Best Season
Group Size
Maximum Elevation
Accommodation
Daily Trekking
Rising to 8,163 m (26,781 ft), Mt. Manaslu—the “Mountain of the Spirit”—is the eighth-highest mountain in the world and one of Nepal’s most captivating 8,000-meter peaks. Located in the remote Mansiri Himal range of the Gorkha District, the mountain’s name originates from the Sanskrit word Manasa, meaning “intellect” or “soul,” symbolizing the spiritual depth and challenge it represents. Its imposing glaciated ridges dominate the landscape, surrounded by deep valleys and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages that remain untouched by mass tourism.
First summited on May 9, 1956, by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu Sherpa, Manaslu has since become a prestigious climb for seasoned mountaineers seeking a technically demanding but less crowded alternative to Everest. Its Northeast Route is considered the classic line to the summit—an elegant yet challenging ascent involving steep snow slopes, ice seracs, and crevasse fields that demand steady technique, endurance, and patience.
Climbing Manaslu is a journey that requires more than physical fitness—it calls for mental resilience, careful acclimatization, and previous high-altitude experience (ideally above 6,000–7,000 meters). Climbers face long summit days, unpredictable weather, and extended periods of exposure in harsh alpine conditions. Excellent cardiovascular endurance, strength for sustained climbing with heavy loads, and strong teamwork are crucial.
With Royal Orchid Treks & Expedition, every stage of this expedition—from Kathmandu to the summit—is meticulously managed. You’ll be guided by highly experienced Sherpa climbers, supported by comprehensive logistics, reliable weather forecasting, and full safety systems. Our structured acclimatization schedule, professional communication setup, and small-group approach ensure a safe, focused, and successful ascent of this extraordinary mountain.
The Manaslu Expedition offers not only the thrill of standing atop an 8,000-meter summit but also an immersion into Nepal’s authentic mountain culture—a balance of adventure, spirituality, and achievement in one of the Himalayas’ most inspiring landscapes.
The classic, elegant line to the summit of the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
Manaslu Base Camp – 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Set on a broad glacial shelf beneath Manaslu’s towering North Face, Base Camp serves as the headquarters for the expedition. Equipped with dining tents, communication systems, and full support staff, this is where climbers spend time acclimatizing, training, and preparing for rotation climbs. Surrounded by massive ice walls and sweeping glacier views, Base Camp offers a true Himalayan atmosphere.
Camp I – 5,700 m / 18,700 ft
The climb from Base Camp to Camp I involves navigating moraine, glacier crossings, and crevasse zones. Fixed ropes begin early, guiding climbers through moderate snow slopes and ice sections. Camp I sits on a protected platform of compact snow, offering a stable staging point for the upper mountain.
Camp II – 6,400 m / 20,997 ft
An iconic section of the Manaslu route, the ascent to Camp II passes through a maze of crevasses, snow bridges, and steep ice walls. This stretch is known for its dramatic serac formations and requires steady rope work. Camp II is strategically positioned on a wide snow terrace with excellent sun exposure, making it a crucial acclimatization camp.
Camp III – 6,800 m / 22,310 ft
Steeper and more sustained than the lower sections, the climb to Camp III involves 35–45° snow slopes and several exposed traverses. Strong winds are common here due to the funnel effect of the upper couloirs. This camp is used for a shorter rest before launching toward Camp IV or directly toward summit day.
Camp IV – 7,400 m / 24,278 ft
Camp IV sits high on the shoulder of Manaslu, close to the base of the summit ridge. The climb to this camp is steady but demanding, with long snow slopes and thin air. From Camp IV, climbers prepare for the long, technical summit push under the night sky.
Summit – 8,163 m / 26,781 ft
Summit day begins around midnight, climbing up steep snow ramps, traversing exposed ridges, and passing a false summit before reaching the true summit point of Manaslu. The final section is narrow, requiring careful step placement and precise rope use. From the top, the 360° views showcase Ganesh Himal, Shishapangma, Annapurna, and the endless Himalayan horizon—a breathtaking reward after a long ascent.
Welcome to Nepal! Meet our team at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the vibrant city of Kathmandu. Enjoy your first evening settling in and preparing for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel
A full day dedicated to expedition formalities. Attend the government-mandated briefing, complete documentation, and finalize your climbing gear with your Sherpa guide. Evening welcome dinner introduces you to the expedition team.
Accommodation: Hotel
A long but scenic drive along the Trishuli River, passing terraced hillsides, villages, and deep river gorges. You enter the Budhi Gandaki valley, the gateway to the Manaslu region.
Accommodation: Lodge
Walk through narrow river trails, cross suspension bridges, and pass small settlements carved into steep cliffs. Arrive in Jagat, a stone-built village marking the entry to the restricted conservation area.
Accommodation: Lodge
A beautiful day of trekking through lush forests, waterfalls, mani walls, and river canyons. The landscape transitions into Buddhist cultural influence as you approach Deng.
Accommodation: Lodge
Gain altitude steadily as the valley widens. The trail passes through hamlets, rhododendron forests, prayer wheels, and chortens. Namrung greets you with your first panoramic views of the higher Himalayas.
Accommodation: Lodge
A culturally rich day. Hike past barley fields, monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-style homes. The colossal presence of Manaslu begins to dominate the skyline as you enter Lho, home to Ribung Gompa.
Accommodation: Lodge
A gentle yet scenic day. Follow forested trails and glacial rivers as the view opens into a wide valley beneath Manaslu’s massive North Face. Sama Gaun is the main Sherpa village, known for its warm hospitality and cultural heritage.
Accommodation: Lodge
Spend a full day adjusting to the altitude. Optional acclimatization hikes to Pungyen Gompa or viewpoints above the village offer stunning Himalayan vistas. Explore ancient monasteries and learn about local mountain traditions.
Accommodation: Lodge
A steady climb above the village leads to glacial moraines and rugged terrain. Eventually, the trail opens into the expansive Manaslu Base Camp — your home for the coming weeks. Sherpa staff welcome you with warm drinks and a full camp setup.
Accommodation: Tent
This period is essential for safe acclimatization and building strength. You will:
Each rotation pushes your altitude tolerance before returning to Base Camp for rest, meals, and recovery.
Accommodation: Tent | Meals: Full Board
When weather and winds align, the summit phase begins:
After photos and celebration, descend carefully to lower camps and return to Base Camp.
Accommodation: Tent | Meals: Full Board
A dedicated day for responsible mountaineering:
This day ensures both environmental respect and physical recovery.
Accommodation: Tent
Descend the glacier and moraine trail back to Sama Gaun. Enjoy oxygen-rich air, warm lodges, and a comforting meal.
Accommodation: Lodge
A peaceful descent through forests and meadows. Spend the night in a charming mid-valley village.
Accommodation: Lodge
Walk through terraced fields, streams, and Gurung villages as you return to warmer altitudes.
Accommodation: Lodge
Final trekking day retracing your initial approach trail. Enjoy the changing landscape and cultural diversity.
Accommodation: Lodge
Return to Kathmandu through the Budhi Gandaki and Trishuli valleys. A hot shower and soft bed await you.
Accommodation: Hotel
A full free day to rest, shop, enjoy a spa, or visit UNESCO heritage sites. Optional farewell dinner with your team.
Accommodation: Hotel
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Discover the World's Treasures with Royal Orchid
