Samagaun (Samagaon) is a beautiful village in the Manaslu area of the Gorkha district in Nepal. The small human settlement is a popular acclimatization stopover during the famous Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Samagaun nestles in a serene valley, surrounded by towering peaks and lush green landscapes, and lies at an elevation of 3530 meters above sea level. The traditional stone houses and prayer flags add to the charm of the place.

The village of Samagaun is a popular acclimatization stop on every trek to Manaslu. Therefore, the settlements host basic teahouses and small shops to cater to tourists along the way.

The townlet is mostly inhabited by ethnic Nubri people. These individuals have their dialect and culture and hold Buddhist and animistic beliefs. When tourists visit there, they experience a unique cultural and spiritual ambiance.

Why is Samagaun in Manaslu a popular stopover for tourists?

Although located at a high altitude, Samagaun has everything a trekker needs, from good food and guesthouses to small shops. The village is situated near the Himalayas, allowing trekkers to see mountains from their accomodations.

Next, acclimatization is a crucial aspect of high-altitude trekking. The air becomes thinner and the oxygen levels decrease when you walk higher. This can lead to altitude sickness, which can be dangerous or even life-threatening if not properly managed.

Trekkers need time to adjust to the altitude in Samagaun before crossing the Larke La Pass (5,106 m), one of the longest mountain passes in Nepal.

Samagaun is an optimal place to acclimate during the circuit trek or the Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek as it has a lower elevation than the Larke La Pass.

Samagaun is a lively village where trekkers can rest, eat good food, meet locals, visit monasteries, and learn about traditions. The places also allow easy access for trekkers to go on a nearby side trip to Pungyen Gompa, Birendra Tal, and Manaslu Base Camp.

The weather at Samagaun is usually cold despite any season. During winter the temperature can go up to -10 degrees Celsius and during summer it’s around 5-15 degrees Celsius. Check the regular weather forecast here.

The 3 most popular side trips for the rest day in Samagaun are:

Samagaun to Pungyen Monastery (Gompa)

This is a full-day hike from Samagaon to Pungyen Monastery.

• Trail Distance: 9.16 miles approx.
• Elevation Gain: 2546 ft. approx.
• Time required: 5-6 hours

Loaded with the morning view, the trek starts at Samagaun, and exiting the settlement, you enter the fields. You can see yaks grazing around and much more on the way. After an hour or two, you reach Shree Gaurishankar Basic School. And a few more minutes from there, the route takes a diversion toward the Pungyen Monastery.

First, you will walk along the zigzagged trails with trees around to support you. But later, the trees start to disappear as you begin to gain more height. Soon, the trail becomes steep and narrow with only bushes or no greens on each side. After an hour from the lower gate of the monastery, you finally reach the Pungyen Monastery (Gompa).

Pungyen Monastery is a significant religious site located beneath the shoulder of Mt. Manaslu, also known as Mt. Pungyen. This monastery is about 400 years old and has cultural significance for the Nubri people, who belong to the Tibetan tribe.

According to local beliefs, the icy peaks of the Himalayas were considered sacred places for deities and protectors of the region. One such deity, Lord Pungyen, was considered the protector of the area around Mount Manaslu. To appease and honor this deity and seek protection for their community and region, the Nubri people built the Pungyen Monastery or Pungyen Gompa. Two major ethnic groups of Nubri live in Nubri and Tsum Valley of Manaslu.

The architecture and design of the Pungyen Monastery are typically influenced by the Tibetan Buddhist style. It features colorful prayer flags, intricate murals, and religious relics. The monastery is peaceful and inspiring, with Mt. Manalsu in the background.

The trail down to Samagaun from Pungyen Monastery is downhill and steep. To enjoy the fullest, you should choose your trips either in spring or autumn. The weather is stable, visibility is clear and the days are longer in those times. And, it’s also the best time to visit Manaslu.

Samagaun to Birendra Lake (Tal)

Birendra Lake (Tal) is a small freshwater lake located on the Manaslu glacier near Samagaun village at an altitude of around 3,691 m.

• Trail Distance: 1.88 miles approx.
• Elevation Gain: 394 ft. approx.
• Time required: 1-2.5 hours

The hike  from Samagaun to Birendra Lake offers relatively easier terrain compared to some other side trips. The trail goes up to the Monastery of Samagaun and then through fields to the base of the Birendra Lake trail.

Birendra Lake is a freshwater lake on a glacier. The lake’s tranquil ambiance provides an excellent opportunity for relaxation and acclimatization.

Trekkers often build rock cairns (piles of rocks) around the bank of the lake. Many such stone piles are adding to the beauty of the lake.

The hike to Birendra Lake is relatively shorter compared to some other side trips. So, it makes an excellent option for an acclimatization day hike. Also, it enables hikers to enjoy the region’s beauty while accommodating the higher altitude.

During winter, Birendra Lake freezes over, creating a crystal-clear ice lake. This natural phenomenon adds to the uniqueness of the place. Trekkers often enjoy walking on the frozen surface of the lake, but it’s not recommended at all.

Samagaun to Manaslu Base Camp

• Elevation Gain: 4,166 ft. approx.
• Time required: 5-7 hours

Although hiking up to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 meters) is a thrilling experience for trekkers, it’s the hardest of all the side trips from Samagaon. The hike to base camp is high up and offers magnificent views while helping you acclimate. The hike takes about 6-7 hours and takes you to an altitude of 4800 m (15,748.03 ft.) with an altitude gain of around 4,166 ft.

Although it’s a whole-day hike and requires more effort, trekking to Manaslu Base Camp is a rewarding experience. The trail from Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged terrain. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of not only Mt. Manaslu but also the village of Samagaon and the tranquil Birendra Lake.

The trail takes you close to the majestic Manaslu peak. You will witness astonishing views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, including Himalchuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,319m), and Shringi Himal (7,187m). The base camp is high up (4,800 meters), so you need to adjust to the altitude in Samagaun before going on the hike.

The climbing season for Mt. Manaslu is in the spring and you might come across climbers preparing to climb or returning from their ascent. You can see the climbers face challenges or hear their stories on the Manaslu expedition.

Final Words,

Samagaun is a gem on the Manaslu Circuit route. This village provides acclimatization, best views and great food on Manaslu route to keep you energize on the trail. The natural beauty and cultural richness captivate trekkers, leaving lasting memories in the Himalayas.