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Manaslu Circuit Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

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Trip Duration

13 Days
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Max. Altitude

5,106m. / 16,752ft.
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Nature of Trip

Tea House Trek
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Trip Difficulty

Challenging
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Group Size

1-20
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Best Seasons

March-May/Sep-Nov
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Activity

Trekking
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Start/End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Manaslu Circuit Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s best, most well-rounded treks for people interested in experiencing local culture, the thrill of a challenging adventure and breathtaking natural landscapes. The multi-week trek encircles the base of Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and even includes a day hike to its base camp at 4800 m. In one incredible trek, you hike through quaint traditional villages, delicate alpine meadows and alongside monstrous snow-capped mountains.

Your Manaslu journey begins at lower elevation in Machha Khola which is a day’s journey from Kathmandu via bus or private jeep. From here, the footrail hugs closely to the Budi Gandaki River, slowly ascending through jungle, yak pastures and up into rocky alpine terrain. Each day brings you closer to the crossing of Larkya La (5106 m), the high mountain pass on the Manaslu Circuit.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area, meaning that a special, additional permit is required for guest access. The restricted nature of the region and additional permit has left the region much less-travelled compared to the other famous regions of Nepal. This means that you can get a more authentic glimpse into the rural way of life of the local people, as well as enjoy the more abundant wildlife and better preservation of the delicate mountainous terrain.

The Manaslu Circuit itinerary is usually 12-15 days and can be modified based on your needs and preferences. Our itinerary is 13 days and includes one acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. More days are recommended for those new to spending time at high altitude. If you have the time, you might be interested in extending your time in the Himalayas to visit Tsum Valley, take the Upper Manaslu Circuit route or connect your Manaslu Circuit Trek with the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

This page includes everything you need to know about trekking the Manaslu Circuit with Himalayan Peace Treks. We are an ethical trekking company focused on creating positive change in the trekking industry in Nepal as well as in our local communities. We would love to connect if you have any questions or would like to discuss your personalized trekking itinerary.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Views of the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), with the opportunity to hike to its base camp (4800 m)
  • Everchanging flora and fauna as you trek from forests at lower elevation, past many waterfalls and wildlife, to the rocky alpine above
  • A unique glimpse into the ancient traditions of the various Nepali and Tibetan ethnic groups
  • Visit important cultural sites including monasteries, mani walls, and prayer wheels
  • Day trips including glacial lakes, the Tibetan border (4998 m) and famous monasteries
  • The opportunity to reach over 5000 m elevation as you cross over the high mountain pass, Larkya La at 5106 m
  • World-class trekking in the restricted and slightly less-travelled region of Nepal
  • Stay in local villages, feel warmly welcomed into cozy tea houses, and appreciate the rural way of life in the mountains
  • Many mountain views along the way including Manaslu (8163 m), Himlung Himal (7126 m) and Annapurna II (7937 m)

Why Trek With Himalayan Peace Treks?

We are a trusted, ethical trekking and tour company that facilitates incredible experiences in the Himalayas. You can feel good about choosing our company to guide you because of our genuinely excellent service and commitment to giving back to our communities and the environment.

Our ethical trekking approach means appropriate wages and working conditions for our wonderful team, community empowerment and support, and environmental consciousness. We are honest and thoughtful with our guests and everyone we do business with. We promise you transparency and enjoyment from start to finish and would be happy to customize your trip for you.

Our main community projects include donating directly to local schools and orphanages to support children in need. Sustainable trekking is in our hearts and is also in the hands of those heading into the mountains themselves, so we will brief you on how you can trek more sustainably with us.

With decades of experience among the team, we would love the opportunity to share with you what we love about the Himalayas in the most peaceful way.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Summary

Pre-Trek Day 00: Arrival in Kathmandu (1345 m)
Pre-Trek Day 0: Final Day in Kathmandu
Trek Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869 m) 160 km, 8-9 hrs
Trek Day 2: Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1340 m) 20 km, 6-7 hrs
Trek Day 3: Trek Jagat to Deng (1860 m) 22 km, 7-8 hrs
Trek Day 4: Trek Deng to Namrung (2630 m) 19 km, 7-8 hrs
Trek Day 5: Trek Namrung to Shayla (3520 m) 16.5 km, 6 hrs
Trek Day 6: Trek Shayla to Pungyen Gompa (4700 m), then to Samagaun (3530 m) 17 km, 5 hrs
Trek Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun. Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m)
Trek Day 8: Trek Samagaun to Samdo (3875 m) 5 km, 2-3 hrs
Optional: Extra Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Trek Day 9: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (4460 m) 6 km, 4-5 hrs
Trek Day 10: Trek Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass (5106 m), then to Bimthang (3720 m) 16 km, 8-10 hrs
Trek Day 11: Trek Bimthang to Goa (2300 m) 15 km, 4-5 hrs
Trek Day 12: Trek Goa to Dharapani (1860 m) 6 km, 3 hrs, then Drive to Besisahar (760 m) 35 km, 4 hrs
Trek Day 13: Drive Besisahar to Kathmandu, 175 km, 6-8 hrs

Photo/Video Gallery

Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek

We are happy to work with you to adjust this itinerary to create a personalized experience for you.
*Times are estimated based on average hiking pace and do not include breaks.

Feel free to arrive today, or earlier, to enjoy Kathmandu Valley, rest, and prepare for your trek. You will be greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and provided with transportation to your pre-booked hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Please let us know your flight itinerary so we can arrange your pick-up.

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Distance: 7 km - Airport to Thamel

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Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)

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Meal: n/a

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Accommodation: Three Star Hotel

Includes/Excludes

What is included?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Two nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast included
      • Standard itinerary includes two nights upon arrival
      • We can include additional nights or arrange for one night pre-trek and one night post-trek depending on your schedule and preference
  • Luggage storage at you hotel in Kathmandu
  • All necessary trekking permits
      • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
  • Transportation to and from trekking route by local bus
      • Private jeep available upon request
  • All accommodation while trekking
  • Three meals a day (unless otherwise listed), with a tea or coffee at each meal
  • Daily fresh fruit whenever available
  • Trekking map
  • One experienced and professional local guide who speaks English
      • Guide fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food and accommodation
      • Assistant guides might be added with larger groups
  • First-aid kit carried by guide
  • If needed, our team will arrange an emergency rescue with your insurance company
  • Company fees, administration fees, and government tax (VAT)
  • Minimum 1% of profits donated to schools and orphanages in Nepal
  • A tree planted in your name

What is not included?

  • International flights and tourist visa on arrival to  Nepal
  • Personal sightseeing costs and meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara (temples, monastery entrance fees, souvenirs, lunches, etc.)
  • Any extra costs while trekking (snacks, fancy coffees, hot showers, laundry, battery charging fees, wifi fees, monastery entrance fees, donations, etc.)
  • Local porters to carry the items for your trek
    • Porter fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food, accommodation and an optional duffle bag to carry your items
    • The number of porters and price depends on the number of trekkers: one porter carries the items for two people (maximum 20 kg of weight)
  • Drinking water (bring your own water filtration system or plan to buy boiled water)
  • Sleeping bag and puffy jacket rentals are available in Kathmandu if needed
  • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Look into medical travel insurance that covers trekking to over 5000 m elevation, then send the information to us please
  • Staff tips
    • Many Nepali trekking guides and porters rely entirely on unpredictable tips to supplement a lower wage. With Himalayan Peace Treks, you will be able to travel knowing that the team is being paid fairly and that any tip you want to give is a reflection of your experience
Price starts

US$ 996

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 1171
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 1096
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 1036
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 1010
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 996

Total Cost:

US$

Trip Information

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and deeply rewarding journey. It is challenging due to the duration (13 days), high elevation (5106 m at Larkya La), long days (average 7 hours a day) and a bit of rough terrain as you descend after the pass. That being said, no mountaineering, climbing or scrambling are required to complete the trek. To help adjust to the high altitude, the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is designed to ascend slowly and includes one or two acclimatization days.

With proper training in advance, and perhaps an extra day or two added, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an option for beginner trekkers and those who have never spent time at high altitude. The trek is tough but doable. Proper training, hiring a porter, and managing your health are important for the success of your Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Respecting Culture and Religion on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is rich in various local cultural traditions and Tibetan-Buddhist practices. Ethnic groups such as Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, Sherpa, and Tibetan, have roots within the Manaslu region. Prayer flags, mani walls, stupas, and monasteries add spiritual significance during your adventure. Be mindful of the local norms in which modesty is the standard. Openly changing in front of people and urinating in public spaces is not common. Please consider the culture when selecting what clothing to bring and keep public displays of affection to a modest minimum.

If you would like to enter temples, monasteries and sacred places, your knees and shoulders need to be covered and shoes removed. Only enter homes and kitchens when invited, and ask for permission to take photos of local people and their homes (a good practice anywhere!). The right hand is considered sacred, so pass religious structures with your right side facing them (walking clockwise). Only use your right hand for spinning prayer wheels, eating, and handing items, such as currency, to someone.

Major Elevation Points on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Pungyen Gompa: 4700 m
  • Manaslu Base Camp: 4800 m
  • Tibetan Border: 4998 m
  • Larkya La Pass: 5106 m
  • Starting Elevation: 869 m in Machha Khola
  • Finishing Elevation: 1860 m in Dharapani

Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List

We have put together an incredible packing list for your Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is extremely thorough and in some cases might be too much, so please use your own judgement when packing. Most people overpack for their first trek, so keep that in mind while gathering items. Porters can carry a maximum of 20kg, which is 10kg per person. We have created a detailed packing list with explanations and here is a condensed PDF packing checklist.

Weather On The Manaslu Circuit Trek

If you are trekking to Manaslu during peak seasons, spring and autumn, you are more likely to get clear skies, little precipitation, warm days and cool nights. At low elevation you might be surprised to know that the day time can be quite hot but the days cool off as you gain elevation. At night time, it can get pretty chilly, especially with higher altitude. If you are trekking closer to winter (which is December to mid-February), then you are likely to get clear but cold weather.

If you are trekking close to monsoon season (which is mid-May to mid-September) then you can expect to get wet! Regardless of the time of year, the mornings are generally clearer in the mountains and the clouds start to roll in after midday.

What is the Food like on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Considering that you’re trekking into a remote part of the Himalayas, the food is pretty great! Each tea house has a menu to choose from including local and international dishes. The most recommended local food to try during your manaslu Circuit trek is Nepal’s national dish, dal bhat. Dal bhat is lentil soup (dal) and a hearty portion of rice (bhat), traditionally served with curry, sautéed greens, and maybe some fresh cut vegetables, a spicy sauce or local yogurt. It’s always made fresh and has unlimited refills to help refuel after a long day of trekking.
Another delicacy to add to your must-try list are momos, which are well-loved local dumplings.

You can expect to see other dishes including pasta, fried noodles and soup for lunch and dinner and more western items for breakfast such as pancakes, eggs and oatmeal. Common food requirements such as allergies, vegan, and gluten-free can be easily accommodated for, but some cross-contamination is possible.

Accommodation on the Manaslu  Trek

Tea houses. You will be staying in tea houses which are small, simplistic lodges with a dining hall and guest rooms to stay overnight. At lower elevation you will be more likely to find nicer tea houses with amenities such as hot showers, attached bathrooms and electricity in the rooms. As you trek deeper into the Himalayas, be prepared for more simple amenities and shared squat toilets. The dining halls are often heated by a delightful wood stove, but there is no heating in the guest rooms so a good sleeping bag (provided by Himalayan Peace Treks) is required to keep you cozy and warm.

Required Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

When you book with Himalayan Peace Treks, we will obtain all necessary permits on your behalf. We just need your passport once you arrive in Kathmandu. To go into the restricted region, there needs to be a minimum of two people in your group (if you’re an individual you can contact us to join a group), plus be accompanied by a certified guide. Required trekking permits for the Manaslu  include:

Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP)

From September to November it costs US$100 per week and US$15 per additional day and from December to August it costs US$75 per week and US$10 per additional day

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)

For international guests this will cost NPR 3000 (~US$24) and for SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) guests it costs NPR 1000.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)

Because the Manaslu Circuit ends where the Annapurna Circuit begins, a permit to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area is required. It costs NPR 3000 (~US$24) for international guests and NPR 1000 for SAARC guests.

Trip Map of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip map of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit is best in the spring and autumn seasons. The spring season is typically from the mid-February to the beginning of May and the autumn season starts mid-September and continues through to mid-November. Some guests are interested in coming at quieter times, or have schedule restrictions, and choose to come at the beginning or end of a season and manage the weather conditions.

Yes, because the Manaslu Circuit enters the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area, you need to have a minimum of two people in your group and be accompanied by a certified guide. If you are an individual who is interested in trekking the Manaslu Circuit, you can reach out to us and we will find a group for you to join. Guides and trekking companies organize all of the trek details for you including arranging transportation, obtaining permits, and booking tea houses.

Guides also offer local knowledge about the culture and language, as well as the surrounding flora, fauna and mountains. Your guide will help you set the pace, assess risks and manage emergency situations.

A porter is not necessary, but recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. If you have lots of experience trekking at high altitude and are feeling physically and mentally confident, then you will likely be just fine. Porters are recommended for anyone who is new to trekking at high altitude, is nervous about the terrain, or is seeking more enjoyment than a challenge.

Hiring a porter is a lovely way to support the local economy and have another staff member present in case of emergency.

Remarkably, considering you are trekking deep into the himalayas, there is electricity at most tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Very few have charging outlets in guest rooms, but you can charge your devices in the main dining hall. Some tea houses charge a small additional fee for charging. Be prepared that the electricity is unpredictable and could cut out at any time.

The final stop before the pass, Dharamsala, does not have electricity. Be sure to charge up your devices before arriving so that you can capture the incredible journey over Larkya La. Many trekkers choose to bring a power bank or solar charging device. Either can be useful (especially if your phone is your camera) but are not necessary.

Yes, there is wifi accessible while trekking to Manaslu Circuit. Although we suggest that you use the opportunity to disconnect, many tea houses have wifi so you can still let your loved ones know that you are having the time of your life. Many tea houses charge a small fee to access the wifi for your stay. Similarly to the electricity, the wifi can be extremely unpredictable and unreliable so we don’t recommend that you plan to rely on it for anything important.

You can choose to travel via local bus or private jeep to and from the Manaslu Circuit. A local bus is included in the price of your trek package. Local buses can be a fun cultural experience but are often noisy, dusty and slow. If you would like to add a private jeep for a quicker, more comfortable ride, then you are welcome to do so. We would subtract the cost of the local transportation from the cost of the private jeep(s).

The total walking distance on the Manaslu Circuit is approximately 180 km. This number could vary slightly depending on the day tours or side hikes that you choose to do. Each day you can expect to walk an average of 15 km.

Altitude sickness, which occurs as a result of spending time at high elevation, can happen any time you’re above 2500 m. It is a result of gaining altitude too quickly and not allowing time for the body to adjust to the reduced oxygen and air pressure changes. Symptoms can include anything from headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, vomiting and difficulty sleeping to more severe symptoms such as fluid in the lungs, irrational behaviour, breathlessness, blue skin, and an inability to walk. Surprisingly, altitude sickness can happen to anyone, even if they’re young, fit, and have been at high altitude before. It is important to do everything possible to prevent altitude sickness and not ignore symptoms if they arise.

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. This means physically walking slowly, as well as limiting how much elevation you gain in a short period of time and stretching your trek out over many days. To further help the body acclimatize to the elevation gain, it’s a good idea to hike up to a higher point than you plan to sleep. You can also include rest days, often referred to as “acclimatization days” in which you spend two nights at the same elevation, hiking up to a higher point during the day.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary suggested by Himalayan Peace Treks already has the above ways to help prevent altitude sickness factored in. If it’s your first time at elevation or you have time to spare, then we can adjust your itinerary to include more acclimatization days and an even slower ascent. Altitude sickness medication is best used as a treatment instead of a prevention. You can consult your doctor if you have any specific questions.

DO: ascend slowly, drink lots of water, monitor your symptoms, and trek with an experienced guide
DON’T: push through severe symptoms, heavily consume alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or smoke cigarettes, take sleeping pills, or ascend too quickly

The restricted areas of Nepal, such as the Manaslu Conservation Area, are located in culturally sensitive areas and where there is a Nepal-Tibet border. The extra permit requirements help to monitor access which results in less travellers entering the region. A reduced amount of traffic helps to protect the local culture and the delicate flora and fauna of the area.

Yes, a tourist visa can be obtained at immigration on arrival. Options include a 15 day visa for $30, a 30 day visa for $50, and a 90 day visa for $125. You can pay the USD equivalent in any major currency. Although credit cards are accepted, cash is recommended.

If needed, you can extend your tourist visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Immigration Office in Pokhara. The extension cost is a minimum of $45 for up to 15 days and then an additional $3 per day.

Yes, obtaining good medical travel insurance before you come to Nepal is necessary to trek safely and worry-free. Ensure that whatever insurance you get covers high altitude activities. You can send your insurance information to Himalayan Peace Treks so we can coordinate your safe return if there are any unlikely emergencies.

To pay for your trek you can bring any major currency ($€£¥) or we can coordinate an online bank transfer. For spending money in Kathmandu and on your trek, you’ll need local Nepali Rupees (NPR) as Nepal mostly deals in cash. You can exchange or withdraw local rupees in Kathmandu. Once you venture into the mountains there are no reliable ATMs, so any cash you might need for the entirety of the trek (for snacks, souvenirs, gear replacement, etc.) needs to have been already obtained beforehand.

To pay your initial 15% deposit, you can send a money transfer (eg. Wise) or an international bank transfer. To pay for the remainder of your trek once you have arrived in Kathmandu, you can pay by cash (in any major currency), or any of the above listed online transfer options. Any fees associated with a transfer or payment are your responsibility. All prices are listed in USD.

Trip Reviews

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Price starts

US$ 996

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 1171
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 1096
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 1036
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 1010
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 996

Total Cost:

US$

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

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