Destination

Manaslu Region
Trip Duration

13 Days/ 12 Nights
Trekking Grade

Moderate
Max. Altitude

3220m/10564ft.
Best Season

Spring & Autumn
Min. Group Size

2 Max 12
Accommodation

Basic Teahouse/ Camping
Meal

Meals Included
Trip Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Highlights of Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek

A moderate trekking route embedded in the Himalayas with some beautiful sections of adventure
Explore the historical cities of Nepal
Magnificent views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and more
Experience local culture, crafts, and craftsmanship
Wildlife and flora showcasing the lowlands and subtropical climate zones
Authentic trekking experience on less-traveled treks exploring the hill villages, culture, and terraced farmlands of the Manaslu region.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu before setting up for the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek

Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek – 13 Days, Overview

Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek through serene mountain scenery, through insights into Himalayan culture, and a unique experience of a place of great ancient historical, religious, cultural, ecological and archaeological importance in Gorkha district, Lower Manaslu Trek is a uniquely popular trek. It is famous for historical tours, pilgrimage tours, agri-tourism, and community-based homestay treks. Manakamana Temple, Gorkha Durbar, Sita Cave, traditional art and crafts, and amazing views of snow-capped mountains are the main attractions of the tour.

Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail begins after a 3-hour drive to the cable car station in Kurintar and a 10-minute drive from Nepal’s first cable car to Manakamana Temple. Manakamana Temple is known as the wish-fulfilling and royal goddess of the King of Gorkha. Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek is a recently launched new trekking route. The trekking area is located in the lower valley of Manasalu region of Gorkha district. Trekking around Lower Manaslu offers trekkers a unique experience of the historical, religious, ecological and cultural significance of Gorkha district.

Gorkha district is the early capital and birthplace of modern Nepal, where the late King Prithvi Narayan Shah started the unification of modern Nepal. Similarly, the Gorkha army is also known as the world famous brave warriors after making significant contributions to the British during World War II.

Apart from the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek offers moderate trekking, historical tours, pilgrimages, agritourism and community-based homestay experiences. This Lower Manaslu Trek is an ideal alternative to the Manaslu Circuit Trail which is considered very challenging in most sections – but it is less trekking days and an authentic experience of the joys of the region.

The Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek is suitable for everyone. This trek is less crowded with tourists so you can enjoy the daily life in Lower Manaslu. Therefore, the Lower Manaslu Trek also gives us the options to experience the daily life of the locals and enjoy home-cooked food. The Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek starts from Ghairung near the religious Mankamana Temple and ends at Gyampesal via Gorkha Bazaar, Sirandanda, Barpak, Laprak, Lambai Kharka and Dharche Danda. The Lower Manaslu trek is one of the best destinations to explore the rich and unique historical, religious, cultural, ecological and archaeologically significant places. This trek is a fully supported homestay to gain a deeper understanding of the locals and gain remarkable insights into the people of the rural areas of Nepal in Lower Manaslu.

AVAILABILITY

DO YOU HAVE A BIG GROUP? We’re here to help! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

COST DETAILS: (price of the trip)

The cost of the trip always depends on the size of the group, the hotel accommodation category and the desired budget of the client.
The itinerary included in the package offered by AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions is a guideline and standard format, which can be modified according to your time and needs.
The itinerary can be changed after mutual understanding between AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions and the client. Additional activities can also be added or subtracted as per the client's request before the tour confirmation.
If the client wants to add some services, we will charge him for those additional services and if he wants to subtract some services, we will remove the charges accordingly.
Our package cost is published in the itinerary full board services for the client to understand better.
For any information on your selected package, please contact us.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to hotel

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. After completing visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, please exit the arrival hall. Your tour leader will be waiting for you just outside the arrival hall and will take you to hotel in Kathmandu. Please look for a placard with your name on it at the exit of the arrival hall. Then depending on the time, you will have time to walk around the hotel and familiarize yourself near hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Max- Elevation: 1,350m/4,430ft.

Day 02 :

In Kathmandu, Exploration and trek orientation

Today is a full-day Kathmandu tour; in which you will explore various UNESCO sites in Kathmandu. We will start our tour with a visit to Pashupatinath, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal. We will witness the Hindu cremation ceremony at Aryaghat, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. And we will visit Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. We can see the rich Tibetan culture at Boudhanath. Similarly, we will end the day’s tour by visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, the old royal residence of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Max- Elevation: 1,350m/4,430ft.

Day 03 :

Kathmandu to Ghairung

Today we start our journey, drive from Kathmandu to Kurintar for 3 hours, and from Kurintar we will take a 10-minute cable car ride to reach Manakamana Temple; it is a historical temple built in the 17th century at an altitude of 1302 meters. Our actual trek starts from Manakamana as we walk along the path of Bakyashwari Mahadev. It is a famous spiritual temple where many people believed in divine power. Further, we ascend towards Siddha Lakhan Thapa Cave. It offers a clear and magnificent view of the Manaslu mountain range. There is also a 250-year-old cave built during the reign of King Prithvi Narayan Shah at this place. Then we descend towards Tinmane Bhanjyang. And we spend the night in Pipalchhap village in Ghairung.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 3 hrs, Drive - 5 hrs, Trek
Max- Altitude: 1322m/4337ft.

Day 04 :

Trek to Gorkha from Ghairung

Today we are heading to another historical place called Bungkot. Bungkot is a Magar-dominated village and is also the birthplace of Nepal's first martyr, Lakhan Thapa. We also visit the nearby Lakhan Thapa Memorial Park. The park has various fascinating wonders of historical importance like Thapa's sword, stone headstones, and many more. Bungkot also has the facilities of homestays and other local organic market. Gorkha Bazaar is the district headquarters of Gorkha. Where, we will stay for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 5-6 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 1,522m/4,993ft.

Day 05 :

Gorkha Bazaar Excursion

Gorkha has great historical and cultural significance in the history of Nepal. This was the point where King Prithvi Narayan Shah started the unification of our modern Nepal. So, in Gorkha, we explore many places. We visit places like Gorkha Durbar, Gorakhnath Cave and Gorkha Museum. Gorkha Durbar depicts the history of Gorkha in a very artistic way. The Durbar is about 300 meters above Gorkha Bazaar. Where Gorkha Durbar, built in the 16th century, is also a medieval fort and temple. It is at such a height that you will have excellent views. Along with this, we get beautiful views of Annapurna, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Near the Durbar, we will also see the tomb of Guru Gorakhnath, the spiritual guide of the young Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Max- Elevation: 1,522m/4,993ft.

Day 06 :

Drive and trek to Sirandanda

Today we will drive for about 6 hours, and then an easy 1-2 hour hike from Bhachek village will take us to Sirandanda. Sirandanda is a settlement at an altitude of 1900 meters. Sirandanda means ‘top of the mountain’ in Nepali. As the name suggests, it is located on the top of the mountain. There are many attractions here like Dudhpokhari, Nagpokhari, Bhot Dodar, Chima Dharadi and Tea Garden. Also, from here we get a close-up view of the Manaslu mountain range. Similarly, the view of sunrise and sunset is mesmerizing. Moreover, the village has a rich variety of medicinal herbs like Nirmasi, Jatamasi, rato Unyu, Yarsagumba, and Satuwa. We see large fields of organic potatoes and tea leaves. This village will really give us a real taste of ethnicity.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 6-7 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 1,927m/6,322ft..

Day 07 :

Trek to Barpak Village from Sirananda

Leaving Sirandada, today we will head in a northeasterly direction. Our first destination is Mathar village, at an altitude of 1,790 meters, and we will reach Ghyachowk in a few hours. Dewalsara, Sum Khola, Daraudi Khola, Goje, and Alagang are some of the many interesting places here. Then we will reach Barpak village. It is a settlement where Gurung, Tamang, Ghale, Sunar, Pariyar all live together. Barpak is also the hometown of the late Captain Gaje Ghale. Gaje Ghale is an ex-army man and a famous Victoria Cross medalist. All the basic infrastructure like electricity, internet, medical services and transportation are available in this village. Where, we will stay for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 5-6 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 1,915m/6,283ft.

Day 08 :

Trek to Laprak from Barpak

After breakfast, we will trek from Barpak to the beautiful village of Laprak, and Laprak is a typical large Gurung village. There are beautiful inhabited villages with welcoming locals. Laprak represents the diversity in the typical Gurung lifestyle and cultural community. The view of various snow-capped mountains is always a major attraction here. The view of the Manaslu mountains from here is quite breathtaking. This typical Gurung village is also a popular resting place for Manaslu circuit trekkers. Where, we plan to stay in Laprak tonight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 5-6 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 2,100m/6,890ft.

Day 09 :

Trek to Nambai Kharka from Laprak

Laprak to Nambai Kharka Today we continue our journey and head towards Nambai Kharka. It will be a moderate hike of 4 to 5 hours to reach our destination today; Nambai Kharka In the local language, 'Kharka' means pasture land and Nambai Kharka is an open pasture land with sparse habitation. There are temporary homes of Laprakis (local residents of Laprak). Where we stay here for the night while enjoying local organic food.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 4-5 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 2915m/9563ft.

Day 10 :

Hike to Dharche Danda then trek to Tallo Thotneri

After breakfast, we start our early morning trek to climb the peak of Darche Danda (Hill). This is the highest point of the Lower Manaslu trek. The view from Darche Danda is magnificent and 180 degrees panoramic. One can see the natural beauty of more than 20 Himalayan peaks from here. Famous peaks include 20 Himalayan peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Bharatsikhar, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamtang, Himalchuli, Buddha Himal, Sarang Peak, Malkunti Peak, Babu Himal, Sringi Himal, Ganesh I, Ganesh II and Ganesh III and many more. The viewpoint is at an altitude of 3220 meters. Similarly; compared to similar places, the view of sunrise and sunset from here is mesmerizing. Darche Danda also has religious significance among the local Gurungs. The locals believe that ‘praying to the mountain-god can ward off all natural calamities’. That is why tourists also pray here in the hope of clear visibility and no misfortune during the trek.

After the scenic mountain views, we will head towards another Gurung village; Tallo Thotaneri. The downhill journey takes 6 to 7 hours. Tallo Thotaneri is another village with average commercial facilities. Where we will stay today with excellent homestay services. We will enjoy the traditional dance of the locals and their typical delicious dishes. And if you want to do some sightseeing there, we can also visit Sita Cave and Olajung Danda.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 6-7 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 3220m/10498ft.
O/N Elevation: 1650m/5413ft.

Day 11 :

Trek to Gyampesal from from Tallo Thotneri

After breakfast we proceed to the Sita Cave. We walk through the dense forest in the middle. Sita Cave is a major Hindu shrine and is also a tourist attraction. A big 'fair' is held here on Ram Navami. It is believed that Lord Ram and Goddess Sita reside in this cave, where devotees worship their likeness. After the cool experience of the cave, we head towards Ghyampeshaal. Ghyampeshaal is the last destination of your journey. And this is another descent that will take a few hours. Where we stay at Ghyampeshaal Homestay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Camping
Duration: 5-6 Hrs
Max- Elevation: 950m/3,117ft.

Day 12 :

Drive from Gyampesal to Kathmandu

Today we return to Kathmandu by our private car which takes about 7 hours and will be transferred to the hotel. The remaining time is free to explore Kathmandu or do some shopping, meaning you can spend the time relaxing at the hotel after a 7-hour drive.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Duration: 7 Hrs (Drive)
Max- Elevation: 1,350m/4,430ft.

Day 13 :

International Departure, or alternatively join other programs

On your last day in Kathmandu, we will be ready to take you to the international airport three hours before your scheduled flight. It is a great honor to meet you in this glorious region, and we pray for your safe journey home. We will remember the wonderful times we spent together. Have a nice trip!!! We hope to see you again someday. Safe travels!

Meals: Breakfast

INFO RELATED TO THIS TRIP

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How difficult is the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek?

Although the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek takes hikers close to undeveloped trails and peaceful nature, they should also be prepared for the hardships of the trek. Since the area is located in a remote area, the facilities here are basic. Similarly, access to modern amenities is also limited. The weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes. This can create difficulties for hikers.

The trek has some challenging and steep sections. The terrain can be uneven and rocky. Therefore, difficult treks require climbing and descending. Similarly, hikers may have to cross rivers using suspension bridges. The daily trek takes an average of 5 to 6 hours. Therefore, it can be physically demanding and mentally challenging as well. Hikers should train to increase their physical endurance and stamina.

Another difficult part of the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek is the altitude. The highest elevation during the trek is 3,220 meters. Although this is low compared to many other trekking routes in Nepal, there is a risk of altitude sickness. Beginner hikers are more likely to get altitude sickness than seasoned hikers. When hikers walk too fast without proper acclimatization, it can also cause pain to hikers at high altitudes. Therefore, hikers must be physically and mentally prepared. Proper equipment and gear are also essential to deal with unpredictable weather conditions. To avoid altitude sickness, climb slowly and acclimatize well.

What is the best time to trek to Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail?

The best time to trek to Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek is during the September to November and March to May. These fall in the spring and autumn seasons respectively. These two seasons are the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal. The weather and climate are suitable for trekking. Similarly, the temperature is also moderately warm and favorable. The sky is clear and there is minimal chance of rain or snowfall at high altitudes. The vegetation is also lush and green during these seasons. In spring, the plants and flowers along the trail are covered with every kind of flowers and the forests of rhododendron forests along the trail blooms during the spring season. This is the best time to enjoy the view of Lower Manaslu trekking. During these seasons, trekkers can observe the diverse biodiversity of the region. They can get a panoramic view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal mountain ranges.

Similarly, during the summer monsoon season, the trek becomes muddy and slippery. There is a risk of landslides. Therefore, Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail is not safe for trekking in summer. During winter, there is heavy snowfall at higher altitudes. Therefore, we do not recommend traveling during the summer and winter seasons.

What is the condition of Lower Manaslu trek?

The condition of Lower Manaslu trek is well defined and well maintained. The route has clear paths. There are gentle slopes and stone steps. Hikers have to climb up and down varied terrain at times. Similarly, they will also have to cross rivers on suspension bridges.

Do I need travel insurance for this trek?

We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and you must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved. More information: Travel Insurance

What documents are needed for trekking?

Nepal is a popular destination for trekkers, with a variety of trekking options ranging from easy to challenging routes. However, before embarking on a trek in Nepal, it is important for trekkers to do their research about where they are going, what they should and shouldn’t do, and to obtain detailed information about the permits required, as they can vary by region. For more information, Documents

Who is my guide to Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek?

You will be led by our highly experienced mountain trekking guides, who have years of experience having visited Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek multiple times. All of our guides are full-time employees, not freelancers, and are local experts fluent in English. They have extensive knowledge of the mountain, its people, culture, health, hygiene, and most importantly, your safety.

Can I Do Lower Manaslu Cultural Trail Trek Solo?

Manaslu Region, falls under a controlled area as per the Government of Nepal. The region is categorised as a restricted area but trekking and climbing are allowed. To trek in this region, you need to be in a group of at least 2 accompanied by a licensed guide. So solo trekking for individual trekkers is prohibited in Manaslu Region.

Will I have to carry my own stuff?

You will only carry your day pack which will contain the essentials you will need during the trek (water, camera, extra fleece, rain jacket, sunscreen, snacks, valuables, etc.). The rest of your luggage will be carried by a porter. We provide 1 porter for every 2 participants.

Will I get my deposit back if I cancel my trip?

We offer a lifetime deposit policy which gives you the flexibility to transfer your deposit to anyone or any other trip. If you wish to cancel your booked trips, certain cancellation fees apply. Please see our booking terms and conditions for detailed information.

What kind of gears are needed to trek to Lower Manaslu Trek?

Lower Manaslu Cultural Trek. Different from the Manaslu Circuit trek. Although it may not be as cold as the Manaslu Circuit, you should still be prepared with the right clothing. Please see our detailed clothing packing lists for the Lower Manaslu Cultural Trek trek.