Manaslu Circuit Trek
Key Information:
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Maximum Altitude5390m
  • Best SeasonsMar-May and Sep-Dec
  • ActivityTrekking
  • Group Size16
All-Inclusive PriceUS$ 1850 US$ 1695
16 Days 15 Nights

About Manaslu Circuit Trek

"Enjoy off-beat trekking in Nepal on Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days and get to see unspoiled landscapes and stunning mountain views."

Situated between the famous Annapurna region and the Langtang region, Manaslu Circuit Trek explores the stunning Manaslu region and is a paradise for challenge lovers. During the Manaslu Circuit Trekking, you will be traversing around the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu. Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days is perfect for anyone looking for a less crowded, off-beaten trekking route in the Himalayas.

Enriched by ancient Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage, prayer wheels, and old monasteries, the Manaslu Circuit Trek route offers a deep insight into the thriving religious aspect of the region. Trekking through remote mountain villages, you will get to have intimate encounters with the locals. Likewise, the trail takes you across diverse flora & fauna and crosses high suspension bridges.

Views during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days offers an unspoiled Himalayan landscape that only a handful of trekkers get to relish. Along the route, you can see heart-warming views of snow-clustered Himalayan mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m), etc. Likewise, you will hike to Birendra Lake (3,691 m) that offers breathtaking scenery.

What do we offer?

We offer the best Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary that has the perfect acclimatization spots and full support during the trek. During our Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal, you will be guided by an experienced trekker. With us, you will get the genuine Manaslu Circuit Trek price and high-quality service.

We have opened our booking for Manaslu Circuit Trek 2022 and Manaslu Circuit Trek 2023. Feel free to get in touch with us anytime to book the trip.

You can also tailor-made short Manaslu Circuit Trek or join one of our departure dates.

These are some other challenging treks in the Himalayas- Upper Mustang Trek, Dolpo Trek, and Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek.

Highlights

  • Less crowded, off-beaten trekking route
  • Unspoiled landscape and rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage
  • Beautiful villages and friendly locals
  • Visit ancient monasteries like Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa
  • Hike to stunning Birendra Lake
  • Cross challenging Larkya La Pass
  • Witness breathtaking Himalayan mountain views
  • Enjoy trekking in a restricted area

Itinerary

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We will welcome you in at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day. Our airport representative will escort you to the hotel and leave you to rest. In the evening, you will meet with the rest of the team members at a complimentary welcome dinner organized by the company.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the hotel
  • Meals:Welcome dinner

Get to know Nepali art and architecture during the guide sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Our professional guide will take you to the historical monuments and brief you about their history. Later in the late afternoon, you will meet the trek leader at a small briefing session. He will assist you with the final packing for the trek.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast only

Lapubesi is the starting point of the trek. To reach here, we will use a private vehicle and drive for around 7 to 8 hours. The drive will be scenic and offers gorgeous views of lush green hills, terraced fields, and waterfalls.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

It is the first day of the trek. From Lapubesi, the route ascends along the Budhi Gandaki river to Dovan. On the way, you will cross two long suspension bridges over the river and pass by donkeys & mules. Always walk on the hillside while passing by animals. Likewise, you will encounter locals and children going to school while trekking. The views will be beautiful.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The trail ascends through small settlement areas and mani walls. You will reach Tatopani, a famous village for its natural hot spring. Further, the trail goes along the cliffside to Jagat. From here, the trail goes through Machha Khola village and steeply ascends towards Philim.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The route between Philim and Bihi Phedi offers stunning views of Shringi Himal and green hills. Ascend along the Budhi Gandaki and cross the bridge over the Syar river. Further, you will walk by an excellent deep rock-cut and gradually move towards Deng. As you will gain elevation, breathtaking views of Mt. Manasalu will come into perspective. The last part of the trail passes by a narrow valley, and you will reach Bihi Phedi.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

After a warm breakfast, begin your day with a gradual walk from Bihi Phedi to Bihi village. Continue walking towards the bank of the Budhi Gandaki river, where Ghap village is situated. The trail from here crosses a wooden bridge over the same river and ascends to Namrung village.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Wake up with gorgeous views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. On a clear day, you can see Himal Chuli in the south too. From Namrung, the trail ascends through lush forests to Lihi village. The route keeps ascending through forests to Lho Gaun. Here, you will visit the old Ribung Gompa and get to see superb views of Mt. Manaslu and Ngadi Chuli.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Get ready to enjoy outstanding mountain views today. The trail slowly climbs to a plateau and takes you to Shyala village. From here, you will walk on a downhill path to rocky moraine that will lead you to Pungen Glacier. Further, you will walk and reach Sama Gaun. It is a picturesque village with slate-roofed stone houses. The locals are very welcoming and friendly.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Today is a rest day. We will visit Pungyen Gompa, located near the Sama village. If you continue hiking from here, then the trail will take you to the famous Birendra Lake (3,691 m). The stunning turquoise water of the lake with surrounding white mountains offers an exceptional view. North of the lake is an old cave, where saint Milarepa is believed to be meditated.

If you are up for a more challenging walk, then Manaslu Base Camp at 4,750 meters is another great option. Mt. Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

You will begin trekking, crossing pastures, and gradually descend towards the Budhi Gandaki river below the village. The trail passes by numerous mani walls, and further, goes through dense forests of birch & juniper to Samdo village. It is a short trekking day, therefore you will have ample time to explore the village and climb to a hill around the village to witness jaw-dropping mountain views.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river and ascend. The trail then crosses two small streams and passes by seasonal Larkya Bazar. From here, you will ascend along the Sarka Khola valley and reach Dharmasala.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Today a long day lies ahead of you. The trail ascends to a ridge and continues towards the moraines of Larkya Glacier. You can see dramatic views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak on the way. Further, the trail gradually ascends to the top of Larkya La Pass. It will be a steep and rugged walk. From the past, the views of mountains like Himlung Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna II, etc are out of this world. Later, you will descend through moraines and pastures to Bhimtang.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The trail goes through remote villages and lush forests to Tilije (2,300 m). You will walk by paddy fields and continue trekking towards Dharapani to spend the night.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

After a warm breakfast, you will drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The drive will be long and offer a beautiful landscape. You will have the rest of the evening free to relax and enjoy shopping in Thamel. Meet our team for the last time over farewell dinner and end your day exploring the lively streets of Thamel.

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & farewell dinner

The trek to one of the most adventurous trails in the Himalayas has come to an end. We will drop you at the airport as per your flight departure time today.

    Cost Details

    • Airport/hotel/airport picks up and drops by private car, bus with an escort.  
    • Manaslu Trek special permits. 
    • Manaslu Conservation entry fees.  
    • Annapurna Conservation entry fees. 
    • Full Board Plan (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a cup of tea/coffee/hot lemon at every meal) throughout the trek.  
    • Deluxe accommodation in 3/4 star hotel in Kathmandu on BB plan  
    • Twin sharing Tea Houses / Lodges accommodation during the trek with common toilet and bathroom facilities.  
    • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with government licensed holder professional tour Guide by car, van, bus.  
    • An experienced English speaking government licensed holder trekking Guide.  
    • The Required number of staffs & porters to carry your luggage during the trekking.  
    • Food, drinks, salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, accommodation, medicine and local tax for guide, porters and for all staffs,  
    • Kathmandu –Lapubensi and Dharapani- Kathmandu transportation by bus. 
    • Medical kit  
    • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card. 
    •  
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. 
    • Your travel insurance (Compulsory).  
    • International flight ticket.  
    • Any expense of personal nature.  
    • Nepal entry visa fee US$ 25 (duration 15days from date of issue), US$ 40 (duration 30 days from date of issue) and US$ 100 (duration 90 days from date of issue) you can easily issue your visa upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will require two passport size photos.  
    • Any kinds of Bar bills such as alcoholic, hot and cold drinks, battery charge, laundry etc.  
    • Helicopter Rescue & Evacuation fee in case of emergency.  
    • Optional tipping to the guide and porter (Tips is expected) 
    •  

    Useful Info

    How difficult is Manaslu Trek?

    Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most difficult trekking routes in the Himalayas. This trek is only for experienced trekkers, who are up for off-beat walking and can survive in bare minimum facilities.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek distance

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek distance on average is 177 kilometers. You will be walking 12 to 17 km a day. Some days can go above 20 km too.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek route

    The Manaslu Circuit Trek route is rugged and steep. The terrain is different from any other trekking trail in Nepal and leans more towards an off-beaten path. The daily walk ranges from 7 to 8 hours. You will be trekking through dense forests and rocky paths.

    Apart from the trail, the entire region is less developed in terms of tourist infrastructure, which makes everything scarce along the route. The facilities are limited. So, you also have to be mentally prepared before going on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking.

    Altitude Sickness

    Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days is a high-altitude journey that goes above 5,000 meters. It means the trekkers can suffer from altitude sickness if their bodies do not acclimatize while trekking.

    Below are some precautions you can take to avoid altitude sickness:

    • Include enough rest days in the itinerary and do not ascend more than 500 meters in a day.
    • Always try to sleep at a low altitude after touching a high elevation.
    • Be careful of early symptoms like headache, nausea, loss of appetite, breathing problems, etc.
    • Keep drinking water to maintain hydration and avoid alcoholic drinks/smoking.
    • Carry prescribed medicine to deal with headaches and body aches.

    Training for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking

    Manaslu Circuit Trek is demanding and requires strong physical and mental fitness. To prepare yourself for Manaslu Circuit Trekking, you at least have to keep 4 to 6 weeks on hand. The preparation should include increasing stamina and core strength.

    Go on long hikes and get used to walking for 6 to 7 hours with a few short breaks. You can exercise and include cardio & aerobic training in the routine. Similarly, running, swimming, and cycling will also help you prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek permit

    Manaslu is a restricted area in Nepal. Therefore, you have to take a Restricted Area Permit from the government of Nepal to do Manaslu Circuit Trek. Similarly, you have to obtain Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit) and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit).

    Restricted Area Permit from September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person from the eight-day onwards

    Restricted Area Permit from December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person from the eight-day onwards

    MCAP Permit cost: USD 30, per person

    ACAP Permit cost: USD 30, per person

    Along with an expensive permit also come strict rules that trekkers must follow.

    • Manaslu Circuit Trek solo is not permitted.
    • There should be at least two trekkers in the group, not including the guide and porter.
    • An independent trekker can not help you get the restricted area permit. You have to trek with a registered Nepali trekking company.

    Manaslu Circuit Trek best time

    The best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek is from March to April and October to November. You may trek in the May and early days of winter too. All other months are off-season for Manaslu Circuit Trekking, and the route gets blocked because of heavy rainfall./snowfall.

    Spring and autumn is the season of trekking in the Himalayas. As the weather remains stable with a mild climate, the chances of any kind of delays are very low. You will get to witness phenomenal mountain views and great landscapes.

    Accommodation & Food

    Manaslu Circuit Trek is a teahouse trek. The accommodation in the Manaslu region is very basic. The rooms are quite small with a bed, blanket, and pillow. The blanket provided by the teahouse will not be enough to keep yourself warm, so carry a good sleeping bag.

    The washroom can be private or common. The service is not that great, and you may have to pay a few extra bucks for a hot shower, WiFi, charging booths, etc.

    The meals are cooked and served by the teahouse owners. You will mostly get Nepali and Tibetan dishes. There will be a few western dishes like mashed potatoes, sandwiches, pasta, steak, etc. Especially at the higher elevation, the food option gets limited.

    FAQs

    • Q1. Is Manaslu Circuit Trek doable?

      Yes, Manaslu Circuit Trek is doable for any physically fit individual with previous trekking experience. With proper preparation and support, anyone can do this trek smoothly. You have to be comfortable walking long hours on rugged terrain.

    • The isolation of the Manaslu region and the restriction on the area make it special from the famous Everest and Annapurna regions. The trekking trails are less crowded, and the views are phenomenal. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a paradise for challenge lovers and offers insight into rich Tibetan Buddhism culture.

    • No, you cannot do Manaslu Circuit Trek solo because of all the restrictions.

    • As per our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, the starting point of the trek is Lapubesi (885 m), and the ending point is Dharapani.

    • Yes, you can do a tea house trek while exploring Manaslu Circuit. You can also opt for the camping trek. It's up to you.

    • You will get electricity in almost all the villages to charge your camera and cell phone during the Manaslu Circuit trek. Do carry extra batteries or a solar charger for backup.

    • In villages like Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, Bhimtang, Dharapni, etc you will get WiFi service. The network may not be stable all the time, and you may have to pay a few extra bucks to use the service.