Manaslu Circuit Trek

Name: Manaslu Circuit Trek
Brand: Nepal Trekking Routes
Price: 1175 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

A Journey Through Remote Nepal

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Duration14 Days

Trip GradeChallenging

CountryNepal

Maximum Altitude5106 M

Group Size2-12

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesTrekking

Best TimeMarch to May and September to December

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Overview

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the popular off-the-beaten-path trekking in Nepal. It is a wonderful combination of nature, culture, and adventure.

Located in the historical Gorkha District, it is the closest off-the-beat trekking route that gives a different experience from other treks like Langtang Valley Trek.

This trekking route is named after geting popularity in the late 1990 and early 2000 which mean starting from soti Khola and end at Beshishar. Finishing as circal with challenging pass of Larkey La Pass. Mount Manaslu is also called a Killer Mountain as it is one of the hardest 8,000ers to climb.

Besides, you can witness tens of snowcapped peaks above 6,000m. Buddha Himal, Himal Chuli, & Ganesh Himal are some of the prominent peaks seen during this epic Manaslu trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP). It is one of the Himalayan conservation areas in Nepal that has protected a large variety of flora and fauna.

This trek rewards you with unspoiled nature and culture untouched by modernity. The lifestyle of the Manaslu Region is still in its purest form because it is away from the city lifestyle.

The Manaslu Region shares its border with the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. It used to be an ancient salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet. Thus, it is fragile from the security perspective as well.

Due to its unspoiled nature, ancient culture, and security sincerity, the Nepal Government has declared it a restricted area for international tourists.

Trekking to the Manaslu Region is equally adventurous. The Manaslu Trekking Route begins from around 700m and rises as high as 5,167m (Larky La Pass). Gradual altitude gain is a challenge for beginner trekkers but it offers a thrilling adventure, too.

Ancient monasteries of Tsum Valley help you feel peace of mind. This Himalayan Valley has been following the footsteps of Lord Buddha since time immemorial. Animal sacrifice is forbidden in this valley. If you are non-veg, you must forget non-veg dishes at least until you remain in this valley.

What type of Permits do you required for Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Region is a restricted area for trekking in Nepal. Hence, you cannot do this trek as a solo trekker but need at least two in your group. Your group must have a government-licensed trekking guide.

Among Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits, you need a restricted area trekking permit. Manaslu Trek Restricted Area Permit price is one for the autumn whereas different for the rest of the months.

From September to November, it costs USD 10 per person per day for the first 7 days. Then, you have to pay an additional charge of USD 10 per day.

From December to August, the special permit price is USD 70 per person per day for the first 7 days. Then, you have to pay an additional charge of USD 10 per day.

Another is the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit. The cost of an MCAP Permit is USD 30 per person per entry and remains the same throughout the year.

The last one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit because after crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,167m), you enter into the Annapurna Region. The ACAP Permit price is USD 30 per person per entry.

Being an off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal, a TIMS Card is not necessary for this trek though.

However, if you want to continue Annapurna Circuit Trek from Dharapani, the same permit works. Nevertheless, for Annapurna Thorung La Pass Trek, you must have a TIMS Card mandatorily.

You do not have to worry about the Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits. The agency you book the trip with will manage all these because it is an organized trip.

How is the Manaslu trek itinerary?

Are you looking for a suitable trekking itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek? The trek requires 12 to 18 days. If you are planning for this trek, you must have at least 12 days. There are various types of Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary based on duration.

Nepal Trekking Routes offers 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek promising an unforgettable trekking experience for travelers. However, if you would like a shorter or extended trip, then please contact us for customization. The itinerary is flexible and we can tailor it according to your pace and preference.

Major Highlight of Manaslu Trek

Best remote trek towards the 8th highest peak of the world
Least crowded trekking trails
Cultural villages of Gurung and the Tibetan Buddhist community
Flora and fauna of Manaslu Conservation Area
Exploration of the Budhi Gandaki River Valley and its various richness
Incredible vistas of the snowcapped peaks: Himalchuli (7,893m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), Shiringi (7,187m), Langpo (6,668m) and Saula (6,235m)
Experience of crossing Larkya La Pass (5,213m)
Side trips to Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake and Pungyen Gompa

How much does it cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on the group size, duration and additional services. Manaslu Circuit Trek cost is higher than the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Mardi Himal Trek. According to Nepal Trekking Routes, the trek can cost $1,520 per person, including permits, guides, accommodation, meals and transportation. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Trekking Permits Cost
The Manaslu Circuit falls within a restricted region, which requires specific permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): $100 for the first week. It is an additional permit requiring extra cost as compared to other treks in Nepal.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): $30
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30
Accommodation and Meals: Even though an off-the-beaten-path trek, the Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse trekking in Nepal. There are teahouses and lodges along this trekking route that provide luxurious to basic accommodation and food. Daily food and lodging costs average $25-$35 per person. However, as you go higher, the price of food, beverages, and accommodation also rises.
Guide and Porter Costs: You cannot do Manaslu Trek as a solo trekker. Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory due to the restricted area regulations. You must pay a good amount for your guide and porter. Similarly, you might like to give them tips and incentives if you are satisfied with their services. For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, expect to spend $45-$55 per day for the guide and porter.
Transportation: Compared to the Everest Trek, transportation costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are cheaper because you do not have to pay for domestic flight tickets. You can reach the trailhead by public bus, tourist bus or a private jeep. Travel to and from the trailhead via jeep or bus costs $150-$200.

Miscellaneous costs may include snacks, drinks, and tips for guides and porters which is around $60-$100. Additionally, you may need to rent or buy trekking gears but you do not need to purchase climbing gears.

Various types of Packages on Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are several versions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek package available. Manaslu Circuit Trekkingpackages are made according to your budget, vacation, choice, and route you want to follow.

Manaslu Circuit Trek alone is also done if you want to avoid traversing across Tsum Valley. Avoiding Tsum Valley Trek means fewer days in an itinerary that saves your time, energy, and budget.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary ranges from 11 days to 17 days and even longer. If you are experienced in Nepal trekking routes, especially in the high altitude, you can even customize this trip.

But for beginner trekkers in Nepal, Manaslu Circuit Trek for 14 days will be more suitable. As a beginner, you need enough time for acclimatization and observation of natural and cultural heritage sites.

Without enough acclimatization time, you might be unable to beat the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty. Starting from around 700m, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route in Nepal reaches as high as Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,167m.

As soon as you trek higher than 2,500m from the sea level, acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common phenomenon. To overcome possible altitude sickness during the trek to the Himalayas, you must have enough duration for pauses during the trek and acclimatization days.

So, we recommend you make sure you book the right Manaslu Circuit Trek package based on your physical fitness and experience.

How many days would it be Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is designed for those having less than 2 weeks’ vacation in Nepal. Although short, the rewards are not different from those of a longer itinerary.

Short Manaslu Round Trek is more suitable for experienced trekkers who have already done high-altitude trekking in Nepal.

Moreover, you must have good physical fitness that can sustain with long trekking hours and AMS. Make sure you have a habit of regular exercise and sound health condition to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,167m) might be challenging for beginner Nepal trekkers. This is one of the highest passes in the Nepalese Himalayas, a major challenge for Manaslu Trek.

Best alternative of Manaslu Circuit is with Tsum Valley Trekking

Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trekking gives a different experience from doing Manaslu Circuit Trek alone. Generally, trekkers combine Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Tsum Valley is also called a hidden treasure of the Nepalese tourism industry. This valley has maintained unspoiled nature and culture untouched by modern technology and tools.

Tsum Valley is a beautiful serene village surrounded by Buddha Himal, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himal. Stone-roofed houses, terraced fields, Himalayan streams, lush forests, and several snowcapped mountains above 7,000m are the assets of this village.

Tsum Valley Trek rewards you with the true flavor of the Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition in Nepali territory. Thousands of years-old monasteries, chortens, and mani walls make this place a completely peaceful zone.

The most significant Tibetan Buddhist shrines are Piren Phu (also called Milarepa’s Cave), Ruchen Nunnery, Mu Gompa, and Gumba Lungdang. Spending time at these monasteries helps you feel peace of mind.

The most beautiful aspect of this serene village is that animal sacrifice is not allowed in this sacred valley as well. Therefore, Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek rewards you with a lifelong experience of trekking in Nepal.

Itinerary

Are you looking for flexible or changeable trekking itinerary for 14 days Manaslu circuit trek? Nepal Trekking Routes Trek have changeable and flexible trekking itinerary as per traveler's preferences. This allows for adjustment in daily trekking distance additional acclimatization day or you will get cultural exploration based on the traveler interest. If you would like to discuss specific changes or preferences for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Fell free to share with us Nepal Trekking Routes is here to address desire itinerary accordingly.

Trip PlanExpand All

Day 01: Welcome to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

On the arrival time, the representative of Nepal Trekking Routes welcomes you at the Kathmandu Airport and escorts you up to the hotel. After taking rest, you can collect some trekking gears required for Manaslu Circuit trek around Thamel, the tourist junction. In the evening, the trekking guide gives you instructions about the trekking itinerary, difficulty, and the nature of landscapes and so on.

Accommodation: Deluxe Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Drive to Machhakhola 935M

Today, you head towards the gateway to Manaslu Circuit trekking region by roadway transportation. After having breakfast, you travel in Public bus along the Prithvi Highway up to Malekhui bazar or Dumre Bazaar, a town below the Queen of Hills, Bandipur. En route, you enjoy the staggering views of the snowy peaks of Manaslu region, Ganesh Himal and Annapurna region. The journey moves ahead along the banks of the Trishuli River and then the Marsyangdi River. After about eight hours driving, you reach the Budhi Gandaki Valley to begin your trekking formally the next morning.

Max Altitude: 935 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 9 Hrs

Day 03: Trek to Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft)

Today’s trekking track continues along a few pastoral Gurung Villages of Manaslu trekking region. You also go across a few suspension and wooden bridges over the mountain rivulets like the Tharo Khola and the Yura Khola. After following a stone stair, you reach Khorlabesi Village and a natural hot water waterfall. You can play with the hot water while taking a short pause here. Moving further, you come across some Gurung ethnic hamlets with their traditional housing pattern, lifestyle, art and architecture. Finally, you reach Jagat where you spend the night at a teahouse that serves you local organic food as per your appetite.

Max Altitude: 1340 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 04: Trek to Deng (1,804m/5,919ft)

Walking past some lush subtropical forests, pastoral villages and cultivated fields, you reach Deng for the night stay. The villages you have to go across are Salleri and Sirdibas before you cross the suspension bridge over the Ghatte Khola. Then, you walk past Philim, one of the largest Gurung villages in Manaslu Circuit and then, Ekle Bhatti (meaning only one inn for the travellers). By walking through the bamboo forests and wide valley behind, the trail takes you to Deng.

Max Altitude: 1804 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 05: Trek to Namrung (2,660m/8,727ft)

It is quite interesting trekking today as you go past some dense forests, alpine vegetation and a few villages having rich culture and tradition. While continuing along the trail, you enjoy the enchanting vistas of the major peaks of Manalsu region. You can reach Namrung by following an alternative way via the village Prok that offers you the wonderful view of the Siringi Himal. You have to cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times by using the suspension bridges while moving further. This alternative trekking trail of Manaslu region takes you through Manaslu Conservation Area, an in-situ for wildlife and vegetation.

Max Altitude: 2660 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6-8 Hrs

Day 06: Trek to Lho (3,180m/10,433ft)

Moving ahead towards Lho village, you can enjoy the typical lifestyle and Tibetan Buddhist influence in the Nubri Valley. Nubri Valley and Tsum Valley are the two major valleys in Manaslu region. Nubri Valley is occupied by the Gurung ethnic communities and the majority of people are in foreign employment. Until you reach the mani walls of Lho Village, you continue along the tush forests of rhododendron and oak, deep valley and terraced land with variety of crops. On the way, you come to see the enthralling view of the Pungen Glacier that originates from Peak 29 of Manaslu area. Here, you can enjoy the eye-catching sights of the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu region.

Max Altitude: 3180 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6-8 Hrs

Day 07: Trek to Samagaun (3,530m/11,581ft)

Lho village serves you with a beautiful sunrise view of Mt. Siringi, Mt. Ganesh and Mt. Himalchuli. Therefore, don’t forget to take a short visit to Ribung Gompa before leaving Lho Village. Then, you follow the trail that leads you through Lihi which is a beautiful village with monasteries and terraced fields beautified by various crops. Thereafter, you walk past three other villages naming, Sho, Lho and Shyala from where you see the alluring outlook Manaslu region peaks. The enchanting view of Peak 29, Himal Chuli, Mt. Manaslu and large glaciers accompany you while moving ahead. In the end, you reach Samagaun, which is a naturally and culturally attractive village and rest point throughout Manaslu Circuit trek.

Max Altitude: 3530 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 Hrs

Day 08: Acclimatization Day

Samagaun is the best place to have an acclimatization day as there are a few interesting sites to visit to make your trekking more memorable. You can take side trip to Pungyen Gompa (also called Sama Gompa), which takes about two hours’ walking distance from here. From the monastery location, you can enjoy the stunning vistas of the Manaslu Glacier, the largest glacier in the entire Manaslu region. While roaming around the gompa, you come to see hundreds of Sherpa women wearing their cultural attire, ornaments. The chortens and mani walls bejeweled with the prayer flags give you a real peace of mind and soul.

Alternatively, you can take another hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) that rewards you with the heart touching scenery of the Manaslu valley and Himalayas around. On the way, you come to see the Birendra Lake which is one of the freshwater lakes in Manaslu Himalayan region. Spread in about 3 sq. kilometers, Birendra Lake is formed due to the deposit of the Manaslu Glacier. Nowadays, it has become more and more popular among the domestic as well as international trekkers to Manaslu Circuit.

Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea House

Day 09: Trek to Samdo (3,690m/12,106ft)

After having breakfast, you follow the trail that ascends towards the Budhi Gandaki River banks and then, a few suspension bridges and mani walls. You walk past some villages reflecting Buddhism in the Himalayas taking you very close to Nepal-Tibet border. This is the ancient trade route between Nepal and Tibet before other routes were not developed and you can find such practices even today. By walking through juniper and birch forests, you reach Samdo by leaving Kermo Kharka village behind. Overnight stay at a teahouse.

Max Altitude: 3,690 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala (4,470m/14,665ft)

You continue the journey today after taking breakfast. On the way, you will walk past a seasonal Tibetan market of the region, also known as Larke Bazaar. Then, you ascend to the Budhi Gandaki River relishing the stunning view of Larkya Glacier. Again, crossing the Salka Khola valley, you end at Dharmasala after walking for about four hours. You are going to cross the highest point of the entire Manaslu Round trekking itinerary the following morning. Therefore, we recommend you to take side trips around Dharmasala to prepare yourself for crossing 5,160m high pass.

Max Altitude: 4470 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 Hrs

Day 11: Trek to Bimtang (3,750m/12,303ft) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,929ft)

You are going to cross the most challenging but memorable high Himalayan pass of Manaslu region trekking. After having breakfast, you move ahead by keeping your determination quite higher. On the way, you enjoy the captivating sight of snowcapped peaks, glacial lakes, pastoral hamlets and diverse flora-fauna. Walking through the Larkya Glacial Valley rewards you with the miraculous sight of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Walk slowly but steadily to avoid altitude sickness to reach the top of the high pass. Once you reach the top of Larkya La Pass (5,160m), you can have an unforgettable memories of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II. While moving downhill towards Bimtang, you can have a distant view of imminent Manaslu Mountain in the early sunset. Overnight stay at a teahouse at Bimtang by enjoying the cuisines prepared and served by the Sherpa people.

Max Altitude: 5160 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 10 Hrs

Day 12: Trek to Tilche (1,700m/5,577ft)

After having breakfast at Bimtang, you begin your trekking today by walking along a ridge having a wonderful mountain view. You come to witness majestic view of snow-clad peaks of Manaslu, Lamjung, Himlung and Cheo until you cross the Dudh Khola River. Then the trail penetrates through a lush rhododendron forests and then cultivated land of Karche village. Walking along the rugged trail that moves uphill now and downhill then, you reach Tilche (Tilje) for the night rest.

Max Altitude: 1700 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 Hrs

Day 13: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft) and Drive to Kathmandu

Today is the last day of trekking in Manaslu Circuit, so, you begin the voyage after breakfast. The trekking route that goes past Thonje village walking along the stone-paved staircase to reach Dharapani. You meet Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail from Dharapani walking for about three hours. Taking a short break here, you catch a sharing jeep to drive to Besishar and drive to Kathmandu by regular normal bus servic. You can celebrate the successful completion of Manaslu Circuit trek with the fellow trekkers to make this journey a lifelong memory. If you would like to go by private jeep please consult with your travel operator.

Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Deluxe Hotel in KathmanduDuration: 10 Hrs

Day 14: Final Departure

Today, you have come to the end of Manaslu Circuit trek 17 days’ itinerary. So, the crewmember of the company accompanies you up to the Kathmandu Airport according to your flight schedule.

Meals: Breakfast

Plan An Amazing Private and Tailor-Made HolidaysNot satisficed with this itinerary? Share your idea with our travel Expert. We make your dream come true.

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Cost Details

Includes

Airport pick-up and drop off service.
Trekking Guide
Two Nights Deluxe Hotel accommodation,
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & accommodation during the trekking
Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks if required,
Trekking permit of National park,
Restricted area trekking permit
TIMS(Trekking Information Management System )
Insurance and equipment for the trekking staffs
First aid kit
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program in typical Traditional Nepalis restaurant

Excludes

Traveler travel insurance and international flight fare
Bar bill, Drinks, beverages, hot shower,
Personal Porter will arrange as per traveler request
Tips
Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (without itinerary)

Route Map

Dates & Availability

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Departure Date

Starts: February 28, 2025

Ends: March 13, 2025

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Book Now

Those traveler who is interested for fixed group tour around the 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal Trekking Routes offers fixed group departure which is match with your interest. We have many departure options for you. So you can check the most desirable travele date and book your trek to join a fixed group departure. You can ensuring a shared experience with fellow adventure. This option is perfect for those who enjoy a camaraderie of trekking in Nepal in a group while still experiencing the beauty and challenge of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Fixed Group Departure Highlights for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Please choose your most desirable travel date through our fixed group departure.
If given fixed group departure date is not suitable please scroll up the page and go through the book this trip bottom and choose your own departure date and hold your spot.
The size of Group would be 1 to 12 people. If Number of the people is more than 12 please contact us for special discount.

Add-ons & Options

Nepal Trekking Routes Trek have decades of Experience of operating trekking to Manaslu Circuit. As competition grows we are excited to offer a variety of exclusive addons to elevate your Manaslu Circuit Trek to new heights.

Porter with cost of USD 220: Nepal Trekking Routes experience porter will manage your gear leaving you free to absorb the Natural wonder of Manaslu region. 1 Porter can be shared between two person and porter can carry Maximum 25 kg between two travelers. So traveler and porter ratio is 2:1.
City Sightseeing: After enjoying morning breakfast, you will be picked by your city tour guide from the hotel and take around Kathmandu for sightseeing. You will visit world heritage monuments such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swoyambunat and Bouddhanath. In the evening, our trekking guide will conduct a briefing about the trekking program before dinner.Sightseeing tour cost would be USD 65 PP(All the Heritage entry fee is yours and that cost is USD 30 PP for four different heritage site)

Grab on our tailored add-ons and experience the magnificent view of Manaslu Circuit Trek. Book your Manaslu Circuit trek adventure today and make your dream come true. Our team is always with you for make it true.

How to get Add-Ons?
It is easy method to get add ons. Please follow the guidelines.

Step 1: Go through book this trip buttom.
Step 2: Please go through calendars and select your desirable travel date.
Step 3: Scroll down the page, then you will finds different variation of add ones topic. Select as per your interest
Stem 4: Fill the form and click on accept term and condition
Step 5: Process to payment

Essential Information

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging journey through the beautiful Himalayas of Nepal.
Here is some essential information to help plan your adventure:

Location and Accessibility

The Manaslu Circuit trek goes around Mount Manaslu(8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. The trailhead of this trek is Machha Khola. You can reach there by a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu. One of the challenges of the trek is passing through the Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,213m. The trek ends at Besisahar, which is connected to Pokhara and Kathmandu by road.

Manaslu Trekking Duration and Distance

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes around 14 days based on the itinerary provided by Nepal Trekking Routes. The entire route covers approximately 177 kilometers. The daily walking hours range from 6- 8 hours.

Best Time to Trek

Autumn (September –November): Autumn is one of the most favorable and popular seasons to trek in Nepal. The skies are clear for panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The weather is stable for a pleasant journey. The landscapes are vibrant with the fall colors of the trees and cascading waterfalls and streams.
Spring (March-May): Spring is one of the ideal seasons for trekking in Nepal. The temperature is moderate and comfortable for the trek. The trail is adorned with the vibrant colors of rhododendron blooms.
We recommend you avoid the monsoon season (June-August) as it brings heavy rain. The trail becomes wet and slippery. There is a risk of landslides and visibility is poor. In lower sections of the trail, the leeches and mosquitoes can be a nuisance.
The winter season (December-February) is also considered an off-season for trekking in Nepal. The extreme cold and snow make the trekking conditions harsh. Some of the teahouses close during this season.

Prominent peaks

Some of the prominent peaks seen from the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) are Mt. Manaslu, Manaslu North, Samdo Peak, Naike Peak, Larke Peak, and Cheo Himal.

Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP)

The Manaslu Circuit trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. It lies in the northern part of Gorkha District. It protects a fragile but diverse natural resource base and a rich cultural environment. It covers an area of 1,663 sq.km. lies in Tsumnubri Rural Municipality. The area protects about 9,000 inhabitants including 2,000 species of plants, 39 mammals, 201 birds, 3 reptiles and 11 species of butterflies in 11 types of forests.

Challenges and Difficulties

High altitude

One of the challenges of Manaslu Circuit Trek is its high altitude. You may face a risk of altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It is caused by the lack of oxygen in the higher altitude. When you gain altitude quickly without acclimatizing, you may suffer from altitude sickness or AMS. The symptoms of AMS are headaches, breathing difficulty, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia, etc.

To prevent the AMS, you should go slow and steady taking time to rest and hydrate. Acclimatization is crucial for high-altitude trekking like the Manaslu Circuit trek which requires you to trek above 5,000 meters.

Trail Conditions

The trail conditions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek are rugged with steep ascents and descents. Walking long hours on uneven trails can be physically exhausting.

How to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude remote trek that requires careful planning and preparation for a successful adventure. You should be physically and mentally prepared for the trek. You should start training 2-3month before the trek.

Cardio Exercises: Walking, running, swimming, cycling to build endurance.
Strength Training: Squats, lunges, and step-up exercises for strengthening leg and core muscles.
Mental resilience: Yoga and meditation for balance and focus.

Food and Accommodation

To sustain the 5-7 hours of a daily walk, you will need a carb-rich nutritious meal and a restful cozy place to spend your night. The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a diverse range of food and accommodations along the trail. Around 2012, the trekking routes opened up for trekkers, and teahouses were introduced to provide food and lodging for potential travelers.

Food includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast: Eggs, Bread, porridge, toast, sandwiches, puri, sel roti, pancakes etc.
Lunch and Dinner: You can have the Nepali staple meal Dal Bhat and curry which is high-energy packed. Some other options on the menu can be noodles, fried rice, momos, pasta etc.
Beverages: Tea, Coffee, hot drinks, juice etc.

Accommodations in the teahouses are basic with simple rooms with single or twin beds with mattresses, pillows and blankets, shared bathrooms, common dining etc. Make sure you eat where you are staying.

Packing Essentials

For Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should pack light but smart enough to carry all the essentials.

Here is the list

Clothing: Layered Clothing, waterproof/windproof jackets, and thermal wear.
Gear: Backpack, Trekking poles, Trekking Boots, and sleeping bag.
Accessories: Headtorch, first aid kit, toiletries, water bottle with purification tablets.

Cultural Insights

The Manaslu Circuit trek also provides opportunities for learning the local cultures and traditions. The Manaslu region is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, with monasteries like Ribung Gompa and prayer wheels dotting the trail. You should respect the local customs and participate in traditions like offering prayers or lighting butter lamps. You will have a spiritual experience by immersing yourself in the authentic culture of Himalayan people.

Guides and Agencies

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a licensed Trekking Guide. At Nepal Trekking Routes, we provide you with a guide and porter with the trekking package. We offer tailored itineraries and expert support.

Tips for Guide

Tipping is customary while trekking in Nepal. The trekking crews including guides and porters expect to receive tips from clients.

Use of Credit Card or ATM

The ATM Machines are not available on the trail, so draw enough cash for tips and additional expenses.

Responsible Trekking

Always respect nature by leaving no trace and using eco-friendly products. You can support local businesses by staying in teahouses and purchasing handmade goods.

FAQs

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

You can customize your Manaslu Region Trek, according to your time. Manaslu Trek can be completed in two weeks, that is if you have done a high altitude trek before. However, the standard time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 17 days. During the trek, you will be covering nearly 15 – 20 km daily.

How difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Depending upon your personal fitness and experience, Manaslu Circuit Trek is Moderately Difficult Trek. The off beaten paths in the Himalayan Region have the risk of Landslide, rain that makes the trek difficult. Not to be confused with Manaslu Expedition, which is very dangerous.

How many miles is the Manaslu Round Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit is 111 miles which is almost 180 km. The circuit is less crowded and rewards you with internal and mental peace during the trek. You have to cover nearly 15 – 20 km daily during the Manaslu Trek.

What is the highest point in Manaslu Trek?

The highest point you will trek in Manaslu Circuit Trekking is Larkya La Pass which is at the altitude of 5,135 m. Also, Mt Manaslu is the eight highest peak of the world at an altitude of 8,156 m. You can see the summit of Mt. Manaslu and many other mountains during the Manaslu Circuit Trekking.

What are the detail information about Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the rarest and excellent treks in the paths of Nepal. Trekking through the off beaten paths and restricted areas, the journey seems just beautiful. The trek will take you to the base of the eighth highest peak in the world Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m). You can encounter Tibetan Traditions on the path, as the region lies on the Nepal- Tibet border.

Also, the foreign trekkers considered Manaslu Trek as one of the best treks in Nepal. Despite the popular tea houses available on the trek, this trek is simply raw and beautiful. Alternatively, if you have done Annapurna Circuit Trek, this trek will be a great experience. It offers stunning views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and many other mountains. If you have two weeks for your holiday, Manaslu Circuit Trek rewards the best out of it. With a moderately difficult trek, the sunrises, snow-capped mountain ranges are totally alluring. You will also encounter the amazing mountain ranges of Himchuli, Shringi, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal. The mountains and hills are perfectly wrapped in the trekking route.

The journey to Manaslu Trekking completely shifts you to an unspoiled region. People living in the Manaslu Region are very few and live miles away from the modern age. With cultural varieties and traditions, you can embrace nature also. The snowy paths, glacial lakes, and high altitude are the treasures of Manaslu. Manaslu Circuit Trek also gained popularity as Restricted Area Trekking. However, some preparations and trekking permits are needed.

What Our Travelers are Saying?

Wonderful Manaslu Circuit Trek 2024

I took the tour in March 2024. The tour was well organized from arrival to departure and could still be customized. I was sick for 2 days and still reached our...