Quick Inquiry
| Duration | 16 days |
| Max. elevation | 5106 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge / Tea House during trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 1,095 per person |
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular trekking routes, offering a combination of pristine natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the challenge of high-altitude trekking. Nestled in the Himalayas, the trek circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). The trek begins in the town of Soti Khola or Machha Khola and gradually ascends through lush forests, terraced farmlands, traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, and alpine meadows. The trail passes through the Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) and is the highest point of the trek.
Trekking with Nepal Everest Trek, this route is ideal for adventurers who seek both cultural immersion and breathtaking natural scenery. You will encounter ancient monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and the unique Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of the people residing in the region. Along the way, the journey through the Marsyangdi and Budhi Gandaki river valleys provides stunning views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Shringi Himal.
This trek is perfect for those who enjoy a combination of adventure, culture, and the tranquility of Nepal’s off-the-beaten-path regions. With expert guidance from Nepal Everest Trek, you can safely explore the Manaslu Circuit while enjoying well-organized logistics and support.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is best undertaken in two main trekking seasons: autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). During autumn, the weather is stable with clear skies, offering excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. The temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable for trekking, and the landscape is lush after the monsoon season. Spring is another favorable season when the rhododendrons bloom, blanketing the hillsides in vibrant colors, while the weather remains warm enough for high-altitude trekking.
Winter (December to February) is generally cold and snowy, especially above 3,000 meters, which makes crossing the Larkya La Pass challenging. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, landslides, and slippery trails, making it less ideal for trekking.
Seasonal advantages:
By choosing the best season, trekkers can ensure safety, better acclimatization, and a more enjoyable experience while trekking through this stunning Himalayan region.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderate to challenging, depending on your trekking experience, physical fitness, and altitude adaptation. The trek involves long days of walking (5–8 hours), gradual ascents and descents, and crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. Trekkers need to be prepared for sudden weather changes, cold nights, and the effects of high altitude.
Daily trekking tips for difficulty:
Transportation for the trek is relatively straightforward: you start with a domestic flight or road transfer from Kathmandu to Arughat or drive directly to Machha Khola. Most trekking routes follow well-established trails, but some areas may be remote and less frequented, adding to the adventure. After the trek, you return to Besisahar and drive back to Kathmandu.
Transportation highlights:
With guidance from Nepal Everest Trek, transportation and logistics are carefully managed to ensure smooth arrivals and departures, giving trekkers more energy for the adventure itself.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a teahouse trek, meaning accommodation is provided in local lodges or tea houses along the route. These teahouses are simple, clean, and provide basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. In higher altitude villages like Samdo or Dharmasala, facilities may be more rustic, but they offer warmth and comfort after a long day of trekking.
Accommodation highlights:
Food on the trek includes traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momos (dumplings), noodles, soups, and occasional Western options like pasta or omelets. It is important to stay hydrated and eat energy-rich meals to maintain stamina during high-altitude trekking. Nepal Everest Trek ensures trekkers have access to nutritious meals and advice on safe drinking water to prevent altitude-related issues.
Food tips:
Overall, the food and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are sufficient for comfort and energy, providing a blend of local culture and trekking practicality.
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit requires special permits because the region lies in a restricted area. These permits are crucial for legal entry and for the preservation of the local environment and culture. Trekkers need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAC) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Additionally, a guide is mandatory for this trek due to its restricted status.
Permit requirements:
The permit process is straightforward when booked through an experienced company like Nepal Everest Trek, which handles paperwork, guide registration, and ensures all documents comply with local regulations. Carrying these permits ensures safe, hassle-free access to the remote Manaslu region and helps support the local communities and conservation efforts.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure with spectacular natural beauty, cultural richness, and high-altitude trekking challenges. Unlike more popular treks like Annapurna or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu Circuit offers solitude, fewer crowds, and a more authentic connection with local Himalayan life.
Reasons to choose this trek:
Choosing Nepal Everest Trek ensures professional guidance, safety, and convenience throughout the journey. From permit arrangements to expert guides, porter support, accommodation, and food logistics, every aspect is managed so trekkers can focus on enjoying the adventure. This trek combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the thrill of high-altitude trekking, making it a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Everest Trek will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in and resting from your flight, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short walk around Thamel, the popular tourist hub filled with shops, cafes, and local markets. The evening is perfect to relax, review the trekking plan, and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Today is reserved for trekking preparation and exploring Kathmandu’s rich culture and heritage. After breakfast, your guide will organize a briefing on the trek, including equipment checks, travel permits, and route details. Later, enjoy sightseeing around the city, visiting iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and the famous Boudhanath Stupa. This day allows you to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture while ensuring you are fully prepared physically and mentally for the challenging Manaslu Circuit Trek ahead.
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Machha Khola. The journey takes you through winding mountain roads, rivers, and traditional villages, offering glimpses of local life in the countryside. Machha Khola, situated on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, serves as the starting point of your trek. Upon arrival, your team will set up camp or arrange lodgings in a tea house. You will have the evening to rest, enjoy the riverside views, and mentally prepare for the trek ahead.
Your trek officially begins today as you walk along the Budhi Gandaki River, surrounded by lush forests and cascading waterfalls. Passing through the small settlement of Dovan, you will witness terraced fields and traditional houses. The trail gradually climbs to Jagat, a picturesque village where you can interact with locals and learn about their daily life. The walk today is moderately challenging, giving your body the chance to adapt to altitude changes. Overnight accommodation in a tea house allows you to rest and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan environment.
The trek to Deng takes you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron to charming Gurung and Tamang villages. Philim Village is an important cultural stop, where you can observe traditional wooden houses, mani walls, and local monasteries. The trail gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Reaching Deng, you will find a quaint settlement nestled along the river, providing tea houses and lodges for overnight stay. Today’s trek challenges your endurance but rewards you with spectacular scenery and authentic cultural encounters.
From Deng, the trail becomes steeper as you ascend toward Namrung. The journey is surrounded by dense forests and terraced farmland, and occasional glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks motivate the trek. You will cross suspension bridges over roaring rivers, adding adventure to your journey. Namrung is a traditional village with stunning Himalayan views, offering a glimpse of the Tibetan-influenced culture prevalent in this region. Tea houses here provide a warm place to rest and enjoy local cuisine, while the sunset over the mountains creates a breathtaking evening experience.
Today’s trek involves a steady climb through alpine forests and lush valleys, with magnificent views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Passing through small villages and mani walls, you experience the unique Tibetan culture and architecture. The air becomes crisper and the landscape more rugged as you approach Lo-Gaon, a charming high-altitude settlement. Overnight stays in tea houses allow trekkers to rest, acclimatize, and enjoy the serene Himalayan surroundings. This section is physically demanding, so walking at a steady pace and staying hydrated is essential for proper acclimatization.
The trail to Sama-Gaon passes through a dramatic landscape of rocky paths, glacial streams, and terraced fields. As you gain altitude, snow-capped peaks come into view, including Manaslu, creating unforgettable vistas. Sama-Gaon, a prominent village in the region, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a gateway for acclimatization hikes. You will reach tea houses providing warm accommodation and traditional meals. The village’s Tibetan-style culture and monasteries add a spiritual touch to the trekking experience, making it a truly immersive Himalayan journey.
A rest day at Sama-Gaon is crucial for acclimatization. You may take short hikes to nearby viewpoints or explore local monasteries and villages. This day helps your body adjust to the high altitude while giving you the chance to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture. Photography enthusiasts will find breathtaking opportunities for capturing the pristine Himalayan landscape. The evening can be spent interacting with locals or simply enjoying the tranquil environment. Proper rest, hydration, and light walks will prepare you for the upcoming challenging days of trekking toward higher altitudes.
From Sama-Gaon, the trek continues to Samdo, a high-altitude village near the Tibetan border. The trail gradually ascends, passing through rocky landscapes, snow patches, and glacial streams. Samdo offers stunning views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks, and is home to Tibetan-style houses and monasteries. Staying in tea houses, trekkers can experience the culture of this remote region while preparing for the higher altitude trek ahead. The village’s serene environment, combined with panoramic mountain vistas, makes this stop both culturally enriching and visually spectacular.
Today, you trek higher toward Dharmasala, a base camp area for the Larkya La Pass. The trail is more challenging with steeper ascents, rocky paths, and occasional snow. Dharmasala offers spectacular views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal. Trekkers can rest at tea houses or tented lodges, preparing for the demanding Larkya La Pass the next day. The high-altitude environment and breathtaking surroundings create a sense of accomplishment, while proper rest and acclimatization remain critical for a safe trekking experience.
This is the most challenging day of the trek as you cross the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. Early morning, you ascend through steep, rocky terrain with snow and ice patches. Reaching the summit at 5,106 meters, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and the Manaslu range. After descending, you reach Bhimtang, a charming village with tea houses offering warm meals and rest. This day demands endurance and mental strength but is the highlight of the trek, creating unforgettable memories.
The descent from Bhimtang to Gowa is scenic and less strenuous, allowing your body to recover after the Larkya La Pass. The trail passes through alpine meadows, forests, and rivers, with frequent views of snow-capped peaks. Gowa is a serene village, offering traditional tea houses and local hospitality. Trekkers can enjoy the calm environment, interact with villagers, and observe the culture of this remote Himalayan region. The gradual descent helps prevent altitude sickness and provides an opportunity to reflect on the amazing experiences of the past days.
Today, you continue descending toward Dharapani, passing terraced fields, rivers, and small villages along the way. The trek offers a refreshing change in scenery, from rugged mountains to lush greenery. Upon reaching Dharapani, you will board a vehicle to drive to Besisahar, the district headquarters. The drive through winding mountain roads gives you one last chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Manaslu region. Overnight stay in Besisahar allows for relaxation, a celebratory dinner, and reflection on your incredible journey through the Manaslu Circuit.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic journey through the Trishuli River valley and terraced hills. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, where you can rest or explore the lively city one last time. Evening is perfect for shopping, enjoying Nepali cuisine, and celebrating the successful completion of your trek. You may also attend a cultural show or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu before your final departure.
Today marks the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. You leave with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s majestic landscapes, rich culture, and the incredible adventure you experienced with Nepal Everest Trek. Safe travels and a promise to return to Nepal’s Himalayas someday!