• Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate

    The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough). High altitude may affect walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.

  • Country Nepal

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a 16 days trekking program in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is an adventure of a lifetime across tall mountains, hidden valleys, and glaciers. Travelers enjoy offbeat trekking, no crowded trails, and the wonders of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The journey takes you around the eight-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu.

Manaslu is a restricted area in Nepal for foreigners. So, a special restricted area permit is required to enter, which is very expensive. Because of that, only a handful of tourists embark on the Manaslu Circuit trek every year, keeping the trails untouched and pristine. Trekkers looking for an alternative to the Annapurna Circuit trek can go for Manaslu Circuit.

Manaslu Circuit trek experience

The Manaslu Circuit trek offers a glimpse of the vastness of the Himalayas, from subtropical forests to alpine zones. Following the gushing Budhi Gandaki River, you ascend deep into the Manaslu region. The vegetation, birds, butterflies, and flowers along the way are remarkable.

The trail takes you across many beautiful villages resided by Nepalese communities like Gurung, Nubri, and others, along with Tibetan refugees. The locals' rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality will blow your mind. Stupas, chortens, prayer wheels, and prayer flags are scattered around the trekking route.

Pun Gyen Gompa is one of the ancient monasteries in this region that you may visit during your acclimatization in Sama Gaun. Another hiking option is the Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake. Likewise, explore Samdo village, a Tibetan refugee village, and have intimate encounters with the villagers.

You will explore the isolated area near the Tibetan border during your time here. The most epic part of the Manaslu Circuit trek comes when you are climbing to reach the top of the Larkya La pass. It will be a challenging ascent via moraines and steep, snowy slopes. However, once you reach the top, a jaw-dropping mountain panorama will sweep away all the hurdles from your mind.

Some of the mountains you will see during the Manaslu Circuit trekking are Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Boudha Himal (6,672 m/21,890 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Kang Guru (6,981 m/22,903 ft), Naike Peak (6,211 m/20,377 ft), etc.

Highlights

  • Travel in a restricted area in Nepal, Manaslu region
  • A perfect offbeat adventure for foreigners with good fitness
  • Trek around the eight-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu
  • Discover the natural wonders of the Manaslu Conservation Area
  • Walk through rhododendron forests, cross streams & rivers via suspension bridges, explore terraces, and witness beautiful waterfalls
  • Spend nights under a sky full of stars in remote mountain villages
  • Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and get to see their unique lifestyle
  • Enjoy nature, stunning mountain vistas, and diverse landscapes
  • Hike to the Pun Gyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Nepal-Tibet border
  • Cross the challenging Larkya La pass

What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal? Are you ready for the journey?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is an adventurous, demanding, and life-changing venture in the Himalayas of Nepal. This trek is not for first-time trekkers or faint hearts. You will travel far away from any mega city amidst the isolation of Himalayan valleys, giant mountains, and glaciers.

The journey is challenging in every way. However, you will get to witness the finest mountain vistas and diverse landscapes. Every day will bring a new set of challenges with limited services, high altitude, and steep terrain. But at the same time, you will find yourself pushing higher and higher.

Completing the Manaslu Circuit will make you physically, mentally, and emotionally stronger. You will get inspired by nature and rejuvenate yourself. The disconnection from the digital world, clean food, and fresh mountain air will rewire your system. By the end of the journey, a huge sense of accomplishment and spirit will fill your heart.

Manaslu Circuit trek travel insurance

To do the Manaslu Circuit trek, you have to get travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation. There is no transportation facility in the Manaslu region. You can either walk or fly in and out of the region. Travel insurance is required for a smooth and quick rescue in an emergency.

Essential tips for trekkers

  • Fitness preparation: To prepare for the Manaslu Circuit trekking, walk long hours, and actively get involved in strength training and cardio activities. You have to improve your stamina and endurance. Day hikes, running, swimming, and cycling are some recommended options.
  • Hiking without a guide: Manaslu Circuit trek without a guide is not allowed. This trek explores a restricted area in Nepal for foreigners. As per the restricted area travel rules, foreigners must be accompanied by a guide and travel with a Nepali-registered trekking company like us.
  • Cost & additional expenses: Our Manaslu Circuit trek cost starts at USD 1,650 per person. We provide special discounts on big groups that you can see below. Do note that, apart from our Manaslu Circuit trek package cost, you will come across some additional expenses like travel insurance, tips, international flights, trekking gear, shopping, additional food and beverages, etc. Please make sure to budget accordingly.
  • Do not wear new trekking boots: If you wear brand-new trekking boots in the mountains, you will get blisters. It will make trekking very difficult. So, buy your trekking boots early and get used to them.

Customize the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary

Contact us to customize the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary. Our team will help you curate the best expedition to meet your requirements. You can include additional services in the package and pick your preferred departure date.

Similarly, if you wish to extend the trek, combine Tsum Valley into your program. We can also combine the Manaslu Circuit trek with the Annapurna Circuit, allowing you to do two incredible circuit treks in Nepal together. Likewise, we provide a range of day activities in Kathmandu to make your trip to Nepal excellent.

Manaslu Circuit trek best service with Adventure Treks Nepal

We do not compromise on the quality of service and safety of our guests to offer low package prices. We guarantee the most reasonable Manaslu Circuit trek cost in the market with the finest service. So, you can book the Manaslu Circuit trek 2024/2025 departures without any worry with us.

With more than thirty years of expertise in Nepal's travel industry, Adventure Treks Nepal promises a hassle-free and satisfying Manaslu Circuit trek. Our trips are eco-friendly and hugely support the locals because we work directly with native guides and porters.

For the best Manaslu Circuit trek experience, choose us!

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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We will welcome you at the Kathmandu airport upon landing. We will provide a seamless transfer to the hotel and help with your luggage. Take your time to rest and explore your surroundings. We have not planned anything on this day apart from a welcome dinner in the late evening with our company's core team.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

We have divided this day into two parts—some sightseeing and then trek preparation. You will be accompanied by a professional guide who can communicate well in English for sightseeing. You will visit tourist sites like Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

After exploring these monuments, the guide will drop you at your hotel. We will then obtain the restricted area permit. You can spend some time resting and later join the trek briefing. Do any last-minute shopping and pack your duffle bags.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

The ride from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is long and scenic. For the first few hours, you will follow a pitched highway, which gets bumpy from Arughat onwards. On the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of lush hills, terraces, waterfalls, rivers, and snow-capped mountains.

  • Max Altitude: 890 m/2,965 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 8-9 hours
  • Distance: 170 km/105 miles

Leaving Machha Khola, walk following the Budhi Gandaki river within forests. You may get to see butterflies, birds, and langur monkeys on the way. The trekking route is covered with lush vegetation. Passing by Khorla Besi and Tatopani, you will ascend to Doban. Cross a suspension bridge and trek past a landslide area to Yaruphant. From here, the trail climbs to Jagat.

  • Max Altitude: 1,410 m/4,625 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 22.2 km/13.7 miles

Jagat onward, you will walk on a flat track and cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail then leads you to Philim and continues through dense rhododendrons and pine forests to Deng.

  • Max Altitude: 1,804 m/5,917 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Distance: 19.9 km/12.3 miles

From Deng, you will trek to Namrung village. Crossing a suspension bridge, ascend uphill to a settlement called Rana. From here, the trail goes west to the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Pass by dense forests and mani stones. On the way, you will come across Ghap and Prok villages. Further, ascend to Namrung, enjoying stunning views of Shringi Himal.

  • Max Altitude: 2,630 m/8,626 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 19.5 km/12.1 miles

As you trek from Namrung, the trail gets steep and rocky. Walk up to Lihi village and cross a stream. The trail then takes you to Sho village and continues to Lho village. The view of Simnang Himal along the way is fantastic. From here onwards, pass by bushes and rhododendron groves to Shyala village. Further, trek past terraced fields and landslide debris to Sama Gaun.

  • Max Altitude: 3,530 m/11,581 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 24.7 km/15.3 miles

You will spend a rest day in Sama Gaon. You have multiple hiking options, like Pun Gyen Gompa and Manaslu Base Camp. Both hikes are fantastic and offer a jaw-dropping mountain panorama. On the way to Manaslu Base Camp, you will also explore the hidden Birendra Lake. Likewise, on the way to Pun Gyen Gompa, you will come across PunGyen Glacier.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

The trail ascends from Sama Gaon to a Tibetan refugee village called Samdo. You will walk up to pastures. The trail is steep. Witness towering Himalayan mountains around you as you go above the treeline. Further, cross a small wooden bridge and trek past Kani, a small settlement. From here, you will walk to Samdo, which offers a beautiful view of Mt. Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, and Simnang Himal.

  • Max Altitude: 3,875 m/12,713 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 3/4 hours
  • Distance: 8.2 km/5 miles

From Samdo, you will hike to Larke Phedi. The trail goes along barren hills, offering mesmerizing snow-capped mountain views. You will trek following the Larke River and ascend to Larke Glacier. The final stretch of the way goes around the Salkha Khola Valley and uphill to Larke Phedi.

  • Max Altitude: 4,480 m/14,698 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 4/5 hours
  • Distance: 11.7 km/7.2 miles

Wake up early and gradually ascend to the top of Larkya La pass. First, you will descend and walk via a moraine. The trail then goes downhill to a small alley and follows an unclear route.

Further, cross the steep grass slope south and descend to four frozen lakes. From here, uphill climbing starts. You may have to walk in the snow. The view from the top of the pass is unreal. Now, you descend from the pass to Bimthang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 8/9 hours
  • Distance: 24.7 km/15.3 miles

Trekking from Bimthang, you will ascend and descend along the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail goes through lush rhododendron forests. Karche onwards, the trail gets out of the forest. You will then follow a river bank to Gho. Further, descend through forests and small villages to Dharapani.

  • Max Altitude: 1,910 m/6,266 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Distance: 16 km/10 miles

Following lush hillsides and small settlements, you trek to Chamje village. The walking part ends here. Further, you will use a local jeep and drive to Besisahar.

  • Max Altitude: 760 m/2,493 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3-4 hours trek & 4-5 hours drive
  • Distance: 15.5 km/9.6 miles

Leaving Besisahar early in the morning and driving to Kathmandu. The road is bumpy in the first 2 hours of the ride. From Dumre onwards, you will enjoy a comfortable ride along a winding road across lush hills. Enjoy your remaining day relaxing in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 176 km/109 miles

You have a free day in Kathmandu. Spend as you visit. Rest, explore tourist sites, and do window shopping in Thamel. In the late evening, we will meet and hand over the trek completion certificate.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Our team will drop you off at the international airport for your flight. Get ready on time and double-check your room before leaving.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival & Departure Transfers.
  • Standard Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Trekking Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
  • Kathmandu Machhakhola transport.
  • Bensisahar Kathmandu transport.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Manaslu Circuit Trekking map.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) entry permit fee.
  • Special Permit for Manaslu.
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Government taxes.
  • Office services charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance of any kind
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days, you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Wifi, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
Route Map
Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days
Altitude Chart
Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days
Essential Information

Manaslu Circuit trek permit

Foreigners have to obtain three permits to do the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. Our package cost is inclusive of these permit fees. You have to be present at the Nepal Tourism Board to obtain the restricted area permit. Once the permits are issued, they cannot be returned or transferred to someone else's name.

Manaslu Conservation Area Project permits (MCAP Permit): USD 30 per person + tax

Annapurna Conservation Area Project permits (ACAP Permit): USD 30 per person + tax

Special Restricted Area permits (Manaslu RAP):

  • September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day after that (+ tax).
  • December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day after that (+ tax).

The difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty level is strenuous. It is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. Trekkers have to be physically strong and possess previous trekking experience to join this trek. The trail goes through diverse climatic zones. You will traverse landslide areas and glacier moraines and cross the challenging Larkya La pass.

Trekking hours: 6 to 7 hours a day.

  • Terrain: Steep, rocky, and rugged.
  • High altitude: From Kathmandu at 1,400 meters (4,593 ft), you will travel up to Larkya La pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 ft).

Limited services: The Manaslu Circuit trek route has limited services, so trekkers have to adjust a lot. Accommodation and meals are simple. Charging, hot showers, and WiFi cost additional money.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness symptoms are difficulty in breathing, headache, vomiting, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, etc. During the Manaslu Circuit trek, trekkers gain altitude daily. If they do not acclimatize, the above symptoms may occur. The symptoms are treatable, but they will obviously hinder the trip.

So to avoid altitude sickness during the Manaslu Circuit trekking, follow the below advice:

  • Drink 2 liters of water daily. You have to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Avoid high intake of caffeine and do not smoke or consume alcoholic drinks.
  • Maintain your pace and listen to your body. Do not rush. Take plenty of rest daily to recover.
  • Have nutritious food and keep yourself energized with ORS and nuts.

Best months for the Manaslu Circuit

The peak season for the Manaslu Circuit trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These two months have ideal weather and climate. The Larkya La pass is open to cross. You will witness stunning mountain views almost every day and get to enjoy diverse biodiversity.

Accommodation and meals

Accommodation during the Manaslu Circuit trek is a tea house. It is a very basic accommodation. Trekkers get shared rooms and washrooms. Single rooms cost extra money. Likewise, you have to pay extra money for hot showers, WiFi, and charging. Sleeping bags are recommended.

You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the mountains. Budget additional money to buy extra beverages and food. Dal bhat, fried rice, thukpa, momo, chapati, porridge, stew, and pancakes are some widely available foods. In some villages, you will also get pasta, French fries, soups, curries, burgers, etc.

Packing list

You will need the following things for the Manaslu Circuit trek:

  • Breathable underwear
  • Base layer
  • Thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (toilet paper, wet tissues, deodorant, SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)
  • Cash, travel insurance documents, passport-size photo, valid passport, travel visa

Travel visa to enter Nepal for the trek

Foreigners must obtain a Nepal travel visa to enter Nepal for the Manaslu Circuit trek. They can get it from their country's Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office. Another way to obtain the trail visa is by arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport or any land border. It is called an on-arrival travel visa.

However, travelers from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria, along with refugees with travel documents, do not qualify for an on-arrival travel visa.

FAQs

The Manaslu Circuit trek is challenging. It is an offbeat trek and crosses a high mountain pass above 5,000 meters. The trekking route is untouched and lacks tourist infrastructure. Basic tea houses are available for the trekkers with very few services. High altitudes and varying climates demand previous trekking expertise.

It depends on what you are looking for. The Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit treks are incredible ventures in the Himalayas. The one significant difference is that the Annapurna Circuit has a better tourist infrastructure than the Manaslu Circuit because of its popularity.

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek is arduous compared to the Everest Base Camp trek. The route is strenuous, and Climbing Larkya La pass is also very demanding. Likewise, you have to face high altitude, steep uphill and downhill trails, and limited services along the way.

No, the Manaslu Circuit trek is not beginner-friendly. Previous trekking experience with strong physical and mental strength is required.

The network is unstable along the Manaslu Circuit trek route. WiFi is available in some villages at lower elevations. Enjoy nature and disconnect with the digital world. Our guide will be equipped with a satellite phone for any emergency communication.

Solo trekkers can do a private Manaslu Circuit trek with us or join our fixed departure dates to trek in a group with other fellow trekkers from around the world.

The duffel bag weight limit is 9 kg per trekker. One porter carries duffel bags of two trekkers. Yes, it is okay to let porters carry your duffel bags. They are experienced and can walk with the load on them safely. This work helps them put food for their family. You can tip them well if you are grateful for their support.

You can tip whatever you want to guide and porter. Generally, trekkers tip 15% to 25% of the total package cost to the guide and porter.

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