Manaslu Circuit Trek - 17 DaysManaslu Circuit Trek - 17 Days

Manaslu Circuit Trek, 14 Days Itinerary for 2024 \ 2025

Key Information
  • Duration14 Days
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude5,106/16,752ft
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May/Sep.-Dec.
  • Group Size2-16

Manaslu - a mountain of the spirit

The remote terrain, rugged paths, thundering waterfalls, culture, and soaring Himalayas make the Manaslu Circuit Trek overwhelming. The trail passes around Manaslu massif and passes down to the Annapurna region.

The trek takes you to the foot of Mt. Manaslu, the world's 8th highest mountain at (8,156 m/26,758 ft.).

Why Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Short Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a classic off the beaten path with pure wilderness and the mysterious beauty of nature. Located on the border of Nepal and Tibet, you will eyewitness the way of life of both Hindus and Buddhists. Union of natural beauty, mountains and flourishing ancient culture is the special feature given by the trek.

These attractions are bound to swipe away our hearts during the trek. The awesome adventures you enjoy in Manaslu Round Trek are unlike any other you would ever imagine. The wealth of beautiful nature in the Manaslu Region stuns the imagination and fascinates you.

You will get an opportunity to get a close view of the 8th highest mountain in the world Mt. Manaslu. Cross the real paradise of Larke La Pass which offers a 360-degree range of Himalayan ranges. Including Manaslu, you will also get a chance to observe Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal Range, Himal Chuli, and many other mountains.

You will pass from humid terraces farm through canyons of Budi Gandaki with turquoise water bodies. A trip to Manaslu helps to refresh your tired eyes and fill the bracing energy-giving spirit. Manaslu Trek takes you to a delightful forest of rhododendron, and alpine woodlands. This woodland includes pine, cedar, birch, juniper, and delightful meadows.

You also get an opportunity to cross 2 conservation areas i.e. Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. It is also the home to wild animals like snow leopard, brown bear, red panda, and many more. You will also get to encounter some endangered floras and faunas inside the area.

It will be amazing to climb through the ridge above the big rapids of the Budi Gandaki River. Spotting the national bird of Nepal, Dhanfe, grey langur monkey up on the cliff is a stirring experience.

In spite of its beautiful nature, Manaslu also shares much of its culture with the neighboring Tibet. So, in most cultures, the lifestyle of the local folks here is Tibet-influence. This trek package gives a wonderful chance to witness traditions that are ancient in nature.

Central hills are dominant by Gurung ethnic groups, Bhotias are dominant in the upper part of the Manaslu Region. Despite tough, cold, and harsh weather conditions those local people will welcome you with a warm heart.

Manaslu is a fabulous trail and notable for the natural diversity of landscapes that it traverses. But, the prospects we witness don’t come easy; the paths are rock-strewn and sometimes steep. It also includes unsteady bridges and slippery rocks – this is all part of the adventure into the wild.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2024 and 2025

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek in Himalaya 2024 gives you an experience of rural Nepal. Panoramic views of nature, and glaciers make unforgettable memories for a lifetime. The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 14 days is spring ( March to May) and Autumn ( September to November).

We have departure dates to join this Manaslu trek in the Spring and Autumn of 2024 and 2025. You can join any dates that suit best to you. If you desire to have a personal trek and customize the Itinerary, we are flexible to customize it.

For those who have more time and want to explore more Manaslu Region. Our Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek and Tsum Valley Trek may be best for you. So, sign up with The Himalayan Odyssey to make your trek free from irrelevant worries.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days Route

Around Manaslu Trek route begins with a long drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. This drive covers around 137.5 km which would approximately take an 8 to 9 hours bus ride. During the ride, you can see the beautiful mountains and rivers flowing by our side.

Our trek from Soti Khola to Sama Gaon will be adventurous and challenging, full of surprises from nature. You will enjoy the beautiful display of nature when coming across pleasant alpine meadows and pouring waterfalls.

Immersing in the dense forests, rapids of Budhi Gandaki River, and wildlife is a lively experience for every one of us. Fluttering prayer flags, mani stones, and chortens will be seen along the trail. As you reach Sama Gaon, we spend an extra night acclimatizing our bodies. You can see an amazing view of Mt. Manaslu from here.

During the rest day, you can visit Birendra Lake or Pungyen Monastery. Further following our destination will be more adventures which leads you to Larkya La Pass (5,106 m/16,751 ft.). You will perceive a striking view of Mt. Manaslu and also the Larkya glacier.

After leaving the Pass, a stunning panoramic view of peaks like Himlung Himal, Kang Guna, Annapurna II, etc. will feast our eyes. Descend the trail leading us to a large field in Bhimtang (3,720 m) then further proceeding to Dharapani. From there we ride the local transportation back to Kathmandu.

Is This Trek Difficult?

The trek begins from sub-tropical to tundra climatic zones. You will be crossing six different climatic zones. The landscape is diverse from 715 m to 5,218 m. It goes through the Budi Gandaki valley, which is surround by Mt Manaslu.

It is challenging due to its gradual altitude and walking into thin air. The Manaslu Trek is perfect for people who have good physical condition and are keen to walk at high altitudes. So, Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty can be rank as moderate to strenuous level.

What will be the Trek Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

When you are thinking about exploring the Himalayas like, there will be lots of factors to take into consideration like route, best time, and how fit we need to be. But one of the most important confusion will be, “How much does this trek cost?”

To answer this question; we need to understand your trekking needs first. The baseline cost of the trek will depend on the number of variables. Your cost will change based on how comprehensive you want your trip to be.

This trek will generally take 12 to 16 days and the cost is generally somewhere between USD 985 to USD 910. This price includes transportation, permits, meals, guides, porters, accommodation, entry fees, and others. The cost highly depends upon traveling as private or in a group.

Manaslu Trek Permit

The permit cost for Manaslu Trek depends on the seasons and the number of days you will spend in this region. To trek to the Manaslu region, you will need 3 kinds of permits issued by the Government of Nepal.

  • Manaslu Restricted Permit
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Highlights

  • This trek showcases the majestic Manaslu (8,156 m/26,758 ft.) in its absolute grandeur.
  • The rugged paths are few travelled hence isolated. It beats the overcrowdedness of other mainstream trails.
  • The trek follows diverse terrains and demanding tracks. The raggedness unites beauty to this trekking experience.
  • Get a striking view of peaks in the world like Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Kang Guru, and many more.
  • Spot animals like Mountain goat, Jaharal, Blue sheep, and Snow leopard.
  • Trek through the Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), a dramatic pass of the Himalayas.
  • Observe the rich Tibetan and mountain people culture in the region.
  • Hike to breathtaking Birendra Lake, a freshwater lake located at the foot of Manaslu.
  • You will cross two national parks, Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Follow the Budi Gandaki River Gorge during the trek.

Itinerary

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We, The Himalayan Odyssey, will organize the trek with proper arrangements. However, there can be some issues that are beyond our handle. Heavy rainfall, snowing, avalanches, and landslides can extend the trip to  lower altitude.

Please note:

- This itinerary is only for guidelines. You can customize the itinerary according to your requirements.
- All above trekking hours and distances are estimated, and it is certainly for general ideas only.
- The schedule may change depending on traffic and weater conditions on your activity date.

Abbreviation

B - Breakfast
L - Lunch
D - Dinner

  • TimeFree Day
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,264 ft.
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,340 m/4,395 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,095 m/6,871 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,900 m/9,512 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,530 m/11,500 ft
  •  
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • TimeRest Day
  • Maximum Altitude3,500 m/11,480 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time4-5 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,690 m/12,103 ft

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4,450 m/14,596 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude5,106 m/16,752 ft
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,300 m/7,544 ft
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch
  • Time8-9 driving hours (224km/139miles)
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,264 ft.

          Cost Details

          Included
          • Private transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (starting point) and Dharapani (ending point) to Kathmandu
          • 13 Breakfast, 13 Lunch, and 12 Dinner during the trek
          • Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area Park entry
          • Restricted Area Permit
          • Experienced Himalayan trek guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
          • Tea house lodge for 12 days during your trek
          • Guide and porters cost like meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
          • First Aid Kit during the trek
          • Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
          • Company's T-shirt as a Souvenir
          • The Himalayan Odyssey Trekking trek achievement certificate after the successful trek
          • Farewell Dinner at the end of the trek
          Excluded
          • International flight ticket
          • International airport tax
          • Visa Fee
          • Accommodation and meals during your stay in Kathmandu
          • Extra accommodation durations because of early arrival or late departure in Kathmandu
          • Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, hot and cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc )
          • Travel insurance covers high-altitude rescue or other medical expenses
          • Tips for staff and guide
          • Personal travel equipment or clothing
          • Excess baggage cost during your domestic flight (limit id 9 kg per person)
          • Additional cost due to situations beyond our control like weather, landslide governments policies or itinerary modification due to your safety concerns
          • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” counts as excluded

          Good to Know

          We focus on our valuable client’s safety and satisfaction while travelling with The Himalayan Odyssey Treks. Your safety is our eminent concern. On every trip with us, our teams will be carrying useful and essential equipment as well as the medical kit.

          But, during the trek beyond our control may change the itinerary or cancel the trip. Which includes natural calamities, climate irregularities, health conditions, politics, or other factors.

          Yet, our trekking guide holds full right to change or even drop the planned itinerary for safety concerns. In this case, you need to be flexible with your planned itinerary. Also, take the guideline as told by your guide/ leader.

          Note:- We do everything to reduce the effect, but we won’t be responsible for any result of modifications on itineraries or any delays due to unexpected circumstances.

          Travel Insurance

          Travel Insurance is compulsory for all the trekkers who are trekking in Nepal. We recommend a comprehensive travel insurance package to all our clients. The insurance must cover helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes.

          It will be assisted protection tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, and any kind of illness will be covered. The Himalayan Odyssey Treks kindly ask any of our travellers to send a reliable travel insurance copy through email once you book the trip with us.

          Your travel insurance must include personal accidents, medical expenses, and emergency repatriation. Having good travel insurance will not only assure your peace of mind while you trek with us but also provide you with full coverage for anything that may go wrong.

          Some Tips for Manaslu Circuit Trek

          Guide and a Porter in Manaslu Circuit Trek

          As this trek is a restricted area, you should compulsory have a guide with a minimum of 2 people. We have an experienced trekking guide and 1 porter for 2 trekkers. A guide will always be there to support you throughout your trip.

          The guide will assist you to locate the trail, makes it easy to interact with local people, and also help to book nice tea houses. He is also well educated about the terrain, wildlife, and vegetation inside the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. Thus, choosing a guide and porter would be the best option for a relaxed trekking experience.

          Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

          This trek takes you to the highest point of your trek is goes 5,106 m above sea level. Trekking below 3000m is not a problem but above there are low levels of oxygen that will sometimes make breathing complex. While you are at a high altitude, you need to trek slowly, steadily, and keep your body hydrated. If you are walking fast to succeed in your destination in less time, the probability you will suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

          Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the mildest form and it is very common at higher altitudes. The symptoms can appear – dizziness, headache, muscle aches, nausea. Taking Diamox and a good night’s rest may go for mild cases. Drinking sufficient fluids like water, tea, soup, etc. will help to stay away from altitude sickness.

          If the condition is worsening then, one may need to return to a lower elevation and receive medical help. Teams should make sure that the condition will not worsen and should take precautions. We will arrange air evacuation if there is a worst-case scenario.

          If you ignore AMS left not treated, it can take your life. Our itinerary has been designed to reduce Altitude problems and make the trekking smooth. The itinerary is well-paced and enables your body to adapt to oxygen levels at high altitudes.

          Extra personal expenses

          All your foods are included in your package including Lunch, Breakfast, and Dinner. The food will be served as per the package and besides that cost will be extra if you extend the trip more than the schedule of our package. We would also like to suggest that our client carry some snacks like energy bars, snickers, water, chocolates, cookies, and personal belonging materials like passports, battery chargers, etc. during the trek.

          Best Weather to Trek Manaslu

          Nepal contains a diverse landscape with different geographical conditions. This is the main reason to visit Nepal throughout the year. Nepal boasts all tropical as well as alpine weather conditions. So, if you are thinking of visiting Nepal you can schedule throughout the year. There are generally four seasons a year and fit destinations as their attraction.

          Winter Season (December to February)

          During the winter season, there will be moderate to heavy snowfall at high altitudes occasionally. So, it is best not to trek at such a high altitude during the winter. There may be the risk of a slippery road due to the snow and the danger of cold weather.

          But some adventure seekers dare to trek during winter too. It is best to trek to lower altitudes like the Terai region as the days are better in this season.

          Spring Season (March to May)

          Spring is the best season for Manaslu and more crowded too. The views of mountains and other natural sceneries are mesmerizing. During this season, the trials and forest are decorated with wildflowers which makes your trek more attractive. It feels delighting with singing birds, beautiful views, wildflowers, and mountains in the background.

          You will get an opportunity to capture the perfect nature with a clear sky, beautiful faces of mountains, and attractive nature. At higher elevations the mountain views are excellent and the temperature is moderate even at night.

          Summer Season (June to August)

          This season is best to avoid any trekking as the heavy rain makes the trial more dangerous. Trekking will be unfordable with muddy trials and full of leech during the trek. And Nepal has a high risk of landslides mainly in a hilly region. But if you are vegetation and wild species of flora lover then you are most welcome to Nepal.

          This season is blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and grasslands blossom with wildflowers and lush vegetation. This trek is not suitable however places like Mustang, Manang, and Dolpo are located in a rain shadow. So, those areas will be best as the temperature will be mild and the weather is not so tough.

          Autumn Season (September to November)

          Autumn is another best season for Manaslu. This season is best for excellent weather and tantalizing views of mountains. This is the boon season as you can find many tourists on the trekking trail.

          The weather in this season is clear with mild to warm days and a few cold nights. It will be safe in Nepal to trek as there are very low possibilities of slippery trials and bad weather. In this season, you will also get an opportunity to experience Nepalese main festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

          Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Trek

          Every trekking requires certain preparation of gears and types of equipment for the journey to make your trip more comfortable. It is recommended to carry the necessary and light things so that it will be easy while you are walking.

          The following belongings are recommended that should be brought, although we concede that our clients have their own decision for the clothing. To know what to expect in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, we have prepared some useful clothing & gear during the trek.

          Travel Documents

          • Airline tickets (confirmation and itinerary)
          • Nepal Visa form (may be obtained at Kathmandu Airport)
          • Travel insurance policy documents
          • Valid passport
          • Copy of passport (2 copies, first page only)
          • Passport photos (4)

          Travel Equipment

          • Duffel bag (100 liters; no wheels or rigid handles)
          • Lightweight, duffel bag
          • Luggage locks
          • Travel wallet
          • Passport/money belt
          • Sleeping bag liner
          • Travel plug adapters
          • Electrical converter

          Travel Clothing

          • Quick-dry undergarments
          • Synthetic or wool T-shirt
          • Long-sleeve, travel-friendly shirt and pants
          • Casual shoes
          • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks

          Trekking Equipment

          • Day pack (25–35 liters)
          • Sleeping bag comfortable to 0°F (dependent upon season, weather forecast and personal preference)
          • Waterproof hiking boots
          • Camp shoes (down booties or running shoes)
          • LED headlamp with extra batteries
          • Trekking poles

          Trekking Clothing

          • Wool or synthetic T-shirts (2)
          • Mid-weight fleece or soft-shell jacket (2)
          • Mid-weight down or synthetic parka with hood
          • Convertible hiking pants
          • Fleece pants or insulated pants
          • Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain jacket and pants
          • Mid-weight waterproof and fleece gloves or mittens
          • Sun hat
          • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks (3 pairs)
          • Liner socks (optional)
          • Glacier sunglasses
          • Neck gaiter, balaclava, Buff or bandana

          Food

          • Energy bars
          • Electrolyte replacement drink mix
          • Snacks (cookies, GORP, Snickers, etc.)

          Client Reviews

          Based on 2 reviews

          FAQs

          • Q1. Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

            Mt. Manaslu is part of Mansiri Himal, located in the west-central part of Nepal. The trail follows an ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River. 

          • The outlying terrain, rugged paths, thundering waterfalls, unique culture, soaring Himalayan prospects makes this trek memorable. During your walk, 10 peaks over 6,500 meters, including a few over 7,000 meters and 2 over 8,000 meters peaks are visible.

          • The highest point reached along the trek route is the Larkya La at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 ft).

          • Around Manaslu Circuit Trek route begins with a long drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola which takes an 8 to 9 hours ride.

          • Based on the consideration of many factors like temperature, climate, and scenic view, spring and autumn are the best seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Autumn lies from September to mid-December and Spring lies from March to May,

          • This trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek. Per day hiking in low land ranges from 5 to 7 hours, in high land from 3 to 4 hours. So, proactive preparation regarding physical fitness is required-the ability to walk 4 to 6 hours a day.

          • Because the government wants to control the flow of the tourist inside Manaslu Circuit so this trek is listed as Restricted Area and you need to issue the permit through a registered agency.

          • It takes 15 to 20 days to complete Manaslu Circuit Trek.

          • The daily gain in altitude during the trek is from 450 to 500 meters.

          • The meal on this trek is very comfortable but not as in cities. The menu is a mixture of local foods, and western food almost everywhere but as we go higher altitude, the menu list will be limited.

          • This trek is moderate for family trekkers with kids. This trekking is comfortable to trek above 12 years fit teenagers.

          • If you are allergic to specific medicines, it is better to consult your doctor and bring your own medicine for this trek. The Himalayan Odyssey will facilitate you with medical kits and other safety concerns to avoid altitude sickness and other sicknesses.

          • To accomplish this trek, past trekking experience would be an advantage although no technical skills are necessary. Novice trekkers can do this trek but should be able to walk 5 to 6 hours a day at a fair pace with a light day pack. 

          • This trek is a restricted area so you have to take a guide with you with a minimum of 2 pax. You have to arrange this trek through a registered trekking agency with a special permit. 

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