Tucked in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas lies a trek that mixes perfect wilderness with old culture, far-flung mountain towns, and sensational high-altitude scenery—the Manaslu Circuit trek. Frequently dominated by its more commercial cousins like Everest and Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit is a path less traveled, advertising an unparalleled mix of isolation and enterprise. For those looking for crude Himalayan excellence and bona fide mountain life, this trek is a genuine gem.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Unlike the Everest and Annapurna regions, which are bustling with trekkers and teahouses, the Manaslu region remains moderately untouched. This circuit takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, through a preservation range that offers a blend of Tibetan culture, rich biodiversity, and ever-changing landscapes.
Here are a few reasons why this trek stands out:
Fewer crowds compared to the Everest and Annapurna routes
Stunning views of peaks like Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal
Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) – one of Nepal’s most sensational high passes
Cultural abundance – Tibetan Buddhist religious communities, mani dividers, and inaccessible villages
Varied scenes – from subtropical woodlands to elevated knolls and glaciers
Conservation zone – differing greenery and fauna, including snow panthers and ruddy pandas
A Quick Glimpse at the Trek
Duration: 14 to 18 days (ordinarily 16 days)
Max height: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
Difficulty level: Challenging
Best seasons: March to May, September to November
Permits required: Confined Zone permit (RAP), MCAP, and ACAP
Route and Itinerary Highlights
The standard Manaslu Circuit trek Itinerary starts in Soti Khola and closes in Dharapani, steadily rising through waterway valleys, conventional towns, woodlands, and tall mountain passes. A harsh breakdown of the 16-day Itinerary is as follows:
Day 1:. Arrival in Kathmandu
Settle in the vibrant capital city. Prepare your permits, gear, and get briefed.
Day 2:. Drive to Soti Khola (710 m) – 8-9 hours
A long but scenic drive through hills, rivers, and countryside.
Day 3:. Trek to Machha Khola (900 m)
Follow the Budhi Gandaki River through dense forests and Gurung settlements.
Day 4:. Trek to Jagat (1,410 m)
Cross suspension bridges and walk through rocky trails to reach this traditional checkpoint village.
Day 5:. Trek to Deng (1,804 m)
Ascend gradually; observe the change in culture and landscape as Tibetan influence becomes stronger.
Day 6:. Trek to Namrung (2,630 m)
Explore the main walls and chortens. Namrung offers your first close views of Manaslu.
Day 7:. Trek to Lho (3,180 m)
Trek through beautiful rhododendron and fir forests; visit Ribung Gompa in Lho village.
Day 8:. Trek to Samagaon (3,530 m)
A relatively short day—ideal for acclimatization. Marvel at the mighty Manaslu looming above.
Day 9:. Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) or Pungyen Gompa for jaw-dropping mountain panoramas.
Day 10:. Trek to Samdo (3,860 m)
Short hike to a stunning high-altitude village near the Tibetan border. Observe yak herding and traditional lifestyle.
Day 11:. Trek to Dharamsala (4,460 m)
Prepare for the pass. The trail is steep, and altitude can make this a tough day.
Day 12:. Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) – Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m)
The most strenuous yet rewarding day. Cross one of Nepal’s longest and most beautiful passes. Snow-covered peaks and wide glaciers dominate the scenery.
Day 13:. Trek to Tilije (2,300 m)
Descend through pine forests and villages. Re-enter greener landscapes.
Day 14:. Trek to Dharapani – Drive to Besisahar
Finish the trek and take a jeep to the bustling town of Besisahar.
Day 15:. Drive to Kathmandu
Celebrate your trek back to the capital.
Day 16:. Departure
Or extend your stay in Nepal with other treks or cultural tours.
Trekking Culture:. Tibetan Influence and Mountain Life
The upper Manaslu region is intensely impacted by Tibetan Buddhism. Numerous towns, particularly Samagaon and Samdo, take after Tibetan traditions, wear conventional dress, and speak languages near to Tibetan. Here, you’ll see:
Prayer banners and mani stones lining the trails
Ancient religious communities, like Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Gompa
Yak caravans and conventional stone houses
Warm neighborliness from the Nubri people
Many trekkers say they feel like they’ve ventured into a living gallery of Tibetan culture, particularly in Samdo, where local people still exchange over the border with Tibet.
Flora, Fauna, and Natural Beauty
Since it lies inside the Manaslu Preservation Region, this trek boasts an uncommon biodiversity:
Flora: Rhododendron timberlands, pine, birch, juniper, and therapeutic herbs
Fauna: Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, ruddy panda, marmots, and conceivably snow leopards
Birds: Impeyan fowl (Nepal’s national feathered creature), snow pigeons, and brilliant eagles
You’ll pass through eco-zones extending from rich swamp timberlands to snow-capped pastures and moraine valleys.
Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit
Spring (March to May)
Rhododendrons bloom
Stable weather
Clear skies and direct temperatures
Autumn (September to November)
Best perceivability of the mountains
Crisp discussion and colorful forests
Peak trekking season
Winter (December to February)
Harsh cold and snow square the pass
Only fitting for experienced trekkers
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
Risk of landslides
Leech-infested lower trails
Avoid unless you’re a prepared rainstorm adventurer
How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The trek is modestly to exceedingly challenging. The most requested area is crossing Larkya La Pass, which includes long hours, cold conditions, and altitude.
Daily strolling: 6-8 hours
Altitude: You pick up over 4,000 m amid the trek
Technical climbing: Not required, but great wellness and acclimatization are essential
With appropriate arrangement and acclimatization, most fit trekkers can complete this trail.
Permits and Regulations
Since the region borders Tibet and is considered a limited zone, you’ll require a few permits:
Restricted Region permit (RAP): $100 for the to begin with 7 days (Sep–Nov); $75 for the rest of the year
Manaslu Preservation Zone permit (MCAP): NPR 3,000
Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000
Trekker’s Data Administration Framework (TIMS): Not required for Manaslu
Note: You must trek with an enrolled organization and an authorized direct. Solo trekking is not permitted.
Teahouse Accommodation and Food
The trek is completely teahouse-based, meaning you don’t require tents or cooking equipment.
Rooms: Essential but cozy wooden lodges with shared bathrooms
Food: Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, noodles, soups, flapjacks, and more
Hot showers & charging: Accessible for an additional taken a toll in most villages
Wi-Fi: Constrained and moderate, more often than not accessible in lower villages
The higher you go, the more essential and costly everything becomes.
What to Pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Here’s a speedy checklist of essentials:
Base layers, downy, and down jacket
Waterproof external layer (coat and pants)
Good trekking boots and warm socks
Sleeping sack (evaluated -15°C)
Trekking shafts and headlamp
Water filtration tablets
Sunscreen, lip analgesic, sunglasses
Basic to begin with, help and elevation, and affliction medication
Pack light, but be prepared for all climate conditions.
Pro Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trek
Acclimatize appropriately – rest at Samagaon and Samdo
Drink a bounty of liquids – lack of hydration increases height risk
Go with a direct – for security, route, and nearby knowledge
Start early on pass day – Larkya La is long and winds choose up later
Respect neighborhood traditions – continuously walk clockwise around stupas and supplication walls
Travel protections – make beyond any doubt it covers high-altitude trekking and evacuation
Why the Manaslu Circuit is Gaining Popularity
While it once took a rearward sitting arrangement to the Everest and Annapurna treks, Manaslu is rapidly becoming a favorite among experienced searchers. Its rough charm, social realness, and untainted ways offer what many consider to be the “genuine Himalayan trekking experience.”
It’s challenging, yes—but profoundly rewarding.
Final Thoughts
The Manaslu Circuit trek is the culminate choice for trekkers who need an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas. With jaw-dropping views, different environments, and a wealthy neighborhood culture, it’s a trek that leaves an enduring impression on all who embrace it. As tourism gradually increases in the region, presently is the culminating time to investigate Manaslu in its crude, true form—before the crowds discover it.
Are you prepared to take the street less traveled and find Nepal’s covered-up mountain kingdom? Let Manaslu appear to you the wild, unfiltered excellence of the Himalayas.
Booking Process for Manaslu Circuit Trek with Visit Himalaya Treks *
To book the Manaslu Circuit Trek through Visit Himalaya Treks, begin by contacting them via email or WhatsApp to discuss your preferred dates, group size, and specific needs. VHT will provide a detailed itinerary covering the duration of the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek, highlights, costs, and inclusions such as a guide, porter, meals, accommodation, and transportation.
We, Visit Himalaya Treks, will finalize all logistical arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, and permits, to ensure everything is in place for your trek. Upon arrival in Nepal, the team will ensure that all aspects of the trek are organized, providing you with a smooth and unforgettable experience on the trek to Manaslu Circuit, visiting the Base Camp of Mount Manaslu. Our company specializes in pure off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in eastern Nepal, one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal. Similarly mesmerizing Mount Makalu Base Camp Trek or any other Himalaya Trekking Tours in Nepal.
