Bhimtang Trek is just two days’ length of walking from Dharapani, the starting point of the Thorong La La Pass excursion, and is located along the Manaslu Trekking Route beyond the Larkya La Pass from the Gorkha side. The Bhimtang Trek is intended for trekkers who want to quickly experience the stunning Himalayan landscape, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), magnificent glaciers, serene lakes, and distinctive culture.
In just a few days of trekking, we will reach the mountain range, close to the tenth-highest mountain in the world, during the Manaslu Bhimtang Trek. The Bhimtang Trek is a part of both the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Trekkers can savor each minute in the midst of nature while traversing the Bimthang trails. Trekkers will be astounded by the calm Ponker and Nayamlo lakes’ stunning beauty, which can be found right beneath the mighty Himalayas.
The Bhimtang Trek is a great alternative to the somewhat difficult Manaslu circuit trek.
Highlights of Bhimtang Trek – Why Bhimtang Trek?
- One of the best short treks in Nepal,
- Captivating experience of pristine Ponker and Nayamlo lakes. around the Ponker and Nayamlo Tal,
- Fascinating view of Manaslu, Nemjung, Kang Garu, Phungi Himal and more,
- A glimpse of rare wildlife such as Deer, Himalayan Thar, Red panda, and many more, and
- First hand experience of the distinct culture all without any difficult trek.
Short Itinerary of Bhimtang Trek
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani | Drive 9 hours |
| Day 2 | Trek from Dharapani to Goa/Gho | Trek 6 hours |
| Day 3 | Trek from Gho to Bhimtang | Trek 6 hours |
| Day 4 | Explore Bhimtang, Ponker Lake and Nayamlo Lake | |
| Day 5 | Trek back from Bhimtang to Tilije | Trek 7 hours |
| Day 6 | Trek from Tilije to Dharapani, Drive to Besisahar | Trek 4 hours, drive 3 hours |
| Day 7 | Drive Back to Kathmandu |
Detailed Itinerary for Bhimtang Trek
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani
On the first day of the trip, you board an early morning vehicle from Kathmandu to Besisahar. The drive to Besisahar, district headquarter of Lamjung is very beautiful along the banks of Trishuli and Marsyangdi river and striding through many hills with a distant view of the mountains. After you reach Besisahar, you will then quickly shift to another vehicle to Dharapani, It takes further 3-4 hours to reach Dharapani.
Day 2: Trek from Dharapani to Goa/Gho
The main starting point for the Manaslu Circuit journey in reverse is Dharapani. Only a few individuals attempt Larkya La Pass from this side. As a result, you will only see a few hikers accompanying you. Before turning right onto Dharapani, there is an ACAP and MCAP checkpoint. You will first pass the bridge over the Marsyangdi River before continuing along the Dhudh Khola as a Main River tributary. You can also go to Tamrang Gompa, which is about an hour’s walk to the north-east of Thonche hamlet. Following this, the trail often travels along a riverbank and through an oak and pine forest with picturesque Gurung settlements before arriving in Goa/Gho (2,515m).
Day 3: Trek from Goa/Gho to Bhimtang
The second day of your hike is a relaxing stroll through rural settlements and subtropical vegetation. The first time you see Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) during your trip is before you arrive in Toemro. The route continues through a jungle filled with bird sounds and flowing rivers until it reaches Karche (2,700m). From there, you can continue walking across a bridge to reach Yak Kharka, where you can have lunch. The trail is much more difficult to navigate after lunch since it begins to climb steeply. After 4–5 walks, you will eventually reach Bhimtang village.
Day 4: Explore Bhimtang and Visit Ponker Lake, Nayamlo Lake and Glacier
You will stroll around the Bhimtang without any carraiges today. Bhimtang is a stunning place filled with natural beauty. Since the White Mountains surround it, it has occasionally been referred to as the “bowel of silver.” The primary attractions of Bhimtang include Ponker Lake, Nayamlo Lake, Ponker Glacier, Kechakyu, and Suti glacier.
Similarly, At the base of the Larkya La, at Dangboche Kharka, is a 3 kilometre walk. The convergence of three glaciers—the Kechakyu, Suti, and Ponker will be seen. Hidden behind the western Tibikle Panlemu Danda is the Suti glacier. The track makes its way to and around the bigger Ponkar Tal between the central and third moraine, while the small Nayamlo Tal is stuck between the first two moraines. After that, you’ll travel back to Bhimtang to spend the night.
Day 5: Trek back from Bhimtang to Tilije
The trail descends past stony riverbeds, rhododendron and fig tree fortes, sliding hillsides, and a few tiny green settlements. We eventually arrive at the huge settlement of Tilje, which is home to both Manang (people of Tibetan heritage) and Chettris (Hindus), who have distinctive architecture and cultures.
Day 6: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani, Drive to Beisahar
It’s a short, easy hike today, following the Dudh Khola through bamboo forests. At Dharapani, we can see the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) board markers up ahead. We are now on the main track for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Once you arrive in Dharapani, you will continue on the rough jeep trip to Beisahar. After that, you’ll take a rest in Besisahar, where you may enjoy a cold drink while your tired legs recover.