Manaslu Circuit Trek-23 days

The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands as an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Nepal. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, this trek offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

/ Photos

Good To Know

  • Duration 23 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Moderate
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 4500 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands as an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Nepal. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, this trek offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Traversing remote trekking routes reveals awe-inspiring views of Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. One of the highlights is crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass, providing breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes, making it a perfect high-altitude trek for those seeking adventure and stunning mountain views.

Immersion in the region’s rich cultural heritage is another captivating aspect of the trek. Traditional ethnic villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries line the route, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. The journey through the scenic landscapes of the Annapurna Conservation Area is a photographer’s dream. Cozy tea houses provide comfortable accommodations, ensuring a restful end to each day of trekking. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is celebrated as one of Nepal’s best off-the-beaten-path treks, ideal for exploring lesser-known routes.

An enriching experience awaits with a visit to the Tsum Valley, known for its unique culture and stunning scenery. Before embarking on the trek, ensure possession of the necessary trekking permits. Proper acclimatization is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek, so take time and enjoy the journey. Whether as an adventure traveler or a nature enthusiast, the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable experience filled with scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and the thrill of high-altitude trekking.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Highlights

  • Manaslu trekking is geographically spectacular and culturally fascinating.
  • Rich in biodiversity.
  • Explore Budhi Gandaki River valley.
  • Experience the Nepalese and Tibetan mixed culture. Diversified unspoiled ecosystems.
  • Cross Larkya-La pass over 5215 meters.

Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek-23 days 

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna Region, which includes the Manaslu Circuit Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Saula Himal, Siringi Himal, and Larkya Peak.  
  • Flora: The rhododendron and pine forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: Though this is a popular trekking season, the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail remains less crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Manaslu Circuit this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Though autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail is less crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Manaslu Circuit. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will meet you, aligning with your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

We’re going to have a guided tour of Kathmandu today and explore its rich religious and cultural diversity. We start our journey at the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess Kumari, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is well-known for its ancient architecture. We will then drive to Swayambhunath, popularly known as the Monkey Temple. We will then proceed to the Boudhanath Stupa and then head back to the hotel.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will head toward Arughat Bazar along the Prithvi Highway, enjoying the stunning views of the rivers, hills, and lush valleys. We will take a break for lunch and drive to our destination today. After approximately 7 hours of driving from Kathmandu, we will reach Arughat Bazaar. From Arughat Bazar, we will walk for 2 to 3 hours towards Soti Khola. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable lodge.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 720 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

From Soti Khola, we will trek through ascents and descents to reach Alamara, a village surrounded by beautiful Himalayan peaks. Passing through dense forests, the Budhi Gandaki Valleys, and scenic hills, we will continue on a rocky path with small ascents, cross waterfalls, and descend through terraced fields to reach Lapibesi, a Gurung village. From Lapibesi, we will walk a few minutes to Maccha Khola. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 900 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we will trek through the farm fields and head toward the wider valley with stunning views of the Sringi Himal (7187 m). And descend to Kholabesi. After a few more hours of walking, we will reach Tatopani, a hot spring where we will take a bath, and finally head toward Jagat, where we will spend a night at a comfortable guesthouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1410 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start the day with a hearty breakfast. Today, we will embark on a trek to Deng at 1860 meters. After crossing a suspension bridge, we will pass through a forest area and continue our trek along a rocky path to Doban. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Doban Khola (river), we will take a few steps to ascend and descend to reach Deng. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable lodge.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2630 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will start the day. Leaving Deng village behind today, we will descend to the riverside, passing through dense bamboo forests up to Deng Khola. Then the trail goes down to the river and valley, surrounded by cliffs, and we continue our journey through the forest. Crossing the wooden bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River, we will reach Namru Village, where we will spend a night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2040 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on a trek to Sama Goau at 3520 m. Today we will pass several villages and cross small waterfalls before arriving at Sho Village, which offers us stunning views of Manaslu Borth Peak, Naike Peak, Manaslu, and Lho. Lho is a large village with a beautiful Gompa and wide farm fields, showcasing great views. After crossing the Pungn Glacier, we will move forward to Sama, known for its Mani stones, Chhortens, and the Gompa. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable guesthouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3150 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Crossing the Manaslu Glacier, we will see the path that goes to Manaslu Base Camp. As we continue, we will enter a forest where marmots live among birch and juniper bushes. After a steep climb, we will reach the lovely village of Samdo, known for its Tibetan refugee community, not far from the Tibetan border. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3500 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is an acclimatization day that is crucial because it allows our body to gradually adjust to decreasing oxygen levels and changing environmental conditions as we ascend to higher altitudes. Today, staying active is important, so we will walk north, following the Athahra Saya Khola, and descend to cross a smaller river on a wooden bridge. About 3 hours from Samdo, the path turns west, where we’ll cross another bridge and start climbing up a hill with several Yak trails. As we go higher, it becomes clearer which way to go. The goal is to reach the top of Rui La Pass at 4,998 m. Along the way, we’ll see distant views of Mount Manaslu and glaciers like Hindu and Fukang behind you. Rui La Pass looks like a “U” shape and is marked with prayer flags and a stone showing the border between Nepal and “Dzong Who” (China). From there, enjoy seeing many mountain ranges on the Tibetan side, and maybe spot a Yak caravan carrying goods into Nepal.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3350 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will head toward Dharamsala. As we walk past monasteries and cross the bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, we’ll reach Larkya Bazaar. From there, we’ll ascend the moraines of the Syacha Glacier, passing Mani walls and stone huts until we arrive in Dharamsala. The trek offers us stunning views of the snowcapped mountains. Overnight, we will stay at a cozy guesthouse in Dharamsala.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4450 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is day 12 of our Manaslu Circuit Trek. Today’s trek takes us through a valley that offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks, including Larke Peak (6249 m) and Cheo Himal (6812 m). Climbing up an icy trail through Larkya Glacier, after a few hours we will reach Larkya La Pass at 5106 m, offering us breathtaking views of the Himalayan Peaks like Annapurna II (7937 m), Cheo Himal (6812 m), and Himlung (7126 m). And descend towards Bimthang, where we will spend a night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3855 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on a trek to Dharapani. Leaving the Bimthang, we will descend through lush rhododendron and pine forests. The trail passes through Hompuk and Sangure and descends along the Dudh Khola to Kharche. As we continue our trek, we will trek through Tilje and Gurung Village, then descend to Dharapani, where we will spend a night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2670 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving behind Dharapani, we will head towards the Chame at 2670 m. The trail passes a school, ascends, and then gradually descends to Bagarchhap, with Tibetan houses. As we continue our trek, the path climbs up a mule track through pine and fir forests. After passing through several small villages, we will finally arrive at Chame, where we will stay overnight at a cozy guesthouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2300 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, today we will ascend towards Pisang. Start our journey following the trails of Marshyandi to Brathang, offering us a stunning view of Anapurna II (7937 m). From Brathang we will continue our trek through a forest, passing through the Paungda Danda rock face. After crossing a suspension bridge, we will ascend and after a few minutes descend to the valley. Then walk across dry grazing land to reach Dhukur Pokhari. After about half an hour of walking from Dhukur Pokhari, we arrive at Pisang (3,190m), where we can see the Annapurna range and Pisang Peak (6091m). Overnight we will stay in Pisang at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3540 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s trek is a bit challenging. We will start our trek from Upper Pisang, enjoying the beautiful landscapes, and ascend to Ghyaru, a charming village with stunning stone houses surrounded by meadows of wheat, buckwheat, potatoes, and beans. From Ghyaru, we will climb through the lush landscapes and descend to Nagawal, known for its gompa. As we continue our trek, we will gradually descend to Mungji and head towards Thakali village in Manang. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable guesthouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3540 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is rest day, which is crucial because it allows our body to gradually adjust to decreasing oxygen levels and changing environmental conditions as we ascend to higher altitudes. Today we will walk to Chhunker viewpoint to enjoy the beautiful view of Gangapurna Lake with the Annapurna Range, Tilicho Peak (7134 m), Pisang Peak (6091 m), Chulo Peak (6584 m), Thorong Peak (5416 m), and more in the background. Then we will return to our guesthouse for lunch. After having lunch, we will hike to Cave Gompa and then return. Overnight, we will spend a night in Manang.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4018 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast today, we will trek to Yak Kharka. The trail passes through the rhododendron, pine, and juniper forests, and you may experience yaks grazing in the field. The trek to Yak Kharka showcases the monasteries and Mani walls decorated with prayer flags. After 4 to 5 hours of trekking, we will arrive at Yak Kharka and spend a night at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4450 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will ascend along the Kali Gandaki River till Leadar. After crossing the wooden bridge, climb gradually until we arrive at Thorong Phedi. Overnight, we will stay at a lodge.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5416 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5416 m). Start our trekking journey gently along the sights of Nilgiri Peak (7061 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Tilicho Peak (7134 m), and many more. Continue our trek along the sandy path on bare hills after a few hours of trekking, Lupra Village arrives. We will visit an 11th-century Lupra Monastery, where we can see the various paintings of the deities of Tibetan Buddhism. Then descend along the Panda River to the suspension bridge. After a few hours of trekking, we will reach Muktinath at 3800 m, where we will spend a night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3800 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a brief descent in the morning, you will arrive in Jharkot and Khingar, where you will find beautiful monasteries that enable you to witness Tibet’s interrelation and similarity to this area. Throughout the trail, the views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri are spectacular. We’ll walk past Kagbeni and along the Kali Gandaki River to reach Jomsom. We can go out and explore for a time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 2743 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We’ll fly to Pokhara early in the morning and return to Kathmandu in the afternoon. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can relax by going to a spa or getting a massage.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our wonderful Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching cultural and natural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Trekking Permits and Fees
  • Accommodation: Accommodation is in comfortable lodges or tea houses along the trek route.
  • Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
  • Transportation: Round-trip domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara and airport transfers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Professional Support: Experienced trekking guide and necessary support staff and Porters to carry trekking equipment and your personal belongings (usually a specific weight limit applies).
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu: Accommodation in a hotel in Kathmandu (usually before and after the trek).
  • Orientation and Briefing: Pre-trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
  • Insurance: Insurance for trekking staff, including guides and porters.
  • Equipment: Basic trekking gear, such as a sleeping bag (rental or provided).
  • First Aid and Medical Kit: First aid kit and basic medical supplies.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: Flights to and from your home country to Kathmandu.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance covering trekking at high altitudes.
  • Visa Fees: Nepalese visa fees (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses for items such as personal gear, snacks, beverages, and souvenirs.
  • Additional Meals: Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfasts in hotels) and during any extended stay.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and support staff.
  • Emergency Evacuation: Costs associated with emergency evacuation or rescue, if needed.
  • Optional Activities: Optional activities or sightseeing outside of the trek itinerary.
  • Medical Expenses: Costs of medical treatment or medication if needed.
  • Personal Gear: Trekking clothing, footwear, and personal equipment.

FAQs

Although you can’t entirely avoid altitude sickness, you can reduce its chances by following certain measures. These include proper acclimatization, walking at a comfortable pace, staying well-hydrated, trekking to higher altitudes but sleeping at lower ones, and eating nutritious meals. Additional guidance on minimizing the risks of altitude sickness will be offered by our guides.

You’ll need a Manaslu Special Permit alongside a Conservation Area Permit, as well as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Discovery World Trekking will assist you with all the required documentation, ensuring your peace of mind.

Throughout the year, the region experiences diverse temperatures and weather conditions. January is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from -5°C during the day to -10°C at night. February brings milder, humid weather with temperatures around 15°C during the day and 8°C at night. March marks the start of spring, with frozen lakes thawing and buds sprouting. April showcases vibrant rhododendrons, while May is the warmest month, reaching highs of 18°C. June brings humidity and frequent rain, with temperatures between 25°C and 10°C. July is the wettest month, with temperatures from 22°C to 8°C. August sees lush greenery but slippery trails due to the monsoon. September offers pleasant weather, and October is ideal for trekking. November brings colder, drier conditions, while December is the driest month, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to -8°C.

Indeed, the company makes certain that vegetarian hikers are provided with sufficient nutritious and sanitary vegetarian meals. We carefully choose top-quality lodges and teahouses to ensure that our clients' dietary needs are met.

Certainly, it is possible to hire trekking gear in Nepal, and we can suggest suitable shops in Kathmandu for this service.

Typically, you can access Wi-Fi at most tea houses and lodges during your stay, usually for a nominal fee.

If you're allergic to certain medications, it's advisable to seek advice from your doctor and ensure you have your own supply of medicines. Most medications can be obtained in Kathmandu at an affordable price.

The guided Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal is relatively straightforward, without the need for ropes or ice picks. However, it is still classified as challenging.

Our guided Manaslu Trek operates from February through June and from August to December.

The Manaslu Circuit presents a demanding journey, reaching heights of 5,160m at Larkya La Pass. Yet, with adequate preparation and good physical condition, completing this trek is feasible.

Yes, it's compulsory, and it should include helicopter evacuation coverage up to the trek's highest altitude and medical expenses, as there are no sufficient medical facilities in the trekking area.