The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a strenuous trekking path that circuits Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest summit in the world at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet), which is situated in Nepal’s Manaslu area.
Some of the most remote hiking locations in the world may be found in the Manaslu range, which also offers a variety of daring trekking routes and Himalayan exploration opportunities. This Circuit Trek is less busy and offers an off-the-beaten-path hiking experience than the EBC Trek. This Manaslu trekking trip, which includes a dash of Tibetan culture, takes you to some of the most isolated villages, the base camp of the 8,163-meter-high (26,781-foot) Mount Manaslu, gorgeous mountain ranges, breathtaking waterfalls, and fascinating monasteries.
The approximate length of the Manaslu Circuit trekking route is 177 kilometers (110 miles). Depending on the exact route you take and any additional detours you take along the way, this figure may differ somewhat.
This trekking route, which is regarded as one of the greatest, is dotted with stupas, colorful prayer flags, and finely sculpted little stone Chortens, providing a brilliant tapestry of Buddhist spirituality and culture.
The entire circuit lies inside the protection zone of the Manaslu region, which has managed to maintain the natural environment, fauna, and ecology. The aboriginal people have mastered coexisting peacefully with the environment in all of its forms.
The Manaslu Circuit typically takes 14 days to complete, but depending on individual fitness levels and other factors, it might take up to 20 days. We can adjust the itinerary to meet your demands if you only have a limited amount of time. Tell us about the length of time you would like, and we will design a plan just for you.
If you want to see exotic highlands and go through wonderful times to discover a whole other universe beyond the one we now live in? If so, you ought to give our 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking Package serious thought.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit for Trekking?
You will hike through forests with breathtaking views of the mountains that showcase the richness of the region. Following these roads will give your Manaslu tour a natural scent.
The Manaslu area, which is between Jagat (1340 meters/4395 feet) and Dharapani (1,960 meters/ 6,430 feet), is restricted to cultural tourism. Consequently, the trip to the designated area will be exciting and thrilling with a classic wilderness vibe.
At 5106 meters, Larkya La crossing is a high-altitude crossing, making the hike worthwhile in and of itself.
You will visit the Birendra Tal, a lake inside the Manaslu Glacier, at 3,691 meters (12,110 feet), escorted by our Hiking Bees hiking experts.
After a leisurely day in Samagaon (3500 meters/ 11480 feet), we will walk to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 meters).
Discover the way of life and culture of the Tibetans.
You will get a great experience of rural life in the highlands by trekking through remote villages, mountain passes, and breathtaking waterfalls on this circuit trek, which is rich with intriguing information and scenery. These places have not been heavily developed and are still in their natural form.
Ideal Season for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons are the ideal times to hike Manaslu. The most consistent and ideal weather for trekking in the area is provided during these months.
Spring (March, April, May):
The Manaslu Circuit is thought to be most trekked in the spring. Particularly at lower elevations, the weather is often consistent and the temperatures are moderate. During this time, the rhododendron forests blossom, bringing a splash of color to the surrounding area.
The Manalsu Circuit is best hiked in the spring, when daily highs of 10 to 20 degrees Celsius are experienced.
Autumn (September, October, November):
Autumn is a great time to walk the Manaslu Base Camp Trek. There is consistency in the weather, with clear skies and pleasant temps. The scenery is breathtaking and the routes are clearly marked. Usually, the views of the surrounding peaks are unobstructed.
Trekkers may enjoy pleasant trekking weather throughout the daytime hours, which vary in temperature from 10 to 18 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, this season coincides with the majority of the main festivals, offering an additional cultural twist to your journey.
Temperatures during the season (Spring, Autumn)
- Daytime temperatures: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at lower altitudes, and it can get warmer as you descend.
- Nighttime temperatures: 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F) at lower altitudes, and it can get even colder at higher elevations.
What to expect during Spring and Autumn?
moderate daytime temperatures (but higher altitudes might get very cold).
a clear sky with nice views of the peaks and surroundings.
Excellent images and videos
decreased likelihood of snowfall or rain, which lowers the danger of avalanches and landslides.
Trekkers find the trail more convenient because of the well-established teahouse lodgings along the route.
Though these are the suggested periods for trekking the Manaslu Circuit, bear in mind that weather might change, so it’s always a good idea to check with local trekking organizations or guides for the most recent information. It’s also important to properly acclimate during the walk and to be ready for problems connected to altitude.
Permits Required for Trekking
To enter the trek at the Jagat trailhead, hikers must get multiple permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The most important is the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which regulates the quantity of hikers allowed in the delicate border area.
The RAP costs USD 100 per week during peak season (September to November) and USD 75 per week off-peak. The Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or a trekking agency can help you get it.
Furthermore, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), which includes the Tsum Valley and the full Manaslu Circuit Trek and costs about NPR 3,000 for international hikers, is crucial for conservation efforts. Due to a brief overlap with the Annapurna Circuit, the journey also requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). It is available in both locations and costs about NPR 3,000.
Last but not least is the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, which has a price tag of roughly $20. These permits guarantee a legitimate and well-supported hike, protecting the area’s natural ecosystem and cultural legacy. It’s best to get these ahead of time to expedite your travel and save time.
How challenging is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
One of Nepal’s most difficult trekking routes is the Manaslu Circuit. Over a distance of around 177 km, you will need to walk for several hours every day on challenging terrain. It also has a number of waterfalls and suspension bridges, some of which can be a little frightening. While some people might find it difficult to finish this walk, experienced hikers can accomplish it with ease.
Walking could be a little challenging for the first two or three days, but with the right acclimatization, you will grow used to it. Because the ninth, tenth, and eleventh days involve high-altitude hiking, they may be a little more difficult than other days. However, the tougher the trekking is, the more beautiful the scenery becomes, making the walk worthwhile.
Due to the high altitude of this journey, which reaches as high as 5167 meters (Larkya La Pass), some participants may experience breathing and walking issues. The difficulty of the Manaslu trek is also influenced by a number of other variables, including the season, weather, level of physical fitness, appropriate equipment, etc.
Manaslu Hike Daily Difficulty Breakdown
This is a summary of the daily difficulties for the 14-day Manaslu Trek program.
You will travel by bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900 m) on the first day of the trip. Although the first part of the trek is rather easy, after crossing the Netrawoti River, hikers should prepare for a rough ride that may make them feel tired.
Since it would be the trekkers’ first day of walking, the second day will be challenging in various ways. The hike is easy up to Thulo Dhunga, but from there on it becomes quite difficult until you reach Jagat (1,340 m).
On the third day, you set out to hike from Jagat to Deng, which is 2,095 meters. Hiking on this day is rated as moderate. It won’t be a great difficulty for experienced hikers, but novices might need to exert a little more effort.
By day four, the trek becomes difficult. You climb from Deng to Namrung (2,660 m), where you spend the night.
To make the Manaslu Circuit easier, you hike from Namrung to Lho (3,180 m) and from Lho to Samagaon (3,520 m) on the fifth and sixth days. Trekkers have no trouble walking at all.
For acclimatization, you will also spend the seventh day at Samagaon. The seventh day marks the beginning of the trek’s increasing difficulties. The fact that we will be visiting the Manaslu Base Camp and that the trails there are difficult to traverse makes today particularly difficult.
Walking on the eighth and ninth days of the expedition is challenging because we are progressively going higher. You will follow the Budhi Gandaki River on foot to reach Samdo (3,875 m). We shall be at the border with Tibet on this day. Altitude sickness may even strike certain people. After nine days, we arrive in Dharamsala (4,450 m).
The hardest portion of the Manaslu Circuit occurs on the ninth day. You will cross the 5,160-meter-high Larkya La Pass. The hike will get a little easier after the pass as we descend to Bhimtang (3,590 m). We will be walking for approximately eight to ten hours today.
The eleventh day will see you continuing to descend, with the walk becoming easier as we go. We will travel across Goa to reach Tillije (2,300 m).
Your adventure comes to a finish on the final day with a short stroll to Dharapani (1,963 m).
Suggested Preparation For Manaslu Circuit Trekking
A reasonable degree of physical fitness and endurance is necessary to complete the Manaslu walk successfully. With the right guidance and acclimatization, a normal physically healthy person can easily finish this trek; nonetheless, it is highly recommended to start planning at least 2-3 months in advance. These are some recommended arrangements.
Physical Preparation
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is renowned for its strenuous physical requirements, which call for a high degree of endurance and fitness. Start getting ready for the expedition a few months in advance. Among the physical exercises you can perform are:
Frequent exercise: To increase your stamina and endurance, start with aerobic workouts like swimming, cycling, or jogging.
Strength training: To develop your leg muscles and boost your general strength, use strength training activities like lunges, leg presses, and squats.
Training for altitude: Because the Manaslu Circuit trip is a high-altitude hike, you should prepare your body for the altitude by going on hikes, stair climbing, or trekking on adjacent hills or mountains.
Mental preparation
In particular for the Manaslu Circuit, mental preparation is just as important as physical preparation. You should be optimistic and resolute the entire way, and psychologically prepared for the obstacles of the hike. There have been occasions when inexperienced hikers with a strong sense of determination and commitment have finished this trail with ease. The following actions are necessary to mentally prepare you for the Manaslu trek:
Investigate the trip path, the difficulties it presents, and the local way of life. You can prevent culture shock and have reasonable expectations thanks to this.
Meditation: Meditating can help you become more mentally strong and tranquil. You can begin with brief meditation sessions and work your way up to longer and more frequent ones.
Positivity: Positivity makes it easier to get past obstacles and relish the trip. Instead of concentrating on the challenges, you should enjoy the breathtaking surroundings and the experience.
Also, read our thorough post about Manaslu Circuit Trekking’s expenses and budget.
What to Pack for 14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek?
It can be equally difficult and complex to pack for Manaslu Circuit Trekking. Many travelers lament that they pack extra items, which makes their bags heavier. Remember that you are simply bringing the necessities for your 14-day hike up Mount Manaslu.
It is advisable to pack warm clothing and suitable footwear for a pleasant journey in the Himalayan regions, as rain or strong winds can occur at any time. With the help of porters who can carry your oxygen cylinders and luggage and guides who can provide you with directions, we want to make your hike easier while you’re traveling.
For your convenience, Hikingbees has created a comprehensive checklist for the hike, to assist you in packing your essentials and streamline the process.
See the packing list for the Manaslu Trek.
Customized Manaslu Trekking Itineraries For 2024/2025
Hikingbees takes pride in customizing your trip to the Manaslu region for the Manaslu Circuit Trek to fit your specific tastes, vacation dates, and financial constraints. We provide a variety of unique trekking opportunities around Nepal. Looking ahead to 2024, now is the perfect time to rekindle your travel ambitions and embark on an unforgettable journey. Discover the fascinating world of Nepal’s eighth-tallest mountains and lose yourself in the vibrant local cultures.
Manaslu Trekking by Sherpa Expedition
Without a doubt, Manaslu Circuit Hiking is an amazing, perfect place for hikers. This 14-day trip would be ideal for those who have a set amount of time. For a longer, more strenuous option with more trekking routes in the Himalayas, we also recommend the 23-day Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek or Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek With Thorang La Pass.
To enable everyone to enjoy the enchanted Manaslu on a budget, Hiking Bees pledges to offer Manaslu Circuit Trekking at the lowest feasible cost. The 14-day Manaslu circuit trek package is available for 899 USD per person.
Thus, you can book your next trip with us right now if you’re on a tight budget and wish to hike the Manaslu in the most affordable and effective method possible!
Tour Highlights
Get to the 4,8015-meter-high Manaslu Base Camp.
An exciting trip through some of the Nepalese Himalayan range’s untamed and uncharted areas.
Take in the splendor of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters).
With the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Package, discover the highlands and interact with the inhabitants to gain insight into their way of life.
Along the way, visit the historically significant Tserang Monastery, Pungyen Gompa, and Nubri Monastery.
At 5,160 metres/16,751 feet, Larkya La Pass is one of the most demanding and rewarding passes.
Magnificent vistas include notable summits such as Himalchuli (7,893 meters/ 25,896 feet), Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters/ 24,350 feet), and Annapurna II (7937 meters / 26040 feet).
Discover the ideal fusion of Nepal’s two top trekking destinations, Annapurna and Manaslu.
Savor the peace and quiet of the Manaslu region’s wetlands.
Take a tour of the picturesque monasteries and join the monks in prayer.
peaceful waterfalls and views of streams throughout the hiking path.
Savor the diverse cuisines of Nepal and Tibet.
an experienced and local trekking guide.
a rich cultural experience, home to a variety of ethnic groups, including the Sherpas, Tamangs, and Gurungs.
See some of the vibrant environment in the Manaslu Preserve.
Tour Includes
Private vehicle collection and drop off at the airport. (Your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport) and (your hotel to the Airport on the day of departure)
many forms of transportation, particularly for local cars.
Two nights at a Kathmandu hotel that caters to tourists, plus breakfast.
Accommodations at the Trekking Lodge (tea house) for 12 nights during the climb.
The full board hiking package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Meals, accommodation and other expenses for the crew, as well as one very knowledgeable, understanding and caring guide.
State taxes and administrative costs.
Charge of the special hiking permit for the Manaslu area, as it is a restricted area, and we need special permission to enter.
Insurance for a porter and a trekking guide.
Permit for MCAP and ACAP.
Essential gear (down jacket, sleeping bag, duffle bag).
Warm bag for restful sleep.
An assistant guide is needed for groups larger than six people.
Emergency Rescue Arrangements service, which your travel insurance will pay for.
An oxygen meter is included in first aid kits to measure pulse rate.
Energy supplements: one chocolate bar, one cookie, etc. per day.
Fruits in season served as dessert after dinner.
Entire trek certificate and Hikingbees t-shirt included.
A farewell meal in a normal Nepalese kitchen.
Tour Excludes
Your overseas travel expenses as well as your admission visa (30 dollars for the first 15 days of arrival).
Foods not included in the “Daily food Inclusions” list.
Porter (20 more dollars a day)
Private Jeep (round-trip additional $450)
Customized backpack for hiking
Traveling and Health Insurance
Advice for porters and guides.
Water, food, and drinks in addition to other personal necessities and costs
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft) & transfer to hotel
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola(7,10m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 3 : Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (9,30m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 4 : Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1410m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 6 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,600m) Duration 5-6 hours.
Day 7 : Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,530m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 8 : Acclimatization day at Samagaun.
Day 9 : Trek from Sama to Samdo (3,860m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 11 : Trek from Dharmasha to Bimtang (3,720m) Via Larkya la Pass (5,106m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
Day 12 : Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,960m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 13 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Beshisahar Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 14 : Transfer to International airport.
How much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost?
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit can be expensive depending on a number of circumstances. For a walk lasting 14 to 16 days, the average cost per person might vary from $900 to $2,500. Below is a summary of the costs:
Fees and Permits: Depending on the season, the Manaslu Restricted Permit may cost between $70 and $100 each week. It’s also need to have the $20 Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Porters and Guides: The cost of hiring a certified guide is usually between $25 and $30 per day. You might decide to hire a porter to carry your goods if you’re not used to hiking with a hefty load. Porters make between $20 and $25 per day. A porter is capable of lifting up to 20 kg of luggage.
Accommodations: A teahouse or lodge will set you back between $10 and $20 per night. Accommodations are included in the total price of some packages.
Meals: The price of meals varies, but for three meals a day, budget roughly $20 to $30. A greater altitude may result in higher prices because of the logistical difficulties associated with transportation.
Travel: Additional $50 to $100 may be spent on travel to and from Kathmandu, as well as the starting and finishing locations of the trek.
Other: These comprise fees for water, snacks, hot showers (which might be more expensive at higher altitudes), and any unplanned charges. You should set up about $100 for other costs.
Trekking Equipment: You may need to rent or buy equipment such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, and clothes if you don’t have any of your own. This may raise your costs by an additional $50 to $100.
Travel Insurance: Since the Manaslu walk involves trekking at a high altitude, having travel insurance that includes evacuation and medical situations is strongly advised. Depending on your coverage, the price varies, but it usually ranges from $50 to $100.
Keep in mind that these are only estimates that may change depending on the services and decisions you make. It’s best to do your homework and make your reservations with a recognized trekking company to guarantee a fun and safe trip.
It is traditional in Nepal to tip guides and porters, which should be taken into account as they are not included in the initial cost estimate.
Transport for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Trekking starts with an exciting 160-kilometer (about 99-mile) ride via SotiKhola from the energetic city of Kathmandu to the picturesque destination of Maccha Khola. In the event that you choose a private Jeep, the journey will take about seven hours. On the other hand, if you decide to use the local bus, the trip should take eight to nine hours. Your Manaslu trek’s opening day of driving promises to be an exciting off-road experience.
You will have a picturesque 6-hour drive back from Dharapani in a comfy Jeep as your trek comes to an end. After that, you can take a local bus or another Jeep to return to the center of Kathmandu in about seven hours. This trip gives you the chance to see Nepal’s breathtaking scenery as you make your way back from your amazing trekking adventure.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Travel insurance is not required for Manaslu Circuit Trekking, but Hikingbees advises obtaining one prior to your arrival in Nepal. While walking at high altitudes in the Manaslu region can be an exhilarating experience, it is not without its difficulties. It’s important to be ready for anything unexpected during the walk because of the steep terrain and variable weather. Travel insurance serves as a safety net for you, providing monetary security and comfort all along the way.
The following are a few advantages of obtaining travel insurance:
High-Altitude hiking: Verify that high-altitude hiking is specifically covered by your policy.
Medical Coverage and Evacuation: It is not negotiable to have comprehensive medical coverage, therefore you should search for insurance that provide high-quality medical benefits, such as helicopter evacuation from prohibited locations.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Unexpected circumstances can cause your tour to be disrupted, particularly when trekking the Manaslu. For this reason, you must get coverage for trip cancellation or interruption in order to protect your investment.
Baggage and Personal Effects: To properly capture Manaslu’s splendor, expensive stuff like cameras and equipment are essential. Your possessions are shielded from damage, loss, and theft by having enough travel insurance.
Adventure Activities Inclusion: It’s important to confirm that trekking is covered by your insurance because some plans do not cover certain high-risk activities. Because Manaslu is a difficult hike, it needs specialized coverage.
Travel insurance pays out in many ways when you need it, especially on high-altitude climbs like the Manaslu Circuit Trekking, even though it may not seem like much while it’s not in use.
Solo Trekking in The Manaslu Circuit
In the Manaslu Region of Nepal, solo trekking is severely forbidden. You must obtain special trekking permits with a guide and at least two individuals because the Manaslu Circuit Trek route is located in a restricted region. The Nepalese government imposed this regulation to guarantee the security of the tourists, considering the difficult and isolated character of the journey.
Having a travel companion and a trekking guide has its own special advantages and can make your trip unforgettable, but if you prefer to go alone, this Manaslu Circuit Trek might not be the best choice for you.
Another activity you might enjoy is Manaslu trekking: solo or guided
