Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Tea House / Lodge

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

5135 m.

Transportation

4WD Jeep

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

15 Days

From

US$ ~~1420~~ 1350

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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.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Food

Welcome Drink

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

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.

Day 2 : Free day in Kathmandu

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Today is a trip preparation day. You will check the equipment and meet your guide and porters. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Kathmandu - Arughat Bazaar - Soti Khola – Machha Khola

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

890

Drive from Kathmandu – Soti Khola – Machha Khola takes about 8 hours. After breakfast, leave Kathmandu for a scenic drive that begins on a paved road leading to Tari Besi. The route traces the banks of the Khani Khola, Trishuli River, and Thopal Khola, offering ever-changing landscapes of rolling green hills, cascading streams, terraced fields, traditional villages, bustling roadside markets, and occasional glimpses of distant snow-clad peaks. Beyond Tari Besi, the road turns rough and unpaved. Crossing the Ankhu Khola, continue onward to Arughat Bazaar, a lively trading center and gateway to the Budhi Gandaki Valley. From here, follow the course of the Budhi Gandaki River upstream, passing through scattered settlements and farmland until reaching Soti Khola. The drive extends further along the river to Machha Khola, a small yet welcoming market town with a few modest shops and lodges. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 4 : Machha Khola to Jagat (1350m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1350

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.

Day 5 : Jagat to Deng (1860m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1860

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.

Day 6 : Deng to Namrung (2630m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2630

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.

Day 7 : Namrung to Lho Gaon (3180m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3180

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.

Day 8 : Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon (3520m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3520

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.

Day 9 : Acclimatization day at Sama Gaon

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3520

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.

Day 10 : Sama Gaon to Samdo (3875m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3875

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.

Day 11 : Samdo to Larkya La Phedi (4460m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4460

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.

Day 12 : Larkya La Phedi to Bimthang (3590m) via Larkya La Pass (5135m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

5135

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.

Day 13 : Bimthang to Dharapani (1963m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1963

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.

Day 14 : Dharapani - Kathmandu (1400)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu—a scenic 9-hour journey along the banks of the Marshyangdi and Trishuli Rivers. Enjoy splendid views of green hills, mountains, terraced farms, and vibrant villages en route. In the evening enjoy farewell dinner along with cultural show. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 15 : Departure

Food

Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer you from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

What Is Included ?

a) Kathmandu

Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
3 nights accommodation with breakfast at 3 Star hotel
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a live cultural performance at an authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

Trekking guide/s
One porter for every 2 trekkers (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Accommodation in lodges during the trek
Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, and trekking poles if required
Special trekking permit for the Manaslu area
Entry permits for Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
All land transportation: Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu by private 4-WD jeep
Meals, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment for the guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT, and service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services by helicopter. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation and medical treatment is required.)

What Is Excluded?

Personal expenses (telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, or any alcoholic beverages)
Travel/Medical insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

FAQs

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trek that circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m)—the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Located in western Nepal near the Tibetan border, this route offers a remote and culturally immersive trekking experience. It passes through ethnically Tibetan villages, lush forests, river valleys, and across the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m). The trail is less commercialized than Everest or Annapurna, making it ideal for trekkers seeking serenity, dramatic landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters.

The trek typically takes 14 to 18 days, depending on your pace, side trips (like Manaslu Base Camp), and acclimatization days. A standard itinerary begins from Soti Khola and ends at Besisahar, which connects to the Annapurna Circuit trail. Trekkers usually spend about 11 to 13 days on the actual trail, with extra time added for travel and rest days.

Yes, it’s considered a moderately challenging to difficult trek. While no technical climbing is required, the trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5160m. You’ll need good physical fitness, stamina, and prior trekking experience at altitude is highly recommended. The difficulty is rewarding though—with world-class views and immersive experiences.

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. One of Manaslu’s greatest appeals is its relative solitude. Even during peak seasons, the trail sees far fewer trekkers than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. This allows for a more peaceful and immersive trekking experience, especially in the authentic mountain villages where life hasn’t changed much for generations.

Yes. The Manaslu region is a restricted area, meaning:

You must trek with a registered guide
There must be at least two trekkers in your group (not including staff)

You’ll also need the following permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Yes. Since the trek crosses 5000+ meters, altitude sickness is a real concern. To reduce the risk:

Ascend gradually and allow for acclimatization days, especially at Samagaon and Samdo
Stay hydrated, eat well, and avoid alcohol
Know the symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue) and inform your guide immediately if they occur

Many itineraries include rest days that double as acclimatization hikes to places like Manaslu Base Camp or Samdo Ridge.

Some of the most memorable highlights include:

Panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal
Culturally rich villages like Samagaon, Samdo, and Lho
The challenging and scenic Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Tal as side hikes
Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags

The trek offers a blend of nature, solitude, and heritage unmatched by busier trails.

The ideal trekking seasons are:

Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, dry trails, and excellent mountain visibility
Spring (March to May): Warmer temperatures, rhododendron blooms, and fewer trekkers than autumn
Winter (Dec–Feb) is possible but very cold at high altitudes. Monsoon (June–August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, landslides, and leeches.

Yes. After crossing the Larkya La Pass, the trail connects with the Annapurna Circuit at Dharapani. From there, you can continue towards:

a. Tilicho Lake

b. Thorong La Pass

c. Or even descend towards Pokhara via the Poon Hill route

Just note that additional time and permits may be needed depending on your extension.

The Manaslu Circuit is the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and high-altitude adventure. Unlike the busy Everest or Annapurna trails, Manaslu remains wild and unspoiled, offering epic mountain views, fewer crowds, and untouched Tibetan villages. It’s ideal for trekkers who want something more remote and rewarding, with a real sense of exploration and discovery. If you’re seeking a less commercial, more soulful Himalayan trek, this is the one.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Manaslu Circuit trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

Additional Information

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.

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