Manaslu Circuit Trek – 14 Days
Trek Overview
Have you ever wondered how it would feel to sit back and breathlessly admire the mighty Manaslu (8163 m), the 8th-tallest Mountain in the world? If you have, then don’t just think but make it happen with our Manaslu Circuit trek.
This unique trekking tour in Nepal takes you around Manaslu, offering views of all its stunning faces. You will achieve this with the help of our experienced guide, who has successfully trekked and climbed peaks before, so he will assist you with everything on the trek.
Manaslu Peak lies northwest of Kathmandu and attracts thousands of hiking guests to Nepal every year. It is called the Mountain of the Soul for a reason, and you will discover exactly why during our Manaslu Circuit trek.
It has been fully open to tourism since 1991 and converted to lodge trekking only in 2015. The gentle approach is still maintained to the Manaslu Circuit trek by categorizing it as a Restricted Area.
During our 14 days Manaslu Circuit trek, we have deliberately chosen the counterclockwise route around the mountain for favorable acclimatization. The trail will pass within the Manaslu Conservation Area, which borders the renowned Annapurna Conservation Area.
The hike in the Manaslu Circuit trek begins in the village of Machha Khola, from where you will follow the sub-tropical climate of the Budhi Gandaki River.
Next, the trail will take you through the Tamang, Gurung, and Nubri villages of Jagat, Deng, and Namrung. Once you reach Sama Gaon, the twin peaks of Manaslu will loom right above you, overshadowing all the other mountains in the Manaslu Himal.
Feel the strong influence of ancient Tibetan Buddhism while you walk the trail. In Sama Gaon, you will have an optional excursion to reach the viewpoint of Pung Gyen Gompa or experience the mountaineering vibe at Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m).
The Manaslu Circuit trek then continues to Samdo and Dharamsala, from where you will indulge in the overwhelming crossing of the non-technical pass of Larkya La (5106 m), which happens to be the highest point of our Manaslu Circuit trek.
Be ready to have the gigantic speactacle of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Naike Peak (6,211 m), Shringi Himal (7,187 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Gyaji Khang (7,038 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), Saula Himal (6,235 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kanguru (6,367 m), Nemjung Peak (7,140 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Simnang Himal (6,158 m), and Ngadi Chuli (7,879 m).
Now the descent will lead you through the picturesque Dudh Khola Valley to Bimthang. After that, you will hike through the thick forests in Gurung territory to Dharapani, where the Annapurna Circuit welcomes you.
At this point, our Manaslu Circuit trek ends as you drive to Kathmandu via Pokhara. This trek is appropriate for participation by anyone with reasonable fitness and will offer you an excellent experience in the joyful spring and autumn seasons.
Highlights
- Walking around the Mountain of Soul in a counterclockwise route
- The most stunning and unspoiled trekking trip in Nepal
- An optional trip to the Manaslu Base Camp via Lake Birendra
- The exciting crossing of the Larkya La Pass
- An adventure through the local farms, forests, and thick glacial world of Manaslu
- A meeting with the Tamang, Gurung, and Larkya Bhote with a distinct Tibetan Buddhism heritage
- An opportunity to continue with the Annapurna Circuit trek
Accommodation Upgrade in Kathmandu
Prime Holidays has been hosting numerous guests since its establishment. We connect personally with each of our clients to find out what they desire.
And, we understand that each guest is unique in their wishes. So for those who wish a more personal and luxurious experience, we offer you an accommodation upgrade in Kathmandu to an elegant five-star hotel.
At just US$190 per person per room, you can enjoy the tasteful amenities and atmosphere of the luxurious five-star hotels of the capital.
Just let us know ahead of time as you register for our Manaslu Circuit trek, and we will manage everything for you.
Transportation Upgrade
Our 14 days Manaslu Circuit trek will begin with a local bus transfer to Machha Khola and also ends in the same manner with a local travel to Kathmandu from Dharapani.
For some of you, it can be exciting, but for some, it can be quite tough since the roads in Nepal are bumpy, rugged, and tiring. So if you are one of those, we offer you a private jeep upgrade at extra cost instead of a local ride.
This way, you can enjoy more freedom and privacy, and take breaks whenever you want.
Trip Info
Why is Manaslu Restricted, and can I travel alone?
The Manaslu Circuit trek was fully opened to foreign trekkers only in 1991, and still, it is a gently approached area categorized as a restricted area in Nepal.
It means a necessity of a special permit that is a bit pricey, which will not be granted to an individual but only to a registered travel agency like Prime Holidays.
Plus, you must be a part of an organized group with at least two participants, with a compulsory presence of a licensed local guide. This protocol has enabled Manaslu to retain its pristine beauty and ecology, which are very important for the endangered wildlife of the region.
Moreover, the Manaslu region is pretty close to Tibet, which has its own strict tourism restrictions. Also, people here practice a very unique culture and tradition, which may vanish with the overflow of mass tourism. Therefore, Manaslu has been restricted till now.
Best Season
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September-November) are undoubtedly the excellent seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Between March and May, the dry winter ends, and rhododendrons start to envelop the barren terrain.
Between September and November, the temperature remains around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius with some snow and ice on the higher trail of the pass. But the landscape will still be green with diverse flowers.
December to February is the winter season that brings heavy snowfall with uncertainty about crossing the Larkya La Pass. June to August is the summer and monsoon time that introduces daily rain, not constant though.
Difficulty Grade
The Manaslu Circuit trek is classified as a category III non-technical mountain journey that reaches an impressive maximum altitude of 5106 m at the Larkya La Pass.
The path predominantly follows the ancient trade route, which is broad yet rocky, and at times, quite steep. Along the way, you will also encounter several man-made stone staircases that can be quite high.
There will also be several unsteady suspension bridges over various rivers. Accommodation will be in lodges, but they will not offer the same level of comfort that you will find in Annapurna.
But the main challenge arises from the days that you will spend at a higher elevation, with long daily treks lasting between 6 to 7 hours. The unpredictable and harsh mountain climate that can change abruptly will also be another challenge.
Who do we recommend our 14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek to?
The Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is ideal for participation by experienced trekkers who seek more untouched nature. However, if you maintain reasonable fitness and health, and have a deep appreciation for pristine nature, even as a newcomer, you can engage in our Manaslu Circuit trek.
Remember, though, that you must be ready to sacrifice comfort and luxury for several days. Also, keep in mind that you must be capable of walking for longer hours across the rugged terrain of Manaslu.
However, if you have health issues of a serious nature related to the lungs and heart, please reach out to your doctor before undertaking this trek, as the high altitude and isolation can be quite demanding.
Altitude Sickness/ AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)
Please be aware of the risk of the AMS in the Manaslu Circuit trek. With your understanding of its symptoms, we can take the early intervention and thus prevent it from progressing to the advanced stage.
The air in the higher region of Manaslu is generally thin and has less oxygen, thus resulting in AMS. Its common signs include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and lethargy.
Because the most effective way to deal with AMS is proper acclimatization, we have therefore designed our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary with thoughtfully placed rest days and steady ascent days.
Our guide is also an expert on the topic and will keep on educating you about the effects and management of the AMS. You can also take Diamox to accelerate the acclimatization when in Kathmandu.
Please also keep hydrating by drinking plenty of water and other fluids such as soup or tea.
Physical Fitness and Training
You don’t need to be extremely fit for the Manaslu Circuit trek, but you must have decent stamina and exercise regularly so you can benefit most from the trek.
Therefore, we request you to get ready both physically and mentally for the adventure minimum 60 days before your departure. You can choose between outdoor or indoor exercises, such as going on a hike to the mountains nearby.
Or, you can opt for jogging, running, stair climbing, weightlifting, cycling, or squats to build leg strength and stamina. For increasing your lung capacity to absorb oxygen, deep breathing will also be extremely helpful.
Likewise, it would be very helpful if you gave up on using WiFi for a few days. This will help you get on with your actual hiking days without staying online all the time.
Also, getting an appropriate travel insurance and packing your bags with the right gear will also be essential. Pack the very necessary items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, hats, warm jackets, and well-used trekking shoes.
Other Route and Possible Extension of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Want to know the more unfiltered version of the Manaslu? Then, you should definitely take this secondary route of the Manaslu Circuit trek. This route will traverse the very remote settings of the unheard villages of Manaslu, such as Yarsta, Kasigaun, Keranja, Runchet, and Hulchuk, where you will stay with locals and enjoy their warm hospitality.
Another option would be to drive to Barpak of the Gorkha District and trek to Laprak. Both these options will eventually take you to Jagat, a section of the classic route of the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Regarding the expansion of your Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary, Tsum Valley, Himalchuli Base Camp, Rubina La Pass trek, and Annapurna Circuit trek will be some attractive options for you.
And, after completing the Manaslu Circuit trek, you can also decide to go for a real jungle safari to Chitwan National Park. Or, you can also stay in Pokhara, do some meditation or paragliding, or even visit Poon Hill.
Just let us know what you desire and how many days you are thinking of adding. We will be excited to set it up for you.
Sleeping, Meals, and Travel Arrangements
During our 14 days Manaslu Circuit trek, a friendly three-star medium-range hotel will be your accommodation. Rooms will be twin-sharing to be shared with same-gender participants.
Your room will have an in-room bath, a hot and cold shower, an electric outlet, and WiFi.
On the route, the mountain shelters run by the locals will offer you a warm night shelter. The utilities will be humble but very welcoming, with shared amenities of a dining hall and toilets.
For meals, breakfast in Kathmandu will be from Prime Holidays, while lunch, dinner, and drinks will be on you. On the route of the Manaslu Circuit trek, three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with three times tea or coffee and fresh fruits after dinner will be offered.
And, for your travel, we offer a private vehicle for a transfer between the airport and your hotel. We will use public transport for travel between Kathmandu and Machha Khola, and from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. You can also upgrade to a private jeep for an extra cost.
Travel Insurance
Hospital care can be really expensive, no matter where you are. That’s why you get insurance to help cover your medical expenses. And, when you are planning to trek in the high mountain routes in Nepal, travel insurance becomes even more important.
And remember, you will have to get separate travel insurance for the hiking adventure that works internationally. In the tough terrain of Manaslu, if you happen to break your ankle, you will definitely need helicopter transport, which means suffering on your personal money.
So, by getting travel insurance, you are being responsible for your own well-being. Plus, travel insurance is mandatory for any remote mountain adventure in Nepal; otherwise, you won’t get your permits.
So, for the Manaslu Circuit trek, make sure to get separate travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue up to 5200 meters. It should also cover medical and accidental incidents, along with additional coverage for things like extra days, trek postponements, or lost luggage.
Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Because Manaslu is a Restricted Area, a special restricted area permit called RAP will be essential for the Manaslu Circuit trek, along with the entry permits for the two conservation areas of Manaslu and Annapurna.
The three permits and their cost are:
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) at NPR 3000 per person for foreign citizens, NPR 1000 per person for SAARC, and NPR 100 per person for Nepali citizens
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at NPR 3000 per person for foreign citizens, NPR 1000 per person for SAARC, and NPR 100 per person for Nepali citizens.
- RAP permit for Manaslu costs US$100 per person in autumn and spring, and US$75 per person in winter and spring
Prime Holidays’ team will manage all three permits on the second day in Kathmandu on your behalf.
FAQs
What is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
Manaslu Circuit trek is a mountain adventure on foot for several days around the Manaslu Peak, which is the 8th highest mountain in the world.
What is the hardest and highest section of the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The hardest and the highest section of the 14 days Manaslu Circuit trek is the crossing of the Larkya La Pass, which towers at 5106 m above sea level.
Is the Larkya La Pass technical, and does it need any special gear?
No, Larkya La Pass is a nontechnical trekking pass that needs no special gear.
What is the normal duration of the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary?
The Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary normally spans between 14 to 18 days based on the route and the number of rest days you choose.
What is the cultural value of the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The ancient Tibetan heritage of the Gurung, Tamang, and the Larkya Bhote is a unique cultural aspect of our Manaslu Circuit trek.
Is a last-minute reservation of the Manaslu Circuit trek possible?
Certainly, we do request all our guests to register for the Manaslu Circuit trek at least one month ahead of their chosen departure date. But you can also make a last-minute reservation if the early booking has not been possible for you.
Will I be charged any extra fee for a last-minute reservation?
No, we won’t charge any extra fee, but you will have to make sure to make us the 100% payment for the trip.
How will I charge my mobile during the Manaslu Circuit trek?
You can charge your mobile or any other device in the lodge, but the electricity can be unreliable here. So carry a solar charger, a power bank, or an extra battery for your mobile.
How about internet connectivity during the Manaslu Circuit trek?
In Kathmandu, you will have WiFi for free in your hotel room. On the trek, though, you may have WiFi in the lodge at lower areas, for which you will have to pay extra to the lodge owner. Or, you can also get a Nepali SIM card of NTC or Ncell and use the internet through the card.
Will there be a good mobile signal on the Manaslu Circuit trek?
Yes, if you use the SIM Card from Namaste, you will have a good signal in the Manaslu region.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
After a greeting from the Prime Holidays team at TIA, you will be taken in a private vehicle to your respective hotel. Once each participant of our Manaslu Circuit trek has arrived, our guide will meet all at the hotel.
He will then go over the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary with you. Then, you can go out to soak up the fantastic atmosphere of Kathmandu. Have an exquisite dinner in the evening.
Max. Altitude: 1,352m/4,436ft. ()
2
Today, we have set aside an extra day in the capital to arrange the permits for the Manaslu Circuit trek that may take around half a day. If you want to buy or replace any of your missing gear, you can get it extra cheaply in the many shops in Thamel. Of course, our guide will be helping you with the arrangements.
If time is on our hands, we may take you to Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath as well.
3
Our Manaslu Circuit trek begins early in the morning as we take a public bus to leave Kathmandu. The Prithvi Highway will take us over the 1530 m high Thankot Pass.
We will then continue west to move towards the Trishuli Valley. The Langtang Himal can be seen clearly from our bus window. The main road will then journey us to Dhading, after which it will leave us and begin the rugged mountain road leading us to Dhading Besi.
Passing through the agricultural market of Arughat of the Upper Gorkha District, we will catch the distant sights of Peak 29, Ganesh, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Himalchuli.
Now, on the path dotted with numerous rice fields of Maltar, Shante, Arkhet, Kyoropani, Soti Khola, and Khursane, we will meet the immense waves of Budhi Gandaki.
The Gurung community of Labubesi greets us as we keep on marching to reach Machha Khola. We will meet our support team here and wait for the trek that will begin tomorrow.
Activity: 7 to 8 hours
Max. Altitude: 960m/3,150ft. ()
4
Beginning the first day of the trek, we will move on a scenic high-elevation trail over the Budhi Gandaki. After a while, we turn north toward Siyar Khola.
We will now head west and reach Khorla Besi, framed by the beauties of Manaslu, Shringi, and Ganesh. After a short hike, we will reach Tatopani, from where the route will continue past Dobhan, Yaruphant, and Thulo Dhunga to finally reach Jagat, dotted with narrow lanes and houses of stone.
This Gurung settlement is also an entrance point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
Max. Altitude: 1,411m/4,629ft. ()
5
From now on, our route will be graced with the beautiful Buddhist Mani walls and chortens. After we go through the permit registration and inspection at the periphery of Jagat, the steep slope will usher us to Salleri, from where the trail will descend to Sridibas and then to Philim.
We will then move down through the delightful villages of Lokwa and Ekle Bhatti (1600 m). Here, the path diverges – to the right, it leads towards the Tsum Valley and the Ganesh Himal Base Camp, while to the left, the path will take us towards the magnificent Manaslu Himal.
Taking the left trail, we will traverse the wide Bamboo forest surrounding the Nyak Phedi and Peva settlements. Soon, the mountains Lapuchen, Dwijen, Lumbo, and Chhachun will come into sight, with Deng lying gracefully before them.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
Max. Altitude: 1,862m/6,109ft. ()
6
The narrow gorge of the Budhi Gandaki after Deng will lead us to the open space of Bihi Phedi. Here, the Serang Khola will meet us, and the bridge over the river will guide us to Ghap Village.
We will once more have to navigate the river over a bridge, after which a steep, elevated trail will guide us to Prok. The Lidana Glacier in the distance will smile upon us as we advance to the plateau of Namrung, enclosed by the high walls of Saula, Pang Phuchin, and Manaslu.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 2,540m/8,333ft. ()
7
Today’s route of our Manaslu Circuit trek will guide us steadily uphill through the very eye-catching coniferous forest with the eastern face view of Manaslu or Kutang peak.
The ascending trail of around two hours will lead us to Lihi (2800 m), where we will cross a large stream. Again, we will meet two paths, left moving to the Himalchuli Base Camp and right to our destination.
Walking a bit, we will reach Sho (2880 m) village, completely surrounded by the high snowy walls of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. The route will be easier now as we move to Lho (2950 m) Village, home to the typical Ribang Gompa.
The gorge of the Thusan Khola will now direct us upward to Shyala (3500 m) before we ascend the 1.5-hour trail to Sama Gaun.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,530m/11,581ft. ()
8
Today, we will have a rest day at Sama Gaon, which will prepare us to face the high pass of Larkya La. If you are feeling the aftereffects of the previous long trekking days, you can simply rest at the village.
If you are eager, you can engage in the exciting excursion to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m. To reach this remarkable site, you will hike to Birendra Lake (3460 m), where the trail ascends steeply along the well-trodden rocky terrain.
Manaslu Glacier, its Icefall, Manaslu Summit, and the glacial landscape will encircle you here. If you like, you can walk back towards Pung Gyen Gompa (4,050 m) as well.
9
Feel free to take your time in the morning, as we have a very short day today. From Sama Gaon, a gentle ascent will direct us to the extensive Mani Wall of the Kermo Kharka.
From here, we will move down to traverse the Budhi Gandaki one more time before climbing to Samdo Village. The Tibetan heritage can be seen here in the rudimentary style of the local community.
If you are feeling well and want to further acclimatize, you can choose to ascend Samdo Ri 5177 m). A not-so-steep ascent will grant you the magical panorama of Manaslu North, Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli, Rani Peak, and Samdo Peak.
Activity: 3 to 4 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,862m/12,671ft. ()
10
From Samdo, we will ascend the vestige of the Larke Bazaar and enter the universe of the high glacier and wild moraine. We will have Syacha Glacier and Manaslu North to the left as we cross the little wooden bridge over Salke Khola.
From here, we will ascend the rocky scree to Dharmasala, which is regarded as the base camp for the Larkya La Pass. It is therefore called the Larkya Phedi and Duwang in the local name. For Westerners, it is the old Refugee Camp site of the ancient Tibetans.
We will crawl into our sleeping bag early, as tomorrow morning will stage the highlight of our Manaslu Circuit trek.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours
Max. Altitude: 4,470m/14,665ft. ()
11
Today is the pass crossing day and the hardest and longest day of our 14 days Manaslu Circuit trek. A brief ascent after Larkya Phedi will take us to the northern moraine of the Larkya Glacier.
We will be 100 m down from the pass, and this section will be quite treacherous but nontechnical. Finally, the moment will come when we will reach the Pass covered with prayer flags.
Enjoy the grand new panorama of Cheo Himal, Himlung Hima, Nemjung, Chombi, Kanguru, Gyaji Kang, and even Annapurna II. Now, we will make our descent, which initially will be quite steep and easier later.
Along the moraine of the Salpundanda Glacier, we will pass through Larke Kharka and then proceed to Tanbuche (3900 m). Finally, we will arrive at Bimthang, facing the west side of Manaslu.
Activity: 7 to 9 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,720m/12,205ft. ()
12
We are now in the Dudh Khola Valley’s thick forests of rhododendron and Himalayan fir. We will navigate through Hambuk, Puktu, and Phute, and cross over the Karche Pass to reach Gho (2560 m).
Another 2 to 3 hours of downhill walk will guide us down to Dharapani beside the Marshyangdi River, where the Manaslu trek meets the Annapurna Circuit in a splendid embrace.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 1,960m/6,430ft. ()
13
The gravel track from Dharapani will now drive us to Besisahar through Tal, Chamje, and Jagat. The vehicle will now descend towards Dumre and Pokhara before heading to Kathmandu.
Later, we will gather at our favorite cultural restaurant in Kathmandu and enjoy a delicious farewell dinner.
14
Make the most of your final moments in Kathmandu and shop around, or just enjoy a cup of coffee. Prime Holidays will customize your airport transfer that will align perfectly with your flight schedule.
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
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