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Manaslu Circuit Trek
Trip Type
Trekking In Nepal
Accomodation
Tea House
Destination
Nepal
Start Point
Kathmandu
Region
Manaslu Region
Duration
12 Days
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most remarkable off-the-beaten-path adventures. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, ancient Tibetan culture, and peaceful trails, this trek is a perfect alternative to the crowded Annapurna and Everest regions.
This route circles Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) - the 8th highest peak in the world - offering breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and a sense of remoteness that truly defines adventure. Whether you're seeking solitude, untouched nature, or cultural immersion, the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary provides an unforgettable journey.
What Makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek Special?
- Unspoiled Trails: Unlike other popular routes, the Manaslu trail sees fewer trekkers, making it ideal for peace and quiet.
- Cultural Diversity: Discover traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, monasteries, and mani walls.
- Larke La Pass: Standing at 5,160m, this high mountain pass is a true highlight.
- Eco-experience: Trekking through the Manaslu Conservation Area offers rich biodiversity and scenic valleys.
Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit
Planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek? The best times to go are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and ideal trekking conditions along the Manaslu Circuit trek route.
🌸 Spring Season (March–May)
Spring is a great time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 days itinerary. The trail bursts with blooming rhododendrons, and the temperatures are pleasantly warm in the daytime. You’ll enjoy vibrant landscapes and excellent views of Manaslu Himal and surrounding peaks.
- Pros: Colorful forests, moderate weather, good visibility
- Cons: Occasional rain showers in late May
This season is also popular among Manaslu trekking expeditions aiming for the base camp.
🍁 Autumn Season (September–November)
Autumn is the peak trekking season in Langtang and Manaslu regions. The skies are crisp and blue, and the weather is dry, making it ideal for crossing Larkya La Pass. Plus, this season aligns with Nepal’s biggest cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar.
- Pros: Clear skies, safe pass crossing, festive cultural vibes
- Cons: Trails can be busier
For anyone comparing Manaslu Circuit trek cost and itinerary, this is often the most recommended time for smooth logistics and great views.
❄️ Winter Season (December–February)
If you're after solitude, a short Manaslu Circuit trek in winter offers a peaceful experience with dramatic snow-covered scenery. However, it can be harsh at high altitudes.
- Pros: Fewer trekkers, stunning snowy mountains
- Cons: Very cold, Larkya La Pass may be closed
🌧️ Monsoon Season (June–August)
Manaslu Circuit trekking during the monsoon is challenging but lush. The region turns green and alive, but the trails are wet and sometimes risky.
- Pros: Quiet trails, rich greenery
- Cons: Slippery routes, leeches, risk of landslides, limited views
Why Choose Nepal Outdoor Expeditions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
At Nepal Outdoor Expeditions, we focus on making your trek safe, well-managed, and memorable. Our team handles everything from permits to logistics, so you can focus on the experience. Whether you’re choosing a classic or short Manaslu Circuit Trek, we guide you with clear communication, trusted local knowledge, and genuine care from start to finish.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost and Itinerary
Nepal Outdoor Expeditions offers the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 days itinerary tailored for trekkers with limited time, as well as longer and more immersive packages. Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost typically ranges from USD 950 to USD 1400, depending on group size, duration, and service level (guide/porter, accommodation, permits, meals). But at our package we cost $1175 per person.
All packages include:
- ACAP & MCAP permits + Restricted Area Permit
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Teahouse accommodation
- All meals during the trek
- Ground transportation (bus/private jeep)
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map
The Manaslu Circuit Trek Map shows a circular route beginning from Soti Khola or Machha Khola and ending at Dharapani. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, climbs gradually through alpine forests, and traverses above 5,000 meters before descending into the Annapurna region.
This Manaslu Circuit Trekking route is perfect for those wanting to explore both wilderness and cultural richness.
Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Explore historic villages like Samagaon and Samdo
- Acclimatize under the shadow of Manaslu Himal
- Hike to the base of Manaslu glacier or Birendra Tal
- Cross the thrilling Larke La Pass
- End your trek at Dharapani, joining the Annapurna Circuit trail
Short Itinerary ( 12 days )
Your journey starts from a long scenic drive to Machha Khola. You’ll pass through forests, small villages, and suspension bridges. Distance: 14km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 500 m.
You’ll trek through Gandaki river, cross suspension bridges, and walk through forests. You’ll pass villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani to reach Jagat. It is the entry checkpoint to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Distance: 22km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 440m.
The route ascends through lush forests and villages like Philim and Ekle Bhatti. Deng is a small Buddhists settlement with prayer flags and Chortens. Distance: 20km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 520m.
You’ll enter the high alpine region. You can see the views of Shringi Himal. You’ll pass through Bamboo forests and cross several bridges. Numrung is a village with Tibetan influence, monasteries, and excellent mountain views. Distance: 19km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 770 m.
You’ll trek through pine and rhododendron forests. You’ll pass through villages like Lihi before arriving at Lho. Lho offers the clear view of Mount Manaslu. You can visit Ribung Monastery. Distance: 11km, walking hours: 4-5, altitude gain: 550m.
You’ll pass through Shyala village before reaching Samagaon. It is the largest village in the region. Distance: 17km, walking hours: 4-5, altitude gain: 350m.
You can rest for the day or you can hike to Manaslu Base Camp or visit Birendra Lake. You can also explore the Tibetan influenced culture village.
You’ll have a scenic trek through landscapes to reach samdo. Samdo offers insights into the Tibetan community. Distance: 16km, walking hours: 3-4, altitude gain: 345m.
You’ll climb, crossing the river before reaching Dharamsala. It is the base camp for Larkya La Pass. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 4-5, altitude: 585m.
You’ll cross Larkya La Pass which offers views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. Distance: 24km, walking hours: 8-10, altitude gain and loss: 646m.
You’ll cross rivers and pass scenic villages like Gowa and Tilije. Dharapani intersects with the Annapurna Circuit Trail and has more developed facilities. Distance: 26km, walking hours: 7-8, altitude gain: 1860m.
You’ll have a scenic drive through the river, valley, and Besi Sahar to reach Kathmandu. This concludes the journey. Distance: 220km, duration: 9-19 hrs, altitude loss: 460m.
Cost Includes
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Cost of Domestic flights
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Cost of Manaslu Restricted Area permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS permits.
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Standard meals during the trek
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Accommodation in Teahouses.
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First aid and medical service
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Cost of Guide or porters.
Cost Excludes
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International Airfare
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Nepal Visa Fees
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Cost of Travel Insurance
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Cost of personal expenses
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Extra accommodation in Kathmandu
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Tips for guide or porters
Trip FAQS
More Trip Informations
Practical Information
Altitude & Acclimatization
The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,160m. Our itinerary allows for proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.
Drinking Water
Boiled or filtered water is available at teahouses. We recommend bringing a reusable bottle and purification tablets.
Internet & Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in some villages (Samagaon, Samdo), but it may be slow or unreliable. Mobile coverage is patchy.
Money & Payments
Carry enough cash (Nepalese Rupees). Credit cards are not accepted along the route.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Packing Checklist:
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Sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
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Down jacket, layers, gloves, hat
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Trekking boots and poles
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Headlamp, water purifier, sunscreen
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Travel insurance and permits
Alternative Treks to Manaslu Circuit
Looking for more Himalayan adventures? You might also enjoy:
- Annapurna Circuit Trek – A classic trail with diverse landscapes and culture.
- Langtang Valley Trek – A shorter, scenic trek close to Kathmandu.
- Everest Panorama Trek – Perfect if you want Everest views without the high-altitude challenge.
