About Manaslu Circuit Trek - 16 Days Itinerary | Cost

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most rewarding and less-crowded treks in Nepal, offering trekkers a journey through diverse landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Organized by the experienced team at Himalayan Asia Treks, this trek is a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, making it an exceptional choice for trekkers looking to explore the Manaslu region.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an adventurous journey through the remote and stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. With a Manaslu Circuit trek distance of approximately 177 kilometers, it typically takes 14-18 days to complete depending on the chosen Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary. Trekkers can refer to the Manaslu Circuit Trek map for detailed navigation through high passes and diverse terrains. The Manaslu Circuit trek cost varies based on permits, guides, and accommodation but is generally affordable compared to other major treks in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit trek photos showcase breathtaking mountain views and local culture, with the best time for the trek being from September to November and March to May.

Overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth-highest peak in the world, offering an experience that rivals the more popular treks in Nepal. As you navigate through remote villages, high mountain passes, and lush forests, the trek reveals Nepal’s untouched beauty. The Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal provides a unique opportunity to witness Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, and the rich biodiversity of the region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map and Route

The Manaslu Circuit Trek map starts in Soti Khola and ends in Besisahar, following a scenic trail that traverses from subtropical jungles to alpine terrain. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), one of the highest and most dramatic passes in Nepal. The trek covers a distance of approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles), making the Manaslu Circuit Trek distance a considerable challenge for most adventurers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days Itinerary

The Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days itinerary is carefully designed to ensure proper acclimatisation and comfort along the way.

Here is a brief overview of the 14-day itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Day 2: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Day 3: Trek to Jagat

Day 4: Trek to Deng

Day 5: Trek to Ghap

Day 6: Trek to Lho

Day 6: Trek to Samagaon (Rest day and acclimatization)

Day 7: Trek to Samdo

Day 8: Acclimatization in Samdo.

Day 9: Trek to Dharmasala (Larke Phedi)

Day 10: Cross Larke Pass and Trek to Bimthang

Day 11: Trek to Dharapani

Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

This itinerary offers a balance of trekking and rest days, ensuring trekkers can enjoy the stunning surroundings and acclimatize properly to higher altitudes. For the issuing Restricted Permit, it will take one working day.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Time

The Manaslu Circuit Trek best time to visit is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. During these periods, the weather is stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Spring is especially beautiful, with rhododendron forests in full bloom, while autumn provides crisp views of the snow-capped mountains.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty is considered challenging due to the long days of trekking, high altitudes, and the rugged terrain. Crossing the Larkya La Pass is physically demanding, with steep ascents and descents. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, trekkers with a good level of fitness can complete the trek successfully.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost and Price

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost varies depending on the services provided, the season, and the size of the trekking group. The Manaslu Circuit Trek price typically ranges from USD 1,400 to USD 1,800 per person. This includes permits, accommodation, meals, and a professional guide. Additional costs, such as transportation, personal expenses, and equipment, should also be considered.

Himalayan Asia Treks offers comprehensive Manaslu Circuit Trek cost and itinerary packages that cover all essential services, ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide

Hiring a Manaslu Circuit Trek guide is highly recommended due to the remote nature of the trek and the challenging trails. A guide will not only enhance your experience by providing local knowledge but also ensure your safety, especially during high-altitude crossings like Larkya La Pass.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo and Without a Guide

While it is possible to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek solo, the Nepalese government requires trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide or a porter-guide in the Manaslu region. Attempting the Manaslu Circuit Trek without a guide is not permitted due to the remote location and the restricted area status of the trek.

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Manaslu Base Camp: A side trek to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) offers stunning views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks.
  • Larkya La Pass: The highest point of the trek, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  • Cultural Experience: The trek passes through traditional villages, offering an insight into the Tibetan-Buddhist culture that thrives in the region.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek

For those seeking an even longer adventure, the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek combines the Manaslu Circuit with the Annapurna Circuit, creating a truly epic journey through two of Nepal’s most famous trekking regions.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable trekking experience for adventurers looking to explore one of Nepal’s less-traveled and most scenic routes. With Himalayan Asia Treks, you can enjoy a well-organized trek with expert guides who will ensure your journey is both safe and memorable. Whether you are trekking solo, with friends, or as part of a larger group, this trek will leave you with memories of stunning landscapes, challenging trails, and the warm hospitality of the local people.

Highlights

  • Off-the-beaten trekking experience
  • Excellent scenery throughout the trek
  • The perfect blend of Tibetan-Nepali culture & traditions
  • Stunning views of snow-capped mountains,
  • Shining glacial lakes, and diverse flora and fauna
  • Larke La Pass
  • Come across wildlife like Himalayan Griffon, Golden Eagle, Kalij, Himalayan Griffon
  • Witness magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna II, Mt. Chuli, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Larke Peak
  • Wonderful time in the underexplored area of Manaslu which has been open from 1992

Day to Day Itinerary

Meet by our Himalayan Asia Treks representative in airport and transfer to the hotel. Our representative assists to check in hotel process and give short brief about Manaslu Circuit Trek program. You can take rest and fresh. You can walk in evening in Thamel (tourist hub of Kathmandu).
Overnight in Kathmandu.  

  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmandu.
  • Altitude: 1350m.

After taking breakfast, we will do city tour Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. We need to apply of issuing permit in Manaslu Area with your original passport.
Overnight in Kathmandu. 

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmandu.
  • Altitude: 1350m.

After fresh up , you can take breakfast and bag pack your luggage. At 08:00 am, your guide and other staff will come to your hotel with private transport and transfer towards Soti Khola. On the way, you can see small greenery mountain, Trishuli River and small town.

Overnight in Soti Khola.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Soti Khola.
  • Altitude: 730m.

Today trekking will take about six hours after breakfast in Sotikhola. The meandering path passes through forest, villages, streams, pretty waterfalls and green valley’s until you reach Lapu Besi. This is a village mainly occupied by Mongolian inhabitants. Now you again traverse the zigzag path to reach Machha Khola and on to Khorlabeshi. There is a small market hereabouts with a few shops and lodges.
Overnight in Machhakhola.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Machhakhola.
  • Altitude: 825m.

You cross the Machha Khola [Fish Stream] and head upstream to the tiny village of Khola Bensi and the hot springs at Tatopani. The trail is quite exposed and challenging in places. After a short section of forest path you reach the single teahouse at Doban. At Lauri, you cross the river on a suspension bridge, and then climb on a high path to the fields of Jagat, where you overnight. Overnight in Jagat.


  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Jagat.
  • Altitude: 1330m.

Breakfast in Jagat, we start our trek towards Deng. Today, we walk along the Valley of Budhi Gandaki River. We pass rhododendron forest (national flower of Nepal) and pine trees. After passing small forest and small valley, we will reach a beautiful village Deng.
 Overnight in Deng.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Deng.
  • Altitude: 1800m.

Breakfast at Ghap, we start our trek towards Ghap. We walk upstream of Deng river. The valley is still steep. We cross to the village of Lana and see some Mani stones. In Ghap, we found Tibetan culture with Mani stones and chortens all around.
 Overnight in Ghap.


  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Ghap
  • Altitude: 2160m.

After breakfast, we start our trek towards Lho. Today , you can enjoy with beautiful mountain views of Rupinala pass, Mt. Manaslu, Gorkha Himal, Saula Himal, Lajing Peak and other mountains. On the way , you pass small chorten, mani walls and prayer flags and monasteries.
Overnight in Lho.


  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Lho.
  • Altitude: 3180m.

After taking breakfast, we start our trek towards Samagaon. We go down towards Damonan Khola and up towards fantastic plateau of Shyala. From here also , we can see some views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and more others. In this village, you can see some big and small monastery. Overnight in Samagaon.


  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Samagaon.
  • Altitude: 3530m.

After taking breakfast, we start our trek towards Samdo. We start our trek with climbing up towards Cho Chanda. We walk through desert path and windy path. From here , we can see magnificent view of Himlung Himal, Gyagi Kung Himal, Kang Kuru , Annapurna II , Cheo Himal, Simnang Himal, Ngdi Chuli and other peaks also. From this village , Tibet boarder is very near. Overnight in Samdo.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Samdo.
  • Altitude: 3690m.

After breakfast, we will hike around Samdo. We will hike towards Nepal - Tibet Boarder with amazing view. 

Overnight in Samdo.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Samdo.
  • Altitude: 3690m.

After taking breakfast, we start our trek towards Dharmashala. We walk towards Dharmashala through walk down the edge through some fields and can see old Mani walls. We cross the wooden bridge over the Budi Gandaki and climb gradually up the valley.

Overnight in Dharmashala.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Dharmashala.
  • Altitude: 4470m

After taking breakfast, we start our trek towards Bhimtang via Larke La passes. We leave Dharmashala early morning as it is longest part of trekking around Manaslu area. In starting , we walk steep descent path until Larkya La through rocky and windy path. We can see sunrise view from Larke peak and more peaks from here. On the way, we can see small ice lakes. After reaching at Bhimtang , we take rest .

Overnight in Bhimtang.

  • Meals: Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Bhimthang.
  • Altitude: 3270m.

After taking breakfast, we start our trek towards Dharapani. We descend the valley towards Burdin Khola . From this way , we can see excellent view of Manaslu, Annapurna. We find rhododendron and pine forest on the way. We pass Tilje village , where you found apple orchard and available local wine. It is our last day of trekking.

Overnight in Dharapani.


  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House.
  • Location: Dharapani
  • Altitude: 1860m.

After taking breakfast, we start our drive towards Kathmandu. We took jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar drive towards Kathmandu. 

Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu.
  • Altitude: 1350m.

Today is the final day of Manaslu Circuit Trek so Himalayan Asia Treks staff will pick up from your hotel and transfer to airport as per your flight schedule for your onward destination. 

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Location: Kathmandu

What's Included

  • Accommodation on BB basis in Kathmandu.
  • Ground transportation (Airport pick up and drop, sightseeing by private).
  • Entrance fees in entrance fees in Kathmandu sightseeing place.
  • Three times meals at trekking route.
  • Accommodation in Tea house or lodge in trekking route.
  • Government licensed English speaking guide.
  • Porter (one porter for two person and carry 20 kg).
  • Restricted Area Permit.
  • All necessary paper work like Permit and TIMS card (Trekkers information management system).
  • Travel and rescue arrangement.
  • Twenty four call assistance by our office representative.
  • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali restaurant.
  • Meals in Kathmandu.
  • Any type of insurance.
  • Any type of flight fare.
  • Personal nature expenses like bar bills, water, tea coffee, shower, laundry, wi fi in trekking route.
  • Tips.
  • Any extra cost which is not mentioned in Cost includes column.
  • Extra day for natural calamities like flood, landslide, flight cancellation.

Useful Information

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered to be of moderate to high difficulty due to its remote location, challenging terrain, and significant altitude gain. The trek traverses through rugged mountain trails, often with steep ascents and descents, which require good physical fitness and stamina. One of the key challenges is crossing the Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet) and can be physically demanding, especially due to the thin air at high altitudes. Trekking in this region can also involve varying weather conditions, with cold temperatures, snow, and strong winds at higher elevations. Acclimatization days are built into most itineraries to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness, but the high altitude still presents a challenge for many trekkers. As the trail is less commercialized than other popular treks in Nepal, facilities may be more basic, adding to the overall difficulty.

How long does it take to do the Manaslu Circuit?

The typical Manaslu Circuit trek takes around 14 to 18 days, depending on the specific itinerary and acclimatization days included. The trek usually starts from Soti Khola and ends at Besisahar, covering a distance of approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles). Trekkers generally take a few days for acclimatization and rest, particularly before crossing the high Larkya La Pass. The itinerary may also vary based on side trips or extensions, such as a visit to the Tsum Valley, which would add extra days to the trek. The duration also depends on the pace of the trekker, weather conditions, and the exact route chosen.

Can you do the Manaslu trek in 7 days?

Completing the full Manaslu Circuit trek in just 7 days is not feasible due to the long distance, high altitudes, and need for acclimatization. The trek covers remote areas and includes crossing the high Larkya La Pass, which requires proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Rushing through the trek would not only be physically demanding but also dangerous. However, there are shorter variations or partial sections of the Manaslu trek that could be completed in 7 days, though these would not cover the full circuit. To experience the full beauty and challenge of the Manaslu Circuit, a minimum of 12-14 days is generally recommended.

Do you need a guide for Manaslu Circuit trek?

Yes, hiring a guide for the Manaslu Circuit trek is mandatory, as the area is a restricted region. Independent trekking is not allowed, and trekkers are required to obtain permits, including a special restricted area permit, which can only be arranged through a registered trekking agency. In addition to the legal requirement, having a guide is beneficial due to the remote nature of the trail, challenging terrain, and limited infrastructure. A guide can help with navigation, ensure your safety in case of emergencies, and assist with cultural interactions in the local villages. The Manaslu Circuit is less developed compared to other trekking regions, so a knowledgeable guide can greatly enhance your experience by providing insights into the local culture and ensuring smooth logistics.

How Can I Help You?

amrit chhetri

Mr. Amrit Chhetri

Trip Planner
+977 9851098880
Call, Viber & WhatsApp
himalayanasia
Facebook Messenger
Send an Enquiry

Trip Information

Similar Trips