Destination
Nepal
Accomodation
Teahouse
Walking Distance
177 kilometers
Duration
10 Night 11 Days
Max. Elevation
Larkya La Pass (5106 m|16752 ft)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Grade
Moderate
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a charming adventure that circles its way around the World's eighth-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu. It offers a unique and less-traveled experience than other crowded treks in the Nepalese Himalayas.
The lesser-known Manaslu Circuit Trek is slowly becoming an alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek. The boon in the flow of tourism for many years will surely make this isolated trek overcrowded. So, if you want the truly pristine Manaslu trekking experience, you need to book the trip for your next vacation.
- Isolated trek in the Himalayas of Nepal
- A chance to visit the base camp of Mt Manaslu (8163m), the 8th tallest peak in the World
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna II, Manaslu, and many more unnamed peaks.
- Conquer the Larky la Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,167 meters (16,952 feet).
- Visit Nubri and Pungyen Monastery and Birendra Lake during acclimatization.
- Witness various wildlife like Tahr, Himalayan Marmots, snow leopards, and many more.
- Spend your days interacting with the local people influenced by Hindu and Buddhist religions and culture.
- Trek along Nepal's two popular trekking regions: Annapurna and Manaslu region.
- Enjoy the views of Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), Ganesh VI, Tobsar Peak, Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,895 m), Shringi Himal (7,177 m), Buddha Himal (6,674 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) from different points during the trek.
Where is Manaslu Circuit Trek Located?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the Manaslu region in the Gorkha District of Nepal. Starting from Kathmandu, the Manaslu trekking region lies west of Kathmandu and northwest of Pokhara. Manaslu trekking lies in the restricted area of the Manaslu region, which was opened to trekkers/visitors only after 1990.
The region shares its western border with the Annapurna Conservation Area and the north and east border to Tibet so that you can experience Hindu and Buddhist culture in a single trek. As the name suggests, the Manaslu Circuit trek takes you around the Manaslu region, starting with a drive from Pokhara/Kathmandu to Arughat, Soti Khola, or Maccha Khola and ending at Dharapani and driving to Pokhara/Kathmandu.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview:
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Maccha Khola. The journey takes us through picturesque landscapes, diverse communities, and terraced fields, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness of Nepal. From the second day of the trek, we'll follow the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through traditional villages and dense forests. We pass Tatopani (hot water springs), suspension bridges, and a checkpoint at Jagat that marks the entrance to the restricted Manaslu Region. On the third day, the trail leads to Philim, a Tibetan-influenced Gurung village, through rhododendrons and pine forests. The route then diverges, with one path leading to Tsum Valley. We trek further and reach Dyang, known for its lush greenery and agricultural landscapes. From the fourth day, we can see the mesmerizing views of Manaslu as we ascend to Bhim Phedi. Passing through Ghap and landslide zones, the journey takes us through dense forests, offering glimpses of wildlife. Namrung, a Buddhist village with monasteries, becomes an overnight stop. On day five, a short hike reveals stunning views of Gorkha Himal and other peaks. Passing through picturesque villages like Sho, Lho Gaun, and Shyala, we'll witness Tibetan culture, Mani walls, and the traditional lifestyles of people. Samagaun welcomes us with its traditional charm and essential amenities. The sixth day is a rest day in Samagaun allows for acclimatization. Side trips to Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, or Birendra Lake offer breathtaking views. Samagaun, with its gompa, health post, and heli landing port, shows it is the prominent point of the trek. It also provides a glimpse into Nubri culture. The trek to Samdo takes us through extended yak pastures, Lela Kharka, and Khermo Kharka. The trail ascends, providing panoramic views. Samdo, a desert-like settlement, becomes a rest stop. A challenging trek takes us to Larkya La Bazar and Larkya La Phedi, a crucial rest stop before the pass. At 4,460 m, this settlement prepares trekkers for the next day's ascent. The longest day involves an early start to cross Larkya La Pass. The challenging climb rewards with breathtaking views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The descent to Bhimtang unveils icefalls and stunning scenery. The final trek day descends through lush forests and pasture lands to the valley of Dudh Khola. Passing through Gurung Gaun and Tilije, known for its apple gardens, we'll reach Dharapani for an overnight stay. A scenic drive through off-road trails along the Marsyangdi River takes us from Dharapani to Besisahar. The journey concludes with a drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara, offering a blend of adventure and stunning landscapes. Food: In the higher altitudes, the staple meal of Nepal Dal Bhat with lentil soup, pickles, and salads is offered for every trekker. As for snacks, we suggest you bring the Chocobars and Fiber foods directly from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Salty snacks and Electrolytes are recommended for their calorie content and aid in recovering salt levels after sweating. Accommodations: Starting from Maccha Khola, the teahouses there provide basic yet good facilities. After your long drive from Pokhara/Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, you can rest carefree. After Maccha Khola, your next stop will be at Jagat, where you can find more luxury. There are rooms with attached bathrooms and quality amenities compared to Maccha Khola. Moving on to Deng, a small village that marks the beginning of the restricted trekking area, offers a chance to experience a rural lifestyle with basic guest houses. After Deng, our next stop is at Namrung. Namrung offers a more luxurious option with hotels as well as basic teahouses. Now comes Sama Gaun, the largest town during the Manaslu trekking, and it offers a huge variety of luxurious and basic guest houses. As we spend two nights here(with acclimatization), choose your accommodation to your liking and within your budget. After crossing the Larkya La Pass, Bhimtang offers luxurious hotels and basic teahouses. The final stop at Dharapani also offers hotels in the medium to luxurious range. While camping isn't necessary for the Manaslu Circuit, it is possible if you want to do the camping trek. Yes, camping on the Manaslu Circuit offers a wilderness adventure. However, the costs exponentially increase as you hire a porter to carry essential equipment like tents, cooking supplies, etc. You can reach us at [email protected] if you plan on making the Manaslu circuit trek a camping trip. The Manaslu region can be accessed from both Kathmandu and Pokhara. The total driving distance from Kathmandu is about 150 kilometers, and from Pokhara is 165 kilometers; however, due to the bumpy and off-road, the drive takes about 8-9 hours from Pokhara as well as Kathmandu by bus. Choosing a private Jeep is more comfortable and faster, but it is costlier; it takes about 6 - 7 hours to drive from Kathmandu/Pokhara. The Manaslu Circuit trekking ends at Dharapani, in the Annapurna region, Manang. After Dharapani, we take a Jeep to Besisahar. You can stay overnight in Besisahar and drive to Pokhara/Kathmandu by tourist bus, or you can directly drive from Dharapani to Pokhara/Kathmandu, to shorten a day depending on your itinerary. While some other agencies make itineraries with the endpoint of Syange, we suggest you drive from Dharapani to Besisahar. The trail from Dharapani to Syange is all through the motor roads, so it will be less enjoyable. Instead of adding days for trekking on the motor roads, we can explore the base camp of Mt. Manaslu and trek to Pungen Gompa and add days for acclimatization in Sama Gaun. While the duration of Manaslu trekking is about 12 - 14 days, it also depends on your acclimatization days, optional exploration of Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, and extra days at Samagaun or Larkya La Pedi/ Dharamsala. Even with these optional explorations, the Manaslu trek can be completed in about 14 to 16 days. However, if you add the Tsum Valley exploration, the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Tsum Valley takes about 22 days. The highest altitude during the Manaslu circuit trek is the Larkya La Pass. Larkya La Pass is situated at an altitude of 5,106 m | 16,752 ft, and it is also the longest pass in the Himalayas of Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit trek is high-altitude, with Larkya La Pass being the highest point. However, altitude-related challenges can be easily negated with proper acclimatization and preparation. Manaslu trekking is physically demanding, making it difficult for first-time trekkers. We are here if you want to trek the Manaslu Circuit but have doubts about your abilities. Just reach out to us at [email protected], and we will make the perfect itinerary just for you and your The best and highly recommended time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. However, everyone has their preferences; what works best for me may not work for you. So, carefully read the details provided below and choose the season that suits you the best: Spring (March-May): Summer/Monsoon (June-August): Autumn (September - November): Winter (December-February):How is Manaslu Circuit Trek Food and Accommodation?
The food in the Manaslu Circuit Trek varies completely throughout the trek. The lower regions like Maccha Khola and Jagat offer food items for both vegetarians and meat lovers; however, after Deng, the food options are reduced to vegetarian items only. The menus in the lower regions include Nepalese, Tibetan, Indian, and Continental dishes. Breakfast includes eggs, Tibetan bread, oats, chapati, and most things you can find in Pokhara/Kathmandu. Drinks like tea and coffee are also available to suit your taste and needs.
Lunch and Dinner options are similar, which include Noodles, Pasta, Pizza, Spaghetti, Mo:Mo, Nepali Dhal Bhat & many more.
Smoking and drinking alcohol are not banned in the Manaslu Region but are not recommended during the trek. Both smoking and drinking pose risks of dehydration and impaired breathing, which ultimately leads to altitude sickness, especially at higher altitudes.
Even though the Manaslu Circuit Trek is isolated and restricted, it offers teahouses as the primary option for accommodation. The amenities offered vary from teahouse to teahouse and depend on the altitude you are staying in. In the lower region of the Manaslu Circuit trek, you can find some guest houses with attached bathrooms; however, it may not be possible in the upper regions.
The tea houses are also known as guest houses or mountain lodges, and they are located at every major stop per our itinerary, so camping is optional. Moreover, the stops like Jagat, Lho, Shyala, Samagaun, and Samdo offer excellent facilities, while others only provide more basic lodging. Regardless of quality, every tea house provides essential accommodation amenities such as beds, blankets, toilets, bathrooms, and dining areas, which is also a chance to immerse in local culture and hospitality.
Now, we hike towards the Larkya la pass, and our next stop will be Samdo. The Samdo offers basic teahouses and amenities. From Samdo, we trek towards the Larkya La Phedi or Dharmasala. Dharmasala offers basic accommodations, and it acts as a perfect rest point trek as we have to prepare for the pass tomorrow. Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Starting point?
The previous starting point of the Manaslu trek was Arughat, and later, the road development up to Soti Khola changed the starting point to Soti Khola. However, nowadays, you can drive up to Maccha Khola, So Manaslu trekking starts from Maccha Khola.
While driving up to Maccha Khola during peak trekking seasons is possible, the same can't be said about the rainy summer season. You can drive up to Soti Khola during the summer season and then trek from here.
If you want to explore the classical Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can start your trek from Arughat or Soti Khola. We are pretty flexible regarding the client's preferences.Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Ending Point?
What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Duration?
It also depends on your starting point and ending point of the trek, so you can follow the standard itinerary of starting from Maccha Khola and ending at Dharapani.What is the highest altitude during Manaslu Trekking?
Moreover, the optional trek to the Manaslu Base Camp at an altitude of 4800 m |15748 ft can take you to the second-highest altitude of the trek. However, if you prefer to avoid exploring the base camp during your acclimatization day, the second highest point in your trek is Larkya La Phedi, Dharamsala. What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level?
Moreover, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is about two weeks long, and you can extend the trek depending on the itinerary you choose. During the Manaslu circuit trek, the average walking hours is about 6 - 7 hours each day.
Furthermore, the trail in the Manaslu region is rugged, with steep ascents and descents, filled with rocky paths. This region is relatively remote and isolated, so you can't expect facilities similar to those of other popular treks.
If you have the will and are moderately fit, we suggest you trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek with confidence in your capabilities. Just recently, in 2023, two men more than 60 years old completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek with us. Yes, they completed the trek completely safely and were in their best condition before and after the trek.
Photo: Chris and Hans
Note: Trekking in the Manaslu Region, especially the Manaslu Circuit and the Tsum Valley Trek, can be quite a challenge for those who crave meat in their meals, as this region is sacred and follows the non-violence tradition known as the SHAYAGYA TRADITION.What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek best time?
Like other popular trekking routes in Nepal, the Manaslu circuit also comes alive with captivating flora and fauna during Spring. The rhododendron blooms and lush green landscapes make the trek even more memorable, and the chances to witness the exquisite fauna increase. The breathtaking mountain vistas also come alive during the playful spring season.
The spring trekking season provides bright days, and the refreshing mountain breezes make the trek easier. Moreover, April is the perfect month for the Manaslu circuit trekking, as the temperatures range from 2°C to 12°C, which is perfect for trekking. This weather will last until mid-May. Spring attracts many trekkers even in the more secluded trails of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The summer season in Nepal is accompanied by winds and continuous rainfall, making June, July, and August the rainiest seasons. The path is filled with leeches, and the risk of natural disasters like landslides and floods increases during this season. The terrain also becomes more wet and slippery, so you need to be extra careful.
While the days are filled with rainfall, you will witness the most mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains under the clearest skies when the weather settles down.
Your itinerary also needs expanding, as driving up to Maccha Khola isn't possible during Summer.
In case of misfortune situations, rescues can also be delayed during the Summer due to frequent rainfall and bad weather conditions. So, we don't recommend the Manaslu trek to complete beginners in the summer season.
As adventure and risks go hand in hand, you can witness nature and mountains at their purest form with minimal crowds in the summer season. Finally, if you plan to trek the Manaslu Circuit in the Summer, we suggest you bring top-notch gear and a very experienced mountain guide to minimize potential risks.
October is considered the best month for every trek in the Himalayas, and Manaslu Circuit Trek is no exception. The temperature ranges from 15°C to -2°C in higher altitudes. The mountain views are exclusive with stunning clarity, and paths are cleared by summer rainfall.
The mountain scenery, the weather, and the natural beauty all peak during the Summer. However, as Manaslu trekking is getting popular, it will be a bit crowded compared to other seasons.
Moreover, the Autumn is perfect for beginners if they want to trek the Manaslu, and it is also the most recommended season. Even in unforeseen circumstances, rescue operations via helicopter can be easily done as weather conditions are mostly favorable during Autumn.
Lastly, the winter season is considered the off-season for trekking. While the lower Manaslu regions offer pleasantly cool winds, the higher altitudes are filled with snow and need extra caution. While many choose to trek the Manaslu Circuit in the early winter, fewer trekkers trek during the peak winter seasons. Even the residents of the upper regions descend to the lower regions during peak Winter.
Moreover, the Larky La Pass will be filled with snow during the winter, so you must take your time in the Larky Phedi and choose the perfect day for crossing the pass.
Manaslu trekking in the winter wonderland offers the best view with fully white mountains. The trails will be isolated, truly offering you the essence of isolated trekking. Trekking the Manasalu during winter is not highly recommended, but it is possible. You must make the packing list carefully with every situation in mind.
Furthermore, rescue operations are also challenging during winter due to heavy snowfall and bad weather conditions at higher altitudes.Manaslu Circuit Trekking Altitude and Duration:
6 hrs(Gompa)
7hrs(MBC)
(Drive)
Manaslu Circuit Trekking | Full Details Video
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary
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day 1
Kathmandu/ Pokhara to Maccha Khola:
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day 2
Maccha Khola to Jagat
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day 3
Jagat to Dyang
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day 4
Dyang to Namrung
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day 5
Namrung to Samagaun
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day 6
Acclimatization in Sama Gaun:
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day 7
Sama Gaun to Samdo
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day 8
Samdo to Larkya La Phedi/Dharmasala
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day 9
Larkya La Phedi to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass:
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day 10
Bhimtang to Dharapani:
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day 11
Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, and Besisahar to Kathmandu/Pokhara
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Map and Altitude Graph
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What's Included in this Manaslu circuit trek package?
- Transportation for the trek, bus rides from Kathmandu/Pokhara to Machhakhola, Jeep from Dharapani ( End of the trek ) to Besisahar & Bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu/Pokhara. ( Note: Options for private jeep travel at an additional cost.)
- Set breakfast menu during the trek featuring a variety of dishes such as cereal, porridge, rice pudding, egg dishes with bread and toast, Tibetan bread with jam and honey, and pancakes, accompanied by tea or coffee.
- Accommodations in basic lodges with twin-shared beds and communal bathrooms.
- A licensed, experienced local guide with English proficiency, provided according to group size (1 guide for up to 5 trekkers, an additional assistant guide for 6-9 trekkers, and 3 guides for groups of 12+). This includes the guide's salary, meals, lodging, transportation, medical/evacuation insurance, and equipment.
- Complete trekking arrangements with all necessary TIMS and permits, including the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS card.
- All government taxes, local charges, and entry fees.
- Provision of water purification tablets for safe drinking water and seasonal fruits.
- Arrangements for immediate evacuation in case of emergencies, are covered by travel insurance.
- A "North Nepal Trek" achievement certificate on successful completion of the trek.
What's Excluded in this Manaslu circuit trek package?
- Visa fees for Nepal, charges for overweight luggage, and international flight tickets.
- Accommodation and meals prior to the trek, additional stays due to early arrival, late departure, or unforeseen early return from the trekking trip.
- Personal expenditures before and during the trek, including equipment rentals (like sleeping bags), purchasing trekking gear, discretionary spending on shopping, enhanced beverage options (extra tea, coffee, soft drinks, alcohol), hot showers, communication charges (telephone, internet), and battery charging fees.
- Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and medical expenses.
- Gratuity for trekking staff such as guides and porters.
- Services of porters not included in the base price, available at an extra charge.
- Meals excluded from the package, specifically lunch and dinner during the trek.
- Additional charges due to unforeseen delays like adverse weather, landslides, or itinerary adjustments for safety reasons, health issues, etc.
- Any other expenses not specified in the "What's Included?" section of the trekking package.
Note:
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit:
The Manaslu Circuit trek cost mostly depends on the number of days you want to spend at the Restricted Manaslu Region. We need three different permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP):
The Manaslu Restricted Area permit cost varies with season. During the Autumn Season, from September to November, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) costs USD 100 for seven days and USD 15 for each additional day you spend at Manaslu Restricted Area.
However, during the Winter, Spring, and Summer seasons, from December to August, the MRAP costs USD 75 for seven days and 10 USD for each additional day.
As the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is expensive, we suggest you make the permit for the days you will be inside the restricted area. Moreover, the checkpost for the MRAP starts from Jagat, and from here, it takes eight days for you to conquer the Larkya La Pass and then trek to Bhimtang. So, by planning the days, you will save your budget during Manaslu trekking.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
A Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for all trekkers in Nepal, including those in the Manaslu region. TIMS card contains details of trekkers, signature of authorized trekking agency, and date of starting and finishing the trek. TIMS Card costs around 15 USD per person.
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit:
The MCAP is required for trekkers entering the Manaslu Conservation Area. The MCAP permit costs only USD 20 for people from SAARC countries and USD 25 for people from other countries. The entry checkpost is at Jagat, and the exit checkpost is at Bhimtang.
A single MCAP permit is enough for you throughout your trek.
Anapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit:
The ACAP permit is required during the Manaslu Circuit Trek while exiting Dharapani. The ACAP permit costs USD 20 for trekkers from SAARC countries and USD 25 for trekkers from other countries.
The ACAP is valid for ten days only and can be extended for another ten days for an additional USD 15.
Moreover, if you choose to trek the Tsum Valley with Manaslu, making it the 19 Days Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley, you need to add one more permit – the Tsum Valley permit. It will cost USD 35 per person for one week.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permit Cost:
Here is a detailed breakdown of the total costs for the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
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For INTERNATIONAL foreign trekkers:
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For SAARC countries trekkers:
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During Autumn Seasons:
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During other Seasons:
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During Autumn
Seasons:
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During other
Seasons:
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Restricted permit:
7 Days = 100 USD Additional days = 15 USD |
Restricted permit:
7 Days = 75 USD Additional days = 10 USD |
Restricted permit:
7 Days = 100 USD Additional days: 15 USD
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Restricted permit:
7 Days = 75 USD Additional days:10 USD
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MCAP: 25 USD
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MCAP: 25 USD
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MCAP: 1000 NRS
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MCAP: 1000 NRS
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TIMS Card: 15 USD
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TIMS Card: 15 USD
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TIMS Card: 1000 NRS
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TIMS Card: 1000 NRS
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ACAP: 25 USD
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ACAP: 25 USD
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ACAP: 1000 NRS
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ACAP: 1000 NRS
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Total Cost: 165 USD
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Total Cost: 140 USD
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Total Cost: 100 USD + 3000 NRS
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Total Cost: 75 USD + 3000 NRS
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Frequently Asked Question
The cost of the Manaslu trek typically ranges from 1200 to 2500 USD depending on trekking days. This cost covers various factors such as accommodation, meals, permits, guide services, porter services, transportation, and other services inclusions depending on the trekking agency. If you want to trek without porters then the cost comes down to 1200 including every other above-mentioned service.
​​​​​​The cost and itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek can vary among trekking agencies. However, we at North Nepal Trek provide the best itinerary there is and we also offer custom itineraries as per clients for every trek in Nepal.
​​​​​​The Manaslu circuit trek is Moderately challenging due to its high altitudes and remote terrain. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and prepared for long days. The Larkya La Pass is also longer compared to other passes so you need to be in perfect condition while trekking this pass.
​​​​​The Manaslu circuit trek typically takes 11 to 14 days from Kathmandu. This duration includes acclimatization days, trekking, exploring popular destinations during side trips, and rest days to adapt to the high altitudes.
​​​​​The best times for the Manaslu circuit trek are generally during the spring months (March to May) and the autumn months (September to November). During these periods, the weather is stable, and the views are clear.
However, you can refer to our detailed breakdown of the months above and choose the month that fits your preferences.
​​​​​The total distance covered during the Manaslu circuit trek is approximately 177 kilometers, leading trekkers through diverse landscapes and picturesque villages, crossing the Larkya la pass, and trekking to Dharapani.
No, trekking alone in the Manaslu region is illegal. You need to hire a guide as it was made mandatory from April 2023. Moreover, you need guides and trekking agencies to make the Manaslu restricted area permit.
Both treks are moderately challenging, but some consider the Manaslu Circuit trek more remote and less crowded than the Annapurna Circuit trek. The Manaslu circuit is more challenging than the Annapurna circuit as there are fewer teahouses throughout to trek.
Also, the Larkya La Pass is longer than the Thorung La Pass, as it is also known as the longest trekking pass in Nepal.
Trekking costs for Indians on the Manaslu circuit are slightly cheaper. The only difference is while making the permits the MCAP and ACAP only. Every other cost is similar. The discount on permits is not limited to Indians only, it is also available for every trekker from SAARC country. You can refer to the permits section below for more information.
Yes, you can check the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map and Altitude Graph on our website above, and plan your overnight stop accordingly.
​​​​​​The trek to Manaslu base camp is challenging, as you need to walk 7 - 8 hrs for this side trek. There are no teahouses, so we need to pack our lunch. The route is not well maintained and it can be especially difficult for first-time trekkers.
The standard route takes around 13 days to complete while the extended journey can last up to 18 days. The extended trek takes you to a couple more destinations, namely the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek, and Manaslu Base Camp, and allows trekkers 3 days of acclimatization during the trek.
The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 180 km (standard trek from Arughat to Besisahar). If you opt for the extended trek, you will have to cover 220 km in total.
The Manaslu Trek is graded ‘Strenuous’. Trekkers have to cover 180 km of distance traversing dirt trails and rugged paths full of ups and downs. The fact that the trek lasts for almost 2 weeks makes it a demanding trekking destination. This trek is not that difficult for beginners but it can be a bit too much to handle for beginners.
The maximum altitude of the Manaslu Circuit trek is 5160 meters at Larke La Pass.
Spring and autumn are considered the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. During those seasons you will experience the greatest views of the region. During the springtime, the snowfalls start at 3500 meters altitude, the views are really good, and the average temperature is not as cold as autumn’s. Compared to spring, autumn is a bit dry with bright blue skies, and snow lines start from 4500 meters. The temperature can get a little chilly in the evening hours and early morning hours.
A Restricted Area Permit which costs 75 USD per person per week ( from December – August) and 100 USD per person per week ( September – November), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) costing 30 USD per person, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costing 30 USD per person is required for this Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since the trek shares a route with the Annapurna Conservation Area, you also have to get the ACA permits. Please refer to this page for more info: https://www.immigration.gov.np/page/trekking-route-and-permit-fee
The Manaslu Circuit Trek will cost about $100 per person per day. If you decide to get a half-board package, you will have to pay $75 per person per day. This package includes all the accommodation with breakfast, the guide’s salary, transportation, the required permit, and everything you would get in a standard package except lunch and dinner.
You require proper gear and equipment for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, a sleeping bag, backpack, down jacket, hiking t-shirt, long-sleeved t-shirt made of synthetic fiber, hooded rain jacket, a couple of trekking trousers, a pair of hiking boots, crampons, leg gaiters, and trekking poles.
Larkya La Pass is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, reaching an altitude of 5160 meters above sea level.
Most trekkers prefer to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek during Spring and Autumn. It is the festive season in Nepal and you will get to enjoy clear views of the surrounding landscape.
Even if you are physically able to carry all your luggage throughout this 13-day Himalayan trek, going into the restricted area of Manaslu on your own is not permitted by the Government of Nepal. You must have at least 2 people in the group and a licensed guide is mandatory for this trek.
Yes, a guide is legally required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Government of Nepal does not allow foreigners to travel into restricted areas on their own.
Compared to Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is similar in terms of difficulties but the passing day in Larkey La is a bit technical to descend (to Bhimtang) compared to Thorong La pass to Muktinath in the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Trek route for 12 days is the standard trek starting at Soti Khola and ending at Besi Sahar.
The major attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek include a visit to the Glacial Lake of Birendra, passing the Larkya La Pass, experiencing the authentic remote life of the highlands, typical Tibetan culture, 1000-year-old monasteries, and Mt. Manaslu which is the 8th highest mountain in the worlds, and more.
Yes, you will day trek to the Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaun on the 7th day of the 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Birendra Lake (Birendra Tal), is a freshwater lake located in the highlands of Manaslu Glacier. The lake is named after the Late King of Nepal, King Birendra Shah. It is near the Punhyen Glacier and Gompa in Samagaun. The lake is spread over an area of three square kilometers at a height of 4500m. Trekkers going from Sama Gaun to Manaslu Base Camp can visit this lake en route.
Ribang Gompa, Sama Gompa, Lho Monastery, Pungyen Gompa, Kargyu Chholing Monastery, Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Shringi Gompa in Bihi are all the notable monasteries in the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Samdo and Samagaun villages are known for being among the 4 Nubri villages. These villages are home to ethnically Tibetan people and their ways of life are influenced heavily by the Tibetan-Buddhism culture.
The standard route takes 12 to 14 days while the extended route takes 18 days to complete.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most memorable tea house trekking destinations you can experience. At present, the lodging facilities have improved and you will get to enjoy modern amenities for the most part. If you are interested in camping instead, it can be arranged as well.
You can find Local Nepali foods as well as Tibetan dishes and modern dishes including spaghetti, pasta, noodles, Pizza, fried rice, omelets, etc. in the lower parts of the Manalsu region while the upper remote regions offer traditional dumplings, Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, porridge, stir-fried veggies, etc.
There are no major health risks if you have no lung and heart medical conditions. Since this trek does not require you to spend much time above the 5000-meter mark the risk of altitude sickness drops as well. Altitude sickness can occur from 3500 meters but it will not affect you that much. To avoid altitude sickness we need proper acclimatization so we will take a few extra days to complete the trek.
The best way to acclimate during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is to ascend at a steady pace and practice the ‘climb high, sleep low’ technique. During this trek, you will gain an average elevation of 500-800 meters per day which will help your body adjust to the mountains.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Company Reviews
Go with North Nepal Treks to Nepal
Just came back from Manaslu circuit excellent arranged by Mohan at North Nepal Treks. Two weeks in heaven together with and old friend and a new one - our guide Zeewan - superman on the planet - and a caring mountain man. We chose North Nepal treks advised from my daugther and her fiance who went on the same trip 6 months earlier after scanning the market of agiencies together with recommendations from her friends. Was our jubilee trip after our Annapurna circuit trip 40 years ago. Meaning we are 64 years old, but still relatively fit and running marathons though. Everything went smooth and easy. We want to go again but only with this company. Seriously
Hi from Hans and Chris from Denmark.
100% recommend North Nepal Trek for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley
We recently had an incredibly wonderful and memorable experience with our guide Zeewan and our porter Dayaram on our Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek. Zeewan came highly recommended from friends. He and Dayaram were exceptional, we always felt we were in safe hands over the 19 days we were completing the trek. Zeewan has so much passion for Nepali wildlife and it shined through and really enriched our experience; while we were trekking, he spotted wild deer, Tahr, Blue Sheep and Himalayan Marmots for us to see. We would absolutely recommend heading out with Zeewan to anyone, we are incredibly grateful for the professionalism and kindness of our guide and porter.
Best Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trekking
We came as strangers and left as friends. That sums up our experience with North Nepal Travel & Trek (especially Mohan, the manager, and Zeewan, our guide) perfectly. It is definitely the best agency we can imagine. Mohan takes time for his guests, listens to them and then customizes a trekking tour. Everything is highly professional and perfect in terms of safety. When things didn't go fast enough in the kitchen at the guesthouse, Zeewan always stepped in and helped to get the best result for us. As soon as we weren't feeling well with the altitude, he supported us with any problem and helped us to feel better quickly. We even experienced a winter storm during our hike in February and still felt very safe and in best hands, Zeewan knows exactly what he is doing. After the hike, we were welcomed as friends by Mohan and we met again and again for tea, coffee and food many times. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience Mohan and Zeewan, we look forward to seeing you again!!!
Absolute recommendation :D
Oct 2024 • Family
North Nepal Travels & Treks was easy to contact and Mohan planned our trek perfectly. We did the 10-day Manaslu Circuit trek with our guide Gopal and porter Karna. It was truly amazing, an absolute recommendation. We enjoyed nature, culture and the talks with our guide, explaining the culture, religions and politics of Nepal.
Amazing Manaslu trek
Oct 2024 • Couples
We had an amazing experience with North Nepal Travel & Trek on the Manaslu Circuit. Mohan was great with communication, and he even took us out to dinner after the trek to hear about our adventure!
Our guide, Jeewan, made the journey unforgettable with his knowledge, positivity, and organization. Our porters, Basanta and Milen, were fantastic—Basanta kept us smiling every day, and Milen, or "Mountain Ferrari," amazed us with his strength and kindness.
We can’t wait for our next trip with them to Pikey Peaks. Highly recommend North Nepal Travel & Trek for a well-organized and memorable trek!
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