Manaslu circuit trek is one of the most adventurous and least explored trekking areas in Nepal. It features high passes, rugged landscape, snow-capped Himalayan peaks and culturally rich Tibetan community.
Manaslu trekking trail approaches Mt. Manaslu (8163m), the eighth highest peak in the world and rewards trekkers spectacular panorama of south face of Mt. Manaslu along with Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Cheo Himal, Shringi, Langpo, Saula, and Kang Guru.
The major highlight of this trek is the crossing of Larkya La pass (5106m.) and walking through dense forests of rhododendron, pine and birch protected under Manaslu Conservation Area. The area is home to many endangered species such as Snow leopard, Brown bear, Wooly hare, Himalayan marmot, Tibetan snowcock and Chukor partridge.
This trek enters into barren landscape of trans-Himalyan region and reaches up to Samdo, the last village between Nepal and Tibet. You will have opportunity to explore age-old culture and lifestyle of Tibetan communities in Tsum, Nupri and Samdo villages and visit ancient monasteries. Manaslu trek is also called Manaslu Circuit trek as well as Manalu Base Camp trek.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our office staff will greet you traditionally with flower garlands. You will then be transferred to your hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is a trip preparation day. You will check the equipment and meet your guide and porters. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, which takes about 7 hours. You will travel along paved roads up to Tari Besi, alongside the banks of the Khani Khola, Trishuli River, and Thopal Khola. The journey offers picturesque views of green hills, flowing streams, farming terraces, villages, small markets, and mountain views. From Tari Besi, continue on a gravel path, crossing the Ankhu Khola to reach Arughat Bazaar. Continue driving along the Budhi Gandaki River to Soti Khola. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola, which takes about 4.5 hours. The zigzag trail passes through forests, villages, streams, waterfalls, and green valleys until you reach Lapu Besi, a village mainly inhabited by Bhotia people. Continue trekking to Machha Khola, a small market with a few shops and lodges. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat, which takes about 6 hours. Cross the Machha Khola and head upstream to the tiny village of Khorla Bensi and the hot springs at Tatopani. After a challenging section, reach Doban and head towards Lauri. Cross the river on a suspension bridge and climb to the fields of Jagat. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Jagat to Deng, which takes about 7 hours. Trek over a leveled path mostly through forests of pine and rhododendron. Cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River before entering Philim, a large village inhabited mainly by Gurungs. Continue trekking from Philim to Deng, a village known for its agriculture. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Deng to Namrung, which takes about 5 hours. Start on a leveled path, then climb through a forested hill to Namrung. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Namrung to Lho Gaon, which takes about 4 hours. The trail offers great views of Mt. Manaslu, Gorkha Himal, Dwijen Himal, Saula Himal, Lajing Peak, and other snow-capped peaks. The vegetation thins as you climb higher, with the trail dotted with Mani walls, Chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries. Enjoy panoramic views from Lho Gaon. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon, which takes about 4 hours. Follow the right bank of the river, with constant views of Peak 29. Sama Gaon is a beautiful village inhabited by the Bhote community, popular as the entry point for the Mt. Manaslu expedition. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Today is your rest and acclimatization day at Sama Gaon. You can go for optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4400m) for excellent views of Samdo (Pang Phuchuli), Nagdichuli, Simnang Himal, Manaslu Glacier, Manaslu Ice Fall, and Birendra Kunda, an ice lake near the base camp. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo, which takes about 4 hours. The trail gently ascends through a desert path and windy valley. The Tibetan border is just 4 kilometers away from Samdo, offering excellent views of Mt. Manaslu, Samdo, Nagdi Chuli, Simnang Himal, Manaslu Glacier, and other peaks. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Samdo to Larkya La Phedi, which takes about 3 hours. The trail is rocky and challenging. Visit Larkya Bazaar, where seasonal fairs are held, before reaching Phedi. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Larkya La Phedi to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass, which takes about 8 hours. It is a long and challenging day with rocky trails and numerous ups and downs. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani, which takes about 8 hours. Descend into the valley of the Burdin Khola to the base camp of Manaslu on the west side. Enjoy excellent views of Manaslu and Annapurna II. Cross the bridge over Dudh Khola, follow the trail through a narrow valley to Karche, then to Tilje. After a 45-minute uphill trek, you cross a bridge over the Marshyangdi River to reach Dharapani. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek from Dharapani to Jagat, which takes about 6 hours. The trail descends and then follows a leveled path along the Dudh Khola and Marshyangdi River. Pass through villages like Taal, where you can see an attractive waterfall. Stay overnight in a lodge.
Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu, which takes about 7 hours. Enjoy a picturesque drive along the banks of the Marshyangdi and Trishuli rivers with splendid views of green hills, mountains, farming terraces, and colorful villages. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer you from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.
a) Kathmandu
b) Trekking
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a stunning remote trekking route in Nepal that circles Mount Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest mountain at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). Known for its untouched beauty, this trek offers a less crowded alternative to Everest or Annapurna, taking you through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, dense forests, deep river valleys, and over the dramatic Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. The Manaslu Circuit trek is admired for its cultural richness, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
The Manaslu Circuit trek typically takes 14 to 18 days, depending on your pace, side trips, and acclimatization needs. Most itineraries include travel time from Kathmandu to the starting point (Soti Khola or Machha Khola) and end in Dharapani, from where you can connect to the Annapurna region or return to Kathmandu.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderately challenging to strenuous due to its high-altitude terrain, long trekking days, and steep ascents and descents. Crossing the Larkya La Pass (5106m.) requires endurance and preparation. However, with proper acclimatization and support from a guide, it is achievable for fit and determined trekkers.
What sets the Manaslu Circuit trek apart is its remote, off-the-beaten-path nature, combined with dramatic Himalayan landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Unlike the more commercialized routes, the Manaslu region is less crowded and feels untouched. The trek also passes through restricted areas near the Tibetan border, offering an immersive look at ancient Buddhist customs, monasteries, and villages.
No, the Manaslu Circuit trek is known for being a quieter and more peaceful alternative to the busier Everest or Annapurna routes. Since it lies in a restricted area that requires special permits and a licensed guide, the number of trekkers is naturally limited, allowing for a more serene experience.
To do the Manaslu Circuit trek, you need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You also need to trek with a registered guide and at least one other person, as solo trekking is not allowed in restricted areas.
Yes, a guide is mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit trek due to its restricted area status. Trekking with a guide not only satisfies the legal requirement but also enhances safety, navigation, and cultural understanding. Hiring a porter is optional but highly recommended to help carry your gear and reduce physical strain.
The Manaslu Circuit trek usually begins from Soti Khola or Machha Khola, which are accessible by an 8–10 hour drive from Kathmandu. The roads can be bumpy and affected by seasonal conditions, so a 4WD vehicle is often preferred.
The Manaslu Circuit trek typically ends in Dharapani, which is part of the Annapurna region. From Dharapani, trekkers can either continue trekking toward the Annapurna Circuit or take a jeep to Jagat or Besisahar and then drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The total cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 USD per person, depending on the length of the trek, guide and porter services, permits, transportation, and accommodation. Independent travelers booking through local agencies usually find more budget-friendly options.
The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). It’s one of the most spectacular passes in the Himalayas, offering panoramic views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on the Manaslu Circuit trek, especially above 3,000 meters. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To prevent this, proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. Trekkers should follow their guide’s advice and consider carrying altitude medication.
While rescue services are available on the Manaslu Circuit trek, they are limited and often require helicopter evacuation in emergencies. This is why having travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and evacuation is crucial.
To stay healthy during the Manaslu Circuit trek, drink plenty of purified water, eat well-cooked meals, carry a basic first aid kit, and maintain personal hygiene. It’s also wise to bring water purification tablets or a filter bottle since water sources may vary in cleanliness.
While solo trekking is not allowed on the Manaslu Circuit trek due to government regulations for restricted areas, solo travelers can join groups or hire a guide and a fellow trekker to fulfill the permit requirement and ensure safety.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit trek is primarily in local tea houses. These are basic lodges that offer twin rooms, shared bathrooms, and a dining area with simple but hearty meals. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become, so it's wise to bring a sleeping bag for warmth.
Meals on the Manaslu Circuit trek include traditional Nepali Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), noodles, soups, pancakes, momos (dumplings), and sometimes limited Western options like pasta or fried rice. Food is generally vegetarian, as meat may not be fresh in remote villages.
Packing wisely is crucial for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Essentials include a down jacket, base layers, waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag rated for -10°C or colder, sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, gloves, a headlamp, water purification tools, and a basic medical kit.
Charging is possible at most tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit trek, but it often comes with a small fee and may not be available at higher altitudes. Carrying a power bank or solar charger is recommended to stay connected.
Internet and phone signals are available at some points during the Manaslu Circuit trek, particularly in lower villages. However, the connection can be unreliable or unavailable in remote sections. Consider purchasing a local SIM card (NTC or Ncell) for limited access.
Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.
General Items:
Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)
Clothing Items:
Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff
Sun-worn Items:
Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm
Gadgets:
Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),
Liquid/Snacks:
Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks
Medical Essentials:
First Aid Kit
Optional:
Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc
Additional items for camping trek:
Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses
Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.
