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Manaslu Helicopter Return Trek
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Manaslu Helicopter Return Trek

Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m) around the world's 8th highest peak — with a helicopter exit from Nepal's most rewarding restricted area.

13 Days Max 5,160m Manaslu Region 4.8 · 13 reviews

Tour Overview

Manaslu Helicopter Return Trek — 10 Days Larkya La & Heli Exit from Samdo The Manaslu Region wraps around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) , the world's eighth-highest peak, along the ancient salt-trade route beside the Budhi Gandaki. Closed to outsiders until 1991, it remains Nepal's most rewarding restricted-area trek. Designed for travellers who want the Manaslu wilderness without sacrificing comfort, this journey uses the finest available lodges, a senior private guide, and curated meal service. The trail climbs from subtropical forest at Machha Khola through the gorges of the lower Budhi Gandaki, into the high Tibetan-influenced villages of Namrung, Lho, Samagaun and Samdo. The high point is the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) , a long, dramatic crossing with views of Himalchuli, Cheo Himal and the Annapurna range. What's included Licensed English-speaking guide and porter support All permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), MCAP, and ACAP All teahouse accommodation on the trek, twin-share Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trail Private vehicle transfers Kathmandu–Machha Khola–Kathmandu Duffle bag, sleeping bag and down jacket if required Comprehensive first-aid kit and pulse oximeter

Trip Highlights

  • Larkya La Pass (5,160 m)
  • Mount Manaslu (8,163 m)
  • Tsum Valley monasteries
  • Samagaun & Birendra Lake
  • Budhi Gandaki gorge

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Elevation: 930 m / 3,051 ft Drive Time: Approx. 9 hours The journey begins with a scenic drive heading west out of the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll follow the Trishuli River before turning toward the Budhi Gandaki valley. The road transitions from smooth tarmac to rugged off-road tracks as you pass through Arughat and Soti Khola. You’ll witness terraced fields and rural Nepali life before settling int
Elevation: 1,340 m / 4,396 ft Trek Time: 8 hours Today’s trek involves several ups and downs. You’ll cross the Machha Khola (Fish River) and head toward the tiny hot spring at Tatopani. The trail clings to the side of the cliff, offering dramatic views of the river below. After crossing a large suspension bridge, you enter the restricted area at Jagat, a beautifully paved stone village where your
Elevation: 1,804 m / 5,918 ft Trek Time: 8 hours The path climbs over a rocky ridge to Salleri and descends to Sirdibas. As you continue toward Philim, the valley widens. You’ll cross the Budhi Gandaki several times on swaying suspension bridges. The landscape begins to shift from sub-tropical forest to more temperate vegetation as you reach the small Buddhist settlement of Deng.
Elevation: 2,630 m / 8,628 ft Trek Time: 7 hours This is a culturally significant day. You’ll pass through villages influenced by Tibetan culture, decorated with Mani walls (stones carved with Buddhist prayers). The trail climbs steeply through forests of rhododendron and bamboo. Upon reaching Namrung, you’ll find some of the best viewpoints for Siring Himal and Ganesh Himal.
Namrung to Shyala Elevation: 3,575 m / 11,730 ft Trek Time: 6 hours As you ascend, the air becomes thinner and the views more expansive. You will pass through the village of Lho, which features a massive monastery (Ribung Gompa). The trek continues to Shyala, a village surrounded by a 360-degree amphitheater of peaks, including Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Peak 29.
Shyala to Sama Gaun Elevation: 3,530 m / 11,581 ft Trek Time: 4 hours A shorter trekking day to allow for altitude adjustment. You descend slightly into the valley floor to reach Sama Gaun, the largest and most important village in the region. The village is steeped in Tibetan tradition, with locals often dressed in traditional Tibetan attire.
Elevation: Up to 4,400 m / 14,435 ft Hike Time: 7 hours Essential for a safe crossing of the Larkya La. You have two main options: Manaslu Base Camp: A challenging hike to see the climbers' tents and the massive Manaslu Glacier. Pungyen Gompa: A quieter trek to an ancient monastery with stunning views of the "Twin Peaks."
Elevation: 3,865 m / 12,680 ft Trek Time: 3 hours A short, easy trek through yak pastures. You’ll follow the Budhi Gandaki river, which has now narrowed to a stream. Samdo is a remote village of Tibetan refugees located just a few miles from the border. The afternoon is free to rest or explore the village.
Elevation: 5,000 m / 16,404 ft Hike Time: 8 hours A long but rewarding day. You’ll hike toward the Lajyung La pass on the Nepal-Tibet border. This was an ancient trade route for salt and wool. From the top, you can look into the vast Tibetan plateau—a truly "top of the world" experience.
Elevation: 4,460 m / 14,632 ft Trek Time: 4 hours The climb toward the pass begins in earnest. You’ll cross the wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki for the final time. The trail ascends toward Dharmasala (also known as Larkya Phedi), a high-altitude seasonal settlement. We recommend an early night to prepare for the pass.
Elevation: 5,106 m (Pass) / 3,590 m (Bimthang) Trek Time: 10 hours The Big Day. You’ll start at 3:00 or 4:00 AM with headlamps. The climb is gradual but the altitude makes it strenuous. At the summit of Larkya La , you’ll be rewarded with prayer flags and jaw-dropping views of Himlung Himal and Annapurna II. The descent is steep and often snowy, leading down to the beautiful glacial valley of Bimt
Elevation: 1,860 m / 6,102 ft Trek Time: 7 hours A long descent through lush forests of pine and rhododendron. You’ll drop nearly 1,700 meters in elevation today. The trail follows the Dudh Khola until it merges with the Marsyangdi River at Dharapani, where the Manaslu trail joins the famous Annapurna Circuit.
Elevation: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft Drive Time: 7–9 hours Your final day in the mountains. You’ll board a jeep for the bumpy ride down to Besisahar, and then switch to a private vehicle or bus for the paved highway back to Kathmandu. It’s time for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner!

Good to Know Before You Fly

Restricted Area: You cannot trek Manaslu solo. A minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide are required by Nepal law. Physical Fitness: This is a Grade 4 (Challenging) trek. Previous hiking experience and good cardiovascular fitness are highly recommended. Connectivity: Wi-Fi and electricity are available in lower villages for a small fee, but become unreliable as you go higher. ATM: There are no ATMs after Machha Khola. Carry enough Nepali Rupees for personal expenses.