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.
Teahouse Treks
Authentic Nepal Trekking
Route traced from real GPS trail data
Kathmandu - Day 1
1,400m
KathmanduReturn
Arrival and trek preparation in Kathmandu.
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 This Route Beats the Busier Trails
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.
How Difficult Is This Trek?
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
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;
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
Our representative will be waiting for you at Tribhuvan International Airport and will transfer you straight to your hotel. After a long international flight, the rest of the day is yours to relax and settle in before the adventure ahead.
In the evening, you’ll sit down with your guide for a trek briefing over the route, walking days, and what to expect at altitude. It’s also the moment to double-check your permits, gear, and packing list, so you head into the mountains fully prepared.
- 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
This is also an important day behind the scenes. Your agency will check your passport, Nepal visa, insurance, photographs, and permit documents to prepare for the restricted-area paperwork ahead, and your guide will go through your trekking gear with you. Anything missing can easily be bought or rented 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’ll set off on the scenic drive to Machha Khola, following highways and river valleys through terraced fields, rural towns, and hillside settlements as Kathmandu falls away behind you.
The road winds through Dhading Besi, Arughat, Arkhet, Soti Khola, and a string of small villages before reaching Machha Khola. Expect some rough, bumpy sections once you leave the main highway, but it’s a fitting first taste of 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 real walking begins. The trail hugs the Budhi Gandaki River through narrow paths, small villages, waterfalls, rocky sections, forest trails, and a steady stream of suspension bridges.
You’ll pass through Khorlabesi, Tatopani, Dobhan, and Yaru Bagar before reaching Jagat, a stone-paved village and an important checkpoint on the route. It’s a day that blends river scenery, village life, and the character of the lower Himalaya in equal measure.
- 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, the trail continues along the Budhi Gandaki valley, weaving through villages, terraced fields, forests, river crossings, and more suspension bridges.
You’ll pass through Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and Nyak Phedi before reaching Deng. The higher you climb, the more the culture shifts — Tibetan Buddhist influence starts to show itself in the villages, the prayer flags, and the mani walls lining the trail.
- 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’s trail climbs gradually through forests, small villages, river crossings, and narrow valley paths, passing through Rana, Bihi Phedi, Ghap, and a handful of other settlements before reaching Namrung.
Namrung is one of the prettiest villages on the whole circuit, and from here the mountains start to feel closer — the culture leans more strongly Tibetan with every step, and on a clear day you’ll catch views of Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and the peaks surrounding them.
- 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, the trail heads toward Lho, passing through traditional villages like Lihi and Sho, where chortens, mani walls, prayer flags, and stone houses line the way.
Lho is one of the most scenic stops on the entire circuit, with a stunning view of Mount Manaslu waiting for you on arrival. The village’s monastery and quiet mountain atmosphere make it a wonderful place to slow down for the evening.
- 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’s walk brings you to Sama Gaon, passing through Shyala along the way — a beautiful viewpoint village with some of the best mountain scenery on the route. On a clear day, Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli all come into view.
Sama Gaon sits directly beneath Mount Manaslu and is one of the most important stops on the circuit — your major acclimatization base before pushing on toward Samdo, Dharamsala, and Larkya La Pass. With its traditional houses, monasteries, and yak pastures, it’s a village with real mountain character.
- 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)
With the trek now above 3,500 meters, today is all about giving your body time to adjust before pushing higher.
Depending on the weather and how the group is feeling, you can hike toward Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa, or Birendra Lake — all excellent options for acclimatizing while taking in views of Manaslu, its glaciers, and the surrounding peaks.
This rest day matters more than it might seem — it’s your safety margin before the push 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’ll leave Sama Gaon behind and trek toward Samdo, through open alpine landscapes, yak grazing grounds, mani walls, and wide mountain views.
Samdo is a remote village close to the Tibetan border, with a strongly Tibetan character and sweeping views across the highlands. It’s a shorter day on purpose, giving your body a gentler step up in altitude before the final push toward 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
Another important rest-and-adjust day before Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass. Depending on the weather and how the group is doing, you can take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint or out toward the old trade route near the Tibetan border.
It’s also a good day to slow down — rest, check your gear, drink plenty of water, and get mentally ready for the high pass ahead. Your guide will be watching the weather, trail conditions, and the group’s health closely before giving the go-ahead to move 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’ll trek from Samdo toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, climbing gradually through open alpine terrain, river crossings, rocky landscapes, and wide mountain views.
Dharamsala is a basic, high-altitude stop with far fewer comforts than the villages below, but it’s the best staging point before Larkya La Pass. Get to bed early tonight — tomorrow starts well 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
This is the day the whole trek has been building toward. You’ll set off well before dawn, climbing slowly and steadily toward Larkya La Pass through terrain that can turn cold, windy, and snowy depending on the season.
From the top, the reward is immense — sweeping views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and the peaks beyond. The descent toward Bimthang that follows is long and can wear you down, but every step of it is beautiful, and reaching Bimthang after crossing the pass is one of the genuine highlights of the entire journey.
- 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’ll leave Bimthang behind and begin the descent through alpine scenery, forests, rivers, and mountain views, the landscape turning steadily greener with every hour.
The trail passes through Yak Kharka, Karche, and Gho before reaching Tilije. After the effort of the high pass, this day feels like a well-earned breather — a gentle, beautiful transition from alpine terrain back into 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’ll walk from Tilije to Dharapani — the final stretch of trekking on the Manaslu Circuit. From there, a jeep or local vehicle carries you onward to Besisahar. The drive winds through mountain roads, villages, and river valleys as the landscape keeps shifting around you. Once you reach Besisahar, you can settle into a local lodge or hotel and let it sink in that the walking part of the journey is complete.
- 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’ll drive from Besisahar back to Kathmandu, the road tracing river valleys, hills, small towns, terraced fields, and changing countryside all the way home.
Once you arrive, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, with the evening free to enjoy a farewell dinner and swap stories from the trail with the team who got you through it.
- 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-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking adventure comes to an end today. Our team will see you off with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
If you’d like to keep exploring, this is also a great jumping-off point for Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Kathmandu sightseeing, a 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.
Route Map
Gallery
Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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.