Manaslu Circuit Trek with Serang Gumba Retreat

Your journey starts as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. At the airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel in Thamel, where you are staying, a bustling hub of touristic activity with shops, cafes, and stores of trekking equipment. Your arrival time will determine whether you may relax and heal after your trip or tour the city and visit UNESCO-listed historical sites.

We set this day to finish your trip plans. It guarantees you the required Manaslu Restricted Area Permits and Manaslu Conservation Area Permits by introducing the guide and porter, who have become family members for the whole trip. You can discover the cultural beauties of Kathmandu—including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, or Boudhanath Stupa—while we manage the paperwork. You will also have time for shopping for any last-minute trekking needs and a last gear check.

Long but beautiful, the road from Kathmandu to Jagat provides varied scenery and views of rural Nepali life. Early in the morning, we started down the Prithvi Highway beside the Trishuli River. The route winds across terraced farms, verdant hills, and little roadside communities. The road gets increasingly rocky and crosses the Trishuli River as we approach Dhading Besi, then turns into an exciting yet challenging path toward Arughat.

From Arughat, the trip continues on the off-road along the Budhi Gandaki River, past Soti Khola and Machhakhola. The track becomes steeper and the terrain more challenging, but the spectacular views of rolling hills, waterfalls, and suspension bridges make the journey worthwhile. We finally reach Jagat, a charming town with stone-paved roads and traditional homes, officially the Manaslu trek permit entry point. From the Arughat Bazaar or Machhkhola, in 9 to 10 hours, the bus to Kathmandu travels with another local shared jeep to the Jagat (1,340 m), around 1 ½ to 2 hours of risky driving.

The journey starts with a mild climb across terraced farms, verdant subtropical forests, and dispersed communities. The path runs beside the Budhi Gandki River across several suspended bridges. We stop at Philim, a beautiful Gurung village with breathtaking views of nearby mountains and waterfalls. We get to Ekle Bhatti and then head into a more remote part of the Manaslu Conservation Area via the rocky terrain.

After crossing the river near the waterfall, the right trail before crossing the bridge goes to the holy Tsum Valley. The environment changes to become thick pine and rhododendron forests as we climb gradually. As we negotiate difficult paths across multiple suspension bridges, the trail narrows. Deep river gorges and falling waterfalls along the trail enhance its breathtaking beauty. The last section is a brief ascent before we arrive in Deng (1,865 m), a little but culturally significant community providing insight into Tibetan-influenced ways of life, Nyak Phedi and Pewa.

After leaving Deng, the path winds along the Budhi Gandaki River via multiple suspension bridges amid verdant trees. After a one and one-half hour walk, get in Bihi Phedi. Once at Bihi Phedi (1,990 m), past Rana, we follow a less-traveled path into Serang Gumba, a remote Buddhist monastery tucked away in the highlands. About 4 to 5 hours of difficult ascent pass through rhododendrons and deep pine forests, with sporadic clearings offering amazing views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal.

As we approach Serang Gumba (3,050 m), prayer flags flap in the breeze, and the valley echoes with the quiet chanting of monks. Hidden treasure, the monastery boasts Buddhist monks committed to meditation and prayer throughout their lifetime. Here, visitors can engage with the monks who often tell tales about the spiritual and cultural legacy of the area, see religious ceremonies, and live true Himalayan monastic life. The monastery offers a serene sanctuary where one can witness daily monastic rituals. Spending the evening at Serang Monastery will allow you to savor food made by the monks. You will notice a wild goat, known as the Himalayan Thar/Jharal, in the yard of the Serang Gumba, approaching you like a pet. Usually fed by monks, they visit Gumba for food.

From the spiritual paradise of Serang Gumba (3,050 m) to the verdant, river-carved valley of Ghap (2,165 m), today's path drops. Offering a mix of cultural immersion and natural beauty, this trip winds through old forests, secret waterfalls, and isolated Tibetan settlements. We see the great Buddhist legacy of the Nubri and Tsum people as we travel by prayer-engraved Mani walls, Chortens, and fluttering prayer flags.

Trail Serang Gumba to Bihi Phedi (2,130 m)—Down into the Wilderness

After enjoying an early breakfast at the monastery, we bid farewell to the tranquility of Serang Gumba, a place where monks offer daily prayers, and the Himalayan Tahr freely roams near the temple grounds. Our path winds slowly across juniper, pine, and rhododendron forests, where we might come across Himalayan blue sheep, pheasants, and even elusive snow leopards among the thick undergrowth.

The initial part of the journey is a steep downhill walk via wooden bridges over roaring torrents derived from glaciers above. Our descent marks our return to lower elevations as the terrain shifts from stony alpine terrain to rich woods.

About three to four hours later, we reach Ghap (2165 m), choosing another path via a small village called Kwak Village to have basic Nepalese cuisine. With residents spinning prayer wheels, farming terraced fields, and tending to yak caravans, the hamlet offers a window into Tibetan life.

🌟 Highlights on the road:

• Wildlife spotting, including mountain goats, langur monkeys, and Himalayan monals (Nepal's national bird), 
• Mani walls and Tibetan prayer wheels, therefore, represent spirituality and serenity.
• Snow-capped peaks: Shringi Himal (7,161 m) and first views of Himal Chuli (7,893 m).

The last stretch to Ghap is a slow down across lush pine forests and along tumbling waterfalls. As we approach Ghap, we come across small terraced fields, traditional stone homes, and children playing outside monasteries, providing a genuine glimpse into the highland Himalayan lifestyle.

Arriving, we settle into a nearby teahouse where we may eat a warm dinner and unwind, listening to the far-off sounds of the Budhi Gandaki River. Ghap's quiet nighttime is an opportunity to visit the nearby chortens, meet the friendly residents, or just relax beneath the starry Himalayan sky.

Deeper into the Manaslu region, the amazing ride from Ghap to Lho progressively reveals its rich Tibetan culture and stunning mountain views.

Walking from Ghap (2,165 m)

We depart Ghap on a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, following an early breakfast at the teahouse. The path climbs slowly across rhododendrons and deep pine forests, where you might find the elusive Himalayan Monal (Danphe) together with langurs swinging between the trees. As we climb, the comforting sound of prayer wheels whirling at little Buddhist shrines envelops us.

Trail Ghap to Namrung (2,630 m)–Cultural Gateway to Nubra Valley

The trail gradually ascends towards Namrung, a crucial checkpoint where we verify our trekking permits. The settlement provides first clear views of Himal Chuli (7,893 m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422 m). While appreciating the complex stone buildings and old Mani walls, Namrung is a wonderful spot to relax and savor a cup of traditional Tibetan butter tea. From now on, Tibetan influence in language, architecture, and ways of life becomes increasingly noticeable.

Via Sho and Lihi Villages (2,920 m to 3,100 m)

After leaving Namrung, the trail climbs over verdant fields of barley, buckwheat, and potatoes to reach Sho village (2,920 m), a little but lovely community with breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) peeping through the clouds. Following a brief climb, we reach Lihi village (3,100 m), where the breeze greets us with exquisitely carved chortens and prayer flags. Here, we pause briefly to tour the centuries-old Lihi Monastery, a Buddhist legacy masterwork.

Getting to Lho (3,180 m)—the magnificent panorama of Manaslu

Before arriving at Lho, one of the most important towns in the Manaslu area, our last stretch of travel winds across alpine meadows and little streams. Rising majestically atop a hill, Ribung Monastery is a Buddhist temple with unmatched sunset views of Mt. Manaslu. We settle into a little teahouse and savor a hot lunch while basking in the serene atmosphere of this holy Himalayan hamlet.

Following an early breakfast in Shyala (3,500 m), we climb two to three hours uphill to Pung Gyen Gumba, a remote monastery tucked away in a breathtaking mountain valley. From the main Manaslu Circuit, the track veers off and climbs gradually across yak pastures, juniper trees, and rich meadows.

Our journey today combines adventure, culture, and amazing Himalayan vistas as we veer to Pung Gyen Gumba (4,000 m), a lonely Buddhist monastery tucked behind the imposing Manaslu Glacier. Following our exploration of this spiritual retreat, we next go to Sama Gaon (3,525 m), a lively Tibetan-influenced town and an essential acclimatization stop before rising altitudes.

From Shyala to Pung Gyen Gumba (4,000 m)—a Sacred Retreat Beneath Mt. Manaslu

Rising higher, the imposing Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Himal Chuli (7,893 m), and Shringi Himal (7,161 m) all come into clear view, commanding the skyline. For Buddhist monks and nearby residents, the calm monastery—once devastated by an avalanche in 1953 and subsequently rebuilt—stands as a site of immense spiritual resonance. Meditating and reflecting would be perfect in this calm environment.

🌟 What should one expect at Pung Gyen Gumba?

• Customary Buddhist murals and prayer rooms 
• You have the opportunity to witness monks in meditation and chanting. 
• Wildlife: Marmots, Himalayan blue sheep, and soaring eagles 
• Views of Manaslu Glacier from many angles and tall snow-capped mountains

Trekkers must carry at least three liters of water and pack lunch or energy snacks before Shyala leaves since there are no teahouses or water sources along the path. Due to the high-altitude exposure, sunscreen, sunglasses, and windproof clothes are needed.

Descend from Pung Gyen Gumba to Sama Gaon, 3,525 m—"Gateway to Manaslu Base Camp."

Pung Gyen Gumba leads directly to Sama Gaon; there is no need to retrace steps to Shyala. Today's trip's last phase winds a slow downhill path into the broad Nubri Valley. This two-hour walk is really simple, which lets us take in the ancient Buddhist shrines, Mani walls, and prayer flag-draped Chortens all along. The scene spreads out as we get closer to Sama Gaon to show breathtaking glacier lakes, yak herds, and ancient stone cottages.

🌟 Pung Gyen Gumba Highlights

• Tibetan Buddhist culture: Discover Nubri people's way of life.
• Yak pastures and Mani walls—a window into Himalayan customs and religious life

When we get to Sama Gaon, we settle into a little teahouse and enjoy a hot lunch while taking in the amazing views of Manaslu's huge ice cliffs. Crucially for acclimatization, this high-altitude community provides various side journeys to get ready for more heights.

Day 7 of the Manaslu Circuit Trek will find you spending a well-earned rest day in the lovely town of Sama Gaon, located at around 3,530 meters. Acclimatization depends on this day, which lets your body adapt to the rising altitude and lowers your chance of altitude sickness.
Visit the Manaslu Base Camp and some of the amazing sites in the town; you will find.

Visit the calm Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Nubri Pema Decho Ling Monastery, first thing in the morning to start your day. Sama Gaon is immediately above there. This monastery has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a quiet setting for one to follow conventional Buddhist practices. For the nearby Nubri people, the monastery is a major center of culture and spirituality.

After completing your tour of the monastery, embark on a short walk to Birendra Lake, situated at an elevation of 3,450 meters. About forty-five minutes from Sama Gaon, Birendra Lake is well-known for its immaculate waters and amazing perspective of the Manaslu Glacier. Offering a calm environment among the rough terrain, this is a perfect place for photography and leisure.

For those looking for a more difficult adventure, take a climb to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m) and Advance Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m). Depending on the snow, this walk takes six to eight hours and entails a sharp climb. The route has amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the Manaslu Glacier. You should only do this challenging climb if you are physically ready and well-acclimatized. Before starting this path, one should review present trail conditions and weather forecasts.

After your excursion, come back to Sama Gaon in the late evening. Spend this time relaxing, drinking water, and savoring a hot dinner at one of the neighborhood teahouses. Talk to other hikers about experiences, or just unwind and soak up the calm village atmosphere.

Extra Advice:

Rest days allow you to properly adjust. Keep hydrated, consume healthy food, and steer clear of demanding activities outside of the scheduled outings.

Before leaving, always review the most recent weather updates; particularly if you intend to walk to Manaslu Base Camp, the mountains' fast-changing circumstances should be considered.
Respect regional norms and traditions. Particularly in holy locations, kindly interact with the community and ask permission before photographing.

Spending Day 7 on acclimatization and exploration will improve your trekking experience and guarantee a safer and more fun journey around the Manaslu Circuit.

🌟 Highlights of Sama Gaon:

• Nubri Pema Decho Ling Monastery—among the first in the area 
• Birendra Lake: Created by melting Manaslu Glacier, this breathtaking glacial lake 
• Manaslu Base Camp for the Fantastic View of Mountains and Valley Scene.
• Milarepa Piren Phu Cave close to the Manaslu Base Camp 
• Samagaun, the birthplace of the Mingyur Rinpoche, "writer of The Joy of Living" book

Day 8 of the Manaslu Circuit Trek will set you on a picturesque trip from Sama Gaon to Samdo, which stands at about 3,850 meters. Usually requiring three to four hours, this section gives trekkers a reasonable climb and the chance to see the local landscapes and cultures.

Leave Sama Gaon with a substantial breakfast at your teahouse first thing in the morning. Make sure you pack what you will need for the trip ahead.

Starting the journey on a modest hill with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the town below, suitable for acclimatization, the walk is well-marked and has a pleasant grade.

As you go, you will cross open grazing regions where nearby herders tend to their yaks and sheep. This presents a great chance to mingle with the pleasant residents and see traditional pastoral life.

Crossing Streams:

Your trip will be more beautiful if the trail crosses multiple streams across wooden bridges. These bridges provide quick pause areas so one may appreciate the natural surroundings and remain safe.

Arriving in Samdo:

Following about three to four hours of hiking, you will arrive at the settlement of Samdo. Samdo was home to a population of Tibetan refugees close to the Tibetan border. The village is known for its traditional stone houses and offers a glimpse into the Tibetan way of life.

Exploration and Rest:

Upon arrival, take time to explore the hamlet, interact with the inhabitants, and rest. The calm surroundings offer the ideal place for one to unwind and get ready for the next day.

Overnight, find yourself in one of the neighborhood teahouses. Eat a tasty dinner and strike up chats with other hikers. Sharing trail experiences and anecdotes is best done late in the evening.

Extra Advice:

Although the walk from Sama Gaon to Samdo is somewhat short, it's important to keep a consistent pace to help with acclimatization. See your body and stop as necessary.

Samdo is a village with a significant cultural legacy and Tibetan influences. Approach contacts with respect and curiosity in learning about the local customs and traditions.

Get ready with enough water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for the walk that day. Though there are teahouses, it's always wise to be self-sufficient.

Dedicating Day 8 to the journey from Sama Gaon to Samdo will allow you to explore the calm beauty of the Manaslu region, interact with its rich cultural tapestry, and be ready for the more difficult parts of the trip ahead.

Day 9 of the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Searang Gumba sets you from Samdo to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Base Camp, at an elevation of about 4,460 meters. Usually requiring 4 to 5 hours, this section provides trekkers with a reasonable climb and the chance to fully experience the local cultures and scenery.
From Samdo, start your day with a healthy breakfast at your teahouse. Make sure you pack what you will need for the journey ahead.

Starting the journey on a modest hill following Larkya Bazaar (4090 m), where a new hotel with an attached bathroom offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the town below, Suitable for acclimatization, the walk is well marked and has a pleasant grade.

As you go, you will cross open grazing regions where nearby herders tend to their yak, Himalayan pika, and wild sheep. This presents a great chance to mingle with the pleasant residents and see traditional pastoral life.

Crossing Streams:

Your trip will be more beautiful if the trail crosses multiple streams across wooden bridges. These crossings provide quick pause areas so one may enjoy the natural surroundings. They are also safe.

Arriving in Dharamsala:

Following about four to five hours of trekking, you will arrive at the village of Dharamsala. The settlement lies somewhat below Mt. Gyala (6,367 m). A population of Tibetan refugees calls Dharamsala home.

Arriving, spend some time restfully exploring the village and interacting with the people. The calm surroundings offer the ideal place for one to unwind and get ready for the next day.

Overnight, find yourself in one of the neighborhood teahouses. Eat a tasty dinner and strike up chats with other hikers. Sharing trail experiences and anecdotes is best done late in the evening.

Furthermore, advice:

Although the walk from Samdo to Dharamsala is somewhat short, it's important to keep a consistent speed to help with acclimatization. Pay attention to your body; take pauses as necessary.

Get ready with enough water, snacks, and a first-aid pack for the day's walk. Though there are teahouses, it's always wise to be self-sufficient.

Dedicating Day 9 to the journey from Samdo to Dharamsala will allow you to explore the calm beauty of the Manaslu area, interact with its natural splendor, and be ready for the more difficult parts of the trip ahead.

From Dharamsala to Bimtang, across the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, Day 10 of the Manaslu Circuit Trek will set you on a difficult but worthwhile path. Usually requiring 7 to 8 hours, this section provides trekkers with a unique journey in a high-altitude landscape.

Though most fulfilling, this is the toughest day! You will walk Larkya La, which has amazing views of Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and Kang Guru, before dropping to Bimtang. The reason this is the most crucial day of the trip is the early morning climb required to traverse the great Himalayas with an amazing perspective. Due to its isolation in the Himalayas, bring lunch, energy bars, and at least three liters of water for each person. In 3 to 4 hours, the progressively rising in the lap of the Larkya Peak across the glacier moraine, glacier lake, and breathtaking mountain landscape transports you to Larkya Pass (5,106), and roughly 4 hours descending to reach Bhaimtang for an overnight stay.

Early Departure:

Even in the early morning, start your day with a healthy breakfast at your teahouse in Dharamsala. Starting early before sunrise will help optimize the daylight hours, given the taxing nature of the walk. Starting early in the morning will help you escape strong winds and provide unhindered views on a steep and rocky path encircled by tall mountains.

Starting the journey on a modest hill with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the town below, suitable for acclimatization, the path is well-marked and provides a comfortable grade. From Dharmashala, the trail climbs rapidly over the loose rock for 45 minutes to one hour, then runs along the glacier moraine and lakes to Larkya La (5,106 m), covering 3 to 4 hours.

Crossing Glacier:

Your trip gains a beautiful aspect when the trail winds across the glacier. These crossings are safe and provide quick pause areas to take in the surrounding countryside.

Attain the pinnacle of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Larkya La, by maintaining composure

Breathe deeply and enjoy yourself gazing at such breathtaking landscape at the summit of the Larkya La Pass, an elevation of 5,106 m—your dream site. See the breathtaking grandeur of the Himalayas and grab lifelong pictures. Produce some videos featuring the vibrantly colored Buddhist prayer flags fluttering on the Larkya La Pass board. Discover 360-degree panoramic views of the Larkya Peak, Annapurna Range, Manaslu Range, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli.

Downward to Bhaimtang:

Start the downslope on a rugged and steep trail. See the Larkya Glacier from the pass via glacial moraines. This is the perfect moment to utilize trekking poles to provide your body the required support and balance in addition to microspikes, which have been used all through the journey.

Arriving in Bimtang: 

Arrive at Bhaimtang after three to four hours and descend from the peak into a peaceful community encircled by a breathtaking mountain landscape. You will arrive at the village of Bimtang after about seven to eight hours of walking.

Arriving, spend some time restfully exploring the village and interacting with the people. The calm surroundings offer the ideal place for one to unwind and get ready for the next day. Unload and celebrate the effective crossing of Larkya La Pass.

Overnight, find yourself in one of the neighborhood teahouses. Eat a tasty dinner and strike up chats with other hikers. Sharing trail experiences and anecdotes is best done late in the evening.

Extra Advice:

Cultural Respect:

Right now, you are on the most often-used Annapurna region walking path. You find better lodging, more culinary options, and a little change of culture and people. Approach contacts with respect and curiosity in learning about the local customs and traditions.

Important Note:

Due to no water source on the trail, make sure you have enough—at least three to four liters per person; walk for seven to eight hours; snacks, energy bars, warm enough clothing, micro spikes (which might be needed for the pass), a headlight, trekking poles, etc.; and a first-aid kit for the day's trip. Although there are teashops both before and between Larkya Pass and Bhimtang, it's always wise to be self-sufficient.

Dedicating Day 10 to the journey from Dharamsala to Bimtang will allow you to explore the Manaslu region's peaceful beauty, interact with its rich cultural tapestry, and be ready for the more difficult parts of the trip ahead.

Manaslu Circuit Trek, your journey ends with a picturesque drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar. From Dharapani to Besisahar, this trip usually takes three to four hours, from which you may ride a local jeep or bus on the uneven route. From Besisahar, you can return via another local jeep to the vibrant capital city, Kathmandu.

Breakfast in Dharapani:

Beginning your day at your teahouse in Dharapani, have a substantial breakfast. Make sure you have all yours ready for the trip ahead.

Drive Dharapani to Besisahar:

Starting from a local bus or jeep, travel to Besisahar, the Lamjung district headquarters. Views of the surrounding hills abound as the road swings through charming towns and terraced farmland. This part of the trip typically lasts three to four hours.

Arriving at Besisahar, stop briefly to stretch your legs and, if desired, have a light snack. Travelers headed to several locations, including the Annapurna Circuit, and stopped at Besisahar.

Lunch in Besisahar:

Savoring traditional Nepali cuisine before your next leg of travel, indulge in a local lunch at one of the restaurants in Besisahar.

Get aboard a local bus or vehicle to continue on your path toward Kathmandu. Offering breathtaking views of rivers, woodlands, and rural settings, the path follows the Marsyangdi River and goes through cities such as Dumre and Muglin. This section typically takes five to six hours to complete.

We will drop you off at your hotel or another agreed-upon place when you arrive in Kathmandu. After the audit, take some time to decompress.

Evening at Leisure:

Discover the energetic Thamel neighborhood, well-known for its restaurants, stores, and dynamic vibe. It's a great spot to think back on your trip, get mementos, or have a celebratory dinner.

Advice Extra:

Comfort:

The journey from Besisahar to Kathmandu can be lengthy and uneven. To help the trip be more enjoyable, think about packing a neck cushion and dressing comfortably. For greater comfort, you could pay for a private vehicle from Dharapani to Kathmandu. You could use medication for vehicle sickness.

Before the trip, stock up on snacks and drinks since choices along the road might not stop regularly.

Safety:

Especially in congested places, keep your stuff safe during the travel.

Rest: Stretch and relax during the trip, using the breaks to help release any trekking-related stiffness.

Spending Day 12 on the trip from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar will allow you to consider your Manaslu Circuit Trek experience as you return to metropolitan life.