The Manaslu Circuit is more than just a trek. It is a journey through a living landscape of ancient villages, Buddhist monasteries, and Himalayan peaks. Each village along the trail has its own character, its own stories, and its own rhythm.
I have guided this circuit more times than I can count, and I have come to know each village like a second home. Some are bustling with trekkers in peak season. Others are quiet and remote, where the only sounds are prayer wheels and the wind. But every single one of them has something special to offer.
This Village-by-Village Guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek 2027 & 2028 takes you through every settlement along the route. I will tell you what to expect at each stop, where to sleep, what to eat, and what makes each village unique.
Quick Answer
What villages are on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and what should I expect at each one?
The Manaslu Circuit passes through approximately 15 main villages, starting at Soti Khola (710m) and ending at Dharapani (1,860m). Each village offers basic tea house accommodation, food, and a chance to experience local culture. Key villages include Jagat (restricted zone entry), Namrung (permit checkpoint), Sama Gaon (acclimatization hub), Samdo (last village before the pass), and Dharamsala (seasonal pass base).
Key village facts:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Villages | Approximately 15 main settlements |
| Lowest Village | Soti Khola (710m) |
| Highest Settlement | Dharamsala (4,460m) – seasonal |
| Largest Village | Sama Gaon |
| Most Remote | Dharamsala |
| Cultural Heart | Namrung to Sama Gaon |
| Last Village Before Pass | Samdo |
Key Takeaways About Villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- ✅ The Manaslu Circuit passes through approximately 15 main villages
- ✅ Each village has basic tea house accommodation and food
- ✅ Villages become more culturally Tibetan as you gain altitude
- ✅ Sama Gaon is the largest village and main acclimatization hub
- ✅ Dharamsala is a seasonal settlement with only dormitory accommodation
- ✅ Permit checkpoints are at Jagat, Namrung, Sama Gaon, Samdo, and Dharapani
- ✅ Mobile signal and WiFi decrease significantly above Namrung
- ✅ Food options become more limited at higher villages
- ✅ Village life revolves around Tibetan Buddhism in the upper regions
- ✅ Your guide handles all village bookings and logistics
Complete Village-by-Village Guide
Soti Khola (710m) – Day 1
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 710m |
| Day on Trail | Day 1 (arrival) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic but comfortable |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($3-4) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($3-4/hour) |
Overview: Soti Khola is the traditional starting point of the Manaslu Circuit. It is a small settlement at the confluence of the Budhi Gandaki River and a side stream. The village is surrounded by lush tropical forests and terraced fields.
What to Expect: The tea houses here are basic but comfortable. This is your first night on the trail, so take it easy and enjoy the warm weather. The village has a few small shops where you can buy last-minute supplies.
Highlights:
- First taste of the Budhi Gandaki River
- Tropical forest surroundings
- Warm climate
For more on the full trek structure, read our Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal guide.
Machha Khola (870m) – Day 2
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 870m |
| Day on Trail | Day 2 |
| Tea Houses | 4-5 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($3-4) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($3-4/hour) |
Overview: Machha Khola is a larger village than Soti Khola, with more tea house options. It sits on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River and is surrounded by rice terraces and tropical forests.
What to Expect: The village has a few small shops and a lively atmosphere. There is a natural hot spring nearby where you can soak after the first day’s walk. This is a popular stop for trekkers, so book ahead in peak season.
Highlights:
- Natural hot springs
- Larger village with more amenities
- Beautiful river views
For more on accommodation, read our Manaslu Circuit Trek Accommodation Guide guide.
Khorlabesi (970m) – Day 2 (Pass Through)
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 970m |
| Day on Trail | Day 2 (pass through) |
| Tea Houses | 1-2 |
| Notes | Small settlement, hot springs |
Overview: Khorlabesi is a small settlement known for its hot springs. Most trekkers pass through rather than stay overnight. The hot springs are a great place to relax for an hour.
What to Expect: The village is tiny with only a couple of tea houses. The main attraction is the hot spring pool where you can soak and enjoy views of Ganesh Himal.
Highlights:
- Hot springs
- Views of Ganesh Himal
Jagat (1,340m) – Day 2
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 1,340m |
| Day on Trail | Day 2 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($3-5) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($3-5/hour) |
Overview: Jagat is a significant milestone on the Manaslu Circuit. This is where the restricted zone begins, and your permits are checked. The village sits on a ridge above the river with spectacular views of Sringi Himal.
What to Expect: Jagat has a checkpoint where your guide will present your permits. The village has mani walls and chortens representing Himalayan culture. The tea houses are basic but comfortable. This is your last chance to stock up on supplies before heading deeper into the restricted zone.
Highlights:
- Permit checkpoint (restricted zone entry)
- Views of Sringi Himal
- Mani walls and chortens
For a complete guide on permits, read our Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Best Guide.
Salleri (1,570m) – Day 3 (Pass Through)
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 1,570m |
| Day on Trail | Day 3 (pass through) |
| Tea Houses | 1-2 |
| Notes | Trail junction |
Overview: Salleri is a small village where the trail splits. You will take the left-hand branch heading upstream through a gorge section with towering rock walls.
What to Expect: The village offers impressive views of Singri Himal (7,187m). There are a couple of tea houses for a quick break.
Highlights:
- Trail junction
- Views of Singri Himal
Deng (1,860m) – Day 3
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 1,860m |
| Day on Trail | Day 3 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($4-5) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($4-5/hour) |
Overview: Deng is the first village where you feel the Tibetan Buddhist influence. The village straddles the river and is surrounded by steep hillsides.
What to Expect: The tea houses are basic but clean. The dining areas are warm and welcoming. The village has mani walls and prayer flags. You cross the river multiple times on this day’s walk.
Highlights:
- First Tibetan Buddhist village
- Mani walls and prayer flags
- River crossings
Ghap (2,160m) – Day 4
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 2,160m |
| Day on Trail | Day 4 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 2-3 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($4-5) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($4-5/hour) |
Overview: Ghap is a small village where you officially enter the Tibetan Buddhist cultural region. The village straddles the river and has a perceptible change in climate and culture.
What to Expect: The village has mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags. The tea houses are basic but adequate. The cultural transition becomes more noticeable here.
Highlights:
- Entering Tibetan Buddhist region
- Mani walls and chortens
- Cultural transition point
Namrung (2,630m) – Day 4
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 2,630m |
| Day on Trail | Day 4 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic to moderate |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($4-5) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($4-5/hour) |
Overview: Namrung is an important village on the Manaslu Circuit. This is where you present your permits for verification. The valley opens out here with extensive pastures.
What to Expect: Namrung has a few good tea houses. The village has a beautiful monastery worth visiting. The valley views are spectacular. This is the last reliable connectivity point before higher villages.
Highlights:
- Permit checkpoint
- Beautiful monastery
- Valley views
- Last reliable connectivity
Sho (3,000m) – Day 5 (Pass Through)
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,000m |
| Day on Trail | Day 5 (pass through) |
| Tea Houses | 1-2 |
| Notes | Tibetan village |
Overview: Sho is a Tibetan village at 3,000m. Beyond Sho, you get your first incredible views of Manaslu North and then Manaslu Main.
What to Expect: The village is small with a couple of tea houses. The main attraction is the first clear views of Manaslu.
Highlights:
- First views of Manaslu
- Tibetan village
Lho (3,180m) – Day 5
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,180m |
| Day on Trail | Day 5 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($4-6) |
| WiFi | Very limited |
| Charging | Yes ($4-6/hour) |
Overview: Lho is a large village at 3,150m with a lovely little monastery and numerous chortens and mani walls. This is where you get spectacular views of Manaslu.
What to Expect: The tea houses here are basic but have spectacular views. The dining area is warm and cozy. The village has a beautiful monastery worth exploring. Looking back, Ganesh Himal is visible.
Highlights:
- Spectacular Manaslu views
- Beautiful monastery
- Chortens and mani walls
Shyala (3,370m) – Day 5 (Pass Through)
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,370m |
| Day on Trail | Day 5 (pass through) |
| Tea Houses | 1-2 |
| Notes | Small settlement |
Overview: Shyala is a small settlement between Lho and Sama Gaon. Most trekkers pass through rather than stay overnight.
What to Expect: The village is tiny with only a couple of tea houses. The views of Manaslu are spectacular from here.
Highlights:
- Manaslu views
Sama Gaon (3,520m) – Day 6
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,520m |
| Day on Trail | Day 6 (overnight, acclimatization) |
| Tea Houses | 5-6 |
| Room Quality | Moderate |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($5-7) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($5-6/hour) |
Overview: Sama Gaon is the main village of the Nubri Valley and the largest settlement on the Manaslu Circuit. This is where you spend your first acclimatization day.
What to Expect: Sama Gaon has the best tea houses on the trek. The village is the cultural and administrative center of the region. There is a monastery, a health post, and several shops. This is where you have the best chance to connect with family and charge your devices.
Acclimatization Activities:
- Hike to Pungyen Gompa (4,000m)
- Visit the monastery
- Explore the village
- Rest and hydrate
Highlights:
- Largest village on the trek
- Best tea houses
- Acclimatization hub
- Pungyen Gompa hike
For more on acclimatization, read our AMS on Manaslu Circuit Trek guide.
Samdo (3,860m) – Day 8
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,860m |
| Day on Trail | Day 8 (overnight, acclimatization) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($5-7) |
| WiFi | Very limited |
| Charging | Yes ($5-6/hour) |
Overview: Samdo is the last village before Larkya La Pass. It is a traditional Tibetan refugee settlement very close to the Tibetan border.
What to Expect: Samdo has a Taka Choeling Gompa, big mani walls, and is close to the Sonam Glacier. The village offers views of Naike and Pangboche Peaks. The tea houses are basic but functional. This is your final acclimatization stop.
Acclimatization Activities:
- Hike to Tibet border viewpoint (4,200m)
- Visit the monastery
- Explore the village
Highlights:
- Last village before the pass
- Tibetan refugee settlement
- Taka Choeling Gompa
- Final acclimatization stop
Dharamsala (4,460m) – Day 9
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 4,460m |
| Day on Trail | Day 9 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 1-2 |
| Room Quality | Very basic, dormitory |
| Hot Shower | No |
| WiFi | None |
| Charging | Limited |
Overview: Dharamsala is a seasonal settlement at the base of Larkya La Pass. There are no permanent residents here. The tea houses are only open during trekking season.
What to Expect: Dharamsala has only basic dormitory accommodation. Do not expect comfort. The tea houses may be closed in winter. This is where you spend the night before crossing the pass, so rest as much as you can.
Highlights:
- Base of Larkya La Pass
- Seasonal settlement
- Dormitory accommodation only
For more on the pass crossing, read our Larkya La Pass Best Guide.
Larkya La Pass (5,160m) – Day 10
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 5,160m |
| Day on Trail | Day 10 (summit day) |
| Tea Houses | None |
| Notes | Highest point of the trek |
Overview: Larkya La Pass at 5,160m is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. This is the moment when weeks of preparation culminate in a single, breathtaking crossing.
What to Expect: You wake up at 3:00 AM and start climbing in the dark. The ascent takes 4-5 hours. The views from the top are unforgettable – Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, and more. Do not stay more than 20-30 minutes – wind chill is brutal.
Highlights:
- Highest point of the trek
- Panoramic mountain views
- Prayer flags at the summit
Bimthang (3,720m) – Day 10
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,720m |
| Day on Trail | Day 10 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic to moderate |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($5-7) |
| WiFi | Limited |
| Charging | Yes ($5-6/hour) |
Overview: Bimthang is where you recover after crossing Larkya La Pass. The village is in the Marsyangdi Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
What to Expect: The tea houses here are better than Dharamsala. You can get a hot shower, rest, and celebrate your achievement. The village offers views of Lamjung, Manaslu, Phungi, Himlung, and Cheo Himal.
Highlights:
- Recovery stop after the pass
- Hot showers available
- Stunning mountain views
Tilije (2,300m) – Day 11
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 2,300m |
| Day on Trail | Day 11 (overnight) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic to moderate |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($4-5) |
| WiFi | Yes |
| Charging | Yes ($4-5/hour) |
Overview: Tilije is a traditional Gurung village. You are now in the Annapurna region. The vegetation becomes lush again.
What to Expect: The tea houses here are comfortable. WiFi and charging are more reliable. The village has traditional Gurung architecture and culture.
Highlights:
- Traditional Gurung village
- Lush vegetation
- Reliable WiFi
Dharapani (1,860m) – Day 12
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 1,860m |
| Day on Trail | Day 12 (end of trek) |
| Tea Houses | 3-4 |
| Room Quality | Basic to moderate |
| Hot Shower | Yes ($3-5) |
| WiFi | Yes |
| Charging | Yes ($3-5/hour) |
Overview: Dharapani is where the trek ends. This is your exit from the restricted zone and where your permits are checked for the final time.
What to Expect: The tea houses here are comfortable and have better facilities. You can take a hot shower and enjoy a proper meal before your drive back to Kathmandu. The village is on the main road connecting to Besisahar.
Highlights:
- End of the trek
- Permit checkpoint (exit)
- Drive back to Kathmandu
Village Comparison Table
| Village | Altitude | Day | Tea Houses | Hot Shower | WiFi | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soti Khola | 710m | 1 | 3-4 | Yes | Limited | Starting point |
| Machha Khola | 870m | 2 | 4-5 | Yes | Limited | Hot springs |
| Jagat | 1,340m | 2 | 3-4 | Yes | Limited | Permit checkpoint |
| Deng | 1,860m | 3 | 3-4 | Yes | Limited | First Buddhist village |
| Ghap | 2,160m | 4 | 2-3 | Yes | Limited | Cultural transition |
| Namrung | 2,630m | 4 | 3-4 | Yes | Limited | Permit checkpoint |
| Lho | 3,180m | 5 | 3-4 | Yes | Very limited | First Manaslu views |
| Sama Gaon | 3,520m | 6 | 5-6 | Yes | Limited | Acclimatization hub |
| Samdo | 3,860m | 8 | 3-4 | Yes | Very limited | Last village |
| Dharamsala | 4,460m | 9 | 1-2 | No | None | Pass base |
| Bimthang | 3,720m | 10 | 3-4 | Yes | Limited | Recovery stop |
| Tilije | 2,300m | 11 | 3-4 | Yes | Yes | Gurung village |
| Dharapani | 1,860m | 12 | 3-4 | Yes | Yes | Trek end |
Cultural Highlights by Village
| Village | Cultural Feature |
|---|---|
| Jagat | Mani walls, chortens |
| Deng | First Tibetan Buddhist influence |
| Ghap | Entering Tibetan Buddhist region |
| Namrung | Monastery, mani walls |
| Lho | Monastery, chortens, mani walls |
| Sama Gaon | Monastery, Pungyen Gompa |
| Samdo | Taka Choeling Gompa, Tibetan refugee settlement |
| Tilije | Traditional Gurung culture |
Frequently Asked Questions About Villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
How many villages are on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
There are approximately 15 main villages along the Manaslu Circuit, from Soti Khola to Dharapani.
What is the largest village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Sama Gaon is the largest village on the Manaslu Circuit.
What is the highest village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Samdo (3,860m) is the highest permanent village. Dharamsala (4,460m) is a seasonal settlement.
What is the lowest village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Soti Khola (710m) is the lowest village on the trek.
Are there tea houses in every village?
Yes, every village has at least one tea house offering accommodation and food
Where is the permit checkpoint on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Permits are checked at Jagat, Namrung, Sama Gaon, Samdo, and Dharapani
Where is the best place to acclimatize on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Sama Gaon (3,520m) and Samdo (3,860m) are the main acclimatization stops
What is Dharamsala like on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Dharamsala is a seasonal settlement with only basic dormitory accommodation
Where is the best WiFi on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
WiFi is best in lower villages. Sama Gaon has the best signal on the trek
Where is the last village before Larkya La Pass?
Samdo is the last permanent village before Larkya La Pass. Dharamsala is the last stop before the pass.
What is the cultural heart of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The villages from Namrung to Sama Gaon are the cultural heart of the trek, with strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.
Can I buy supplies in villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, but supplies are limited. Stock up in Kathmandu or Soti Khola.
Are there medical facilities in villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Sama Gaon has a health post. Other villages have limited or no medical facilities.
What is the difference between villages in the lower and upper sections?
Lower villages have more amenities, warmer weather, and more diverse food options. Upper villages are more remote, colder, and have limited facilities.
Where can I charge my devices on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Charging is available at most tea houses for a fee
Are there hot showers in all villages?
Hot showers are available in most villages, but not at Dharamsala
What is the best village for photography?
Lho and Sama Gaon offer the best views of Manaslu. Larkya La Pass offers panoramic mountain views.
Can I stay in homestays on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Homestays are available in some villages, especially in the Tsum Valley extension
Are there ATMs in villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
No. There are no ATMs on the trail. Carry enough cash from Kathmandu.
When do tea houses close for the season?
Many tea houses close in winter, especially above 3,500m. Dharamsala is seasonal.
Summary & Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through approximately 15 villages, each with its own character and charm. From the tropical lowlands of Soti Khola to the Tibetan-influenced high villages of Sama Gaon and Samdo, every stop offers a unique experience.
Key Village Facts:
- 15 main villages from Soti Khola to Dharapani
- Lowest village: Soti Khola (710m)
- Highest permanent village: Samdo (3,860m)
- Largest village: Sama Gaon
- Permit checkpoints: Jagat, Namrung, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Dharapani
- Acclimatization stops: Sama Gaon and Samdo
Village Progression:
| Section | Villages | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Lower | Soti Khola to Jagat | Tropical, warm, more amenities |
| Mid | Deng to Namrung | Temperate, cultural transition |
| High | Lho to Sama Gaon | Alpine, Tibetan culture, cold |
| Extreme | Samdo to Dharamsala | Barren, high altitude, basic |
| Return | Bimthang to Dharapani | Forested, warmer, amenities return |
Ready to Experience the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
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This guide was written by the trekking experts at Langtang Treks Pvt. Ltd. All information is accurate for 2027 and 2028 as of the publication date. Village facilities and conditions are subject to change.
