Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 16-day adventure that takes you through Nepal’s remote yet most stunning landscapes and offers trekkers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. This trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, following through Budhi Gandaki River and passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages.

As you ascend, the landscape transforms into alpine meadows and high-altitude terrain, with breathtaking views of Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trek includes crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass, one of the most rewarding sections of the route, before descending into the beautiful valley of Bimthang. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich Tibetan-influenced culture of the region, visit traditional monasteries, and explore the serene beauty of the Manaslu Conservation Area. This trek is perfect for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas.

Trip Facts
Destinations 2+
Trip Facts
Trip Durations 16 Days
Trip Facts
Trip Difficulty
Challenging
Trip Facts
Meals
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Trip Facts
Activities Trekking and Sightseeing
Trip Facts
Accomodation
Hotel / Guesthouse
Trip Facts
Max Altitude 5106m
Trip Facts
Best Season Fall/Spring
Trip Facts
Start/End Point Kathmandu

Package highlights

  • Highest Altitude: 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) at Larkya La Pass
  • Starting Point: Machha Khola
  • Ending Point: Dharapani
  • Trek Duration: 16 days

Key Attractions

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, passing through picturesque countryside and rural villages
  • Trekking through the diverse landscapes of the Manaslu Conservation Area, from lush river valleys to high-altitude alpine meadows
  • Cultural immersion in traditional villages like Jagat, Deng, and Samagaon, with strong Tibetan influences
  • Acclimatization days in Samagaon and Samdo, with optional treks to Manaslu Base Camp and the Tibetan border
  • Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass, offering stunning views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Manaslu
  • Descending into the beautiful valley of Bimthang, surrounded by towering peaks and serene landscapes

Itinerary

Day01

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. One of the vibrant cultures of Nepal will be introduced to you through a welcome dinner at one of the typical Nepali restaurants with a cultural show. During dinnertime, there will be a briefing about your trek details, giving an idea of the thrilling journey ahead in Nepal. This introduction is supposed to set the tone for your adventure, filled with cultural exploration and excitement about what lies ahead.

Hotel
Dinner
Max. Altitude: 1350m/4429ft
Day02

Kathmandu to Machha Khola (9 hrs drive)

Our actual journey starts with a scenic drive to Machha Khola, which passes through picturesque landscapes and rural villages. As we continue with the ride, you will get a glimpse of the luscious green hills, soothing river banks, and mesmerizing views pleasant to the eyes. The day ends with settling into our accommodation, which would be a standard lodging facility. After a warm dinner at the location, we will go out to rest, preparing for the upcoming tiring yet exciting journey.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 870m/2854ft
Day03

Machha Khola to Jagat

From Machha Khola, we will continue the trek to Jagat along the scenic trail of the Budhi Gandaki River. As we continue our trek, we will cross numerous suspension bridges, traverse terraced fields, and pass through traditional villages. On the way, you will pass through a charming village with a unique blend of cultural influences, which will also mark our official entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area. This first day of the trek also sets the tone for the natural and cultural richness we’ll encounter.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 1340m/4396ft
Walking Time: 7hrs
Day04

Jagat to Deng

With an early rise the next morning, we will rise early and trek to Deng from Jagat, traversing picturesque river valleys and lush forests. As we follow the serene trails, we’ll be surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, with occasional glimpses of local wildlife adding to the experience. Deng, a small village with strong Tibetan influences, offers a peaceful and culturally rich setting for our overnight stay. This day of our Nepal adventure immerses us deeply in the natural tranquility of the Manaslu region.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 1860m/6102ft
Walking Time: 7hrs
Day05

Deng to Namrung

Winding through captivating alpine scenery and traditional settlements, our journey to Namrung continues from Deng. As the trail ascends gradually, we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, enhancing the beauty of our journey. Namrung, a picturesque village with stunning mountain vistas, stands out as a highlight of our Nepal trekking adventure, offering both natural beauty and cultural richness in equal measure.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 2630m/8627ft
Walking Time: 7hrs
Day06

Namrung to Shyala

We’ll trek from Namrung to Shyala, a village encircled by majestic peaks that offer a dramatic backdrop to our journey. The trail is lined with scenic views and provides opportunities for cultural immersion as we pass through traditional villages and interact with the locals. Upon reaching Shyala, we’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks, adding a spectacular highlight to our Nepal adventure.

Tea House
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Max. Altitude: 3500m/11483ft
Walking Time: 5hrs
Day07

Shyala to Samagaon via Pyungen Monastery

On this day, we will traverse through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages before reaching Samagaon, our destination for the day. Samagaon, a large village with a deep cultural heritage, offers stunning views of Manaslu and provides a unique high-altitude experience. The serene beauty and cultural depth of Samagaon make this day a memorable highlight of our Nepal trip. Pyungen Monastery being 700 years old gives you a memory to cherish for lifelong. This is one of the highlight in the whole Manaslu Circuit Trek as it comes with a magnificent view of Mt. Manaslu.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 3530m/11581ft
Walking Time: 5hrs
Day08

Acclimatization Day at Samagaon with a trek to Manaslu Base Camp (Max 4800m)

While adoring the mountain views and culture of the village, we will spend an additional day to acclimatize our bodies to these high altitudes. You will also have the option to trek to Manaslu Base Camp, which not only offers a breathtaking view of Manaslu and its surrounding peaks but also acts as a good acclimatization hike. Undoubtedly, this day is a perfect mixture of activity and rest, which is both a crucial as well as rewarding aspect of this journey.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 3530m/11581ft
Walking Time: 7hrs
Day09

Samagaon to Samdo

The next day, after a proper rest, we will trek to Samdo, a village located near the Tibetan border. This trail also offers studding views of high-altitude landscapes and serene paths, offering a tranquil trekking experience. As we pass through traditional settlements, we’ll have the opportunity for cultural interactions with locals whose traditions and lifestyles are deeply influenced by the proximity to Tibet. Samdo provides a unique cultural experience, adding depth to our journey through the Manaslu region.

Tea House
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Max. Altitude: 3875m/12713ft
Walking Time: 3hrs
Day10

Acclimatization Day in Samdo with a Visit to the Tibetan Border (5030m)

Since we are dealing with rapid shifts in altitudes and visiting a Tibetan border, we will take one more day to acclimatize while trekking the circuit. We’ll spend the day acclimatizing in Samdo with a scenic hike to the Tibetan border. This hike not only offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes but also provides a unique opportunity to explore the cultural connections between Nepal and Tibet.As we gain insight into the cross-border interactions, we’ll experience the rich cultural blend that defines this region. This acclimatization day is both enriching and essential, helping us prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 3875m/12713ft
Walking Time: 8hrs
Day11

Samdo to Dharmashala (Larkya Phedi)

On this day, we will trek from Samdo to Dharmashala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail ascends gradually, immersing us in stunning alpine scenery and a serene environment. As we approach Dharmashala, we’ll reach an important milestone in our Nepal adventure, preparing for the challenging but rewarding pass crossing ahead. The peaceful setting and high-altitude landscape make this day memorable for our trek.

Tea House
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Max. Altitude: 4460m/14633ft
Walking Time: 4hrs
Day12

Dharamshala to Bimthang (via Larkya la Pass)

The Larkya La pass is the highest altitude you will get on this trek. We’ll begin our day early to tackle the challenging Larkya La Pass, one of the trek’s most demanding yet rewarding sections. As we ascend, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other majestic peaks.After reaching the top of the pass, we’ll descend into the beautiful valley of Bimthang, surrounded by towering mountains. This day is a highlight of our Nepal trekking journey, offering a profound sense of achievement and some of the most stunning scenery of the entire trek.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 5106m/16752ft
Walking Time: 8hrs
Day13

Bimthang to Tilje Village

Our trek today takes us from Bimthang to Tilje Village, journeying through serene alpine meadows and lush forests that showcase the natural beauty of the region. The trail offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for cultural interactions as we pass through traditional villages. Arriving in Tilje Village, we’ll find a picturesque setting perfect for an overnight stay, adding a peaceful and enriching experience to our Nepal trip.

Tea House
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner
Max. Altitude: 2300m/7546ft
Walking Time: 6hrs
Day14

Tilje to Dharapani and Drive to Besisahar

Giving a closure to our journey on foot, we will wake early and trek to Dharapani saying final good byes to Tilje village. Upon reaching Dharapani, we’ll transition to a drive to Besisahar, enjoying the scenic landscapes that unfold along the way. This day marks a shift from the physical demands of trekking to a more relaxed journey, offering us time to reflect on the incredible experiences of our Nepal adventure as we prepare to return to the comforts of city life.

Tea House
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Max. Altitude: 760m/2493ft
Walking Time: 3hrs
Day15

Besisahar to Kathmandu

With fabulous memories of the trek in our minds, we will wave off our final goodbyes to the pristine lands of the Manaslu circuit and take a scenic ride back to Kathmandu. Once we arrive in Kathmandu, we’ll transfer to our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at our leisure. Whether we choose to relax and unwind after our trek or explore the vibrant city, this day provides a comfortable and peaceful conclusion to our Nepal adventure.

Tea House
Breakfast
Day16

Departure from Kathmandu

As our Manaslu Circuit Trek comes to an end, we may have some free time before we depart for last-minute shopping or a final exploration of Kathmandu. Our representative will then transfer us to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure and marking the conclusion of our unforgettable Nepal adventure. We’ll depart with cherished memories of the stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences that defined our journey.

Hotel

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop off (both domestic and international)
  • Welcome/Farewell dinner at Kathmandu
  • English speaking guide throughout the trek duration
  • Porter to carry your duffel bag. 2:1 for Guest to Porter ratio
  • Stay at teahouses/ guesthouses on the trek on a twin-sharing basis (single room available with an extra charge)
  • Manaslu Conservation area permit
  • Manaslu Restricted area permit
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
  • Dharapani-Besishahar Jeep (Sharing basis)
  • Besishahar-Kathmandu by Local Bus
  • Standard meals during the trek include Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Purifies drinking water during the trek using a water purifier or chemical purifying tablets
  • All necessary permits for the Manaslu Circuit trek
  • First-aid treatment in case of any emergencies
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes

Cost Excludes

  • Accommodation or meals in Kathmandu except for the welcome/farewell dinner
  • International flight fares and airport departure tax.
  • Private transfers from Kathmandu to Trek starting location and return drive from Besisahar.
  • Bottled water or any kind of beverage.
  • Tourist visa for entry in Nepal.
  • Travel insurance and the emergency evacuation service charges.
  • Personal expenses including personal gear or equipment.

Extra Information

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, we’ll warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, we’ll treat ourselves to a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine, where we’ll also receive a detailed briefing about the upcoming Manaslu Circuit Trek. This introduction marks the start of our exciting Nepal adventure, setting the stage for the unforgettable journey that lies ahead.

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Trip Map

Trip FAQs

When is the best time to trek to Manaslu Circuit?

The best time to trek Manaslu Circuit is during the Autumn and Spring seasons, as the climate is favorable and the trekking route is rich in luscious greens. For a safe, memorable, and awesome experience, plan a trek between mid-September and November or March and June. However, the trek is possible all around the year. As long as you can avoid rainstorms and sustain extreme temperatures, you can ascend during colder months to avoid the crowd.

How long does the Manaslu Circuit trek take?

A standard Manaslu Circuit trek takes 16 days, starting from Machha Khola, and it also includes acclimatization days and stays at the area's major attractions.

Do I need to book in advance?

Though it might not be mandatory, booking your base camp trek in advance is better to ease the process, specifically if you plan for trekking seasons, as mentioned above. Booking in advance secures your spot and ensures you and your trekking company are well-prepared for the trek. However, getting the trekking permits, booking accommodation and transport, and getting your visas might take time.

What kind of fitness level is required?

To trek to the Manaslu Circuit and Manaslu Base Camp, you will require moderate fitness since you will walk at least 6-7 hours daily. You will also need good cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength to ascend quickly through rough terrain. If you aren’t somebody who doesn’t perform physical training regularly, it is better to start training at least ¾ months in advance. Ensure you include cardio, flexibility exercises, and strength training in your workout to prepare your body for the trek.

What permits are required?

To explore the Manaslu circuit, you will require three different permits along with the TIMS permit. While the Manaslu Conservation Area permit and Annapurna Conservation Area permit are necessary for every trekker, Nepali citizens do not require the Manaslu Restricted Area permit. Additionally, you must acquire a Tsum Valley Restricted Area permit to visit the valley.

Do I need travel insurance?

It isn’t mandatory to take travel insurance for trekking the Manaslu circuit or to the Manaslu Base Camp, but it is advisable to do so to prepare in advance for possible catastrophic situations on the trek.

Can I customize my itinerary?

Yes, you can customize your itinerary for Manaslu trekking according to your needs. We can add or subtract the acclimatization days, optimize the trekking route, and shorten or elongate the trek as you prefer. However, if you have booked for our regular trekking package that moves as a group, customizing the itinerary just for an individual isn’t possible.

What is the best way to train for the trek?

Some of the best ways to train for the trek are through regular cardio, focusing on breathing exercises, strength training, lifting weights, hamstring sketching exercises, and so on. You can also switch to climbing stairs instead of lifts, walking, or jogging instead of driving to smaller distances to prepare your body. Additionally, going on regular hikes or climbing up the hills can be the best way to train for the trek.

What kind of gear do I need?

To trek to Manaslu Circuit and Manaslu Base Camp, you will need lightweight and warmer clothing, trekking poles, hiking boots, headlamps, sleeping bags, sunglasses, toiletries, and solar batteries.

Do I need vaccinations?

Getting any vaccinations to trek to the Annapurna base camp is not mandatory. However, you can check your country’s travel regulations and vaccinate yourself before visiting Nepal. Typically, routine vaccines are available, including those against Malaria, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, and Cholera.

What currency should I carry?

For any personal expenses other than those offered by the trekking company, you will need Nepalese rupees for your ABC or the Annapurna circuit trek trip. However, having some USD or your home currency as a backup for emergencies or returns is better. Exchange your currencies for Nepali rupees in Kathmandu to find the best rates.

Do I need a visa for Nepal?

To travel to Nepal, you will need a “Tourist Visa.” This visa is available on arrival for most foreign visitors except those from African countries, Afghanistan, and refugees with travel documents. Check the official website of the Department of Immigration for information regarding On Arrival and other tourist visas in Nepal.

Is it possible to trek solo?

Traveling to protected areas like the Manaslu region requires at least a two-person team to get the permit. So even if you are courageous enough to travel solo, it isn’t possible to do so in Manaslu. Besides, traveling solo requires additional physical and mental strength despite being an exciting and exhilarating trek at the same time.

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