Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Strenuous
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Destination: Manaslu region
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Activities: Trekking
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Accommodation: Hotels/Lodges
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Meals: Full-board on trek
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Transportation: Private vehicle
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Maximum altitude: Larkya La (5213m)
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Group size: 2 pax min
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Best Season: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the popular off-the-beaten-path treks done in the remote area of Nepal. The trek goes to a restricted area in Nepal where a special trek permit is required to enter and trek in the region. Mt. Manaslu (8163 m) is the eighth highest mountain in the world, which can be clearly spotted with all it’s majesty during the trek.
Trekking to Manaslu involves crossing over high mountain passes like Larkya La pass at 5,213 meters, taking you to the northern border of Nepal with Tibet. Larkya La counts in as one of the challenging passes and popular in the Himalayas. Spectacular views of Himlung Himal (7,125 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kang Guru (6,980 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m) can be witnessed from the pass.
Mt. Manaslu is believed to be the abode of gods, which literally means “the spirit mountain.". As you trek along the off-beaten remote tracks, the landscapes change from the sub-tropical foothills of the Himalayas to the arid trans-Himalayan pastures bordering Tibet. The valley opens up as you head north with fascinating alpine meadows, giving way to a Tibetan-style village right below the mammoth North Face of Manaslu.
The trek typically starts from the town of Machha Khola after a scenic drive from Kathmandu and follows the Budi Gandaki River through a series of challenging ascents and descents. You will pass through various ethnic villages such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, and finally to Samagaon. These remote mountain villages give full insight into the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people living in the Himalayas for ages.
With a brief exploration and acclimatization at Samagaon, you will head to the crossing over Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, which provides a majestic panorama of surrounding mountains and glaciers. The trail then descends after the pass through the beautiful Marsyangdi Valley to conclude the trek in the town of Dharapani.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trekking adventure offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Explore the fascinating Budi Gandaki River Valley.
- Relish the scintillating mountainous panorama of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29), and Mt. Manaslu as you anchor at the village of Shya.
- Explore the remote settlements of Samagaon and Samdo.
- Hike to the daunting mountain pass, Larkya La (5106 m), to witness the stunning panorama of Himlung Himal (7,125 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kang Guru (6,980 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m).
- Witness the harmonious blend of Tibetan and Nepali culture.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869m/9 hrs)
Day 03: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,300m/5-6 hours)
Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860m/6-7 hrs)
Day 05: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2900m/7-8 hrs)
Day 06: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3180m/4-5 hrs)
Day 07: Trek from Lho to Samagaon (3520m/4-5 hrs)
Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun (3520m)
Day 09: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3875m/4-5 hrs)
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4460m/4-5 hrs)
Day 11: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimtang (3720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m/8-9 hrs)
Day 12: Trek from Bhimtang to Goa (2,515m/5-6 hrs)
Day 13: Trek from Goa to Dharapani (1860m/5-6 hours)
Day 14: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar (1400m/9 hrs)
Day 15: Final Departure
Upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your designated hotel. Welcome drinks will be served at the hotel and after that we have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and the trekking itineraries. You may then check in to your room and freshen up. In the evening, you can stroll around the vicinity of your hotel to get a superficial glimpse of this great city.
We have to go through Arughat and Soti Khola on our way to Machha Khola today. The nine-hour drive offers a variety of scenery, including rivers, hills, villages, and rice farm settings. The Machh Khola is located in Mid-West Nepal's Gorkha district. As one travels into warmer climates, they pass by numerous farming communities and cities along the Trisuli and Budi Gandakii rivers. Spend the night in a nearby guest home overlooking a stunning valley.
Today’s trail follows the course of the Buri Gandaki River. The route necessitates us to traverse up and down the ridges. Eventually the river valley widens and then we proceed for a pleasant walk along the easy trail to Jagat (1300m), a compact village with a beautiful flagstone square.
This is the day that you will encounter multiple settlements. You will first ascend a valley to arrive to Sirdibas settlement. Enjoy the top of the Shringi Himal hills from here. Philim is the next village you will come to. Here, keep an eye out for the terraced fields. Proceed on foot towards Chisapani, our typical lunch stop.
The majority of the villagers are Tibetan native people, whose primary means of subsistence are agriculture and animal husbandry, with oats and nuts serving as fruits and barley and maize as crops.
Afterwards, you will hike through Pewa hamlet and on into the valley, passing a small campsite before arriving at Deng, the little town that is your destination for the day.
The hike will begin early from Deng and take you across a river and up a hill. Mani stones can be seen in the little settlements along the trail as it continues.
Every stone bears a Buddhist mantra, signifying that you are approaching an area influenced by Tibetan culture. Today, we journey through several villages, including Ghap, Ghapsya, Bihi Phedi, and Rana Gaun. Savor the customary lifestyle and communities.
With the sounds of insects and mules, the road continues into the deep woodlands. It will take a few hours to arrive at Namrung.
You will be treated to a breathtaking view of the mountains during today's climb, including Himalchuli, the Shring Range, Mount Manaslu, and others. We hike through Sho Gaun and Lihi.
Ultimately, the settlement of Lo Gaun will recognize you thanks to a lengthy stone Mani wall. We set up a lunch camp today along with a quick hike. You could climb to Ribung Gompa in the afternoon.
The trip begins from Lho Gaun and travels along a trail to the 3500-meter-high Shyala hamlet, which offers breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu.
The path continues in the direction of Samagaun's village. Throughout the walk, this is one of the most picturesque settlements you will come across. free this afternoon.
You will spend today at Samagaun getting used to the altitude. You will go to the Manaslu Base Camp (4800m) if you would like to hike for the entire day to acclimate. You can finish this round-trip in roughly seven or eight hours. If you choose the half-day hike, you can reach Birendra Tal or the glacier that spans the valley. You'll spend the night back in Samagaun.
The trail will quickly pass fields today and then progressively climb. When you arrive in Samdo, a tiny Tibetan refugee settlement, keep an eye out for the breathtaking view of the Manaslu. This community is quite near the border with Tibet.
After breakfast in Samdo, there's a Tibetan market called Larke Bazaar, which is open during specific seasons.
After that, you'll descend to the Budi Gandaki River and over a wooden bridge. Next, you'll hike up and see the breathtaking views of the Larkya Glacier while walking across two streams. Next, you will circumnavigate the Salka Khola valley and ascend once more to arrive to Dharamsala, also called Larke Phedi. You will be preparing for the major, exhausting day—the climb to the Larke-La pass—tomorrow.
It's going to be an exhausting day. After departing from Dharmasala, you will progressively ascend to Cho Chanda and then continue on to the Larkya La Pass.
From the pass, there are spectacular views of Himlung Himal (7126 meters), Cheo Himal (6820 meters), Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru (6981 meters), and Annapurna II (7937 meters). You will arrive at Bhimtang for the night by walking across the steppe.
Today will be a delightful walk on the steady downward to reach our overnight destination at Goa, after a strenuous climb up the Larkya-La pass. The location is surrounded by forests; to get to Gho, walk from Bimthang through immaculate forests with rhododendron, pine, and oak tree lines, passing by various farm shades.
It is much simpler to walk in the morning from Goa to the Manang region in Telje village along the Marysangdi River, as the trip is mostly downhill. On the Annapurna Circuit walking circuit, Dharapani is a sizable community with a multitude of exquisite resorts. The internationally renowned Annapurna circuit path is combined with the Manaslu circuit trekking trail. Once the Larkya La pass is completed, if you have enough time, you might head towards the Annapurna circuit. You will have to spend your final day in the highlands in one of the most picturesque settlements, Dharapani.
We will travel to Besisahar by local shared jeep after breakfast; the trip takes two to three hours. We will then travel back to Kathmandu, which will take about six or seven hours. We strongly advise taking a private vehicle from Besisahar to Kathmandu in addition to using local transportation. We will end our amazing journey in Kathmandu.
Today is your final day in Nepal. A representative of Marron Treks will escort you to the Tribhuwan International Airport, three hours to your flight schedule. As we reluctantly wave goodbye to each other, let’s make a wish to stumble upon one another very soon. Have a safe flight back home and we look forward to being your travel companion in Nepal again.
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu on Twin-Share Basis with breakfast.
- Kathmandu/Machha Khola & Dharapani/Kathmandu transfers by private vehicle.
- All trekking accommodations with Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner at local lodges.
- A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide).
- Experienced Government licensed English Speaking Guide & Porter (1 porter for two people) including their food, accommodation, salary & insurance.
- Manaslu trek special permit & TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- Manaslu & Annapurna conservation area permit.
- Four seasonal sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion) & Marron Treks duffel bags.
- Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.
- All government and local taxes
What is not included?
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal travel insurance.
- Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
- Other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.)
- Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.
- Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
- Tips for guides and porters (Tipping is expected).
Route Map
FAQ's
What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular and adventurous trekking route in Nepal that takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to explore local cultures and traditions.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular and adventurous trekking route in Nepal that takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to explore local cultures and traditions.
Where is the location of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek, which circles Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), the eighth- highest summit in the world, is located in the Gorkha District of western Nepal. It is one of Nepal’s most picturesque and culturally significant trekking trails, which is located close to the Tibetan border.
What is the duration of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The journey begins and ends in Kathmandu that lasts for a total of 15 days, including 14 nights. Marron Treks has carefully planned this itinerary to provide appropriate acclimatization and a pleasant trekking pace.
What is the trek’s highest point?
One of Nepal’s most striking Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass (5160m) is the highest point and provides stunning views of the Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficult?
The Manaslu trek is regarded as moderate to difficult. It is appropriate for trekkers who have excellent physical health, prior trekking experience (advised but not mandatory), and the capacity to walk six to eight hours a day.
Does the Manaslu Trek require any specific permits?
Indeed. Manaslu Restricted Area permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are the necessary permits. All of your permits will be arranged by Marron Treks.
Is a guide mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
Indeed. Government rules in Nepal mandate that a certified guide is compulsory along with a minimum of two trekkers. Marron Treks provides experienced, government-licensed guides and also handles all logistics.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
The majority of accommodations on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are found in nearby teahouses, which provide twin-sharing rooms with simple but hygienic amenities. In higher-altitude areas, hot showers and charging are typically provided for an additional expense. As per the itinerary, comfortable hotel stays in Kathmandu are included.
What food is provided during the trek?
Typical meals such as Dal Bhat (vegetables, rice, and lentils), pasta, noodles, Tibetan breads, soups, tea, coffee, hot beverages, etc., are provided. Marron Trek guarantees meals that are energy-dense, clean, and safe. For added comfort and personal preferences, you are also free to pack your own food along the journey, such as instant noodles and other items, as per your own taste from your own country.
What time of the year is ideal for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is in spring (March-May), when rhododendrons blossom, and there are clear vistas of the mountains, or in the fall (September-November), when visibility is good, and the weather is steady. Trekking during the winter and monsoon seasons can be done, but not advised for beginners due to harsh weather.
What temperatures can I expect on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Season and altitude have an impact on the temperature of the Manaslu Circuit trek. In the lower regions temperature ranges from -10°C to -20°C, while in the Larkya La Pass and higher region, it gets to -10°C to -15°C. In order to keep you warm and safe during a winter trek, Marron Treks offers a comprehensive packing list.
What are the chances that you get altitude sickness?
Above 3000 meters, altitude sickness can occur, but the risks are reduced by slow climb, days of acclimatization, and a skilled guide. Marron Treks has a first-aid kit and places safety before speed.
Can the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary be customized?
Your Manaslu Circuit Trek can be customized to your pace, interests, and comfort level with Marron Trek’s alternatives, which include extra acclimatization days, private or group treks, and combinations with neighboring routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Tsum Valley.
What medications should I pack for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Along with basic supplies like bandages, anti-diarrheal medication, anti-nausea and altitude sickness medicines, pain-killers, and any personal prescription medications are recommended to pack. Also, consult with your doctor before starting any trekking.
Is the Manaslu trek harder than the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is harder due to its higher elevation, steeper paths, and greater isolation. Annapurna Base Camp is lower, easier, and more suitable for beginners.
What makes Marron Treks the best option for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
A safe and well-paced trek is guaranteed by Marron Treks with knowledgeable local porters and guides. We maintain strong local ties with ethical trekking practices and make the Manaslu Circuit Trek safe, fun, and genuinely unforgettable with a focus on authentic Himalayan experiences.
Trip Info
Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 4- or 5-star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (4-star), Hotel Manaslu (4-star), Radisson (5-star), Yak & Yeti (5-star), or similar. During the trek, you will be accommodated in a local mountain lodge, better known as Tea House. These lodges and teahouses provide good services and are equipped with basic amenities. We will endeavor to provide you with the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.
Meals
We never compromise the quality of food or the health of the trekkers as well as the crew members. Generally, we opt for the fresh and nutritional local community food available. You could make your delicious pick from an array of traditional foods like sweet potatoes, buckwheat barley, etc. This way, you could not only get a real sense of the local culture and life patterns but also contribute to promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Besides, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian, and Indian cuisines like pizza, spaghetti, French fries, soups, breads, masala curry, etc. are also available in the restaurants for your retreat.
Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a serious risk while trekking in the Himalayas. It's important to acclimatize properly by spending a few days at lower altitudes before heading higher. By spending time at lower altitudes before pushing higher, your body has time to adjust. Our trekking packages have enough acclimatization days planned where you'll be spending a day or two at lower altitudes, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Electricity & drinking water
For an additional cost, you can use the electricity in all tea houses and lodges to recharge your batteries. The lodges have packaged mineral water for sale, or you can fill your bottle with boiling water. To make water drinkable, you can use water purification tablets too. But, due to hygienic issues, you should avoid drinking water from taps, rivers, or wells in trekking areas.
Communication
At lodges, restaurants, and hotels, Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee in the most popular trek regions, like Everest and Annapurna. However, at high elevations, phone calls are the only means of connection. Our office in Kathmandu is in constant communication with your trek guide. In Kathmandu, you can purchase a local SIM card for communication purposes. At high elevations, the mobile signal might not be as strong, though.
Luggage
Our porters are paired with one trekker for every two hikers, and one porter can safely carry 30 kg maximum weight. Therefore, we advise you to fill your duffle bag not more than 15 kg with your belongings. You may carry a small backpack with your valuables and informational documents. The things you are not taking along on the trek can be stored in a hotel in Kathmandu free of charge.
Typical Trek Day
Mostly your trek day starts with breakfast at 7-8 am, followed by a 3-4 hour morning trek. Lunch break is around an hour, then you continue trekking to your destination for the day. After reaching the teahouse lodge, you can relax, explore nearby areas, and enjoy dinner at 6-7 pm. Evenings involve socializing, a trek briefing, and leisure activities before bed.
Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. Having travel insurance with you makes your trip secure and hassle-free.
Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you can actually connect with nature, culture, and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides who are very well-versed in the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the trek region you are traveling in. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining but also equally informative.
Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high-altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitudes are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. All our field staff are covered by insurance.
