Beginners Guide to Exploring the Manaslu Circuit Trek

What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a two-week-long trek through the Himalayan mountains of Nepal that encircles Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Nepal is a country in Asia, located to the north of India and the south of Tibet (China), that has its own unique culture and rural way of life nestled between the peaks and valleys of some of the world's tallest mountains. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the central north of Nepal in the Manaslu Conservation Area. The region only opened up to allow tourist entry in the ‘90s which means the area is still relatively untouched and true to its natural and cultural roots. There are many different trekking route options available in the Manaslu region such as the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Upper Route Trek. The classic Manaslu Circuit Trek is the most sought-after route and is therefore the star of this guide.

What to Expect on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has everything from incredible rugged mountainous landscapes with a wide variety of flora and fauna to expansive yak pastures surrounding quaint local villages; it’s any photographer, traveler or nature lover’s dream come true.

Nepal is a uniquely special place in which many people start planning their return trip before they've even left! You will have an intimate glimpse into the everyday life of the local people living at the foothills of the spectacular Himalayas, while also experiencing the magic of the mountains yourself. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect blend of wilderness adventure, physical challenge, and cultural immersion.

Most trekking in Nepal starts from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city, or Pokhara, a popular tourist city with a beautiful waterfront on Fewa Lake. The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins in Machha Khola (870 meters) which is an 8–9-hour drive northwest of Kathmandu. You will travel there by bus or private jeep, depending on your preference and budget. The roads in Nepal weave between hills and through villages and are often bumpy and dusty. Be prepared for a long, but scenic, day operating on ‘Nepali Time’ meaning no rush, lots of stops, and a very rough idea of your arrival time. Be prepared with motion sickness tablets, snacks, a mask or buff to protect you from the dust, and anything else to make you comfortable.

The trek commences on foot the following day as you officially enter the Manaslu Conservation Area where there is no more road access. Within the conservation area, there are many tea houses where your guide will arrange your accommodation and daily meals that are included in your package. Tea houses are small rustic lodges that provide basic amenities and dining services. At lower elevation, the tea houses tend to have more amenities such as flush toilets, hot showers, and charging outlets in the rooms. As you gain in elevation and trek deeper into the Himalayas, the tea houses become more simplistic with squat toilets and bucket showers.

Water is plentiful along the Manaslu Circuit as it trickles down the steep mountainsides, however, you need to have your way of filtering it. Feel free to utilize any taps you see but be sure to make use of your purification tablets, steripens, or filtering bottles. If you have a bottle that can handle hot water then you can purchase boiled water at the tea houses and drink it or slip it into your sleeping bag on colder nights.

Your trek follows the impressive Budhi Gandaki River, beginning in dense green jungle and gradually ascending towards rocky alpine terrain and panoramic mountain views. Each day is unique with various special attractions including hot springs, monasteries, waterfalls, and suspension bridges.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary:

Day1: Welcome to the Tribhuvan International Airport, then transfer to your hotel.

Day2: Free day for trekking preparation.

Day3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola 8-9 hrs. 157 Km.

Day4: Machhakhola to Jagat 7 hrs. 17 Km.

Day5: Jagat to Deng 7 hrs. 20 Km.

Day6: Deng to Namrung 7 hrs. 17 Km.

Day7: Namrung to Shyala 6 hrs. 14 Km.

Day8: Shyala to Samagaun via Pungen Gompa 6 hrs. 8 Km.

Day9: Acclimatization day. Hike to either Birendra Lake 3700 meters (12139 ft.) or Manaslu Base Camp 4980 meters (16338 ft.)

Day10: Samagaun to Samdo 3 hrs. 8 Km.

Day11: Acclimatization day. Hike to Tibetan border at Rui La 4998 meters (16398 ft.) and return to Samdo 8 hrs.

Day12: Samdo to Dharmasala 5 hrs. 6 Km.

Day13: Dharmasala to Larkya La 5106 meters (16751 ft.) then descends to Bhimthang overnight 8 hrs. 22 Km.

Day14: Bhimthang to Goa 5-6 hrs. 15 Km.

Day15: Trek Goa to Dharapani for 3 hours 7 Km, then drive for 4 hours by jeep to Besisahar.

Day16: Besisahar to Kathmandu, 175 km, 6-7 hrs. Or you may visit Pokhara.

Day17: Departure

A Typical Day on the Manaslu Circuit

You will rise early and inevitably peek out the window to see what beautiful view greets you on this new day. In the mountains, skies are typically clearer in the morning so it's best to start early to avoid the clouds; try to catch the sunrise when the white tops of the mountains become a canvas for the morning sun to paint upon. You’ll pack your bag, have breakfast, which you will have ordered the night before, and then set out for 2-4 hours of hiking. Most days are longer at lower elevations and shorter at higher elevations to help your body to acclimatize properly. A beginner itinerary would be sure to include plenty of rest and acclimatization days to help prevent altitude sickness and set you up for success. More tips for avoiding altitude sickness are included below.

After a morning of hiking along the well-trodden path through forests, villages, and pastures, you will stop for lunch at a tea house. Lunch usually takes about an hour but, of course, all timelines are negotiable with your guide. After lunch you will continue for another 2-4 hours, stopping along the way to breathe in the fresh mountain air, absorb the magnitude of the beauty around you, and try to do it justice with your photography skills. Depending on the route and your pace, you will arrive at your home for the evening with some time for rest or exploring the local area. In some of the bigger villages, you might be surprised to find bakery items and espresso drinks!

It's recommended to bring your cash in local Nepali Rupees if you would like to purchase any snacks, souvenirs, or treats along the way. There are plenty of beautifully crafted handmade items including art, jewelry, and clothing. Some tea houses charge a small fee for amenities like hot showers and Wi-Fi. There are no ATMs in the Manaslu Conservation Area so it's best to get your rupees before you leave for your trek.

Dinner is served at the tea house in the main dining hall which usually has a small wood stove to keep toasty warm. Enjoy a quiet evening of cards, reading, and reflection, and then head to bed to rest as much as you can before you head off once again for another day of adventuring the Himalayas.

Larkya La: The Pass on the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek steadily ascends towards Larkya La which is a high mountain pass and the highest point of your trek at 5106 meters. “La” means “pass” in Nepali which refers to when you pass from one side of a mountain range to the other. Tackling the pass is usually the most exciting and challenging day of the entire trek. For the best chances at good weather and clear sunrise views, you will head out early under the starry night sky. You can hope for the full moon to light your way, but it's best to have your headlight mounted and ready to guide your path.

The mornings at such high elevation are quite cold so be sure to have lots of warm layers. You can sleep in some of the layers that you plan to wear in the morning and put your water bottle in the bottom of your sleeping bag to prevent it from freezing overnight. Be sure to have plenty of water and snacks for the day because there are no tea houses along the route up and over the pass.

The journey to Larkya La is long and slow; walk carefully, stay properly hydrated, and well-fed, and do not rush as your body will continue to acclimatize during the ascent. If you feel as though you're merely shuffling along, then you're probably doing it right! As you slowly ascend, so does the sun behind you, lighting your way and turning the tops of the mountains a fiery gold. The upward journey has many twists and turns with a few false peaks that look like the pass but are just one step along the way. Larkya La is covered in celebratory prayer flags and is the perfect place to pause and take in your impressive accomplishment. The views on a clear day are like no other, with a sea of white mountain tops in every direction, defined by the bright blue sky behind.

Although you might want to stay forever, eventually you’ll begin your long descent over the other side of the pass. The descent after Larkya La is quite steep so, again, walk slowly and carefully. This is where you'll be grateful to have trekking poles to relieve your knees and crampons to keep you steady on the slippery snow.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is accessible to beginners because the route is well maintained, there are many comfortable tea houses and the terrain and elevation are manageable at a slow pace.

The path itself is clear and no scrambling, climbing, or special gear is required to navigate the terrain. You will be comfortable in regular hiking boots and might like to have poles for extra support. The various tea houses dotted along the route provide continuous options for rest, shorter days, and extending your trip if needed. The Manaslu Circuit Tea House Trek means there is no need to carry items such as tents or cooking stoves because the tea houses are equipped with all basic amenities.

The itinerary itself is designed to support slow elevation gain and proper altitude acclimatization. There is always space to discuss and modify the itinerary to suit your needs, time frame and budget. Feel free to contact Nepal Trekking Experts to discuss your many options.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty is subjective and depends heavily on the itinerary, the pace, and the preparedness of the group. Most trekkers run into problems when they go too quickly, do not prioritize their health, and do not adequately prepare before the hike. Below are some beginner tips to help you thoughtfully prepare and set you up for success on your Manaslu Circuit trek.

How to Prepare for Trekking the Manaslu Circuit as a Beginner?

Proper training before the trek, choosing the right gear, considering the logistics of the trek, managing your health, and hiring a guide and porter can help set you up for success on the Manaslu Circuit as a Beginner.

Pre-Training

Although it is not required that you have completed a long trek before tackling the Manaslu Circuit, it is important to be in good physical and mental health to avoid injuries and be able to enjoy, not just endure the trek. Begin preparing as early as you can, even months in advance, by increasing your daily physical activity. To start, it can be as simple as taking the stairs whenever possible, adding extra weight to your backpack, biking instead of driving, and balancing on one foot while you wash the dishes.

Then continue to increase your cardiovascular training by including more exercises such as swimming, biking, running, and, of course, walking and hiking for longer periods. It is also a good idea to include exercises to improve your strength, mobility, and balance. Weight training and yoga are highly recommended. The more you do before the trek, the better you will be able to enjoy the trek. Find hills, stairs or even a park bench to work the muscles you'll need while ascending and descending on the trek.

Choose the Right Gear

Clothing:

You want to stay dry and in control of your temperature throughout the trek. This means packing clothes that are sweat-wicking and quick drying as well as including lots of warm clothes for when the temperature drops. Lots of layers that you change often are the best way to help you manage your temperature. Wear your sweat-wicking clothes closest to your body and your warmer layers over top. Depending on the season, shorts, leggings and t-shirts are appropriate at lower elevation and then as the trek progresses to higher elevation, you'll need warmer clothes such as gloves, a hat, a buff, a puffy jacket and a windbreaker. These warm layers will serve you well at the tea houses for when the temperature drops in the evenings and for cooler mornings.

Footwear:

Have comfortable hiking boots that you have already spent some time breaking in to fit your feet. Ideally, your boots are lightweight, waterproof, and durable. Boots with good tread and high ankle support are important for this kind of hiking. To rest your feet in the evenings at the tea houses, have comfortable sandals or running shoes that you can wear warm socks in.

Backpack:

Choosing the right backpack for your body is essential. It is recommended that you trek with a porter who will carry the majority of your items in a duffle bag. In a day-pack, you'll carry anything that you might need for the day including water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a rain jacket, additional clothing layers, snacks, poles, and camera gear. Your backpack needs to be adjustable with proper hip support and a structured back. Having various pockets, straps and adjustability features can make your life a lot easier. A bag that is 20-40L will likely suit your needs.

Here is a complete Checklist for the Manaslu Circuit Trek including clothes, toiletries, and extras.

Sort the Logistics

Plan your trip thoughtfully and know what to expect including permits, guides and transportation.

Restricted Area Requirements:

Much of the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes place within the Manaslu Conservation Area, a region that is restricted in order to preserve the delicate flora and fauna. Within the restricted area, it is a requirement that you be accompanied by a licensed local guide and travel with a minimum of two guests in your group. There are three permits required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Project permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit. The Manaslu Circuit ends where the Annapurna Circuit begins which is why the Annapurna permit is required. If you're interested in a longer adventure and getting the most out of your tourist visa and the required permits, you might be interested in doing the Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek. For more details, go through the Nepal Trekking Permits and Fees blog.

Transportation:

When you arrive in Nepal you will likely fly into Nepal's largest airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, located in Kathmandu. The airport is a twenty-minute drive (traffic dependent) from Thamel, which is the central tourist area of the city and where your hotel will be located. You will be picked up early from your hotel and head off towards the Manaslu Circuit Trek trailhead, Machha Khola, which is an 8–9-hour drive away by bus (or shorter by private jeep). When you complete your trek, you’ll finish by foot in Dharapani and continue by jeep for about 4 hours to Besisahar. From Besisahar, you have the option to continue by jeep or bus to Kathmandu for another 6-7 hours or venture onwards to Pokhara, a lovely waterfront city in the mountains that many people choose to add to their visit to Nepal.

Hire a Guide:

Booking your trip with a reliable, professional trekking company will not only ensure that you are following the requirements put forth by the Nepali government but also ensures a smooth logistical journey. When you book with Nepal Trekking Experts, you will be matched with one of our experienced guides and all necessary permits will be obtained on your behalf. Your guide will be with you every step of the way to manage the itinerary, communicate with the locals, and keep you safe. All permits, guide fees, food, accommodation, and transportation (including airport pick-up and drop-off!) are arranged for you and accounted for in the price of your trekking package.

Hire a Porter:

Although hiring a guide is mandatory for any Manaslu Conservation Area Trek, hiring a porter is optional. A porter is someone local who will join you for the entirety of your trek and carry your overnight items in a duffle bag or backpack. Typically, one porter is allocated for two guests and carries a maximum of 20kg with your extra clothes and items that you'll need for your long trek. In your day pack, you will carry only what you will need for the day such as sunscreen, snacks, and poles. If you are a beginner or have any concerns about the terrain, the trek duration, or elevation, then a porter is highly recommended so that you can thoroughly enjoy your trek and support the local economy. It's much smoother and cheaper to hire a porter from the beginning of your trek, but not impossible to arrange on the way if you change your mind. Feel free to reach out to Nepal Trekking Experts to discuss whether or not a porter would be a good idea for you and your group.

Travel Insurance:

Before you leave your home country, be sure to get suitable medical travel insurance and share this information with your chosen trekking company. Ensure that your coverage includes high-elevation trekking in case an unlikely emergency evacuation is required.

Visas:

You can get a tourist visa to Nepal on arrival and pay in any major currency (cash is recommended to avoid credit card fees).

• 15 Day Visa is 30 USD
• 30 Day Visa is 50 USD,
• 90 Day Visa is 125 USD.

If needed, you can extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara for a minimum of 15 days for 45 USD and 3 USD per additional day. Be sure to sort out your visa before you leave for your trek because it has to be done in person.

Buffer Days:

Leave space between when your trek is scheduled to end and before you plan to leave Nepal. Having buffer days, at least two or three, means you have the option to extend your trek if you need extra time to complete the circuit. Buffer days are also important due to the nature of Nepali infrastructure and unpredictable travel. Roads and flights can be shut down without alternatives so it's best to plan for these scenarios when booking your trip.

Beginner Tips for Success on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Once you have thoroughly prepared for the trek and you finally set off, there are a few practices to implement along the way to help you safely and joyfully complete your journey. Avoid beginner mistakes by following these helpful guidelines:

Prevent Altitude Sickness:

Altitude sickness occurs when your body doesn't properly adjust to the changes in air pressure and reduced oxygen at higher elevations. It can happen at any elevation after 2500 meters and is more likely to occur as elevation increases. Some common, mild symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, insomnia, and vomiting with the potential to progress to a more serious condition. Two main ways to prevent altitude sickness are to ascend slowly and carefully and sleep at a lower elevation than your highest point each day. The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary from Nepal Trekking Experts is designed to do just that, with longer days at a lower elevation, shorter days at a higher elevation and days in which you hike up to a higher elevation and then sleep at a lower elevation.

There are also many acclimatization days included in the itinerary in which you sleep at the same elevation twice and go for a day hike to a higher elevation during the day. Two noteworthy acclimatization days on the Manaslu Circuit Trek include the hike up to Manaslu Base Camp (4980 m) and the hike up to the Tibetan border at Rui La (4998 m) with options for alternative routes. When arriving at a new place at a higher elevation, try to take a walk up to a higher spot whenever possible to help you sleep better. Acclimatization days are also available as rest days so you can coordinate with your guide based on your needs.

Manage Your Health:

This goes hand-in-hand with preventing altitude sickness; stay hydrated, well fed, and well rested. Dehydration is one of the most common issues with beginner trekkers and can impact your entire trip. Try to avoid drinking alcohol and coffee at higher elevations and opt for alternatives like hot water with ginger, lemon, or mint. Eat lots of hearty, healthy food to refuel your body after long and strenuous days. We recommend dal bhat, Nepal’s national dish that includes rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and greens, with unlimited refills. Bring your favorite snacks and electrolytes for an extra boost along the way. Do your best to get lots of sleep and avoid taking sleeping pills. Sleeping at high elevation can be challenging so bring earplugs and an eye mask if you are a light sleeper and simply rest if sleep is not coming easily.

Trek Slowly:

Walk slowly and carefully along your trek; not only to appreciate the region's flora and fauna or to capture the Manaslu Circuit Trek on film, but to help manage your health and ensure an enjoyable journey. Beginners often feel as though they have something to prove and go too quickly. Rushing is not ideal for injury prevention and acclimatization. Take your time, communicate your needs and pacing with your guide and channel the calm energy of the mountains and slow pace of rural village life. You can make your trek the “Manaslu Circuit Photography Trek”, the “Manaslu Circuit Wildlife Trek”, the “Manaslu Circuit Spiritual Trek”, or any other kind of trek if you take the time to do so.

Respect Local Culture:

Please be aware that you are venturing into remote, traditional regions of Nepal that have deep cultural and religious roots. It is an extreme privilege to be able to bear witness to the traditions and daily life of rural Nepal. Nepali people are quite reserved when it comes to public displays of affection and their attire so, please be mindful to avoid smooching and undressing in public if you'd like to be polite. It’s also recommended to ask before taking photos of people and before entering into private homes and tea house kitchens.

You will see many beautiful religious buildings and sacred objects along the route which are to be appreciated and treated with the utmost respect. When entering monasteries, temples, and gompas (small temples) it is customary to remove your shoes, avoid photos (unless you've been given permission), and leave a donation.

When it comes to stupas (peaked monuments that are usually white), mani walls (short walls that hold stones with religious inscriptions), and prayer wheels (rotating pillars, marked with mantras), photos and interactions are welcome! When walking past these structures, be mindful to keep them to your right side (walk around to the left/clockwise) and use your right hand only to spin the prayer wheels. If you have any specific questions about what is culturally appropriate then feel free to refer to your knowledgeable guide.

Trek Sustainably:

The mighty Himalayas might appear steady and infinite but our world is changing and we need to protect and preserve this delicate region of the world. Reduce your environmental impact by staying on the trail, using designated washrooms, and carefully watching the garbage that you produce. Any plastic bottles or wrappers you use in the mountains will stay in the mountains unless you pack them out so reducing your usage is the best approach. Bring a reusable water bottle (and filtration system) and reusable bags instead of purchasing plastic bottles and using plastic bags. Perhaps you opt for a homemade treat instead of a chocolate bar or have hot lemon water instead of a Coke.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a beginner trek the Manaslu Circuit?

Yes, a beginner hiker can successfully trek the Manaslu Circuit with proper training and preparations. The trail is well-maintained and no special mountaineering skills are required.

How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu Circuit spans 177 km (109.9 miles) and takes 14-17 days to complete. A beginner itinerary might be longer to allow for more rest and acclimatization days.

Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area in the central north of Nepal. The trek begins in Machha Khola (an 8–9-hour drive from Kathmandu) and ends in Besisahar (a 6–7-hour drive from Kathmandu).

How hard is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is subjective and depends highly on the trekkers, how much they have prepared, and how careful they are on the trek. For many, the difficulty of the Manaslu circuit comes from the length and high altitude. Both of these factors are manageable if proper acclimatization, a slow pace, and good health management are prioritized.

What happens if I can't complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Not to worry, your guiding team will help you to leave the mountains safely. Depending on where you chose to stop and the reason for making the decision, you might be able to go back the way you came on foot, hire a horse to carry you or leave via helicopter.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek only for advanced trekkers?

No, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is suitable for advanced and beginner hikers alike if proper preparations are implemented and care is taken on the trek. The itinerary for a beginner might include more acclimatization days and shorter trekking days to support proper acclimation and overall health.

Do I need a guide to trek the Manaslu Circuit?

Yes, because the Manaslu Circuit is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area, a restricted area of Nepal, it is required to book your trek through a certified trekking company and be accompanied by a guide.

How fit do I need to be for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

A certain level of physical and mental fitness is required to complete the Manaslu Trek. You need to be able to hike for an average of 7 hours every day and reach up to an elevation of 5,106m. Start to prepare early for your trek so you are in good health and fitness when you begin. Your personalized itinerary with Nepal Trekking Experts is adjustable and can include shorter days and more rest days if needed.

Is the water safe to drink on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Water is plentiful from taps and springs along the circuit; however, it needs to be treated before consumption. You will need to bring some form of personal filtration system to treat your drinking water such as sterilization tablets or a steripen. Boiled water and bottled water at tea houses are safe to drink although it's recommended to avoid buying plastic bottles.

Is the food safe to eat on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The food is generally safe for consumption; however, it is not recommended to eat meat when trekking deep into the Himalayas. Your guide will be sure to choose reputable tea houses that are known to prepare food in a thoughtful, hygienic way.

How much does it cost to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The cost to trek the Manaslu Circuit is variable depending on the company you choose, the itinerary you agree upon, and the services you would like to add or omit. In general, you can expect to pay an all-inclusive $100-$200 per day. Trekking the Manaslu Circuit with Nepal Trekking Experts costs $1045 per person for a group of 2-3 people.

Is there wi-fi on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

There are, amazingly, many tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit that have wi-fi for their guests. Some tea houses offer wi-fi for free while others charge a small fee which can be paid in local Nepali rupees. Understandably so, the wi-fi connection can be unpredictable as you venture further into the Himalayas so be prepared for some days without a strong wifi connection.

Can I charge my phone on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, many tea houses have places to charge your devices whether it's in your room or the main dining hall. Some tea houses charge a small fee for phone or battery charging, which can be paid in local Nepali rupees. Because electricity can be unpredictable in the mountains, and some tea houses are off-grid, it's a good idea to carry a portable power bank to charge up when needed.

What is the accommodation like on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

You will be staying in small, rustic lodges called tea houses. Rooms are simple with basic amenities including a bed (or beds), a blanket, and a table. More established tea houses at lower elevations might have attached bathrooms with flush toilets and a shower. At higher elevations, you can expect more simplicity, no running water, and shared squat toilets. Every tea house will have a common dining room with a wood stove that gets lit in the evenings. Individual rooms are not heated which is why you’ll need a sleeping bag.

Can I shower on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

At lower elevations, you are more likely to find hot showers and as you continue to higher elevations you can expect cold showers, bucket showers, or no showers at all. Some tea houses charge a small fee in Nepali Rupees to use the shower, especially if it’s hot. It's recommended to bring wet wipes to keep yourself clean when showering isn't an option.

What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• Three permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek which will all be obtained and carried on your behalf by your guide. A minimum of two people is required for this trek.
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) - available in Kathmandu or Pokhara from Nepal Immigration. $100 for the initial 7 days plus $15 per day for all additional days.
• Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) - available in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the Tourism Board. 3000 Nepali Rupees per person.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) - available from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara. 3000 Nepali Rupees per person.

Conclusion

If you're still wondering, “Can a beginner trek the Manaslu Circuit?”, the answer is YES! The Manaslu Circuit Trek has much to offer any adventurer whether brand-new or well-seasoned. Exploring Nepal through the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an exciting physical challenge, immersion in the Himalayan wilderness, and close integration with the local culture. Trekking in Nepal is open to anyone and offers a place of serenity and reflection. With thoughtful planning and execution and choosing the right team to guide you, any beginner will be able to confidently complete the Manaslu Circuit.

Consider reaching out to our team at Nepal Trekking Experts to start planning your next (or your first!) trekking adventure. We specialize in trekking in the Manaslu region of Nepal and have proudly completed countless treks with beginners. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priority and we would be happy to work with you to craft a personalized itinerary that you love.