Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek - 21 Days | Hidden Himalayan Jewel

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The Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek
Quick Overview
Duration21 Days
Trip GradeTechnically Challenging
CountryNepal
Maximum AltitudeKang La (5,306 m / 17,405 ft).
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesManaslu trekking
Best TimeMar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, & Nov

The second pass is harder than the first. You crossed Larkya La three days ago, 5,160 metres of frozen scree and glacier with Manaslu's south face so close you could count the crevasses. That felt like the summit of your trek. It was not. Now you are climbing Kang La at 5,306 metres, higher than anything on the Manaslu Circuit, and the wind is tearing across the col with enough force to stagger you sideways. Your guide ropes the steep section. You plant your trekking poles and push. And then you crest the pass and the Nar Phu Valley opens below you: a vast, arid terrain of red rock and golden scrub that looks more like Ladakh or Mustang than Nepal. Prayer flags snap overhead. A herd of blue sheep watches from a ridge. You have just entered one of the most remote inhabited valleys in the entire Himalaya, and there is not another trekker in sight.

The 21-day Manaslu + Nar Phu Valley Trek is the most comprehensive restricted-area itinerary in Nepal. It combines the full Manaslu Circuit (following the Budhi Gandaki river through Soti Khola, Jagat, Namrung, Shyala, Sama Gaon, Samdo and over Larkya La) with a detour into the Nar Phu Valley, accessed via Kang La Pass (5,306m / 17,408ft). Two restricted areas. Two high passes above 5,000 metres. Three weeks of walking through landscapes and cultures that most trekkers will never see. It is designed by Shreejan Simkhada for experienced Himalayan trekkers who have done the standard circuits and want something that tests them in every way.

What Makes This Trek Unforgettable

  • Cross TWO high passes above 5,000 metres: Larkya La (5,160m / 16,929ft) on the Manaslu Circuit and Kang La (5,306m / 17,408ft) connecting to the Nar Phu Valley, the highest trekking pass in this region
  • Enter the Nar Phu Valley, one of Nepal's most remote restricted areas, where the semi-arid terrain resembles the Tibetan Plateau and the Lo-Pa people have maintained their Tibetan Buddhist traditions in near-total isolation
  • Trek through TWO restricted areas (Manaslu and Nar Phu), each requiring special permits and each offering a completely different cultural and geographic experience
  • Visit Nar Village (4,110m) and Nar Phedi Monastery, perched on a cliff above the valley where monks still perform daily pujas and the gompa's murals have survived centuries of wind and snow
  • Trek beneath the massive south face of Manaslu (8,163m) from Sama Gaon, close enough to hear the ice calving from hanging glaciers, before pushing over Larkya La at dawn
  • Walk through Bhimtang's alpine meadows after the Larkya La crossing, then continue through Ngawal and other Annapurna Conservation Area villages as you complete the Nar Phu section
  • Complete the longest and most challenging trek in the Manaslu region: 21 days of walking through subtropical gorges, Tibetan Buddhist villages, glacial moraines, and high-altitude desert, with two pass crossings that test every skill you have developed as a Himalayan trekker

21-Day Manaslu + Nar Phu Valley Trek Overview

Twenty-one days. Two restricted areas. Two high passes. This is the expedition-grade trek for trekkers who have done Everest Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, or the standard Manaslu Circuit and want something that pushes them further. The route combines Nepal's two most remote restricted valleys into a single journey that covers more cultural and geographic ground than any other trekking itinerary in the country.

The first section follows the classic Manaslu Circuit: a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, then walking up the Budhi Gandaki gorge through Jagat, Namrung, Shyala, Sama Gaon and Samdo. You spend time acclimatising beneath Manaslu's south face, hiking to Birendra Tal and exploring the Tibetan border settlements. The culture here is Nubri, with Tibetan Buddhist gompas, mani walls and prayer wheels at every turn. The Larkya La crossing (5,160m) comes next: a long, cold day that starts before dawn and ends in the alpine meadows of Bhimtang.

From Bhimtang, instead of descending to Dharapani and heading home, you continue to the Kang La base. The Kang La crossing (5,306m / 17,408ft) is the crux of this trek: steeper and more technical than Larkya La, with sections of fixed rope and a demanding descent into the Nar Phu Valley. The landscape on the other side is startlingly different. Where the Manaslu side is green, glacial and forested, the Nar Phu side is dry, rocky and windswept. The villages of Nar and Phu sit in a landscape that looks like it belongs in the trans-Himalayan rain shadow of Mustang. The people here are Lo-Pa, ethnically Tibetan, with their own dialect, their own festivals, and a way of life that has barely changed in centuries.

After exploring the Nar Phu Valley, including Nar Phedi Monastery and the ancient village of Nar, you descend through the Annapurna Conservation Area via Ngawal and the Marshyangdi Valley to Besisahar, where you drive back to Kathmandu. The acclimatisation profile of this itinerary is excellent: the Manaslu Circuit section gradually builds your altitude tolerance, and by the time you face Kang La (the higher of the two passes), your body has been above 4,000 metres for over a week.

Arrive by 4:00 PM on Day One

Please arrive in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before your trek. This gives you time for a final gear check, a comprehensive briefing with your guide covering both the Manaslu and Nar Phu sections, and a good night's rest before the drive to Soti Khola.

Online Trip Briefing

After you book, we schedule a video call to walk you through every section of this 21-day itinerary: the Manaslu Circuit approach, the Larkya La crossing, the Kang La crossing (including what technical sections to expect), what the accommodation is like in the Nar Phu Valley (very basic), and how the two restricted-area permits work. This is also when you share your Kathmandu hotel preferences.

Note to Hikers

Both the Manaslu and Nar Phu areas are restricted zones. You must travel with an organised group (minimum two trekkers) and hold special permits for each area, which we arrange as part of your package. The Kang La crossing may require crampons and rope depending on conditions. Our guides carry all necessary technical equipment. All treks are private, your group only, no strangers added without your permission.

Kathmandu Accommodation

Your hotel in Kathmandu is not included in the trek package. During the online briefing, tell us what you prefer and we will arrange it. Your trek package begins the moment you leave Kathmandu for the mountains.

Compare Our Three Packages

Feature Budget Standard Luxury
Price from USD $1,438 USD $2,135 USD $2,300
Meals Not included (order and pay at teahouses) 3 meals daily + tea, fruits and 2L water All meals + all drinks (except alcohol)
Room Shared teahouse room Private twin with attached bathroom Private deluxe with bed heater
Porter Not included 1 porter per 2 trekkers 1 porter per trekker (carry nothing)
Guide 1 guide per group (assistant at 8+) 1 guide per 6 trekkers (assistant at 6+) 1 guide per 2 trekkers
Transport Local vehicle Private tourist vehicle Luxury private vehicle
SIM & Data SIM card only SIM with limited data SIM with unlimited data
Best for Experienced backpackers with high-altitude experience Seasoned trekkers wanting full support on a 3-week expedition Premium experience seekers who want to carry nothing

Himalayas for Every Budget. Same expert guides, same safety, three comfort levels. Every tier includes all permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, TIMS), a Nepal government well-trained guide, airport transfers and 24/7 emergency support. Note: accommodation in both the upper Manaslu Circuit and the Nar Phu Valley is the most basic available on any standard trekking route in Nepal. Above Samdo and throughout Nar Phu, all tiers share the best available lodge. Hot showers and electricity may be unavailable for several consecutive days. Carry a good sleeping bag even in Luxury tier.

Your Trek, Our Family

The Everest Holiday is not a faceless agency. It is a family.

Hari Lal Simkhada, Shreejan's grandfather, arranged logistics and supported Himalayan expeditions in the 1960s and 1970s, when reaching Nepal's most remote valleys meant weeks of approach marching through uncharted terrain. Ganesh Prasad Simkhada, Shreejan's father, has held senior positions in Nepal's tourism and mountaineering institutions, helping build the regulatory systems that protect restricted areas like Manaslu and Nar Phu today.

Today, Shreejan Simkhada runs The Everest Holiday as CEO and third-generation guide. For a 21-day trek with two high-pass crossings and two restricted areas, guide selection is the single most important decision he makes. Your guide must have crossed both Larkya La and Kang La multiple times, must know how to read weather windows above 5,000 metres, must carry technical equipment for the Kang La rope sections, and must know every teahouse and water source across three weeks of trail. Shreejan personally briefs your guide before departure. Shamjhana Basukala, co-founder of The Everest Holiday, manages the complex dual-permit logistics required for this itinerary.

Have a question right now? WhatsApp Shreejan directly: +977 9810351300. No sales team. No chatbot. The person who designed your trek answers personally.

Why Trekkers Trust Us

  • 320+ verified reviews across TripAdvisor (4.9/5, Travellers Choice 2024), Google (4.9/5) and Trustpilot
  • TAAN Certified, Member #1586, Government Registration: 147653/072/073
  • Three generations of Himalayan guiding since the 1960s
  • MATKA 2026 exhibitor, representing Nepal at Northern Europe's largest travel trade fair in Helsinki
  • Secure 10% deposit processed through Himalayan Bank Limited
  • No strangers added to your group, ever. Every trek is private.

Solo Trekkers Welcome

Both restricted-area permits require a minimum of two trekkers. If you are travelling alone, we regularly pair solo travellers with other experienced trekkers heading into the same area. A 21-day trek creates bonds that last well beyond the trail. By the time you cross your second high pass together, the person who started as a stranger will feel like family.

Our groups are small, 2 to 20 people. If you want to trek completely privately, you can. If you prefer company, tell us and we will list your dates as a fixed departure so other solo travellers can find you and join.

Difficulty: Very Challenging (5 out of 5)

This is the most demanding standard trekking route in the Manaslu region. You will cross two high passes above 5,000 metres (Larkya La at 5,160m and Kang La at 5,306m), walk for 21 consecutive days, and spend extended periods above 4,000 metres. The Kang La crossing is steeper and more technical than Larkya La, with sections that may require crampons and fixed rope depending on conditions. Both pass days start before dawn in freezing temperatures.

The length alone makes this trek serious. Twenty-one days of sustained effort at altitude requires exceptional cardiovascular fitness and mental resilience. The trail includes narrow gorge sections between Jagat and Deng, glacial moraine above Samdo, and exposed rocky terrain above Nar Village. Altitude sickness is a serious concern. Our guides carry pulse oximeters, technical equipment and first aid supplies, and they monitor your condition every day. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is essential. You should have completed at least one trek above 5,000 metres before attempting this itinerary. Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation cover is mandatory.

Trek With a Purpose — Changing the World, One Step at a Time

In 2019, Shreejan and Shamjhana founded the Nagarjun Learning Center in Saldum Village, one of the most remote communities in Nepal's Dhading District. Today, 70 children receive free education and hot meals every school day. The centre has grown to 7 learning centres across Nepal, providing healthcare for over 600 people, internet access for 65 children, and support programmes for more than 275 women.

A portion of every trek you book funds this work directly. The Nagarjun Learning Center is verified and listed on the United Nations Partner Portal.

On a 21-day trek through two of Nepal's most remote restricted areas, you will see communities that survive on subsistence farming, where the nearest hospital may be days of walking away. You will understand why education and healthcare access matter so profoundly. Your trek with us ensures that 70 children in Dhading District have both.

Trip Gallery

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Itinerary

Day 01: Trek starts by a drive from Kathmandu (1,324 m/4,344 ft) to Machha Khola (890 m/2,965 ft), usually around 8-10 hours.
Day 02: After breakfast, the trek begins with 22 km from Machha Khola (870 m/2,854 ft) to Jagat (1,400 m/4,593 ft), usually around 5 -6 hours with a total elevation change of 530m - 1739 ft.
Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Day 03: Trek starts with a 6.5 km walk from Jagat (1,400 m/4,593 ft) to Deng (1,860 m/6,101 ft), usually around 6 hours with a total elevation change of 460m – 1508 ft.
Max Altitude: 1,860 m / 6,101 ft
Day 04: Trek starts with a 6.5 km walk from Deng (1,860 m/6,101ft) to Namrung (2,630 m/8,628 ft), usually around 6 hours with a total elevation change of 770 m—2,527ft.
Max Altitude: 1,860 m / 6,101 ft
Day 05: Trek starts 12 km / 7.5 miles walk from Namrung (2,630 m/8,628 ft) to Sama Gaun (3,530 m/ 11,581 ft), usually with a total elevation change of 490m / 1,608 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,530 m/ 11,581 ft
Day 06: Accommodation in Samagaon (3,530 m/ 11,581 ft).
Day 07: Trek starts with an 8.2 km walk from Sama Gaun (3,530 m/11,581 ft) to Samdo (3,875m / 12,713ft), usually around 3 hours with a total elevation change of 345m – 1132 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,875m / 12,713ft
Day 08: Trek starts with an 8 km / 5 mile walk from Samdo (3,875m / 12,713ft), to Larke La Phedi (4,460 m / 14,632 ft), usually around 4-5 hours with a total elevation change of 770 m / 2,526 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,460 m/14,632 ft
Day 09: Trek starts with a 24.7 km walk from Dharamsala (4,480m / 14,698ft) by crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft) to Bhimtang (3,720m / 12,205ft), usually taking around 8 hours with a total elevation change of 1,440 m / 4,724 ft.
Max Altitude: 5,160 m/16,929 ft.
Day 10: Trek starts with a 20 km walk from Bhimtang (3,720m / 12,205ft) to Dharapani (1,910m / 6,266ft), usually around 8 hours with a total elevation change of 1,810 m / 5,939 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,720m / 12,205ft
Day 11: Trek from Dharapani (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) to Koto (2,600 m / 8,530 ft), approximately 15 km / 9.3 miles, usually around 6–7 hours, with a total elevation gain of 740 m / 2,428 ft.
Max Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
Day 12: Trek from Koto (2,600 m / 8,530 ft) to Meta (3,560 m / 11,680 ft), approximately 18 km / 11.2 miles, usually around 7–8 hours, with a total elevation gain of 960 m / 3,150 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,560 m / 11,680 ft
Day 13: Trek from Meta (3,560 m / 11,680 ft) to Phu Gaon (4,080 m / 13,386 ft), approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles, usually around 5–6 hours, with a total elevation gain of 520 m / 1,706 ft.
Max Altitude: 4080 m/13386 ft
Day 14: Acclimatisation day at Phu gaon
Day 15: Trek from Phu Gaon (4,080 m / 13,386 ft) to Nar (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) via Nar Pass (5,306 m / 17,405 ft), approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles, usually around 8–9 hours, total elevation gain 1,226 m / 4,022 ft, total descent 1,132 m / 3,714 ft.
Max Altitude: 5,306 m / 17,405 ft
Day 16: Exploration to Nar Village
Day 17: Trek from Nar Village (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) to Ngawal (3,660 m / 12,008 ft) via Kang La Pass (5,306 m / 17,405 ft), approximately 15 km / 9.3 miles, usually around 8–9 hours, total elevation gain 1,106 m / 3,629 ft, total descent 1,646 m / 5,397 ft.
Max Altitude: 5,306 m / 17,405 ft
Day 18: Trek from Ngawal (3,660 m / 12,008 ft) to Pisang (3,200 m / 10,498 ft), approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles, usually around 5–6 hours, total descent 460 m / 1,509 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,498 ft
Day 19: Trek from Pisang (3,200 m / 10,498 ft) to Dharapani (1,860 m / 6,102 ft), approximately 18 km / 11.2 miles, usually around 7–8 hours, total descent 1,340 m / 4,396 ft.
Max Altitude: 1,860 m / 6,102 ft
Day 20: Trek from Dharapani (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) to Jagat (1,300 m / 4,265 ft), approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles, usually around 5–6 hours, total descent 560 m / 1,837 ft.
Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Day 21: Drive from Jagat (1,300 m / 4,265 ft) to Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft), approximately 135 km / 84 miles, usually around 8 hours by local jeep and bus, minimal elevation change.
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Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek - 21 Days | Hidden Himalayan Jewel

Availability

Book your own private small group trip
No. of travellers
Price per person
2 - 4 pax
US$1438
5 - 8 pax
US$1375
9 - 12 pax
US$1340
13 - 20 pax
US$1299

Discounts are determined exclusively by the size of your group. We do not add additional members to your group.

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Secure Payment by Himalayan Bank.
Cost Includes

Transportation

  • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off from Tribhuvan International Airport to the Hotel of your choice.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu via Machha Khola (trek start point) and from jagat (trek end point) to besisahar and then back to Kathmandu by local transportation. 

Accommodation and food

  • During the trek, Food or drinks are not included. 
  • You will stay in a local teahouse and lodge in a shared room during the duration of the trek.

Guide and porter

  • An English-speaking, Nepal government well-trained guide is provided (one guide for your group). For groups of 8 or more trekkers, an additional assistant guide is included. For more than 8 trekkers, 1 assistant guide is added.
  • Porter is not included, only the guide.

Permits and Expenses

  • Manaslu Special permit with Conservation Area Permit.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees.
  • Nar Phu Valley Special Permit.
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
  • All government taxes and official expenses.

Medical Assistance

  • First aid kits are provided, including an oximeter to check blood oxygen levels at high altitudes.
  • Arranging rescue operations in case of an emergency health condition. (funded by travel insurance of the trekker)

Complimentary

  • Company's T-shirt and Cap before the trek.
  • At the end of your trip, you'll have a farewell meal at a restaurant in the area. At the farewell dinner after the Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek—21 Days, we will give you a certificate of achievement for successful completion of the trek. 

Benefits

  • Sleeping bags and down jackets: if you do not have your own, please inform us either at your online briefing or after the arrival briefing in Kathmandu before your trek so we can provide you with one for your use during the trek.
  • Free Excess luggage storage at The Everest Holiday store for the duration of the trek.
  • We will arrange a SIM Card for every individual trekker upon arrival in Kathmandu and teach them how to get budget internet packages and top up their services.
Cost Excludes

International Flight

  •  International flight cost.

Nepali Visa

  • At Tribhuvan International Airport, you can pay the following fees upon arrival: $30 for a 15-day visa, $50 for a 30-day visa, and $120 for a 90-day visa. Alternatively, you can apply for and receive a Nepal visa from the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country.

(Note: Anyone having a visa before arrival has an express exit through the immigration line. To obtain a visa upon arrival at TIA Kathmandu, you must have the necessary funds in US dollars.)

Accommodation

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek will not be included in this package. So, please let us know your preferences, budget, and standard of the hotel you would like to stay in Kathmandu during the online meeting. So we can arrange it for you accordingly.

Guide and Porter

  • Tip for guides and porters. (Recommended)

Other expenses

  • Excess luggage charges for an extra porter to carry extra luggage and also any extra cost charged by the airline for extra luggage. (A porter carries 20 kg in standard package with 10 kg per person, as he carries for two people but in luxury package you are provide with a porter each for a 20 kg weight limit, and for budget package no porter is provided, only a guide who cannot carry loads for you.)
  • All non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, hot water, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks are not included, etc.
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances out of our control, like landslides, unfavourable weather, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.

Equipment Lists

We advise you to carry only the clothing and equipment that are absolutely required for the trek. You can store your excess baggage at The Everest Holiday for free. Porters are available to assist with your additional luggage; however, it is important to be aware that the weight limit is established at 10 kg per trekker. Since one porter carries the luggage for two people, we provide one duffel bag for every trekker. The total weight limit for the porter is 20 kg, which means each trekker has a 10 kg luggage allowance.

  • Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
  • Beanie (for warmth)
  • A neck gaiter or buff (for warmth and sun protection)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
  • Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)
  • A thick-wool or synthetic pair of moisture-wicking socks
  • waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and excellent traction
  • Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
  • Gaiters protect from mud, water, and debris.
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
  • Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
  • Fleece jacket and down jacket (Mandatory)
  • Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Raincoat
  • Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear (four)
  • Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • Wear long underwear or thermal leggings when it is cold.
  • Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Medium-sized drying towel
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
  • The toilet paper is stored in a Ziplock bag.
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Travel-sized shampoo
  •  Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • A duffel bag with a capacity of over 60 litres is intended for porters, with one duffel bag for every trekker.
  • An individual's daypack or backpack with a 20- or 30- litre capacity should be plenty.
  • Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
  • A two-litre water bladder or bottle (with a protective cover for cold climates)
  • Use water purification methods such as purification tablets, filter bottles, or UV filters.
  • A warm covering to the sleeping bag (ideally between -10 and -15 degrees)
  • Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
  • A portable charger, spare batteries, or a battery pack
  • Two-pin charging plug
  • Basic first aid supplies include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and Diamox (which is used to prevent or lessen symptoms related to mountain sickness).
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Few passport-size photos
  • Passport photocopies
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars
  • Water purification (tablets, filter bottle, UV filter)
  • Energy bar
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.)
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention/relief)
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
  • Face wipes
  • An extra pair of batteries

Essential Information

Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek (21 Days) — What You Need to Know

Arrival and Welcome

When you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be waiting with a sign showing your name. You'll be welcomed with a traditional marigold garland or khada and driven to your hotel in a private car. We ask that you arrive in Kathmandu by 4 pm the day before your trek departs — this gives us time for final preparations. On trek day, we'll collect you from your hotel and drive to Maccha Khola, the starting point of your twenty-one-day journey through the Manaslu and Nar Phu regions, according to your package tier.

Accommodation

Over twenty-one days, you'll stay in lodges and teahouses along the trail. Most offer private bathrooms and standard rooms where available. Electricity for charging devices, Wi-Fi, and hot showers are generally available in most lodges, though they may come at a small extra cost. You'll need at least two nights in Kathmandu before and after the trek, which aren't included in the package.

Meals

At altitude, your body works harder and needs proper fuel — plenty of carbohydrates, protein, and hydration. Menus vary with altitude; options narrow the higher you go. We strongly recommend garlic soup, fresh vegetables, green tea, hot lemon, and ginger tea. For a hearty, filling meal, try the local favourite: Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry). At higher altitudes, we recommend avoiding heavy meat dishes, dairy, and alcohol. Personal extras like alcohol, snacks, and drinks between meals aren't included.

Luggage

We provide one porter for every two trekkers. Each person's luggage allowance is 10 kg, so a porter carries no more than 20 kg total — we never overload our porters. You'll still carry a small daypack for your valuables, water, and camera. Pack only what you need; extra bags can be stored free at your hotel or our Kathmandu office. All luggage and gear will be checked before the trek begins.

Facilities and Essentials

Water

You can buy bottled water from shops along the trail or drink boiled or filtered water at lodges. We strongly recommend bringing a reusable bottle and refilling it with boiled water — this cuts down on plastic waste and saves money. Never drink untreated tap, river, or well water. For extra safety, carry water purification tablets (available at shops along the trail). Staying well hydrated is one of the most important things you can do at altitude.

Communication

We'll provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and show you how to set up data and top up credit. Mobile signal can be patchy at higher altitudes, but our lead guide stays in daily contact with all trekking teams. For emergencies, we carry walkie-talkies and satellite phones in areas with no mobile coverage.

Travel Essentials

Visa

All foreign nationals need a visa to enter Nepal (Indian citizens are exempt). Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport — the current fee is USD 50 for 30 days, payable in cash. Citizens of China and SAARC countries receive free visas. We also recommend registering your visit with your country's embassy or consulate in Nepal.

Travel Insurance

This is a long, high-altitude trek through remote terrain. Travel insurance is mandatory. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue up to 5,000 metres. Please send us your insurance details before the trek begins — in an emergency, we'll use them to arrange rapid evacuation and hospital transfer.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. ATMs are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major towns. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not at smaller shops or on remote trails.

We recommend carrying cash in NPR for daily expenses. USD, GBP, EUR, and AUD can be exchanged at banks and money changers in Kathmandu.

Extra Expenses

While the package covers most trek costs, you'll need to budget for some personal items: meals and accommodation in Kathmandu, visa fees, snacks on the trail, hot showers, personal gear, and tips for the crew. We recommend roughly USD 20 per day for these extras during the trek.

Trek Season and Weather

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is open from March to May and September to November — these are the safe seasons for trekking. Spring (March–May): Ideal conditions, with clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and views of Mt. Manaslu. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C, dropping to -4°C at night. Autumn (September–November): Stable weather and beautiful mountain views, with temperatures from 15°C to 25°C and nighttime lows around -6°C. Snow increases from December, making Larkya La Pass difficult to cross.

A Typical Day

An early breakfast kicks off each morning. The day's walking is split into two parts: three to four hours in the morning, a one-hour lunch stop, then a shorter afternoon stretch to your lodge. Dinner is served around 7 pm, when your guide will brief you on the next day's plan. The rest of the evening is yours — relax, explore the settlement, or swap stories with fellow trekkers.

Booking Your Trek

Private Treks

Every trek we run is private — you'll only walk with your own group. We never add strangers to your trip. All itineraries are fully customisable to suit your schedule.

Solo Trekkers and Group Bookings

Our treks run with a minimum of two people. If you're travelling alone and don't have a companion, we can set up a group trek open to others — once you confirm, it goes on our website so other trekkers can join. This way, every trip becomes your own personal holiday in the Himalayas.

Secure Booking

The Everest Holiday is a registered and bonded trekking operator — proud members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Shreejan's father, Ganesh Prasad Simkhada, has held senior positions at the Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal Mountaineering Association. To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment.

Payment options include the Himalayan Bank online portal (on our website), major credit cards, bank transfers, Wise, and Western Union. You can pay the remaining balance after arriving in Kathmandu. Please send us a copy of your passport within one week of booking, and make sure it has at least six months' validity from your arrival date in Nepal.

Last-Minute Bookings

We recommend booking in advance, but we do accept last-minute bookings with full payment required 24 hours before departure. For last-minute treks, contact Shreejan directly at +977-9810351300 or email info@theeverestholiday.com. Please note that last-minute trips may face delays due to circumstances beyond our control.

Our Team

We're a family business with three generations in Nepal's tourism industry. We started as porters and now run the agency — and we still treat every team member like family. Your guides and porters are experienced professionals from the upper Himalayas who know these mountains intimately. They're trained in wilderness first aid, altitude safety, and speak good English. We cover their insurance, meals, accommodation, and medical care. Don't hesitate to ask them anything — they're there for you.

Flexible Schedule

Your trip dates are entirely up to you. If our listed departure dates don't work, let us know and we'll arrange a trek that fits your schedule.

Trip Extensions

Want to see more of Nepal? We can add activities like a jungle safari in Chitwan or Bardiya, bungee jumping in Pokhara or Kushma, white-water rafting on the Bhote Koshi or Trishuli, paragliding over Pokhara, or canyoning at Sukhuta Beach.

For culture and history, we arrange guided tours of the Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Changunarayan Temple, and Pashupatinath Temple. Sunrise trips to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are also popular. We can arrange spiritual visits to temples, monasteries, and meditation centres too. Check our ADD-ON packages when you book.

Ecotourism

We take the health of these mountains seriously. At the start of your trek, every guest receives an eco-waste bag. Please use it for all non-compostable rubbish — snack wrappers, plastic bottles, batteries. Carry it with you as you walk; our guides will show you where to dispose of waste properly at designated collection points. Help us keep the Manaslu and Annapurna region clean for the people who live here and the trekkers who come after you.

After the Trek

Farewell Dinner

Back in Kathmandu, we'll host a farewell dinner where you can share stories from the trail and give us your honest feedback. You'll also receive a certificate of achievement to mark what you've accomplished.

Departure

Let us know your hotel name, room number, and flight details, and we'll arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. We hope you'll come back to Nepal for another adventure.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in Nepal but never obligatory. The amount should reflect the quality of service, the length and difficulty of the trek, and your overall experience. We recommend tipping the crew collectively at the end of the trek.

FAQs

Q1. What is the Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek like?
The Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure. It takes you through lush forests, remote Gurung, Manangi, and Tibetan-influenced villages, high mountain passes, glacial valleys, and some of Nepal’s most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft.), Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and other towering peaks, as well as immerse yourself in the rich Himalayan culture.

Q2. What is the maximum altitude of the trek?
The highest point is Kang La (5,306 m/17,405 ft). The itinerary includes acclimatisation days to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Q3. Can beginners attempt this trek?

This trek is considered strenuous and is recommended for trekkers with some previous high-altitude experience. Beginners can attempt it with strong fitness, mental determination, and proper preparation, but we strongly advise trekking with an experienced guide.

Q4. How difficult is the Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The trek is graded as challenging. Expect 6–8 hours of trekking per day, long ascents and descents, and multiple high passes such as Larkya La (5,106 m / 16,752 ft) and Kang La (5,306 m / 17,405 ft). Stamina, a steady pace, and proper acclimatisation are essential.

Q5. Do I need any permits for this trek?
Yes, you’ll need the following permits:
* Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Required because the trek passes through a restricted region.
* Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Required to support conservation and trekking activities in the region.
Your trekking agency typically arranges these permits before the trek begins.

Q6. Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Insurance is essential and must cover trekking above 5,500 meters, helicopter evacuations, accidents, and medical emergencies.

Q7. Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Most travelers require a tourist visa, available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in advance from a Nepalese embassy.

Q8. Can I hire guides and porters for this trek?
Yes, and it is highly recommended. The Manaslu and Nar Phu regions are remote, and trekking with a registered guide is mandatory. Porters can also be hired to carry luggage, making the trek easier and more enjoyable.

Q9. Are the guides and porters experienced?
Absolutely. Local guides and porters know the terrain, culture, and weather of the Manaslu region well. Most guides speak good English and have years of trekking experience, ensuring your safety and comfort.

Q10. What kind of accommodation is available?
You will mostly stay in teahouses along the route. These provide simple rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared toilets. Facilities in remote villages are basic but sufficient, with warm meals and a cozy place to rest.

Q11. Is camping required?
No, this trek is organized as a teahouse trek. However, in very remote areas, facilities are simple and may not include hot showers or electricity.

Q12. When is the best time to do the Manaslu with Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The best seasons are:
* Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, rhododendrons in bloom, and clear mountain views.
* Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp skies, and excellent visibility.
Winter (December–February) can be very cold with snow at high passes, while summer/monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and slippery trails.

Q13. What food is available on the trek?
Teahouses serve simple but filling meals. The staple is Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables). Other options include noodles, momos, eggs, potatoes, soup, and occasionally pasta or chapati. Food choices become limited at higher altitudes.

Q14. Can I drink water along the trek?
Do not drink untreated stream or tap water. Carry purification tablets or a filter, or buy boiled water from teahouses. Bottled water is available in lower villages but becomes more expensive at higher elevations.

Q15. What should I pack for this trek?
Essentials include sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing for warm and cold weather, a down jacket, a sleeping bag (-15°C comfort), trekking poles, gloves, a hat, a headlamp, a water bottle, and personal medicines.

Q16. Are trekking poles useful?
Yes. They provide extra stability on steep ascents and descents, reduce knee strain, and help maintain balance on rocky trails.

Q17. How do I book the trek?
You can book through a trekking agency in Kathmandu or online in advance. A deposit is usually required to confirm your spot, with the balance payable on arrival in Nepal.

Q18. How can I pay for the trek?
Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or in cash (USD or NPR) in Kathmandu. Online payment platforms such as Wise or Western Union are also accepted. Note that credit card payments may include a small surcharge.

Q19. How do I reach the starting point of the trek?
The trek starts in Machhi khola. From Kathmandu, you can take a local bus or private vehicle to the starting point. It is approximately an 8- to 10- hour drive, depending on road conditions.

Q20. How do I return to Kathmandu after the trek?
From Jagat, you take a local jeep to Beshishar and then a bus back to Kathmandu. The journey takes around 8 hours, passing through beautiful valleys and hills before arriving in the capital.