Transfer to your Hotel after you are received at the Airport. After introducing the program, you will enjoy your first night in Kathmandu's cultural diversity.

One day free for sightseeing or trekking preparation in Kathmandu Valley

We leave Kathmandu to make the long journey to Soti Khola. Along the dusty road, we pass through Arughat. Soti Khola, our guide and companion through the Manaslu Valley is located on the banks the Budhi Gandaki River. We will eventually reach the source of Larkya La.

You will start the trek by walking along the route to Machha Khola. This name literally means "fish river". There are beautiful views of the jungle and occasional waterfalls that add a soothing sound to the hike.

We make our way through Khorlabesi in the morning and then continue on to Tatopani which is famous for its natural hot springs. We climb up Dobhan to enter the Manaslu conservation area. Then we reach Jagat, with its rugged setting and narrow lanes.

The day starts with a walk through subtropical rainforest, a few small hamlets and then a couple suspension bridges. This last one leads to Philim, a beautiful village set among terraced fields overlooking river. Continue on the trail to the junction of Tsum Valley and Larkye La. From there, take the path northwest towards Deng.

As we ascend the valley, the first views of the major mountain ranges are revealed. Sringi Himal (Ganesh Himal), Kutang Himal, and others can be seen. As we head west, lush vegetation greets us as our trail leads us through picturesque villages like Prok. We then climb the final steep stretch that takes us to Namrung.

Today is the day we can enjoy spectacular views of the mountains from our approach to Lho, the picturesque village. As the trail climbs higher into mountains, the lower temperate forests gradually give way. The lush greens of lower valley give way to the Himalayan terrain's muted browns and greys. There's still plenty of time to explore Manaslu's stunning views and visit Rebung Gompa, perched on a nearby hillside.

We hike from Lho to Shyala, a similarly impressive village, with its own breathtaking views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli. Then we climb steadily through yak pasturelands until Sama Gaun. There is plenty of time to hike the short distance to Birendra lake if you have enough time.

Sama Gaun serves as our temporary home while we adjust to the altitude. The village offers many options for day excursions. These include a short hike to Birendra Taal, Manaslu Base Camp, the rewarding and dramatic hike up to Manaslu Base Camp, or the walk to Pungen Gompa with its peaceful setting in the mountains.

As we push onwards and upwards, the mantra of the day is "Onward and Up". We are determined to reach Larke La. We begin our climb along the riverbank, which gradually becomes steeper as we reach Samdo at midday. You have plenty of time to explore the area and maybe hike up to higher elevations briefly to aid in acclimatization.

A rest day is provided to aid in acclimatization. There's also the rare opportunity to hike up to Rui La (4998m) to reach the border with Tibet. You will be able to see the Himalayas from the Fukang Glacier, adding another dimension to your day.

We reach the threshold of Larke La on our trek to Dharmsala, a high altitude camp. The snow is more visible and the air feels thinner as we move towards our destination. To help our bodies adjust to the altitude, and to sleep better at night, we recommend another short hike to higher ground.

Larkya La can be crossed by heading out before dawn, with our head-mounted lights bouncing in the darkness as we climb up the path in the morning, our breath visible in the light of the lamps. As each false ridge leads to the next, the trail to Larke La is deceptive. It promises everything at one moment and then takes it away at the next. We finally see the first prayer flags. Our goal is achieved as we stumble to the marker, proudly posing for the cameras. We take a moment to enjoy the achievement and the breathtaking views, then we descend to Bhimthang. Our trekking poles are used to save our legs and knees on the steep descent into the valley below.

We can see Manaslu and the Annapurna ranges on our left, as we descend from Bhimthang via yak pastures until we see the Dudh Khhola's headwaters coming down the slope. The bridge over leads to a path that gradually leaves the alpine climate. It takes us through familiar rhododendron forest to a narrow valley with patchwork crops and terraced fields. The small, picturesque village of Tilje is reached. From there we climb uphill to Dharapani. This is the main trekking junction in the area and the modern starting point for trekkers who are attempting the Annapurna circuit and aiming to reach Thorong La pass. We can all go in the same direction if we have the right attitude and time.

You can drive for a long time by local transport to Pokhara or Kathmandu, depending on your preference.

Farewell and drop off at the airport.