Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trek Description
Surrounded by beautiful forests, rivers, and the stunning Mount Manaslu, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable experience. This trek takes you through peaceful villages and amazing landscapes, providing a perfect escape from crowded trails. The lesser-known Manaslu Circuit Trek is gradually becoming a sought-after alternative to the more famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. If you’re looking for a quiet and natural adventure, the Manaslu Circuit is the ideal choice.
Destination
Manaslu region, Gorkha District
Duration
15 days
Trip Grade
Moderate-difficult
Start/ End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Max People
6 - 12 people
Transportation
Private vehicle, local bus, jeep, or Flight
Activities
Teahouse/Lodges
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in its best seasons includes blooming rhododendrons and lush green landscapes. The refreshing mountain breezes make the trek easier. It is a great alternative for those exploring beyond the traditional Annapurna Base Camp routes.
Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Manaslu Circuit Trek |
| Travel Budget | $1200 -$1500 per person |
| Standard Budget | $1500 - $2000 per person |
| Difficulty | Moderate - Difficult |
| Best Time | Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) |
| Permit | Manaslu Restricted Area permit (MRAP) ->$100 for 7 days
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card
-> $15 Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit -> $25 Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit ->$25 |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses, Lodges |
| Best ViewPoints | Manaslu mountain, Larkya La Pass, Samagaon village, Dojan Lap |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
- Arrive in Kathmandu.
- Transfer to your hotel and rest.
- Briefing about the trek and necessary preparations.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m/2,953ft) – 8-9 hours
- Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (8-9 hours drive).
- Pass rural villages and scenic landscapes with views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu.
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft) – 5-6 hours
- Begin the trek through suspension bridges and villages.
- Stop for lunch in Dovan and continue to Jagat.
Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804m/5,918ft) – 6-7 hours
- The trail starts to ascend as you move deeper into the Manaslu region
- Cross small villages and witness the mix of Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m/8,628ft) – 7-8 hours
- Continue your journey towards Namrung, passing through dense forests and Buddhist monasteries.
- The views of Mount Manaslu start to become more prominent.
Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Shyala(3,500m/11,480ft) – 5-6 hours
- Delightful breakfast at Namrung and start the hike towards Shyala.
- Picturesque view of Boudha Himal, Simnang Himal, Mt.Manaslu
- Walk through Lihi Village and have lunch at Shyagoan Village.
Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3,520m/11,549ft) – 4-5 hours
- Heading towards Pungen Glacier.
- Enjoying the scenery at Pungen Glacier.
- Make our way to Samagaon valley
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon (3,520m/11,549ft)
- Rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude.
- You can take a short hike to nearby places like Birendra Tal and Glacier lake or explore the village.
- Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 9: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m/12,713ft) – 5-6 hours
- A short day of trekking towards the village of Samdo, a traditional Tibetan-style settlement.
- Enjoy the scenic views of glaciers, rivers, and the surrounding peaks.
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala(4,460m/14,633ft) – 4-5 hours
- The route ascends toward the Dharmashala, passing through the rugged terrains and glacial moraines.
- The trek is short to allow rest before the challenging pass crossing.
Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,929ft) and Trek to Bhimthang (3,590m/11,780ft) – 8-9 hours
- An early start to cross the Larkya La Pass, which offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
- After reaching the top, descend to Bhimthang.
- Overnight in Bhimthang.
Day 12: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani(1930m/6440 ft) – 7-8 hours
- The descent continues through beautiful forests, passing by small villages.
- On the way, Tilije is a lovely village where we can experience the local culture.
Day 13: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2610m/8890 ft) – 5-6 hours
- Continue your trek down towards Bagarchhap village.
- Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend through villages and forests.
- We will reach Koo, where our permits are checked by officials.
Day 14: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3300m/10824ft) – 6 -7 hours
- We will be on the trail, followed by the road to Bhratang, a large apple farm in the Manang district
- We will pass a suspension bridge over the Marshyangdi river
- On the way, we will encounter amazing views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.
Day 15: Trek to Manang (3540m/11612ft) 7-8 hours
- We will walk through suspension bridges and relive the breathtaking view of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and many more.
- Along the way, we will see ancient monasteries and traditional stone houses.
Day 16: Acclimatization Day in Manang
- Explore the surrounding area to help our body to adjust to the high altitude
- It is a short hike to Ice Lake or Chongkor Viewpoint.
Day 17: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4060m/13316ft) 4-5 hours
- Pass through narrow streets adorned with prayer flags and traditional Tibetan architecture.
- We will encounter snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and other peaks of the Annapurna range.
Day 18: Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi (4525m/14842ft) 4-5 hours
- We will cross a suspension bridge and arrive at Ledar.
- We will reach the landslide-prone area. Carefully walking on the pathway, we will eventually arrive at Thorong Phedi.
Day 19: Trek to Muktinath (3000m) via Thorang La Pass (5416m). After lunch drive to Jomsom(2720m)
- We will start hiking over the pass for about 4 hours or more based on the walking pace to reach Thorong-la top.
- Head down to Muktinath and visit the temple and monastery.
- Head towards the bus or jeep station and reach Jomsom.
Day 20: Take flight or roadway to Pokhara
- Take a flight from Jomson to Pokhara (25 min) or 7-8 hours by bus
- You can also take a rest in Pokhara, relax by the lakeside or visit different places in the valley.
Day 21: Take flight or roadway to Kathmandu
- Drive or Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 22: Departure from Kathmandu
- Drop-off at Kathmandu Airport (TIA) for your flight.
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
- Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee).
- Free Trekking map.
- An expert Government licensed holder guide.
- Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
- Ground transportation.
- All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.
- Visa fees for Nepal, charges for overweight luggage, and international flight tickets.
- Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and medical expenses.
- Additional charges due to unforeseen delays
- Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and medical expenses.
- Helicopter return from Base Camp.
- Private room & meals.
- Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose This Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Less Crowded & Unique Route
Unlike the classic Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Manaslu Circuit is still relatively quiet, providing a more peaceful and solitary trekking experience. - Cultural Experience in Gurung Villages
You’ll explore a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditional Nepalese life. As you pass through villages like Samagaon and Samdo, you’ll get a chance to experience local customs, visit monasteries, and interact with the people. - Adventure and Wildlife
The trek offers an excellent opportunity for adventure enthusiasts. The trail is a mix of remote villages, scenic landscapes, and challenging mountain passes. - Trekking in a Restricted Area
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted trekking area, which means fewer tourists and a more pristine, untouched environment. This offers a sense of exclusivity and adventure.
Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Springtime offers clear skies, pleasant weather, and flowering rhododendron forests, making it one of the best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit.
- Autumn is considered the peak season for trekking, offering stable weather, stunning mountain views, and comfortable temperatures for hiking.
- Winter can be challenging due to cold temperatures and snow, particularly at higher altitudes.
- Monsoon season trekking becomes more difficult due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
Cost and Planning Facts for Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Budget: The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek typically ranges between $1,200 to $1,800 USD depending on the level of service and trek duration. This price includes permits, accommodation, meals, a guide, and a porter.
- Accommodation: Teahouse accommodation typically costs $5 – $15 USD per night, depending on the altitude and location. For the full trek (15 days), expect to spend $75 – $150 USD on accommodation.
- Food/Meal: Meals along the trek are typically $5 – $10 USD per meal. Expect to spend around $15 – $30 USD per day for meals, totaling $225 – $450 USD for 15 days.
- Transportation: Kathmandu to Soti Khola and return from Dharapani to Kathmandu via jeep or bus: Approx. $20 – $40 USD one way, totaling $40 – $80 USD.
- Guide: Guide: Approx. $25 – $35 USD per day (includes salary, meals, and accommodation).
- Porter: Approx. $15 – $25 USD per day. For a 15-day trek, guide and porter costs could range between $600 and $900 USD, depending on the number of days and services.
- Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area permit (MRAP), Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card, Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.
Packing Tips for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Head
- Warm hat & cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Headlight.
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
- Body
- Base layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
- Essentials/ Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Manaslu Circuit Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition offers a well-planned Manaslu Circuit Trek with experienced guides to ensure a safe and memorable adventure. Our team provides excellent services to make your trek comfortable and enjoyable. Join us to explore one of Nepal’s most beautiful and peaceful trekking routes with amazing mountain views and unique local culture.
Gallery Section
Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek
Starting from $(1650) $(1850)
15 Days
Group Prices Available
1 person: 1200$ per person
1 person: 1500$ per person
FAQ's Section
1. What is the difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu circuit trek is moderately challenging due to its high altitudes and remote terrain. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and prepared for long days. The Larkya La Pass is also longer compared to other passes, so you need to be in perfect condition while trekking this pass.
2. What kind of food is available during the Manaslu Circuit ?
You can find Local Nepali foods as well as Tibetan dishes and modern dishes, including spaghetti, pasta, noodles, Pizza, fried rice, omelets, etc. in the lower parts of the Manalsu region while the upper remote regions offer traditional dumplings, Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, porridge, stir-fried veggies, etc.
3. Can I do the Manaslu trek without a guide?
No, trekking alone in the Manaslu region is illegal. You need to hire a guide, as it was made mandatory in April 2023. Moreover, you need guides and trekking agencies to obtain the Manaslu restricted area permit.
4. What is the total distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 180 km.
Want to Trek Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Camp with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?
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