Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days

12 Reviews
30 Reviews
Recommended by 99% of Travelers
Customize Trip
Duration
16 Days
Trip Grade
Streneous

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the classic Himalayan trails in Nepal that encircles the eighth-highest mountain peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m) above sea level. It is a popular off-the-beaten-path route among other lesser-known trekking routes in the country's restricted areas, shaped by Tibetan Buddhism and characterized by unique landscapes in the trans-Himalayan region. Starting in Kathmandu, you will enter another realm of unspoiled culture and nature.

According to the 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, there is an acclimatization day in Samagoan, ensuring you have ample time for exploration and are well-adapted to low oxygen levels, a common high-altitude trekking and climbing condition. Yes, you may customize this Manaslu Circuit Trekking itinerary as per your needs and preferences at Skybound Adventure, including for the years 2025 and 2026. If you have any requirements, contact us now and communicate so we can make the necessary arrangements for you.

Requiring special permits for tourists to access the Manaslu Circuit Trekking route, at Skybound Adventure, we are offering early bird booking and group discounts on the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost, including for the years 2025 and 2026. Our comprehensive hiking package to the remote and isolated Himalayas of Nepal includes all the essential trekking logistics, from meals, accommodation, and transportation to permits and guides. Book with us confidently for expert guidance, an essential element to the most successful Himalayan voyages.

What to expect at the Manaslu Circuit trekking route in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking tour begins with a drive to Sotikhola from Kathmandu and takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain range on the planet. The trekking days are challenging, specifically around Larke La Pass (5,106 m), with an increased altitude followed by 6–8 hours of daily hiking. In a lesser-known location away from mass tourism and modern amenities, the rugged and remote region can be overwhelming due to the lack of proper mental and physical preparation.

As per the 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking itinerary, you will stay in Samagoan for acclimatization in the center of Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Chuli Himal, while the hike to Manaslu Base Camp (MBC) grants you access to a 360-degree view of the surrounding Himalayas, including Mount Manaslu itself. The entire Manaslu Circuit Hike including in the years of 2025 and 2026, offers breathtaking views of Nepal’s unique Himalayan landscapes in the rain shadow area and a chance to visit the precious hidden valleys of “Beyul.”

Manaslu Circuit Hiking—Is this trip right for you?

Yes, if you are someone familiar with high-altitude hiking, trekking, and climbing conditions, or at least have indulged yourself in training for alpine rambles yes, the trek to Manaslu Circuit is worth it. Fun fact: if you are looking forward to raw, rewarding, and taking up the challenges that are inherent in voyaging to the majestic Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking to Larke La Pass is a suitable adventure for you, a perfect alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

The stunning mountain scenery, Tibetan culture, and unspoiled natural beauty are a result and a reason for being designated as the restricted areas of the country; it can be the best experience of your life. To sum it up, through the traditional villages, deep river gorges, and lush forests, a trip to the Manaslu Circuit is an ideal Himalayan voyage for physically fit and determined individuals who are keen on a real wilderness of mountains. However, for someone with knee, lung, and heart issues, it is a must that you consult with doctors and then decide.

How to prepare yourself for a trek to the Manaslu Circuit?

For a smoother Manaslu Circuit Trekking experience, proper physical training, logistical planning, and mental readiness are a must. This is so you can hike up and down an uneven trail for 16 days with a backpack. Plan for at least 5-6 weeks of training before the trip, including cardio, body-strengthening exercises, and practicing high-altitude hikes so you make it successfully through 5,000m above sea level in changing Himalayan weather.

Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner, you should prepare yourself for challenging Himalayan landscapes, often with steep ascents and descents, followed by low levels of oxygen that increase the chances of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in the absence of proper acclimatization. Understanding the basic conditions and rapidly changing weather is a must, so you should practice hiking local routes to keep yourself familiar with the high Himalayan trail that you will be pursuing soon.

What should you pack for the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit requires proper preparation and equipment for varying Himalayan weather and terrain that are usually inherent to high-altitude trekking and climbing in Nepal. To ensure good mobility and a safe, smoother Himalayan voyage, a comprehensive packing list for the Manaslu Circuit Trek includes a backpack with wide shoulder straps that fit your torso, a sleeping bag, layered clothes, and trekking boots. These are the most essential, so you can walk, rest, and make unforgettable memories comfortably.

In addition, trekking pants, thermal underwear, warm hats, gloves, UV protection, a sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen, wool-blend socks, a lightweight sleeping bag, a headlamp, refillable water bottles, a water purification method, personal medications, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, toiletries, snacks, and trekking poles for balance and support. While one from your hometown may be of slightly higher quality than those in Thamel, Kathmandu, it has your back in case you forget to include or miss out on the way.

Explore one of the best-kept secrets of Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trekking to Larkya La Pass

Through remote Himalayan valleys, the Manaslu Circuit Hiking is a unique high-altitude Nepali trek that culminates at Larkya La Pass, offering a raw, unspoiled, and serene experience far away from the overcrowded Everest and Annapurna regions. The trekking route crosses Larkya La Pass, which is as challenging as it is rewarding, offering stunning views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding mountain ranges, worth the challenge.

Further, at Skybound Adventure, we are offering early bird and group discounts on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost, including in the years 2025 and 2026. For a safe, memorable, and unforgettable experience in Nepal’s restricted areas, contact us now. We manage all the essential trek logistics, including meals, accommodation, permits, transportation, and guides. For colder nights at higher altitudes, we also provide sleeping bags so you have a smooth journey!

Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport), you will be welcomed by airport representatives from Skybound Adventure. They will also transfer you to your hotel, and lastly, enjoy a briefing session in the evening over a welcome dinner.

Day 02:

Drive to Sotikhola (730m)

The Manaslu Circuit Trek officially begins today, and you will mark your arrival at Soti Khola. Through the scenic Nepalese villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, appreciate the stunning views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.

Day 03:

Sotikhola to Machhakhola (869m)

Sotikhola is your Manaslu Circuit Trek starting point, and today, you will hike to reach Machhakhola. The mountain views are gorgeous. Be mindful of mules and always walk by corners.

Day 04:

Machhakhola to Jagat (1,340m)

The ascending trail continues through the subtropical forests one more time and crosses the Tharo Khola and Macch Khola rivers to enter Tatopani, famous for its natural hot spring. From the hot spring, Jagat is just a few hours' walk to call it a day.

Day 05:

Jagat to Deng (1,860m)

On the fifth day, the destination is Deng, and the ascending trekking trail passes through millet fields, gorges, and several traditional villages along the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River before finally stopping at Deng for the night.

Day 06:

Deng (1,860m) to Namrung (2,630m)

Like usual, the day begins after an early breakfast, and today's goal is to reach Namrung. The trekking route of the day features Tibetan mani walls, canyons, and green valleys, a scenic journey for sure.

Day 07:

Namrung to Lo-Gaon (3,180m)

Today, you head towards Lo Gaon, a typical mountain village of the Manaslu Circuit that has yet to preserve ancient ways of living, culture, traditions, and customs. The mountain views of Mount Manaslu also open up, and you stop at Lo Goan for the night.

Day 08:

Lo-gaon to Samagaon (Approx.3,530m)

On this day, now you will leave Lo Gaon behind and progress through prayer flags, Mani walls, and Chortens to arrive at Samagaon for the night. Near Manaslu Base Camp, the sense of serenity is profound, also marked by the crispness of the air.

Day 09:

Samagaon – Rest Day (MBC hiking)

The much-needed rest day is here, so you are well acclimatized to alpine Himalayan surroundings and do not see acute mountain sickness (AMS). Its major principle is to hike up and sleep low; hence, early in the morning, you will reach MBC and return to Samagaon.

Day 10:

Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m)

Passing by the forests of juniper and birch with ascents along the Budhi Gandaki River, on this day, you reach yet another Tibetan refugee village in the Manaslu Trekking region called Samdo.

Day 11:

Samdo to Dharamsala (1,457m)

Today, you will finally make it to the base of the Larke La Pass, also called Larke Phedi or Dharamsala. The walk takes you through the terraced farms and stone houses, and you get to see the magnificent Lakya Glacier.

Day 12:

Dharmasala to Bhimthang (Larke-La pass)

The day you have been waiting so impatiently is here, when you will cross the longest mountain pass in Nepal, Larke La (5,106m), also the highest point of the trek to Manaslu Circuit. For the night, you will descend to Bhimthang.

Day 13:

Bhimtang (3,720m) to Tilje (2,300m)

After an epic crossing of the Larke La Pass, based on the 16 days for Manaslu Circuit Trekking itinerary, now begins the hike to get back to Kathmandu Valley, and for today, you will stop by Tilje for the night.

Day 14:

Tilje to Dharapani by 1 and a half hours of walking, then drive to Pokhara

From Tillje, you will ascend up to Dharapani, which typically spans 1 and a half hours, and then catch a local bus, jeep, or tourist bus back to Pokhara. The drive is joyous as it is adventurous and scenic at the same time.

Day 15:

Pokhara to Kathmandu drive

You are almost at the end of the Manaslu Circuit Trip. Early in the morning, feel free to stroll around Pokhara Lakeside. After breakfast, you will drive to Kathmandu. Enjoy the farewell dinner with your teammates in the evening.

Day 16:

Final departure

This is your last day in Nepal. Three hours before your scheduled flight, our airport representative helps you with packing and drops you off at TIA. Have a safe flight. Thank you for choosing Skybound Adventure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days Cost Details

Includes
  • All international and domestic pickup and drop off on a tourist vehicle.
  • A briefing session for insight into essential trekking documents, insurance papers, permits, and personal identification.
  • Twin sharing/double accommodation in Kathmandu for three nights in a three-star hotel.
  • Twin-sharing accommodation during the entire trip with attached toilets and hot showers, in lower elevations.
  • Seasonal fruits and some cookies as snacks for quick energy gain.
  • Every day meal as per your standard choice with a cup of hot drink like tea or coffee.
  • Well-experienced, helpful, and friendly English-speaking government-licensed individuals, including their salary, food, accommodation, essential gear, and equipment, along with comprehensive insurance.
  • All documentation processes, paperwork, permits, government taxes, and office service charges.
  • General first aid medicine kits, including Diamox and an oximeter, for the prevention of associated complications.
  • A duffle bag to adjust your outfits with a minus-20-degree warmer down jacket and sleeping bag for use while you are trekking. And 1 non-refundable trekking map.
  • 24/7 customer service by highly experienced mountain specialists.
Excludes
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are outside of the itinerary.
  • International flight and visa to Nepal.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Personal expenses like hot showers, Wi-Fi, internet, and phone calls.
  • Any kind of beverages: alcoholic, hard and soft (cold) drinks, mineral or filtered water bottles, boiled or hot water, snacks, and some other personal expenditures.
  • Porters carry a maximum of 25 kg shared between two people. To show appreciation for their hard work, be it is a driver, it is expected to tip them.
  • The company is not liable for retrieving your extra food and drinks, instead to your wrong choice, dissatisfaction, or any other extra orders.
  • It is necessary that you trust the company you are traveling with; hence, we kindly request our dear clients not to compare costs with other companies. You can never be a winner if you don’t have any beliefs within yourself.
  • Any expenditures apart from those listed under the cost inclusion section.

Essential Information

When is the best time to go trekking to the Manaslu Circuit, crossing the Larkya La Pass?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times for trekking in Nepal, including the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which reaches its highest altitude at 5,106m at Larkya La Pass. These times of the year feature stable Himalayan weather and dry trekking trails, even in the lower regions, along with mild temperatures, clear skies, and low chances of snowfall at higher altitudes.

Other than this, since hiking to the Manaslu Circuit is through the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal in a rain-shadow area that receives less rain even during the monsoon/summer, it is taken as a perfect summer trek alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Langtang Valley Trek. Manageable year-round, to experience pleasing weather and excellent visibility, spring and autumn stand unrivaled.

Where do you stay during your trip to the Manaslu Circuit?

The teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses along the Manaslu trekking routes are the ones that provide you with daily meals and accommodation. These teahouses are opened and managed by the Himalayan locals and provide you with rooms that are generally on a shared basis with a twin bed and basic bedding like blankets, mattresses, and pillows.

While the facilities may get basic with increased altitude, you will have warm beds and a full stomach throughout the journey. Over traditional Dal Bhat meals or Tibetan bread with tea, embrace the raw Himalayan wilderness as you get to connect with the unique spirit of nature and the untouched local culture.

Can you get wifi, charging services, hot showers, and private rooms on the way to the Manaslu Circuit?

While the availability is mostly based on the location and altitude you are at the moment, during the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail, yes, you may get wifi, charging services, hot showers, and private rooms at some additional cost. I.e., like meal and accommodation options, it may get limited with the increased altitude, so it is good to prepare yourself for minimal amenities mentally.

For better connectivity, consider purchasing local SIM cards, such as NTC or Ncell, along with a comprehensive data package. The shared teahouses are also budget-friendly options and come with camaraderie, stories of adventure, and cultures across the globe. Hot showers, though, mean a bucketful of lukewarm water with a jug; it is not recommended to take a bath at a higher altitude.

Where can you obtain permits for the trek to the Manaslu Circuit?

For Manaslu Circuit Hiking in Nepal, which takes you to the remote and highly restricted area of Nepal, you will need at least three permits: the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the special restricted area permit (RAP), and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card or the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) if you choose to descend or rejoin the classic Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trails.

To obtain these permits, especially for the Manaslu Circuit Hike, you will have to be part of a group of trekkers with at least two members and also be accompanied by a licensed guide from a government-registered trekking company like Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks. These permits are issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), and on booking with us, we arrange them for you, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience.

Must you get travel insurance to go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek to Larkya La Pass?

Yes, travel insurance, though not mandatory, is a must while you are on high-altitude trekking in Nepal that reaches up to 5,106m at Larkya La Pass, the longest pass of the country, which is not without steep ascents and descents, rugged terrain, and encounters with changing Himalayan weather. Overall regarded as a moderate to challenging Himalayan voyage, comprehensive travel insurance promises you peace of mind.

Make sure the insurance you are purchasing has coverage up to 6,000m above sea level, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, helicopter evacuations, flight delays, loss and theft of personal belongings, and the agent you are buying it from can be held easily liable. Get travel insurance and have extra confidence while you are on a journey that is a life-changing experience for a reason.

Need Help? Call Us+977 9860301265