Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Duration
- 15 days
- Max altitude
- 5,160 m
- Difficulty
-
Strenuous
Difficulty scale
- Easy Short walking days on good trails below about 3,000 m. Suitable for anyone in ordinary health, including families.
- Moderate 5 to 6 hours a day with some steep sections, reaching up to about 4,000 m. A reasonable level of fitness and a few weeks of preparation walking recommended.
- Strenuous 6 to 8 hours a day, high passes or altitudes above 5,000 m, and remote stretches. Good fitness, prior trekking experience and proper acclimatisation days are essential.
- Very strenuous Long days, multiple high passes or technical sections, sustained time above 5,000 m. For experienced, well-conditioned trekkers only.
- Best season
- Autumn (Sep–Nov) · Spring (Mar–May)
- Group
- Private
- From
- $1,040.00
Overview
A restricted-area circuit around the eighth highest mountain on earth, crossing Larkya La at 5,106 m. Fewer lodges, fewer people and a stronger Tibetan character than the Annapurna side of the same range.
Every departure is private and led by a government-licensed Nepali guide, so the plan flexes to your party and to the mountain. Permits, park fees and local taxes are inside the price you see.
Trip highlights
- Larkya La pass at 5,106 m
- Restricted area, limited numbers on the trail
- Tibetan Buddhist villages at Sama and Samdo
- Manaslu, 8,163 m, close enough to fill the sky
Day by day
The itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) and transfer to the hotel 1,400 m Hotel
One of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.
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Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (869 m/2,851 ft) from Kathmandu via Soti Khola (710 m/2,329 ft) by Private Tourist vehicle – 8 to 10 hours 869 m 8-10 hrs Teahouse
We will start our trek by driving to Machha Khola from Kathmandu via Soti Khola in a private tourist vehicle after having breakfast. We will drive on a concrete paved road from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi for 3 to 4 hours.
After that, the road becomes bumpy and winding, and we will drive on a dirt road for approximately 5 to 7 hours to reach Machha Khola. The total drive for the day will be around 8 to 10 hours. We will provide a private 4WD vehicle and an experienced driver for your comfort and safety.
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Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m/4,396 ft) from Machha Khola – 6 to 7 hours 1,340 m 6-7 hrs Teahouse
Today, we will start our adventurous trek from Machha Khola to Jagat. We will leave the road and switch to the trails, with a long day of exposure ahead of us.
It will take around an hour to reach Khorlabesi (970 m) from Machha Khola, where you can spot wild marijuana plants along the trail. After that, we will cross a hot spring called ‘Tatopani’.
We will be walking alongside the massive Budi Gandaki River while witnessing stoats attracting birds along the riverbank and stop at ‘Dovan’ (1070 m), meaning riverside, for lunch after another hour.
After a refreshing lunch, we will continue towards Yaruphat via Thulo Dhunga while passing through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, beholding their unique lifestyle and architecture.
As we ascend towards higher elevations, we can witness consistently changing gorgeous landscapes as the scenery undergoes a complete transformation.
We will reach Jagat (1340 m) after two more hours of an easy trail, and at the entrance lies an MCAP checkpoint where one must present their MCAP permit.
We will witness the picturesque setting of the village surrounded by fields with a ‘Mani wall’ in the center, signifying the Tibetan Buddhist Culture. Ultimately, we will spend the night at Jagat and get to experience the local hospitality of the villagers.
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Day 4: Trek to Deng (1,860 m/6,102 ft) from Jagat– 6 to 7 hours 1,860 m 6-7 hrs Teahouse
After having breakfast, we will begin our trek by descending to the Dudh Pokhari Khola, and then cross a suspension bridge to witness a stunning waterfall beyond Jagat.
After walking for fifteen more minutes, we will reach Salleri, which is widely known for its rice and millet fields, and offers a breathtaking view of Shringi Himal, which stands tall at 7,187 meters.
During our trek, we will witness several waterfalls and cross a suspension bridge to ascend to Ghatte Khola via the jeep trails. After an uphill trek of 45 minutes, we will reach Philim, where another MCAP checkpoint is located.
We will interact with locals and witness their agricultural practices as we walk from Philim to Chisapani, where we will stop for lunch. Continuing our trek, we will cross gorgeous rhododendron forests and lush bamboo trails as we pass through Eleklibhatti.
The Gandaki Valley narrows on this trail with soaring precipitous walls. Just before Nyak, the Tsum Valley Trek and Larkye La Pass split off. From Nyak, we will ascend to Pewa and further up to Deng village, following the trail upstream of Deng River.
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Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m/8,629 ft) from Deng – 7 to 8 hours 2,630 m 7-8 hrs Teahouse
Today is going to be a long day compared to our previous days. Following breakfast, we will begin our hike by crossing the bridge and dropping for a little while before climbing sharply and zigzagging for 20 minutes to reach Rana village. Two hours from Rana village lies Bihi Phedi which is steeply uphill.
We can witness deep-rooted Tibetan culture marked by Mani walls, monasteries, and prayer flags during the trek. The pleasant sound of the waterfall and the ancient writings in the stone, along with seasonal fields of flowering mustard are an additional bonus to this adventurous trek.
We will enter a gorgeous and fairly deep forest of blue pine, oak, and rhododendron. We will pass Budi Gandaki and reach Namrung village where we will breathe a little and stay overnight.
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Day 6: Trek to Lho (3,180 m/10,433 ft) from Namrung – 3 to 4 hours 3,180 m 3-4 hrs Teahouse
Today is a promising day as we will be able to glimpse the Twin Manaslu Summit from the beautiful settlement of Lho (3180m).
After the leisurely breakfast, we will head on to Banjam on a leveled path, followed by an hour and thirty minutes of a nearly vertical trail to Lihi. The lovely view of homes with pine shingles covering their roofs, surrounded by Ganesh Himal and Gompa will be a delight to your eyes.
The crispy view of the peaks will accompany us as we head to Sho village (2880 m) from Lihi and Lamagaon, crossing the Hinan River originating from Linda Glacier. Sho Village offers easy access to Lho Gaon which will be our resting point for today.
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Day 7: Trek to Samagaon (3,520 m/11,549 ft) from Lho – 3 to 4 hours 3,520 m 3-4 hrs Teahouse
Waking up to the stunning view of the mighty Mt. Manaslu, Manaslu North, Naike Peak, and the captivating terrains, we begin our hike by going to the Lho Ribang Monastery.
Here, along with the beautiful panoramic view of the peaks, we witness the puja which includes the customary chanting and blowing of horns.
Then we begin our journey to Samagaon, starting from a two-hour hike to Shyala passing through a lovely pine forest, and areas of extreme incline.
Beautiful mountain ranges, including Simnang Himal (6,158 meters), Ngadi Chuli (7,613 meters), Manaslu (8,163 meters), Manaslu North (6994m) Naike Peak (6,211m) can be seen from Shyala (3,500 meters). A feeling of tranquility might also hit you as we pass through several prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls.
After continuing on a downhill path for around an hour and a half, we reach Samagaon (3,520 m), which is a large and historically significant community.
It is unique in its ways as the lower level of the two-storeyed homes are occupied by animals, whose heat is used by the inhabitants to reside on the top level. This beautiful village is going to be our resting spot for the next day.
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Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon. Hike to Birendra Lake and Manaslu Base Camp (4,895 m/16,060 ft) and back – 7 to 8 hours 4,895 m 7-8 hrs Teahouse
We stay today at Samagaon for acclimatization and take this time to explore around and interact with the locals. Here, you will be able to learn about traditional practices such as yak herding and spinning the wool.
In the course of exploring, we can either visit Pungyen Gompa and glacial Lake Birendra Tal (4-5 hours) or we can take a walk to Manaslu Base Camp and return to Samagaon (7-8 hours). Today, we rejuvenate and prepare ourselves for the trek of the coming days.
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Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3,875 m/12,746 ft) from Samagaon – 3 to 4 hours 3,875 m 3-4 hrs Teahouse
After a relaxing day at Samagaon, we go on a primary-level trail to Samdo. It’s a short and simple trail with occasional patches of dry land where the terrain changes to resemble a desert with little vegetation.
We climb up a terraced hill on the opposite bank of Budi Gandaki and cross a 30-minute steep slope to reach Samdo (3875m) and witness its unique architecture.
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Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala (4,460 m/14,632 ft) from Samdo – 4 to 5 hours 4,460 m 4-5 hrs Teahouse
Starting from Samdo, we will begin a 4-hour trek to Dharamashala. The trail is level and you can slowly ascend through the barren landscape through Larkya Bazar, a former Tibetan trading post.
Dharmashala, aka Larke Phedi, serves as a resting point for the challenging trek ahead. Situated at an altitude of 4,460 m, Dharmashala consists of the basic facility of food and lodging. However, be mindful of your breathing as you might start having hallucinations too.
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Day 11: Trek to Bimthang (3,590 m/11,781 ft) Dharmasala via Larkya La Pass (5,160 m/16,929 ft) – 8 to 9 hours 5,160 m 8-9 hrs Teahouse
We will start as early as possible today to escape the chilly winds that might blow throughout the middle of the day at high altitudes. It is a very important and difficult day in our trekking journey as we embark on a mostly rocky trail steadily for about 3 hours.
We first climb towards Cho Chanda followed by a steeply uphill journey towards the exhilarating pass. The strategy to reach Larkya La Pass (5,160 m/16,929 ft)
is to go slowly and steadily.Accompanied by the phenomenal view of Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Cheo Himal (6,820 m/22,375 ft), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6,981 m/22,903 ft), and Annapurna II (7,937 m/26,040 ft), we cross the steep slope descending towards Bhimthang.
The tranquil valley of Bhimthang surrounded by grazing yaks and dramatic landscapes is sure to leave you awestruck.
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Day 12: Trek to Goa (2,515 m/8,251 ft) from Bimthang – 5 to 6 hours 2,515 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
After a long walk through the Larkye la pass, today’s route promises a more relaxed and trek-friendly experience.
The journey begins with a gentle ascent through picturesque paddy fields and winds through lush forests, terraced hillsides, charming villages, and quaint settlements in Hampuk, Yak Kharka, and Kharche.
Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of majestic mountains, including Mount Manaslu, South Manaslu, Nemjung, and other towering peaks, along with striking glaciers like Ponkar and Changri.
The trail then descends through alpine meadows filled with pine and rhododendron forests, offering a serene escape.
This off-the-beaten-path experience allows you to immerse yourself in tranquil villages and soak in the breathtaking vistas of verdant landscapes and snow-capped mountains.
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Day 13: Trek to Dharapani (1,963 m/6,441 ft) from Goa – 3 to 4 hours 1,963 m 3-4 hrs Teahouse
The trail transitions to a classic Nepali flat and descend through quaint villages such as Tilije and Thonje before reaching our final accommodation stop, Dharapani.
Tilije is a charming settlement in a hilly region offering you to immerse yourself in the serene Gurung culture and embrace its unique traditions.
We will be hiking along the route and continue following the Marsyandi River up to Dharapani, the scenic surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciating the natural beauty.
Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to relax, explore the village, or refresh yourself after the long trekking journey.
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Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu from Dharapani via Besisahar (760 m/2,493 ft) – 10 to 12 hours 760 m 10-12 hrs Hotel
Today, we will embark on a scenic drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu in a private tourist vehicle. The journey will take approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The road winds through hills and boasts stunning views of the mountains, including Mount Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Mount Manaslu, Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mount Lamjung,
We will begin by traveling on an adventurous dirt road for about 3 to 4 hours from Dharapani to Besisahar. From there, we’ll continue on a paved concrete road to Kathmandu, ensuring a smooth, relaxing, and more comfortable ride.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will complete our journey, ending our trek with a special farewell dinner, and rest for the night.
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Day 15: Transfer to International Airport for your final departure
The trip concludes – our airport representative will drop you at the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal.
Altitude profile
The climb, day by day
Comfort tiers
Choose your level of comfort
| Amenity | Standardfrom $1,250.00 | Comfortfrom $1,475.00 | Luxuryfrom $1,812.50 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu hotel | 3★ | 4★ | 5★ |
| Trail accommodation | Standard teahouse | Best lodge in each village | Premium lodge where the route has one |
| Porter support | Shared porter | Private porter, lighter load | Extra porter, carry almost nothing |
| Transfers | Shared | Private | Private, throughout |
What's included
Included
- Included: In Kathmandu: Stay two nights in a clean and comfortable 3-star hotel with twin-sharing rooms. Breakfast is served in the morning. This accommodation includes one night before the trek begins and another after returning from the mountains.
- Included: During the Trek: Stay in selected mountain lodges with twin-sharing rooms throughout your trek. Each place is chosen for its warmth, comfort, and great location along the trail.
- Included: Full Board Meals During the Trek: You’ll get breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day during your mountain journey. All meals are fresh and made to keep you energized and satisfied. (Vegan, vegetarian, and Gluten-free meals available in Manaslu teahouses)
- Included: Tea or coffee: Enjoy warm drinks up to three times a day to feel cozy and refreshed.
- Included: After dinner, fresh mountain fruits are served to give you a boost for the next day’s trek.
- Included: You’ll be picked up from the airport and dropped off, with all ground transportation arranged.
- Included: Travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m) by road, then take a jeep to Besisahar before returning to Kathmandu in a private vehicle.
- Included: Manaslu Circuit Special Permit Fee
- Included: Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Area Fees (ACAP and MCAP)
- Included: TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- Included: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for trekking
- Included: Free insulated jacket, crampons, and sleeping bag for the trek (weighs 3-4 kg; fits airline baggage rules)
- Included: Personal 70-liter hiking duffel bag for every trekker
- Included: Special keepsake set including detailed Manaslu Circuit Trek map, branded T-shirt, and cap
- Included: Official certificate to celebrate your trek completion
- Included: All government taxes, permits, and service charges
Not included
- Not included: Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
- Not included: International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Not included: Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 days visa, USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
- Not included: Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Not included: Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
- Not included: Tips to trekking staff and driver
- Not included: Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Not included: Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Your team
Led by a licensed guide
Every route is led by a government-licensed guide from our team. Licences are on record with us before departure, and you'll meet your guide once your trip is confirmed.
Guide language(s): English, Nepali
Group-size pricing
Walk together, pay less
Every trip is private, so the guide, permits and transfers cost the same however many walk. Sharing them is why the per-person price falls: arithmetic, not a sale.
| Group size | per person | You save each |
|---|---|---|
| 1 trekker | $1,250.00 | base rate |
| 2 to 3 trekkers | $1,040.00 | $210.00 |
| 4 to 6 trekkers | $975.00 | $275.00 |
| 7 or more | $915.00 | $335.00 |
Per person, including permits, park fees and taxes. Nothing is added at checkout.
Weather
What to expect, month by month
- Autumn (Sep–Nov)The most reliable trekking season: clear air, stable weather and cold nights, right after the monsoon clears.
- Spring (Mar–May)Warmer than autumn, with rhododendron forests in flower and slightly hazier mountain views as the season goes on.
Traveller reviews
What trekkers say
Why book with us
Every trail, one licensed team
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