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Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip code 139
Package name Manaslu Circuit Trek
Duration 15
Max. elevation 5106 m
Level MODERATE
Transportation All ground transportation and Private as per itinerary
Accomodation

3 ***Hotel in Kathmandu & all accommodations are on twin-shared basis during the trek 

Starts at Kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
Trip route Kathmandu-Jagat-Namrung-Samagaon- Dharmashala-Tilje
Cost USD 1,120 per person

Highlights

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Manaslu Circuit with our 15-day itinerary. Our inclusive price includes all the necessary services. Likewise, our experienced and knowledgeable guides will lead you through the beautiful and challenging terrain of the Manaslu region, providing you with a life-changing experience you'll never forget. Explore stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region, and create unforgettable memories!"


Trek to Manaslu circuit offers an unparalleled trekking experience through the stunning Himalayan terrain of Nepal. The trek takes you through beautiful Buddhist landmarks and local villages, providing an authentic glimpse into the local culture. You will be surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, frozen lakes, glaciers, and high mountain passes that will make your trek an unforgettable adventure.


The Manaslu trek is a truly mesmerizing experience, starting in the quaint village of Machha Khola, nestled on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki river at 710 meters (2,952 ft) above sea level. The trek offers an incredible high-mountain route, passing through sprawling mountain villages perched on terraced hilltops adorned with stunning rhododendrons.


Even though the Manaslu round trek is gaining popularity among adventure enthusiasts, it remains less crowded than other popular treks like Annapurna Circuit & Ebc. With its wild and remote terrain, round manaslu offers an authentic experience of local culture and people.  is now a tea house trek, which means trekkers can stay in lodges and enjoy hot meals along the way, so you do not have to camp like in the past. 


Accessing the Manaslu circuit trail is also easy as there are no stressful domestic flights required. During the first part of the trek, you will follow the Budi Gandaki river gorge and cross many suspension bridges. The trek offers a diverse range of landscapes from subtropical jungles to the Himalayan foothills and the alpine zone and crosses the Larkya La pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 ft). 


You will get to witness views of mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m/25,823 ft), Himlung Himal (7126 m/23,379 ft), Gyaji Kang (7,074 m/26,161 ft), Sringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/26,040 ft), Mt. Kang Guru (6,981 m/22,903 ft), and many other mountains throughout the trek.


Difficulty & altitude sickness

Manaslu round trek in Nepal is a challenging venture that requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trek involves trekking through rugged terrain, high-altitude areas, and potential risks of altitude sickness. However, with proper preparation and precautions, it can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.


The trail takes you through steep and rugged terrain, with many ups and downs along the way. You'll be trekking in high-altitude areas, and the highest point of the trek is the Larkya La pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,135 meters (16,847 feet).


The  trek route involves remote areas with limited facilities. The trekking trail is not well developed and can be rugged and challenging at times. You'll be crossing suspension bridges, rocky paths, and high mountain passes, which can be physically demanding. You have to be physically prepared and mentally strong for the trek.


Altitude sickness is a common illness trekkers suffer during trekking in the Himalayas. You have to be cautious of the symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, nausea, and shortness of breath. As the trek progresses, you will begin traversing to higher altitudes, so your body has to adjust to the thinner air. To do so, we have added ample acclimatization days to our itinerary.


Food & Accommodation

Tea houses along the Manaslu circuit trek route are basic, but they provide a warm and comfortable place to rest and refuel after a long day of trekking. Tea houses are basic guest houses that provide accommodation, meals, and hot drinks to trekkers. The accommodation is usually two single beds in a room. The rooms may not have attached bathrooms, and the toilets are mostly shared.


Most tea houses offer a range of meals, including Nepalese, Tibetan, and Western cuisine. The food is usually simple, but it's tasty and filling. You can expect to have a traditional Nepalese dish like dal bhat, momos, thenduk, Tibetan bread, and thukpa during your trek. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans.


Best time

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times for Manaslu circuit trekking. During the spring season, the temperatures start to get warmer, and the weather becomes more stable. The surrounding mountains are still covered with snow, creating a breathtaking view. 


The high-altitude lakes like Birendra and Ponkar start to melt, and the forests bloom with rhododendrons and other flowers. The local villagers, who had migrated to low villages or towns to escape the winter, start to return home. With dry and clear weather, the views are stunning, and the trekking trail is more comfortable to navigate.


Likewise, during autumn, the temperature is mild, and the sky is clear, making it perfect for trekking. The scenery is picturesque, with colorful trees and flowers blooming. Daylight hours are longer, providing more time to explore and take in the beauty of the region. 


It's the ideal time to cross the challenging Larkya La pass without any weather-related difficulties. The average temperature ranges from 5℃ to 7℃ in higher altitudes. And the temperature starts to fall in the morning and night, making it necessary to pack warm clothes.


Why join the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area, the Round trek in Nepal is a stunning off-the-beaten path trek. Mount Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft) is the eighth tallest mountain peak in the world. The Manaslu circuit trail is home to traditional Gurung settlements and other communities of Bhutias, Sherpas & people of Tibetan ethnicity.


Along the way, you will discover many Buddhist landmarks, such as monasteries, prayer walls, chortens, and more, highlighting the influence of Buddhism in the region. You will share the path with yak caravans and explore an ancient trade route with Tibet that has continued for centuries. The Tibetan villages in this area have been established by Tibetan refugees, who have created a unique lifestyle that spans Nepal and Tibet. 


Day hikes to Pun Gyen Gompa (4,800 m/15,748 ft), Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m/15,748 ft) & Birendra Lake (3,691 m/12,110 ft) from Sama Gaun, and Rui La (4,998 m/16,398 ft), a traditional trade route to Tibet at the Nepal-Tibet border from Samdo Village, are also some of the highlights of the Manaslu circuit trek route. However, the most epic experience of the Manaslu circuit trek is crossing the snow-covered Manaslu Larkya Pass to the Bhimtang. 


Why is the Manaslu circuit a restricted region in Nepal?

Manaslu Circuit is a restricted region in Nepal because it is located close to the Nepal-Tibet border and contains sensitive geopolitical and cultural areas. The Manaslu region was only opened to tourists in 1991, and since then, the Nepalese government has imposed certain restrictions on travelers to this area.


The main reason for the restrictions is to protect the region's natural and cultural heritage. The Manaslu region is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna, including snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan Tahr, etc. The region is also home to several ethnic groups, including the Nubri and Tsumba people, who have their unique cultural traditions and practices.


Special regulations for Manaslu circuit trek

The Nepalese government regulates access to the Manaslu region by requiring trekkers to obtain a special permit to enter the area. The permit is only issued through authorized trekking agencies, and travelers must be accompanied by a licensed guide during their trek. 


Additionally, the government imposes a minimum group size requirement of two persons to obtain the permit, which aims to ensure safety and minimize the impact on the environment and local communities.


Manaslu circuit trek permit

The Manaslu circuit trek requires Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit). As our itinerary enters the Annapurna region at the end of the trek, you will also need Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit). All of these permit fees are already included in our Manaslu circuit trek cost, so you do not have to pay additional money.


Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu

September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.


December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.


Manaslu circuit trek in off-season

Summer or monsoon season in Nepal falls between June and August. It is not the ideal time for Manaslu circuit trekking. The region experiences heavy rainfall, making the forest trail slippery, muddy, and wet. Mosquitoes, leeches, and bugs make the trekking experience unpleasant. Landslides are also common during the monsoon season. As you trek higher, the chance of rainfall decreases, but it is still advisable to avoid trekking during this time.


Winter in Nepal, from December to February, transforms the Manaslu region into a winter wonderland of snow. The days are shorter, and the temperature is cooler, making it a low trekking season in the area. However, the trails are quieter, and the snow-capped peaks are dazzling, making it a good time for trekking. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy the tranquility and peacefulness of the region.


Travel insurance for Manaslu circuit trek

Travel insurance is crucial for the Manaslu circuit trek. It provides financial protection and security against any unforeseen circumstances such as injury, illness, theft, or trip cancellation. Trekking in high altitude and remote areas like Manaslu Circuit comes with certain risks that can be costly and difficult to handle on your own.


A comprehensive travel insurance policy for the Manaslu circuit should cover emergency medical expenses, evacuation by helicopter, repatriation, trip cancellation, personal liability, and theft. The insurance policy should also cover trekking activities above 4,000 meters and helicopter rescue, which is a common mode of evacuation in case of a medical emergency.


Money exchange and ATM on trail

The currency used in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange foreign currencies such as US Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds at authorized money exchange counters in Kathmandu or in the major cities along the trail.


ATMs are not available on the Manaslu circuit trek route. So, we recommend you withdraw enough Nepali cash to use during the trek for personal expenses. The locals do not accept cards. 


Transportation to Manaslu Circuit Trekking

As per the package, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Trek offers transportation by bus(available early in the morning only) from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Machhakhola (9/10 hrs) and Dharapani to Besisahar by a local Jeep (4/5 hrs), then we switch to another bus or van to Kathmandu (6/7 hrs). The bus might be congested, overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not tidy, and stop in many villages to pick up and drop off more people en route, but it definitely takes a couple of hours longer than a private jeep to reach the final destination. However, you can take part in the experience and enjoy it as well. Otherwise, we will provide private transportation on request, which costs a total of $290 to Machhakhola and $420 from Dharapani to Kathmandu.


Telecommunications and wifi facilities in the Manaslu Region?

The Manaslu Region, located in the central part of Nepal, is a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering. While the region is relatively remote, there are telecommunication and wifi facilities available for visitors.


Telecommunication facilities in the Manaslu Region include mobile networks and satellite phones. The two main mobile networks operating in the region are Ncell and Nepal Telecom. Both networks offer 3G and 4G services in most parts of the region. However, the signal strength and coverage may vary depending on the location.


Satellite phones are also available for rent in the Manaslu Region. These phones use satellite technology to provide communication services in areas where there is no mobile network coverage. They are particularly useful for emergency situations where immediate communication is necessary.


In terms of wi fi facilities, most tea houses and lodges along the trekking route offer wifi services. However, the quality and speed of the wifi may be limited due to the remote location of the region. Additionally, some lodges may charge a fee for wifi usage.  


What are the requirements for Manaslu Trekking?


Manaslu Trekking in Nepal is probably the most popular restricted trekking activity to do in Nepal. If you are searching for the serenity and tranquility, try doing trekking in this region. However, there are numerous requirements to do the trekking. Lots of the people across the globe ask the questions about the things to prepare for the trip. As a trekking agency operator who has been working in the field of Nepal Trekking for more than 15 years would like to share some of the things to remember before planning the trekking.

Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage is the specialist in operating the Manaslu Trekking. There are two popular trekking routes to trek in the region. They are Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trek. Let's know a brief introduction about these trekking routes.


1.       Manaslu Circuit Trek


This is the detour which traverses through Tibetan villages along with the hilly villages in the low altitude places. Moreover, the trail encompasses the crossing of Larke La Pass (5106 m). It is the daunting trekking trail where the trekkers can visit the base camp of the world's 8th tallest mountain. Therefore, one can knit the momentous walking tale of the enchanting yet tranquil place.


2.       TsumValley Trek


Tsum is the mystical place of the Manaslu region. It is believed that the place used to be the meditation place for the 8th eons. There are numerous hidden valleys. These places were used to be the place where people took shelter during the famine and war. Moreover, the place is famous for the mountain vista, terraced farmlands, and rural villages of multiethnic people.

Here is the list of the requirements of Manaslu Trekking:


1.       Solo Trekkers are not allowed


Are you planning to do the solo trekking in Manaslu Trekking? If yes, then scrap the idea as you can't do the solo trekking. In order to get the permit for the trekking you need to have at least two trekkers. Therefore, plan the Manaslu Trekking in Nepal with at least one friend or family members.


2.       Buy Trekking Package from Trekking Agency

You can't go to the trekking by yourselves even if you have more than two trekkers in the group. Travelers need to buy the trekking package from trekking agency. The agency has to be the Nepal Government Licensed and tax cleared agency.


3.       Get Licensed Trekking Guide

A group of two people and package from the trekking agency couldn't go in the trekking. These people must be guided by the Nepal Government Licensed trekking guide. If you are in these parts of the Nepal Trekking region with the guides, there is high chance of the success rate. Moreover, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expeditions deploy the local Nepal Government Licensed trekking guide. You can get the authentic information of the culture, traditions and rituals along with the proper information of the landscape.


4.       Travel Insurance

All the trekkers must get the travel insurance before trekking. The insurance must cover the emergency helicopter rescue, medical expenses, and accidents. The trail is long and unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen. Therefore, you must get the insurance plan. Moreover, the insurance is the minimum criteria to get the permit for the trekking.


5.       Special Immigration Permit

For the restricted trekking region, you will have to get the special immigration permit from the Immigration office in Kathmandu. Once you have landed in Kathmandu, you will have to submit all the passports and ask the trekking agency to issue the special immigration permit.


6.       ACAP & MCAP

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) are needed for the trekking. This is the only trekking region where trekkers need to get the two trekking permits. Once the trekkers cross the Larke La Pass, they will have to walk in the Annapurna Region of Nepal.

These are the basic requirements for the Manaslu Trekking in Nepal. If you wish to do the trekking in Nepal at Manaslu Region, contact the travel planners of Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks for the proper consultation. If you are in the proper travel consultation, you can get the hassle free trekking adventure. 

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu

Accommodation:3 Stars Hotel in Kathmandu 

Meals: Null

When you arrive at the Tribhuvan international airport terminal, our airport team will be there waiting to greet you. They'll assist you with your luggage and take you to your hotel. Once you've had some time to rest, we'll schedule a meeting with the core team members at our Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage office. Here, we'll introduce you to your trek leader and go over any final preparations needed for your upcoming journey. With the evening free, feel free to explore the lively streets of Thamel and pick up any last-minute items you may need.

Day 2 : Free day for trekking preparation.

Free day for trekking preparation or sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

Day 3 : Drive From Kathmandu to Machha Khola (710m/2952ft) via Arughat (695m/2280ft) Duration: 8-9 hrs

Distance: 170 km/106 miles

Duration: 8-9 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

After breakfast, we'll board a Local bus for a long and scenic journey to Machha Khola. The drive offers breathtaking views of the rivers, green rocky mountains, and numerous small springs. The ride is smooth up to Arughat, and after this town, the road gets bumpy till Machha Khola. 

Day 4 : Trek From Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m/4395ft) Duration: 6 hrs

Distance: 22.2 km/13.7 miles
Duration: 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
From Machha Khola, walk on a twisting road across the bank of the Budhi Gandaki river. The trail then continues through dense forests where we may get to see langur monkeys. Passing by Khorlabeshi, the trail goes to Tatopani. We take a short break here to enjoy the natural hot springs. 
Further, crossing a new suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river, we'll reach Doban. The trail continues through a landslip and Yaruphant. We then cross a wooden bridge

Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m) 6-7 hrs

Distance: 19.9 km/12.3 miles

Duration: 6/7 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Leaving Jagat, the trail continues through dense sub-tropical forests. Passing by small rivers and remote villages, ascend on a rocky ridge to Salleri, and descend to Sirdibas. The valley opens up as we keep trekking to Ghatta Khola and gradually ascend to a long suspension bridge. Crossing the bridge, we will make it to Philim. 

From here, the trail goes north to Ekle Bhatti and steeply descends on grassy slopes. Cross the Budhi Gandaki and walk along the west bank before crossing the east bank. The final walk of the day passes by bamboo forests to Deng village, crossing the Deng Khola. 

Day 6 : Trek From Deng to Namrung (2900m/9512ft) Duration: 6-7hrs

Distance: 19.5 km/12.1 miles

Duration: 5/6 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Crossing the Budhi Gandaki river, we will ascend to the bridge. From here, we'll continue your ascent to join a trail that leads from Bhi. As we head westward up the valley, we'll encounter an array of breathtaking sights, from verdant forests to alpine vegetation to charming hamlets. 

We will then pass by Prok village, which offers a superb view of Sirngi Himal and continue trekking, crossing the Budhi Gandaki river numerous times. On the, we will walk past many gompas and ascend upstream through a dense forest. The trail then leads us to a narrow gorge, where the dense vegetation gradually gives way to a more open landscape and takes us to Namrung village. 

Day 7 : Trek From Namrung to Samagaon (3500m/11480ft) Duration: 6 hrs

Distance: 17.7 km/10.9 miles

Duration: 6 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

We will start the day walking through forests to Lihi village. From here, the trail descends and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal, with Ganesh Himal looming ever closer. Continuing, we'll pass through several charming hamlets, including Sho, Lho, and Shyala, before arriving at Samagaon. The trail offers magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Nagadi Chuli, along with vast glaciers. 

Day 8 : Acclimatization day at Samagaon

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

For the acclimatization hike, we will go to Pung Gyen Gompa (4,800 m/15,748 ft), situated east of the Nubri Valley. As we ascend to the hilltop, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Manaslu. We may also spot numerous Himalayan Tahrs and Yaks grazing nearby, which is a sight to behold.

Alternatively, we can hike to Manaslu Base Camp, located to the north of Samagaon. To get here, we'll follow the trail past Birendra Tal and turn left onto the base camp track. This hike also offers jaw-dropping mountain panorama and glacier scenery. 

Day 9 : Trek From Samagaon to Samdo (3690m/12103ft) Duration: 3 hrs

Distance: 8.2 km/5 miles

Duration: 3/4 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

As we leave Samagaon behind and head toward Samdo, the scenery changes dramatically. We'll notice fewer trees, but instead, vast pastures, mani walls, and a diverse range of birdlife. After crossing the wooden bridge over the Buri Gandaki river, we'll arrive at the white Kani, a neighboring village to Samdo.

Once we arrive at Samdo, we can take the opportunity to explore the nearby villages or hike up to Samdo Peak. From here, you'll have stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the trail for Tibet over the Larjyang La pass, which intersects with the Larkya La trail. 

Day 10 : Trek From Samdo to Dharmashala (4450m/14596ft) Duration: 4 hrs

Distance: 16 km/

Duration: 7/8 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The trek from Samdo to Dharmashala is a part of the popular Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal. Here's a brief guide on what to expect during the trek:

Distance: The distance from Samdo to Dharmashala is approximately 8 kilometers.

Altitude: Samdo is located at an altitude of 3,875 meters, while Dharmashala is at an altitude of 4,460 meters. This means that you will be gaining a significant amount of altitude during the trek, which may lead to altitude sickness.

Trail: The trail from Samdo to Dharmashala is a gradual ascent, passing through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

Highlights: The highlight of the trek from Samdo to Dharmashala is the stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. You will also pass through the Larkya La pass, which is at an altitude of 5,160 meters and is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Duration: The trek from Samdo to Dharmashala can take anywhere between 4-6 hours depending on your pace and fitness level.

Accommodation: There are basic lodges and tea houses available in Dharmashala for accommodation.

Day 11 : Dharmashala to Bhimtang (330m) via Cross Larkya La pass (5220m/17121ft) Duration: 8 hrs

We will climb Cho Chanda and then slowly head uphill towards the steep snow covered pass. The panorama from the top is truly magnificent. You will see Himlung Himal (7126meter), Cheo Himal (6820meters), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6981meters) and Annapurna II (7937meters). The descent is steep as we pass through moraines to Bhimphedi. Stay overnight at a guesthouse (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included).

Day 12 : Trek From Bhimtang to Tilje or Dharapani (2300m/7544ft) Duration: 6-7 hrs

Distance: 26 km/16.1 miles
Duration: 5/6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The trail offers panoramic views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal. The trail descends and crosses a high pasture and bridge over the Dudh Khola. From here, we will trek through rhododendron forests and pass by a narrow valley to Karche. Further, trekking via lush fields, we will steeply ascend to a ridge and descend to Gho village. From here, the next village is Tilije, where we will spend the night. 


Day 13 : Trek From Tilje to Dharapani 1.3 Hours and drive back to Besishar 3-4 hours by Jeep

Distance: 41.8 km/25.9 miles

Duration: 1.5 hours trek & 3-4 hours drive

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Leaving Tilje behind, we descend to Dharapani. It is a short trek via lush forests. The trek ends at Dharapani, and we will take a bumpy ride to Besisahar. The views are heartwarming along the way. Besisahar is a beautiful town with a bustling market that we highly recommend you explore. 

Day 14 : Drive From Besisahar (760m / 2,493ft) - to Kathmandu.7-8 Hours or pokhara

Today, we will be our last day on the road. After early morning breakfast, we leave Dharapani to Besishar on a local bus, which will approximately take about six to seven hours. The drive will be scenic as we will pass many villages, Marsyangdi River, Bhulbhule town, and Khudi. We should be reaching Besisahar before 3 pm to catch the last bus to Kathmandu. If we are late, we will have to extend a day in the itinerary. 

After catching a bus that takes us back to Kathmandu, on our way, we will see the Marsyagdi River meeting the Trishuli River, as we head east on the Prithivi Highway. The drive allows you to appreciate beautiful and natural scenery  over Night at Kathmandu .

Day 15 : Fly Back To Home

Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from the Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage, will take you to the airport and bid you farewell. You will take with you wonderful memories of a truly outstanding experience

Inclusions

What is included?

What isn't included?

Complimentary

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