Manaslu Circuit Trek

based on 74 reviews
Trip Information
  • Trip Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Max. Altitude 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
  • Start/End Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Trip Type Lodge to Lodge Trek
  • Accommodation Lodge Trek(tea House)
  • Transport Car/Jeep/Bus
  • Best Season Sep-Nov and Feb-May

Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days Package Fixed Departure 2023

The Manaslu circuit trek is one of the best and popular treks in Nepal. The trek takes you around Mt. Manaslu, the world’s eighth highest mountain. The 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek will be an amazing trip for the people who want to explore unique places and who loves natural beauty.

The manaslu circuit trek is a 16 days trek that takes you through variety of stunning landscapes, high passes, traditional villages and Buddhist monasteries. While doing the trek you will be able to explore numerous mountains on the way such as: Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himal chuli, etc. The highest point in the trek is Larky la pass which offers stunning views. The trekkers will have a wonderful opportunity of visiting the beautiful manaslu conservation area and explore wide range of flora and fauna. The trekkers will pass through many Nepalese cultural heritage sites and traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements. They can learn unique traditions and cultures and be part of the rural lifestyle. The trekkers will be amazed by the jaw dropping scenery and ancient cultures and traditions. The natural beauty of the forests, magical mountain ranges, flora and fauna, waterfalls, lakes and rivers in this region will make you fall in love with this beautiful trekking trip. The Manaslu Circuit trekking route provides a pure village hiking experience without the touch of modernization. The fascinating Manaslu circuit trek 16 days package will be full of adventures and thrills with beautiful touch of nature.

It will be a great trekking journey meeting with the locals, observing their cultures and lifestyles and exploring hidden wonders. Welcome Nepal treks provide this amazing Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 day’s package at a very reasonable price with high quality services and great hospitality. Trekkers who are seeking for challenging, rewarding and different trekking experience in Nepal must try Manaslu Circuit Trek. Book the 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trekking package with us and get a lifetime trekking experience.

 

Major Highlights

  • Off-the-beaten trekking route and less-crowded trail
  • Trek in the restricted area in Nepal, around Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world
  • Come across several exotic flora and fauna as you'll be trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area
  • The adventurous trail through pristine valleys, picturesque villages, and lush forests
  • Visit ancient monasteries along the way and pass by numerous mani walls, prayer wheels & prayer flags
  • Cross challenging Larkya La pass
  • Experience moraine walking and trek by alpine lakes, glaciers & grassy pastures
  • Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
  • Get to see rich Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage
  • Majestic views of the tall snowcapped peaks such as: Manaslu Mountain, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Annapurna II, etc.
  • Beautiful natural scenery of forests, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, etc
  • Exploring flora and fauna of Manaslu conservation area.
  • Explore the beautiful villages and observe the unique cultures, traditions and lifestyles of Nepalese people
  • Visit the Nepalese cultural heritages sites
  • Meet the friendly locals and enjoy their warm hospitality.
Itinerary

Best Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary 2022/2023

We have crafted the most ideal Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary for 2022/2023 that combines all the exclusive places along the trail with beautiful overnight stays. The package includes a native local guide, porters, permits, and all the necessities with no hidden charge. You can extend the Manaslu circuit trekking to Tsum valley if you have some additional days for more adventure. For more information, contact us. 

The ancient cultural heritage of the natives & the adventurous trail

The initial part of the route presents Hindus and their culture. You'll be walking through subtropical valleys with terraced fields & lush forests. The Manaslu circuit route goes along the Budhi Gandaki river from day one and gradually ascends to Nupri. Nupri means western mountain area. After Jagat, you can notice more Tibetan Buddhist-influenced villages. The locals of Shyo, Lho, Sama Gaon, and Samdo are the direct descendants of Tibetans. 

Their distinct cultural heritage and a strong attachment to their roots will leave you in awe. The fact that the locals in the upper part of the Manaslu circuit trek still leaving a simple lifestyle like old times itself is intriguing. The Manaslu circuit trek is nothing less than traveling back in time where a handful of modern services coexist with nature. 

The trail has more cultural essence than you may have imagined. You'll come across numerous stupas, mani walls, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and inscribed stones on the way. Pun Gyen Gompa is one of the oldest monasteries located close to Sama Gaon. You'll visit here on your acclimatization day in Sama Gaon along with the Manaslu base camp. 

Breathtaking mountain panoramas & cross challenging Larkya La pass

No Himalayan excursion in Nepal is complete without mesmerizing views of the snow-clustered mountains that go above 8,000 meters. On the Manaslu Circuit trek 16 days, you get to see towering mountains such as Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Mt. Kang Guru (6,981 m), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Langtang Himal (7,234 m), Siringi Himal (7,187 m), etc. Not only this, the Manaslu trail is abundant in flora & fauna that add more depth to the landscapes. 

One of the major highlights of Manaslu circuit trekking is a hike to Larkya La pass, which is by no means easy. The pass stands at 5,160 meters, touching the clouds. To reach the top of the pass, you have to walk past moraines, glacial rivers, alpine lakes, and grassy pastures. The trail also offers views of stunning glaciers. It is a steep, rough walk up Larkya La, so extra attention is needed.  

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Meet with the airport assistance team once you are done with getting a visa. We'll send you their number and photo. They will also hold your name card and our company banner, so you'll not have any hard time recognizing them. You'll have a smooth escort to the hotel. We meet you late in the evening over a complimentary welcome dinner.

  • Max. Altitude: १,४०० m
  • Day tour time:2 hours
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

The second day we’ll spend in Kathmandu visiting the ancient monuments and museums. Our tour guide will accompany you to the sites and tell you the fascinating legends behind the sites. Some of the places you'll be visiting during the tour are, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Moneky Temple. If the time allows, we'll also visit the bustling Asan market. 

The latter half of the day, we'll spend preparing for the trek. You'll meet with the trek guide and do the final packing. There are many gear shops in Thamel that sell/rent trekking equipment. If anything seems missing, we'll do the shopping too. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: १,४०० m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Leaving Kathmandu, we'll follow the Trishuli river and drive towards Soti Khola. We'll use a private vehicle for this ride. The landscape along the route is unlike anything you'll have ever seen. The green hills, rivers, terraced fields, and occasional waterfalls make the ride insanely beautiful. After a few hours of riding, we'll get to see views of Mt. Annapurna, Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Mt. Manaslu.

 

  • Max. Altitude: 730 m
  • Day tour time:7/8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Today is our first day of the trek. Leaving Soti Khola, we head towards Maccha Khola. We'll be following a stunning path full of green hills, waterfalls, rivers, bridges, etc. The trail ascends and descends through sal forests. We may come across mules on the way. Passing by Khursani village, we walk by Labubesi. Labubesi is a fine Gurung village. From here, the trail leads to Maccha Khola. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 890 m
  • Day tour time:6/7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

We leave Jagat and cross a log bridge on a river. The trail ascends and descends steeply. We'll soon walk on a narrow path that leads to Khorla Besi (970 m). From here, we walk for another 5/6 hours passing by small villages like Tatopani, Yuru Khola, etc. upon reaching Jagat, we'll take a rest and have food. Jagat is the entry point of the Manaslu Conservation Area. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 2,340 m
  • Day tour time:6/7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Leaving Deng, we'll walk to Salleri. The trail from here drops down to Sirdibas. We'll walk past many gompas and prayer flags. Soon we reach Phillim and continue trekking along the western bank of a river. We can see unique sculptures over the boulders on the river bank along the way. Further, we walk through Himalayan pine & rhododendron forests. We'll then cross a bridge over Siyar Khola and follow the trail that leads to Pewa. From here, the trail is zigzag and passes by bamboo forest to Deng. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 1,865 m
  • Day tour time:6/7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Leaving Deng, we'll cross a suspension bridge and ascend to Rana. The trail then climbs to Bihi Phedi. We may see monkeys on the way. Passing by Ghap village, we come across several landslide zones and follow an uphill trail to Namrung. Before reaching, we'll be walking on an uneven, steep trail for an hour. Namrung is a big village with modern services like WiFi and cappuccinos. We can see views of Ganesh Himal, Mt. Himalchuli, and Siringi Himal. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 2,630 m
  • Day tour time:6/7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

We begin the morning with outstanding views of the mountains. After having breakfast, we'll proceed with the day. The trail goes through lush green forests to Lihi village. We'll walk past remote villages like Sho, Lho, and Shyala further. The Lho village presents a spectacular view of Mt. Manaslu, and in Shyala village, we can see views of towering mountains like Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu & glaciers. We call it a day upon reaching Sama Gaon. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 3,525 m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Our first acclimatization days have come. We spend an extra day in Sama Gaon before walking further. We have gained over 3,500 meters in the last few days, so it is time to give our bodies a chance to adjust to the elevation and environment for a safe journey ahead. To acclimatize, we'll hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake and also visit the ancient Pungyen Monastery. We can see stunning mountain views during the hike and get to know a lot about the Manaslu region & its locals. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 3,525 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

The walk from Sama Gaon to Samdo is pleasant. Crossing beautiful pastures, we ascend to the valley. The trail goes via juniper & birch forests. We walk down the Budhi Gandaki river and cross a wooden bridge. Further, we walk on an uphill steep route across the river towards Samdo. Samdo is a Tibetan refugee village with a great view of Mt. Manaslu. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 3,875 m
  • Day tour time:3/4 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

We took a second rest day in Samdo village. The morning is spent hiking to nearby places. We have the option to hike to a beautiful valley behind Samdo that offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains like Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Larke Peak, Simirang, Hiunchuli, etc. Or, hike to Gya La. The Gya La is a long pass located in the north of the village. This hiking route is strenuous.

 

  • Max. Altitude: 3,875 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

From Samdo, we walk through fields and old mani walls. The trail crosses a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river. We then walk past Athahra Saya river and keep walking alongside the Larke river. There are many mani walls and prayer flags further on the way. We'll soon come across Larkya Glacier and trek in the Salkha Khola village. The route ascends to a stone guest house at 4,450 m, which is more like a community dormitory. This place is known as Dharamsala or Larkya Phedi. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 4,480 m
  • Day tour time:4/5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

This day is the most intriguing and strenuous part of our Manaslu Circuit trek. We'll cross the high, and of course, challenging  Larkya La pass. We leave Dharamsala early in the morning to make sure to reach the top of the pass on time and avoid strong winds/storms. The trail crosses a moraine and descends to a small lake. 

The route gets unclear, slippery, and rough further. We'll cross the southern steep grassy slope. We then descend carefully to four frozen lakes and finally begin ascending towards Larkya La pass. The views of mountains like Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Manaslu, etc are astonishing from the top of the pass. 

Now it's time to descend to Bhimtang for a night's stay. The trail crosses the moraine and descends to another grassy moraine at 4,450 m. We'll walk past several meadows before reaching Bhimtang. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 5,160 m
  • Day tour time:7/8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Today is our last day of the trek, but the walk is long. We begin walking by descending to Budhi Gandaki river and then walking via rhododendron forests. The trail opens up to Karche. We'll keep trekking along a river bank to Gho village. From here, we descend on a gentle route and walk past fields & pastures. The trail from Tilje goes to Thonje village and finally takes to Dharaapani village. 

 

  • Max. Altitude: 1,910 m
  • Day tour time:7/8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

After early morning breakfast, we load our luggage on a jeep and begin our long ride back to Kathmandu. We'll make it to Besisahar probably by 3 PM and change the vehicle to a comfortable one for the remaining ride. The scenery is fantastic for sure. It'll be evening till we reach Kathmandu. You'll have the rest of the evening free to do window shopping in Thamel. We meet you for a farewell dinner with the team in the late evening.  

 

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400 m
  • Day tour time:8/9 hours
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel or Resort

Our airport team will take care of your check-out. They will assist you with the luggage and drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

 

    Trip Map
    Manaslu Circuit Trek map
    What's Included
    • Airport Transfer by Private Vehicle as itinerary
    • Twin/ Double Sharing Basis 3* Standard Category Accommodations in Kathmandu
    • Daily Breakfast in Kathmandu
    • Guided City Tour in Kathmandu 
    • Heritage and Monuments Entrance FeesAll the Ground Transportation by Private Vehicles/ Tourist Bus/ Public bus/ Jeep as per the Guest Require
    • Three meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during Treks
    • Tea Houses accommodation during the treks
    • Government licensed English speaking Guide and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter Between 2 Person basis), their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipments, and medicine.
    • Travel & Rescue arrangement.
    • Special Permit for manaslu region
    • Annapurna Conversation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
    • Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.
    • First aid medical kit.
    • Duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole if necessary.
    • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show
    • All our government taxes, vat, official expenses & service charges
    What's not Included
    • Travel insurance
    • International airfare
    • Nepal entry visa charge.
    • All beverages and others personal expenses
    • Snacks and other personal expenses
    • Hot shower-WiFi during the trek
    • Tips for guide, porter and driver
    Useful Information

    Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty

    Manaslu region is not connected with the rest of Nepal, and given the difficulty of the terrain, not many trekkers travel in the region. Therefore, the services along the trail are not good enough, which makes trekking in the Manaslu region more difficult than it actually is. Compared to other trekking routes in the Himalayas, the Manaslu trail is on the difficult side and is only recommended to experienced trekkers. 

    The trail is physically draining and demands strong physical fitness. You have to be able to work 6/7 hours a day. Most of the route winds through dense forests and has steep, rugged sections. You'll be gaining elevation on a daily basis. So, thin air pressure also makes the walk exhausting as the trek progresses. Likewise, the limited services test your endurance. All these setbacks keep the crowd away from the region, making it one of the best trails in the Himalayas. 

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Preparation

    The Manaslu Circuit trek crosses the Larkya La, which is a high precipitous pass. There's no rock/technical climbing involved in this trek, however you need a firm build and stamina to walk on steep uphill paths. Similarly, the trail goes through slippery landslide areas. The approximate distance covered during the Manaslu circuit trekking is 180 km (110 miles). To be able to walk this long and enjoy the trek to the fullest, you have to be healthy & of course, have sound fitness. 

    Trekking for more than 10 days in the mountains is not easy regardless of the trail difficulty. You have to be well-prepared and ready to face any unseen adverse situation. Our trained guide will make sure you are crossing all the difficult sections safely. To prepare for the Manaslu circuit trek, you can do cardiovascular training. Exercising every day will help you stay fit and build stamina over the course. Cycling, swimming, running, etc are the best activities. 

    Best time to go on a Manaslu Circuit Trek

    The best time to do the Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal is from March to April and October to November. The bright days offer unobstructed views, and the mild climate makes the trek pleasant. You do not have to overpack. The weather remains stable in spring and autumn with teeming vegetation & wildlife. There is less chance of the trail getting closed, or you coming across precipitation. 

    Accommodation for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

    Manaslu circuit trek is a teahouse trek. It is much simpler than lodge accommodation and mostly has a shared washroom. The bedrooms are shared between two trekkers and are not heated, so you have to carry a sleeping bag with you. You'll get a clean bed blanket & pillow to spend the night. The water is usually freezing cold. Taking a hot shower will cost you a few extra bucks (not covered in the Manaslu circuit trek cost).

    Meals & Drinking Water During Manaslu circuit Trek

    Unlike the famous EBC and ABC trekking routes, you'll not get pizza or burgers on the trail in the Manaslu region. However, humble and warm Nepali/Tibetan meals will keep you filled. Dal bhat, thukpa, Tibetan bread, soup, porridge, and dhido will be mostly seen on the menu, with some other options like fried veggies, momo, sweet potatoes, etc. In Kathmandu, you will get all kinds of cuisines. 

    Drinking water is given in all the teahouses. These are not mineral water but boiled or processed water, which is okay to drink. We'll be using water purification tablets at some places for extra protection. Do not drink water directly from tap water or stream. It may give you indigestion. 

    Travel Insurance For Manaslu circuit Trek

    Travel insurance is important to join the Manaslu circuit trek 2023/2024. We do not give trip confirmation notice until the participant provides us with well-covered travel insurance. Because of all the underlying risks and lacking accessibility of the Manaslu region to another part of the country, we use air evacuation in any emergency. 

    Telephone and Wifi in the Manaslu Circuit Trek

    The telephone service and WiFi service along the Manaslu circuit trail are poor. The region does not have adequate infrastructure for a stable network even though you use cellular data. It's better not to obsess over using the internet while trekking as it may ruin your experience. The team leader will have a satellite phone with him to stay in touch with us all the time.

    FAQs
    • Q1. How do you get to Manaslu?

      Soti Khola is the starting point of the Manaslu trek. From Kathmandu, Soti Khola is located 126 km (80 miles) away. You can go there by taking a long scenic ride on a public bus or renting a comfortable jeep & driver. The drive is 8+ hours long.

       

    • Yes, we organize a private Manaslu circuit trek for companies, clubs, or individuals to do with their loved ones. You can customize the itinerary and include places of interest as per your need. 

       

    • Yes, you can fly back to Kathmandu after doing the Manaslu circuit trek. On your request, we can combine a helicopter return for you. Extra charges will be applied. 

       

    • No, you cannot do Manaslu circuit trek solo. As per the rules, you have to trek with a registered Nepali trekking company of at least group two people. And you cannot count a guide or porter in the group.

       

    • Yes, the Manaslu circuit restricted area permit is expensive. It cost USD 70 per person for the first seven days in the autumn season and USD 10 each day thereafter. Likewise in spring, the permit cost USD 50 for the first seven days and USD 7 per day thereafter. No, you cannot obtain a restricted area permit by yourself or with the help of an independant guide. The involvement of a registered Nepali trekking company is a must. 

       

    • Yes, the upper part of the Manaslu circuit trail traverses close to the Tibetan border. You are not allowed to cross the border, though. 

       

    • You have to pay a few extra bucks to charge your device on the way. Every teahouse has a separate charging station. It's better to carry spare batteries or a solar charger. 

       

    What Our Clients Say
    • R
      Rose MarshallEcudaor Dec 30, 2022
      Facebook

      Trekking trip to manaslu circuit

      Our trip to manaslu circuit trek was well organized by welcome Nepal treks. Our trek guide Manish was professional. He guided us properly in the difficult paths and shared his knowledge and experiences of the trek. The trek is amazing with stunning nature and beautiful cultures.

      It was my best decision to choose welcome Nepal treks. The company is well organized and does their best to satisfy customers. We are extremely happy. Highly recommended!

    • V
      Valerie MelodyNew Zealand Oct 18, 2022
      Google

      Memorable trek

      We completed the manaslu circuit trek with the help and support of welcome Nepal treks. From the beginning of the trek we were properly looked after by the team. Sandip was very knowledgeable guide. He knew all the routes and teahouses. Larkya la pass was full of snow and difficult to hike. But the pass offered the best view of snow covered mountains. It was a very beautiful trek with lots of adventure. We will remember this trek forever.