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Trip overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s best trekking adventures. The trail circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. It takes you through the remote hills and mountains of north-central Nepal, near the Tibetan border.
The trek offers great mountain views, quiet trails, local culture, and beautiful villages. It also includes the exciting climb over Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). If you want a quiet trek away from busy trails, the Manaslu Circuit is a great choice.
The 12-day Manaslu Circuit Private Trek offers a good mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
The Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal’s best restricted-area treks. The route follows old paths once used for trade between Nepal and Tibet.
The trail runs through the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The views change as you walk higher. You will pass rivers, waterfalls, forests, farms, and small mountain villages.
The trail then moves into open hills, alpine meadows, and high mountain valleys. Snow-covered peaks rise above the trail. You will also see local homes, monasteries, prayer wheels, mani walls, and prayer flags.
Landscapes Along the Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit has many types of landscapes. Each part of the trail looks different.
The lower trail passes green hills, farms, bamboo forests, rivers, and long suspension bridges. You will also walk through Gurung villages.
As you gain height, pine and rhododendron forests become more common. The trail then enters wide mountain valleys. Yaks often graze in these open areas.
You will pass villages such as Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo. These villages show the strong Tibetan Buddhist culture of the area. You can see old monasteries, mani walls, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and chortens along the way.
Culture and Villages Along the Route
The Manaslu Circuit is quieter than many other popular treks in Nepal. It is a restricted trekking area, so fewer trekkers visit the region.
This gives you more time to enjoy the villages and local way of life. You will see stone houses, small monasteries, prayer wheels, and mani walls.
Local people have kept many old customs and traditions. Their culture has a strong Tibetan influence. The villages add a special charm to the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m)
Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is one of the main highlights of the trek. It is also the highest point on the route.
The trail climbs through rough mountain land and glacial areas. The walk can be hard, but the views make it worth the effort.
From the pass, you can see Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and many other peaks.
After crossing the pass, the trail drops toward Bimthang Valley. The valley has green fields, glaciers, and tall mountains. The change in scenery makes this part of the trek very special.
Manaslu Conservation Area
The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. This protected area is home to many plants, birds, and wild animals.
You may see Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan monal, and Himalayan griffons. Lucky trekkers may even see a snow leopard.
Spring brings flowers to the forests. Rhododendrons add bright color to the lower trail. Autumn brings clear skies and great mountain views.
The rich nature of the region makes the Manaslu Circuit a great choice for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
A Well-Planned 12-Day Itinerary
Our 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a good mix of adventure, comfort, and safety. The route allows you to gain height at a steady pace.
The itinerary also includes time for rest and acclimatization. This helps your body adjust before crossing Larkya La Pass.
Our experienced, government-licensed guides lead the trek. They support you on the trail and help with the daily trek plan. They also share information about local culture, history, wildlife, and mountain life.
The trek suits both experienced trekkers and people who want to explore the Himalayas for the first time.
Why Trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The Best Manaslu Trek offers more than a normal trekking holiday. It takes you through one of Nepal’s most peaceful mountain regions.
The trail is less busy than the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit routes. You can enjoy quiet paths, small villages, and open mountain views.
The route also has many types of scenery. You will walk beside rivers, pass green forests, cross farms, and enter high mountain valleys.
The restricted status of the area helps keep the trail quiet. You can spend more time with local people and learn about their way of life.
Tibetan Buddhist culture is also an important part of the trek. You will see monasteries, mani walls, prayer wheels, chortens, and prayer flags along the route.
Safety and Acclimatization
Our 12-day Manaslu Private Trek gives proper time for altitude gain and rest. This helps trekkers adjust to the higher parts of the route.
Our experienced, government-licensed guides support you throughout the trek. They help you manage the challenges of high-altitude walking.
They also share their knowledge of the local culture, mountain conditions, wildlife, and villages.
A steady walking pace, good rest, enough water, and proper acclimatization can help make your trek safer and more enjoyable.
Why Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek with HIMALAYA View Treks?
Choosing a good trekking company can make your trip easier and more enjoyable. At HIMALAYA View Treks, we provide experienced guides, local support, and well-planned trekking services.
Your safety and comfort are our main priorities.
When You Book with Us, You’ll Enjoy:
- Experienced, government-licensed trekking guides.
- Well-planned routes with proper acclimatization.
- Friendly and reliable local porter support.
- Comfortable teahouse accommodation.
- Help with trekking permits and trip logistics.
- Clear prices with no hidden costs.
- Personal support before, during, and after the trek.
- Responsible tourism that supports local communities.
Our team has years of experience arranging treks in Nepal. We provide support from the start of your trip until you finish the trek.
You can travel solo, as a couple, with friends, or in a private group. We will help make your Manaslu trek smooth and enjoyable.
Looking for a Longer Trek?
If you have more time and want a longer adventure, consider our 19 Days Manaslu with Annapurna Circuit Trek.
This longer trip combines two famous trekking routes in Nepal. You will cross both Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).
The route takes you through remote Manaslu villages and Tibetan-influenced communities. It then continues into the Annapurna region.
You will see high mountains, green valleys, old villages, and changing landscapes. The trek also gives you more time to enjoy local culture and mountain life.
If you want quiet trails, beautiful mountains, local culture, and a real Himalayan adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great choice.
From green valleys to high mountain passes, each day offers something new. The journey gives you lasting memories and a close look at the beauty of Nepal.
Join HIMALAYA View Treks and experience why the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking adventures.
What Our Trekkers Say
Planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek? Read our TripAdvisor reviews to see what previous trekkers say about our guides, support, and trekking services in Nepal.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by local bus. A private jeep is also available for an additional cost. Follow the mountain roads through beautiful hills, rivers, and small settlements.
Driving distance: 149 km | 8–9 hours | Machha Khola: 825 m (2,707 ft)
Day 02: Machha Khola to Jagat
Trek through the Budhi Gandaki Valley and pass through forests, waterfalls, and small mountain villages. Cross several suspension bridges as you continue toward Jagat.
Walking distance: 22.2 km | 6–7 hours | Jagat: 1,340 m (4,396 ft)
Day 03: Jagat to Deng
Continue along the Budhi Gandaki River through a changing landscape of forests, rocky trails, and traditional villages. The trail gradually climbs toward Deng.
Walking distance: 20 km | 7 hours | Deng: 2,095 m (6,873 ft)
Day 04: Deng to Namrung
Trek through forests and mountain villages as you enter the higher Manaslu region. Enjoy views of the surrounding peaks along the way to Namrung.
Walking distance: 19.4 km | 6–7 hours | Namrung: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
Day 05: Namrung to Samagaun
Trek through alpine landscapes and traditional villages with impressive views of Manaslu and the surrounding mountains. Continue through the scenic upper Budhi Gandaki Valley to Samagaun.
Walking distance: 18 km | 7–8 hours | Samagaun: 3,500 m (11,483 ft)
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
Spend the day acclimatizing at Samagaun. You can hike to Birendra Lake and continue toward Manaslu Base Camp, depending on weather, trail conditions, and your group’s pace.
Hiking time: About 4–6 hours | Samagaun: 3,500 m (11,483 ft)
Day 07: Samagaun to Samdo
Trek through the high Himalayan valley toward Samdo. Enjoy wide mountain views and the peaceful landscape as you approach the Tibetan border area.
Walking distance: 8.1 km | 3–4 hours | Samdo: 3,690 m (12,106 ft)
Day 08: Samdo to Dharamsala
Continue toward Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. The trail becomes more rugged as you gain altitude and prepare for the crossing of Larkya La Pass.
Walking distance: 6.6 km | 4–5 hours | Dharamsala: 4,450 m (14,600 ft)
Day 09: Reserve Day
Keep this day as a flexible reserve day. You can use it anywhere during the trek if unexpected delays occur due to weather, trail conditions, transportation, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Day 10: Dharamsala to Bhimtang via Larkya La Pass
Start early and cross the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m. After reaching the pass, descend through dramatic mountain scenery toward Bhimtang.
Walking distance: 23 km | 8–9 hours | Larkya La Pass: 5,106 m (16,752 ft) | Bhimtang: 3,590 m (11,778 ft)
Day 11: Bhimtang to Tilije or Dharapani
Descend through forests and mountain villages toward the lower Manang region. Depending on trail conditions and your group’s pace, continue to Tilije or Dharapani.
Walking distance: 26 km | 8–9 hours | Dharapani: 2,300 m (7,546 ft)
Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar and Kathmandu
Take a local shared jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar. From Besisahar, continue to Kathmandu by bus. The journey takes you through the hills and along the main highway back to the capital.
Driving time: 8–9 hours
Included
- Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Soti KholaKhola by Bus and Dhara Pani to By sharing Jeep and then Besisahar to Kathmandu Bus
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your Manaslu Circuit Trek with 11 nights Hotel Accommodation
- Government licensed holder, fluent English Speaking, Manaslu Familiar Himalaya view Treks guide, 1 assistant guide if Group sizes is more than 10 trekkers) one guide lead up to 10 trekkers.
- Strong local porter service to carry trekkers’ luggage — one porter for every two trekkers. Porter service is not included for solo travellers and can be arranged at an additional cost upon request.
- Cost Includes Guides and porters meals, accommodation, Salary, insurance, transportation, Insurance and needed equipment for the Trekking
- MCAP and ACAP entrance permit, Tsumnurbi Municipality permit, Manaslu special trekking permit
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day during Manaslu Circuit trek
- Water purification drop or tablets for safe drinking water
- Oximeter to measure Pulse and oxygen level
- Company T-shirt as a Souvenirs, and duffle bag if needed
- Local government, taxes, including official Service Charge
- Trip completion Certificate
Not Included
- Hotel accommodation and meals In Kathmandu
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery charge fee during the Manaslu circuit Trek)
- Personal clothing and trekking gear
- Personal travel insurance including evacuation coverage (compulsory) up to 6000m)
- Additional costs if delays flights and outside the itinerary
- All the costs and expenses which are not mentioned in includes list.
- Tips for guide and porters in end of the treks
Useful Info
12 Days Manaslu Trek – Key Highlights
- Trek under the shadow of Manaslu (8,163 m), one of the highest mountains in the world.
- Explore a remote, off-the-beaten-path trail that is generally less crowded than the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit routes.
- Experience diverse landscapes and cultures during the Manaslu Circuit Trek, including traditional settlements and the unique lifestyle of communities in the high mountains.
- Walk through a historic region associated with the kingdoms of Gorkha and the Ghale Kings while following an ancient trade route along the Budhi Gandaki Valley.
- Cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m, one of the highest points of the trek, and experience the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayas.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Right for You?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded as moderate to challenging. If you have completed a Himalayan trek before and want to challenge yourself, this trek can be a great choice. The trek lasts 12 days, with daily walking times ranging from approximately 3 to 9 hours. On average, you will walk for around 5 to 6 hours per day.
The route passes through challenging terrain, including cliffside paths, gravel trails, stone staircases, and steep sections. You should have good fitness and previous hiking experience to enjoy the trek comfortably. The trail is less crowded and offers spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains.
The highest point of the trek is Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m, a high mountain pass connecting the Budhi Gandaki Valley with the Marsyangdi Valley. Accommodation is provided in local mountain lodges and teahouses, which offer basic rooms and meals.
Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are generally considered the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The weather is usually dry and clear, providing good conditions for trekking and enjoying mountain views. The days are generally pleasant, while nights can be cold at higher elevations.
In spring, the forests along the Manaslu trail come alive with wildflowers and orchids. Autumn is another popular season because the monsoon has cleared much of the dust from the atmosphere, often providing clear mountain views.
Late September and October can also be a good time to experience major Nepalese festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, depending on the dates of the festivals.
Winter trekking is possible for experienced trekkers, but conditions can be very cold and the Larkya La Pass crossing can become difficult in heavy snow or bad weather. The monsoon season can also bring rain, slippery trails, and poor visibility. We recommend choosing the trekking season carefully and checking current trail conditions before departure.
Getting to the Manaslu Circuit
The current trailhead for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Machha Khola. The road network in the region has developed significantly, and trekkers can travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by local bus, shared jeep, or private vehicle.
If you are traveling on a budget, you can choose a local bus or shared jeep. The journey generally takes around 7 to 8 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Private vehicles are also available for travelers who prefer greater comfort and flexibility.
As per our itinerary, you travel by private vehicle from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, where the trek begins. From Machha Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley through several mountain villages before crossing Larkya La Pass and continuing toward Dharapani.
After completing the trek at Dharapani, our vehicle will pick you up and drive you to your hotel in Kathmandu, according to the itinerary.
Manaslu Trekking Permit Fees
To obtain the required trekking permits, you need to provide the following documents and information:
- Original passport and copies
- Nepal visa number
- Passport-sized photographs
- Trekking start and end dates
- Trekking itinerary/route
- Entry and exit points
- Emergency contact information in Nepal and your home country
- Travel insurance details
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you into the high Himalayas, with the highest point of the trek at Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). As altitude increases, the amount of oxygen available decreases, so proper acclimatization is important.
Walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated, and allow your body enough time to adjust to the increasing elevation. Avoid rushing to reach higher elevations too quickly.
Common symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If symptoms become worse, you should stop ascending and descend to a lower elevation while seeking medical assistance.
A rest day at Sama Gaon is included in the itinerary to give your body time to adapt to the higher altitude.
Drinking Water and Hydration
Staying hydrated is important throughout the trek. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink regularly during the day.
Bottled water is available at many teahouses, but using a reusable bottle and treating or filtering local water can help reduce plastic waste.
You can use a suitable water filtration system or purification tablets to treat drinking water. Teahouses may also provide boiled and filtered water for an additional charge.
Internet and Mobile Connectivity
Internet and mobile connectivity are available in parts of the Manaslu region, although the connection can be unreliable in remote areas. Some teahouses provide Wi-Fi for an additional charge.
You can also purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu. However, mobile coverage varies along the trekking route, so you should not rely on continuous connectivity.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List
You do not need complicated equipment for the trek, but you should prepare properly for changing weather and high-altitude conditions. Essential items include:
- Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support
- Rucksack or daypack with a waterproof cover
- Trekking pants and waterproof trousers
- T-shirts or trekking shirts
- Down jacket
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Fleece jacket or jumper
- Thermal inner layers
- Socks and underwear
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat and warm woolen cap
- Inner and outer gloves
- Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries
- Sunscreen, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
- Towel, flip-flops or sandals, and toiletries
- Water bottles and water purification tablets
- Crampons and gaiters, if required by trail conditions
- Four-season sleeping bag
- Sleeping bag liner
These are some of the essential items for the trek. You can also check our detailed Packing List for Trekking in Nepal for additional recommendations.
Most trekking equipment is available for hire or purchase in Kathmandu. You can leave unnecessary luggage at your hotel while trekking.
Guides, Porters and Staff
The Manaslu Circuit Trek crosses challenging mountain terrain, including high passes, glaciers, suspension bridges, and remote sections of the Himalayas. An experienced local guide can provide valuable knowledge of the route, local culture, and mountain conditions.
When you book a trek with us, we arrange an experienced local guide. Our guides have extensive experience in the region, hold the required government licenses, communicate in English, and receive training in wilderness first aid and emergency management.
A chief guide or trek leader leads the group. For every four trekkers, an assistant guide is provided. One porter carries the luggage of two clients, with a maximum porter load of 30 kg.
We believe in the ethical treatment of our staff. Our guides and porters receive appropriate clothing and equipment for mountain conditions, insurance, fair wages, and respectful working conditions.
Travel Insurance and Emergency Evacuation
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude included in your itinerary, which is 5,106 m at Larkya La Pass.
Your policy should also cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and helicopter evacuation when required. Check the terms and conditions carefully before purchasing your insurance.
Trip Safety
We prioritize the safety of our clients throughout the trek. Our guides carry first-aid equipment and a pulse oximeter and have experience dealing with high-altitude conditions and emergencies.
The itinerary includes a rest day at Sama Gaon to support acclimatization. If a trekker develops symptoms of altitude sickness, the guide will assess the situation and follow the appropriate safety procedures. If necessary, the trekker will descend to a lower elevation and receive medical assistance.
A Typical Day on the Manaslu Trek
A typical trekking day begins with a wake-up call around 6 AM. After getting ready and having breakfast, you prepare your daypack and begin walking with your guide.
The day's walk usually starts around 8 AM. Along the trail, you will have short breaks to rest, enjoy the mountain scenery, and take photographs. Lunch is usually served at a local teahouse along the route.
After lunch and a short rest, you continue walking toward your overnight destination. Once you arrive at the teahouse, you can check in, rest, and enjoy refreshments before dinner.
After dinner, your guide will brief you about the following day's route, walking time, trail conditions, and other important information.
On average, you will walk for around 5 to 6 hours each day. The most demanding day is the crossing of Larkya La Pass on Day 9.
Responsible Travel
We encourage our guests to travel responsibly and help protect the natural environment of the Himalayas. Limit single-use plastic, avoid littering, and respect local communities and their traditions.
When you trek with us, you also support local communities, including guides, porters, teahouse owners, and other local service providers. We promote responsible and sustainable tourism throughout the Manaslu region.
Book your Manaslu Circuit Trek today and discover the spectacular landscapes, rich mountain culture, and remote trails of the Manaslu region with experienced local guides from HIMALAYA View Treks.
Trip Map
