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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding long-distance treks, circling Mount Manaslu at 8,163 meters, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The journey begins with a scenic six to seven hour drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, passing through the beautiful countryside, terraced fields, and riverside landscapes before the trail gradually ascends into remote mountain valleys. Compared to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit offers a less-crowded experience while still delivering breathtaking Himalayan scenery and rich cultural encounters.
Trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views throughout the route, with the highlight being the crossing of the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters, the highest point of the trek. From the top, the panorama stretches across snow-covered peaks including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Annapurna II, and the towering Manaslu itself. The trail also provides opportunities for side trips, especially from Samagaun, where many trekkers explore Birendra Lake or hike towards Manaslu Base Camp as part of their acclimatization.
The trek usually takes between fourteen and eighteen days depending on the chosen itinerary and the time allowed for rest and side excursions. Following the Budhi Gandaki River valley, the route crosses suspension bridges, climbs through subtropical forests and rhododendron-covered hillsides in spring, and finally enters the alpine zone with rugged glaciers and high mountain passes. With gradual altitude gain and acclimatization days in key villages such as Samagaun, trekkers can adapt safely while enjoying cultural and scenic highlights along the way.
Cultural experiences are at the heart of the Manaslu Circuit. Villages like Samagaun and Samdo reflect the Tibetan Buddhist influence of the Nubri and Tsum Valley region, with monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the trek. Local communities, including Gurung and Tibetan people, welcome trekkers with warm hospitality, offering tea house accommodations that blend tradition with comfort.
The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are spring, from March to May, when the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons, and autumn, from September to November, when clear skies provide the best mountain views. Winter brings heavy snowfall at higher elevations, making the Larkya La Pass difficult to cross, while the summer monsoon season can make lower sections muddy and challenging.
Transportation to the trailhead involves a jeep or local bus ride from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which is the official starting point of the trek. Most packages include permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation, and it is mandatory to hire a licensed guide. Having a guide not only ensures safety on the challenging trails but also enriches the journey with cultural insights and local knowledge.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is ideal for trekkers looking for a balance of adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning mountain landscapes. With its remote trails, dramatic mountain views, vibrant spring flowers, and unique blend of cultures, it stands as one of Nepal’s most enriching trekking experiences and a worthy alternative to the busier routes of the Himalayas.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Attend a pre-trek briefing and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Today, we complete the special permit process for the Manaslu Restricted Area, which requires your original passport. Our team will handle all paperwork for the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Meanwhile, you can visit cultural landmarks or shop for trekking gear in Thamel.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Enjoy views of rivers, terraced hillsides, and rural villages as you follow the Budi Gandaki River.
Overnight: Teahouse in Machha Khola
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Follow the Budi Gandaki River through lush forests and small settlements. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through Khorlabesi and the natural hot springs at Tatopani before reaching Jagat.
Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and trek through terraced fields and traditional Gurung villages. Cross several suspension bridges and walk along rocky trails before reaching the village of Deng.
Overnight: Teahouse in Deng
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Pass through pine forests, mani walls, and small settlements as you gain altitude. Enjoy your first real views of Mt. Manaslu and Siringi Himal as you approach the Tibetan-influenced village of Namrung.
Overnight: Teahouse in Namrung
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
After a hearty breakfast, begin a scenic ascent to Lihi Village, known for its ancient chortens and barley fields. Enjoy views of Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) as you continue past the picturesque Syo Village. Arrive at Lho, a cultural hub home to the Ribung Monastery, where you can experience Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Overnight: Teahouse in Lho
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Today's trek offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, especially Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Pass through Shyala Village, surrounded by snowy peaks including Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu. Reach Samagaun, the largest village in the region, with its stone houses, yak pastures, and rich Tibetan culture.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaun
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours (hike)
To aid acclimatization, choose a hike to either:
Return to Samagaun for the night.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samagaun
Trek Duration: 4 hours
A shorter, gentle trek leads to Samdo, the last permanent settlement before the Larke La Pass. The trail opens to wide alpine valleys with great mountain vistas.
Overnight: Teahouse in Samdo
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Climb steadily towards Dharamsala (also called Larke Phedi), the High Camp for Larke La Pass. Rest and prepare for the pass crossing tomorrow.
Overnight: Teahouse in Dharamsala
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Start early to ascend the Larke La Pass, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and Cheo Himal before descending steeply to Bimthang.
Overnight: Teahouse in Bimthang
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend through a lush valley with rhododendron forests and alpine pastures. Pass villages like Hampuk, Yak Kharka, and Karche before reaching the peaceful settlement of Gowa.
Overnight: Teahouse in Gowa
Trek Duration: 2 hours | Drive Duration: 3 hours
A short descent leads to Tilje Village (2,300m), known for its terraced fields and traditional architecture. After a break, drive to Besisahar by jeep, marking the end of the trekking journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Besisahar
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, passing through river valleys, terraced hills, and traditional towns. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue your stay in Nepal with more adventures or sightseeing.
Our Manaslu Circuit Trek packages include accommodation in Kathmandu/on the trek, transport to Soti Khola (starting point) and from Dharapani (ending point), restricted area permits, Manaslu and Annapurna conservation permits, meals, experienced guides, and porters for a complete trekking experience.
The classic Manaslu Circuit Trek route begins at Soti Khola, passes through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaon, Samdo, and crosses the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) before descending to Dharapani. It connects to the Annapurna Circuit trail at the end.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek with clear skies, moderate weather, and excellent mountain visibility. Winter and monsoon are less favorable due to snow and heavy rainfall.
The trek reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass, standing at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), offering breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles). Trekkers typically walk 10–15 kilometers (6–9 miles) per day depending on altitude and terrain.
The cost ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 USD depending on services. Packages include permits (restricted area, MCAP, ACAP), transportation, meals, accommodation, guides, and porters. Extra costs may apply for private transport, hot showers, and charging.
A standard Manaslu Circuit itinerary is 14–18 days. It includes acclimatization days in Sama Gaon and Samdo, gradual altitude gain, and crossing the Larkya La Pass for safe high-altitude trekking.
The 14-day itinerary covers Soti Khola to Dharapani, including Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaon (with acclimatization side trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa), Samdo, Dharmasala, Larkya La Pass, and descent to Dharapani.
The trek map outlines the route from Soti Khola to Dharapani, highlighting key villages, acclimatization points, and the crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.
Highlights include views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass, Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan-influenced villages, lush forests, and diverse landscapes from subtropical valleys to alpine terrain.
The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area trek, so a licensed guide is mandatory. Our professional guides ensure safety, provide cultural insights, and assist with logistics, making your trek smooth and enriching.
The trek begins at Soti Khola (710 m), a 7–8 hour drive from Kathmandu. Some itineraries may start further up at Machha Khola depending on road conditions.
Acclimatization days are included in Sama Gaon (3,530 m) and Samdo (3,860 m), allowing trekkers to adapt to high altitude before crossing Larkya La Pass safely.
The trek usually takes 14–18 days depending on acclimatization days and side trips, such as Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa exploration.
The trek is moderately challenging with steep ascents, rocky trails, and high altitude. Good fitness, preparation, and acclimatization are essential for a safe experience.
Key viewpoints include Larkya La Pass, Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, Samdo ridge, and stunning views of peaks like Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
You can extend the trek by continuing to the Annapurna Circuit, exploring the Tsum Valley, or adding side trips to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake for extra adventure.
Train 2–3 months in advance with cardio, strength, and hiking practice. Prepare proper gear and ensure good fitness to handle long trekking days and altitude.
The trek typically lasts 14–18 days, depending on side trips and acclimatization days. Standard itineraries include 2 acclimatization stops.
The trek is moderately difficult due to altitude and long trekking days. With proper acclimatization and fitness, it is achievable for most trekkers.
Approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) in total, with daily walking distances of 10–20 km depending on elevation.
Prices range from $1,200–$1,800 USD, including restricted area permits, meals, accommodation, transport, guides, and porters. Costs vary by package and group size.
The trek begins at Soti Khola, reached by road from Kathmandu. Some itineraries may start at Machha Khola depending on conditions.
Highlights include crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), exploring Tibetan-influenced villages, visiting Sama Gaon, Samdo, Manaslu Base Camp, and enjoying views of Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
No, solo trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu region. A licensed guide and a minimum of 2 trekkers (or a special permit arrangement) are required for the restricted area.
You need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for this trek.
It usually takes 14–18 days including acclimatization days and side trips. A flexible itinerary helps prevent altitude sickness.
Compared to Everest or Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, with around 6,000–10,000 trekkers annually, offering a more remote and authentic experience.
