How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

A good base fitness level is recommended. You should be comfortable with moderate hiking distances and some steeper sections. Regularly going for hikes or participating in cardio activities beforehand will help prepare you for the trek.

How much do guides and porters cost?

While guides are included in our trek package, porters are an optional add-on. Contact us for current rates on porter services.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is not included but highly recommended. It's important to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellations or medical emergencies.

What kind of clothing should I pack?

Layers are key! Pack comfortable hiking clothes, a warm jacket, waterproof gear, and good hiking shoes. You can find a detailed packing list in our pre-departure information email.

Is it possible to customize the itinerary?

We offer some flexibility in customizing the itinerary to fit your preferences. Please contact us to discuss any potential modifications.

What are the payment options?

We offer various secure payment options for your convenience. Please refer to our booking information page for details.

Will I have access to Wi-Fi during the trek?

Wi-Fi access may be limited in remote areas. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but it's best to be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the scenery!

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy is clearly outlined in our booking terms and conditions. We recommend reviewing this information before booking your trip.

Manaslu Circuit Trek - Trek For Nepal

Manaslu Circuit trek is regarded as one of the best all-round trek in Nepal. Throughout this naturally blissful trek, trekkers can enjoy the view of the magnificent Himalayas including Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal and many other peaks. Along with these ice giants’ trekkers can witness the Budhi Gandaki River, the Tsum and Marsyangdi valley, serenity of the lush forests as well as the ethnic villages of the western Nepal.

This circuit trek around Western Himalayas shows for great landscapes and the mountains which serve as a backdrop to this natural scenery. Trekkers can also experience the Annapurna Massif and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) along with the Manaslu region.

Located at the east of Annapurna range, this trek includes some of the best scenes of the Western Himalayas as well as some part of the Eastern ones. Despite that, this route is much more secluded and less crowded than others. The cultural bio diversity and the picturesque landscape make this trek one of the best treks around.

Contribute to the society as the portion of your expense towards the trek will be given to the marginalized society who is deprived of basic needs. This trek acts as the liaisons between the people in need of such infrastructure and the resources to meet them.

Detail Overview

Explore the uncharted land of the Manaslu region as you traverse through the off-the-beaten-path of the Western Nepal. Serving as the trek that takes you around the world’s eighth highest mountain – Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) the beauty and tranquility of nature makes Manaslu Circuit trek one of the most sought treks around.

Despite its much guaranteed scenes, Manaslu Circuit trek has been overshadowed by the Annapurna Circuit trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. As such, much of the people are either unaware of ignorant of the exquisiteness this trek holds. Although the trek takes you to the remote lands of the western Nepal, you can find various tea houses along the way. Because of this, Manaslu circuit trek has also been named ‘tea house trek’. The availability of the tea houses makes this trek even more entertaining and easy compared to other.

The diversity in the landscape makes this trek a memorable one. From the alpine and sub-tropical jungles to the rocky terrain to the open grasslands, this trek has it all. Trekkers will get an opportunity to experience the diversity in the land that nature has to offer while getting acquainted with the local people, their lifestyle and culture.

The highest point of the trek is the Larkya Pass situated at the height of 5,106m. Due to this high altitude, acclimatization plays a huge role in the success of the trek. Acute mountain sickness may catch you if there is no proper acclimatization. Because of this, we have to adapt to the high altitude and get accustomed to the thin air. Although this is an easy trek, solo trekking is not allowed. Trekkers have to come in group of two or more and get permit to trek in the area.

The influx of trekkers is higher in spring season during the month of March, April and May. The climate is optimum to trek around. There isn’t much heat nor is the sky too cloudy making it a desirable time to trek in this region. The trails are dry and easy to traverse. Autumn is also another season when there is high influx of trekkers. Other year round, it will be rather difficult to carry on this trek. The harsh cold and the heavy rain may impede on your journey.

We, here at Volunteer’s Initiative Nepal aim at providing social relief to the people. In Nepal, there are many people who don’t have access to even the simplest of human needs like clothes, food, and education. VIN aims to bridge the gap between these marginalized societies and their demands. From the expense you make during the trek VIN will contribute a portion of those funds to the people in need. These people will be given what they lack – be it food or the chance to get education. People will also be freed from oppression and social stigma that haunts them. So, in one hand you will be enjoying the epic beauty of the western Himalayas and on the other, contributing to the people towards making their life worth living.

Trekking Experience Details

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an expedition that pushes your physical limits while nurturing your spirit with breathtaking vistas and cultural encounters. Below are detailed aspects to help you prepare and thoroughly enjoy this epic journey:

Difficulty Level and Physical Demands

The trek is classified as challenging due to its steep ascents, high-altitude passes, and prolonged walking hours. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness, as regular cardio and strength training are essential. Our experienced Trek Guide provides specific Trek Preparation advice to help you build endurance and prevent fatigue.

Altitude and Acclimatization

Reaching altitudes above 5,000 meters poses a risk of Trek Altitude Sickness. Scheduled acclimatization days, such as the stops in Dharamsala and Gauri, are designed to allow your body to adjust gradually. Studies indicate that over 80% of trekkers benefit from these rest days, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Terrain and Climate

The Manaslu Circuit Trek covers diverse terrains, from lush river valleys and terraced farmlands to rugged mountain passes. The Weather can vary dramatically; expect warm days, cool evenings, and potentially chilly nights at higher elevations. The recommended Trek Best Time is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) or post-monsoon (September to November) seasons, ensuring clear skies and stable conditions.

Physical and Mental Challenges

The trek demands both physical endurance and mental resilience. Long days of trekking, steep ascents, and unpredictable weather can test your limits. However, the reward of witnessing epic landscapes, interacting with local cultures, and achieving personal milestones is unparalleled.

Highlights

Below are the 10 key Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights that make this journey truly unforgettable:

Highlight	Short Description
Panoramic Mountain Views	Marvel at expansive views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks that will leave you breathless.
Ancient Villages	Explore traditional villages that preserve centuries-old customs and cultural heritage.
Larkya La Pass	Cross the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters for an adrenaline rush and unforgettable vistas.
Sacred Monasteries	Visit centuries-old monasteries and prayer sites that offer spiritual solace and historical insight.
Historic Trade Routes	Walk along ancient trails once used by traders and pilgrims, connecting remote Himalayan communities.
Diverse Landscapes	Experience the natural transition from lush valleys to barren high-altitude terrains.
Seasonal Colors	Witness the stunning contrast of autumn hues and pristine snow in the early spring.
Authentic Accommodations	Rest in cozy tea houses and guest houses that exemplify Trek Accommodation standards.
Expert Guidance	Benefit from the insights of a dedicated Trek Guide and a comprehensive Trek Packing List.
Community Interaction	Engage with local communities, gaining insights into their daily life and traditions.

Testimonials

Hear from fellow adventurers who have experienced the transformative Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Pradeep S. – “The Manaslu Circuit Trek was a life-changing experience. The detailed Trek Itinerary kept us well-informed and prepared, and the friendly guide ensured our safety on challenging sections. I highly recommend this trek to serious adventurers.”

Anjali R. – “I was amazed by the authenticity of the journey. Every detail, from the transparent Trek Cost to the excellent Trek Accommodation, made the trek memorable. The natural beauty and cultural encounters were beyond compare!”

Deepak K. – “After reading several Trek Reviews, I finally embarked on this trek and was not disappointed. The route is challenging yet rewarding. The careful planning and professional guidance made all the difference, and I now cherish every moment of the trek.”Maya L. – “My experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trek was physically demanding and spiritually uplifting. The blend of rugged landscapes, ancient villages, and breathtaking mountain passes set this trek apart. The expert tips on Trek Preparation and the comprehensive Trek Packing List ensured I was well-equipped for every challenge.”

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers more than a physical challenge—it is a transformative journey that weaves together adventure, cultural immersion, and community impact. From the moment you depart Kathmandu until your final return, each step is carefully crafted to offer breathtaking views, authentic local interactions, and a deep connection to the natural world. This trek tests your endurance and enriches your spirit, leaving you with memories that last a lifetime. Embrace the challenge, prepare diligently with our Trek Preparation advice and Trek Packing List, and let the mystique of the Himalayas inspire you. Whether you are captivated by the ancient villages, the awe-inspiring mountain passes, or the warm hospitality of local communities, the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable adventure that goes beyond physical exploration to create lasting social change.

Social Impact and Community Empowerment

At TrekforNepal.com, every trekking adventure should also contribute to positive social change. A portion of the proceeds from the Manaslu Circuit Trek is directed toward community development initiatives that benefit residents. Here’s how your journey makes an impact:

Double Impact with ViN:
When you join our trekking and travel tour program, all proceeds go directly to community empowerment projects organized by ViN. Your participation creates a double impact—enriching your life while uplifting local communities.

Volunteer’s Initiative Nepal:
A percentage of the trek cost is invested in local education, infrastructure, and healthcare projects in remote Himalayan communities.

Empowering Marginalized Communities:
Sustainable tourism practices help preserve indigenous cultures and provide economic opportunities for local villagers.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a unique journey through remote landscapes that showcase Nepal’s raw natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This trek takes you around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Manaslu, offering trekkers the chance to experience untouched villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking vistas—all while avoiding the crowded trails of more popular routes.

General Description

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trek meanders along rugged trails that pass through lush valleys, terraced fields, and serene riverbanks. You will encounter charming villages steeped in tradition and spirituality, where local customs have been preserved over centuries. Using our detailed Trek Map and relying on the expertise of your Trek Guide, you will traverse challenging yet awe-inspiring paths that lead to some of the most scenic high-altitude passes, including the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.

Target Audience

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is ideal for seasoned trekkers and adventurous souls looking for an off-the-beaten-path journey. It’s perfect for those interested in cultural immersion, photography, and experiencing Nepal’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a passionate traveler ready to push your limits, this trek caters to all who seek adventure and personal transformation.

Key Highlights

Trek to the world-famous place in Nepal and world
One of the most popular trekking destinations globally.
Winters are extremely cold and harsh, making trekking challenging.
Witness lush meadows, thick rhododendron forests, and vibrant valleys.
Immerse yourself in natural beauty, culture, and unique traditions.
Ancient Culture and Heritage: Wander through age-old villages where centuries-old traditions thrive, and local festivals enliven the community.
Spectacular Mountain Views: As you cross high mountain passes, enjoy panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, including a close-up look at Manaslu.
Thrilling Adventure: The trek offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, perfect for those who appreciate physical and mental endurance.
Authentic Hospitality: Stay in local tea houses and guest houses, ensuring a genuine interaction with Nepalese culture and warm hospitality.
Diverse Landscapes: From lush subtropical forests to stark, arid high-altitude terrain, the varied landscape makes each day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek unique.
Spiritual Encounters: Visit ancient monasteries and prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, which add a spiritual dimension to the trek.
Optimal Trekking Seasons: Learn about the best time to travel for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, with recommendations for clear skies and comfortable weather conditions.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival in the capital city – Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Briefing of the trek will be given to you and depend on your arrival time you may have the entire evening to stroll around the city and also enjoy the nightlife. We will get packing for the next day with all the necessary equipment.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu – Sotikhola (775m)

We drive to Sotikhola, our destination for the day. In the private vehicle, we drive through Thankot and to the Dhading Bazar where we stop by for lunch. Going up to Dhading besi and pass few cities we will reach Arughat. From there, moving alongside the Budhi Gandaki River we can see the local ethnic villages and country sides with hills and farm terraces from the windows. Finally, we will reach Soti Khola. 8 hours of drive.

Day 3 :

Soti Khola – Maccha Khola (900m)

This is will the start of our trek and an easy one at that. Trekking along the bank of Budhi Gandaki river we will have an easy walk through the Sal forests. There are several waterfalls that we might pass along the way. After that it’s the rice terraces until we reach the Gurung village of Labubeshi. Descending down and walking through the rocky trails we head down to the river and cross a long suspension bridge and reach the village of Maccha Khola (translates to ‘Fish River’). Overnight at a lodge. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 4 :

Maccha Khola – Jagat (1,410m)

After our breakfast, we continue our trek alongside the Maccha River and reach Tatopani which is famous for its hot spring. There’s a long suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river. Crossing this we climb the long stone staircase to reach Dovan (1,000m). We descend down and again climb the stairs which takes us to Tharo Bharyang. Another suspension bridge and we reach the village of Jagat where we stay for the night. BLD included.

Day 5 :

Jagat – Deng (1,804m)

Initially, we climb the rocky ridge which takes to Salleri. From here, we can see the Sringi Himal (7,177m). Then we descend down to the Gandaki valley and reach Sirish Gaon. After a stretch we reach Ekkli Bhatti where we rest for a while. Then we continue moving upstream alongside the Deng river. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 6 :

Deng – Namrung

There’s a rock tunnel, crossing which, we will reach a rock tunnel and reach Bihi. Trekking west the Budhi Gandaki valley we pass through the thick forest and reach Ghap. We also reach Prok village that is famous for the view of the Sringi Himal along with the view of Ganesh Himal and Mt. Himalchuili to the south. On the way we come across many Gompas and we also cross the river multiple times. Another pleasant walk through the grassland and we reach the village of Namrung. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 7 :

Namrung – Samagaon (3,530m)

The early morning view of the surrounding mountains is very eccentric. We trek through the thick forests and pass small wooden bridge and reach the village of Lihi that is famous for the chortens and its barley terraces. Descending down the valley we can witness the majestic Ganesh Himal at the horizon. There are three villages that we have to pass through, namely- Sho, Lho and Shyala each with its own viewpoint for viewing the mountains. Passing through the moraines of the Pungen Glacier and ascending up the rocky trails and lush forests we reach Samagaon where we rest of the day. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 08 :

Excursion in Samagaon

Since the trekking is going to take us to high altitude this is a good place and time for acclimatization. However, we will be taking on a short hike to Birendra Lake. We can also visit the nearby Pungyen Gompa. The Sherpa people are friendly and welcoming and it’s a great chance to learn about their lifestyle and their culture. BLD included.

Day 09 :

Samagaon – Samdo (4,500m)

Following the Budhi Gandaki river, we climb on the terraced hill. Through the thick juniper forest we will reach cross roads which takes us either to Manaslu Base camp or to our next destination. We reach Kermo Kharka and cross the river on a wooden bridge. From there, we will climb steadily through the rocky terrain and reach the Samdo Village. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 10 :

Excusion in Samdo

This is another day to get accustomed to the high altitude. One way to utilize this day is to walk to the Tibet border. The view of Mt. Manaslu from Samdo is also something that is worth a look. Not only Manaslu, we can even witness other western mountains. Since we are as high as 4,500m it is a perfect place for bird watching as the Lhophophorous, Himalayan Griffin and Lammergeyer– some of the rarest bird can be found soaring in the sky. BLD included.

Day 11 :

Samdo – Dharamsala (4,460m)

After going up and down the valley we will cross the Larkya Glacier. The wooden bridge will take us over the Salka Khola and after walking for few hours we will reach Dharamsala- a stone guest house. This place is also known as Larke Phedi. Today the trek is cut short due to the high altitude and thin air. We can stroll around the area and observe the scenic landscapes. 4 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 12 :

Dharamsala – Bimthang (3,720m)

Climbing up the hills, we reach a valley on the northern side of Larkya Glacier from where we can the view of the Hills and surrounding mountains including the Larkya Peak, Himlung HImal (7,126m), Annapurna II (7,937m) and Cheo Himal (6,820m). The Larkya Pass is the highest altitude of this trek and the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains makes it an absolute beauty to behold and worth some beautiful pictures. Descending down the pass, we take long pleasant walk through the pastures and reach Bimthang by evening. 9 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 13 :

Bimthang – Tilije (2,300m)

We climb atop the ridge to view the magnificent mountains at a distance. Descending down the pastures there’s a wooden bridge over Dudh Khola. After crossing the Karch La pass, we move through the thick Rhododendron forest and across open fields and after a slight descend; we reach Tilije where we stay for the night. 6 hours of walk. BLD Included.

Day 14 :

Tilije – Tal

This is an easy day for the trekkers. Initially, there’s a slight ascend over the ridge and we pass through some villages. Crossing the Dudh Khola we reach a chorten shaped arch. We climb up and pass a mani wall. There’s a police checkpoint in Thonje village. Passing through the Karte village we reach the suspension bridge above the great Marsyangdi River which takes us to the village of Tal. 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 15 :

Tal – Syange (1,080m)

Trekking alongside the bank of Marsyangi River the trail goes downstream and we reach to the village of Chamje after which the Marsyandi valley opens up. We walk through the terrace fields and pass several villages. Descending some more we walk through the Rhododendron and pine forests and we reach the village of Syange where we end our trek. 7 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 16 :

Syange – Kathmandu

Early morning breakfast at the village and we are all set to drive back to Kathmandu. We pass through besi sahar enjoying the beauty of the countryside, the beautiful hills, and mountains in the distance. The view of the landscape and the Marsyangdi River and Trishuli River keeps us company. Reaching the hotel back in Kathmandu, we rest for a bit, take a nice shower and enjoy the stroll around the city and even buy some souvenir to take back home. 9 hours of drive. Breakfast included.

Day 17 :

Departure

Depending on the time of your flight, you will be escorted to the Tribhuvan International airport where you will wait for the time to board the plane.