A complete Guide to Manaslu Circuit Trek- Highlights, Guide, Cost, & Itinerary

Embark on a peaceful journey in the Himalayan range of Nepal by joining our Manaslu Circuit trek package. A lifetime trip amidst giant mountains and arduous terrain!

The Manaslu Circuit trek is the next great adventurous trek in Nepal. This trek has everything- beautiful villages, pristine landscapes, stunning mountain views, rich cultural heritage, and an offbeat route. Not only that but being a restricted area, there is no crowd even in the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn).

On the Manaslu Circuit trek, you will follow offbeat trails. The terrain is rugged and steep. You will be trekking within the Manaslu Conservation Area, so expect a wide range of vegetation, fauna, and birds along the way. Once you are above Jagat, the restricted area starts. Trekking in at least a group of two trekkers is necessary.

Today, the Manaslu Circuit trek is considered one of the great alternatives to the  Annapurna Circuit trek. Off the famous trails in Nepal, trekkers get to explore unspoiled and untouched parts of the Himalayas. This trek route traverses close to the Nepal-Tibet border, so you will notice many cultural resemblances.

What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal?

As much as the Manaslu Circuit trek is adventurous and beautiful, the journey is equally challenging. This trek is truly for experienced trekkers or individuals who are fit to take on the hurdles. The trail ascends the Budi Gandaki river valley and passes by dense forests before opening up to vast grassy meadows.

Once you are above the treeline, you will trek past landslide-prone areas and navigate glacier moraines. The Manaslu Circuit trek route is dotted with tea houses, where you will spend the nights and have meals. The services are limited on this trek, but the basic necessities will be met. So, trekkers do not need to carry tents.

On the way, you will cross many hanging suspension bridges and streams. There are beautiful waterfalls as well. Likewise, many old stupas, chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries are scattered around the Manaslu Circuit trail. The Manaslu region is home to rare wildlife like snow leopards. But spotting one is quite rare.

Why will you love the Manaslu Circuit trek 15 days?

Compared to famous trek routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, the Manaslu Circuit trek sees 10 times fewer trekkers. So, you will have a solitary trip. The contrasting landscapes from the start to the end of the trek will not let you feel bored. Every village will surprise you and offer you a different experience.

You will trek to the lap of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Manaslu Base Camp. Explore the Pun Gyen Gompa and Birendra Lake as well. The trail then crosses the Larkya La pass (5,160 m/16,929 ft). It is the toughest part of the Manaslu Circuit trek. From here, descend to Bhulbhule via small villages. The trek ends at Bhulbhule, and you will drive to Kathmandu.

During the Manaslu Circuit trekking, you will be surrounded by hills, mountains, and glaciers. Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Kang Guru (6,981 m/22,903 ft), Naike Peak (6,211 m/20,377 ft), Boudha Himal (6,672 m/21,890 ft), Samdo Peak (5,117 m/16,788 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), and many are visible throughout the trek route.

Along with adventure, you will also experience and discover the lifestyle and the heritage of the locals of the Manaslu region. In the lower part of the trail, you will meet Gurungs, while the upper part of Manaslu Circuit is resided by the Nubri community and Tibetan refugees. Their unique way of life will definitely question yours.

Who can do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

As we mentioned earlier, the Manaslu Circuit trek is strenuous, so this trek is only recommended to trekkers with past trekking experience and good fitness. Likewise, trekking in a group of at least two trekkers is mandatory. Solo trekkers can join our Manaslu Circuit trek 2024/ 2025 fixed departures. We have small groups and are well-guided by our expert mountain leaders.

How to prepare for this trek?

Manaslu Circuit trek preparation is done by training your body and packing for the journey. To train your body for this trek, you have to do activities that will help you improve your strength, stamina, and endurance. Daily long walking, strength training in the gym, running, hiking, swimming, cycling, etc are recommended.

What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit?

Below are the things that you will need for the Manaslu Circuit trek. All these things are available at an affordable cost to buy or rent in Kathmandu, Nepal.

• Clothes: Fleece jacket, down jacket, windbreaker, thermal wear, base layer, underwear, t-shirt and pants, socks, gloves, sun cap, beanie, raincoat and pants, trekking boots, casual shoes/slipper, etc

• Gear: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunglasses, duffel bag, daypack, reusable water bottle, water purification tablets, etc

• Personal first aid kit and toiletries: Antiseptic cream, bandage and spray for sprained joint, band-aid, cotton, ORS or electoral powder, general medicine, antifungal cream, insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm, sanitizer, wet wipes, shampoo, comb, cold cream, face cream, toilet paper, soap, toothbrush & paste, etc

• Miscellaneous: Identity card, travel insurance documents, permits, passport, visa, photo, spare batteries, power bank, charger, camera, headlamp/LED torch, adapter, snacks, nuts, journal, pen, etc

Extend the trek to the hidden Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley is a hidden section in the Manaslu region. The trail separates from Lokpa. You have the option to explore this pristine area before continuing to Larkya La pass. In this valley, you will traverse offbeat tracks, come across ancient monasteries, and meet with the Tsumba community.

If you wish to extend your Manaslu Circuit trek to Tsum Valley, let us know. Extending the trek will make changes to the Manaslu Circuit trek cost.

What makes us your best travel partner for Manaslu Circuit trekking in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is not straightforward like the famous trekking routes in Nepal. This trek demands detailed preparation and strong support for a safe and satisfying experience. Our team will help you enjoy the Manaslu Circuit trek to the fullest. We have a genuine Manaslu Circuit trek price with top-notch service.

You can customize the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary with us. Our many years of expertise in organizing treks in the Himalayas allow us to offer a professional service. Everything will be pre-planned and ready for you. Our reliable team will support you throughout your trip with us in Nepal.

Detailed Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek 

At the airport, you will meet our representatives with your nameplate. They will welcome you on our behalf and escort you to the hotel. It takes around half an hour to reach Thamel from the airport as per traffic conditions. Check into your room and freshen up. The remaining day is free. Meet us in the late evening for a welcome dinner.

You have a whole day in Kathmandu to prepare for the trek and visit some tourist sites. Spend the morning exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa with our friendly tour guide.

In the later afternoon, meet with the trek guide and pack duffel bags for the trek. Feel free to ask any questions during the trek briefing. Do any last-minute shopping and obtain all the necessary permits.

The trail continues from Soti Khola and goes through lush rhododendron and sal forests to Machha Khola. On the way, you will see beautiful waterfalls. The trail sharply ascends and descends, offering excellent mountain panoramas. You may come across mules along the way. Before reaching Machha Khola, trek past Khursani village and Labubesi.

• Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit fee: USD 30 per person
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit fee from September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 per day per person thereafter
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit fee from December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and USD 10 per day per person thereafter
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit fee: USD 30 per person

i) Once the permit is issued, it is not refundable.

ii) All the permits have only one entry.

iii) You cannot transfer the permit to someone else's name.

Guide and porter during the trek

Considering Manaslu is a restricted region, hiking is only permitted under guided supervision. Furthermore, you are unable to get this permit with the help of an independent guide. The Manaslu restricted area permit may only be obtained with the assistance of a registered trekking company such as ours. Depending on the size of the group, our Manaslu Circuit trek package includes local guides and porters.

Since the team must consist of at least two trekkers, a guide and a porter will accompany the group. We will assign you to a knowledgeable and amiable guide who will ensure your safety on the walk, help you negotiate the challenging paths, and share insightful knowledge about the area. Likewise, the duffel bag will be carried by the porter.

What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trekking is from March to May and September to November. These months offer stable weather, mild climate, dry trails, long daylight hours, and excellent mountain views. These factors are essential for a delightful trekking experience in the Himalayas.

Even in these peak trekking months, the Manaslu Circuit trail does not get crowded, so you can take your time and enjoy the best weather conditions. The lakes are unfrozen in these months, with a warm daytime and a hint of cold in the evenings and mornings. You will enjoy thriving vegetation, birds, cascading waterfalls, and gushing rivers and streams.

The villages are open. Usually, villagers descend to lower elevations to spend the winter (December to February), so most of the tea houses are closed in winter. Likewise, summer/monsoon (June to August) increases the risks of landslides along the Manaslu Circuit trail. The trek route is in worse condition.

Travel insurance for the Manaslu Circuit trek

For restricted area trekking packages in Nepal, travel insurance with helicopter evacuation and medical bills are mandatory. You have to give us a copy of your travel insurance before the trek starts. Failure to do so will result in trek cancellation, and we will not be liable for any refund.

Manaslu Circuit trekking has underlying risks of injuries, altitude sickness, and natural disasters. So, you have to make sure that the helicopter evacuation coverage works in high altitudes. Not all travel insurance providers issue helicopter evacuation in the Himalayas, so ensure it.

What is the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty level ?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. This trek is only for experienced trekkers with strong fitness. If you have done the EBC trek, Langtang Valley, and Annapurna Circuit, you qualify for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Previous trekking experience is a must for this trek.

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is offbeat and crosses the Larkya La pass. It is a high-altitude trek, and the tourist infrastructure along the trail is very minimal compared to the other famous trekking routes in Nepal. On this trek, trekkers have to adjust a lot and be well-packed and prepared.

The trail ascends the Budhi Gandaki river valley and takes you across the Nubri settlement. You will traverse via dense forests that gradually thin out and lead you to meadows and glacier moraines. As the trek progresses, the terrain becomes more demanding and traverses many steep slopes and loose soils and scree.

The constant ascents and descents demand strong stamina and strength. You will trek around 240 kilometers in 15 days of trekking. Average daily walk is 6 to 7 hours. Overall, the diverse climatic zones, high altitude, offbeat terrain, and varying climates demand strong and determined individuals for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Altitude Sicknes

During the Manaslu Circuit trek, you may suffer from altitude sickness. It happens if your body does not acclimate properly. You can avoid altitude sickness if you maintain your daily ascent under 500 meters and take an acclimatization break. Our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is curated considering these two factors.

In addition to that, you also have to make sure you are hydrated every day. Keep up with your pace, and do not rush. You do not have to trek fast or match others' speed. Take your time and enjoy the journey. Be aware of symptoms like shortness of breath, insomnia, vomiting, headache, nausea, etc. Get first aid under your guide's instructions.

Accommodation and meals during the Manaslu Circuit trekking

Manaslu Circuit trek route has limited tourist infrastructures and only a handful of luxury tea house options. During the trek, you will spend nights in basic tea houses that provide simple lodging and meal service to the trekkers. There will be WiFi, hot showers, and charging facilities in the tea houses, but it costs additional money.

In the lower part of the trail, you may get rooms with attached Western-style washrooms, but as you trek higher, shared squat toilets get common. Twin shared rooms are mostly available. At Larkya Phedi, only dorm-style rooms are available. In villages like Jagat, Lho, Shyala, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, the services are better.

You will have meals in the tea houses as well. Nepali and Tibetan dishes are common with some Western food options. You will get delicious and nourishing meals that will fuel your journey. Dal bhat, thukpa, Tibetan bread, thenduk, momo, noodles, porridge, soups, pancakes, etc are some usual food items.

FAQs

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty is strenuous. It is one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas, with offbeat trails, scarce tourist infrastructures, and high altitudes.

How much does Manaslu Circuit cost?

The Manaslu Circuit trek cost starts at USD 1,899 per person and can go above that. The price of the package depends on the itinerary and the services included in it.

Is Manaslu harder than Everest?

Can you trek Manaslu without a guide?

How many kilometers is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

How far is Manaslu from Kathmandu?

Can a beginner do Manaslu Circuit?

It depends on the fitness and endurance level of the trekker. Usually, we do not recommend the Manaslu Circuit trek to beginner trekkers, but there can be an exception as per your fitness.

Is there any age limit for the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Can I combine the Manaslu Circuit trek with the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, you can combine the Manaslu Circuit trek with the Annapurna Circuit trek. To combine these two treks, get in touch with us.