Manaslu Circuit Trek

The trek starts at Machha Khola which requires a long scenic drive from Kathmandu to reach. It ends at Dharapani where the trail meets the Annapurna Circuit route before you use transport to return to Kathmandu.

The fact that Manaslu Circuit is rich in Tibetan culture, less crowded, more remote, and requires special permits like the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) makes the Manaslu Circuit different from other Himalayan treks.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes between 11 to 13 days according to standard itineraries which include acclimatization stops from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, The shortest manaslu trek can make complete in 10 days without acclimation day,  You need to walk for about 9 to 11 days to complete the actual walking portion.

On the way to the Manaslu Circuit, you can expect river valleys, forests, traditional villages and remote lifestyles, deep gorges, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high mountain passes.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered challenging and it is not a beginner walk. The trek becomes accessible to beginners who possess good fitness and training and hire a licensed guide. Still, high altitudes at Larkya La Pass and extended daily trekking distances make it more challenging than most introductory treks.

The complete circuit covers approximately 177–182 km (110–113 miles) which loops around the Manaslu massif and descends into the Marsyangdi Valley on the return. Daily walking distances typically range from 10 to 20 km (6–12 miles) depending on altitude, various types of terrain and the requirements of acclimatizati

The best time to do the Manaslu Trek is during pre monsoon (March to May) which offers warm days, rhododendron blooms and stable weather. Similarly, post-monsoon (September to November) is another good time which provides clear skies, dry trails and weather and mild temperatures. The winter and monsoon seasons present higher risks because of heavy snowfall and rainfall.

The Manaslu Trek showcases traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages together with Buddhist monasteries and culture. The key highlight of the trek includes spectacular views of Mount Manaslu which reaches 8,163 meters and neighboring peaks of Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Boudha Himal, and Cheo Himal. In addition, Buddhist monasteries, the pristine Budhi Gandaki River valley and the alpine Larkya La Pass make the trek exciting

Kathmandu to Machha Khola and moving through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, and finally to Manaslu Base Camp. After that, the return journey crosses the Larkya La Pass, continues to Bhimthang, and ends at Dharapani.

Acclimatization stops are usually taken at Samagaun, as rest is required before heading to Manaslu Base Camp and passing higher altitudes, such as Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft).

The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass which is 5,106 meters above sea level. The pass presents difficult traversal conditions because it contains steep mountain paths which lead to high altitude territories while offering hikers an exceptional view of the Himalayas at its peak.

The Tsum Valley exists as an additional route that trekkers can access through the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekkers who want to visit Tsum Valley need to spend 3 to 4 extra days which will allow them to see authentic Tibetan culture through its remote monasteries and traditional villages while they experience stunning mountain views.

Your choice between the Manaslu Circuit and Everest Base Camp depends on your personal priorities. The Manaslu Circuit delivers a less crowded experience. This enables you to discover remote areas that feature diverse high altitude environments.

The Everest Base Camp route serves as the most famous and iconic trekking path and it offers superior amenities to its hikers. However, it receives high volumes of visitors who frequently travel through the area to see the world’s tallest mountain.

The Manaslu Circuit presents greater difficulty because it requires trekkers to walk extended periods at high elevations while encountering fewer teahouses and experiencing limited trail facilities. The Annapurna Circuit offers well trodden trails which connect to multiple villages while the entire trek maintains manageable elevation levels.

The Manaslu Circuit trek provides a safe experience if you prepare well and hire licensed guides. The primary dangers which trekkers face during their journeys include altitude sickness, slips, weather-related interruptions and river crossings.

The guides together with local facilities create a support system that enables trekkers to maintain their acclimatization and safety practices.

Travel insurance serves as a necessity to provide protection against medical emergencies, evacuation requirements and incidents that occur during high altitude treks. Your insurance policy should have coverage up to 5,500 meters and allow for heli-rescue in case of emergencies.

If you are an experienced trekker looking for a raw, solitary, remote, less commercialized, and cultural experience, then you should choose the Manaslu Circuit instead of the Annapurna Circuit.

The per-monsoon/spring (March–May) and post-monsoon/autumn (September–November) periods are considered the best for clear mountain views. These months provide stable weather conditions together with clear skies, which enable trekkers to see the stunning panorama of Manaslu and other surrounding high peaks.

The monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) months are not a good time for visibility, as the former brings heavy clouds and rain, while the latter often has snowfall and fog that block clear mountain views.

Trekkers will encounter Gurung communities, along with Tibetan-influenced Tsumba and Nubri communities, primarily following Tibetan Buddhist culture and some following Hindu culture as well.

Wildlife, such as red pandas, musk deer, snow leopards, brown bears, Himalayan tahr, etc., live inside the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Trekkers can help preserve the Manaslu environment by minimizing the use of plastic, supporting local businesses, respecting wildlife and culture, and being responsible trekkers.

On the way to the Manaslu Circuit, you can expect river valleys, forests, traditional villages and remote lifestyles, deep gorges, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high mountain passes.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a demanding mountain adventure. You need to walk for six to eight hours each day while climbing and descending through rugged high-altitude terrain. The trek reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass which stands at 5,106 meters and needs both physical fitness and proper acclimatization.

The trek becomes more challenging because of its remote wilderness location , unpredictable weather patterns and minimal infrastructural development.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be completed by first time trekkers who train beforehand and maintain their physical fitness and possess strong mental strength. The combination of professional guides and planned itineraries with acclimatization periods at Adventure Great Himalaya will enable beginners to experience a safer and more enjoyable journey.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires moderate to extreme physical effort. It requires trekkers to walk for multiple days at high altitudes while facing steep uphill and downhill paths. Trekkers need to possess both physical strength and endurance capabilities, together with mental toughness.

While the trek does not require technical skills, rough sections and lengthy walking periods will test your stamina and determination.

It is beneficial to have previous experience of trekking at high altitudes for trekkers who want to join this adventure although this is not an absolute necessity. Trekkers who have experience above 3,000 or 4,000 meters tend to adapt better to the thinner air, handle steep climbs with more ease and have a smoother trekking experience.

The trek can be accomplished by beginners with physical fitness and who undergo proper acclimatization.

Most trekkers start experiencing mild symptoms of altitude sickness after they reach 2500 to 3000 meters. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, mild headaches and disturbed sleep may start to appear, especially in those who are not properly acclimatized. So, this makes acclimatization vital to stop severe altitude sickness from developing.

The preventive measures of altitude sickness include maintaining a good hydration level, walking at a slow pace, eating fresh and nutritious meals, avoiding cigarettes and alcholos and taking proper rest and sleep.

Besides, you can take medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) after consulting a doctor. If the warning signs still do not disappear, but rather get worse, descend to lower elevations to avoid dangerous health risks.

The hardest part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass which is at a height of 5,106 meters above sea level. The steep climb to the pass and a sharp descent into a valley on the other side makes the pass crossing day tougher. High altitude, cold temperatures and physical exertion together make it a challenging section of the Manaslu Circuit.

The winter trekking conditions at Manaslu face difficulties of extreme cold temperatures, heavy snowfall and insufficient lodge accommodations. The snow and ice conditions will probably prevent access to high passes, including Larkya La.

The shorter daylight hours make trekking more difficult, limiting walking time and increasing physical fatigue. So, only trekkers with advanced skills and proper equipment should attempt the winter trekking of the Manaslu Circuit.

The Larkya La Pass presents a considerable difficulty. It reaches an elevation of 5,106 meters which marks the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The ascent to the pass requires trekkers to climb up a steep and rugged path which has frequent snow and ice coverage.

The pass can only be successfully reached through proper acclimatization, physical abilities and mental strength. It is usually good to set off before sunrise to avoid the strong afternoon wind and take multiple breaks to sustain your energy.

The physical preparation process requires training that develops cardiovascular fitness and enhances your leg and core strength. Activities like running, cycling, dancing, swimming and stair climbing upgrade your cardio endurance.

Likewise, your body will develop the necessary stamina for uphill hiking and descending through exercises like squats, planks, push ups and lunges. Besides, long hikes with a loaded backpack can simulate trekking conditions. It is ideal to start these workouts 8 to 12 weeks prior to the beginning of the journey.

The temperature during the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be very cold especially at higher elevations and during early morning or night hours. At the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route, i.e., Larkya La Pass, night temperatures can go very low, dipping to as low as -15°C to -20°C during the peak winter season.

However, at the lower elevation areas and during the daytime, the temperatures are generally more moderate ranging between 10°C and 20 °C.

In the lower valleys you can experience 15°C to 25°C heat during the daytime. At mid-altitude villages, the temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C. 

In the higher Himalayan regions and near Larkya La Pass, the temperature ranges from 0°C to 5°C during the daytime, and it can be very cold at night, dropping below -15°C in the coldest months. Snowfall is common in the higher regions during winter and early spring.

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in the winter season is possible but for inexperienced trekkers, it is not recommended. This is because of heavy snowfall, icy conditions and very low temperatures especially when crossing Larkya La Pass. Winter trekking is only recommended for experienced high altitude trekkers with proper gear.

Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is usually experienced while trekking at altitudes higher than 2,500 meters regardless of fitness or experience level.

For the Manaslu Circuit Trek the maximum altitude is reached at Larkya La Pass which is 5,106 meters high. So, the mild symptoms may occur such as headache, nausea, fatigue and shortness of breath if you donot hydrate properly and ascend too quickly.

If a trekker shows severe symptoms of altitude sickness such as persistent vomiting, confusion or difficulty breathing the trek is stopped immediately and a trekker is taken to lower altitudes.

If needed, an emergency helicopter evacuation is arranged, which is covered by travel insurance. Our guides are trained to identify and manage altitude sickness and other illnesses, and they are equipped to offer first aid assistance.

If someone needs emergency evacuation, their guide will immediately contact the helicopter, reporting the location and details of the patient. Then, a rescue helicopter will be sent, and the patient will be flown back to Kathmandu.

You will enjoy board meals that are mix of Nepali, Tibetan and simple Western items.

Breakfast:

• Tibetan bread, chapati, toast
• Porridge, muesli and pancakes
• Boiled and fried eggs and omelets
• Tea, coffee and hot chocolate

Lunch & Dinner:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup and vegetables)
• Fried and boiled noodles (vegetable/egg options)
• Fried rice and pasta
• Momos (dumplings)
• Garlic, vegetable and noodle soup
• Boiled, fried and curried potatoes

The trek provides multiple options for vegetarian meals which trekkers can choose from. It is good to eat vegetarian dishes at higher altitudes which are easier to digest. The commonly available vegetarian dishes in teahouses are:

• Dal Bhat (vegetarian option)
• Vegetable noodles & fried rice
• Vegetable pasta
• Potato dishes
• Soups
• Pancakes & porridge

Please tell us your dietary restrictions like vegan, gluten-free etc beforehand so we can make appropriate arrangements.

The set menu agreement determines the meal delivery schedule. You may select one main dish for each meal. Many teahouses provide free refills of Dal Bhat.

You must pay extra charges when they order additional dishes that are not part of the agreed package. Your guide will help you choose your meals while he makes sure everything proceeds without problems.

The cost of Manalsu trek changes according to your group size, choice of private or group trekking, custom itineraries and additional services.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek package which we provide as a 15-day journey starts at a price of $1,250 USD per person. The package provides complete coverage like airport transportation, Kathmandu accommodation, a licensed English-speaking guide, porter assistance, trail meals and lodging, trekking permits, trailhead transportation and extra benefits.

You should bring between 300 and 500 US dollars which will cover your expenses outside the package. The costs are for snacks and beverages, hot shower, Wi-Fi, charging devices, tips for guides and porters, personal shopping, etc.

The best currency to carry for making payments during the trek is Nepali Rupees, as tea houses and shops do not accept USD. For meals, drinks and tips, it is practical to carry small denominations of NPR.

A Manaslu package from Adventure Great Himalaya usually includes airport transfers, a Kathmandu hotel with breakfast (trek included only), all trek meals, permits, transportation, lodge accommodation, a guide and porter, basic trekking gear, medical support, emergency evacuation arrangements, taxes, and a farewell dinner.

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek route has tea houses/lodges available in most of the villages along the route. They have simple food available along with comfortable sleeping areas with some teahouses having hot shower and WiFi facilities available. Trekkers at higher altitudes find that facilities are more limited, and amenities may be sparse.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has few luxury lodges which trekkers can access. The new lodges which opened in Samagaon and Bhimtang offer guests upgraded rooms that include better bedding and private bathrooms.

But overall, the trek remains largely rustic with most accommodations at traditional teahouses that provide basic facilities, shared bathrooms and simple meals, allowing trekkers to experience the authentic Himalayan village life.

Most lodges or tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit provide basic but reliable and comfortable accommodations. The rooms usually come with cozy beds which use simple bedding that includes mattresses, blankets and pillows.

Visitors will find dining facilities that offer hot meals and communal spaces. Bathrooms are often shared. The region has fewer commercial developments than Everest and Annapurna, so it is better not to keep your expectations too high.

Most tea houses in the larger villages provide private room facilities. However, the lodges at higher altitudes provide only shared room facilities to their visitors. The peak trekking season leads to quick room occupancy which makes advance booking necessary for those who want a private stay

The Manaslu Circuit Trek tea houses and lodges basically has simple squat style toilets. While some lower teahouses and larger villages like Samagaun may offer Western-style flush toilets, squat toilets become common in alpine zones. You should bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer as they may not be usually available.

The hot showers operate only from lower to mid altitude villages such as Namrung, Samagaon and Bhimtang. Teshouses use solar or generator systems to provide hot water which requires users to pay a fee between $2 and $5 for each shower.

The trekking route through Samdo and Larkya La Pass provides only cold showers and sponge baths for trekkers who need to take a shower.

No, They don;t offer bathing towel and Shampoo , you have to take your self

No, you are not allowed on the Manaslu Circuit Trek without a guide. The trekking route traverses through restricted remote areas at high-altitudes.

A professional guide can help you navigate through the trekking route, deal with permits, accommodation and health conditions. A guide will not only make the experience more enjoyable but it will also be safer and more convenient for you.

While not mandatory it is strongly advised that you hire a trekking porter especially for longer and more challenging treks like the Manaslu Circuit. Porter will carry the heavy luggage and you can trek with a light backpack of about 6-8 kg making the trek easier, more enjoyable and minimizing the risk of injury.

All professional guides who are provided for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are English speaking. They are well trained in high altitude trekking, first aid and culture.

They ensure smooth communication with you as well as translate the local language for your better understanding of the Himalayan nature, people and traditions.

The weight limit for the porter in Manaslu Circuit Trek is 20 kilograms (44 lbs). This guarantees that the porter receives safe working conditions while transporting your belongings during high altitude trekking. Additional luggage or overweight items may require hiring an extra porter.

The Manaslu Circuit comes under a restricted area by the Nepal government; therefore, one must hire a well-trained guide to navigate the challenges along the way, ensure check-in and compliance with local rules and regulations, and provide cultural insights along with logistical support such as accommodation and special permits.

The road conditions from Kathmandu to Machha Khola are mixed. The first part of the route uses paved highways which later transform into rough dusty roads. There are frequent bumps starting from Arughat.

During the monsoon season, landslides and muddy stretches may cause considerable delays, while the stretches may be too narrow for driving at a fast pace. The final part of the ride can be long and tiring due to rough terrain and tight curves. The return trip from Dharapani to Kathmandu experiences the same road conditions.

The drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola which covers approximately 160 kilometers requires 7 to 10 hours for completion depending on traffic, weather and road conditions.

The drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu which covers a distance of 230 kilometers takes between 9 and 11 hours to complete. The steep winding roads together with local traffic and occasional landslides will slow down travel during monsoon times.

The available vehicles for traveling include:
Local buses (budget-friendly, but not so comfortable)
Shared jeeps (comfortable compared to buses, a good option)
Private 4WD jeeps (the most comfortable option)

The choice of vehicle makes a lot of difference in the level of comfort, flexibility, and the energy level at which the trekking may begin.

For most trekkers a private 4WD jeep is the best choice. Though this option is expensive, it significantly reduces travel time while increasing safety on rough terrain and minimizing fatigue at the beginning of the trek.

Local buses operate at an economical rate but they are overcrowded and take extended travel times. For wilderness travelers investing in a multi-day high-altitude trek the added comfort and reliability of a private jeep is usually worth the cost.

Trekkers need to obtain Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit.

You cannot get the Manaslu trekking permits on your own. You should be traveling with a licensed guide and there must be a group of at least two trekkers to get the RAP. We handle the permit process so that you can smoothly start your mountain adventure.

A minimum of two trekkers is required for permits, along with a licensed guide from a government-registered trekking agency, such as Adventure Great Himalaya.

Independent trekkers won’t get the permits; however, your permits can be arranged at the last minute in Kathmandu. Booking for the trek should still be made earlier. Please make sure to go through Adventure Great Himalaya’s booking terms and conditions.

Here are the essential packing list

• Moisture wicking base layer, insulated mid layer and water and wind proof outer layer.
• Comfortable trekking boots.
• Seeping bag rated for -10 degrees Celsius.
• Power bank and charging cables.
• Trekking poles and a headlamp
• Basic first-aid kit
• Necessary permits and documents
• Sun hat, sunscreen and lip balm
• Backpack and a daypack
• Additional items such as camera, phone, batteries, water bottle, toiletries, snacks, dry bags etc

Essential clothing for crossing Larkya La Pass includes layered clothes, moisture-wicking fabrics for base layers, down mid-layers, and windproof jackets, along with insulated pants, warm socks, a warm hat and gloves, and broken-in boots.

Microspikes or crampons are needed during winter, late autumn, and early spring due to the possibility of ice or snowfall, especially around Larkya La Pass; however, they are not always required but are highly recommended to protect oneself on icy sections.

Yes, trekking gear can be rented in Kathmandu, especially around the Thamel area.