Manaslu Expedition - 34 Days

• Duration34 Days
• Max. Altitude8.163m (26,781ft)
• Trip GradeChallenging
• Group Size4 -
• Meals Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
• AccommodationHotel/Tent

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel (1,400m)

  The moment you step out of Tribhuvan International Airport, the High Route Adventure team will be waiting to greet you. We'll transfer you immediately to your hotel in Thamel, a busy tourist center of Kathmandu. After resting for a while, you can now stroll through the narrow, colorful streets filled with trekking shops and cafes. We officially start the expedition with a welcome dinner at night. Enjoy traditional Nepalese food like dal bhat or momo with your climbing team and other climbers. This is your first chance to get to know them. It's a relaxed night designed to let you settle in before the work begins.

  Note: If you arrive early, we can arrange a short city sightseeing tour upon request. (Please inform us in advance).

  Altitude: 1,400m

  Meals: Breakfast

  Accommodation: Hotel

• Day 2: Shopping and Official Formalities in Kathmandu (1,400m)

  Today is dedicated to logistics. After breakfast, meet your lead guide for a comprehensive gear check. If you're missing any specialized high-altitude equipment- like an 8,000m down suit or triple boots- we go rental shopping in Thamel. In the afternoon, you'll visit our head office to attend the official Expedition Briefing and finalize your Manaslu Restricted Area, MCAP, and ACAP permits. Once the paperwork is done, the evening is yours. You can visit the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath) for a sunset view over the valley or explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. The goal today is to be fully prepared so you can leave Kathmandu with a clear mind tomorrow.

  Altitude: 1,400m

  Meals: Breakfast

  Accommodation: 1,400m

• Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,865m)

  We set out early for the 8-9 hours drive to the trek's starting point. Leaving the city behind, the private jeep follows the winding Prithivi Highway along the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers. Today's ride is long but scenic, with the landscape transforming from the humid lowlands to the terraced hillsides of the Annapurna region. As we approach the mountains, you'll get your first glimpses of snowy peaks. We eat lunch in a nearby town and then continue to Dharapani, the gateway to the Manaslu circuit. You'll arrive in the late afternoon, just in time to stretch your legs and prepare for the first day of walking.

  Altitude: 1,865m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 4: Trek to Tilje (2,300m)

  Today, we leave the road behind. The 5-6 hours trek takes us away from the main Annapurna Circuit trail and towards the hidden village of Tilije. Along the path, you'll see lush woods of pine and rhododendrons. There are suspension bridges over the Marshyangdi River that go over dramatic gorges. You'll notice the distinct shift in culture as soon as you get to Tilije. Stone-built houses and fluttering prayer flags highlight the region's strong Tibetan influence. In this small village, you'll get a beautiful introduction to the Gurung culture as well.

  Altitude: 2,300m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 5: Trek to Bhimthang (3,725m)

  This is a tough day with significant elevation gain. We climb nearly 1,400 meters in 6-7 hours, going from dense forests into the open alpine zone. As we walk through Sangure Kharka, the terrain starts to get steep you cross wooden bridges over icy glacial streams. The effort pays off when you reach Bhimthang, a massive valley used as a summer yak pasture. The scenes here are abrupt and extraordinary: the North Face of Manaslu and Phungi Himal tower directly above you. As the sun sets over this natural amphitheater, look for blue sheep or marmots eating grass on the slopes.

  Altitude: 3,725m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Bhimthang

  We spend a second night in Bhimthang to let our bodies adjust to the 3,700m altitude. To stay active, we'll take a 3-4 hours acclimatization hike up to Ponkar Lake (4,100m). This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is essential for crossing the Larkya La pass tomorrow. This short-day hike lets you acclimate to the high altitude and enjoy the incredible panorama of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal at the same time. Your guide will give you a safety briefing regarding the Larkya La crossing in the afternoon. Later, you can rest and stay hydrated.

  Altitude: 3,725m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 07: Trek to Samdo (3,875m) via Larkya Pass (5,106 m)

  This is the toughest trekking day of the approach. We start pre-dawn to tackle the Larkya La Pass. The pass crossing takes about 8-10 hours. It is a long, steady climb over rocky moraines and snowfields. Reaching the summit of the pass (5,106m) is a massive achievement, rewarding you with eye-level views of Annapurna II, Kang Guru, and Manaslu itself. We celebrate at the summit and then start the long, steep descent walk down to the settlement of Samdo. This remote village is the last settlement before the Tibetan border and is inhabited by Tibetan refugees. You'll sleep well tonight in the comfort of a local tea house after a massive day of effort.

  Altitude: 5,106 m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 08: Trek to Samagaun (3,530m)

  After the grueling pass crossing, today is a short, recovery walk. The 4-5 hours trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River down to Samagaun. Along the way, you'll pass extensive mani walls (stone tablets carved with prayers) and large yak pastures, signaling that we are in the heart of Nubri Valley culture. Samagaun is the "capital" of the Manaslu region. Sitting right at the foot of the mountain, it offers stunning, close-up views of Manaslu's East Face. Later, observe what life is like in the high-altitude hamlet by visiting the local school and the old monastery.

  Altitude: 3,530m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 09: Rest and Acclimatization in Samagaun (3,530m)

  We take a full rest day at Samagaun to ensure everyone is healthy before moving to the Manaslu Base Camp. Rather than staying idle, we strongly recommend the acclimatization hike to Pungyen Gompa, an ancient monastery tucked into a glacial valley with direct views of the mountain. Alternatively, you can spend the day exploring the village, watching the local herd of yaks, and processing barley. This cultural connection helps ground you before we isolate ourselves on the mountain for the climbing phase.

  Altitude: 3,530m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 10: Trek to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)

  Today, we leave the villages and walk to the Base Camp. The hike is steep and takes 4 to 5 hours to go up more than 1,200 meters. The trail goes up through the mountain, away from the trees, and into the rough, glacier-covered ground. Afterwards, you'll spot the colorful tent city of Manaslu Base Camp. This will be your home for the next few weeks. Set up your tent, meet the Sherpa climbing team, and eat your first dinner in the warm dining tent while gazing up at the massive summit towering above.

  Altitude: 4,800m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 11: Rest and Acclimatization at MBC (4,800m)

  It takes time to get used to life at 4,800m. We spend the day organizing our camp and taking a short hike to a nearby ridge (5,000m) to jump-start acclimatization. The rest of the day, you can get familiar with the facilities. Check out the communications booths, meet the medical staff, and organize your gear. You'll go over the climbing route, safety protocols, and the rotation plan with your lead guide and go to sleep.

  Altitude: 4,800m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 12: Prayer Ceremony & Base Camp Activities

  We have to participate in the traditional Puja Ceremony prior to commencing our expedition. In order to grant safe passage, a Buddhist Lama will bless the team, the climbing gear, and the mountain itself. For the Sherpas, this is a deeply spiritual moment and taking part in it strengths the bond between the climbers and the staff. The rest of the day is easygoing. While the guide tells you about the mountain's history, you can sort your high-altitude food and gear.

  Altitude: 4,800m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 13: Climbing Training at MBC

  Today, we get technical. The Sherpa guides will lead a hands-on training session on the nearby ice slopes. You'll refresh your skills in crampon usage, self-arrest with an ice axe, and most importantly- how to pass anchors on fixed ropes using a jumar. We also do basic crevasse rescue drills and test everyone's oxygen masks and regulators to ensure they are working properly. This training ensures everyone on the team is on the same page before we step into the most dangerous sections of the mountain.

  Altitude: 4,800m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 14-29: Climbing Period of Manaslu (8,163m)

  Now the real Manaslu expedition 2026 begins. We have a flexible but well-planned climbing agenda for the next sixteen days. High Route Adventure keeps the Sherpa ratio at 1:4, and for the summit, it is 1:1.

  • First Rotation (Days 14-17): We climb to Camp 1 (5,700m), navigating the crevasses and fixed lines. We spend two nights here to acclimatize, taking a short hike to Camp 2 to reach 6,400m, before descending all the way back to Base Camp to recover.
  • Second Rotation (Days 18-22): This is the main acclimatization push. We climb back to Camp 1, then push up the steep snow slopes to sleep at Camp 2 (6,400m). From there, we climb to touch Camp 3 (6,800m)- often using oxygen for the first time - before descending to Base Camp for a long rest.
  • Rest & Summit Prep (Days 23-25): We spend these days at Base Camp eating high-calorie meals and resting while the guides watch the weather forecasts.
  • The Summit Push (Days 26-29): When the window opens, we move. We climb Camp 1> Camp 2 > Camp 3 > (and possibly Camp 4 at 7,400m). On Summit Day (Day 29), we leave around 1:00 AM, climbing through the dark to reach the summit at dawn. Standing on the 8,163m peak offers 360-degree views of Tibet and the Annapurna before we descend safely to the lower camps.
  Altitude: 8,163m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tent

• Day 30: Cleaning up of Manaslu Base Camp and Trek to Samagaun (3,530m)

  After a safe return from the summit, we pack up. Following the strict "Leave No Trace" principles, we ensure every piece of trash is removed from Base Camp. We then say goodbye to the ice and trek back down to the thick air of Samagaun. It takes 4-5 hours to go down; with every meter you drop, you'll feel your strength coming back. We celebrate that night in a comfortable lodge.

  Altitude: 3,530m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: Tea house

• Day 31: Fly back to Kathmandu by Helicopter (or Trek)

  Option 1 (Standard): Most Manaslu climbers choose this standard helicopter option. It's a spectacular 1-hour heli flight from Samagaun back to Kathmandu. The heli ride soars over the route you spent weeks trekking. By afternoon, you'll be back in your hotel, enjoying a hot shower and a real bed.

  Option 2 (Trek): If you prefer to walk, you can trek out via the Buri Gandaki Valley (adds 5-7 days).

  Altitude: 1400m

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  Accommodation: 1400m

• Day 32-33: Leisure Day

  The Manaslu expedition itinerary includes these extra days as insurance. If we have mountain weather, summit delays, or concerns about helicopter flights, we can use these contingency days to keep the schedule on track. If all goes as planned, then you'll have extra time to visit Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites before your flight home.You have the opportunity to unwind in Kathmandu on your leisure day. So, you can shop for souvenirs in Thamel, visit the spa, or just relax at a rooftop cafe. We'll have one final dinner to celebrate the evening.

  Altitude: 1400m

  Meals: Breakfast

  Accommodation: Hotel

• Day 34: Departure

  Fly Back to your home country

  Altitude: 1400m

  Meals: Breakfast

  Accommodation: Hotel

Useful Information

Manaslu Climbing Permits and Documentation 

Bureaucracy in Nepal can be complex, but as your expedition operator, we handle 90% of this for you. Your job is to train; our job is to stand in line at the Ministry of Tourism.

Below is the breakdown of the fees and documents required for the Manaslu Expedition.

1. Manaslu Climbing Permits and Fees 

This is the royalty paid to the Government of Nepal for the right to climb an 8,000-meter peak.

2. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Since the Manaslu trail passes near the Tibetan border (from Jagat to Samdo), this special permit is mandatory.

3. Conservation Area Permits 

These go towards maintaining the Manaslu (MCAP) and Annapurna (ACAP) conservation areas.

4. Other Mandatory Fees 

Important 2025 Update: Unlike Everest, where Spring is the main climbing season, Manaslu is primarily climbed in Autumn. Recognizing this, the Nepal Government has updated the royalty structure effective September 2025. Autumn is now the “High Season” for Manaslu, costing $3,000 per person, while Spring permits have been reduced to $1,500. 

Documentation Requirements 

We handle permits, but we need you to provide the raw data. Please ensure you have the following ready 45 days before departure:

• Passport Validity: Check this today. Your passport must have at least 6 months remaining from the date you enter Nepal. If it expires sooner, immigration will turn you away.
• Photos: Bring 4-6 passport-sized photos (or digital copies). We need these for the various permit applications.
• Insurance Policy: As mentioned in the safety section, we need a physical copy of your insurance showing coverage for high-altitude rescue.

Important Regulations (The Fine Print)

• Two-Person Rule: You cannot trek or climb in the Manaslu region alone. The government requires a minimum of two people (plus a guide) to issue the Restricted Area Permit. If you are a solo climber, we'll pair you with our group to satisfy this legal requirement.
• The Garbage Deposit: We are required to deposit a hefty sum (usually $3,000 per team) with the government to ensure we bring our trash back. We take "Leave No Trace" seriously- if we bring it up the mountain, we bring it down.
• No Solo Permits: You must go through a registered agency (like us). Independent climbing on 8,000m peaks is illegal in Nepal.

How to Book the Manaslu Expedition?

Phase 1

Manaslu isn't a standard vacation, so we don't book it in one click. We need to know who you are first. You can drop us a line at bookings@highrouteadventure.com (or use the form at highrouteadventure.com/inquiry) with the subject line "Manaslu Expedition Inquiry".

We need the following basic details from you:

• Which peaks have you summited?
• Are you aiming for the September 2026 window?
• Do you want to join a group or climb privately?
• Name, nationality, DOB, and any specific medical or dietary needs.

Phase 2

Once we have your background, we'll build a custom package for you. Within a day, our team will provide a complete proposal that includes:

• A day-by-day itinerary, from your Kathmandu arrival to the final summit push.
• A comprehensive gear checklist.
• A transparent cost breakdown (no hidden fees).
• The booking agreement.

Please note that to secure your seat, you need to make a 30% deposit via Bank Transfer or PayPal.

Phase 3

At least 2 months before the expedition, we finalize the critical details. At this stage, we need the following information:

• You need to clear the remaining 70% of your payment balance, which was due in previous phases.
• Flight details for airport pickup service.
• Travel insurance that covers evacuation up to $100,000. It is the most important, as if you don't have this, we can't issue your climbing permit.

Phase 4

Before you pack your bags, you'll join a pre-expedition Zoom call with us. For one last time, we'll go over your gear and answer last-minute questions. After that, get on the plane. Our team will be waiting for you at the Kathmandu terminal.

Cancellations and Refunds Policy

• 90+ days out: Full refund (minus a $500 processing fee).
• 60-89 days out: 50% refund
• 30-59 days out: 25% refund
• Less than 30 days: No refund as permits and logistics are already paid for.

Rescheduling: We try to be flexible if you just need to change the times. If you notify us at least 60 days in advance, we'll move you to another season at no cost. Within that 60-day window, a $1,000 rescheduling fee.

Pro Tip: Make sure your travel insurance covers "Trip Cancellation" for medical emergencies. If you become sick or injured before the trip, we'll provide all the documentation you need to file a claim.

Ready to start? Email us at bookings@highrouteadventure.com. 

Notes

Difficulty Level of the Manaslu Expedition

Manaslu might be known as one of the "easier" 8,000-meter peaks, but let's be clear: there is no such thing as an easy 8,000er. Some climbers may find it easier than K2 but thinking of it as an easy walk-up can be a dangerous mistake. With good reason, it is graded as 4E (very strenuous). 

The altitude - the thin air - is the real killer here. At 8,163 meters, you're running on about 30% less oxygen than at sea level. Every step will feel like a marathon. Altitude sickness (AMS, HAPE, HACE) is a real risk that can get worse quickly. That's why you are not just climbing; you're living there for 6 to 8 weeks, so your body can adapt to the "death zone." 

The technical difficulty is another challenging factor because it's not just hiking in the mountains. While climbing from Camp 1 to Camp 2, you'll hit steep snow and ice, so you'll need crampons and fixed ropes. Plus, you need to navigate crevasses and unstable seracs, which is a real risk no matter how fit you are. It's easier than Annapurna's vertical ice cliffs, but you still need an ice axe and rappelling skills. 

There's a high risk of objective hazards and unstable weather conditions. Manaslu is famous for avalanche exposure, unstable snow, and the danger from hanging seracs. The weather is highly unpredictable, with rapid shifts to heavy snowfall, strong winds, and extreme cold that can lead to frostbite. Additionally, the weather windows for summitting can be very short. 

The trekking and climbing route to Manaslu Peak is very remote. Manaslu base camp and higher camps are isolated with limited infrastructure. Climbing at this altitude requires great cardiovascular fitness, mental toughness, and experience on peaks higher than 6,000 meters and 7,000 meters. You need to maintain peak performance even after weeks of mental and physical exhaustion. 

How to Prepare for the Manaslu Expedition?

For preparation for Manaslu peak climbing, you need about 6 to 9 months of serious prep work. Cardio is king for mountain climbing. Aim for 4-6 sessions a week. Whether you run, cycle, or swim, you need to be going for 1-2 hours at a time. Don't just cruise, you need to throw in interval training to spike your heart rate. 

While climbing, you need to wear heavy gear and carry a heavy backpack. So, preparing for heavy carry is non-negotiable. At least 2-3 times a week, you need to hike steep uphill with a pack. Start with a manageable weight, later practice with 50-60 lbs. That's what it feels like on the mountain. To build core strength and protect joints, hit the gym twice a week for squats, lunges, and deadlifts. But gym strength is not enough- you need to be comfortable in crampons and confident using a jumar on fixed lines. 

Altitude sickness is real deal here. Stick to the "climb high, sleep low" rule. Once you're above 3,000m, try not to bump your sleeping altitude up by more than 300-500m a day. Hydration is massive- you need to force yourself to drink 4-6 liters a day. Also, before coming to Nepal, have a serious chat with your doctor about Diamox and make sure you have emergency meds for HAPE or HACE in your kit. 

Prepare your gear as it's your life support at 8,000 meters. High-altitude double- or triple-boots are mandatory. Several nights will be very cold, so bring a down sleeping bag that can handle at least -20°C or -40°C. You need a down suit that is heavy enough for an expedition to go to the top. Layering is the key. So, learn how to make a solid system of base layers, fleece, and waterproof shells. 

One thing to remember is that mental toughness is what gets you to the top of the peak, not just physical strength. You need to train your brain how to deal with pain. Hike when it's raining. Practice meditation and visualize yourself reaching the summit of Manaslu. The most important thing is not to let your ego get in the way. It's not about pushing until you pass out; it's about knowing when to turn around so you can come back and try again. 

Safety Measures on Manaslu Expedition

Manaslu is an objective hazard mountain where avalanches, crevasses, and altitude are genuine threats. Here is how we manage risk on Manaslu.

1. The "Sherpa First" Rule Nepal law requires you to climb with a registered agency, but common sense requires you to climb with experienced Sherpas. Never go up without your guide. They know the route conditions better than any forecast. On technical sections, maintain group discipline- if your guide says stop, you stop.

2. Acclimatization is Your Safety Net We spend enough time in Samagaun and Base Camp to let your body adjust. On the mountain, we never rush and strictly follow the "Climb High, Sleep Low" protocol.

• Listen to your body: If you have a headache, dizziness, or nausea (all signs of AMS), tell your guide immediately. Descending is the only cure.
• No Vices: It goes without saying, but no alcohol or smoking above 3,000m. It ruins your acclimatization.

3. Weather & Season Strategy We primarily target the Autumn window (September-November) because the weather is generally more stable than in Spring. However, the mountain is in charge. We monitor forecasts daily. If storms roll in or snow accumulation gets too high (increasing avalanche risk), we pause. We only cross the dangerous serac zones and knife-edge ridges when conditions are perfect.

4. Communication & Rescue Mobile networks (NTC/Ncell) are spotty at best. We use satellite phones for reliable communication, especially at base camp and rescue teams.

• Insurance: As mentioned before, insurance covering helicopter evacuation at 8,000m is a must. If you get altitude sickness or hurt, we need to fly you out immediately.

5. Gear & Self-care Technical gear (crampons, harnesses, avalanche beacons) is non-negotiable, but your daily habits matter just as much.

• Hydrate: You need to drink plenty of water even if you're not thirsty.
• Layer Up: Hypothermia sneaks up on you. Use your technical layers to regulate body heat.
• Drills: We don't just hope for the best; we practice rescue drills and rope techniques at Base Camp, so you are ready if things go wrong. 

Your Support Team: The Backbone of the Manaslu Expedition

Until now, you have already known that climbing Manaslu is not a solo effort. Behind a successful summit photo, there is an entire team moving mountains (literally) to make it happen. Here is who will be with you every step of the way.

1. The Expedition Leader Think of the expedition leader as the captain of the ship. They have IFMGA/UIAGM certification, which means they're the best guides in the world. More than hiking, they know more about weather and risk management. When a storm rolls in or the seracs look unstable, they're the ones who make the hard calls. Their word is final because their job is to get you home alive.

2. Climbing Sherpas (Your Summit Partner) These guys are the true heroes of the Himalayas. Long before you even put on your crampons, our Sherpa team is up on the mountain fixing ropes and setting ladders across crevasses.

• The 1:1 Advantage: On summit day, you'll likely have a 1:1 Sherpa-to-client ratio. This means you have a personal caretaker who manages your oxygen, carries the heavy emergency gear, and even motivates you when you want to quit. They just don't guide you; they watch your every step.

3. The Porters (The Engine) You simply can't get to the Manaslu Base Camp without them. While you hike with a light daypack, our team of porters and mules moves tons of gear- tents, food, fuel, and oxygen- up to 4,800m. They are the strongest walkers in the mountains, and their hard work allows you to save your energy for the real climb. 

Pro Tips: How to Climb Manaslu (And Come Back)

1. Don't Skip the Prerequisites Manaslu is not a training ground. Please don't show up if you haven't climbed the 6,000-meter peak before. You need to know how your body reacts at high altitude, where the air is thin. So, we strongly recommend cutting your teeth on peaks like Island Peak or Lobuche East first. If you struggle there, Manaslu will eat you alive.
2. Train to Suffer You can't fake fitness at 8,000 meters. Start training 9 months out. We're not talking about a morning jog; you need to be hiking with a heavy pack until your legs burn. On Manaslu summit day, you might be moving for more than 15 hours on very little oxygen. If your legs aren't ready, then your lungs won't save you.
3. The "Yo-Yo" Effect (Acclimatization) "Climb high, sleep low" isn't just a saying; it's the only way to avoid HAPE or HACE. It feels frustrating to climb up to Camp 1 or 2 only to turn around and come back down to Base Camp, but that rest is where the magic happens. Trust the schedule. While resting in Samagaun, you are actually getting stronger.
4. Don't Linger in the Kill Zone The route between Camp 1 and Camp 2 is beautiful, but it's also full of crevasses and icefalls. This is not the place for a photoshoot. While resting in Samagaun, you're actually getting stronger.
5. Force-Feed Yourself Here is a reality check: at Camp 3, you won't be hungry. You won't be thirsty. You'll feel nauseous. Eat anyway. Dehydration is the fastest way to get altitude sickness. You need to be drinking 4-6 liters of liquid a day- tea, soup, water, whatever you can stomach. If your pee is yellow, you're dehydrated.
6. The 2 PM Rule (Turnaround Time) Summit fever is real, and it kills. Before you leave the tent on summit night, agree on a hard turnaround time with your guide (usually 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM). If you aren't on top by then, you turn around. Period. The mountain will be there next year; make sure you are too. Remember: most accidents happen on the way down.
7. Trust Your Gear (And Your Sherpa) That fixed rope is your lifeline- literally. Most importantly, when you are exhausted and crossing an anchor, double-check your safety clip and jumar. The summit ridge is narrow and exposed; one slip without a clip is fatal. So, watch and listen to your Sherpa guides at all times, as they have done this dozens of times.
8. Cheap Operators Cost Lives This might sound self-serving, but don't cut corners on your operator. If you get injured or the weather turns bad, then you need an experienced Sherpa with a solid evacuation plan. So, it's very risky to look for deals on an 8,000-meter mountain.

Real Story: Sarah and Manaslu 

When Sarah Chen (34, from Canada) first emailed us, she was nervous. She was not asking about the view. 

She said, "I have climbed trekking peaks. But 8,000 meters is scary."

She was right. Manaslu is not about hiking up the mountain like the Manaslu Circuit trek; it's about climbing it. 

Waiting at Camp 3

The most critical moment was not the summit. 

It was at Camp 3. 

Bad weather hits, strong winds, and no visibility. Some other teams go away, taking the risk with them. 

But our guides checked the weather and talked with Sarah. They said, "No. We wait."

Saraha was upset. She said later. "I was sitting in the tent, using oxygen, and watching other climbers go up. I felt like I had lost my chance."

After 48 hours, things change. The teams that went early faced very strong winds. Almost 60 miles per hour. 

After the weather stabilized, Sarah's team resumed climbing. 

The Summit

On September 28, Sarah reached the summit of Manaslu. 

She said. "I didn't say anything special. I just cried inside my oxygen mask. I was tired and very cold. But when I looked at the clouds below, I knew I really did it."

Why Sarah's Story Matters 

We talk about our 85% success rate. But numbers are not everything. The best thing is that Sarah came back safely—no frostbite and no injuries. 

Now she is already writing to us about climbing Mount Ama Dablam next year. 

She says, "The summit was great. But the best part was knowing my Sherpa team supported me when things became dangerous. That is why I want to climb again."

Responsible Travel Tips During the Manaslu Expedition 

We are guests in the home of the Nubri people and the habitat of the Snow Leopard. Here is how we keep our welcome warm.

1. The Plastic Problem: Manaslu is remote, and there is no recycling truck coming up the valley.

• The Rule: If you bring it in, you take it out. This applies to everything - dead batteries, energy bar wrappers, and empty shampoo bottles.
• Water: Please do not buy single-use plastic mineral water bottles. They pile up in the Manaslu trail. Instead, bring a Nalgene or a thermos. We'll boil water for you at the teahouses and camps, or you can use purification tablets. It's cheaper and keeps the Manaslu trail free of trash.

2. Respecting the Nubri Culture: The villages around Manaslu (such as Lho and Samagaun) are deeply Buddhist.

• Dress Code: While trekking, it gets hot, but please don't walk through villages in sports bras or shirtless. It's seen as disrespectful.
• Mani Walls: Along the Manaslu trail, you'll see lots of stone walls carved with prayers. Always walk to the left (clockwise) of these walls or chortens. It's a sign of respect that locals really appreciate.
• Photography: Don't treat villages like museum exhibits. Ask first if you want to take a picture. A simple "Namaste" and a smile usually get a "yes", but if they say no, please respect it.

3. Leave the Wildlife Alone: You might get lucky and spot Himalayan Thar or Blue Sheep. Keep your distance. Don't try to feed them, and definitely don't shout to get their attention for a photo. Also, please don't pick the wildflowers- they struggle enough to survive at this altitude.

4. Support the Local Economy: We try to buy local whenever we can. Whether it's buying fresh yak cheese in Samagaun or hiring porters from the lower villages, your money goes directly to the communities that live there. 

FAQs of Manaslu Expedition

• Do I really need 8,000m of experience before Manaslu?

  No, but you can't come straight from the couch. Manaslu is widely considered the "entry level" 8,000m peak. However, you must have previous experience on 6,000m or 7,000m peaks (like Island Peak, Lobuche, or Himlung). If you know how to use crampons, a jumar, and can handle camping at -20°C, you're ready.

• How difficult is the Manaslu Expedition?

  Manaslu is graded 4E (Very Strenuous/Advanced). Although one of the easier 8,000m peaks, it is harder than Kilimanjaro or Island Peak. The main challenges are the altitude (8,163m), the technical ice sections between Camps 1 and 2, and the exposed summit ridge. It's a bonus point if you have previous experience on a 6,000m peak.

• How much does it cost to climb Manaslu?

  A full-service Manaslu expedition typically costs $ 14,500-17,500 USD. The cost includes climbing permits ($3000 per permit), Sherpa support, oxygen, and getting to Manaslu Base Camp. You'll need an extra $3,000 to $5,000 for personal gear, international flights, and mandatory search-and-rescue insurance.

• Is Manaslu Expedition safe for beginners?

  No 8,000m peak is safe for a total beginner. If you have never worn crampons before, Manaslu will be dangerous for you and your team. But if you are a "high-altitude beginner" (meaning this is your first 8,000er but you've climbed lower peaks), then yes, it is the safest place to start.

• What fitness level is required to climb Mt. Manaslu?

  During the expedition, you should be able to walk for 8-12 hours while carrying a 15-20kg backpack at high altitude. Training should focus on weighted uphill hiking, cardiovascular endurance (cycling/running), and leg strength (squats/lunges). It's a good idea to start mountaineering training at least 6-9 months before departure.

• When is the best time to climb Manaslu?

  The best time to climb Manaslu is Autumn (late September to early October). This window has consistent weather, and monsoon snow has settled, reducing avalanche risk. Spring (April-May) is possible but much more dangerous due to deep snow and higher avalanche potential.

• What type of permits do I need for Manaslu peak climbing?

  You need three specific permits: Manaslu Expedition Permit: $3000 USD (Autumn) or $1,500 USD (Spring). Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Approx. $30 USD. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approx. $30 USD. Note: A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is also required for the trek in.

• Do I need supplemental oxygen?

  Yes, 95% of climbers use supplemental oxygen above Camp 3 (6,800m). While "no O2" ascents are possible for elite athletes, commercial expeditions use oxygen (flowing at 2-4 liters/minute) to maintain body warmth and prevent frostbite and cerebral edema (HACE).

• What essential gear do I need for Manaslu?

  Key items include an 8,000m Down Suit, triple-layer mountaineering boots (like La Sportiva Olympus Mons), and a -40°C sleeping bag. You also need technical gear like crampons, an ice axe, a jumar (ascender), a harness, and carabiners. Do not compromise on quality; frostbite is a real risk.

• Who actually guides me? A Westerner or a Sherpa?

  A high-altitude Sherpa guide will lead you. Unlike some agencies that use Western leaders who visit once a year, our Sherpas live here. They've summited Manaslu multiple times and are IFMGA/NMA certified. Why this matters: On summit day, you want someone who knows exactly where the hidden crevasses are, not someone relying on GPS.

• What exactly does my travel insurance need to cover?

  Don't just buy "Standard Travel Insurance". You must check the fine print for these three specific terms: Activity: "Mountaineering" (not just trekking) up to 8,600m. Coverage: "Search and Rescue" (not just medical evacuation). This ensures they'll pay for the helicopter to find you, not just fly you out. Payment: Ideally, a policy that pays upfront (like Global Rescue), so you don't have to carry $10,000 cash for a helicopter.

• What happens if I get sick or injured at Camp 3?

  We have a 3-step evacuation protocol: Immediate Descent: Your personal Sherpa will assist you down to Camp 2 or Base Camp immediately. Oxygen will be cranked to max flow. Base Camp Medics: We assess you at BC. If it is minor (like exhaustion), we treat you there. Heli Rescue: If it is HAPE/HACE or a fracture, we coordinate a helicopter evacuation directly from Samagaun or Base Camp to a hospital in Kathmandu.

• How do you manage oxygen on summit day?

  We don't take any chances. We provide Poisk or Summit Oxygen systems (the industry gold standard). You typically start using oxygen at Camp 3 (6,800m) at a flow rate of 2-4 liters per minute. Your Sherpa carries the backup bottles so you can focus on climbing.