Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
• Highlights: Rest, gear preparation, and permit arrangements (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and Restricted Area Permit).
• Explore Thamel, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), or Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (710m / 2,329ft)
• Travel Time: 7–8 hours by jeep or bus.
• Highlights: Scenic drive through winding roads, rural villages, and riverside landscapes.
Day 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m / 2,953ft)
• Trekking Hours: 6–7.
• Highlights: Walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and along the Budhi Gandaki River.
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m / 4,626ft)
• Trekking Hours: 6–7.
• Highlights: Cross suspension bridges, pass natural hot springs at Tatopani, and explore the village of Jagat, a UNESCO World Heritage site checkpoint.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m / 5,918ft)
• Trekking Hours: 6–7.
• Highlights: Traverse lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, and picturesque Gurung villages.
Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m / 8,628ft)
• Trekking Hours: 6–7.
• Highlights: The trail offers glimpses of snow-capped mountains and passes through Buddhist villages with Mani walls and chortens.
Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Samagaun (3,530m / 11,581ft)
• Trekking Hours: 6–7.
• Highlights: Experience panoramic views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Explore the Tibetan-influenced village of Samagaun.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
• Activity: Hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m / 14,435ft) if time and energy permit.
• Highlights: Rest, explore monasteries, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Day 9: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,875m / 12,713ft)
• Trekking Hours: 3–4.
• Highlights: A short trek with incredible mountain views and Tibetan cultural influence in the remote village of Samdo.
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala/High Camp (4,460m / 14,632ft)
• Trekking Hours: 4–5.
• Highlights: Prepare for the Larke Pass crossing. The trail offers expansive views of the Himalayan range.
Day 11: Cross Larke La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft) and trek to Bimthang (3,720m / 12,204ft)
• Trekking Hours: 8–10.
• Highlights: The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek! Start early to cross the snow-covered pass with incredible views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Descend to the scenic valley of Bimthang.
Day 12: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m / 7,546ft)
• Trekking Hours: 5–6.
• Highlights: Descend through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and pastures.
Day 13: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani (1,960m / 6,430ft) and drive to Besisahar (760m / 2,493ft)
• Trekking Hours: 4–5; Drive Time: 4–5 hours.
• Highlights: Complete the circuit trek and drive through lush greenery and terraced hills.
Day 14: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
• Travel Time: 6–7 hours.
• Highlights: Celebrate your trek with a scenic drive back to the city.