14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

Helicopter Option in Manaslu Trek

If you don’t want to travel for long hours by ground transportation, a helicopter option is also available. We can arrange a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Jagat on Day 1. This option helps you to skip the Day 2 drive to Soti Khola, the Day 3 trek to Machha Khola, and the Day 4 trek to Jagat. You can start your trek directly from Jagat towards Deng.

Similarly, you can also choose a helicopter return from Bhimtang to Kathmandu on Day 12 instead of trekking down to Dharapani and driving back to Kathmandu. This option is perfect if you want to finish your trek earlier and return more comfortably.

But adding a helicopter ride increases your trip cost. The cost will vary depending on the helicopter service you choose. Your guide and porter will continue along the regular trekking route and return to Kathmandu separately.

Top Places to Visit on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Namrung

Namrung is one of the best places to experience the Manaslu region’s Tibetan Buddhist culture. At an elevation of 2,630 m, the village sits in a strategic spot with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. From Namrung, you get clear views of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Shringi Himal (7,187 m). Other village highlights include ancient mani walls, chortens, and traditional wood-and-stone architecture.

Birendra Lake

Birendra Lake (also known as Birendra Taal) is a glacial lake located north of the village of Samagaun. Meltwater from the Manaslu Glacier formed the lake, named after the late King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah of Nepal. It is also a popular spot for short acclimatization hikes, refreshment, and photography. Early morning is the best time for photography when the peaks reflect clearly on the still water.

Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m)

Manaslu Base Camp is another top place to visit on the Manaslu Circuit. It is the base of Mount Manaslu and is done as an acclimatization day hike from Samagaun. Manaslu Base Camp hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip and is quite challenging. However, it is totally worthwhile, as it gives you the feeling of standing at the world’s eighth-highest peak, Manaslu. Along with Mount Manaslu, the base camp is famous for views of Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), and nearby glaciers.

Pungyen Gompa

Pungyen Gompa is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery at the base of Mount Manaslu and a worthy destination. The name “Pungyen” (from “Phun Gyen”) translates to “three peaks,” paying homage to Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal. The Gompa follows the Nyingma and Sakya traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and is dedicated to Lord Pungyen, the protective deity of Mount Manaslu.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Length

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the longest-duration treks in Nepal. Its total distance is approximately 180km from the starting point of Machha Khola to the ending point of Besisahar. Trekkers must trek for six to seven hours each day; however, the daily distance varies. Physically fit trekkers with decent stamina can cover more distance than less energetic trekkers.

The trek usually takes 14 days. Each day, you will walk between 10 and 20 kilometers, depending on how well you adjust to the altitude and the type of terrain. The highest point on the trek is Larkya La Pass, at 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). Hence, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be ideal for beginners. However, trekkers must be physically fit and have decent stamina. They should focus on building strength and cardio to avoid getting too tired, which can lead to illness during the trek.

A typical Day during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

We will wake up around 5 a.m. every day. The morning will be refreshing at the high altitude, with beautiful views of the Himalayas. After having a hearty breakfast, we will start our day’s adventure. The first section of the trek will be pretty straightforward. We will pass through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced fields.

With a moderate pace, we will complete the first section of the trek and take a short break for lunch. From around 11 to 12 p.m., we will have lunch in a teahouse while enjoying the beautiful views. After refueling, we will resume our journey. This trek section can be pretty challenging, with steeper ascents and descents.

After navigating challenging terrain and staying motivated, we will finally reach our destination at 5 p.m. When we arrive, we will rest briefly in our room at the teahouse. We will have dinner around 7 p.m., get an early night’s sleep, and energize ourselves for the next trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Accommodation Guide for Trekkers

On the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll spend almost every night in a teahouse. Think of a teahouse as a small family lodge. The owners live there, cook for you, and usually know everything going on in the village. You’ll find them at nearly every stop, from Soti Khola at the start to Namrung, Samagaun, and Bhimthang further up. Lower down, you’ll also find a few guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t expect much in the rooms. Two wooden beds, a thin mattress, a pillow, a blanket. There’s no heating, and above Samagaun the nights get properly cold, so bring a warm sleeping bag. The dining hall is the only heated room. After dinner, everyone crowds around the stove there, and it’s one of the best parts of the trek.

Toilets are shared and mostly squat-style. In many places, you flush with a bucket of water. Hot showers are available in the lower villages for a few hundred rupees, but up high it’s cold water or nothing. Plenty of trekkers just use wet wipes for a few days.

As for Wi-Fi, Namrung, Samdo, and Dharapani have it, but it’s slow, and you pay per use. Electricity in the remote villages comes from solar panels, and lodges charge a small fee to plug in your phone. Carry a power bank, and you won’t have to worry.

Camping is an option if you want more privacy or more freedom with your schedule. Your support team carries the tents and kitchen gear and sets up camp each evening. But it costs extra.

Food During the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Food on the Manaslu Circuit is simple, filling, and cooked fresh in the teahouse kitchen. Vegetables come from the gardens out back. Up high, menu options are limited. Every bag of rice and every egg above Samagaun was carried there by a mule or a porter.

Breakfast is early. Porridge, muesli, pancakes, eggs, chapati. Try the Tibetan bread at least once. It’s fried dough, a bit chewy, a bit greasy, and with honey on top it’s hard to beat on a cold morning. Most people drink milk tea or hot lemon. The coffee is mostly instant.

For lunch, you’ll stop at whatever teahouse is on the trail around midday. We recommend ordering dal bhat. Rice, lentil soup, a vegetable curry, sometimes pickle on the side. The cook will keep filling your plate until you say stop, and the guides eat it twice a day for a reason. If you’re tired of it, you can have fried noodles, momo, thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), or potatoes in some form. Dinner is at your lodge, and the menu is pretty much the same as lunch.

Some things we’d suggest. Go vegetarian once you’re above Samagaun. Drink a lot of hot water, and try the garlic soup, which locals say helps with the altitude. Pack snacks in Kathmandu too. A chocolate bar that costs 150 rupees in Thamel can cost three times that near Larkya La.

Water Sources During the Manaslu Circuit Trek

You’ll find water sources regularly along the Manaslu Circuit trek. These sources are natural streams, rivers, and taps in villages and teahouses. They come from mountain springs like the Budhi Gandaki and Dudh Khola. While the water is often clear at its source, it is strongly recommended to use water purification tablets, filters, or UV devices before drinking. If not purified, germs like bacteria and parasites can be present, which may cause stomach infections or other health issues.

Most teahouses also sell bottled water and boiled drinking water, though prices increase with altitude-starting from NPR 50 per liter in lower villages to over NPR 200 at higher points like Larkya Phedi. Staying hydrated at high altitudes helps prevent symptoms of altitude sickness.

Internet and Communication Facilities during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Staying connected during the Manaslu trek is difficult but necessary. In lower areas such as Kathmandu, Samagaun, and Soti Khola, communication and internet access are reliable, and trekkers can use NTC or NCell services to call loved ones. For internet, NTC and NCell provide 3G to 4G service up to Samagaun.

However, the connection becomes unreliable as the trek altitude increases, so taking satellite phones is recommended. Some places offer Wi-Fi, but it’s often not as strong as you would like. If you’re trekking in Nepal, obtaining a Nepali SIM card (NTC or Ncell) is essential and can be purchased at the airport for $2. While free Wi-Fi is available at your hotel in Kathmandu, Wi-Fi in remote areas may be limited. Soti Khola offers Wi-Fi for $3, and Maccha Khola has a strong NTC signal but no Wi-Fi.

You can get good NTC connectivity in Jagat, Deng, and Namrung, but Wi-Fi access will cost extra. Wi-Fi is available for a fee in Samagaon and Samdo, but Dharamsala has no connectivity. VSAT phones are an option elsewhere. Bhimtag lacks SIM connectivity but offers Wi-Fi, and you can access both Wi-Fi and SIM services at your final destination.

Things to Consider during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek isn’t a typical hike. It’s a journey through the high Himalayas where every step should be thoughtful; otherwise, your chances of completing the trek decrease. Here are some important considerations to help you stay fully prepared:

• Landslide-Prone Areas: Certain sections, like Machha Khola to Jagat, are landslide-prone. They are very dangerous during the monsoon. These zones receive over 600 mm of rainfall/month, which makes the trail slippery and unstable.
• Suspension Bridge Crossings: You’ll cross more than 20 suspension bridges. These bridges are about 80 m high and can be challenging for those with acrophobia.
• Limited Medical Access: The only health post at higher places is in Samagaun (3,530 m), with basic first aid and no diagnostic tools. Helicopter evacuation from this region costs between USD 2,500-4,000, which can be expensive and challenging.
• Yak and Mule Traffic: On narrow cliffside trails around Namrung and Samdo, you’ll often see long yak and mule caravans carrying supplies. A single mistake near steep edges ( around 200 m deep) can be dangerous.
• Respecting Local Customs: The upper Manaslu region is rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. You must walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls, and avoid touching religious flags or pointing your feet at altars.
• Dry Air at High Altitudes: At elevations above 3,000 m, oxygen levels drop to 68% compared to sea level, and humidity levels fall below 30%. This causes rapid dehydration, nosebleeds, and cracked skin if you don’t hydrate properly (recommended: 3-4 liters/day).

Acclimatization Day

On our 14-day Manaslu Circuit trek, you will acclimate in Samagaun (3,530 m) on Day 8. These rest days help your body adjust to the thin air, where oxygen levels drop about 64-68% compared to base elevation. During acclimatization, you’ll take short hikes to Pungyen Gompa or the Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint to stay active while avoiding altitude gain while sleeping. Skipping proper acclimatization can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which includes symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and even life-threatening conditions like HAPE or HACE.

According to the Himalayan Rescue Association, up to 40% of trekkers above 3,000 m experience AMS if they don’t acclimatize properly. So, while it may seem like a pause in your journey, this day is important for your safety and for completing the trek successfully.

Permit Requirements for Manaslu Circuit Trek

To trek to the Manaslu Circuit, you need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Officials check these permits at different checkpoints along the route. They verify the MRAP at Jagat and near Samagaun. Officials check the MCAP at Philim and the ACAP near Dharapani when you enter the Annapurna region. Government staff or security personnel conduct checks, and failure to show valid permits can result in fines or being turned back.

You must obtain these permits through a government-registered trekking agency in Nepal. The Department of Immigration in Kathmandu issues the MRAP, while you can get the MCAP and ACAP either through the trekking agency or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Cost of Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Cost of Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

What is the Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

If you ask any guide or trekker who has walked this route a few times, they’ll tell you the same thing. Go in autumn (September to November) or spring (March to May). It mostly has to do with Larkya La. At 5,106 m, the pass is the hardest section of the whole trek, and passing it is challenging in fresh snow or heavy cloud. Autumn and spring offer a dry trail and clear skies on the day you cross the pass.

Autumn is the peak trekking season, especially October. The rains have just stopped, the air is clean, and Manaslu (8,163 m) is visible almost every morning from Lho and Samagaun. Below in the Budhi Gandaki valley, you’ll be walking in a T-shirt, which means the weather will be pleasant and mild. Up at Dharamsala, the night before the pass, you’ll be sleeping in every layer you brought, especially in November, because temperatures drop there.

Spring is a little quieter and is also one of the best times for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. In April, the rhododendrons bloom between Namrung and Lho, and whole hillsides are red and pink. Clouds cover the sky in the afternoons in May, so you’ll want to be on the trail early if you care about photos. And in early March, Larkya La can still be snowed in.

Transportation Options for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The main transportation options to reach the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek (usually Soti Khola or Machha Khola) include public buses, tourist buses, private jeeps, shared jeeps, and even helicopters. Among these, private jeeps are most preferred for comfort, fewer stops, and faster travel. A private jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola costs around USD180-220 per vehicle and takes about 7-9 hours, depending on the road conditions, which can be rough and bumpy.

For budget travelers, public buses are the cheapest option, costing only USD10-15, but they are often overcrowded, slower, and less comfortable. Shared jeeps are a mid-range choice and popular among solo trekkers, costing around USD 25-35 per person. Tourist buses go only as far as Arughat or Dhading Besi, after which you need a local jeep to continue. For a premium experience, helicopter charters to nearby trailheads like Samagaun can cost USD 2,000-3,000 one way and take about an hour; these are mostly used by luxury trekkers or those short on time.

 Which mountains can I see on the Trail?

If you’re doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek during peak trekking times (spring and autumn), be ready for countless mountain views throughout your journey. You’ll likely never walk a day without mountains in the background or surrounding you. As you circle the Manaslu Himal range, you’ll see a lot of high-altitude peaks, including:

• Mount Manaslu (8,163 m): The world’s 8th-highest mountain, known as the “Mountain of the Spirit.”
• Himalchuli (7,893 m): The second-highest peak in the Manaslu range.
• Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m): Also known as Peak 29, it’s one of the least-climbed 7,000ers because of its technical difficulty.
• Shringi Himal (7,187 m): A lesser-known beauty visible from Samdo.
• Ganesh Himal (7,422 m): Seen in the lower sections of the trek, it holds cultural importance for both Hindu and Buddhist communities.
• Larkya Peak (6,249 m): Near the famous Larkya La Pass, this peak adds extra beauty to the panoramas.
• Buddha Himal (6,672 m): Often seen from Lho and Sho, this peak is revered for its spiritual significance.

Do We Need a Guide And Porter for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, you must hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek because of the strict restricted-area rule, although hiring a porter depends on your personal preference. The Manaslu area lies right along the Tibet border, and the government has declared the region a restricted zone between Jagat and Dharapani.

Traveling within the region requires a Restricted Area Permit, and getting it isn’t as easy as for other routes like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Treks. To get that permit, you have to apply through a registered Nepali trekking agency, and a licensed guide must stay with you the entire time. No guide, no permit. There’s no way around it. But solo travelers have good news. For years, trekkers required at least two trekkers to apply for the permit. That changed this year. In March 2026, Nepal’s Department of Immigration updated its policy so that a single foreign trekker can now get a restricted area permit. Now, you and your guide are enough.

Regarding a porter, it’s your personal choice. They’re also worth hiring, especially if you are new to trekking and can’t carry heavy backpacks. They also let you enjoy the view without tiring yourself while carrying a heavy load.

How to Properly Train for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most renowned trekking destinations, but it is also equally challenging. Trekkers planning to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek must be physically fit, have a strong core, and be mentally prepared. Here are some tips for properly training for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Strength Training

Building strength in your legs, core, and upper body will help you manage challenging trails and carry your backpack with ease. Focus on leg exercises such as squats, lunges, deadlifts, and step-ups. For your core, do planks, crunches, and back extensions. For your upper body, include push-ups, pull-ups, and shoulder presses. A trekker with excellent strength doesn’t tire as quickly, so they can cover more distance.

Cardio Training

A strong core is essential for high-altitude treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek. To build cardiovascular endurance for high-altitude trekking, do activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Aim for at least 30 to 45 minutes of cardio exercise five times a week. This will help improve your stamina and lung capacity. Trekkers with vigorous cardio can lead other trekkers.

Mental Training

Although physical fitness is essential for high-altitude treks, trekkers must also be mentally stable; therefore, they need adequate mental training. Trekkers must know that the Manaslu Trek is challenging and should expect difficulties along the way. Breathing is difficult at high altitudes and can also take a toll on the human body; therefore, activities like meditation, yoga, and Dhyana help maintain physical and mental calm.

Alternative Trekking Option Near Manaslu Circuit Trek

Not everyone is fit enough to cross the Larkya La Pass, and others may have already completed the circuit. If you are, you can choose alternative routes to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Manaslu Base Camp Trek and the Tsum Valley Trek are the two most common alternatives to the Manaslu Circuit adventure.

Manaslu Base Camp Trek: 

• Duration: 13 days
• Price: USD 1,150 per person
• Max altitude: 4,800 m at Manaslu Base Camp
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Best season: Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May)
• Start/end point: Machha Khola
• Route type: Out-and-back, no Larkya La Pass crossing
• Base camp day hike: around 1,270 m of elevation gain over a 12 to 14 km round trip from Samagaun
• Average walking: 5 to 7 hours a day
• Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and MCAP (ACAP not needed, since the route doesn’t go into the Annapurna area)

Tsum Valley Trek: 

• Duration: 20 days
• Price: USD 1,850 per person
• Max altitude: 3,700 m at Mu Gompa 
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best season: Autumn and spring
• Start/end point: Arughat
• Total trekking distance: 165 km
• Average walking: about 5 to 6 hours a day
• Permits: Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, and ACAP if the route goes through the Annapurna area

We also offer a shorter version of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in just 12 days for those looking to shorten the itinerary. You can see our Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide for more information. With an itinerary of only 12 days, you can still build in travel and tour time to make a complete 2-week holiday even more worthwhile, or you can use the extra time to rest and relax.

Combine Tsum Valley With Manaslu Trek

If you want a more exciting Manaslu Circuit Trek with more places to visit, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek may be your best option. The standard Manaslu Circuit Trek takes about 12-14 days, while adding Tsum Valley makes it a 19-day journey.

Manaslu and Tsum Valley both lie within the Gorkha district of Northern Nepal. They connect via the same trekking route along the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail first takes you towards Tsum Valley through villages such as Lokpa, Chumling, and Chhokang Paro. After exploring the valley, you’ll return to the main trail and continue towards the Manaslu Circuit through Deng, Namrung, and Samagaun.

Although the two regions are connected, each offers a different trek experience. Tsum Valley is known for its old Buddhist culture, peaceful villages, ancient monasteries, and traditional way of life. Also called the Hidden Valley of Treasures, it is a sacred place for Buddhist people. The valley is also known for its green fields, beautiful landscapes, and views of Ganesh Himal.

On the other hand, the Manaslu Circuit is best known for its high mountain scenery, changing landscapes, and challenging mountain passes. The trek takes you through river valleys, forests, traditional villages, and high-altitude villages before reaching Larkya La Pass (5,106 m).

Annapurna Circuit Trek Vs Manaslu Circuit Trek | Which to Choose

Both the Manaslu Circuit Trek (MCT) and the Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) are legendary Himalayan journeys, but they offer different experiences. While ACT is more developed and diverse, MCT is quieter and more remote. This comparison will help you decide which trek suits your adventure style and expectations.

Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Clothing

• Trekking Boots
• Down Jacket
• Waterproof Jacket
• Trekking Pants
• Thermal Base Layers
• Gloves
• Socks (3-4 pairs)
• Warm Hat and Sun Hat

Backpack and Accessories

• Daypack (25- 30L, for daily essentials)
• Duffel Bag (50- 70L for porters)
• Hydration System
• Trekking Poles
• Headlamp
• Sunglasses

Health and Hygiene

• Personal Medications
• First Aid Kit (basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic, blister treatment)
• Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Sunscreen
• Sleeping Gear
• Sleeping Bag (3-season, for temperatures as low as -10°C)

Electronics

• Camera
• Power Bank
• Mobile Phone

Essential Documents

• Passport (with a copy)
• Trekking Permits
• Permit – MyEverestTrip will arrange)
• Travel Insurance
• Flight Details and Emergency Contact Information

Extra Items

• Cash (Nepali Rupees)
• Plastic Bags

We Offer Last-Minute Booking for the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2026/2027

My Everest trip offers flexible booking terms and conditions, and we have last-minute booking options for the Manaslu circuit trek.

Join the Manaslu Circuit Trek Group for 2026/2027. Our treks offer numerous benefits, including safe trekking, knowledgeable guides and porters, guaranteed accommodation during peak seasons, completion certification, and more. Please call us during the trek to take any necessary precautions in case of an emergency.