Ultimate Guide to Trekking the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek 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.

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 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.

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.

Quick Facts About Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Altitude

To know the everyday trek distance and altitude here is the itinerary outline which helps you to understand in details.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary (Distance & Altitude Overview)

Day	Route	Distance	Altitude (Start → End)	Overnight
Day 1	Soti Khola → Machha Khola	~14 km	700 m → 900 m	Machha Khola
Day 2	Machha Khola → Jagat	~22 km	900 m → 1,340 m	Jagat
Day 3	Jagat → Deng	~20 km	1,340 m → 1,860 m	Deng
Day 4	Deng → Namrung	~19 km	1,860 m → 2,630 m	Namrung
Day 5	Namrung → Lho	~10 km	2,630 m → 3,180 m	Lho
Day 6	Lho → Samagaun	~17 km	3,180 m → 3,530 m	Samagaun
Day 7	Acclimatization Day (Samagaun)	—	3,530 m	Samagaun
Day 8	Samagaun → Samdo	~8 km	3,530 m → 3,875 m	Samdo
Day 9	Samdo → Dharamsala	~6 km	3,875 m → 4,460 m	Dharamsala
Day 10	Dharamsala → Bimthang via Larke La Pass	~24 km	4,460 m → 5,106 m → 3,720 m	Bimthang
Day 11	Bimthang → Tilije	~20 km	3,720 m → 2,300 m	Tilije
Day 12	Tilije → Dharapani	~18 km	2,300 m → 1,860 m	Dharapani

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 Tibetan. 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

Required Permits For the Manaslu Circuit Trek

All the trekker who wish to undertake this trek must obtain this 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 for Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits (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 Nepal Tourism Board, solo trekkers are now allowed with licensed guide only (still through 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 to do 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 also trekkers can 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 to February), due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions, especially at high altitudes.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 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 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. 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:

Food On Manaslu Circuit Trek

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 the veg and 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 get from Kathmandu to the Manaslu trailhead

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

How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek

Before heading for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, 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. Beginners should train at least 3–4 months in advance to build endurance, stamina, and confidence for high-altitude trekking conditions.

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:

Clothing and Layer

• Moisture-wicking base layer (top)
• Moisture-wicking base layer (bottom)
• Mid-layer fleece jacket
• Down jacket
• Waterproof shell jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• Trekking trousers (x2)
• Trekking shirts (x3)
• Warm hat / beanie
• Sun hat / cap
• Neck gaiter / buff
• Lightweight gloves
• Insulated / waterproof gloves
• Trekking socks (x4–5 pairs)
• Gaiters
• Underwear (x4)

Footwear

• Trekking boots (ankle-high, waterproof)
• Camp sandals / flip-flops
• Trekking gaiters

Gear and Equipment

• Main backpack (50–60L)
• Daypack (20–25L)
• Sleeping bag (rated –10°C / 14°F)
• Trekking poles (pair)
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Water bottles (x2, 1L each)
• Water purification tablets / Steripen
• Waterproof pack liner / dry bags
• Trekking map / offline GPS app
• Sunglasses (UV400 or polarised)
• Trekking towel (microfibre)
• Trekking umbrella

Medicine And First Aid

• Diamox (Acetazolamide)
• Ibuprofen / Paracetamol
• Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
• Antiseptic cream + plasters
• Blister pads (Compeed)
• Diarrhoea medication (Immodium)
• Antibiotic (Ciprofloxacin)
• Antihistamine
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal medicine

Document and Money

• Passport (original + photocopy)
• Visa for Nepal
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• MCAP & ACAP permits
• Travel insurance certificate
• Emergency contact card
• Nepali cash (minimum 10,000)

Extra Essentials

• Snacks & energy bars
• Trekking journal / notebook
• Camera / extra batteries
• Portable power bank
• Earplugs
• Ziplock bags (assorted)

Note: Always invest in high quality gear items. If you have not brought 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 are certified and holds the license from the Nepal government. Next, you need a porter for this trek. You can hire the guide and porter easily either through the social media advertisement or through the help of trekking agency. If you buy the package from trekking agency normally they provide the guide and porter service at free of cost.

With the assistance of the trekking guide and support from the porter, there is a higher chance of completing the Manaslu 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
• Monitor oxygen level twice a day at high altitude

Things to do after experiencing altitude sickness.

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

Learn more: How to prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Mobile network / connectivity guide On Manaslu Trek

Before leaving for the Manaslu Circuit 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.

How to check if this Manaslu 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 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 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.)

Continue reading: Manaslu Trek Package Cost

Side Trips in Manaslu Trek

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

Pungyen Gompa (3,870 m / 12,696 ft):

• Location: 5-6 hour round trip from Samagaon (3,525 m) or Shyala (3,500 m)
• Highlights: ancient monastery with close-up views of Mt. Manaslu and glacier landscapes

Manaslu Base Camp (4,400 m / 14,435 ft):

• Location: 6-8 hour round trip from Samagaon (3,525 m)
• Highlights: dramatic views of Manaslu Glacier and surrounding peaks

Birendra Lake (3,650 m / 11,975 ft):

• Location: 2-4 hour round trip from Samagaon (3,525 m)
• Highlights: turquoise glacial water and peaceful surroundings

Samdo Ri (5,100 m / 16,732 ft):

• Location: 3-4 hour round trip from Samagaon (3,525 m)
• Highlights: panoramic Himalayan views including Tibet border peaks

Rui La Pass (4,998 m / 16,400 ft):

• Location: 7-8 hour round trip from Samdo(3,875m)
• Highlights: stunning wilderness scenery

Serang Gompa (Nubri Gumba) (3,050 m / 10,006 ft):

• Location: 2-3 days ascent from Bihi Phedi or Shyala
• Highlights: cultural insight and quiet surroundings

Kal Tal / Kalchhuman Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft):

• Location: 7-8 hours round trip from Prok Village
• Highlights: alpine lake surrounded by mountains, less visited and very peaceful

Manaslu Trip Extension

If you have time and want to make your Manaslu trek more adventerous you can do add Tsum Valley in 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?

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 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 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 Besisahar or Arughat. 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 registered and reputable one.

Manaslu or Annapurna Circuit Trek: Which one to Choose?

Both the Manaslu Circuit Trek 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, whereas 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

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 May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 by Senior Writer/Content Creator