Offer 24/7 Support +977 9851059278 (Viber/Whatsapp) [email protected]

17 days Manaslu Circuit Trek

(6) Review(s)
Group Size 2 and more
Mode of Travel Strenuous
Accommodation Hotel/Teahouse
Meals Full Board
Transportation Private Vehicle/Public Bus

trip Overview

Manaslu is a remote region hence the pristine nature and the unexplored beauty of this region are mesmerizing. This is the least explored trek due to its remoteness and only in the 90s this trek region was opened for exploration. Slowly, the popularity of the trek in the Manaslu region is growing. It is the best choice for trekkers who prefer authentic natural beauty, peaceful trekking, and some cultural experiences. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that takes trekkers to the maximum elevation of 5,106 m (Larkya La Pass) but it is completely worth it. Solo trekking is not allowed as it is an off-beat trekking and requires a Manaslu restricted area permit along with ACAP and Manaslu Conservation Area to trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek via Larkya Pass journeys you through lowlands and low-altitude villages, high-altitude settlements, and alpine pastures. It takes you through banks of rivers and roaring fountains, in a Manaslu region with untouched nature and varying cultures and ethnicities. Our trek brings a deep experience of the high mountain region, sublime mountain sceneries, and varying flora and fauna. A different experience from that of popular Annapurna and Everest region treks. Find what is rural in Nepal in the true sense of the term. Named after Mt. Manaslu (8,188m), the world’s 8th highest peak, the trek also has its spirited adventure sections. You won’t mistake it, especially at the time of crossing Larkya/Larke La Pass.

The trek usually starts at Soti Khola via Arughat and gradually ascends to Larkya La Pass (5,106m) traversing several settlements. Then, descends again to an end at Syange village near Besishahar. Since Besisahar is the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit, you can also combine Manaslu Circuit Trek with Annapurna Circuit Trek, and enjoy the best of Manaslu Annapurna regions. Grand views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Hiunchuli, and numerous other peaks of the Nepal Himalaya help you get memories to last over your life. Also, experience the typical Nepalese rural life during this rustic journey.

Manaslu Circuit Trek can be combined with Tsum Valley Trek. Besides this, in the Manaslu region, trekkers have numerous options such as the Manaslu Two Passes Trek, Manaslu Rupina La Pass Trek, and Tsum Valley Trek.

Trek Route of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu is a remote region hence there are no airways. The roadway is the only main route for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Soti Khola is the starting point and Besisahar is the ending point for this trek.

Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The remoteness of the Manaslu region is a unique attraction to witness the pristine nature of this region. It is more enjoyable during the best months i.e. March to May and September to November of the year. During these months, the weather is favorable and the temperature is stable. The day temperature is warm and cold at night and early morning. It gets colder as the elevation rises. And, the trails are comfortable to walk adoring the picturesque beauty of the surroundings. Flowers bloom from March to May and the trails are covered with seasonal blossoming flowers. The skies are bright and clear which is a pleasant experience for trekkers during this trek.

The rainy season (Jun-Aug) and winter season (Dec-Feb) are not considered best for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since the region is remote, the availability of the teahouses and facilities is limited. Also, due to extreme cold many places are covered with snow. Thus, the region is closed for trekking when there is heavy snowfall and the trail becomes blocked during the winter season. The trails get slippery due to heavy rainfall and chances of landslides during the rainy season. Thus, it is riskier to trek in the Manaslu region in the rainy and winter seasons and only recommended for experienced trekkers with proper preparation and planning.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Facts

Trek Start: Soti Khola
Trek End: Besisahar
Max. Elevation: 5,106m (Larke La Pass)
Trek Route:
Soti Khola- Machha Khola- Jagat- Ngyak- Ghap-Lho- Sama Goan- Samdo-  Dharmashala- Larke La Pass- Bimthang- Tilije- Tal- Besisahar Trek Route of Annapurna Base Camp

Itinerary

30 min Hotel

An Outdoor Himalayan Treks staff, waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, will meet and greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. You will rest and relax for the rest of the day in the hotel.


Shortly after breakfast in the morning, you will meet your trekking team, including the trek guide, in our office. He will brief you about the trek. If you wish you will proceed on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu valley (Extra cost will be applied). We will cover as much of the UNESCO heritage sites that showcase the rich cultural heritage from medieval Nepal as possible during the sightseeing. We also complete all preparations for the trek during the day.


9 hrs Tea House

A long bus journey (nearly 9 hours) will take you Soti Khola, the point of departure of our trek. So we start from Kathmandu early in the morning at 7 o’clock. We spend night at Local Tea House.

(Private jeep is available with applicable extra cost)


5-6 hrs Teahouse

Short ups and downs as well as level walking along the Budi Gandaki River valley today brings us to our destination. We go down a little at first, and then climb over a mountain ridge at Almara. Walking through forest, we arrive at Riden Gaun and enter into the Budi Gandaki Valley to reach a little a further from Lapubesi to Machha Khola for overnight at Local Tea House.


6 hrs Teahouse

The total duration of the trek is about 6 hours. We walk along river banks and villages. We also meet a natural hot spring named “Tatopani.” Then under the cool shade of trees to reach “Dovan,” a confluence of two rivers. After we leave the Dovan, most of the day’s elevation gain follows, making a total change in the sceneries and surroundings as we move on and on. We spend our night in a local Tea House in Jagat.


6-7 hrs Teahouse

We gain a lot of elevation today in about 7 hours’ trek . We start to get enticing sceneries of mountains from different points along the trail, including that of Sringi Himal. As usual, we spend our night in a Local Tea House.


5-6 hrs Teahouse

Settlements are very few and far between as the altitude increases. We move up in the direction of the Deng River. The influence of Tibetan Buddhist culture begins to feel itself from Ghap with Mani walls and chortens. We continue our walk towards Namrung, where we move inside teahouse for our night stay.


5-6 hours Teahouse

We meet more settlements today than yesterday. Cross the Budhi Gandaki river, walk through settlements and terraced fields. Again cross another river— Hinan — and climb up to Sho. It is an excellent viewpoint, offering incredibly beautiful views of Manaslu, Manaslu North, and other peaks. We reach a tiny village called Lho for our night’s stopover.


5-6 hrs Teahouse

We move deep into the high mountain territories today. We walk on the debris of Pungen Glacier to reach a small village called Sama. From here, we move on about half an hour to reach Sama monastery. overnight at Local Teahouse.


A day’s break here is necessary to beat our fatigue and also to get our body used to the high altitude. But staying idle does not help in acclimatization, so the best way to keep ourselves fit for the days ahead is to walk around the area during daytime and take in the marvels of the Himalayas.


4-5 Hours Tea House

This is a short walking day, after breakfast, we will start our day to Smado. After having lunch at the lodge we can make a day trip around Samdo Gumba. Night at the tea house.


3-4 hrs Teahouse

More and more amazing spectacles unfold around us today. We are still following the Budhi Gandaki river, which changes now into a rather small stream. We leave the last settlement of the trail today at Sumdu to reach Dharmasala. But before that, we pass through a stream coming from Gya La, a pass leading into the Tibet, and also the ruins of Larkya Bazaar. This bazaar probably was a prosperous trading point with Tibet a few centuries ago. But after the opening of roads to link Nepal and Tibet, this place seems to have been abandoned.


8 -9 hrs Teahouse

Certainly one of the most adventurous days in the entire trek. After successfully climbing the pass, however you will hold your breath while soaking up the views of Himlung Mountain, Cheo Mountain, Kang Kuru, Annapurna II and many others. The descent on the other side is steep through glacial debris to Bhimphedi. Night in the Local Teahouse.


5-6 hrs Teahouse

As we start to come down to lower elevations, we again see farmlands and forests. This is the case today, as we pass alpine forests of rhododendron and fig trees to reach Tilje. Night in the Local Teahouse.


5 hrs Teahouse

We walk down the trail alongside the Marsyangdi River. After a short walk, we reach to Dharapani where we will find local rides to Besisahar. The local jeep journey takes 3-4 hours. Spend night at a hotel in Besisahar.


6-7 hrs Hotel

After breakfast, we return to Kathmandu in a long bus journey. It takes about 7 Hours Local bus drive.  after reaching to your Hotel, Outdoor Himalayan Treks offers you Typical Nepali Live cultural show Dinner at Typical Nepali Restaurant or meals of your preference.


We drop you to International Airport prior to your flight time. If you are extending your stay in Nepal, we will be still happy provide the service on your preferred day & time.


What's included

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis.
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Airport - hotel - airport transfers by private transportation, Kathmandu - Sotikhola and Tal-Besisahar by sharing jeep/bus, Besisahar - Kathmandu by public bus. (Private jeep from Kathmandu-Soti Khola, Dharapani-Beissahar-Kathmandu is available with applicable cost. If you are interested in the private ride, kindly let us know)
  • Documentation: Trekking permits (for Manaslu Restricted Area, Manaslu Conservation Area Project, Annapurna Conservation Area Project, TIMS)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking) and a porter for every 2 trekkers (each porter Carries up to 25 kilos), with their entire expenses covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges or fees. We hereby guarantee you no 'hidden charges' afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show or meal of your preference)
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf.

What's not included

  • Beverage (cold drinks, bottled mineral water, tea/coffee, alcoholic drinks etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (Such as extra meals/snacks/desserts, Hot Shower, Wi-fi,  Battery & device charging fees, photography charges, etc.)
  •  Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Tips to Guide/porters and any types of donations
  • Your travel insurance, Nepal visa & any airfares
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu & extra activities, Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu (Available with applicable extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

Trip Reviews

4.99/5 - Excellent Based on 6 Reviews


Our Manaslu Circuit Trek went perfectly

My acquaintance recommended this company for the Manaslu circuit trek. I went in a group of 2 with just me and my friend. Rammani completely took care of our logistics and all processes from beginning to end. Even in our WhatsApp conversation, he was very responsive and accommodating with everything we needed during the trek. Our experienced guide Subba took care of us as his family. He was warm, personable, cheerful, and easygoing throughout the whole trip. We felt safe with him the entire time. When I come back to Nepal to trek in the Himalayas, I will work with Outdoor Himalayan and hopefully get to hike with Subba again!



Perfect Manaslu Circuit Trekking

I fully recommend Outdoor as a company organizing the trek. With friends, I did a 9-day trek around Manaslu which was perfectly organized. We felt we had made a good choice selecting this as our travel partner as we were fully taken care of from the day we arrived. Fantastic guide.



Amazing Trip to Manaslu & Tsum Valley trek

My solo Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek with Outdoor was amazing and lovely. They are a very professional travel agency that arranges and handles everything for your journey. Also, my guide Arjun guided me through the trip with a lot of joy and knowledge. Strongly recommended.



India

Two amazing treks with Outdoor Himalayas

I had two amazing treks with Outdoor Himalayan Treks in 2018. On the first occasion, my wife and I went to Manaslu Circuit in May 2018 and in December 2018, went to Jiri from Gokyo. The dealings with Mr. Rammani Rijal were better as he was extremely trustworthy and honest.

My guide Rupak Rimal is fantastic and you can trust him. He saved me from an enormous rock fall while crossing the Larke La Pass. I will strongly recommend going with Rupak for a safe, fun-filled, and memorable trek. The Company is professional and trustworthy and it appears that they take good care of their employees as well. I also found that the rates charged by the company are competitive and their services excellent.

Overall you can trust the Outdoor team with your money, time, and holiday. Rupak, Ram, and other members of Outdoor Himalayan went out of their way to make us feel not like regular customers but as part of their family. So a big thank you.


Ofer-Fridberg


Australia

Manaslu circuit

Thank you Rammany (manager) Krishna (guide) and Prashkar (porter) on a wonderful Manaslu circuit trekking experience. Attention to details, great organisation skills, smooth and exceptional service, great mountain and trekking knowledge, social skills and just smiling faces- all contributed to our beautiful journey at the Manaslu region. Thank you guys- I can highly and truly recommend your services.


Guidelines

Accommodation

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Manaslu Circuit trek that provide basic facilities but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Read More


Meals

3-course full board meals are served during the Manaslu Circuit trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Since Manaslu is a Buddhist region, meats are prohibited in most of the regions. Read More


Drinking water

Drinking water during the Manaslu Circuit trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Read More


Transportation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Kathmandu-Soti Khola and Tal-Besisahar by sharing a jeep/bus
  • Besisahar - Kathmandu by public bus
  • (Private jeep from Kathmandu-Soti Khola, Dharapani-Besisahar-Kathmandu is available with applicable cost.)

Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit is a trek in the remote region and has limited facilities. Thus, the ideal seasons are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. Read More


Trekking Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek requires compulsory four permits i.e. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS). Read More


Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit trek is a difficult graded trek with a maximum elevation of 5,106 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for trekkers. Also, the region is remote with limited facilities. Read More


Altitude Sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek

The maximum elevation during the Manaslu Circuit trek is 5,106 m. Hence, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness and acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Read More


Fitness Level

Manaslu Circuit trek demands trekkers to have good fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, good physical fitness, and following the guide’s instructions Circuit Trek is achievable. Read More


Skills

Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points.


Travel Insurance

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Required Equipment/Gears

Manaslu Circuit is a difficult graded trek. Thus, it requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own. Read More


Documents required

Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
Travel Insurance
MCAP Permit and Restricted Area Permit
TIMS and ACAP


FAQs

What do you mean by Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world. It offers superb mountain views, diverse landscapes, and an immersive cultural experience.

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically takes around 14 to 17 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and pace. It involves trekking through challenging terrains, high mountain passes, and remote villages.

What is the best season to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The best season to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, providing the best trekking conditions.

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and previous trekking experience. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and rugged terrains. Proper acclimatization is crucial.

Are there teahouses or lodges along the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. However, the infrastructure is not as developed as in other popular trekking regions of Nepal. It is recommended to have a guide or porter for accommodation arrangements.

Is a special permit required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, a special trekking permit called the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), TIMS, and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory and it is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to its challenging nature and limited infrastructure. A guide can provide navigation assistance, cultural insights, and help with accommodation arrangements.

Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek independently?
No, you can’t independently trek Manaslu Circuit Trek as it is a restricted region and requires a compulsory guide.

Are there any altitude sickness risks on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as the trail reaches high altitudes. Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize the risk. It is advisable to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Are there any age restrictions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
There are no specific age restrictions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek but children below 15 require parental assistance. However, due to its challenging nature, it is recommended that trekkers be in good physical condition and have previous trekking experience.

What is the maximum altitude reached on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Larke/Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,106 m.

Is travel insurance necessary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, having travel insurance is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It should cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, loss of belongings, and other unforeseen circumstances. Make sure to read the policy carefully and check if it includes high-altitude trekking.

Are there any alternative routes or side trips on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, there are a few side trips and alternative routes that can be included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary. Some popular options include Tsum Valley, Pungyen Gompa, and Rupina La Pass.

What is the average daily walking distance on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The average daily walking distance on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately 10 to 15 km for about 5-6 hours daily. However, some sections may involve long hours of trekking.

Are there ATM facilities available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
No, there are no ATM facilities on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. It is advisable to carry enough cash (in Nepalese rupees) to cover your expenses throughout the trek, including accommodation, meals, and any emergencies.

Can I charge my electronic devices during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, most teahouses and lodges along the Manaslu Circuit Trek have to charge facilities available paying an additional cost. But at higher altitudes, it may be limited. Therefore, it is recommended to bring spare batteries or a portable power bank, as electricity availability may be inconsistent in some areas.

Are there any communication facilities available during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Communication facilities, such as mobile network coverage and Wi-Fi are limited along the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Is drinking water easily available on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, drinking water is readily available during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You can purchase bottled water at teahouses, but it is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or filters to minimize plastic waste and ensure safe drinking water.

Can I extend or customize the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be extended or customized according to your preferences. Discuss your requirements with a trekking agency or guide to tailor the itinerary to your needs.

CANCELLATION

  • Free cancellation up to 60 days prior departure
  • 30% of the total cost of the trip will be charged if cancelled between 60 to 30 days prior to departure date
  • 60% of total cost of the trip will be charged if cancelled in between 30 to 14 days prior to departure date. 
  • No refund will be provided if cancelled within 14 days prior of departure date.
  • No refunded will be provided if the guest will not show up. 
  • Regrettably, in case where the trek/tour can not be completed due to customer's own problem or sickness or unfavourable weather there will be no refund. 
  • If the trekking/tour is extended more than given itinerary extra charge will be applied accordingly 
  • If the agreed trip can not be organised due to bad weather or any unforeseen events, similar trip will be organised (in the mutual understanding with the travellers)