Shortest Manaslu Circuit Trek - A 7-Day High Adventure Trekking
The 7-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is the shortest and most adventurous way to explore the remote Manaslu region of Nepal. Designed for trekkers with good physical fitness and previous high-altitude experience, this fast-paced itinerary uses jeep access and long trekking days to complete the circuit in limited time.
The trek encircles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, and crosses the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Along the route, trekkers experience pristine Himalayan landscapes, deep river gorges, suspension bridges, alpine forests, glacial valleys, and authentic Tibetan-influenced culture.
This itinerary does not include acclimatization rest days, making it ideal for strong trekkers seeking a challenging, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure.
This rapid Manaslu Circuit trek follows the same trail as the regular Manaslu Circuit trek, but with a shorter duration, and is recommended only for experienced hiking enthusiasts. For trekkers who prefer a relaxed itinerary, our 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a comfortable and immersive hiking experience in Nepal.
Shotest Manaslu Circuit Trekking Highights
- One of the shortest high adventure trekking in Manaslu Circuit
- Encircle Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) – the world’s 8th highest mountain
- Cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106 m)
- Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and ancient monasteries
- Trek through Manaslu Conservation Area
- Dramatic landscapes: glaciers, alpine meadows, and deep gorges
- Less crowded route compared to Annapurna and Everest
- Panoramic Himalayan views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru & Annapurna II
Shortest Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary - 7 Days
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,340 m) – 8 to 10 Hours
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu following the Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River before turning toward Arughat and Soti Khola. The road gradually becomes rough and bumpy, especially after Arughat, passing through small settlements such as Soti Khola, Machha Khola, and Tatopani. The final stretch follows the Budhi Gandaki River to reach Jagat.
Trail condition: Long off-road drive, dusty and uneven in dry season, muddy during monsoon.
Overnight: Tea house at Jagat
Day 02: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860 m) – 6 Hours
From Jagat, the trail enters the Manaslu Conservation Area and ascends gradually through stone-paved paths and terraced hills. You pass villages such as Salleri, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and Pewa, crossing suspension bridges and narrow river gorges before reaching Deng.
Trail condition: Well-defined trail with stone steps, moderate ascents, and a few narrow sections along cliffs.
Overnight: Tea house at Deng
Day 03: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m) – 6 Hours
The trail climbs steadily through bamboo and pine forests, crossing the Budhi Gandaki River several times. You pass small villages including Bihi Phedi, Ghap, and Prok, where Tibetan culture becomes more prominent with mani walls and prayer flags. A final uphill climb leads to Namrung.
Trail condition: Gradual to steep uphill sections, forest trails, and some rocky paths.
Overnight: Tea house at Namrung
Day 04: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (3,530 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
Leaving Namrung, the trail opens into wide alpine landscapes with spectacular mountain views. You pass through traditional villages such as Lho and Shyala, offering close-up views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The trail continues across yak pastures and glacial streams before reaching Samagaon.
Trail condition: Mostly gradual ascent on open trails, some rocky sections and cold, windy terrain.
Overnight: Tea house at Samagaon
Day 05: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875 m) – 3 to 4 Hours
The trail follows a gentle ascent through a wide glacial valley. You pass Larkya Bazaar, a seasonal settlement once used by Tibetan traders. The surrounding landscape becomes barren and alpine as you approach the traditional village of Samdo near the Tibetan border.
Trail condition: Easy to moderate trail, mostly flat with gradual uphill, exposed to wind.
Overnight: Tea house at Samdo
Day 06: Trek from Samdo to Bimthang (3,590 m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) – 8 to 10 Hours
This is the most challenging day of the trek. Starting early, the trail ascends gradually to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) before climbing steeply toward Larkya La Pass. From the pass, enjoy panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. A long descent over snow and moraine leads down to the beautiful glacial valley of Bimthang.
Trail condition: Long and demanding day; steep ascent, possible snow and ice near the pass, rocky and moraine descent.
Overnight: Tea house at Bimthang
Day 07: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (5–6 Hours) and Drive to Besisahar (3 Hours), Continue to Kathmandu (5 Hours)
The trail descends through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, passing Gho and Tilije villages, before reaching Dharapani, where the Manaslu route connects with the Annapurna Circuit. From Dharapani, drive to Besisahar and continue by road back to Kathmandu.
Trail condition: Mostly downhill forest trails, stone steps, and well-maintained paths; road drive is paved and smooth after Besisahar.
