Manaslu Trek
Trek Description
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich Tibetan-influenced culture. Trekkers pass through lush forests, remote villages, and high-altitude passes, including the challenging Larke La Pass (5,106m). The trek is a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, providing a less crowded but equally rewarding adventure.
Destination
Manaslu Region, Nepal
Duration
15 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Start/ End
Soti Khola / Besisahar
Best Season
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Max People
2+ (Restricted area requires at least 2 trekkers)
Transportation
Local Bus / Private Jeep
Activities
Trekking/Tour/Hiking/Cultural experiences
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an authentic trekking experience through remote villages, Tibetan monasteries, and high Himalayan landscapes. The Larke La Pass (5,106m) is the trek’s highlight, providing stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Manaslu Circuit Trek |
| Travel Budget | $1,200 - $1,600 per person |
| Standard Budget | $2,000 - $3,500 per person |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
| Best Time | Spring(March-May) and Autumn(September-November) |
| Permits | Manaslu Restricted Permit ($75–$100), ACAP & MCAP permits ($30 each), TIMS card ($20) |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses, Lodges, and Camping |
| Best ViewPoints | Larke La Pass (5,106m), Samagaun, Shyala, and Pungyen Gompa |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport
- Transfer to a hotel in Thamel.​
- Trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive to Machhakhola (900m)
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (8-9 hours), the starting point of the trek.
- The drive takes you through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dense forests.
- Overnight in Machhakhola.
Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours.
- Continue along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through forests, rocky paths, and small villages.
- Cross several suspension bridges and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
- Overnight in Jagat.
Day 5: Jagat to Deng (1,860m)
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours.
- Trek through terraced fields, forests, and small villages.
- Cross over bridges and enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.
- Overnight in Deng.
Day 6: Deng to Namrung (2,630m)
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours.
- Ascend through pine forests and Tibetan-style villages, with the views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks getting clearer.
- Overnight in Namrung.
Day 7: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours.
- Continue through lush forests and enjoy the scenery as the trek gradually gets higher.
- Samagaon is a picturesque village located with amazing views of Manaslu.
- Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
- Spend a day in Samagaon for acclimatization.
- Option to hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,600m) or explore the nearby Birendra Lake.
- Overnight in Samagaon.
Day 9: Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m)
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours.
- A shorter trekking day to help with acclimatization.
- Enjoy beautiful mountain views, and pass through high-altitude pastures.
- Overnight in Samdo.
Day 10: Samdo to Dharmashala (4,460m)
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours.
- Pass through a Tibetan-style settlement, and enjoy views of the Larkya Glacier and Larkya La Pass.
- Overnight in Dharmashala.
Day 11: Dharmashala to Bimtang (3,590m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
- Trek duration: 8-9 hours.
- Early morning start to cross Larkya La Pass, one of the highest points of the trek at 5,160m.
- The pass offers incredible views of the Manaslu range, Himlung Himal, and other surrounding peaks.
- After crossing the pass, descend to Bimtang.
- Overnight in Bimtang.
Day 12: Bimtang to Dharapani (1,960m)
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours.
- Continue the descent through forests, and pass through the villages of Gho and Tilje.
- Enjoy the changing landscape as you head towards lower altitudes.
- After crossing the pass, descend to Bimtang.
- Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 13: Drive/Flight Back to Kathmandu
- Option 1: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu (7-8 hours).
- Option 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 14: 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 experienced 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.
- Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses
- Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue
- Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks
- All kind of Personal Expenses
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
- Tips, gifts, souvenirs
- Helicopter return from Base Camp.
- Private room & meals.
- Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek​
- Remote and Less Crowded: Offers an authentic Himalayan experience, unlike the commercialized Everest and Annapurna treks.
- Breathtaking Mountain Views: Stunning views of Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II.
- Rich Tibetan Culture: Experience Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, and Buddhist traditions.
- Challenging Adventure: The trek features diverse landscapes, high passes, and river crossings.
Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Spring (March-May): The best time with stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views. Mild temperatures and less snow make high passes easier to cross.
- Autumn (September-November): The most popular season with clear skies, dry trails, and stunning mountain visibility. Moderate temperatures and festive vibes enhance the trekking experience.
- Summer/Monsoon (June-August): Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and leech-infested. Landslides can block paths, but lush greenery and fewer crowds provide a unique trekking experience.
- Winter (December-February): Harsh cold, heavy snowfall, and closed high passes make trekking difficult. Lower altitude regions remain accessible with quiet trails and stunning snow-covered landscapes.
Cost and Planning Facts for Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Budget: The trek costs $900–$1,500, depending on services, transport, and guides. Independent trekkers can reduce costs by choosing budget options.
- Accommodation: Tea houses cost $5–$15 per night, with basic facilities and shared rooms.
- Food/Meal: Meals range from $5–$8 per meal, with total food costs averaging $15–$25 per day.
- Transportation: Local buses cost $10–$15, while private jeeps cost $150–$200 (shared among trekkers).
- Guide/Porter: A guide costs $25–$35 per day, and a porter costs $15–$25 per day.
- Permits: Manaslu Restricted Permit ($75–$100), ACAP ($30), MCAP ($30), TIMS ($20).
Packing Tips for Manaslu Circuit 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 and Hydration Bladder
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Manaslu Circuit Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition offers a meticulously planned and guided trek to Manaslu Circuit. With their expertise, they ensure a safe and comfortable journey around the eighth-highest peak, Mt. Manaslu. The team handles all the logistics, including permits, accommodation, and meals, allowing you to focus solely on the adventure. Their experience guarantees a smooth, memorable, and enriching trek through one of the most breathtaking and culturally rich regions in Nepal.
Gallery Section
FAQ's
1. Is a guide compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory due to restricted area regulations. Independent trekking is not allowed.
2. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek, requiring good physical fitness and mental stamina. The trek involves long days of walking, with some high-altitude passes, including the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m).
3. How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically lasts around 14 to 18 days, depending on the itinerary and pace. The trek covers a distance of approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles), with daily trekking durations ranging from 5 to 8 hours.
4. How much is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically costs between $1,200 to $3,500 per person, depending on the level of service and inclusions. This includes permits, accommodation, meals, guide, and transportation.
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