The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's top high-altitude trekking routes, encircling the world's eighth-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). This trek offers a quieter alternative to the Annapurna Circuit and features stunning remote Himalayan scenery, Tibetan-influenced villages, suspension bridges, deep river gorges, glaciers, and dramatic mountain passes.
Welcome to the mesmerizing 15-Day Manaslu Circuit trek, brought to you by an experienced team at Nepal Spirit Adventure. This thrilling trek takes you into the heart of the enchanting Manaslu region of Nepal, offering breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and an unforgettable adventure. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a unique, less-crowded alternative to other popular treks in Nepal.
This remarkable journey takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world, standing tall at 8,163 meters. As you embark on this 16-day trek, you will experience the pristine beauty of the Manaslu Conservation Area, rich in biodiversity and home to diverse flora and fauna. The trek presents a blend of natural wonders, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes, that will leave you in awe. Throughout the trek, Nepal Spirit Adventure ensures your comfort and safety.
We provide experienced guides who are well-versed in the region, offering valuable insights and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Our carefully designed itinerary includes time for acclimatization so you can adapt to the altitude and make the most of this incredible adventure.
Your trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of the region. Following a well-planned itinerary, each day of the trek offers new experiences and breathtaking views, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
As you venture along the trail organized by Nepal Spirit Adventure, you will pass through charming villages, including Machha Khola, Doban, Philim, Deng, Ghap, Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo. These villages provide a glimpse into local culture and traditions, offering an authentic and enriching experience.
The highlight of the trek is the challenging Larkya La Pass, an exhilarating high-altitude crossing that rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After conquering the pass, you will continue your journey to Bhimtang, completing the magnificent circuit around the majestic Manaslu Mountain.
On the return journey, you will travel through Gho/Tilje village and Dharapani, where you will catch a local bus to Besisahar. From Besisahar, a bus ride will bring you back to Kathmandu, marking the end of this unforgettable Manaslu trekking experience.
With Nepal Spirit Adventure, you can be assured that every aspect of your trek is well taken care of, from expert guides to comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey, allowing you to fully appreciate the wonders of the Manaslu region.
We schedule our departure dates for this adventure trip based on the season, accommodating both domestic and international travelers. During the off-season, the weather can still be fantastic, offering clear skies and breathtaking views of the mountains. However, potential trekkers might be concerned about freezing temperatures, especially considering the impacts of global warming and changing weather patterns in Nepal.
If the scheduled Manaslu Trek departure date doesn’t suit you, we would be happy to provide an alternative date that aligns with your trekking plans in Nepal.
When you book your Manaslu trek with Nepal Spirit Adventure on one of our departure dates, we guarantee that the trip will proceed as planned. If your trekking plans are disrupted by work commitments, please let us know. Your deposit can either be applied to another trek within the same year or rolled over to the following year.
Our recommended group size is between 1 and 10 people, but we occasionally offer group join trips for that season, with a maximum group size of 20 participants."Customize trip departure date as per your travel plan."
Every year, Nepal Spirit Adventure's experienced team updates the cost of the Manaslu Trekking Package. Due to changing conditions, our daily expenses are not constant and tend to increase annually. Consequently, the cost of the Manaslu trek package also rises each year. While we have the flexibility to adjust the trip package price, it varies based on the number of travelers in the group.
Hiking the Manaslu Circuit Trek as a solo traveler can be expensive. This package covers your daily trekking wages, the trek guide and porter fees, meals, lodging, transportation, permits, and accommodation in Kathmandu. However, choosing a private trek allows you to enjoy peace of mind and make decisions at your own pace.
For couples, the private trip package becomes more affordable as you can share the cost of daily wages for lodging, food, transportation, permits, and the trek guide and porter fees. This arrangement provides greater security and comfort. Although you will have your own guide and porter, you'll also encounter many other hikers along the route. We offer competitive pricing for couples hiking the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The cost of the Manaslu trekking circuit varies depending on your chosen package. For a full board trekking package, the costs start as follows;
- Trek guide services: approximately $30 per day, which includes the guide's daily wages
- Trek porter services: starting at $18 per day, also including the porter's daily wages
- Tea house accommodation: $5 to $10 per night
- Meals: $6 to $10 per meal
- Permits: $100 per person for one week; after that, the daily cost is $15
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: $23 per person
- Manaslu Conservation Permit: $23 per person
For the entire package, the starting cost for the Manaslu trek is approximately $1,033 per person.
Throughout the adventure, you'll have the opportunity to choose meals from a menu that primarily features traditional Nepali cuisine, such as Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and noodles. Higher tea houses often offer Western-style meals like pasta, pizza, and pancakes, though they can be more expensive. The food provided is basic but nutritious to sustain you during the trek.
1. Breakfast: Porridge, toast, eggs, or pancakes
2. Lunch: Dal Bhat, noodles, or rice with vegetables
3. Dinner: Dal Bhat, pasta, soup, or a simple vegetable stew
4. Snacks: Chocolate bars, biscuits, and fruits (higher altitudes might have limited choices).
The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is mild, offering clear skies and excellent visibility of the mountain ranges.
Temperatures are moderate, and the weather is generally stable. This season is also ideal for witnessing the blooming of rhododendron flowers.
Considered the peak trekking season in Nepal, this time features clear skies and perfect weather conditions for trekking.
This season is less popular due to cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes, making trekking more challenging. Additionally, some tea houses may be closed during this time.
Trekking during the monsoon is not ideal due to heavy rains, landslides, and leeches. Trails can become slippery and dangerous.
Enjoy complimentary transfers from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel upon arrival and back to the airport when you depart.
After booking confirmation, receive a comprehensive online briefing that includes trek details, an equipment checklist, and your itinerary.
Store your extra luggage at the Nepal Spirit Adventure store during the trek for your convenience.
Your well-being is our priority. We provide pulse oximeters to monitor blood oxygen levels, medical kits, and experienced guides.
Experience a hassle-free booking process with multiple communication channels, including email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom, and 24/7 phone support.
Enjoy an easy payment system for your trek booking.
If you don’t have your own, sleeping bags and down jackets can be provided.
- This 16-day itinerary is a guideline and can be customized according to your preferences and needs.
- Prior trekking experience is recommended, and participants should be physically healthy.
- It is essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking activities.
- Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions during the trek.
- Weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes and follow the advice of your guide.
When embarking on a trekking adventure, teahouses serve as cozy resting spots along the mountain trails. These teahouses offer accommodation, meals, and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers. The facilities provided are simple yet comfortable, ensuring a pleasant stay during your journey. Here's what you can anticipate:
Teahouses typically offer basic lodging options, including twin rooms or dormitories. While the rooms are simple, they provide a comfortable place to rest. It's advisable to bring a sleeping bag for added warmth and coziness. A Sleeping Bag can be rented in Thamel or provided by us upon request, which should be returned after completion. Similarly, please note that single rooms may not always be available, except during the off-season when luck might be on your side. Sharing a room with other trekkers is a common practice.
The shared toilets and bathrooms at teahouses come in either Western style or squat style, accommodating different preferences. Showers generally provide cold water, although some teahouses offer hot water showers for an additional fee. It's worth mentioning that heating is not available in sleeping rooms, so be prepared with warm layers and a good sleeping bag to stay comfortable during the night.
Teahouses feature a dining area where you can enjoy your meals and interact with fellow trekkers. The dining area is usually warmed by a stove, creating a cozy atmosphere. Solar power is commonly used for lighting, and some teahouses offer charging facilities for your electronic devices, which may involve an additional cost. Breakfast and dinner are served at communal tables, providing an opportunity to share stories and experiences with other trekkers. The menu options are varied, catering to different dietary preferences.
To minimize environmental impact, teahouses often provide boiled water for drinking instead of relying on plastic bottles. This not only reduces waste but also ensures the preservation of the pristine mountain environment. However, there is usually a nominal fee for the boiled water. It is advisable to bring your sterilization tablets or a life straw as an alternative for purifying water during your trek.
In conclusion, teahouses offer a comfortable and welcoming haven for trekkers along the mountain trails. With basic yet cozy accommodations, communal dining experiences, and sustainable practices, teahouses provide the perfect respite during your trekking adventure. Prepare accordingly, embrace the unique ambiance, and connect with fellow adventurers as you embark on a memorable journey through the mountains with us.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary has been crafted by an experienced guide who has extensive knowledge of the area. It offers detailed information about the region and can be customized to fit the trekker's holiday preferences. You'll have the opportunity to meet with your local trekking guide, who will provide valuable insights into the Manaslu trekking route.
You're warmly welcome to Nepal on your first day in the Himalayan country for your dream trek along the Manaslu Circuit. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Spirit Adventure will greet you & escort you to your hotel. After checking in, you can rest or visit Nepal Spirit Adventure’s office. You may also stroll around the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu, for some shopping and exploration.
Today rest/acclimatization day in Kathmandu. If it's your first time in Nepal and you’re looking to explore a stunning 5,106-meter-high trail surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, rich natural vegetation, and vibrant local culture, I recommend starting with some acclimatization in Kathmandu. Most international arrivals come in at night, so it's beneficial to set aside a day to rest in Kathmandu before beginning the Manaslu Circuit trek.
During your time in Kathmandu, you can take a city tour to explore and learn about its historical and spiritual attractions. Many of these landmarks are designated World Heritage Sites, including the famous Kathmandu/Basantapur Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple Pashupatinath, the renowned Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), and Bouddhanath, which is one of the largest stupas in the world.
In the afternoon, we’ll hold a pre-trip meeting where you can meet your trek leader and fellow team members. Nepal Spirit Adventure will provide you with detailed information about the trek and assist you with the fitting of your gear, which is essential for a smooth trekking experience.
Depart from Kathmandu and drive to Machha Khola, which is an 8-9-hour journey. The road will alternate between smooth and bumpy sections. Along the way, you will encounter terraced fields, rivers, small towns, and villages, as well as bridges crossing streams. You will also pass by Aroghat Bazaar and Soti Khola. Tonight, you will stay in the village of Machha Khola, located next to the Budhi Gandaki River. On this day, trekkers will venture out of the city into less crowded areas.
After breakfast in Machha Khola, you'll begin today's trek, which follows the gorge and continues up the river. The trail is narrow at first and gently heads up and down, eventually crossing the Tharo Khola to reach Khorlabesi. After more ascending and descending, you'll arrive at a small hot spring in Tatopani—a good place to take a break!
From here, you'll climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge. You'll then climb up a staircase and head over a ridge to Dobhan. Upon crossing another suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, you'll climb a stone staircase and then drop to the river and climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Keep an eye out for neat Gurung villages in the jungle high above, as well as Langur monkeys, which roam the region.
Crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, you'll climb over a ridge, trek along the river, and then climb toward the village of Jagat overnight in the teahouse.
After breakfast in the village of Jagat, you'll make your way through various landscapes and dense sub-tropical forests, as well as small rivers and rustic villages, to get to your final destination. Begin the trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues to the Ghatta Khola River. You'll continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, a large Gurung village. From here, the trail turns north just above the lowest house in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet fields to Ekle Bhatti.
The route now enters a steep, uninhabited gorge where you'll descend to the grassy slopes and then cross the Budhi Gandaki River. Trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank before you return to the west side again. The trail widens through the valley, and you'll pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola River. Upon crossing, you'll reach the tiny village of Deng. It will take approximately 6 - 7 hours to trek overnight in the teahouse. From here onward, the air gets cooler with a touch of Tibetan culture.
Enjoying your morning breakfast at Deng, you'll start one of the most important and culturally significant sections of the trek. First, cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb up to the bridge, where you'll climb a bit further to join a trail from Bhi. Then head west up the valley passing through lush forests, alpine vegetation, and quaint villages housing ethnic groups of the Manaslu region, with major peaks starting to appear in the distance.
Even though there is another route, you will take the trail through Prok. This village has a beautiful vantage point of the snowcapped Siringi Himal. Take a break here and then continue to cross the Budi Gandaki several times today, running into several gompas along the way. The trail then follows the river upstream through a dense forest and leads to a narrow gorge. Keep going until you notice the forest becomes less dense. This rewarding part of the walk is a magnificent way to experience the Manaslu Conservation Area. You'll eventually reach one last steep climb to get you to the village of Namrung overnight in a teahouse.
The Manaslu Peak, Himchuli, and Shringi Himal mountains along the trail from Namrung to Lho Gaun provide a mesmerizing view. As you travel, you'll observe the changes in the landscape and gain insight into the lives of the mountain people in the villages of Lihi and Sho.
Ribung Gompa serves as a home for over 150 children who are studying Buddhist philosophy and primary education. You have the option to visit this monastery or proceed directly to Shyala village (3180m/10,433ft), which is surrounded by towering hills. This will be your resting place for the night.
Today, you will wake up in Shyala, one of the most beautiful locations in the Manaslu area. On the way, you will pass by Green Lake, a stunning emerald-green glacial lake. Then, we will gradually ascend through the Pung Gyen Glaciers and walk across the Numla Khola, which is notable for its proximity to the Tibetan border.
You can also visit the Pung Gyen Gompa monastery, a prominent Buddhist monastery, to immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural beauty of the area. After a short trek, you will reach Samagaun town, where you can rest for the remainder of the day. If you still have some energy, you'll have time to explore the local area.
This day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. Samagaon offers many attractions, including views of Mt. Manaslu and Himalchuli, for travelers eager to explore. You can take a short hike to Birendra Taal Lake, named after the late King Birendra of Nepal. For those seeking a greater adventure, a more challenging trek to Manaslu Base Camp, situated at 4,800 meters, is available.
In Samagaon, you can also visit Labrang Gompa or Kargya Chholing Monastery, where monks perform blessing ceremonies for climbers. Here, you can experience a simple lifestyle that is rich in spirituality and tradition in the Nubri region of Nepal.
After your stay in Samagaun, you will feel refreshed and ready to ascend to higher altitudes. Manaslu Peak will accompany you on your journey to Samdo Village.
Samdo Village was established by Tibetan refugees, showcasing the unique culture and lifestyle of the Bhotia people. The village reflects its historical connection to the Himalayan caravan trade.
As you climb to higher elevations, the landscape becomes sparser and rockier, but there is a distinct beauty in the rugged terrain. If you have the time, consider spending an extra day in Samdo to acclimatize to the altitude and take the opportunity to visit the Tibetan border.
After breakfast in Samdo, you'll pass a seasonal Tibetan market called Larke Bazaar and descend to the Budi Gandaki River. Cross the wooden bridge and begin walking upward, crossing two streams while witnessing the Larkya Glacier. You'll head around the valley of the Salka Khola and climb up again to Dharamsala, also known as Larke Phedi. Along the route, you'll see many traditional monasteries. Today's shorter hike leaves time for acclimatization and relaxing in the afternoon. Therefore, it is advisable to walk at a slow pace as it delivers the nurturing landscapes. You need to watch out for your steps, as the trail is going to change its nature to a bit rougher side.
Today marks the most significant day of the trek as we journey through the Larkya glaciers to reach Larkya La Pass. The long climb begins as we traverse Cho Chanda.
You'll be surrounded by breathtaking views of several majestic mountain peaks, including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Annapurna II, Himal Chuli, and Kang Guru. Reaching Larkya La Pass, which sits at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), is sure to be a magical and unforgettable experience on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
At the pass, you'll have the opportunity to take pictures with your loved ones, fellow trekkers, and guides before preparing for the descent. As you make your way to Bhimthang, you'll notice green plants starting to appear again. This is where you will spend the night after an exhilarating climb to 5,106 meters. Today’s trek is truly momentous, making all the effort worthwhile.
After a challenging trek across the Larkya-La Pass, today promises a more enjoyable walk as we descend gradually through Gho village, eventually reaching Tilje village. The route takes us through pristine woodlands filled with rhododendrons, pines, and oak trees, passing several farms along the way until we reach the Phurke Khola river. From Bhimthang, the trail is mostly downhill, merging with the popular Annapurna Circuit Trail. We will follow the Phurke Khola until we arrive at the charming Tilje village, where you'll find shared jeeps heading to Besisahar. We will spend the night in a lovely local guest house.
On the last day in the Himalayan countryside, the morning drive leads downhill passing many nice villages of Bulbule following the Marsyangdi River to the large town of Besishar, the headquarters town of Lamjung district. From here a few hours’ drive brings you to Dumre on the Pokhara –Kathmandu highway and then another 4 interesting drives reach you back to Kathmandu, after a great memorable time in the high mountains with Nepal Spirit Adventure's excellent services.
Time to say farewell to Nepal. Enjoy your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping. A representative will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your return flight home. It's good to be at the airport at least three hours before departure.
Online published dates are guaranteed departures for a run trek. If the trip departure doesn’t match your travel plans, we are more than happy to create your desired date. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for, and our travel experts will help plan your tailor-made trips to your dream destination.
The best time to visit the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring and autumn seasons. Starting from March to May, the spring season offers generally clear weather and the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of snow-capped mountains. However, there might be occasional haze that can affect visibility. The region
becomes vibrant with colorful rhododendron blooms, adding to the beauty of the trek.
Autumn, from mid-September to November, is another favorable season with clear weather and pleasant temperatures. The skies are usually clear, providing excellent views of the Himalayas and lush green landscapes. The monsoon rains have subsided, leaving behind refreshed vegetation and abundant
water sources.
While the Manaslu region attracts many trekkers, especially during peak seasons, winter trekking is gaining popularity among those seeking solitude. Trekking in winter requires appropriate winter clothing and gear to withstand the cold temperatures.
Trekking during the summer season, specifically in June and July, is not recommended due to the monsoon rains. The trails can be wet, and mountain views are often obscured with low visibility. It is best to avoid trekking in the Manaslu Circuit during this period.
In our Manaslu Circuit Trek package, we offer comprehensive meals and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for our trekkers. Throughout the trek, you will be provided with three meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These meals are included in the package cost
and are designed to provide you with the necessary energy and nutrition for the trek.
The meals are typically served at teahouses or lodges along the trekking route. The teahouses offer a variety of options, including local Nepali cuisine as well as international dishes. You can expect a range of delicious and hygienic meals during your trek, prepared with fresh ingredients.
During the Manaslu Circuit trek, accommodations are provided both in Kathmandu and along the trekking route. In Kathmandu, we offer accommodations in tourist-standard hotels that provide comfortable rooms and basic amenities. These hotels are conveniently located in the city, allowing easy access to popular attractions and amenities.
Along the trekking route, accommodations are available in the form of teahouses or lodges. The bedrooms in teahouses are unheated but provide two beds with mattresses, pillows, and blankets. While the facilities are basic, they offer a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking. It is recommended to bring a personal sleeping bag for added comfort, preferably a three-season sleeping bag to ensure warmth during colder nights.
The Accommodations along the Manaslu region are generally clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and pleasant experience for trekkers. However, it's important to keep in mind that as the trek progresses, the number of accommodations may decrease, particularly after the village of Bhimtang. During peak trekking seasons, it is advisable to make advance room bookings to ensure availability.
The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude sections. A good level of physical fitness and previous trekking experience are recommended.
The Manaslu Circuit trek typically takes around 14 to 16 days to complete. The duration may vary depending on factors such as your fitness level, acclimatization needs, and preferred itinerary.
The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) above sea level. The trek involves significant altitude gains and requires proper acclimatization for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Manaslu Circuit trek usually starts in the village of Soti Khola, located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. This serves as the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area. From Soti Khola, the trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing through various villages and scenic landscapes before reaching the Larkya La Pass.
Thank you so much Ram and the team of Nepal Spirit Adventure, you guys always made my Nepal trekking brilliant, and organized several treks for me: Narphu valley, Everest base camp, Everest three high passes trail, Upper Mustang trekking, and...
It wasn’t my first time trekking in Nepal. I did so many with other companies but Nepal Spirit Adventure is best: Best price, flexible trip itinerary, top trek guide, and friendly porter, and ram was great! His customer service was...
It was my first trek in Nepal and would not be the last one, Nepal is a beautiful country, and the people, and mountains are great!! We had the best guide, porter and trek company thank you for your great service Ram-Nepal...
