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Manaslu circuit trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking through wilderness on the Manaslu circuit

  • Group Size:Min 2 Max 15
  • Duration:17 Days
  • Max Altitude:5,160m/16,930ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse / Lodge
  • Activity:Trekking in Nepal
  • Meal:Meals Included
  • Trip Grade:Challenging
  • Start Point:Kathmandu
  • End Point:Kathmandu
Package difficulty Challenging  

A classic trek featuring exemplary trekking experiences; off the beaten trail, outstanding views, high pass and diverse cultural and geographical experience. 

Trip Overview

Highlights

  • Manaslu (8th Highest mountain in the world)
  • Off the beaten trail experience
  • Mountain views, captivating villages and landscapes
  • Larkya La, a mountain pass at 5160m/17200ft

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a classic off the beaten trek in Nepal with pure wilderness and baffling beauty circuiting the eighth highest mountain in the world. Manaslu Circuit Trek provides an exemplary experience of trekking in Nepal featuring off the beaten path, high pass, outstanding views and diverse cultural and geographical experience. 

The sublime experiences you enjoy in Manaslu region are unlike any other you’d ever imagine. Manaslu Circuit trek is an odyssey through some of the most arduous routes on the planet amid raw punishing beauty in the Himalayan region; it defies the mind, body and soul…it can change you for good…

The wealth of biological diversity in the Manaslu region stuns the imagination and the gripping, peculiar culture and lifestyles of the local folks, who represent much their neighbours in Tibet. It gives us wonderful opportunities to witness traditions that are ancient in nature and the chilling superstitions the folks believe in down here may raise the hair on your body and stir your imaginations to the core. Despite the tough and bitterly cold and harsh conditions these people live in, they will welcome you with warm hearts.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Overview

Our Manaslu circuit trekking begins in Kathmandu before we hit the trails to the beautiful Manaslu region. Our journey to Manaslu commences with a long off-road driving experience to Soti Khola. From here, we tread the trail passing by numeral villages with some rest and acclimatization days scheduled. 

We also get to visit Pungyen Gompa on our rest day as a side exploration. Two major acclimatization days are scheduled in the itinerary and we have devised the itinerary keeping all the aspects in mind. Manaslu is a legendary trail and is known for its natural diversity of landscapes that it traverses. However, the sceneries we witness hereabouts don’t come easy; the paths are rock-strewn and sometimes steep and include rickety bridges and slippery rock faces – this is all part of adventurous forays into the unknown wild.

The peaking point in this trip is the ‘Larkya La Pass’ which most trekkers consider to be one of the most striking passes when crossing the Himalayas. We have made sure that you get ample time for proper acclimatization so your body adjusts with the thin air at the higher elevations, and you feel comfortable when treading the heights on the trail. Due to its isolation and far-flung geographical nature, ‘Trekking through the wilderness on the Manaslu Circuit’ is meant for those who blend in and become one with Mother Nature…and on achieving this special feeling; you will have enjoyed the trip of a whole lifetime.

All these venture needs are a brawny pair of lungs, strong legs that have done a lot of hiking around, especially in mountainous regions and some detailed preparation that leaves out nothing.  Hiking these gritty trails will reward you with experiences that will be non-fiction fables for you to write about when you get back home; a story to remember for a lifetime.  

How hard is Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

Manaslu circuit trekking is considered challenging due to its longer duration of trekking days and with a maximum elevation of 5,160m/16,930ft at Larkya La Pass. A daily average walking hour is 6-7 on this trek. Unlike other famous trekking regions of Nepal, Manaslu is still considered off the beaten so a basic sense of adventure is required on this trek. Previous experience of trekking is not required but you need to be fit and comfortable walking 6-7 hrs every day carrying your day pack.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Important Note: Your safety is of imperative concern while travelling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 01 - Arrival in Kathmandu [1,350m/4,455ft]

    Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions at the exit of arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street

    • Meal: None
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 02 - Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation [1,350m/4,455ft]

    After an early breakfast, we set out on a guided tour to the primary historical spots in Kathmandu. We will tour symbolic monuments, temples, monasteries, palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that include: Boudhanath, and the temples of Pashupatinath. As we stroll along the exotic locales of Kathmandu, more diversified cultural settings in the valley welcome us with warm hospitality. At Boudhanath, one of the biggest stupas in Asia, we get deep insights into Buddhism. This may invoke your spiritual senses. There will be a brief orientation followed by trek preparation during late afternoon at the hotel lobby.

    • Meal: B
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 03 - Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola [710m/2,320ft]

    After breakfast, it’s an early drive today for Sotikhola. In the course of the drive, we enjoy views of Nepal’s colorful rural landscapes along with the mountain scenery that’s evident throughout our journey. We will be driving on a well tarred road from Kathmandu to Dhading Bensi, district headquarter of Dhading (1050m) but the drive from Dhading Bensi to Arughat will be on a roughshod road. On reaching Arughat, a major town in the region, we drive further down to Sotikhola.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 04 - Trek to Machha Khola [900m/2,953ft]

    The land seems to change as we hike on, the broad valley narrows and at some places the trail is slit into the steep valley sides, which has thick foliage forest. We pass a few dotted small villages, tucked into the hillside, until we reach a widening of the valley, opposite the point where a large branch stream enters the Budhi Gandaki River. The terraced farmland here belongs to the village of Lapbesi. We descend once again to the wide, sandy riverbed and follow a route which runs below the steep, rocky valley side. At length, we have to climb up once again on a trail to Machha Khola, a settlement which has a number of teashops.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 05 - Trek to Jagat [1,410m/4,626ft]

    The slender trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Tharo Khola, reaching Khorlabesi. After some ascending and descending we come across a small Hotspring in Tatopani. From the hot spring, we climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki on an airy suspension bridge. At this juncture, we climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Dobhan. Upon crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, we climb the stone stairs and then drop to the river and again climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we climb over a ridge, trek along the river and then climb towards the village of Jagat.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 06 - Trek to Deng [1,804m/5,919ft]

    After descending a chain of stone steps to the river, we climb a terraced hill to Saguleri, from where we can see the impressive Sringi Himal (7187m). The path splits, with the right-hand branch heading off towards the Ganesh Himal while crossing the river at Gata Khola. Our route continues upstream, through a gorge with tall walls. We cross the river thrice in the next two hours to avoid difficult valley sides and then climb up over a further steep spur to reach the village of Deng.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 07 - Trek to Namrung [2,630m/8,629ft]

    After a short walk beyond Deng, we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana at 1910m. From the bridge, we climb a bit to join a trail from Bhi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through forests and mani where we turn towards a corner that contours to Ghap. Despite an alternative route, we take the route through Prok village. Prok village has a viewpoint for a beautiful sight of Siringi Himal. We further cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and come across several gompas en route. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it gushes down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense and the trail is all right again. The pleasant walk continues and after a last steep climb we reach Namrung.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 08 - Trek to Samagaon [3,530m/11,582ft]

    On leaving the village of Namrung behind, we follow the right bank of the river, with views of Peak 29 ahead. As we continue on the main trail, we soon reach the fields of Sama Gaon, 3500m. We reach Sama Gompa, 20 minutes beyond the village and Samdo, which is close-up to the Tibetan border.

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6-7 hrs
  • Day 09 - Samagaon - Pungyen gompa - Samagaon [3,530m/11,582ft]

    This is a day to chill out at Samagaon for rest and acclimatization. It’s good for our bodies. Today we get to discover some interesting things about Buddhist culture. We enjoy the sight of thousands of mani stones with Buddhist texts and pictures and women clad in traditional clothes and ornaments. On a little hill near Sama village is an old Gompa (Pungyen Gompa), a monastery with great views of the glacier. It is named after Manaslu; Pungyen means bracelet, a good description of the two peaks. It was destroyed a year after the first unsuccessful Japanese attempt to climb Manaslu. The locals believed that the climb angered the gods, and when the Japanese came back a year later they met with a lot of resistance that they had to give up their attempt. They were finally successful in 1959.

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6-7 hrs
  • Day 10 - Trek to Samdo [3,860m/12,665ft]

    After breakfast we begin our day by descending to the Budhi Gandaki River, that has turned north and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. The trail to the left leads to the Manaslu Base camp. The Larkya la Trail passes several mani walls as the valley begins to widen. It is an easy trail on a shelf above the river passing juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka. We drop off the shelf, cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge and climb steeply onto a headland between two forks of the river. From a stone arch we can view a large white kani. Finally passing through the kani we reach the village of Samdo

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4-5 hrs
  • Day 11 - Rest and Acclimatization day [3,860m/12,665ft]

    This is another day to acclimatize your body for the thin air as you go higher. It’s important that your body blends in with the heights as this will prevent mountain sickness of any kind; perhaps what’s more essential is you will feel more comfortable at higher altitudes. We have two options today. The first option we much recommend is a hike up the valley directly at the back of Samdo village. This walk will take us to one of the trade passes to Tibet for excellent views of Mt. Manaslu along with other Himalayan peaks that include Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo and possibly Kusum Kanggaru behind the pass. En route to these vantage points we pass many seasonal herding settlements called doksas and will get to see some beautiful mountain birds like the Lophophorus (the national bird of Nepal), Lammergeyer and Himalayan Griffin soaring high above us. The 2nd option for today could be a trip to the Gya La ('large pass') to the north of Samdo, a more often used trading route to Tibet. But, this is a rather lengthy hike (almost the whole day) and may tire us out of our boots.

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4-5 hrs
  • Day 12 - Trek to Dharamsala/Larkya B. C. [4,460m/14,633ft]

    The thundering Budhi Gandaki river trickles to a stream as we cling to its course as hike high up. This rewards us with amazing mountains from all sides. Manaslu stands in a league of its own. After crossing to the east bank of the river, we reach the last permanent settlement in the valley, which is called Sumdu. High Above the village we cross a stream, which runs down from the Gya La (Pass), the pass to Tibet. We come to the wreck of an abandoned village, known as Larkya Bazaar. We assume this village thrived as a trading point, with Tibet lying over the Gya La. The exchange seems to have dried up leading to the migration of the settlers. Nearing the Larkya Glacier, we reach a lodge at 4450m, which has been built to cater to travelers crossing the Larkya La.

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 5-6 hrs
  • Day 13 - Traverse Larkya la [5,160m/16,930ft] and trek to Bhimthang

    After a brief climb, we reach a glen on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers from where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent which becomes steeper only in the last section of the pass. From the pass, there are fantastic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kusum Kangguru and the huge Annapurna II. It is a pretty lengthier day than usual to Bhimtang, but to walk into these lower pastures with the eventide fog setting in and with Mt. Manaslu looming close by is an irresistible experience to remember

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 8-9 hrs
  • Day 14 - Trek to Gho [2,500m/8,200ft]

    Today, from a crest at Bimthang, we get to savor lovely views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal and Cheo Himal. We descend further and cross a high meadow (Sangure Kharka) followed by a bridge over Dudh Khola. We walk through rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until we reach the highest cultivated land of the valley at Karche, at 2785 meters. We pass across fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. The trail comes off the ridge in a big, sweeping circle to a river bank at 2580m. A brief distance beyond is the village of Gho

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 5-6 hrs
  • Day 15 - Trek to Dharapani [1,860m/6,100ft] and drive to Besisahar

    We climb over a small rim and take pleasure in the stone paved trail as it passes through a charming colorful village. We then cross the bridge over Dudh Khola and climb up through a chorten-shaped arch, pass a mani wall and reach Thonje village. At the village, we pass through a police checkpoint and continue to Dharapani. In case we are not aware; we have just entered the Annapurna Circuit route from Dharapani. Lunch stop at Dharapani and afterwards we catch our jeeps and drive to Besisahar for our last night on trek

    • Meal: (B, L, D)
    • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4-5 hrs trek and 3 hrs drive
  • Day 16 - Drive back to Kathmandu [1,350m/4,455 ft]

    After our breakfast, we bid farewell to the mountain and drive to Kathmandu. The total journey from Besisahar to Kathmandu will be 6-7 hours drive and we expect to reach Kathmandu by late afternoon. Lunch stop will be along the way and after reaching Kathmandu, it’s a free time.

    • Meal: (B, L)
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 17 - International departure

    Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch and hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.

    • Meal: (B)
    • Accommodation: None

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    • Trekking Hours:
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Dates & Price

Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private group basis.

If you are looking for a group to join this trip please click the Fixed Departures tab for more information on departure dates, availability and price. All our fixed departures are guaranteed to run. Or, if you would like to do this trip alone, or with your friends, families & colleagues in a private group style, please fill out the contact form in Private Group tab and send us your message. We will organize a private trip for you at your preferred dates catering any request you may have.

Check Available Dates

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Apr, 2024

Trip Start Date04 Apr, 2024
Trip End Date20 Apr, 2024
PriceUSD 1680
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Trip Start Date18 Apr, 2024
Trip End Date04 May, 2024
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May, 2024

Trip Start Date02 May, 2024
Trip End Date18 May, 2024
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Sep, 2024

Trip Start Date26 Sep, 2024
Trip End Date12 Oct, 2024
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Oct, 2024

Trip Start Date03 Oct, 2024
Trip End Date19 Oct, 2024
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Nov, 2024

Trip Start Date01 Nov, 2024
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Trip Start Date14 Nov, 2024
Trip End Date30 Nov, 2024
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Apr, 2025

Trip Start Date03 Apr, 2025
Trip End Date19 Apr, 2025
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May, 2025

Trip Start Date01 May, 2025
Trip End Date17 May, 2025
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Trip Start Date15 May, 2025
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Sep, 2025

Trip Start Date25 Sep, 2025
Trip End Date11 Oct, 2025
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Oct, 2025

Trip Start Date02 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date18 Oct, 2025
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Trip Start Date16 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date01 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date30 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date15 Nov, 2025
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Nov, 2025

Trip Start Date06 Nov, 2025
Trip End Date22 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date16 Nov, 2025
Trip End Date02 Dec, 2025
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Cost Inclusion

  • All meals (B,L,D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on the trek with tea & coffee.
  • Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 3 nights with breakfast
  • All required permits for trek (Special permit, MCAP & ACAP)
  • All ground transfers as per mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
  • Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
  • Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
  • Sightseeing of Kathmandu including guide and entrance fees
  • Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private vehicle
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with oxygen mask and regulator
  • Satellite phone for emergency purpose but nominal charge for personal use
  • Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek)
  • Staff equipment, insurances and allowances
  • Trek completion certificate (Upon request)

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
  • Meals at Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
  • Personal expenses - Drinks and Souvenirs
  • Gratuities for staff

Essential Information

How difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu circuit trekking is considered challenging due to its longer duration of trekking days and a maximum elevation of 5,160m/16,930ft at Larkya La Pass. A daily average walking hour is 6-7 on this trek. Unlike other famous trekking regions of Nepal, Manaslu is still considered off the beaten so a basic sense of adventure is required on this trek. Previous experience of trekking is not required but you need to be fit and comfortable walking 6-7 hrs every day carrying your day pack. 

Do I need previous experience to take part?

Previous experience of trekking is not mandatory to take part in Manaslu Circuit Trek. Although the trek is considered challenging and involves multiple days of the trek, a good physical level is required. Previous experience is essential but we have allowed proper rest and acclimatization days in our itinerary so anyone with a good level of stamina and determination can do the trek. 

We recommend you to train yourself at least 3 months ahead the trip date to prepare yourself for the trek. The more fitter you are, the more enjoyable your trekking experience will be. 

Are meals included?

All meals are included during the trekking period (Day 03 to Day 16 Lunch). We will provide three meals a day (B, L, D) during the trek. The menus in the teahouses are varied, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat, Momo (Dumpling) to pizza and apple pie.

During the trek, Breakfast and Dinner will be served at the teahouse/lodge where you stay and Lunch will be along the way. Despite the fact that meat is available in some of the lower areas, we prompt against eating it on the trek. The meat has frequently been conveyed in the warmth from lower elevations for a few days before arriving at the teahouses and can cause stomach upsets or disease.

If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet, we highly recommend you to bring extra foods especially for breakfast as your options for the breakfast will be limited. Meals worth USD500-550 are included on this trip. In Kathmandu, only breakfast will be provided to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where what and with whom to eat for lunch and dinner.

Will drinking water be provided?

We offer hot-boiled water for drinking purposes on our treks to minimize the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles. Please remember to bring a reusable water bottle or Thermos that can withstand hot water, and feel free to ask our guides to refill it during meal times, particularly at breakfast and dinner.

While bottled water is available at lodges, prices may range from USD 1 to USD 3 as we ascend in altitude. Alternatively, you can bring water purification tablets or a filtration device for your convenience.

Accommodation on this trip

Hotel: 3 Nights, Teahouse/Lodge: 14 Nights

Kathmandu: 
In Kathmandu, we stay at Kathmandu Guest House, a well-known hotel where many famous celebrities like Beatles, Ricky Martin, Jeremy Irons and others have stayed. Centrally located in Thamel, the hotel also boasts of a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. Breakfast will be provided in the hotel and your accommodation will be on twin sharing basis and if you would like to have a single room, upon request you are required to pay single supplement price as stated in the trip costing.
Regardless of whether you're coming back from the mountains or touching base from the airport, come and unwind at the hotel beautiful garden, request some fine Italian espresso or a chilled Beer, and escape in the memorable surroundings of Kathmandu's most adored guesthouse.

On Trek:
For accommodation on the trek, there are clean and friendly teahouses/lodges along the trail. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets but with a wonderful view from your window. Due to the limited teahouses/lodges on this area, during the peak season time, even dining rooms are occupied for the sleeping purpose. Your accommodation on the trek will be on a twin sharing basis. All the teahouses/lodges have a spacious warm dining room-lounge. The rooms are fairly basic. Blankets are generally provided by the teahouse but we will provide a warm sleeping bag to everyone. Bathrooms are mostly shared and toilets are squat type in most places. We will arrange for you and your group to stay in local lodges daily. Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary. At Larka Phedi, the accommodation is very very basic. 

Single supplement: 
Single supplement will be charged if someone wishes to have their own room in Kathmandu. Especially when travelling in a group, we will always pair you with someone of the same sex and similar age to share the room with. If in case of a single by default, then clients don’t have to pay for the single supplement. Please note that on the trek, a single supplement is not available due to limited rooms

What is the group size?

Our emphasis is always on maintaining the small group so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. Our group size is small and we only take up to 12 pax in one group. If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of the group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate the trip is 2 and the maximum is 12 people.

Training for the trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a premier adventure trek in Nepal that most ardent backpackers, hikers, and lovers of wild places aspire to. The trek is graded challenging and training yourself well ahead will definitely improve your performance during the trek. Answering this question can be a challenge because everyone is starting from a different base of fitness, age, lifestyle, and diet (what you eat on a daily basis). 

Always consult with your doctor first to establish if you are healthy enough for the challenges of all-day trekking at high elevation for over a week. Once cleared for takeoff, so to speak, consulting with a qualified trainer, and a nutritionist may also prove beneficial, though many do not.

Read this to find out more about how to train for high altitude treks. This is an outline prepared to offer some guidance and tips as to how to begin training for Everest treks.

When is the best time?

The best seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trek are Autumn (Oct-Nov) and Spring (Apr to May). During these months, mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up in the afternoon and disappearing at night. The given temperature may raise or lower with the change in weather factors: (Sunny, Snow, Rain etc.)

Autumn/Fall:
This is when the rain settles after the monsoon (July to Mid September )and the weather gets dry. Slightly colder than Spring but presents clear views of the mountains. The mornings are clear providing best mountain views, days are warmer and night time will get cold and frosty. Temperatures will drop considerably as you ascend higher every day. The temperature during Autumn varies from lowest -5 to -10 degree Celsius at Larkya Phedi to warmest 20 degree Celsius at lower places. 

Spring:
Another weather window for trekking in Nepal comes during the month of the latter March to May. The temperature will be relatively warmer during this period of time but still, nights will be cold and frosty at a higher elevation. During the spring season, The trekking trails all over the country are filled with vibrant mixes of red, pink, and white floras offering surreal experience along the trek. Spring season offers warm temperatures, blossoming flora and temperate days. The temperature during Autumn varies from lowest -0 to -5 degree Celsius at Larkya Phedi to warmest 25 degree Celsius at lower places. 

Read more about the best time: https://highlandexpeditions.com/best-time-to-visit-nepal/

Will I need travel insurance?

It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips in Nepal. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and leave a copy next to your kin. You must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved.

More information: Travel Insurance

Can I do the Manaslu circuit trek solo?

Manaslu region falls under a controlled area as per the Government of Nepal. The region is categorised as a restricted area but trekking and climbing are allowed. To trek in this region, you need to be in a group of at least 2 accompanied by a licensed guide.

So solo trekking for individual trekkers is prohibited in Manaslu region. 

Typical day on trek

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided a night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.

After a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day's walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. After 3-4 hours of walk, we stop for lunch mid-day.  The afternoon's walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The rest of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, to wash your clothes or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day's adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.

Baggage and Weight

Each client will receive an individual duffel bag for packing their gear. Our duffel bags have an approximate capacity of 80 liters, and we kindly ask clients to ensure that their duffel bag weight remains under 15 kgs. We request clients to keep the duffel bag weight under 15 kgs due to porter weight restrictions, allowing maximum of 30 kgs weight per porter. We provide 1 porter for every 2 participants.

During the trek, clients are required to carry only a day pack containing essentials such as a water bottle, camera, sunscreen, spare jacket, etc. This light load ensures a more enjoyable trekking experience. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will provide clients with a duffel bag, and any additional luggage or items not needed during the trek can be stored at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Safety on trek

Safety is always a priority while travelling with Highland Expeditions. Our trek itinerary is devised keeping every aspect in mind, allowing proper acclimatization, rest days and walking hours. On all our high altitude trek, we send supplementary oxygen system and a comprehensive medical kit be it a group of 1 or 12. Besides, we also have a high staff to client ratio on all our treks. 

Do I have to join the fixed departures or can I schedule my own dates?

Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our departures section for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people. If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list, we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Passport: All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date. 

Visa: Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land. 

Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration. 

Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and its also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.

While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements. 

Additional Information

Point of Arrival:
Your point of arrival should be Tribhuvan International Airport  located in Kathmandu, Nepal. 

Meeting Instructions:
Your meeting point is at Kathmandu’s airport, Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Airport, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), kindly pay your visa fee and proceed to immigration to apply for VOA (Visa On Arrival), customs clearing and then collect your luggage. Outside the arrival hall, please look out for our team member holding a placard stating ‘Highland Expeditions ’ and you will be escorted to your hotel for checking in.

Airport Pickup and Drop:
We will provide airport pickup and drop-off according to your flight schedule. Your airport transfers are organized based on the flight information you provide to us. If there is a change in your flight schedule, please inform us promptly, and we will adjust the transfers accordingly. Upon arrival, please be on the lookout for our team member holding a placard that reads 'Highland Expeditions' in the arrival area. You will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Similarly, for your departure, we will take you to the airport in accordance with your flight schedule.

Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers: +9779860763929 (Dawa Sherpa)

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Reviews

Mirjam Oct 23, 2023

We did the Manaslu circuit trek with Highland Expeditions and were very happy with the excellent organisation of the whole trip and the professionalism and friendliness of everyone involved – from management to guide, porter and drivers. The trek was very demanding and challenging, but also stunningly beautiful. Our wonderful guide Angrita was always helpful and patient when we were struggling and looked after us really well. Porter Angnuru took very good care of our luggage while also being incredibly fast. I highly recommend booking any Nepal trip with Highland expeditions. Hopefully, we will be back for another trek with them one day!

Aline P May 25, 2019

Trekking to Manaslu and Larkya Pass was an amazing experience. The trek was hard especially for novice trekkers like us, it definitely pushed us to our limits but the support and care we received from the boys helped us accomplished the trek. The crew were wonderful, knowledgeable and a joy to spend 2 weeks with. 

Overall great experience and we hope we’ll have the chance to return again. 



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