Manaslu Circuit Trekking Overview
The Manaslu Circuit trekking an adventure around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The name “Manaslu” comes from the Sanskrit word “Manasa,” meaning “mountain of the spirit” or “soul.” First summited by a Japanese expedition in 1956. This restricted area trek in Nepal begins from Jagat and follows the Budhi Gandaki River before crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). The Manaslu Circuit requires a special trekking permit along with a registered guide. The Manaslu trek route passes through traditional Gurung and Tibetan Buddhist villages, including Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon. The highest overnight stay occurs at Dharamsala (4,460 meters / 14,632 feet) before the Larkya La Pass crossing, after which the trail descends to Bimthang and eventually connects with the Annapurna Circuit route near Dharapani.
The Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty is classified as moderately difficult to challenging due to the high-altitude pass crossing, long trekking days averaging 5-7 hours, and variable weather conditions above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Accommodation throughout the trek consists of teahouse lodges with basic twin-sharing rooms, though facilities become more rudimentary at higher elevations. Most lodges provide foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets, while shared bathroom facilities are standard above 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). The daily Manaslu itinerary balances acclimatization needs with reasonable distance coverage. The most demanding sections include the ascent from Samdo to Dharamsala and the Larkya La Pass crossing day, which can take 8-9 hours depending on snow conditions and group pace.
Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trekking
- Start with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola through mountain roads, terraced hillsides, and riverside villages.
- Trek through the Manaslu Conservation Area and get a chance to spot rare Himalayan wildlife like red pandas, blue sheep, etc.
- Walk through authentic Tibetan Buddhist villages.
- Visit ancient monasteries, including Pungyen Gompa, and witness monks performing their daily prayer ceremonies.
- Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft), the world’s eighth-highest peak, with stunning views.
- Conquer Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,929 feet).
- Follow the powerful Budhi Gandaki River.
- Many Cross thrilling suspension bridges.
- Take an acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp at 4,800 meters for close-up glacier views.
- Experience dramatic landscape shifts from subtropical forests with rhododendrons to barren high-altitude deserts.
- Trek one of Nepal’s less crowded routes, where you’ll find genuine solitude and peaceful mountain moments.
Who Can Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trek suits physically fit individuals aged 9-75 who can walk 5-7 hours daily for consecutive days at high altitude. Previous trekking experience helps, but isn’t mandatory. You need moderate cardiovascular fitness equivalent to hiking uphill for 2-3 hours without excessive fatigue, as the trail involves steep ascents, descents, and rocky sections throughout the 14-day itinerary. Beginners can complete the Manaslu Circuit trek with proper acclimatization, a gradual pace, and adequate pre-trek training that includes stair climbing, hiking with a loaded backpack, and cardiovascular exercises before departure. The Larkya La Pass crossing demands mental resilience during snow conditions and early morning starts at high altitude. First-time trekkers often find this circuit more challenging due to longer daily distances, more rugged terrain, and more remote teahouse facilities. People with pre-existing heart conditions, respiratory issues, severe knee problems, or uncontrolled hypertension should consult medical professionals before attempting this trek.
Is It Recommended for Children and Older People?
Children on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Children aged 09-18 can trek the Manaslu Circuit if they have prior multi-day trekking experience, strong physical fitness, and demonstrate mental maturity to handle long walking hours and basic accommodation conditions. The trek’s maximum altitude poses altitude sickness risks for younger trekkers whose bodies may not acclimatize as predictably as adults. Families with children often choose lower-altitude alternatives like the Poon Hill trek (3,210m / 10,531 feet) before attempting the Manaslu Circuit. Children under 10 face higher risks due to their inability to clearly communicate altitude sickness symptoms, longer recovery times from physical exertion, and difficulty maintaining pace over 5-7 hour trekking days.
The Manaslu restricted area permit requires all trekkers to be accompanied by registered guides, who can assess whether younger participants should continue or turn back based on health observations. Teahouse facilities lack child-specific amenities, heating systems, or medical support beyond basic first aid kits carried by guides.
Older Trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit
Older trekkers aged 60-75 complete the Manaslu Circuit successfully when they maintain regular exercise routines, have previous high-altitude experience, and receive medical clearance confirming cardiovascular and respiratory health. Trekkers above 75 should consider comprehensive travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation, as response times to medical emergencies increase in remote sections between Samdo (3,875m / 12,713 feet) and Dharamsala (4,460m / 14,632 feet).
Explore the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Well Plan Trekking
We organize guided Manaslu Circuit Trek with 15 + experienced local guides, proper acclimatization schedules, and comprehensive permit arrangements. Our 14-day Manaslu itinerary balances trekking hours with rest days to maximize your chances of crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,752 feet) while minimizing altitude sickness risks. We also provide pre-trek briefings, equipment checklists, and 24/7 support throughout your journey from the moment you arrive in Nepal until you return to Kathmandu safely. You can contact us today via WhatsApp at 00977-9869539505 to book your Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure or discuss customized Manaslu itineraries that match your fitness level and time availability.
| Day | Destination | Sleep altitude | Duration | Distance | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kathmandu | 1,345m | 30 Min | 7 km | Airport transfer & hotel check-in |
| 02 | Machha Khola | 930m | 8-10 hrs | 170 km | Scenic drive via Arughat |
| 03 | Jagat | 1410 m | 6- 7 hrs | 21 Km | Riverside trekking, hot springs |
| 04 | Dyang | 1,800m | 6-7 hrs | 20 km | Villages and terraced fields |
| 05 | Namrung | 2,540m | 6-7 hrs | 19 km | Alpine zone entry |
| 06 | Shyala Village | 3,500m | 5-6 hrs | 12 km | Himalayan views intensify |
| 07 | Sama Gaon | 3,530m | 5-6 hrs | 11 km | Visit Pungyen Monastery |
| 08 | Sama Gaon | 3,530m | Full day | - | Acclimatization hikes |
| 09 | Samdo | 3,860m | 3-4 hrs | 9 km | After rich samdo hiking hill |
| 10 | Dharamsala | 4,470m | 4-5 hrs | 7 km | Prepare for the pass |
| 11 | Bimthang via Larkya La | 3,720m | 8-9 hrs | 24 km | Cross 5,106m pass |
| 12 | Dharapani | 1,860m | 7-8 hrs | 25 km | Descend through forests |
| 13 | Kathmandu | 1,350m | 9-11 hrs | 230 km | Drive back, celebration |
| 14 | Departure | - | 30 min | 7 km | Airport transfer home |
Relatate Picture Gallery
Trip Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
- Distance : 7 km / 4.35 miles
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to hotel
- Max. Altitude :1,345 m / 4,413 ft
Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representative will be waiting for you with a welcome sign. After that, you’ll be driven to your hotel, and after checking into your hotel and freshening up, you’ll gather in the lobby for an informal briefing. This is where you’ll meet your trekking guide, learn about the days ahead, and ask any last-minute questions. It’s also a great time to connect with your fellow trekkers
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include:
Day 02: Drive to Machha –Khola via Arughat
- Distance : 170 km / 105.63 miles
- Duration : 8 to 10 Hours
- Max. Altitude :930 m / 3,051 ft
The real adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu. You’ll pass through terraced hillsides, small market towns, and eventually reach Arughat. From Arughat, the road becomes rougher as you continue on a dirt track following the Buri Gandaki River. This final stretch gives you your first real taste of the remote terrain you’ll be trekking through. By the time you reach Machha Khola, you’ll be ready to stretch your legs.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 03: Trek to Jagat
- Distance : 21 km / 13.05 miles
- Duration : 6 To 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,410 m / 4,626 ft
The First-day walk starts following the Buri-Gandaki River upstream, heading into a gorge covered with 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 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.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Trek to Dyang
- Distance : 20 km / 12.43 miles
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,800 m / 5,906 ft
After the pleasant stop at Jagat, the journey continues , 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
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Trek to Namrung
- Distance : 19 km / 11.81 miles
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude : 2,540 m / 8,333 ft
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 Namrung village is reached for the overnight stop Namrung .
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Shyala Village
- Distance : 12 km / 7.46 miles
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude :3,500 m / 11,483 ft)
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. Shyala (also called Lho) is a fascinating village with a beautiful monastery perched on a hill above. If you arrive early enough, you can hike up to the monastery for sunset – the views are absolutely worth the extra climb. The village also offers clear views of the north face of Manaslu, a sight that never gets old.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Sama Gaon via Pungen Gumpa
- Distance : 11 km / 6.84 miles
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :3,530 m / 11,581 ft
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.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08: Rest day in Sama Gaon for acclimatization
- Distance : Rest Day
- Duration : Rest day
- Max. Altitude :3,530 m / 11,581 ft
This rest day is about smart acclimatization and the principle is “climb high, sleep low,” so you’ll take a day hike to a higher altitude before returning to sleep at the same elevation. You can choose to hike toward Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m). It’s a 7-9 hour round trip. 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. Alternatively, you can hike up to the Manaslu Glacier viewpoint or explore Birendra Lake, a sacred glacial lake about two hours above the village. Whatever you choose, drink plenty of water and pay attention to how your body feels. Our guide will check everyone’s oxygen saturation levels and discuss any altitude-related symptoms
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Samdo
- Distance : 7 km / 5.0 miles
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
- Max. Altitude : 3,860 m / 12,664 ft
After your time in Sama gaon, you’ll continue the trek to reach Samdo. The trail climbs gradually alongside the meltwater from the Larkya Glacier, passing through a landscape that becomes increasingly barren and moon-like.Samdo is an interesting village and it’s one of the last settlements before the Tibetan border.Historically, trade with Tibet was the village’s lifeblood. Even now, you’ll sometimes see traders coming down from the high passes with their yak caravans. The village has a distinct Tibetan feel, and many locals still speak Tibetan as their first language.Samdo sits in a wide valley surrounded by high peaks, with three different valleys meeting here. The sense of remoteness is palpable. Despite arriving early, it’s worth using the afternoon to rest and stay hydrated. You can explore the village or walk a short distance toward the Tibet border for views.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Dharmashala
- Distance : 7 km / 4.35 miles
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
- Max. Altitude :4,460 m / 14,665 ft
Today you’ll trek to the highest sleeping point of your journey. The trail descends initially to cross the Buri Gandaki River one final time, then climbs steadily through the Larkya Valley. Dharamsala (also called Larkya Phedi) is more of a shelter than a village and there are just a few basic lodges in this high, remote spot. The accommodation is simple. This is the highest you’ll sleep on the entire trek, and some people feel the altitude here. Your guide will check everyone’s condition carefully. Try to eat well even if you’re not hungry, stay hydrated, and get to bed early – you’ll be waking up well before dawn tomorrow.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Larke passes at 5,106 m and descends to Bhimtang
- Distance : 16 Km / 9.9 Mile
- Duration : 8 to 9 hours
- Max. Altitude : 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
You’ll start before sunrise, hiking by headlamp initially. The pre-dawn cold is intense, so layer up. The climb is long and steady. The final push to the pass is the steepest, but when you reach the top, the 360-degree panorama is absolutely breathtaking. Prayer flags snap in the wind, and if conditions are clear, you’ll see Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and countless other peaks stretching to the horizon. The descent is long and requires careful footing, especially if there’s snow. You’ll drop down steep rocky slopes and across moraines before finally reaching the valley floor. Overnight, staying in Bimthang.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani village
- Distance : 25 km / 15.53 miles
- Duration : 7 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude : 1,860 m / 6,102 ft
After a long day’s walk to Bhimtang the previous day, today is an easy trek from here onward to Dharapani past a thickly forested area of pines, and rhododendron trees with a view of snow peaks From here the track leads downhill into the forest passing small summer settlement and then climb on a terraced field to Karcher La, and then down to Marsyangdi River. After a few hours’ walks reach Tilje village by following Dudh (milky) river downstream, 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.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu and then transfer to your hotels
- Distance : 230 km / 142.92 miles
- Duration : 10 to 12 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,350 m / 4,429 ft
Enjoy a comfortable transport, passing through scenic hills, rivers, and rural villages. The 8–10 hour journey offers a relaxing end to your trek, combining off-road mountain trails and smooth highways as you return to the capital Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast And Farewell Dinner
Day 14: International Departure for Homeward Bound
- Distance : 30 Minutes drive to Hotel
- Duration : 30 Min
- Max. Altitude :
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.
(The usual day for a trek: Every day, our guides will come to wake you up at around 7:00-7: 30 am. In case of special days like sunrise viewing days, our guides will wake you up early in the morning at around 4-4: 30 am. A western breakfast like porridge, oats, toast, etc. will be served at around 8:00-8: 30 am. The lunch will be served from a teahouse menu at about 12-1 pm. However, lunchtime can also be postponed on request. The dinner will be served at around 8:30-9: 00 pm. Your accommodation is arranged at a lodge or a tourist standard hotel (subject to availability) where we stop overnight.
While walking, you can also request your guide to slow down and stop at the places where you want to take some snaps. After dinner and before bed, your team leader will brief you regarding the next day’s schedule.
- Accommodation:
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Cost Details
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICE
- Airports pick up and drop off, upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu.
- Pre-meeting before the trek.
- 2 Night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (3 Star Hotel)
- Helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, well English speaking trained, government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodations, and insurance
- Meals on full board ( Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner ) with 3 times tea/coffee during the trek
- Seasonal fresh fruits as Available
- Guesthouse accommodation during the trek.
- 1 Well Plan Trekking T-shirt
- Kathmandu – Macha -Khola – Dharapani – Kathmandu transportation on a public vehicle
- Manaslu Special trekking permit fee.
- Manaslu Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Tsum Valley rural municipality entrance ticket.
- Annapurna Conservation Area entrance permit fee.
- Manaslu Trekking Map
- Duffel bag
- Well Plan Trekking down jacket and sleeping bag if required ( After trek Return )
- Worst case, help with all rescue and evacuation arrangements.
- First aid medical kit and oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes.
- All applicable taxes are in accordance with government rules and regulations.
- Well Plan Trekking trek achievement certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant
OPTIONAL ADDONS(Available during check-out)
- Private Jeep
THE PACKAGE EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu).
- Travel insurance, which has to cover emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation in addition to medical expenses (compulsory)
- A strong, Helpful porter with proper equipment ( one porter for two people – the porter will carry a maximum of 25 kilos ), one porter costs USD 240 for the whole trip.
- Your personal expenses. (Phone call, Wifi, Laundry service, bar bills, battery recharge, a bottle of water or hot water, Mineral water, Hot shower, etc.)
- All the alcoholic drinks and bar bills.
- Extra Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival or late departure. early arrival from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled Itinerary.
- Services not mentioned in the ‘Services Includes’ section ( Please ask us if you are confused about any services )
- Kathmandu lunch and Dinner
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Equipment’s
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT LIST
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
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
- T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Fleece wind–stopper jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
- Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
- Underwear
- Hiking trousers
- Fleece or woolen trousers
- Lightweight thermal bottoms
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
- Thin lightweight inner socks
- Heavy poly or wool socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)Toiletries
- Toothbrush /paste
- Multi-purpose soap
- Nail clippers
- Deodorants
- Medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Face and body moisturizer
- Small mirror
- Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue/toilet roll
- Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
Extras /luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map /guidebook
- Journal and pen
- Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards etc)
- Modest swimsuit
- Binoculars
Trip Map
FAQ
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the Gorkha District of Nepal, roughly 100 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. The entire route circles around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak, standing at 8,163 meters, and passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area—a protected region full of incredible wildlife, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages.
The standard Manaslu Circuit Trek takes 14 to 16 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including a day in Kathmandu for permit preparation and acclimatization rest days. That said, the duration is flexible and can be adjusted based on your schedule, fitness level, and how much time you have. If you’re short on time, we also offer a shorter 14-day Manaslu Circuit package that covers the same route at a slightly faster pace.
On the other hand, if you want to go deeper into the region, you can combine the trek with the Tsum Valley, which adds some more days. We can also add extra rest days if you need more time to adjust to the altitude, and if you’re running tight on time at the end, a helicopter return from Dharapani to Kathmandu is always an option.
You should carry at least USD 100-500 (NPR 15,000-65,000) in cash for the 14-day Manaslu Circuit trek to cover personal expenses beyond the package cost. This amount includes additional meals like snacks and desserts (USD 3-8 per item), beverages such as bottled water, tea, and coffee (USD 1-5 depending on altitude), hot showers (USD 3-5 per shower), etc. Make sure you carry enough cash from Kathmandu, as the ATM along the trek route might not be reliable, and most of the tea houses accept cash payment methods only. Emergency funds of USD 100-200 should remain separate for unexpected situations like extended stays due to weather delays.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be moderately challenging to genuinely difficult. To be honest, it’s not an easy walk as you’ll be trekking for around 5 to 7 hours every day, crossing high mountain passes, walking on rough terrain, and spending several days above 3,500 meters. The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, which is a long and tough day that starts very early in the morning. However, it’s absolutely doable for anyone who is reasonably fit, well-prepared, and mentally ready for the challenge. We recommend starting your training at least two months before the trek.
Simple things like regular cardio, stair climbing, and weekend hikes with some elevation gain will go a long way in preparing your body.
The best times to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). These two seasons offer the most stable weather, clear skies, and the best mountain views, making them the most popular times to trek this route.
Travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation up to 55,00 meters is mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. But for the safety concerning better for the insurance. The insurance policy must specifically cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500 meters, as standard travel insurance policies exclude activities beyond 3,000-4,000 meters (9,843-13,123 feet) and won’t process claims for incidents at Larkya La Pass (5,106m / 16,752 feet) or surrounding areas. Recommended insurance providers for Nepal trekking include World Nomads, IMG Global, Alpine Insurance, and True Traveler, etc., which specifically design policies for high-altitude treks with appropriate altitude limits and emergency coverage.
Internet access on the Manaslu Circuit is limited and unreliable compared to more popular trekking routes. Some tea houses and lodges in larger villages like Samagaon and Samdo offer WiFi, but don’t expect fast or consistent connectivity. The signal is often weak, and you may have to pay a small fee to use it. Nepali SIM cards with data (like NTC) work in some lower sections but lose signal as you go higher. It’s best to inform your family beforehand and not rely on constant internet access throughout the trek.
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted trekking area; you’ll need the Manaslu Special Trekking Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, the Manaslu Area Local Permit, and the Annapurna region at Dharapani. But you don’t have to worry, we handle all of this for you. To process your permits, we need a few passport-size photos and a copy of your passport. We take care of all the paperwork before your trek starts, and all permit costs are included in our package price.
Yes, a guide is absolutely mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since Manaslu is a restricted trekking area, the Nepal government requires all trekkers to be registered with a licensed trekking company like Well Plan Trekking and accompanied by a certified guide throughout the entire trek.
Larke Pass, also known as Larkya La, sits at 5,106 meters (16,929 feet) above sea level. It’s the highest point of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trek and, honestly, the most exciting and challenging part of the whole journey, offering you 360-degree views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you’ll be staying in simple teahouses which are run by local families along the route. Think of them as small guesthouses where you get a bed, warm meals, and a roof over your head after a long day of trekking. They’re nothing fancy. Rooms are generally twin-share with basic beds and blankets. At lower elevations, you’ll find teahouses with attached bathrooms and decent facilities. As you go higher, facilities get more basic and shared bathrooms are common, hot showers may cost a small extra fee, and electricity can be unreliable.
For those who want a more comfortable experience throughout, we also offer a Manaslu Circuit Luxury Trek with upgraded accommodation options. Just let us know your preferences when booking, and we’ll make sure everything is arranged according to what you’re looking for!
Yes, compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit is significantly less crowded. The main reason it stays less crowded is that Manaslu is a restricted trekking area and you need special permits and a licensed guide to enter, which naturally limits the number of people on the trail.
The food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is simple and filling. All your meals, which include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included in our package, plus tea or coffee three times a day to keep you warm and energized on the trail. Teahouses along the route serve a mix of Nepali, Chinese, Indian, and Continental food. If you have any dietary requirements: vegetarian, vegan, or any food allergies, make sure you let us know in advance so that we can arrange accordingly.
Yes, altitude sickness is something you need to take seriously on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As the trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,106 meters at Larkya La Pass, and spending several days above 3,500 meters. The most common symptoms are headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. However, the golden rules are to walk slowly, drink plenty of water, eat well, and never ignore how you’re feeling.
Our itinerary is specifically designed with acclimatization rest days, and our guides carry a first aid kit and an oximeter to monitor your oxygen levels and heart rate throughout the trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not the best choice for a complete beginner as it’s a challenging, multi-day high-altitude trek that involves 5 to 7 hours of walking every day, rough terrain, and crossing Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. If you’ve never trekked before, jumping straight into the Manaslu Circuit could be overwhelming both physically and mentally.
However, if you’re very fit, active, and genuinely motivated, it’s not completely out of reach as long as you prepare seriously at least two months before the trek. While beginners with good fitness can complete the trek, it is recommended to have some prior trekking experience due to its length and high altitude.
Trip Videos
Client Reviews
Eimantas
David
Dali jsme na pozitivní reference od přátel, kteří s touto agenturou cestovali a musím potvrdit, že veškerý servis byl bez chyby. Majitel Ram a průvodce Pradeep byli velmi přátelští. Source Tripadvisor
Eduard
Skvělý trek okolo Manaslu s kompletním servicem od Well Plan Treking. Od komunikace, vyzvednutí na letišti, ubytování, jídla, permitů, sim karet, atd. Vše bezproblémů a skvěle organizováno. Našim průvodcem byl vždyochotný Pradeep a nosiči mladí šikovní kluci Sagar a Prajwol.
Děkujeme za super zážizek. Source Tripadvisore
Ella
We can’t thank Babu, Birendra, or the team at Wellplan Trek enough for making our trip so special. We highly recommend them and wouldn’t hesitate to book with them again in the future! Source Tripadvisor
Steyan
Paulina
Justa
Jordi
Oscar
Bartosz
Grzegorz
Gils
Piotr R
Connor
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 plan trekking to someone looking for a good adventure. Source Tripadvisor
My friend Ernestas and guide Raju and I went on the Manaslu circuit trek for two weeks. This is my first time in Nepal and I am very, very happy with what I saw and experienced. Just amazing changing views day after day. and reaching the Larkya la pass causes great joy. Sometimes it is difficult to put into words, so I wish everyone to see and experience it. Raju is a wonderful guide, it was great to be together all days, he told us a lot and helped me with all my questions. Because he has a lot of mountain experience. I am extremely grateful for everything. I will remember this trip and experience for the rest of my life. Eimantas
Source tripadvisor