Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
1. Enjoy the panoramic Himalayan views of Manaslu, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Nemjung, and Gyaji Kang
2. Visit monasteries such as Nubri and Pungyen
3. Witness the way of living of Bhotia settlements and Tibetan Buddhist people
4. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Budi Gandaki and Nubri valley
5. Conquering one of the highest formidable passes, Larke La Pass(5,160 meters)
Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the remote and less crowded trekking trails in Nepal that circles the world's eighth-highest peak, Mount Manaslu (8,163 metres/26,781 ft). Opened for foreigners in 1992, this Manaslu trail encompasses breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, and high mountain passes.
Beginning your trek with an incredible Kathmandu sightseeing tour, you will take a scenic road drive to Soti Khola. The trail leads you through diverse terrains, passing various charming settlement areas like Jagat, Deng, Namring, etc. During the acclimatization days, you will take a side trip to Manaslu Base Camp trek, where you'll see glaciers, snowy peaks, and wide open views. The whole Manaslu trail is full of peaceful nature and amazing mountain scenery. One of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the trek is crossing the Larke La Pass at an altitude of 5,160 meters, which offers breathtaking views of Himalayan giants like Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
This rewarding journey provides you a wonderful opportunity to experience the unique culture and tradition of local people, visit ancient monasteries, and soak in the spiritual essence of the region. Moreover, the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary covers a major portion of the Manaslu Conservation Area and borders the Annapurna Conservation Area. This allows you to witness diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
If you're looking for a hike that's full of nature, culture, and adventure - but without big crowds - Manaslu hike is perfect. The Manaslu hike gives you an unforgettable experience in one of the quietest and most beautiful parts of Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu: (1400m/4593 ft)
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trip Preparation
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola (700m/2296 ft) - 8 to 9 hours
Day 4: Trek to Maccha Khola (869m/2851 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 5: Trek to Jagat (1340m/4396 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 6: Trek to Deng (1860m/6102 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 7: Trek to Namrung (2630m/8628 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 8: Day 8: Trek to Samagaon (3520m/11548 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 9: Acclimatization and Explore Samagaon - 6 to 7 hours
Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3875m/12713 ft) - 4 to 5 hours
Day 11: Rest Day in Samdo
Day 12: Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. (4460m/14632 ft) - 4 to 5 hours
Day 13: Trek to Larkya la (5160m/16929 ft) and to Bimthang (3590m/11778 ft) - 8 to 9 hours
Day 14: Trek to Tilije (2300m/7545 ft) - 5 to 6 hours
Day 15: Trek to Tal (1700m/5577 ft) - 5 to 6 hours
Day 16: Trek to Syange (1080m/3543 ft) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu - 8 to 9 hours
Day 18: Departure to Airport
Manaslu Circuit Trek Includes
1. 03 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive of breakfast on a twin shared basis
2. 14 nights' accommodation during Trek in a Tea House on a twin shared basis
3. All meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
4. Airport - Hotel - Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
5. Kathmandu- Soti Khola Transfers
6. Syange - Besi Shahar transfer on local jeep
7. Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu inclusive of entrance fees
8. English speaking Trek leader/Guide
9. Porters to carry your bags (1 porter for 2 guests)
10. Sleeping bags
11. Duffel bag (to be returned after the trek)
12. Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance and equipments for all staffs
13. All necessary permits for the trek
14. Medical Kit (carried by guide)
15. Welcome and Farewell dinner
16. All ground transfers on private air con car/van/coach
17. Government, hotel and all applicable taxes
Manaslu Circuit Trek Excludes
1. International Airfare and taxes
2. Travel Insurance with rescue and emergency evacuation
3. Nepal Entry visa (Visa is obtained in Nepal Airport immigration on arrival. USD 25 per visa for 15 days, USD 40 per visa for 30 days and USD 100 per visa for 90 days. All the visas are multiple entry visas. Please carry 02 passport sized photographs
4. All items of personal nature like telephone bills, laundry, drink etc.
5. Items such as hot water for shower/drinking; Mobile phone and camera charging etc will be extra during trek which can be paid to the tea house/lodge owner directly.
6. Tipping to guide and driver
7. Any other item which is not mentioned in the cost includes list.
Manaslu Circuit Trek - 18 Days (Map) & Route Details
Essential Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Trek
General Gear:
1. Puffy down jacket (Rental jackets available for an additional USD 35)
2. Four-season sleeping bag (0°C) (Rental available for an extra USD 35)
3. Daypack (Suggested size: 35–45 liters) with a rain cover
4. Sleeping bag liner
Accessories:
1. Sun hat or cap
2. Beanie or knitted hat
3. Scarf or neck gaiter
4. Headlamp
5. Sunglasses
6. Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
7. Insulated outer gloves (for colder months)
Clothing:
1. Technical fabric base layers (lightweight for warmer months, heavier for colder months)
2. Technical fabric short-sleeve (2) and long-sleeve (2) shirts
3. Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
4. Fleece jacket or pullover
5. Hiking pants (2 pairs)
6. Comfortable indoor pants for teahouses
7. Waterproof and windproof outer shell pants
8. Hiking shorts
Footwear:
1. Wool or technical fabric warm socks
2. Hiking socks
3. Liner socks (optional, such as silk)
4. Waterproof trekking/hiking boots
5. Ice cleats/microspikes (recommended from November to March to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces)
6. Casual shoes
7. Gaiters (lightweight for dust, heavier ones for snow during colder months)
First Aid & Medications: (Note: Guides carry first aid kits and medication, but personal supplies are advised.)
1. Sunscreen
2. Lip balm
3. Ointment
Essential Items:
1. Passport
2. Extra passport-sized photocopies
3. Reusable water bottle
4. Toiletry kit
5. Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
6. Hydration bladder
7. Towel
8. Pillowcase
9. Toilet paper (2 rolls)
10. High-protein snacks (e.g., protein bars or nuts)
11. Waterproof/dry bags for documents and money
12. Airline tickets (Leave a copy at our Kathmandu office in case of flight changes)
Optional Gear:
1. Additional supplies and gear can be purchased in Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu's Thamel area, where affordable trekking equipment shops are available.
2. Power bank or extra batteries
3. Camera and mobile phone
4. Cards or a book
5. Pee bottle or funnel (for women)
6. Trekking poles
7. Whistle
8. Thermos for hot drinks
What to Expect During the Manaslu Circuit Trek 18 days?
The journey begins with a long but beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, passing through rolling hills, rural villages, and riverside landscapes that give you a glimpse of Nepal's countryside life. The lower sections of the Manaslu region offer you an incredible view of dense subtropical forest that later follows the swiftly flowing Nudhi Gandaki river. As you continue to ascend the higher altitudes, entering the Samagaon and Lho, you will come across Tibet-influenced settlement areas. This will allow you to explore ancient monasteries, interact with friendly locals, and witness Buddhist rituals in daily life. You will come across the thrilling part of the trek by crossing Larke La Pass during the middle phase of the trek. This part will be physically demanding, but you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers. In the last leg of the trek, you will gradually descend through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, ultimately connecting with the Annapurna region at Dharapani.
What is the Distance and Height of Manaslu Circuit Trek?
You will cover 177km(109.9Miles) of the Manaslu trail during the course of 18 days. However, this distance may vary according to the start and end of your route and the side highlights you include. For instance, if you include Manaslu Circuit trek with Tsum Valley, then you will have to cover more than 177 km.
Likewise, this trek will elevate you to the maximum height of 5160 m at the top of the Larke La Pass, which connects Budi Gandaki Valley with Marshyangdi Valley.
How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek can last between 9 to 20 days. If you want less exploration without acclimatization days, then this rewarding trek can be completed in a short time. However, if you include more exploration with many side highlights and acclimatization days, then this trek can be as long as 18 to 20 days.
Where does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Start and End?
There are various routes that you can take to complete trekking Manaslu Circuit. Most of the trekkers prefer taking a drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Arughat and trek from thereon. While some people also prefer to start their trek from Maccha Khola after taking an on-road drive from Kathmandu. Travelers with ample time can start their journey from Barpak and Laprak and then join the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek at Jagat.
Likewise, most of the trekkers end their trek in Dharapani. However, in our 18-day package, we will take you a little beneath Dharapani to Syange via Tal and end the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
How Much Does it Cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost can range between USD 850 to USD 1800. However, this cost may vary according to the inclusions of services, type of travel you choose, etc. We are providing you this incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek package for USD 1450 per person. This cost includes Kathmandu day trips, accommodation in Kathmandu and trek, meals on trek, permits and entrance fees, guide, porter, and all land transportation. However, visa cost, airfare, insurance, and other personal expenses are not included in this cost.
When is the Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu region shows its different allures in different seasons. But considering the weather, trail conditions, etc, it can be best done during spring(March to May) and autumn(September to November). The mild temperature with dry trails offers you ideal trekking conditions. Likewise, the rhododendron and wildflower bloom make the Manaslu Circuit Trek one of the best spring treks in Nepal. The festival experience that you get during the autumn season will undoubtedly bring you back to Nepal and the Manaslu trail again.
Do I Need Porters and Guides for Trekking Manaslu Circuit?
According to the provisions of trekking in Nepal, you cannot trek to a restricted area without a licensed trekking guide. As you know, you will be entering the restricted area, so you must be accompanied by the guide to complete this trek. When it comes to porters, it is not mandatory to hire a porter. However, we strongly recommend that you hire a porter. Traversing that difficult terrain with weights for more than 2 weeks is not a joke. So, porters will help you carry your luggage and equipment so that you can have a comfortable trek.
How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Considering the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty, this trek can be considered a moderately challenging trek. Foremost, the altitude of this trek is pretty high above 5000 m, so there are more chances for you to suffer from altitude sickness. Moreover, crossing Larke La Pass is one of the difficult parts of the trek. On top of that, you will have to walk on uneven terrain with many steep ascents and descents. The long hours of walking every day on such a trail can be physically exhausting and mentally tiring.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Suitable For Me?
The Manaslu trail consists of traversing through the lush forest, verdant meadows, steep ascents and descents, cliffside gravel paths, and stone staircases. Overcoming all this difficult terrain requires a good level of physical fitness and mental endurance. So, if you are a beginner, then this trek can be quite challenging for you. However, with proper beforehand preparation, this trek is doable even for movie trekkers.
If you are someone who wants to escape into the tranquility of the Himalayas with a less crowded trail, then this trek is totally made for you. Hence, if you are reasonably fit, open to remote experiences, and prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking, then this journey is heaven on earth for you.
Likewise, if you are someone seeking a luxurious experience during the trek, then this trek might not be suitable for you. Being one of the off-the-beaten-path treks, this trek can afford basic to moderate accommodations, meals, and services.
How to Prepare for the Mount Manaslu Trek?
If you are thinking about trekking to Manaslu Circuit, then prior preparation is a must. To be able to withstand the 6 to 8 hours of walking daily on the trail, you will need good strength, stamina, and endurance. Therefore, you should do exercises that will increase your core and leg strength. Exercises like squats, lunges will help to increase leg strength, while planks, Russian Twists, leg raises, mountain climbers, etc, will enhance your core strength. You can also go on short hikes, carrying some weights.
Likewise, you can try meditation and yoga for mental preparation. This will help you stay calm even in chaotic moments and does not impact your decision-making. You can try watching some of the Mardi Circuit videos and reading blogs so that you can have a general idea of what your Manaslu Circuit Trek is going to be. Hence, it is always necessary to make preparations for trekking in Nepal, especially when you are travelling to the tranquil Manaslu region.
Meals on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Similar to the Khopra Ridge Trek, you can find pretty basic meal and drink options in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Teahouses will have diverse food options from Nepali food, local food, to some foreign cuisines. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the food options can get more expensive than at lower altitudes. The food served at teahouses may be simple, but it will be hearty and nourishing, enough to replenish yourself for the trek. Besides the staple Daal bhaat tarkari, momo, etc, we recommend you try their local food too.
Accommodations on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Even though Mount Manaslu trek traces the secluded area, you can still find the teahouses and lodges along the trails for accommodations. However, you cannot expect teahouses and lodges with amenities similar to mainstream trekking routes, like Everest Base Camp trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Most of the teahouses will offer you twin-sharing rooms. The teahouses in the lower altitude may have attached bathrooms, but as you ascend to higher altitudes, facilities get limited. You will have to adjust the bathroom within the territory of the teahouses. The additional facilities like hot shower, charging electronics, WiFi, etc, can be provided by the teahouses, but you should pay an extra amount for that.
Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
During this rewarding trek, you need to acquire 3 trekking permits in nepal. Since you will be traversing around the trails of Manaslu Conservation Area, you will need Manaslu Conservation Area(MCAP) from Philim onwards. MCAP will cost you around USD 30 per person per entry for foreign nationals and USD 10 per person per entry for SAARC Nationals. Likewise, you will also need Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) from Dharapani onwards. The price for ACAP is also the same as MCAP.
Furthermore, you will be entering the restricted area during this trek, so you need to obtain a Restricted Area Permit(RAP). This permit will cost you USD 100 per person/week from September to November. However, once your stay goes beyond 1 week, you will have to pay USD 15 per person/day. Likewise, if you are trekking in December–August, this permit will cost you around USD 75 per person/week. Beyond 1 week, you will have to pay USD 10 per person/day.
Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization While Trekking Manaslu Circuit
The highest point of your trek will be Larke La Pass above 5000 m, so this trek can be considered more prone to altitude sickness. Moreover, you will be walking most of the time above 3000 m, so you can suffer from common symptoms of AMS like headache, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, etc. However, with proper altitude acclimatization and safety measures, you can complete trekking in Nepal safely. The key to avoiding altitude sickness is to stay hydrated, eat and rest well, and walk at your own pace. If the symptoms of altitude sickness worsen, do not take any risks but descend immediately. No trek can be more important than your health.
Why Complete Your Manaslu Circuit Trek With Mountain Adventure?
Choosing Mountain Adventure Trekking for your Manaslu Circuit Trek means choosing yourself expert guidance, safety-first planning, and a hassle-free experience. Our knowledgeable local guides, well-managed logistics, and focus on cultural connection will ensure you a smooth, enriching, and memorable journey through the Himalayas. Contact us today.
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