Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Duration 15 Days
We offer special group discounts, please contact us for the offers.
Trip Duration 15 Days
Group Size 2-12 People
Maximum Altitude 5106m.
Difficulty Grade Moderate
Start & End Point Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons Mar, April, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

Trip Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Navigate the 8th tallest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu.
  • Stunning view of the mountain trails, including Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna, Ganesh, and other mountains.
  • Experience the local people’s traditions and culture while passing through the remote area of the Gandaki zone.
  • Adventure through astute snowy terrains, glacier-filled mountains, steep hills, and green grasslands while you reach the summit.
  • Activities such as forest trekking and bird spotting are pretty entertaining.
  • Less crowded and peaceful trekking experience.

Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trekking is one of the most beautiful and recommended 15 to 18 days treks around one of the world’s highest peaks. Manaslu Himal lies at a height of 8163m, which is why it is recorded to be the 8th highest peak in the world.

The Trek starts from beautiful SetiKhola and ends in the lovely place of BesiSahar. Furthermore, if you want to visit Tsum valley, the trekking day can be extended to almost 20-22 days.
You will be welcomed by the beautiful scenery of the Ganesh Himal on the east and the Annapurna mountain trail on the west, which you will never forget.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking has fewer trekkers along the way as it is more physically demanding and is less popular than other trekking routes, including Everest trekking.

During the 90, ‘sManaslu trekking path was closed to tourists, so only local people were aware of the terrain and the adventure that awaited them. Once it was opened to the public, the popularity grew even more than Annapurna trekking as the path is less challenging and the peak is also not as high.

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will soak in all the natural beauty of Nepal, surrounded by the beautiful views of the mountain trails, snow-covered terrains, and luscious pine forests with Rhodendron flowers which are the national flowers of Nepal.

During Manaslu trekking, you will also get to soak in Nepal’s cultural and religious image, which you will embrace with all of your heart and will never forget again.

The most underrated aspect of this Manaslu trekking will be the place “Samagaun,” where you will see some of the best waterfalls you will ever see in your adventure around the world.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is primarily recommended for experts or regular trekker goers and for someone who wants a private trek with friends without any crowd and disturbances.
So let’s highlight Manaslu Circuit Trek and what awaits you on your journey.

Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

On the first day of the Trek, you will arrive in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, as planned. You will be picked up from the airport and taken to your hotel in a private, cozy vehicle.

You can relax in the hotel, visit the city, and even go shopping if you want to take certain things on your Trek. However, today will be the day of rest. You will have your dinner in the hotel and stay overnight as tomorrow will be the day of sightseeing and preparation.

Car
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Dinner
Altitude 1437m.
Trek Preparation/Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour

The second day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with breakfast in the hotel, and then you will all prepare for sightseeing in beautiful Kathmandu. You can visit all the fantastic cultural heritage places of Kathmandu, such as Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Changunarayan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Furthermore, Kathmandu is famous for some of the world’s most beautiful temples, including Pashupatinath, Boudhnath, Swyambhunath, and others.

You can also visit Nepalese museums, get to know Nepal’s history, and even go shopping for some memoirs you can take to your home country. After shopping, you can prepare for the Trek tomorrow as you can learn about the Trek and the itinerary details you will be following throughout.

Car 5 to 6 Hours
Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Altitude 1437m.
Drive from Kathmandu to MachhaKhola ( 160 Kilometers )

Finally, the day has arrived for you to take your first step toward Manaslu Peak. After having breakfast in the hotel, you will drive towards SetiKhola.

It can take up to 9 hours to reach SotiKhola via Prithvi Highway since the road is quite peeved. The journey will be filled with stunning views of mountains and the green grassland around you.

You might feel exhausted but want to soak in every bit of adventure during this ride. After some hours, you will arrive in a small village near beautiful SotiKhola.

You can take a break for half an hour, then start your Trek towards MachaKhola. The first step will be crossing the BudhiGandakiriver and crawling around some steep rocks, which can be challenging.

Moreover, you have to ascend and descend some slippery hills towards Labishe, where you may have to climb one more hill to reach MachaKhola, where you will spend overnight.

Accommodation Guest House or Tea house
Meals BF / Lunch/ Dinner
Altitude 900m.
MachhaKhola to Jagat ( 22.2 Kilometers )

It’s time to leave MachaKhola early in the morning after breakfast, and the next destination is the village of Jagat, which is not very far.

You will again walk alongside the bank of Budi Gandaki and ascend and descend on several terrains; however, the scenery and natural beauty will keep you mesmerized constantly.

After descending from the valley, you will come across a wide road, making trekking easier and even more enjoyable. Furthermore, the constant wind makes the atmosphere quite chilly at this time of the month so that you won’t feel hot or cold.

After 5-6 hours of Trek, you will reach Jagat town, where you will spend your day overnight and take a rest.

Walking 5 to 6 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF / Lunch/ Dinner
Altitude 1340m.
Deng to Namrung ( 19.4 Kilometers )

You will have breakfast early in the morning at Jagat and then start toward the trail of Setibas, where you can acknowledge unique Tibetan culture until you reach GhattaKhola.

Moreover, you will move towards Philim, where you have to descend for some time; however, the roads are comfy to walk. You will cross Budi Gandaki and visit one of the beautiful bamboo forests from where Deng is not as far.

You will stay at Deng overnight and can enjoy some delicious Gurung delicacies and get more examples of beautiful Tibetian culture.

Walking 8 to 9 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 2095m.
Deng to Namrung ( 19.4 Kilometers )

The beginning of sixth day starts with breakfast in Deng, and as you walk forward, you will find the road with several turns, but they are still accessible to Trek.

After moving for some hours, you will arrive in the small village of Ghap where you can rest for half an hour, have lunch or keep moving forward but the road is quite long ahead so an experienced guide will advise you to relax and even shop if possible.

The Trek after is beautiful as you go through bamboo forests and green vegetation. Finally, you must climb one long steep hill to reach your overnight destination in Nemrung.

Walking 5 to 6 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 2900m.
Namrung to LhoGaun ( 10.5 Kilometers )

Today the Trek will begin from Namrung towards the trail of glacier field road beside Punghen glacier. Now you must descend from the glacier peak, but the streets are slippery, so be careful while moving forward.

After 5-6 hours of Trek, you will reach the small LhoGaun village, where you can also see the first glimpse of Mount Manaslu.

You will stay in LhoGaun overnight and begin the next day’s Trek early in the morning.

Walking 5 to 6 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 3180m.
LhoGaun to Samagaon ( 8.1 Kilometers )

The next day after sightseeing in LhoGaun, you will return to Punghen glacier and keep moving on the trail side to reach one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal, Samagaon.

You will pass the Hinan and Numla rivers and the small beautiful village of Sho to reach Samagaon. Samagaon is the last step before climbing Mount Manaslu, so that you will begin the day sightseeing in the local area.

We recommend you taste the local tea at the teahouse, where you will spend overnight and even the next day.

Walking 6 to 7 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 3500m.
Acclimatization Day at Samagaun

This is the day of rest and acclimatization since you are now several meters above the average height so altitude sickness can be a problem. You can start sightseeing in local areas, most importantly Pun GyanGumbha, which is considered very peaceful and quiet.

You can trek several local placesBhimtang lakes, then return to Samagaun village in the evening.
Tomorrow will be the big day of trekking toward the Manaslu base camp, so you will stay another night in Samagaon and rest completely.

Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 3500m.
Samagaon to Samdo

After waking up early, we will cross the picturesque Budhi Gandaki River north. There will be wooden bridges to traverse, connecting both Samdo and Samagaun. The stunning view of the hills to the north draped with clouds will be breathtaking. It will take us around 5 hours to complete the hike, during which time we’ll see both the scenic Manaslu region and the mystic settlement of Samdo. The Samdo will be our destination for the night.

Walking 5 to 6 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 3,875 meters
Samdo to Dharmasala

Today’s excursion will take us to the extreme north, passing across the picturesque Budhi Gandaki River and ascending more than 4000m in elevation. The trial will take us through the Marsyangdi River and into a remote area of the Manaslu region. With just stone-built dwellings and monasteries, there will need to be more human presence. After 4 hours of trekking, we will arrive at Dharmasala, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 4,460 meters
Dharmasala to Bhimphedi

The morning breakfast at the mountain’s brink will be spectacular. As we ascend the altitude and begin again, our leg will hit the steep trial. The Larkya Peak, Naike, and the close-by glaciers and waterfalls will be visible from the trial.

The northern mountains, including Manaslu, Annapurna, Cheyo Himal, Nemjus, Kang Guru, and Himlung, will be readily apparent when we cross the trek’s highest point, the Larkya La pass, at an elevation of 5,160 m. After admiring the breathtaking panorama of the valleys and mountains, we will descend to Bhimpedi, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 3,720 meters
Bhimphedi to Tilije

The exquisite vista outside the teahouse will take our breath away. As we move south, we can observe the grooves of the Macchapuchre, Lamjung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Himalchuli. After crossing the Karche and going up to the Gurung Communities’ hamlet, the trail will take us through the lovely Rhododendron forest.

The quiet atmosphere along the trail and the stunning views of the Himalayas and valley to the south will make the experience unforgettable. After navigating the river’s edge, we will eventually arrive at the Tilije, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 2,300m
Trek to Dharapani and drive back to Kathmandu

The trial will lead us down through the low hills with rich flora after the morning breakfast. There, as we trek through the shrubs and breathtaking alpine vegetation, we’ll also get the opportunity to witness squirrels and monkeys up close. We will end up at Karche after crossing the Dudh Khola. We’ll spend some time gazing at the beautiful mountains and greenery at Karcher.

Continuing up the trail, we will arrive at the magnificent Gurung Settlements. We will arrive at Dharapani after passing via the tiny stoned trails that lead from the traditional Gurung dwellings. Afterward, we will take a jeep and proceed to the Besisahar while taking in the magnificent panorama from the charming village of Dharapani. The jeep will traverse rough terrain while driving through the breathtaking cliffs, through bridges before ending up at the Besisahar.

Within a few hours, we will reach Besisahar, where the bus will return us to Kathmandu. In the evening, we will take a brief stroll around the Thamel area and celebrate the end of this Manaslu Circuit Trek with a delectable dinner. Overnight will be at one of the three-star hotels in Kathmandu.

Car 8 to 10 hours
Accommodation Guest House or Tea House
Meals BF/ Lunch / Dinner
Altitude 1400m
Departure

Our tour representative will drive you to the airport two hours before departure. After completing a quick check-in process at the airport, you will wait for your flight in the waiting hall. After bidding farewell, you will head towards the plane and leave for the next destination.

Car 30 min
Meals Breakfast
Altitude 1400m

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?
  • Accommodation in teahouses during the trek
  • Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
  • Transportation (private vehicle)
  • Highly Experienced English-Speaking Guide
  • Porter Service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Meals (Breakfast)
  • Permits (Manaslu Conservation Area & Trekking Permits)
  • Medical Kit (First Aid Kit)
What's Excluded?
  • Meals (Lunch, Dinner)
  • Personal Expenses (snacks, drinks, etc.)
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Hot Showers (available for extra charge)
  • Emergency Evacuation (costs not covered by insurance)
  • Optional Activities (e.g., helicopter rides, extra excursions)
  • Tips for Guide and Porter

Best Seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The best seasons to trek the Manaslu Circuit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods provide the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and ideal temperatures for trekking.

  • Spring: The trail is lush and colorful, with blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers. The days are warmer, and visibility of snow-capped peaks like Manaslu (8,163m) and Himalchuli is excellent.

  • Autumn: The most popular season with dry days, mild temperatures, and cloudless skies. Post-monsoon freshness enhances visibility, and trails are in optimal condition.

Winter (December to February) can be extremely cold and snowy, especially around Larkya La Pass (5,160m), making it challenging. Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rains, landslides, and leeches in lower regions, making it the least favorable time.


Trek Difficulty and Challenges

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderately to highly difficult due to its remote nature, high altitude, and limited infrastructure. It demands good physical fitness and prior trekking experience is beneficial.

Key Challenges:

  • High altitude: Larkya La Pass at 5,160m is the trek’s highest point, where altitude sickness is a major concern.

  • Remote terrain: Less commercialized than the Annapurna Circuit, with fewer amenities and longer stretches between villages.

  • Weather unpredictability: Especially near the pass, snow and strong winds can cause delays.

  • Physical stamina: The trail involves multiple ascents and descents, with 6–8 hours of walking per day.


Trek Route and Distance

The Manaslu Circuit offers a raw and immersive trekking experience through remote Himalayan valleys and culturally rich Tibetan-influenced villages.

Route Overview:

  • Kathmandu to Machha Khola (Drive): 140 km, 8–9 hours

  • Machha Khola to Jagat: 15 km, 6–7 hours

  • Jagat to Deng: 19 km, 6–7 hours

  • Deng to Namrung: 20 km, 6–7 hours

  • Namrung to Lho: 11 km, 5–6 hours

  • Lho to Samagaun: 17 km, 6–7 hours

  • Samagaun Acclimatization Day (Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)

  • Samagaun to Samdo: 8 km, 4–5 hours

  • Samdo to Dharmashala (Larke Phedi): 6.5 km, 4–5 hours

  • Dharmashala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass (5,160m): 16 km, 8–9 hours

  • Bimthang to Tilije: 26 km, 6–7 hours

  • Tilije to Dharapani: 6 km, 3 hours

  • Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar (Drive): 230 km, 9–10 hours

Trek Duration: 14–17 days depending on rest/acclimatization days and side trips.


Handling Altitude Sickness

Due to high elevation gains, altitude sickness can occur. It’s crucial to follow preventive measures.

Prevention Tips:

  • Acclimatize well, especially at Samagaun and Samdo.

  • Drink 3–4 liters of water per day.

  • Maintain a slow and steady pace.

  • Consider Diamox (consult your doctor beforehand).

  • Be ready to descend if symptoms worsen.


Physical Preparation for the Trek

The remote and physically demanding nature of this trek calls for preparation:

  • Cardio training: Hiking, jogging, cycling

  • Strength training: Focus on legs and core

  • Practice hikes: With a backpack to simulate real trekking conditions


What to Expect on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The trek is a perfect blend of rugged Himalayan beauty, solitude, and Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

Key Highlights:

  • Larkya La Pass: A dramatic crossing with epic mountain views.

  • Samagaun: A picturesque village near Manaslu Base Camp.

  • Tibetan Buddhist culture: Ancient monasteries, mani walls, and chortens.

  • Remote wilderness: Fewer trekkers, untouched nature.

  • Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa: Rewarding side trips for panoramic views.


Group Size for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Small groups of 2–10 trekkers are ideal for a more flexible, personalized experience. As the region is a restricted area, a minimum of two trekkers with a licensed guide is mandatory.


Accommodation, Food, and Drink

Lodging is basic but improving, with teahouses offering simple rooms and shared bathrooms.

Food:

  • Dal Bhat: Energy-packed Nepali staple

  • Tibetan bread, tsampa, momo, soups: Common in upper regions

  • Most teahouses offer a fixed menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Water:

  • Drink boiled or purified water only.

  • Carry a reusable bottle and purification tablets or filters.


Helicopter Service

Emergency helicopter evacuation is available if required, especially from Samagaun, Samdo, or Bimthang. Pre-arranged services can be expensive; travel insurance must cover high-altitude evacuation.


Safety on the Trek

Though the trail is safe, it’s remote and less populated, so being well-prepared is essential.

Safety Tips:

  • Trek with a registered guide and support team.

  • Always inform someone of your itinerary.

  • Carry a first-aid kit, medications, and insurance.

  • Avoid trekking during the monsoon or heavy winter snows.


Internet Connectivity

Internet access is limited and inconsistent. Some lodges in Samagaun and Samdo may offer slow, paid Wi-Fi. Mobile signals fade out in higher or more remote areas.


Entry Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Due to its restricted status, several permits are required:

  1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – from Jagat to Dharapani

  2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – from Dharapani onward

  4. TIMS Card – not required for this restricted trek if RAP is obtained

Permits must be arranged through an authorized trekking agency.


Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden Himalayan gem, offering an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with raw beauty, cultural encounters, and remote mountain landscapes. It’s a physically demanding yet deeply rewarding journey for trekkers who seek solitude, authenticity, and awe-inspiring mountain experiences. Crossing the mighty Larkya La Pass is just one highlight—every step through this untouched region is a discovery.

Most Asked Questions by Travellers

The trek typically takes 14 to 17 days, depending on the starting/ending point, side trips (like Manaslu Base Camp), and acclimatization days.

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering clear skies, dry weather, and excellent mountain views. Winter and monsoon seasons are not ideal due to snow and rain.

The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), a challenging but rewarding section offering dramatic Himalayan panoramas.

Yes. As a restricted area, trekkers need several permits:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
    Permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency like Kabru Adventure Holidays.

Yes. Due to high elevation, especially around Samagaun and Larkya La Pass, altitude sickness is a risk. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. Our itineraries are designed with adequate rest days to reduce the risk.

Accommodation is in local teahouses, offering basic rooms with shared facilities. Lodges become more comfortable in lower elevations, but remain simple and functional throughout the route.

No. Solo trekking is not allowed on the Manaslu Circuit due to its restricted status. A minimum of two trekkers accompanied by a licensed guide through an authorized trekking agency (like Kabru) is mandatory.

The trek is moderate to strenuous. It includes long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are strongly recommended.

Pack light but wisely. Essentials include:

  • Warm layers (down jacket, thermal base layers)

  • Waterproof gear

  • Trekking boots

  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or colder)

  • First aid, water purification tablets, sunscreen, snacks
    Kabru provides a detailed packing list before the trip.

Yes. The trek can be shortened by:

  • Taking a helicopter from Samagaun or Bimthang

  • Ending the trek early at Dharapani and driving to Kathmandu
    Let Kabru know your timeframe, and we’ll customize the itinerary accordingly.

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