Why you should Trek the Manaslu Circuit
Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unforgettable, untouched adventure in Nepal that takes you through the country's most scenic and culturally enriching trekking region—popularly, known for its breathtaking world's eighth-highest peak—Mt—Manaslu (8163m). The perfect balance of challenging and rewarding trails showcases the charming natural beauty, diverse landscape, and mixture of a cultural abundance of Indigenous community influenced by Tibetan Buddhism with great opportunities to experience the Nepalese lifestyle in remote. A less crowded trail unlike, other popular treks in Nepal,Annapurna Trek, Everest Trek, andLangtang Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a pure gem trek in Nepal for those seeking off-the-beaten trails.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail pass through the lush forest, alpine meadows, and high-altitude glacier, Larky La Pass (5106m) is a tremendous experience. Along the trek, trails go with a mixture of ethnic groups, including, Tamang, Gurung, and Sherpa each contributing to the vibrant culture. trek journey is also a great opportunity for cultural immersion that shows that Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, prayer wheels, flags, stupas along the trials, and ancient temples draw the magical landscape. Despite this, the more remote trail is well maintained with comfortable tea houses along the trail. For those seeking to experience Nepal beyond the usual trekking route. Manaslu Circuit is a must-do.
For seasonal trekkers looking for less commercialized and authentic adventure in Nepal, Manaslu Trek Itinerary offers an unparalleled Himalayan experience that combines adventure and the region's natural beauty.
Why, the Manaslu Circuit Should be on your travel bucket list?
Why? Manaslu Circuit Trek is a must-do adventure for several reasons, making it one of the top trekking trails in Nepal. Here, is why you should be considered this incredible trek.
A Key highlight of Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Less explored by mass trekkers and less crowded trekking trails.
- Off- the beaten trekking trails.
- Unspoiled Himalayan beauty.
- Cultural immersion- a chance to engage with an indigenous community.
- Encounters of diverse wildlife, flora, and fauna.
- Authentic Himalayan experience.
- Trekking through the ancient Nepali Village.
- Trek in the Manaslu Conservation Area
- Trek to the base camp of the eighth-tallest mountain. Mt. Manaslu.
- Trek in High Altitude.
- A unique alternative trek to Annapurna, Everest, and others.
- Trekking in restricted trails in Nepal opened in 1991 AD for trekkers.
- Traverse through the ancient salt trading route of Nepal- Tibet.
- Crossing Larkya La Pass (5106m) highest point of the trek.
- The beautiful village, Samagaon and Pungyen Monastery.
- Tea house trekking.
- Crossing suspension bridges and rivers.
The unique trekking experience with an incredible view of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna is impressive along with the beauty of Tibetan culture in a remote part of Nepal. Escape the crowded city and enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is a shelter of wildlife flora and fauna including over 1500 species of flowering and herbal plants.
When is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The best time to trekking in nepal including Manaslu is during autumn (Sep- Nov) and spring (March) when the Manaslu weather conditions are ideal for a safe and enjoyable adventure. During these months trekkers can expect clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable weather. Offering the best view of the panoramic Himalayas.
Spring (March-May)
- Spring brings the colors of rhododendron blooms to, a moderate temperature. That adds charm to the trek.
Autumn (September-November)
- Autumn comes with crisp air and perfect visibility autumn brings glamorous. Offers ideal weather, clear skies, and a mild climate.
The challenging and rewarding 11-day journey through the remote village, landscape, high altitude, and stunning Mountain View. The 11-day short Manaslu trek itinerary is designed to ensure gradual acclimatization while exploring the cultural and natural uniqueness of the Manaslu region trekking.
Day to Day itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025/2026
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat and Soti Khola
The first-day journey begins with the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Aarughat. The road is bumpy. Especially, the final stretch to Machha Khola which offers a glimpse of the countryside and terraced fields. Takes around 6-7 hours and a further 2 to 3 hours to Machha Khola. Gateway of Manaslu Trek. Stay overnight at Machha Khola.
- Distance: 140 to 150km
- Duration: 8 to 9 hours drive.
- Altitude: 870m
- Accommodation: Lodge.
Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
The hike starts with a lovely breakfast from Machha Khola, crossing a suspension bridge, and walking through the forest where the route falls to along the Budi Gandaki walking over the beautiful village and ascending toward Jagat offering a glimpse of Nepali culture. Overnight in Jagat.
- Distance: 14to 15km
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours hike.
- Altitude: 1340m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng
Continue the trail along the Budi Gandaki and cross the series of suspension bridges, passing through Phillim and other beautiful settlements. The trail becomes remote and the landscape is more rugged as you reach Deng.
- Distance: 19 to 20km
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours.
- Altitude: 1340m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung
Today, the trails offer beautiful landscapes, passing through the dense forest, crossing rivers, and offering views of Manaslu. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend to Namrung but the scenery along the trails is awe-inspiring. Namrung village is a hub where you can enjoy the Tibetan culture, with stone houses, prayer wheels, and flags dotting the houses. Overnight at Namrung.
- Distance: 19 to 20km
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours hike.
- Altitude: 2660m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 5: Trek to Samagaun
Continue the further journey through traditional Tibetan-style villages including Lho village brings Mt. Manaslu into eyes. The trails become more rugged as you reach Samagaon a unique village surrounded by hills. Samagaon is the actualization point for trekking higher. Rest day at Samagaon.
- Distance: 14 to 15km
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours hike.
- Altitude: 3530m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 6: Rest Day at Samagoan: Day hike to Pyun gyen Gompa (3700m) and Manaslu Base Camp (4800m)
The rest day or exploration of nearby highlighted places. Where you can make a short day hike to Pyun Gyen monastery to capture the stunning pictures of Mt. Manaslu and Himchuli. For more challenges make a hike toward Manaslu Base Camp. Whereas, you can also have a small insight into beautiful Birendra Lake. Overnight in Samagaun.
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours to Pyun Gompa and 6-7 hours for Manaslu Base Camp.
- Altitude: 3700m/4800m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 7: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo.
After acclimatization day, today's trek brings you towards Samdo. A small village near the Tibet border. The trail gradually ascends through the rocky terrain with several suspension bridges over the Budi Gandaki River. The town is renowned for its iconic Mountain View and role as a trading post near the border of Tibet. Overnight in Samdo.
- Distance: 10 to 11km
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours hike.
- Altitude: 3875m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 8: Trek to Larkya Phedi (Dharmasala)
We are near the major attraction of the trek Larky Pass. After having breakfast follow the ascending trails toward Dharmasala or Larkya Phedi. The base of a larky pass. It is a temporary settlement used by trekkers before crossing the pass and has limited tea houses. The journey showcases the beautiful view of surrounding snow-capped peaks and provides the final stop before scaling Larky La Pass.
- Distance: 9 to 10 km
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours hike.
- Altitude: 4460m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 9: Trek to Bhimtang, Crossing Larky La Pass
You are going to pass the most challenging day of the trek, as you cross the Larkya La Pass (51026m) it offers a stunning view of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, and Nerby Peaks. After crossing the pass the trails descend through moraine to reach Bhimtang, a beautiful village surrounded by meadows and pine forest. Overnight in Bhimtang.
- Distance: 14 to 15 km
- Duration: 8 to 9 hours walk.
- Altitude: Bhimtang (3720m), Larkya la Pass (5106m)
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 10: Trek Dharapani via Tilje
Today’s descent hike takes you through a forest of rhododendrons, terrace fields, and traditional villages including Tilje village where trekkers can engage with Gurung culture and community. Around the evening you will reach Dharapani a junction for the Annapurna Circuit and around Annapurna Trek. Overnight in Dharapani.
- Distance: 20 to 21 km
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours hike.
- Altitude: 1960m
- Accommodation: Tea House
Day 11: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
Scenic drive through Besisahar to Kathmandu. The road drives through forests, bumpy roads, local villages, and a glimpse of the lower valley of Nepal. Arriving in Kathmandu by evening enjoy a well-deserved rest after completing the trek. Enjoy the rest of the time.
- Distance: 170to 180 km
- Duration: 7 to 9 hours drive.
- Altitude: 1345m
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Total trek distance: 150 to 170km
- Average daily walk: 13 to 16km on trekking days.
- Highest Point: Larkya La Pass (5106m)
What is the difficulty level of Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty level is challenging yet taken as a rewarding remote adventure in Nepal, attracting trekkers around the world with its diverse landscape. Popularly, known for its natural beauty and cultural immersion. Even though, it proposes a thrilling experience and demands good fitness along with high altitude trekking experience. If you are wondering how hard the Manaslu circuit trek is, here you should know.
High Altitude Trekking
Trekking in high altitude is the toughest aspect of the Manaslu circuit. When the trails drive and reach the Larkya La Pass, which is challenging for your body. There is a high chance of facing Altitude Sickness during the Manaslu Circuit .The higher you trek it becomes harder to breathe. So, acclimating a proper day for rest and taking proper guidelines for avoiding serious issues.For better prevention and avoiding altitude sickness optimize safety tips from our this blog: https://recreationholidays.com/blog/altitude-sickness-manaslu-circuit-trek-safety-tips
Challenging Terrains of Manaslu Circuit.
The trek includes steps, ascends, and descends over rugged trails and some points can be slippery and narrow. The trail navigates through descending forests, giant rivers, and climbing hills ridges. The terrain varies from easy sections to challenging terrain, especially, closer to the highest point.
Manaslu Circuit Trek weather conditions can be unpredictable. It can be cold and windy, especially in higher elevations. Snow can be possible during the spring and autumn month which make trails harder. Weather in the Himalayas can change at any time. So, trekkers must be prepared to face sudden rain.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Duration
Manaslu Trekking is navigated as one of the best off-the-beaten paths. Especially, the trek starts from 11 days to 14, or 15 days or you can customize it as you desire. The daily trek range can be 6 to 7 hours of walking in avrage which can be exhausting mainly in high altitude.
The cost breakdown includes several elements like Manaslu Circuit trek permit cost, including restricted permit, MCAP, ACAP, and T-sum Valley permit cost. Along with this, it covers the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation including guide, porters charge, and extra expenses breakdown. Check down for details.
Permit and Fees for Manaslu Trek.
Manaslu Restricted Area Trekking Permit
-
Autumn Season (September to November): Cost USD 100 per person for the first week and 15 dollars per day per person beyond a week.
-
Spring Season (December to August) - Cost USD 75 per person for the first week and 10 per person beyond a week.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- MCAP cost for foreigner trekkers is RS.3000 Nepalese and RS. 1000 for SAARC nationalities.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- ACAP cost for foreign trekkers is RS.3000 Nepalese and RS. 1000 for SAARC nationalities.
- Autumn Season (September to November): Cost USD 40 per person for the first week and 7 dollars per day per person beyond a week.
- Spring Season (December to August) - Cost USD 30 per person for the first week and 7 per person beyond a week.
Guide and Porters Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Guide: Hiring a guide and trekking through a registered company is mandatory and a minimum 2 number of trekkers is necessary due to it restricted nature trek.
- Guide Cost: USD 25 to USD 30 per day.
- Porter Cost: USD 17 to 21 USD per day (Per person)
Note: A porter is not mandatory but if you want a hassle-free and enjoyable trek it is better to hire a porter to carry luggage.
Accommodation cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Accommodation is typically available in tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering basic but comfortable lodging.
Cost especially, near high altitudes (around Larkya La pass) can be a little expensive. Otherwise, accommodation can with a low cost or free at some point.
- Cost for Accommodation: Typically, it starts from 5 dollars to 10 dollars.
- Overall, set 10 dollars for each day's accommodation.
Food cost during Manslu Circuit Trek
Food is essential for everyone besides and during the trek. Meals in a tea house during the trek provide traditional Nepali food and you can also find Western food items at various prices.
- Cost per meal: set 10 to 15 dollars per day for healthy and hygienic fresh breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Transportation Cost of the trek (to and from the trek)
-
Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Machha Khola
- Public Bus: approx. USD 10 to USD20
- Private Jeep: approx. USD 150 to USD 230 ( for groups)
Dharapani/ Besisahar to Kathmandu return
- Public Bus: approx. USD 20 to USD 30
- Private Jeep: approx. USD 1200 to USD 190 ( for groups)
Note: the cost of transportation can be low or high if any changes in government for petrol and gasoline.
What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Packing for embarking a journey to the Manaslu circuit requires careful consideration of high altitude and the challenging and remote nature of trails. Ensure that you pack every recommended piece of equipment. Here is a detailed of the Manaslu Circuit Packing list or visit https://recreationholidays.com/trekking-gear-equipment-nepal-guide for deep understnding about Packing list for trekking.
Clothing for varied terrains of Manaslu Circuit
weather in the mountains can change rapidly due to its geographical location. Especially in high-elevation zones. So, pack waterproof clothing like rain jackets and pants to protect yourself from snow, rain, and wind. Similarly, a thermal set and down jacket to keep the body warm during the night and morning is necessary. Also pack gloves, shocks, neck buff, warm hood or cap, and face mask.
Essential gears for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
For a successful and luxurious trek, quality trekking boots play a significant role. Along this pack pairs of comfortable shocks to adjust the varying temperatures. Besides, hire one Sleeping bag, suitable for the weather conditions of the destination, which is essential for cold nights and high altitude stays.
Personal Items
For personal comfort, especially, first aid kits with essential medication like pain killers, blister treatment, and important medication for high altitude sickness. Similarly, other essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and tissue. To protect your skin from sun rays carry sunscreen and lip balm always. Besides, electronic devices like mobile, cameras, chargers, and power banks are necessary to update your trip and contact with people during the trip.
Checklists and Gear Recommendations
- Trekking Boots
- Warm layers and clothes
- Sleeping bag
- Personal accessories including medicines, toiletries, skin care creams, etc.
Pack your bag light but efficiently as the trek leads from the easy to moderate and challenging terrains. For proper gear recommendations, consider visiting a specialized store for trekking gear in Nepal. Where you can find each gear from a good quality sleeping bag to enough strong and comfortable boots for a rugged terrain trek. With thoughtful packing, embark on your challenging journey to the Manaslu Region and leave your footmark for a lifetime.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Gear and Equipment Cost
- Trekking boot: Generally, quality boot costs start from USD 35 and up to as you want. Or you can hire from a rental shop with a low price.
- Trekking Jacket & clothes: The cost of a down jacket and other necessary clothes you can buy is approx. USD200 or rent a jacket for around USD 2 per day.
- Trekking bag: USD 30 to USD 40 can buy a genuine bag.
- Trekking Poles: cost up to USD 8 per stick.
- Sleeping bag: you can hire a sleeping bag from a rental shop with the help of your guide or representative in Kathmandu. Cost around USD 2 to USD 3 per day or can be cheaper.
Note: Overall, the gear costs 150 to 200 for a new set and 100 to 150 for rental gear. for more gear and equipemt idea you can visit Required Gear and Equipment for Trekking in Nepal
Additional Expenses
- Miscellaneous expenses like the cost of snacks, drinks, and tips for guides and porters can depend upon how much you separate for it. Generally, USD 200 is effective.
How to Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek- Health and Acclimatization Tips
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a mixture of physical condition, proper gear, and attention to acclimatization to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure journey to the Himalayas. Preparation begins with improving overall fitness through various exercises like hiking, running, and cycling to build endurance for trekking long hours a day. Where is a major key factor of preparation acclimatization? As the trek reaches over 3500m above there is a change of facing Altitude Sickness. To avoid serious issues take plenty of rest as you ascend. And it is vital to stay hydrated, avoid raw meat, and alcohol, and always focus on high-energy food. Carrying proper medication for high altitude sickness is necessary. Overall, train your body for walking a couple of hours with a backpack at a higher elevation. Plan your holidays physically and mentally, will help you tackle the challenges of the Manaslu circuit trek with courage.
Total Estimated Cost/Budget for Manaslu Circuit Trek 2025.
Budget Trek
- $ 900 to $1000(using public transportation, staying basic tea house, hiring guide, porters and rental gears)
Mid-Range Trek
- $1100 to $1500 (using private transportation, luxurious accommodation, and food, buying necessary gear and rental)
Luxury Trek
- $1600to $2000(using a private jeep, comfortable accommodation and food, guide porters, buying or hiring high-quality equipment) – this is a more personalized trip.
Moreover, The Cost of the trek can vary on the number of trekkers, trek days, due to its restricted trekking routes, mandatory guide, permits, seasonality, etc.
Tips for a Safe trek to Manaslu Circuit.
While continuing the journey to the remote trails of the Manaslu circuit safety and security should be a priority. Trekking in Nepal safely requires wise planning and consideration, proper rest and altitude sickness avoidance guidelines must be followed by every travel enthusiast. Here, these Manaslu Trek tips will help to make your trip enjoyable and hassle-free.
- Trek with a government-registered trekking company.
- Trek with experienced trekking guides and porters.
- Pack sufficient gear and equipment- take advice from the trip organizer.
- Know and prepare for suddenly changing weather conditions in the Manaslu region.
- Train yourself to adjust to the high altitude zone.
- Make an acclimatization day and stay hydrated the whole day.
- Avoid raw meats, alcohol, and expired items.
- Follow the no-leave terrace along the trails.
- Respect local costumes and culture.
- Inform your friends and family where you are going. In case of any emergencies rescue.
Check Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs for more information and Guidelines.
How is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The journey to the remote rugged trails of Manaslu Circuit. The general itinerary is 11 days besides your arrival and departure date. But, if you want to extend it can be possible but the cost becomes high due to permit, guide, and other essentials.
Larkya la Pass is the highest point of the trek with an altitude of 5106m above sea level. This seems a bit challenging but if you make it after acclimatization in Samagoan you can do it easily.
Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek without a Guide?
Definitely no, not only Manaslu Circuit Trek. Every restricted trekking in Nepal is not allowed to trek solo or without a guide. As it is restricted in nature it is necessary to hire a guide and travel with a trekking company in Nepal. Besides, to trek in Manaslu minimum of 2 trekkers is required for issuing the permit. You can trek individually with a guide but you need to pay the double cost for a permit. Make everything sure before the journey begins. Recreation Holidays always ensure you a safe and enjoyable trip to the base of the world's eighth-highest peak Mt. Manaslu (8163m).
Conclusion: Manaslu Circuit Trek
To discover the mixture of terrains, a landscape of the Nepalese Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best to do. With the proper physical preparation, acclimatization, and gear trek can tackle successfully through high altitude. Where breathtaking stunning mountain views, enriching culture, unique diverse wildlife, and natural beauty await. An off-the-beaten-path of Manaslu Circuit delivers you a blend of experiences. Overall, make sure to follow all the safety and security tips to complete the trek in the Manaslu Region.
