The Short Manaslu Trek is a journey through the untouched Manaslu Conservation Area. Explore lush forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal, visit ancient monasteries, and cross thrilling suspension bridges. Ideal for trekkers seeking adventure in a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan setting.
Mount Manaslu Views – Marvel at the 8th-highest peak in the world.
Hidden Himalayan Gem – Trek through the pristine, less-explored Manaslu region.
Rhododendron Paradise – Wander colorful forests, especially magical in spring.
Authentic Local Villages – Experience Gurung and Tibetan culture in Jagat and Deng.
Thrilling Suspension Bridges – Cross iconic hanging bridges over rushing rivers.
Diverse Landscapes – From lush forests to high alpine meadows.
Ancient Buddhist Monasteries – Visit sacred monasteries and traditional chortens.
Panoramic Himalayan Views – Capture breathtaking peaks like Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.
Peaceful Trekking Trails – Enjoy solitude away from crowded tourist routes.
Adventure in 10 Days – Short trek, big Himalayan adventure!
The Short Manaslu Trek is one of the finest short trekking experiences in Nepal, designed for travelers who want dramatic Himalayan scenery, rich mountain culture, and quiet trails within a limited time. This trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and offers a true off-the-beaten-path adventure far from crowded trekking routes.
Unlike the Everest or Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Trek Nepal route remains peaceful and untouched. The trail follows the deep gorge of the Budhi Gandaki River, passing waterfalls, suspension bridges, pine forests, and traditional stone villages. Every day feels different, with changing landscapes and views that slowly open toward high alpine terrain.
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola. From here, trekking starts along river valleys and terraced hillsides. As you move higher, villages such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo reveal strong Tibetan influence through monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and daily mountain life. This cultural experience is one of the most rewarding parts of the trek.
One of the main highlights of the Short Manaslu Trek itinerary is the crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). This high Himalayan pass is challenging but unforgettable. From the top, trekkers enjoy wide panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Glaciers, snowfields, and vast mountain valleys surround you in every direction.
After crossing Larkya La Pass, the trail descends to the beautiful alpine valley of Bimthang and continues toward Dharapani, where the route connects with the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. This connection makes the Short Manaslu Trek even more special, as it links two classic trekking regions of Nepal in one journey.
The trek usually takes 10 to 12 days, with daily walking hours averaging 6 to 8 hours. Distances vary depending on terrain and altitude, but the pace is steady and manageable for trekkers with good fitness. Accommodation is in local tea houses, offering simple, clean rooms. Meals are freshly prepared and include traditional Nepali food such as Dal Bhat, along with noodles, soups, potatoes, eggs, and Tibetan bread.
The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so trekking here requires special permits and a licensed guide, which is mandatory by government rule. Traveling with an experienced guide ensures safety, proper acclimatization, and deeper cultural understanding. A porter is highly recommended, especially for comfort at higher altitudes.
At Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd., we organize the Short Manaslu Trek with professional guides, reliable logistics, and a strong focus on safety and authentic experience. This trek is ideal for travelers who want a real Himalayan adventure without spending many weeks on the trail.
The Short Manaslu Trek with us is a perfect mix of remote nature, high mountain scenery, and living Himalayan culture—short in time, but rich in experience.
The Short Manaslu Trek is perfect for travelers who:
With proper preparation and a professional licensed guide, the Short Manaslu Trek is safe, rewarding, and offers an unforgettable Himalayan journey.
The Short Manaslu Trek with US is ideal for trekkers seeking a short, scenic, and culturally rich Himalayan adventure in Nepal, offering a unique mix of natural beauty, high mountain challenges, and local village life.
| Season | Advantages | Disadvantages | Average Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn / Dry Season (Sep–Nov) | Clear skies, stable weather, colorful landscapes, great mountain views, and a lower chance of landslides. | More tourists, higher prices, and cold nights at high altitude. | 5°C – 20°C (valleys), -5°C – 10°C (high passes) |
| Spring / Dry Season (Mar–May) | Blooming rhododendrons, clear mountain views, moderate temperature, and good for photography. | Busy trails, occasional strong sun at altitude. | 10°C – 22°C (valleys), 0°C – 12°C (high passes) |
| Monsoon / Rainy Season (Jun–Aug) | Lush green valleys, fewer tourists, waterfalls, and rivers full of water. | Heavy rain, muddy and slippery trails, risk of landslides, and limited high mountain views due to clouds. | 15°C – 25°C (valleys), 5°C – 15°C (high passes) |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Less crowded, clear skies, crisp air, excellent for snow-covered mountain photography. | Very cold nights, snow on trails, high-altitude passes are difficult, and tea houses are less busy. | -2°C – 15°C (valleys), -15°C – 0°C (high passes) |
Description:
The adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu, heading west along winding highways and scenic valleys. You’ll pass through Dhadingbeshi, Aarughat, Arkhet, and cross several rivers, including the Soti Khola and Machha Khola. The landscape transitions from urban surroundings to terraced farmland and dense forests. Roads are generally well-maintained, but the final stretch from Aarughat to Jagat is off-road and can be bumpy, adding to the sense of adventure. Jagat is a peaceful village that serves as the gateway to the Manaslu region. Here, you can rest in local guesthouses, enjoy authentic Nepali meals, and meet the warm, hospitable villagers as you prepare for the trekking journey ahead.
Description:
From Jagat, the trail gently ascends along the Marsyangdi River, offering a perfect introduction to trekking in the Manaslu region. You will cross several charming suspension bridges, pass through traditional villages, and see locals working in terraced fields. Midway, stop at a local teahouse for a simple lunch, enjoying views of the river and surrounding hills. As you approach Deng Village, the trail passes through forests and small hamlets, giving trekkers a glimpse of local life. Deng is a cozy settlement with tea houses offering comfortable accommodation, warm meals, and friendly hosts, making it an ideal first night on the trail.
Description:
The trail today gradually ascends through dense forests, rivers, and terraced farmland. You will encounter stone stairways and small local monasteries, offering insight into the region’s rich culture. The climb is moderate but steady, giving trekkers ample opportunities to enjoy the changing landscapes and photograph mountain panoramas. Lunch is typically at a riverside teahouse, where you can relax and refuel. As you approach Namrung Village, the trail opens to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Namrung is a picturesque village with stone houses and traditional guesthouses, providing a chance to experience local life and interact with the friendly residents.
Description:
Today, trek through lush rhododendron and pine forests with vibrant flowers and scenic trails. The path passes several small villages and offers glimpses of the local culture, including stone houses and mani walls. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler and clearer, providing spectacular mountain views. Samagaon Village, located at 3530m beneath Mount Manaslu, is one of the largest settlements in the region and is known for its ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan-style architecture. A lunch stop at a small lodge allows you to enjoy local cuisine while resting. Evening in Samagaon offers time to explore the village, admire the sunset, and prepare for the higher-altitude trek ahead.
Description:
This day involves a challenging ascent, climbing through rugged trails and moraines. The trek offers panoramic views of towering peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude landscapes. Dharamsala serves as a resting spot near the base of Larkya La Pass. It’s a small, serene settlement providing a unique high-altitude trekking experience. Along the way, trekkers encounter prayer flags, stone walls, and scattered teahouses for lunch breaks. The thin mountain air and chilly temperatures add to the sense of adventure. Evening at Dharamsala is peaceful, with clear night skies perfect for star-gazing and quiet reflection before the demanding pass crossing tomorrow.
Description:
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. The highlight is crossing Larkya La Pass, the highest point at 5106m, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The trail is steep and can be slippery, with snow and rocky sections. After conquering the pass, descend toward Bimtang Village, a peaceful high-altitude settlement surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes. Along the way, you’ll witness unique flora, high-altitude lakes, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Bimtang offers cozy tea houses for rest. This day is a true adventure, testing stamina while providing unforgettable panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Description:
Descend from Bimtang to Tilje, enjoying the last views of terraced fields, rivers, and remote villages. The trail winds through scenic landscapes, offering photo opportunities and chances to interact with locals. From Tilje, drive to Besisahar, then continue by road to Kathmandu, completing the Manaslu Circuit trek. The drive back offers a reflective view of the valleys and mountains trekked over the past week. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, celebrate your accomplishment, reminisce about high passes, snow-capped peaks, and unique cultural encounters, and enjoy the comfort of city life after a thrilling Himalayan adventure.
| Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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The Short Manaslu Trek is in northern Nepal, near the Tibetan border. It starts from Soti Khola or Arughat and passes through remote villages, forests, and rivers inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, ending around Deng or Jagat. It’s less crowded than other popular trails, offering a peaceful Himalayan experience.
2. When is the best time to do the trek?
The best seasons are:
The Short Manaslu Trek usually takes 7 days, covering 60–70 km depending on the exact route. Each day involves moderate walking of 4–7 hours.
It is considered a moderate trek. Trekkers should have good stamina, be able to walk several hours a day, and be comfortable with basic altitude. No technical climbing skills are needed.
The trek reaches around 3,300–3,400 meters at the highest point. At this altitude, most healthy trekkers feel minimal altitude effects, but it’s still important to walk slowly and stay hydrated.
The trail includes:
Key stops include Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and small traditional villages. Highlights include terraced fields, mountain views, rivers, forests, and local culture.
Accommodation is in local teahouses/lodges. Rooms are basic, often with beds and blankets. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging may be available in some lodges for an extra cost.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the trek. Meals usually consist of:
Yes. A licensed guide is required for trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area. Guides ensure safety, manage permits, and provide local knowledge.
Porters are optional but recommended. One porter can carry luggage for two trekkers, making the trek less tiring and more enjoyable.
Lunch stops are available at local teahouses and lodges in villages like Machha Khola, Jagat, and Deng. Hot drinks and snacks are usually available along the route.
The trek offers:
Trekkers may see Himalayan birds, monkeys, and langurs. Snow leopards and red pandas are rare but possible.
Essentials include:
From Kathmandu, you can take a private car or jeep to Soti Khola or Arughat, a 6–10 hour drive depending on road conditions.
The risk is low, as the trek stays below 3,500 meters. Trekkers should walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen to their bodies.
Costs usually include:
Not recommended for very young children due to altitude and daily walking hours. Teenagers and older children with stamina can manage the trek safely.
Yes, trekkers can extend to explore more remote villages or join the Manaslu Circuit Trek if they have extra days.
It offers a compact Himalayan experience in just 7 days, including: