Overview
Duration
14 Days
Difficulty level
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Activities
Trekking
You can experience the untouched beauty of the Nepal Himalayas on the 14-day Manaslu Trek, one of the best trekking trips available. Located in a less-traveled and remote region, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a truly authentic Himalayan experience. It combines adventure with cultural discovery and features breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu—the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of the Annapurna or Everest Base Camp treks, the Manaslu trail winds through isolated villages, lush forests, and diverse landscapes—from subtropical valleys to alpine meadows—all surrounded by majestic, snow-capped peaks.
Cultural and Natural Experience
The trek is a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. As you pass through traditional Tibetan villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries, you’ll experience local customs and witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged. Each village along the route—from Sherpa to Tibetan-influenced communities—offers unique cultural insights.
Acclimatisation & Altitude
The 14-day itinerary includes a well-structured acclimatisation schedule, which is essential for safe high-altitude trekking. Key rest days, such as the one in Samagaun, help prevent altitude sickness as you ascend toward the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Larkya Peak.
Difficulty Level
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately difficult, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some previous trekking experience. The most challenging section is the ascent to Larkya La Pass. No technical climbing is required, but you must be prepared for changing weather and long walking hours (5–7 hours per day).
Fitness Preparation
To prepare:
- Engage in cardio activities such as running, cycling, or hiking.
- Practice walking on uneven terrain.
- Focus on stamina-building exercises.
- Be mentally prepared for changing weather and basic accommodation.
Landscape and Wildlife
The Manaslu Circuit offers a diverse landscape—from rhododendron forests and oak woodlands to alpine terrain. You’ll walk through terraced fields, traditional villages, and the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to wildlife like Himalayan tahr and snow leopards.
Weather and Climate
Weather varies by altitude:
- Lower elevations (15°C–20°C daytime)
- Higher elevations: Cold nights, temperatures can fall below freezing
- Prepare for sudden changes, including snow, rain, and wind near Larkya La Pass.
Best Trekking Seasons
Spring (March to May)
- Mild temperatures (10°C to 15°C)
- Blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers
- Clear mountain views
Autumn (September to November)
- Best season overall
- Stable, dry weather
- Crystal-clear skies and views
Avoid Monsoon (June to August)
- Heavy rainfall
- Risk of landslides and muddy trails
Food on the Trek
Meals are mainly:
- Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetables)
- Noodles, potatoes, pasta
- Limited Western options (pancakes, sandwiches) at lower altitudes
- Simple menus at higher elevations
Drinking Water
- Purified or boiled water is available at teahouses
- Bring water purification tablets or a personal filter
- Avoid untreated water from rivers or streams
Accommodation
Accommodation is in basic teahouses or lodges:
- Simple rooms and bedding
- Shared bathrooms in most locations
- Colder and more basic facilities at higher elevations
- Book in advance during peak seasons
Travel Insurance
Essential for:
- Emergency medical evacuation
- High-altitude trekking
- Delays, accidents, or lost luggage
Make sure your insurance covers helicopter rescue at high altitude.
Passport and Visa
- Valid passport (6+ months remaining)
- Tourist visa available on arrival in Kathmandu or via embassy
- 15, 30, or 90-day options available
- Carry copies of your visa and passport
Required Permits
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Required for the Manaslu region
- Must be issued through a registered trekking agency
- Costs:
- USD 100/week (Sept–Nov)
- USD 75/week (Dec–Aug)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Required for entry to the conservation zone
- USD 30 per person
- Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card
- Required for all trekkers
- USD 10–20 depending on group/solo status
- Licensed Guide Required
- Independent trekking is not allowed
- All trekkers must be accompanied by a certified guide
- Minimum Group Size
- Minimum of 2 trekkers required
How to Reach the Manaslu Circuit Start Point
Private Jeep (Recommended)
- Cost: ~USD 230 (split between passengers)
- Duration: 8–10 hours from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
- Comfortable and flexible
Public Bus
- Depart from Kathmandu’s New Bus Park (6–7 AM daily)
- Bus to Arughat, then local jeep to Machha Khola
- Cost-effective, but less comfortable
Road Condition
Altitude Sickness (AMS) and Rescue
Symptoms:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Prevention:
- Gradual ascent
- Hydration
- Rest days
Rescue & Safety:
- Alpine Club of Himalaya provides expert guides trained in first aid
- Emergency evacuations are available (insurance must cover helicopter rescue)
Why Hire a Guide and Porter?
Benefits of a Guide
- Navigation, safety, cultural interpretation
- First-aid trained
- Handles logistics and permits
Benefits of a Porter
- Carries gear (up to 20–25 kg)
- Eases physical burden on trekkers
- Supports the local economy
Hiring both a guide and a porter ensures a safer, more enjoyable, and culturally immersive trek.
Environmental and Ethical Trekking
- Stay in lodges/teahouses (no wild camping)
- Respect local customs and religious sites
- Leave no trace pack out all waste
- Support local economy by hiring local guides/porters
Itinerary
The Menaslu Circuit Trek starts with the trip to Machakhola. From Kathmandu, the drive takes 8 to 9 hours and goes through beautiful countryside roads with views of terraced fields, rivers, and small villages. You’ll see the change from city life to country life as you head towards Machakhola. It will be a long drive, but it sets the stage for the adventure that’s coming. Spend the night in a teahouse to get ready for the trek.
Max. Altitude:
The trek goes on to Jagat, a cute village in the Manaslu region, on the second day. The 7–8-hour walk is beautiful, with steep climbs and descents through dense forests and small towns. Along the way, you’ll cross suspension bridges over the Budi Gandaki River, which makes for a beautiful background. It’s nice to take a break in Jagat and enjoy the view of the hills and mountains nearby.
Max. Altitude:
A small village called Deng is on the edge of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trail leads from Jagat to Deng. The 8–9-hour trip takes you through rough, remote terrain, dense forests, and small, isolated villages, giving you a real look at how people live in the Himalayas. As you get closer to Manaslu Base Camp, the trail also gives you great views of the mountains. Spend the night in a cosy teahouse in Deng.
Max. Altitude:
It will take about 7 to 8 hours of hiking to get from Deng to Namrung and then to Lho Village on this day. You’ll start to see beautiful views of Manaslu and Himalchuli as you walk through lush forests. You can enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people in Namrung, and Lho Village is famous for its Tibetan culture and Buddhist monasteries.
Max. Altitude:
The trail leads to Lho today. It takes 5 to 6 hours to get there, going through alpine meadows, pastures, and a few scattered villages. This part of the trek is pretty easy, and you’ll be in the peaceful Himalayas the whole time. Manaslu can be seen from Lho Village, especially in the early morning or late evening, when the mountains are bathed in golden light.
Max. Altitude:
It takes about 4 to 5 hours to walk from Lho to Shy-La, which is about 4,500 meters above sea level. The scenery gets rougher and drier as you go higher, and in the distance you can see snow-capped peaks. From the Shy-La pass, you can see all the peaks in the area in a stunning panorama. As you reach higher elevations on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you’ll have an amazing experience.
Max. Altitude:
The trek takes you from Shy-La to Samagaun, a beautiful Tibetan village at the base of Mount Manaslu. Today is a pretty easy day. It takes about 4 hours to walk, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful scenery. People who are hiking often stop at Samagaun to rest because it has great views of Manaslu and the chance to see Pungen Gumba, an old monastery that shows how Buddhism is practiced in the area.
Max. Altitude:
For a trek at higher elevations to go well, you need to get used to the altitude. You will rest in Samagaun today so that your body can get used to the higher elevation. A day walk to Pungen Gumba, which takes about two to three hours, is a great way to see the area and get used to it. From the monastery, you can see Manaslu and the peaks around it very clearly.
Max. Altitude:
The trek continues from Samagaun to Samdo on day 9. It takes 4 hours to walk through a large valley surrounded by high mountain peaks. There are great views of Manaslu and Larkya Peak from Samdo, which is the highest permanent settlement in the Manaslu region. It is a traditional Tibetan village. This is a great spot to unwind and get ready for the harder days ahead.
Max. Altitude:
From Samdo to Dharma Sala is the next part of your trip. It’s a 4- to 5-hour walk through rough terrain and alpine forests. Dharma Sala is the last stop before you cross the Larkya La Pass. You will spend the night here to get ready for the long, hard day that lies ahead.
Max. Altitude:
You will cross the Larkya-La Pass (5,160 meters), one of the highest points of the trek, on Day 11. This is the best day of the Manaslu trek. The trip is hard and takes 9 to 10 hours, but the view from the pass is worth its time. If the weather is clear, you can see Manaslu, Himalchuli, and other huge peaks that will take your breath away. From the pass to Bimtang, the way down is steep but beautiful. You’ll pass through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
Max. Altitude:
On day 12, you will walk from Bimtang to Tilje, which will take about six to seven hours. The trail goes down through a beautiful valley. Your journey will take you through quaint towns and lush forests, giving you a taste of rural life in the area. There are nice places to stay in Tilje, a pretty village on the edge of the Manaslu Conservation Area, where you can spend the night.
Max. Altitude:
You’ll leave the mountains behind on day 13 and drive to Besisahar. You will get to see beautiful rural areas on this five- to six-hour drive. This is your last chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. After days of hiking, you’ll be able to rest in comfort once you get to Besisahar.
Max. Altitude:
You will go from Besisahar to Pokhara on the last day of your 14-day Manaslu trek. It will take you 5 to 6 hours by road. The drive will be beautiful, going through hills and valleys. At the end of the trek, you’ll reach Pokhara, a quiet town by a lake. The views of Fewa Lake and the Annapurna Range are beautiful from here.
Max. Altitude: