Group Size
Min 1 Max 12
Duration
38 Days
Grade
The pinnacle of adventure travel, these expeditions demand peak physical fitness, previous high-altitude experience, and technical mountaineering skills. They involve long durations, unpredictable conditions, usage of climbing gears, and exposure to extreme altitudes (above 7000m).
Max. Altitude
8,163m/26,781ft
Activity
High Altitude Expeditions
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Experience a mix of accommodations—hotels in the city, lodges on the trek, and tents at higher altitudes or remote climbing areas.
Best Season
Sep-Oct
- Climb the 8th highest peak in the world
- Excellent preliminary peak for Everest
- Fully guided expedition with Sherpa support
- Helicopter flight to Kathmandu
Manaslu Expedition 2025 Overview
Standing tall with a towering height of 8163m, Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the World and a highly sought climb for worldwide mountaineers. As many as six different routes have been discovered for the Manaslu summit. Manaslu Expedition has been used as the preliminary training for the Everest Expedition and is seen by many as the alternative to Cho Oyu. Also, this mountain is the best if you are looking for the first time 8000m peak climb.
The combination of expertise from our mountain guides and the use of top-grade safety and climbing gears coupled with a proper itinerary and allocation of proper acclimatization days will make our Manaslu Expedition a successful and memorable adventure that we will cherish throughout our life.
Our Manaslu expedition begins with gradually gaining altitude as we trek to base camp allowing our bodies to adapt to the increasing altitude. Our approach to the Manaslu base camp will be via Larkya La Pass. After the completion of the expedition, we fly back to Kathmandu from Samagoan instead of trekking all the way back in order to save time. With this flight, you can easily save up to 6 days that would have taken if you had chosen to trek instead of flight.
Climbing Strategy:
Our expedition starts with a trek to Manaslu base camp. Gradually gain altitude as we trek to base camp. From base camp, we will set up 4 camps before climbing to the summit of Manaslu. Camp 1 at (5500m/18,040ft), Camp 2 at (6,250m/20,500ft), Camp 3 at (6,800m/22,300ft), Camp 4 at (7,450m/24,440ft).
This will break the difficult climb into smaller sections which increases the chances of a successful expedition. We are well aware of the obstacles that can hinder our climbing of high-altitude glaciated ridges. We will take slow and calculative steps towards the northeastern ridge of Manaslu which is the most viable Manaslu summit route. We will be doing a frequent rotation of high camps to lower camps to get well-acclimatized before making the final ascent to the summit.
Why climb Manaslu with us?
For over 30 yrs the people who helm this venture have been successfully organizing high-altitude Expeditions ensuring safety first and service paramount. The success of the expedition depends largely on a carefully planned itinerary and the best logistics and these are what we offer. We are committed to maintaining the expedition safe and successful with the quality of service. Our emphasis is always on maintaining the small group so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. You will be guided by highly professional mountain guides and they are one of the best in this field.
We are dedicated to providing the highest professionalism throughout the expedition by taking utmost care of all the logistics needed for our Manaslu Expedition
View our history of expeditions: Here
Fully supported expedition
Our Manaslu Expedition is fully supported and guided by the local experienced sherpa team. We provide a 1:1 sherpa-to-client ratio on the summit day.
Most of our Sherpa guides come from Rolwaling village, a hidden gem in the foothills of Mt. Gaurishankar. All our Sherpa guides are previous Everest summiteers with detailed experience on high-altitude expeditions. We provide a 1:1 sherpa guide-to-client ratio on the summit day. Each of our Sherpa guides has tons of experience in climbing high-altitude peaks.
Our Sherpa crews are critical to the success of the climbs that you do with us. We, us professionally trained Sherpa guides & sirdars who are just not hikers & climbers on the mountains but have been trained to perform this task with a lot of common sense & guile. Kunga Sherpa, Everest summiteer and founder of Highland Expeditions, who has successfully guided and organized over 40 expeditions to 8000m as an expedition sirdar oversees our experienced Sherpa crew that will be with you on the climb. We ensure that they are confident & experienced. At Highland Expeditions, we always make sure that our mountain crews are highly motivated & never compromise.
Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader/guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. Your leader/guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions.
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Official formalities and climb preparation
These two days have been kept in Kathmandu for final preparation of Climb. Meet other team members, complete official and government formalities, final gear check and load. Upon your interest, an optional Kathmandu sightseeing can be arranged on these days.
We will have a trip orientation and your trip leader will give you a brief about your climb before we head to our journey.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Drive to Besisahar
After early morning breakfast, we will head west and follow the Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River to the homeland of Central Himalaya including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre. The road offers an opportunity to have a view of rustic Nepal which comprises green hills, rivers, villages and snow-clad mountains at the backdrop. We will part ways with the Highway at Dumre and choose the branched-off route to Besisahar where we will stay overnight
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
760m/2,495ft
Drive to Dharapani and Trek to Gowa
Our first day of trekking, Early in the morning, we will lower down from Jagat village and follow the winding path along the Marsyangdi River to the forest. A brief walk through the sprawling forest will take us to Chamje village (1430m) from where we will cross the river and continue walking along its eastern edge. The trail takes a brief to ascend to the big village of Tal (1675m). Being clustered with tea houses and lodges, it will be a fine idea to take our lunch at Tal. Enjoy lunch in a serene atmosphere with mesmerizing natural views of surrounding valleys at Tal and take a gradual ascend to Karte village. We need to cross the river at several points and move past the valley and pretty tiny villages to arrive at Dharapani.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
2,515m/8,250ft
Trek to Bhimthang
Today we will be ascending over 1000m climb to Bhimthang. The journey today is about 6-7 hrs walk. A scenic walk through open valleys and grassy ridges. The final stretch to Bhimthang opens up stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Himlung Himal.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,590m/11,780ft
Acclimatization day at Bhimthang
Today we stay at Bhimthang for additional night inorder to ensure proper acclimatization and gradual altitude gain. There will be a short hike before lunch today with a plan to climb high and sleep slow.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,590m/11,780ft
Trek to Samdo via Larka La Pass
Wake up early in the morning today. After a brief climb, we reach a glen on the side of the Larkya Glaciers from where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper only in the last section of the pass. From the pass, there are fantastic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and the huge Annapurna II. It is a pretty lengthier day than usual to Samdo, but to walk into these lower pastures with the eventide fog setting in and with Mt. Manaslu looming close by is an irresistible experience to remember
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
8-9 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,160m/16,925ft
O/N Elevation:
3,875m12,710m
Trek to Samagaon
Begin with a gentle descent from Samdo, passing through traditional villages and yak pastures. Walk alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, enjoying views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Manaslu and Naike Peak. After 4 hours of hike, you reach the wide valley of Samagaon, a picturesque village nestled under the shadow of Manaslu.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,530m/11,582ft
Rest day
This is a day at Samagaon for rest and acclimatization. Today we get to discover some interesting things about Buddhist culture. We enjoy the sight of thousands of mani stones with Buddhist texts and pictures and women clad in traditional clothes and ornaments. On a little hill near Sama village is an old Gompa (Pungyen Gompa), a monastery with great views of the glacier. It is named after Manaslu; Pungyen means bracelet, a good description of the two peaks. It was destroyed a year after the first unsuccessful Japanese attempt to climb Manaslu. The locals believed that the climb angered the gods, and when the Japanese came back a year later they met with a lot of resistance that they had to give up their attempt. They were finally successful in 1959.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,530m/11,582ft
Trek to Manaslu Base Camp
The trail is steep and strenuous, beginning with a gradual ascent through alpine pastures. As you climb, the terrain becomes rocky, with occasional icy patches depending on the season. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), glaciers, and the surrounding Himalayan range. After 4 hours of hike, you reach Manaslu Base Camp, your home for next 2 weeks. Soak in the majestic views of towering peaks and the surrounding glacier fields.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Tents
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,700m/15,421ft
Preparation, Training and Puja Ceremony
We spend two nights at base camp for final preparations, training, and a traditional puja ceremony. This ceremony is a customary practice performed before beginning the actual climb, serving both as a spiritual blessing and a celebration.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Tents
O/N Elevation:
4,700m/15,421ft
Acclimatization rotation of higher camps
Our climb begins with acclimatization rotations to higher camps, a crucial process to help our bodies adapt to the increasing altitude. As part of the plan, we will complete two rotations. During the first rotation, we ascend to Camp 1 and return to base camp. After spending 1–2 nights at base camp, we head back up for the second rotation, staying overnight at Camp 1 before ascending to Camp 2, where we spend another night and tag Camp 3. This completes our acclimatization rotations, while our Sherpa team works to stock the higher camps and prepare supplies for the summit push.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Tents
Summit climb and descend to base camp
Base Camp to Camp I:
After few days of acclimatization and training in Base Camp of Manaslu, we will make ascend to Camp I (5,500m/18,040ft) via the rugged path consisting of moraine and glacier. The trail stretches through crevassed glaciers and small ice steps to reach Camp I. The site offers epic views of surrounding mountains. You can also view the route that you are going to follow to Camp IV.
Camp I to Camp II:
Climb from Camp I to Camp II (6,250m/20,500ft) is a bit technical in nature. The trail progresses through the longer sections of vertical snow and ice. We will move forward by cutting small ice steps, and the expert Sherpas will set up fixed ropes on exposed sections for your safety. Climbing from Camp I to Camp II may take anywhere between 4 to 6 hrs.
Camp II to Camp III:
It takes 5 to 7 hrs of moderately steep climb to reach Camp III (6,800m/22,305ft) from Camp II. We will proceed through small ice steps and slopes. The route is mostly straightforward. Use O2 for sleeping at Camp 3
Camp III to Camp IV (Use O2)
Another 5 to 7 hrs of strenuous climb from Camp III will be enough to take us to Camp IV (7,400m/24,275ft). We will take some rest and prepare for the final climb to the summit the same evening.
Camp IV to Summit (Use O2) and return to Base Camp:
The climb to the summit is not technical, but it demands great physical strength. Also, the increased altitude will pose additional challenges. Your personal sherpa will climb with you to ensure the successful ascend to the summit. Finally, we will be on top of the eighth highest mountain in the world at 8163m/26,781ft. We will capture the memories in camera and then prepare ourselves for long descend to Camp 2 or Base Camp.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Tents
Max Elevation:
8,163m/26,781ft
Clean up and depart base camp to Samagaon
We bid farewell to base camp staff and hike to Samagoan for overnight before flying out to Kathmandu the next day.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,530m/11,582ft
Fly back to Kathmandu on helicopter
We will leave for Kathmandu on this morning taking a helicopter flight back. We will take a scenic flight from Samagaon to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to your hotel after arrival in Kathmandu. Take leisure and soothe your aching limbs from a long and tiring expedition
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Free day in Kathmandu
Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or resting at the hotel’s beautiful garden.
Meals:
Breakfast,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
International departure
As per your flight time, we will drop you to the airport for your flight back home. Its been a pleasure to be a part of your climb.
Meals:
B
Accommodation:
Hotel
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
38 Days
1 Sep, 2025 - 8 Oct, 2025
USD 16,500
20% Deposit
USD 3,300
10 in a group
Available
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Cost Inclusion
- Fully supported and guided expedition to Manaslu
- 1:1 Sherpa to client ratio on summit day
- 4 bottled oxygen with the use of the latest mask and regulator
- Nepalese government royalty fees for Manaslu.
- All expedition organizational requirements
- Service of the base camp manager and climbing sirdars
- Satellite communication system at base camp but nominal charge for use
- Radio set for communication between camps
- Meals at base camp and higher camps during the expedition
- Meals and accommodation during the trekking period
- Personal tents at BC, high tents, kitchen tents, dining tents, shower tents, toilet tents, store tents, cooking utensils and more for your comfort.
- 4 nights accommodation at Kathmandu Guest House with breakfast on a deluxe room
- Samagoan to Kathmandu helicopter flight on sharing basis
- Staffs wages, allowances with their insurance
- Common climbing equipment
- Porterage of climbing equipment
- Liaison officer’s daily wages and fees
- Applicable national park fees and local taxes
- 2 waterproof duffel bags
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Custom for bringing any expedition goods
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal clothing and equipment
- Insurance (Mandatory)
- Summit bonus for your sherpa (USD 1000 minimum)
- Tips for base camp (USD 300)
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for staff (Porter)
Essential Information
Prerequisite
Guides
Oxygen
Meals
Accommodation
Route
Base camp
Weather forecast
Communication
Group Size
Insurance
Payment
Other Information
Equipment List for Manaslu Expedition
The gear listed below is required for the expedition. We encourage you to get all equipment listed below and kindly ensure you check and try every equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Kathmandu as they are available in the many trekking shops from branded to local manufacturers in Kathmandu.
Head:
– Warm hat
– Baseball cap or other sun hat
– Thermal balaclava
– Buff X 3
– Sunglasses/Glacier Glasses (High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses with good all-around protection)
– Ski goggles (Anti-fog and good ventilation)
– Headlight X 2 with spare batteries
Upper body:
– Base layers top
– Long-sleeved shirts
– T-Shirts
– Warm Jackets/Sweater/Pullover
– Primaloft or light down jacket
– Hardshell Jacket with hood
– Down Jacket with hood (800m fill)
– Down Suit (Lightweight, comfortable fit and 800m fill) (For Summit Climb Only)
Lower body:
– Base layers bottom
– Trekking trousers/pants
– Mid-weight trousers/pants
– Hardshell Gore-Tex pants (Non-insulated and waterproof)
– Insulated down pant
Feet:
– Hiking Boots X 1
– Camp shoes X 1
– 8000m Mountaineering Boot X 1
– Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy (synthetic and wool)
– Liner socks X 2
– Summit socks X 2
– Gaiters X 1
– Flip flop / Sandal X 1
Hands:
– Liner Gloves
– Mid-weight gloves
– Heavyweight gloves( Leather Palm)
– Down Mittens / Summit gloves
Climbing equipment:
– Climbing helmet
– Harness
– Ascender/Jumar (Large handle)
– Descender /Figure 8
– ATC Guide
– Carabiners (4 screw gate and 4 snap gate)
– Prussik cord X 2
– Slings X 2
– Ice Axe
– 12-points steel crampons
Gears / Personal Equipment:
– Lightweight backpack (45-55 L) for both trekking and climbing
– Inflatable sleeping mattress
– Sleeping bag – 20C rated for base camp
– Sleeping bag – 40C rated for higher camps
– Trekking poles
– Water bottle one (1) litre X 2 with an insulated cover
– Thermos
– Multi-tool knife
– Pee bottle
– Laundry bag to keep dirty clothes
– Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
– Padlock
– Binoculars
– Sewing kit
– Duct tape
– Reading materials, notebooks and pens
– Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu when you come back from the expedition.
– Camera with charger or spare batteries
– Snack foods (Energy gels for summit days)
– Garmin InReach Mini
Toiletries and hygiene
– Quick-drying towel
– Small face towel
– Toothbrush &Toothpaste
– Deodorants, Soap and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
– Face and body moisturizer, Sunscreen and lip balm
– Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
– Hygiene products
– Basic first aid kit
Documents
– Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
– 4 copies of passport size photos for permits and official formalities
– Travel Insurance (Please refer to the general information page for more detail about it)
– Flight tickets
– Credit cards in case of emergencies
– Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport.
(Please carry the photocopy of all the documents along with you and leave a copy to next of kin)
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Reviews
See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.
I joined the Manaslu 2024 expedition, and am very happy about all aspects of the tour. Very well planned and organised, professional staff, good communication, and above all a fun time. I can highly recommend Highland Expeditions.
Manaslu Adventure: Excellence in Every Step
Manaslu Adventure: Excellence in Every Step
Thanks Highland Expeditions for an amazing experience climbing Manaslu. Special thanks to the leading guide Sangey, who made it all happen. Your passion for mountains and your genuine friendliness made all the difference!
A Visual Breakdown of Manaslu Expedition Altitude
