Group Size
Min 2 Max 15
Duration
16 Days
Grade
Designed for active individuals, these trips involve moderate physical activity, typically including multi-day treks with daily walks of 4-6 hours on varied terrain. Expect gradual altitude gains but no technical challenges. Suitable for those with a basic fitness level. Perfect setting of introduction to trekking in Nepal. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.
Max. Altitude
5160m
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Stay in hotels while in the city and in lodges during the trek
Best Season
Mar-May,Sep-Nov
Must-See Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Trek the stunning off-the-beaten Manaslu Circuit to get closer to the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu.
- Experience the friendly people and a rich culture that includes Nepalese and Tibetan ethnic groups.
- Hike to the trek’s highest point at Larkya La Pass, which is 5,167 m high. From there, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Manaslu region.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of some of the world’s tallest mountains: Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and more.
- Experience stunning snowy peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru, with flowing glaciers.
- Get a glimpse of diverse wildlife, including endangered species like snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan Tahr.
16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal, complete your visa formalities and collect your luggage. Once ready, proceed to the exit of the arrival hall, where our airport representative will be waiting to greet you. Look for the Highland Expeditions placard at the exit. You will then be escorted to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, enjoy some free time to relax, explore the city, or finalize any last-minute preparations.
Meals:
None
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
In Kathmandu for exploration and preparation
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, including Boudhanath and the temples of Pashupatinath. As we stroll along the exotic locales of Kathmandu, we notice that the 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. A brief orientation will be followed by trek preparation in the late afternoon at the hotel lobby.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Drive to Machha Khola
After breakfast, it’s an early drive today for Machakhola. During the drive, we enjoy views of Nepal’s colorful rural landscapes, and the mountain scenery is evident throughout our journey. We will be driving on a well-tarred road from Kathmandu to Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters 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 and eventually reach Macha Khola after an 8-9-hour drive.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
8 hrs drive
O/N Elevation:
900m/2,953ft
Trek to Jagat
The slender trail has some minor ups and downs, eventually crossing the Tharo Khola and reaching Khorlabesi. After some ascending and descending, we came across a small hot spring in Tatopani. We climb over another ridge from the hot spring and 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, drop to the river, and 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.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
14km/8.6miles
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,410m/4,626ft
O/N Elevation:
1,410m/4,626ft
Trek to Deng
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.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
19.8km/12.3miles
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,804m/5,919ft
O/N Elevation:
1,804m/5,919ft
Trek to Namrung
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 surrounds Ghap. Despite an alternative route, we take the route through Prok village.
Prok village has a viewpoint from which to see the beautiful Siringi Himal. We cross the Budi Gandaki several times today and encounter 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.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
20km/12.4miles
Duration:
7-8 hrs
O/N Elevation:
2,630m/8,629ft
Trek to Lho
The seventh day of the Manaslu trek begins with breakfast in Namrung. Instead of going straight to Samagaon from Namrung, we broke the climb in half and stayed at Lho. This not only allows us more time to adapt to the increasing altitude, but from Lho, you can catch stunning views of Manaslu (8163m) and Manaslu North (7157m). You will explore the typical lifestyle influenced by Tibet as you walk through Banjam, passing by mani walls, lush terraces, and houses.
You’ll enter a fir, rhododendron, and oak forest before climbing to Lihi and then Sho. Along the way, you’ll see locals wearing traditional Tibetan clothing and notice beautiful paintings in the gate arches (Kani) you pass. As you trek across rocky paths, you’ll finally reach Lho, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu (8163m) and Manaslu North (7157m). Since you’ll be gaining altitude, strolling and paying attention to how your body feels is essential.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
10km/6.2miles
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
2,960m/9,710ft
Trek to Samagaon
On the eighth day of the trek, the picturesque view of Mt. Manaslu accompanies you. You will walk across the easy trail to Shyala, passing through pine and rhododendron gully with moss and gin-clear streams. Â From Shyala, you will walk for almost an hour to reach Sama Gaun. The mountain views fade once you enter the village; however, the yak pastures and typical settlements will attract you. Samagaon is the principal village of the Nubri people. It has a large gompa, many shops, a health post, a heliport, telephone/Wi-Fi access, etc.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
9km/5.6miles
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,530m/11,582ft
Acclimatization day at Samagaon
We are staying at Samagoan today as part of our acclimatization plan to prevent altitude-related illness. Acclimatization day can also be a rest day if trekkers don’t feel like trekking to any side destinations. We can hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa today for our acclimatization hike and then retrace to Samagoan overnight. This allows our bodies to adapt to the increasing altitude by climbing high and sleeping low. On a little hill near
Sama village is an old Gompa (Pungyen Gompa), a monastery with great glacier views. It is named after Manaslu; Pungyen means bracelet, which describes the two peaks well. Manaslu base camp is situated north of Samagoan and offers a close-up view of Mt. Manaslu. During September, you will see the expedition tents set up at the base camp, as Manaslu is climbed mainly during September.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
10km/6.1miles
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,530m/11,582ft
Trek to Samdo
After breakfast, we begin our day by descending the Budhi Gandaki River, which 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 widens. 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 river forks. From a stone arch, we can view a large white kani. Finally, passing through the kani, we reach the village of Samdo.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
10km/6.1miles
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,860m/12,665ft
Trek to Dharamsala / Larya Base Camp
The thundering Budhi Gandaki River trickles to a stream as we cling to its course and hike high up. This rewards us with amazing mountains from all sides. Manaslu stands in a league of its own. After crossing the river’s east bank, we reach the last permanent settlement in the valley, 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 settlers’ migration. Nearing the Larkya Glacier, we reach a lodge at 4450m, which has been built to cater to travelers crossing the Larkya La.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
9km/5.5miles
Duration:
5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,460m/14,633ft
Cross Larkya Pass 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 the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent that becomes steeper only in the last section of the pass. From the pass, 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
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
22km/13.6miles
Duration:
9-10 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,160m/16,930ft
O/N Elevation:
3,590m/11,778ft
Trek to Goa
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 a 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, where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
18km/11miles
O/N Elevation:
2,500m/8,200ft
Trek to Dharapani and drive to Besisahar
We climb over a small rim and enjoy the stone-paved trail as it passes through a charming, colorful village. We then cross the bridge over Dudh Khola and climb 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. Lunch stops at Dharapani, and afterward, we catch our jeeps and drive to Besisahar for our last night on a trek
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
760m/2,495ft
Drive to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the mountain and drive back to Kathmandu. The total journey from Besisahar to Kathmandu will take 6-7 hours, and we expect to reach Kathmandu by late afternoon. We will make a lunch stop along the way, and after reaching Kathmandu, we will have free time.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation:
Hotel
Duration:
7 hrs drive
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International Departure
Thank you for joining us on this trek. It has been a pleasure getting to know you. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch, and we hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Itinerary Disclaimer: Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your guide/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 traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the 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.
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
16 Days
26 Apr, 2025 - 11 May, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
3 May, 2025 - 18 May, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
10 May, 2025 - 25 May, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
17 May, 2025 - 1 Jun, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
24 May, 2025 - 8 Jun, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
31 May, 2025 - 15 Jun, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
6 Sep, 2025 - 21 Sep, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
13 Sep, 2025 - 28 Sep, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
20 Sep, 2025 - 5 Oct, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
16 Days
27 Sep, 2025 - 12 Oct, 2025
USD 1,680
20% Deposit
USD 336
12 in a group
Available
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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 the trek (Special permit, MCAP & ACAP).
- All ground transfers are as mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicles.
- Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio.
- Full support crew with one porter for every two trekkers.
- Sightseeing of Kathmandu, including guide and entrance fees.
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private vehicles.
- Comprehensive first aid kit with oxygen mask and regulator.
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner, and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek).
- Staff equipment, insurance, and allowances.
- Trek completion certificate (Upon request).
Exclusion
- International airfare.
- Visa.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Meals at Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on a trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities for staff.
FAQs About Manaslu Circuit Trek
How much does Manaslu Circuit Trek cost?
Which trek is harder Manaslu Circuit Trek or Everest Base camp trek?
Which month is worst for trek in the Mansaslu region?
What are the permits needed for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Is Manaslu Circuit the hardest trek in Nepal?
What is the average duration of Manaslu Circuit Trek
What are the key vaiations and considerations when choosing a Manaslu Circuit Trek Route?
What are the popular landmarks of Manaslu Circuit trek?
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded trek?
Do I need crampons for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
How hard is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu circuit trek is challenging due to its longer duration of trekking days and a maximum elevation of 5,160m/16,930ft at Larkya La Pass. The daily average walking hour is 6-7 hours. Unlike other famous trekking regions of Nepal, Manaslu is still considered off the beaten path, so a basic sense of adventure is required on this trek. Previous trekking experience is not required, but you must be fit and comfortable walking 6-7 hours daily carrying your day pack. There are some factors of trek that make Manaslu Circuit Trek hard, and they are:
High Altitude
Manaslu Circuit is one of the toughest high-altitude treks of Nepal. The trekkers have to reach an elevation of 5,106 m, which invites altitude sickness. Altitude sickness poses a significant risk for those trekking the Manaslu Circuit, particularly at high elevations like Larke La Pass (5,106 meters). Symptoms often start mild—headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and nausea—but can escalate to more severe issues like vomiting, confusion, and dizziness. The most severe form, high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), is life-threatening and can occur in trekkers with acute mountain sickness at high altitudes. Proper attention to symptoms is crucial to prevent serious consequences.
Long Distance and Duration
Another factor in the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the long distance and duration. The average duration of this trek is about 16 days and can be extended up to 21 days. Each day, trekkers have to trek for six to seven hours. The long distance and duration of the trek can take a huge toll on the physicality of the trekkers. Hence, this is why trekkers must be physically fit and start preparing months before the trek.
Harsh weather conditions
Another difficulty for trekkers on a journey to Manaslu Circuit Trek is the dynamic weather conditions, especially at high altitudes. The weather constantly changes from sunshine to winds to snow. The temperature increases during the day but falls below freezing at night, making it tougher for trekkers to cover more distance.
Remoteness
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the remote trekking destinations in Nepal. Since this destination is restricted, few trekkers can reach it without a proper permit or verification. The trekking destination has limited infrastructure, such as transportation, hotels, hospitals, banks, etc., which makes trekkers’ daily lives difficult.
Rugged Terrains
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers trekkers a tough and varied landscape. You will face steep climbs and descents, rocky paths, and slippery areas, especially near high-altitude passes like Larkya La Pass. The trek moves through different environments, from subtropical forests to dry, high-altitude areas, which requires good physical fitness. You will walk alongside the Budhi Gandaki River and over glacial moraines, making it important to have the right trekking gear and be prepared for a good workout.
Challenging yet rewarding Larkya La Pass
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the toughest treks in Nepal, as it takes you to the high elevation of Larkya La Pass. The adventure towards Larkya La Pass is challenging but equally rewarding. Let’s be real—crossing Larkya La Pass is no walk in the park. It’s thrilling, sure, but it’s also tough. Most people would say it’s moderately challenging—not the hardest trek out there, but definitely not a breeze.
One of the biggest hurdles is the altitude. At 5,160 meters (16,930 feet), the air is thin, and every step can feel like a workout. Altitude sickness is a real risk, so taking it slow and letting your body adjust is key. Then there’s the weather. It can get brutally cold and windy near the pass, especially early in the morning or late in the season. Snow can blanket the trail, turning it into a slippery, tricky path.
The Trails are also long, steep, and demanding. Crossing the pass usually takes about 8 to 10 hours of hiking, which can be exhausting if you’re not used to long treks. Despite the challenges, so many people make it through—and you can too. With the right preparation, gear, and a solid dose of determination, crossing Larkya La Pass is absolutely doable. And when you do, it’s not just a physical accomplishment; it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.
Manaslu: A restricted area
The Manaslu region is designated a restricted area of Nepal. There are many restricted areas in Nepal, including Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Tsum Valley, and the Dolpo region. These regions are restricted to protect and safeguard their delicate natural environment and unique cultural heritage. Keeping places like Manaslu a restricted area helps the government regulate the tourist flow and conserve the local culture and traditions.
Another reason for restricting this trek is the conservation area. The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to endangered flora and fauna species. Over the years, ethnic groups like Tamangs and Gurungs have generally maintained their customs and traditions.
By controlling tourism inflow, the government and tourism board have prevented cultural dilution and provided an authentic view of local life and the people residing there. To experience a restricted region like Manaslu, trekkers must obtain a special restricted area permit and trek with an authorized trekking agency.
Weather and Temperature of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Understanding the weather and temperature of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can enhance your trekking experience and make your journey far safer. The ideal weather and temperature for trekking make the trek fun. In contrast, constantly facing dull or challenging weather and harsh temperatures can hinder your encouragement and make you mentally weak. Hence, this is also the reason trekkers must do research and find the ideal season for perfect weather and temperature for tough treks like the Manaslu circuit.
The ideal weather and temperature for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are the Spring and Autumn seasons. The spring season starts in March and ends in May, and the weather and views are crystal clear. The temperature is also quite favorable for trekking, with a high temperature of close to 20 degrees and a lower temperature of around -5 degrees.
Similarly, the Autumn season is also quite ideal for trekking in terms of weather and temperature. The average temperature trekkers will feel during Autumn is about 18 degrees during the day and around -10 at night at high altitudes.
| Season | Month | Weather Conditions | Daytime Temperature |
Nighttime Temperature
|
| Spring | March | Increasing clarity, some lingering winter chill, and blooming flowers start. | 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F) |
-6°C to -12°C (21°F to 10°F)
|
| Spring | April | Clear skies, stable weather, warmer days. | 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F) |
-2°C to -8°C (28°F to 18°F)
|
| Spring | May | Warmest spring month, with clear views and occasional pre-monsoon showers. | 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) |
0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F)
|
| Autumn | September | Post-monsoon clarity, gradually cooling temperatures. | 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) |
0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F)
|
| Autumn | October | Excellent visibility, stable and dry conditions, comfortably cool. | 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F) |
-2°C to -6°C (28°F to 21°F)
|
| Autumn | November | Clear skies and colder temperatures, especially at night. | 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F) |
-5°C and -10°C (23°F and 14°F)
|
Are there any alternative treks around the Manaslu Region?
Manslu Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek offers a unique experience at the base of Manaslu Mountain, taking you through the hidden Tsum Valley and remote villages. Located north of Gorkha, the route follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing colorful rhododendron forests and the hot springs in Tatopani. Entering the heart of Tsum Valley from Chhokangparo, you’ll discover scenic paths adorned with chortens and Mani walls. This beautiful area is nestled among Buddha Mountain, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Mountain, and Sringi Mountain. The Tsumba people regard Manaslu, meaning “spirit mountain,” as a spirit deity.
Trekking in this area became accessible to foreigners in 1992 and remains a controlled area. Locals believe Guru Rinpoche established settlements in Tsum Valley during the 8th century as refugees for Tibetans fleeing conflict and famine. Tsum is one of the best-preserved valleys, where polyandry is still practiced. This moderately strenuous trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,240 m at Rachen Gompa.
What are the transportation options for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Ground transportation in the Manaslu Circuit Trek mostly involves public or tourist buses, cars, and shared or private jeeps. The trek’s starting point is Machha Khola, which you can reach from Kathmandu by public or tourist bus and private vehicles. The local public bus is a budget-friendly mode of transportation, costing about $5 per person. Similarly, you can also choose the tourist bus, which costs $10 to $12 per person.Â
Another option for transportation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is private vehicles like cars or jeeps. During off-beaten treks like Manaslu, trekkers generally prefer traveling in jeeps rather than cars. You can also choose either the private or shared mode of jeep transportation based on your budget. Private jeep mode is more flexible but expensive, as it may cost about $300 to $500 per person, and on the other hand, the shared mode of jeep transport costs about $150 to $200 per person.
What type of culture can I experience during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit trekking offers the chance to immerse in the unique culture and traditions of the people living in the region. The people trekkers will interact in the Manaslu region differently from other treks in Annapurna, such as the Annapurna circuit trek. This trek offers the rich and diverse cultural experience of the Nubri and Tsum people, who have strong ties to Tibetan Buddhism.
At the start of the trails, you’ll encounter primarily Chettri, Brahmin, and Magar people. As you go further, you’ll meet Indo-Aryans and Tibeto-Burmans in the upper regions. The Gurung people are predominant in the Manaslu region, while the Nubri and Tsum communities live along the Chikkur River. Both groups practice Buddhism, Animism, and the Bonpo faith, speaking Nepali with their native languages, Numbri and Tsum, and some also speak Sino-Tibetan languages.
Festivals in Nepal foster unity and preserve a rich culture. In the Manaslu region, celebrations like Loshar showcase traditional dances and attire. Lhosar, or “New Year,” is celebrated by the Tamang, Gurung, and Sherpa communities, with Tamang people marking Sonam Lhosar in January or February, gathering to exchange warm wishes. Another important festival in the Manaslu region is Tsum Shagya. The highlight of this festival is the nonviolent tradition of Tsum Valley. Tsum Valley has been a sacrificial place since 1920, emphasizing the power of non-violence and spirituality.
Can beginner treks to Manaslu?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is very challenging for beginners. However, it is still possible for trekkers with no prior experience to complete the trek successfully. You should have moderate fitness, but no prior experience is needed. This trek can take 14 to 18 days, depending on your pace, the season, and the itinerary. It begins in Maccha Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley. The trail circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
The Manaslu trek requires physical fitness because it involves long walking days on rough terrain and high altitudes, especially at the Larkya La Pass, which is over 5,100 meters high. Beginners should train before the trek with cardiovascular and strength exercises to build stamina and endurance. They should also consider trekking with a trusted agency and experienced guides. Guides are extremely important as they offer support, provide safety, help in navigation, and can also issue permits. Additionally, the trek involves walking for 6-7 hours daily, adding to the challenge for beginners.
What is the Food and Accommodation like on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Foods
Throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek, tea houses serve food. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. However, it’s advised to avoid non-vegetarian food while trekking, as it may strain your metabolism and cause digestive issues at higher elevations. Still, we provide trekkers with food to choose from, anything from the menu.
Additionally, frozen food is often unhygienic due to long transport times. To stay healthy during hikes, stick to locally sourced vegetarian food. Generally, trekkers get to eat three meals every day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and trekkers have it before starting their trek. Some of the breakfast menus are Breakfast Sets, Pancakes, Tibetan Bread, Eggs, etc. The menus for lunch and dinner are somewhat similar, with Nepali Dal and Bhat being the main serving. Trekkers can also eat Western meals like Pizzas, Burgers, Dumplings, etc.
Accommodation
During your journey, we manage your accommodation from Kathmandu to Manaslu. You will stay in the highly reputable Kathmandu Guest House, which has many facilities and services in Kathmandu. After you leave Kathmandu and start climbing altitude, you will find simple hotels, lodges, and teahouses as your means of accommodation.
The cost of accommodation depends on the hiking season and the altitude. During peak season, lodging at lower altitudes costs $3 to $5 USD. As you go higher, the cost rises to about $7 to $10 USD. In the off-season, lower elevation lodging costs $2 to $3 USD, while higher altitude accommodation costs about $5 to $7 USD.
What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The trek in the Manaslu region is one of the toughest because it is in Nepal’s remote and restricted area. The difficulty ranges from challenging to strenuous, which shows that trekkers must prepare and pack the necessary items to complete this trek successfully. So, let’s take a look at some of the items you can pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Clothing
- Knit Hat
- Insulated Jacket
- Hiking Socks
- Hiking Pants
- Waterproof Jacket
- Fleece Pants
- Sports Bra
- Cotton Socks
- Soft Jacket
- Sunglasses
- Buff/Neck Warmer/Neck Gaiter
- Light thermal trouser
- Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
- Running shoes or trainers
- Lightweight Gloves
- Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt
- Lightweight Thermal Tops
- Gaiters (optional)
- Bandana or Headscarf
- Trekking Sandals
- Trekking Boots
- Down Jacket (Puffer Jacket)
- Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens
- Underwear
- Hiking shorts (optional) for summer-time trekking
- Balaclava
- Fleece Pullover or Jacket
Trekking Equipment
- Sleeping Bag
- Binoculars
- Head torch with extra batteries
- Daypack cover
- Raincoat
- Trekking poles
- Navigation equipment (optional)
- Sleeping bag liner
- Water Bottle
- Face Mask
- Crampons
- Thermosets
- Garbage Bag
- Trekking backpack
- Duffel Bag, 90L
- Book/Diary/Games
Medicines and First Aids
- Oral Rehydration Sachets
- Painkillers
- High-calorie snacks (optional)
- Water purification tablets or water filters
- Antibiotics
- Sunscreen cream
- Plasters, Bandages, & Zinc Oxide Tape
- Hand sanitizer
- Altitude sickness drugs
- Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
- Prescriptions
- Lip Balm
- Antidiarrheals
- Foot Powder
- Insect repellent
- Cough Lozenges
- Skin blister repair kit
- Eye drops
Some Glimpse of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Some Feedback on Manaslu Circuit Trek
See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.
A Demanding yet Beautiful Adventure on the Manaslu Circuit
A Demanding yet Beautiful Adventure on the Manaslu Circuit
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!
Challenging Trek with Wonderful Support and Care
Challenging Trek with Wonderful Support and Care
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.
