Manaslu Circuit Trek

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  • Duration 15 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5106 m
  • Group Size 1-10
  • Starts Arughat
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, August-November

The Manaslu Circuit trek encircles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain on Earth. It is an exclusive and restricted area trek in Nepal that was closed to foreigners until the early 1990s. Even after that, the region remains an untouched gem and is now considered one of the best trekking destinations for adventure treks in Nepal.

Highlights

  • An exclusive and restricted area trek in Nepal that takes you close to Nepal Tibet border
  • Embark on an adventurous journey and explore a corner of the Himalayas where only a few make their way
  • Offbeat terrain, striking mountain views, and breathtaking landscapes
  • Enjoy less crowded trails, walking through peaceful terraces and forested hills, and beautiful villages
  • Push your limits as you ascend the Budhi Gandaki Gorge and conquer the challenging Larkya La Pass
  • Experience a unique mountain lifestyle and get to know Nepali communities like Gurung, Magar, and Nubri
  • Discover the unique flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area
  • Cross thrilling suspension bridges and relish the beauty of cascading waterfalls, streams, and rivers
  • Explore Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pun Gyen Gompa

You might have heard about the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek. These are the two most popular trekking programs in Nepal, as well as the most busy and commercialized ones.The Manaslu Circuit trek offers way less crowded trails and pristine beauty. The journey is quite raw and challenging. Trekkers searching for something different, adventurous, and daring will love it.Not only that, but you will also enjoy striking mountain vistas and jaw-dropping scenery throughout the journey. In addition to that, experience a simple Himalayan lifestyle and meet with Nepali communities like Gurung, Magar, Nubri, etc.The grandeur of the Manaslu region will leave you in awe. Every day will hold new challenges and experiences. This trek has never-ending adventures and ample time to unwind and enjoy nature.

Bookings are open for Manaslu Circuit trek 2025 and 2026 departures!

What can you expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. From Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek and up to the Larkya La Pass, you will traverse different climatic zones and discover diverse flora and fauna.

Please check our Manaslu Circuit trek map below to have an overall view of the route.

The trek starts from Soti Khola and ends in Dharapani. The trip is 15 days long but you can also combine a side hike to the hidden Tsum Valley in your itinerary, which will extend the trek to 21 or 22 days.During the trek, you can see Mount Annapurna dominating the western side of the sky and Ganesh Himal to the east. Mount Manaslu itself is visible from many parts of the trail. Likewise, you will also see views of Simnang Himal, Shringi Himal, Naike Peak, Boudha Himal, etc.

It is an off-the-beaten trek. The trail passes through hot lowlands with rice and millet terraces and lush hills to the mighty gorges of Budi Gandaki. The terrain involves many steep and rocky ascends and descends.

You will also experience daily altitude gain and the remoteness of the region. Therefore, trekkers must be physically and mentally fit to enjoy the Manaslu Circuit trek.

The trail is connected by many suspension bridges, but you will also cross a few wooden bridges and semi-submerged rocks. Likewise, enjoy cascading waterfalls, streams, and rivers and relish the changing colors of the hills along the trail.

In Sama Gaon, we will take an acclimatization break and use this opportunity to explore the Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pun Gyen Gompa. All these three places are accessible from Sama Gaon in 2 to 3 hours of hiking.Then comes Samdo village, which is also a Tibetan refugee village. From here, you can hike to Rui La Pass, once used as a trade route between Tibet. After Samdo, you will spend a night at Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharamsala, and ascend to the Larkya La Pass.Crossing this pass is challenging and involves almost 8 to 9 hours of walking that day. It will be one of the unforgettable days of your trek. Depending on the weather and trail conditions, you may need micro crampons while descending to Bimthang.From the top of the pass, you will behold the most incredible landscape of your life. As you leave the pass and walk along the west corridor, you will see a great glacial cirque and spectacular stream of glaciers created by Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Gyajin Kang wall.

This view alone will make all the hardships of the Manaslu Circuit trekking worthwhile.

 

Cultural engagement during the trek and offbeat trails

The Manaslu Circuit trek is adventurous and culturally fascinating. It passes through beautiful villages inhabited by different Nepali communities. Our guide will help you understand the daily life of the locals and their traditions.You will have memorable interactions with them. The trail is dotted with many stupas and chortens. Pun Gyen Gompa is one of the significant monasteries on the Manaslu Circuit trail that you will visit during your acclimatization day in Sama Gaon.Likewise, the offbeat trails are a bit tricky to navigate and require previous experience. You will climb up and down from many steep hills and gorges. Similarly, cross a few landslide-prone areas on the way and walk through Glacier Moraine at upper altitude.

 

Why is Manaslu Circuit a restricted area? What does it imply for foreigners?

The Manaslu region is one of the restricted areas in Nepal because it shares a border with Tibet. To maintain border security and protect and preserve the rich biodiversity, the Nepal government has made this region a restricted area for foreigners.

Now, interested trekkers have to obtain special restricted area permits to trek or climb in the Manaslu region. Likewise, they have to follow strict rules, like mandatory trekking with a licensed Nepali guide in a group of at least two trekkers.

You can not hire an independent guide to do the Manaslu Circuit trek. Trekking with a local agency like us is necessary.

 

Is Manaslu Circuit trek of 15 days suitable for you?

Trekkers have to consider a handful of things before joining the Manaslu Circuit trek 15 days, including their physical and mental fitness, budget, trek duration, time of the year, and overall trek expectations.

The challenges of the Manaslu Circuit trek demand strong fitness and previous high-altitude experience. On average, six hours of walking are required. Trekkers also have to adjust to simple tea houses and limited services.

*Note that the Manaslu Circuit trek distance is approximately 180 kilometres.

It will be a life-changing odyssey but at the cost of your efforts. If you are ready to go beyond your limit and explore the less-trodden realms of the Himalayas, this trek is suitable for you.

 

Who will be your guide and porter during the trek?

You will do the Manaslu Circuit trek with a local Nepali guide who has led many trekkers before. We will provide a friendly and professional guide. He will enrich the journey with his knowledge and expertise.

Our guides are trained to provide first aid, so if you get hurt or sick, they will help you. You do not have to worry about anything. Likewise, our guide will also make the journey fun. You will laugh, sing, and dance a lot.

Porters carry the duffle bags for the trekkers. Each trekker can pack up to 9 kg in a duffel bag and 5 kg in a daypack. Trekkers are recommended to pack things that they may need to use while walking, such as water bottles, snacks, documents, cash, sunglasses, SPF, etc, in their daypack.

*Note: Tipping guides and porters is a common practice in Nepal and is expected at the end of their services. If you are happy with their help, we highly recommend tipping them. You can tip as much as you wish.

 

Manaslu Circuit trek preparation and packing

Preparing and packing for the Manaslu Circuit trek is a crucial factor that determines your overall experience. You have to be physically and mentally ready for the trip and well-packed.

Physical preparation includes improving your strength and stamina so that you can walk long hours daily on rugged terrain. Likewise, mental preparation involves understanding the region and its remoteness, which will help set the right expectations for the journey.

Finally, you also need to carry proper trekking clothes, gear, and other essentials. Below, we have made a list of things that you will need during the Manaslu Circuit trek:

  • Comfortable, breathable underwear
  • Base layer and thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat, sleeping bag and liner
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (deodorant, SPF, lip balm, toilet paper, wet tissues, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)
  • Cash, travel insurance documents, passport-size photo, valid passport, travel visa

Safety and comfort with Top Of The World Adventure team

When it comes to trekking in the remotest sections of the Himalayas, where only a few make their way, you need a strong local crew to support you during the voyage.We, the Top Of The World Adventure team with more than 10 years of expertise, assure you of a hassle-free, comfortable, and safe Manaslu Circuit trek. Our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is tested to provide ample acclimatization opportunities and time with locals.

We arrange every aspect of the trek and help you obtain the restricted area permits seamlessly. Our network with the locals along the trail allows you to have the best tea house experience and meals.Similarly, our complimentary services, such as airport pick-up and drop-off, duffel bag to use during the trek, and transparency to package price, make us a reliable and trustworthy local partner for the Manaslu Circuit trek. You will get high value for your money with us.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

*Departure note: We can tailor the itinerary according to your vacation. Please contact us for that. As per the changes made in the itinerary, the price of the package will also change.

 
Starts from: Arughat Ends to: Kathmandu
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Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, the Top of the World Adventure team will greet you at our Airport office just inside of arrival tunnel. They will brief you about your trip, provide vouchers, and transfer you to your hotel for a comfortable stay. Spend the rest of the day preparing for the trek with us.

 

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

The highway from Kathmandu to Soti Khola is scenic and mostly smooth, except for the last couple of hours. You will see beautiful views of rolling, lush hills, terraces, waterfalls, rivers, and mountains on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 730m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trek starts today. You will trek through a mystical sal forest and pass by lovely waterfalls. Trek past Lapubesi and Khanibesi and ascend to Machha Khola. On the way, you will also cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River.

  • Max Altitude: 890 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Machha Khola, the trail continues along the Budhi Gandaki River. You will reach Khorla Besi and walk uphill. Soon, cross a suspension bridge and walk through forests to reach Yaruphant. It is a landslide area. From here, ascend to Jagat.

  • Max Altitude: 1410m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail continues to Salleri village and descends to Sirdibas. Cross a large suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and follow a sharp ascend to Philim.The trail goes along the hillside and passes by Ekle Bhatti. You will cross the river again and walk through a gorge. The final stretch of the day involves walking through steep bamboo forests to Deng.

 

  • Max Altitude: 1804m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Leaving Deng, you will cross a suspension bridge and walk uphill to Rana, a small settlement. The trail then goes west to Budhi Gandaki Valley. You will pass by dense forests and villages like Ghap and Prok before reaching Namrung. The view of Shringi Himal from Namrung is phenomenal.

  • Max Altitude: 2630m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Namrung to Sama Gaon, you will walk on a steep, rocky trail. Ascend to Lhi village and cross a stream. You will then trek to Sho and Lho villages, enjoying vast, barren landscapes. The trail further continues to Shyala village and navigates landslide debris on the way to Sama Gaun.

  • Max Altitude: 3530m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

It is your day off in Sama Gaon. Go on side hikes early in the morning and spend the remaining day resting and recovering.

 

  • Max Altitude: 3530m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Continue walking along the Budhi Gandaki River. The valley gradually opens and passes by juniper and birch forests to Kermo Kharka. From here, descend and cross a wooden bridge. From here, you will trek through the White Stone Kani and reach Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village. The village offers breathtaking views of Simnang Himal, Mt. Manaslu, and Ngadi Chuli.

 

  • Max Altitude: 3690m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Samdo, descend via fields to an old stone arch. Cross a river via a wooden bridge and walk to Larkya Bazaar. Soon, you will cross a ridge and steeply ascend along the side of the gorge to Larkya Phedi. The view of Larkya Glacier is stunning on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 4450m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you will cross the Larkya La Pass. The trail descends from Larkya Phedi and goes through a moraine. You will walk downhill to a small alley and follow an unclear route. Soon, cross a steep, grassy slope and walk down to four frozen lakes.

  • Max Altitude: 3720
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trail mostly descends from Bimthan to Dharapani. On the way, you will walk through dense forests and small villages.

  • Max Altitude: 1860 m
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Hop on a local jeep in Dharapani and enjoy a bumpy but scenic ride to Besisahar. You will change the vehicle here and enjoy a very comfortable ride back to Kathmandu. The first two hours of the ride from Besisahar to Kathmandu will be bumpy.

 

  • Max Altitude: 1350 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Accommodation: 3 star Hotel

It is your free day in Kathmandu. You can enjoy massages and a spa for post-trek recovery. Likewise, explore tourist sites and buy souvenirs.

  • Max Altitude: 1350 m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Our team will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. This is a complimentary service. You can also extend your trip with us.

  • Accommodation: Breakfast
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Route Map

manaslu map

Altitude Graph

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Private vehicle pickup and drop-off at the airport
  • Two nights in a hotel in Kathmandu that includes breakfast
  • All ground transportation via public jeep or private vehicle (per itinerary)
  • Payroll, insurance, supplies, food, and lodging for employees
  • Every meal—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—during the hike
  • Tea house/lodge lodging while trekking
  • Medical kit for first aid
  • Official expenses and taxes paid by the government


 

Excludes

 

  • Arrival visa fee for Nepal
  • Lunch and dinner meals in Kathmandu
  • Personal clothing and equipment for trekking
  • Travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency evacuation at high altitudes
  • Advice for drivers, porters, and guides
  • Additional nights in Kathmandu or during the trek because of unanticipated events (natural disaster, early return, etc.)
  • Wi-Fi, hot showers, bottled water, and bar bills during the hike
     

Additional Info

Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit trek route is well-trodden but involves many steep and rocky parts. You can navigate the trail using standard trekking gear. There is no need for climbing gear.Trekkers must be physically and mentally fit to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. The terrain and distance will be slightly different each day, and some days can be more challenging than others.

Likewise, as the journey progresses, the remoteness of the region increases. Limited facilities and high altitude add to the difficulty of the trek. Crossing the Larkya La Pass is the toughest section on the Manaslu Circuit trail.You have to be acclimatized before crossing the pass because the likelihood of altitude sickness is higher here. Note that the terrain is adventurous and offbeat but not precipitous. If you are well prepared, you can complete the trek just fine.

Altitude sickness

The high altitude gain during the Manaslu Circuit trek raises the risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization is the key to a successful and satisfying experience. We recommend previous trekking experience because it will help you acclimate easily.

On this trek, you will go beyond 5,000 meters above sea level and spend many days above 3,000 meters. The risk of altitude sickness increases after 2,500 meters. Even though the early symptoms are not serious, they can ruin your journey.

Your physical and mental conditions matter a lot during the trek. Even a slight headache and vomiting (symptoms of altitude sickness) can disrupt your trek. So, please do not take it lightly. Follow preventive measures and inform your guide if you feel discomfort.

Stay hydrated during trekking. Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily. Combine soups and ginger-honey teas in all your meals. Likewise, maintain your pace while walking. You do not have to match anyone's pace. Walk at your own speed, and do not rush.

When can you do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The best times for the Manaslu Circuit trekking are March to May (spring) and mid-September to November (autumn). Weather, climate, and trail conditions are best in these months, which makes trekking fantastic.The greenery increases, and the landscapes are quite breathtaking. The warmth of the sun makes walking comfortable even though nights and mornings are cold.

The spring blossoms, including rhododendrons (Nepal's national flower), golden flowers, and many others, enhance the beauty of the trail. Likewise, the festivities in autumn make trekking in Nepal enchanting and divine.

In both seasons, the temperature ranges between 3°C and 22°C. Higher elevations are colder than the lower parts of the trail. June to August (summer/monsoon) and December to February (winter) are the off-seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

These months do not have ideal weather or climate, and the trail is not in preferred condition, so the challenges are higher than usual. However, this doesn't mean you cannot trek in these months. You will need proper preparation and a strong crew to rely on.

Accommodation during the trip

It is a tea house trek. Tea houses are the simplest kind of accommodation for trekkers in the Himalayas. The services are very limited in the tea houses, but they allow you to avoid camping, which saves you a lot of money and makes the region accessible.

There is a communal dining area in the tea house and mostly twin- or three-bedroom rooms. Single rooms are very few and cost a few extra bucks. We will book twin shared rooms along the trail. If you need a single room, let us know when booking.

Toilets are shared in the tea houses as well. There are no private washrooms. You have to use squat toilets in many places. Carry a sleeping bag and liner, which is okay for 3 seasons. The teahouse will also provide you with a blanket.

WiFi is only available in some villages at lower altitudes. Charging costs extra money, so a solar power bank and extra batteries are recommended for backup. Similarly, hot showers are also limited and cost a few bucks.

Meals

During the trek, you will have simple but delicious meals. You won't get a pizza or burger, but the authentic local flavors will enhance your journey. The menu mostly includes Nepali and Tibetan dishes.

Some common foods you will have during trekking are thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, dal bhat, fried rice, rice with curries, pies, pancakes, oats, soups, teas, momo, chowmein, etc. Boiled drinking water is also found in all tea houses. It is safe to drink, and you can further use a water purification tablet for peace of mind.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is necessary for the Manaslu Circuit trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills. You can find excellent travel insurance for treks in Nepal online.

Additional expenses

Apart from the package cost, you also have to budget your tips, shopping, international flights to/from Kathmandu, emergency funds, meals in Kathmandu, and travel insurance. Likewise, you will also need to carry some money during trekking to pay for your bar meals and additional services like WiFi, charging, hot showers, etc.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs

The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderate, but don’t let that fool you—it still requires solid physical and mental preparation. You’ll be hiking 6 to 7 hours a day through rugged trails, with steep climbs and rocky paths. The Larkya La Pass at 5,213 meters is the toughest part, so proper acclimatization is a must. If you’ve trekked before and you’re reasonably fit, you’ll handle it just fine.

There’s a chance, yes. The trek takes you over 5,000 meters, and altitude sickness can hit after 2,500 meters. The key is to acclimatize well, hydrate properly (aim for 2–3 liters of water daily), and walk at your own pace—slow and steady wins the race. If you feel symptoms like headache or nausea, tell your guide immediately. Don’t ignore it.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are hands down the best seasons. You’ll get clear skies, ideal temperatures, and stunning views. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and golden flowers, while autumn offers festive vibes and crisp mountain air. These months also have the most stable trail conditions.

You’ll be staying in teahouses—basic but charming. Think twin or triple-sharing rooms with shared squat toilets. Don’t expect luxury, but do expect warm hospitality and a blanket to keep you cozy. Bring a sleeping bag (3-season recommended) and maybe a liner for extra warmth. Hot showers and charging cost extra, so pack accordingly.

Local and hearty! Expect dal bhat (rice and lentils), thukpa, Tibetan bread, momos, and pancakes. You won’t find pizza or burgers, but you will find delicious, soul-warming meals that keep your energy up. Ginger-honey tea and soups are must-haves, especially at altitude. Boiled water is available—bring purification tablets if you want extra peace of mind.

The package covers a lot: private airport transfers, Kathmandu sightseeing with a guide, jeep transport to and from Soti Khola, restricted and conservation permits, a trekking guide (with their food and accommodation), all your meals on the trail, and teahouse stays. First aid is also included. It’s designed to keep you focused on the experience, not the logistics.

You’ll need to budget for international flights, your Nepal visa, travel insurance (which is mandatory), trekking gear, bar bills, tips, and any extra services like hot showers or WiFi on the trail. Meals in Kathmandu aren’t covered either, so plan ahead for that.

Yes, and it’s non-negotiable. Your insurance should cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical costs at altitude. You’re heading into remote terrain with limited access to hospitals—don’t take chances.

The group size ranges from 2 to 8, so you’ll likely be with like-minded adventurers, even if you start solo. It’s a great way to meet new people while still getting personal attention from your guide. Plus, trekking in a group adds to safety and camaraderie.

Start training at least a month in advance. Focus on cardio (hiking, running, cycling) and build leg strength. Add stair climbing or weighted hikes if you can. Most importantly, get used to walking for long hours. If you’re already active, you’ll adapt well. If not, now’s the time to start!

Price Per Person US$1150US$1210
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