Mt. Manaslu is located in the Mansiri subrange of the western part of Nepal. It stands at the height of 8163 metres (26781 ft) above sea level and is the 8th highest mountain in the world. The name of the mountain Manaslu means “Mountain of the Spirit”. It comes from the Sanskrit word “Manasa” which means intellect or soul. Two Japanese climbers Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu were the first to ascend Mt. Manaslu in 1953.
Mt. Manaslu is one of the only 14 peaks in the world that rises more than 8000 metres, also known as “the death zone”. Mt. Manaslu Expedition presents a unique opportunity to explore the landscapes and settlements in the foothills of the mountains, along with mountaineering experience. The ascent to Mt. Manaslu is challenging and has several technical sections that will test you to the core. The expedition is perfect for those adventure seekers who want to gain climbing experience in high altitude.
The trip starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. We then begin our trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola. We will cross the famous Budhi Gandaki river several times during our trek. We will also cross the stunning Larkya La Pass(5213m). Along the way we will pass through villages of Jagat, Namrung, Shya and finally reach Sama Gaon. From Samagaon, we will eventually trek to the Manaslu Base Camp.
In the Manaslu Base Camp, we will acclimatize and prepare for the trek. For more than two weeks, the Manaslu Base Camp will be our home. We will go through an extensive training and preparation program, especially for the technical climb. We will return to the Soti Khola using the same route as before overlooking the scenic mountains and charming villages. From Soti Khola, we will drive back to Kathmandu and then fly to our desired destination.
The Manaslu region has a beautiful and diverse habitat with exotic flora and fauna. The Manaslu region boasts of the alpine forest of rhododendron trees, hanging glaciers, and ice falls. The Manaslu expedition is an exciting trekking route with a vast range of altitude and climatic variations. Many mountaineers also consider Mt. Manaslu climbing as a training ground for Mt. Everest expedition.
Our company offers a complete package of Mt. Manaslu Expedition at a reasonable price. Other mountaineering expeditions of Mt. Everest, Mt. Baruntse and Mt. Ama Dablam are also quite popular. If you are an aspiring mountaineer who wants to gain experience in the high altitude zone of 8000 m then Mt. Manaslu Expedition is an ideal match for you. Don’t think any further, book your trip now.
Highlights of The Manaslu Expedition
- Climbing Mt Manaslu (8163m), the 8th highest mountain in the world.
- Awe-inspiring views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and other snow-capped mountains.
- Crossing the Larkya La Pass(5135m)
- Exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Buddhist villages
- Incredible hospitality of the Nepalese People
- Adventurous trekking route passing through alpine forests passes, waterfalls, suspension bridges etc.
Best Time for Mt. Manaslu Expedition
The autumn months of October-November comes right after the monsoon season. The temperatures are gradually decreasing, and the rocky mountain peaks will be covered in thick snow. Rope fixing gets more comfortable as the snow deposit is maximum. The heat is moderate in the day time. The success rate is also higher in the autumn season. The trekking routes move along the lush green hills. The ropes, ladders and camps are easily set up and attached.
Besides these, a small window of April-May in the spring season is also available. The autumn season offers great weather, and spectacular views of the snow capped mountains. The flowers of different varieties bloom in the region, especially the rhododendron. The weather is warm at lower altitudes and cooler in the higher elevations.
The Difficulty Level of Mt. Manaslu Expedition
The Manaslu region is stunning geographically. The long ridges and valley glaciers are accessible from multiple directions. The climbing route of Mt. Manaslu from the Base Camp is relatively straight with several technical sections. There are generally four Camps set during the Manaslu Expedition.
The ascent of the summit of Mt. Manaslu is difficult and challenging. The technical sections towards the summit and the extreme weather at a high altitude makes this expedition difficult. The high elevation of more than 8000 meters above sea level also poses a challenge.
Climbers need to have an excellent level of fitness. Some previous experience with rock and ice climbing is required. As a preparation, climbers should undergo a regular and strenuous exercise regime for at least six months. This exercise builds their strength, stamina and endurance at high altitudes. Previous ascents at high altitude over 4500m is a plus.
Manaslu Expedition Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu tour.
Day 03: Official briefing.
Day 04: Drive to Sotikhola (710m).
Day 05: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (883m).
Day 06: Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m).
Day 07: Jagat to Philim (1606m).
Day 08: Philim to Ghap (3200m).
Day 09: Ghap to Namrung (2670m).
Day 10: Namrung to Shya (3530m).
Day 11: Shya to Sama Gaon (3541m).
Day 12: Rest day.
Day 13: Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp (4895m), back to Samagon.
Day 14: Repeat the trek from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp.
Day 15: Base Camp Set up and prepare for climbing.
Day 16-38: Climbing period.
Day 39: Manaslu Base Camp to Sama Gaon.
Day 40: Sama Gaon to Namrung.
Day 41: Namrung to Philim.
Day 42: Philim to Machha Khola.
Day 43: Machha Khola to Soti Khola.
Day 44: Drive to Kathmandu.
Day 45: Rest day.
Day 46: Final departure.
Detailed Itineraries
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Our staff will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. You will get briefed about the trip in detail. You can relax and spend the night at the hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
An expert guide will provide a guided tour of the mystical Kathmandu valley. You will visit the various World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO in Nepal. You will sightsee the historical and cultural landmarks like the Basantapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath. The unique culture, architecture and culinary arts of the Newar community will enthrall you.
Day 03: Official briefing
An official briefing of the expedition with fellow climbers and the team leader will be organised. The presentation will detail the expedition duration, equipment and team composition. The expert and veteran mountaineers will check the mountaineering gear in detail. If the gears are not found to be up to the standard, you might need to replace them with new ones. You will pack for the trip and spend the night at the hotel.
Day 04: Drive to SotiKhola (710m), 9-10 hours
A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola will begin early in day 4. Soti Khola lies near the market town of Arughat, which is the starting point of our trek. Our drive will take almost nine to ten hours. During the trip we can see the activities of the local people in highway running their shops, hotels and other businesses. We will stay overnight at a lodge Soti Khola.
Day 05: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (883m), 5-6 hours
After an early breakfast, we travel from Soti Khola to Macha Khola. First, we cross a bridge and then climb over a big rock before descending to the banks of Budhi Gandaki river. The trail moves along the steep rocky path as we head towards the Labishe, a Gurung village at 880 above sea level. After some time we will reach Machha Khola where we will stay overnight.
Day 06: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m), 5-6 hours
We start our trek from Macha Khola. The exotic trail is an off the beaten path that has remained unspoiled. We will pass the Jagat village, which is situated 1410 meters above sea level. The Gurung villages of Khorla Besi, Tatopani, Dobhan, Yuru Khola along the Budhanilkantha valley. We will walk through rugged terrain overlooking the snow-capped mountains and exploring the cultural and religious heritage.
The traditional Buddhist monasteries offer the idea of Buddhist influence in the region. We travel through the foothills of the Himalayas passing through pristine Himalayan foothills and remote settlement of Gurung villages. The lush alpine forests with rhododendron trees, gorgeous waterfalls, meadows make the trek enjoyable.
Day 07: Trek from Jagat to Philim (1606m), 6-7 hours
From Jagat, we trek towards Setibas. In Setibas, we can see the beautifully painted Mani Walls which are reminiscent of Tibetan influence in the region. The trail moves further as we descend through the grassy slopes and head for the Budhi Gandaki river. After crossing the river throughout a suspension bridge, the path becomes pleasant and smooth. We pass through Gurung villages of Deng. The Buddhist heritage and influence can be seen it its landmarks and monuments. We finally reach the village of Philim, where we stay overnight.
Day 08: Trek from Philim to Ghap (3200m), 4-5 hours
After breakfast, we will resume our trek that leads to several challenging ascents and descents until we reach Ghap. Ghap is a tiny village that consists of five to six stone houses. It is famous for the mani wall with distinctive carvings of teachings of Lord Buddha. We will stay for the night in Ghap.
Day 09: Trek from Ghap to Namrung (2670m), 4-5 hours
We pass through a few houses and three streams and enter a forest with lots of birds, including the Danphe, which is the national bird of Nepal. The trail makes a steep climb through the bamboo and rhododendron forests. We need to cross the river and water streams several times along the way.
The trail crosses Budhi Gandaki twice on wooden bridges makeshift above the beautiful gorges before entering the Namrung through a stone archway. Namrung is a Buddhist village with monasteries, water turbine, hydroelectricity powerhouse, mani walls, chortens and prayer flags fluttering in the sky. We spend the night in Namrung.
Day 10: Trek from Namrung to Shya (3530m), 5-6 hours
The trek from Namrung to Shya starts by crossing the Therang river along a trail that is easy and comfortable. We trek towards the Nupri region, which is inhabited by Tibetan immigrants and their descendants. The trail then passes through a waterfall on the left side before entering the scattered village of Barchham. The trail ascends for a short period until we reach the village of Lihi.
From Lihi, we will further descend to cross the Hinan Kohla river. The final ascent of the day will lead us to the village of Sho. The trail finally emerges to Shya after passing the village of Barcham, Lihi and Sho. We will spend the night in a lodge in Shya. All along the trail, we move along enjoying the spectacular views of the Manaslu and the Himchuli.
Day 11: Trek from Shya to Sama Gaon (3541m), 2-3 hours
A short trekking day awaits us on day 11. After having breakfast, we resume our trek for the day following a trail that crosses a ridge. After crossing the ridge, we enter and exit a side canyon. The ascent starts from here toward the rocky slopes to finally emerge into a ridge overlooking the vast pastures and grasslands of Sama Gaon. The village of Sama Gaon has many religious monuments and a gompa. We will stay the night in Sama Gaon.
Day 12: Acclimatization and Rest day at Sama Gaon
We take this day off to rest and acclimatize around the village of Sama Gaon. The elevation is more than 3500 above sea level. Acclimatization is a necessary process where we let our bodies adapt to the changing altitude conditions. This process is done at regular intervals to avoid high altitude sickness. We will pay a pilgrimage to the Pung Gyen Gompa monastery, roaming around the village and experience the culture and heritage of the Buddhist people. The incredible hospitality of the local people will astound you.
Day 13: Trek from Sama Gaon to Manaslu Base Camp (4895m), back to Sama Gaon, 5-6 hours
After a day acclimatizing at the Sama Gaon village. We follow the trail that descends steeply over the glacier moraines. The trail passes through a spectacular glacial lake called the Birendra Kund which lies at the foot of the glacier. The Reflection of Mt. Manaslu and its northern icefall on the lake is spellbinding. The trekking is mostly uphill; hence, it is essential to go slow and rest regularly at regular intervals to conserve energy in higher altitudes. After resting for some time, we will head back to Sama Gaon.
Day 14: Repeat the trek from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp, 3-4 hours
We will start the trek to Manaslu Base Camp once again. We follow the same trail that we took the previous day. We ascend steeply over the glacier moraines and passing through a spectacular glacial lake called the Birendra Kund which lies at the foot of the glacier. The Reflection of Mt. Manaslu and its northern icefall on the lake are spellbinding.
The trekking is mostly uphill. Hence, it is essential to go slow and rest regularly at regular intervals to conserve energy in higher altitudes. We will stay in a camp.
Day 15: Base Camp Set up and prepare for climbing
After reaching the Manaslu Base Camp, the Sherpa crew will quickly set up the Base Camp and make necessary preparations for setting up additional Camps at a higher altitude to finally summit the Mountain. Manaslu. We will prepare for the climbing expedition of Mt. Manaslu.
Day 16-38: Climbing period
We will spend a couple of weeks or more training and practising the climb. We will also acclimatize at regular intervals. Our Sherpa crew will set up tents and carry all the mountaineering gears. They will set up at least four other Camps at higher altitudes above the Base Camp. A separate dining kitchen setup provides us with a healthy meal while we train ourselves.
Our experienced veteran climbers will train you in advance mountaineering skill techniques using extensive mountaineering gear like ice axe, crampons, fixed ropes etc.we overcome technical climbing sections and weather conditions we climb towards the summit of Mt. Manaslu, 8th highest mountain in the world. We can enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the Ganesh Himal, Manaslu north, Himchuli and other snow-capped peaks. After spending some time at the top of the summit, we will descend back to the Base Camp through the same route.
Day 39: Trek from Manaslu Base Camp to Sama Gaon, 3-4 hours
Bazar after the successful expedition of Mt. Manaslu, we prepare for the return journey. We will trek gradually and retrace the same steps on the trail. The trail descends through a glacier moraine. We rest after reaching Sama Gaon and stay overnight.
Day 40: Trek from Sama Gaon to Namrung, 5-6 hours
We descend our way back to Namrung from Sama Gaon in the same trail we ascended. The trail passes through beautiful villages of Shya, Sho, Lihi, before finally reaching our destination. We descend through rocky slopes and enter the river down below. We will cross the river through the ridge to eventually reach Namrung. Namrung is a Gurung village abundant with farms of corn and millet.
Day 41: Trek from Namrung to Philim, 6-7 hours
We travel to Philim passing through the village ghap. We pass through a stone archway. Namrung is a Buddhist village with monasteries, water turbine, hydroelectricity powerhouse, mani walls, chortems and prayer flags. The trail crosses Budhi Gandaki twice on wooden bridges makeshift above the beautiful gorges. The water streams several times along the way to finally reach ghap.
Ghap is a tiny village that consists of five to six stone houses. It is famous for the mani wall with distinctive carvings of teachings of Lord Buddha. We will resume our trek that leads to several challenging ascents and descents until we reach the village of Philim.
Day 42: Trek from Philim to Machha Khola, 6-7 hours
The trail is a gradual descent on a rocky path. We get excellent views of the Sringeri Himal along the way, we are surrounded by alder, blue pine and poplar trees along the road till we reach Dobhan. From Dobhan, we descend a staircase over a ridge. Dobhan lies in the junction of the Shiar Khola and the Sarpu Khola. The trail then resumes some ups and downs to reach Macha Khola finally.
Day 43: Trek from Machha Khola to Soti Khola, 5-6 hours
We will follow the same route where we started our trek. First, we pass through the Gurung village of Labishe. The steep rocky path leads us to the banks of BudHi Gandaki river. We climb further to reach a big rock. We descend over to the bridge and cross the bridge to reach the Macha Khola.
Day 44: Drive to Kathmandu, 9-10 hours
We bazar drive back to Kathmandu from Soti Khola on a 9-10 hour drive. The drive moves along the zig-zag hilly roads overlooking the scenic mountains and the terraced green hills.
Day 45: Rest day
You will have a free day on your hand on this day. You can go last minute shopping or relax in Nepal, which is a tourist hub in Kathmandu.
Day 46: Final departure
We will drop you to the airport, and you can board a flight to your desired destination.
