Today is dedicated to getting fully organized for the mountains while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.

First, while our team secures your official trekking permits (Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, and ACAP), you will head out with an expert city guide for a morning tour of Kathmandu’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll visit historic places like Swyambhunath (the Monkey Temple) and the grand stupa of Bouddhanath. In the afternoon, we will return to the hotel for a final gear check to ensure you have all the necessary high-altitude clothing and equipment. Any remaining items can easily be bought or rented in nearby Thamel.

• Location: Kathmandu

• Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4,593 feet

• Accommodation: Luxury Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast (B)

Today our mountain journey officially begins as we leave the city behind and head deep into the central Himalayas.

First, after an early breakfast, we board our private 4WD jeep and set off along the Prithvi Highway, following the winding Trishuli River. As we leave the main highway, the road transforms into a rugged rural mountain track following the Budhi Gandaki River through terraced agricultural slopes, lush subtropical hills, and bustling local market settlements like Dhading Besi and Soti Khola. Finally, after an adventurous 7 to 8-hour drive, we arrive at the riverside village of Machha Khola to settle into our lodge for the night.

• Location: Machha Khola

• Elevation: 890 meters / 2,919 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today we lace up our hiking boots and start our first official day of walking along the Budhi Gandaki river corridor.

First, our trail winds along a narrow undulating valley path, crossing small streams and rocky hillsides. Along the way, we pass through Tatopani, where natural hot springs bubble up along the trail. Next, we cross over the roaring river via suspension bridges and navigate through dense bamboo groves to reach Khorlabesi and Dobhan. Furthermore, the trail offers fascinating views of dramatic gorge walls as we make our final gradual climb up stone steps into Jagat, a beautifully paved stone village that serves as the entry checkpoint for the Manaslu Restricted Area.

• Location: Jagat

• Elevation: 1,340 meters / 4,396 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

After our permits are verified at the Jagat checkpoint, we set out through the changing landscape as the valley begins to narrow and climb higher.

First, we walk along a well-paved stone path to Salleri and descend toward Sirdibas, enjoying views of the impressive Shringi Himal. Next, we cross a long suspension bridge over to Philim, a prosperous Gurung village surrounded by vibrant corn and millet fields. As we continue past Philim, the trail enters a dramatic, forested gorge with steep cliff faces and cascading waterfalls. Finally, after crossing the Budhi Gandaki River a few more times, we ascend steadily through bamboo and rhododendron woods until reaching the small settlement of Deng.

• Location: Deng

• Elevation: 1,860 meters / 6,102 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Marks our entry into the upper region known as Nupri, where the culture, architecture, and language become distinctly Tibetan-influenced.

First, we set off along the river trail, passing intricately carved Mani walls and stone chortens that mark the entrance to Buddhist mountain hamlets. Next, our path climbs through dense pine, fir, and oak forests teeming with native birds and langur monkeys. As we cross and re-cross the river on high suspension bridges, the trail grows steeper. Finally, after a rewarding 6-hour walk, we reach Namrung. This picturesque village offers our first unobstructed, breathtaking views of Manaslu North and Naike Peak right from the local lodges.

• Location: Namrung

• Elevation: 2,630 meters / 8,628 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

After a warm breakfast, we set out on one of the most visual and rewarding days of the trek as the high snow-capped summits begin to dominate the sky.

First, we walk through wide barley fields and past traditional stone houses in Lihi and Sho villages. Along the way, you’ll see locals dressed in traditional Tibetan clothing tending to farm fields and yak herds. Next, we pass through Lho village, home to the famous Ribung Monastery perched dramatically on a hill with Mount Manaslu looming right behind it. Furthermore, we continue our steady climb past open mountain pastures until arriving at Shyala, a high alpine village renowned for offering one of the best 360-degree mountain panoramas in the entire region, including views of Himalchuli, Peak 29, and Manaslu.

• Location: Shyala

• Elevation: 3,500 meters / 11,482 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today offers a shorter, deliberate walking schedule designed to keep your physical effort light as we transition into high-altitude territory.

First, we set off across open alpine plains surrounded by towering snowy peaks and glacial valleys. The trail leads us gently downhill before following a wide riverbed adorned with long, historic stone Mani walls carved with sacred mantras. Because today’s distance is short, we maintain a very steady, relaxed pace. Finally, after a pleasant 2 to 3-hour walk, we reach Samagaon, the primary regional village of the Nupri people, where we settle into our teahouse early to rest and prepare for tomorrow’s active acclimatization.

• Location: Samagaon

• Elevation: 3,520 meters / 11,548 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today is set aside for crucial high-altitude adaptation, helping your body adjust safely to the thinner mountain air before heading higher up the valley.

First, active acclimatization is key to a safe trek. Today you can choose between three wonderful side excursions depending on your energy levels: a gentle hike up to the milky-turquoise waters of glacial Birendra Lake (3,620 m), a scenic pilgrimage walk to the historic Pungyen Monastery, or a full-day, challenging hike up toward Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m). Furthermore, back in Samagaon during the afternoon, you can stroll past ancient monasteries, interact with local villagers, and enjoy a warm, relaxing evening by the lodge stove.

• Location: Samagaon

• Elevation: 3,520 meters / 11,548 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

After a relaxing rest day, we resume our journey along the upper river valley toward the highest permanent human settlement in the Manaslu region.

First, we descend onto the wide riverbed of the Budhi Gandaki and cross a wooden bridge before climbing gently through alpine juniper and birch groves. Along the way, we pass ancient stone chortens and watch herds of yaks grazing on sparse high-altitude grasses. Furthermore, as we hike closer to the Tibetan border, the valley opens up into sweeping wilderness landscape. Finally, after a comfortable 3 to 4-hour walk, we cross a final bridge and ascend onto a high plateau to arrive in Samdo, a culturally rich Tibetan refugee settlement.

• Location: Samdo

• Elevation: 3,860 meters / 12,664 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today is our second scheduled acclimatization day, strategically placed to ensure maximum safety, stamina, and comfort before crossing the Larkya La Pass.

First, taking two full acclimatization days above 3,500 meters drastically lowers the risk of altitude sickness. Today, we can take a peaceful morning hike up the ridge behind Samdo toward the old trade route heading to the Tibetan border (Larke La trade pass). This walk rewards us with incredible high-angle views of Samdo Peak, Larkya Peak, and the vast glacial landscape. Next, we return to the lodge by early afternoon for plenty of rest, warm hydration, and a thorough briefing from your guide on tomorrow’s trek up to base camp.

• Location: Samdo

• Elevation: 3,860 meters / 12,664 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today’s walk is short in distance but vital in execution as we climb to our final high-altitude base before crossing the pass tomorrow.

First, after a hearty breakfast, we descend past the local ruins and cross a wooden bridge over the headwaters of the Budhi Gandaki. Next, we gradually climb through rugged moraines and barren alpine terrain, keeping a slow and deliberate pace to conserve our energy. Along the trail, we enjoy striking views of the huge Larkya Glacier spilling down the mountainside. Finally, after 3 to 4 hours of steady walking, we reach Dharamshala (Larkya Phedi). Upon arrival, we check into our teahouse, eat a warm early dinner, and turn in early for a good night’s sleep before our pre-dawn start!

• Location: Dharamshala / Larkya Phedi

• Elevation: 4,480 meters / 14,698 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today is the crown jewel and most thrilling day of your entire expedition! We wake up around 3:00 AM, gear up with warm layers and headlamps, and set off into the starlight.

First, our trail climbs steadily up a high ridge and across glacial moraines. Because the route at high elevation is narrow and sloped, we will maintain a gentle, cautious pace. As dawn breaks, magnificent views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru surround us. After 4 to 5 hours of climbing, we summit Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) draped in vibrant prayer flags! After celebratory photos and soaking in the 360-degree mountain views, we begin a long, gentle descent across snowfields and scree slopes into a lush valley basin. Finally, after 8 to 9 hours of total trekking, we reach the beautiful alpine meadows of Bimthang for a well-earned rest.

• Location: Bimthang

• Elevation: 3,720 meters / 12,204 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

After a deeply restorative sleep in Bimthang, we begin our descent back into warmer, oxygen-rich lower elevations today.

First, we leave the glacial amphitheater of Bimthang behind and descend through lush pastures along the Dudh Khola (Milk River). Next, our trail enters enchanting, dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and blue fir trees. As we lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and noticeably easier to breathe. Furthermore, we cross wooden bridges over crystal-clear mountain streams and pass small forest clearings used by local yak herders. Finally, after a pleasant 5 to 6-hour walk, we arrive at the quiet, green woodland village of Goa (Gho) to rest for the evening.

• Location: Goa (Gho)

• Elevation: 2,515 meters / 8,251 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Teahouse

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today features our final leg on foot, followed by our exit drive out of the mountain valleys.

First, after breakfast, we embark on a pleasant 2 to 3-hour walk down through farmlands and scrub forests until reaching Dharapani. Here, our trail officially joins the famous Annapurna Circuit route, and we check through our final trekking permits. Next, we bid farewell to our trekking crew and board our private 4WD vehicle. We set off on a scenic, off-road drive following the Marsyangdi River gorge, passing dramatic waterfalls and hillside villages until reaching the lower hub of Besisahar by late afternoon.

• Location: Besisahar

• Elevation: 760 meters / 2,493 feet

• Accommodation: Local Lodge / Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)

Today marks the final return drive of our incredible journey. After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, we bid farewell to the mountain regions and prepare for our trip back to the capital.

First, we board our private vehicle and set off along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River through vibrant local market towns, terraced hillsides, and lush rural landscapes. Eventually, after a 6 to 7-hour scenic drive, we ascend back into the Kathmandu Valley and transfer you safely to your luxury hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a hot shower, relax, and celebrate the complete success of your Manaslu Round Luxury Trek with a special farewell dinner featuring local traditional music and cultural dance!

• Location: Kathmandu

• Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4,593 feet

• Accommodation: Luxury Hotel

• Meal Plan: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner (BD

Good morning! Today marks the official end of your grand adventure in Nepal.

First, depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel, pick up some last-minute souvenirs in Thamel, or enjoy a quiet breakfast. At the appointed time, our private vehicle and representative will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of the Himalayas with you!

• Location: Kathmandu

• Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4,593 feet

• Accommodation: None (Departure)

• Meal Plan: Breakfast (B)