Manaslu Mountain Tea House Trek

Embark on your adventure early morning driving on well-paved as well as adventurous bumpy ride west of Kathmandu through Prithivi highway at first then turn off to Dhading and to Gorkha District, a north-center part of Nepal. The long drive itself offers glimpse of rural atmosphere and views of Nepal Mid-hills and river valley. Tonight we will spend our night at Soti khola a small village nestle alongside of Buddhi Gandaki River.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

The trek begins at Soti Khola, following the Budhi Gandaki River along a motorable path. The trail gradually ascends and descends along rocky ridges, passing through subtropical forests and terraced fields, which are vital for the livelihoods of local communities. Along the way, small streams and waterfalls punctuate the journey, offering moments of tranquility. The day's trek concludes at Machhakhola, a riverside village where we rest for the night.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

Leaving Machhakhola, we follow the motor road up to Doban, crossing suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail consists of moderate ascents and descents, leading to a steep uphill climb before reaching Yaruphat. Continuing along a local trail, we arrive at Yarubagara, after which the path becomes easier with a gradual walk towards Jagat. Jagat, once a major checkpoint for traders, marks the official entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area, a UNESCO-listed site preserving Nepal's diverse flora, fauna, and rich cultural heritage. The village has maintained its traditional stone-paved pathways and remains a significant historical hub.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

The journey from Jagat to Philim follows a well-trodden motor road, leading us through the scenic landscapes of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The first major stop is Sirdibas, a charming Gurung village where traditional stone houses line the path, and colorful Buddhist prayer flags flutter in the wind, symbolizing peace and spirituality.
From Sirdibas, we cross a high suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, a steep ascent then leads us to Philim, a lively Gurung settlement known for its strong sense of community and rich cultural heritage.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

We follow a trekking trail through deep gorges, pine forests, and bamboo groves, regions historically used for logging and grazing. The route crosses multiple bridges before arriving at Deng, a small settlement marking the transition from Hindu-influenced lower hills to the Buddhist-dominated Upper Manaslu region. Here, we begin to see mani walls, chortens, and other Tibetan Buddhist symbols.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

Starting early offers trekkers a breathtaking view of the sunrise illuminating the Shringi Range. After a steady descent from Deng, we reach a bridge crossing, marking the beginning of the ascent toward Namrung. Along the way, we pass a hydroelectric plant, a significant modern development that supports local communities with sustainable energy. Upon arriving at Namrung, trekkers are welcomed into a picturesque Himalayan village where Tibetan Buddhist traditions remain deeply embedded in daily life. The landscape is dotted with monasteries, chortens, and beautifully carved mani walls, reflecting the region's rich spiritual heritage.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets)
 

The trek ascends through alpine landscapes, following the Numla Khola to Bhanjam and then slightly uphill to Lhi, home to Mani Dungyur Gompa, a centuries-old Buddhist monastery. The trail continues with gradual ascents, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Manaslu range. Finally, we arrive at Samagaon, a traditional Tibetan village sitting beneath the imposing Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). This village is home to the Kargyu Chholing Monastery, where monks preserve ancient Buddhist traditions.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

A rest day allows exploration of Birendra Tal, which is a gradual ascend from Samagaon, a stunning glacial lake formed by Manaslu Glacier meltwater. Historically, this area was part of the ancient salt trade route between Nepal and Tibet. On the return trek, we pass through alpine forests and visit Padma Sambhav Park and Guru Rinpoche's meditation site, both holding deep spiritual significance.

Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

Our journey continues toward Samdo, one of the final settlements before the pass of Larke la (5160m). Historically, this village played a vital role as a trading hub where salt, wool, and barley were exchanged between Nepal and Tibet.The trek begins along a well-trodden mountain trail, leading us across the Budhi Gandaki River. From there, the path gradually ascends, interspersed with a few steep climbs, before reaching Samdo. Upon arrival, we take time to explore the village, experiencing its rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage, evident in the locals' way of life, traditional stone houses, and prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

The trail follows the route to Larke Bazaar, a historic trading point, before a steep ascent into high-altitude terrain. We reach Dharmasala, a vital resting point before crossing Larke La Pass. For centuries, this pass has been a key trade route between Nepal and Tibet, fostering economic and cultural exchanges.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

An early morning climb leads to the Larke La Pass (5,106m), the trek's highest point, offering breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Annapurna II and its ranges. The descent is steep towards Phedi, then more gradual until Bimthang, a former Tibetan trading post where remnants of old stone houses still stand, offering insight into its historical role.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets) 
 

The trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, past grazing meadows used by yak herders. We cross a suspension bridge that intersects with the Annapurna Base Camp trail before arriving at Goa, a quiet mountain village home to Gurung and Tamang communities, known for their warm hospitality and unique traditions.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets)
 

Descending through dense forests and crossing suspension bridges, we reach Dharapani, a point where trekkers often transition between different trekking circuits. Continuing to Chamje, we traverse the motorway, a stark contrast to the rugged trails of the previous days.
 
Accommodation: Local Tea House (shared rooms with shared bathrooms/toilets)