Tour Facts
Tour Duration:
19 Days
Country:
Nepal
Activity:
Trekking
Region:
Manaslu Region, Nepal
Accomodation:
Teahouse, Lodges, Guesthouse
Grade:
Moderate to Strenuous
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ,Tea or Coffee
Best Season:
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November).
Departure From :
Kathmandu
Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days Overview
The Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days is an extended and immersive Himalayan adventure that combines the classic Manaslu Circuit with the remote spiritual experience of Serang Gompa, scenic Kal Tal, acclimatization excursions to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa, and a high-altitude side trip toward Rui La Pass and the Tibetan border.
This carefully designed 19-day itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want more than a standard Manaslu Circuit. Rather than rushing through the region, the route allows additional time for acclimatization and exploration while taking you through some of the most dramatic landscapes and culturally rich settlements in the Manaslu region.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, followed by trekking through the spectacular Budhi Gandaki Valley. The trail passes through Jagat, Deng, Phillim and Bihi Village before leaving the main route for the special journey toward Serang Gompa, a remote Buddhist monastery surrounded by peaceful Himalayan landscapes.
After spending the night at Serang Gompa, the route continues toward Prok, followed by a dedicated hiking day to Kal Tal before returning to Prok. This extra exploration gives trekkers an opportunity to experience a quieter part of the Manaslu region while gradually adapting to the increasing altitude.
The trek then continues toward Lho Village and Sama Gaon, where the itinerary provides another important acclimatization day. Depending on conditions and the group’s interests, you can make a side trip toward Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa, enjoying spectacular views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
From Sama Gaon, the journey continues to Samdo, followed by another acclimatization day with a challenging side trip toward Rui La Pass at approximately 4,998 m, near the Tibetan border. This is one of the distinctive features of the 19-day itinerary and provides a fascinating combination of high-altitude adventure, mountain scenery and Tibetan-borderland culture.
The route then climbs to Dharamsala, the staging point for the demanding crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m. After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward Bhimtang, followed by a scenic hike toward Ponker Lake and onward to Goa (Gho). The final trekking section takes you to Dharapani, from where you continue by road toward Besisahar and eventually Kathmandu.
The Manaslu region is protected as the Manaslu Conservation Area, which Nepal Tourism Board describes as an area of dramatic Himalayan landscapes, traditional culture, wildlife and trekking opportunities. The region extends through major elevation zones and offers views of Manaslu and other Himalayan peaks.
For foreign trekkers, the Manaslu region includes restricted areas and requires the applicable trekking permits. The Department of Immigration currently lists Gorkha Manaslu among restricted trekking areas.
Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days Highlight
- Serang Gompa Monastery - Spend a night at the remote Serang Gompa and experience the peaceful Buddhist atmosphere of the Manaslu region.
- Kal Tal - Take a dedicated hiking day from Prok to explore the scenic Kal Tal and its surrounding mountain landscape.
- Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa - Use your Sama Gaon acclimatization day to explore either Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa according to conditions and group preference.
- Rui La Pass - Make a challenging high-altitude excursion toward Rui La Pass at approximately 4,998 m near the Tibetan border.
- Sama Gaon - Spend time in one of the most important villages of the upper Manaslu region, surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery.
- Samdo - Explore the remote mountain settlement of Samdo and its Tibetan-influenced culture near the northern border.
- Larkya La Pass – 5,106 m - Cross one of the most spectacular high-altitude passes in Nepal at approximately 5,106 m.
- Mount Manaslu - Enjoy magnificent views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan peaks throughout the upper sections of the trek.
- Ponker Lake - Explore Ponker Lake during the descent from Bhimtang before continuing toward Goa.
- Budhi Gandaki Valley - Follow the dramatic Budhi Gandaki Valley through forests, gorges, bridges and traditional settlements.
- Tibetan Buddhist Culture - Experience monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, traditional architecture and Buddhist communities.
Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days Itinerary
Expand AllWelcome to Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the nearby areas of Kathmandu. In the evening, your guide will provide a detailed briefing about the Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek, including the trekking route, permits, accommodation, safety considerations and preparation for the journey. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome/optional depending on arrival
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola, the starting point of your trek. The journey takes you through countryside landscapes, terraced farmland, hills, rivers and traditional settlements before reaching the Manaslu region. The drive generally takes around 8–9 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. As you approach Machha Khola, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and mountainous. Overnight at a local teahouse/lodge.
Driving Time: Approx. 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today you officially begin your Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through forests, rocky sections, waterfalls, suspension bridges and traditional settlements. You will experience a long trekking day as the route gradually climbs toward Jagat. With approximately 10–11 hours of walking, this is one of the longer days of the itinerary, so maintaining a comfortable pace and taking regular breaks is important. Jagat is a traditional stone-paved settlement and an important entry point into the Manaslu trekking area. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Trekking Time: Approx. 10–11 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Leaving Jagat, the trail continues deeper into the Manaslu region. Today you pass through Phil(l)im, an important settlement in the Budhi Gandaki Valley, before continuing toward Deng. The trail winds through forests and narrow river valleys with suspension bridges and changing mountain scenery. As you gain elevation, the landscape gradually becomes more alpine and the influence of Tibetan Buddhist culture becomes more noticeable. After approximately 6–7 hours, you reach Deng for an overnight stay.
Trekking Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is a comparatively shorter trekking day, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings and gradually adapt to the increasing altitude. The trail from Deng toward Bihi Village passes through forests, rocky terrain, suspension bridges and sections of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. After approximately 3 hours of trekking, you reach Bihi Village, a traditional mountain settlement and an important access point for the Serang Gompa section of your itinerary. Overnight at a local lodge.
Trekking Time: Approx. 3 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today you leave the main Manaslu Circuit route and trek toward Serang Gompa, one of the cultural highlights of this journey. The trail climbs through peaceful forests and remote Himalayan terrain before reaching the Buddhist monastery. The approximately 5–6 hour trek involves a significant gain in elevation, making a slow and steady pace important. Upon arrival, you can experience the peaceful surroundings of the monastery and learn more about the Buddhist traditions of the region. Tonight, you stay at the monastery, providing a unique cultural experience that is different from a standard teahouse night.
Trekking Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Serang Gompa Monastery
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast at Serang Gompa, begin your descent and continue toward Prok Village. The trail passes through forested landscapes and remote mountain terrain before reconnecting with the broader Manaslu route. Prok is a traditional settlement in the Manaslu region and provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. The trek takes approximately 5–6 hours. After reaching Prok, relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. Overnight at a local teahouse.
Trekking Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is an exploration and acclimatization day around Prok. After breakfast, hike toward Kal Tal, a scenic highland lake surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Manaslu region. The trail offers beautiful views and a quieter experience away from the main trekking corridor. After exploring the lake and surrounding area, return to Prok following the same general route. The total hiking time is approximately 5–6 hours. Overnight at the same teahouse in Prok.
Hiking Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today you continue deeper into the upper Manaslu region toward Lho Village. The trail passes through forests, traditional settlements and increasingly dramatic Himalayan terrain. As you gain altitude, the surrounding landscape becomes more alpine, and views of the mountains become increasingly impressive. The route takes approximately 5–6 hours before reaching Lho, a beautiful mountain settlement with strong Tibetan Buddhist cultural influences. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Trekking Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today you continue toward Sama Gaon, one of the most important villages on the Manaslu Circuit. The trail passes through beautiful high-altitude landscapes and settlements such as Shyala, with impressive mountain views along the way. After approximately 4–5 hours of trekking, you reach Sama Gaon. The village is surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery and provides an ideal location for acclimatization before entering the higher sections of the route. Overnight at a teahouse/lodge.
Trekking Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is an important acclimatization day in Sama Gaon. Rather than simply resting at the lodge, you can take a scenic side trip toward Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa, depending on weather, trail conditions, fitness and group preference. Both options provide spectacular Himalayan scenery and an opportunity to explore the high-altitude surroundings of Mount Manaslu. The Manaslu Base Camp option is a demanding excursion, while Pungen Gompa provides another culturally and scenically rewarding alternative. After the hike, return to Sama Gaon for overnight accommodation.
Activity: Acclimatization & side trip
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, continue from Sama Gaon toward Samdo, following a scenic high-altitude trail through open mountain landscapes and yak pastures. The route gradually climbs toward Samdo, a traditional settlement located close to the Tibetan border. Although today’s walk is only around 3–4 hours, the increasing altitude makes it important to walk slowly and stay properly hydrated. Upon arrival, you can explore the village and surrounding landscape. Overnight at a local teahouse.
Trekking Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today provides another important acclimatization and exploration opportunity. From Samdo, make a challenging side trip toward Rui La Pass, located near the Tibetan border. The hike takes you through rugged high-altitude landscapes and offers a distinctive perspective of the remote Himalayan border region. At approximately 4,998 m, the excursion requires good acclimatization and a steady pace. Weather and trail conditions can affect how far the group can safely travel, so the guide will determine the appropriate turnaround point. Return to Samdo for overnight accommodation.
Activity: Acclimatization & Rui La Pass side trip
Maximum Side-Trip Altitude: Approx. 4,998 m
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today the trail continues toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, the final overnight stop before crossing Larkya La Pass. The route gradually climbs through increasingly barren and rugged high-altitude landscapes. The approximately 4–5 hour trek is not extremely long in distance, but the altitude makes it physically demanding. Upon reaching Dharamsala, take time to rest, hydrate and prepare for the early start required for the Larkya La crossing. Overnight at a basic mountain lodge.
Trekking Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is the major high-altitude adventure of the Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek. You start early from Dharamsala and climb gradually toward Larkya La Pass, reaching approximately 5,106 m / 16,751 ft, the highest point of the trek. The trail crosses rugged alpine terrain, and snow or icy conditions may be present depending on the season. After reaching the pass, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges before beginning the long descent toward Bhimtang. The complete journey takes approximately 8–9 hours and is one of the most challenging days of the trek. Overnight at a lodge in Bhimtang.
Trekking Time: Approx. 8–9 hours
Highest Point: Larkya La Pass – 5,106 m / 16,751 ft
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After the challenging Larkya La crossing, today’s route descends through beautiful Himalayan landscapes. You begin with a scenic hike toward Ponker Lake, enjoying the changing landscape and mountain views before continuing toward Goa (Gho). The descent brings you into greener surroundings, with forests and lower-altitude mountain scenery gradually replacing the barren high-altitude landscape. This is a rewarding transition day after the Larkya La crossing. Overnight at a local teahouse/lodge in Goa.
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today you complete the final trekking section of the itinerary. From Goa (Gho), continue along the trail toward Dharapani, gradually descending through forests and mountain settlements. After reaching Dharapani, board ground transportation and drive toward Besisahar, the main gateway town of the Annapurna region. This combination of trekking and driving allows you to complete the Manaslu section efficiently while enjoying the changing landscapes of the lower Himalayas. Overnight in Besisahar or according to the transportation arrangement.
Activity: Trekking & driving
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, begin your final road journey toward Kathmandu, depending on your onward travel plan. The drive follows the scenic Middle Hill landscapes of Nepal, passing through rivers, hills, villages and agricultural areas. The journey generally takes around 5–6 hours, although actual travel time depends on road and traffic conditions. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy some well-earned rest after completing your Manaslu adventure.
Driving Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel according
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu
Your Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days officially comes to an end today. According to your flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. If you are continuing your travels in Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet or another destination, additional arrangements can also be made according to your travel plans.
Meals: Breakfast
Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days Includes/Exclude
Cost Include
- Airport arrival and departure by Private vehicle.
- Welcome and farewell dinner.
- Accommodationat a 3 star Standard caategory hotel in kathmandu for two nights.
- Daily breakfast at kathmandu.
- All ground transfers as per Itinerary.
- English-speaking trekking guide and required number of porters as per group size.
- Twin/Double sharing guesthouse/tea house accommodation during the trek as per the itinerary.
- Meals-Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and also one cup of tea/coffee everyday during the trek.
- Wages, Medical, Travel Insurance, Salary, Meals, Accommodation equipment for guide, supportive crew and all applicable taxes.
- Manaslu trekking permits and required conservation-area permits
- Necessary official trekking documentation
- Government/local taxes
- Company service charges
Cost Exclude
- Nepal visa fee (Can be obtain upon Arrival at airport/boarder).
- International airfare and taxes to/from Kathmandu.
- Meals: lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Your travel insurance.
- Any kind of beverage.
- Personal expenses and extra trips/services not included in the service.
- Personal trekking Clothing/Gears.
- Tipping/Gratuities.
- Expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, natural disaster, political issues, personal illness, etc.
- All the bar bills and personal expenses (Phone call, Laundry services, WiFi, Battery recharge, a bottle of water, Hot water, Desert and Shower).
- Your high altitude emergency travel insurance.
- Tips for Guide and Porter.
- Any other expenses not mentioned in the “Included” section.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days?
- Extended Manaslu Circuit Experience: Explore the Manaslu region at a more comfortable pace with additional acclimatization and exploration days.
- Serang Gompa Overnight Stay: Experience the peaceful atmosphere of a remote Buddhist monastery at approximately 3,100 m.
- Kal Tal Side Trip: Hike to the beautiful Kal Tal from Prok and return to the village on the same day.
- Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa: Use your Sama Gaon acclimatization day to explore one of the region’s spectacular high-altitude viewpoints.
- Rui La Pass Adventure: Make a challenging side trip toward Rui La Pass at approximately 4,998 m near the Tibetan border.
- Samagaun and Samdo: Spend additional time in important high-altitude settlements with strong Tibetan cultural influences.
- Larkya La Pass: Cross the spectacular 5,106 m Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
- Ponker Lake: Explore the scenic Ponker Lake after descending from Bimthang.
- Mount Manaslu Views: Enjoy changing Himalayan scenery throughout the Budhi Gandaki Valley and upper Manaslu region.
- Rich Buddhist Culture: Discover monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls and traditional Himalayan communities.
- Remote Himalayan Landscapes: Experience a quieter trekking environment away from Nepal’s busiest trekking routes.
Manaslu Circuit with Serang Gompa Trek – 19 Days FAQS
Expand AllIt is a challenging to strenuous high-altitude trek involving long walking days, remote terrain, several acclimatization hikes and the crossing of Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,106 m.
The 19-day itinerary provides additional exploration and acclimatization compared with shorter Manaslu itineraries. It includes Serang Gompa, Kal Tal, a Sama Gaon side trip, a Rui La Pass side trip and Ponker Lake.
The highest point is Larkya La Pass at approximately 5,106 m / 16,751 ft.
Serang Gompa is approximately 3,100 m / 10,170 ft according to the itinerary.
Yes. Day 6 specifically includes an overnight stay at the monastery, making this different from itineraries that only visit the monastery during the day.
Kal Tal is a scenic lake reached by a side hike from Prok. Your itinerary includes a dedicated exploration day for the lake before returning to Prok.
Yes. During the Sama Gaon acclimatization day, the itinerary provides a side-trip option to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa, depending on conditions, fitness and group preference.
Rui La is a high-altitude pass near the Tibetan border. Your itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization excursion from Samdo toward Rui La, reaching approximately 4,998 m / 16,397 ft if conditions allow.
No. It is an acclimatization and exploration side trip. The guide will consider weather, trail conditions, group fitness and altitude before deciding how far the group should proceed.
Larkya La is the most demanding section of the trek because of its elevation and the long trekking day from Dharamsala to Bhimtang.
The main recommended seasons are March–May and September–November, which Nepal Tourism Board identifies as the best seasons for the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Yes. The Manaslu region contains restricted areas, and the applicable restricted-area trekking permit must be obtained before entering the relevant sections.
Yes. Facilities become more basic as the trek progresses toward Samdo, Dharamsala and Larkya La. Hot showers, electricity, Wi-Fi and charging may have limited availability.
The route provides changing views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding Himalayan ranges, especially around Lho, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Larkya La and Bhimtang.
Yes. The itinerary can be customized according to trekking experience, fitness, available time, acclimatization requirements, side-trip preferences and transportation plans.
Reviews
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Very good
Everest Gokyo Trek
This was a wonderful, educational tour where we learned a lot and had a very fulfilling time from start to finish.
Everest Gokyo Trek an excellent tour of Nepal
Excellent! Bishnu was an excellent guide on our trip. Knowledgeable, kind and answered all of our questions. Thank you for an excellent tour of Nepal!
Annapurna Panorama Trek
Vishnu has been a very insightful guide, taking me and my partner to beautiful places that we couldn't even imagine to see. The views from the mountains left us breathless and we highly recommend Altitude Trek Nepal Pvt. Ltd company for mountain and city hiking and sightseeing.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Vishnu was an amazing guide. Altitude Trek Nepal made the whole trip seamless - they booked our transport, accommodation and helped us to hire the gear we needed. Organising all this without local knowledge would have been difficult, but they made it so easy. The trip itself was amazing! I will never forget it. Thank you so much for everything.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Excellent.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Altitude trek nepal pvt.ltd was a great help in planning my Annapurna circuit trek. When I came to Nepal I had no idea how to move forward with my plans, but these guys helped me and we're very friendly!
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Good guide, always patience and helpful
Everest Base Camp Trek – Smooth, Safe, and Enjoyable Journey
The trek leader from Altitude trek Nepal - Mr Shivaji met us a Lukla airport right when we landed, guided us through our EBC trek and made sure we got back on our flight out of Lukla safely. His experience and guidance was essential to the success of our trek. He was easy to communicate with in Hindi and English. He understood our needs and made adjustments based on our conditions. Would highly recommend him for a safe and enjoyable journey
Annapurna Region Trek – Excellent Organisation and Trusted Guiding.
Altitude Trek Nepal delivered an excellent trekking experience in the Annapurna region from start to finish. Everything was well organized, smooth, and thoughtfully planned, which let us focus fully on the mountains and the journey. The itinerary, pacing, and logistics were spot-on, and the team was consistently professional and friendly. A special thank-you to my guide, Vishnu Kumar, whom I’ve known for many years and trust completely. Vishnu’s experience, calm leadership, and attention to detail made every day feel safe, enjoyable, and stress-free. He always checked in on everyone, handled every small issue quickly, and shared great local insight along the way. I truly appreciate his dedication and warmth, and I can confidently recommend Altitude Trek Nepal to anyone planning an Annapurna trek, or any other trek in Nepal!
