Highlights
- Still a relatively unspoiled trekking destination, but gaining in popularity
- Fantastic views of Mt. Manaslu and other high mountains in the area, and of the Annapurna range from Larkya La pass (5160 m)
- Diverse landscapes from the lower areas with diverse vegetation into the alpine regions
- Traditional Tibetan-style villages and lifestyle
- Explore the traditional, unspoiled lifestyle of the people in the area.
- Rich flora and fauna, including blue sheep and the rare snow leopard
- Old monasteries
About Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 days
Have you ever considered travelling through ancient rhododendron forests with prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze or crossing dramatic suspension bridges over roaring glacial rivers? Imagine standing beneath snow-capped peaks with traditional Tibetan villages all around you. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is all of this and more, offering a unique and authentic Himalayan adventure that seamlessly blends raw natural beauty with deep cultural immersion.
The Manaslu region includes the spectacular Manaslu Conservation Area, with an area of 1,663 square kilometers of unspoiled wilderness. The ecosystem is a protected area with amazing biodiversity—from the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan black bear to over 110 species of birds. Throughout your Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be treated to breathtaking views of nature from every angle.
Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek Package
The Manaslu circuit trek offers one of the best and most authentic trekking experiences in Nepal. This 12-day Manaslu circuit trek package, which covers the duration needed to complete the trek, provides excellent value. With a Manaslu Circuit Trek cost starting at $1100-1205, fully inclusive, you pay nothing extra for tea and coffee, a porter, private transportation, and more, saving you substantially compared to the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp trips. Trekking around Mount Manaslu (8163 meters), the world's eighth-highest mountain, allows you to witness a diverse range of landscapes and cultures you won't find elsewhere. Since opening to international trekkers in 1992, the Manaslu trek has become a popular alternative to the more crowded circuits in Nepal.
The great thing about the Manaslu Circuit Trek is that it offers a perfect mix of accessibility and difficulty. The qualities we value in the Everest and Annapurna circuits—beautiful trails and the hope of avoiding crowds—are also present in Manaslu. The trek takes you from subtropical forests into high-altitude deserts and crosses the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), offering stunning views of several of the world's 8,000-meter peaks.
Your Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is going to start with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, where the real adventure starts. The 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is constructed around several stops in traditional Gurung and Tibetan homes and cultures to learn about the entire culture. From Soti Khola, you will head via Machha Khola, Jagat, and Deng village, as each stop brings you higher and to different lands and ecosystems.
Your Manaslu Circuit Trek path will take you onward from Namrung village, an area of distinctly Tibetan Buddhist culture, to Samagaon, an attractive village with exceptional views of the mountains. After two days of acclimatization in Samagaon and in Samdo, you will pass over the highest of the trek's many passes, the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m. From here, you will continue downhill through the Bimthang and then Tilije villages before finally arriving at the positive and friendly village of Dharapani, where the trek comes to an end.
This carefully designed Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary has thoughtfully built in good acclimatization while maximizing your enjoyment of the stunning sites you’ve seen, the stunning air you have breathed, and the stunning culture you have experienced. The trek is undertaken throughout all of the months of the year; however, the best time for the Manaslu Circuit trek is March to June or September to November. Every day on the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the possibility of new experiences, from ancient monasteries to village sights and interactions and breathtaking mountain views or wildlife.
Facts About Manaslu Circuit Trek
- The duration of the trek will be 12 days.
- The trek begins at Machha Khola at 869 meters (2,851 feet).
- Tijle at 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) marks the end of the walk.
- The total trek distance is 180 kilometers (111.8 miles).
- The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet).
- The best trekking months are March - June & September - November.
- Accommodation is in teahouses and guesthouses along the way.
- The required permits are RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and the Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit.
Why Himalayan Ecological Trekking for the Manaslu Circuit?
Himalayan Ecological Trekking P. Ltd stands as Nepal's premier eco-conscious trekking company in operation since 1995, specialising in sustainable Manaslu Circuit Trek packages that prioritize environmental conservation and local community development. Your trek will have a positive impact on the pristine Manaslu region thanks to our dedication to responsible tourism.
Our Special Services
- Eco-Friendly Trekking Practices—We implement Leave No Trace principles and promote sustainable tourism throughout the Manaslu Conservation Area.
- Community-Based Tourism—Direct partnerships with local communities ensure your trek supports the local economy and cultural preservation.
- Carbon Offset Programs—We actively participate in reforestation projects and carbon offset initiatives in the Manaslu region.
- Experienced Local Guides—Our certified guides possess extensive knowledge of the flora, fauna, and geological features of the Manaslu Circuit.
- Safety First Approach—Comprehensive safety protocols with first aid-trained guides and emergency evacuation procedures.
- Authentic Cultural Experiences—Genuine interactions with Tibetan Buddhist communities and traditional village life.
- Flexible Group Sizes—Accommodating solo travelers, couples, families, and large groups with personalized service.
- Best Value Guarantee—Competitive pricing with no hidden costs for your complete Manaslu Circuit Trek experience.
Contact Information
Book your sustainable Manaslu Circuit Trek 2025/2026 with Himalayan Ecological Trekking for an unforgettable adventure that respects nature and supports local communities.
Useful Information
Where is the Manaslu region?
Mount Manaslu is the world’s eighth-highest peak, lying in the Nepal Himalayas just east of the Annapurna range in the west-central part of Nepal, about 100 km northwest of Kathmandu.
The Manaslu circuit trek starts in Machchekhola in Gorkha district, southeast of Mt. Manaslu, and it runs in a counter-clockwise loop north around the Manaslu range. At its end, it joins the Annapurna Circuit route at Dharapani. Normally, you would then return by vehicle via Besisahar. If you have time and want to continue trekking, you could continue into the Annapurna trekking region from here.
What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The best seasons to trek in Manaslu are autumn and spring. A little cold weather at night, but warm and clear days and clear views of the spectacular mountain ranges. Often clouds appear in the afternoon, creating an interesting atmosphere and different but no less stunning views of the mountains.
How difficult is the Manaslu trek?
The Manaslu circuit trek is considered moderately difficult. The trail slowly ascends into the mountain areas, and we slowly gain altitude. Some of the walking days may be lengthy, particularly the day when crossing the Larke-La pass is a long day, and you need to be able to walk on rugged, steep terrain.
Can I do a trek without a guide?
Trekking in most of the Manaslu area without a guide is not possible. It is a restricted zone, and as per the law of the Nepal government, a licensed guide and special permit are compulsory for the safety and security of trekkers.
What kind of permit is required for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
Traveling to the Manaslu region requires a special permit and a group of at least two trekkers. Because the trekking region is in a remote part of Nepal and is relatively high in altitude, there is a risk that trekkers get lost or suffer from altitude sickness. To avoid these situations, the Nepalese government has made a guide and special permit compulsory for trekking in this region.
You will need three permits for this trek, in fact:
- Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)
What is the cost of the required permits and fees for the Manaslu circuit trek?
- Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit): the cost varies according to the season. From September to November, it is USD 70 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 10. The rest of the year (December-August) costs USD 75 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 10; another season costs USD 100 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 10.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit): 3000 NPR
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit): 3000 NPR
What is the highest point on the Manaslu circuit trek?
At 5160 meters (16929 feet) above sea level, the Larkya La Pass reaches the highest elevation point during the Manaslu Circuit trek. The remarkable panorama of surrounding mountains strikes trekkers at this tricky elevation region because of the demanding mountainous conditions and tall elevations that exceed 5000 meters.
How can I prevent getting altitude sickness?
This is a guided trek, and you will be accompanied by one of Nepal's experienced trekking guides who knows how to recognize altitude sickness (as there may be other physical conditions as well with similar symptoms) and who knows what to do. They will take very good care of you.
In general, you must climb up slowly and avoid gaining more than 300-500 meters (altitude of night stay) per day. Drink plenty of water and avoid smoking and drinking liquor. If symptoms of altitude sickness are observed, climb slowly or stop for a rest day (depending on intensity), allowing your body to adjust. If symptoms persist and/or get worse, you must move to a lower altitude to avoid life-threatening conditions.
Food and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Because it is a restricted region and still relatively off the beaten path, there are a limited number of simple tea houses on the way, although the number has been increasing in recent years. As for food, they will usually provide cereals (mostly muesli), toasted bread, eggs, or pancakes for breakfast and soups, pasta, sandwiches, and potato dishes, as well as traditional Nepali daal bhaat (a dish of rice, lentils, and vegetable curry). Although other items are available, we recommend sticking mostly with local food, like daal bhaat or potatoes, as this is usually safe and people know how to prepare it.
Is travel insurance required for this trek?
Yes, travel insurance is a must for those trekking in remote regions of Nepal. It is for trekkers’ safety and security and is used only in exceptional emergency cases. The insurance should cover medical emergency cases, including helicopter evacuation.
Also, emergency insurance is required for the crew (guide and porters) as per the Nepal government law. The cost of the crew’s insurance is covered in the total cost of the trek. A serious and responsible trekking agency will ensure that all of its crew members are properly insured and adequately equipped for the trek.
How long does it take to complete the Manaslu circuit trek?
Most travelers estimate a 14- to 18-day trip to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek. The duration of the trek can be adjusted according to your bodily adjustment needs for altitude, along with optional Tsum Valley exploration time. The risk of health problems must be prevented by making a gradual altitude adjustment.
Is acclimatization necessary during the Manaslu trek?
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit requires that trekkers properly acclimate their bodies. During climbs above 5000 meters, it is vital to watch your body adjust to the rarefied air because this protects you from altitude sickness. Strategic rest days are incorporated into the majority of schedules to let trekkers build their altitude tolerance before moving upward in altitude.