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Duration
15 Days
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Difficulty
Moderate
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Max Elevation
5,106m
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Group Size
1 to 10 Pax Person
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Accommodation
Hotel/Tea House
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Start/End
Machha Khola/Besisahar
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Destination
Manaslu region
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Best Season
Sep- Nov and Feb - May
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a beautiful trek, with remarkable views of Manaslu. The trek passes through authentic Hindu and Tibetan-style villages. Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world, standing in the very center of the Nepalese Himalayas. To trek around the base of this majestic giant is to trek perhaps the very best of all the ‘best-kept secrets’ of the Nepalese Himalaya. Along with the exceptional views in every direction, the Manaslu trek also leads to a low-to-high range of altitudes, which presents varied flora and fauna; most noticeably, it helps in exploring a wide cultural spectrum along with strong influences from Tibet mixing with Nepali ethnic diversity.
The Way to Manaslu trek begins by exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. The entire trip will allow getting marvel at the majestic views of Mt. Manaslu, which is the eighth-tallest mountain in the world. Trek is also coupled with a chance to witness the rich local heritage and biological diversity of the region. Larkya La Pass is widely considered to be one of the most dramatic passes crossing the Himalayas. As similar to other treks, this trek also ensures enough time for proper acclimatization. The trek basically involves walking on mountain trails, which require the capabilities of people with good cardiovascular fitness.
Trip Highlights
- Explore Nepal’s Restricted Manaslu Region
- Circumnavigate Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) – The 8th Highest Peak in the World
- Cross the Spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
- Authentic Tibetan-Influenced Culture & Lifestyle
- Manaslu Conservation Area Wildlife & Biodiversity
- Visit the Sacred Pungyen Gompa & Manaslu Base Area
- Diverse Landscapes from Subtropical to Alpine Terrain
- Walk Along the Wild Budhi Gandaki River Gorge
- Less Crowded Alternative to Annapurna & Everest
- Teahouse Trek with Comfortable Local Hospitality
- Perfect Blend of Adventure, Culture & Nature
- Setting a beautiful finale, the route that connects the two iconic trekking regions of Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek-15 Days ~ Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
- Altitude: 1,350m
- Accommodation: Standard Three-star hotel
Greetings from Nepal Royal Tourism! As you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, Nepal Royal Tourism will meet you and take you to your hotel. Once you have settled in, you may either rest or venture out to discover the lively streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Nepal. Before dinner, the first day is a chance to hold a trek briefing, go over your permits, and talk about your forthcoming journey in the Himalayas. Here, you will also get an opportunity to meet your guide and plan your path to the adventure.
Day 2
Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
- Altitude: 870 m
- Duration: Approximately 7-9 hours’ drive
- Drive Distance: 164 Km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
Leaving behind Kathmandu, you will be driving through lovely hills, farmland with terraces, rivers, and villages. As the road runs alongside the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers, you will get to see the unspoiled countryside and changing scenery of Nepal. Entering the Manaslu region, the drive gives an idea of the remote mountain people whose lives make the attraction of this trek.
Day 3
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
- Altitude: 1340 m
- Trek Duration: 7-9 Hours
- Trek Distance: 17 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
Initially, the trainee will be walking alongside the Budhi Gandaki River for the first few kilometers, through forests, small settlements, and crossing hanging bridges. After a while, you will find yourself among quaint Gurung communities having picturesque valleys of the fresh river. The path is a mix of climbs and descents, finally arriving at Jagat, a stone-paved village marking the formal entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Day 4
Trek from Jagat to Deng
- Altitude: 1940 m
- Trek Duration: 7-9 hours
- Trek Distance: 21 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
At first, the trail goes through forests of different types, cultivated terraces, and villages that are a mix of Hindu and Tibetan influences. Along with the abundant flora and fauna, there are also magnificent landscapes with waterfalls, cliffs, and vast river valleys. As you gain altitude, the scenery changes in accordance with the various ethnic and geographical features of the Manaslu region.
Day 5
Trek from Deng to Namrung
- Altitude: 2640 m
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
- Trek Distance: 19 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
As you pass through natural pine and rhododendron groves, you will cross several hanging bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. While on the way, you will see old Tibetan-style villages and mani walls with Buddhist prayers written on them. Namrung offers trekkers not only spectacular mountain views but also a strong presence of Himalayan culture.
Day 6
Trek Namrung to Shyala
- Maximum Altitude: 3500 m
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Trek Distance: 16 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
The day will probably be among the best days of the trek as you get to see some beautiful villages on the trail. You will encounter traditional monasteries and be able to take in the majestic views of Himalayan peaks. Gradually the mountain environment changes to that of an alpine region with the promise of impressive views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and untouched nature. Shyala is a location many consider to be the most beautiful hiking viewpoint in the entire Manaslu Circuit.
Day 7
Trek Shyala to Samagaun via Pungen Gompa
- Maximum Altitude: 3500 m
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Trek Distance: 11 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
This day’s trekking route brings you to the sacred Pungen Gompa, a hidden monastery that lies below the huge face of Mount Manaslu. The quiet atmosphere and the amazing views of the glacier make it an unforgettable attraction of the trek. After visiting the monastery, walk on to Samagaun, which is one of the biggest and culturally most important villages of the area. Besides offering stunning views of the mountains, the village is also deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Day 8
Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
- Maximum Altitude: 3500 m
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea House
Adjusting to the altitude is very important if you want to have a safe and fun trek. Today you will have a chance to see the neighborhood, talk to the villagers, and learn about the unique Tibetan culture of Samagaun. Besides, some of the most popular excursion destinations include places where you can get views of glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and mountain panoramas. This day at the same time prepares your body for the next days by getting it used to the changes in altitude and shows you the amazement of the Himalayas.
Day 9
Trek from Samagaun to Samdo
- Maximum Altitude: 3860 m
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Trek Distance: 7.2 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
You ascend little by little with the trail going through open alpine scenery and pastures of yak. When you get to Samdo, you will feel a big change in the environment with very rough mountains focusing your eyes. Samdo is a good old trading village that is very close to the Tibetan border, and you will learn a lot about the local people’s traditions there. The views of the nearby peaks are really phenomenal.
Day 10
Trek Samdo to Dharmashala
- Maximum Altitude: 4470 m
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
Your journey today cuts through scarcely inhabited high-altitude areas before reaching Dharmashala, which is also called Larkya Phedi. You will walk along ancient trade routes and see grand vistas of glaciers, mountain ridges, and wild landscapes. Dharmashala is not only a place to take your last breath before the Larkya La Pass but also a spot to get yourself ready for that very challenging and rewarding day of the trek.
Day 11
Dharamsala to Bhimthang via Larkya la pass(5106m)
- Maximum Altitude: 5106 m
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
- Trek Distance: 16 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
The day dedicated to the Manaslu Circuit Trek that will give you the most thrill and satisfaction is this one. Keep climbing slowly to reach the amazing Larkya La Pass, which is one of the highest and most spectacular mountain passes used by trekkers in Nepal. Through climbing to the top, you will get eye-opening views of the snow-covered Himalayan monsters, glaciers, and huge mountain ranges. Thoroughly enjoy your moment of triumph before the descent to the beautiful alpine setting of Bhimthang with its natural beauty and surrounding majestic peaks.
Day 12
Trek from Bimthang to Goa
- Maximum Altitude: 2560m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 14 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
The path goes downhill through magnificent rhododendron woods, alpine fields, and beautiful villages. Beautiful mountain views and calm, natural surroundings will be your companions as you gradually say goodbye to the high alpine area. It is a pleasant change from the days of harsh landscapes and offers a chance to experience local culture and hospitality.
Day 13
Trek from Goa to Dharapani then drive to Besisahar
- Maximum Altitude: 700 m
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Tea house
For the last day of trekking, the path is along lovely forest trails and traditional villages before you get to Dharapani. This is the point where the Manaslu Circuit links to the popular Annapurna region. A drive to Besisahar is scheduled for the time after the trek allowing you to unwind and celebrate the greatest achievement of your Himalayan trip.
Day 14
Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
- Maximum Altitude: 1350 m
- Drive Duration: 7-8 hours
- Drive Distance: 175 km
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Three-star standard hotel
Having eaten breakfast, you will soon be on your way to Kathmandu by car and you will be passing through several beautiful country sceneries, rivers, hills, and rural settlements. When you reach the city, you will be given free time to go sightseeing, shopping, or just relax. You may also opt for a farewell dinner in the evening as a way of capping the incredible experiences and memories that have been created during the journey.
Day 15
Time to Say Goodbye
- Meal: Breakfast
After enjoying your breakfast, based on your flight schedule, you may even have some free time to explore a bit more of Kathmandu. A member of the team will be with you when you go to the airport. They will be there a few hours before your flight to help you with your departure arrangements so you can take great memories of your Manaslu trek. We, as your reliable travel partner, Nepal Royal Tourism Holiday Pvt. Ltd. (www.nepalroyaltreks.com), feel very lucky to have had the chance to share this exceptional experience with you. Travel safely and see you next time!
Manaslu Circuit Trek-15 Days Fixed Departures Dates
Trip Cost Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off by private car
- Standard Three star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (includes bed and breakfast).
- Three times meal (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) with a cup of Tea/Coffee, while you are in the mountain.
- Mountain Tea house Lodge
- Experienced trekking Guide and porter according to your group size.
- Transport of attention to Kathmandu by sharing vehicle up to Machha Khola, and Dharapani to Kathmandu.
- ACAP and MCAP permit
- Manaslu conservation area special Permit, Tims and local goverment taxes.
- Lodging and food, salary, insurance, transportation and equipment for guide and porters.
- Trekking Duffel bag & sleeping bag but you have to refund after complete your trip.
- Certificate of Appreciation
Cost Excludes
- Your visa fees and International airfare
- Any other expenses (including hot and cold drinks, mineral water, alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, toiletries, and any other personal expenses).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guide and porter (optional but expected).
Trip Photo/Video Gallery
Route Map for Manaslu Circuit Trek-15 Days
Frequently Asked Questions
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is found in the Gorkha district, Nepal, surrounding the Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The route is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area and provides a Himalayan trekking adventure in an untouched environment.
The 17 days Manaslu Circuit Trek covers the days of arrival and departure to and from Kathmandu. The actual trek time is approximately 12–13 days, which enables you to have good acclimatization and a leisurely pace.
The summit of the trek is Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), one of the highest stunning mountain passes in Nepal and rewarding mountain passes.
The best seasons are:
Spring (March-May): Bright skies, rhododendron forests, and good weather
Autumn (September-November): The best visibility, dry trails, and mountain views
Experienced trekkers can go in winter while monsoon season is less recommended.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded moderate to hard. It demands that the walker be in good shape, able to walk 5–7 hours per day, and to cope with high altitude.
It is a plus to have some experience trekking at high altitude but it is not required. You should, however, have a regular hiking routine and be prepared adequately in terms of fitness.
Manaslu area is a restricted one. To be able to tread there, you need the following permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
You have to book permits via a licensed trekking agency.
Yes, It is mandatory to hire a licensed trekking guide. There is no permission for solo trekking in the Manaslu restricted area.
Most probably accommodations are teahouse/lodge-based, which provide simple but neat rooms. In the higher places, the facilities get a lot simpler.
Teahouses offer different types of meals such as:
Dal Bhat (Nepali set meal), pasta, noodles, rice, soups, Veg and very easy non-veg.
It is always better to order vegetarian dishes at the high altitude areas.
Simply said, it depends on the time of year, besides the fact that altitude also matters:
- Lower regions: 10°C to 20°C
- High camps & Larkya La Pass: -10°C to -15°C in peak seasons,
You should come fully equipped with decent winter clothing.
You need only two trekkers minimum to be able to get the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit. Therefore, Solo trekking is not allowed.
Altitude sickness can indeed be a problem when a person goes above 3,000 meters. Therefore, the 17-day itinerary has been planned with acclimatization days included so that the risk is kept to a minimum. In any case, the most important thing is to go up slowly, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest.
Certainly, travel insurance is a must and it should extend coverage to:
- High-altitude trekking (up to 5,200 m)
- Emergency helicopter evacuation
- Medical expenses
The most important are:
Down jacket and sleeping bag
Trekking boots and poles
Thermal layers and waterproof jacket
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and first aid kit
Nepal Royal Tourism can give you a detailed list of things if you want more detaisl.
This is an entirely safe trek if it is done through a professional trekking agency with licensed guides, proper planning, and safety protocols.
Manaslu, on the other hand, facilitates:
- Less crowded tours
- Exposure to authentic Tibetan-influenced culture
- Scenic unspoiled beauty
- Isolated and adventurous trekking experience
Yes, the 17 days Manaslu Circuit Trek can be personalized easily with respect to one’s physical shape, financial means, or even adding side trips like Tsum Valley.
Charging and Wi-Fi are available at some tea houses for an additional cost; however, the signal is very weak at great altitudes.
We are local trekking agency provides you with:
- Legal permit handling
- Highly skilled local guides
- Greater cost efficiency
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Menu
Martini B
at 2:48 pm
Amazing Manaslu Trek with Friends!
We had an incredible time trekking the Manaslu Circuit with friends. The route is, less crowded, and full of stunning mountain views and beautiful villages. Crossing Larkya La Pass was tough but unforgettable!
Everything was well organized, and our guide was very supportive and professional throughout the trek.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a real Himalayan adventure!
Emma Wilson
at 10:32 pm
Look like a Family trip
The Manaslu trip was a big highlight of our travels. We will forever remember crossing Larkya La Pass. The group looked after us like a family and was very professional. Thanks for giving us such a great experience!
Lisa Anderson
at 10:15 pm
Perfect Manaslu Trek Itinerary with Excellent Service
Really well done and nice people. Our guide and porter were always ready to help us and very cheerful. The food and lodging were beyond our expectations for such a remote area.
Benjamin Clark
at 6:31 am
one of the top treks in Nepal
The 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek was a great trip and one of the top treks in Nepal. The itinerary was designed with enough acclimatization days. The cost was very reasonable for the service offered. The guide was professional and took care of our safety and comfort all the time. If you want the best Manaslu trek package, this is the team to go with!