Manaslu Expedition - 8163m

Manaslu Expedition
Trip Facts
  • Trip Duration36 Days
  • Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
  • Maximum Altitude 8163m
  • Activity Mountaineering
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Best Season Autumn (September - October)
Highlights
  • Summit the world’s 8th highest mountain with experienced Sherpa guides.

  • Fully guided 36 days expedition including acclimatization and climbing rotations.

  • Fewer crowds than Everest, enjoy a more peaceful high-altitude experience.

  • Trek through remote Manaslu region and restricted conservation area.

  • Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m) during your descent.

  • Pre-climb training and full logistical support at base camp.

  • Ideal 8,000er for climbers aiming to prepare for Everest.

  • Best value Manaslu Expedition cost for 2025 with expert local support.


Manaslu Expedition Overview

The Manaslu Expedition takes you on a thrilling 36 days journey to the summit of the world’s eighth-highest mountain, standing tall at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft). This adventure leads you deep into the remote and pristine Manaslu region of Nepal, combining breathtaking natural beauty with the challenge of high-altitude climbing.

At Moon Himalaya Adventure, we offer one of the best Manaslu expedition packages for 2025, complete with expert Sherpa support, full base camp services, and a carefully planned itinerary to maximize your chances of success.

The expedition begins in Kathmandu, followed by scenic drives and gradual treks through charming mountain villages like Labubesi, Jagat, Deng, and Samagaun. You will spend several days trekking, acclimatizing, and enjoying the rich culture and stunning rhododendron forests before reaching the Manaslu Base Camp at 4,700m.

From base camp, the technical climbing phase begins, with multiple rotations between camps leading up to the summit push. After conquering the peak, you will descend via the Larkya La pass (5,160m) and continue trekking through beautiful landscapes back toward Kathmandu.

This less-traveled route offers not just a climb, but a full Himalayan experience, blending cultural, natural wonders, and the ultimate mountaineering challenge. Manaslu remains one of the most beautiful yet challenging 8000-meter peaks, making it an unforgettable journey for any climber.


Why is Mount Manaslu Called the “Spirit Mountain”?

Mount Manaslu is often called the “Spirit Mountain” because of its deep connection to local beliefs and traditions. The name "Manaslu" comes from the Sanskrit word “Manasa”, which means soul or spirit. Locals believe that the mountain is home to a powerful spiritual presence, and they see it as sacred.

People living in the region, especially in the villages around the base of the mountain, respect Manaslu not just for its height but for its spiritual energy. Many climbers and trekkers say they feel a special sense of peace and calm when they are near it. That is why Manaslu isn’t just another 8000-meter peak, it is a mountain with a soul.


How Difficult is the Manaslu Expedition?

The Manaslu Expedition is considered a challenging climb, but it is one of the more achievable 8000-meter peaks compared to others like Everest or K2. It is not extremely technical, but it does involve long days on steep terrain, deep snow, and the use of fixed ropes. Climbers need to cross crevasses and potentially face avalanches or sudden weather changes, especially above Camp 2.

While Manaslu is often chosen by climbers as their first 8000 m peak, it still requires strong physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and some previous high-altitude trekking or climbing experience. Having a reliable team and experienced Sherpa guides makes a big difference in both safety and success.

In short, Manaslu isn’t the hardest mountain out here in Nepal, but it is still a tough climb. You need to be prepared, stay committed, and respect the mountain every step of the way.

Who Can Join the Manaslu Expedition?

You might be wondering: if Manaslu is difficult, who can actually join this expedition?

The Manaslu Expedition is best suited for experienced climbers who are ready to tackle their first 8,000-meter peak. While it is less technical than giants like Everest, K2, or Kanchenjunga, it still requires solid mountaineering skills, mental resilience, and the ability to endure tough conditions at high altitude.

If you have previously climbed a 6,000 m or 7,000 m peak and want to push your limits, Manaslu is an excellent next step. In fact, many mountaineers use it as a preparation climb before Everest Expedition. If you plan to join our Everest expedition but have not yet summited an 8,000er, we highly recommend starting with Manaslu, it is the perfect opportunity to gain confidence and adapt to life above 8,000 meters.

Final Note: We provide pre-climb training at base camp to help you refresh essential climbing techniques. However, a strong foundation beforehand is important. With the support of our expert Sherpa guides and logistics team, you will be in good hands but ultimately, it is your strength, mindset, and determination that will get you to the top.
ItineraryDay to Day Itinerary
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  • Meals:Welcome Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:45 Minutes Drive

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 Manaslu expedition with a guide.

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

On the second and third day after having your breakfast, our guide will brief you about the Manaslu expedition 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. Leader of expedition team have to visit Department of Tourism (DoT) for briefing.

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

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:5/6 hrs

Today is the first day of walk of Manaslu expedition. 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:1350m
  • 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:1860m
  • 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:2600m
  • 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:3180m
  • 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:3530m
  • Duration:4/5 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

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 to the altitude.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent
  • Max Altitude:4700m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Our adventurous Mt. Manaslu expedition begins as we make our way to Manaslu Base Camp.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent
  • Max Altitude:8163m

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:3/4 hrs

We will return to Samagaun following back the same path that we used while ascending to Manaslu Base Camp.

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

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:4480m
  • 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:5160m
  • Duration:7/8 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
  • Duration:4/5 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
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Today is the last day of walk of our Manaslu expedition. 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
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:7/8 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.

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

    MapRoute Map
    Manaslu Expedition - 8163m map
    Cost DetailsWhat's Included
    • Airport pick up and drop.
    • Four-night hotel in Kathmandu.
    • Transportation from Kathmandu to Labubesi
    • Transportation Dharapani to Kathmandu. 
    • Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek and expedition.
    • Meals and accommodation facility in tent at basecamp. (Twin sharing on Camp 1, 2, & 3 and triple sharing on Camp 4)
    • High Altitude food on Camp 3, 4 and summit.
    • Lodge and accommodation during the trekking.
    • EPI Gas and High-Altitude cooking utensils above base camp to Camp 4.
    • High-altitude sleeping mat above base camp to Camp 4.
    • Mt. Manaslu Expedition royalty fee for Nepal Government.
    • Manaslu Conservation Area entry fee.
    • Annapurna Area Conservation Area entry fee.
    • Special permit in restricted area. 
    • Garbage deposit for expedition.
    • Expedition handling fees.
    • Climbing Rope Fixing fee for Expedition operators Association of Nepal
    • Group equipment (Fixed rope, Main rope, Snow bar, Ice screw, Rock Piton)
    • Sleeping Tent, Kitchen Tent, Dinning Tent, shower tents, toilet tent, kitchen utensils and more.
    • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Labubesi and Dharapani to Kathmandu in private vehicle for climbing guide and staffs.
    • One expert government license holder Mountain guide. (For 1 climber there will be 1 veteran climbing guide)
    • Food, accommodation, salary, climbing insurance and equipment of Climbing guide, cook, kitchen helpers and porters.
    • Food, accommodation, salary, climbing insurance and equipment of Base Camp manager.
    • Carrying wages for Climbing Sherpa above base camp (Camp 1, Camp 2, Camp 3 and Camp 4 and back to Base Camp)
    • Government Liaison officer with food, accommodation, insurance, equipment and salary.
    • 6 Oxygen bottles, Mask and Regulator and extra Mask and Regulator for emergency per clients.
    • 4 Oxygen bottles, Mask and Regulator for climbing Sherpa.
    • Heaters, Generator and /solar Panel at Base Camp.
    • Satellite phone for Emergency use only.
    • Radio sets for members and climbing Sherpa during Everest Expedition.
    • First aid kit.
    • All necessary government taxes.
    • Everest climbing certificate issued by Nepal Government after climbing Mt. Manslu successfully.
    What's Excluded
    • International airfare
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
    • Hotel in Kathmandu that goes beyond scheduled itinerary.
    • Client travel insurance that covers medical treatment, high-altitude evacuation / rescue costs, trip cancellation, interruption, repatriation etc.
    • Nepal entry visa fee (can be obtain upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, requires 2 copies of passport size photos)
    • All kind of drinks (mineral water/coke/fanta and alcoholic beverage) during the expedition.
    • Hot shower, Battery charge, Wifi during the trek
    • Entry fees in Monastries, temples, Museum.
    • Filming and drone permit fees.
    • Your personal expenses, shopping, donation to monasteries and school, wifi, laundry etc
    • Personal climbing equipment.
    • Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa.
    • Tips for basecamp staffs, porter, cook and other support staff.
    • Things that go beyond "cost includes" list.
    • Any Additional cost due to Nature calamity and Unforeseen Circumstances etc.

     

    Useful InformationGood to Know

    Best Season for Manaslu Expedition: When to Climb for the Best Weather

    The best time to climb Manaslu is during the autumn season, especially from mid-September to late October. This is when the weather in the Himalayas is most stable, the skies are usually clear, and the chances of heavy snowfall or dangerous storms are lower.

    Autumn also brings crisp mountain air and amazing visibility, which means breathtaking views throughout your expedition. The trails are in good condition after the summer monsoon, and the dry weather makes it easier and safer to navigate the mountain.

    While some climbers attempt Manaslu in the spring season (April to early May), autumn is still the most popular and reliable window. Spring can bring more unpredictable weather and deeper snow conditions on the route.

    So, if you are planning your Manaslu Expedition and want the best possible shot at a safe and successful summit, autumn is the season to aim for.


    Manaslu Expedition Route: The Climbing Path to the Summit

    The Manaslu Expedition follows a beautiful and gradually challenging route that takes you from lush lowlands to the icy heights of the 8,163-meter summit. The journey begins with a scenic trek through remote villages and forests, slowly gaining altitude as you head toward Manaslu Base Camp, which sits at around 4,800 meters.

    From base camp, the climb is divided into several key stages Camp I, Camp II, Camp III, and Camp IV each higher and tougher than the last. You will go through long glacier walks, steep snow slopes, and a few tricky sections where fixed ropes are used for safety.

    The final push to the summit is typically done from Camp IV, starting in the early hours of the morning. It is a long and demanding climb, but the reward is unforgettable: standing on top of the world’s eighth-highest mountain with panoramic views all around.

    The route is challenging but not extremely technical, which is why Manaslu is often chosen by climbers preparing for Everest. It is a serious adventure that requires focus, strength, and proper acclimatization, but with a strong team and steady pace, it is absolutely achievable.


    Necessary Permits Required for Manaslu Expedition

    When you join our Manaslu Expedition, you won’t have to worry about the paperwork, we take care of all the necessary permits on your behalf, so you can focus entirely on your preparation and the climb itself.

    For the Manaslu Expedition, the following permits are required:

    1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This special permit is mandatory since part of the route passes through a restricted zone. The cost depends on how many days you spend in the restricted area. We manage this based on your itinerary.

    2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Required for everyone entering the Manaslu region. It supports local conservation efforts and helps preserve the natural beauty of the area.

    3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This is needed because the trail often connects to or exits through the Annapurna region after the climb.

    4. Mount Manaslu Climbing Permit: This is the main climbing permit issued by the Government of Nepal, giving you official access to attempt the summit of Manaslu.

    5. Liaison Officer Arrangement: As per government regulations, a liaison officer will be assigned to the expedition. We will handle this requirement as part of our expedition organization.

    At Moon Himalaya Adventure, we believe in making your journey as smooth as possible. All permit fees, paperwork, and government arrangements are included in your expedition package with no hidden costs and no last-minute surprises.


    Meals and Accommodation During the Manaslu Expedition

    We make sure you are well-fed and well-rested throughout the Manaslu Expedition, whether you are trekking through villages or camping on the mountain.

    Accommodation

    During the trekking part of the expedition, you will stay in local tea houses. These are simple yet cozy lodges run by local families, giving you a close-up view of mountain life and culture. Rooms are typically twin-shared with basic but clean facilities, and washrooms are usually shared.

    Once we reach base camp and above, you will move into high-quality mountaineering tents. Our tents are specially designed to handle the harsh alpine environment, offering comfort and protection. At base camp and higher camps, we set up sleeping tents, dining tents, and toilet tents, all managed by our experienced Sherpa and support team.

    Meals

    We believe food fuels both the body and spirit, especially on high-altitude expeditions.

    While trekking, you will enjoy three hearty meals a day at tea houses. Menus usually include:

    • Nepali dishes like dal bhat, thukpa, momo, and noodles

    • Tibetan options such as thenduk and Tibetan bread

    • Western meals like sandwiches, fried rice, porridge, pasta, stews, pancakes, and mashed potatoes

    You are also welcome to buy extra snacks or drinks along the way. Boiled drinking water is available at every tea house for a small fee and is safe to drink. Additionally, we provide boiled or purified drinking water during the trek to ensure your hydration and safety. 

    During the climbing period, all meals will be freshly prepared by our kitchen crew. Our chefs curate a balanced menu that is nutrient-rich, energy-packed, and tailored to dietary needs and preferences. You will get everything from hot soups and warm meals to fresh fruits, snacks, brewed coffee, and a wide variety of teas.


    Why Climb Manaslu in 2025 with Moon Himalaya Adventure?

    At Moon Himalaya Adventure, we are excited to welcome both solo climbers and groups for the 2025 Manaslu Expedition. Our bookings are now open, so this is the perfect time to secure your spot. If you are looking for a more personal experience, we also organize private Manaslu expeditions, you may just contact us for more details.

    We offer one of the best-value Manaslu expedition packages in the market. Our full-service approach includes complete base camp support, high camp logistics, and a dedicated personal Sherpa guide for every climber. Your safety, comfort, and success are our top priorities.

    What makes us different? We are flexible. We can customize your Manaslu itinerary based on your needs and experience level. Whether you are training for Everest or aiming to summit your first 8,000-meter peak, we will build the right itinerary plan for you.

    Lastly, if you are interested, then make sure to join us for this 36 days Manaslu expedition, and we promise you will enjoy every moment of this remarkable journey in the Manaslu region.

    Equipments InformationThings to Know
    • Head & Hand: Hand Warmer, Neck Gaiter/High Neck, Lightweight Synthetic Liner Glove, Wind Stopper, Fleece Gloves, Summit Gloves, Heavy Gloves (Mitten), Sun Cap, Wool/Fleece Hat, Balaclava
    • Clothing: Underwear, Lightweight Long Tops/Underpants, Short-Sleeved Shirts/T-shirts, Midweight Long Tops/Underpants, Heavyweight Long Tops/Underpants, Trekking Pants, Windproof Jacket, Synthetic or Fleece Jacket, Down Insulated Jacket/Pants, Gore-Tex Jacket/Pants, Trekking & Climbing Socks, Summit Socks
    • Technical Devices/Climbing Gears (UIAA/CE Tested): Ice Axe Semi-technical, Harness, Carabiners (Both Lock & Unlock), Ascenders/Jumar, Belay Device (ATC Guide/Figure of 8), Climbing Helmet, Headlamp with Spare Batteries (Petzl/BD), Summit Down Suits (Kailas/Marmot/The North Face), 2 Sleeping Bag: -30 +C to -40 +C, Thermarest Inflatable Mattress, Thermarest Cell Foam Mattress, Assistant Rope, Tape Sling, Ice Screw Summit Boot/One Sports Alpine Boot/G2SM, Crampons, Sun/Glacier Glasses UV Protection, Snow Goggle UV Protection, Extendable Trekking Poles (BD Alpine Flz)
    • First Aid Kit: Baby Wipes or Wet Towels, Water Purification Tablets, Handy Plaster, Crack Bandage, Diamox, Eye Drops, Dexamethasone Tablets, Zip-Lock Bags, Antibiotic, Paracetamol, Aspirin, Sinex, Lodine, Strepsils, Anti-Diarrhea Capsule/Eldoper, Brufen/Ibuprofens, Tincture
    • Toiletries: Wet Tissues, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Bath Soap, Shampoo, Hand Sanitizers & Hand wash, Moisturizers, Laundry Soap, Garbage Bag, Lips Guard (-20/-50 SPF), Sunscreen (-50 SPF)
    • Miscellaneous: Sandals, Lightweight Hiking/Trekking Boots, Camp Booties, Rucksacks (45 - 55 Ltr.), 2 Duffel Bag, Swiss Knife, Water Bottles, Thermos/Flask, Pack Towel, Umbrella/RainCoat, Spare batteries, Pee Bottle, Solar chargeable power bank (optional), Waterproof Stuff Sacks, Satellite Phone (if possible), Journal/Pen, Book/Board Game, Bars & Snacks
    • Travel Documents: Family/Company Contact Number & Address, Credit Card, Insurance Paper (Medical & Rescue) & Contact Address, Valid Passport, Valid Visa, 4 PP Size Photo, Nepali Cash
    FAQsManaslu Expedition - 8163m FAQs
    • The best time to climb Mt. Manaslu is during autumn (September to November) seasons. During, these months the weather is stable with clear skies, and moderate temperatures. 

    • The height of Mt. Manaslu is 8163 m above sea level.

    • The average duration of the Manaslu Expedition can take around 4-5 weeks, including the trek to the base camp, acclimatization, and the ascent to the summit.

    • Yes, you will require permit to climb Mt. Manaslu. 

    • It is mandatory to hire the climbing guide as it is a highly technical climb that requires advanced mountaineering skills and experience. 

    • Climbers need specialized mountaineering equipment, including climbing boots, crampons, ice axes, harnesses, ropes, and helmets. For detailed climbing equipment click here.

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