Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Trip Overview
  • Duration: 13 Days
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End: Kathmandu
  • Trip Area: Manaslu, Gorkha
  • Trip Style: Adventure/Active
  • Age Group: 12+
  • Trip Type: Private and Group
  • Trip Method: Fully Guided
  • Booking Type: Instant Booking
  • Max. Altitude: 5135m
  • Best Season: March-May and September-December
  • Foot Print:Carbon Neutralleaf

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a transcendent trekking journey into Nepal's heartlands, a less-travelled trail that promises a unique and awe-inspiring adventure. Unlike its more famous counterparts, this trek encapsulates the raw essence of the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of natural grandeur, cultural immersion, and remote solitude. With each step along its winding paths, you'll unearth hidden valleys, encounter ancient traditions, and connect with the majestic Manaslu mountain.

  • Trek to the heartland of Manaslu and soak in the grandeur of Mr. Manaslu, its base camp, and Larke La Pass. Enjoy spectacular views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna II, Peak 29, Lamjung Himal, Siringi, Simnang, Kang Guru, and more.
  • Traverse through beautiful villages, valleys, suspension bridges, Birendra Lake, and Pungen Gompa, with an intimate look into Nepali-Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
  • Discover Birch, juniper, and rhododendron forests accompanying the trekking trail with an opportunity to spot Himalayan flora and fauna - colorful birds, white-faced monkeys, Himalayan yaks, tahrs, and more.

On the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will trek to Manaslu Base Camp and go even higher to Larke Pass with its glaciers and moraines. Of course, the magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu and other infamous peaks always accompany the rugged trail.

On this trek, you will hike through valleys, cross river bridges, and pass Mani walls and Chhortens. Additionally, you will leave footprints on one of the most challenging trekking routes in the world.

While less widely known than its counterpart - the Everest Base Camp Trek, this trekking trail is equally rewarding. On top of it, this trek arguably gives you a better look into the rural Nepali lifestyle and culture via landmarks like Pungen Gompa. Meanwhile, Birendra Lake in the Manaslu Glacier offers solace with its pristine turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and colorful alpine flowers.

But for the most part, the challenge is what attracts trekkers from all over the world to the Manaslu region. If you’re one of them - adventurous and limitless - you will love the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal
Mount Manaslu

Manaslu Circuit: Remote and Off-the-Beaten-Path Trekking in Nepal 

Arguably one of the most underrated treks, Manaslu Circuit is an epic Himalayan adventure on a lesser-known trail. This classic trek is a timeless journey through remote mountain villages, glacial moraines, hidden valleys, and Larke Pass.

Although more demanding than most of its equals, the trek to Manaslu Circuit is indeed imposing, offering a raw trekking experience. The route from lush lowlands to the Upper Himalayas passing the Budhi Gandaki River is rigorous but also tranquil with spectacular views.

It provides you with breathtaking glimpses of awe-inspiring landscapes and soaring snow peaks. Because of its remoteness, the trek allows you to delve deeper into nature amidst the high mountains.

While the trail offers a quieter atmosphere with a less crowded experience, it also poses significant challenges for many trekkers. Its rugged terrains with a mix of steep ascents and descents, rocky moraines, and snow slopes demand excellent physical prowess.

Unlike most commercial treks, the Manaslu Circuit requires trekkers to navigate off-the-beaten trails, after a bumpy ride to Soti Khola. Subsequently, they have to make a strenuous journey through narrow cliffs and remote wilderness.

Further along, the trail weaves the wooded forests, crosses suspension bridges, and passes several rural settlements. Larke Pass is the highest point trekkers can reach in the Manaslu region without a climbing permit.

Enriching Cultural and Spiritual Recess at Pungen Gompa

Manaslu’s scenic splendor and cultural richness are so intricately connected that one rarely escapes attention. Visitors embarking on its classic trail are intrigued by the profound Tibetan history and enriching customs woven throughout the journey.

Starting from Jagat, a vibrant Gurung village perched on the slopes of the Himalayas, trekkers are overwhelmed by the fascinating culture and religious retreat. One of many spiritual sanctuaries, known for its cultural essence is Pungen Gompa.

Nestled right beneath the shoulder of Manaslu, Pungen Monastery is a spiritual hub where monks engage in sacred practices and religious ceremonies. It’s where the Tibetan believes the Goddess of Pungen resides.

Although the origination of Pungen Gompa remains obscure, its prominence is linked with the spread of Buddhism. When the Tibetan masters traversed the mountainous terrain, monasteries like Pungen became a center for teaching Buddhism and meditation.

It’s their descendants and local indigenous people Nubri who later built the holy shrine to please lord Pungen. Today, Pungen Gompa looms large as a cultural treasure trove where Buddhist traditions thrive.

It also stands as a prominent place for visitors and locals, who are in quest of cultural enrichment and spiritual enlightenment. The monastery is a center for learning Tibetan Buddhism and engaging in meditation and religious practice.

At times, it bursts into the scene with vibrant celebrations of traditional rituals and festivals. The harmonious chants of monks fill the air as they recite mantras during evening prayers. It also comes alive during festivals like Lhoshar, when locals and visitors gather for traditional music performances and mask dances. 

Mountain Peaks Visible During the Trek to Manaslu Base Camp

It’s safe to say that Larke La Pass draws the most attention in the Manaslu region but the appeal Manaslu Base Camp holds is second to none. Nothing compares to its idyllic charm, rugged scenery, and marvelous views, which evoke joy.

Regardless, the thing that truly sets Manaslu Base Camp apart is its unique formation, which rewards trekkers with a most up-close view of Manaslu ranges. Its distinctive layout enhances the trekking experience and allows trekkers to enjoy the grandeur fully.

Standing at an apex, you can get a frontal view of the north face of Mt. Manaslu along with Shringi, Ngadi, and Ganesh Himal. From the distance to the west, you’re in awe of the grandeur of Mt. Annapurna.

Other mountains that encompass Manaslu Base Camp and offer panoramic views include Himalchuli, Baudha, Gyaji Kung, and Pawar Peak. The pristine view of Kang Guru to the northwest of Mansiri Himal also adds to the marvelous scenery of the Manaslu region.

Another snow-clad peak that provides a scenic backdrop from the standpoint of Manaslu Base Camp is Himlung Pyramid. You can catch a glimpse of its distinct Pyramid-shaped structure soaring high above the clouds from the camp, which looks both formidable and stunning.

Birendra Lake and Manaslu Glacier: Serenity and Splendor in Manaslu Trek

With several lakes scattered along the trail of Manaslu Circuit, chances are that you might come across a few. But it’s unlikely for all of them to be cradled by the Himalayas or witness the reflection of mighty Manaslu as Birendra Tal.

Spanned across 3 sq. km, Birendra Tal stands out as nature’s work of art with tranquil settings and rustic charm. Encircled by giant mountains, this hidden gem was named after Late King Birendra. 

While there’s no true account of how Birendra Lake came into formation, its existence is tightly bound to the Manaslu ranges. The lake feeds on the melting glaciers of Manaslu, whose reflective blue color and quiet presence captivate visitors seeking solace.

Over time, Birendra Lake has been a spiritual haven for both visitors and locals. While many trekkers choose the lake as a stopover on their journey to Manaslu Base camp, others prefer a solo escapade, involving 2.5 hours hike south of Samagaun.

Either way, the lake offers them a tranquil atmosphere, where they can bask in the beauty of nature. Sitting on the shore of the lake, visitors can enjoy the serenity and the magnificent view of Manaslu Glacier and Annapurna I.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for 2024 and 2025 Bookings

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost starts from 900 USD per person for a 13-day all-inclusive itinerary.

Different trekking agencies offer different booking costs for the Manaslu circuit trek. With the given price we have included all the necessary things that you'll have to pay for the trek. We included your permit, land transport to the trekking starting point and return, your meals, accommodation, guided, and porter.

For Manaslu Circuit Trek reservations, scheduled dates are displayed on this page on a group joining basis and if you are more than two in a group then we can also organize a private trek at the same cost.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Gallery

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

    • Day 1:Drive from Kathmandu to Machha KholaAltitude: 700m/2296ft, Duration: 8hrs
    • Day 2:Maccha Khola to JagatAltitude: 1340m/4396ft, Duration: 5 to 6 hours
    • Day 3:Jagat to PewaAltitude: 1804m/5918ft, Duration: 5 to 6 hours
    • Day 4:Pewa to NamrungAltitude: 2630m/8628ft, Duration: 5 to 6 hours
    • Day 5:Namrung to LhoAltitude: 2957m/9701ft, Duration: 3 to 4 hours
    • Day 6:Lho to Sama GaunAltitude: 3530m/11581 ft, Duration: 4 to 5 hours
    • Day 7:Acclimatization Day in Samagaun (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)Altitude: 4400m/14435ft, Duration: 7 hours
    • Day 8:Sama Gaun to SamdoAltitude: 3865m/12680 ft, Duration: 4 to 5 hours
    • Day 9:Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Tibet Border)Altitude: 5000m/16404 ft, Duration: 8 hours
    • Day 10:Samdo to DharmasalaAltitude: 4460m/14632 ft, Duration: 3 to 4 hours
    • Day 11:Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La PassAltitude: 5135m/16847ft, Duration: 10 hours
    • Day 12:Bimthang to DharapaniAltitude: 1970m/6463 ft, Duration: 7 hours
    • Day 13:Drive from Dharapani to KathmanduAltitude: 1400m/4,600 ft, Duration: 9 hours

    Day 1:Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

    • Max Altitude700m/2296ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    You'll embark on a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. If you choose to travel by local bus, you’ll first take a bus to Dhading or Malekhu along the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. You’ll then take another bus or jeep to reach Machha Khola. You can also choose to go by private vehicle, in which case the ride becomes a lot more convenient.

    We’ll pass through rural villages and green hillsides as the road mutates into a bumpy dirt path. You’ll get views of the southern dial of Mt. Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal. After a 7-hour drive, you’ll reach Soti Khola just in time for a much-needed break from traveling and dinner.

    Gateway to the Manaslu region, Machha Khola is a village settlement with semi-urban housing. The settlement is encapsulated by green hills and Machha Khola (river).

    Day 2:Maccha Khola to Jagat

    • Max Altitude1340m/4396ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    At daybreak, you’re already set to start your trek along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. You might occasionally share the stone steps with mules. The natural hot spring at Tatopani is a good place to take a break.

    After a relaxing dip in the hot spring, you’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and follow the trail that leads to Dobhan. In Nepali, Dobhan means confluence, and sure enough, the place is marked by the confluence of Shari Khola (river) and Sharpu Khola.

    The trail throughout the day is fairly undulating, however, the final part is a steep three-hour climb. Before finally resting at Jagat, a quick visit to a check post will ensure you have the right paperwork. From this day onward, we’ll be trekking into the restricted region.

    The houses in Jagat are made of stone and have a more rural look. Tourism, service, agriculture, and animal husbandry are the primary occupations. People raise mules, sheep, and Himalayan goats.

    Day 3:Jagat to Pewa

    • Max Altitude1804m/5918ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    Jagat is a Buddhist stronghold with several gompas (Buddhist temples) and prayer flags. You’ll first head to Salleri and descend to Sirdibas. Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal permits are checked at Phillim.

    We’ll cross the Siyar Khola bridge before the junction in the trail. This trek heads to Pewa but the trail on the right goes into the Tsum Valley. You can extend your trek by going into the Tsum Valley, but this is something you need to arrange before heading out of Kathmandu.

    We finally reach Pewa, a small settlement with fewer teahouses. One of them will be waiting for you with warm hospitality, delicious food, and a cozy bed.

    Day 4:Pewa to Namrung

    • Max Altitude2630m/8628ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    After breakfast, the trail takes us through bamboo forests to a suspension bridge and a steep hike. The valley widens as you tread your way to the Ghatta Khola River.

    You’ll reach Deng, a place popular among some tourists as a stop for the day. But we will go further and cross a suspension bridge to Bihi Phedi.

    If you’re fateful, you will also get glimpses of the langur monkeys that roam the area. The trekking trail is embellished with lush green forests and alpine vegetation with mountain views visible in the backdrop. Specifically, the Prok Village serves as a viewpoint for the (Mt.) Siringi Himal.

    You’ll follow a zigzag trail and one last steep trek to reach Namrung village where we’ll stay the night.

    Day 5:Namrung to Lho

    Namrung to Lho
    • Max Altitude2957m/9701ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    This is one of the most significant days of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You’ll trek along the stone mani walls after breakfast to the beautiful Lihi village. This day will showcase a different personality of the Manaslu area, with locals dressing in Tibetan clothes called chubas.

    You’ll cross a stream that originates from the Lindanda glacier and reach Sho, a settlement that features elaborate views of the (Mt.) Simnang Himal.

    Lho is a distinct settlement with prayer flags, Tibetan-style painted gate arches, mani walls, chortens, and stupas. There’s a large Gompa where children get primary education and are taught under Buddhist philosophies.

    The overall trekking trail today is energizing with glimpses of Peak 29, Mt. Manaslu, and the Twin Fistail Peaks. However, you’ll be gaining significant altitude on this day, and some trekkers start to get their first symptoms of altitude sickness. Always be mindful to keep your guide informed of any difficulties.

    Day 6:Lho to Sama Gaun

    Lho to Sama Gaun
    • Max Altitude3530m/11581 ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    You’ll get a more accessible and picturesque view of Mt. Manaslu today, along with views of (Mt.) Himal Chuli. The first part of the trek comprises an easy hike through pine and rhododendron vegetation to Shyla. Shyla is a settlement distinct by its farming fields and numerous wooden resting stops.

    We’ll then cross the Numla Khola (river) over a suspension bridge. This is followed by a 1-hour trek to Sama Gaun with delightful mountain views on the trail. As you reach the valley, the mountain view fades away and is replaced by soothing views of yak pastures and village settlements.

    Sama Gaun is inhabited by the Nubri people, descendants of Tibetan migrants who arrived here almost 500 years ago. It is also the closest village to Manaslu Base Camp. The village has a large Gompa, numerous small shops, a health post, and a helipad. You’ll also get access to electricity and wifi, which is always good.

    We’ll stay overnight at a teahouse in Sama Gaun.

    Day 7:Acclimatization Day in Samagaun (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)

    Acclimatization Day in Samagaun (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)
    • Max Altitude4400m/14435ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    You’ve already gained significant altitude throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek, so this day is crucial to let the body acclimatize and prepare for the upcoming journey. You can sleep in and relax throughout the day, enjoying the flavorful breakfast, lunch, and dinner of your lodge.

    If you still have the energy for more adventure, you can either take a detour to the Pungyen Gompa or hike to Manaslu Base Camp - it’s not like you must sit idle on acclimatization days. However, note that either of these destinations takes almost a day to reach and return, so you’ll have to choose between the two.

    Located at a 2.5 hrs hike to the south of Sama Gaun, Pungyen Gompa offers splendid views of the glacier and Mt. Manaslu. You may also see Himalayan Tahrs and Yaks grazing in the pasturelands.

    Meanwhile, the Manaslu Base Camp is to the north of Sama Gaun, past Birendra Tal. You’ll slowly proceed to the north of Manaslu Glacier to reach base camp. If you’re too exhausted on the trail, you can return from Birendra Tal.

    Day 8:Sama Gaun to Samdo

    Sama Gaun to Samdo
    • Max Altitude3865m/12680 ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    The trekking trail today passes through mani walls, extensive yak pastures, and beautiful forests of birch and juniper until Kermo Kharka. After breakfast, we’ll descend to the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll then leave the treeline behind to ascend to a ridge across a wooden bridge of the Budhi Gandaki River.

    The trail also introduces you to Kani, a beautiful village dedicated to yak herding.

    Arriving in Samdo on time for lunch, it is possible to explore Samdo Peak in the afternoon. Samdo is a small village with Tibetan influence, as the inhabitants are believed to be descendants of Tibetan immigrants.

    Samdo is the convergence of 3 valleys and is a day’s walk from Tibet. You might see traders with Chinese and Tibetan goods on the trail.

    Day 9:Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Tibet Border)

    Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Tibet Border)
    • Max Altitude5000m/16404 ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    This is another day in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal itinerary for acclimatization. But you’ve known by now that acclimatization doesn’t mean sitting idle. We can hike to the Tibetan border to see Tibet and the Samdo Glacier in Nepal.

    Day 10:Samdo to Dharmasala

    Samdo to Dharmasala
    • Max Altitude4460m/14632 ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    The trekking trail first passes through icy streams and then to drier barren lands. You’ll get to visit Larke Bazaar, a seasonal Tibetan market set up by local traders. You’ll be crossing two streams as you lay eyes on the Larkya Glacier.

    Expect to pass through monasteries and mani walls on the journey. We’ll trek to Salka Khola and ascend towards Dharmasala.

    Day 11:Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass

    Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass
    • Max Altitude5135m/16847ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    The trek today is on challenging terrain, requiring us to make an early headstart. You’ll trek through valleys and villages along trails marked by prayer flags and carefully descend to the four frozen lakes.

    You’ll reach the north side of the Larkya Glacier which also features stunning views of Cho Danda (hill) and Larkya Peak. The terrain is progressively steep en route to Larkya La Pass as you make your way across glacial moraines.

    Coming down the other side of the pass there are views of icefalls and mountains as well as Pongkar Tal (lake). A great glacial cirque is also seen from here. We’ll cross the moraines and descend to gentler meadows via a steep gully. The widening valley, mani walls, and sight of human settlements signal the arrival of Bimthang.

    The overall trekking trail is embellished with spectacular views of peaks like Himling Himal (Mt.), Cheo Himal, Bouddha Himal, Kang Guru, the great Annapurna II, and the mighty Mt. Manaslu itself.

    Day 12:Bimthang to Dharapani

    • Max Altitude1970m/6463 ft
    • AccommodationTea House
    • MealsBLD

    The 13th day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary starts with a downhill hike through lush green forests till we cross the Dudh Khola (river). We’ll have lunch in Karche village. You’ll start to see signs of agriculture and tilled fields as Karche is a cultivated area at the top of the Budhi Gandaki valley.

    We’ll press forward through more mani walls to Thonje village and then to Dharapani. Our final night on the trek is spent in Dharapani.

    Day 13:Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

    • Max Altitude1400m/4,600 ft
    • MealsBreakfast and Lunch

    Today, we’ll take a 3-hour jeep drive from Dharapani to Besi Sahar for 3 hours. It then takes around five hours to drive from Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu. It’s finally time to celebrate after having completed this exhilarating trek.

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    Trip Map

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

    Cost Details

    Included

    • 12 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 13 Dinners during the trekking
    • Tea house accommodation along the way for 12 Nights
    • Local Sharing bus transport from Kathmandu to Soti Khola ( Private jeep addons available upon checkout or consult with our expert for advice)
    • Sharing a Bus Transport from Dharapani to Kathmandu
    • Expert local trekking guide ( English speaking)
    • MCAP Permit, Acap Permit, and Tims card fee
    • Necessary paperwork with the government of Nepal and the Tax department
    • All the necessary insurance for the guides and porters
    • First Aid service in case of minor injuries
    • Optional Add-Ons: USD 220 For one porter Sharing between two people. Porter can Carry up to 25Kg.

    Excluded

    • Any meal and accommodation in Kathmandu 
    • Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft, or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
    • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to any reason
    • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
    • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
    • Nepal entry visa fee
    • Tipping for the Sublime crew

    Dates, Prices & Booking

    We organize numerous Manaslu Circuit Treks every year. You can browse through our pre-scheduled trekking dates below.

    Select Month and Year
    Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
    Start DateStart: SaturdayOct 19, 2024End DateEnd: ThursdayOct 31, 2024PricePriceUS$1000StatusStatusAvailable
    Start DateStart: TuesdayOct 22, 2024End DateEnd: SundayNov 03, 2024PricePriceUS$1000StatusStatusAvailable
    Start DateStart: FridayOct 25, 2024End DateEnd: WednesdayNov 06, 2024PricePriceUS$1000StatusStatusAvailable
    Start DateStart: SundayOct 27, 2024End DateEnd: FridayNov 08, 2024PricePriceUS$1000StatusStatusAvailable
    Start DateStart: WednesdayOct 30, 2024End DateEnd: MondayNov 11, 2024PricePriceUS$1000StatusStatusAvailable

    Trip Essential Information

    Tourist Visa Information

    Trekkers willing to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days require a tourist visa. Foreign citizens in Nepal get tourist visas upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

    If you want to avoid the visa queue during peak travel seasons, you can also get a visa from the Nepalese Diplomatic Mission in your country.

    At the airport, you’ll have to fill in the arrival card and the tourist visa form. The tourist visa form can also be filled out online before your arrival. Just make sure you have a flight to Nepal within 15 days of filling out this form online (or you’ll have to refill it at TIA.)

    Nepal grants tourist visas valid for 15, 30, or 90 days. Here’s the up-to-date visa fee for 2023-2024:

    • 15 Days - 30 USD
    • 30 Days - 50 USD
    • 90 Days - 125 USD

    The visa fees center at TIA accepts various payment methods. However, the Department of Immigration website recommends travelers bring cash to stay safe.

    Packing List

    This trip is perfect for those who want to witness the grandeur of the Manaslu region with fewer distractions. Apart from semi-urban settlements (at the start of the trek) and rural settlements during the rest of the trek, this trekking trail doesn’t have too many hindrances of modernization.

    However, this also means that you’ll have to carefully consider all personal requirements beforehand. Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, for example, this trekking trail doesn’t have a stop like Namche Bazaar which gives you a second chance to buy essential amenities and gear. Read our ultimate packing guide to make sure you include the right things on your packing list.

    Note that Sublime Trails provides one porter for every two trekkers. A porter shared between two trekkers will carry 20-25 kgs of baggage.

    This means that a single trekker can look forward to having him carry 10-12 kgs of personal baggage. Any baggage beyond that will have to be carried by trekkers themselves.

    Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

    Spring and autumn are the best times for the Manaslu Circuit trek but other months also offer their unique benefits.

    Spring and autumn feature clear mountain views and beautiful rhododendron blooms along the trail. Furthermore, they are also the safest time for the trek as there are little to no chances of avalanches or landslides along the path.

    Meanwhile, summer experiences plenty of rain, especially in the lower parts of the region, and hence the trail can be muddy and slippery. There are also greater chances of the trail being obstructed because of occasional landslides. On the flip side, summer gives birth to otherwise nonexistent streams and further embellishes the gushing rivers along the way.

    Finally, winter is snow-time in the Manaslu region and the peaks seem even more beautiful with more layers of white. Unlike summer, winter offers clear skies on most days. The challenge, however, is biting cold.

    Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

    The region from Jagat to Dharapani has been declared a restricted region. As such, there are special requirements when you trek to the region. Specifically, there are three permits needed for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the MRAP, MCAP, and ACAP.

    Free Individual Trekkers (FITs) are also not allowed to trek in restricted areas. You must appoint an authorized trekking agency with a licensed guide. If you trek with Sublime Trails, we will process and apply for all your permits so you don’t have to worry about them.

    Note: Although the permit fees below are mentioned in USD, they are payable in Nepalese rupees, preferably in cash.

    Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

    The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) is required from Jagat until you reach Sama Gaun. The permit is valid for 7 days, with extra fees for each additional day between Jagat and Dharapani.

    • September - November: US $100 for 7 days, additional $15 per day per person for an extended stay. 
    • December - August: US $75 for 7 days, additional $10 per day per person for an extended stay.

    Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

    The Manaslu Conservation Area starts from Philim. The cost for this permit is a flat US $30. Furthermore, this permit has no expiry date hence there are no additional fees for extended stays.

    Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

    You need this permit for the second half of the trek. This permit is required during your trek from Dharapani to Besi Sahar since it falls in the Annapurna Circuit. Like the MCAP permit, the ACAP permit costs a flat US $30 and has no expiry date.

    For more info on the permits and the documents required, refer to our blog post on Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekking permits.

    Related: Manaslu Trek vs. Annapurna Trek

    How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a moderately challenging trek. Read our blog on Manaslu Trekking Difficulty to learn about the various factors that add to this trip's difficulty.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
    Cliff-faced bridge on the way to Jagat

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Accommodation

    On the Manaslu Circuit trail, you will sleep in modest guesthouses, also called teahouses. These are mostly operated by the locals themselves.

    All guest houses provide a pillow and a blanket but you should pack a sleeping bag nonetheless. Generally, each room has two single beds and rooms will have to be shared. The bathroom is shared, and you’ll rarely find attached bathrooms per room. Expect to find Western-style toilets or squat toilets as you move up in altitude.

    Although not guaranteed, these teahouses will mostly have a firewood-heated dining room, allowing you to rub shoulders with fellow travelers.

    While teahouses at the start of the trek might offer hot shower facilities, do not expect the same service as you go up the trail. Fuel is transported through mules in the Manaslu region, and a hot shower is the least important of its utility. You’ll be using wet wipes throughout most of the teahouse stays and be able to have a hot shower only at Dharapani.

    Food and Drinks

    In all honesty, food options are limited in the Manaslu region trekking compared to other trekking trails in Nepal. But if you find solace in savoring Nepalese and Tibetan tastes, this shouldn’t be a problem.

    However, you do get pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and other Western cuisines on the menu at some establishments.

    Breakfast Options

    Tibetan bread, buckwheat bread, chapatis, porridge, omelets, eggs, pancakes, etc.

    Lunch/ Dinner Options

    Nepalese Dal Bhat (with rice, lentils, spinach, curry, pickles, etc.), various rice dishes, momo dumplings, noodles, Tibetan dishes, pizza, sandwiches, etc.

    Snacks

    Biscuits, noodles, chocolate bars, and everything else that you manage to buy in Kathmandu (you don’t get many choices on the trail.)

    Drinks

    Hot chocolate, tea (black, lemon, masala, milk, ginger honey) and coffee, etc.

    FAQs

    • The highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larke Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,106 m.

    • We recommend carrying the Nepalese equivalent of $200 to $300 US in cash for personal expenses on the trek.

    • Yes and no. The off-the-beaten-path Manaslu Region weather conditions, altitude, and terrain certainly make this a challenging trek. It is wise to have prior high-altitude trekking experience.

      On the same note, we have seen first-timers complete the trek without issues. Perhaps self-assessment and consultation with us will give you your answer.

    • Trekkers start the Manaslu Circuit Trek from either Soti Khola or Maccha Khola. Soti Khola is lower than Maccha Khola, meaning you’ll either trek from Soti Khola to Maccha Khola on your first day or directly take a bus to Maccha Khola.

      Starting your trek from Soti Khola spaces the trek and makes you better accustomed to what’s there to come. You’ll also get a closer look into Soti Khola, a beautiful settlement in its own right. Meanwhile, starting directly from Maccha Khola reduces the number of days required and also avoids the muddy trekking trail from Soti Khola.

      With Sublime Trails, you can customize the trip and choose between either of the starting points.

    • While teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days provide water during stays, you’ll have to carry your water on the trail. You can refill your bottle or Camel Bak at lunch stops and communal water taps. Clean water from streams can also be your last resort. Just remember to use water purification methods no matter where you source your water from, as traveler’s diarrhea is common in the mountains.

    • Sublime Trails employs certified and experienced Manaslu Circuit Trek guides. If you’re looking for a trekking guide (compulsory in the Manaslu region), we suggest you do it via a trekking operator (or better yet, with us!) because the guides have a proven track record of accountability and knowledge of the region.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek Reviews

    5.0based on 4 reviews
    • R
      RyanDecember 21, 2022
      TripAdvisor

      A memorable experience

      Had a great time hiking the Manaslu circuit trek.
      The weather during our trip was not ideal so the conditions were challenging but our guide, Ajit, had us feel super safe and comfortable at all times. Ajit made sure we had accommodation even with last-minute changes to the itinerary due to the weather. Will definitely use sublime again when I come back!

    • Jenny Sutton
      Jenny SuttonNovember 15, 2017
      logo

      The experience- I would never forget

      The itinerary that Sublime Trails, namely Ram and his team of Porters provided were all that I ever wanted to explore in - trekking on the snowy mountain, homestay on the mountain, visiting Buddhist monasteries, learning the living culture of a Nepal! Being an amateur and a really slow trekker, it was raining and dark on the snowy mountain, I was in awe of appreciation when I saw the Porters walked on the edge of the cold mountain for my best safety!! Every day was ended with a hot bath and a warm dinner in a cozy dining hall...very warm hospitality from the Nepalese indeed! Most of the meals were meat-less, But! Not to worry for meat lovers like me as the resourceful Ram would have a way with all your needs, definitely. We couldn't have completed the 14 days Manaslu trek of the mountain beyond mountain with great Himalayan views without Ram and his Porters, providing 101% of their expertise, patience, commitment and their singing of the Nepalese songs! Thanks, Sublime Trails Team!

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