Manaslu Circuit Trek (Manaslu Trek) is one of the most adventurous trekking trails. It provides amazing mountain views, rich cultural heritage, genuine adventure, and natural diversity.
The name Manaslu means “the spirit mountain”. The local dialects refer it to be the benevolent and strong deity that dwells within.
Manaslu Region opened for recreation only in 1992. Until then, it remained a restricted area. Manaslu Circuit Trek is gaining its popularity and is also known as the next Annapurna Circuit Trek (another popular Trek).
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
- Unique cultural blend of Tibetan and Nepalese people
- Budhi Gandaki River Valley
- Fantastic views of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Ganesh, and others
- Larkya La pass (5153m)
- Diversified ecosystems
Since the region is not travelled by many like the popular Everest Base Camp Trail or Annapurna Base Camp Trail, the trek consists of beaten trails offering an adventurous experience into the wilderness. Not to mention, Manaslu circuit trek is the most demanded trekking destinations among tourists who come in contact with the Himalayas On Foot.
The adventure takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the earth.
Mt. Manaslu is one of the most challenging yet untouched treks. The cultural and natural beauty of the region is untouched by the modern-day world. Thus, the trek offers a wonderful opportunity to witness the rich local heritage and biological diversity of the Manaslu Region.
Manaslu Region is a restricted trekking region, so it requires a special permit to trek in. Organized trekking groups need special permits from any government registered trekking company to enter the Manaslu trekking region.
The Manaslu Circuit trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu. The trail passes through some of the most spectacular viewpoints of the highest peaks in the world, including Himal Chuli, Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli), and Mt. Manaslu. The highest point on this trek is the ‘Larkya La Pass’ which is widely believed to be one of the most dramatic passes crossing the Himalayas.
The trek is also an opportunity to get acquainted with the Tibetan culture. You will come across several Mani wall in almost all the villages along the journey.
If you are looking for a thrilling adventure through the serenity of the White Mountains, then Manaslu Circuit trek is the ideal option.
17 Days Manaslu Trek Itinerary
| Days | Itinerary | Max Altitude | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival at Kathmandu | 1,400 m | - |
| Day 02 | Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola | 1,400 m | 8-9 hrs |
| Day 03 | Soti Khola- Machha Khola | 9,00 m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 04 | Machha Khola- Jagat | 1,410 m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 05 | Jagat- Deng | 1,804 m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 06 | Deng- Namrung | 2,630 m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 07 | Namrung- Samagaon | 3,530 m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 08 | Samagaon- Pungyen gompa- Samagaon | - | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 09 | Samagaon- Samdo | 3,690 m, Samdo | 4-5 hrs |
| Day 10 | Rest Day in Samdo | 3,690 m | 5 hrs |
| Day 11 | Samdo- Dharamsala/ Larkya B. C. | 4,460 m, Larkya Phedi or Larkya Base Camp | 4-5 hrs |
| Day 12 | Dharmsala- Larkya La- Bimthang | 5,160 m, Larkya La Pass | 5-6 hrs |
| Day 13 | Bimthang- Tilije | 3,720 m, Bimthang | 5-6 hrs |
| Day 14 | Tilije- Tal | 2,300 m, Tilije | 5-6 hrs |
| Day 15 | Tal- Syange | 1,700 m, Tal | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 16 | Syange- Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 3-4 hrs |
| Day 17 | Departure to Tribhuvan International Airport | 1,400 m | - |
Manaslu Circuit Trek Detailed Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal, the Himalayan kingdom!
Our representative will receive you at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to Maya Boutique Hotel. You’ll have some rest and then you’ll attend a small team meeting, where we will introduce you with your trek guide and discuss about an upcoming trip.
Overnight stay at Maya Boutique Hotel.
Travel Hours: 8-9 hours
Max Altitude: 1,400 m
Early this morning, we will drive to Sotikhola. The road passes through Dhading Bensi and Arughat. From Arughat, we will head towards Sotikhola. Driving through the countryside is a pleasant experience. The roads will get a little rough in Arughat. Overnight in Soti Khola.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 900 m, Machha Khola
On this day, we will trek to Maccha Khola. The trails heads across a bridge and then towards a beautiful Sal forest. After crossing the river Budhi Gandaki, we will reach Khursane.
The trail weaves its way up and down and passes through two subtropical waterfalls before it enters the Gurung village of Labubesi. After crossing another suspension bridge, we will reach Machha Khola village. Overnight in Machha Khola.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 1,410 m, Jagat
The trail is narrow and crosses the Tharo Khola. It then reaches Khorlabesi. We will also come across a hot spring along the way. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, we will climb a well-crafted staircase, and then head towards Dobhan.
Upon crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, we will climb the stone stairs and then descend towards Tharo Bharyang. After crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we will enter Jagat Village. Overnight in Jagat.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 1,804 m, Deng
On this day, we will trek towards Deng. The 6-7 hours trek passes through Salleri, Sirdibas and Ghatta Khola. After crossing a Eklee Bhatti, the route now enters a steep, uninhabited gorge. We will cross the Budhi Gandaki.
The trail passes through bamboo forests before it reaches Deng Khola. Upon crossing the Khola, we reach the tiny village of Deng. Overnight in Deng.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 2,630 m, Namrung
The trail to Namrung initially climbs to Rana at 1910m. The trail passes through forests and mani. We will take the route through Prok village. Prok village has a viewpoint for a beautiful sight of Siringi Himal.
After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and the trail is fine again.
The pleasant walk continues and after a last steep climb we reach Namrung. Namrung village is a good viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal. Overnight in Namrung.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 3,530 m, Samagaon
We will pass through a forest and reach Lihi- a beautiful village with several chorten. We will also come across Lho, Shyala and Sama village. Lho village offers an excellent view of Mt. Manasly.
Shyla village on the other hand is surrounded by mountains like the Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu and large glaciers straight ahead, and other snow summits to the right. The journey will end in Samagaon where we will spend the night.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: –
We will spend the day in Samagaon for acclimatization. The village has thousands of mani stone with Buddhist texts and picture inscribed on them. You will get a chance to explore and learn the Sherpa culture and lifestyle.
On a little hill near the Sama village is an old Gompa (Pungyen Gompa), a monastery with great views of the glacier. Overnight in Samagaon.
Walking Hours: 4-5 hours
Max Altitude: 3,690 m, Samdo
We will trek for about 4-5 hours to Samdo. The route will descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and head to the Manaslu Base Camp. The Larkya la Trail passes through several mani walls. After crossing the Budhi Gandaki via a wooden bridge, we will head towards Samdo.
Overnight in Samdo.
Walking Hours: 5 hours
Max Altitude: 3,690 m, Samdo
We will spend the day in Samdo for acclimatization. We will explore the village. We could hike up the valley. This hike will take us to one of the trade passes to Tibet for excellent views of Mt. Manaslu along with other Himalayan ranges including Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo and possibly Kang Guru behind the pass.
We will also encounter some beautiful mountain birds like the Lophophorus (the national bird of Nepal), Lammergeyer and Himalayan Griffin soaring high above us. Overnight in Samdo.
Walking Hours: 4-5 hours
Max Altitude: 4,460 m, Larkya Phedi or Larkya Base Camp
On this day, we will trek towards Dharamshala. We will cross the wooden bridge over Budi Gandaki and cross two streams. We will see the Larkya Glacier as we go around the valley of the Salka Khola The walk is short and pleasant. It is useful for acclimatization. Overnight in Dharmashala.
Walking Hours: 5-6 hours
Max Altitude: 5,160 m, Larkya La Pass
We will reach a valley after a short walk. This valley offers great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. The trail heads through moraines of the glacier. The pass is an outstanding viewpoint of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru and the huge Annapurna II.
It will take us about 8-9 hours to reach Bimthang. Overnight in Bimthang.
Walking Hours: 5-6 hours
Max Altitude: 3,720 m, Bimthang
On this day, we will trek to Tilije. We will cross a high pasture (Sangure Kharka) and a bridge over Dudh Khola. We will walk through rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley. We will reach the highest cultivated land of the valley at Karche.
We will come across the village of Gho before entering Tilije. Overnight in Tilije Village.
Walking Hours: 5-6 hours
Max Altitude: 2,300 m, Tilije
The trail passes through small settlements. We will then cross a bridge over Dudh Khola. The trail then climb up through a chorten-shaped arch entering into Thonje village. We will continue towards Dharapani and then to Karte village.
After crossing a bridge over Marsyandi Khola we will head towards the village of Tal. Overnight in Tal.
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 1,700 m, Tal
The trail to Syange village crosses the Marshyangdi Khola. The Marsyandi valley opens with its terrace fields and villages clung very high to the hillsides. The trail then descends through rhododendron and pine forests to Syange. Overnight in Syange.
Travel Hours: 7-8 hours
Max Altitude: 1,400 m
As we finish our trek here at Syange we will head back to Kathmandu. We’ll drive by private Jeep to Kathmandu. It takes about 7 to 8 hours. During this drive, you’ll catch some beautiful glimpse of the landscape.
Additionally, if you’ve more time to spend in this beautiful country we can drop you off at Pokhara to relax after the trek. It will purely depend on your choice. From Syange, it takes about 5 to 6-hours drive to Pokhara.
Officially the trip ends at Kathmandu. Our representative will transfer you to the International Airport, for your final departure and flight to your home country.
Further, if you would love to extend your vacation in this beautiful country, we serve different wonderful trekking packages. Also, you can add extra days and explore the Pokhara city after the trek. For further information, you can contact us at any time. We’re here to serve you!
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a strenuous trek. Yet with a moderate level of fitness, little bit of preparation, and enough determination this trek will be a success.
The trail takes you through the remote villages, lush green forest, rivers, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain vistas. You will get to witness striking view of some of the highest mountains. Like Mt.Himalchuli, Mt.Ganesh, Mt.Manaslu, and many more.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is great for those who want to explore the isolated region. This is a novice as well as peaceful trail in the Himalayas.
You cannot do solo trekking in this region because it is a restricted region. So, you must hire a licensed guide or a porter to accompany you on the trail.
However on the bright side, there are many new trekking trails and tea houses opened. This has helped a lot in making the trek easier.
All in all, Manaslu trek is great to those who opt for an authentic, adventurous, and true remote region experience.
Allow us to help you make your personal decision on whether the Manaslu trek is going to be difficult for you.
Distance
The Manaslu trek is widely varied in terms of altitude. It takes you through landscape and terrain that range from the lowest Soti Khola (710m) to the highest point at Larkya La Pass (5213m).
It lies in the northern Himalayan range, the west-central part of Gorkha. The Manaslu Circuit trek is about 177 km in distance.
On a standard 17 day itinerary, you will be walking approximately 15-20 km each day for 10- 12 days. Other days are for resting and acclimatization.
The trail leads you towards Budhi Gandaki Gorge which is a harrowing steep. Thus the first couple of days is difficult. Plus you have to walk a lot of uphill and downhill.
Some days you even have to walk across windy trails and cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki river.
In places where there are no suspension bridges, you have to cross a temporary wooden bridge (logs) to cross the thrilling river.
The most challenging part of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5213m. This challenge will definitely help you in recognizing your strength and capabilities.
To take the Manaslu trek, you need to prepare both mentally and physically. Since you have to cover many kilometers it can be quite hectic for your body.
The rocky trails and uneven terrain can be problematic for those who are physically unfit. Thus, it is important that you take necessary physical training prior to the trek.
Duration
Manaslu Circuit Trek duration depends on the package you choose. It can be anywhere from two weeks or even to a month.
You can add or reduce the number of days according to your preference and suitable schedule.
You will walk through many villages, suspension bridges, forests, rivers and so on.
You will walk for approximately 5 to 7 hours daily excluding the rest days. If you are not someone who normally walks a lot, walking for many hours can be tough on your body.
So for that, it is important that you train yourself before the trek by hiking for 3 or 4 hours daily and by climbing stairs etc.
What you need to focus on mainly is building stamina and preparing yourself for the higher altitude.
Weather and temperature
Manaslu Circuit Trek duration depends on the package you choose. It can be anywhere from two weeks or even to a month.
You can add or reduce the number of days according to your preference and suitable schedule.
You will walk through many villages, suspension bridges, forests, rivers and so on.
You will walk for approximately 5 to 7 hours daily excluding the rest days. If you are not someone who normally walks a lot, walking for many hours can be tough on your body.
So for that, it is important that you train yourself before the trek by hiking for 3 or 4 hours daily and by climbing stairs etc.
What you need to focus on mainly is building stamina and preparing yourself for the higher altitude.
Weather and temperature
The weather plays a huge role in determining the Manaslu trek difficulty.
The Manaslu trail leads you through six climatic zones. The tropical and sub-tropical zone, the temperate zone, the subalpine zone, the alpine zone and, the arctic zone.
Heavy rainfall, freezing nights, blazing sun, and chill winds are all possible within your trekking duration.
The days are generally warm and dry while the nights are freezing. So, it is important to pack well for the cold evenings and nights. Dress in layers so that you can put on and take off your clothes whenever you want.
Nepal experiences 4 seasons- Spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
In winter, trekking in Manaslu can be quite a challenge. The day time temperatures are warm but significantly decreases as the sun sets.
Thus, the temperature easily drops down to -20 degree Celsius during the nighttime and early morning. Due to heavy snowfall during this time, the Larkya La pass and tea houses remain closed.
Summer season, followed by monsoon experiences heavy rainfall. This results in the slippery and muddy trail with leeches. Added, during this time the Larkya La Pass is challenging. The trail would be difficult and risky too.
The Spring season is favorable for trekking. The weather is clear with blue skies and you will get to witness the striking snow-capped mountains. It is also the time when the rhododendron blooms adding colors to the forest.
Another season that is favorable for trekking beside Spring is Autumn. Autumn is the most loved season and the peak time for trekking. The climate is pleasant with stable temperature and HD views of the mountains.
Hence, planning your trek during Spring and Autumn can reduce the trek difficulty caused by weather.
Altitude sickness
Altitude sickness or Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is ever present in any high altitude trekking.
Manaslu trek is an adventurous trek due to its great variation. Thus, one of the major difficulty during Manaslu trek is your ability to adjust to high altitude.
The trek starts from the lower altitude of 700m i.e Soti Khola and reaches to a higher altitude of 5213m, the Larkya Pass. And, with the increase in altitude the risk of altitude sickness also increases.
Everyone is at risk of altitude sickness irrespective of age, gender and fitness level. Thus, being well informed about altitude sickness can ease your trekking difficulty.
Some of the early signs and symptoms of altitude sickness are a headache, fatigue, loss of appetite etc.
When you have mild symptoms such as these it is best to rest until the symptoms go away.
Resting and acclimatization are very important while trekking at higher altitude. It is never a good idea to speed up your trek or continue your trek while having early symptoms.
Doing so can worsen your health and can lead you to a more severe condition. HACE, High Altitude Cerebral Edema can lead to unconsciousness or even death.
The other condition is HAPE, High Altitude Pulmonary Edema and the symptoms are short of breath, severe cough and tiredness etc.
When you have one of these, descending is the only option. Thus walking slowly, taking regular breaks and drinking plenty of water are some of the ways that can help you stay away from Altitude sickness.
Also, drinking alcohol is a big No. It boosts the risk of altitude sickness.
Always reach out for help from the guide, porter or the team leader if you have any symptoms of AMS.
This will help you in taking the necessary precautions to overcome it before it gets fatal.
The best time for the Manaslu region trek starts from March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn).
During March, April, and May the weather is clear and calm. You’ll also get a wonderful view of the snow-capped mountain. Spring is the season of beautiful colorful flowers which makes the forest trail more beautiful.
Autumn season is another best season to trek in Manaslu region. After monsoon, September, October, and November are the perfect months to get there. You’ll see the phenomenal view of high mountains covered in snow.
Accommodation is not a big issue during Manaslu Trek. There are ample tea houses for accommodation in Manaslu region. Normally, the rooms are simple and cozy. Only a few teahouses have a private room with a shared toilet.
Also, kindly note during the peak trekking season, you may need to share a room with other trekkers especially in Dharamsala. Although the tea houses provide blankets it gets very cold especially at night so sleeping bags are essential.
On the Manaslu trail, almost all tea houses serve most common Nepali dish “Dal-Bhat”. Normally, vegetables served in tea houses are produced from their own field. This is usually organic which is good for your health.
Manaslu region is located in the remote area of Nepal. There is problem of proper transportation so it’s difficult to supply food materials. Thus, on the Manaslu trail, continental foods are costly and limited
It’s impossible to predict who gets affected by altitude. Altitude sickness is caused by thin air at the high altitudes starting from 3,000 m upward. The highest point of the Manaslu Trek is 5,120 m above the sea level. So, you should give enough time to acclimatize, while trekking in Manaslu region.
The main precaution while trekking is not to go up too high and too fast. If you suffer from symptoms like headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite then descend to a lower elevation immediately and seek medical help.
Yes, you need special trekking permits while trekking in Manaslu region. This region lies in a remote and restricted area under the Manaslu Conservation Area. The permits and the trekking costs details are mentioned below:
Manaslu Restricted Permit: USD 70 for first seven days and USD 10 each additional day during September to November. USD 50 for first 7 days and USD 7 each additional day during December to August.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): For SAARC Nationals is USD 2 per person and for other Nationals is USD 20 per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP): For SAARC Nationals is USD 2 per person and for other Nationals is USD 20 per person.
Tsum Valley Restricted Permit: USD 35 per person per week
No, you don’t need a TIMS card until you have a side trip after Manaslu like as Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Jomsom Muktinath Trek. As long as you hold restricted trekking permit, TIMS card isn’t required in any restricted trekking region in Nepal.
No, you can’t trek solo. Nepal Government has declared Manaslu as a restricted area to preserve the natural beauty and the culture of the region. As a result, individual trekkers are not allowed in Manaslu.
You must hire a licensed professional guide or a porter guide. While trekking in Manaslu region there must be at least two people in one group (not including the guide and porter).
Tipping is not compulsory in Nepal. But people expect you show gratitude to them. There is no any hard and fast rules for tipping so if you’re satisfied with their service you can tip them as per your interest.
Yes, travel insurance is very necessary and you must insure in your respective home country. Your travel insurance policy must cover emergency evacuation, trip injury, lost baggage, and medical treatment. This insurance is for your personal security and easy trekking.
