Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Trip Facts
  • Duration:14 Days
  • Difficulty Level: Strenuous
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Max. Altitude: 5106 Meters
  • Start at: Kathmandu
  • End at: Kathmandu
  • Group Size: 1- 22
  • Best Season: Spring - Autumn

Highlights

  • Hiking to Manaslu Base Camp and getting stunning views of the 8th highest peak in the world throughout the trail.
  • Visit Birendra Lake, a glacier lake of epic beauty
  • Traversing through Larkya La Pass, one of the longest passes in Nepal.
  • Living the Tibetan-influence lifestyle with pleasing Gurung hospitality.
  • Passing through Manaslu Conservation Area, one of the pristine protected areas in Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out as a wonderful adventure in Nepal, offering a distinct experience that blends natural wonders with cultural heritage. The Manaslu circuit trek itinerary takes you through off-beaten paths in the majestic Himalayas, providing a range of landscapes and elevations, from lush tropical woods to high alpine meadows. The altitude of the Manaslu circuit trek starts from 930m to 5106m, where you can experience the diverse landscape and different people's lifestyles. 

Manaslu trek in Nepal is considered one of the most demanding treks, yet a worthwhile journey of a lifetime. The trail takes you through fascinating locations, including the remarkable Mount Manaslu (8163 m) and the charming Birendra Lake. However, the highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the breathtaking Larkya La Pass, one of Nepal's most spectacular mountain passes.

This 14 days Manaslu circuit trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and in the next few days, you will hike through fascinating villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lo, and Samagaon. Upon reaching Samagaon, take a well-deserved rest day while exploring nearby attractions such as Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and Pungyen Gompa. The journey continues through Samdo, Dharamsala, and Bimthang, culminating with a thrilling crossing of the Larkya La Pass.

Before boarding this trek, it's essential to take three entry permits: the Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit. The special entry permit is obtained through the immigration office and the other two conservation entry permits can be obtained through designated authorities in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Additionally, timing is crucial while planning to trek Manaslu, and the best periods to undertake this adventure are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer more stable weather and relatively easier walking conditions compared to the monsoon season or harsh winters.

The difficulty level of this trek is challenging, with rocky and steep sections along the trail. The most demanding part is the Larkya La pass, which takes approximately ten hours to cross due to the snowy and rugged terrain. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, one needs to take a day to acclimate and rest before tackling this significant elevation change of roughly 4,203m/3,789ft.

Manaslu Circuit is a unique trekking trail in Nepal, specially designed for those travelers who are willing to face some hardships and impatient to enjoy the mesmerizing mountains, landscapes, and culture. These are the top reasons that you should choose this trek to Manaslu

Manaslu Trek Difficulty: Is This Trek Suitable for You?

A significant portion of the Manaslu trek is above 3000m, with the highest elevation at Larke Pass (5,106m). This increases the chance of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a real danger at high altitudes. It is caused by the lack of oxygen.

Here are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of altitude sickness:

  • Acclimatize to the altitude gradually. This means a slow hike with plenty of rest and drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Take Diamox (acetazolamide) as prescribed by your doctor. Diamox is a medication that helps to reduce the effects of altitude sickness.
  • Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and descend to a lower altitude if you experience any symptoms.

During the trek, you will have to hike for 5-6 hours every day, and the mountainous terrain takes you through quite a lot of steep ascent and descent.

Hence, the Manaslu circuit trek is difficult but is made easier by preparation and experience. You should be well-prepared for this adventure by doing cardio and aerobic exercises, as well as hill hiking.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance, Duration, and Altitude

Trip Start From/ ToDistance (Kilometers/ Mile)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters/ Feet)
Kathmandu to Machhi Khola160/ 100 7 to 8870m/ 2854ft
Trek to Jagat19/ 11.96 to 71440m/ 4724ft
Jagat to Deng 21/ 13.17 to 8 1845m/ 6052ft
Deng to Namrung 20/ 12.56 to 7 2560m/ 8397ft
Namrung to Lho village12/ 7.54 to 5 3180m/ 10430
Lho to Samagaon 9/ 5.64 to 5 3515m/ 11530
Samagaon to Samdo Village7/ 3.43 to 4 3800m/ 12464ft
Samdo to Dharmasala6/ 3.43 to 4 4460m/ 14629ft
Dharmasala to Bhimthang16/ 107 to 8 3590m/ 11775
Bhimthang to Goa14/ 8.75 to 6 2515m/ 8250ft
Goa to Chamje15/ 9.45 to 6 1430m/ 4690ft
Chamje to Kathmandu 200/ 1257 to 8 1320m/ 4329ft

How to Prepare Yourself for The Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that requires physical and mental preparation. The trail is uneven with many ups and downhill, and you will be carrying a daypack that weighs 5-6 kg. It is important to choose the best time for the Manslu trek and start strengthening yourself as soon as you confirm the trip, so that you can hike on the high mountains more easily.

Here are some tips for physical preparation:

  • A few months before the trip start date, walk regularly. The more you walk, the stronger your legs and lungs will become.
  • Hike with a weighted backpack. This will help you get used to carrying the weight of your gear.
  • Exercise your core muscles. Strong core muscles will help you maintain good posture and prevent back pain.
  • Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep. This will help you stay energized and recover from your workouts.
  • Pick the best season: March to May and October and November is the best time for the Manaslu trek. 

It is also very important to prepare mentally for the trek. The high altitudes can be challenging, and the weather can change rapidly. It is important to be patient and adaptable. Be prepared for the unexpected. Things don't always go according to plan, so it is important to be flexible.

Why Book This Trip of a Lifetime with Us?

This lifetime journey needs to be carefully planned, and we, the Green Society Adventure, are here for it. We provide an excellent personalized trekking experience, with your safety being our prime concern.

We will apply for all necessary permits, book accommodation, and provide qualified guides and porters. We issue no hidden costs, and to make your trip easier, we have also planned a one-day Kathmandu exploration right after you arrive to eliminate flight exhaustion.

We are flexible about making any changes should there be unexpected events, such as severe weather. We will make your trip as hassle-free as possible so that you can devote your time to enjoying your trip.

Itinerary
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We can customize the trip to suit your interests and help you make it fit your budget

Note*

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a 7–8-hour drive by local bus from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, as well as from Chamje to Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can take a private jeep at an additional cost of USD 460 (up to 7 people can comfortably drive).

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the gateway to the Himalayas.
  • A warm welcome and transfer to the hotel by Green Society Adventure team and an evening briefing and preparation for the trek.
  • Enjoy the First sight of bustling Kathmandu, with its mix of culture, temples, and lively streets.
  • Max. Altitude:1320m/4329ft
  • Accommodation:Deluxe Hotel
  • Meals:Welcome Dinner

  • Scenic drive along the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers.
  • Driving through terraced fields, small villages, and cascading waterfalls gives the first feel of rural Nepal.
  • Max. Altitude:870m/2854ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream to reach Jagat.
  • Cross suspension bridges and walk through lively small settlements and subtropical forests.
  • The lower altitude brings a warm climate, making the hike hot and sweaty
  • Max. Altitude:1440m/4724ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Gentle climb toward Deng, with several suspension bridge crossings.
  • Rest and check the special entry permit at Filim, the largest Gurung village in the region.
  • Encounter traditional Gurung culture and enjoy cascading waterfalls against a mountain backdrop.
  • Max. Altitude:1845m/6052ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Trek through the scenic Sringi Valley, with gradual ups and downs alongside the Budhi Gandaki River.
  • Opportunity to spot Himalayan wildlife: blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, and monkeys.
  • Max. Altitude:2560m/8397
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Climb through alpine terrain with prayer flags and Mani walls.
  • Visit an ancient Buddhist monastery in Lho.
  • Enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Manaslu and Himal Chuli and mountain farm land along the way.
  • Max. Altitude:3180m/10430ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Gradual walk through the alpine forest as the valley widens.
  • Panoramic mountain views, especially from Shyala village.
  • Witness traditional Tibetan-style houses and the cultural richness of Samagaon, one of the region’s largest settlements.
  • Max. Altitude:3515m/11530ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Rest and adapt to the high altitude.
  • Visit monasteries, explore Birendra Lake, or hike to Manaslu Base Camp (optional).
  • Max. Altitude:3515m/11530ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Smooth, gradual trail along the Budhi Gandaki River led to Samdo village.
  • Warm and beautiful hike with Prayer flags, Chortens, and stunning views of snow-covered peaks. Optional acclimatization hike for better adaptation.
  • Max. Altitude:3800m/12464ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Cross the Budhi Gandaki River and ascend to Dharmasala (Larke Phedi).
  • Spot wild mountain goats and enjoy breathtaking views of Manaslu and Larke Peak.
  • Take a short hike after lunch, final preparation before tackling the high mountain pass.
  • Max. Altitude:4460m/14629ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • The biggest day of the trek!
  • Slow and steady climb to the Larke Pass, rewarded with jaw-dropping Himalayan panoramas with sunrise view.
  • Descend into Bimtang, entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Impressive views of Mt. Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna II.
  • Max. Altitude:5106m/16748ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Descend through pine and rhododendron forests, walk along riverbanks and farmland.
  • Lively forests and colorful landscapes with snow-capped peaks still in view.
  • Max. Altitude:2515m/8250ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Continue downhill through Dharapani and Tal villages.
  • Cross rivers and enjoy diverse landscapes, waterfalls, river gorges, and a blend of Manang.
  • Max. Altitude:1430m/4690ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Scenic drive from Chamje back to Kathmandu.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.
  • Max. Altitude:1320m/4329ft
  • Accommodation:Deluxe Hotel
  • Meals:Lunch, Dinner
Route Map
Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days map
Cost Details
Includes
  • Free Airport and hotel transfers as per itinerary in private vehicle
  • Two nights hotel in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basic with breakfast.
  • Kathmandu to Machikhola and Jagat to Kathmandu transportation by Local Bus.
  • Full board meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek in the mountains.
  • Lodges and teahouse accommodation in the mountains. 
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide).
  • Assistant guide for a group of 6 or more pax. 
  • All accommodation, food, drinks, equipment, salary, and insurance for the guide and porter.  
  • Trekking Equipment: down jacket and sleeping bag (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
  • Green Society Adventure's complimentary free T-shirt, route map, and duffel bag (if Needed). 
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with a traditional performance. 
  • Manaslu restricted area entry permits. 
  • All necessary paperwork, Manaslu conservation area entry permits.
  • TIMS card fee. 
  • A comprehensive medical kit.
  • All government and local taxes.
Excludes
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary).
  • Sherpa Porter (One porter carries a backpack for two trekkers). 
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.).
  • Tips for guides and porters.
Departure Dates
PLAN TRIP
Client Reviews
  • F
    Franziska TragerGermanyApril 15, 2024

    Trip of Lifetime Around Mount Manaslu

    Even if a guide wasn't mandatory on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, I would have chosen Green Society Adventure! Raj took really good care of everything and always provided interesting information on the region, the country and the culture, which we would have never learned about without a local guide! I can only recommend GSA!

    Google
  • T
    Tatiana ShukhinaRussian FederationMay 11, 2017

    lifetime experience with incredible views

    I and my friend Maria organized the Manaslu circuit trek with Green Society Adventure, simply an amazing trip! Our guide and crew were kind, cooperative, well-organized and a pleasure to travel with. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience with incredible views of the mountains. If you want to travel to this part of the world, simply trust them and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. I highly recommend Green Society Adventures.

    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

Checklist: What Should You Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Preparation is key when you are planning an amazing adventure in the Himalayas. Prepare as early as you can for the comfortable trek to Manaslu. When you get here in Nepal, you can buy/hire some of the equipment. So, keep in mind that you don’t have to buy all the equipment, which is very expensive and unusable after the trip.

Basically, you need a comfortably fitted day backpack since you are carrying it every day for 5 to 6 hours. Make sure your backpack is waterproof, or it has a special cover. Check this trekking equipment list and pick up all the essential needs for yourself. And if you need to discuss the equipment, please feel free to contact us.

Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

Keep in mind that we will be trekking to the High Mountain pass, the elevation is over 5000 meters. At each height, you pick up the oxygen level gets low. Less oxygen in the climate may make trouble a bit on breathing.

Quick hikes without appropriate rest and acclimatization increase the chances of AMS or elevation sickness. To acclimatize your body to thin air, you wish to walk gradually and relentlessly with a bounty of rest and keep your body hydrated.

Drinking Water

While you are on the Manaslu circuit trek, it's crucial to maintain your body dihydrated and drink plenty of pure water. During the trek, one should drink 3-4 liters of water every day.

We strongly advise having a reusable water bottle with you because buying bottled water is expensive ($1 to $5), and water bottles add to the trashing problem in the mountains. You can fill the water bottle in lodges and can use an inbuilt filtration system like LifeStraw or Steripen. You can also use water purification tablets to treat the water.

Food and Accommodation in Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu trek is well-supported by teahouses, which provide food and accommodation for trekkers and mountaineers.

The food in the teahouses is generally good and healthy. Most of the teahouses serve a wide range of Nepali and Tibetan dishes, as well as some Western options. Breakfast usually consists of Porridge, bread, eggs, and tea or coffee. Lunch is often a hot meal, such as Dal Bhat (lentils, veg curry, and rice), or fried noodles or soup. Dinner is usually a larger meal, with a choice of Dal-Bhat, Momo, Pizza, Noodles, meat items, and some other vegetarian dishes.

The accommodation in the teahouses is basic but comfortable. Most teahouses have shared dormitories and private rooms. The rooms are usually small and simply furnished, but they are clean and warm. Some teahouses also have hot showers and attached toilets, but this is not available in every place.

Trip Safety – Insurance

While you are hiking in the high mountain area, it is very important to be safe and healthy and accomplished the trip. We always suggest you walk slowly and steadily with plenty of rest. We highly recommend making insurance for the insured a comprehensive expense that might gain due to medical issues or accidents. We do not provide or sell travel insurance but are happy to provide recommendations if needed.

Internet and phone connectivity

The phone & internet connection (though unpredictable and irregular in some places) is available during the trip.

You can connect with your loved ones while trekking in the Manaslu Circuit. Check your important information and upload pictures on social media. In some places, Wi-fi is available at lodges. Normally, you must pay an extra charge for using their Wi-Fi hotspot.

FAQs
  • Manaslu trek is challenging due to the high pass (over 5000m) that must be crossed. It is recommended for those who enjoy the outdoors, are physically fit, and have good health, and patience. Physical exercise is recommended before starting the trip as it takes place at a high altitude.

  • Well, if you have a healthy circulatory ability and enough strength to cope with high altitude, then it doesn’t require early experience. However, if you have experience in trekking or hiking then you can enjoy your Himalayan adventure maximum!

  • Yes, to trek to Manaslu you must need special entry permits from the immigration of the Nepal government, which cost $70 and after 7 days $10 per person per day. Second, you need Conservation Area Project entry permit which costs $30.

  • Yes, upon your arrival, you will be greeted by Green Society Adventure airport representatives who help you in getting to your Hotel.

  • You can place it at our office or store it at your hotel (generally the hotels in Kathmandu have storage services).

  • To book the trip, you need to pay 20% of the total trip cost in advance. The remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Nepal. To book the trek, please use the "CHECK AVAILABILITY" tab to make an instant confirmation booking.

  • On average, we walk 5 hours a day. In higher elevations (over 4200m/13777ft) we normally walk 3 to 4 hours a day. But while we are crossing the Larke-La pass, we have to walk for 10-12 hours. 

  • On most of the areas in this trek, clean and comfortable guests house, and lodges are provided. Few places rooms with attached bathrooms can be available.

  • Normally continentals’ menus are available on this trek. As well you can get traditional Nepali Dal-Bhat and some Sherpa dishes (Sherpa Stew, Tibetan bread).

  • If you booked a trip package from us, the cost of lodging and three-time meals is already included in the cost of your trip. But you may need some cash to pay for personal expenses like extra snacks, beverages, and drinks, hot showers, electronic device charging, wifi, etc. A daily budget of USD 15 to 20 (NRS 1900- 2500) is sufficient.

  • The highest point of the trek that you have to reach is 5106 Meters/16748ft above sea level.

    • Hike (Ascend) slowly.
    • Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol
    • Take a rest and take a deep breath.
    • Drink plenty of water and fluids and stay hydrated.
    • Walk on high and sleep at a low altitude.
    • Take Diamox or Tylenol.
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