You can check our Manaslu Circuit Trek Map if you are opting for this trekking journey in Nepal. The map offers you information from main stops and attractions to distance and daily hiking. The Manaslu’s remote trails, peaceful surroundings, and breathtaking views have attracted many trekkers across the world. You will get to see Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, along with many other stunning landscapes.
The Manaslu trek map gives you details about important places, distances, elevations, and the route you will follow. Carrying a map is like having a guide with you. It helps you stay on track and makes navigation easier. Since the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, getting help from fellow trekkers can be challenging, making a map even more essential. Whether you are planning your trek or are already on the trail, the map will help you explore the Manaslu region with confidence.
Table of Contents
How Long Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek usually takes around 12 to 16 days, depending on your pace, acclimatization days, and starting point. The standard trek covers about 177 kilometers (110 miles). On average, you will be walking 15 to 20 kilometers (9 to 12 miles) per day. The duration also depends on the itinerary you choose. Some trekkers complete it faster, while others prefer a slower pace with extra rest days to adjust to the altitude.
The trek begins in Soti Khola and ends in Dharapani, where you will walk through remote villages, forests, and high mountain passes. The highest point of the trek is Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters/16,752 feet). Since you will be gaining significant altitude, proper acclimatization is necessary. The time required for the trek also depends on the weather, as heavy snowfall or bad conditions may delay your journey.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route
The Manaslu Circuit follows a circular route around Mount Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trek starts from Soti Khola, a small village in the Gorkha district. From here, you will walk through terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages such as Machha Khola, Jagat, and Deng, following the Budhi Gandaki River. As you move higher, you will enter Namrung and Lho, where you will start seeing incredible views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal.
The trek continues towards Samagaon, a beautiful village where you will spend an extra day for acclimatization. You can explore the Pungyen Gompa or hike to Manaslu Base Camp for amazing views. After this, you will reach Samdo, the last village before the challenging Larkya La Pass. The trail becomes more rugged and steeper as you head toward Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi), the base camp before crossing the pass.
The hardest part of the trek is crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters/16,752 feet), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The descent from the pass takes you to Bimthang, a stunning valley with glaciers and meadows. From here, the trek gradually descends to Dharapani, where you will catch a jeep or bus back to Kathmandu.
The 14 Days Itinerary with Distance & Elevation Gain
| Day | Itinerary | Elevation Gain | Walking Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu [1,355m/4,264ft] | – | – |
| 2 | Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola [710m/2,328ft] | – | – |
| 3 | Soti Khola – Maccha Khola [900m/2,952ft] | 190m | 6-7 Hrs |
| 4 | Maccha Khola – Jagat [1,410m/4,625ft] | 510m | 6-7 Hrs |
| 5 | Jagat – Deng [1,804m/5,917ft] | 394m | 6-7 Hrs |
| 6 | Deng – Namrung [2,630m/8,626ft] | 826m | 6-7 Hrs |
| 7 | Namrung – Samagaon [3,530m/11,578ft] | 900m | 6-7 Hrs |
| 8 | Sama Gaon – Pungyen Gompa – Samagaon | – | 6-7 Hrs |
| 9 | Samagaon – Samdo [3,860m/12,660ft] | 330m | 4-5 Hrs |
| 10 | Samdo – Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. [4,460m/14,628ft] | 600m | 4-5 Hrs |
| 11 | Dharamsala – Larkya La [5,160m/16,924ft] – Bimthang [3,720m/12,201ft] | 700m ascent, 1,440m descent | 8-9 Hrs |
| 12 | Bimthang – Dharapani [2,300m/6,438ft] | 1,420m descent | 7-8 Hrs |
| 13 | Dharapani – Syange – Kathmandu [1,080m/3,542ft] | 1,220m descent | 8-9 Hrs |
| 14 | Final Departure | – | – |
Acclimatization During the Manaslu Circuit Trek
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should focus on acclimatizing in specific locations that help your body adjust to the altitude. The best places to acclimatize are Samagaon and Samdo. While acclimatizing, you can do several things to help your body adjust. First, take rest days to allow your body to recover and adapt. During these days, you can go on short hikes to nearby viewpoints, such as hiking to Manaslu Base Camp or exploring the area around Samagaon.
These hikes should be at higher elevations but allow you to return to a lower altitude to sleep. This practice helps your body adapt better. Maps of the Manaslu Circuit Trek often highlight these acclimatization points and suggest activities during your rest days. You might find information on nearby attractions, like cultural sites or scenic viewpoints, which can enrich your experience.
FAQs of Manaslu Circuit Trek Map
Where can I get a Manaslu Circuit Trek map?
You can obtain a Manaslu Circuit Trek map from various sources, including trekking agencies, outdoor gear shops, or online platforms. It is a good idea to get a physical map or download a digital version to have on hand during your trek.
Does the map indicate the difficulty levels of different sections?
While some maps may not state difficulty levels, they often provide information on elevation gain and distance, which can help you measure the difficulty of different sections of the trek. It is also helpful to consult guides or experienced trekkers for advice.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek map available in different languages?
Most trekking maps are available in English, but some may also be offered in other languages. You can check different sources where you obtain the map to see what language options are available.
What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is usually stable, and you can enjoy clear views of the mountains.
Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, you are required to have a licensed guide or join a trekking group for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is important for safety, navigation, and to enhance your overall experience.
