Have a look at our Manaslu Circuit Trek Map to learn about the major stops, attractions, and beauty of the region. Manaslu region, for a trekking adventure, has been gaining popularity among trekkers enthusiasts. The off-the-beaten paths, isolated nature, and stunning beauty attract tourists from worldwide. The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, the 8th-highest mountain in the world.
The Manaslu trek map gives you detailed information on all the major locations, the distance and elevation you will be gaining, and the route you will be taking. Having a map with you means you will have a guide with you. It is also very recommended that you take a map on the journey. This gives you proper direction and helps you in navigation.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded, meaning fewer people are on the trail. Thus, getting help from fellow people is quite difficult on the journey. If you wish to understand the difficulty level of the adventure, a map can also help you with it. Want to understand more about the Manaslu Circuit Trek? This guide is for you.
Table of Contents
Manaslu Circuit Trip Highlights
- Get a close-up view of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain, along with the highest peaks of Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, and Ngadi Chili.
- Enjoy the Tibetan-inspired culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar people.
- Make a way through off-the-beaten paths and enjoy the peaceful trail, getting you close to nature.
- Challenging yourself with the trek and getting a sense of accomplishment after completing the journey.
- Great sense of achievement through conquering Larkya La (5,160m)
- You will have a chance to see wildlife species like Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, Eagles, Musk Deer, and Himalayan Tahr, along with diverse flora.
- Make a way through Budhi Gandaki Valley and Manaslu Conservation Area.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route
The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts with an adventure ride from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. The hiking starts on the second day. The first village we will stop at is Machha Khola, followed by Jagat and Deng. As we make our way, we will hike on the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, cross suspension bridges, and pass through lush forests and terraced fields.
As we move higher from this location, the trail gets more challenging, especially as we get towards villages: Samagaon and Samdo. Throughout the trek, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and other peaks. If you are lucky enough, you can also witness the rare fauna of the region. Crossing the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,106 meters, will be the most difficult part but will reward us with stunning mountain vistas.
Upon reaching the pass, our descending journey starts. We will descend through villages like Bimthang and Tilije through beautiful landscapes and forests. The journey will end in Dharapani, where we will drive back to Kathmandu. The adventure is about 12 days, meaning you can complete this adventure within 12 days with beautiful memories of cultural encounters, natural beauty, and great accomplishments.
12 Days Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek
If you are booking with us, we offer you 12 days of Manaslu Circuit Trek. This costs $920 per person. Here is a breakdown of our itinerary. For your convenience, you can also customize your own itinerary.
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola
- Kathmandu Elevation: 1400m
- Maccha Khola Elevation: 900m
- Elevation loss: 500m
- Drive duration: 8-9 hours
Day 2: Trekking from Maccha Khola to Jagat
- Maccha Khola Elevation: 900m
- Jagat Elevation: 1410m
- Elevation gain: 510m
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Day 3: Trekking from Jagat to Deng
- Jagat Elevation: 1410m
- Deng Elevation: 1804m
- Elevation gain: 394m
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Day 4: Trekking from Deng to Namrung
- Deng Elevation: 1804m
- Namrung Elevation: 2630m
- Elevation gain: 826m
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Day 5: Trekking from Namrung to Lho
- Namrung Elevation: 2630m
- Lho Elevation: 3180m
- Elevation gain: 550m
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
Day 6: Trekking from Lho to Samagaon
- Lho Elevation: 3180m
- Samagaon Elevation: 3530m
- Elevation gain: 350m
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours
Day 7: Acclimatization at Samagaon
Day 8: Trekking from Samagaon to Samdo
- Samagaon Elevation: 3530m
- Samdo Elevation: 3860m
- Elevation gain: 330m
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours
Day 9: Trekking from Samdo to Dharamsala
- Samdo Elevation: 3860m
- Dharamsala Elevation: 4460m
- Elevation gain: 600m
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours
Day 10: Trekking from Dharamsala to Larkya La to Bimthang Village
- Dharamsala Elevation: 4460m
- Larkya La Elevation: 5160
- Elevation gain: 700m
- Bimthang Elevation: 3720m
- Trek duration: 8-9 hours
Day 11: Trekking from Bimthang Village to Dharapani
- Bimthang Elevation: 3720m
- Dharapani Elevation: 2300m
- Elevation loss: 1420m
- Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Day 12: Drive through from Dharapani to Kathmandu
- Dharapani Elevation: 2300m
- Kathmandu Elevation: 1400m
- Elevation loss: 900m
- Total duration: 8-9 hours
Manaslu Circuit Trek Elevation & Total Distance
| Day | Route | Elevation | Distance | Duration |
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola | 900 m | 120 km | 8-9 hr |
| 2 | Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat | 1410 m | 14 km | 6-7 hr |
| 3 | Trek from Jagat to Deng | 1804 m | 19 km | 6 to 7 |
| 4 | Trek from Deng to Namrung | 2630 m | 19 km | 6-7 hr |
| 5 | Trek from Namrung to Lho | 3120 m | 10 km | 5-6 hr |
| 6 | Trek from Lho to Samagaon | 3530 m | 13 km | 4-5 hr |
| 7 | Acclimatization at Samagaon | 3530 m | – | – |
| 8 | Trek from Samagaon to Samdo | 3860 m | 10 km | 4 -5 hr |
| 9 | Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala | 4460m | 13 km | 4-5 hr |
| 10 | Trek from Dharamsala to Larkya La to Bimthang | 5160m (Larkya La) | 24 km | 8-9 hr |
| 11 | Trek from Bimthang Village to Dharapani | 2300m | 19 km | 7-8 hr |
| 12 | Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu | 1400m | 170 km | 8-9 hr |
Major Attraction of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Mount Manaslu
This trek will take you close to the 8th-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, 8,163 meters. With this adventure, you will be standing at the base of this peak. In addition to that, you will also witness other mountains such as Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, and Ngadi Chili.
Larkya La Pass
The Larkhya La Pass, at 5,106 meters, is the highest point you will reach in this journey. Upon standing there, you will witness the panoramic views of the Himalayas. Considered to be the longest pass in the Himalayas in Nepal, it is located between Dharmashala and Bimthang.
Manaslu Conservation Area
The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. The area offers you a chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region. You can see wildlife species like Red Pandas and Himalayan Tahr. Getting a Manaslu Conservation Area permit is essential as the trek passes through this area.
Traditional Villages And Culture
You will pass through villages like Maccha Khola, Namrung, Samagaun, Samdo, Bhimtang, and more. These villages give you a chance to witness the Tibetan-inspired culture and traditions of the people. The people here are friendly and provide you with warm and welcoming hospitality.
How Hard Is Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Compared to other treks in Nepal, the Manaslu circuit trek is a slightly difficult adventure in the Himalayas. The remoteness of the trek and the high elevation present numerous challenges for the trekkers. Completing the trek requires a good level of physical fitness, as you will have to walk for hours through steep uphill and downhill trails. The trail includes rugged paths, river crossings, and occasional landslides, demanding focus and careful steps.
The challenging Larkya La Pass, which sits at 5160 meters, also falls along the route. This section is the most difficult part of the circuit because of thin air and cold temperatures. However, gradual acclimatization and proper preparation make the trek manageable for most trekkers. Despite the difficulties, the trek makes every effort worthwhile, with beautiful mountain views and rich cultural experiences.
Final Thoughts
You should consider checking out the Manaslu Circuit Trek map before starting off for the adventure. This ensures you are well-known about the areas and also have an idea of the difficulties you will encounter in the journey. This helps you prepare for the challenges, thus offering a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in the Manaslu Region. In this trek, you will not just witness the natural beauty of the Himalayas but also get a chance to immerse yourself in the unique culture of the people.
FAQs
Is the Manaslu Circuit harder than the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit is generally harder than the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trails are more remote, rugged, and less developed, with limited facilities compared to Annapurna. The Larkya La Pass, at 5,106 meters, is also more challenging than the Thorong La Pass in terms of terrain and altitude.
How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trek typically takes 12 to 14 days to complete. Depending on the exact route taken, the total distance covered is around 177 kilometers (110 miles). The duration includes a day or two days of acclimatization days in villages like Samagaon or Samdo.
What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
You will need 3 permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Having this permit means you ensure responsible travel in the Manaslu Region.
What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear views of the mountains, and comfortable trekking conditions. Winter and monsoon treks are possible but come with challenges like snow and rain.
Are accommodations available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, tea houses and lodges are available along the route, providing basic meals and lodging. The facilities are simpler and more limited than those on the Annapurna Circuit. It is advisable to book in advance during peak seasons to secure a place to stay.
