The Manaslu Base Camp & Birendra Lake Trek
The Manaslu Base Camp & Birendra Lake Trek (12 Days) offers the ultimate high-mountain expedition to the foot of the world’s 8th highest mountain—Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)—without the extreme physical stress of crossing the 5,106m Larkya La Pass. Designed for trekkers who desire an intimate immersion into Tibetan-Nubri mountain culture, glacial lakes, and base camp life at 4,800m, this journey follows the dramatic Budhi Gandaki river gorge deep into the high alpine valley of Samagaon.
By basing yourself for 3 nights in the historic stone village of Samagaon (3,530m), you have ample time to hike to emerald-green Birendra Glacial Lake (3,691m), stand at Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) beneath the hanging seracs and expedition tents of international climbing teams, and visit the sacred 400-year-old Pungyen Gompa (4,050m) tucked beneath the immense south face of Manaslu. You then return peacefully through the pine forests and river gorges to Machha Khola, leaving with unforgettable memories of the "Mountain of the Spirit."
Stand at Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)
Hike to the active expedition base camp beneath the thundering Manaslu icefall and towering North Peak.
Emerald Birendra Glacial Lake (3,691m)
Gaze across the pristine turquoise glacial waters reflecting the snow-draped summit of Mt. Manaslu.
Sacred Pungyen Gompa (4,050m)
Explore the 400-year-old mountain monastery perched in a hidden hanging valley directly below the sheer Manaslu wall.
No Strenuous Larkya Pass Required
Enjoy all the majestic 8,000m scenery, monasteries, and base camp atmosphere without the intense pass day.
3 Nights in Cultural Samagaon
Immerse yourself in authentic Tibetan-Nubri culture, ancient mani stone walls, and traditional yak-herding life.
Budhi Gandaki River Gorges
Cross suspension bridges high above roaring waterfalls and trek through sub-tropical bamboo and rhododendron forests.
Why Trek Manaslu Base Camp with Best Treks Nepal?
We take care of all restricted permits (Manaslu RAP + MCAP), arrange private 4WD Mahindra Scorpio transportation, and ensure 3 full nights in Samagaon with certified native guides.
100% Guaranteed RAP Permits
All restricted area permits (Manaslu RAP, MCAP, TIMS) fully handled and verified by our Kathmandu desk.
Private 4WD Scorpio Jeep Transfers
Dedicated private 4WD Scorpio jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and round-trip return.
Native Nubri & Sherpa Guides
Led by certified high-altitude mountain guides born in the region with deep cultural ties to Samagaon.
Daily Pulse Oximetry & Medical Kits
Twice-daily pulse oximetry readings and wilderness first-aid kits carried by your guide at all times.
3 Full Nights in Samagaon
No rushed transitions. Enjoy 3 nights in Samagaon to explore Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pungyen Gompa.
15% Deposit & Lifetime Protection
Book with a 15% deposit ($178). Enjoy unlimited free date rescheduling up to 30 days prior with lifetime validity.
12-Day Manaslu Base Camp Detailed Itinerary
Journey through the Budhi Gandaki river gorge to the high valley of Samagaon, hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) & Birendra Lake, and return safely without pass crossing.
Day 1
Scenic Private 4WD Scorpio Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869m)
869m
7–8 hrs 4WD Drive
+
Early morning departure from your Kathmandu hotel in a private 4WD Mahindra Scorpio jeep. Drive through Dhading Besi and Arughat along the emerald Budhi Gandaki river to Machha Khola (869m). Check into your teahouse and meet your Sherpa support team over dinner.
Day 2
Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) via Tatopani Hot Springs
1,340m
6 hrs / 14 km
+
Follow the river valley through subtropical forests past Khorlabesi and natural hot springs at Tatopani. Cross suspension bridges past Dovan and climb stone staircases into the stone-paved entry checkpoint village of Jagat (1,340m).
Day 3
Trek Jagat to Deng (1,860m) along Budhi Gandaki River Gorge
1,860m
6 hrs / 16 km
+
Register permits at the Jagat post. Trek past Salleri and Philim, cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, and traverse bamboo and rhododendron forests past Ekle Bhatti to reach Deng (1,860m).
Day 4
Trek Deng to Namrung (2,630m) entering Upper Nubri Valley
2,630m
6 hrs / 18 km
+
Climb through sub-alpine pine and fir forests past Bihi Phedi and Prok. Enter the cultural Nubri valley with ancient Tibetan mani walls, arriving at the picturesque settlement of Namrung (2,630m).
Day 5
Trek Namrung to Lho (3,180m) & Ribung Gompa with Mt. Manaslu Views
3,180m
4 hrs / 10 km
+
Trek past Lihi and Sho with dramatic mountain vistas opening up ahead. Arrive in Lho (3,180m) for a breathtaking close-up panorama of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). Visit the famous hilltop Ribung Gompa in the afternoon.
Day 6
Trek Lho to Samagaon (3,530m) via Shyala Pine Forests
3,530m
3.5 hrs / 8 km
+
Follow the trail through the beautiful pine forests of Shyala, offering 360-degree views of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu. Arrive in the large Tibetan cultural hub of Samagaon (3,530m) where you will stay for the next 3 nights.
Day 7
Excursion to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) & Birendra Glacial Lake
4,800m
⭐ Peak Expedition Day
+
Ascend the moraine ridge past Birendra Glacial Lake (3,691m) to reach Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m). Experience the roar of the Manaslu glacier, view expedition climbing camps, and take in the sheer vertical face of the 8,163m peak before descending to Samagaon.
Day 8
Hike to Sacred Pungyen Gompa (4,050m) & Samagaon Monastery Exploration
4,050m
5 hrs / 9 km
+
Take a cultural hike up to the hidden hanging plateau of Pungyen Gompa (4,050m), an ancient sanctuary destroyed by an avalanche in 1953 and rebuilt. Return to Samagaon for an afternoon exploring local village life and ancient mani walls.
Day 9
Trek Samagaon down through Upper Nubri Valley to Namrung (2,630m)
2,630m
6 hrs / 18 km
+
Begin your peaceful return journey descending along the Budhi Gandaki river through pine forests past Shyala and Lho, enjoying easy downhill hiking to Namrung (2,630m).
Day 10
Trek Namrung to Philim / Jagat (1,340m)
1,340m
6.5 hrs / 20 km
+
Descend past Deng and Bihi into the warmer subtropical valleys, crossing suspension bridges to reach the stone-paved village of Jagat (1,340m).
Day 11
Trek Jagat to Machha Khola (869m)
869m
5 hrs / 14 km
+
Final day on the walking trail! Follow the river past Tatopani hot springs and Khorlabesi to celebrate your trek completion at Machha Khola (869m).
Day 12
Private 4WD Scorpio Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m) & Farewell Dinner
1,400m
7–8 hrs Drive
+
Board our private 4WD Scorpio jeep for the scenic return drive to Kathmandu. In the evening, celebrate with a grand traditional Nepali farewell dinner and receive your trek completion certificate.
Manaslu Base Camp Package Tiers
All tiers include Manaslu RAP, MCAP, TIMS permits, licensed Sherpa guide, porters, accommodation, full board meals on trek, and private 4WD Scorpio jeep transport.
- ✓ Manaslu Restricted RAP, MCAP & TIMS permits
- ✓ Private 4WD Scorpio KTM ⇄ Machha Khola round-trip
- ✓ 11 nights teahouse accommodation on trek
- ✓ All 3 meals daily on trek (Full Board)
- ✓ Licensed WFR Sherpa guide & porters
- ✓ Free 100L duffel bag & -15°C down sleeping bag
- ✓ Everything in Standard, plus:
- ✓ 2 nights 4-star hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu
- ✓ Best private rooms in all lodge stops
- ✓ Free hot gas showers & electronic device charging
- ✓ Fresh seasonal fruits & desserts every evening
- ✓ Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage sightseeing tour
- ✓ Everything in Comfort Plus, plus:
- ✓ 5-Star luxury hotel in Kathmandu (Dwarika's / Hyatt)
- ✓ Dedicated 1:1 Senior Mountain Guide
- ✓ 1 porter per trekker
- ✓ Helicopter return standby option from Samagaon
Read Before You Book — Knowledge Base
Essential preparation on Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), restricted permits, and Samagaon culture.
Manaslu Base Camp Readiness Tracker
You have reviewed 0 of 12 preparation topics.
1. Why Choose Base Camp Instead of Larkya Pass? +
This 12-day trek allows you to reach 4,800m at Manaslu Base Camp and experience full 8,000m mountain immersion while avoiding the strenuous 5,106m Larkya La Pass day. It is ideal for photographers, cultural enthusiasts, and trekkers with tighter timeframes.
2. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) Requirements +
The Manaslu region requires a special government Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and TIMS card. Trekkers must trek with a licensed guide and a minimum group size of 2. We handle all paperwork.
3. Hiking to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) +
The hike from Samagaon (3,530m) to Base Camp (4,800m) climbs 1,270m up the northern moraine. You walk past Birendra Lake, birch forests, and steep switchbacks before reaching the mountaineering base camp under the icefall.
4. Visiting Turquoise Birendra Glacial Lake (3,691m) +
Located just a 45-minute walk from Samagaon, Birendra Lake is a striking emerald-turquoise glacial lake fed directly by the Manaslu Glacier. It offers calm water reflections and peaceful picnic spots.
5. Sacred History of Pungyen Gompa (4,050m) +
Pungyen Gompa is a 400-year-old monastery nestled in a secret hanging plateau beneath the southern face of Manaslu. The setting provides panoramic views of glaciers, pastures, and yak herds.
6. Private 4WD Scorpio Transportation +
We provide private 4WD Mahindra Scorpio jeeps from Kathmandu to Machha Khola on Day 1, and return from Machha Khola to Kathmandu on Day 12, ensuring comfort on mountain roads.
7. Physical Fitness Level (3.5/5) +
Rated moderate to demanding. Daily walking is 5 to 6 hours over stone staircases and river trails. The Base Camp day is the most demanding (1,270m gain), but you return to sleep at 3,530m in Samagaon.
8. Teahouses & Mountain Food +
Comfortable teahouses with twin beds, warm dining rooms with central stoves, and hearty meals: Dal Bhat, noodle soups, potato stews, momos, porridge, eggs, and hot ginger lemon tea.
9. Cultural Etiquette in Nubri Valley +
Always walk clockwise around mani stone walls, chortens, and prayer wheels. Remove shoes before entering Gompas, and ask permission before photographing local elders.
10. Temperature Range (-6°C to 24°C) +
Subtropical lower gorges (20°C–24°C) give way to crisp high-altitude temperatures in Samagaon (0°C to -4°C at night) and -6°C at Manaslu Base Camp in early morning.
11. Altitude Sickness Prevention +
Our itinerary features a gradual 6-day ascent to Samagaon (3,530m). Daily pulse oximetry monitoring, 3–4 liters of hydration, and "climb high, sleep low" ensure optimal acclimatization.
12. Flexible 15% Deposit Guarantee +
Reserve with a 15% deposit ($178). Enjoy free date rescheduling up to 30 days prior with lifetime deposit protection.
12-Day Topographic Elevation Profile
Visualizing the steady ascent through the Budhi Gandaki gorge to Samagaon (3,530m) and the day climb to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m).
Manaslu Base Camp Weather & Temperature Model
Calculated across waypoints from Machha Khola (869m), Jagat (1,340m), Samagaon (3,530m), to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m).
Rhododendron forests blooming across Lower Nubri, mild trekking conditions, crystal morning vistas of Mt. Manaslu.
Lush green waterfalls in Budhi Gandaki gorge, afternoon rain showers, rich mountain flora.
Prime expedition season with cloudless deep-blue skies, crystal lake reflections, and active climbing teams at Base Camp.
Snow covering the trails around Samagaon, frozen Birendra Lake, very cold nights.
Guaranteed Small-Group Departures (Max 12)
Guaranteed permit slots for Manaslu, native Sherpa guidance, and private 4WD Scorpio jeep transport.
| Departure Dates | Season | Status | Price / Pax | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 25 – Apr 05, 2026 | Spring Bloom | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Apr 12 – Apr 23, 2026 | Prime Spring Peak | ✓ Confirmed (2 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| May 05 – May 16, 2026 | Late Spring | ⚡ Filling Fast (3 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 03 – Oct 14, 2026 | Prime Autumn Peak | ✓ Confirmed (5 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 20 – Oct 31, 2026 | Autumn Festival | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Nov 08 – Nov 19, 2026 | Autumn Clear Skies | ✓ Confirmed (6 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
We arrange private tailor-made Manaslu Base Camp treks for couples, trekking clubs, and private groups on any departure date.
Alpine Teahouses, Mountain Food & Samagaon Stays
Comfortable family-run teahouses with private twin rooms and hearty alpine meals throughout the journey.
Cozy Teahouse Lodges
Stay in comfortable lodges with wooden twin rooms, warm blankets, and lively dining halls heated by central wood stoves.
Full Board Mountain Food
Nutritious meals: authentic Nepali Dal Bhat power, fried noodles, momos, potato stews, porridge, eggs, and herbal teas.
Solar Power & Connectivity
Solar electricity and device charging available at all lodges. Cellular signal (NTC) available in Philim, Namrung, and Samagaon.
Hot Gas Showers
Hot gas showers available in Machha Khola, Jagat, Namrung, and Samagaon lodges.
Wilderness Safety Standards & Medical Protocols
Rigorous high-altitude protocols, daily pulse oximetry, and direct helicopter evacuation links.
Twice-Daily Pulse Oximetry
Daily oxygen saturation tracking and health assessments by your Wilderness First Responder certified guide.
Alpine Medical Kit
Comprehensive high-altitude medical kit with Diamox (acetazolamide), blister care, and emergency trauma supplies.
24/7 Operations Desk Link
Continuous mobile/satellite communication linking your guide with our Kathmandu Operations headquarters.
Helicopter Standby Access
Helipad evacuation access at Philim, Namrung, and Samagaon for immediate emergency medical response.
Essential Packing Gear Checklist
Recommended gear for 12-day lodge trekking up to 4,800m (Manaslu Base Camp).
🧥 Upper Body & Thermal Layers
- 2x Merino thermal base layer tops
- 4x Quick-dry trekking shirts
- 1x Mid-weight fleece jacket
- 1x High-loft -15°C down jacket
- 1x Waterproof/windproof Gore-Tex outer shell
👖 Lower Body & Pants
- 2x Thermal long underwear bottoms
- 2x Technical trekking pants
- 1x Waterproof rain pants
- 5x Merino wool trekking socks
- 1x Warm fleece lodge pants
🥾 Footwear & Trail Gear
- 1x Ankle-support waterproof hiking boots
- 1x Set of sturdy adjustable trekking poles
- 1x Warm fleece beanie & sun hat
- 1x Windproof gloves + inner liners
- 1x Polarized UV400 sunglasses
🎒 Hardware & Accessories
- 1x 30L Daypack with rain cover
- 1x 100L Duffel bag (provided free)
- 1x -15°C Down sleeping bag (provided free)
- 2x 1L Reusable water bottles / thermos
- 1x High-lumen headlamp with extra batteries
Book Manaslu Base Camp & Birendra Lake (12 Days)
Lock in your 2026/2027 trek dates with a 15% flexible deposit ($178 per person). Free cancellation and date transfers up to 30 days before departure.
What Travelers Say About Manaslu Base Camp
"Spending 3 nights in Samagaon allowed us to hike up to Base Camp at 4,800m and sit beside Birendra Lake in absolute peace. Avoiding Larkya La Pass gave us a stress-free, deep mountain journey."
"Pungyen Gompa was the highlight of my trip to Nepal. The hanging valley feels like another planet. Our guide Dawa was exceptionally attentive and knowledgeable."
"Private Scorpio jeeps made the drive from Kathmandu very smooth. Seeing the North Peak of Manaslu from Ribung Gompa in Lho is a memory that will stay with me forever."
"12 days is the perfect duration. You get all the dramatic river canyons, Tibetan culture, and the thrill of 4,800m Base Camp. Best Treks Nepal organized everything flawlessly."
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers from our senior expedition leaders covering Manaslu Base Camp permits, altitude safety, and logistics.
What permits are required for the Manaslu Base Camp Trek? +
You need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the TIMS card. All permit arrangements and fees are fully included in our package.
Can solo trekkers book this trek? +
Yes. Government regulations mandate a minimum of 2 trekkers for Manaslu RAP permits. We pair solo travelers with our confirmed departure groups so you can join easily.
How difficult is the hike from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)? +
The climb gains 1,270 vertical meters and takes 4 to 5 hours up and 2 to 3 hours down. The trail follows moraines and rocky switchbacks. It is a demanding day hike, but you carry only a light daypack and return to sleep in your Samagaon lodge.
What will we see at Manaslu Base Camp? +
You will stand directly beneath the massive Manaslu Glacier and North Peak. In climbing seasons (Spring and Autumn), you can see expedition camps, prayer flags, and climbers preparing for their summit pushes.
How far is Birendra Glacial Lake from Samagaon? +
Birendra Lake is just 3 km (about a 45-minute gentle walk) northwest of Samagaon village. It makes for an easy morning or afternoon stroll to view turquoise waters and glacial ice.
What are teahouses like on the Manaslu Base Camp route? +
Teahouses are clean, traditional stone lodges with private twin rooms, foam mattresses, warm blankets, and dining rooms with central stoves. Hot showers and device charging are available.
What meals are included during the trek? +
Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) is included for all 12 days on trek. Menus offer Dal Bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, momos, eggs, porridge, potato curries, and hot tea/coffee.
How is altitude sickness prevented on this trek? +
The 6-day gradual ascent to Samagaon (3,530m) allows natural acclimatization. Sleeping at 3,530m after day hikes to 4,800m ensures that your body adapts safely and easily.
What road transportation is provided? +
We provide private 4WD Mahindra Scorpio jeeps from Kathmandu to Machha Khola on Day 1, and return from Machha Khola to Kathmandu on Day 12.
How does the 15% flexible deposit policy work? +
You pay a 15% deposit ($178) online to confirm your restricted permit slots and dates. The remaining balance is paid upon arrival in Kathmandu. Deposits have lifetime validity with free date rescheduling up to 30 days prior.
Is cellular connectivity available on the trail? +
Nepal Telecom (NTC) 3G/4G cellular coverage is available in Machha Khola, Jagat, Philim, Namrung, and Samagaon. Most lodges also offer paid satellite Wi-Fi.
What equipment is provided free by Best Treks Nepal? +
We provide a complimentary 100L waterproof duffel bag, a high-grade -15°C down sleeping bag, and a branded trekking shirt upon your arrival in Kathmandu.
Need customized dates or private group advice for Manaslu Base Camp?
Our Kathmandu operations desk and senior Sherpa expedition leaders are available 24/7 on WhatsApp.