The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most spectacular and challenging treks, offering trekkers a chance to explore remote villages, pristine landscapes, and the majestic views of Mount Manaslu. As you trek through a variety of terrain, ranging from subtropical forests to high-altitude glaciers, understanding the accommodation options available along the Manaslu trek is crucial for a smooth and comfortable journey.
This blog will guide you through the different accommodations you can expect during the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, based on the provided itinerary, highlighting the facilities and atmosphere in each destination.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through one of Nepal’s most stunning and remote trekking routes. The accommodation options along the route are basic, reflecting the rugged and isolated nature of the region.
Trekkers can expect to stay in a variety of simple yet cozy, lodgings ranging from tea houses to guesthouses. Here’s a quick overview of accommodations while trekking the Manaslu Circuit:
Tea houses are the most common form of accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit. These are basic, family-run establishments offering a bed and food. Rooms are typically shared with fellow trekkers, but some tea houses offer private rooms for a bit more comfort. Most tea houses have shared bathrooms, and facilities may be rudimentary, but they offer a warm atmosphere and hearty meals, including traditional Nepali food.
In larger villages, such as Sama Gaon and Bhimthang, lodges are more common. These offer slightly better amenities than tea houses, including more spacious rooms and in some cases, private bathrooms. Hot water showers are also available in some lodges, though they might come at an extra cost. Lodges also tend to have better heating arrangements, which is a big plus at higher altitudes.
Guesthouses are more prevalent in larger, developed villages on the Manaslu trek. They offer private rooms with more privacy and comfort compared to tea houses. Some guesthouses even have Wi-Fi and electricity, though the connection is often unreliable, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes.
In the more remote areas, homestays provide a unique cultural experience. Staying with local families in their homes gives trekkers an authentic glimpse into the rural life of the region. These are simple accommodations, usually with shared facilities, but the chance to connect with locals makes it a memorable experience.
While the accommodation may be basic, the warmth and hospitality you receive along the trek make it worthwhile. Whether you're staying in a tea house, a lodge, or a guesthouse, the focus is on comfort, warmth, and community as you embark on this journey through the Manaslu region.
Based on the standard itinerary of Places Nepal for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, here’s a comprehensive overview of the accommodations you can expect throughout the journey.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, you'll likely be staying in a 3-star hotel (Hotel Yukhang or Similar) in the Thamel area. There are numerous accommodation options catering to all budgets in areas like Thamel. Hotels range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious five-star hotels, providing all the amenities needed to relax before your trek.
The journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of your trek, takes about 7-8 hours by jeep or bus. There are limited but basic accommodation options in Machha Khola. Expect to stay in local tea houses or lodges offering simple rooms with shared bathrooms.
The rooms are typically small, furnished with basic bedding, and heated by a traditional wood stove in the common area. The environment is rustic, but the warmth and hospitality of the locals make it a pleasant start to the trek.
As you continue your trek from Machha Khola to Jagat, you'll find a slightly more developed infrastructure in terms of accommodations. Jagat is a small village that offers basic tea house lodges with simple but clean rooms. The accommodation here is again basic but comfortable enough for trekkers.
Expect rooms with a bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. The tea houses usually provide warm meals and hot drinks, helping you rest and acclimatize before continuing your trek.
Deng is a small, peaceful village nestled in the foothills. The accommodation here is quite basic, with tea houses offering rooms with minimal furniture and shared facilities.
The rooms are simple with a bed and a blanket, but the community atmosphere is what makes the stay memorable. The food is freshly prepared, and you can enjoy local Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice) and other Nepalese staples.
As you gain elevation on your trek to Namrung, the accommodation becomes more limited but offers a cozy, mountain feel. Namrung is a larger village compared to Deng, with a handful of tea houses that provide simple rooms with beds and shared bathrooms.
The higher altitude means the temperature can drop, but the tea houses usually have heating systems in the common areas to keep you warm.
Shyala, a small settlement located at a higher altitude, offers tea houses with rustic yet comfortable accommodations. The rooms are more basic, but you can expect a warm, welcoming environment.
The tea houses may provide extra blankets to help you stay warm during the cold nights at higher altitudes. The food options here are limited but usually include Tibetan-style dishes and freshly made bread.
Sama Gaon is a larger and more developed village compared to Shyala. It is one of the most popular stops along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and the accommodation here is a bit more comfortable.
Tea houses and lodges here provide private rooms with beds, and some may offer better facilities like solar-heated showers or Wi-Fi. The stay in Sama Gaon offers stunning views of Manaslu, and it is an excellent place for acclimatization.
Samdo is a small village that is remote but offers basic tea house accommodations. Rooms here are simple, with beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities.
Due to the higher altitude, the temperature in Samdo can drop significantly, and accommodations may become colder, but the tea houses offer a welcoming refuge with warm meals to replenish your energy.
Dharmasala, or Larkya Phedi, is the last stop before crossing the Larkya La Pass. The accommodation here is basic and somewhat cramped. Tea houses provide minimal facilities, but you will find everything you need to rest and prepare for the challenging pass ahead.
The altitude can make it difficult to sleep, but the energetic atmosphere among trekkers makes it an exciting stop before your final push to the top.
After crossing the Larkya La Pass, the descent to Bhimthang offers a pleasant respite. Bhimthang has more developed accommodations, with tea houses offering comfortable rooms with beds and blankets.
Although still basic, the accommodation here is one of the best on the Manaslu Circuit, and the picturesque setting provides a relaxing end to a strenuous day.
As you descend to Dharapani, the accommodation options improve further. Dharapani is a larger village with several tea houses and lodges offering better facilities.
You’ll find rooms with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and warm, well-heated common areas. The food options are varied, offering both Nepali and international dishes.
While generally basic, accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek provides everything you need to rest and recharge for the next leg of the journey. From simple tea houses in small villages to slightly more developed lodges in larger settlements, the accommodation style reflects the remote and rugged nature of the trek.
Although the rooms are minimalist, the warmth and hospitality of the locals, combined with the stunning mountain views, make every night of the trek a memorable experience.
When preparing for the trek, managing your expectations about comfort levels is important. While it won’t be luxurious, the accommodations are well-suited for trekking conditions, offering a chance to experience the authentic culture and landscape of Nepal's Himalayas.