Manaslu Circuit Trek with Serang Gumba - Hikking & Trekking

Duration

17 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Destination

Nepal

Max. Elevation

5,160 m / 16,929 ft

Group Size

1-15 Pax

Activity

Hikking & Trekking

Best Season

Autumn, Spring

Trip Code

MCG101

Trip Highlights

Trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s 8th highest peak, on one of Nepal’s most remote and spectacular circuits
Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m), the trek's highest point, offering breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.
Discover authentic mountain villages such as Soti Khola, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Enjoy magnificent views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Annapurna ranges throughout the journey.
Visit Serang Gumba, a sacred Himalayan monastery, with a free exploration day for meditation, yoga practice, and a traditional monk chanting session.
Walk through diverse landscapes—from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and glacial valleys.
Experience warm mountain hospitality on a trail with fewer crowds than the Everest and Annapurna regions.
A challenging yet deeply rewarding trek, ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gumba Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and less-crowded trekking experiences, compared with the Everest and Annapurna regions. Offering a perfect blend of raw Himalayan wilderness and deep cultural immersion. Spanning 15–17 days, the classic circuit encircles Mount Manaslu (8,163m)—the world’s 8th highest peak—and leads trekkers through remote valleys along the Tibetan border.

The trail showcases Nepal’s incredible diversity, from subtropical forests and rushing rivers to high-altitude pastures and glacial landscapes. Along the way, trekkers pass through traditional villages such as Machha Khola, Jagat, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, where Tibetan Buddhist traditions deeply influence daily life. Ancient monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens add a strong spiritual atmosphere to the journey.

A unique highlight of this itinerary is a visit to Serang Gumba, a sacred Himalayan monastery hidden in the highlands. Trekkers enjoy a dedicated day for exploration, allowing time for meditation, yoga practice, and experiencing monk chanting, offering a rare opportunity for spiritual reflection amid the mountains.

The ultimate physical and visual reward of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of the most dramatic high passes in Nepal, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna ranges.

Due to its challenging terrain, remote setting, and restricted-area status, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is best suited for trekkers seeking adventure, solitude, and authentic Himalayan culture. Special permits are required to keep the trail uncrowded and preserve its pristine character, making this trek a truly exclusive and rewarding Himalayan journey.

Permits Required for Manaslu Region Trekking

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) (restricted area from Jagat to Dharapani/Samagaun)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Permit

If your route includes Tsum Valley, you will need this additional restricted permit, as Tsum is itself a restricted zone.

Important Rules & Tips

No solo trekking — you must be in a group (min. 2) with a licensed guide.
Permits must match your itinerary (dates and route).
Checkpoints along the trail (Jagat, Samagaun, etc.) will verify permits and provide guidance.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to a particular hotel. Your trekking guide will arrange an orientation session (Main trip briefing) covering the trek route, safety tips, and equipment check. The evening is ideal for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, offering a taste of local cuisine and culture. An overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu prepares you for the adventure ahead.

Walking Hours

Optional

Distance

6.4 KM

Transport

Airport Pick

Max. Altitude

1400m

Meals

Welcome Dinner

Accommodation

3-5* Star Hotel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m) – 8 to 9 hrs

Embark on a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki Rivers. The route passes terraced hills, small villages, and charming riverside landscapes, offering your first glimpse of rural Nepal. Arrive in Machha Khola and settle into local accommodations. The evening allows you to relax, enjoy the natural surroundings, and prepare for the trek ahead. An overnight stay in Machha Khola ensures a restful start to your journey.

Distance

165 km

Transport

Jeep / Bus

Max. Altitude

930m/ 3051ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m) – 6 to 7 hrs

Begin trekking along well-marked trails, crossing suspension bridges and walking through quaint settlements like Khorlabesi and Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs. This first day introduces you to the local culture, rural lifestyles, and river valleys. The terrain is moderate, offering a gentle opportunity to acclimatise. Arrive in Jagat, a peaceful village where you can enjoy local hospitality and scenic surroundings. Overnight in Jagat provides a cosy retreat after a fulfilling day of trekking.

Walking Hours

6-7 hours

Distance

22 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

1,410 m / 4,626 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m) – 6 hrs

Enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. The trail passes through traditional villages like Philim, terraced fields, and river valleys, surrounded by lush forests. Experience the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills as you gradually ascend to Deng. This stretch offers a blend of natural and cultural experiences, giving insight into local lifestyles. An overnight stay in Deng allows you to rest before continuing into higher altitudes.

Walking Hours

20 km

Distance

20 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

1,804 m / 5,919 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 5: Trek from Deng to Serang Gumba (3,100m) – 6 to 7 hrs

Trek uphill through dense forests, scenic trails, and traditional villages, gradually ascending toward Serang Gumba. This peaceful monastery is nestled amid majestic Himalayan scenery, providing a spiritual and tranquil retreat. Along the trail, enjoy panoramic mountain views and glimpses of local culture. Arriving at Serang Gumba, you can soak in the serene atmosphere, explore the monastery grounds, and engage with monks. An overnight stay at Serang Gumba ensures a restful and reflective experience.

Walking Hours

6 hours

Distance

19 Km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

3,100 m / 10,171 ft

Meals

Breakfast,lunch,dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 6: Free Exploration Day – Meditation and Yoga Session

Spend a rejuvenating day at Serang Gumba, surrounded by Himalayan tranquillity. Participate in meditation and yoga sessions led by local monks to enhance your physical and mental well-being. Explore the monastery, engage with the monastic community, and experience the spiritual lifestyle of this remote region. This day allows for deep relaxation and acclimatisation, preparing you for the higher-altitude trekking ahead. An overnight stay at Serang Gumba ensures comfort and peaceful reflection.

Walking Hours

Optional

Meals

Breakfast,lunch

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 7: Trek from Serang Gumba to Numbrung 2,630 m – 6- 7 hrs

Descend gradually through rhododendron forests, crossing streams and passing small settlements along the way. The trail offers scenic views and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Arrive in Ghap, a quiet village where you can interact with residents and experience traditional mountain life. This stretch balances trekking effort with gentle scenery, allowing acclimatisation while enjoying natural beauty. An overnight stay in Numbrung provides a comfortable setting amidst serene surroundings.

Walking Hours

6-7 hours

Distance

15 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

2,630 m / 8,628 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 8: Trek from Numbrung to Lho (3,180m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Continue trekking through traditional Tibetan-style villages, passing mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries. The trail offers stunning views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. Lho village provides a welcoming stop with its local culture and panoramic Himalayan scenery. Explore the village and enjoy the peaceful ambience as you prepare for higher-altitude trekking. An overnight stay in Lho allows you to rest and take in the breathtaking surroundings of the Manaslu region.

Walking Hours

5 hours

Distance

9 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

3,180 m / 10,433 ft

Meals

Breakfast,lunch,dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 9: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun (3,520m) – 5 hrs

Trek through Shyala Village, enjoying breathtaking views of Himlung, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu. The trail passes yak pastures, terraced fields, and traditional settlements, offering insight into the lifestyle of Himalayan communities. Sama Gaun, a large village in the Manaslu region, provides access to local monasteries, tea houses, and cultural experiences. An overnight stay in Sama Gaun allows you to rest and acclimatise before exploring higher altitudes on the following day.

Walking Hours

8 km

Distance

8 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

3,180 m / 10,433 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaun

Day 11: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,875m) – 4 hrs

Ascend gradually through yak pastures, juniper forests, and scenic landscapes. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it an excellent photo destination. Samdo is a traditional village with stone houses and Tibetan cultural influences. Arriving in Samdo, you can explore the village and enjoy the serene mountain environment. An overnight stay in Samdo ensures comfort and acclimatisation at higher elevations.

Walking Hours

4 hours

Distance

8 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

3,875 m / 12,713 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m) – 4 hrs

A short yet scenic trek brings you to Dharamsala, where panoramic Himalayan views await. This stop is essential for acclimatisation before crossing the Larkya La Pass. Short but challenging, with higher elevation, finally brings you to Dharmasla for Lunch, where you'll find only a few basic tea houses.

After lunch, with a short break, your guide will take you further up for better views, then make a body adjustment, and return to the tea house. Enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere and prepare for the next day’s challenging trek. An overnight stay in Dharamsala offers peaceful rest amid stunning Himalayan scenery.

Walking Hours

4 hours

Distance

7 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

4,460 m / 14,633 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) – Trek to Bhimtang (3,720m) – 8 to 9 hrs

Today marks the most challenging and vital highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek: crossing Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the journey. The trek starts very early in the morning to avoid strong winds and changing weather at high altitude. The ascent is long and physically demanding, with thin air, icy sections, and a steady uphill climb. Still, it rewards trekkers with spectacular panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and the Annapurna range.

There are no teahouses or food facilities on the pass, so trekkers must carry a packed lunch, enough drinking water, and energy snacks for the day. After reaching the pass, the trail descends gradually through dramatic alpine landscapes into greener valleys, then continues to Bhimtang, surrounded by forests and open meadows. Although challenging, the journey's main highlight offers a strong sense of achievement and unforgettable Himalayan scenery, making it the trek's true highlight.

Walking Hours

8-10 hours

Distance

20 km

Transport

Walking

Max. Altitude

5,160 m / 16,929 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 14: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije (2,300m) – 5 hrs; Drive to Besisahar – 3 hrs

Descend through pine and rhododendron forests toward Tilije, enjoying scenic mountain trails. Continue by local jeep to Besisahar, passing rivers, villages, and terraced landscapes. This day marks the transition from high-altitude trekking to lower valleys. An overnight stay in Besisahar provides a comfortable environment to relax and celebrate completing the trek.

Walking Hours

5 hours

Distance

13 km

Transport

Jeep

Max. Altitude

2,300 m / 7,546 ft

Meals

Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Mountain Tea House

Day 15: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu – 6 to 7 hrs

Return to Kathmandu via a scenic drive along river valleys and terraced hills. The journey offers final glimpses of rural Nepal and the Himalayan foothills. In the evening, you can find the finest restaurant near your hotel, where you can enjoy a city meal after a long time back from the mountains. An overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu allows you to reflect on your Manaslu journey and prepares you for departure.

Distance

190 km

Transport

Jeep / Bus

Meals

Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation

3-5* Star Hotel

Day 16: Kathmandu Free Exploration Day

Day 17: Fly Back Home

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. Relive memories of mountain vistas, cultural encounters, and the unique experiences of the Manaslu region. This concludes your trek, leaving unforgettable impressions of Nepal’s natural beauty and Himalayan adventure.

Distance

6.4 KM

Transport

Airport Drop

Meals

Breakfast

Route Map

Include/Exclude

Cost Includes

Airport Transfers: Private pickup and drop-off for international and domestic flights.
Hotel Stay in Kathmandu: 3 nights in comfortable 3–5★ hotels on a twin-sharing basis.
Sightseeing Tour: Half-day guided city tour covering two major UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, including transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees.
All Ground transfers as per the itinerary by bus or Jeep
Special Meals: Welcome and farewell dinners before and after the trek.
Meals During the Trek: All meals included — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — each served with a complimentary cup of tea or coffee.
Trekking Accommodation: Comfortable teahouse lodging on a twin-sharing basis.
Professional Trekking Team (staff wages, allowances, and insurance included):
1 licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
1 assistant guide for every four trekkers
Porter service — 1 porter for every two trekkers
Permits Required for Manaslu Region Trekking
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekking Equipment: Essential gear includes sleeping bags, fleece liners, down jackets, raincoats, and crampons/trekking poles (must be requested at least 1 month before departure).
Complimentary Items: Trekking map, duffel bag, T-shirt, and trek completion certificate.
Safety Support: Comprehensive medical first-aid kit and trekking oxygen supply for altitudes above 4,000 m.
Taxes & Service Charges: All government taxes and official service fees are included.

Cost Excludes

Nepal Visa: The fee depends on the duration of stay (15 / 30 / 90 days).
International Airfare: All international flights to and from Nepal.
Personal Expenses: Nepalese SIM card, internet, phone charging, hot showers, laundry, bakery items, fizzy drinks, alcohol, and other personal costs.
Emergency Expenses: Medical examinations, horse rentals, helicopter evacuation, and rescue services.
Staff Tipping: Voluntary but customary in trekking culture.
Extra Nights: Additional accommodation in Kathmandu for early arrivals or late departures.
Special Permits / Sanctions: Permits or letters of authorisation required for special filming, large drones, or professional filming equipment.
Insurance: All-inclusive travel or medical insurance is mandatory but not included.
Extra Porter / Assistant Guide: Available upon request at an additional cost of approximately $25 per day.
Optional Tours: Any optional sightseeing tours or activities during free time.
Other Costs: Expenses arising from flight delays or itinerary changes.

Gallery

Essential Info

Best Season for Manaslu Circuit with Sarang Gumba Trekking.

The Manaslu Circuit with Sarang Gumba Trek is best done during seasons with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and stable mountain weather. While Manaslu can be trekked year-round, spring and autumn stand out for their visibility, trail conditions, and overall trekking comfort. Also, these seasons offer the trekkers the best chance to enjoy sweeping Himalayan panoramas without battling harsh cold, heavy rain, or slippery trails.

Ideal Trekking Seasons

Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons, warmer days, long-distance visibility.
Autumn (September to November): Crystal-clear skies, stable weather, iconic views of Mansalu and other mountains.
Winter (December to February): Crisp air and quiet trails; colder temperatures and occasional snow.
Monsoon (June to August): Lush greenery and fewer crowds; clouds, rain, and reduced visibility.

Manaslu Circuit with Sarang Gumba Trek Difficulty Level

The Manaslu Circuit Trek with the Sarang (Serang) Gumba side trip is considered a moderate to challenging trek due to its long duration, high altitude, and remote terrain. Trekkers typically walk 5 to 8 hours per day on steep, uneven trails, with the main physical challenge being the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. The side excursion to Sarang Gumba, reaching around 4,200 meters, adds additional uphill effort and requires good stamina, though no technical climbing skills are needed. Proper acclimatisation, good physical fitness, and mental readiness are essential to manage altitude, weather changes, and basic facilities. With a well-planned itinerary and experienced guidance, the trek is achievable and highly rewarding, offering a unique combination of dramatic Himalayan scenery and rich cultural experience in a less-crowded region.

Overall Difficulty Breakdown: Moderate–Challenging

Why it's Challenging

Long duration: 15–18 days (with Sarang Gumba)
High altitude: Larkya La Pass – 5,160 m (main challenge)
Sarang Gumba side hike reaches ~4,200 m
Remote terrain: Limited facilities, fewer evacuation options
Daily walking: 5–8 hours on average
Rough trails: Landslide zones, narrow paths, stone steps
Weather exposure: Snow and strong winds near the pass

Food and Accommodation

Food

Trekkers can expect hearty, comforting food tailored to keep trekkers energised at altitude. Also, almost all the tea houses along the trekking trail prepare flavourful yet straightforward dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the menus are surprisingly diverse for such remote terrain. So, whether you prefer traditional Nepali meals or familiar international options, there's always something warm and satisfying waiting at the end of each trekking day.

Here's what you can expect:

Dal Bhat: The classic trekker's favourite; unlimited refills and packed with energy.
Soups & Noodles: Sherpa stew, garlic soup, thukpa, and ramen-style bowls.
Carb-Friendly Meals: Fried rice, pasta, potatoes, pancakes, toast.
Snacks: Momos, chapati, biscuits, porridge, and chocolate bars.
Hot Drinks: Tea, hot lemon, ginger honey, cocoa, and instant coffee.

Accommodation

The Mercy Holidays team ensures to arrange the best accommodation throughout the journey to Manaslu Circuit with the sarang gumba trek. Mostly, we can expect traditional Nepali teahouses offering cosy rooms, friendly service, and the warm communal atmosphere trekkers love. Even though the rooms are simple, we ensure that they remain clean, comfortable, and ideally suited to the adventure. After a tiring and adventurous day of walking, you will undoubtedly be in for a warm bed, hearty meals, and a relaxed space.

Along the trail, the tea houses offer twin-share wooden rooms with warm blankets and shared bathrooms. Also, expect heated communal dining rooms for meals and relaxation. Furthermore, all the tea houses also provide facilities like WiFi, electricity, and hot water for showers, but let us tell you that you might have to pay extra at the higher altitudes.

How to Prepare for the Everest Base Camp Halfway Trek

Preparing for the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek is simpler than many travellers expect. As the route stays at moderate altitudes and follows well-established trails, your focus should be on building steady stamina rather than intense athletic fitness. Therefore, we recommend that trekkers focus on a mix of light training, the right gear, and a little mental preparation; this goes a long way toward making the journey comfortable, enjoyable, and deeply rewarding.

Preparation Essentials

Start Light Training: Walk, jog, cycle, or climb stairs 3-4 times a week for at least a month.
Add Day Hikes: Try weekend hikes with a light backpack to condition your legs and balance.
Break in Your Boots: Wear your trekking boots long before the trip to avoid blisters.
Practice Hydration: Get used to drinking plenty of water during physical activity.
Check Your Gear: Test layers, backpack fit, walking poles, and rain gear before departure.
Mental Prep: Expect early mornings, basic teahouses, and a slower mountain pace.

Packing List

One of the best ways to stay safe and keep going on any trek is to pack smart and light. The same goes for the Manaslu Circuit, with Serang Gumba the route spans forest trails, breezy ridgelines, and cool evenings in teahouses; your gear should balance warmth, breathability, and practicality.

Here is what you need to pack for the Manslu Circuit with serang gumba Trek:

Trekking Clothes

Sweat-observing base layers (top and bottom)
Warm mid-layers (fleece or light synthetic jacket)
Insulated down jacket for cold mornings and evenings
Waterproof/windproof shell jacket and pants
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal gloves, lightweight gloves, beanie, buff
Sun hat or cap

Footwear

Trekking boots with good ankle support
Merino or synthetic trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals

Gear and Accessories

Daypack (25–30L) with rain cover
Trekking poles
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
Quick-dry towel
Sleeping liner (optional but handy in colder months)

Personal Items & Electronics

Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturiser
Basic first-aid kit (painkillers, blister care, personal meds)
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Toiletries (biodegradable where possible)
Power bank
Camera or phone for photos
Chargers and travel adapters

Also, remember to carry all your documents along with some extra cash (Nepali Rupees).

Manslau Circuit with Serang Gumba Trek with Mercy Holidays!

Ready to trek the Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gumba Trek? Just sign in to experience the Himalayas like never before with Mercy Holidays! We ensure stunning mountain views, vibrant Sherpa culture, and unforgettable moments without the extreme altitude.

With us, you can expect

Expert Guides: Feel safe and confident with our experienced trekking team.
Comfortable Stays: Relax in cosy teahouses after every scenic day.
All Logistics Handled: Flights, transfers, and meals organised for a hassle-free journey.

Don't wait, get yourself going to book this package with Mercy Holidays right away. If you have any concerns or questions about the package or our services, you can contact us.

FAQ

What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trekking route around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) in Nepal. It combines remote Himalayan villages, monasteries, suspension bridges, and panoramic mountain views. The trek offers a blend of natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and adventure.