Manaslu Circuit Trek for Solo Travelers

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo is one of the most sought-after treks in Nepal, offering breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. For those looking for a remote, challenging adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo offers the perfect opportunity to explore the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. While solo trekking in Nepal has become increasingly popular, it is important to note that trekking solo on the Manaslu Circuit requires specific rules and regulations. This guide will help you navigate the requirements, safety tips, and how to experience this stunning trek safely, even if you’re planning a solo trek in Nepal.

What Makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek Special for Solo Trekkers?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo takes you through some of the most pristine and remote areas of Nepal, away from the bustling crowds of more popular treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek. With towering peaks, Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, the trek is an extraordinary experience for those seeking solitude and adventure. However, it’s important to keep in mind that solo Manaslu trekking requires a licensed guide due to the region’s restricted nature.

Understanding Manaslu Circuit Trek for Solo Travelers

Location and Significance of the Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek takes place in Gorkha district and is near the Tibetan plateau. This off-beaten Himalayan route is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area which covers an area of 1,663 sq.km (642 sq. mi.). This Himalayan conservation area is home to rare species of flora and fauna like red panda, Himalayan tahr, snow leopard, musk deer, Tibetan snowcock, Himalayan griffon, snow partridge, etc. As this trek takes place in the central part of the Himalayas, it is often compared with Annapurna Circuit Trek, but it is less crowded and offers a more peaceful as well as authentic trekking experience.

From the trekking trails, the explorers will be able to admire the stunning views of Manaslu, Himlung, Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal and other surrounding peaks. The majority of villages in this region have a strong Tibetan heritage. You will pass across the ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, chorten and mani walls that reflect the deep spiritual connection of the natives. 

Trekking Permits and Regulations

There are a total of three permits that you will need to get for the Manaslu Circuit Trek . Due to its restricted status, you will need to get a special permit that can only be collected by a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

Mandatory Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)— US$ 100 per person (September to November) and US$ 75 per person (December to August)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)— US$ 30
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)— US$ 30

The regulations surrounding the Manaslu Trek without Guide are strict. You are not allowed to trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo without a licensed guide. While you can explore the trail independently, a guide is mandatory to ensure your safety and proper navigation, especially through remote villages and high-altitude sections like the Larkya La Pass (5,106m).

Is Solo Trekking Allowed on the Manaslu Circuit?

Nepal’s Trekking Rules for Solo Travelers

Since 1st April 2023 solo trekking in Nepal has been banned.  For high altitude treks in Nepal, trekkers need to hire a licensed guide or do the trek through a registered agency. This step has been taken by the authority to enhance the safety and security features for the trekkers as well as to monitor the tourism activities. The Himalayas is home to a delicate ecosystem and ancient culture. The trails are also risky and dangerous, lack of proper knowledge and navigation skills can be fatal, especially in remote and isolated regions like Manaslu.

Why a Guide is Mandatory for This Trek?

• Due to its secluded nature, rescue operations can be extremely difficult if something goes wrong without proper coordination
• Some parts of the circuit trek are tricky and navigation errors can be dangerous 
• Guide oversee all the aspects of your journey from permits, logistic details and communication with locals to safety and comfort
• These experienced professionals help you to easily navigate Larkya La Pass (5,106m/ 16,751ft) which is a major hurdle of this circuit route
• Guides help you adjust to a proper acclimatization schedule and can notice the symptoms for early treatment 
• You will need to strictly follow community guidelines in the mountain settlements and adhere to eco-friendly practices, guides will help you with that

Workarounds and Legal Ways to Trek Solo

If you want to explore the isolated trails of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, there are also legal workarounds where you will be able to secure a tranquil journey in solitude. For this, you can just hire a licensed guide who will make all the arrangements for you and trek without a group. Going through a reputable agency like the Himalayas on Foot will guarantee that the experience will be comfortable and memorable. Or, if it is about the budget, you can join the small groups sharing the cost with other trekkers. This will also make up for the lack of experience and you will be able to enjoy your trip without any worries. 

Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

We recommend Manaslu Circuit Trek solo travelers during the peak trekking seasons like spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons the weather conditions are just right favored by clear skies and moderate temperatures. The Himalayan landscape also has a unique allure during these seasons. Spring season boasts the lush landscape adorned with colorful rhododendrons and other wildflowers. Autumn, on the other hand, is mostly renowned for its unwavering stable factors, fall landscape, crisp mountain views and immersive cultural experience. If you are new to high-altitude journeys in the Himalayas, you should consider one of these seasons.

Is Solo Trekking the Manaslu Circuit Possible?

The short answer is no—solo trekking the Manaslu Circuit without a guide is not allowed. However, you can still enjoy the experience of trekking solo on the Manaslu Circuit with the support of a licensed guide. This is a great opportunity to maintain your independence while benefiting from a local expert’s knowledge. Your guide will help you with navigation, logistics, and provide assistance in case of emergencies.

Though solo trekking in Nepal is generally allowed on certain trails, solo trekking on the Manaslu Circuit falls under the category of restricted areas, meaning the rules have to be followed. It’s essential to work with an agency that can organize the necessary permits and provide a certified guide for your journey.

Preparing for Trek

Physical Fitness and Training Requirements

It is crucial to make necessary physical preparations for high-altitude trekking journeys like the Manaslu Circuit. Although this is not a technical trek where you will need expertise in the use of different equipment it is still a significant altitude exploration where you will have to walk for multiple hours each day. Thus to make sure that your journey remains comfortable, you will have to train right for the trip. The recommended period of training for this high-altitude journey is around 3 to 8 weeks.

Considering your fitness level and experience, you can adjust the training period as you see fit. You should include strength training exercises like bench press, push up, squat, lunges, calf raise, plank, etc to improve your overall fitness level. Similarly cardio workouts like running, cycling, swimming, kickboxing, etc will improve your stamina and help your body to easily adapt to higher altitudes. Also, you shouldn’t miss the practice hikes which will introduce you to the rugged mountain terrain and prepare your body to adjust to different altitudes.

Essential Gear and Packing Checklist

Packing for Manaslu Circuit Trek solo travelers will mostly depend on the season of their choice. As different periods across the year create varying climatic conditions, it is necessary to be prepared for your chosen one. For the peak trekking seasons (autumn and spring), you will be able to manage the journey with essential layers and gear. You will need flexible shirts, warm fleece jacket, waterproof shell jacket, down jacket (for the alpine zone), a good pair of trekking boots, trousers, shorts, etc. As for the gear, trekking pole, sleeping bag, headlamp, powerbank, map and compass, water bottle, etc are essential.

Similarly, you will need to prioritize the personal care and sanitization stems like success, lip balm, soap, shampoo, sanitizer, wipes, water purification tablet, small first-aid kit, etc. If you are exploring this region during monsoon, you will have to invest in good rainproof layers and sturdy boots with good grip. As for the winter, extra warm clothes and boots as well as equipment are essential to handle the freezing temperatures. 

How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo Cost?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo depends on various factors like the trekking agency, guide services, permits, and extra expenses. For a standard 12 to 14-day trek, the cost usually ranges between US$ 1,000 to US$ 1,500 if you’re booking a full package.

This price range includes most essentials, but the total cost can vary based on trip duration, side trips, transportation choices, and the quality of services provided. Before booking any trek package, it’s important to understand what the cost includes and excludes — this helps avoid surprises later.

You can also manage the trek independently, handling costs for the guide, porter, food, accommodation, permits, and transport on your own to adjust your budget.

However, as managing everything by yourself can be a challenge, it will be best if you trek through a reputable agency that will sort out everything for the trek. This way, you can truly focus on the journey without worrying about the logistics. It will be also a lot easier for you to manage the budgeting as you will just have to take care of the personal expenses. Just about US$ 30 to US$ 50 per day will be sufficient for the personal incurred costs. But, make sure to carry sufficient cash for the expenses as there aren’t reliable ATM services in this remote region and payment cards are not accepted. 

Challenges of Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization Tips

Another key factor to be watchful about while doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek solo travelers is the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You will join this circuit trek route from Machha Khola (870m/ 2,854ft). After slowly following the ascending route, you will head toward the high-elevation part of the trail like Samdo (3,875m/ 12,713ft), Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m/ 14,435ft) and Dharamshala (4,480m/ 14,698ft). The highest point of this trekking route is Larkya Las Pass which is at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,751ft). So, as the altitude gain is significant, it is equally important to follow a proper acclimatization schedule.

While doing this high-altitude trek, you should be careful about the symptoms of altitude sickness like fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, etc. If you are able to identify the symptoms early on, it will be much easier for you to deal with altitude sickness. The best way to counter altitude sickness during this high-altitude journey is to follow a well-calculated acclimatization schedule, walk a steady pace, stay hydrated, eat a nutritious diet, get enough rest and participate in an acclimatization hike.

Safety Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo

Safety is paramount when trekking solo, even with a guide. Here are a few tips for ensuring your safety on the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo:

Physical Preparation: Start your trek in good physical shape. While the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo is not a technical climb, it requires physical stamina to complete the long days of walking, especially at high altitudes.

Acclimatization: Make sure to follow an appropriate acclimatization schedule to avoid altitude sickness. Rest days are important, and your guide will help you set these up.

Weather Monitoring: The weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly. Always check weather forecasts and consult your guide about safe trekking times.

Communication: Carry a satellite phone or GPS tracker in case of emergencies, as connectivity in remote areas can be limited.

Handling Emergencies and Communication Options

Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo Travelers is more complex when it comes to handling emergencies and communication options due to its isolation. Unlike the mainstream trekking regions in Nepal like Everest and Annapurna, Manaslu has very limited medical infrastructure. There are no major hospitals, few reliable communication networks and limited transport access. That’s why solo travelers should carry GPS devices and satellite phones to ask for help during emergencies. Knowing emergency contact points is also very crucial so the help can arrive on time. It will be best if you get an insurance plan that covers for the high altitude and helicopter evacuation. 

Accommodation and Food Options

Where to Stay?

Unlike the luxury lodges and hotels of the mainstream trek destination, the accommodation services available in the Manaslu region are basic and traditional. There are typically to options for staying overnight during the trek; teahouses (lodges) and camping. The teahouses are the primary accommodation option in the Manaslu region. They are mostly small and family-run businesses that offer a warm place to sleep and meals. You can expect basic wooden rooms with a mattress, pillow and blanket. There is also a shared dining area, the only warm place with a fireplace.

As for bathrooms, they are shared and mostly are based on squat style. Bigger villages along the trail do have western toilets. Teahouses in the higher regions rely on solar power and charging your electronics costs extra. You will also be able to use showering and laundry facilities at the teahouses by paying extra. Camping along the trail is also possible if you prefer flexibility and solitude. However, as it is important to carry all the equipment it is more expensive than the teahouse option. 

Food Availability

Food options available in the Manaslu region are also simpler and more traditional compared to its mainstream counterparts like the Everest and Annapurna regions. As the locals have to rely on mules and porters to transport the goods, food can be expensive at higher elevations. Local menus are cheaper considering the international delicacies as mostly home-grown ingredients are used for their preparation. Dal Bhat which is a nutritious all-you-can-eat meal is the ultimate trekking food in Nepal. 

Similarly, you will also be able to enjoy other local delicacies such as Dhido, Gundruk, Selroti, Chapati, Momo, Chowmein, Thukpa, Fried Rice, Yak Meat, etc during your trek. Even if this is a remote region, teahouses serve limited international menus like Pasta, Pizza, Soup, Sandwich, Pancake, Bread, etc. 

Essential Tips for Solo Trekkers

Here are some helpful Manaslu Circuit Trek for solo travelers tips that can come in handy while you are exploring this off-beaten scenic route in the Himalayas. 

• Select the ideal season as per your preference and adventure needs, peak season offers a comfortable experience meanwhile the off-seasons are known for journeys in solitude 
• Pack right for the trek, bring all the essential gear and layers to keep yourself comfortable at different elevation points along the route 
• If you are managing everything on your own, plan and arrange for the permits on your own (restricted area permit is only issued to registered trekking agencies)
• Be aware of altitude sickness and learn to identify its symptoms
• Make budget plans for your trip wisely and carry enough cash as there are no ATM services available on the mountain
• Plan your itinerary for early in the morning and reach your destination before the dark catches up
• Stay safe and be mindful of the safety protocols, learn about the emergency procedures and save emergency contacts
• As hiring a guide is compulsory even for solo exploring, it will be best if you go through a reputable agency like Himalayas On Foot 
• Be flexible with your itinerary plans and cautious with strangers and wildlife