Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary 11 Days of Adventure

Planning your journey to the Himalayas of Nepal ? Check this Manaslu Circuit Treks breakdown . Trekking at high altitudes is challenging mentally and physically. Nepal is a trekker’s paradise it delivers a dozens of trekking like Everest. Trekking in the Trans Himalayas of Nepal is magnificent and tremendious.

Trekking in Nepal is a dream of many national and international travel enthusiasts. One of the thrilling thoughts of adventure, the Manaslu trek is the best remote trekking in Nepal. It provides a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion in the west-central part of the Himalayas. The Manaslu Circuit Trek will take you to the base of the world's eighth-tallest mountain, Mt. Manaslu,8163m.

Manaslu Region Trekking opened for trekkers in 1991 AD to promote the Himalayan landscape and its regional beauty. The trek has lots of ambiance of beauty, the terrains, valley, ascending, descending, forest trail, cantilever bridge, and rocky trails are mesmerizing of the trek whereas ancient Tibetan village is a major attribute of the circuit, held centuries of history with fascinating culture and costume of the local. The circuit trails of Manaslu were used as a salt trading route between Tibet and Nepal later it became one of the best remote trekking trails for adventure lovers and traveler enthusiasts.

The iconic Manaslu is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including over 1500 flowering and herbal plants, encounters with rare animals such as red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, thar, musk deer, and butterfly species. While the trails lead you through the forest the manifesting sounds of seasonal birds tremendously add more joy and fun. At the same time the sound of a river, the smell of flowers, fresh air, and the warm sunlight reflecting over the snow make the adventure extraordinary.

11 days the Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the best remote trekking less crowded and full of adventure awaits. The trail leads the trekker’s tropical climate zone to a high mountain glacier pass. Larkya La Pass (5106m) is the highest point of the trek as well and it provides the closest view of the stunning Himalayas landscape including Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, part of Massif Annapurna, and other mountain ranges. Additionally, the mysterious Mt. Manaslu is a major attraction that trekkers can hike to the base camp (4800m), where the peak was scaled by a Japanese climber in 1956 AD for the first time.

The 11-day journey to the Manaslu Circuit Trek began from the beautiful village of Soti Khola or Machha Khola, after a one-day stunning drive through the highway and local villages of Nepal while experiencing the Nepalese lifestyle and enjoying the natural beauty which goes and ends at Dharapani near Besi-Sahar which is also the trek began point of Annapurna Circuit Trek. Even the Manaslu Circuit trek is also known for its off-beaten remote restricted trekking with extreme natural beauty and charming insight into the Himalayas.

Restricted trekking trail in Nepal

Manaslu Trekking is one of the most beautiful restricted trekking trails in Nepal that consists of the Manaslu region. The trek is a picturesque and unspoiled off-beaten journey through the Himalayan landscape. The restricted trail of the Manaslu region covers the Stunning T-sum Valley trekking that is filled with local culture and native mountains. As it is restricted you have to obtain the required trekking permit for Manaslu including the restricted trekking permit fee.

Restricted area permit: restricted area permit cost varies between high season and low season.

• September to November: USD 100 per person for the first week and USD 15 per person per day beyond a week.
• December to August: USD 75 per person for the first week and USD 10 per person per day beyond a week.

1. MCAP- Manaslu Conservation area permit is necessary to enter the conservation area which costs NPR. 3000 to foreigners and 1000 Nepalese currency when it is free for under 10 years Childs.
2. ACAP- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is necessary. It is required at the time of exit after the trek is accomplished which costs the same as MCAP.
3. TIMS Card: if you are planning to pass through the Annapurna Conservation Area, a Trekking Information Management System card is mandatory.

T-sum Valley Trek: T-sum Valley is part of the restricted trekking of Manaslu so, it needs to obtain MCAP and a restricted trekking permit.

• September to November: USD 40 per person for the first week and USD 7 per person per day beyond a week.
• December to August: USD 30 per person for the first week and USD 7 per person per day beyond a week.

Larkya La Pass (5106m)

Larkya la Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in the Nepalese Himalayan range and is a part of Manaslu Circuit Trek. Located between Dharmasala and Bhimtang offers the closest and awe-inspiring view of the world's eight eighth-highest peaksMt. Manaslu including, Ganesh Himal, Himchuli, Annapurna, and the beautiful landscape of the pass. The pass is located between the Dharmasala and Bhimtang with a glimpse of the Himalayan.

A highlight of Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Scenic drive from the historical Kathmandu Valley.
• Drive through Nepal’s first highway (Tribhuvan) and Prithivi Highway.
• Escape the urban crowd and enter into the peaceful landscape within a few hours.
• Crossing the bridge of Nepal’s one of the major river resources and holiest river Trishuli, originating from Gosai Kunda.
• Mesmerizing to drive through the Dhading Besi ( the headquarters of the district and the way for Ruby Valley Trekking)
• Crossing Salyantar Nepal's second-biggest plain lands in Nepal. Famous Salayantar is famous for Mustard and beans.
• Glimpse of sacred river Gudi Gandaki and cross the Aarughat Bazar the small market hub for surrounding villages.
• Scenic off-road drive to the Soti Khola or Machha Khola, the trekking starting point of Manaslu Base Camp Trek and T-Sum Valley Trek.
• Off-beaten and remote trekking trails.
• Explore the beautiful Birendra Lake along the trail.
• Walking through the ancient salt trading route of Nepal-Tibet.
• Crossing over the cantilever bridge, a wooden bridge with a spectacular view of waterfalls, rivers, and peaceful trails.
• Immersing into the Tibetan culture, traditions, mini walls, shortens, stupa, Tibetan monasteries, and Buddhist flag along the trails.
• Home of over 1500 flowering and herbal plants and diverse wildlife.
• The beautiful Buddhist village Sama Gaun and Samdo village.
• Larkya La Pass is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
• Spectacular view of the world’s eighth tallest mountain Mt. Manaslu(8163m) and insight of Mt. Annapurna, Himchuli, Ganesh Himal.
• Can cross the trails toward the Annapurna Circuit/ Around Annapurna trek.

Some facts about Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Manaslu Circuit trek is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, which covers 1663 sq., km.
• The trails lead through the remote off beaten path
• Manaslu Circuit Trek is renowned for its less expolred  and untouched beauty.
• Manaslu Circuit Trek was open for trekkers in 1991AD.
• Mt. Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world with an elevation of 8163m above sea level.
• Manaslu is a restricted trekking trail in Nepal.
• The manaslu region is located on the border of Nepal and Tibet and is influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.
• Manaslu is home to diverse flora and fauna including rare animals like red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan blue sheep.

Tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Manaslu Circuit Trekking is one of the most challenging because of its remoteness and off-the-beaten path. To accomplish the trek, here are some useful tips.
• Beware of high-altitude
• Be physically and mentally prepared
• Hire guides and porters, travel through a certified travel company
• Stay in a lodge and tea house
• Protect your eyes and skin
• Backlight and pack wisely.
• Carry Nepali cash in your pocket while trekking.
• Bring proper trekking equipment like boots, trekking sticks, trekking bags, torch lights, and other necessary medication.
• Carry a water purification tablet and stay hydrated.
• Take plenty of rest as you climb higher elevations.
• Carry recomanded gear and equipments for trekking.

Trek Difficulty

Manaslu circuit trek is considered challenging trekking because of its terrains and Himalayan landscape. The 11-day Manaslu Circuit trek offers you an opportunity to walk from tropical to high altitude elevations from 700m to 5106m above sea level. This trek becomes difficult for beginning trekkers due to its ascending and descending rocky path and climate. But if you are not a beginner for the trekking in Himalayas then the Manaslu circuit is perfect for you to walk in a peaceful atmosphere.

High Altitude

Mt.Manaslu stands at an elevation of 8163m above sea level. Trekking in the shadow of the world's 8th-highest peak is such a pleasant feeling for everyone. Manaslu circuit is not much higher than 5100m above sea level. The highest point of the trek is Larky La pass with an elevation of 5106m.

Trekking is challanging as always. Altitude sickness can be a major issue if you become careless while ascending. So by following the rules prevention is better than cure, take proper rest and stay hydrated, take healthy and enough food but still If you suffer from high altitude sickness take the necessary medicine and trek down in case.

 Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude,Distance and Duration

Generally, the Manaslu circuit trek takes 11 days to 14 to 15 days to complete when you design an itinerary by including a resting day in the mountain twice or thrice. Start from the beautiful town of Aarughat bazaar and take you inside the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary

The 11-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is renowned as one of the iconic remote destinations of the planet. The Manaslu Circuit trek can designed as a tailored itinerary as travelers require. The trek goes up to 11 days depending upon the trekkers' fitness. So, Recreation Holidays has designed a suitable itinerary for any age group of travelers.

Brief Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola: Machha Khola is a gateway for the Manaslu Region, located at an elevation of 930m above sea level. Within a few hours of the stunning drive, you reach Machhakhola from where the trek starts.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat: Today is the first day of hiking from Machha Khola. The adventure begins from here which leads the trails to the Larky Pass. The first day hike takes almost 7 to 8 hours depending upon your fitness and walking.

Day 3: Trek to Deng: as much as you are coming closer to Mt. Manaslu. The third day of the trek offers you a scenic walk to Deng village that takes around 7 hours of walking at an elevation of 1860m. The trails showcase a fascinating tea house along the trails, a hanging bridge, waterfalls, a beautiful forest, and a view of several peaks with a diverse cultural community along the trails.

Day 4: Trek to Namrung: During this day, the hike up to Namrung village challenges you with an off-beaten track and a long river valley between two giant hills. Besides, the trails lead you aside of beautiful pine forests and lots of greenery and the water gorge is outstanding. Along the trails, tea houses were waiting for you to take a rest and have beautiful talks with locals.

Day 5: Trek to Sama Gaon: Breakfast, with a view of the manifesting mountain scenery. Today’s journey began in the beautiful village of Sama Gaun. The trail is ordinary, you start walking by saying goodbye to all the beautiful tea houses in the hope of seeing them next time. You will face the Mountain Himchuli in front while Ganesh Himal wishes you a safe journey from behind. The valley, slope track, rocky obstacles, colorful tree leaves, and the soft cold wind from the mountain are imaginary and can be the best experience ever in life. Sama Gaun takes around 6 to 7 hours of gentle walking and is located at an elevation of 3530m.

Day 6: Rest day/Hike to Manaslu Base Camp: for the incredible view of the world’s tallest peak Mt. Manaslu, base camp is not a second option for sure. The hiking day showcases the adventurist mountain in front and the beautiful blue Birendra Lake fresh mountain glacier water down in the valley. Trails become like glaciers. You must ascend to the base camp and don’t miss the great opportunities to stand close to the sacred peak.

Day 7: Trek to Samdo: the beautiful village located at an elevation of 3875 m above sea level. Crossing the elegant Budi Gandaki River leads a journey toward the Samdo, a small beautiful Buddhist community.

Day 8: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Dharmasala): the 8th day of exploring Manaslu, the trails drive with the breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks and hills. Tea House is waiting to welcome you with warm hospitality and a traditional room with a mountain view. Dharma Sala is located at an elevation of 4460m high.

Day 9: Trek Bhimtang via crossing Larkya la Pass: Now, all the wait is going to be finished today. The dramatic view is waiting for you. An early morning walk through the snow trails and Crossing Larky Pass is the biggest achievement for trekkers. Located at an elevation of 5106m with a close view of Mt. Manaslu (8163m) and other prominent mountains. Similarly, Bhimtang is located at an altitude of 3720m above sea level. The village offers a beautiful scenery. Nature, culture, and Himalayan landscape. The junction of trekkers Bhimtang, with few tea houses, is waiting for you all the time.

Day 10: Trek Dharapani via Tilje: the last day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek leads through the small village of Gho and Tilje. The major attractions of the trails beside the Mountain View are crossing the suspension bridge, waterfalls, and walking through the dense rhododendron forest.

Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu: The day you are driving back to Kathmandu by driving with an enjoying view of the river, and highway. After a few hours of driving, you will arrive at the hub in Kathmandu and can spend your evening time doing whatever you want, by joining a cultural dinner program, visiting local markers, or releasing pain with Ayurveda massage, sauna, and steam. You will make many other choices and our team will assist you in making it perfect. Enjoy the last night in the historical Kathmandu City.

Day 12:Final day of Departure: it is time to remember all the memories you collect from the trek before leaving the Himalayas until the next time. Before the departure, our representative will meet you with a token of love for a trek review and a last-minute farewell. Keep sharing your

Best season for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking is a combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, and clear Himalayas view including some adventure activities, so the weather is a key factor for Himalayas trekking.  Therefore, typically there are two best times for trekking in Nepal.are Autumn and spring.

• Autumn season: the month between September and November, is a prominent trekking season in the Himalayas. This season is perfect with visible and clear weather, warm sunny days cold nights, and smooth trekking trails with uncountable natural beauty.
• Spring season: The month between March and May, is medium trekking time in the Himalayas. The weather temperature is hot but still cold and freezing at high altitudes.
• While winter: A totally, freezing time for high-elevation zone. The time between December and February, the weather becomes a bit clearer and visible of a mountain for certain. But due to the cold temperature trails become slippery with snow which becomes hard to ascend and descend. But still cannot do lower-elevation trekking. But if you want to experience the snow trails winter can be fantastic.
• Summer season: the time of June to August is taken as a mild temperature season but brings monsoon rains, and nature becomes desolate. But unseasonal can also offer the best trekking experience if you want.

Accommodation During the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek, there are mainly tea houses trek, which are small guest houses offering basic amenities the quality of accommodation varies depending on altitude and location, but mostly, tea houses offer a comfortable traveler atmosphere and bring local hospitality.

• Low-altitude (700m – 2500m): Accommodation in the lower parts of the trek is very comfortable and tourist-friendly, with clean and attractive rooms, comfortable beds, and basic bathroom facilities.
• Medium Altitude (2,500m – 4,000m): Accommodation can get cheaper as you trek higher, most teahouses still have private rooms (attached or non-attached bathrooms) and open dining areas
• High altitude (4,000 meters and above): Tea houses are basic in the higher parts of the trek, expect basic amenities and simple clean beds in rooms that may have thin walls, and heat a few shared bathrooms. In higher elevations, tea houses are fewer than down.

Note: Wi-Fi and mobile networks can work properly at low altitudes but can be slow and unreachable as you get higher. But Wi-Fi is only available in fewer villages and tea houses.

Some tea houses along the trails also have hot shower facilities which may charge extra cost because at higher altitudes it doesn’t rain always they have to store water during the rainy season and heating water can be challenging due to improper electricity. The cost can be lower than 500 Nepalese which is not expensive while looking the remoteness. 

Food  During the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a variety of food options, with the menu typically consisting of Nepalese traditional dishes, including some international dishes as the trek goes through remote areas, the food is basic yet fresh, organic, and health-concerning, Nepalese food can be the best warm-up for your body to complete the long trekking journey.

Food options that can be found during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Dal Bhat (lentil with rice): A king of Nepal cuisine, refreshing meals include cereals, lentil soups, pickles, and vegetables. Dal- Bhat is the only dish that can added twice at the same price.
• Momo: A popular dish, also known as dumplings momos are fried dumplings stuffed with vegetables or meat.
• Thukapa; Noodle soup with vegetables, meat, and spices. Perfect for keeping your body warm on cold days.
• Pasta, Pizza, and Sandwiches, spaghetti: In the lower villages you can find some international dishes like pasta, pizza, and sandwiches which cater to foreign explorers.
• Snacks: Teahouses offer energy bars, fruit, chocolates, biscuits, and fruit items, although prices can rise the further you ascend.
• Tea and coffee: Tea is widely available and helps to keep hydrated. Instant also offers coffee.
• Hot Lemon and Ginger: These are popular drinks, especially in cooler temperatures which keep you active and energetic in high altitude.
• Bottled water: Mostly, tea house offers bottled water, although you can bring water filters and drink natural water.

Guide and Porter Policy

You must hire a guide for exploring Manaslu Circuit  due to its restricted area. A guide can help you navigate the trails, provide safety and medical assistance, and enhance your experience with cultural awareness. If you love to make hassle-free walks and carry less weight, you can also hire a porter to carry your stuff. But unnecessary stuff that is not mandatory and needed for the trek can be stored at the hotel or can be taken care of by a representative. Travel agencies mostly offer packages that include a guide and a porter for Manaslu circuit trekking.

Cultural considerations or guidelines need to be known before the Manaslu Trek.

The trek leads you through many villages inhabited by Gurung, Tamang, and Sherpa. It is essential to observe local customs and traditions.

• Photography: always ask for permission before taking pictures, especially of people and religious ceremonies.
• Religious places: Always visit monasteries, stupas, and prayer in a clockwise direction.
• Respect for locals and others: Always respect community people and others you meet during the trail, which makes your trek easier and helps you engage with them easily.

Safety Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit is an elevated hiking area, so a few precautions are necessary:

• Acclimatization: follow a proper program, including rest days to avoid altitude mountain sickness and other health issues.
• Walk Hydration: Drink plenty of water, and avoid drinking and smoking in high elevations.
• Altitude sickness: Recognize symptoms of altitude sickness like headache, dizziness, and nausea and rest or descend immediately if the situation becomes difficult.
• Weather: The weather can change rapidly, so pack a good quality rain jacket and warm layers.

Trek Conclusion    

Manaslu Circuit Trek brings an unparalleled adventure for travellers enthusiasts, combining dramatic natural landscapes with rich cultural experiences. This 11-day journey to the world’s 8^th peak takes trekkers through diverse terrains, past ancient Tibetan villages, and to the breathtaking heights of Larkya La Pass (5106m). As a restricted trekking trail, it provides a light of exclusivity and peace away from the more crowded circuits in Nepal. The unique wildlife, flora, and fauna, along with the majestic views of Mt. Manaslu and surrounding peaks, make this trek a memorable experience. For those seeking a blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural immersion, the Manaslu Circuit trek stands out as one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal.