- info@sidequesttrails.com
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Manaslu Circuit is the kind of adventure that stays with you.
Over roughly two weeks, we journey from the warm, green foothills of Nepal into the high Himalaya, circling Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Along the way, the landscape changes dramatically: rice and millet terraces give way to dense forests, huge river gorges, remote mountain villages and, eventually, a world of rock, ice and snow.
This is a run for people who want to go beyond the obvious. You’ll hike the uphills, run the downhills, and jog the flats and have plenty of time to enjoy the journey and rest in the evening to read, journal, chat, play cards and eat great food and drink plenty of tea.
The Manaslu region sits between the Annapurna and Ganesh Himal ranges and remains considerably quieter than Nepal’s better-known trekking routes. The combination of its remoteness, changing landscapes and high mountain passes gives the journey a real sense of exploration.
You’ll follow the turquoise Budi Gandaki through some seriously impressive terrain, crossing long suspension bridges, passing waterfalls and climbing steadily towards the Tibetan border. Some days are about covering ground. Others are about stopping to take it all in.
And because this is Sidequest Trails, we’re not simply following the standard itinerary.
We’ve taken the classic Manaslu Circuit and added a few extra sidequests along the way. Because we cover ground at a faster pace, we have opportunities to step off the usual path, explore a little further, take on an additional challenge or simply make time for some of the places and experiences that most itineraries rush past.
The exact adventure might be a detour to a quieter trail, an extra viewpoint, a mountain run, a swim, an early-morning exploration or simply taking the scenic route because… well, why wouldn’t you?
The idea is simple: the itinerary gets you there; the sidequests make it an adventure.
Manaslu, 8,163m
Larkya La, 5,167m
Hike / run
1,300 USD
Eventually, the trail climbs towards the big one: Larkya La Pass at 5,167m.
This is a serious mountain day. We’ll be up early, with a 3–4am start, heading into the darkness to reach the pass before the winds build later in the morning. Depending on conditions, the pass can be icy and snow-covered, and microspikes may be useful for the descent.
But the early alarm is worth it.
As the sun comes up, the mountains gradually reveal themselves around you. And once you cross the pass, the scenery changes again.
The descent opens into an enormous glacial landscape, with Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang and Kang Guru rising above vast fields of ice, while Annapurna II appears ahead.
It is one of those mountain views that makes you stop walking.
And that is exactly what we want from a Sidequest.
Not just another trek completed.
Not just another box ticked.
A proper running adventure with a few unexpected chapters along the way.
Today we take a guided walking tour around Kathmandu covering the old city, Durbar Square to soak in the Kathmandu atmosphere, Swayambhunath (monkey temple) for a spectacular city view, Boudhanath, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world and a central hub for Tibetan Buddhism (no entrance fees included). After the tour, we can help you organise last-minute purchases and preparations. In the afternoon and evening, you are free to explore.
Drive from Kathmandu to Macha Khola in private jeeps.
Today we leave the standard Manaslu itinerary behind and go on a side quest. For most trekkers, Namrung to Lho is a relatively short day, following the main trail through Lihi and Sho before arriving in Lho. We’re taking a different route via Himal Chuli Base Camp. We’ll head off towards the Himal Chuli Base Camp, climbing deep into the Hinang Valley and up to around 4,100m before turning back towards the main circuit and finishing in Namrung (2600m). It’s a big day, with around 23km of mountain terrain, significant climbing and a completely different perspective on the landscape. The reward is getting away from the main trail and into a quieter, more remote corner of the Manaslu region, with the massive Himal Chuli rising above us and great acclimatisation. A little more effort. A little more exploration. A much bigger day.
Run to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m) with a stop at beautiful crystal blue Birendra Lake. Today is also a great chance to do a bit of laundry and explore around a little Himalayan settlement.
Short day from Samagaon to Sando, with the option of an extra run if wanted.
Run or hike from Sando (3875m) to Rui La (4998m) and the Tibetan border; shorter options available. Great day to acclimatise for the following day crossing the high altitude pass.
Up before dawn for a 3–4am start and a long day over the pass. Worth every sleepy step for the views of Annapurna and Himlung, with a dramatic glacial valley unfolding on the descent. One of those days that reminds you exactly why you come to the mountains. Today you will climb around 1490 meters and drop 1594 meters; it’s going to be a leg killer.
Your legs will love you; today is mainly gradually downhill. This is an amazing chance to see Manaslu from another angle; a beautiful view the whole day.
Sleep in a hotel and optional celebration dinner.
Prices are per person, based on twin sharing in Kathmandu and shared accommodation in guesthouses along the Manaslu route. Single rooms can be arranged for an additional cost.
Payment. A USD 700 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place. The remaining balance is due by 30 October 2026. Bookings made after 30 October 2026 must be paid in full at the time of registration.
Send us your email and a few details, and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to know.
