Guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026

Manaslu Overview

One of the renowned trekking trails of Nepal was opened for trekkers in 1991 AD. Set on the Northan Mansiri Himalayan range, in the Gorkha district of Nepal one of the tallest peaks Manaslu is serrated walls of ice and snow hanging in the sky. Manaslu, the mountain of sprites means Manasa in Sanskrit meaning soul or intellect. The peak was scaled by a Japanese expedition member in 1956 May 09.

The Manaslu circuit trek is an unforgettable top trekking destination with a bulk of adventure through the breathtaking remote part of Nepal. It offers a spectacular trekking experience, providing a blend of natural beauty, enriching cultural and heritage villages, Tibetan Buddhist culture, diverse flora and fauna, and the warm hospitality of local people. The magical trek with Recreation Holidays allows you to explore the beauty of the country's hidden landscape.

Manaslu Circuit trek, nestled in the Himalayas heart, Manaslu is considered the world’s eighth-highest peak and is famous for adventurous activities such as snow skiing, climbing, and expeditions, trekking. It is one of the less crowded but more popular among adventure seekers same as Annapurna Region, Everest Region. The Manaslu region offers various trekking routes like Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, and Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The popular trek, which takes 11 days to 15 days, covers around 177 km and passes down to Annapurna. It was opened for tourists in 1991 AD. Due to its remote and sensitive area, Manaslu is a restricted trekking region. It is a conservation area designed to preserve natural resources, cultural heritage, and unique biodiversity.

Generally, the trek starts from Soti Khola, a 5 to 6-hour drive from the Aarughat, and ends at Dharpani near Besisahar. After, the trail follows the ancient salt trading route between Tibet and Nepal. En route, you can observe the 10 snow-capped peaks. The Manaslu Region is famous for its spectacular Mountain View, diverse landscape, cultural experience, less crowded, cultural heritage, and challenging terrains.

Manaslu Conservation Area was established in 1997 AD to gain the area's primary conservation and sustainable management. Manaslu is home to several flora and fauna including endangered species such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and species of flowering and non-flowering herbal plants.

The route takes you through a traditional Tibetan-influenced village such as Samagaun and Samdo, where trekkers can experience Buddhist culture, local customs, and local festivals. The enriched cultural communities of Gurung and Sherpas people bring a deep experience to the tour. Along the trails, you can explore the ancient Tibetan monasteries and other culturally significant sites that show the region's cultural richness. The trails showcase the variety of terrain, rocky paths, valleys, crossing rivers steps ascents, and descents from narrow to wide trails. Also, the treks ascend from subtropical to high-altitude terrains, providing a diverse range of experiences and acclimatization for trekkers. The trek offers a tranquil and pristine environment. The off-beaten trails carry you through rich forests of blooming Rhododendrons and alpine woods like Pine, Juniper, Cider, and birch.

Larkya La Pass is the largest pass of the Manaslu Trek situated at an elevation of 5160m. The expansive vista of snow-capped mountains and glaciers creates a memorable backdrop. The pass provides a stunning view of surrounding peaks including Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II.

Facts about Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Spectacular experience of the 8th tallest mountain in the world.
• The traditional Tibetan Buddhism, traditional villages Monasteries, and stupas.
• Trekking in historical and ancient salt trading trails.
• Immersing in diverse natural beauty, culture, and traditions.
• Walking through suspension walls hanging bridges, and big rivers.
• Magical view of Mountains, lush forest, valley, and other landscapes.
• Walking into less crowded trekking trails.
• Experiencing Varieties of Wildlife Experiences.
• Restricted trekking route.
• Larkya La Pass is the largest trekking pass (5160m)
• Manaslu conservation area, various species of flora and fauna.
• Trekking in various climate zones, ranging from Sub-tropical to high passes.
• Outstanding hospitality of the local community.
• Experiencing the enchanting Birendra Lake.
• Tibetan refugee village.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026.

Planning Manaslu Circuit Trek with Recreation Holidays teams provides a lifetime experience. It allows you to explore the hidden treasure of the region. Manaslu is the choice of adventure seekers. The trek covers 600m to 5106m from sub-tropical to glacier. The trek offers a majestic view of the world's eighth-tallest mountain and surrounding peaks. The Manaslu Trekking is less crowded and real heart trekking. The trek takes you to an unbelievable Nurpi Culture, Religion, and great Himalayan Trails. The Manaslu circuit is considered the best trekking in Nepal by trekkers. The Manaslu is a restricted trekking destination that provides you with an enchanting scenery view. The trails take you through the forest bit along the trail’s tea houses, lodges are waiting for you to experience the service.

Recreation Holidays is assured to provide the best service at a reachable price and a suitable trek itinerary. Here are some key considerations for the Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide for 2025 as our expertise.

Planning and Preparation for the Manaslu Trek

Timing and Seasonality

Nepal has various climates, from Tropical to Alpine. Trekking in Nepal provides you with a lot of experience at every step. Manaslu Trekking in Nepal is for all seasons. Typically for the best experience and diverse view of mountains and natural beauty Spring and autumn seasons are perfect.

Spring Season

March to May is perfect for the Manaslu region and other treks in Nepal. At that time, the weather is mild and clear, and the trails become green. It is the best time to experience the landscape of the Manaslu and immerse yourself in the culture, traditions, and festivals.

Autumn Season 

September to November is a high season for trekking in Nepal. The weather provides a tranquil and pristine environment for trekkers. The season is famous due to cultural and festival activities, migration of animals and birds, shorter and clearer days, and harvesting season. This season we also featured the renowned festival of Nepal. Everything starts shining.

Itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026

Manaslu Region has multiple trekking routes that provide an extreme experience to travelers, of Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, and Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Among them, the most popular one is Manaslu Circuit Trek which takes 11 to 15 days in total and covers approximately 177 km. Recreation Holidays has planned the perfect 11-day itinerary for you with applicable pricing. The itinerary does not include arrival and departure details.

11 Days short Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance & Duration.

11 days-Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the less explored trekking trails in Nepal. The off-beaten Manaslu Circuit trek starts from Kathmandu after 8 hours of stunning driving toward Soti Khola (730m) or Machha Khola (870m) the gateway of Manaslu Circuit trek, Manaslu base camp trek, and even T-Sum valley Trek. The real hike starts on the 2nd Day and takes 6-8 hours to reach Jagat. After a lovely breakfast on Day 3rd pack a bag and tie your shoes to accomplish the 5 to 7-hour walk to a glimpse of Mt. Manaslu from Deng Village. On 4th Day it takes approximately 5 to 7 hours to reach the beautiful Namrung Village. The 5th Day of the beautiful Tibetan civilized village of Sama Gaun requires 6 to 8- hours of walking. Whereas, Day 6 is a rest day, or optionally can hike to Pun Gyen Gompa(3700m) or Manaslu Base Camp which takes 2 to 3 hours for Gompa and 5 to 7 hours for base camp. Day 7 is a trek to Samdo, about 5 to 7 hours of hiking. Day 8 Larke Phedi takes approx. 4 to 6 hours. Similarly, Day 9 takes over 8 hours to reach Bhimtang by crossing Larkya La pass (5106m) the highest point of the trek. Reaching Dharapani from Bhimtang via Tilje takes not more than 8 hours on the 10th Day of the trek. On the 11th Day, you will be back in Kathmandu in 8 hours of drive as per made itinerary by Recreation Holidays.

Essential gear and equipment needed for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Clothing

• Waterproof and windproof quality down jacket.
• Thermal set to make your body warm at high altitudes.
• Soft T-shirts and pants are necessary for a comfortable walk.
• Rain poncho to protect self from rain.
• Gloves, hats, head covers, and sunglasses are necessary while trekking.

Footwear

• Soft and flexible trekking shoes.
• Thick and soft shocks
• Slipper (needed while staying at tea house)

Other essential

• Personal hand-carry bag
• Medical kits 
• Reusable water bottles and purification tablets
• Warm sleeping bag (depending upon climate)
• Trekking sticks and crampons (you can buy it in Kathmandu)
• Personal accessories like sun cream, body spray, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
• Other electronic things like mobile, cameras, chargers, power banks, etc.
• Buy insurance that covers all the emergency rescue including helicopter rescue and other Medicare facilities.

Trekking at high altitudes requires good physical and mental preparation. The Manaslu is considered one of the most difficult treks of Nepal. Be prepared for the Manaslu circuit and make your visit enjoyable and hassle-free. therefore, Knowing the certain things that you need to obtain before planning a trip to Manaslu Circuit is fundamental. 

Necessary Documents and permits for the Manaslu Circuit Treks.

Documents

• Original passports (at least 6-month valid date)
• Valid visa documents.
• Insurance papers.
• Emergencies contact paper.

Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Non-SAARC tourist

• MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 3000.
• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 3000.
• TIMS (Trekking Information System)- Nepalese Rs 2000

SAARC tourist

• MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 1000.
• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) costs Nepalese Rs 1000.
• TIMS (Trekking Information System)- Nepalese Rs 1000

Restricted area permit fee for Manaslu Circuit trek.

• (September to November)- It costs USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 per day. (Beyond Week)
• (December to August)-it costs USD 75 for the first week, and USD 10 per day (beyond a week)

Restricted area trekking permit fee for T-sum Valley

• (September to November) -it costs USD 40 for the first week, and USD 7 per day (Beyond a week).
• December to August- it costs USD 30 for the first week, and USD 7 per week (Beyond week).

Note: All this cost is based on per person. Sometimes the fee can be changed as per government policy. If it changes slightly, we will update you. Keep updated with Recreation holidays.

Guide, Porter’s policy for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking in every part of Nepal is difficult including the Manaslu Circuit Trek. So, concerning traveler's safety, public and private tourist organizations have operated guide and porter policies. A guide or porter is mandatory for solo trekkers in Nepal. Whereas, Manaslu is prohibited for solo trekkers. It required a minimum of 2 trekkers. Make sure that you are traveling with a guide porters and registered travel agencies. 

When is the ideal time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu is a multi-ethnic cultural place. It provides travelers with lots of cultural and natural experiences. It is also known as one of the heaven destinations for trekking. Trekking can be done in any season but generally spring and autumn are perfect for a visit.

Spring Season (March to May)

This season provides perfect weather for trekking in the Manaslu Region. The weather becomes clear, the forest starts to bloom, and the temperature becomes moderate. It holds Buddha Jayanti and Gyalpo Losar, one of the biggest festivals of the Sherpa people.

Autumn Season (September to November)

The peak season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and other trekking in Nepal. At that time, the weather becomes mild, and clear, and provides the best view of the mountains and natural beauty. It held the famous festivals of Nepal, including Dashain, Tihar, Chhat, Yartung Festival, and the Manaslu Cultural Festival in August and September in Manaslu regions. This season is a choice of thousands of visitors. Whereas, the Yartung featured long-standing horse racing and selling of local foods, crafts, and celebration of local music and dance. Besides, the Manaslu Cultural festivals happen for three days including cultural dance, local food and handicraft buying and selling, and horse races between local people.

What is the best weather for trekking?

The Manaslu Circuit Treks covers the subtropical foothills of the Himalayas. It also encompasses Himalayan and Trans Himalayan along the Tibet border in the northern. Generally, the weather rises during the rainy time. The weather can vary by temperature, Humidity, Wind, and precipitation conditions. During the day it becomes sunny and cold at night. So, the best weather for the Manaslu Trek is Pre and the past rainy seasons include March to May and September to November. It is a time to view best the Himalayan range, nature, and cultural activities. The weather becomes clear, and mild and trails get dry.

When is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Most Crowded? Manaslu vs Everest

Nepal has dozens of famous trekking destinations including the Manaslu circuit trek, which is less crowded compared to other areas like Everest Trek, and Annapurna Trek. The Manaslu Circuit Treks is renowned among adventure treks due to its landscape. This trek is a majestic destination because of its scenic beauty. The Manaslu circuit treks never get crowded, but still a choice for thousands of trekkers. If you love to trek in less crowded areas like Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Base Camp Trek, and Tsum Valley Trek are ideal destinations.

Embarking on the journey toward the Base camp of the world’s eighth-tallest mountain is a bucket list for many people. To make your dream complete Recreation Holidays is ready at any time. Our team will fully take care of everything. Visiting Nepal once is not enough. Be prepared to create memories with mountains.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit is an unforgettable journey through the majestic Himalayan landscape. Rich culture and diverse ecosystems. The beautiful journey showcases the world’s highest Mt. Manaslu while passing through the charming village and ancient Tibetan monasteries. Trekking in various Terrain from tropical to high mountain glaciers not only the physical challenges but also profoundly connects with nature and the resilience of locals. If you have any queries, need any tips, or guidelines and trek costs of the Manaslu Trek and any other trekking destination in Nepal feel free to Contact  Recreation Holidays.