This area, long closed to foreigners because of its proximity to the Chinese border has recently been opened. The trails are relatively less trekked, culture and traditions are less affected and the scenery – one of the best in Nepal. This is a fascinating course around Manaslu (8,163m) and its three peaks known as the ‘Japanese Peaks’ ascending along Buri Gandaki River and through contrasting worlds of Lho, Sama gaon (3,450m) and crossing the highest point of the trek Larkya La (5,213m), which is a mere 8 km from Tibet border. A classic vista opens to the west – Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kang, Kang guru (6,981m) and Annapurna II (7,937m). From Larkya La, the descent is steep and usually snow covered upto Tanbuche. From Tanbuche the narrow trail enters a wide meadow where we camp. Then we follow the white Dudh Khola river banks passing though magnificent forests of rhododendron, Pine and Juniper which then give way to apple orchards around Thonje and Dharapani. As we descend further the alpine vegetation gives way to subtropical lushness. We then walk down the Marshyangdi Khola river valley to Besishahar, the end point of the trek. From Besishahar there is regular local bus service to Dumre and from then on to Kathmandu by private transport