Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek is categorized as one of the most adventure trekking in Nepal which provides a spectacular landscape of natural beauty, high peaks, and the enriched culture of diverse people. This trek offers a striking view of the world’s 8th-highest Mountain Mt. Manaslu (8156m), Annapurna II, Himchuli, and the mysterious Ganesh Himal. The trek is considered, one of the less crowded trekking trails in Nepal compared to Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Trekking in the Manaslu region is especially for those trekkers, who want to experience peaceful trekking and diverse, multi-ethnic culture. It is a real heart trek for trekkers who want to trek in remote areas and experience remote diversity. This trek gives you a chance to engage with local people and get an insight into the local livelihood and culture.
The Manaslu Circuit Treks start from Soti Khola or Mache Khola which takes 8-9 hours to drive from Kathmandu and the treks end down toward Annapurna Region. The trail ascends from Budi Gandaki River and follows and crosses the suspension bridge, rivers, terrain, valley, and rocky path with a beautiful view of waterfalls and hills. After a few days of trek, the beautiful Birendra Lake near Sama Gaun is waiting for you to welcome with its shining blue water. Similarly, the hospitality of diverse cultural people along the trails makes your trek valuable and more memorable than expected.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is renowned as one of the biggest and most beautiful Conservation areas after the Annapurna Conservation Area. It provides spectacular trekking experiences from the tropical to the Alpine zone. The region covers unique trekking routes such as Manaslu Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu-Tsum Valley and continuously in the lower Manaslu part it includes Lower Manaslu Trek, Gorkha Historical Trek, Ganga Jamuna Trek, and some other camping treks. The trek offers you a magical picturesque of the snow-peaked mountains. Besides, Manaslu is also known as the home shelter of varieties of Flora and Fauna including, more than 150 species of herbs, 70 species of shrubs, and 20 species of trees, and between 1500-2000 species of flowering are found. Besides that, more than 30 species of mammals including endangered red panda, snow leopard, Musk deer, and Himalayan Thar, and more than 100 species of butterflies can be found.
Manaslu region is well known for its ethnic culture and traditions. It provides you with an immersive cultural experience. Manaslu is considered the home of several cultural groups including, Brahman, Tamang, Gurung, Chhetri, Nubris, Tsum, and Tibetans, and their unique traditions, festivals that show cultural ethnicity, richness, local cultural customs, local dances, songs, and other activities like horse racing.
Before, the trail was used as salt trading routes, providing a scenic and aesthetic of ancient villages, monasteries, Gumbas, and stupas along the trails. Some of the monasteries provide tea-house facilities to the trekkers during the season time.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the ideal destinations for adventure seekers. The trails are difficult but provide a breathtaking view and a unique experience. The flow of tourists is less as its popularity but along the way, you will see well-maintained tea houses with unique warm hospitality. To experience the best trekking experience of the Manaslu Circuit Trek through hidden parts of the trails, arrange your adventure with Recreation Holidays. We assure you that to provide a hassle-free and memorable trekking experience.
Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek
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The Manaslu Circuit Trek off-beaten trekking path.
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Trek along one of the biggest Budi Gandaki Rivers.
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Walk through the lush forest, beautiful valley, and challenging rocky path.
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Capture the fantastic moment of blue Lake-Birendra Taal.
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Insight into the Tibetan culture like exploring various monasteries and communities.
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Explore the abundant fauna, Red Panda, Himalayan Thar, Wild yak, and Snow Leopard occasionally.
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A scenic drive into the public vehicle, experiencing the Nepalese lifestyle.
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Crossing the largest mountain pass Larky-a la Pass (5106m)
Best season for Trekking
Trekking is an essential part of life. You have to find which time is perfect for trekking, hiking, and other adventure activities. In the context of Manaslu CircuitTrek for a better experience mainly two seasons well known Spring and Autumn include March, April May, and September, October, and November. In this season the weather becomes mild and clear which provides a clear view, and the trekking route is dry and smooth, the forest becomes greenery, and flowers start blooming.
Food During the trek
Nepalis a multicultural country that offers you a variety of cuisines including the famous traditional food DAAL-BHAT (rice and lentil soup) with curry. The fresh and healthy Dal Bhat increases your energy for the trek. Besides that, you can have Thukpa, Dumplig, Chowmins, fried rice, and other available food items in the Tea house.Some, the tea-houses offer you valuable nutrients yak milk or Himalayan yak cheese
Accommodation During the trek
Accommodation during the trek consists of tea houses, and lodges, which provide basic lodging, bed food, and a common area for socializing. Normally in the tea house, the beds are single and the bathrooms in the tea house are outside in pit toilets or minimal facilities. At some places, we have to make pre-booking because of tourist flow.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
The Manaslu circuit trek is one of the toughest treks in Nepal. Trails lead you through the Tropical zone to High groceries including rocky paths, and wooden bridges, ascending, and descending. The treks take 11 to 15 days to complete and cover over 150km. The Manaslu is a remote destination. So, it’s more difficult than comparing other trekking regions. But this trek gives you a unique experience of a diverse landscape. Be prepared sincerely before planning the Manaslu Circuit treks.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2024/2025
Manaslu Trekking is a profound remote trek in Nepal. Planning Manaslu treks considers various cost components. You can find different costs online from low to expensive, but before choosing the package make sure that covers all your cost components during the trek. Low prices attract travelers but quality service is fundamental while trekking in high altitude.
The cost includes services like transportation, accommodation, food services, guide porters, permits, and entrance fees. For more costing details and information on the trek
contactRecreation Holidays. We assure you that provide the best service.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance,Duration and Altitude
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Trekking routes
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Duration (Hours)
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Distance (K/m)
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Altitude(Meter)
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Drive to Machha Khola
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7- 9hrs.
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140-150 km
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930m
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Trek to Jagat
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7-8 hrs.
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20-22 km
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1340m
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Trek to Deng
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6-7 hrs.
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20-22 km
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1860m
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Trek to Namrung
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6-7 hrs.
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18-20 km
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2660m
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Trek to Sama Gaun
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6-8 hrs.
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12-15 km
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3530m
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Hike to Gyen Gompa/ Manaslu Base Camp
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3-4/6-8 hrs.
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6-7/20-22 km
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3700m/4700m
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Trek to Samdo
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4-5 hrs.
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16-18 km
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3875m
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Trek to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala)
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6-8 hrs.
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20-22 km
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4460m
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Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang via Larkya la pass
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9-10 hrs.
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20-22 km
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3720m/5106m
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Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani via Tilije
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7-8 hrs.
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20-22 km
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1860m
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The Manaslu Circuit Trek Preparation.
Manaslu Trek is difficult trekking in Nepal which covers an altitude from 930m up to 5106m high from sea level. To make your Manaslu Circuit Trek effective and enjoyable. Here, Recreation Holidays has considered some tips.
Physical Preparation:Obviously, trekking in the high Himalayan needs well-maintained physical conditions. The trek covers almost 150 km to 170km in total. As you ascend higher you need more stamina to make balance.So, engage in physical fitness before a month of trekking, activities like running, cycling, swimming hiking training, and altitude training which build your stamina.
Permits and necessary paper documents
Manaslu Circuit Trek requires various types of permits and documents. Here are some necessary papers.
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Trekking permit: Manaslu requires a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Trekking Information System permit (TIMS Card), and restricted area permit also known as a Special permit. Which is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), and Department of Immigration (DIO).
Health and Safety
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Altitude Sickness:Be aware of the symptoms, and follow the proper acclimatation schedule. Follow the guidelines and stay hydrated.
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Medical Kits:Carry necessary first aid health care materials or any kind of personal medication. Such as bandages, and pain relievers.
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Foods and waters:Carry snacks for personal, high-energy food like chocolate, nuts, and snack bars, reusable water bottles, and water purifying tablets. You can refill the water in the Tea house.
Culture and Environmental Consideration
Respect local customs, and learn some Nepali words which make it easy to interact with local people. Similarly, follow the eco-friendly practices-no trace leave policies on the trails which makes a negative impact on the environment.
Gears and Equipment
while trekking at high altitudes like the Manaslu Treks, Everest Treks, and Annapurna Treks. Choose essential gear and equipment wisely to make the trip hassle-free. Recreation Holidays consist of some considerations.
- Footwear: Invest in well-fitting quality hiking, and trekking boots with well-ankle support, a warm shock (3-4 pairs)
- Clothing: Carry a comfortable wind and waterproof down jacket, pairs of t-shirts and pants for walking, and a night dress.
- Sleeping Bags: you can hire quality sleeping in Kathmandu as well. Or if you have you can carry.
- Trekking sticks and crampons: trekking poles and crampons are essential for high-altitude treks. It helps to make a grip and comfortable walk.
- Trekking Bag: Carry 40-50ltrs of trekking bag to carry your stuff. So, you can use it during the trek. You can buy the bag in Thamel as well.
- Other essentials: Toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, wipe tissue, towel, and electronic devices like charger, mobile, and power bank.
Logistics preparation
A guide and porters are necessary for trekking which help to enhance your experience better and help if in any kind of obstacles.And other travel arrangements like transportation facilities for dropping at the trek point and pick up.
Final Preparation
Pack wisely before the trek starts. Pack light but be sure you have all necessary items. And if you are traveling through trekking agencies attend their briefing session for last-minute tips and information.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is necessary while traveling. Buy effective travel insurance that covers any kind of emergency rescue like Helicopter rescue from mountains, and other Medicare facilities.
Trek Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit is a treasure of Nepal with blends of beautification that always show its uniqueness and fundamentals for domestic and international travel enthusiasts. Besides, you can do the Manaslu trek alone or combine it with the T-sum Valley trek. Be ready to scale the Larkya La Pass and embark the journey on the Himalayas.
