The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you around the world’s eighth-highest mountain, giving you an authentic Himalayan adventure in Nepal. You’ll encounter traditional Tibetan villages, far fewer fellow trekkers, mountain scenery, lush forests, and much more. Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days, you’ll trek from lush subtropical valleys to eventually reach high-altitude desert landscapes before passing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,929 feet). The entire route winds through the Manaslu Conservation Area, where you might spot rare wildlife along with the communities who’ve kept their Buddhist traditions alive for generations.
To be honest, the Manaslu Circuit is no walk in the park. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is ranked as between moderately challenging and genuinely difficult. You’ll need solid fitness and mental preparation as you’ll be walking for around 5-7 hours a day. And here’s the thing about altitude: it doesn’t care how fit you are. It affects everyone differently. So, that being said, what you do need is proper preparation, both physically and mentally. We recommend this trek for anyone who can comfortably hike for consecutive days while carrying a light daypack, and we suggest you start your training at least two months before departure. Training that includes cardio exercises, stair climbing, and weekend hikes with elevation gain is highly recommended. Your attitude matters as much as your fitness and flexibility. Comfort, patience with basic facilities, and openness to cultural differences make the experience rewarding rather than frustrating. We provide you with experienced guides who set appropriate pacing, recognize altitude issues early, and support you through challenging sections.
Getting to and from the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit involves a mix of road travel. The journey starts with a 7-8 hour jeep ride from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, depending on road conditions. You’ll stop for your lunch at roadside shacks, cross rivers on bridges, before reaching the starting point. And after completing the trek, you’ll exit from Dharapani and catch a jeep to Besisahar, followed by another ride back to Kathmandu. The transportation is included in our package, so you don’t need to worry much about it.
Electricity exists in most tea houses, but becomes unreliable as you gain altitude. Lower villages like Soti Khola and Machha Khola have decent micro-hydro power, where you can charge devices for free. Therefore, it’s important to bring a portable power bank with at least 20,000mAh capacity to keep your phone and camera working throughout the trek.
What really makes Manaslu special is how genuinely authentic it still feels, and if you are someone who prefers silence over crowd thenthe Manaslu circuit is one of the best options available to you over all other trekking. In villages like Samagaun and Lho, people are living the same traditional Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle their ancestors did. Prayer wheels spin all day long, and monasteries aren’t just photo ops! It’s an actual spiritual center where life revolves around faith, and locals open their homes to trekkers with real warmth.
The landscape changes so dramatically from day to day that it almost feels like you’re trekking through different countries. You begin in these steamy subtropical valleys, then climb into cooler rhododendron forests, and higher up, you’ll emerge into wide-open alpine meadows, and eventually you reach tough but beautiful glaciated wilderness surrounding Larkya La Pass.
Personal expenses add up quickly despite our comprehensive package, so bring roughly $100–$400 USD in small denominations. Hot showers at tea houses cost about $2–$3 USD, Wi-Fi runs $2–$4 USD per day with slow speeds, and bottled water prices increase with altitude from around $0.35 USD in Kathmandu to about $2 USD near Larkya La Pass. Separate at least $10–$25 USD per day on extras such as hot showers, snacks, drinks, and charging fees, and around 10-15% of your trip cost for tipping your guide and porter. And make sure to withdraw sufficient cash before departure.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory?
Travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation up to 55,00 meters is not mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. But for the safety concerning better for the insurance. Your policy must specifically cover high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation up to at least 5,500 meters, because weather changes quickly in these mountains, altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate, and people are airlifted from Manaslu regularly. insurance before the trek starts because your safety genuinely matters more than anything else.
For your convenience, we have different packages for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Other Trek includes Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Day, Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu Circuit Luxury Trek, etc.
We can also adjust the itinerary according to your needs and preferences. Besides this, other facilities that can be added at an extra charge include a helicopter return from Dharapani to Kathmandu, extra acclimatization days in Samagaun, upgraded porter service, pre-trek and post-trek accommodation in Kathmandu, airport transfers, Kathmandu Valley Cultural Tours, private group arrangements, etc. Please let us know your needs and preferences beforehand, and we’ll arrange things for you accordingly.
| Day | Destination | Sleep altitude | Duration | Distance | Activities |
| 01 | Kathmandu | 1,345m | 30 min drive | 7 km | Airport transfer, hotel check-in |
| 02 | Kathmandu (Rest) | 1,345m | Full day | – | Permit preparation, briefing |
| 03 | Machha Khola | 930m | 8-10 hrs | 170 km | Scenic drive via Arughat |
| 04 | Jagat | 1410 m | 6- 7 hrs | 21 Km | Riverside trekking, hot springs |
| 05 | Dyang | 1,800m | 6-7 hrs | 20 km | Villages and terraced fields |
| 06 | Namrung | 2,540m | 6-7 hrs | 19 km | Alpine zone entry |
| 07 | Shyala Village | 3,500m | 5-6 hrs | 12 km | Himalayan views intensify |
| 08 | Sama Gaon | 3,530m | 5-6 hrs | 11 km | Visit Pungyen Monastery |
| 09 | Sama Gaon (Rest) | 3,530m | Full day | – | Acclimatization hikes, exploration |
| 10 | Samdo | 3,860m | 3-4 hrs | 9 km | After rich samdo hiking hill |
| 11 | Samdo (Rest) | 3,860m | Full day | – | Acclimatization in the Tibetan border area |
| 12 | Dharamsala | 4,470m | 4-5 hrs | 7 km | Prepare for the pass |
| 13 | Bimthang via Larkya La | 3,720m | 8-9 hrs | 24 km | Cross 5,106m pass |
| 14 | Dharapani | 1,860m | 7-8 hrs | 25 km | Descend through forests |
| 15 | Kathmandu | 1,350m | 9-11 hrs | 230 km | Drive back, celebration |
| 16 | Departure | – | 30 min | 7 km | Airport transfer home |
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines well received by company guides and staff for a short drive in the hub of Kathmandu city where your hotels are located. After checking into your lovely rooms and getting refreshed join in at the Hotel lobby for a group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal enjoyable and pleasant.
We will collect your Nepal Visa copy and photos to prepare your immigration Manaslu special permits. Original permits are needed to collect a Nepal-valid Visa. You can explore the town on your own. After collecting permits, we will have a trip briefing and introductory program with your guide.
Starting our fabulous adventure at Manaslu Circuit trekking taking a long and exciting overland journey to reach warmer areas of the Gorkha district at Arughat a moderate size town with sub-tropical temperature, where our drive continues on the dirt road for an hour to get our first overnight stop at Machha – Khola a small farm village, slowly turning into a town due to motorable road facilities.
The First-day walk starts following the Buri-Gandaki River upstream heading into a gorge covered within the dense forest as walks lead to a climb into the cool shade of the forest. From these fishing villages, the morning leads following the Buri-Gandaki River upstream for a few hours, as the walk leads past Khorla Beshi a small farm village, and on a winding trail to reach Tatopani village with natural “Hot Spring,” as per time permits enjoy the warm refreshing bathe then walk uphill to Jagat village for the overnight stop. This is a nice village with many shops and stores including a fair number of simple good lodges to stay.
After the pleasant stop at Jagat, the journey continues a higher walking past a number of farm villages and then on a downhill to cross over a bridge to reach Nagjet and Philim, a large village with many scattered farmhouses. After Philim walks into farm terraces of golden fields of wheat and barley, then climbs on rocky ridge top into the bamboo forest area to our overnight stop at Dyang village
A morning walk from Dyang leads to a cooler area where you can feel the rise in altitude, on entering the Himalayan alpine region, continue to walk downhill to a riverside to reach Bihi Bazaar a small village near a riverside. From here onwards encountering more villages of strong Tibetan culture, the walk leads on a gentle trail with few short ups and downs till Ghap village is reached for the overnight stop.
The trek from Namrung to Shyala Village is a picturesque segment of the Manaslu Circuit, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a deep immersion into the local culture and natural beauty. This day’s trek is relatively moderate in terms of difficulty, with gradual ascents and descents through beautiful landscapes.
The trek from Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Monastery is a captivating segment of the Manaslu Circuit. This route offers trekkers the opportunity to explore a remote monastery with breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. The journey combines cultural exploration with stunning natural landscapes, making it a highlight of the trek . Pungyen Monastery: Visit the secluded Pungyen Monastery, nestled in the mountains.Scenic Views: Panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and other peaks.
Taking a rest day in Samagaon is crucial for acclimatization, especially as you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. This rest day not only helps your body adjust to the altitude but also provides an opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of the area. Samagaon is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal place for a day of rest and exploration. Acclimatization Hike to Manaslu Base Camp Approximately 7-9 hours round trip Altitude: Manaslu Base Camp is at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) Description: This hike is strenuous but highly rewarding, offering magnificent views of Mount Manaslu up close. It helps in acclimatization by exposing you to higher altitudes before you return to sleep at a lower altitude in Samagaon. The trail passes through glacial moraines and offers stunning panoramic views.
After a nice stop at Sama Gaon, where our route leads to a climb to Samdu and onward, the walk to Samdu is not too far and can be done in a few hours, due to the high altitude within dry air makes the walk slower. Our route slowly leads to Samdu village which is the last village before the Larke-la base and passes, Samdu overnight in this interesting village of strong Tibetan influence due to its closeness to the border of Tibet, where trade still exists.
Samdo is a meeting place of three different surrounding valleys and is situated behind a ridge especially known for yak herding. We will spend another night in Samdo for acclimatization. We can hike up to Gya La which is a trending pass in Tibet. This place offers excellent views of Simrang Himal, Hiunchuli Peak, Ngadi Himal, Larkye Peak, Cheo, and Kang Guru Himal.
Our journey starts in the morning with a downhill trek up to Budhi Gandaki River. Then we cross the river and again march upward through Larkya Bazaar and Valley of Salka Khola towards Dharmasala which is not actually a lodge but an easy place to stay for a night. It is 7km away and will take about 4 hours to reach there on normal days. We have a high chance to see blue sheep. This place is also known as Larke Phedi. Stay overnight at Dharmasala.
Starting early morning to reach Larke-la Pass above 5,106 m, where the walk first heads with a gradual winding uphill, and then steep up to reach the highest point of the adventure on top Larke-La festooned with hundreds of Buddhist colorful prayer flags and marked with stones piles. From the top offers excellent views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II, after a great moment a long descent leads you over snow and scree, to reach a valley to Garcia. Further walk on moraine leads to Tambuche at 3,900m from here short walk to our overnight stop at Bhimtang, a lovely place on a wide valley with a number of good lodges to stay.
From here the track leads downhill into the forest passing small summer settlements and then climbing on terraced fields to Karcher La, and then down to Marsyangdi River. After a few hours’ walks reach Tilje village by following Dudh (milky) river downstream, with the assigned number of villages, including Thonje. From Tilje an hour’s climb after crossing a bridge and then joining the main trail of the Annapurna circuit joins in Dharapani village. Dharapani a lovely large village will be a civilization after being in the complete wilderness, where one can celebrate with a beer and buy a hot shower from the lodge.
After a marvelous experience and adventure on high hills and mountains, where morning drive brings you back to Kathmandu, at Kathmandu where our wonderful adventure concludes, with an afternoon free at leisure or last day shopping souvenirs and handicrafts.
Last day in Nepal in the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture, after a memorable experience and great scenic adventure on Manaslu Circuit trekking, as per your international flight time our staff will transfer you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next port of call and respective countries.
OPTIONAL ADDONS(Available during check-out)
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience .we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
Upper body
Lower body
Sleeping
Personal hygiene
Medical
Extras /luxuries
Why Manaslu Circuit Trekking With Well Plan Trekking Pvt. Ltd?
Expertise and Experience: Well Plan Trekking Pvt Ltd is likely to have experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the Manaslu region, 15 years above its trails, culture, and potential challenges. Their expertise ensures that you get the most out of your trekking experience.
Safety: Trekking in high-altitude and remote areas comes with inherent risks. A professional trekking company prioritizes your safety, providing well-trained guides, necessary medical supplies, and emergency evacuation plans if needed.
Logistical Support: Organizing a trek involves managing permits, transportation, accommodations, meals, and more. Well Plan Trekking Pvt Ltd can handle these logistics seamlessly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.
Cultural Insights: Professional guides can provide valuable insights into the local culture, traditions, and history of the regions you pass through. This enhances your overall experience and understanding of the area.
Customized Itineraries: Trekking companies can offer customized itineraries to suit your preferences, fitness level, and schedule. This flexibility ensures that your trek aligns with your personal goals and expectations.
Group Dynamics: If you prefer to trek in a group, Well Plan Trekking Pvt Ltd can facilitate this, providing a chance to meet and bond with like-minded adventurers. Group trekking can also enhance safety and provide a supportive environment.
Which Mountains Can Be Seen From Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers stunning views of several majestic mountains in the Nepalese Himalayas. Some of the prominent mountains that can be seen along the trek include: Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet), Himlung Himal (7,126 meters / 23,379 feet), Cheo Himal (6,820 meters / 22,373 feet, Ngadi Chuli (7,871 meters / 25,823 feet), Himalchuli (7,893 meters / 25,896 feet, Ganesh Himal Range, Samdo Peak, Manaslu North, Larke Peak, Pungkar Himal, and Siring Himal.
What Type of Accommodation is Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
In Kathmandu, we use the deluxe hotel to ensure a comfortable stay and a relaxed environment before and after your adventure. All breakfasts are included at the hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are generally twin share – depending on group size and room availability, the triple share may be offered at your request. A single supplement room is available at an additional cost. On request single supplement will be charged US$200. Well, plan trekking will arrange clean and comfortable rooms with attached washrooms; however, teahouses in some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also, note that single rooms are available in the trekking regions at the lower elevations, but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Physical Condition & Experience Requirements?
For a physically fit person of all ages with sound health who has done moderately to strenuous walking and activity before or at present. This type of trek involves long ups and downs, and the length of walking will be from 5 – 7 hours every day, with rest and breaks in between. The whole trip goes from a week to two weeks or more at high altitude. This trip is for well-experienced people who have done previous long high hills or mountainous trekking in and around the Himalayas or other mountainous areas on rough terrains, this trip involves walking in snow and ice conditions sometimes and encountering high of over 4,000 meters passes, as for moderate people can join on this type of trips as long they are super physically fit and a mind with positive and determinations. Past hiking experience is a must,t but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart, lung, and blood diseases, should inform Well Plan Trekking before booking the trek. We also recommend that you consult your doctors before the trip.
What Type of Meals During The Trek?
In the city, only breakfast is included in the trip itinerary. While on the trek, we provide good quality food in sufficient quantities from Tea Houses/Mt. lodges. We provide all meals on a full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and tea & coffee) from the teahouse menu during the trekking period. Various meals include noodles, soups, bread, rice items, curries, spaghetti, pizza, egg items, potato items, pasta, and fresh vegetables, so overall, you have a different choice of food on the trek.
How About The Drinking Water Options?
Tap and River Water
Available Sources: Streams, rivers, and taps are common along the trail. Safety: These sources are not safe for direct consumption without treatment because they may contain bacteria, parasites, or other contaminants.
Boiled Water
Availability: Most tea houses and lodges offer boiled water, which is a safe option. Cost: The price increases as you ascend due to transportation and fuel costs. Eco-Friendliness: Using boiled water reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles.
Bottled Water
Availability: Bottled water is sold at tea houses and shops along the trail.Cost: Prices increase at higher altitudes due to the difficulty of transportation.Environmental Concerns: Plastic waste management is a significant issue in remote areas. Avoid this option if possible.
Treated Water
Options: Carry water purification tablets (e.g., iodine or chlorine), or use portable water filters or UV sterilizers (e.g., SteriPen).Advantages: Lightweight, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.Effectiveness: Kills bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Ensure proper use based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is The Maximum Altitude of The Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Trekking sits at 5106 meters. Sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization and hydration are important to ensure a safe ascent.
What Permits Do I Need?
Trekkers need four permits: 1: Manaslu Special trekking permit fee. 2: Manaslu Conservation Area entrance permit fee. 3: Manaslu Area Local permit 4: Annapurna Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
What About The Climate and Weather Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks occur, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is from late September to May, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good, and the days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
What Is The Best Season of Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
Autumn (September to November):
Weather: Clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures.Visibility: Excellent mountain views and vibrant landscapes.Festivals: Experience local festivals like Dashain and Tihar.Popularity: High season, so trails and teahouses can be busier.
Spring (March to May):
Weather: Mild temperatures, stable weather, and blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers.Visibility: Clear views of the mountains and beautiful, colorful landscapes.Wildlife: Higher chances of spotting wildlife as animals are more active.Popularity: Also a high season, so expect more trekkers on the trail
Can You Trek to Manaslu Circuit Without a Guide?
No, you cannot trek the Manaslu Circuit without a guide. The Manaslu Circuit is classified as a restricted area by the Nepalese government, and trekking there requires To register Government trekking company and following specific rules and regulations to protect the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.
Is a Drone Allowed on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Flying a drone on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally not allowed without special permits. Nepal has specific laws and regulations regarding drone use, especially in restricted areas like Manaslu, which is a conservation area and a restricted trekking zone. Here’s what you need to know:
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Safe?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally safe, but like any high-altitude trek, it comes with challenges and risks that require proper preparation, awareness, and caution.
Where is Manaslu?
Manaslu is located in the Gorkha District of Nepal, in the western part of the country, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) northwest of Kathmandu, the capital. It is part of the Himalayas and is the eighth-highest mountain in the world, with a peak elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) above sea level.
Can I Use Wifi (Internet) To Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
Wi-Fi in Villages and Tea Houses
Cost: Wi-Fi is usually not free. Lodges typically charge anywhere between NPR 200–500 (USD 2–5) per device, depending on the location.
Reliability: The higher you go, the weaker and less reliable the connection tends to be. Weather conditions can also affect connectivity.
Alternatives to Wi-Fi
Local SIM Cards: Purchasing a local SIM card (e.g., NTC or Ncell) with a data plan plan is another option. NTC has better coverage in the Manaslu region; you can use most of the places where NTC 4 G data is working. The Ncell SIM card is not working in the Manaslu region.
Amazing experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
My friend and I did this Trek in May of 2023. Ram and his team were great and helped us with everything we needed. Ram (our guide) was very organized and made sure we were well taken care of throughout the trek and our entire time in Nepal. The views we had were incredible and we enjoyed seeing the beauty of this area. We enjoyed this trek a lot because it wasn’t particularly commercialized. Would definitely recommend this trek and well-planned trekking to someone looking for a good adventure. Source Tripadvisor
Wonderful winter manaslu circuit
Our guide Raju and his brother are lovely and made our trip wonderful. They were very helpful and experienced, took care of everything and even cooked for us sometimes. They know a lot about the Manaslu region and their knowledge really enhances the experience. Highly recommend them if you are thinking about doing the Manaslu circuit trek . Source Tripadvisor