Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trek

We arrive in Kathmandu — the heart of Nepal. Moments before landing, a breathtaking view unfolds from the plane window: a quiet valley steeped in greenery, and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas on the horizon. At the airport, we arrange our visa, check into the hotel, and spend the evening in an atmospheric restaurant, savoring Nepalese dishes to the sounds of live traditional music.

Today we process special permits for the trek and receive a briefing on the route, equipment, and travel specifics. After lunch, we'll visit the capital's spiritual sites: we'll try to see the living goddess Kumari, and also walk around one of the greatest Buddhist shrines — Boudhanath Stupa, to cleanse our karma a little before our journey to the Himalayas.

We depart Kathmandu heading west: a long transfer (8–9 hours), a beautiful road along gorges, mountain rivers, and hills. In the evening, we check into a lodge in Machha Khola village, where our trek begins.

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Three days of trekking through diverse landscapes: forest trails and suspension bridges, hot springs, waterfalls, gorges, and villages with rich Tibetan heritage. We first pass through farming settlements, then ascend higher and higher, where the forests thin, the air becomes cleaner, and the views grow more majestic. We'll conclude this stage in stone villages adorned with prayer flags and traditional gates, warming up with tea by the stove in Namrung Lodge in the evening.

Ascent through pine and rhododendron forests, ancient monasteries, and picturesque villages with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and neighboring peaks. We conclude with an acclimatization day in Samagaon, including local excursions to a glacier or lake.

A gradual ascent along high-altitude valleys and pastoral pastures. Each day brings us closer to Larkya La Pass, with an overnight stay in Dharmasala.

We set off from Dharmasala in the dark before dawn, with snow still crunching underfoot. As the first rays of sun appear, incredible panoramas of Manaslu, Himlung, and Annapurna II unfold. The wind flutters prayer flags at Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) — the highest point of our route. After a team photo and a sip of hot tea, a long descent into warmer valleys begins: snow gives way to alpine meadows, and then to green slopes. Overnight stay in Bhimtang, amidst dense forests and the murmur of mountain streams.

In the morning, we descend along a picturesque trail beside the Dudh Khola river, passing small villages, wooden bridges, and terraced fields. A final glance at the snowy peaks — and we arrive in Dharapani, where our trekking portion ends.Ahead lies a long but scenic drive back to Kathmandu with numerous stops for tea and local dishes. In the evening — a return to the bustle of Thamel, dinner with the team and celebration of the trek's completion. Morning in Kathmandu — time for last-minute shopping, souvenirs, or a stroll through the narrow streets of the old city. Then, transfer to the airport and international flight home, with a heart full of impressions and memories of the Himalayas.