Manaslu Circuit Trek Package with Itinerary and Cost Details

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exotic off-the-beaten-path adventure that explores the pristine region of Nepal. The route is in a barely visited region in Nepal so it is ideal for those who want to enjoy the mighty mountains in solitude. This around Manaslu Trek is no less beautiful than the more famous trekking trails. The trail offers you everything from gorgeous landscapes, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, deep valleys, lush forests, and a diverse, but isolated culture.

The Manaslu Circuit trail starts from Arughat and takes you into the heart of the Manaslu region. The highest destination of the Larke La Pass gives you the most scenic views of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Hiunchuli, Buddha Peak, and countless other peaks. Apart from the mountains, this region offers views of cascading rivers, glaciers, moraine valleys, and freshwater lakes as well. The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to diverse flora and fauna. So, this region is perfect for wildlife exploration as well. Experiencing the culture found within the scattered settlements of the Nuri people along the Tibetan border is one of the major highlights during the trek. Tibetan Buddhism-inspired culture and fascinating festivals are one of the most unforgettable things to experience in the Manaslu region.

The cost of The Manaslu Circuit Trek is relatively low compared to other trekking packages. For this reason, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking package should be at the top of your list for your next outdoor adventure in Nepal. Since the trail has just recently opened up to foreigners, few people know about and even fewer take on the journey. 15 days of hiking on the Manaslu Circuit is the best way to explore the diverse cultures, landscapes, and nature all at one go.

Major Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Take on the underrated Manaslu Circuit Trek, barely visited by tourists
  • Trek up to the Larkye La Pass (5213 meters) to get a view of the countless snow-capped peaks
  • Visit UNESCO world heritage sites like Durbar Squares, temples, and stupas
  • Off-the-beaten-path of the Manaslu region
  • Learn about the influence of Tibetan culture and religion
  • Closely inspect the life of Nuri people - locals of the area
  • Explore different  flora and fauna in the region
  • Walk past the lush forests of pines and oaks, and diverse vegetation
  • Catch the enticing views of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt.Ganesh, and several others
  • Follow the route on the bank of Budhi Gandaki river
  • Enjoy the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat

Manaslu Circuit Trek Route

Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Arukhat after a bus ride from Kathmandu. From Sotikhola, you will trek to Machhi Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Namrung. The next day you will reach Samagaon after passing Loh Monasteries. You will spend an extra day at Samagaon as a part of acclimatization. You can trek to Manaslu Base Camp as well. The next day, you will resume your trek to Samado, Dharamsala, and Bhimthang. Along the way to Bhimthang, you will cross Larkya La Pass, the highest elevation point of the trek. You will then trek to Dharapani and finally drive to Besisahar. From Besisahar, we take another bus to Kathmandu.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit Trek falls in strenuous grade. You have to trek for 6-7 hours a day for 12 days in the high-altitude region. The trail varies from practically flat terrain to high, difficult mountain passes. As you will walk for days in areas with elevations of more than 3000 meters, the weather conditions are harsh and there is a risk of altitude sickness. You should be physically and mentally fit to pursue this trek. 

Suggested preparations for Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Cardio exercises including running, cycling, jogging, push-ups, and pull-ups for about 4-5 days a week for 3 months before your trip
  • You should also be involved in developing core strength and muscle endurance in weight training
  • Hiking in the hills in different weather conditions will be good preparation for this trip
  • If you have access, kayaking will also be a very good way to develop strength and endurance
     

Weather and Best Time to Trek to Manaslu Circuit

The trekking region varies from subtropical to alpine, and the weather conditions in the region vary accordingly. The weather conditions can be categorized according to the four seasons. Generally, autumn and spring are considered to be the best seasons to trek in the Manaslu region as the weather is calm and clear most of the time. The temperature is bearable even in high-altitude regions and days are mostly sunny. The colorful forests in winter and the blooming of wildflowers in winter make trekking in these seasons more beautiful. 

Unbearably low temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions of winter make it difficult to do this trek. It is fun to trek in the lower Manaslu region, but due to heavy snowfall and blizzards, it becomes almost impossible to trek in the higher region. 

Generally, there occurs heavy rainfall on summer days. The views get obscured and the trail might become slippery. So, it is difficult to trek in this region in summer. However, with proper planning and preparation, it is not impossible. In fact, you will get to witness the blooming of colorful alpine flowers. It is also the best season to explore the wildlife and forest. 

Food and Accommodation During Malasu Circuit Trek 

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will stay in the tea houses run by local Sherpas and other ethnic groups. Tea houses are not luxurious but will provide you with all the basic services and warm hospitality. You can expect to have all the common food items such as soup, noodles, pasta, potatoes, vegetables, dal bhat, fried rice, eggs, etc. You can also try some traditional dishes in local communities. You might also encounter a cheese factory or two along the way. While in Kathmandu, you will stay in a 3-star hotel with breakfast included. For meals other than breakfast, you may explore various cafes and restaurants around. Traditional Nepali and international dishes are available in Thamel and elsewhere. 

People and Culture Around Manaslu Region

Manaslu Circuit Trek will take you through settlements rich in culture and tradition. The lifestyle of the people who reside in this area is highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. You can learn about their remote lifestyle, cultural programs and festivals while trekking in this region. You will be delighted to spend time in the picturesque villages that rest in the lap of the Himalayas. They are serene places to spend your days. During the trip, you will encounter many gompas/monasteries, and prayer flags along the way. You will learn in-depth about these indigenous communities and their culture during the journey. 

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will come to pick you up with your name on board. They will drive you to a 3-star hotel where you can have your lunch/breakfast (depends upon the time you check-in). You can relax there for a while and set out to explore the city. You can buy the trekking essentials for your upcoming trekking. You will proceed for the permit. You will be given a short tour briefing in the evening. You will stay overnight at the hotel.

We leave Kathmandu City early in the morning and head out to Soti Khola. It is almost 8 hours of the scenic ride. You will get to enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes, a panorama of the Himalayas, etc. You will pass through many picturesque villages along the way. You will ride along the paved road from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi Then we will be heading towards Arughat crossing the remote areas of the region, which is one of the major cities of the area. Driving further, you will reach Soti Khola. You will stay overnight at a teahouse.

Your trekking journey starts from Soti Khola as you trek toward Machhikhola. We cross a bridge and follow the trail covered with forest. Then we will climb the ridge above the Budhi Gandaki river. After walking for a while, you will reach Khursane. Ascending further the rocky trail and then descending, we will reach a Gurung village Labubesi, crossing the rice fields along the way. You will have passed waterfalls along the way. You ascend further up and walk along the riverbed of Budi Gandaki, cross the suspension bridge and ascend another ridge to finally get to Machhi Khola. You will spend the night at a teahouse. 

The fourth day of the trek begins from Machhi Khola as you ascend crossing the rice, wheat and buckwheat fields along the way. After walking for a few hours, you will reach Tatopani where you can dive into the hot springs and enjoy. After spending a few moments there, you will head to Dohan. You climb the steep ridge above Budhi Gandaki to get there. After a while, you again descend through a gateway to get to a valley and finally Jagat village. The village is the entrance to Manaslu Conservation Area. You can stroll around the village for the rest of the day and stay overnight at a teahouse.

After you start trekking, you will have to cross the Budhi Gandaki river via a suspension bridge. You have to walk upstream of Ghatte Khola and walk uphill section to reach Phillim which is a picturesque Gurung village. After crossing Phill the trail becomes steeper until you reach Aga. You will have to cross the narrow gorge, walk past a waterfall and cross many small streams to reach the Deng village. The western mountain range (Nupri) starts from this village. You can stroll around the village and explore the lifestyle of the people for the rest of the day. Stay overnight at a teahouse.

Your trekking journey of the sixth day starts as you walk towards Namrung from Deng. You will first cross the Budhi Gandaki river and ascend to Rana village. After crossing the village, you will start to see the prayer flags and mani walls that represent the Tibetan Buddhism religion practised in this area. You will have to climb and descend a few ridges to get to GHap village. From there you will through Kani and pass through the fir and rhododendron forests to get to the Namrung village. You will spend the rest of the day exploring the village and nearby places. Stay overnight at a teahouse.

You will reach the elevation higher than 3000 today as you will reach Samagaun (3530 m). You will get up with the beautiful view of Iring and Ganesh Himal. You will then head towards Samagaon, You will ascend a steep trail covered with rhododendron, oak, and fir forest to reach Lhi village. Then you will descend down by the side of Simnang Himal. You can see Ganesh Himal much closer to you. Walking further to reach Samagaon crossing the villages such as Sho, Lho and Shyala villages along the way. The trail is relatively challenging. However, you get an extraordinary view of the mountains such as Manaslu, Ganesh Himal along the way and from our destination Samagaon as well. You will stay overnight at a teahouse.

Over 3000 m elevation, our body might show the signs of altitude sickness. It needs time to cope with the increasing altitude and decreasing atmospheric pressure and temperature. So we take the acclimatization break in Samagaon to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. However, we can visit nearby places. You can have a short hike to Birendra Lake, You also can explore the village and explore their culture and lifestyles. You will spend your night in Samagaon.

Early in the morning, you will be greeted with the spectacular Manaslu Himal soaring above. You will have your breakfast and set off for Samdo following the relatively easy trail. You will descend down to Budhi Gandaki river. You will cross a bridge and climb the steep trail. Ascending for a while, you will reach Kani. Passing through it you finally get to Samdo. You can find lots of pasture land along the way where yaks graze. You will also have a wonderful view of the mountains. You will stay overnight at Samdo.

The trek starts as you descend to the Budhi Gandaki river from Samddo. You will then cross the river and ascend uphill crossing the Larkya Bazaar and Salka Khola Valley. You will have to walk close to the mountain on this day and will get some of the best views of the landscapes during the trek. After walking for a few hours you will reach Dharmashala also known as Larkya Phedi. You will spend the rest of the day strolling around the village and stay overnight at a tea house.

Today is the most challenging day in your Manaslu Circuit trek as you will be crossing a mountain pass named Larkya La pass. So, you will start your trek early after waking up and having your breakfast. The trail towards Larkya La pass is a steep uphill that takes you about 2 hours to cross. From the top of this pass, which is also the highest place during the whole trek, you will be able to catch an outstanding view of mountains like Annapurna II, Manaslu and many more. After descending from the pass and walking past moraine, the trail again gets normal and you will continue to walk towards Bhimthang for several hours. After reaching, you finally get to rest after a strenuous day at a tea house there.

You will be descending down a hill to get to Dharapani from Bumthang. We will cross the trails covered in rhododendron forests. You will pass through small villages and farmlands along the way. You will walk past a village named Tilje famous for locally brewed drinks. Even if you may have to walk for long hours, the trails are quite easy. You will finally reach Dharapani, rest and have dinner in a tea house.

After waking up and having breakfast in Dharapani, you will get on a jeep and ride for about 3 hours to reach Besisahar. After getting there, you can either rest or just stroll around the village and chat with fellow travellers or local people with the help of your guide. As you have completed your Manaslu Circuit trek today, you may want to enjoy the last day in a Himalayan village by knowing more about the culture and tradition of people living there. You will stay overnight at a tea house in Besisahar.

After successfully completing your trekking journey, you will ride back to Kathmandu. You will have a scenic bus ride for about 7 hours from Besisahar to Kathmandu. You will pass through mesmerizing landscapes, valleys and picturesque villages accompanied by the view of the Himalayas. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you can stroll around the streets of Thamel and buy souvenirs. Later in the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner organized by Sublime Trails. You get to enjoy cultural programs and traditional food items there. You will stay overnight at a 3-star hotel. 

Your Manaslu circuit trek concludes here. We will drive you to the airport for your connecting flight to the next destination after wishing you farewell. However, if you decide to stay in Nepal and go for another trip, we can help you with that as well. We will be more than happy to help you.

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Trip Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek map

What's Included

Included  Not Included
  • Meals: 
    16 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • Accommodation: 
    3-Star accommodation in Kathmandu for 2 days 
    Tea house accommodation along the way for 14 days
  • Transportation:   
    All land transportation with pickups and drops
  • Guides and Porters:
    One guide and assistant guide between 6 people 
    1 porter for two people (A porter can carry up to 30 kg)
  • Entry Fees and Permits:
    All Permits and Entrance Fees
    TIMS Card
  • Miscellaneous: 
    Down jacket, a Sleeping bag which should be refunded to the company after the trip
    Necessary paperwork with the government of Nepal and Tax department
    All the necessary insurance for the guides and porters
    First Aid service in case of minor injuries
  • Any meals other than breakfast 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

Availabilities

Start DateEnd DateDurationStatusPrice 
24 May, 202207 Jun, 202215 DaysAvailableUS$990Save US$510
26 May, 202209 Jun, 202215 DaysAvailableUS$990Save US$510
28 May, 202211 Jun, 202215 DaysAvailableUS$990Save US$510
30 May, 202213 Jun, 202215 DaysAvailableUS$990Save US$510

On our trip status section 'AVAILABLE' means the trip is guaranteed and available on the given price. If you book the trip through the direct booking section, you will receive a payment invoice instantly and receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.

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FAQs

No, you can not trek solo in this region as it is a restricted area. There must be at least two trekkers and one has to be a licensed guide according to the Government of Nepal.

The network condition is not so good in this area. However, the tea houses you will be staying in have satellite phones for emergency contacts. Some tea houses also offer wifi with an extra charge. You can use the data service of Ncell or Ntc the other time. 

Customer Reviews

  • The experience- I would never forget

    - Jenny Sutton, United States

    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!

  • 3rd Time Manaslu Circuit Trek

    - Laura, United Kingdom

    I had trekked with Sublime Trails in the Annapurna Region and the Everest region before. As I love trekking in solitude to really remote places, I asked them for a beautiful trekking destination where there are not many travelers. That is when they suggested the Manaslu Trek for me.

    With very few trekkers in the region, the trails were as fresh as they could be. Modernity had not touched this region. Therefore it felt like I was having a good time in the wilderness of nature. The villages had maintained their authenticity and preserved their ancient culture as well.

    My experience of trekking helped as the Manaslu trek was a tad more difficult than the EBC or ABC trek. The government also requires you to have a guide with you compulsorily. As Sublime Trails told me that this trek is strenuous, I also took a porter with me. Both of them were gentlemen with great trekking experience.

    My stay was arranged in the best lodges in this region. The food was also great. I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. I am looking forward to go to other peaceful destinations in Nepal in the future with Sublime Trails. If you are interested in trekking in Nepal, I’m sure you will fall in love with the services of Sublime Trails.

  • Overall, my experience with Sublime trails was Fantastic.

    - Nasri Valls, Spain

    I went to Manaslu trekking in October 2016 with my two friends, where I had a fantastic experience. The whole sublime team were really helpful and flexible in organizing, managing a trip. they are really friendly, resourceful and competent. Special thanks to Mr Ram a manager, Mr Shiva a guide and porters. Hope to see you again guys.

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