Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu: My Journey to the Wild Side of the Himalayas

I still remember the morning we left Kathmandu. The city buzzed with life cars honking, people rushing, shopkeepers shouting prices. But my heart beat for something quieter, something bigger. I was about to begin the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and I had no idea how much it would change me.

This trek is less crowded than Everest or Annapurna. That’s what drew me to it. I wanted wild trails, deep forests, old stone villages, and the feeling of being far away from it all. And that’s exactly what I found.

First Things First: What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a long, high-altitude trail in the Himalayas of Nepal. It circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

Here are some key facts:

• Average length: 14 to 18 days

• Total distance: Around 177 kilometers (110 miles)

• Maximum elevation: 5,160 meters (16,929 feet) at Larke Pass

• Starting point: From Kathmandu, the journey begins with a long drive to Soti Khola

• Trek difficulty: Moderate to hard, with steep climbs and high altitude

Even though it’s tough, it’s worth every step.

From Kathmandu to the Trailhead

Our trip began with a bumpy jeep ride from Kathmandu to a small town called Soti Khola. It took almost 9 hours. The road twisted through hills, past rice fields, and over shaky bridges. It was rough, but the views kept me going.

I traveled with two friends and a local guide named Ram. Right away, I knew Ram would be more than just a guide. He was our teacher, our protector, and sometimes, our comedian.

Into the Wild: The First Days

The first few days of the trek felt like walking through a jungle. We crossed wooden bridges, passed waterfalls, and walked under tall trees. Birds chirped, monkeys swung from branches, and the sound of the river followed us everywhere.

At night, we stayed in small teahouses run by kind local families. They served hot dal bhat (rice and lentils) that tasted better than anything I had ever eaten. After dinner, we sat around the fire, tired but happy.

Stepping Into History and Culture

As we climbed higher, the landscape began to change. The forests became thinner, the air cooler. The villages looked older, quieter. We saw people wearing traditional Tibetan clothes and spinning prayer wheels as they walked.

In one village, an old woman gave me a cup of butter tea. It tasted salty and strange, but her warm smile made it special. Ram told us that the Manaslu region is home to the Tibetan-influenced Nubri people, who have lived here for centuries.

Everywhere we went, I felt like I was walking through a living museum.

The Climb Gets Harder

By day nine, we were over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). I started to feel the effects of altitude—headaches, tired legs, short breaths. Even tying my shoelaces made me dizzy. But I drank lots of water, ate warm meals, and took it slow.

Ram reminded us, “Slow is strong.” He was right. Going slow kept us safe and let us enjoy the view.

The Big Day: Crossing Larke Pass

Crossing Larke Pass was the hardest and best part of the trek.

We woke up at 3 a.m. It was freezing cold. Stars lit the dark sky like tiny fires. We wrapped ourselves in layers, grabbed our poles, and started the climb.

It felt like walking on the moon—quiet, wide, and white. The snow crunched under our boots. Our lungs burned. But we kept going, one step at a time.

At the top of the pass, we reached 5,160 meters. I cried. I didn’t plan to, but the mix of pain, joy, and pride just came out. We hugged, took photos, and looked out at the endless peaks around us. It felt like standing on the roof of the world.

Downhill and Home

The way down was easier on the lungs but tough on the knees. We passed yaks, prayer flags, and empty trails. After a few more days, we reached Dharapani, where the trail connects with the Annapurna Circuit.

From there, we took a jeep back to Kathmandu. The city welcomed us with noise and color, but part of me was still on the mountain.

What I Learned on the Trail

The Manaslu Circuit Trek taught me many things. It showed me that beauty lives in quiet places. That strangers can feel like family. That I am stronger than I think.

But most of all, it reminded me to slow down. To breathe deeply. To look up at the sky and say, “Wow.”

Tips for Your Own Manaslu Circuit Trek

If you're thinking about doing this trek, here are a few tips from me:

• Get a guide and the right permits: You need a licensed guide and special permits, since it’s a restricted area.

• Pack light but smart: Layers, a good sleeping bag, snacks, and water purification are a must.

• Go slow: Give your body time to adjust to the altitude. Don’t rush.

• Bring cash: There are no ATMs on the trail.

• Respect the culture: Dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and learn a few local words.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu is not just a hike. It’s a journey into the heart of Nepal. It’s where nature, culture, and courage meet. If you're looking for a trek that gives you space to grow, this one’s for you.