How to Plan Your Manaslu Circuit Trek in Kathmandu: A Breathtaking 16-Day Adventure

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered one of the most challenging but rewarding treks in Nepal. Manaslu, also known as Kutang, is the eighth highest mountain in the world, and the trek offers a unique combination of culture, nature, and adventure. With its stunning scenic beauty and challenging terrains, the trek is an excellent opportunity for trekking enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of Nepal. If you’re planning on experiencing this trek, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure.

Experience

The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Arughat in the Gorkha district of Nepal and takes you through different topographies ending at Besisahar in the Annapurna region. The trek takes you through stunning landscapes, rugged terrains, ancient villages, and Buddhist monasteries, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of the trek include:

• Exploring the ancient and culturally rich villages of Soti Khola, Philim, Bihi Phedi, and Namrung
• Witnessing the unique traditions and lifestyles of the local people
• Crossing the challenging Larke La Pass at an altitude of 5,106 meters
• Experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area
• Enjoying the beautiful views of the Manaslu Range, Annapurna Range, and Dhaulagiri Range

Full Description

Day 1: ARRIVAL Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by the tour guide and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, you’ll have a typical Nepali dinner and a briefing on the trip. Day 2: SIGHTSEEING KATHMANDU On the second day, you’ll be taken on a tour of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. Day 3: KATHMANDU TO SOTI KHOLA The trek begins on day three. You’ll travel by jeep or van to Arughat and then proceed to Soti Khola, where you’ll spend the night. Day 4: SOTI KHOLA TO MACHHA KHOLA On day four, you’ll trek to Machha Khola. The trail takes you through small villages, river banks, and waterfalls. Day 5: MACHHA KHOLA TO JAGAT The trek continues on to Jagat, a small village that takes about six hours to reach. You’ll pass through forests and quaint little settlements along the way. Day 6: JAGAT TO DENG From Jagat, you’ll trek to Deng. The trail takes you through beautiful landscapes and traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages. Day 7: DENG TO NAMRUNG On day seven, you’ll trek to Namrung via Ghap. You’ll pass through forests, steep ridges, and valleys, and experience stunning views of the Himalayas. Day 8: NAMRUNG TO LHO From Namrung, you’ll travel to Lho, a small village perched on a hill with beautiful views of Manaslu. Day 9: LHO TO SAMAGAON On day nine, you’ll trek to Samagaon, a traditional village with excellent views of the Manaslu Glacier. Day 10: SAMAGAON (REST DAY) Day ten is a rest day to acclimate to the high altitude. You can explore the local area and see the Birendra Tal Lake. Day 11: SAMAGAON TO SAMDO On day eleven, you’ll trek to Samdo, a small village near the Tibetan border. The trail offers great views of the Himalayas. Day 12: SAMDO TO DHARAMSALA From Samdo, you’ll travel to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. You’ll cross the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek, and reach the campsite. Day 13: DHARAMSALA TO BIMTHANG On day thirteen, you’ll trek to Bimthang via the Larkya La Pass. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and witness stunning views of the Himalayas. Day 14: BIMTHANG TO GOA From Bimthang, you’ll trek to Goa, a small village with traditional houses and local markets. Day 15: GOA TO TAL The final day of the trek sees you trekking to Tal. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes and traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages. Day 16: TAL TO BESISAHAR AND BACK TO KATHMANDU On the last day, you’ll travel to Besisahar and then back to Kathmandu by jeep or van.

Booking

If you’re interested in this breathtaking trek, you can book the tour here: book the tour here.

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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging, but incredible trek that’s worth every bit of the effort it takes. From the stunning landscapes and traditional villages to the unforgettable views of the Himalayan ranges, the trek offers an adventure like no other. With the right planning and preparation, you’ll be able to make the most of your trek and experience the beauty of Nepal to the fullest.

FAQs About Kathmandu

If you are planning a trip to Nepal, Kathmandu is definitely on your itinerary. This city is known for its rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. To help you plan your trip, here are some frequently asked questions about Kathmandu.

1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a subtropical climate, which means the best time to visit is from September to November or from March to May when temperatures are mild and the skies are clear. However, if you prefer colder weather, December to February is also a good time to visit.

2. How can I get to Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has its own international airport, the Tribhuvan International Airport, which is about 5 miles from the city center. You can also travel by land from nearby countries like India and Tibet.

3. What are the best places to visit in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has numerous cultural and historical landmarks that are worth a visit. Some of the best places to visit include:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist sites in Nepal.
• Boudhanath Stupa – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world.
• Pashupatinath Temple – A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Kathmandu Durbar Square – A historic square that was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings of Nepal.
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square – Another historic square that is well known for its pottery and weaving industries.
• Thamel – A popular tourist district known for its shops, cafes, and nightlife.

4. What should I wear in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a conservative dress culture, so it is recommended to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and religious sites. However, in the tourist areas of Thamel and other modern areas, Western clothing is commonly worn.

5. What is the currency in Kathmandu?

The currency in Kathmandu is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). Major currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP are widely accepted in most tourist areas, but it’s recommended to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.

6. What is the food like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a diverse food culture, with traditional Nepali cuisine like dal bhat (lentil soup and rice) and momos (dumplings) being the most popular. International cuisine is also widely available, with Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan restaurants being the most common.

7. Is it safe to travel to Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally considered to be safe for tourists. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions like not carrying too much cash, avoiding unlit and remote areas at night, and being cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

8. What is the main language spoken in Kathmandu?

The main language spoken in Kathmandu is Nepali, but English is widely spoken and understood in most tourist areas.

9. How much time do I need to explore Kathmandu?

To fully explore the major cultural and historical landmarks in Kathmandu, it is recommended to spend at least 3-4 days in the city. However, if you want to explore more of Nepal, you can easily spend a week or more in Kathmandu and surrounding areas.

10. Are there any festivals or events in Kathmandu?

Yes, Kathmandu has several festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals include:

• Dashain – A 15-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.
• Tihar – A festival of lights that celebrates the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
• Holi – A festival of colors that celebrates the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

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Kathmandu is a beautiful city that is rich in culture and history. Hopefully, this FAQ has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip. Don’t forget to explore the city at your own pace, try some local foods, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Asia, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning mountain views. If you are planning a trip to Kathmandu and wondering how to make the most of your time in this beautiful city, here are some suggestions:

1. Visit Durbar Square

Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important landmarks in Kathmandu. This stunning complex of temples, palaces, and shrines dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for any tourist in the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the various monuments and soak up the lively atmosphere of the square.

2. Explore Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is another iconic attraction in Kathmandu. The temple complex, perched on top of a hill, offers stunning views of the city and is home to numerous monkeys that roam free. Marvel at the intricate architecture and colorful prayer flags, and don’t forget to spin the prayer wheels for good luck.

3. Experience Nepali cuisine

No visit to Kathmandu is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From momos (dumplings) to dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), the city has a rich culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Visit local restaurants and street vendors and try out different dishes to get a taste of the authentic Nepali flavor.

4. Trek to the Himalayas

Kathmandu is the gateway to the Himalayas and offers numerous trekking opportunities for adventure seekers. From the famous Everest Base Camp trek to the less crowded Annapurna Circuit, there is a trail for every level of experience. Join a guided tour or hire a local guide and embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning mountains.

5. Shop for souvenirs

Kathmandu is known for its colorful markets and bazaars, where you can find unique handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys of the Old City and browse through the shops and stalls to find the perfect souvenirs to take home. Bargain with the vendors to get the best deals and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the markets.

6. Attend a cultural show

Kathmandu is a hub of cultural activities and offers numerous shows and performances that showcase the local arts and traditions. From classical music concerts to traditional dance performances, there is something for everyone. Check the event calendar and attend a show to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Nepal.

7. Visit the Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple and one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in South Asia. Located on the banks of the Bagmati river, the temple attracts thousands of visitors every day who come to offer prayers and seek blessings. Take a guided tour to learn about the spiritual significance of the temple and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies.

8. Learn about Tibetan culture

Kathmandu is home to a large Tibetan community, and there are numerous centers and institutions that offer insights into the rich Tibetan culture and history. Visit the Tibetan refugee camps and settlements and learn about the struggles and resilience of the Tibetan people. Browse through the handicrafts and artworks created by the refugees and support their cause by purchasing some souvenirs.

9. Relax in a spa

After a long day of sightseeing and trekking, unwind and rejuvenate at one of Kathmandu’s many spas and wellness centers. From traditional Ayurvedic massages to modern therapies, there are numerous options to choose from. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the spas.

10. Volunteer for a cause

Kathmandu offers numerous opportunities for volunteering and contributing to the local community. From teaching English to underprivileged children to helping with conservation projects, there are many ways to make a difference. Join a volunteering program and give back to the society while experiencing the true essence of Nepal.

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Kathmandu is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Follow the above suggestions and make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse city.