Ultimate Guide to Trekking the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best and most peaceful treks in the Manaslu Region. This trek takes you inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is famous for Manaslu Peak, its beautiful lakes, glaciers, and different species of plants and animals.

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route is 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 Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide, we provide detailed information to help you plan and prepare for this incredible Himalayan adventure.

Understanding what Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular off-the-beaten-path treks that takes you on a full circuit around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781 ft) — the world’s 8th highest peak — located within the protected Manaslu Conservation Area.

Covering approximately 177 km (110 miles) over 14–16 days, the route takes travellers through remote Himalayan villages, lush river valleys, ancient Tibetan-influenced monasteries, and culminates in the thrilling crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,752 ft) — one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.

This Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide covers everything from the route and permits to accommodation, weather, costs, and preparation tips.

Quick Facts

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

14-Day Itinerary Overview

Day	Route	Distance	Altitude (Start → End)	Overnight
Day 1	Arrival in Kathmandu	—	1,350 m	Kathmandu
Day 2	Kathmandu → Machha Khola (Drive)	~160 km	1,350 m → 700 m	Machha Khola
Day 3	Machha Khola → Jagat	~20–21 km	700 m → 1,340 m	Jagat
Day 4	Jagat → Deng	~18–19 km	1,340 m → 1,860 m	Deng
Day 5	Deng → Namrung	~16–17 km	1,860 m → 2,630 m	Namrung
Day 6	Namrung → Shyala	~18–19 km	2,630 m → 3,500 m	Shyala
Day 7	Shyala → Samagaon (via Pungyen Gompa)	~12–13.5 km	3,500 m → 3,520 m	Samagaon
Day 8	Acclimatization Day (Samagaon)	—	3,520 m	Samagaon
Day 9	Samagaon → Samdo	~7–8 km	3,520 m → 3,875 m	Samdo
Day 10	Samdo → Dharamsala	~6–7 km	3,875 m → 4,460 m	Dharamsala
Day 11	Dharamsala → Bimthang via Larkya La Pass	~15–16 km	4,460 m → 5,106 m → 3,590 m	Bimthang
Day 12	Bimthang → Tilije	~18–19 km	3,590 m → 2,300 m	Tilije
Day 13	Tilije → Dharapani (short hike), then drive to Kathmandu	~7–8 km + drive	2,300 m → 1,430 m → 1,350 m	Kathmandu
Day 14	Departure	—	1,350 m	—

Major Attraction of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. Breathtaking Views of Mount Manaslu

The main attraction of the Manaslu 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 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 the trip.

3. Authentic Tibetan Culture

Most of the local people who live in the Manalsu region are heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Their religion, culture, tradition and lifestyle match Tibetan culture. In the Manalsu region village you see 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 enjoy a 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 opportunity to pass through lush forests, river valleys, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. If you are lucky, you can spot endangered species like the 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 the Pungyen Gompa near Samagaon. These spiritual places offer calm surroundings and great photo opportunities.

Worth reading: 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Manaslu Region

Required Permits For the Manaslu Trek

All the trekkers who wish to undertake this trek must obtain these three permits:

Permit	Season	Cost (NPR)	Issued By	Where to Get
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)	Sep–Nov (Peak Season)	USD 100 per week (first 7 days) + USD 15 per extra day	Department of Immigration, Nepal	Kathmandu (via registered trekking agency only)
	Dec–Aug (Off Season)	USD 75 per week (first 7 days) + USD 10 per extra day	Department of Immigration, Nepal	Kathmandu (via registered trekking agency only)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)	Year-round	NPR 3,000	Nepal Tourism Board	Kathmandu Bhrikutimandap
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	Year-round	NPR 3,000	Nepal Tourism Board	Kathmandu/Pokhara

Important Notes(2026 Update)

• To obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), it is compulsory to provide proof of travel insurance that covers helicopter rescue up to 6,000 meters.
• As per the new 2026 regulations from the Nepal Tourism Board, solo trekkers are now allowed with a licensed guide only (still through an agency)
• Previously, a minimum of 2 trekkers was required, but this rule has now been updated.
• All permits must still be processed through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

Read more: Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

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

1. 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 trekkers can also enjoy the Nepal big festival during the trek.
2. 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 toFebruary), due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions, especially at high altitudes.

Weather and Temperature

Month	Manaslu Weather	Average 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

Continue reading: Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Accommodation and Food

Manaslu Circuit Trek is also known as tea house trekking, as you will spend the night in a local tea house(similar to a guesthouse) after you complete your daily trek. These teahouses are run by local families from the Manaslu region, providing essential accommodation and hospitality services along the route.

Located along the trekking trail, they offer warm meals, basic rooms, and a comfortable place to rest, making the journey more accessible and culturally immersive for trekkers.

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, a small bed, a pillow, and a bedsheet inside the room.

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

→ Wifi: Trekkers can use the Wifi facilities inside the tea house, but they are not free. You need to pay a certain cost( NPR 100- NPR 300) to use the Wifi.

→ Charging station: Trekkers can get the facilities to charge their electronic devices, which will be located in the dining hall. Charging is also not free; you need to pay certain fees( NPR 100- NPR 300 per hour).

→ Hot shower: Trekkers can enjoy the hot shower facilities inside the tea house, but this facility is mostly available in the lower village. You need to pay a certain cost NPR 300 – NPR 500) for the hot shower.

You will not find separate restaurants along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. The same teahouses where you stay also serve as dining places, with a shared communal dining hall where meals are prepared and served for trekkers.

Most teahouses use locally sourced and freshly produced ingredients, offering simple but hearty meals that support both trekkers’ energy needs and the local economy. Trekkers can choose a veg or non-veg meal.

Important: Alcohol and energy drinks are not recommended at high altitude (above 3,000m) as they increase the risk of altitude sickness (AMS) and dehydration. Stick to warm fluids – especially ginger lemon honey tea, garlic soup and hot water – to stay safe and acclimatized.

Detail inside: Food And Accommodation on Manaslu Circuit Trek

How to Reach the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The main starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Machha Khola (or sometimes Jagat, depending on road conditions), and it is reached by road from Kathmandu. The most common and budget-friendly option is a local bus from Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu, which usually departs early in the morning (around 6:00–8:00 AM). The journey takes approximately 8–10 hours to Machha Khola, depending on road and weather conditions. The route passes through Arughat and Dhading, with sections of rough and winding mountain roads, especially after Arughat.

For more comfort, trekkers can also hire a private jeep, which is faster and more flexible. A private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola typically takes 7–8 hours. The road is generally paved until Arughat, after which it becomes rough and off-road.

Read our detailed guide on: How to Reach Machha Khola

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

As explained in this Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide, understanding the trek’s difficulty helps you prepare physically and mentally for the journey. Well, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek, but the difficulty depends on 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 ManasluTrek

How To Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

This Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide recommends preparing in advance with proper training, packing, and acclimatization to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

• Physical Fitness and Training: This Manaslu trek is challenging, so all 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. Beginners should train at least 3–4 months in advance to build endurance, stamina, and confidence for high-altitude trekking conditions.
• 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. Always invest in high-quality gear items. If you have not brought items from your home country, you can also rent here in Thamel 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 is certified and holds a license from the Nepal government. Next, you need a porter for this trek. You can hire the guide and porter easily either through social media advertisements or through the help of a trekking agency. If you buy the package from a trekking agency, normally they provide the guide and porter service at free of cost. 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 high altitude up to 6,000m. Your insurance should cover emergency medical bills and have emergency helicopter evacuation.
• Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization: Another challenge that trekkers need to face during Manaslu 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.
• Mobile Network & Internet: Before leaving for the Manaslu Trek, we recommend purchasing a SIM card either from Tribhuvan International Airport or from an authorized shop in Kathmandu. Local network providers NTC and Ncell are available, but NTC works better even in high-altitude villages. WiFi works well in lower-altitude villages but becomes poor or unavailable in high-altitude areas. WiFi and mobile data are not available at Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) and Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). So be prepared for a true raw mountain experience on this day.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

The overall Manaslu Circuit trek cost depends on the itinerary days, transportation, traveling season, and level of service you want during the trek. On average, the Manaslu trek package costs around USD 1,200 – USD 1,800 per person. The more you are in a group, the more discounts you get from the tour agency.

Let’s break down the cost 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.)

Best Side Trips on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Here are the side trips which you can add to your Manaslu Circuit trek Itinerary:

Besides the main trekking route, the Manaslu region offers several rewarding side trips that can be added to your itinerary. These optional hikes provide spectacular mountain views, ancient monasteries, glacial lakes, and unique cultural experiences while also helping with acclimatization.

• Pungyen Gompa (3,870 m / 12,696 ft): A 5–6 hour round-trip hike from Samagaon or Shyala. This ancient Buddhist monastery offers spectacular views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding glaciers.
• Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m / 14,435 ft): A 6–8 hour round trip from Samagaon. This challenging hike rewards trekkers with close-up views of the Manaslu Glacier and the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
• Birendra Lake (3,650 m / 11,975 ft): Located 2-4 hours round trip from Samagaon, this beautiful turquoise glacial lake is one of the most peaceful and photogenic spots on the trek.
• Samdo Ri (5,100 m / 16,732 ft): A 3-4 hour round-trip hike from Samdo. It is an excellent acclimatization hike with panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, the Tibetan Plateau, and nearby Himalayan peaks.
• Rui La Pass (4,998 m / 16,400 ft): A 7-8 hour round trip from Samdo. This remote mountain pass near the Nepal–Tibet border offers breathtaking wilderness scenery and fewer visitors.
• Serang Gompa (Nubri Gompa) (3,050 m / 10,006 ft): A 2-3 day side trip from Bihi Phedi or Shyala. It is one of the region’s oldest monasteries and provides a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Nubri Valley.
• Kal Tal (Kalchhuman Lake) (3,600 m / 11,811 ft): A 7-8 hour round trip from Prok Village. This hidden alpine lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and is perfect for trekkers looking for a peaceful, less-visited destination.

Manaslu Trek Extensions

If you have time and want to make your Manaslu trek more adventurous, you can add Tsum Valley to your itinerary.

• Time Added: 5 to 7 days
• Total Trip Duration: 18 – 21 Days
• Highest Point on Extension: Mu Gompa (3,700 m) or the Ganesh Himal Base Camp (5,050 m).
• Permits Required: Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

How To Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

After reading this Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide, you can confidently choose the right itinerary and book your trek with a registered trekking agency. If you are in a foreign country (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 is 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 you can contact us through:

• 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 the Manaslu trek, 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, last Atm is in trekking trails. 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 to support local communities. Please dispose of waste in designated areas to help preserve the environment.
10. Choose a registered trekking agency only: You can find numerous tour and trek agencies in Nepal, but make sure to choose a registered and reputable one.

Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek

Both the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek are popular choices for long-duration treks in Nepal, but each trek offers a different experience. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is famous for its peaceful trekking experience and untouched natural beauty. In contrast, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is known for its diverse landscapes, Thorong La Pass, and the regions around Manang and Mustang. Both of these treks are moderate in terms of difficulty, and it takes around 2 weeks to complete them.

Choose Manaslu Circuit trek if you are looking for:

• Peaceful and less crowded trekking trails
• Remote and off-the-beaten-path adventure
• Authentic Tibetan-influenced culture and villages
• Untouched natural beauty and wilderness
• Restricted area trekking experience
• Quiet teahouses and fewer tourists
• Dramatic mountain scenery around Mount Manaslu
• A more raw and adventurous Himalayan journey

Choose Annapurna Circuit Trek if you are looking for:

• Diverse landscapes from forests to high deserts
• Better infrastructure and comfortable teahouses
• Easier transportation and accessibility
• The famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
• Popular trekking atmosphere with social interaction
• Flexible itinerary and multiple side trips
• Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang region
• A classic and beginner-friendly long-distance trek

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What is the maximum altitude attained during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• While mighty Mount Manaslu towers over the region at 8,163 meters, trekkers won’t come close to summiting this 8th-highest peak on earth. Instead, the highest point reached along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route is the Larkya La Pass, which rises at 5,106 m (16,752 ft).

When is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best times are during the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, skies tend to be clearer, and rainfall is minimal. Temperatures are moderate, with cooler nights. The busiest seasons are October and November, when the mountain views are clearest. Avoid the monsoon season from June to August, when heavy rain can lead to landslides and slippery trails. Winters can be challenging due to extreme cold and snow.

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• Spanning roughly 117 km over 14–18 days, the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal presents a demanding yet rewarding challenge. Expect to walk 15–20 km each day across varied terrain. Several factors, including high altitude, unpredictable weather, the remote location, and the region’s restricted status, contribute to the trek’s strenuous nature.

What kind of physical preparation is required in advance of the trek?

• Aim for workouts at least 4-5 days weekly over 2 months pre-trek to build the cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance required. Activities like jogging, cycling, and hiking with inclined terrain are ideal for conditioning your body for the rigors of Himalayan trekking. Logging long workout hours and miles will transform you into a Manaslu Circuit trekking machine.

Does Trekking to Manaslu Require Permits?

• Yes, trekking to Mount Manaslu in Nepal requires three mandatory permits: the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Final say

We hope this Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide has answered all your questions and helped you prepare for one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking adventures. Add the Manaslu Circuit Trek to your bucket list and create unforgettable memories in the Himalayas.

Posted on May 15, 2026July 17, 2026 by Senior Writer/Content Creator