The Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Trekking with the experience of the untouched beauty of a less crowded Himalayan walking trail in Nepal
- Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), one of Nepal’s most scenic trekking passes
- Witness the close-up view of Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak.
- Spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II
- You’ll trek through traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture in villages like Samagaun and Samdo.
- Visiting old Buddhist monument-monasteries such as Pungyen Gompa
- You’re walking in a remote wilderness area, and it is less crowded compared to the Everest/Annapurna trekking routes
- Trekking through diverse landscapes, subtropical forests, alpine terrain, and glaciers
- Walk through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to snow leopards, Himalayan Thars, red pandas, Himalayan monals, golden eagles, and diverse flora and fauna
- We’re giving maximum advantage to locals by using guides, porters, transport, food, and lodges
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and rewarding Himalayan trekking adventures. Located in the remote Manaslu region of north-central Nepal, the trek takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest mountain. It offers an incredible combination of dramatic mountain scenery, authentic Himalayan culture, peaceful villages, and challenging high-altitude terrain.
The journey begins in the lower hills, where the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and traditional villages. As you gain altitude, the landscape gradually changes into rugged alpine terrain surrounded by magnificent peaks, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.
One of the main highlights of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. The pass provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks before the trail descends toward the Marsyangdi Valley.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is particularly appealing to trekkers seeking a less crowded, culturally immersive alternative to the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp Trek. The region is home to diverse ethnic communities, with strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions, ancient monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional stone villages adding a unique cultural dimension to the adventure.
With its combination of remote wilderness, spectacular Himalayan views, rich Buddhist culture, and the thrilling Larkya La Pass crossing, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice for adventurous trekkers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience in Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
The 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary 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 (5,106 m), 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 Himalayan range.
On the return journey, you will travel through Gho/Tilje village and Dharapani, where you will catch local transportation 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, so you can fully appreciate the wonders of the Manaslu region.
Manaslu Trekking Departure Dates
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 work commitments disrupt your trekking plans, 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 the trip departure date as per your travel plan.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package Cost
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.
Cost of a Single Private Trek Package:
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.
Cost of a Couple's Private Trip Package:
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 USD 30 - 35 USD per day, which includes the guide's daily wages: Food, accommodation, transportation, salary, and insurance.
- Trek porter services: starting at USD 18 per day, also including the porter's daily wages: salary, food, accommodation, transportation, and insurance.
- Tea house accommodation: $5 to $10 per night
- Meals: $6 to $10 per meal. Approximately USD 25 - 30 USD per person per day
- 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 $1,099 per person.
Trekking Food Menu
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).
When is the Best Season for The Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
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.
Spring (March to May):
Temperatures are moderate, and the weather is generally stable. This season is also ideal for witnessing the blooming of rhododendron flowers.
Autumn (September to November):
Considered the peak trekking season in Nepal, this time features clear skies and perfect weather conditions for trekking.
Winter (December to February):
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.
Monsoon (June to August):
Trekking during the monsoon is not ideal due to heavy rains, landslides, and leeches. Trails can become slippery and dangerous.
What Benefits Do I Get If I Book This Trip with Nepal Spirit Adventure?
Free Airport Transfers:
Enjoy complimentary transfers from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel upon arrival and back to the airport when you depart.
Online Trip Briefing:
After booking confirmation, receive a comprehensive online briefing that includes trek details, an equipment checklist, and your itinerary.
Extra Luggage Storage:
Store your extra luggage at the Nepal Spirit Adventure store during the trek for your convenience.
Health and Safety Measures:
Your well-being is our priority. We provide pulse oximeters to monitor blood oxygen levels, medical kits, and experienced guides.
Easy Booking and Communication:
Experience a hassle-free booking process with multiple communication channels, including email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom, and 24/7 phone support.
Convenient Payment System:
Enjoy an easy payment system for your trek booking. Secure online Visa/Mastercard or banking SWIFT/wire transfer; both are convenient, as per your travel comfort.
Gear Arrangements:
If you don’t have your own, sleeping bags and down jackets can be provided.
Important Tips for The Manalsu Circuit Trek
- 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.
Accommodation in Manaslu Circuit Trek: What to Expect?
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:
Accommodation:
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, and 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.
Facilities:
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.
Dining Experience:
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.
Sustainable Practices:
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 LifeStraw 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.
