Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful trekking journey that takes you to the remote and less-trodden region of Manaslu. The area gets its name from the majestic Manaslu (8163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
It is a daring trip that takes you through the Manang-Gandaki ravines. And the Gorkhali valleys present an unadulterated ethnic presence of the Tibetan Buddhist and Hindu cultures. Moreover, the Manaslu region is also under the protection of the Manaslu Conservation Area; it is home to a wide array of endangered species of wildlife.
Mount Manaslu Trek starts with a scenic drive to Machha Khola. Next, the trekking trail takes you through many of the Gorkha region‘s ethnic villages and settlements, each presenting breathtaking views of the Manaslu range. The valley is home to two major ethnic groups, the Nubri and the Tsum people. Manaslu trekkers can enjoy the cultural ethos of the Gurung, Bhutia, and Sherpa populations.
Additionally, trekking in the region was only recently opened in 1991. The region does not see as many trekkers as other destinations in Nepal. As such, the Mt. Manaslu Trek is a perfect option for trekkers looking for fewer crowds and off-the-beaten-path paths.
The trail circumambulates around the Himalayan peak. The following is the ancient salt-trading route along the Budi Gandaki River. Along the way, you will be presented with awe-inspiring views of Mount Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal Range.
Around Manaslu, Trekking also includes crossing the high Mountain Passes. The Manaslu Larke Pass is the highest point at an elevation of 5,160 meters on this trek. Descent from the Manaslu Larke Pass trek, you can catch up to the Annapurna circuit trekking trail at Dharapani.
From here is an alternative way to trek, continuing to the Annapurna circuit trek for 10 more days. Trek has an opulent cultural presence that isn’t affected by modernisation.
A beautiful natural landscape embedded with trans-Himalayan woods. The Himalayan ambience is challenging to find anywhere else. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a gorgeous journey that is perfectly in tune. Moreover, the trek is famous for its aesthetically pleasing attributes and soul-lifting charisma. It is a journey that you do not want to miss out on!
Similarly, at each step of the way, you will present the best available services at all times, from transportation and meals to accommodation and guidance. Our Manaslu Circuit Trek is designed for the customer’s satisfaction.
We guarantee you an unforgettable Himalaya journey. You may call us at any time; we are available 24/7. Correspondingly, you can also choose from many of our other available packages as well. Thus, book your trip with us today!
Mt. Manaslu, which stands at an altitude of 8,163 meters, is the beauty of the Manaslu region. The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers trekkers to enjoy the breathtaking view of this world’s third-highest mountain in the world. From the beautiful sunrise view to the cy slopes to the evening shadows on Mt Manaslu, it shows how beautiful nature is.
Manaslu Conservation Area, which covers an area of 1663 sq. km, is home to rare wildlife species such as snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr, and red pandas. During the Manaslu Circuit trek, the rich, diverse biodiversity of this region will amaze you. Beautiful rhododendron forests, lush hills, pine forests, and bamboo forest adds to the beauty of this trek.
During the Manaslu Circuit, you will pass through several charming villages situated at high altitudes, like Namrung, Samagaun, and Lho. While you are in this village, you will enjoy the warm hospitality from the warm and welcoming Tibetan-origin locals. Also, the traditional home, suspension bridge, prayer flag, chortens, prayer wheels, and Buddhist monasteries dotted the trekking routes, adding to the beauty of this village.
Pung Gyen Gompa (or Pungyen Monastery) is another main attraction of the Manaslu Circuit trek. This Buddhist monastery is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters. Trekking in the remote Manaslu region and exploring this peaceful monastery is like finding a hidden gem.
Additionally, this monastery is surrounded by peaceful nature, where you can witness yaks grazing peacefully in the stunning background of the snow-capped Manaslu range.
Another major attraction of the Manaslu Circuit trek is Birendra Tal, a mountain glacier which is situated at an altitude of 3650 meters. This beautiful, clear, and turquoise lake surrounded by snow-peaked mountains will leave you in awe. You can enjoy the scenery, take photographs or spend some quiet time meditating.
The trip to Manaslu Circuit will be incomplete without this mountain, Manaslu Pass, and Larke Pass. Situated at the altitude of jaw-dropping 5,106 meters, this is the highest altitude that you reach on this trek. Even though it is challenging to reach here, the breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks, including Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru, will amaze you.
The beauty of the Nepal trek is to experience the authentic mountain tea house and lodge. This accommodation is surrounded by beautiful scenery where you will take a rest after long days of trekking. Here, you can enjoy a warm, delicious meal, listen to stories from the local people by the fire, and connect with fellow trekkers from around the world.
Duration: This intense trek takes 15 days to complete, so trekkers must have at least this amount of time available.
Age requirement: No age restricition( best for above 10 years)
Experience: Beginners trekkers can join with no previous trekking experience required, but must have good stamina for walking.
Fitness Criteria: Participants must be able to walk for an average of 5-6 hours daily.
Health conditions: Should be fit and fine and must not have a previous history of AMS and underlying serious health conditions.
Travel insurance: Highly recommended with a helicopter evacuation plan.
What to expect: Dont expect Manaslu luxury trek on this trip. Prepare for Basic facilities during the trek.
Manaslu weather: Moderate during daytime and cold at night at high altitude during Spring and autumn.
We have some exciting alternative trekking packages. Suppose you have already completed this Manaslu circuit trek and would like to do similar treks like the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and more. We offer all kinds of packages at the most affordable cost.
| Season | Weather | Temperature (Day) | Temperature (Night) |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons | 10°C to 20°C | -2°C to 5°C |
| Summer/Monsoon (Jun-Aug) | Warm, humid, frequent rainfalls | 15°C to 25°C | 5°C to 10°C |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Clear skies, ideal trekking conditions | 10°C to 18°C | -3°C to 5°C |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold, snow at higher altitudes | -2°C to 10°C | -10°C to -5°C |
It is possible to do the Manaslu Circuit trek throughout the year, but the best time for this trek is during the months of spring and autumn seasons, and let’s see why:
Note: Winter( December – February) and Monsoon(June—August) are considered the off-season for trekking in Nepal. In winter, the weather becomes harsh, and the temperature drops below the freezing point at high altitudes. Similarly, in the monsoon season, due to active rainfall and the chances of floods and landslides, we suggest you avoid high-altitude trekking.
Continue reading: Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit TrekTo manage the budget, it is essential to know how much the Manaslu trek costs. You need to be aware of what is included in the Manaslu trekking package and what is not. For the 15-day Manaslu Circuit trek, the cost is USD 1,044 per person. Remember, the more you are in a group, the greater discount you will get from High Route Adventure.
| Number of People | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 | $1230 |
| 5 – 8 | $1157 |
| 9 – 12 | $1095 |
Worth reading: Manaslu Circuit Trek CostAs you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a friendly representative from High Route Adventure will be waiting to greet you at the arrival terminal. Look for our team holding a placard with your name for easy recognition.
After a warm welcome, we’ll transfer you in a private vehicle to your hotel in Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub of Kathmandu. Once checked in, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the nearby streets filled with shops, cafés, and local culture.
In the evening, we’ll meet for a short trip briefing and preparation session, where you’ll meet your guide and go over the trekking plan. We'll also help with any last-minute gear checks or shopping if needed.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
This day is reserved for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city's four major UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will visit the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the Buddhist shrine of Boudhanath, the Swayambhunath Stupa, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Each of the sites are revered religious and historical treasures that present amazing artwork and architectural integrity. They provide deep insight into the historical and religious context of Nepal. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, early in the morning, after having breakfast in your hotel, you will prepare to leave for Machha Khola. Our private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel and pack the luggage. You will start your scenic drive. Riding for around 7-8 hours, you will arrive at Machha Khola, and our trekking guide will assist for you in checking in the tea house.
Today, you will follow the twisting dirt pathway that will take you to the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. The path emerges out towards the village of Khorlabensi, a small Gurung village located on the lower ridgelines of the river valley. The path follows the river from here, and you will cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki to finally reach Dobhan, followed by Yaru. Just a few miles from Yaru lays Jagat. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Jagat.
Today, you will be trekking on the path toward the village of Salleri, one of the first villages after Jagat, along the trail. From Salleri, the trail then descends towards Sirdibas and further branches out towards Philim. The river flows through the landscape once again, and the path flows beside it. The path then ascends towards the valley hills covered in rhododendron blossoms. Finally, you will reach the Deng. Overnight stay at the teahouse at Deng.
Your journey will begin with a slow descend to the Bhudi Ghandaki River's riverbed. The path then continues on toward the Rana Gaon, which is packed with breathtaking scenery. Bhupedi and Gap will be our next destination. We will continue our tour after lunch at the Gap tea house. You will come across stunning waterfalls and rivers as you go through the verdant forest. As you continue to stroll, you will begin to see the region's Mani walls. You will then enter the Namrung village, which is dotted with mani walls, monasteries, and prayer flags, after exploring this. Overnight stay at the teahouse at Namrung.
It takes six to seven hours to get from Namrung Village to Syala Village. The trail climbs steadily and offers an exhilarating walk to the mountain's lap. Despite traveling through distinct communities, such as Lho village, we are still able to experience the local way of life, historic Buddhist monasteries, sceneries, and luminous mountains. There are many peaks in the enormous Lho town, as well as the greatest Buddhist monastery, Mout Manaslu, Buddhist Chhorten, and authentic homes. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Manaslu Himalayas, Shyala is a fantastic location where you can get up close and personal with Mount Manaslu. Overnight stay at the teahouse at Shyala Village
We have yet another exciting day on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary from Syala. After breakfast, the hike starts at about eight in the morning.
Four hours from Syala to Pyungen Gompa: The first 1.5 hours are particularly difficult. After that, it's flat terrain for a little bit.
From Manaslu, the journey's best viewpoint, you can see the most breathtaking peak in this segment. The centerpiece of our excursion to Manaslu is this monastery, which is 600–700 years old. Overnight stay at the teahouse at Samagaon.
This day is reserved for acclimatization. You can trek to PungGyen Gompa today, located east of the Nubri valley. From the hilltop near the Gompa, you will be presented with breathtaking views of the Manaslu Peak. Nearby, the cliffs and pastures also harbor the Himalayan Thar and wild yaks. You can also choose to hike to the Manaslu Base Camp, which is located north of Sama Gaon. Following past the trail at Birendra Tal, you can steadily climb the hillock towards the base camp (4,400m), passing by the Manaslu glacier. After exploring the terrain, you will then return to the village. Overnight stay at the teahouse at Sama Gaon.
Today is a trek to the village of Samdo. You will follow the winding path that goes through alpine woods, which is home to a variety of wildlife. The forest also clears towards a yak pasture, where you can see a long Mani stone wall embedded in the field. Leaving the tree line, you will climb to the ridge and walk under another Kani towards Samdo. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Samdo.
From Samdo, you will follow a steady trail that leads to Dharamsala. Along the way, you will be trekking through woodlands that harbor many marmots. Occasionally, you can also spot a Pica scattering swiftly along the forest floor. Dharamsala sports a few stone houses to serve the travelers who are heading to the Larkya La Pass (5160m). Overnight stay at the lodge at Dharamsala.
This is an arduous day of trekking. You will wake up early in the morning to make your way towards the Larke Pass. With a steady climb, you will reach the top of the mountain pass that presents breath-taking views of the sprawling valley below, as well as the Manaslu (8163m), Himlung (7126m) near Tibet, and the Kang Guru Peak in the distance. After taking in the view, you will then descend the pass, slowly trudging along the trail, which is steep and rocky. After a steady 3 hours of descent, you will reach Bimthang. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Bimthang.
Today, you will climb downhill from Bimthang, walking through beautiful trans-Himalayan woods back to the Dudh Khola. Along the way, you can stop at the settlement of Kharche. From here, the trail becomes rough as it descends towards the Goa, a rather large Gurung village. Staying on the northern bans of the river, the path then finally reaches Tilije.
After having a warm breakfast in the Tilje Hotel, you will pack all your belongings and prepare to leave for Kathmandu. Leaving Tilje village, you will you’ll descend towards Dharapani. Today will be your last day of trekking on the Manaslu Circuit trek. Passing through the Gurung settlement and Tibetan-influenced village you will arrive at Thoche village. Crossing the suspension bridge, you will arrive at Dharapani, ride the private vehicle and head toward Kathmandu.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure.
Choose from our scheduled group trips below, or contact us to plan a private or family adventure tailored to your schedule.
Graded as moderate in difficulty level, trekkers must be aware of this challenge that they need to face while undertaking the Manaslu Circuit trek. Let's see the difficult factors and how you can prevent them from making your trip more adventurous and safe.
One of the main challenges that trekkers need to face during the trip to Manaslu Circuit trek is high altitude. This trip takes you to the maximum altitude of up to 5,160 meters at Larkya La Pass, where some trekkers can face altitude symptoms.
Tips: You can use Diamox and follow a proper acclimatization plan during the Manaslu Circuit trek to reduce altitude effect.
During the Manaslu Circuit trek, trekkers need to walk for around 5-7 hours every day. This can be tiresome, especially for beginner trekkers who don’t have long-hour trekking experience.
Tips: Engage in fitness activities like cardio exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts for 1-2 months before heading for the trek. Continue reading: Training Tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu circuit is less popular than the Everest base camp trek and Annapurna base camp trek. Due to this reason you will find a limited number of trekkers in the trekking trails. Also, the trail takes you to isolated areas with limited access to emergency services.
Tips: Purchase travel insurance that covers high altitude risk, including emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
Manaslu Circuit Treks provides you with a tea house, but the facilities inside this accommodation are very basic. You will have a limited choice of food and amenities. Additionally, modern facilities such as ATMs and advanced healthcare services are not available during the trek.
Tips: Pack essential items with you, including cash, during the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Manaslu Circuit trekking can become tough due to the sudden change in weather conditions. If weather becomes bad then the trail path can be icy and slippery due to snow or rainfall. Also, the fluctuation in temperature can trouble the trekkers.
Tips: Always check weather conditions before heading for the Manaslu Circuit trek and pack clothing and gear that suits all weather conditions.
Read more: Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty: Conquer Top 6 Challenges
The Manaslu Circuit trek will be manageable with proper planning and preparation. Thousands of trekkers have completed this trek with preparation and the assistance of High Route Adventure. Let’s look at the expert tips to help make your trip safe and secure:
We suggest all our participants research about the Manaslu Circuit trek before heading for this beautiful journey. Familiarize yourself with the Manaslu trekking route, altitude, weather conditions, and cultural aspects of the Manaslu region.
You need to have a valid passport and travel insurance(highly recommended) for this Manaslu Circuit trek. Arrange the flight ticket to Nepal according to your booking date, and for the visa, you can get here in the airport. We suggest you take 30 days for this trek, which will cost you USD 50.
The 15 Days Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary that we present to you is the standard itinerary. Depending upon your interest and preference we can customize the Manaslu Circuit itinerary for you.
Some trekkers may experience altitude sickness during the 15-day Manaslu Circuit trek. It’s important to be aware of the early symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and loss of appetite. You can follow this acclimatization plan to reduce the AMS such as:
When you are in Manaslu Circuit trek you will be far from your friends and family. So to connect with your loved ones, carry local SIM by purchasing from Kathmandu airport. You can use a local sim for communication as well as for the mobile internet. Also before heading for the Manaslu Circuit stay updated about road and weather conditions.
Read more: How Do I Prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Note: All the Manaslu Circuit trek permits must be arranged through high-route adventure. You need to show these permits at various Manaslu Circuit trekking checkpoints.
Three meals a day will be provided when you book the Manaslu Circuit Trek package with High Route Adventure. You will have the option to choose between vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes from the Manaslu tea house menu. Please note that food will be basic and limited due to the remote trekking locations. Here are some typical dishes you can expect during your trek:
Your Manaslu Circuit Trek package with High Route Adventure includes comfortable accommodation in Kathmandu and along the trekking route. In Kathmandu, you will stay in 3-star or similar deluxe hotels, while during the trek, you will stay in the best available tea houses for 11 nights.
In the past, trekkers had to carry their own camping gear and food as there were no lodges or tea houses. Today, with the growing popularity of the trek, villagers have built mountain lodges and tea houses to provide basic comfort to travelers.
Most lodges along the Manaslu trekking route are simple but clean, with large dining areas, a warm atmosphere, and seasonal meals. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with common bathrooms, or dormitory-style where 5 to 10 people may share a room.
Some villages, like Jagat, Namrung, Lho, and Samagaon, offer a few rooms with attached bathrooms, but these are limited. At higher elevations, such as Phedi (base of Larke La Pass) and Dharamsala, accommodations are basic, offering simple beds, meals, and warm refreshments.
During peak trekking season, lodges may get crowded, and you may occasionally sleep in tents provided by the tea houses. This is why the Manaslu Circuit Trek is also called a tea house trek, offering an authentic Himalayan experience.
High passes are an essential part of trekking in the Himalayas, and the Larke La Pass on the Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). At these high elevations, trekkers may experience altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dehydration, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping.
To prevent altitude sickness on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is crucial to take rest days at elevations around 2,800–3,000 meters. Spending extra days at these heights allows your body to acclimatize properly. Trekkers should also stay well-hydrated, drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, or lemonade, and take short walks or hikes to help the body adjust.
Some trekkers choose to take Diamox (Acetazolamide) under medical guidance to prevent or reduce symptoms of AMS. Proper acclimatization and awareness are key to a safe and enjoyable high-altitude trekking experience in the Manaslu region.
You May Also Read: How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Safe drinking water is essential for trekking in the high Himalayas, and it is available at every lodge or tea house along the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The main sources of safe water are tap water and bottled water.
If you use tap water, it is recommended to purify it using water purification tablets, which are easily available at local shops and medical stores.
Bottled or mineral water is available at most tea houses and lodges, but it can be expensive. Prices increase as you trek to higher altitudes, sometimes costing nearly double compared to lower villages.
To stay healthy, hydrated, and maintain energy during your trek, it is advised to drink at least 2 liters of water per day, especially at high altitudes.
Obtaining travel and medical insurance is essential for your safety during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekking in remote high-altitude regions can expose you to unexpected situations, such as altitude sickness (AMS), diarrhea, or sudden accidents. In emergencies, immediate evacuation—often by helicopter—may be required to access medical care quickly.
A reliable insurance policy will cover medical expenses, including helicopter evacuation, depending on the terms of your plan. Travel insurance is also valuable in case your trek is disrupted by bad weather, such as heavy snowfall at high passes, which may require rerouting or cancellation.
Always ensure that your insurance is valid and provides coverage for high-altitude trekking, so you can claim costs for medical emergencies or evacuation if needed.
The starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Machha Khola, located approximately 162 kilometers from Kathmandu. To reach Machha Khola, High Route Adventure arranges a private jeep, and the journey takes around 6–7 hours.
The road is generally smooth until Dhading, but after crossing Seti Khola, the terrain becomes rough and bumpy.
Note: During the monsoon season (June–August), heavy rainfall may worsen road conditions. The region is also prone to floods and landslides during this time, so trekking is not recommended in the monsoon season.
To make your Manaslu Circuit trek pleasant and successful, we will provide you with a team consisting of a trekking guide, an assistant guide for large groups, and porters. Our Knowledgeable guide will lead the trek and arrange the food, accommodation, and logistics for you. Our porter will carry your main luggage bag, and one porter will be divided among two trekkers. Our porter will carry a language weighing 20 kg.
Yes, beginner trekkers can join the Manaslu Circuit Trek, but they must ensure they have the physical fitness required to complete this challenging high-altitude trek safely. If you do not have prior high-altitude trekking experience, it is not recommended to attempt this trek. Instead, you can start with easier treks in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Langtang Valley Trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not ideal for first-time trekkers. If you are a beginner and unsure whether you should join the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can contact us, and we will guide you according to your fitness level and trekking experience.
If you want to make your Manaslu Circuit Trek even more adventurous, High Route Adventure offers the option to include the Tsum Valley Trek in your itinerary. This add-on is ideal for experienced trekkers who are looking for a more challenging route and want to explore two stunning treks in one, while saving on the cost of doing them separately.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek map is a super useful tool, ensuring you find your way through the sometimes tough but always rewarding landscapes. It helps you see and experience the beauty of the Manaslu region and the culture of the people living there.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't require a lot of intricate gear and equipment for this journey. Here's a basic checklist of the vital elements you must remember to carry when heading for Manaslu Circuit Trek:
There are only a few of the essential items. Find a Packing list for the trekking in Nepal.
The majority of trekking gear can be rented in Kathmandu, alleviating the need for heavy baggage. By packing only the necessities and acquiring the remaining items through rentals or purchases in Kathmandu, you can travel light. Thamel's shops provide both branded and locally crafted gear and equipment.
You can leave your spare luggage in your hotel’s storage room. It is completely safe and free. But do make sure to lock your luggage before leaving it in storage.
