Manaslu Circuit Trek - 17 Days

Round Manaslu Trek
Trip Facts
  • Trip Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Maximum Altitude 5160m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Best Season February to May & September to Mid- December
Highlights
  • Breathtaking views: The trek provides stunning views of the Manaslu mountain range, including the eighth highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu.
  • Unique culture and lifestyle: The trek offers a chance to witness the lifestyle and culture of local communities, including the Gurungs, who are known for their hospitality and traditional way of life.
  • Remote trails and pristine nature: The Round Manaslu Trek takes you through remote trails that are less crowded than other popular trekking routes in Nepal. You'll be able to experience pristine nature, including dense forests, waterfalls, and high-altitude landscapes.
  • Larkya La Pass: The trek takes you through the Larkya La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at 5,135 meters. From here, you'll be able to witness panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Monasteries and temples: The trek pass through several monasteries and temples, including the ancient Buddhist monasteries of Samagaon.
  • Local cuisine: You'll get to try the local cuisine, including dal bhat, and thukpa, which are popular dishes in Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit trek is an offbeat journey in one of the restricted areas in Nepal. This is one of the classic, challenging trekking programs that offers epic scenery, memorable encounters with the locals, diverse climatic zones, and the adventure of a lifetime. If you wish to leave the crowd of the famous Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions, you should definitely explore the Manaslu Circuit. 

As the Manaslu Circuit trek route is inside a restricted area, solo trekkers are not allowed. There should be at least two people in the group, and the trek must be organized by a Nepal government-registered company like us, and supported by a licensed guide. On this exhilarating trek, you will travel to the base of the eight-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), and explore the Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage.

What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek 17 days?

Like any trek in Nepal, you will arrive at Kathmandu and spend the next day preparing and visiting some tourist sites. The Manaslu Circuit trek starts with a long drive from Kathmandu to Labubesi, and from here, you will begin ascending and descending via diverse terrain and climate. The trail follows the Buri Gandaki river and takes you deep inside the region. 

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is also protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area. The snow leopard is one of the exotic wildlife of the Manaslu region, and sometimes, a few lucky trekkers get to spot this rare animal. Apart from that, the trail goes from sub-tropical to alpine forests, so you will see a wide range of flora and fauna along the way.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is also known as the Round Manaslu trek. Larkya La pass is the main highlight of this trek, and crossing it is very strenuous. Located 5,106 meters (16,752 ft) above sea level, this pass involves walking on steep slopes, narrow moraines, and glaciers. You will also be challenged by high altitude, cold, and wind. 

Once you are at the top of the pass, the sensational scenery will let you forget all the hard walking. Not only that but throughout the trek, you will witness crazy mountain vistas of Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Naike Peak (6,211 m), Shringi Himal (7,155 m), Boudha Himal (6,672 m), Samdo Peak (5,117 m), Simnang Peak (6,251 m), and many others. 

Likewise, the Manaslu Circuit trail is dotted with picturesque villages where you will spend nights in tea houses. There are many stupas, monasteries, chortens, prayer wheels, and prayer flags all over the trek route. The intimate interactions with the locals and their rich cultural heritage will make you feel at home. 

Of course, the way of life you will see here will be unique, but the hospitality and kind gestures of the villagers will win your heart. You will also get to explore Tibetan refugee villages and go on short hikes to Pun Gyen Gompa and Birendra Lake. You will meet with several ethnic groups, but Nubris are the main ones. 

Extend the trek to Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley is a hidden gem in the Manaslu region. Only a few trekkers visit this place every year, making it untrodden. If you wish to further see the most secluded lifestyle of the mountain people, and visit some hundreds of years old monasteries, we highly recommend adding Tsum Valley to your Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary. 

Mu Gompa (3,700 m) is the highest point, and you can further hike to explore a forgotten old trade route. If you have 5 to 6 extra days to add to your holiday, take our advice and visit the Tsum Valley. You will not regret it.

Manaslu Circuit trek or Annapurna Circuit trek?

Manaslu Circuit trek has gotten a lot of hype in the recent couple of years, however this trekking route still sees 10 times fewer travelers than the famous Annapurna Circuit. If you are looking for a less crowded trekking route, then we highly recommend Manaslu Circuit trekking. 

Likewise, the Manaslu Circuit trail is also much more isolated than the Annapurna Circuit and offers comparatively limited tourist infrastructure. So, the Manaslu Circuit trek is also an ideal option if you are looking to push yourself amidst the limitations of the raw Himalayas. 

How to prepare for the Manaslu Circuit trekking?

Manaslu Circuit trek preparation includes strict training of your body and mind, especially if you are not an active individual. Start with day hiking and incorporate frequent 5 to 6 hours of walking. Likewise, improve your stamina and endurance by running, jogging, swimming, or cycling. 

You can further add up strength training in the gym to make your core strong. By doing these things regularly, at least 4 to 6 weeks before the trek begins, you will be physically ready. Similarly, to prepare your mind, practice long breathing and meditation. Research the trail and pack accordingly. 

Manaslu Circuit trek packing

Follow the below list to pack for the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. If you are under a tight budget, you can rent expensive trekking clothes and gear upon reaching Kathmandu. You do not have to bring everything from your home.

  • Clothing: Underwear, t-shirts, trekking t-shirts and pants, thermal tops/pants, fleece jacket/down jacket, windbreaker, beanie, scarf, gloves, socks, trekking boots, lounge slippers, dry towel, etc 
  • Trek gear: Sleeping bag, backpack, duffel bag (provided by us), trekking poles, torch, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, water purification tablets, traveler's knife, etc
  • Health and hygiene: General medicines, bandages, blister cream, personal medication (if any), high SPF sunscreen, SPF lip balm, moisturizer, wet tissues, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toothpaste/brush, biodegradable soap, small mirror, comb, etc
  • Miscellaneous: Power bank, camera, spare batteries, adapter, journal/pen, map, trekking permits, passport, travel visa, cash, passport-size photos, snacks and bars, book, etc

Are you ready for your lifetime journey?

If you are in search of an unspoiled trek in the Himalayas, then the Manaslu Circuit trek will not disappoint you. This trek promises an unparalleled experience. Our Manaslu Circuit trek 2024 bookings are open. Book your seat or contact us at moonhimalayaadventure@gmail.com or +977 9860455963 to customize the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary or the entire package as per your budget. 

Why do the Manaslu Circuit trek with Moon Himalaya Adventure?

We, Moon Himalaya Adventure, organize both fixed departure groups and private treks to Manaslu Circuit. Our trusted on-field team will accompany you during the trek and assure your safety in one of the remote and beautiful parts of the Himalayas. You will get the best value for your money by doing the Manaslu Circuit trek with us. 

Our Manaslu Circuit trek package covers all the logistics, transportation, permits, and expenses of guides/porters. In addition to that, you will also get free airport pick-ups/drop-offs, complimentary dinners in Kathmandu, a free company t-shirt, and a duffel bag to use during the trek. Get in touch with us at any time to ask your questions.

We guarantee the best Manaslu Circuit trek cost in 2024 in the market!

 

ItineraryDay to Day Itinerary
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Upon your arrival team from Moon Himalaya Adventure will be at Tribhuvan International Airport to receive you and will transfer to hotel. In the Evening you will have a briefing about your Round Manaslu Trek with a guide.

  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m

On the second day after having your breakfast, our guide will brief you about the Round Manaslu Trek and the gear you need. In case you miss out on any gear you can buy or rent it. If you want then you can visit around the world heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath) but you have to pay entry fees on your own.

  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m

The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu along Highway. Traditional villages, terraced fields, white water rivers, beautiful woods, and enormous mountains like Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal awaits you along the way. We will finally reach Labubesi after crossing through Arughat and Soti Khola. The Round Manaslu trek begins from Labubesi. We will stay in Lodge at in Labubesi.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:7/8 hrs drive

Today is the first day of walk of Round Manaslu Trek. We will get up early have our breakfast and start hiking to Macchi Khola. The trail is beautiful in and of itself, with waterfalls spanning our path. The route contains some steep inclines and declines, so we should proceed with caution. After walking for 5 to 6 hours we will reach Machhi Khola where we will stay for a night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:890m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

We will begin our trek to Jagat after having our breakfast. Our trail takes us along the gorge alongside the river, uphill and downhill, through a wide variety of ecosystems, and through breathtaking mountain range. We will reach to Jagat after 5 to 6 hours of walk and spend a night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:1350m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

After breakfast we will continue our trek to Deng. Our trail winds through narrow gorges and over the Budhi Gandaki River. We will walk along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki and then through some bamboo forest till we reach the Deng Khola. Next, we will make our way to Deng by crossing Deng Khola.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:1860m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

We will continue our trek to Namrung after having our breakfast at Deng. To reach Namrung, we will follow a trail that goes through a rhododendron, oak trees, and bamboo forest and includes several steep ascents, suspension bridges, and stone stairs.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2600m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

After having our breakfast, we will continue our trek to Lho. On our way, we will get wonderful views of Simnang Himal (6251m). The trail to Lho takes us along the Mani stone wall, and offers stunning vistas of nearby surroundings. Lho is a culturally significant settlement with many religious structures, including prayer flags, Mani Walls, Chortens, and other stupas.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3180m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

We make our way to Samagaun after having our breakfast. We'll be walking through the forest to get to the beautiful village of Shyala. After there we continue our trek to reach Samagaun. Samaguan is the nearest village to Manaslu Base Camp.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3530m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Today we will explore Samagaun. You can visit monasteries, interact with locals, experience the culture, traditions of the region, and hike to Pungyen gumba or Birendra Lake. Samagaon is a great place to acclimate high altitude.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3530m

The trek begins after having our breakfast at Samagaun. We will start our hike by making our way down the base camp route toward Budhi Gandaki. We'll hike across a number of arid landscapes, taking in the breathtaking sights of snow-capped mountains including Samdo peak, Dharamsala, Manaslu, Siachen Glacier, and many more. Following these breathtaking paths, we'll reach Samdo, our overnight destination.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3875m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

The trek to Dharamsala involves passing through arid areas and crossing the Budhi Gandaki river. We will descend through grassy hills to reach Syacha Khola Valley. The location offers breathtaking panoramas of the Syacha Glacier and snow-capped mountains. Following this path, we'll reach Larkya Glacier and finally to Dharamsala. From here, you can see the stunning range of snow-covered mountains, including the Naike and Larke summits. Dharamsala is where you will stay for the night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:4480m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Today we will pass through Larkya La Pass (5160m). As it will long day we have to make an early start. With the help of the prayer flags, we can find our way down the trail. We make a cautious descent to four frozen lakes before embarking on the ascent to the Larkya La Pass. From the pass, you will see a breathtaking view of the Mt. Himlung, the massive Annapurna II and nearby snow-capped peaks. We will then descent after Larkya La Pass and after a steep descent, we will reach a grassland where the terrain flattens out and becomes a bit easier and finally we will reach Bhimtang.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:5160m
  • Duration:7/8 hrs

As yesterday's hike was challenging, but today's won't be quite as strenuous so you can take your time to start the trek to Gho. To get to Gho, we will keep following the bank of Budhi Gandaki River.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3720m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Today is the last day of walk of our Round Manaslu Trek. We will start our trek to Dharapani after having our breakfast at Gho. The trail gets easier to hike as it winds its way downhill. Finally, upon reaching Dharapani we conclude our walk and rest in our lodge.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2550m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Today we take private vehicle and depart from Dharapani as early as possible to reach Kathmandu on time. Beautiful landscapes, hills, rivers, villages can be seen on our way to Kathmandu.

  • Meals:Breakfast & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:7/8 hrs drive

Representative from Moon Himalaya will drop you to international airport for final departure three years prior to your flight schedule.

    MapRoute Map
    Manaslu Circuit Trek - 17 Days map
    Cost DetailsWhat's Included
    • Airport pick up and drop off.
    • Three-night hotel in Kathmandu.
    • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Labu Besi and from Dharapani to Kathmandu for clients in reserved vehicle.
    • Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
    • Accommodation during the trek.
    • Restricted area entry permit fee. 
    • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit.
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
    • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
    • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Labu Besi and from Dharapani to Kathmandu for the guide and porter.
    • English speaking government license holder trekking guide.
      (For 1 to 4 clients there will be 1 guide and more than 5 clients we provide an assistant guide)
    • For every 2 clients there will be 1 porter.
      (The baggage of 1 client should be 10 to 12 kg only)
    • Food, accommodation, salary and trekking insurance for the Guide and Porter.
    • First aid kit.
    • All necessary government taxes.
    • Certificate of accomplishment after the trek.
    • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by client's travel insurance company.
    What's Excluded
    • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos.
    • Your Travel insurance (compulsory).
    • Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu.
    • Hotel in Kathmandu that goes beyond the scheduled program.
    • Your personal expenses and entrance fees while you tour in Kathmandu.
    • Entry fees of Monasteries, temples or museums.
    • Your personal expenses, shopping, donations to monasteries and schools, Wi-Fi, laundry etc.
    • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
    • Specialty snacks like chocolate bars and bakery items.
    • Internet, hot showers and battery charging during the trek.
    • International airfare and airport departure tax.
    • Tips for guide, porter and staff.
    • Things that go beyond "cost inclusive" list. 
    Useful InformationGood to Know

    Manaslu Circuit trek permits

    The Manaslu Circuit trek requires the Special Restricted Area permit (Manaslu RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Our Manaslu Circuit trek cost covers the fees of all these permits, so you do not have to spend additional money. 

    The restricted area goes from Jagat to Dharapanu. After Dharapni, you will enter the Annapurna region, so an Annapurna Conservation Area permit is needed. Likewise, the Manaslu region is also protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area. 

    Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty & altitude sickness

    The Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty is strenuous. It is a demanding trek with taxing terrain and steep, rugged uphill and downhill trails. You will explore a remote region not untouched by the crowd of tourists yet. The trekking route takes you far away from any cities or towns. 

    Trekkers have to be fit and possess good stamina to do the Manaslu Circuit trekking. First-time trekkers will find this trek extremely challenging. Likewise, the Manaslu Circuit trek involves the risk of altitude sickness, simple accommodation, and long walking hours.

    The unpredictable weather and varying altitudes also make the trek challenging. You will start trekking from dense forests and traverse narrow foothills and moraines. The ultimate part of this trek is crossing the Larkya La pass, which demands huge effort. 

    On the Manaslu Circuit trek, you will walk at least 6 hours a day and cover 12 kilometers each day. Walk slow, and do not tire your body. It will help you avoid altitude sickness. Likewise, drink plenty of water and have a balanced diet to keep yourself fueled for long walks. 

    What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

    The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek is spring (March, April, or May) before the monsoon arrives and autumn (September, October, November) after the monsoon. These two trekking seasons offer stable weather, good visibility, long daylight hours, and dry trails. The mountain views are also excellent in spring and autumn. 

    Spring is the season of flowers. The lower part of the trail is packed with thousands of flowers and diverse vegetation in spring. It makes the route enchanting. The temperature gradually begins to increase. The high-altitude Birendra Lake starts to melt along with waterfalls, streams, and rivers. 

    The villagers who have shifted to a lower altitude to spend the winter return to their homes. The trekking route is totally open to welcome trekkers after a long winter. The temperature ranges from -6℃ to 31℃. Similarly, the Larkya La pass is also safe to cross. 

    Autumn is the second best season to do the Manaslu Circuit trekking after spring. It is post-monsoon time, so the rivers, streams, and waterfalls are gushing with water. The pleasant climate and clear sky allow for a delightful trek. 

    You will enjoy warm temperatures during the day and slightly cold climates in late evenings and mornings. The temperature ranges from -2℃ to 15℃. Another merit of the Manaslu Circuit trek in the autumn season is the Nepali festival. You may get to see festivals like Jatars, Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath closely.

    Accommodation and meals

    It is a teahouse trek. Tea houses are very different from hotels and lodges. They offer very basic rooms and a washroom. Services like hot showers, WiFi, and charging cost additional money in the tea houses. If you have not experienced a tea house overnight before, you may be surprised to see how simple can it get. 

    The Manaslu Circuit trail is dotted with tea houses. It allows trekkers to skip the expensive camping trek and do this fantastic trek at a much lower cost. You will get twin shared beds and a common washroom with mostly squat-style toilets in the tea houses. Even though teahouses are basic, you will get a clean and comfortable space to spend nights. 

    Likewise, the meals during the trek are also provided, as per the menu of the tea houses, which generally include Nepali and Tibetan cuisines. Dal bhat will be your staple meal. Along with that, you will also get rice with curries, fried rice, stews, chilies, Tibetan bread, thukpa, thenduk, dhido, porridge, soups, momos, noodles, pancakes, oat, muesli, etc. 

    Manaslu Circuit trek travel insurance

    Trekking in the Himalayas away from your home in an unknown country is full of uncertainties even if you have well planned your trip. Travel insurance is a must when you do challenging treks like Manaslu Circuit. It should at least cover your medical bills and emergency helicopter evacuation.  

    Injuries like sprained ankles and altitude sickness are treatable with first aid, however there can be situations when you need better medical assistance. In cases like that travel insurance will help you immediately transfer to a hospital. We are not saying you will face situations like this during the trek, but it is always good to be secure. 

    Note that, the Manaslu Circuit is a very remote area with no hospital facility. It takes nearly 5 to 7 days to return to Kathmandu because of lack of transportation. Therefore, travel insurance is compulsory. Double-check your insurance policy and make sure it covers high-altitude trekking. 

    Guide and porter during the Manaslu Circuit trekking

    Because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, you can only trek in this region with a licensed guide. Guide and porter are essential parts of the Manaslu Circuit trekking. Given the offbeat trail and isolated location of the region, they add immense value to your safety and experience. 

    Their assistance will make the journey bearable for you. Porter will carry the baggage, which allows you to walk safely on the steep rocky trails. Likewise, the guide will share his knowledge about the region and the locals along the trail. He will help you mingle with the locals and navigate difficult sections of the trail. 

    Likewise, our guides are trained to handle emergency medical situations and discomforts during trekking in the Himalayas. He will provide you with first aid and arrange the helicopter evacuation if needed. Overall, you cannot do the Manaslu Circuit trek without a guide and a porter. 

    Manaslu Circuit trek 2024 last-minute booking

    If you are making a last-minute booking for the Manaslu Circuit trek, make sure you are fit enough to complete it. Because we do not provide a refund for last minute bookings. Book the Manaslu Circuit trek via our website or visit us in our office in Kathmandu. 

    Once you make the full payment of the package, along with your general information and passport details, we will begin to make arrangements for the trek. You have to be in Kathmandu at least one day before the trek starts. 

    FAQsManaslu Circuit Trek - 17 Days FAQs
    • The Round Manaslu Trek is considered a strenuous trek, with several steep ascents and descents and high-altitude Larkya La pass (5160m). One has to be both physically and mentally strong to complete the trek.

    • Yes, it is mandatory to do the Round Manaslu Trek with a guide. A guide will help with navigation, provide information about the local culture, and ensure your safety.

    • Teahouses or basic lodges that offer simple accommodation is available on Round Manaslu Trek.

    • A special permit is required to trek in the Manaslu region as it is a restricted area. You also need Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

    • The best time to trek the Round Manaslu Trek is from September to Mid- December and from Mid- February to May, when the weather is clear and dry, and the views are stunning.

    • Yes, Altitude sickness is big concern on the Round Manaslu Trek, especially when crossing high-altitude passes. It's important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and seek medical attention if symptoms of altitude sickness occur.

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