Each year, a group of friends and I embark on a multi-day trek to reconnect with nature and each other. In the fall of 2023, we set our sights on Nepal’s Manaslu Circuit—a lesser-known alternative to the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks that promised epic views and fewer crowds.
Spoiler alert: Manaslu did not disappoint.
From prepping in Kathmandu with last-minute snack and gear runs (read Snickers bars and microspikes), to the nine-hour ride on winding mountain roads, to our morning dance and stretch routines before long hiking days, the adventure began before we even stepped foot on the trail.
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Over twelve unforgettable days, we trekked from Soti Khola to Dharapani, crossing dramatic landscapes, swinging suspension bridges, and climbing higher each day until we crossed the breathtaking Larkya Pass. The experience was packed with standout moments—stargazing under pitch-black skies, sharing smiles with schoolchildren, and savoring endless servings of Dal Bhat that kept us going.
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But one moment in particular left a lasting impact.
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On Day 5, while hiking toward Samagaun, we encountered a woman guide leading a solo female traveler—something I realized in that moment was a rare and powerful sight in Nepal’s male-dominated trekking industry. She was with 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking, one of the few women-owned trekking agencies in Nepal.
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That brief encounter sparked a deeper curiosity in me:
How can trekking support local women?
How can we, as travelers, uplift women in adventure tourism?
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In this post, I’ll walk you through:
• What to expect on the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Highlights and practical trail insights
• And most importantly, how to make your trek more meaningful by choosing a women-led trekking company that empowers Nepal’s female guides and communities
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Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What to Expect During Your Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit unfolds to reveal something new each day. Here’s a breakdown of my journey, highlighting the unique features of each section:
Days 1-4: From the Hustle of Kathmandu to Enchanting Valleys
Day 0: Kathmandu to Soti Khola – The Journey Begins
Our trek kicked off with a longgggggg (and bumpy) nine-hour drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. In Nepal there seems to be only 1 main highway leading out of Kathmandu to the west. This means that it is full of traffic and faster cars eager to leapfrog in front of the slower ones. I found it best not to look at these attempts as they could be quite stressful!
Day 1: Road Walking by the River to Dobhan
After an early wake-up and breakfast, we hit the trail, primarily walking along the road for the first day. It was on the first day that we faced our first suspension bridge. To be honest, when the guide said we were walking over it, I thought he was joking! “Trust your guide”...so across I went. This was only one of the many suspension bridges we’d cross. I gained more confidence about their strength after seeing a train of 15-20 donkeys crossing at once later in the trail.
Trekking day 1 was a slow, casual introduction for what was to come.
Day 2: Into the Woods – Navigating the “Nepali Flat” to Philim
The second day brought us into shaded forests, where we began embracing the jokes about “Nepali Flat,” which really meant a series of rolling hills. Though our dirt road walking continued (mind you there were very very few cars), the lush greenery and the sound of the rushing river reminded us of the beautiful, untouched essence of where we were.
We began feeling the routine of the trail. A savory, hearty morning meal of chapati or Tibetan bread with omelets and steaming, deliciously spiced chai tea, stretch, hike a lot, a lunch of dal bhat or fried rice and noodles, hike a lot, maybe a shower, dinner of dal bhat, fried rice and noodles, or if you had patience, momos, sleep!
Day 3: Challenges and Stunning Views on the way to Ghap
This day turned out to be one of the most surprisingly demanding of the whole trek, with continuous ups and downs that tested our endurance. As we followed the river, the landscape began to shift, and we caught our first glimpses of snow-capped mountains, a preview of the grandeur that awaited us. We ended the day in Ghap where we collectively bonded about how the day kicked our butts!
Day 4: Spectacular Views and Sweet Treats heading to Lho
Day four was highlighted by a magical stop at an apple stall, where we indulged in fresh apple products like pie and danishes. After several days of trekking, these treats were the sweetest reward. For the remainder of the beautiful trekking day, we were apple powered!
Arriving in Lho brought us the warmth of a cozy common room and really the first true indicators of the changing of the seasons.
Days 5-8: Himalayan Majesty and Cultural Insights
Day 5: Reaching “The View” on the way to Samagaun
Today, we rose to clear skies and a view of just the peak of Manaslu that had been hidden in clouds the night before. We trekked along a serene path lined with prayer flags leading to a monastery. On the way, the infamous view (read the picture that comes up on Google) of Manaslu greeted us—a breathtaking sight that made all the effort feel worth it. This day was rich in both physical beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
Day 6: “Rest Day” in Samagaun – Hiking to Manaslu Base Camp
Though labeled a “rest day,” we opted to hike up to Manaslu Base Camp to better acclimatize for the upcoming days. This entailed climbing 1,300 meters…so much for rest! The views from the top were staggering, offering a 360-degree panorama of towering mountain ranges, a mountain lake, and the majestic snow-covered Manaslu itself. Unfortunately, it was just outside of climbing season so there were no tents setup at basecamp.
Day 7: Easy Trek to Samdo – A Chance to Explore
The trek to Samdo was a welcome relief, allowing us to take our time and explore the quaint town. Here, we witnessed yaks grazing peacefully, a reminder of the pastoral life that continues in these high-altitude regions. This is also the location from which hikers could launch a day trek up to the Tibetan border. This day was mostly about resting, enjoying the scenery and connecting with the local culture.
Day 8: Final Camp Before the Pass
Our last stop before Larkya Pass featured a rudimentary campsite. We were camped at 4,460m (14,632ft). At this high altitude, we were careful to hydrate sufficiently and conserve energy. We retired early to our tents with great anticipation and a little anxiety before the next day’s push to the top!
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Days 9-10: The Summit Push and Reflective Descent
Day 9: Crossing Larkya Pass – An Unforgettable Challenge
The day began before dawn, with a 3 AM wake-up call to ensure we’d have the best chance at stable weather. After a quick breakfast of burnt, watery porridge, we set off into the darkness with headlamps guiding our way. This day was the only day where we encountered a significant number of other hikers on the trail. We walked out of camp like a line of ants, slowly trudging uphill, trying to maintain our breath.
As we got closer to the pass, we strapped on our microspikes to have better traction in the snow and ice. As we reached the pass, we celebrated amongst the colorful prayer flags - taking photos, videos, and doling out high fives left and right. It was an exhilarating moment thatI will always remember.
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Day 10: Celebrating the Journey
Our final trek brought a mix of reflection and celebration. As we walked the last stretch, we reveled in the achievement of completing the circuit, sharing stories and laughter. The camaraderie we built during this trek made it even more special, leaving us with unforgettable memories and a desire to return to undertake a different trek in the future.
Why Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek With a Women-Owned Agency?
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit isn’t just about epic landscapes and a challenging hike; it’s a chance to support Nepal’s local communities. While I did not go with a women-owned trekking agency, I certainly will next time and would encourage you to as well. After my encounter with the guide from 3 Sisters Trekking, I was intrigued to learn more about gender inequality in Nepal and about how these women were trailblazing in an industry that was traditionally male-dominated. Here is how going with a woman can empower you and her:
- Why Women-Owned Agencies?
Trekking with a women-owned agency does more than offer a great guide. It’s a direct way to support local women’s empowerment and provide more sustainable economic opportunities in Nepal. Women guides bring a unique perspective to the trek, sharing cultural insights and experiences that you might miss otherwise.
- Safety and Comfort, Especially for Women Travelers
If you’re a solo traveler or in a small group, trekking with a female guide or a women-led team can add an extra layer of comfort and peace of mind. It’s encouraging to see women from Nepal, a country traditionally dominated by male guides, leading treks and making a positive change in the industry. Plus, it’s a way for solo travelers, especially women, to feel more secure in remote environments.
- Responsible and Ethical Tourism
Many women-owned agencies also emphasize responsible tourism practices, from waste management on the trail to respecting local cultures and customs. Supporting these agencies means contributing to a system that values Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage.
Recommended Women-Owned Trekking Agencies
With the itinerary set, let’s talk about adding purpose to your trek by going with a women-owned agency. Not only do these agencies offer skilled, knowledgeable guides, but you’ll also be supporting local women’s empowerment in an industry that’s long been male-dominated. Some inspiring options include:
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Dedicated to empowering Nepali women through trekking, 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking also runs a nonprofit organization called Empowering Women of Nepal that offers free, skill-based training to women, opening pathways for self-reliance.
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Run by sisters Hira and Bishnu Malla, Malla Sisters offers top-tier trekking experiences in Nepal. Trained by 3 Sisters/Empowering Women of Nepal, they blend professionalism with warmth, earning high praise for their skill and joyful spirit. Join them to explore Nepal's beauty while supporting women-led tourism.
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Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Company is committed to women’s empowerment by providing employment opportunities for Female Sherpa Trekking Guides. This initiative helps them become financially self-sufficient and supports their families in the mountains of Nepal.
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With over a decade of experience, SheNature is a women-run adventure team dedicated to providing authentic journeys through Nepal. Led by locals who know the Himalayas deeply, SheNature offers trusted expertise, a lifetime deposit policy, and guaranteed departures, ensuring each traveler experiences Nepal with confidence and care.
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Founded in 2015 by naturalist guide Sushila Acharya, Women’s Trek Nepal offers expertly guided adventures in trekking, rafting, and eco-tourism. Based in Pokhara, they are dedicated to empowering local women in tourism, providing meaningful, authentic experiences across Nepal, India, and Tibet.
Final Thoughts: Empower Women With Every Trek
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit is about more than just stunning landscapes; it's a chance to support local communities, particularly women, while enjoying the great outdoors. I encourage you to consider a trek like Manaslu and support women-owned agencies. If you've had your own trekking adventures or have questions, I’d love to hear your stories!