Manaslu Circuit TrekManaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Off-the Beaten Path Trek in Nepalratingbased on 63 reviews
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5106 meters/ 16752 feet (Larkya La)
  • Starts Machha Khola
  • Ends Kathmandu/Pokhara
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Best Season March-May and September-November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 - 3 paxUS$1045
4 - 6 paxUS$945
7 - 10 paxUS$890
11 - 15 paxUS$845
16 - 20 paxUS$790
Price Per PersonUS$1045All-inclusive services
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Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
  • A beautiful and peaceful wilderness trek that feels more secluded than the more popular routes.
  • The beautiful panorama and presence of Manaslu are 8163 meters (26782 ft.).
  • A landscape that is full of dramatic contrasts and changes daily.
  • The constant presence of the Budhi Gandaki and its raging torrent, its endless feeder waterfalls, and the almost daily adventure and views of the numerous suspension bridges that have to be crossed.
  • Astonishing side trip to Pungen Gompa 4000 meters (13123 ft.), Birendra Lake 3700 meters (12139 ft.), Manaslu Base Camp 4800 meters (15748 ft.), and Tibet Border Rui La Pass 4998 meters (16398 ft.) 
  • Visiting unique monasteries, mani walls, and stupas
  • The opportunity to immerse yourself, even if only briefly, in the valley’s traditional Tibetan culture.
  • Experiencing the self-fulfillment of reaching the high pass of Larkya La at 5106 meters (16752 ft.).

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Gaining in popularity by the year and dubbed by many "The New Annapurna" in terms of its overall appeal, the remote Manaslu Circuit Trek remains largely true to its reputation as an outstanding wilderness experience even as tea houses along the trail have made the hike easier in recent years from the perspective of basic food and accommodation needs along the way. Manaslu Circuit Trek remains far less crowded than some of the better-known routes through the Himalayas while offering all the classic aspects of a great trek, from cascading rivers and precipitous trails to stunning views and subtropical forests, glorious mountain scenery, and a gradual ascent to a breath-snatching high pass, and a host of side trips and add-ons that have the scope to turn the experience into an epic journey.

Skirting by the ice-cold waters of the Budhi Gandaki River to its source below Larkya La Pass 5106 meters (16752 feet)—and frequently crossing over the river on a slew of seemingly hair-raising suspension bridges that are sturdy enough for entire mule teams to use—the trek provides fascinating insights into the traditional cultures of the Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan people living in peaceful coexistence within the valley's confines.

Reigning supreme over the entire region is the majestic Manaslu 8163 meters (26781 feet) and its striking twin peaks, skirted by glacial valleys, pine forests, and the scenic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal range. The trek essentially circles much of the mountain’s circumference until it crests Larkya La and drops into the neighboring valley of Marsyangdi, descending from there through the rock-strewn upper slopes and scenic alpine meadows to Dharapani, the modern trailhead for the Annapurna Circuit.

Because the road extension is further than Soti Khola, the Manaslu Circuit Trek commences at Machha Khola after a 9-hour bus ride (150 kilometers) from Kathmandu, rather than staying in Soti Khola and walking on the road the next day. The trek proceeds steadily through densely forested paths and along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki, rarely straying far from the river’s torrid waters. After a few days, the trail veers at Jagat to the north-west and begins a steady climb to higher altitudes, leaving behind the tree line and winding up through picturesque mountain villages such as Namrung, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, with designated rest days at the latter two that allow for exciting excursions to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungen Gompa, and the ancient route to Tibet via Rui La Pass, 4998 meters (16397 feet). Larkya Pass is a mere two days of further hiking from Samdo, after which the trail descends to its conclusion at Dharapani, with the opportunity to pick up the Annapurna route there or visit the incomparable hidden valley of Nar Phu that branches off the trail.

The beauty of the Manaslu Circuit is that, aside from being one of the premium hikes in Nepal, it allows for more rewarding options than just about any other trek. One potential choice is to get even further off the beaten trail by choosing to take the upper Manaslu route, a scenically spectacular and rarely-taken path across the mountain. Another detour is the pathway to the magical Tsum Valley, long locked away from public view and only opened on a restricted basis in recent years. Or you could simply choose to forego the passage up and over Larkya La altogether and focus purely on the delights of Tsum Valley Buddhist Culture and its famed monasteries.

The choices are yours, but whichever direction you choose to take, the staff at Nepal Trekking Experts is standing by to give you all the assistance necessary to get you on the path to Manaslu, it’s home territory for most of them, and we take great pride in showing off the area to the best of our abilities.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Trek isn't mountain climbing, and it requires no special training or prior experience either. We have successfully organized people ranging in age from 8 to 75. This trek is suitable for beginners, individuals, and family groups. While the landscape is rugged with numerous landslide areas, long-distance hiking, uneven trails, and crossing over the 5106 meters Larkya La, you may encounter difficulties. However, you will gradually build muscle and adapt to the terrain. Because the trek begins at 930 m above Machhakhola, you will gain elevation gradually, which will aid in acclimatization. This is why NTE recommends trekking, hiking, jogging, gym, cardio, and other physical activities regularly before visiting Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not easy but doable and rewarding.

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit

Nepal has two periods of the year that are considered ideal for trekking: the spring season, which runs from March through May, and the autumn season, which runs from September through November. These two windows of opportunity offer fine weather for trekking, the best conditions and ideal circumstances for making it over the higher passes, a clear sky almost every day, smooth flights and transportation, and better odds for finding trekking partners.

For more information, please feel free to visit our detailed blog the best season to go to Nepal, or contact our staff to discuss the multitude of options.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permit Costs

Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in the Manaslu Conservation Areas Project (MCAP) of Nepal. The trek offers the core beauties of natural, cultural, and historical gems for trekkers. To keep it preserved and unique, the government of Nepal declared it a restricted zone where trekkers must have the following trekking permits, such as:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) (available from Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara) - It costs 100 USD from September to November for the first seven days plus 15 USD for each additional day, and 75 USD from December to August for the first seven days plus 10 USD per additional day per person. Also, a minimum of two people and a licensed guide is mandatory to obtain the Manaslu Circuit Trekking permit.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) - It costs 3000 Nepali rupees per person, which can be obtained from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) - Also, it costs 3000 Nepali rupees per person, which can be obtained from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For further details, go through the Nepal Trekking Permits and Fees Blog.

How Can I book the Manaslu Trek?

To book your trek with us, you have to send a deposit of 10% of the total cost of the trek. Please also forward a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and full flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may forward the deposit to us online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.

Likewise, you may consider combining, the Manaslu Tsum Valley as well.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us anytime. We are always ready to assist.

Useful Information

Tips for a successful Manaslu Circuit Trek:

  • Train regularly, such as in cardio, gym, trail run, trekking, or hiking with a backpack, before visiting Manaslu Circuit Trek.
  • Choose a professional organizer along with a local guide who has deep knowledge, good English-speaking experience, a good decision-maker, and a positive attitude.
  • Trek slowly and steadily
  • Be hydrated all the time (drink 3 - 4 liters of water every day)
  • Hike higher, sleep lower
  • Well-acclimatize (do not rush your itinerary)
  • Balancing meals
  • Proper gear
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol during the ascent
  • Hire a porter to carry your backpacks and enjoy the beauties of the majestic Manaslu Trek.
  • Choose the best season, such as March to May, and September to November
  • First aid box

Manaslu Round Trek Transportation: 

As per the package, Nepal Trekking Experts offers transportation by bus (available early in the morning only) from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Machhakhola (9/10 hrs) and Dharapani to Besisahar by a local Jeep (4/5 hrs), then we switch to another bus or van to Kathmandu (6/7 hrs). The bus might be congested, overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not tidy, and stop in many villages to pick up and drop off more people en route, but it definitely takes a couple of hours longer than a private jeep to reach the final destination. However, you can take part in the experience and enjoy it as well. Otherwise, we provide private transportation on request, which costs a total of $200 to Machhakhola and $250 from Dharapani to Kathmandu.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Meals:

Consider that you are in South Asia in Nepal and going through unexplored, very remote areas to experience the country's unspoiled splendor. Typically, the menus at each tea house in the villages are rather similar. Overall, you can choose from a variety of local dishes like Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, lentil soup, pickle that can be refilled as much as you like), fried rice, dumplings (Mo Mo Tibetan meal), Thukpa, any style of potato (boiled or fried), spring rolls, or western dishes like pasta, pizza, noodles, any style of egg, porridge, muesli, chapati, Tibetan bread, etc.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Accommodation:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek lodging is not as luxurious as in the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang regions, despite the fact that the Manaslu region is a relatively isolated, lesser-known, and less-frequented trekking route in Nepal. The tea house trek can be done similarly to other well-known hiking routes. Typically, you have to share a toilet, and bathroom, and each room will have two beds. You may purchase a hot shower for about 3/4 of a dollar depending on where you have been.

Telephone, Internet, and Battery Charging:

Telephone availability:

Nowadays, most villages have phone service and mobile reception. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are our two major SIM card providers. Nepal Telecom is recommended by NTE for better reception in the Manaslu region.

Internet availability in the Manaslu Trek:

Certain villages and tea houses like Philim, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, Bhimthang, and Dharapani have internet, but consider that sometimes it may not be reliable due to weather and other issues.

Battery Charging:

Despite being in a very remote trekking region, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Each tea house charges a small fee for electricity. A fully charged device costs roughly 2/3 of a dollar in rupees. Carrying a power bank may be useful during the trek in the Himalayas.

Porter:

As per the tailored-made packages, porter is excluded. But if you would like to have porters, we will be more than happy to offer them. Normally, we provide a porter for two people, and he carries 20 kilos. A porter makes a massive difference in terms of avoiding carrying a burden of kilos and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. I am pretty sure you are fit enough, but if you ask me, I would recommend a porter since it makes a huge difference on the high altitude, rugged, and uneven trails.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Gear Checklist:

When you are planning holidays for new destinations, it often comes to mind what to pack. Especially for adventure journeys like the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the Himalayas of Nepal. As per our 25 years of experience in trekking in Nepal, NTE makes you stress-free and suggests the following gear:

  • Raincoat, such as a poncho, or a combination jacket and trousers
  • One down jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket
  • Windproof trouser
  • Two pairs of trekking pants
  • One pair of shorts
  • Four pairs of T-shirts
  • One MIT wear/fleece jacket
  • One or two pairs of base layers (Marino wools or similar)
  • Four pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks
  • Two pairs of gloves—one light fleece, the other waterproof/windproof
  • Undergarments

Footwear:

  • Ankle-supporting, water-resistant trekking boots
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other Equipment:

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, a woolen or fleece hat/beanie, neck gaiter, a first aid kit, a scissor, a luggage cover, a headlamp, trekking poles, a gaiter (optional), crampons (depending on the trekking season), water purification, extra batteries, an adapter, a power bank, water bottles/camel bags/thermos, washing powder or multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, whistle, mosquito spray (optional), earplugs, reading books, playing cards, or chess.
  • Sleeping bag rated to minus 10–20 degrees Celsius extreme temperature depending on trekking seasons
  • Backpack (60–70 liters)
  • Daypack (20–30 liters)

Travel Insurance:

It is one of the most important things you'll need overseas, particularly when trekking in Nepal. A policy that covers loss and theft, medical and hospitalization, evacuation from high altitude, and adventure activity coverage are among the basics you'll need. A wide variety of policies are available, so make sure to shop for the best possible options. You need to have a policy that's specific to the maximum height on your trek, bearing in mind that several companies place restrictions on that score—look closely at the fine print so that you're sure to get the right coverage, especially in the event of an emergency such as altitude sickness—helicopter evacuations are horrendously expensive.

Also note that most medical treatment and facilities in Nepal, such as hospitals, require payment upfront or approval from your insurance company, so it’s wise to choose a policy that pays the bills directly rather than lumping the burden on you and leaving it till later for the insurer to reimburse you.

Nepalese Currency and the Payment:

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10, 000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35, 000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400 meters | 4593 ft.
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Welcome at the Airport and transfer to your Hotel. Introduce the program then enjoy your first night in cultural diversity in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400 meters | 4593 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation, guide meeting, gear checking or sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

  • Max. Altitude:930 meters | 3051 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Because the road extension has gone further than Soti Khola, Nepal Trekking Experts recommend driving directly to Machha Khola rather than staying in Soti Khola and walking on the road the next day. We leave Kathmandu for the long drive to Machha Khola, passing through Arughat and Soti Khola along the way on the dusty road. Machha Khola is located on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, our companion and guide through the Manaslu valley, the source of which we will eventually touch on as we ascend to the Larkya La pass.

  • Max. Altitude:1340 meters | 4396 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

We ease through Khorlabesi during the early part of the day and make our way to Tatopani, famed for its natural hot springs. A steep climb takes us up to Dobhan as we enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and on to the scenic village of Jagat and its rugged setting and narrow paved lanes.

  • Max. Altitude:1860 meters | 6102 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Our day begins by walking through subtropical rainforests and a series of small hamlets, traversing a couple of suspension bridges along the way, the last of which leads us into the village of Philim and its beautiful setting amidst terraced fields overlooking the river. Further along the trail we arrive at the junction for Tsum Valley and Larkya La and take the path heading northwest towards Deng.

  • Max. Altitude:2630 meters | 8629 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The first real views of the major mountains at hand come into view, with Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Kutang Himal, and other peaks making their presence known as we make our way up the valley. Lush vegetation greets us as we hit the trail and head west through more quaint villages like Prok and their scenic outlooks, then on and up the last steep stretch that ushers us into Namrung.

  • Max. Altitude:3500 meters | 11482 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today is the day when we hit the jackpot for spectacular views of the mountains as the valley opens up with our approach to the scenic village of Lho. The lower temperate forests give way steadily as the trail breaks free of the tree line and climbs higher into the mountains, the lush greens of the lower valley giving way to the muted browns and grays of the Himalayan terrain and the vivid blue skies one only experiences at altitude. After our half-day hike to Lho, we enjoy lunch and continue to our final destination, Shyala. The reason we are choosing your overnight stay in Shyala is just because of its incredible Himalayan scenery. Wherever you turn your camera, you will have only 360-degree, imposing mountain views.

  • Max. Altitude:3520 meters | 11549 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

From Shyala, we hike to the equally impressive view point and one of our trip highlights, Pungen Gompa, which offers spectacular vistas of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Nadi Peak, Kutang Himal, and a beautiful glacier, then descend steadily through yak pasturelands to Samagaun.

  • Max. Altitude:3520 meters | 11549 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Samagaun is our temporary home for the day as we give our bodies time to acclimate to the altitude, and the choice is a fine one as the village provides multiple choices for day excursions, including a short hike to the pretty lake of Birendra Taal nearby or the highly rewarding and dramatic hike to Manaslu Base Camp. If the trail is clear, there is good weather, and you are fit, then go to the Manaslu Base Camp. Just for your kind information, Manaslu Base Camp is quite a challenging hike but offers breathtaking scenery. You may enjoy the 360-degree Himalayas, including the 8th-tallest mountain, Manaslu, its glacier, Birendra Lake, and the deep Tsum Numbri Valley.

  • Max. Altitude:3860 meters | 12664 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Onward and up is the motto of the day as we put our heads down determinedly with the goal of Larke La ever nearer. The trail leads us on a short and gradual climb alongside the river then begins to steepen as it leads us up to Samdo around midday. There is plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and perhaps hike to a higher altitude briefly to help in the process of acclimatization.

  • Max. Altitude:3860 meters | 12664 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Another rest day to help acclimate, with the rare option to spend the day on a hike to the border with Tibet at the pass of Rui La (4998m). The views of the Himalayas and Fukang Glacier add another level to the day's journey.

  • Max. Altitude:4460 meters | 14632 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Our trek to the high-altitude camp of Dharmsala brings us to the very threshold of Larke La, with snow more evident and the air feeling thinner with each step towards our destination. Another brief hike to higher ground is recommended to help our bodies get used to the altitude and sleep better during the night.

  • Max. Altitude:3590 meters | 11778 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The typical method for crossing Larkya La is to head out before daybreak, our head-mounted lights bobbing in the dark as we clamber up the path in the cold morning air, our breath apparent in the glow of the lamps. The trail to Larkya La is a deceptive one of constant switchbacks, promising everything one minute and snatching it away the next as one false ridge leads to another. Finally, we catch a glimpse of the first prayer flags and our goal is finally attained as we stumble wearily to the marker and pose proudly for our cameras to mark the achievement. After pausing to luxuriate in the accomplishment and take in the magnificent views we begin the descent to Bhimthang and put our trekking poles to good use to spare our tired legs and knees from the steep descent to the arid valley below.

  • Max. Altitude:2515 meters | 8251 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

With views of Manaslu to our left and the Annapurna ranges to our right, we descend from Bhimthang through yak pastures to the first signs of the Dudh Khola's headwaters trickling down the slope. A bridge across leads to a path that gradually leaves behind the alpine climate and takes us down through familiar rhododendron forests to a narrow valley of terraced fields and patchwork crops. We reach the small and picturesque village of Goa overnight, where you will have the best accommodation, a hot shower, wifi, and delicious meals for the entire trek.

  • Max. Altitude:760 meters | 2493 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Short and pleasant hike to Dharapani, where we take lunch and drive to Besisahar by a shared jeep.

  • Max. Altitude:1400 meters | 4593 ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

Driving by bus to either Pokhara or Kathmandu, as you prefer.

    Farewell and drop-off to the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

    Got a question about this tour?

    Or looking for customize trip, reach out to our travel experts.

    Customize Trip

    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two nights' accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
    • All necessary trekking permits for Manaslu Special, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS card, etc.
    • All accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • If and when available, fresh fruit will be provided
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, and four-season sleeping bag, if needed.
    • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid-trained guide
    • First-aid kit
    • Kathmandu to Machhakhola by bus
    • Dharapani to either Pokhara or Kathmandu by bus
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
    • Certificate of achievement, if needed
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city. (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi, etc.
    • Tipping for staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Manaslu Circuit Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SundayDec 15, 2024
    End:TuesdayDec 31, 2024
    PriceUS$1045
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:FridayJan 10, 2025
    PriceUS$1045
    StatusGuaranteed
    Private Date

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's talk to our local specialist now.

    Photos & Videos
    Manaslu Circuit Trekking Video
    Suspension Bridge In Manaslu Trek
    Just After The Larke Pass In Manaslu Trek
    Guest Are Having Breakfast In Manaslu Trek
    Lho Monastry
    Larkya La Pass M
    Bhimthang After The Larke Pass
    Arrived At Manaslu Base Camp
    FAQs for Manaslu Circuit Trek

    • You will find a variety of prices on the market. It depends on the service you are looking for. However, in general, the Manaslu Circuit Trek costs 900 USD to 1500 USD per person, depending on group size, service, and the number of trekking days.

    • The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins 155 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu at Machhakhola village, Gorkha. You can reach it by bus or a private jeep. The bus service is already included in our package. If you prefer to upgrade to a private jeep, it costs a $200. A jeep will have 7 seats.

    • Manaslu Base Camp is situated at an elevation of 4980 meters (16339 feet) from sea level.

    • The height of Himalchuli Base Camp is 4020 meters (13189 feet) above sea level. 

    • Mt. Manaslu stands at 8163 meters (26781 feet) above sea level. However, the Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches up to 5106 meters (16752 ft.) at Larkya La Pass. 

    • The Manaslu Circuit Trek is 170 km (105 Miles) long. It may take more or less 12 to 17 days depending on your holidays, interests, and fitness.

    • The Larkya La stands 5106 meters (16752 feet) tall.

    • While the Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal, you must have a government-registered guide.

    • A professional local person who speaks good English and is a government-certified, first-aid, leadership, and rescue-trained person.

    • The Manaslu Circuit Trek has such a challenging landscape, many days of walking long distances, and reaches over 5000 meters, Nepal Trekking Experts recommend a porter. Normally, a porter will be provided for two people, and he carries 20 kilos. A porter makes a big difference in terms of avoiding carrying the burden of kilos and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

    • NTE does not recommend drinking directly from the tap for hygiene reasons. You can buy bottles of mineral water, boil water, use purification tablets, a steripen, or a life straw as you like.

    • You should have Nepali rupees with you during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. There are no ATMs or banks, and credit cards are not accepted.

    • Walking in high-altitude and rugged terrain for many days won’t be easy. But since it is not a mountain expedition and you are just walking on the trail, you can definitely trek the Manaslu Circuit. However, we recommend hiking, jogging, cardio, gym, etc. regularly before visiting Nepal for an enjoyable trek.

    • The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a minimum of two people, a government-registered agency, and a guide. For more details visit our Nepal Trekking Permits and Fees Blog.

    • Trekkers cannot obtain the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permits on their own. So, only updated trekking agencies like Nepal Trekking Experts can obtain them for you.

    • As per government rule, you cannot trek solo in the Manaslu region. Despite the two-person mandatory rule of government, trekkers can pay a ghost trekker permit and trek the Manaslu Circuit solo. On the other hand, we can get a shared permit with a group if and when available and trek solo too.

    • Yes, you need a sleeping bag for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Nepal Trekking Experts recommend -15°C extreme temperature sleeping bags to handle all the conditions it may come across during the trek.

    • Yes, you can store the unnecessary stuff with us in Kathmandu.

    • You can pay online through our website or on arrival by cash such as in USD, AUD, Euros, Pound, SGD, Swiss Franc, Rupees, or card as you like. Just for your kind information, paying by card costs 3.5% of the total amount.

    • Yes, a high-altitude coverage insurance policy is essential for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and it's also recommended that you pay close attention to the details to ensure that trekking is covered by the policy, as well as hospitalization and medical evacuation.

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    63Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Manaslu: yes!

      This review is for Manaslu circuit, done with Nepal Trekking Experts (NTE). NTE specializes in Manaslu area, although they cover many areas. I was a member of a three person group, each of whom went solo like me (we were strangers before the trek). Total hiking days/distance/vertical was 11 days/160km/~9300m, plus 2 more days of jeep driving, 1 each way: Kathmandu to Machhakhola at start and Besisahar to Kathmandu at end. Peak trekking altitude is 5150m ≈ 16,900 ft, and max sleeping altitude is 4450m ≈ 14,600 ft, in Dharmasala. For the record, I took Diamox starting ~4 days before Larkla la pass; this was prescribed by my Dr., not NTE. I do believe it helped with the higher altitudes, as I never had any symptoms of AMS (acute mountain sickness).

      Short version, this trek was great and I recommend it to anyone who has the inclination and ability. The trek starts at relatively low elevation, ~900m (3000 ft) and stays under 3000m (10,000 ft) for the first 3 days. Those 3 days are hotter but also more scenic, and I personably enjoyed them immensely. We saw a lot of villagers and animals along the paths, and the plant life/jungle was very lush. Starting hiking day 4, one moves to higher altitude, 3500m ≈ 11,500 ft, and one starts feeling that the environment is changing, becoming more stark. Also, NTE reduces the distance and vertical gain that you’re hiking each day, to reduce chances of AMS. In this phase, you typically reach your next town by 1pm, and then do a relatively moderate afternoon hike to somewhat higher altitude for acclimatizing. There are also optional ‘side trip’ days. Our group decided not go to Manaslu base camp, which is a ‘hard core’ steep climb of ~1200m (4000 ft), but we did Pung Gyen Gompa instead. The views there are just gorgeous, truly amazing. We also did not do the all day side trek to the Tibet border, but instead did a much shorter version as an afternoon acclimation hike.

      Hiking day 9 was our ‘over the top’ day, from Dharmasala to Bihmthang, and this is definitely the hardest day of the trek. Everybody gets up at 3:15, eats, and starts hiking by 4 am (everyone brings headlamps). The grade (slope) is actually not too steep, so a moderate steady pace does it. We summited at Larkla La pass ~7:20am, spent 20-30 doing pics and enjoying the view, then started the long descent to Bihmthang. Despite the fact that you’re descending, it’s still a workout, because of rocky footing underneath. Hike day 10, descent from Bihmthang to Gowa, switches back to a lusher environment, and is quite scenic. The last hiking day is short, and a ‘local jeep’ takes you to Besisahar, which is a real city of ~40k people.

      I’d like to put in words of appreciation for our guide and porters: Thakur, Gakul, and (Kancha?). One of our three members had bad AMS at Dharmasala, and he had to go back 1 stop to Samdo. Gakul went with him, and accompanied him when he did the summit direct from Samdo, a real he-man feat.

      Other comments about the tea house life:
      1) Food is limited in choices, but there’s enough variation to keep one happy. Unlike most, I’m not a big fan of Dal Baht, but there’s noodle/rice/egg dishes.
      2) Nights are cold up high but the sleeping bag NTE gave me always kept me warm. At the higher altitudes, the tea houses all have thick blankets to put on top for additional warmth.
      3) bathrooms: get ready to squat!

      This was a once in a lifetime trip for me, and I’m glad that NTE made it worth it.

      G
      geoffOct 28, 2024Canada
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Highly recommended

      Like many people, myself and my friends were unsure of which of the many tour operators to choose from for our Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal. After doing some research, we contacted Nepal Trekking Experts, as it is a local Nepali business with good reviews. From the start Raj was very helpful and responsive.

      Every detail was taken care of and it felt like nothing was too much trouble; we were picked up from the airport and taken to an excellent hotel, and asked to meet with Raj the following day at a time that suited us, to discuss the plan, permits and payment etc. Other things made a big difference, such as storing our excess luggage and sending it to Pokhara after we had finished the trek, as well as arranging transport between the towns that we required, despite difficulties due to an ongoing festival.

      Prakash, our guide, was brilliant, being supportive, knowledgeable and a good laugh throughout the trek, ensuring we were enjoying ourselves and in good health throughout. Our porters were also very friendly, and we all had a good time together in the evenings.

      We were so happy with our experience that following the Manaslu trek, we booked our trip to Chitwan with them too, with much the same positive experience.

      I would highly recommend Nepal Trekking Experts, and I intend to use them again on my future return to Nepal.

      J
      Josh SOct 21, 2024United Kingdom
    tripadvisor
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