Overview
The Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek is a rewarding 12-day hiking experience through one of Nepal’s least-visited and most culturally rich trekking regions. This route runs through the lower foothills of the Manaslu Himalayan range, connecting historic Gorkha district with a series of traditional Gurung and Magar villages that see very few outside visitors each year.
The trek begins near the famous Manakamana Temple and passes through Gorkha Bazaar – the first capital of modern Nepal and the hometown of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the country in the 18th century. From there, the trail climbs through terraced farmland, dense forests, and high pastures before reaching the viewpoint at Dharche Danda (3,220m), where you get a wide panoramic view of more than 20 Himalayan peaks including Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal.
Unlike the heavily trafficked routes in the Everest or Annapurna regions, this trail is quiet, raw, and personal. You stay mostly in family-run homestays, eat locally grown food, and walk through villages where tourism is still new. Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek is Nepal trekking without the crowds – straightforward, authentic, and deeply satisfying.
Highlights of Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek
- Cable car ride up to the 17th-century Manakamana Temple at Kurintar
- Visit to Gorkha Palace, Gorakhnath Cave, and Gorkha Museum – the historical core of Nepal’s unification
- Walk through Bungkot village, birthplace of Nepal’s first martyr Lakhan Thapa
- Sunrise and Himalayan panorama from Dharche Danda (3,220m)
- Overnight stays in traditional Gurung villages of Barpak and Laprak
- Visit to Sita Cave, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site deep in a forest
- Traditional cultural performances and local food in Tallo Thotneri village
- Scenic drive through the Daraundi River valley and mountain roads of Gorkha district
Why Choose the Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek
- Walk through Gorkha district, the historical heartland of Nepal, rich in temples, palaces, and cultural heritage
- Stay with local families in traditional Gurung and Magar villages on a community-based homestay network
- Reach Dharche Danda (3,220m) – the highest point of the trek – for a 180-degree view of the Himalayas
- Visit the Manakamana Temple, Gorkha Palace, Gorakhnath Cave, and Sita Cave along the route
- Experience agro-tourism through organic farms growing potatoes, unprocessed tea leaves, and medicinal herbs
- Trek on a well-maintained trail with no technical sections – suitable for fit first-timers
- Support local communities directly through community-based tourism and homestay accommodation
- Combine history, nature, and culture in a single trip without needing to go to higher altitudes
Best Time to Visit
Primary seasons:
- October to November: Clear skies, excellent mountain views, cool temperatures – the most popular window
- March to May: Warm days, flowering rhododendrons in lower sections, good visibility
Off-season:
- December to February: Cold and occasionally snowy, especially at Nambai Kharka and Dharche Danda – possible but require proper gear
- June to September (Monsoon): Rain makes trails slippery and leeches are active. Some sections may be impassable. Not recommended unless you have experience trekking in wet conditions.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu to Kurintar by Car, then Trek to Ghairung (1,170m) | 5 hours trekking
Day 03: Ghairung to Gorkha Bazaar (1,060m) | 5 hours trekking
Day 04: Rest and Sightseeing in Gorkha Bazaar
Day 05: Gorkha Bazaar to Sirandanda (1,990m) | 6–7 hours
Day 06: Sirandanda to Barpak (1,915m) | 7 hours
Day 07: Barpak to Laprak (2,100m) | 6 hours
Day 08: Laprak to Nambai Kharka (2,700m) | 4 hours
Day 09: Nambai Kharka to Tallo Thotneri (1,685m) | 7 hours
Day 10: Tallo Thotneri to Gyampesal (1,000m) | 6 hours
Day 11: Drive from Gyampesal to Kathmandu | Approx. 7 hours
Day 12: Final Departure from Kathmandu
The route follows a northeast direction from the Trishuli River valley up through the mid-hills of Gorkha district, crossing several river valleys including the Daraundi and Sum rivers, before descending back toward the lowlands at Gyampesal.
Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek – 12 Days Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to a 4-star hotel by private car. In the evening, enjoy welcome drinks and a short pre-trek briefing. Rest and prepare for the days ahead.
Kathmandu to Kurintar by Car, then Trek to Ghairung (1,170m) | 5 hours trekking
Drive from Kathmandu to the cable car station at Kurintar - approximately 3 hours by private car. Take a 10-minute cable car ride up to the Manakamana Temple (1,315m), a Hindu temple built in the 17th century that attracts pilgrims from across Nepal and around the world.
After lunch at Manakamana Bazaar, the trek begins. The trail passes the Bakyaswori Mahadeva Temple (2km north), the sacred cave of Siddha Lakhan Thapa, and a 250-year-old temple built during the reign of King Prithvi Narayan Shah. The path descends to Tinmane Bhanjyang and ends at Pipalchap village in Ghairung VDC. No commercial lodges operate here - accommodation is through local homestays.
Ghairung to Gorkha Bazaar (1,060m) | 5 hours trekking
The trail moves toward Bungkot village, the birthplace of Lakhan Thapa - Nepal's first national martyr. The Lakhan Thapa Memorial Park in the village preserves his bust and historical artifacts including his sword and a stone spout. The Magar community, which is the majority in Bungkot, maintains these historical sites independently.
From Bungkot, an easy 1.5-hour walk takes you into Gorkha Bazaar, the district headquarters of Gorkha. Good food options and comfortable lodges are available here at various price points.
Rest and Sightseeing in Gorkha Bazaar
Spend the day visiting the key historical sites of Gorkha:
Gorkha Palace: Built on a ridge about 1,000 feet above Gorkha Bazaar, this palace served as the seat of power from which King Prithvi Narayan Shah launched the unification of Nepal. The architecture reflects medieval Nepali craftsmanship and commands wide views of the valleys and Himalayan peaks.
Gorakhnath Cave: Located just below the palace, this cave is believed to be where the sage Gorakhnath - the patron deity of the Shah dynasty - once lived. The site holds deep spiritual significance for the Gorkha people.
Gorkha Museum: Situated in Gorkha Bazaar, the museum houses personal belongings of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, including a 52-foot-long chino (royal birth record), ancient sculptures, coins, and art of historical significance.
Gorkha Bazaar to Sirandanda (1,990m) | 6–7 hours
Drive approximately 6–7 hours from Gorkha Bazaar through narrow mountain roads that follow the Daraundi River. The drive itself is scenic and offers a good look at the rural landscape of Gorkha. From Ghachek, a one-hour hike takes you up to Sirandanda (1,900m).
Sirandanda means "hilltop" in Nepali, and it lives up to the name - the village sits on a small elevated ridge and is home to the Hyolmo people. Local attractions include Nagepokhari, Dudhpokhari, Bhot Dodar, a traditional tea garden, and diverse medicinal herbs like yarsagumba and satuwa. Clear mornings here give excellent views of the Manaslu range.
Sirandanda to Barpak (1,915m) | 7 hours
Walk northeast for about 1.5 hours to reach Mathar village (1,790m), followed by a 1.5 km walk to Ghyachowk for lunch. After lunch, the trail crosses Dewalsara, the Sum River, the Daraundi River, Goje, and Alagang before arriving at Barpak village (1,920m).
Barpak is well-known as the village of the late Captain Gaje Ghale, recipient of the Victoria Cross for gallantry in World War II. The village is largely populated by ex-British Army soldiers, with Gurung and Ghale communities forming the majority. Stone-roofed houses, narrow stone-paved lanes, and direct views of Buddha Himal make Barpak visually distinct. The village has electricity, internet, a health post, and several hotels.
Barpak to Laprak (2,100m) | 6 hours
Trek for about six hours from Barpak via Basukang - a trail junction also used by Manaslu Circuit trekkers heading to Rupina La Pass. The destination is Laprak village (2,100m), a typical Gurung settlement that forms its own single-village VDC (Village Development Committee), with all nine ward offices clustered together in one place.
Laprak sits in a landslide-prone zone. A 1999 landslide destroyed homes and about 12 hectares of farmland, and residents continue to live with seasonal risk, particularly during monsoon. The village is warm and temperate from April to October, and gets heavy snowfall between November and March. Two hotels serve trekkers here.
Laprak to Nambai Kharka (2,700m) | 4 hours
A moderate four-hour walk from Laprak takes you up to Nambai Kharka (2,700m). "Kharka" means pastureland in the local dialect, and that's exactly what this is - an open seasonal grazing ground used by Laprak villagers during potato planting and harvest seasons. A few temporary shelters here provide basic cover.
There are no lodges, restaurants, or toilet facilities at Nambai Kharka. Trekkers camp here and must be self-sufficient with food and supplies. Local custom asks that visitors follow a vegetarian diet at this stop, as the community believes harm comes to those who slaughter animals in this area.
Nambai Kharka to Tallo Thotneri (1,685m) | 7 hours
Start early to climb Dharche Danda (3,220m) - the highest point of the Lower Manaslu Eco Trail. From the top, you get an unobstructed 180-degree view of more than 20 Himalayan peaks including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Bharatsikhar, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Langtang, Himalchuli, Buddha Himal, Sarang Peak, Manaslu, Sringi Himal, Ganesh I, Ganesh II, and Ganesh III.
Dharche Danda is a sacred site for the local Gurung community. Traditionally, no trees may be cut here, and offerings are made to the hill deity before trekking. After sunrise views, the trail descends to Tallo Thotneri village, a Gurung settlement with no commercial lodges but excellent homestay arrangements. Villagers here sometimes perform traditional dances and prepare local food for guests. Sita Cave and Olajung Danda are worth visiting if time allows.
Tallo Thotneri to Gyampesal (1,000m) | 6 hours
The day starts with a visit to Sita Cave (1,165m), located 1.8 km from Tallo Thotneri inside a dense forest. The cave is sacred to Hindus - it is said that Goddess Sita, wife of Lord Ram, once took shelter here. On the festival of Ram Nawami (ninth day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Chaitra - March or April), thousands of pilgrims visit the cave. The caving experience is adventurous and adds a unique dimension to the trek.
After the cave visit, the trail continues to Gyampesal - the final stop of the trek. Accommodation here is by tent or homestay.
Drive from Gyampesal to Kathmandu | Approx. 7 hours
Today, a private Land Cruiser transfers you from Gyampesal back to Kathmandu - a drive of approximately seven hours through the mountains and valleys of Gorkha district. Check in to a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu and rest.
Final Departure from Kathmandu
Your trip ends after breakfast. Our team will assist you with any onward travel arrangements and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Inclusions
What's included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- 4-star hotel in Kathmandu (2 nights - Day 1 and Day 11) on a bed-and-breakfast basis
- All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner from Day 2 to Day 11)
- All ground transportation including cable car, private car, Land Cruiser
- Community homestay accommodation throughout the trek
- Tented camp at Nambai Kharka with all camping equipment
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20 kg per porter)
- All necessary trekking permits and TIMS card
- Everest Hikes company fleece jacket (one per trekker)
- Comprehensive first-aid kit and emergency supplies
- Government taxes and service charges
What's not included
- International airfare and Nepal visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory - see Travel Insurance section)
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner on Day 1 and Day 12)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Alcoholic beverages, packaged drinks, and personal snacks
- Tips for guides and porters (appreciated but not mandatory)
- Personal expenses such as telephone calls, laundry, and souvenirs
- Costs arising from flight cancellations, natural disasters, or medical evacuations
- Any additional nights in Kathmandu before or after the trip
Accommodation During the Trip
| Days | Location | Accommodation Type |
| Day 1 & 11 | Kathmandu | 4-star hotel |
| Day 2 | Ghairung | Homestay |
| Day 3 & 4 | Gorkha Bazaar | Lodge |
| Day 5 | Sirandanda | Homestay |
| Day 6 | Barpak | Homestay or hotel |
| Day 7 | Laprak | Homestay |
| Day 8 | Nambai Kharka | Tented camp |
| Day 9 | Tallo Thotneri | Homestay |
| Day 10 | Gyampesal | Homestay or tent |
Most of the route relies on community homestays, which are clean and welcoming but simple. Expect a bed, blankets, and a shared bathroom rather than hotel-style amenities. This is part of what makes the experience genuine.
Meals and Drinks
Meals are included throughout the trek as listed in the itinerary. At homestays, local families prepare traditional Nepali food – primarily dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), seasonal vegetables, and local grains. Eggs, noodles, and potatoes also appear regularly. Barpak and Gorkha Bazaar have more varied food options. At Nambai Kharka, trekkers are requested to eat only vegetarian food as per local custom. Drinking water from the tap or stream should always be treated or filtered. Boiled water is usually available at homestays. Please avoid single-use plastic bottles – bring a reusable bottle and water purification tablets.
Transportation
- Kathmandu to Kurintar: Private car, approx. 3 hours
- Gorkha Bazaar to Ghachek: Private vehicle, approx. 6–7 hours
- Gyampesal to Kathmandu: Private Land Cruiser, approx. 7 hours
- Kurintar to Manakamana Temple: Cable car, 10 minutes
All road transport is on mountain roads – expect narrow, winding routes with scenic valley views.
Difficulty Level
Moderate
This trek does not require technical climbing skills or prior high-altitude experience. Daily walking times range from 4 to 7 hours, with some uphill sections and river crossings. The highest point, Dharche Danda, sits at 3,220m – low enough that altitude sickness is unlikely but not impossible. If you can walk 5–6 hours a day on uneven terrain, you can complete this trek comfortably.
Fitness Requirements
You should be able to walk 15–20 km per day on uphill and downhill terrain without medical difficulty. Start a basic cardio and leg-strengthening routine at least 6 weeks before the trek. Regular hiking or stair-climbing is the best preparation. No prior trekking experience in Nepal is required, but some experience with multi-day hiking is an advantage.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The trek stays mostly between 1,000m and 2,700m, with the exception of the summit day at Dharche Danda (3,220m). At these altitudes, most healthy adults acclimatize without difficulty. However, you may notice mild symptoms such as slight headaches or fatigue at higher points.
- Ascend gradually and do not rush
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Avoid alcohol, especially during the first two days at higher elevations
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell
There is no formal acclimatization rest day on this itinerary because the altitudes involved are moderate. However, the Day 4 rest in Gorkha provides a natural break before heading higher.
Permits and Entry Fees
The following permits are required for this trek:
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Required for all trekkers in Nepal
- Gorkha District Conservation or Entry Permit: Applicable for trekking in this region (your guide will arrange these)
Permit costs are subject to change by the Government of Nepal. Our team handles all permit procurement before the trek begins.
Weather and Temperature
| Season | Temperature Range | Conditions |
| Oct–Nov | 5°C to 20°C | Clear, dry, ideal for trekking |
| Mar–May | 10°C to 25°C | Warm, occasional afternoon cloud |
| Dec–Feb | -5°C to 10°C | Cold nights, possible snow at Nambai Kharka |
| Jun–Sep | 15°C to 28°C | Heavy rain, humid, leeches on trail |
Nights at Nambai Kharka (2,700m) and Dharche Danda can be cold even in October – bring warm layers.
Safety Guidelines
- Always follow your guide’s instructions, particularly on steep or slippery sections
- Start walking slowly on Day 1 of each trek segment – do not push yourself to keep pace
- Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell, dizzy, or unusually short of breath
- Do not trek alone at any point on this route
- Keep your backpack light – let porters carry the heavier load
- Check trail conditions with your guide before starting any long day
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone and keep your guide’s number saved
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers on this trip. Your policy must cover:
- Emergency medical expenses including hospitalization
- Helicopter rescue and medical evacuation up to 3,500m
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Baggage loss or damage
Keep a printed copy of your insurance policy and the emergency contact number with you at all times. Share a copy with your guide before the trek begins. Everest Hikes does not accept responsibility for costs arising from insufficient or absent travel insurance.
Guide and Porter Information
Trekking Guide
Your guide is a licensed and experienced professional trained in trekking route management, first aid, and cultural interpretation. All Everest Hikes guides speak functional English and are thoroughly familiar with the Lower Manaslu Eco Trail route, local villages, and cultural customs. Your guide also serves as your liaison with homestay families and arranges meals and overnight stops.
Porters
Everest Hikes provides one porter for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 20 kg. Our porters are paid fair wages, insured, and supplied with appropriate gear. Please treat your porter with respect – they are an essential part of your trekking team.
Tipping
Tips are not included in the package price and are not mandatory, but they are deeply appreciated by guides and porters. A reasonable guideline is USD 10–15 per day for a guide and USD 6–8 per day for a porter, split among the group at the end of the trip.
Cultural and Local Experiences
This trek passes through villages where the Gurung, Magar, Ghale, and Hyolmo communities live in largely traditional ways. A few things to keep in mind:
- Greet locals with “Namaste” with palms pressed together – it is universally appreciated
- Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and elders
- Dress modestly at temples and religious sites – cover shoulders and knees
- Accept food and tea when offered – refusing can come across as impolite
- Do not touch religious objects, stupas, or prayer flags unless invited to do so
Some homestays in Tallo Thotneri organize traditional Gurung music and dance performances for trekkers in the evening. These are informal, family-led occasions – not staged shows – and offer a genuine look at local traditions. The trail also passes through farmland where organic potatoes, tea leaves, and medicinal herbs are cultivated. Your guide can explain the plants and their uses, and in season, you may see harvest work in progress.
Internet, WiFi and Mobile Network
- Barpak: Internet and mobile data available
- Gorkha Bazaar: Good mobile network and some WiFi in lodges
- Other villages: Limited to no connectivity
Expect to be mostly offline for 6–8 days of this trek. This is part of the experience. A Nepali SIM card with a data plan (NTC or Ncell) works reasonably well in higher-population areas. Buy one at Kathmandu airport or Thamel before departure.
Electricity and Charging Facilities
Barpak has 24-hour electricity. Gorkha Bazaar also has reliable power. Most other homestays along the route have electricity in the evening only, usually from a local hydropower micro-grid or solar panel. Carry a portable power bank with sufficient capacity to cover several days without charging. A universal travel adapter is useful for Kathmandu hotels.
Drinking Water Availability
Water sources are available throughout the route in the form of streams, springs, and taps. All water from natural sources must be treated before drinking. Options include:
- Water purification tablets (affordable and lightweight)
- Portable water filter (e.g., LifeStraw or Sawyer)
- Boiled water provided by homestay hosts (ask each evening)
Do not buy plastic bottled water along the trail. It creates waste in areas with no waste management infrastructure.
Money, ATMs and Currency Exchange
- Kathmandu: Plenty of ATMs and currency exchange counters, including in Thamel
- Gorkha Bazaar: Has ATM facilities – withdraw enough cash here for the rest of the trek
- Villages: No banking facilities whatsoever
Carry sufficient Nepali rupees in small denominations from Gorkha Bazaar onward. The entire trekking section beyond Gorkha runs on cash only. USD and EUR in cash can also be exchanged in Gorkha Bazaar if needed.
Responsible Travel
Everest Hikes is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism in Nepal. We ask all trekkers to help us protect the communities and environments we visit:
- Carry out all non-biodegradable waste – leave no plastic on the trail or in villages
- Use a reusable water bottle and avoid buying single – use plastics
- Respect local customs – ask before entering temples, do not disturb religious ceremonies
- Support local businesses – buy souvenirs directly from village artisans where available
- Do not pick plants or flowers – many medicinal herbs in this region are rare and protected
- Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging farmland and forest
- Pay fair prices – do not bargain aggressively with local vendors who earn very little
A portion of our trek fees goes directly to support community infrastructure, school maintenance, and local trail upkeep in the villages along this route.
Photography Tips
- The golden hours just after sunrise and before sunset give the best light for mountain shots
- Dharche Danda summit offers the most dramatic panoramic views – arrive before sunrise for optimal conditions
- Village scenes, stone alleys in Barpak, and Gorkha Palace are excellent subjects for architectural photography
- Ask before photographing people – a smile and “photo?” works perfectly
- A polarizing filter helps reduce haze on mountain shots
- The cable car approach to Manakamana gives good valley-wide compositions
- Keep your camera or phone warm at Nambai Kharka – cold temperatures drain batteries fast
Solo Traveler Information
Solo travelers are very welcome on this trip. If you book alone, we can either create a private trip for you (with a solo supplement) or place you into a small group with other independent travelers. Solo trekkers benefit from the same guide and porter services as groups. Many solo travelers find the homestay environment particularly welcoming – families often include solo guests in their evening routines and conversations.
Private and Custom Trips
This itinerary can be adjusted to suit your schedule, physical condition, or areas of interest. Common customizations include:
- Adding an extra rest day at Barpak or Sirandanda
- Extending the trip with a visit to the Manaslu Circuit entry points
- Starting or ending the trek at a different point
- Including a cultural workshop day in Gorkha
Contact us at Everest Hikes to discuss your preferences and we will design a trip around them.
Group Joining Options
We operate scheduled fixed-departure group treks during peak seasons (October–November and March–May). Group sizes are kept small – typically 4 to 10 trekkers – to reduce impact on homestay communities and improve the experience. Check our departures calendar on the Everest Hikes website or contact our booking team for upcoming group departure dates.
Arrival and Departure Information
- Arrival: Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. Our representative holds a sign with your name at the arrival hall exit. Please share your flight details with us at least 72 hours before arrival.
- Departure: Your flight home departs from TIA. We arrange your airport transfer 3 hours before your flight. If your flight is early morning, we recommend staying an extra night in Kathmandu to avoid stress.
- Nepal Visa: Available on arrival at TIA. Fees as of 2024: USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days. Bring passport photos and pay in US dollars, Euros, or GBP. Check the most recent visa requirements before travel as these can change.
Packing list for Lower Manaslu Eco Trail Trek – 12 Days
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece mid-layer or down jacket
- Waterproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
- Trekking trousers and shorts
- Thermal underwear for cold nights
- Trekking socks (4–5 pairs), wool recommended
- Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
- Gaiters (optional but useful in monsoon season)
Footwear:
- Sturdy, broken-in waterproof trekking boots
- Camp sandals or flip-flops for evenings
Gear:
- 40–50L trekking backpack
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for downhill sections)
- Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (especially for Nambai Kharka)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (at least 2 litres capacity)
- Water purification tablets or filter
Health and Hygiene:
- Personal first-aid kit with blister treatment, pain relief, and diarrhea medication
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Toilet paper and a small trowel
- Personal medications if required
Documents and Money:
- Passport and copies
- Travel insurance documents
- Some US dollars and Nepali rupees in cash
