Ultimate Guide to Trekking the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit is one of the best and peaceful treks in the Manaslu Region. This trek takes you inside the Manaslu Conservation area, which is famous for Manaslu Peak, its beautiful lake, glacier, and different species of plants and animals.

Manaslu Circuit trekking routes are less crowded compared to the popular Everest base camp trek and Annapurna base camp trek. But the incredible beauty of the Manaslu region is no less than other popular treks.

Manaslu circuit trek is classified as moderate in difficulty level, and it takes around 2 weeks to complete this trek. If you are searching for the best off-the-beaten-path treks, then the Manaslu Circuit trek might be the best option for you. If you are an experienced trekker, then add the Tsum Valley to your Manaslu Circuit trek to make it more adventurous.

In this guide, we will provide you with detailed information regarding the Manaslu Circuit trek. Here, you will learn in detail so that it will help you to prepare before heading on this trek.

Check out: Best Manaslu Circuit Trek Package

Understanding what Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit trek is a challenging but rewarding trek in the Manaslu region, which takes you around Mt Manaslu( 8,163 meters, 26,781 feet). Mt Manaslu is the world’s third highest peak in the world and it lies inside the Manaslu Conservation area. This Circuit around Manaslu lets you explore the beautiful landscape, lush hills, narrow mountain trails, local culture, traditions, wildlife, and remote villages.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Altitude

To complete the Manaslu Circuit trek, it takes around 14 to 16 days to complete. On these 14 -16 days, you will cover around 177 kilometers (110 miles) of distance. The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is Larkya La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet).

Read more: Manaslu Circuit trek distance

Major Attraction of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. Breathtaking Views of Mount Manaslu

The main attraction of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the close view of Mt  Manaslu. You can watch the beautiful sunrise and sunset over this mountain during this trek. Along with the Manaslu Peak you will also enjoy the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II.

2. Larke La Pass (5,106 meters)

Larke la Pass is the mountain pass in the Manaslu region which you need to cross during the Manaslu Circuit trek. While crossing the mountain pass you will get an incredible view of glaciers, valleys, and mountain ranges. Even though it is tough to pass this mountain pass, it is worth travelling.

3. Authentic Tibetan Culture

Most of the local people that live in the Manalsu region are heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Their religion, culture, tradition and lifestyle match the Tibetian. In Manalsu region village you see the ancient monasteries, prayer wheels and colorful flags during the trek.

4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

During the peak season(spring and autumn) the trekking trails of popular treks like EBC and ABC get busy. You can find a huge number of people in the teahouse and viewpoint. But for the Manaslu Circuit trekking trails are peaceful and you can have enjoy peaceful experience while enjoying natural beauty.

5. Rich Biodiversity and Landscapes

Manaslu Region is rich in diversity which means you find a variety of flora and fauna inside the Manaslu Conservation area. You will also get the opportunities to pass through lush forests, river valleys, alpine meadows, and rocky terrains. If you are lucky you can spot endangered species like snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda.

6. Beautiful Villages and Warm Hospitality

Villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Lho offer traditional stone houses and warm hospitality. The local people living in the Manaslu region are very friendly. You can taste the local food and learn about their culture and traditions by communicating with them. 

7. Ancient Monasteries

The trail features many Buddhist monasteries, including the Ribung Gompa in Lho and Pungyen Gompa near Samagaon. These spiritual places offer calm surroundings and great photo opportunities.

Worth reading: 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Manaslu Region

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

You can find various types of itineraries from the tour operator in Nepal for the Manaslu Circuit trek. No matter which itinerary you choose, make sure it has proper acclimatization days. Let’s see the standard Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary:

Day	Details
Day 01	Arrival in Kathmandu (Altitude: 1350m, Accommodation: Hotel)
Day 02	Trek preparation and explore Kathmandu (Altitude: 1350m, Accommodation: Hotel)
Day 03	Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola on Private Vehicle (Altitude: 700m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 04	Trek from Machhe Khola to Jagat (Altitude: 1340m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 05	Trek from Jagat to Deng (Altitude: 1860m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 06	Trek from Deng to Namrung (Altitude: 2900m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 07	Trek from Namrung to Shyala Village (Altitude: 3180m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 08	Trek from Shyala to Samagaon via Pyungen Monastery (Altitude: 3520m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 09	Acclimatization day in Samagaon (Explore Pungen Gumba or trek to Manaslu Base Camp, Altitude: 3520m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 10	Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (Altitude: 3875m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 11	Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (Altitude: 4460m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 12	Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang via the Larke Pass (Altitude: 3590m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 13	Trek from Bimthang to Tilije (Altitude: 2300m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 14	Short hike to Dharapani and Drive to Kathmandu (Altitude: 1430m, Accommodation: Teahouse)
Day 15	Departure

Required Permits For the Manaslu Circuit Trek

All the trekker who wish to undertake this trek must obtain this three permits 

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Needed as the area is classified as a restricted region. Permits vary in price depending on the time of year.

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit

Required as the trek passes through the protected Manaslu Conservation Area.

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

Necessary because part of the trail overlaps with the Annapurna region.

Note: You cannot obtain this permit on your own and to obtain the Manaslu Circuit trek permits you need the assistance of a trekking agency. Also solo trekking is not permitted and you must be in a group of minimum 2 people(excluding trekking guide) due to policy.

Read more: Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature

Month	Manaslu Weather	Temperature (°C)
January	Cold and dry, heavy snow at higher altitudes	Day: 6-12°C, Night: -6 to -2°C
February	Cold but slightly warmer than January, clear skies	Day: 8-14°C, Night: -5 to 0°C
March	Start of spring, blooming rhododendrons, pleasant trekking conditions	Day: 10-16°C, Night: -3 to 2°C
April	Warm and stable weather, lush greenery, ideal for trekking	Day: 12-18°C, Night: 0 to 4°C
May	Warmest spring month, occasional pre-monsoon showers	Day: 14-20°C, Night: 2 to 6°C
June	Start of monsoon, humid with frequent rain	Day: 16-22°C, Night: 4 to 8°C
July	Peak monsoon, heavy rainfall, slippery trails	Day: 16-22°C, Night: 5 to 9°C
August	End of monsoon, occasional rain, lush landscapes	Day: 15-21°C, Night: 4 to 8°C
September	Start of autumn, clear skies, perfect trekking conditions	Day: 14-20°C, Night: 2 to 6°C
October	Peak trekking season, stable weather, stunning mountain views	Day: 12-18°C, Night: 0 to 4°C
November	Cool and dry, clear skies, great visibility	Day: 10-16°C, Night: -2 to 2°C
December	Cold and dry, snow at higher altitudes	Day: 8-14°C, Night: -4 to 0°C

Best Time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek

For the Manaslu Circuit trek there are two main best seasons you can undertake this trek without worrying much. These two ideal trekking seasons for Manaslu are:

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the perfect time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek due to clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views. The chances of rainfall is minimum in autumn and also trekkers can enjoy the Nepal big festival during the trek.

Spring (March to May): Spring is the starting season for trekking in Nepal. Spring is also the best time to undertake the Manaslu Circuit trek due to the lush rhododendron forests in bloom and pleasant weather conditions. 

Note: We suggest you avoid trekking during the monsoon (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Also, in the winter (December to February), due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions, especially at high altitudes.

Continue reading: Best time for Manaslu Circuit trek

Accommodation On Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit trek is also known as tea house trekking, as you will spend the night in the local tea house(similar to a guest house) after you complete your daily trek. This tea house is locally owned and it is simple and basic. 

What to expect inside the tea house:

Simple, cozy room: Mostly you will find twin rooms which are often shared among the travellers. There will be no heating floor and AC in the room. There will be a warm blanket, small bed, pillow, and bedsheet inside the room.

Toilets: Inside the tea house, you will get the toilet facilities, which are mostly squat types. There will be no amenities inside the toilets except the water. There will be no attached bathroom in the room so toilets are shared among the trekkers during the trek.

Wifi: Trekkers can use the Wifi facilities inside the tea house, but they are not free. You need to pay a certain cost( USD 1- USD 3) to use the Wifi.

Charging station: Inside the tea house, trekkers can get the facilities to charge their electronic devices. Charging is also not free; you need to pay certain fees( USD 1- USD 3).

Hot shower: Trekkers can enjoy the hot shower facilities inside the tea house, but not in every tea house this facility will be available. You need to pay a certain cost( USD 1- USD 3) for the hot shower.

Food On Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are tea houses along the Manaslu trekking trails where you will stay and enjoy meals. Unlike in the city areas, you will not find restaurants. You will only have the option for food in these tea houses. The food provided here is freshly made and often uses organic items.

Let’s see the basic menu that is provided in this tea house:

Beverage: Hot water, cold water, coke, Fanta, Pepsi, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages etc

Breakfast: Tibetan bread, Pancakes, Porridge, Toast with eggs (boiled, scrambled, or fried), Muesli or cornflakes with milk, Tea, coffee, or hot lemon

Lunch: Dal Bhat, fried rice (vegetable, egg, or mixed), Noodles, Mo:Mo, Chowmein, Pasta or macaroni

Dinner: Dal Bhat, Soup, Thukpa, Pizza(available in some larger villages), Boiled or mashed potatoes with vegetable, Steamed or fried Mo:Mo

Detail inside: Food And Accomondation on Manaslu Circuit Trek

How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek

Before heading for the Manaslu Circuit, the trekkers need to know how hard this trek is and what challenges they need to face. Well, the Manaslu Circuit trek is considered a challenging trek, but the difficulty depends upon the trekker’s fitness level. If you are a beginner trekker, it might be challenging for you. But regular trekkers who have high-altitude trekking experience can do this trek without much difficulty.

The factors that affect the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty are high altitude, unpredictable weather, long duration, basic facilities and demands moderate level of physical fitness.

If you prepare in advance before heading for the Manaslu Circuit trek then you can manage this trek. So focus on preparing if you are a beginner trekker who doesn’t have much high-altitude trekking experience.

Read more: How difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek

How To Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

To have a successful Manaslu trekking journey, here are the following steps you can follow:

Physical Fitness and Training

Manaslu Base camp trek or Manaslu Circuit trek is challenging so all the participants who want to do this trek must have a good fitness level. For physical preparation trekkers can engage in cardio workouts, strength training, and long practice hikes carrying a loaded backpack.

Worth reading: How to train for Manaslu Trek

Packing Essentials

Even though most of the things you can get in the tea house, you don’t need to pack much. You need to focus on packing warm clothes and gear items to deal with different weather conditions. 

Let’s see the common packing list for the Manaslu circuit trekking:

• Warm layers, including a down jacket
• Sturdy trekking boots
• Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
• Trekking poles
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Water purification tablets
• First aid kit, including medication for altitude sickness
• Cash (Nepalese rupees, around USD 200)

Note: Gear items can be rented in Thamel areas from rental shops.

Hiring a Guide and Porter

Hiring a guide is not only for safety, but it is mandatory for Manaslu trekking. So hire a guide who has a license from the Nepal government. Next, you need a porter for this trek. You can find the trekking porter easily to hire. With the assistance of the trekking guide and support from the porter, there is a higher chance of completing the trek smoothly, safely, and without extra stress.

Read more: Guide and Porter Hire for Manaslu Trekking

Get Travel Insurance

Trekking insurance is a must while trekking in the remote region of Nepal, especially for challenging treks like the Manaslu Circuit. While purchasing the treks make sure that it covers the high altitude up to 6,000m. Your insurance should cover emergency medical bills and have emergency helicopter evacuation.

Learn about altitude sickness and the Acclimatization Plan.

Another challenge that trekkers need to face during Manaslu Circuit trekking is altitude-related problems like altitude sickness(AMS). AMS can happen to anyone when traveling at a high altitude above 3,500m. So you need to be aware of the early signs of altitude sickness and know preventive measures and what to do if it happens.

Early signs of altitude sickness:

• Headache
• Nausea or Loss of Appetite
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Shortness of Breath
• Difficulty Sleeping

Preventive measure of altitude sickness:

• Gradual ascent
• Acclimatization days
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Eat high-carbohydrate meals
• Use medications like Diamox (if prescribed)
• Avoid overexertion
• Monitor symptoms regularly
• Descend if symptoms worsen
• Stay warm and well-rested

Things to do after experiencing altitude sickness.

• If symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical evacuation.
• Inform your guide immediately
• Take rest and descend to a lower altitude

Learn more: How to prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek

How to check if this Manaslu Circuit trek Fits You or Not?

Duration: It takes 14-18 days to complete this trek, so trekkers must have around 2-3 weeks of vacation to participate in this trek.

Experience: This trek is not for first-time trekkers. Previous trekking experience is required.

Physical fitness: Trekkers must be able to walk for 6-7 hours every day during the trek.

Facilities: Trekkers need to adjust to living in remote areas with basic facilities of lodging and food.

Health conditions: Trekkers should not have high altitude-related problems like altitude sickness, fear of heights, and serious health issues. Trekkers must be fit and fine.

Passport: Trekkers must have valid passports and proof of travel insurance.

How Much Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost?

After doing good research about the Manaslu Circuit trek, now it’s time to budget for this trek. The Manaslu Circuit trek cost depends upon the itinerary days, transportation, traveling season, and level of service you want during the trek. On average, the Manaslu trek costs around USD 1200 – USD 1800 per person. The more you are in a group the more discounts you get from the tour agency in Manaslu Circuit trek Package.

Let’s break down the cost for the Manaslu Circuit trekking so it will help you manage the budget.

Expense Category	Details	Estimated Cost (USD)
Nepal Visa	Tourist visa for 15/30 days (depending on trek duration)	$30 – $50
Permits	Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit	$100 – $150
Trekking Guide	Licensed guide for the trek	$25 – $30 per day
Porter	Porter to carry luggage (shared or individual)	$20 – $25 per day
Transportation	Local bus or private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back	$30 – $200 (depending on mode)
Food	Three meals per day during the trek	$20 – $30 per day
Accommodation	Teahouse stays during the trek	$5 – $10 per night
Trekking Gear	Rental or purchase of trekking gear (jackets, boots, poles, etc.)	$50 – $200
Miscellaneous	Water, energy snacks, tips for guide/porter, charging, Wi-Fi, etc.	$50 – $100
International Flight	Round trip flight to Nepal (varies by location)	$500 – $1500
Travel Insurance	Insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergencies	$100 – $150
Emergency Evacuation	Helicopter evacuation (if needed, covered by insurance)	Covered by insurance or $2000+
Group Discounts	Discounts offered for larger groups	Varies

Total Estimated Cost: $1200 – $1800 per person

(Costs may vary depending on group size, season, and level of service.)

Continure reading: Manaslu Trek Package Cost

How To Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

If you are in a foreign country like(the USA, UK, Europe, Asia etc) you can easily book the Manaslu Circuit trek online with High Route Adventure. To know more details about what are included or excluded in the package you can check it out on our website. You can find the details about the Manaslu Circuit trek Package, including the cost written in USD.

To book the Manaslu Circuit trek, you can contact us:

• Email: info@highrouteadventure.com
• Phone/Whatsapp: +977-9851058664

Expert Tips For the Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. Get the Right Permits: Trekking around the Manaslu is illegal so grab the permit before starting your trek.
2. Train for the Trek: Don’t underestimate the challenge of Manaslu Circuit so prepare well enough before heading for this trek.
3. Pack Smart: You should only pack things that you need for the trek. Making your luggage heavy will make your trip unnecessarily exhausting and less enjoyable.
4. Acclimatize Properly: There is the possibility of altitude sickness for some trekkers, so follow the acclimatization plan during the trek.
5. Hydration: Many trekkers don’t have a habit of drinking water, which can trigger altitude sickness due to dehydration. So drink enough water during the trek. Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek.
6. Check the weather forecast: Manaslu weather at high altitudes can change, so prepare for the cold and sudden change in weather conditions. Pack proper gear and clothing items.
7. Respect Local Culture: People living in the Manaslu region are warm and deeply rooted in their traditions. Be mindful of their customs, dress modestly, seek permission before taking photos, and show respect for their religious sites and practices.
8. Carry Sufficient Cash: There are no ATMs or banks in the remote village, so carry Nepali cash for personal use and emergencies.
9. Support Sustainable Tourism: If you find a small shop on the trekking trail, buy from them, which will help to support local people. Trek responsibly by helping to preserve the pristine environment by disposing of waste in designated areas.
10. Choose a registered trekking agency only: You can find numerous tour and trek agencies in Nepal, but make sure to choose the ones that the Nepal government licenses.

Plan Your Trek Today

Traveling in the mountain region is a great adventure, and the Manaslu Circuit trek can be a great option. Make your Manaslu Circuit trek your bucket list and make the memories that will last forever. Have a great day!!!!!!!!!

Posted on March 22, 2021May 27, 2025 by Prakash Kapri