Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek that offers stunning mountain views, cultural immersion, and a sense of adventure. Trek through remote villages, cross high-altitude passes, and witness the majestic Manaslu Himal.
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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic and remote trekking routes, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Located in the Manaslu Conservation Area in the Gorkha District, this trek takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and offers stunning views of its majestic peak, along with the surrounding peaks like Ganesh Himal, Larkya Peak, and Himalchuli.

The trek begins in the lush Soti Khola and ascends through traditional Gurung, Tamang, and other ethnic villages, where you’ll encounter vibrant local cultures, monasteries, and a variety of landscapes. The lower sections of the trek offer beautiful subtropical forests, terraced fields, and waterfalls, while the higher sections take you into alpine meadows and rugged terrain as you approach the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), the highest point of the trek.

As you trek through the Manaslu Circuit, you'll pass through diverse ecological zones, ranging from subtropical to alpine, each with its own unique flora and fauna. The area is home to various species, including the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Larkya La Pass, located at 5,160 meters, is one of the most challenging aspects of the trek and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The pass marks the crossing from the Buri Gandaki Valley into the Marsyangdi Valley, and the descent from the pass is equally scenic, with views of Manaslu and Himalchuli along the way.

One of the standout features of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is its authenticity. Unlike other more popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu Circuit remains relatively less crowded, offering trekkers a more peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience. This trek also allows you to explore the Tibetan-influenced villages and Buddhist monasteries, providing a cultural insight into the Tibetan way of life.

This trek is considered moderate to challenging in difficulty, requiring a good level of fitness and acclimatization due to its high-altitude sections, especially around the Larkya La Pass. Proper preparation is essential, and the presence of experienced guides and porters will enhance the overall trekking experience.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is perfect for trekkers who want to experience Nepal's natural beauty, rich culture, and rugged mountain landscapes, while avoiding the crowds found on other popular trekking routes. This trek offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking solitude, cultural immersion, and an exciting challenge in the heart of the Himalayas.

Region
Nepal
Duration
17 days
Level
hard
Max Altitude
5,106 m (Larkya La pass)
Daily Activity
6-7 hours
Season
Sept to Nov and Mar to May
Starting From
$ 1925
Nepal New Generation Trek offer 1+10 People
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Overview
Itinerary
Date/Cost
Includes
FAQ
Gallery
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Brief Introduction

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Situated in the remote Gorkha District of Nepal, this trek offers an exceptional mix of rugged mountain terrain, rich cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty. The trek takes you through the Manaslu Conservation Area, passing through charming villages, alpine meadows, dense forests, and remote Tibetan-influenced communities.

As you navigate the Buri Gandaki Valley, you’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery and culture, from the subtropical lowlands to the high-altitude landscapes near the Larkya La Pass (5,160m). Along the way, trekkers will be treated to awe-inspiring views of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding peaks, while also immersing themselves in the rich traditions of the local Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan communities.

The trek is famous for its solitude, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience compared to other popular treks in Nepal. With its challenging terrain, breathtaking vistas, and cultural immersion, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an ideal adventure for those seeking a more remote and authentic Himalayan experience.

Top highlights of this trek include:

  • Mount Manaslu: Trek around Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and enjoy stunning views of its majestic peak and the surrounding mountains, including Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli.

  • Larkya La Pass (5,160m): The highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass, offers panoramic views of the entire Manaslu region, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for trekkers.

  • Tibetan Culture and Villages: Explore traditional Gurung and Tamang villages, along with Tibetan-influenced communities that offer insight into the unique culture and lifestyle of the region.

  • Manaslu Conservation Area: Trek through a diverse range of ecosystems, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and enjoy the abundant flora and fauna, including species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr.

  • Remote and Authentic Experience: The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a less crowded alternative to other trekking routes in Nepal, providing trekkers with a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

  • Breathtaking Landscapes: Enjoy a variety of stunning landscapes, from lush forests, terraced fields, and waterfalls to high-altitude desert-like terrain, offering a perfect blend of nature and serenity.

  • Historical and Cultural Sites: Visit ancient monasteries, gompas, and Tibetan Buddhist shrines, including the Samagaon Monastery, which reflect the spiritual heritage of the region.

  • Wildlife Spotting: The trek provides opportunities to spot rare wildlife in the Manaslu Conservation Area, with sightings of animals like the Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, and musk deer.

  • Challenging Terrain: Trek through diverse and challenging terrain, from the lush green valleys to the rocky high-altitude landscapes, offering a sense of adventure and accomplishment.

Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 1 Arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu  
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our airport representative will come to receive you at the airport, and he will transfer to the hotel where you will be spending the night. Meanwhile, you can further inquire about any information regarding the program. Overnight at Hotel.
Days: 2 Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour  
Today, we will start our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. The tour includes excursing the cultural heritage sites listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List, which includes Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Swayambhunath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa and the Pashupatinath Temple. These heritage sites present a sense of nostalgia because of their unique architectural integrity. Enjoy the artistically opulent palaces, cultural quintessence, old priceless paintings, sculptures and a brief history of Nepal. Overnight at the hotel, breakfast included.
Days: 3 Drive from Kathmandu to Soti khola (710m/2328 ft) Distance: 140 kilometers, Duration: 8 hours  
Our guide will pick you up at 8:00 am for approx. 8-hour drive to Arughat. Through paved roads, the drive is rather pleasant for the first four hours to Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters of Dhading at 1050 meters. But we will be on rougher surfaces for the second section to Arughat. From Arughat, we will drive for another hour and a half to Soti Khola. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 4 Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m/2952ft) Walking Distance: 14.2 Kilometers/8.8 Miles, Duration: 5-6 Hours  
Today’s walk constantly follows an undulating trail mainly through woodlands as we continue to head upstream along the Budhi Gandaki. We will then descend to the wide, sandy riverbed and then continue along a winding mountain path overlooking the river. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 5 Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m/4395ft) Walking Distance: 22.2 Kilometers/13.8 Miles, Duration: 5-6 Hours  
After crossing the Machha River and Khrolabesi, we will pass through the hot springs at Tatopani. The trail follows a forested area until we cross the Dovan Khola from where we will make our way to the Budhi Gandaki Valley. With white sandy areas along the riverside, the scenery undergoes a drastic transformation as the elevation increases until we reach Jagat. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Days: 6 Jagat to Deng (2095m/6871ft) Walking Distance: 20 Kilometers/12.4 Miles, Duration: 8-9 Hours  
The trail continues through Jagat, a well-paved village, and climbs up the valley to Sirdabas, offering great views of the Shringi Himal. We then drop down to the river, cross a long suspension bridge and climb steeply up to Philim. Then the trail passes through impressive waterfalls on either side of the valley today. We will pass Ekle Bhatti from where we will head towards the river and cross it twice over suspension bridges. From Ekle Bhatti we trek along to pass Pewa, traverse along a small campsite and continue through the valley until we reach the village of Deng. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 7 Deng to Namrung (2900m/9512ft) Walking Distance: 19.4 Kilometers/12 Miles, Duration: 5-6 Hours  
Today, we will scramble steeply up onto a spectacular trail before descending to cross the river. Once we cross the river we will climb through an impressive valley to pass through some small settlements. This is where we’ll encounter Mani stones carved into wayside rocks – a sign that we are entering Tibetan territory. In the afternoon, we may take a side excursion to the small settlement of Prok – a two hour round trip – to return back to Namrung for the night. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 8 Namrung to Lho Gaun (3180m/10430ft) Walking Distance: 10.5 Kilometers/6.5 Miles, Duration: 5-6 Hours  
Walking through the long Mani stone walls of the village of Lho, with an astounding view of Peak 29 ahead, we will pass a large stone gate. We’ll take a small detour to the Pungen Glacier for up-close views of the stunning Manaslu from this village. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 9 Lho Gaun to Samagaun (3500m/11480ft) Walking Distance: 8.1 Kilometers/5 Miles, Duration: 6-7 Hours  
The trail then follows a lateral moraine of Pungen Glacier towards Samagaun, perhaps the most beautiful village of the entire trip. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 10 Acclimatization Day at Samagaun  
It is advised that you always trek high during the day and sleep at a lower altitude for proper acclimatization. This day has been set aside specifically for that and you can either opt for a full day or a half day walk. If you want to do the full day walk, we will trek towards the Manaslu Base Camp (4750m) which is approximately a 7-8 walk to and back. Alternatively, you can do a half day hike to the glacier across the valley or to Birendra Ta. We’ll head back to Samagaon. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 11 Samagaon to Samdo (3690m/12103ft) Walking Distance: 8.1 Kilometers/5.03 Miles, Duration: 3-4 Hours  
We cross pastures and gradually ascends to the valley below. Witness fantastic views of the mountains, especially Manaslu, that lies ahead of us as we reach Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village. This remote village is only a day’s walk from the Tibetan border. In the afternoon we will explore the village and the surrounding hills and come back at Samdo to spend the night. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Days: 12 Samdo to Dharmasala (4450m/14596ft) Walking Distance: 6.6 Kilometers/4.10 Miles, Duration: 4-5 Hours  
After crossing a couple of streams, we’ll reach the Larkya Bazaar. This village began thriving from the trade with Tibet years ago. After a steady climb, we will arrive at our lodge in Dharmasala where we’ll stay the night and prepare for the big pass climb tomorrow. Overnight at Basic Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Days: 13 Dharamsala to Bhimphedi (3590m/11775ft) Via Larkya La Pass (5220m/17122ft) Walking Distance: 24.5 Kilometers/15.22 Miles, Duration: 8-9 Hours  
From Dharamshala, walking for approximately 8-9 hrs, we will trek to Bhimphedi the Cross Larkya La pass that lies at 5220 meters 17121 feet! We will climb Cho Chanda and then slowly head uphill towards the steep snow-covered pass. The panoramic views of the mountains from the top are truly magnificent. Witness spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas like the Himlung Himal (7126 meters), Cheo Himal (6820 meters), Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru (6981 meters) and Annapurna II (7937 meters). It is then a steep descent as we pass through moraines to Bhimphedi. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Days: 14 Bhimphedi to Tilje (2300m/7544ft) Walking Distance: 26 Kilometers/16.1 Miles, Duration: 3-4 Hours  
With a gentle climb through paddy fields, we will head towards the small Karcher La pass. The trail descends through fig trees and rhododendron forests to reach Tilje. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 15 Tilje to Chamje (1410m/4625ft) Walking Distance: 19.4 Kilometers/12 Miles, Duration: 6-7 Hours  
We begin with a climb over a small ridge and enjoy a stone paved trail as it passes through a beautiful village. Crossing the bridge over the Dudh Khola River, we will climb up through a Chorten-shaped arch, pass a Mani wall to reach the village of Thonje. From Thonje we will enter into the Annapurna Region at Dharapani where we will need to go through a police checkpoint before continuing our trek. Walking further down, we will come across the village of Karta to later cross a bridge over the Marshyangdi Khola. We can admire the Mani walls along the way before reaching the village of Tal, situated at the foot of a large waterfall. Another short descent and we’ll reach our destination for the night at Chamje village. Overnight at Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Days: 16 Drive from Chamje to Kathmandu by Private Vehicle, Distance 215 Kilometers/133 Miles, Duration 8-9 Hours  
This is the last day of our journey in the Manaslu Mountains. From Chamje, we will take a jeep to Besisahar from where we will then drive to Kathmandu in our private vehicle. We will then head to our hotel where you can relax and take a moment to think about all that you’ve just achieved. Overnight hotel, breakfast, and lunch included
Days: 17 Departure  
A representative from Nepal New Generation will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Breakfast included
Reservation & Date
Saturday
01 Mar 2025
Tuesday
30 Dec 2025
$275 Off
$1925
$2200
10 Seats
Available
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Inclusion/ Exclusion

Inclusion/Exclusion of Manaslu Trek.

Services Included
  • Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek and hotel stays in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
  • Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
  • Guide and Porters: Experienced, licensed trekking guide and necessary porter(s) with their food, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Transportation: Ground transportation from Kathmandu to the trek starting point and back, including bus or jeep rides as required.
  • Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags and down jackets (if required, to be returned after the trek).
  • Safety Equipment: First aid kit, emergency rescue, and necessary safety equipment.
Services Excluded
  • International Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees and processing costs.
  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, personal trekking gear, hot showers, charging devices, and Wi-Fi.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and other trekking staff.
  • Optional Activities: Sightseeing tours, cultural activities, or other extra activities not included in the itinerary.
  • Unforeseen Costs: Expenses due to natural calamities, flight delays, or emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its long duration, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. The trail requires good physical fitness, and prior trekking experience is beneficial, especially at higher altitudes.

The best times to trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear, and the mountain views are spectacular. The monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) seasons should be avoided due to heavy rain, snow, and cold temperatures.

You will need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency.

While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered safe, it’s important to follow your guide’s instructions, be cautious on the trail, and respect the local customs. Acclimatization is vital to prevent altitude sickness, so the trek is paced to allow proper adjustment to the altitude.

The highest point of the trek is Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). It’s essential to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness as the trek ascends to high altitudes.

No, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area, and it’s mandatory to trek with a licensed guide. Porters can be hired for carrying your gear if desired.

Accommodation is in basic teahouses or lodges along the route. The higher you go, the more basic the accommodations will be. Rooms are typically shared, and simple meals are provided. Expect limited facilities in remote areas.

The food on the trek primarily consists of dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, momos (dumplings), pasta, and porridge. You can also find snacks like chocolate bars, nuts, and energy bars, but choices may become limited at higher altitudes.

Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk on this trek due to the high-altitude areas, especially after crossing Larkya La Pass. The itinerary is designed to allow proper acclimatization and gradual ascent to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically takes 14 to 16 days, depending on the pace, acclimatization, and rest days. The trek covers about 177 kilometers, and the days are generally long, with 6 to 8 hours of walking.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is required, including coverage for trekking at high altitudes, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. It’s important to have insurance that covers trekking up to 5,160 meters (Larkya La Pass).

Yes, most teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit offer charging facilities, but they may charge a small fee. It’s advisable to carry a power bank as the charging facilities can be limited, especially in remote areas.

Compared to more popular treks like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded, offering a more peaceful and remote trekking experience. The restricted permit area also helps maintain fewer trekkers on the trail.

Wi-Fi and phone signals are available at select teahouses, but the connection may be slow, especially at higher altitudes. You can also buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu for better connectivity during the trek.

Preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek involves building physical endurance through regular hiking, walking, and aerobic exercises. You should also familiarize yourself with high-altitude trekking and prepare by bringing appropriate clothing and gear for the cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.