Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5,160 m/16,929 ft
  • Group Size 2-12
  • Trip Style Trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Embark on an adventurous remote trek in the Manaslu region, a restricted area in Nepal
  • Trek through the Manaslu Conservation Area, traversing dense forests, verdant hills, and awe-inspiring gorges
  • Follow a less crowded and offbeat challenging trail that crosses the Larkya La, a high mountain pass
  • Experience an unparalleled trekking adventure enriched by beautiful Buddhist landmarks and interactions with local villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the local culture
  • Witness jaw-dropping mountain panoramas, frozen lakes, and breathtaking glacier views
  • Encounter a diverse range of landscapes, from subtropical jungles to the Himalayan foothills and the alpine zone
  • Share the trail with yak caravans and explore an ancient trade route leading to Tibet
  • Enjoy fantastic day hikes to destinations such as Pun Gyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and more

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an adventurous trekking expedition in Nepal. You will reach the Manaslu Base Camp, the lap of the eight-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, on this trek. Our inclusive Manaslu circuit trek 2023/2024 package covers all essential services needed during the journey at an affordable cost. You will trek with a knowledgeable guide and a porter who will support you with the heavy duffel bag.

If you have heard about the Annapurna circuit trek, then the Manaslu circuit is one of the best alternatives to this world-renowned trek. The Manaslu circuit trek route is less crowded and more off-the-beaten. You will trek following a rugged, steep Himalayan trail. On this 15 days Manaslu circuit trek, you will come across Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage, authentic mountain lifestyle, towering mountains, rocky gorges, glaciers, and lakes.

Starting the trek from Machha Khola at 710 meters (2,952 ft), the trail ascends along the Buri Gandaki river, passing by diverse vegetation, climate, and terrain to Larkya La pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 ft). Larkya La is the highest point of this trek and is quite challenging to cross. Along the Manaslu circuit trail, you will spend the night in simple tea houses and enjoy hot meals cooked by the locals.

If you have 4-6 days spare to travel, we highly recommend adding Tsum Valley to your Manaslu circuit trek itinerary. It is a hidden valley with stunning mountain panoramas and ancient monasteries.

What to expect during the Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal?

The Manaslu circuit trek route is within the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is also a restricted area in Nepal. The region is home to many exotic flora and fauna, including snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, etc. The chances are rare you will stumble upon a snow leopard during the Manaslu circuit trekking, but who knows what is there for you :)

Communities like Gurungs, Sherpas, Bhutias, and Tibetan ethnic groups are the natives of the Manaslu region. The natives of the upper part of the trail are called Nubri and Tsumba. The trekking route is dotted with numerous stupas, gompas, mani walls, prayer flags, chortens, and prayer wheels. The region is much more culturally rich than you may have imagined.

The locals are kind and welcoming. Many Tibetan refugees have made this part of Nepal their home. Over the years, they have blended both country's cultures. Samdo (3,875 m/12,713 ft) is one of the Tibetan refugee villages where you will spend a night during the trek. Likewise, you may share the trail with yak caravans. Some parts of the Manaslu circuit trail also follow the ancient trade route to Tibet.

Acclimatization days and landscapes on this trek

Our Manaslu circuit trek has an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun (3,520 m/11,548 ft). Here, you have the option to hike to Pun Gyen Gompa (4,800 m/15,748 ft), located on the east side of the village. You also have an alternative hiking option to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m/15,748 ft) via Birendra Lake (3,691 m/12,110 ft), situated on the north side of the village.

Likewise, during your stay in Samdo, you can hike to Rui La (4,998 m/16,398 ft), a traditional trade route to Tibet at the Nepal-Tibet border. The Manaslu circuit trek 15 days offers breathtaking landscapes. Trekking from subtropical forests to the Himalayan foothills, you will witness a wide range of sceneries.

The trail has beautiful waterfalls, rivers, streams, lakes, and glaciers. Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m/25,823 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/26,040 ft), Himlung Himal (7126 m/23,379 ft), Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), etc, are seen along the way.

Why is the Manaslu circuit a restricted region in Nepal?

Manaslu circuit is located close to the Nepal-Tibet border with sensitive geopolitical relations. Likewise, the Manaslu region also boasts a fragile ecosystem and a very rich cultural heritage. To preserve and protect the area, the Nepal government first opened the Manaslu circuit trail to foreigners in 1991, announcing the area as restricted.

It means solo trekking is not allowed here. Moreover, trekkers have to be in a group of two people, and the trek must be organized by a local licensed trekking company like us. And unlike the famous trekking routes of Nepal, the Manaslu circuit trek permit area is also very expensive. Tsum valley was opened even later in 2008.

Perks of doing the Manaslu Circuit trek with us

With us, Bespoke Excursion, you will get the best Manaslu circuit trek cost and top-notch service. Our Manaslu circuit trek 2023/2024 package is inclusive of all the essential services, including permits, accommodation, meals, transportation, and native guides and porters. All these services are provided as per our Manaslu circuit trek itinerary.

Our friendly team will answer all your questions and be there for you from start to finish of the trek, making the journey seamless. Below, we have mentioned some additional perks that you get while trekking with us:

  • The finest Manaslu circuit trek package with a friendly and professional support crew
  • Flexible itinerary that you can customize anytime
  • Top-notch service and heart-touching hospitality
  • The best Manaslu circuit trek cost
  • 24/7 support system
  • Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners and airport transfers as per the itinerary
  • No hidden cost or policy

Itinerary

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The team of Bespoke Excursion will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day. They will escort you to the hotel in a private car. Spend some time getting fresh and later meet us in our office for trek briefing and preparation. Meet with your guide and pack the duffel bags. Do last-minute shopping if needed and end the day with a delicious welcome dinner with the team.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Welcome dinner

    The Manaslu circuit trek starts from Machha Khola. From Kathmandu, we will drive to the trailhead following a well-maintained, beautiful highway. On the way, we can see stunning views of green hills, rivers, terraces, mountains, and waterfalls. As we get close to Machha Khola, mountains like Manaslu, Annapurna, Langtang Lirung, and Ganesh Himal begin to show. After crossing Arughat Bazar, the road gets bumpy till Machha Khola via Soti Khola.

    • Distance: 170 km/105 miles
    • Elevation: 890 m/2,965 ft
    • Duration: 9 hours
    • Accommodation: Teahouse
    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      From Machha Khola, we will follow the Budi Gandaki River and follow lush forests. We may come across langur monkeys on the way. We will trek past Khorla Besi and ascend from here to Tatopani. Further, crossing a suspension bridge, we will trek past Doban and a landslide area to Yaruphant. Cross a wooden bridge and ascend to Jagat.

      • Distance: 22.2 km/13.7 miles
      • Duration: 6/7 hours
      • Elevation: 1,410 m/4,625 ft
      • Accommodation: Teahouse
      • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        The trail follows an uphill route via lush forests to Deng. From here, we walk on a flat path and cross a long suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river. We will pass by Philim and follow a dense forest of pine and rhododendrons to Deng.

        • Distance: 19.9 km/12.3 miles
        • Elevation: 1,804 m/5,917 ft
        • Duration: 6/7 hours
        • Accommodation: Teahouse
        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          After Deng, we will trek to Namrung village, crossing a suspension bridge. The trail ascends to Rana. From here, it continues west to Budi Gandaki valley. We will trek through lush forests and pass by mani stones to Ghap. Further, trek past Prok village, enjoying views of Shringi Himal, and ascend to Namrung village through lush forests.

          • Distance: 19.5 km/12.1 miles
          • Elevation: 2,630 m/8,626 ft
          • Duration: 5/6 hours
          • Accommodation: Teahouse
          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            From Namrung, we will ascend gradually via lush forests. The trail is scattered with prayer wheels, stupas, and mani walls. We will pass by Lihi and Sho villages. The trail after Sho follows a rocky hillside to Lho village and continues to Sama Gaon via Shyala. The view of Mt. Manaslu is stunning on the way.

            • Distance: 17.7 km/11 miles
            • Elevation: 3,520 m/11,548 ft
            • Duration: 6 hours
            • Accommodation: Teahouse
            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              Today, we will spend an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun. In the morning, hike to Pun Gyen Gompa in the east of the village or Birendra Tal, followed by Manaslu base camp. Both hiking options offer breathtaking mountain vistas.

              • Duration: 4-5 hours
              • Accommodation: Teahouse
              • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                The trail continues to Samdo village on this day. We will ascend along pastures, and gradually, the valley opens up with mani walls. Soon, we will leave the tree line behind and ascend to a ridge. The trail crosses a wooden bridge and goes past a small village called white Kani before reaching Samdo. This village offers fantastic views of mountains like Simnng Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu.

                • Distance: 8.2 km/5 miles
                • Elevation: 3,875 m/12,713 ft
                • Duration: 3/4 hours
                • Accommodation: Teahouse
                • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  Leaving Samdo, we will ascend via fields and mani walls. Crossing a wooden bridge, the trail goes past the Athahra Saya River. Further, we will follow the Larke River and walk to Larkya Glacier. Trekking around the Salkha Khola valley, we will ascend to Larke Phedi for the night stay.

                  • Distance: 11.7 km/7.2 miles
                  • Elevation: 4,480 m/14,698 ft
                  • Duration: 4/5 hours
                  • Accommodation: Teahouse
                  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                   

                    Today, we will cross the Larkya La pass. From Larke Phedi, the trail descends and passes by a moraine. We keep walking downhill to a small lake and follow a rocky, unclear track that crosses the south steep grass slope. We then follow a marked trail and descend to four frozen lakes. From here, the trail gradually ascends to Larkya La pass top following steep, rugged tack.

                    Upon reaching the top of the pass, we can see views of Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, Mt. Kangguru, etc. From the pass, the trail descends and crosses a moraine. We will keep descending towards a grassy moraine, then to a small meadow, and soon reach Bhimtang.

                    • Distance: 24.7 km/15.3 miles
                    • Elevation: 5,160 m/16,929 ft
                    • Duration: 8/9 hours
                    • Accommodation: Teahouse
                    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                      We have reached the last day of the trek. From Bhimtang, we will follow a downhill route to Hampuk. The trail crosses a bridge and further descends to Yak Kharka. From here, we will trek past lush forests to Karche and further pass by Gho and Tilije villages before reaching Dharapani.

                      • Distance: 29 km/18 miles
                      • Elevation: 1,860 m/6,102 ft
                      • Duration: 5/6 hours
                      • Accommodation: Teahouse
                      • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                        On this day, we will drive from Dharapani to Pokhara. The trail drops via small villages, following uneven cliffsides to Besisahar. From here, we will drive to Dumre and continue the ride to Pokhara. Spend the evening relaxing at Phewa Lake.

                        • Distance: 95 km/59 miles
                        • Elevation: 822 m/2,697 ft
                        • Duration: 6-8 hours
                        • Accommodation: Hotel
                        • Meals: Breakfast and lunch

                          Today, you will enjoy a full day of guided sightseeing in Pokhara. During the tour, you will visit Sarangkot, Bat Cave, Gupteshwor Cave, Davis Falls, and World Peace Pagoda. Explore the local market and the famous Lakeside Market. Buy souvenirs and enjoy your time in this beautiful city.

                          • Accommodation: Hotel
                          • Meals: Breakfast only

                            Drive back to Kathmandu on this day. The ride will be scenic and comfortable. Once you reach Kathmandu, our team will drop you at the hotel. You have the remaining day free in the city. Rest and explore the famous tourist sites. Do window shopping in Thamel, and later join us for a farewell dinner.

                            • Distance: 205 km/127 miles
                            • Elevation: 1,400 m/ 4,593 ft
                            • Duration: 6-7 hours
                            • Accommodation: Hotel
                            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinner

                              Our team will escort you to the Tribhuvan International Airport today. They will pick you up from your hotel as per your flight departure time.

                              • Meals: Breakfast only
                                Cost Details
                                Includes
                                • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                                • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                                • The two-night stay in Kathmandu, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                                • The two nights stay in Pokhara, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                                • Transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besishahar to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
                                • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permits, Manaslu Conservation Area Permits, and Manaslu Restricted Permits.
                                • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                                • All accommodations during the mountain.
                                • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                                • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                                • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and of the 2 guests, 1 porter
                                • First-aid kit.
                                • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                                • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                                • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                                • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                                Excludes
                                • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                                • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu and Pokhara.
                                • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                                • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                                • Personal guide and porter.
                                • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                                • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                                • Tipping to staff.
                                • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                                Useful Information

                                Difficulty during the Manaslu circuit trek

                                • Trek distance: The Manaslu circuit trek typically covers a distance of around 177 kilometers (110 miles). The trek takes approximately 14 to 17 days to complete. Our Manaslu circuit trek itinerary is 15 days long. You will walk 6 to 7 hours a day, covering approximately 12 to 15 km (7.4 to 9 miles).
                                • Difficulty level: The Manaslu Circuit is considered a highly challenging trek due to its remote location, rugged terrain, and high altitude. It is more physically demanding than some of the more popular treks in Nepal, like the Annapurna or Everest Base Camp treks.
                                • Terrain: The terrain varies from lush green valleys and forests to high mountain passes. Trekkers will encounter steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, suspension bridges, and some sections with exposure to steep drops. The trail is rough and occasionally slippery, especially during rough weather.
                                • Altitude sickness: The Manaslu circuit trek involves gaining significant altitude, with the highest point being the Larkya La pass at approximately 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) above sea level. Altitude sickness is a potential risk during this trek. So, trekkers need to be aware of the symptoms and take precautions. Acclimatization days are essential to help reduce the risk.
                                • Preventive measures: To prevent altitude sickness, we have added acclimatization days to our itinerary. This will allow your body to adjust as you trek. You have to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking, and follow your guide's recommendations. If you see symptoms of altitude sickness, such as vomiting, nausea, difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite, insomnia, or headache, inform your guide.
                                • Previous trekking experience: While previous trekking experience is not mandatory, it can be beneficial. Experience with high-altitude trekking and multi-day trekking in mountainous terrain can help you prepare mentally and physically. However, with proper preparation, less experienced trekkers can also complete the Manaslu circuit successfully.
                                • Trek preparation: To prepare for the Manaslu circuit trek, you have to engage in strength training and cardiovascular exercise. This will help you build stamina, endurance, and strength. Likewise, research the trekking region and facilities along the trail to make sure whether you can adjust to the available services or not. Get your trekking boots early and use them before the trek starts. It will help you avoid blisters.

                                The best time to do the Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal

                                • Spring: You can do the Manaslu circuit trek in the spring season (March to May). In spring, the temperature ranges from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) during the day, with cooler nights at higher elevations. The weather remains stable along with a moderate climate, making trekking fantastic in this season. The lower part of the trail is bloomed with rhododendrons, whereas the meadows are beautiful too.
                                • Autumn: Autumn (September to November) is the best time for the Manaslu circuit trekking. With stable weather and clear mountain views, trekking becomes fantastic. The skies are generally clear, providing stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. The climate is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
                                • Summer/monsoon: The Manaslu circuit trail condition gets poor during the summer/monsoon season (June to August) because of heavy rainfall. The trail is muddy, slippery, and infested with bugs. The views are not clear, and the risks of landslides are also high. Regardless of that, the greenery is at its peak during this season.
                                • Winter: Winter (December to February) is the coldest time of the year to do the Manaslu circuit trekking. The tea houses at Larkya Phedi and Bhimthang are closed because of extreme cold and snowfall. You can trek to Manaslu in winter, but you have to be well-prepared and ready to face the cold. You also have to be self-sufficient as there are no meals available in some places.

                                Accommodation and Meals

                                • Rooms and washroom: The Manaslu circuit trek is a tea house trek. Tea houses offer small, simple rooms. It will be clean with two beds and fresh bedding. The washrooms are mostly shared. It can be either squat or Western-style toilets. Carry a sleeping bag for extra comfort and warmth during the trek, as there is no heating system in the rooms.
                                • Hot shower: Hot showers are available in some tea houses along the trail. You can pay USD 5 to get the service. As the locals depend on the woods to heat the water, it costs you money. On days you cannot shower, use body wipes to clean yourself.
                                • Charging: Carry power banks or a solar charger as a backup during the Manaslu circuit trekking. Charging will cost you USD 2 to 3 every time. There are separate corners in the tea houses where you can charge your device. There are no charging points in the rooms.
                                • WiFi: WiFi is available in some villages during the start of the trek at some money. Get a tourist sim and use data for the internet. As the trail progresses, the network will get poor. You will also be completely disconnected for multiple days from the world.
                                • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner: Our Manaslu circuit trek cost covers three meals a day. All these meals are given as per the menu of the teahouses, which is pretty decent. Dal bhat, thukpa, noodles, and momos will be our staple food. Likewise, we will also get Tibetan bread, sandwiches, bakery items, chilies, chapati, thenduk, etc. The breakfast menu usually consists of toast, eggs, fruits, oats, cornflakes, soup, porridge, etc.
                                • Drinking water and beverages: You do not have to buy expensive bottled water during the trek, as boiled water is available at minimal cost in tea houses. For extra safety, treat the water with a purification tablet. Likewise, beverages such as soft drinks, energy drinks, tea, coffee, local wine, etc, are available in the tea houses.

                                Additional Information

                                • Travel insurance: To join the Manaslu circuit trek, it is compulsory to have travel insurance that covers emergency air evacuation and medical bills. As it is a very remote area and untouched by major towns and cities, travel insurance will help us provide you with a quick rescue in case of any emergency. It is always good to have a backup while traveling in the Himalayas.
                                • Passport and visa: Your passport information is needed at the time of trek booking. Likewise, it should also be valid for six months from the day you enter Nepal. Along with a passport, you will also need a Nepali travel visa that you can obtain from the consulate office or Nepalese embassy from your country. Travelers from many countries can also obtain a travel visa upon arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport.
                                • Money exchange: There are many banks and money exchange centers in Thamel where you can exchange your money. Stay updated with the latest rate. Likewise, you can also withdraw money using your international cards from ATMs in Kathmandu. However, it may cost you a transaction fee. Contact your bank for more information.
                                • Tips: Our Manaslu circuit trek cost does not cover tips for guides, porters, drivers, and guards. So, we request you to tip them as per their service. You can tip them as much as you wish. For instance, each member of the group can tip USD 2 to the driver and guards and USD 100 to guides and porters.
                                • Luggage: We use duffel bags as our main luggage during the Manaslu circuit trek, whereas backpacks are carried by the trekkers to store their essential items. You can pack up to 10 kg in a duffel bag and 5 kg in a backpack.
                                • Personal expense: Budget money for shopping, tips, extra snacks and drinks, travel insurance, international flights, etc. These are not covered in our package cost. You can have a USD 15 budget for each day during the trek to buy any additional services along the trail.

                                FAQs

                                • The Manaslu circuit trek is a challenging trek in Nepal. It is an offbeat trek in one of the very untouched parts of the Himalayas. The trekking route is not developed, and the high altitude makes the overall journey strenuous. The terrain is rugged and steep.

                                • The Manaslu circuit trek is a 15-day program. You can also do a short Manaslu circuit trek with us. Every day, you will trek approximately 12 to 15 km (7.4 to 9 miles) on this trek. You can also extend the itinerary to Tsum Valley and make the trek long.

                                • The Manaslu circuit trek permit costs USD 75 per person for the first seven days and USD 10 each day after that in the winter, spring, and summer seasons. Likewise, during the autumn seasons, the permit costs USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 each day thereafter.

                                • Yes, the Manaslu circuit trek is harder than the Everest base camp trek. The Manaslu region is more remote and undeveloped for tourists than the Everest region. It is also a restricted area, unlike Everest.

                                • The best time to trek to Manaslu is autumn (September to November). You can also do this trek in spring (March to May). Summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are off time for this trek because of unstable weather conditions.

                                • Yes, the Manaslu circuit trek is safe because you will be trekking with a reliable and professional mountain guide. Our team will take care of your well-being and comfort in the mountains. We will make sure you get a clean and safe space to spend the nights along the trail and trek safely with our expert guide and porters.

                                • No, you cannot trek in the Manaslu region without a guide. It is a restricted area in Nepal. Therefore, trekking without a guide is not allowed for foreign travelers.

                                • The Manaslu circuit trek offers a fantastic alternative to the Annapurna circuit trek. The trail is much more advanced, less crowded, and more demanding, offering a very adventurous trekking experience. Likewise, the mountain views along the Manaslu circuit trail are also phenomenal, which makes this trek quite famous.

                                • Yes, the Manaslu circuit is a restricted area because it is close to the Nepal-Tibet border. Likewise, to protect the rich cultural heritage and fragile flora and fauna of the region, the government has made this region a restricted area. It helps to keep the crowd away from the region.

                                • No, the Manaslu circuit trek does not include technical climbing but has many steep ascents and descents.

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