on a day trip to the Tibetan border. From the border, you can see parts of Tibet and Nepal. If lucky, you can also witness the Yak caravan passing the border.

Once at the border, if you look south of Samdo Glacier, you will get excellent photos of a huge serac near the top of the glacier. You can also frame Blue Sheep, picas, and Marmots in season.

The trek from Samdo to Dharmasala is a 3–4 hour journey through rugged terrain, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Although Dharmasala might appear within reach from Samdo, the high altitude makes the trek feel longer, requiring a steady pace and attention to your body’s signals. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of old herders’ settlements, immersing yourself in the area’s history. At Dharmasala (4,460m), the small base camp for Larkya La Pass, the trek provides an essential opportunity for acclimatization as you prepare for the challenging pass ahead.

The trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass (5,160m) is a challenging 8–10 hour journey and the highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Starting early, around 3 a.m., you’ll ascend steeply toward the pass, which can be tough in bad weather or snow, but is achievable with steady pacing. Once at the pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of peaks like Himlung Himal (7,126m), Kang Guru (6,981m), and Annapurna II (7,937m).

After spending some time at the pass, you’ll descend for about 3 hours toward Bimthang (3,590m). Along the way, you’ll encounter massive icefalls, sweeping mountain vistas, and views of Pongkar Tal between the Pongkar and Salpu Danda Glaciers. This section is demanding but offers unparalleled views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment.

Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft) is a lively village along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, marking the transition from high-altitude regions to lower, accessible areas. Located in Lamjung District, it features a mix of traditional stone houses and modern teahouses, catering to trekkers. Inhabited by Gurung and Tibetan communities, it offers a rich cultural experience.

The trek from Bimthang to Dharapani is a 6-7 hour descent, covering 21 kilometers (17 miles). Passing through alpine meadows, forests, and crossing the Marsyangdi River, it offers scenic views and cultural insights as trekkers reach the village, marking the end of the high-altitude trek.

The drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu takes 7–9 hours, passing through scenic landscapes, terraced fields, and small villages. Following the Marshyangdi River, the journey offers a relaxing transition from the mountains to the vibrant capital, marking the end of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.