Manaslu Himal, Nepal / Expedition

Manaslu Expedition

Approach through the Budhi Gandaki valley and Sama Gaon before an extended climbing programme on Manaslu.

The snow-covered summit of Manaslu
The snow-covered summit of Manaslu.
Duration
59 daysOutline programme
Summit objective
8,163 mRoute objective
Season
AutumnAsk for current dates
Experience
High-altitude expeditionExpedition

A closer look at the journey.

Manaslu is approached through a changing valley landscape, from riverside villages to the high settlement of Sama Gaon. The itinerary follows the longer trekking approach before establishing a mountain base. Above it, glacier travel, changing snow conditions and repeated camp rotations demand careful judgement as well as sustained high-altitude fitness.

The approach and climbing phases form one extended mountain journey. Time above base camp is used for acclimatization, carrying equipment, rest and a summit attempt when conditions allow. Discuss your climbing history with us so that the route, team support and equipment plan suit the objective and your experience.

  • Budhi Gandaki valley approach
  • Time among the villages around Sama Gaon
  • Extended acclimatization and climbing period

The route, day by day.

This is an outline programme. The team will confirm the route and arrangements with you, allowing for weather, access and local conditions.

Day 1-3Kathmandu preparation

Arrive and complete equipment checks and expedition arrangements.

Day 4Drive to the approach

Travel towards Arughat and the Budhi Gandaki valley.

Day 5-8Lower valley trek

Continue through the lower valley towards Machha Khola and Jagat.

Day 9-12Villages towards Lho

Follow the route through Nyak, Prok and Namru to Lho.

Day 13-14Sama Gaon and base camp

Reach Sama Gaon and continue to the expedition base.

Day 15-48Manaslu climbing period

Use the allocated window for acclimatization, camp rotations, rest and a summit attempt.

Day 49Clear base camp

Pack equipment and prepare to descend.

Day 50-55Valley descent

Return through Sama Gaon and the Budhi Gandaki settlements towards the road connection.

Day 56Drive to Kathmandu

Return to the capital by road.

Day 57-58Kathmandu reserve days

Rest, debrief and allow for changes to the return journey.

Day 59Departure

Transfer for your onward flight.

A clear plan and quotation.

Request an itemised quotation for your group, dates and preferred level of support. Agree the inclusions before booking travel.

Services to discuss

  • Agree the permit arrangements and in-country transport in your quotation.
  • Agree the guiding, porter support and responsibilities on the mountain.
  • Agree accommodation, camp facilities and the meals provided at each stage.
  • Agree shared climbing equipment, communications and emergency arrangements.

Budget separately

  • International travel, entry documents and costs outside the agreed programme.
  • Personal climbing equipment and insurance appropriate to the itinerary.
  • Personal spending, tips and any separately agreed climbing staff bonuses.
  • Additional accommodation, transport or evacuation costs if plans change.

Before you set out.

Previous high-altitude climbing and competent glacier and fixed-rope skills are needed; this is a major expedition despite its popularity.

Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu, trekking lodges or approach camps, and tented climbing camps.

Use the trip preparation guide to plan equipment, travel documents and questions for the team.

Is the summit attempt on a fixed day?

The itinerary gives a climbing window. Your guide will adjust the attempt, rest days and descent to the conditions and the team. Reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.

What experience should I discuss before booking?

Previous high-altitude climbing and competent glacier and fixed-rope skills are needed; this is a major expedition despite its popularity. Share details of your recent climbs, altitude experience and rope skills so that we can assess the preparation and support required.

Everest, Lhotse and Makalu catching the last sun, seen from Gokyo Ri

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Bhim PaudelExecutive Director

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Season

Highest altitude so far, any summits, and when you can travel.