Manaslu Region
Manaslu circuit
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Manaslu Circuit Trek

3 reviews in TripAdvisor
Group Adventures
Personalized Adventures
Duration11 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude5,160m
Group Size2-14
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeMarch to May and Mid Sep.to Dec.

Trek far away in one of the restricted areas in Nepal on the Manaslu Circuit trek. It is an 11 days epic trek that follows the Buri Gandaki river and ascends to Nubri settlements of the Manaslu region. Unlike the famous Everest and Annapurna trekking regions in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit offers unmatched peace and solitude.

The Manaslu Circuit trek, also known as the Manaslu Base Camp trek, explores the lap and the surrounding area of Mount Manaslu. It is the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trailhead is located 105 miles from Kathmandu above the beautiful villages of the Gorkha district (the origin of Gurkha soldiers).

The Manaslu Circuit trek 11 days is an incredibly adventurous and immersive voyage in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is a challenging trek that tests your strength, patience, and determination. The journey offers a perfect symphony of nature, adventure, and heritage that will be a life-changing experience for you.

The trek route is wild but dotted with basic tea houses, so trekkers don't have to bring tents and food. The Manaslu Circuit trek package cost is quite affordable with us, which makes it accessible to many travelers. If you dare to challenge yourself, then we promise the Manaslu Circuit trekking will not let you down.

There is a lot to discover, learn, experience, and witness on the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. Untouched and pristine trails amidst towering mountains will leave you in awe and detox your mind & soul!

Manaslu Circuit trek Highlights

  • An incredibly adventurous and immersive trek to the base of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Manaslu Base Camp
  • Trek far away in one of the restricted areas in Nepal, following rugged terrain
  • The trail goes through six climatic zones, ranging from sub-tropical forests to glaciers
  • A challenging trek that tests your strength, patience, and determination
  • A life-changing journey amidst towering mountains that offers a great symphony of nature, adventure, and heritage
  • Spend nights in simple tea houses and get to see the lifestyle of the locals, including the Nubri community
  • Explore the ancient Pun Gyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake
  • Discover Tibetan refugee villages and cross the challenging Larkya La pass
  • Come across long rivers, streams, cascading waterfalls, gorges, and stunning mountain panorama during the trek

What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek 11 days?

Even though it is only an 11-day trek program, you will come across wide landscapes, terrain, and climatic zones. From the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek to the end, the trail goes through six climatic zones, ranging from sub-tropical forests to glaciers. On the way, you will see long rivers, streams, cascading waterfalls, gorges, and whatnot.

Cross many thrilling suspension bridges at the start of the trek and later navigate landslide/avalanche debris and glacier moraines. Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), Shringi Himal (7,155 m), Simnang Himal (6,251 m), and many others are seen along the trail.

Communities like Gurung, Sherpas, Tamangs, Bhutias, Nubri, and Tibetan refugees reside along the Manaslu Circuit trail. There are many stupas, mani walls, prayer wheels, and colorful prayer flags on the trek route. As the trek route is close to the Nepal-Tibet border, you can see huge Tibetan culture and value influence.

*You may come across yaks on the way. In this situation, always take a step inside the trail and wait for them to pass. Never be on the edge of the cliff.

Unlike the popular Annapurna Circuit trek, the Manaslu Circuit terrain is offbeat from day one, and the terrain gets steeper as the journey progresses. You will trek around 15 kilometers each day. In Sama Gaun, at 3,520 meters (11,548 ft), spend an acclimatization day. You have a side excursion option to Pun Gyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake from Sama Gaun.

This will be your acclimatization hike to avoid altitude sickness further on the way to Larkya La pass. Samdo is the Tibetan refugee village and the last major settlement before the pass. Likewise, you will spend a night in Larkya Phedi, the last stop before Larkya La pass.

Cross the daring Larkya La pass

Larkya La pass remains one of the major sections of the Manaslu Circuit. It is 5,160 meters (16,929 ft) high. Crossing the pass, you will descend to Bimtang, from where the trail further drops to Dharapani. To cross the pass, you have to descend from Larkya Phedi to a moraine.

The trail then goes via a small lake and continues along the rocky, unclear track. Cross the south steep grass slope and follow a marked route. The trail descends to four frozen lakes and follows an uphill steep track to the top of the pass.

Who can do the Manaslu Circuit trek, and how to prepare for the trek?

The challenging nature of the Manaslu Circuit trek only suits those who have previous trekking experience and good fitness. Your age doesn't matter if you can walk 6 to 7 hours a day and adjust to basic accommodation and meals. It is a high-altitude trek, so trekkers experience varying weather and environments.

The rugged terrain of the Manaslu Circuit trek requires strength and stamina. Use trekking poles for stability and support. It also shifts stress from your knees and provides you balance and reassurance on steep slopes. Instead of joining the trek right away, give yourself 4 to 8 weeks for physical and mental preparation.

During that time, push yourself physically and mentally. Involve in daily walking, strength training, and other regular cardiovascular activities. The more you push yourself, the better your stamina and endurance will get. And it will help you stay strong and calm during trekking.

Manaslu Circuit trek cost 2024/2025- benefits with us

We have designed this 11 days Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary for travelers who are looking for a short trip. You can definitely add arrival/departure in Kathmandu and trek preparation day while booking the trek. This option has allowed us to offer an affordable base price for the Manaslu Circuit trek, and trekkers can add services they want as per their budget.

Group size Package cost Book here
2 USD 940 per person Book now
3-6 USD 910 per person Book now
7-9 USD 890 per person Book now
10+ USD 870 per person Book now

Below are some of the things you should know about the Manaslu Circuit trek cost:

  • Our Manaslu Circuit trek cost is the finest in the market. You get top-notch service at a small cost.
  • Our cost includes all the major expenses involved in the Manaslu Circuit trek 11 days like transportation to/from the trail, accommodation and three meals a day during the trek, permits, all taxes, expenses of guide and porter, and one-night stay in Kathmandu.
  • Other expenses like international flight fares to/from Kathmandu, travel insurance, visa fees, accommodation and meals in Kathmandu out of our itinerary, tips for guide & porter, shopping, etc, are not covered in the package cost. You have to budget for these expenses as well.

Manaslu Circuit trek with a native guide

Recreation Holidays has a strong on-field team for the Manaslu Circuit trek. We have the best native guides and porters network throughout the Himalayas of Nepal, which allows us to offer professional and reliable support in the mountains. We have been leading different treks, tours, and climbing expeditions in Nepal for many years.

So, our trips are well-curated, planned, and managed. You can join our 11-day Manaslu Circuit trek 2024 departure or customize the itinerary as per your requirements. Our team will help you curate the trip as per your budget, group size, schedule, and preference. You can trek safely and freely with us in Nepal.

ItineraryExpand All
Day01

From Kathmandu, you will drive to Machha Khola. It is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The ride is long but very beautiful. Till Arughat, the road condition is fantastic. From here, you will drive 2 to 3 hours to reach Machha Khola via Soti Khola following uneven Himalayan foothills.

Max Altitude: 890mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day02

From Machha Khola, the trail goes upstream to Khorla Besi village. From here, you will trek, crossing a suspension bridge and pass by rocky trails. The trail then takes you to Dovan and continues from here through lush forests to Jagat. On the way, you will trek past Lauri and Tharo Bharyang

Max Altitude: 1,410mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day03

From Jagat, the trail ascends and descends for a few hours via rhododendrons, pin, and fir forests. You will also trek via barely, buckwheat, and potato fields. Cross a suspension bridge over the Budi Gandaki river and enter Philim. Further, enjoy a lovely walk to Deng.

Max Altitude: 1,804mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day04

After a delicious breakfast, start trekking from Deng to Namrung. The trail ascends and crosses the Budi Gandaki river. You will climb to Rana and trek further, enjoying beautiful mountain views. On the way, pass by some farming fields and rivers to Namrung.

Max Altitude: 2,630mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day05

Leaving Namrung, you will follow a steep, rocky path to Sama Gaon. The trail offers stunning views of Shiring Himal and Ganesh Himal. You will trek via lush forests to the Lihi settlement. Further, trekking past barley fields and prayer flags pass by villages such as Sho, Lho, and Shyala before reaching Sama Gaon.

Max Altitude: 3,520mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day06

Today, you will spend a rest day in Sama Gaon. In the morning, hike to Birendra Lake and continue to Manaslu Base Camp. Or go on an alternative hike to ancient Pun Gyen Gompa. This hike will help you acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness. Witness stunning sunrise and mountain views during the hike.

Max Altitude: 3,520mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day07

The trail ascends to Samdo, which is the biggest Tibetan refugee village. You will trek down to the Budhi Gandaki river from Sama Gaon and follow a rugged trail to Samdo. Witness rustic landscapes and snow-capped mountains on the way.

Max Altitude: 3,875mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day08

On this day, you will trek to Larke Phedi. It is the last settlement before the Larkya La and provides a rest day before the arduous ascent. From Samdo, the trail crosses a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river and gradually ascends via the Salka river valley. Witness Larkya glacier on the way.

Max Altitude: 4,480mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day09

Start trekking early in the morning from Larkya Phedi. The trail descends to a moraine and goes through it down to a small lake. From here, you will follow a rugged, unclear route along the south steep grass slope and further walk down to four frozen lakes.

From this point, it is a steep ascend to the top of the pass, from where you see breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, Mt. Kangguru, etc. The final descent via a grassy moraine from the pass takes you to Bimthang.

Max Altitude: 5,160mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day10

Today is your last day of trekking. From Bimthang, you will descend to Dharapani village. The trail goes through small villages like Gho and Tilje. Cross suspension bridges on the way and trek through dense rhododendron forests. Enjoy lush greenery, raging rivers, and waterfall views.

Max Altitude: 1,860mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day11

You will drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The first few hours of the ride will be bumpy as you follow an uneven cliffside and descend to Besisahar. Here, change the vehicle and follow a well-made route to Kathmandu, enjoying lovely scenery. Spend the remaining time in Kathmandu as you wish. We may meet for a farewell dinner in the late evening.

Max Altitude: 1,345mMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Is the proposed itinerary suitable for you?If you are looking for a custom itinerary, please feel free to reach out to our team of professionals at any time.
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Route Map
manaslu-circuit-trekk-map1.webp
Trip Service Details
Includes
  • Ground transportation via Local or Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Arughat to Kathmandu
  • Tea houses Accommodation during the trekking
  • 10 B/F, 11 Lunch, and 10 Dinner during the trek
  • All necessary documentation, TIMS, trekking permits (ACAP, MCAP, and a special permit for Manaslu)
  • All the Local and Government Taxes, Service charges
  • All government licenses, Experienced guide
  • Achievement certificate upon request
  • Farewell dinner in Thamel, Kathmandu
  • Salary, travel and medical insurance, food and accommodation of the staff
Excludes
  • Entry Visa fee to Nepal
  • Travel and Medical Insurance
  • International Airfare from and to Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses like the Internet, phone calls, beverages, hot shower, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, etc
  • Lunch, Dinner and hotel in Kathmandu
  • Emergency evacuation for mishaps or natural calamities or health issues
  • Porter service during the trek (USD 220 per porter, 20-25 KG max.)
  • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the “Services Included” section
  • Tips for the staff (expected)
Add-ons & Options
  • Include arrival/departure from Kathmandu: If you combine arrival and departure from Kathmandu, it will cost you USD 50 per night. The breakfast will be included in your room cost, and we provide complimentary airport pick up and drop off as per the itinerary.
  • Include a guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu: Exploring some historical sites before starting the trek will give a humble beginning to your journey in the Himalayas. The tour will be guided by our friendly, English-speaking guide. You will also have the late afternoon and evening free to prepare for the trek. The guided tour costs USD 95 per person.
  • Extend the trek to Tsum Valley: If you have 5 to 8 days extra, extend your Manaslu Circuit trek to the hidden Tsum Valley. You will get to explore a further undiscovered and untrodden section. It costs USD 750 per person.
  • Combine Annapurna Circuit: You also have the option to continue the trek from Dharapani to Thorong La pass and complete the Annapurna Circuit. To do so, you will need a week to 8 days extra and the USD 690 per person.
  • Porter service: We have not included the porter service in our Manaslu Circuit trek packages, which gives you the option to decide whether you want it or not. A porter service for the Manaslu Circuit 11-day trek may cost USD 200 per person.

Transportation Upgrade to Private Jeep

Day 1: Kathmandu to Sotikhola

  • Upgrade Available: Switch from local bus to private jeep.
  • Cost: $190.00 per jeep.
  • Capacity: Up to 6 passengers per jeep.

Day 11: Dharapani to Kathmandu

  • Upgrade Available: Change from local bus to private jeep.
  • Cost: $250.00 per jeep.
  • Capacity: Jeep accommodates 6 passengers.
Dates & Availability
December 2024
February 2025
March 2025
April 2025
May 2025
September 2025
October 2025
November 2025
December 2025
StartsDecember 16, 2024
EndsDecember 26, 2024
StatusGuaranteed
Price
US$910
StartsDecember 27, 2024
EndsJanuary 06, 2025
StatusGuaranteed
Price
US$910

Flexible Departure Dates and Personalized Pricing for Manaslu Trek

Our trekking schedule is designed with your convenience in mind, featuring guaranteed departures on all listed dates. If our existing dates don't align with your itinerary, we're ready to accommodate your preferences. Share your travel schedule with us, and our travel specialists will assist in curating a bespoke journey that fits seamlessly into your dream destination's calendar.

Additional Info

Manaslu Circuit trek permit

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is a restricted area and also involves the Manaslu Conservation Area. Likewise, towards the end of the trek, you will also enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. So, for this trek, three permits are required.

They are the Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area permit. We have mentioned the cost of each permit below:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days after that, USD 15 per person each day
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost from December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days after that, USD 10 per person each day
  • Manaslu Conservation Area permit cost: USD 30 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permit cost: USD 30 per person

Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty and altitude sickness

The Manaslu Circuit trek is remote, rugged, and offbeat. It is a wilderness trek in one of the less explored parts of the Himalayas. You need to traverse off the beaten paths, landslide debris, steep tracks, loose soils and scree, and glacier moraines. The terrain is quite diverse and goes via six climatic zones.

Crossing the Larkya La pass is the hardest part of the trek. Trekkers need good stamina, strength, and balance. Likewise, they also have to face high altitudes, long walking hours, varied weather, and limited services along the trail. All these factors had made the Manaslu Circuit trek challenging.

Most of the trail goes above 3,000 meters during the Manaslu Circuit trek. So, altitude sickness risk is huge on this trek, especially if you are careless with acclimatizing and keeping yourself hydrated. Our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary has a rest day, so you will get the opportunity to acclimatize.

Headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, etc are some of the mild symptoms of altitude sickness. If you get these problems during trekking, inform your guide. He will provide you with first aid. You must avoid anything that may dehydrate your body during the trek and also get plenty of sleep, and have nutritious food.

Guide and porter during the trek

It is mandatory to do the Manaslu Circuit trek with a guide and a porter for foreign trekkers. The trek must be organized by a local trekking company like us. These few things allow Nepal's government to protect and preserve the Manaslu region's rich biodiversity while letting travelers explore.

By purchasing our Manaslu Circuit trek package, you will get a native guide and porter for the package cost. However, tips are not covered in the cost, so allocate some money for it. Trekking with a guide and porter makes the journey safe for the trekkers.

You will get a good place to sleep and have food because they know the best options. Likewise, you will have an easy time communicating with the locals. Guide and Porter will be your biggest supporters. They will help you not only complete the trek but also make it delightful.

When to do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most preferred seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trekking. Nature is at its best along the Manaslu Circuit trek route in these seasons, with stable weather and a mild climate. You will see the vegetation thriving.

The trail is buzzing with sounds of bugs, rivers, and birds. You may come across some precipitation towards the start and the end of these two traditional times. However, it will not hinder your experience. The clear sky offers breathtaking mountain views. Both spring and autumn seasons boast beautiful foliage and colors of nature.

Food and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit trek route

The Manaslu Circuit trek offers basic accommodation and meals to the trekkers. This trek route asks a lot from travelers when it comes to services. Trekkers have to adjust to simple services and limited resources. Twin shared rooms are common, with shared washrooms usually built outside the tea house.

The food variety is also limited on the Manaslu Circuit trek route, however you will get enough dishes to choose from. Dal bhat, Tibetan bread, thukpa, porridge, soups, fried rice, noodles, momos, mashed potatoes, etc, are some common dishes. In the upper part of the trail, the options are much limited.

*Note: You will find dal bhat throughout the trek, and boiled drinking water is safe to consume.

Travel insurance for the Manaslu Circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit trek has underlying risks of altitude sickness, injuries, poor weather, etc that are unpredictable. As the region is also far away and isolated, travel insurance with helicopter evacuation is very important. Moreover, under the restricted area trekking rule, travel insurance is mandatory, too, or trekkers will not be able to join this trek.

FAQs

The standard Manaslu Circuit trek is usually 14 to 16 days long. It includes your arrival and departure and trek preparation day. If you remove these three days from the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary, you can do it in 11 days. Likewise, if you combine Tsum Valley in the itinerary, you will spend around 22 days trekking.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is challenging. This trek route is offbeat, steep, and secluded. The trail traverses dense forests, deep valleys, landslide debris, and glacier moraines. The tourist infrastructure is limited. You will also cross a high-altitude mountain pass.

Manaslu Circuit trek in winter is very challenging and requires extra attention and sturdy support. You have to be ready to handle the cold that goes below freezing point. Snow walking is required, and the tea house in Larkya Phedi shuts down in winter. So, you have to be self-sufficient for a day or two.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a bit more demanding than the Annapurna Circuit trek because of the isolation of the region. The terrain is much offbeat along the Manaslu Circuit trail, and scarce tourist infrastructure adds to the challenge.

The Manaslu Circuit trek cost starts at USD 950 per person. As per the itinerary, the cost of the package may increase.

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek is safe because you will trek with a reliable team. As solo trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu region, you do not have an option but to hire a guide and porter. Trekking with a guide and porter allows you to navigate the trail safely and confidently.

It depends on the fitness level of the beginner trekker. If the participant has not trekked before but is fit and can endure the challenges of the Himalayas, then yes, he or she can do the Manaslu Circuit trek as their first trek. Usually, the Manaslu Circuit trek is not advised to the beginner trekker.

Yes, you need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit trek. You cannot do this trek without a guide. The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area, and as per the restricted area rule in Nepal, trekking with a guide is mandatory.

Yes, you can extend the Manaslu Circuit trek to Tsum Valley. Let us know our team if you want to extend the trek. They will help you with all the arrangements. Charges apply as per the change in the itinerary.

You can book the Manaslu Circuit trek through our website. It is like online shopping. Moreover, we also provide add-on options that you can add or remote as per your wish.

We recommend using a Nepali tourist sim during the Manaslu Circuit trek for a better connection opportunity. You can buy a tourist sim in Thamel. The network is not strong or available all the time, but you will gain fair opportunities to connect with your friends and family.

Yes, you need to get a travel visa for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Check the visa details on the Nepal immigration site. Trekkers are responsible for obtaining the travel visa.

Travelers’ Review
Manaslu Circuit Trek with Recreation Holidays - A Memorable Experience!

If you're looking for a local trekking company in Nepal, I highly recommend Recreation Holidays. They provided an outstanding experience on our Manaslu Circuit Trek at a much more affordable...

read more +
C
Chung Cheng - Hong KongOctober 16, 2024
Incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek with a Professional Guide

For anyone considering the Manaslu Circuit Trek, I highly recommend booking with Recreation Holidays. Our guide, Aasman, ensured that our trek was not only safe but also filled with enriching...

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P
Pak Wong - Hong KongOctober 14, 2024
Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek – A Memorable Experience

We recently completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and each day of the journey was simply amazing. The breathtaking views of the Himalayas made every moment special, while the comfortable lodges...

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J
James Joice - AustraliaSeptember 28, 2024
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