Circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), which also known as the ‘Mountain of Spirit’
Conquer the dramatic Larke La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft), one of the challenging and rewarding Himalayan passes
Moving along the ancient salt-trading routes that once connected Nepal with Tibet
Explore picturesque traditional villages that have still preserved the ancient culture and traditions
Experiencing the spiritual side of the Himalayas, centuries-old monasteries, mani walls and prayer wheels that reveal deep Buddhistspiritualheritage
Opporunity to traverse across diverse landscapes, from subtropical river valleys and rhododendron forests to glacial basins and high alpine deserts
Raw wilderness and solitude on a trail that remains less crowded and feels untouched compared to Everest and Annapurnaregions
Witness the rich Himalayan wildlife inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, known as the conservation site for blue sheep, Himalayantahr and elusive snow leopard
Trip Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not just another Himalayan trail; it is one of those iconic journeys that pulls you deep into the raw and unpolished part of the Himalayas. This trek that follows the shadows of the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) feels like a hidden chapter of Nepal that only a few travelers have truly explored. Yes, this trek is more rugged, remote and demanding than other mainstream trekking routes in the country. But, at the same time, it is incredibly rewarding. The mixing of towering peaks, high mountain passes and cultural encounters take you centuries back in time.
What makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal so different from the more commercial routes like Everest or Annapurna is the sense of isolation it offers. The path takes you through traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages deeply woven with spiritual essence and locals' lifestyle that is in rhythm with the mountains, untouched by modern rush. Then comes the big highlight of the entire route, the legendary Larke La Pass (5,106 m). This is one of the most thrilling parts of the trek where the altitude, biting wind and the rushing adrenaline, all can be felt at once. This stretch is considered a true test of endurance, but also the ultimate payoff of in this unforgettable Himalayan odyssey.
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is ideal for trekkers who want more than just a mountain walk. It is designed for the Himalayan enthusiasts who crave both challenge and authenticity, farther from the commercial routes. If you’re looking for trails that feel alive, where landscapes shift at every turn and a journey that still holds onto its wild spirit, the Manaslu Circuit is where you will find all of them blending together in a perfect synch.
Outline Itinerary Plan
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,355m) and transfer to your hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and preparation for the trek
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m), the starting point of your trek
Day 04: Begin trekking from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) through scenic trails
Day 05: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860m)
Day 06: Continue the trek from Deng to Namrung (2,560m)
Day 07: Trek from Namrung to Shyala (3,575m)
Day 08: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3,800m)
Day 09: Spend the day exploring Sama Gaon and its surroundings at leisure
Day 10: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo (3,860m)
Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m)
Day 12: Cross Larke La Pass (5,106m) and trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3,710m)
Day 13: Trek from Bhimtang to Goa (2,560m)
Day 14: Trek from Goa to Tilije, then drive to Besisahar (1,860m)
Day 15: Drive from Besisahar back to Kathmandu (1,355m)
Day 16: Departure and farewell
Trip Itinerary
After landing in Kathmandu, you will feel like you have stepped into very different world. Complete the airport process and our staff will await your arrival. The transfer from the airport to the hotel is swift and exciting. In this short drive, you will notice taxis honking, prayer flags fluttering, street vendors and temples hidden between houses.
Your hotel in Thamel, the heart of the capital, becomes your base camp, where you can rest after the flight. The first day of your Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is not just about arrival; it is also about an introduction to this majestic Himalayan country. Get some rest and in the evening you can stroll around the city, admiring the vibrant nightlife.
Max. Elevation:1355m
Duration:20-25 minutes
Distance:Approximately 6.2 kilometers ( Airport to Hotel )
Included/Excluded
All ground transportation in a private vehicle, including airport pickup and drop-off
Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu at a 3-star category hotel on a BB basis.
Kathmandu city tour including all entry fees, a tour guide, and a private vehicle
Best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the trek
Three times daily full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with a cup of tea during the trek
Manaslu trekking special permit (Manaslu is in a restricted zone; we need a special permit to visit this area)
All necessary staff with an experienced English-speaking guide (require porters: two clients 1 porter), including their food, salary, accommodation, insurance, etc. (Personal Sherpa guide provided upon request with extra charge)
Seasonal fruits during the trek
Required permits include the TIMS, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permits
Nepal Intrepid Treks T-shirt, duffle bag, and trekking map
Sleeping bag and down jacket during the trek
Trip Achievement Certificate as a token of their successful journey, recognizing their accomplishment and endurance
First aid kit with the provision of an oximeter to monitor oxygen level and heartbeat.
Oxygen cylinder and mask on request with an extra charge
Government taxes and office service charges
Nepal entry visa fee
International airfare
Travel Insurance
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
All cold drinks, water, and any beverages are not included in your trip price
We provide such service with an extra charge ( Note: - Our option excursions are culture trip, festival trip, monastery meditation with Lama and Monks, Bird watching, Farming trip other things as per the client’s interest)
Trekking Equipment: (Note: Clients have to arrange personal trekking equipment, such as trekking poles)
Tips for the driver, guide, and porters are not included in the cost of your package
Others
Personal expenses such as phone calls, Internet, laundry, bar bills, and extra porters
Costs arising out of landslide, road blockage, rescue of any form, cancellation of flight, or reasons beyond our control
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the price include sections
Dates & Prices
Group Discount Available
1 Person
US$ 1520
2 - 4 Person
US$ 1290
5 - 8 Person
US$ 1240
9 - 12 Person
US$ 1140
13 - 20 Person
US$ 1040
Manaslu Circuit TrekVideo
Good to Know
Trek Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty is considered at a moderate level. This journey balances cultural immersion with raw Himalayan adventure. You need to understand that this is not the kind of trek where you can simply walk in with minimal preparation. This Manaslu Circuit Trek route demands endurance, acclimatization and a steady mindset. The overall journey spans across 14 to 16 days and you will cover an approximate distance of 177kilometers. During this Himalayan adventure, you will need to traverse the trails that constantly shift between steep ascents, rocky descents and narrow ridges.
The difficulty of this trek is not only in the physical aspect but also in the altitude and remoteness of the region. Another major key challenge is the altitude gain. You will start your trek at around 900 meters at Machha Khola and reach the maximum point over 5,100 meters at Larke La Pass. As you ascend to the higher part of the trails, the air starts to get thinner and your body needs time to adapt. That’s why rest days, such as the one in Sama Gaon, are strategically placed to reduce the risk of AltitudeMountainSickness (AMS). In terms of daily walking distance, trekkers need to cover around 6 to 7 hours per day. So, a good level of fitness and preparation is essential if you want to explore this remote mountain trail of the west-central Himalayas.
Best Time to Trek
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit Trek best time is crucial as the experience on the trail changes dramatically depending on when you decide to go. Since this is a high-altitude journey that takes you from subtropical river valleys to the icy heights of Larke La Pass, the weather factors dictate not just the scenery but also safety and comfort. The most popular and reliable trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most stable weather, clear skies and comfortable temperatures, which is why they are often called the prime trekking windows. In the spring season, the hillsides at lower altitudes burst into life with blooming rhododendrons, making the trails vibrant and colorful.
Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10 to 20°C in lower regions and the visibility is excellent. The spring season also carries less risk of heavy snowfall blocking the pass compared to winter. Likewise, the autumn season is considered another golden time for this trek. The summer monsoon washes the air clean and leaves behind crystal-clear mountain views. Temperatures are crisp and pleasant, with temperatures around 12 to 18°C. The autumn season also coincides with some of Nepal’s major festivals like Dashain and Tihar. So, trekkers can witness local celebrations in the villages, which will add cultural richness to the journey.
Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal
Packing right for your Nepal Manaslu Circuit Trek can make or break your journey. Since the trail takes you through a mix of climates from humid lowlands and alpine forests to snow-covered passes, it is necessary to pack a versatile set of gear to handle both warm days and freezing nights. Here is a detailed suggested packing list for the journey.
Clothing
Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
Trekking shirts and t-shirts
Long-sleeve trekking shirt
Light fleece or sweater
Down jacket
Windproof jacket or softshell
Rain jacket or poncho
Trekking pants
Lightweight casual pants
Hiking shorts
Innerwear/undergarments (sufficient pairs)
Neck gaiter or buff
Sun hat or cap
Warm beanie/wool hat
Gloves (lightweight and insulated pair)
Socks
Footwear
Trekking boots (sturdy, waterproof, broken-in)
Light sports/trainer shoes
Camp slippers or Crocs
Sock liners
Gear and Accessories
Backpack
Duffel bag
Sleeping bag (four-seasonal)
Trekking poles
Water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 liters capacity)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm (with UV protection)
Foot powder or antifungal cream
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Toilet paper/tissue
Insect repellent
Small first aid kit
Personal medication
Snacks and energy bars
Reusable shopping bag
Accommodation and Food During Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you across some of the most remote areas in Nepal. In these stretches of the Himalayas, the infrastructure is modest compared to commercialized regions like Everest or Annapurna. Still, you will find the trekking adventure well-supported by a network of teahouses that provide food and lodging along the route. Teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal are simple, functional and built to serve trekkers and locals alike.
The rooms inside these teahouses typically have two singlewooden beds with mattresses, pillows and blankets.
The walls are thin and heating is rare except for the central dining hall, where a stove fueled by wood or yak dung provides warmth in the evenings. It is where trekkers usually gather around to share their stories. Bathrooms are usually on a shared basis; squat toilets are common in lower sections and a mix of squat and western-style toilets are found higher up. Hot showers are also available, often solar-heated or provided via buckets. The higher you go, the more basic things get. So, as a trekker in this remote region, you need to manage your expectations; this may not be a luxury trek, but it’s authentic mountain hospitality.
Meal Options
The teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route serve a surprisingly wide range of healthy and deliciousmeals, despite the extreme remoteness of the region. While most of the diet is based on the traditional Nepali cuisine, many teahouses also offer Tibetan and a few Western options. This gives trekkers enough variety to fuel their long days on the trail. Here’s a breakdown of meals that you can expect at the teahouses:
Breakfast Options
Tibetan bread with jam or honey
Pancakes (plain, apple, banana, chocolate, or honey)
Toast with butter or jam
Porridge
Oatmeal
Omelet
Boiled eggs
Muesli or granola
Hash browns or fried potatoes
Rice pudding
Lunch and Dinner
Dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, pickles)
Noodles (fried or soup-based)
Fried rice
Chowmein
Spaghetti
Momos
Thukpa
Sherpa stew
Pizza
Macaroni or pasta dishes
Potato-based dishes
Burger
Roti and chapati
Shyakpa
Beverages
Tea (black, milk, masala, herbal, or green)
Ginger lemon tea
Coffee
Hot chocolate
Milk
Soft drinks (Coke, Fanta, Sprite)
Bottled water
Local alcohol (raksi, tongba, chhyang)
Fruit juice
Drinking Water
Access to safe drinking water is one of the most critical considerations on this remote mountain trail. The trail of Nepal Manaslu Circuit Trek traverses remote villages, deep valleys and high-altitude passes. In such remote segments, the tap water is scarce and untreated natural sources carry health risks. So, there are three safe options that you can choose from: buy bottled water, treat tap water, or refill bottles at the teahouses. The use of plastic bottles affects the delicate Himalayanenvironment and the price for it also increases with the increase in altitude.
Instead, you can bring a reusable bottle or hydration bladder (2 to 3 liter capacity) and buy boiled water at the teahouses. This way, you will be able to meet the daily hydration quota without taking risks. There is also the option to fill your bottle at clean stations (taps and streams). But do not consume the water without purifying it first.
Training and Preparation
The Nepal Manaslu Circuit Trek is physically demanding that spans across 177 km over 14 to 16 days. You will reach the highest point of the trek at Larke La Pass (5,106 meters). So, even if this journey is not physically strenuous, preparing well in advance is key to enjoying the trek safely and comfortably.
Physical Training: For the physical training, it's best if you focus on cardio, endurance and leg strength. Activities like jogging, cycling and stair climbing will help you build stamina. Meanwhile, exercises like squats, lunges and core exercises will strengthen the muscles that you will have to rely on during long days of trekking. Hiking with a loaded backpack is also highly recommended as it simulates real conditions.
Mental Preparation: Besides physical aspects, trekking at high altitude also tests your patience and resilience. The trekking days are long, trails can be steep and weather conditions are unpredictable. Practicing mindfulness, pacing yourself and maintaining a positive attitude will help you manage fatigue and stress with more ease.
Acclimatization: One of the biggest challenges of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is its high-altitude nature. Thus, you will need to follow a proper acclimatization schedule, drink plenty of water, move at a comfortable pace and avoid rushing. Being careful about these factors reduces the risk of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). Some trekkers also use Diamox (altitude sickness medication), but you should consult a doctor before using it.
Necessary Permits
The Manaslu region is a restricted area, which means trekkers cannot enter without the necessary permits. These regulations exist to preserve the environment, protect local communities and manage trekking foot traffic in this remote Himalayan region. Before starting the trek, it is mandatory to obtain the following permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
You can obtain these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara, from the Nepal Tourism Board office or through a registered trekking agency. You cannot apply individually for the restricted area permit as it is only provided to registered trekking agencies. To apply for these permits, you will need to provide passport-sized photos, a copy of your passport and the trek dates to complete the process.
Is This Trek Suitable for Beginners?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderate-level adventure in the remote part of the Himalayas. So, it is not an ideal choice for a beginner trekker who are not familiar with the high-altitude environment. Beginners unfamiliar with trekking at altitude may also experience fatigue or altitude sickness if they are not thoroughly prepared for this remote adventure. That said, the trek is still manageable for beginners with the right support. If you are a beginner, you need to hire a licensed guide and porter to help you with journey. These professional companions will help you with navigation, safety and logistics so you will be able to enjoy a hasslefree jounrey.
It is also crucial to follow a well-balanced acclimatization schedule at stops like Sama Gaon and Samdo. Managing pace, taking rest days and staying in teahouses along the route ensures comfort and gradual adaptation. With basic hiking experience, good fitness and careful planning, beginners can still enjoy the trek safely. This journey offers stunning Himalayan scenery, rich culture and rewarding experiences. But, still, preparation and realistic expectations are key for a successful endeavour for anyone attempting it for the first time.
Travel Visa
For most international travelers, obtaining a Nepal tourist visa is a straightforward process, which makes it easy to start the Manaslu Circuit Trekking adventure. You can obtain the visas on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border entry points. There are primarily three types of visa that you can apply for, depending on your intended period of stay:
15-day tourist visa— USD 30
30-day tourist visa— USD 50
90-day tourist visa— USD 125
For those who want to arrange a visa in advance, you can submit your application online through the official Department of Immigration website. The online process provides approval in advance, but travelers still need to present their passport and printed approval on arrival. If you plan on staying longer than your intended period, you can also get a visa extension. For that, you will need to get at least a 15-day extension, which costs around USD 45.
FAQs
Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal is a moderate level adventure, you will walk for 14 to 16 days, facing long uphill climbs, high altitude and some rugged mountain terrain. The difficulty mainly in this trek comes from the elevation gain and crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m). If you are used to multi-day hikes and have decent stamina, you will be able to handle this Himalayan adventure without any issues.
Incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Intrepid Treks
I completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek in April 2025 and want to sincerely thank the entire Nepal Intrepid Treks team for their support in helping me complete this trek. The views of Mount Manaslu were absolutely stunning, making this one of the best experiences of my life.
Special thanks to Lal Gurung and the guide for their excellent service and care throughout the journey.
Highly recommended!
Manaslu Circuit Trek – The Closest Mountain Experience
I believe the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the best mountain experience with an up-close view of the peaks with our naked eyes. Thanks to Lal Gurung, Managing Director of Nepal Intrepid Treks, for suggesting this incredible trek.
During this trek, I got to see Mount Manaslu very closely. I have also completed the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp treks, but among these, the Manaslu Circuit stands out for how near the mountain feels.
Special thanks to Lal Gurung for being a wonderful guide and providing excellent service throughout the journey.
Good trip!
I went to MBC with a group of mountaineering friends and completed the summit. The guide accompanied and cared for us all the way, making the whole trip perfect! ---Team leader Kamal, lead guide Yam, assistant guide Kedar, team leader Nabarai, porter partner Poters and Nepal intrepid treks8 expedition company
Thanks to the professional team, it was fun.
I went hiking with a group of friends at MBC and completed the summit. The guides took care of us along the way... Team leader Kamal, lead guide Yam, assistant guide Kedar, team leader Nabarai, porter partner Potersand Nepal intrepid treks8 expedition company