Manaslu Circuit Trek
Book your Manaslu Circuit Trek and explore Nepal's spectacular mountain trails with expert guides, itineraries, and breathtaking landscapes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Moderate to DifficultManaslu Circuit Trek is among the most spectacular and rewarding treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. Surrounding the eighth highest peak of the world (8,163 m) Mount Manaslu, the trek is a great combination of stunning mountain views, high altitude adventure, Tibetan influence and remote wilderness.
The Manaslu region, as a whole, is a relatively untouched zone where trekkers can discover the real villages of the mountains, the old monasteries, thick forests, and the magnificent look of the high peaks. The trail meanders through deep gorges and traditional settlements next to the Budhi Gandaki River, then slowly climbs into the high Himalayan region.
One of the highlights on the trail is the crossing of the Larke Pass (5,160 m), which is one of Nepal’s most beautiful high mountain passes. Trekkers enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top towards Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and many snow-capped peaks.
The remote nature of the trek, its long trek days, and the hike over Larke Pass (5,160 m) make it a moderate to difficult trek. Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not required. Other villages like Sama Gaun and Samdo provide a glimpse into a way of life that has not changed significantly over centuries and is influenced by Buddhism and the rhythms of life at high altitudes.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is a haven for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts, boasting a wealth of biodiversity. The lower sections of the forest route are lush with rhododendron and bamboo forests where red pandas, black bears in the Himalayas and many species of birds can be seen. Snow leopard, blue sheep (bharal) and Himalayan tahr can be seen by the keen eye at higher altitudes and are set against the harsh backdrop of the towns. The whole circuit is situated inside a protected area, whose management is dedicated to the conservation of this extraordinary ecosystem.
The Manaslu Circuit, in comparison to the popular trekking routes in Nepal, is relatively unpopulated, providing a more authentic and wild trekking experience.
Day 01 – Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 02 – Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869 m)
Day 03 – Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1,340 m) — 6 to 7 hours
Day 04 – Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,980 m) — 6 hours
Day 05 – Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m) — 6 to 7 hours
Day 06 – Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,520 m) — 7 hours
Day 07 – Rest and acclimatisation day at Sama Gaun
Day 08 – Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,860 m) — 3 hours
Day 09 – Trek from Samdo to Dharmasaala (4,460 m) — 3.5 hours
Day 10 – Trek from Dharmasaala to Bimthang (3,750 m) via Larke Pass (5,160 m) — 7 to 8 hours
Day 11 – Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (2,300 m) — 5 to 6 hours
Day 12 – Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, then to Kathmandu
Day 13 – Departure
What's Included
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All ground transport
- All standard meals during the trek — breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
- Lodge and guesthouse accommodation during the trek
- Nepal Government licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Required local staff and porters (one porter per two guests, luggage below 25 kg)
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all staff
- Entry permit for Manaslu Conservation Area
- All land transport from Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Dharapani to Besisahar then Muglin
- Additional guide for groups of 7–15 persons
- Guide and porter salary and insurance
- Certificate of achievement upon return from the trek
What's Not Included
- Meals during road journeys
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
- Any extra flight booking amount should be paid on actuals by the participant (over the amount mentioned in the Inclusions section)
- Expedition Permit Fee of USD 300 per Foreign National
- Mandatory Outdoor Insurance ( Sum Insured USD 15K)
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a moderate to difficult trek, recommended for those with some hiking experience who are physically fit.
Yes. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, trekking accompanied by a licensed guide is mandatory.
Larke Pass at 5,160 m is the highest point on the trek.
A Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is required, along with a restricted area permit.
Both the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are best. Spring is the least popular season, in part because of the fogs, and Summer is also less popular due to the constant change in weather.The clearest skies with the most stable weather are in the fall, and that is the reason for its popularity. In spring, with warm weather, there is more likely to be pre-monsoon cloud cover, but the rhododendrons bloom. The winter months (December to February) and monsoon season (June to August) are not advisable because of the amount of snow that can fall at altitude and flooding of the trails during the monsoon season.
Yes, it is highly recommended and is essential to have comprehensive travel and rescue insurance. The hike climbs above 5,000 m and in the case of a medical emergency or serious cases of altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation could be needed. Make sure that your policy includes coverage for trekking at high altitudes and helicopter rescues in an emergency, as many travel policies won’t include that coverage.
The following is a recommended Manaslu Circuit Trek packing list : Essentials include a good quality sleeping bag (-10°C or below), warm layering clothing, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, rugged trekking boots with ankle support, trekking poles, a headlamp (with spare batteries), sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit (altitude sickness medicine, including Diamox). You will be provided with a porter to carry most of your luggage (up to 25 kg total weight) so a smaller daypack will be required to carry essential items that will be needed on the trail every day.
Altitude sickness is indeed possible on the Manaslu Circuit, especially above the altitude of 3,500 m and crossing the Larke Pass at 5,160 m. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Itinerary is planned in order to allow progressive ascent, including a dedicated acclimatisation day at Sama Gaun (3,520 m) to allow time to acclimatise. The golden rule: Don’t go up when you have symptoms. The best preventive measures are to stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol and get up gradually. It is also recommended that a doctor be consulted prior to travel.
Error: Contact form not found.
