An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking: The Pristine Adventure – 17 Days
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking package is a beautiful 17-day restricted-area trekking adventure in Nepal that takes you around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Known as “The Pristine Adventure,” this trek is perfect for travelers who want remote trails, Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, quiet villages, glacier scenery, and the famous Larkya La Pass.
The route follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley from the lower hills toward the high Manaslu region. Trekkers pass through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Dharamsala, Larkya La Pass, Bimthang, Tilije, and Dharapani before returning to Kathmandu. Nepal Tourism Board describes Manaslu Conservation Area as a trekking region with lodges, authentic culture, and breathtaking views of Manaslu and other Himalayan peaks.
The highest point of this trek is Larkya La Pass, commonly marked around 5,106m / 16,752ft on the trail. This high pass is the most challenging and rewarding section of the journey, offering wide Himalayan views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and surrounding peaks.
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking – 17 Days is suitable for experienced trekkers, fit adventure travelers, nature lovers, photographers, cultural travelers, and international trekkers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide who want a guided restricted-area trekking package with local experts.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route is one of the best alternatives to the busier Annapurna and Everest trekking routes. It offers remote mountain trails, strong cultural identity, fewer crowds, beautiful villages, and a true Himalayan adventure.
This trek is special because it combines lower river valleys, green hills, forests, waterfalls, Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, alpine landscapes, glaciers, and a high mountain pass in one journey. Nepal Tourism Board notes that Manaslu’s local lifestyle has remained traditional and that trekking there can feel like going back in time.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• A 17-day Nepal trekking package
• A guided Manaslu Circuit Trekking experience
• A restricted-area trek around Mount Manaslu
• A quieter alternative to Annapurna Circuit Trek
• A high-pass adventure over Larkya La Pass
• Beautiful villages such as Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, and Samdo
• Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags
• Mountain views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II
• A remote tea house trekking experience
• A trek suitable for experienced trekkers and fit adventure travelers
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Highlights
• Trek around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain
• Cross Larkya La Pass at around 5,106m / 16,752ft
• Explore beautiful villages such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Bimthang, and Tilije
• Enjoy close views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II
• Walk through the Budhi Gandaki River valley with waterfalls, cliffs, forests, and suspension bridges
• Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags
• Visit Sama Gaon, one of the main cultural and acclimatization stops on the route
• Enjoy an optional acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa, or Birendra Lake
• Trek through remote landscapes with fewer crowds than popular routes
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Experience both Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area exit route
• Perfect trek for travelers seeking a pristine Himalayan adventure
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful season for this trek. The lower hills become green, the forests are fresh, the temperature is generally warmer, and the mountain views are often clear in the morning.
Autumn, from September to November, is the most popular season for the Manaslu Circuit. After the monsoon, the sky is usually clearer, the air feels fresh, and the mountain views are sharp. Nepal Tourism Board lists March–May and September–November as the best seasons for Manaslu Conservation Area.
Winter trekking is possible for experienced trekkers with proper equipment, but snow, ice, and strong wind can affect Larkya La Pass. Monsoon season is less recommended because rain, landslides, clouds, leeches, and slippery trails can affect the lower Budhi Gandaki valley.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route is a challenging trek. It does not require technical climbing skills, but trekkers should be ready for long walking days, remote trails, high altitude, basic mountain accommodation, cold weather, and the demanding Larkya La Pass crossing.
The trek reaches above 5,000 meters at Larkya La Pass, so acclimatization is very important. Trekkers should walk slowly, drink enough water, eat properly, wear warm layers, and follow the guide’s instructions.
This trek is best for experienced trekkers or fit beginners with strong preparation. Previous multi-day hiking experience is recommended because the route includes steep climbs, narrow paths, suspension bridges, rocky trails, snow or ice near the pass, and long descents.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permits
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a restricted-area trek, so trekkers need special permits and must travel with proper guided arrangements. Nepal’s Department of Immigration states that restricted areas are regulated and trekking in those areas requires permits from the Department of Immigration.
For this trek, travelers normally need:
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit / Manaslu RAP
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit / MCAP
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP
• TIMS Card as per current trekking rules
• Licensed trekking guide
NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the conservation-area entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included, and says the entry permit must be carried during the entire trip.
Nepal Tourism Board lists Manaslu Circuit Trek under the routes where trekkers need to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and carry a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card; the same page lists TIMS charges as NPR 1,000 for SAARC applicants and NPR 2,000 for others.
Permit rules and restricted-area fees can change, so final permit costs should always be checked with the Department of Immigration or a registered trekking agency at the time of booking.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing, Permit Preparation and Trek Briefing
• Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
• Day 04: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
• Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Deng
• Day 06: Trek from Deng to Namrung
• Day 07: Trek from Namrung to Lho
• Day 08: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon
• Day 09: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
• Day 10: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo
• Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
• Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi
• Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass and Trek to Bimthang
• Day 14: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije
• Day 15: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani and Drive to Besisahar
• Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
• Day 17: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest after your international flight and prepare for your Manaslu Circuit Trekking adventure.
In the evening, there will be a short trek briefing. Your guide will explain the trekking route, walking hours, restricted-area permit rules, accommodation, meals, road transfers, altitude safety, packing list, weather conditions, and important trekking information.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing, Permit Preparation and Trek Briefing
Today is a preparation day in Kathmandu. After breakfast, you can visit famous cultural sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath depending on time and interest.
This day is also important for restricted-area permit preparation. Your trekking agency will check your passport, Nepal visa, insurance details, photographs, and trekking documents. Your guide will also help check your trekking gear. If anything is missing, you can buy or rent trekking equipment in Kathmandu.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 4–5 hours sightseeing and preparation
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
After breakfast, you will begin the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The journey follows highways, river valleys, terraced fields, rural towns, and hillside settlements.
The route usually passes through Dhading Besi, Arughat, Arkhet, Soti Khola, and local villages before reaching Machha Khola. The road can be rough and bumpy in some sections, especially after leaving the main highway, but the drive gives a good introduction to the lower Manaslu region.
• Altitude: Machha Khola – approx. 870m / 2,854ft
• Drive Time: Approx. 7–9 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
After breakfast, the walking journey begins. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes through narrow paths, small villages, waterfalls, rocky sections, forest trails, and suspension bridges.
You will walk through places such as Khorlabesi, Tatopani, Dobhan, and Yaru Bagar before reaching Jagat. Jagat is a stone-paved village and an important checkpoint on the Manaslu trekking route. This day gives a beautiful mix of river scenery, village life, and lower Himalayan landscapes.
• Altitude: Jagat – approx. 1,340m / 4,396ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Deng
After breakfast, you will continue trekking along the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through villages, terraced fields, forests, river crossings, and suspension bridges.
You will walk through areas such as Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and Nyak Phedi before reaching Deng. As you move higher, the cultural atmosphere begins to change, and Tibetan Buddhist influence becomes more visible in the villages, prayer flags, and mani walls.
• Altitude: Deng – approx. 1,860m / 6,102ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Trek from Deng to Namrung
Today, the trail climbs gradually through forests, small villages, river crossings, and narrow valley paths. You will pass places such as Rana, Bihi Phedi, Ghap, and other settlements before reaching Namrung.
Namrung is one of the beautiful villages on the Manaslu Circuit route. From this section onward, mountain views become more impressive, and the village culture feels more strongly Tibetan-influenced. On a clear day, you may enjoy views of Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and other surrounding peaks.
• Altitude: Namrung – approx. 2,630m / 8,629ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Namrung to Lho
After breakfast, you will trek from Namrung toward Lho. The trail passes through traditional villages such as Lihi and Sho, with chortens, mani walls, prayer flags, and stone houses along the route.
Lho is one of the most scenic villages on the Manaslu Circuit. From here, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Mount Manaslu. The village is also known for its monastery and peaceful mountain atmosphere.
• Altitude: Lho – approx. 3,180m / 10,433ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon
Today, you will trek from Lho to Sama Gaon. The route passes through Shyala, a beautiful viewpoint village with excellent mountain scenery. On a clear day, you can see Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and other surrounding peaks.
Sama Gaon is one of the most important villages on the Manaslu Circuit route. It is located below Mount Manaslu and is a major acclimatization stop before heading higher toward Samdo, Dharamsala, and Larkya La Pass. The village has traditional houses, monasteries, yak pastures, and a strong mountain atmosphere.
• Altitude: Sama Gaon – approx. 3,530m / 11,581ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Lho – Samagaon (3 530m/11 580ft)
Today is an important acclimatization day in Sama Gaon. Because the trek has reached above 3,500 meters, your body needs time to adjust before going higher.
Depending on weather and group condition, you can hike toward Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa, or Birendra Lake. These side hikes help with acclimatization and offer excellent views of Manaslu, glaciers, and surrounding mountain landscapes.
This rest day is very important for safety before continuing toward Samdo, Dharamsala, and Larkya La Pass.
• Altitude: Sama Gaon – approx. 3,530m / 11,581ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 3–6 hours depending on side hike
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo
After breakfast, you will leave Sama Gaon and trek toward Samdo. The trail follows open alpine landscapes, yak grazing areas, mani walls, and mountain views.
Samdo is a remote village near the Tibetan border region. It has a strong Tibetan cultural atmosphere and wide views of the surrounding highlands. This is a shorter trekking day, which helps your body adjust to the altitude before moving closer to Larkya La Pass.
• Altitude: Samdo – approx. 3,875m / 12,713ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Today is another important acclimatization day before heading toward Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass. You can take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint or toward the old trade route near the Tibetan border area, depending on weather and group condition.
This day also gives time to rest, check gear, drink enough water, and prepare mentally for the high pass crossing. Your guide will check the weather, trail condition, and group health before moving higher.
• Altitude: Samdo – approx. 3,875m / 12,713ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 2–4 hours light hike and exploration
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi
After breakfast, you will trek from Samdo toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail gradually climbs through open alpine terrain, river crossings, rocky landscapes, and wide mountain scenery.
Dharamsala is a basic high-altitude stop before Larkya La Pass. Facilities here are limited compared to lower villages, but it is the best overnight point before the pass crossing. You should rest early because the next day begins before sunrise.
• Altitude: Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi – approx. 4,460m / 14,633ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Basic Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass and Trek to Bimthang
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking package. You will start very early in the morning and climb slowly toward Larkya La Pass.
The trail can be cold, windy, snowy, and physically demanding depending on the season. From the top of Larkya La Pass, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and other surrounding peaks.
After crossing the pass, you will descend carefully toward Bimthang. The descent is long and can be tiring, but the views are beautiful. Reaching Bimthang after crossing the pass is a major achievement of the trek.
• Altitude: Larkya La Pass – approx. 5,106m / 16,752ft; Bimthang – approx. 3,590m / 11,778ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 8–10 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Trek from Bimthang to Tilije
After breakfast, you will leave Bimthang and descend through alpine scenery, forests, rivers, and mountain views. The trail gradually becomes greener as you move lower.
You will pass through settlements such as Yak Kharka, Karche, and Gho before reaching Tilije. This day feels easier after the high pass crossing and gives a beautiful transition from alpine landscape to warmer forested valleys.
• Altitude: Tilije – approx. 2,300m / 7,546ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani and Drive to Besisahar
After breakfast, you will walk from Tilije toward Dharapani. This is the final walking section of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route. From Dharapani, you will take a jeep or local vehicle toward Besisahar.
The drive follows mountain roads, villages, river valleys, and changing landscapes. After reaching Besisahar, you can rest at a local lodge or hotel and enjoy the feeling of completing the walking part of the journey.
• Altitude: Dharapani – approx. 1,860m / 6,102ft; Besisahar – approx. 760m / 2,493ft
• Trek/Drive Time: Trek approx. 1.5–2 hours; drive approx. 3–4 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Lodge / Hotel
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will drive from Besisahar back to Kathmandu. The road follows river valleys, hills, towns, terraced fields, and countryside landscapes.
After arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner and share your Manaslu Circuit Trekking memories with the team.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Drive Time: Approx. 6–7 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 17: Final Departure
Your 17 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking package ends today. Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
You can also extend your stay in Nepal with Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Kathmandu sightseeing, Pokhara tour, Chitwan jungle safari, Bhutan tour, or Tibet tour.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Kathmandu sightseeing assistance as per itinerary
• Restricted-area permit assistance for Manaslu
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit assistance
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit assistance
• TIMS Card assistance as per current rules
• Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Kathmandu to Machha Khola transfer
• Dharapani to Besisahar transfer
• Besisahar to Kathmandu transfer
• Basic first aid support
• High-altitude safety guidance
• Restricted-area trekking support
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, road delay, weather condition, or itinerary change
• Additional cost caused by landslide, snow, political strike, road blockage, natural disaster, or weather condition
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Extra restricted-area permit cost caused by itinerary extension
• Any cost caused by rerouting due to snow, weather, or trail closure
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Manaslu Circuit Trekking
Is Manaslu Circuit Trekking good for beginners?
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is not recommended for complete beginners. It is a challenging trek with remote trails, high altitude, long walking days, restricted-area rules, and the Larkya La Pass crossing. Fit beginners with strong preparation may do it with a licensed guide, but previous hiking experience is helpful.
How many days is this Manaslu Circuit Trekking package?
This is a 17-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking package including arrival in Kathmandu, permit preparation, trekking route, acclimatization days, Larkya La Pass crossing, return to Kathmandu, and final departure.
What is the highest point of Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The highest point is Larkya La Pass at around 5,106m / 16,752ft. It is the most challenging and rewarding section of the trek.
What is the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The best time is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. Nepal Tourism Board lists these months as the best seasons for Manaslu Conservation Area.
What mountains can I see during the trek?
You can see Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Ngadi Chuli, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and other Himalayan peaks depending on the weather and route section.
Is Manaslu Circuit Trekking difficult?
Yes. The trek is challenging because it includes remote restricted-area trails, long trekking days, basic accommodation, high altitude, cold weather, and Larkya La Pass. Good fitness, proper acclimatization, and guide support are important.
Do I need special permits for Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
Yes. You need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and TIMS Card as per current trekking rules. Conservation-area entry fees are listed by NTNC, and guide/TIMS requirements are listed by Nepal Tourism Board.
Is a guide required for Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
Yes. Nepal Tourism Board lists Manaslu Circuit Trek among routes where trekkers need a licensed trekking guide and a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is mainly in local tea houses and mountain lodges. Facilities are basic in higher places such as Samdo, Dharamsala, and Bimthang. In Kathmandu, accommodation is arranged in a hotel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover trekking above 5,000 meters, medical treatment, emergency rescue, road delays, and helicopter evacuation if needed.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this Manaslu Circuit Trekking package as a private guided trek or group joining package depending on travel dates and permit arrangements.
Can I book a private Manaslu Circuit Trekking package?
Yes. This trek can be arranged as a private guided trek depending on your travel date, budget, fitness level, and group size. Because the route enters a restricted area, your trekking agency must arrange the required permits and licensed guide.
Can I customize this 17-day itinerary?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized. You can add Tsum Valley, add extra acclimatization days, hike to Manaslu Base Camp, add a rest day in Bimthang, continue to Pokhara after Dharapani, or make the route slower for better comfort and safety.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
Route Map
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 1050Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.