Samdo's pastures spread along the river below the village, divided by stone walls and crossed by streams. In October herders bring yaks and dzo down from higher grazing, and the animals wander freely across the flats. Keep a respectful distance, never stand between a mother and calf, and step uphill when animals pass on narrow paths.
The walk is mostly level, so it suits tired legs after the climb from Samagaun. Look back south for views of Manaslu's northern side and the glaciers feeding the Budhi Gandaki. The light is best in mid afternoon, before the wind picks up and the temperature drops quickly as the sun goes behind the ridges.
Ask your guide about the herding year: animals go up to the high pastures in early summer and come down in autumn, and dried dung is collected as winter fuel. Yak products such as cheese and butter appear on some lodge menus.
Good for
- Families
- Photographers
- Seniors
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
Are yaks dangerous on the Manaslu trail?
Yaks are generally calm, but they are big and have horns. Always step to the uphill side when they pass, keep away from cows with calves and do not walk directly behind animals. Herders and your guide will tell you when to wait. Most encounters are uneventful.
What is the difference between a yak and a dzo?
A yak is the long-haired highland bovine adapted to altitudes above about 3,000 m. A dzo is a cross between a yak and a domestic cow, better suited to lower altitudes and used for ploughing and carrying. Around Samdo you will see both.
Can I buy yak cheese in Samdo?
Sometimes. Some lodges and households make cheese and butter from yak or dzo milk in summer and autumn. Ask at your lodge. Supplies are small and seasonal, so do not count on it, and prices are higher than for Kathmandu cheese.
