Manaslu Trek Nepal Introduction
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a choice for different groups of travel enthusiasts. Manaslu Trekking Circuit is a part of restricted trekking in Nepal that offers remote travelers a friendly nature and atmosphere.
The ManasluCircuit Trail generally takes over 11 days to complete. The starting point of the trek is Soti Khola or Machha Khola, which is an 8-9 hour drive from Kathmandu, the trailhead of the Manaslu region trek. The trek to Manaslu takes you closer to Mt. Manaslu and Larkya Pass, the highest point of Manaslu Loop Trekking that passes through the beautiful landscape, a wide range of jungle with diverse species of flora and fauna, and villages that show the deep cultural consideration, adding glory and more charm to the Manaslu trekking. The lifestyle and cultural costumes of the diverse endogenous settlements of the Manaslu region show the unique Tibetan Buddhism-influenced community.
The remote trekking trail of the Manaslu region was opened in 1992 AD for trekking and expeditions. Setting itself as a hidden treasure of Nepalese trekking, the Manaslu Circuit trek has become the dream list of hundreds of trekkers. The 11-day journey around manaslu highlights multiple icons of the Manaslu conservation area and ends at Dharapani. The 11-day Manaslu circuit trek is the best in Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek is categorized as one of the most adventurous trekking routes 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 the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Trekking in the Manaslu region is especially for those trekkers who want to experience peaceful trekking and a diverse, multi-ethnic culture. It is a real heart trek for trekkers who wish 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 the Annapurna Region. The trail ascends from the 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 you 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 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 view of the snow-peaked mountains. Besides, Manaslu is also known as the home shelter of a variety 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 flowers are found. Besides that, more than 30 species of mammals, including the endangered red panda, snow leopard, Musk deer, and Himalayan Thar, and more than 100 species of butterflies can be found.
The 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, Nubri, 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.
The Manaslu Tsum Vslley 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 than 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 we to provide a hassle-free and memorable trekking experience.
Trek Highlights of Manaslu Circuit
- New popular trekking in Nepal, less crowded and authentic trekking in Manaslu
- The border connected with the Tibetan region and opened for trekkers in 1992 AD.
- Experience the awe-inspiring view, rugged landscape, alpine forest zone, and various vegetation close to the world's eighth-highest peak, Mt. Manaslu (81063m)
- Manaslu Conservation Area is home to a diverse group of wildlife species, including over 1500 flowering and herbal plants.
- Mt. Manaslu trekking offers a blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures along with mountain culture that was influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.
- Get a framed view of some of the stunning snow-capped peaks, such as Cheo Mountain, Buddha Peak, Shingri Himalaya range, Ganesh Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna, with eight-thousand-meter-high peaks like Mt. Manaslu.
- The beautiful village that holds an abundance of the cultural significance of Tibetan Buddhism in the manaslu region, Samagaun, is the center for trekkers to stay.
- Birendra Lake, Pun Gyen Gomba, and other monasteries in Samagaon are worthwhile.
- The 11-Day Manaslu high pass trek covers one of the highest mountain glacier passes, Larky Pass, with an elevation of 5106m is the highest point of the trek.
- Dharpani, the ending point of the Manaslu Trek, is the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in the Annapurna region. That provides unique vibes to the trekkers.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary -11 days
This brief Manaslu Itinerary provides the trekking route of Manaslu Circuit, distance, duration, and trek altitude with it essential day to day highlight of Manaslu Circuit Trek from kathmandu.
Day 1: Drive to Machha Khola via Aarughat and Soti Khola from Kathmandu
- Distance: 160km
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Altitude: 890m( Machha Khola) / 730m (Soti Khola)
Highlight of the day
- Scenic drive through Trishuli Highway
- Witness with lush green forest, terraced fields, and beautiful traditional villages.
- Opportunities to interact with local people.
Day 2: Trek to Jagat
- Distance: approx. 21km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude: 1410m( Jagat)
Highlight of the day
- Crossing the suspension bridge and following the trail along the Budi Gandaki River
- Ascend through the tropical and tropical land
- Beautiful waterfalls and a glimpse of local culture await
Day 3: Trek to Deng
- Distance: approx. 20km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude: 1804m (Deng)
Highlight of the day
- Entry into Manaslu Conservation Area.
- Checking the trekking permits for manaslu entry.
- Walking along the riverbank bank narrow gorges and dramatic views.
- Glimpse of the Tibetan Buddhist community and some monuments.
Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2660m)
- Distance: approx. 19km
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude: 2630m( Namrung)
Highlight of the day
- Great vista of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal.
- Tibetan-influenced cultural villages, Mani walls, and chortens along the trails.
- Opportunities to engage with local people and learn about their culture and festivals.
Day 5: Trek to Samagaon
- Distance: approx. 18km
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude: 3520m( Samagaon)
Highlight of the day
- Rest place during the manaslu trail trek
- Expansive view of the world's 8th highest peak, Mt. Manaslu
- Charming Tibetan village, people, and their daily rituals
- Monastery and Himalayan Buddhist culture.
Day 6: Acclimatization in Samagaon, explore Pun Gyen Gompa, or hike to Manaslu Base Camp.
- Distance: approx.8 km ( Pun Gyen Gompa) & 15km (Manaslu base Camp)
- Duration: 4-5 hours& 8-9 hrs-depending upon chosen activities.
- Altitude: 3800( Pun Gyen Gompa) / 4800m(Manaslu base Camp)
Highlight of the day
- Visit Pun Gyen Gompa, or Manaslu Base Camp
- Pristine Birendra Lake.
- Breathtaking alpine scenery.
Day 7: Trek to Samdo
- Distance: approx. 15km
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: 3875m( Samdo)
Highlight of the day
- Trek through the yak pastures and rugged landscape.
- Walk in high high-altitude landscape
- Spectacular view of famous mountain peaks, including manaslu,
- Explore the quaint Tibetan refugee village of Samdo
Day 8: Trek to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi)
- Distance: approx. 14km
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: 4660m( Dharmasala)
Highlight of the day
- Ascent into the high alpine zone
- Breathtaking view of Larkya glacier and some snow-capped peaks.
- A day before Larkya Pass
Day 9: Trek to Bhimtang via Larkya Pass
- Distance: approx. 23km
- Duration: 9-10 hours
- Altitude: 5106m(larkya Pass) / 3720m(Bhimtang)
Highlight of the day
- An adventurous and rewarding climb of Larkya Pass
- Panoramic view of Himlung Himal, Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna II
- Descend toward Bhimtang by following the valley downhill.
Day 10: Trek to Dharapani via Tilje (2300m)
- Distance: approx. 20km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude: 1860m( Dharapani) / 2300m(Tilje)
Highlight of the day
- Gradually walk down through pine and rhododendron forests.
- Crossing the beautiful village of Tilje, a rich cultural settlement.
- Great vista of the Annapurna range and cascading waterfalls.
Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu
- Distance: approx. 230km
- Duration: 8-10 hours
- Altitude: 1345m (Kathmandu)
Highlight of the day
- Catch the jeep from Dharapani and drive to Besisahar
- Drive back through the national highway, the opposite Trishuli River ( Trishuli River is famous for whitewater rafting)
- Enjoy the cultural hub of Kathmandu in the Evening.
(Note: For the Trek Map of Manaslu, open this live Manaslu Trek Google Map
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2025/2026 (package price)
Manaslu 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 it covers all your cost components during the trek. Low prices attract travelers, but quality service is fundamental while trekking at high altitudes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost starts from $890 per person (minimum 2 trekkers). The cost includes services like transportation, accommodation, food services, guide porters, permits, and entrance fees. For more costing details and information about the trek, contact us. We assure you that provide the best service.
Best time for Manaslu Trek
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 Circuit Trek for a better experience, mainly two seasons well well-known: Spring and autumn, including March, April, May, 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.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
The Manaslu circuit trek 11 days adventure 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.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit for Trek in Nepal
Choosing a destination for spending quality holidays in Nepal is so difficult due to its never-ending beauty and uniqueness. So, we suggest you choose Manaslu Round Trek for the best experience of Nepalese Himalayan life, remote culture, and off-beaten track. Here are several reasons to choose the Mt. Manaslu Trek.
- Less Crowded and Off-the-Beaten Path
- Trekkers can expand theri journey to Tsum Valley Trek
- Experience enriches the Tibetan mix of cultural traditions
- Diverse remote landscape
- Challenging Trails but Rewarding Adventure
- Manaslu Conservation Area, with its rich wildlife species
- Less commercialized, but trekkers choose to trek.
- The restricted area trekking experience and the remote nature of the trek.
- Easily connected with several other treks like Tsum Valley, Manaslu Base Camp, and Annapurna Circuit.
- Close-up view of the world's eighth-highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu(8163m)
- Perfect destination for adventure seekers, cultural trekkers, and nature lovers.
- Authentic tea house and local hospitality experience
- Budget-friendly trek compared to other popular treks in Nepal.
- Flexible and customizable trekking route and itinerary
- Trek's starting point is close to Kathmandu. It takes 8-9 hours to reach Soti Khola from Kathmandu.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek Preparation.
Manaslu Trek is a difficult trek in Nepal that covers an altitude range from 930m up to 5106m high from sea level. To make your Manaslu Circuit Trek effective and enjoyable. Here, Recreation Holidays has considered some training and preparation guides.
Physical Preparation
-
Trekking in the high Himalayas needs well-maintained physical conditions. The trek covers almost 150 km to 170km in total. As you ascend higher, you need more stamina to maintain 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.
Health and Safety
- Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms, and follow the proper acclimatization schedule. Follow the guidelines and stay hydrated.
- Medical Kits: Carry necessary first aid health care materials or any kind of personal medication. Such as bandages and pain relievers.
- 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 Considerations
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 negatively impact the environment.
Physical fitness required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
A major question for the Larkya Pass trek, Manaslu is whether I am fit to trek or not. What kind of fitness is required to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek? As we know Manaslu Circuit is a challenging trekking that offers physical strength that faces the adventurous journey of the Manaslu trek. We can surely explain whether you can do this trek, but here we share fitness requirements. Before making the journey, focus on short hiking, running, cycling, and other cardio exercises to make the trek smooth. Besides, altitude sickness is a major issue during high-altitude trekking, so ensure your body can adjust to the mountain atmosphere. For the altitude sickness guide.
Who can trek on the Manaslu Circuit? - Is it possible for solo trekkers and first-time trekkers?
The thrilling adventure of Manaslu is challenging but rewarding at the same time. Trekking at high altitudes, especially in the Himalayas is a dream of many travelers. This trek is for every level of people who are willing to concur with the 5106m Larkya Pass.
While talking about Solo trekkers or first-timers on the Manaslu circuit trek is a combination of nature, culture, and adventure. It is the best off-beaten trek around Mount. Manaslu is the 8th-highest mountain in the world. By following the necessary process and providing guidelines for fitness, acclimatization, safety, and saving tips, food, and accommodation tips, trekkers of every level can do the Manaslu trek without any risk. The Manaslu circuit trek is for both beginners and first-time travelers.
Altitude sickness during the Trek in Manaslu
Mountain sickness is a major issue faced by many travelers while embarking on high-altitude adventures like trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness is not something to ignore. Trekkers must follow the propagation to avoid mountain sickness. Due to the high-altitude nature of Manaslu, ascending fast is dangerous. So, always follow the provided safety tips for Altitude sickness during the manaslu trek. With better planning and guidelines, you can avoid such kind of issues during the trek.
Accommodation on Manaslu Circuit Trek
Accommodation on the Manaslu Trail Circuit journey is basic and welcomes trekkers with hygienic bedrooms on a sharing basis. Generally, a tea house offers a tourist-standard room at an accessible price. As you ascend to the high altitude, tea houses and lodges are fewer, and trekkers have to share a room in a group, mainly during the high season time. During the Manaslu visit, we suggest trekkers carry their sleeping bags to enhance the trek experience and a hassle-free journey.
Food on Manaslu Circuit Adventure Trekking
Manaslu Round Trek offers a multi-cuisine to the trekkers, from breakfast to dinner, you can have a tea house or lodge where you stay overnight, and you can find a lunch along the trails while hiking. As trekkers require, tea houses provide a light breakfast like eggs, bread, beans, and sometimes cornflakes. The lunch and dinner during the trek are Dal Bhat, the local Nepalese traditional dish that is highly recommended to maintain an energy balance. But if you prefer, you can order the food from a menu, like some American dishes, such as noodles, pasta, thukpa, momos, chowmin, and other items. Besides coffee, tea, water, and energy drinks are available in every tea house, including fruit items. The food can be a little expensive due to the challenging transportation, but somewhere the room can be free after the food.
Permit for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu circuit trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, where trekkers need to obtain a Manaslu Conservation Area permit from the Nepal Tourism Board. Since the Manaslu region is protected as a restricted area, it apply for a restricted area trekking permit from the Department of Immigration, for which travelers need to apply via a trekking company with a government-registered license. At least two trekkers are necessary to apply for the restricted area permit.
Permit price for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
- Manaslu Conservation Area permit: NPR 3000 per person. (For foreigners) and NPR1000 for SAARC nationalities.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Trekking Permit cost: NPR 3000 for NON-SAARC and NPR 1000 for SAARC.
- Restricted area permit cost for Manaslu Circuit in autumn (September to November) - USD 100 per person for the first week and USD 15 per person, each day beyond a week.
- Chum Nurbi Rural Municipality Permit: It costs 1000 Nepalese per person.
- In A low-season restricted area, Manaslu Trekking costs USD 75 per person for the first week and USD 10 per person each day beyond a week.
Permit issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Department of Immigration (DIO), and ChumNurbi Counter at the entry point.
Gears and Equipment for Manaslu Trek
While trekking at high altitudes like the Manaslu, Everest Base Camp , and Annapurna Circuit.Choosing 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 windproof and waterproof down jacket, pairs of t-shirts and pants for walking, and a nightdress.
- Sleeping Bags: You can hire quality sleeping bags 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 a comfortable walk.
- Trekking Bag: Carry a 40- 50-liter 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 a charger, mobile, and power bank.
Altitude sickness on Manaslu
Mountain sickness is a major issue faced by many travelers while embarking on high-altitude adventures like trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness is not something to ignore. Trekkers must follow the propagation to avoid mountain sickness. Due to the high-altitude nature of Manaslu, ascending fast is dangerous. So, always follow the provided safety tips for Altitude sickness during the manaslu trek. With better planning and guidelines, you can avoid such kind of issues during the trek.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is necessary while traveling. Buy effective travel insurance that covers any kind of emergency rescue, like a Helicopter rescue from the mountains, and other Medicare facilities.
Manaslu Trekking benefits with the Recreation Holidays Team.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off facilities
- Trekking map
- Help with buying or renting trekking gear and equipment
- Guiding around the city (optional)
- Transportation for the trek, an experienced and Speaking Guide.
- Customized itinerary options for Manaslu Trek.
- Focusing on sustainable tourism practices.
- Competitive pricing with value.
- Commitment to customer satisfaction enhancement.
Manaslu Trek- A best off-beat trek in Nepal
The Manaslu Circuit restricted trek is a treasure of Nepal with blends of beauty 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 Tsum Valley trek. Be ready to scale the Larkya La Pass and embark on the journey on the Himalayas.
