The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular, less-crowded alternative to the Everest and Annapurna regions. The highlights of this awe-inspiring trek are encapsulated in a concise point-wise manner:
Breathtaking Mountain Views: Witness panoramic vistas of majestic peaks, including Manaslu (8,156m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
Cultural Immersion: Encounter diverse ethnic communities, such as the hospitable Gurungs and Tamangs, and explore their unique traditions, customs, and monasteries.
Untouched Landscapes: Traverse through pristine valleys, lush forests, terraced fields, and serene alpine meadows.
Larke Pass: Conquer the challenging Larke Pass (5,160m), the trek’s highest point, offering unparalleled mountain vistas.
Remote Wilderness: Experience the tranquility of remote Himalayan wilderness with fewer trekkers, providing a sense of seclusion.
Hot Springs: Rejuvenate in natural hot springs at Tatopani, a rewarding treat for weary trekkers.
Annapurna Conservation Area: Part of the trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna.
Engage with the Tibetan culture of the Nuri people.
The Manaslu Trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure, making it a memorable journey for trekkers seeking a unique Himalayan experience.
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is one of the most breathtaking and adventurous journeys any avid trekker could embark upon. It presents the beauty of the pristine mountain ranges and untouched Tibetan culture in all its glory. The trek introduces you to the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, and takes you through diverse terrains, challenging trails, remote villages, and ancient monasteries.
The Manaslu Trek is a difficult trek typically designed for experienced trekkers. With an average elevation of over 3,500 meters, reaching its highest point at the Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), the trek offers challenges in the form of steep trails, high altitudes, unpredictable weather, and rugged terrain. Therefore, physical fitness, preparation, and acclimatization are crucial to successfully completing this trek.
When it comes to the Manaslu Trek route, the journey typically starts from Arughat or Soti Khola, from where the trek trail leads you through lush forests, terraced farm fields, and traditional villages. As you ascend, you’ll come across various landscapes, from subtropical jungle to the harsh, snow-covered terrains of the upper Himalayan region. The circuit also traverses the stunning Larkya La Pass, the trek’s highest point, and offers panoramic views of Manaslu and its neighboring peaks.
The Manaslu Trek package usually encompasses transportation from Kathmandu to the trek starting point, meals, accommodation during the trek, the services of a guide and porter, and necessary permits. The package price generally varies depending on the services included, the trek’s duration, and the trekking agency’s policy.
A Manaslu Trek permit is mandatory due to the trek’s location in a restricted area. The primary permits required include the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). The permit costs fluctuate depending on the time of year, with prices higher during peak seasons.
A qualified and experienced Manaslu Circuit Trek guide is essential for the journey. A good guide will help you navigate the trail and provide valuable insight into local culture, history, and nature. They are also equipped to handle emergencies and ensure safety throughout the journey. Therefore, selecting a certified guide from a recognized trekking agency is recommended.
The Manaslu Trek tour is a complete package of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventure. As you trek through the circuit, you’ll have the chance to observe the Manaslu region’s unique biodiversity and explore the ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls. The warm hospitality of the locals in the remote villages of Samagaon, Samdo, and others will make your journey even more unforgettable.
The Manaslu Trek is a challenging but rewarding journey that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, intriguing cultural experiences, and a real sense of adventure. If you are an experienced trekker looking for the next challenge, the Manaslu Trek awaits you. Prepare for the trek diligently, respect local customs and the environment, and you’re sure to have a memorable trekking experience.
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu [1,300m/4,264ft], O/N at 3 Star Hotel (A. D)
Day 02
Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation. O/N at 3 Star Hotel (A. D)
Day 03
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola [710m/2,328ft], O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 04
Soti Khola – Maccha Khola [900m/2,952ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 05
Machha Khola – Jagat [1,410m/4,625ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 06
Jagat – Deng [1,804m/5,917ft]: 6-7 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 07
Deng – Namrung [2,630m/8,626ft]: 6-7 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 08
Namrung – Samagaon [3,530m/11,578ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 09
Sama Gaon – Pungyen Gompa – Samagaon: 6-7 Hrs O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 10
Samagaon – Samdo [3,860m/12,660ft]: 4-5 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 11
Samdo – Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. [4,460m/14,628ft]: 4-5 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 12
Dharamsala – Larkya la [5,160m/16,924ft] – Bimthang [3,720m/12,201ft]: 8-9 Hrs O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 13
Bimthang – Dharapani [2,300m/6,438ft]: 7-8 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 14
Dharapani – Syange - Kathmandu [1,080m/3,542ft]: 8-9 hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Day 15
Final Departure (B)
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu [1,300m/4,264ft], O/N at 3 Star Hotel (A. D)
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be picked up from the airport and driven to the hotel. You can relax or start exploring the city on arrival before staying overnight in the hotel.
Day 02
Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation. O/N at 3 Star Hotel (A. D)
Kathmandu has numerous historic sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath designated World Heritage sites. Today you will visit all these and meet your guide, who will brief you about the trek and assist you in preparing for another overnight stay in the hotel.
Day 03
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola [710m/2,328ft], O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Today will begin with an 8-9 hour drive along Prithvi Highway, which runs alongside the beautiful Trishuli River towards Soti Khola. You will pass through dense forests, numerous hills, and various old and new settlements. After reaching Arughat, you begin to drive off-road amongst traditional territories until you reach Soti Khola, where you will stay overnight.
Day 04
Soti Khola – Maccha Khola [900m/2,952ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
On day 4, we head to Machha Khola, crossing places like Armala, Apubesi, Liding, and Khani Besi. The trail passes through terraced farms along the way to the Sal forests and crosses many waterfalls, which lead to a short walk on the sandy banks of the roaring Budhi Gandaki River. Then, after continuing to walk on the rocky terrain, we arrive in Machha Khola, where we will stay overnight.
Day 05
Machha Khola – Jagat [1,410m/4,625ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
The trail we take on day 5, from Machha Khola to Jagat, goes through places like Tatopani, Duman, Dovan, and Thado Bhanjyang. The course can be challenging as it passes through a landslide area beside the Budhi Gandaki River. This route gives you a panoramic view of Ganesh Himal (7422m) before you ascend higher up the stone steps and further through the countryside until you arrive in Jagat, where you will stay overnight.
Day 06
Jagat – Deng [1,804m/5,917ft]: 6-7 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
You will begin the day by walking past the villages of Salleri and Sirdibas, following the upward route of the Budhi Gandaki River. Once we have crossed the suspension bridge, we will continue walking through the terraced farms of Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and Thangurmu. Then, after crossing a few more suspension bridges, walking through bamboo forests, and passing by the village of Nyak, you will arrive at the Gurung village of Deng. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Shringi Himal (7161m) and stay the night.
Day 07
Deng – Namrung [2,630m/8,626ft]: 6-7 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Start by climbing alongside the Mani walls in Deng, and continue along the route, following the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail passes through several suspension bridges, waterfalls, rhododendron forests, and the villages of Rana, Bihi, and Ghap to arrive in Namrung. A panoramic view of Shringi Himal (7161m) and Ganesh Himal (7422m) can be observed from Namrung, a checkpoint, so remember to keep your permits with you. We will then stay overnight in Namrung.
Day 08
Namrung – Samagaon [3,530m/11,578ft]: 6-7 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
As we leave Namrung behind, we ascend to the village of Lihi and then to Sho and Lho. The trail passes through a landslide area, so it is essential to maintain a steady pace. You give by many Chortens and Gompas to reach Sama Gaon, which offers a stunning vista of Manaslu (8156m), Larke (6249m), and Naike (6211m) peaks. We will stay overnight in Sama Gaon.
Day 09
Sama Gaon – Pungyen Gompa – Samagaon: 6-7 Hrs O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
On day 9, we explore Sama Gaon, an idyllic village with a stone gate and Mani stone wall, so it’s the perfect place to use this day. To acclimatize, you hike through yak pastures and extensive grasslands to Pung Gyan Gompa, a beautiful Buddhist monastery sitting in the lap of the Himalayas. You can visit the nearby Chorten and spend some time soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Manaslu (8156m) along with the other peaks of the region. Then we will hike back to Sama Gaon for an overnight stay.
Day 10
Samagaon – Samdo [3,860m/12,660ft]: 4-5 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Today we continue to follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. The trail is wide and more accessible than on other days, so you have a nice walk through the alpine vegetation of the region. Pass through large Mani walls encrypted with prayers and decorated with prayer flags as you walk up to the village of Samdo, where we will stay overnight.
Day 11
Samdo – Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. [4,460m/14,628ft]: 4-5 Hrs.O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Start by climbing down the river before ascending to Larkya Bazar. The trail passes through several Mani walls and stone huts and walks on Syacha Glacier’s gorge to arrive at Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. Larkya Phedi provides an excellent view of Larkya Peak (6249m) and Naike Peak (6211m). There is only one lodge in Larkya Phedi called Larkya Rest House, where we will stay for the night.
Day 12
Dharamsala – Larkya la [5,160m/16,924ft] – Bimthang [3,720m/12,201ft]: 8-9 Hrs O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
You start the trek early in the morning as you have a challenging day ahead. The trail walks through the moraines of Larkya Glacier, making the climb difficult. Continue climbing the steep, icy trail until you reach Larkya La Pass. From the top, you will have a panoramic view of Manaslu (8156m), Annapurna II (7937m), Himlung (7126m), Kang Guru (6981m), Larkya peak (6249m), Ratna Chuli (7035m) among others. You will descend from Larkya La, walking on a grassy moraine and rockfall area, to the village of Bimthang, where you will spend the night.
Day 13
Bimthang – Dharapani [2,300m/6,438ft]: 7-8 Hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
From Bimthang, you descend to Dharapani, leaving behind the spectacle of the Himalayas. Climb down Yak Kharka and pass through rhododendron forests to reach Kharche. Cross the fields and sub-tropical forests as you pass the Gurung village of Gho en route to Tilije, enjoying the view of Manaslu and the Annapurna ranges. We will then stay overnight in Dharapani.
Day 14
Dharapani – Syange - Kathmandu [1,080m/3,542ft]: 8-9 hrs. O/N at Tea House (A, B, L, D)
Begin the day by climbing down through the steep stone trail to Chamje, the starting village of the Marshyang Valley. As you climb the steep path alongside the Marsayangdi River, you will pass several suspension bridges. Passing Jagat, you will climb down to Syange, From Syange, you will drive to Kathmandu, enjoying the countryside view comprising markets, rivers, bridges, and hills. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, feel free to explore and enjoy your final stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 15
Final Departure (B)
On your last day, you will be dropped off at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your final departure.
What To Expect?
What's included
Airport/hotel pick up and drop off by private car.
At least two nights 3-star hotel in Kathmandu bed and Breakfast plan
Meals on the entire board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the whole trekking
Kathmandu -Soti Khola and Syange – Kathmandu By local Bus / By jeep up to your request
Trekking map
An experienced Government license holder guide
Trekking porter/Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking
Insurance, salary, equipment, transportation, local tax for guide and porter
Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available)
All necessary paper works and national park entry permits
Travel and rescue arrangement
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
All government taxes and tourist service charges
What's not included
Meals in Kathmandu before and after trekking,
Your travel insurance ( Rescue )
Tips for trekking staff and driver
Drinks (hot, cold and alcoholic)
Personal shopping and laundry etc
Personal trekking equipment
Review
I did a trek with My Everest Trip and Puru Thapaliya, who's a very nice guy and super helpful. I did a three weeks trek and for the Manaslu trek. the whole trek was very well organized and the guide very good.....but the scenery along the way was breathtaking!
Thanks a lot!
Mark London, United Kingdom
I challenged my two buddies to do this trek with me. We are so competitive and always come up with something we must do.
We were well prepared when we arrived in Nepal because we had a long correspondence with Puru, who gave us good advice. Meeting him and our guide in his office for the last details was like meeting a friend. We were grouped up with two guys from Switzerland, and that was cool; always lovely to meet new friends.
For this trek, you must be in good shape. We are young, muscular guys, but we struggle occasionally. Some of the terrains we walked were rough, and sometimes we didn’t talk much, but the porters were singing! These guys are so strong, even though they look small.
This trek takes almost two weeks, and because of the big difference in altitude (710 m to 5160m), you walk through different climate zones; this adds so much to the experience of seeing how the landscape changes from the lower parts to the icy trails to Larkya La Pass. Some days we walked for only 4-5 hours, but the day we walked to Larkya La Pass was almost 9 hours, but reaching the top gave a big reward. Our guide pointed out prominent peaks like Manaslu, Annapurna II, and Kang Guru. Our guide was great; he knew so many things and had excellent knowledge about the culture, villages, and gompas. Because this is a challenging trek in the remote part, it’s not as crowded, and you feel part of the greater universe.
So three guys from Holland asked for a challenge, and we got exactly what we asked for, thanks to Puru and his professional team. On top of this, we have two new friends in Switzerland and several new friends in Nepal.
Last, I recommend My Everest Trip to everybody who wants to travel to Nepal. They have many activities, and Puru shows great integrity and insight. I understand why his clients return to him if they revisit Nepal.
Peter Holland
FAQ
How long is Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu trek is about a 16-day journey from Kathmandu. This includes a day for arrival and departure and another for sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley. On the third and 15th days, you will drive to and from Kathmandu. The trekking days are only 11 days. The very experienced high-altitude trekkers might be able to complete the trek in about eight days. However, it would be best to stroll so that your body gets some time with the increasing altitude.
Other popular routes in Manasulu, i.e., Manaslu TSUM valley, trek a bit longer, demanding about 20 days.
How many feet is Manaslu?
Mount Manaslu’s altitude is 8,163 m (26,781 ft). It is the eighth tallest mountain in the world and rests peacefully in the Himalayas. It lies next to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range in the Gorkha district of Nepal. Manaslu Circuit trek is conserved within the Manaslu Conservation area of Nepal.
Is Manaslu known as a killer mountain?
The calm and majestic Manaslu always looks beautiful. However, behind that beauty hides the pain of over 60 mountaineers who have lost their lives in the hope of climbing the Manaslu summit. Although regarded as an easy mountain climb due to its long ridges and valley glaciers, Manaslu has taken the lives of a lot of trekkers. This includes the lives of 53 mountaineers between 1956 to 2006. The first climb was only successful in the year 2006. Until now, 300 people have managed to reach Manaslu’s top.
Is the Manaslu Circuit trek without a guide possible?
Legally, you can trek to Manaslu without a guide. The Government of Nepal has marked some specific areas as restricted trekking regions and made it compulsory for higher guides in those trekking areas. And, since this is one of those areas, you can attempt Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo.
Having a guide makes your Manaslu Circuit trek extremely easy. Since the population of Nepal in the Himalayas are not familiar with English and the trail moves along the thick forest, having a Manaslu Trek guide makes it easy to find the way. They also help you with bookings hotels in Manaslu and during altitude sickness. The cost of hiring a guide is minimal, and the price is worth their service. MyEverestTrip can help you get a manual for Manaslu Larkya La Pass.
Additional Information
Firstly, you will need your travel visa upon arrival in Kathmandu. There are two other Manaslu Trek permits, i.e., the Manaslu conservation area access and the Manaslu restriction area permit.
Manaslu Trek Permit
Manaslu restricted area permit: Nepal government has closed a few areas of Nepal as restricted trekking regions, and you shall need a special Manaslu Trekking permit to reach here. This special permit is only issued after you book your manaslu circuit trek package with a travel agency like MyEveryTrek and hire a licensed guide. You must submit your passports, visa, photos, Manaslu trek itinerary, and insurance to the immigration department in Kathmandu to get this permit.
This is not just about the paper. While you travel to the restricted region, you cannot go for Manaslu Trek solo. You must be in a group of at least two people, accompanied by a guide for your safety. Also, you need to follow other rules without impacting the local culture.
Manaslu Trekking Permit Cost
September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.
December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.
Manaslu conservation area permit can either be issued in Kathmandu or while you are on the trek, and this manaslu circuit trek permit is $30.
Annapurna Conservation area permit can also be issued in Kathmandu or while you are on the, and this Maanslu Permit costs $30.
Is Manaslu Trek difficult?
Yes, the Manaslu trek is among the most challenging treks in Nepal. As you reach above 5000m in sea level, the manaslu circuit trek difficulty is graded as “Moderate to difficult” by the experts of Nepal. It would be best to have excellent physical health and technical climbing skills while the pass was covered in snow.
Manaslu Trek Distance: The total distance of the Manaslu trek is about 180 km/160 meters. Manaslu trek in Nepal, you must cover the longest distance daily. You will have to walk more than 20 km on some days. Walking 6 to 8 hours daily for about a month isn’t a piece of cake.
Manaslu Trek Height: The highest point of the Manaslu trek is the Larka la pass. Almost all Manaslu Circuit Trek route lies above 40000 meters, adding to Manaslu’s difficulty. As you walk at this altitude, the pressure in the air is low, and you suffer greatly from the lack of oxygen. If we develop symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, and shortness of breath, the guide takes us to a lower altitude. In an emergency, helicopter evacuation will be arranged per your insurance policy.
Remoteness: Manaslu’s challenging landscape and distinct culture makes it one of Nepal’s remotest trekking regions, increasing its difficulty. You might not find luxurious hotels and restaurants while on a trek. Be ready to survive with a minimum and carry everything you need for 14 days of Manaslu Larkya La Pass in your bag.
Both physical and mental preparation before the trek is essential to overcome the Manaslu Trek difficulty. If you have any history of heart, lung, and mental disease, the first thing to do is consult your doctor. After medical permission, you can prepare your body with some physical exercises. Along with Jogging and running, we recommend cardiovascular activities like swimming and cycling. Another great way to organize your body is by practicing high-altitude trekking around your home. Getting Travel Insurance covering high-altitude trek rescue is the most important thing you can do before the Nepal trek.
While trekking, the right gear and comfortable clothes are the keys. Also, you need to avoid altitude sickness with enough sleep, a slower walk, and a hydrated body. Avoid alcoholic products during the trek, carry high-energy foods like chocolates, and drink lots of water.
What is the best time to embark on the Manaslu Trek?
Manaslu in Spring :
The rays of the sun increase, making it quite hot at midday. The lower region is full of lush flora and fauna, while the flowers begin to bloom in mid-March. There might be occasional rainfall, but the ambiance is magical, making it the best time for Manaslu Trek.
Manaslu in Summer :
Sometimes, heavy rain may lead to landslides and road blockage. After that, the sky is gradually evident, and the mountains look more elegant. In Summer, the day temperature can go up to 26 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees at night. Most of the farming activities are also done in the summer.
Autumn Season :
Ideally, Autumn is the best time for the manaslu circuit trek tour. The day temperature is above 15 degrees Celsius, and the night temperature falls below 5 degrees. As we move to the end of November, the night temperature drops below 0 degrees. The sky is always clear, and the views are just breathtaking. With no chances of rainfall and snowfall, Autumn is an excellent time for Manaslu Trek.
Manaslu in Winter:
These are the most challenging months for trekking. And we don’t recommend it, but it’s not legally banned. Overcoming the snow and cold might be difficult, but winter trekking isn’t impossible with the right gear and guidance. However, you might need extra pair of clothes and other trekking gear.
Why US
MyEverestTrip is a Nepalese Travel and Trekking Agency based in Kathmandu. We have been operating in different trekking regions for over a decade, traveling with hundreds of travelers worldwide.
With the pure intention to bring trekkers to Nepal’s safety and comfort, we have an entire team of travel planer, guides, and porters. We also have connections to hotels and restaurant lines all over Nepal to ensure that our trekkers get the best possible facilities.
So, here is the reason why you should travel with MyEverestTrip.
Customize your itinerary:
We have designed a well-planned Itinerary for all travel destinations around Nepal. However, this Itinerary is customizable as per the need and requests of our trekkers. Just let us know when and how long you are staying so we can arrange the rest.
Our Expert guide:
Although all travel agencies claim to have a good guide, many are not informed about the place you are traveling to. However, MyEverestTrip has its licensed guide in Nepal. They have been working in this field for over three decades, collecting all the information about the place/ culture and learning to keep the travelers safe. Also, our guide is good at the English language. We can even hire a guide who can speak Chinese and other European languages for trekking in Nepal upon special request.
Fair and reasonable Cost:
MyEverestTrip has been known for its very economic trek packages in Nepal. You can compare the price we offer with any other travel agency in Nepal and only book with us if you are satisfied with our cost. We try to include all needed expenses during the tour so that you will not be overwhelmed with hidden expenses after the packages are booked.
Your safety is our priority:
Obviously, the safety of our trekkers and team is the utmost priority of MyEverestTrip. Our guide and porters who shall accompany you for the trip will have their own insurance. We also encourage Travel insurance for our trekkers. Our treks and trip have been so designed that you only walk an appropriate distance. In any case of emergency, you will always have our back.
Responsible and Eco-Friendly
MyEverestTrip operates with the belief in responsible tourism. This includes
We are transparent about the services covered on the trip. There shall be no hidden cost (informed in advance if there’s any)
We cover all the places promised before the trek (the trend of skipping places once you book the package has to be discouraged).
All our guides and porter are above 18yrs. We highly discourage child labor in the tourism industry
We do not leave any wastage behind on the trekking routes. We either dispose of the waste appropriately or carry them back with us and send it to the municipality
We do not engage in any activities that affect the people in the trek places of Nepal we stay.
Within the 28-day itinerary, “My Everest Trip” provides you with last-minute booking for the Upper Dolpo Trek. You can make a last-minute booking for Upper…
Last Minute Booking For Everest Three High Pass Trek
With our “My Everest Trip”, last-minute booking for Everest Three High Pass Trek is possible. We provide last-minute bookings for several trekking routes, including the…
