Owner led Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026/27

The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be said the best trek in Nepal. While trekking you will be around the Manaslu Conservation Area and a magnificent view of the 8^th highest mountain in the world.

Manaslu Circuit Trek can be an exceptional if you’ve already done Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a 14 days trek that starts from Soti Khola and ends at Besi Sahar. But we can extend to 22 days with an additional side trek to the Tsum valley.

The trek is far less crowded than Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit. The trek is wild and remote with culturally enrich, yet you can get tea houses at every stage so trekkers don’t need to carry tents and food on this trail.

The trail goes through the lowlands with their rice and millet terraces along deep and long river gorges of the Budi Gandaki with suspensions bridge and amazing waterfalls. In yearly monsoon, minor bridges washed away so trekkers use semi-submerged rocks.

You will follow the way North slowly to the snowcapped Larkya La Pass next to the Tibetan border. The problem here is altitude but you will ignore with the amazing views of Manaslu. At 5,167 meters/16,952 feet, you can see Larkya La pass covering with snow and Ice. While descending, Micro crampons are often used. It’s better to start trek at 3am early in the morning to pass the highest point before the winds come, usually around mid-morning.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Manaslu Conservation Area in Nepal. It is named after Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, which stands at an impressive height of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). The trek offers stunning views of snowcapped mountain, diverse landscapes, immersive cultural experiences and a sense of remote Himalayan wildlife.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging and remote trek, attracting trekkers who are seeking a less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna and Everest regions. The trek takes you through pristine valleys, lush forests, terraced fields, and remote villages, offering an immersive experience in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

The trek usually starts from the town of Soti Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki River. As you ascend, you will pass through charming villages inhabited by different ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Sherpas, who have their unique cultures, traditions, and architectural styles. These villages provide an opportunity to witness the traditional rural lifestyle of the people living in the Himalayan region.

While trekking, you will discover suspension bridges, cascading waterfalls, and stunning view of alpine environment. The trail gradually gains altitude, reaching its highest point at Larkya La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). Crossing this pass is a challenging but rewarding experience, as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu itself.

The Manaslu region is known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. This is the Conservation Area where we can see several endangered species, such as the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda. Trekkers may also come across various bird species and other wildlife during their journey.

The duration of the Manaslu Trek can vary depending on the itinerary and individual preferences, but it typically takes around 14 to 18 days to complete. It is necessary to obtain a special permit to trek in the Manaslu region, and trekking with a registered guide is mandatory to ensure safety and minimize the impact on the environment.

Overall, the Manaslu Trek offers a remarkable trekking experience, combining stunning natural landscapes, cultural encounters, and a sense of adventure in a relatively unspoiled and less crowded part of the Nepalese Himalayas. It is a great choice for trekkers looking for a challenging and off-the-beaten-path adventure.

How you can be prepared for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Before you lace up your trekking boots and embark on this incredible journey, here is a comprehensive guide to help you prepare:

Physical Fitness:
Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging for trekkers who have trekking experience in trekking. In some of the trekking day, you may need to walk for 10 hours also. You need to walk on rocky moraine, boulder field and climb steep uphill which is physically demanding. This trek is manageable if you have already completed treks like the Langtang Valley or Annapurna Base Camp but still challenging. You must do pre-trek preparation 3 months before your trek starts. Perform cardio exercises such as cycling, staircase climbing, walking, hiking, etc. Additionally, you must perform squats and lunges to strengthen your legs.
Mental Preparation:
Only physical fitness is not enough for this challenging trek. You must be mentally prepared to complete it. If you have already trekked in Everest Region and Manaslu Region then also you would feel diificult. While trekking, you may encounter extreme whether near Larkya La Pass area. You need to walk on the narrow cliffside trails, loose rocky trail, climb on the stone staircase. When you reach to higher altitude of Manaslu Region, there is no well marked trail. Sometimes, you may feel to give up so, you must be mentally prepared to complete this trek successfully.

Acclimatization:
As we know, altitude sickness is a real concern during high-altitude treks. It is very to properly acclimatize by gradually ascending and taking rest days at higher elevations. You must follow the recommended itinerary with acclimatization days which helps your body to adapt the environment of higher altitude.
Research and Planning:
Researching the weather conditions, obtaining necessary permits, and choosing the right gear are all vital aspects of planning your trek. Reliable trekking companies like Nepal trekscape can guide you through this process and ensure a remarkable and safe adventure.

Why Nepal Trekscape for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The main fundamental of every Manaslu Region trek we organize depend upon experience, safety and transparency. Here is why you can trek with us.

Owner led trek

Nepal Trekscape never hire guide to trek in Manaslu Region as it is the most challenging trek. We do not believe in the outsourcing. This trek is led by owner of Nepal Trekscape who is also experience trekking guide. He has more than 15 years of experience in trekking to Manaslu Region too. He is passionate trekking guide who treat every guest as like a family. Additionally, he had led many independent treks to Manaslu Region successfully. As a responsible guide, he ensures your safety while you are trekking and exploring Lower Manaslu and Upper Manaslu Region.

trekkers holding banner of Nepal Trekscape on the way of Manaslu Base Camp — Trekkers holding banner of Nepal Trekscape on the way of Manaslu Base Camp

Acclimatization Protocol

Owner of Nepal Trekscape follows proven acclimatization protocol in order to train your body to adapt the environment of high altitude. Acclimatization plays the significant role to make your trek successful yet enjoyable by preventing altitude sickness.

When we trek from Deng to Namrung (2630 m), there is slight gain of altitude by 770 meters. Here we walk in slow pace and take short breaks frequently and we stay overnight at here. We take nutritious dinner here and give our body time to acclimatize.

When you reach to high altitude stops i.e, Lho village (3180 m), and Sama Gaun (3520 m), your lead guide Ajit Adhikari will monitor whether your body shows first sign of altitude stress or not. These zone above 2500 m altitude are prone to altitude sickness.

During acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m) and Tibetan Border (5175 m) or Samdo Peak (5177 m), your lead guide will observe how your body reacts at higher elevation before returning to lower elevation to sleep. In this way,owner of Nepal Trekscape have developed acclimatization protocol based on “Climb High, Sleep Low”, Hydration and Nutrition, Rest Days.

When you are about to conquer the Larkya La Pass, your lead guide will examine whether your oxygen level remain safe or not.

Continuous Health Monitoring

Owner of Nepal Trekscape continuously monitor your health condition using oximeter from Namche Bazar. Above 3,000 meters, there is a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Oxygen availability is much lower than at sea level and your body will experience significant drops in oxygen saturation.

Owner use oximeter to detect falling oxygen saturation early. Output of oximeter helps him to make timely decisions whether to descend or take rest in same altitude.

He doesn’t just check once in a day but they check twice daily throughout your trek, every morning and every evening after your dinner. Sometimes, if he sees you are feeling difficulty then he checks your oxygen saturation frequently. Your health is his first priority.

Transparency in trek arrangement cost

Nepal Trekscape provide you detail of the cost for food, accommodation, transportation, guide service, porter service, permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trek. We operate your trek with transparency. We try our best to organize your trek in budget without compromising quality of our trekking service.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits:

To trek in the Manaslu Region, you will need the following permits:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
During peak season September, October and November, this permit costs around USD $100 for first 7 days and for each extra day you have to pay USD $15. Likewise, during off season (December to August), this permit costs around USD $75 for first 7 days and for each extra day you have to pay USD $10.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):
This permit costs around USD $30 which is required to enter inside the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
This permit also costs around USD $30 which is required to enter inside the Dharapani to Besisahar section.
Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Permit:
This permit costs around NPR 1,000 (approx. $7-8 USD) which is considered as Local entry permit.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty:

The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered as the moderate to challenging trek due to the high altitude. The trails can be steep and uneven, and the weather conditions can be unpredictable at Larkya La Pass region. However, the breathtaking scenery and the sense of accomplishment make it a truly rewarding experience while trekking the Manaslu Region.

While some trekking experience is mandatory to complete this trek successfully, a good level of physical fitness is more important. Following a proper training program as your pre-trek preparation and allowing enough time for acclimatization are essential for a successful and enjoyable trek.

Travel Insurance:

Adequate travel insurance is vital for any trek in the high-altitude trek. It should cover medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and loss of baggage. Ensure your chosen insurance policy covers high-altitude trekking and includes a helicopter evacuation clause in case of emergencies.

Best Time to trek to Manaslu Circuit:

Due to global warming, there is shift in the trekking season of Manaslu Ciruit. Currently, monsoon stays till early October. Late October November and December are considered as the best Time to trek to Manaslu Circuit. These month of Autumn season offers the stable weather, clear skies, dry trails and clear visibility of snowcapped mountain although the nights are cold.

Larkya La are covered with snow sometimes till March. Ideal month to trek to Manaslu Circuit is April you want to trek in Spring season. During April, weather is warm and you can observe Rhododendron Forest full of bloom.

Accommodation and Meals During the Trek:

On the Manaslu Circuit trek, you will be staying in teahouses. These are basic lodges run by local families, offering comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. Most teahouses provide basic amenities like blankets and pillows. However, it’s recommended to bring a sleeping bag liner for added comfort.

Meals during the trek are typically included in your trek package. Teahouses offer a variety of options, including local Nepali cuisine like Dal Bhat (lentil soup and rice), fried rice and egg. Tibetan influenced dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup), Tibetan bread, momo and some Western dishes like pasta, pancake and oatmeal.

Trekking Gears Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters to carry all your essential gear.
Hiking Boots: Durable and waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for navigating the uneven and sometimes rocky terrain.
Clothing:
- Base Layers: Pack moisture-wicking thermals (tops and bottoms) for optimal temperature regulation.
- Mid-Layers: Fleece jackets or sweaters for warmth during cooler mornings and evenings.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket and pants are essential for unpredictable weather conditions.
- Additional Clothing: Pack trekking shirts, quick-drying pants, a hat, sunglasses, and gloves for varying temperatures.
Sleeping Gear: A sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C (14°F) is recommended for the higher altitudes. Consider bringing a sleeping bag liner for added warmth and hygiene.
Trekking Poles: These poles will provide stability and support, especially on descents and uneven terrain.
Headlamp: A headlamp with extra batteries is essential for navigating in low-light conditions during early mornings and evenings.
Water Bottle and Purification Tablets: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes. Bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets to treat water throughout the trek.
Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen with a high SPF rating, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh Himalayan sun.
First-Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries and ailments on the trek.
Toiletries and Medications: Pack essential toiletries, personal medications, and any blister prevention products you might need.
Camera: Capture the breathtaking scenery and document your incredible journey. Ensure you have extra batteries and a memory card.
Cash: While most expenses are covered in the trek package, carrying some extra cash for snacks, drinks, souvenirs, or tipping the guides and porters is recommended. ATMs are not readily available in the Everest region, so plan accordingly.

Additional Tips:

Pack light: Remember, you’ll be carrying your backpack throughout the trek. Choose lightweight clothing and gear whenever possible.
Layers are key: Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
Acclimatize properly: Take rest days and ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude.
Respect the environment: Practice responsible tourism by minimizing waste and respecting the local culture.

Trekkers holding banner of Nepal Trekscape on the way to Pungyen Gompa

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

What Manaslu Circuit Trek offers?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is the most challenging trek in comparison to other popular trekking route like Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. Trekkers can experience the remote Himalayan wilderness. Additionally, trekkers can get insight about the culture and tradition of the indigenous people of this region.

If you are an intermediate trekker and willing to complete Manaslu Circuit Trek then it offers: –

Explore Ribung Monastery
Explore Manaslu Base Camp
Explore Bhimthang Valley
Explore Traditional Tibetan Village (Lho, Sama Gaun and Samdo)
Explore Gurung Village (Tilije)
Explore 400 years old Monastery (Pungyen Gompa)
Conquer Larkya La Pass
Experience the daily lifestyle of Local People
Explore the Tibetan Border and view the landscape of Tibet from Nepal side
Experience the warm hospitality offered by indigenous people of Manaslu Region
Taste the local cuisine offered by indigenous people of Manaslu Region

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1345 m) and transfer to the hotel

You will land to Tribhuvan International Airport and Nepal Trekscape’s owner will come there to welcome you and drop you off at the hotel. In this day, we will verify whether you have all the essential gears required during trek. If you have miss to bring any of the essential gears then you can buy on this day. In the evening you will be served welcome dinner and you can discuss about the itinerary if you have any queries with lead guide and owner of Nepal Trekscape, Ajit Adhikari.

Max Altitude: 1345 m | Accommodation: 3-star hotel | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 02 :

Kathmandu to Maccha Khola (930 m / 3051 ft -7 hrs) Drive

After having breakfast, we will take a private 4WD vehicle to depart from Kathmandu valley. We will have a scenic drive from Kathmandu for 3 to 4 hours on a paved highway to Dhading Besi.

Now we will drive towards Arughat Bazaar following the Budhi Gandaki River valley. Now the terrain traversed to unpaved and narrow dirt road. On the way, we can see the steep cliffs.

After sometime, we will reach to the Soti Khola. Now, the terrain traversed to the rocky riverbed. While on the drive vehicle frequently tilt left and right which tends us to bounce up and down. It feels like we are on a bumpy roller coaster. After some hours of driving, we will reach to small village called Machha Khola.

Max Altitude: 930 m | Accommodation: Tea House| Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 03 :

Maccha Khola to Jagat (1340 m /4396 ft - 6 hrs)

Today we will trek for 6 to 7 hours depending on our pace of walking. After taking breakfast, we follow the sandy riverbed trail and after 1 hour of trek we will reach to Khorlabesi (970 m). On the way, we will encounter wild marijuana plant growing naturally.

From Khorlabesi, the terrain traversed too rocky and exposed. We will walk onto the narrow cliffside trail. On the way, we will encounter natural hot spring where we can soak our tired feet.

After sometimes, trail traversed to the steep stone steps. We will continue our trek and pass landslide prone areas. We will reach to Dobhan where two rivers meet. We will stop here to take our lunch in the teahouse.

From Dobhan, we will cross the suspension bridge and follow the trails continuing through forest and rocky cliff along the Budhi Gandaki River. During the continuation if our trek, we will pass through traditional village where Magar and Gurung people stay. After sometimes, trail traversed to gentle and easy free from big rocks. We will walk through terraced field.

After sometime, we will reach to beautiful village called Jagat. This village is considered as the entry checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area. Required permits of the trekkers are checked here.

Max Altitude: 1340 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 04 :

Jagat to Deng (1860 m / 6102 ft - 6 hrs)

After having breakfast, we cross the suspension bridge and descent from Jagat towards the Budhi Gandaki River. We will walk onto the trail following river valley. Then, we will pass through small settlement and terraced field. Within an hour, we will reach to Salleri, where we are greeted by Shringi Himal (7187 m) towering above the millet and rice field.

During the continuation of the trail, we will discover Ghatta Khola from where trail gradually ascends through forested hillside to Philim. It is a larger village which offers the cluster view of traditional stone houses. It is considered as the checkpoint where Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permits are verified. We will stop here for a while to take lunch.

From Philim, we will follow the trail inside the dense rhododendron, pine and bamboo forest. We will often encounter mules while following the trail of Philim. We should always stand on mountain side to give them pass. During the continuation of the trail we will pass through Sirdibas where we can observe the mani walls and prayer flags. This place is influenced by Tibetan culture. After sometime, we will reach to Nyak Phedi.

From Nayak Phedi, we will continue the trail inside bamboo and pine forest alongside the Deng River. After walking for 1 to 2 hours depending on our pace, we will reach to Deng Village (1860 m) which is considered as the historic settlement. It has very limited teahouse. This village offers the panoramic view of Annapurna II and Ganesh Himal. Today, we will stay overnight here.

Max Altitude: 1860 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 05 :

Deng to Namrung (2,630 m / 8628 ft - 6 hrs)

After taking breakfast, we will cross the bridge over river then we will follow the trail inside bamboo and pine forest. After walking for 1.5 to 2 hours, we will reach to small village known as Rana where we can view the house made up of stone. Similarly, after walking for 3 to 4 hours, we will reach to Bihi Phedi where we can discover the first sign of Tibetan Buddhist culture. When we look around the trail of this village, we will see Mani walls, Prayer flags and Chortens.

Between Bihi Phedi and Ghap, trail traverse to lose and sandy then we will cross a landslide section. There is also upper path route available which goes round the landslide. Our lead guide, Ajit will assess the condition and select the safest way. Here, we should walk slowly and follow the guidance of our lead guide.

After sometime, we will reach to Ghap (2060 m) where we will take our lunch. After having lunch, we will follow the trail inside dense rhododendron, oak and pine forest where we can see several waterfalls.

Now, we will climb steep uphill for approximately 2 hours. Here, the trail traversed to steep and rocky. Then just before reaching the village, we follow steep downhill trail. We arrive at Namrung (2630 m) which is considered as very old and historic village. Long time ago, traders use the trail of this village to carry salt from Tibet to Nepal. We will stay overnight here in the teahouse.

Max Altitude: 2630 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 06 :

Namrung to Lho (3180 m / 10,433 ft - 4 hrs)

After having breakfast, we will follow the well-defined trail through a forest of pine and rhododendron trees. While following the trail, we will see mani walls made up of stone inscribed with prayers. Then we will climb gentle uphill which is not too steep.

After sometime we will pass through small settlement of Banjam. Then we will reach to Lihi (2900 m) village where we can see houses made of stone and mountain views emerging on the horizon.

From Lihi, we will descend downhill trail and cross the Hinang Khola through suspension bridge. Then we will ascend to Sho village (2880 m).

As we approach closer to Sho, the trail opens up and offers the stunning views of massive north face of Mount Manaslu (8163 m) for the first time. We can also see the Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli.

Now, we will follow the trail passing through fields and Mani walls to reach Lho (3180 m). Above the village of Lho, Ribung Monastry is built from where we can see the sunrise view of Manaslu. We will stay overnight here. This village is considered as the critical acclimatization stop before we ascend to Sama Gaun and Larkya La Pass.

Max Altitude: 3180 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 07 :

Lho to Sama Gaun (3530 m / 11,581 ft - 4 hrs)

We will wake up early in the morning then climb uphill approximately for 30 minutes to reach Ribung Monastry from Lho village. This hilltop monastery offers view of sunrise over Mount Manaslu. We can also listen morning prayer chanted by monk.

After spending sometime in Ribum Monastry, we will again descend back to teahouse of Lho. We will take breakfast then follow trail heading towards river. We will cross small stream and then we will climb gently uphill through open terrain. Within an hour we will reach to Shyala lies at elevation between 3500 m to 3550 m. It is a small settlement in an open meadow where very few teahouses are constructed. Trekkers mainly stop here to sip a cup of tea and take rest for short period of time.

Shyala offers the stunning view of giant peak, Ngadi Chuli (7871 m). If the weather is clear, we are greeted of stunning views of Himalchuli, Manaslu, Naike Peak and Simnang Himal.

From Shyala, we will cross 2 suspension bridge over dry riverbeds then we will walk on the rolling meadow where we can also see yak grazing.

After walking gently downhill, we will reach to Sama Gaun which is the biggest village in the Upper Manaslu Region. Today we will stay overnight in the teahouse of this village.

Max Altitude: 3530 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 08 :

Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaun

Today is the acclimatization day at Sama Gaun. We stay in this village to acclimatize our body to adapt the environment of higher altitude like Larkya La Pass (5160 m). We will follow the principle of “Climb High, Sleep Low”. During day time we will hike to higher altitude places and we will hike to Sama Gaun to stay overnight.

After having breakfast, we will hike to Manaslu Base Camp. Trail traversed to steep and rocky, we will walk on moraine. During spring, trail may be covered with snow. After walking for 4 to 5 hours depending on our pace, we will reach to Manaslu Base Camp. During September or October, you may get chance to meet with mountaineers who are willing to climb Mount Manaslu.

We will again return back to Sama Gaun. Then we will visit Sama Gaun Monastery. If we reach this monastery by late afternoon, then we can see sunset over Mount Manaslu and its color traversed into pink and gold.

We will also explore area of Sama Gaun village where we can see Mani walls, Chorten and colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind. On the way, we will also interact with the local people.

Max Altitude: 4800 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 09 :

Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,875 m / 12,713 ft - 3 hrs)

After having breakfast, we will leave Sama Gaun and enter to the trail of wide and open valley following Budhi Gandaki River. Vegetation traversed too sparse here. After crossing Budhi Gandaki River via wooden suspension bridge, we will climb steep section of the day. After 30 to 45 minutes of steep climb via narrow switchback up a hill side we will reach to Samdo village.

Samdo village is considered as last permanent settlement before reaching Larkya La Pass. This village offers the scenic view of house made up of stone with flat roofs. We can also see the prayer flags flapping in the wind. Actually, Samdo means places of three trails and long time ago traders use these three different trails as trade route to Tibet, Manaslu and Budhi Gandaki valley.

Indigenous people of this village are Khampa people who came from Tibet. They offer the warm hospitality and may serve butter tea with smile to exhausted trekkers. Today we will stay overnight here.

Max Altitude: 3875 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 10 :

Acclimatization day at Samdo

Today is the acclimatization day at Samdo. We have two choices for hiking.

Option A: Hike to the Tibetan Border (5175 m)

Hike to Tibetan Border takes around 8 to 10 hours round trip. We will follow the path through open and windy land where there are no trees. During continuation of the path, we will pass yak pasture and prayer flags flapping in the wind everywhere. Trail following Tibetan border is very old as herders and traders used to use this trail to supply salt, wool and other required goods between Nepal and Tibet.

When we reach to Tibetan Border, we would see Tibetan pillar. Today’s hike to Tibetan border prepares our body to adjust the environment of Larkya La Pass. After spending some period of time, we will return back to Samdo to stay overnight.

Option B: Hike to Samdo Peak (5177 m)

Hike to Samdo Peak takes about 2 hours round trip. We will climb steep uphill about 300 to 400 m. On the way, we will pass through yak grazing areas.

When we reach at the top of the Samdo peak, we are greeted by the stunning views of Manaslu, Naike Peak and other snowcapped mountain.

After spending some period of time at Samdo Peak, we will return back to Samdo village to stay overnight.

Day 11 :

Samdo to Dharmashala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft - 4 hrs)

After having breakfast, we will leave Samdo. We will walk on the trail following Budhi Gandaki River through barren and rocky landscape.

After walking approximately for 1.5 to 2 hours, we will reach to Larkya Bazaar (4090 m) where long time ago merchant used to gather to exchange good at season. We will continue the trail following Larkya khola for an hour. Then we will reach to Dharmashala which is very important acclimatization stop before crossing Larkya La Pass.

Max Altitude: 4460 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 12 :

Dharmasala to Bhimthang through Larkya La Pass

Today, we will wake up early in the morning in between 4 am to 5 am. Then we will follow the steady and gradual trail. Land is almost barren and rocky where there are no trees and grasses. After walking approximately for 2 hours, we will pass the four small lakes which are covered with snow even in the summer.

After crossing four frozen lakes, we will approach to most challenging terrain on the whole circuit: boulder field. It is the big area covered with large rocks as big as houses with no clear trail to follow.

After climbing for 4 to 5 hours, we will finally reach to top of the Larkya La Pass which is considered as the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit. We can view colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind. We are also greeted by the stunning views of Himlung Himal (7126 m), Cheo Himal (6820 m), Kang Kuru (6981 m), Annapurna II (7937 m) and Manaslu (8163 m).

From Larkya La Pass, we will descent to Bhimthang. Trail is steep and the section consists small broken rocks. We must use trekking poles as the surface is slippery. As we go down, we will explore the red-rock valley where yak graze beside the glacial streams. We can see the stunning views of Peri Himal and Lamjung Himal towering above us.

After walking for 3 to 4 hours, we will reach to Bhimthang (3590 m) which is the most beautiful valley on the whole trek. We will stay overnight here.

Max Altitude: 5106 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 13 :

Bimthang to Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft -7 hrs)

Today is the last day of our trekking in the Manaslu Region. After having breakfast, we will depart Bhimthang. We will walk on the downhill trail following river, Dudh khola. Then we will follow the trail inside dense forest which have pine trees, rhododendron bushes and oak trees.

After walking for about 1.5 to 2 hours, we will arrive to place called Yak Kharka where animals graze. We take short rest here and drink water to stay hydrated.

From Yak Kharka, we will cross the landslide zone to reach Goa village (also called Gho village). We stop in this village to take lunch. After lunch, we will follow the wider and flatter trail for 1.5 hours to 2 hours to reach Tilije Village. This is the large village where we can see stone houses with flat roofs, teahouse and prayer flags flapping in the field.

From Tilije, we will walk for about 1 to 1.5 hours and cross the suspension bridge over Dudh Khola River to reach Dharapani.

Dharapani is also big village where many teahouses and Lodges are there. It is considered as the checkpoint where ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permits are verified.

Max Altitude: 1860 m | Accommodation: Tea house | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 14 :

Dharapani to Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft -10 hrs) Drive

From today you will finish your Trek. You will directly take a jeep from Dharapani to Kathmandu. After the 8 to 9 hours’ drive from Beshi Sahar, you will stay in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1300 m | Accommodation: 3-star Hotel | Meal: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

Is the Manaslu Circuit feasible for beginner trekkers?

No, the Manaslu Circuit is not feasible for beginner trekkers as it is moderate to challenging trek. Person who have no trekking experience will find it tough to complete it.

You must have:

Good physical fitness to walk for 6 to 8 hours daily.

Must have experience with moderate-altitude trek like Langtang Valley trek or Annapurna Base Camp trek

Do I need to hire guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, you must hire guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Manaslu Region is restricted area and without licensed guide you cannot trek inside this region.

How do I obtain Permit?

You can obtain permit with the help of registered trekking agency like Nepal Trekscape.

Is there a risk of altitude sickness while trekking in Manaslu Region?

Absolutely, there is always inherent risk of altitude sickness when you ascend to higher altitude of Manaslu Region. When you stay overnight above 4500 m altitude at Dharmashala and conquer Larkya La Pass, you must watch symptoms such as: fatigue, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, shortness of breath even while resting, etc. These symptoms can be cured if you follow proper acclimatization day activities. You might also need to take Diamox.

If you are suffering from symptoms like vomiting, confusion and loss of coordination then you have to immediately descend to lower altitude.

Why do I need travel insurance?

You need travel insurance because of the following reasons:

If your health condition gets worse due to altitude sickness then travel insurance is required for emergency helicopter evacuation.
To cover the expense of trip if it is cancelled.
To cover the medical expense.

What if I suffer from altitude sickness while trekking in Manaslu Region?

If you suffer from altitude sickness while trekking in Manaslu Region, your lead guide Ajit Adhikari will assist you. If symptoms like fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, etc are seen in you then he will immediately descend you to lower altitude and allows you to take rest and hydrate.

If you are in high altitude and your health condition, get worsen then he would arrange a helicopter evacuation and then hospitalize you.

Can I charge my mobile at Manaslu Region?

Yes, you can charge your mobile at teahouse of Manaslu Region after paying certain charge. But we recommend you to carry powerbank.

Do I get Wi-Fi facility on the trail of Manaslu Circuit?

Wi-Fi is very limited and unreliable on the trail of Manaslu Circuit. We advise you not to depend on it. You must plan to be offline while trekking.

Is there ATM available on the trail of Manaslu Region?

No, there is not ATM available on the trail of Manaslu Region. You must withdraw required cash from Kathmandu. We advise you to carry Nepali rupees.

Can I take shower on the trail of Manaslu Circuit?

In the Lower Manaslu Region, shower is usually free. In the mid Manaslu Region (Namrung to Sama Gaun), you must pay extra charge to take shower.

Likewise, in the Upper Manaslu Region (Samdo, Dharmashala), it is very cold and there is no shower facility. When to reach to Bhimthang, Goa and Dharapani you can again take shower by paying extra charges.

Is Manaslu Circuit crowded like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp?

No, trek to Manaslu circuit is not crowded like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp. Approximately, 2000 to 3000 trekkers trek inside Manaslu Region every year.

Can I add Tsum valley side trip in the Manaslu Circuit Package?

Yes, you can add Tsum valley side trip in the Manaslu Circuit package. It needs additional trekking days and requires separate Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit.

Can I trek solo in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

No, solo trekking is not allowed for Manaslu circuit trek. You must trek with a group of at least two people.

During acclimatization day at Samdo, which hike should I choose between Tibetan Border and Samdo Peak?

If you are strong walker and can walk for 8 to 10 hours round trip then you must choose hike to Tibetan Border. It allows you to see landscape of Tibet and Tibetan Pillar. But you cannot cross into Tibet but can only look from the Nepal side.

If you want short hike and cannot walk for 8 to 10 hours, then you should choose Samdo Peak. This hike offers you to view Manaslu, Naike Peak, Himchuli and other snowcapped mountain.

Owner led Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026/27

How you can be prepared for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Physical Fitness:

Mental Preparation:

Acclimatization:

Research and Planning: