The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks, taking you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m) – the 8th highest mountain in the world. It is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Compared to the crowded Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit, the Manaslu Circuit still feels untouched and peaceful. If you are planning this trek in 2026, here is a detailed itinerary, cost breakdown, and all the information you need before booking.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary 2026 (14 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola – 700m
Day 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola – 930m
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat – 1,340m
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng – 1,897m
Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung – 2,630m
Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun – 3,530m
Day 8: Trek to Manaslu Base Camp – 4,800m
Day 9: Trek to Samdo – 3,865m
Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala – 4,460m
Day 11: Trek to Bimthang via Larkya Pass – 5,106m
Day 12: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani – 1,970m
Day 13: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, then back to Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 14: Final Departure
This 14-day itinerary is designed for smooth acclimatization, cultural experience, and safe crossing of the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), the highest point of the trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2026
Price: USD 965 / per person. With this package price , all major trek expenses are covered. The only extra costs are personal spending and optional expenses.
Cost Includes:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu (3-star, twin sharing, with breakfast)
- Kathmandu → Soti Khola and Besisahar → Kathmandu transport (bus)
- MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) & ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- Restricted area trekking permits
- Experienced English-speaking guide with insurance
- Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, carrying 15–20 kg, insured)
- Full board meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Trekking route map
- Sleeping bags and duffel bags
- First aid kit
- All government taxes and service charges
Cost Excludes:
- International flights
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance (must include helicopter evacuation)
- Entrance fees in Kathmandu (if sightseeing)
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu (except complimentary dinners)
- Personal expenses (Wi-Fi, bar bills, laundry, electricity, hot showers, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porter, driver
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded, more authentic, and offers raw Himalayan beauty. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, it feels like stepping back in time – with ancient monasteries, Tibetan culture, and remote villages.
Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026
Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, comfortable temperatures.
Autumn (September–November): Best visibility, stable weather, popular season.
Winter (December–February): Cold, but peaceful and less crowded.
Summer (June–August): Rainy and muddy, not recommended.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty – Is It for Beginners?
Trekking hours: 6–7 hrs daily
Highest point: Larkya La Pass 5,106m
Requires good fitness, some prior trekking experience is helpful.
Altitude sickness risk is moderate – proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary.
Trekking Permits & Costs (2026 Update)
Restricted Area Permit: USD 100 (Sep–Nov), USD 75 (Dec–Aug) per week.
MCAP Permit: USD 30.
ACAP Permit: USD 30.
Trekkers must hire a licensed guide (mandatory). Solo trekking is not allowed.
Packing List & Gear Guide 2026
Warm trekking clothes (layers)
Sleeping bag (–15°C recommended)
Good hiking boots
Down jacket
Trekking poles
Water purification tablets
Headlamp, power bank, and personal toiletries
Rental options are available in Kathmandu for jackets, sleeping bags, and poles.
Accommodation & Food Guide
Accommodation: Tea houses (basic wooden lodges).
Food: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, veggies), noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, momos.
Extra costs: Wi-Fi (USD 2–5), hot showers (USD 3–5), charging (USD 2–4 per device).
Manaslu Trek Cost Breakdown 2026
Permits: USD 160+
Guide: USD 25–35/day
Porter: USD 20–25/day
Food & Accommodation: USD 25–30/day
Transport: USD 20–30
Package cost (USD 965) covers all these in one go.
Manaslu Circuit vs. Tsum Valley
Manaslu Circuit: High passes, mountain views, diverse landscapes.
Tsum Valley: More cultural, hidden valley, sacred monasteries.
Many trekkers combine both if they have 20+ days.
Safety, Altitude Sickness & Insurance
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily.
Ascend slowly, follow acclimatization days.
Carry Diamox if needed.
Insurance is compulsory – must cover up to 6,000m & helicopter rescue.
How to Prepare Physically for the Trek
Start training 2–3 months before.
Jogging, cycling, and stair climbing help build endurance.
Practice hiking with a backpack.
Transportation to the Trailhead
Kathmandu → Soti Khola (8–9 hrs drive by bus/jeep).
Return: Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu (long day drive).
Private jeeps are faster but costlier than local buses.
FAQs
1. How long does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?
The trek usually takes 14–16 days, depending on your itinerary, acclimatization days, and transport options.
2. What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), which offers stunning views of Manaslu, Himlung, Annapurna II, and other peaks.
3. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
It is a moderate to challenging trek. You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you should have good fitness and some trekking experience.
4. What is the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026?
The cost is around USD 965 per person, which includes permits, guide, porter, meals, and accommodation during the trek.
5. Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes. The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and solo trekking is not allowed. You must hire a licensed guide.
6. What permits do I need for the trek?
You will need: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
7. When is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear and the views are best.
8. What kind of accommodation is available?
You will stay in tea houses – simple mountain lodges with basic rooms, shared bathrooms, and local food.
9. What food is available during the trek?
You can expect dal bhat (rice, lentils, curry), noodles, soups, momos, Tibetan bread, and some Western dishes like pasta or pancakes.
10. Is altitude sickness a risk on the Manaslu Trek?
Yes, especially above 3,000m. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to reduce the risk. Trek slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body.
11. What should I pack for the trek?
Essentials include warm layers, a down jacket, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, water purification tablets, and a headlamp. Many items can be rented in Kathmandu.
12. How do I get to the starting point?
The trek usually starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (8–9 hours) by bus or jeep.
13. Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is compulsory and should cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m) and emergency helicopter evacuation.
14. How crowded is the Manaslu Circuit Trek compared to Everest or Annapurna?
The Manaslu Circuit is much quieter and less commercialized. You can enjoy peaceful trails and a more authentic trekking experience.
15. Can I combine the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley?
Yes. If you have extra time (around 20–22 days), you can extend your trek to explore the Tsum Valley, known for Tibetan culture and sacred monasteries.
