Manaslu Trek A Complete Guide

11th Feb, 2025

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal offers an immersive adventure through remote landscapes and rich cultural experiences. The cost of this trek varies based on factors such as the trekking agency, group size, duration, and the level of service provided.

Trek Itinerary :

There are two different trekking itineraries for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Complete Manaslu Circuit Trek. Your choice depends on your hiking experience, allowing you to select the one that best suits your skill level.Manaslu Circuit Short Trek

Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu via respective airlines and transfer to hotel.
On the first arrival at Kathmandu International Airport received Mountain Eco Trek staff and a guide for a short transfer to your hotels. After getting refreshed and checking the nice rooms, in the evening Trek briefing by our guide and leaders. The guide provides full information and details regarding the trek, trails, culture, and views with dose and don’t.
Day 2 : Drive to Machha Khola 900 m / 2,952 feet approx. 8 hours.
Morning started as early as possible, for a long exciting drive to Nepal Mid-West around the district of Gorkha. Reaching Machha-Khola a small rural farm village to start the trek. Drive leads beyond Kathmandu valley and to low warm farm areas, village. As drive enters Gorkha district at Arughat town, located on the shelf of Buri-Gandaki River.From Arughat, on new constructed dirt road to Machha Khola village for overnight stop, Machha Khola means a stream of fish, which flows nearby to join Buri-Gandaki River.
Day 3 : Trek to Jagat 1,340 m -06 hours walks.
After a long drive with pleasant overnight at Machha Khola, morning walk leads north, following the Buri-Gandaki River for some hours. The trail enter nice cool forest of pines and Sal trees, reaching Tatopani a place with natural hot spring.As walk proceeds with climb to cooler hills and finally the day ends at Jagat. A moderate size village populated with mixed tribes of hill people, and a blend of both Hindu and Buddhism religions. Check into a nice lodge, having time to browse the village market with many shops, stores and lodges.
Day 4 : Trek to Deng 1,860 m via Philim village-06 hours.
Jagat village is also the entry point of Restricted Area of Upper Manaslu, where Trekkers need special trekking permits. Including MCA and ACAP entrance tickets for Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation.From Jagat walk follows to gradual climb into forest to Philim, a nice spread-out village with neat farm terraces. Growing maize, millets and wheat a possible lunch stop. Afternoon head for the climb past smaller hamlets and farm areas and into cool shade of pine, bamboo and rhododendron forest. As the walk get better on winding gradual climb Deng. A nice small village from here onwards one can notice more of strong Buddhist culture similar to Tibetan heritage custom. At Deng overnight in a simple nice lodge with time to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape views.
Day 5 : Trek to Namrung 2, 900 m-05 hours.
The walk gets better within cool shade of forest, as trail leads to some steep climb and then down to a stream. Reaching close to Buri-Gandaki River with uphill into dense forest of pines and rhododendron. The elevation gains gradually then coming across farm areas, after a good day walk reaching Namrung, a nice small village for overnight halt. From Namrung enjoy the view of Manaslu Himal range as far towards Ganesh Himal.
Day 6 : Trek to Sama-Gaon 3, 500 m /11, 480 feet via Lo-Gaon -08 hours.
Get ready for the long day walk to reach Sama-Gaon from Namrung village, a steep climb into lovely forest of pines and rhododendron tree line.The trail leads above Buri-Gandaki River, as walk heads to short down and then on gradual winding trail to L-Gaon. One of the main and nice village of Upper Manaslu region, enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Manaslu with Sringi and
Bauddha Himal.
After a short rest and time permitting for lunch break or refreshing drinks walk continues towards Sama-Gaon. Following a high trail past smaller settlements of Yak herder temporary summer shelters facing views of Manaslu Himalaya range, and then reaching at Sama-Gaon for two overnights stops.Sama Gaon the main settlements which leads also leads to Manaslu Base Camp
and to Tibet / China border; as well towards Larke-La Pass.
Day 7 : At Sama-Gaon rest day for acclimatization and excursion.
After continues long walk day walks, a deserving rest day at Sama-Gaon for acclimatization and for short hike. Enjoy the day with short walk to the Birendra Lake close on route Manaslu base camp. Overlooking grand views of surrounding beautiful landscapes with Mt. Manaslu and range of peaks. Rest of the day explore the village adorned with interesting culture of Tibetan Buddhism, along with the views.
Day 8 : Trek to Samdo 3,690 m -05 hours.
From Sama-Gaon, walk today is quite short compared to other long days, after a pleasant overnight at Sama-Gaon. Morning walk leads further west amidst dry and barren landscapes. The trail follows along facing views of towering snow peaks a short steep up reaching Samdo. The last and a large village with more than 50 houses for near 200 people.
Samdo village is on closest route to Tibet / China border and towards our last destination around Gorkha and Manaslu region. Spend the overnight in the comfort of a nice lodge with homely environment.
Day 9 : Trek to Dharmasala 4, 450 m /14, 596 feet-04 hours.
Another short day walk to the base of Larke-la at Dharmasala, also called Larke Phedi. Located at the end of Manaslu valley and Gorkha district, morning walk Begins down on river bed. The trail leads on relative flat ground to cross several cold streams, facing grand vista of towering peaks.
Walking for few hours admiring the beautiful scenery then reach Dharmasala for last overnight stop around Manaslu and district of Gorkha.
Day 10 : Trek to Bhimphedi(BhimTang) 3, 590 m via Larke-La Pass 5,106 m -08 hours.
The tough and big day of the adventure and the longest walk of the trip,to cross over high Larke-La Pass. An early morning start having good breakfast and carrying a simple packed lunch for the long day. The trail follows to steep climb over moraine of rocks and boulders. Reaching an ablation of Larke peak glacier, following the high trail facing views of Cho Danda and near Larke Peak.
The climb slowly reaches the top of Larke-La on the highest point of the adventure. Enjoy glorious panorama Manaslu and Ganesh Himal range withHimlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru with Annapurna-II. From the top a slow long descent to the other side of Larke-La pass, reaching at Manang District.From the base of Larke walk back into dense tree lines as trail follows to a lovely
settlement at Bhimthang for overnight stop. Bhimthang provides many good
lodges, a perfect spot after a long hard day walks.
Day 11 : Trek to Tilje village 1,750 m -06 hrs.
Today another long day but much easier, after a tough long trek of previous day.Morning from Bhimthang on downhill path through dense beautiful forest to a small settlement at Gho. A possible lunch stop, walk continues further down reaching Tilje, a nice village. Located above Marsyangdi River this nice village with many good lodges for overnight stop around high hills of Mid-West Himalayas.
Day 12 : Drive to Kathmandu-08 hours.
Start the morning early, a short walk up to Dharapani village, situated on the main motorable road. Cross over a bridge above Marsyangdi River and the board in vehicle for long exciting drive to Kathmandu.
The drive on downhill to Jagat and then reaching a large Bhesisar town, after a brief stop, drive continues following the main highway. An exciting drive through low warm farm areas and towns, with last uphill to Kathmandu city. On arrival transfer to your hotel, after a grand marvelous adventure on Short Manaslu Circuit trek of 13 days.
Day 13 : International Departure for Homeward bound.
As time for the international flight, our staff and guide transfer you to the International Airport for homeward bound or to respective destinations. After an amazing and wonderful time in Nepal Himalaya with Short Manaslu Circuit Trek of 13 Days.

Complete Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
On arrival by respective airlines where our guide and staff receive you for a short drive to your hotel in the hub of busy Kathmandu, with hotels in a quiet environment after getting a refresh in your rooms our guide will brief on treks-hotels with necessary information.
Day 2 : Drive to Soti-Khola 730 m via Dhading and Arughat- 06 hrs.
Morning an interesting drive from Kathmandu to Nepal North Mid-West region to reach at Gorkha town in Arughat, as drive leads through Himalayan foothills to reach Trisuli River around the warm sub-tropical area.
Our journey continues towards cooler alpine hills on the long winding road past farm villages and town to reach at Arughat, from here drive leads on a dirt trail following Budi -Gandaki River upstream to Soti-Khola a small farm village overnight in a simple but cozy and nice local lodge.
Day 3 : Trek to Machha-Khola 930m - 06 hrs.
The first day walks from Soti- Khola leads to a short climb for a while with the rest of the walk on the gradual winding uphill trail through terraced farm fields and villages. As our route enters into a cool forested area in a gorge following torrential glacial Buri-Gandaki River upstream, as the path follows with a climb in the cool shade of rhododendron and oaks forest after a good walk of near six hours reaching a moderate size village at Maccha-Khola for the overnight stop. (Name of the village means a fish stream)
Day 4 : Trek to Jagat 1,410m - 06 hrs.
After a pleasant overnight at Macha-Khola, a morning walk follows Budi-Gandaki River upstream, to reach Khorla Beshi a small farm village from here on a winding path to reach at Tatopani village with “Hot Spring,” an opportunity for hot bathe as time allows. After a pleasant stop, walk to Dovan and Yaruphant villages and then at Jagat for overnight stops, Jagat a moderate size farm villages with shops and stores.
Day 5 : Trek to Dyang 1,800 m - 06 hrs.
From Jagat, a morning walk leads to higher areas passing scattered farm villages with short climb and downhill to cross over a bridge to reach Nagjet and Philim, a large village with spread-out farmhouses. After Philim walks through farm terraces of golden fields of wheat and barley, then a climb on rocky ridge top into the bamboo forest area to our overnight stop at Dyang village.
Day 6 : Trek to Ghap 2,160 m - 04 hrs
Morning walk from Dyang leads to the cooler area where you can feel a slow rise in altitude, on entering the Himalayan alpine region, walk downhill to Riverside to reach at Bihi Bazaar a small village near a riverside. From here onwards encountering more villages of strong Tibetan culture, walk leads on the gentle trail with few short ups and downs till Ghap village is reached for the overnight stop.
Day 7 : Trek to Lo-Gaon 3,180 m - 06 hrs.
From Ghap village with the nice good walk following Burhi Gandaki River, then crossing this river through small farm villages and cultivated farm fields of barley, wheat, and millets to reach at Numrung village with first close views of Mt. Manaslu North Face and adjoining peaks. The walk continues passing few villages of Banjham, Lhi, and Sho, then as altitude gains with an hour up to Lo-Gaon for an overnight stop in a nice cozy lodge.
Day 8 : Trek to Sama-Gaon 3,530 m - 05 hrs
After the Lo-Gaon tree lines fade only for few short juniper bushes and some willow trees, walk leads on the nice path with views of peaks, and finally, the day ends at Sama-Gaon for the overnight stop, this is a large mountain village located on route Manaslu base camp, Larke-la pass and to Tibet border.
Day 9 : Rest day at Sama-Gaon for acclimatization.
A necessary rest day for acclimatization before heading over Larke-la pass, at Samagaon explore around this interesting village of Tibetan culture. optional tour to Manaslu Base camp .
Day 10 : Trek to Samdo 3,860 m - 05 hrs
Today walk leads to the last village of Manaslu area at Samdo which lies close on route Tibet border, the villagers of this area have a long history of trading with Tibet, the trade still continues as you can find many Chinese goods around the village shops and stores.
Day 11 : Trek to Dharamsala / Larke Phedi 4,470 m - 04 hrs
A short day walk to Larke Phedi or Dharmasala, after a nice overnight at Samdo village, morning walk leads towards a more dry and barren country. As the altitude gains slowly with few short ups and downs then completing the morning walk at Larke Phedi, means the base of the hill or pass with the afternoon free to relax or short walks.
Day 12 : Cross Larke-la 5,135m and to Bimthang 3,720 m - 08 hrs.
A Big Day and the highlight of the adventure, starting early to reach the top of Larke-la pass at 5,135 m, a long climb with views of surrounding mountains Mt. Manaslu, Larke peak, Bouddha Himal, Himal-Chuli, and Peak 29. After a strenuous climb reaching the pass, our highest point of the trip marked with Buddhist prayer flags, offering superb views of surrounding great giant peaks, after a short rest enjoying the views along descending leads to Bimthang for overnight stop a beautiful place surrounded with a forest of tall rhododendron and pines trees.
Day 13 : Trek to Gho 2,560 m - 05 hrs
After a hard and tough walk of the previous day, today an easy trek on a downhill path most of the way to Gho, located in the midst of a lovely forested area, as our walk leads through woodlands of rhododendron, pines, and oaks tree lines passing several farm shades to reach at Gho for the overnight stop.
Day 14 : Trek to Dharapani 1,860 m - 06 hrs.
From Gho within the lovely forest surrounding, the morning walk leads on downhill most of the way to Telje village by the Marshyangdi River, after an hour's climb to reach Dharapani for an overnight stop in a nice fine lodge. Dharapani is a large village with many fine lodges in the Manang district and on the popular Annapurna Circuit trekking trail, for the last overnight stop before heading back to Kathmandu.
Day 15 : Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
In the morning after breakfast Return to Kathmandu to enjoy panoramic views of the highlands and surroundings with scenic views of the remote and beautiful high valley of Manaslu in north-central-western Nepal. Our route winds through charming farming villages and bustling towns via Besishaar passing along the Marisangdi rivers until we reach Muglin Bazar. Estimate a journey of around 9 to 10 hours (265 km), finally reach Muglin Bazar and reach Kathmandu via Trishuli River.
16 : international Departure
Your final and last day in amazing Nepal in the country of the high Himalayas with remarkable time and adventure Around Manaslu Trekking and then depart from the hotel for your onward destinations homeward bound.

Manaslu Trek cost:

Budget Packages: Approximately USD 900 per person.
Standard Packages: Around USD 1300 per person.
Comfort Packages: Approximately USD 1550 per person.

These packages typically cover essential services, including permits, local transportation, guide and porter fees, accommodations, and meals during the trek.

Best time to Trek in Manaslu

The best time to visit the Manaslu Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking in this beautiful region of Nepal, providing clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views. Here’s why:
1. Spring Season (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Manaslu Trek. With temperatures ranging from mild to warm during the day and cool at night, it's perfect for outdoor activities. The trails are surrounded by blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, making it even more scenic. Additionally, the clear skies and excellent visibility enhance the panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks.
2. Autumn Season (September to November)
Autumn is another prime time to trek Manaslu. The monsoon rains have cleared the air, offering crystal-clear views of the mountains. The temperatures are comfortable, and the trekking conditions are ideal. This is also the most popular trekking season in Nepal, so the trails will be busier, but it’s a great opportunity to meet fellow trekkers.
Why Avoid Other Seasons?
Winter (December to February): The region can experience heavy snowfall, and temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher altitudes. This makes the trails more challenging and less accessible.
Monsoon (June to August): During the monsoon, the region receives heavy rainfall, which can make the trails slippery, muddy, and prone to landslides. This season also limits visibility due to cloud cover.
For the best trekking experience with ideal weather and stunning mountain views, spring and autumn are the perfect times to visit the Manaslu Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Trek difficulty:

The Manaslu Trek, located in the Nepalese Himalayas, is a stunning but challenging trek that requires physical preparedness and mental resilience. Here are the difficulties you might face during the trek, with details:
1. Altitude Sickness
Difficulty: High altitude makes the trek particularly tough for many. The highest point of the trek, the Larkya La Pass, reaches 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), which increases the risk of altitude sickness.
Symptoms: Headaches, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite.
Solution: Proper acclimatization is key—taking rest days at strategic points during the trek helps prevent this.
2. Steep Terrain
Difficulty: The trek involves steep ascents and descents, especially in the initial stages. Some areas of the trail are narrow, rocky, and slippery, requiring careful footing.
Description: The path weaves through lush forests, riverside cliffs, and rocky hills, with frequent climbs, making it tough on the knees and legs.
3. Weather Conditions
Difficulty: The weather in the Manaslu region is unpredictable. Even during trekking seasons (spring and autumn), temperatures can drop drastically, especially at higher elevations.
Description: You may encounter snow and rain, which can make the trails slippery, reduce visibility, and increase the difficulty of navigation.
4. Lack of Proper Infrastructure
Difficulty: While the trail has become more popular in recent years, it’s still a remote region. The teahouses (lodges) are basic, and you may not find amenities like Wi-Fi or hot water, especially at higher elevations.
Description: The more remote the area, the more basic the facilities. You might have to carry more gear to make up for the lack of comfort.
5. Length and Endurance
Difficulty: The trek spans around 12-16 days and requires a good level of physical fitness. The continuous days of walking with heavy packs can lead to muscle fatigue and physical exhaustion.
Description: The trek involves long days of walking, sometimes for 6-8 hours or more, with the added strain of altitude.
6. Logistics and Permits
Difficulty: The trek requires several permits including the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Tsum Valley Permit (if you choose to add the Tsum Valley to your itinerary). Additionally, a special trekking permit is required due to the region’s restricted status.
Description: These permits need to be arranged in advance, and obtaining them can be time-consuming.
7. Isolation and Limited Rescue Access
Difficulty: The region is isolated, and in case of emergencies, medical help may be far away. Rescue operationscan be difficult and delayed due to weather conditions, limited roads, and the rugged terrain.
Description: Travelers must be prepared for potential emergencies and have travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation.
8. Tough Climbs like Larkya La Pass
Difficulty: Larkya La Pass is a challenging section, requiring trekkers to cross a high-altitude pass. The pass involves navigating through glaciers and snow-covered slopes, making it a technically difficult section for trekkers.
Description: Many trekkers find the descent after the pass particularly tough on their knees.
9. Limited Food Options
Difficulty: The food options in teahouses are simple and repetitive, typically consisting of rice, noodles, and dal bhat. In higher elevations, food may be scarce, and options become more limited.
Description: Variety in food decreases with altitude, and some trekkers may experience stomach issues due to a change in diet or lack of nutrition.
In summary, the Manaslu Trek is a physically demanding adventure, requiring proper preparation, good fitness, and the ability to adapt to high altitudes. However, the challenge is part of what makes the experience so rewarding, offering stunning views, remote landscapes, and a genuine taste of Nepal’s rugged beauty.

Trek permit:

The Manaslu Trek, located in the stunning Himalayas of Nepal, requires three main permits to ensure your journey is legal and safe. Here are the details:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The trek falls within a restricted area, so this permit is mandatory for all trekkers. It is available only through a registered trekking agency. The permit costs around $100 USD for the first seven days, and an additional $15 USD for each extra day spent on the trail.
Manaslu Conservation Area permit (MCAP): This permit Covers the Manaslu conservation Area. the cost is around $22 USD 3000 NPR per person. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit covers the Annapurna region, which includes the Manaslu trek. The cost is typically around $22 USD 3000 NPR per person.
It is possible to trek the Manaslu Circuit without joining a trekking company?
Yes, it is possible to trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek without joining a trekking company, but there are a few important things to keep in mind:
Permits: The Manaslu Circuit is in a restricted area, and you will need special permits to trek there. You'll need the following:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This is required for trekking in the restricted zone.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): For conservation purposes in the region.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This is for the section of the trek that falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
These permits can be obtained through a trekking agency, or directly at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, but it’s easier to get them with the help of a guide or agency.
Guide or Group Requirement: As of recent regulations, you are required to trek with at least one guide (or a group) when doing the Manaslu Circuit. Solo trekking is not allowed due to safety concerns, but you can hire a guide independently if you prefer not to join a large trekking company. A guide will help you navigate the route, assist with permits, and ensure your safety.
Logistics and Planning: The trek is remote, and facilities can be limited in the higher sections. You’ll need to plan your accommodation and food options carefully. Hiring a guide or joining a trekking company can help with these logistics.
Safety Considerations: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging, especially at higher altitudes. Trekking independently without a guide can be riskier, as the terrain can be tough, and it’s important to be prepared for altitude sickness, weather changes, and emergencies.