The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and less-crowded high-altitude adventures. This trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m) — the eighth-highest mountain in the world — offering dramatic landscapes, peaceful trails, and rich Tibetan culture.
Compared to other famous treks, Manaslu is wilder, quieter, and feels like trekking in Nepal 20 years ago. You walk through remote villages, beautiful forests, suspension bridges, deep valleys, and finally cross the stunning Larke Pass (5,160m) — the highlight of the trek.
- Mountains you will see
- Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
- Himalchuli
- Ngadi Chuli
- Shringi Himal
- Ganesh Himal range
- Peak 29
- Larke Peak
The Manaslu Circuit is perfect for trekkers who love nature, culture, and adventure.
Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Walk around the world’s 8th highest mountain
- Cross the famous Larke La Pass (5,160m)
- Stunning river valleys and high Himalayan scenery
- Authentic Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages
- Fewer crowds compared to Annapurna and Everest
- Manaslu Conservation Area’s rich wildlife
- Beautiful monasteries and cultural sites
- Tea houses with warm hospitality
- A true off-the-beaten-path trekking experience
Manaslu Circuit Itinerary (14 Days)
Day 1: Drive Kathmandu → Machha Khola (869m)
Drive: 7–8 hours
Highlights: River valleys, local villages
Day 2: Machha Khola → Jagat (1,300m)
Walk: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Waterfalls, narrow trails
Day 3: Jagat → Deng (1,860m)
Walk: 6 hours
Highlights: Stone-paved villages, first Himalayan views
Day 4: Deng → Namrung (2,630m)
Walk: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Forest climbs, Buddhist culture
Day 5: Namrung → Lho (3,180m)
Walk: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Amazing views of Manaslu
Day 6: Lho → Samagaon (3,520m)
Walk: 4 hours
Highlights: Monasteries, Yak grazing fields
Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon
Options:
Hike to Manaslu Base Camp
Explore Birendra Lake
Rest and enjoy mountain views
Day 8: Samagaon → Samdo (3,875m)
Walk: 4 hours
Highlights: Open valley, Tibetan border zone
Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Options:
Hike toward the Tibet border
Relax and prepare for the high pass
Day 10: Samdo → Dharamsala (4,460m)
Walk: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Short but steep climb, high camp
Day 11: Cross Larke Pass (5,160m) → Bimthang (3,720m)
Walk: 8–9 hours
Highlights: Big day, snowy landscapes, 360° views
Day 12: Bimthang → Tilije (2,300m)
Walk: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Forest trails, peaceful villages
Day 13: Tilije → Dharapani → Drive to Besisahar
Walk: 3 hours
Drive: 4–5 hours
Day 14: Drive Besisahar → Kathmandu
Drive: 6–7 hours
Trek Distance & Walking Hours
Total Distance: 150–170 km
Walking Hours: 5–8 hours per day
Highest Point: Larke Pass (5,160m)
Difficulty: Challenging but manageable with good fitness
This trek is best for trekkers who want adventure and don’t mind long walking days.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Best Seasons
March – May (Spring): Flowers, warm days
September – November (Autumn): Clear weather, best views
Possible Seasons
Winter (Dec–Feb): Very cold, heavy snow on the pass
Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Wet, slippery, landslide risks
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Long walking days
High altitude (above 5,000m)
Larke Pass requires good stamina
Not recommended for total beginners, but perfect for trekkers with some experience.
Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek
You must trek with a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers.
Permits needed:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- MCAP – Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
- ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Permits are arranged in Kathmandu by your trekking company.
Accommodation & Food on the Trek
Tea houses provide:
- Private twin rooms
- Shared bathrooms
- Warm dining halls
- Hot meals
- Charging (small extra fee)
- Wi-Fi (limited)
Food includes:
- Dal Bhat
- Soups
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- Potatoes
- Pasta
- Tea & coffee
Simple and comfortable enough for long trekking days.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown 2026
Approximate Cost (Per Person)
Item Cost
Permits $100–150
Guide $30–35/day
Porter $25–30/day
Meals & Accommodation $25–40/day
Transport $30–50
Miscellaneous $20–40
Total Estimated Cost: $900 – $1,400
(Depending on group size and services)
Why Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Famous?
- Wild, untouched natural beauty
- Stunning views of Mount Manaslu
- Authentic Tibetan culture
- Remote trails with fewer crowds
- Crossing the beautiful Larke Pass
- A perfect mix of challenge and reward
- Feels like the classic trekking days of Nepal
Who Is This Trek Best For?
- Experienced trekkers
- Adventure lovers
- Photographers
- Solo trekkkers (joining a group)
- Travelers who prefer quiet trails
- People preparing for bigger future expeditions
Essential Packing List
- Warm down jacket
- Thermal layers
- Trekking boots
- Gloves, hat, buff
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Portable charger
FAQs
1. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek suitable for beginners?
It’s moderate to challenging. Best for trekkers with some prior experience due to long walking days and high altitude. Beginners are recommended to join a guided group.
2. How many days does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?
Typically 12–14 days, depending on acclimatization and pace.
3. What is the highest point on the trek?
The Larke La Pass at 5,160 meters is the highest and most challenging point.
4. What is the best season for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Best: March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn)
Possible: Winter (Dec–Feb) – cold and snowy; Monsoon (Jun–Aug) – wet and slippery trails
5. Are permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, mandatory permits include:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
6. Do I need a guide?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory for the restricted area. Trekkers cannot enter alone.
7. What kind of accommodation is available?
Tea houses provide twin rooms, blankets, hot meals, limited Wi-Fi, and shared bathrooms. Simple but comfortable.
8. Is altitude sickness common?
Yes, especially near Larke La Pass. Proper acclimatization, slow walking, and hydration reduce risk.
9. What are the main highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
- Crossing Larke La Pass
- Stunning views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli
- Remote villages and Tibetan culture
- Peaceful, less-crowded trails
- Birendra Lake, monasteries, and yak pastures
10. What fitness level is required?
Moderate to high fitness is recommended due to long trekking days, altitude, and occasional steep climbs.
1 Comment
Ceferino Parra Martin
30/11/2025 at 3:54 PMI want to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone at Nepal Treks and Tour for their wonderful treatment and care during the two treks they organized for me: the Manaslu Circuit trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Director Saran, his secretary Bikki, guide Barat, and porter Ashish all showed me kindness and professionalism throughout the 19 days of trekking and the 8 days of layover in Kathmandu and Pokhara. All the hotels and lodges chosen for this trip were of a good standard, the breakfasts, lunches, and dinners were plentiful and nutritious, and the routes were expertly led by Barat, who knows them by heart and doesn’t need maps or GPS. I should also mention that the price was reasonable considering the quality of the services provided. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the trails of Nepal safely, I highly recommend booking with this agency; it will save you a lot of trouble.