Trip Overview

MANASLU CIRCUIT/ROUND TREK

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the least trodden trails in Nepal in comparison to Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp which eventually leads to the Base Camp of the Eight Highest Peak of the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). This remotely exquisite path lies in the northern part of the Gorkha district of Gandaki Province, Nepal. The name ‘Manaslu’ has a spiritual meaning which implies “Mountain of The Spirit” in Sanskrit where one can experience some of the astonishing sights of several sky-towering mountains and diversified Hindu-Buddhist culture and lifestyle. The trek undoubtedly bestows lavishly sensational sight of Budi Gandaki River and highly demanding Larkya La Pass which is elevated at 5,125 meters.  The trail is considered to be the ancient salt trading route that passes along the Budi Gandaki River. Moreover, trekkers can glance at more than 10 peaks over 6500m on the way.

 

The expedition was firstly inaugurated in the year 1992 limiting 400 trekkers maximum. However, it hasn’t been a crowded trail since its start but this could still be the best alternative for The Annapurna Circuit where trekkers can gaze at exuberant wildlife including snow leopard, Himalayan Marmots, Pika, Tahr, and Agali if fortunate enough. This could be a perfect chance for experiencing an astonishing level of trekking in Western Nepal as it offers diversified vegetation, bewitching landscapes, antique cultural and religious heritage sites, and diverse ethnic groups On the contrary, trekking in the mountainous region can be highly perilous. Thus, an excellent level of fitness and is demanded to accomplish higher altitudes.  At the same time, trekkers can relish the journey with some remarkable views that it offers which eases in comforting altitude problems.

 

Manaslu Circuit/Round Trek: Best Seasons to Experience

The most favorable seasons for the Manaslu Circuit/Round trek are autumn (October-November) and spring (March-May), as the weather remains clear and mild in these times. In the autumn season, trekkers will be witnessing the clear skies with magnificent panoramic views including Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal. In the spring season, Manaslu Circuit/Round trekkers will be seeing the lower forests and hillsides with the vibrant colors of rhododendrons.

Trip Itinerary

DAY
  • 01
    Arrival In Kathmandu And Transfer To Hotel.

    As soon as you arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, one of our representatives will welcome and escort you to the booked hotel. On the second day, we will initiate our official procedure including travel permit, bag pack, shopping, documentation, and briefing about our expedition. Additionally, you will also be able to greet other traveling companions.

    Altitude 1400
    Meals N/A
    Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • 02
    Drive To Soti Khola (710 M).

    Drive to Soti Khola (710 m).

    Altitude 710 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodges
  • 03
    Trek To Machha Khola (900 M).

    Trek to Machha Khola (900 m).

    Altitude 900 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodges
  • 04
    Trek To Jagat (1,340m).

    The fifth day will be an exciting day as you get to experience Tatopani, a natural hot spring. The trail starts ascending and meets a significant river, Budi Gandaki on the way. After a few hours' walk, we will arrive at Jagat and end the trek for the day.

    Altitude 1340 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 05
    Trek To Deng (1,860m).

    We will begin our trek with a scrumptious breakfast in Jagat. We will ascend to Salleri and eventually descend to Sirdibas as the trail leads to Ghatta Khola and to Philim, an enormous Gurung village. After a few hours' walk, we will descend to the grassy slopes and pass through a bamboo forest. As soon as we cross Deng Khola, we will reach our destination, Deng (1,860m), and rest for the night.

    Altitude 1804 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 06
    Trek To Namrung (2,630m).

    It will be one of the prominent days of our entire expedition where you will get to know the traditional ethnic groups of the Manaslu Region. We will cross the Budi Gandaki River and join the trail from Bhi. After a few hours' walk, we will reach Prok, a small village that offers some astonishing views of Siringi Himal. Following the path, we will get to visit several gompas and enter The Manaslu Conservation Area. Eventually, we will reach the village of Namrung (2,630m) and rest for the night.

    Altitude 2630 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 07
    Trek To Lho (3,180m).

    After an exhausting hike to Namrung, it will be slightly convenient hike today. Our path still follow the magnanimous Budi Gandaki River. We will cross several farming fields and get closer to Tibetan vicinity. Following the route, we will walk through dense forests of oak, fir, and rhododendron and finally reach Lihi where you can relish the first glimpse of Mount Manaslu and Naike Peak. After leaving Lihi, we will reach Lho Gaon (3,180m) and rest for the night.

    Altitude 3180 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 08
    Trek To Samagaun (3,520m).

     

    After an early breakfast, we will explore the popular Ribung Gompa. The path vividly bestows some glorious sights of Mount Himchuli and Ngadi Chuli as it passes through Shyala village. As we head forward, we will start gaining higher elevation passing through numerous chhortens. After a few hours' walk, we will pass through Thosang Khola and finally reach Sama Gaun (3,520m).

    Following our travel schedule, we will rest on the tenth day and explore as an option. You will be able to experience rich Sherpa and Tibetan culture. If you endeavor to hike a small hill near Sama Gaun, you will feel blessed to visit an ancient Gompa, Pungyen Gompa from where some of the magnificent sights of glaciers and mountain peaks are visible.

    Alternatively, you can also explore Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) or Lake Birendra in order to experience the glorious sight of Mt. Manaslu, the Eight Highest Peak in the world on the same day and descend back to Sama Gaun.

    Altitude 3520 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 09
    Acclimatisation Day At Samagaon.

    After a short hike, we will relax in Samagaon. You will have several alternatives for this day. You can walk through an easy trading route which offers some great sights of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, Ngadi, Simrang, Larkya Peak, and even some rarely encountered mountain birds Lophophorus (the national bird of Nepal), Lamargeyer and many more. Moreover, you can also amble around the nearby villages and get to know the native culture, history, and traditions.

    Altitude 3875
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 10
    Trek To Samdo (3,875m).

    Our trek resumes following the Budi Gandaki River as we will pass through numerous mani walls. The vale starts to broaden as we will get one step closer to Tibetan border. It will be a convenient trek that passes through juniper forests which lies in Kermo Kharka. We will descend down and cross a narrow wooden bridge and continue our hike until we reach Samdo where we will rest for the night.

    Altitude 3875 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 11
    Trek To Dharmasala/Larkya Phedi (4,460 M).

    Following our travel schedule, we will head to Dharmasala (4,460m) after exploring Sama Gaun.  It will be a relaxant trek that passes through numerous antique monasteries and gompas. After crossing the Budi Gandaki River, we will reach Larkya Bazzar, a seasonal Tibetan market where local people trade their products. As soon as we pass mani stones and walls, we will reach Dharmasala and rest for the big day.

     

    Altitude 4460 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 12
    Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160 M) & Trek To Bhimthang (3,720 M).

    The fourteenth day of our trek will be the longest and the most difficult trek of our entire expedition. However, the mesmerizing sights of Larke Peak, Cheo Himal, Larkya Glacier, several mountain peaks, and northern wildlife will wipe our exhaustion. The trek starts elevating through Larkya Glacier (5,160m) on the steep and icy path which could be perilous if not followed the guidance of our trekking guides. Eventually, the path descends following the route to Bhimthang where we will spend overnight.

    Altitude 5160 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 13
    Trek To Tilije (2,300 M).

    Trek to Tilije (2,300 m).

    Altitude 2300 M
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodges
  • 14
    Trek & Drive Back To Besisahar.

    Trek & drive back to Besisahar.

    Altitude N/A
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodges
  • 15
    Drive Back To Kathmandu.

    Our trek will end from the sixteenth day onwards. We will drive to Beshisahar from Tal after a delicious breakfast and continue driving to the capital city and rest after a long hectic drive.

    Altitude 1400 M
    Meals Breakfast And Lunch
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 16
    Final Departure.

    Our trip to Manaslu Circuit will end on this day. However, you will return home with infinite memories locked in your memory for eternity. One of our representatives will escort you to Tribhuwan International Airport and bid you a cordial farewell before your scheduled flight.

    Altitude 1400 M
    Meals Breakfast
    Accommodation N/A
MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK, NEPAL-route-image

Want to customize your own trip?

PERSONALIZE YOUR TRIP

Includes

  • Pick up & drop off services as per the itinerary.
  • 03 nights hotel in Kathmandu on BB Plan with twin sharing.
  • One welcome/farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Transportation for overall trekking crews as per schedule.
  • Trek permits, MCAP, ACAP for Manaslu circuit trek. 
  • Insurance for all the involved outdoor Nepalese Staff.
  • Tea house accommodation during the entire trek.
  • 03 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) with tea/coffee during the trekking.
  • 01 certified trekking guide.
  • Porter (02 Members: 01 Porter).
  • 14 kg per member as personal baggage.
  • 8K duffle bag & 8K outdoor cap.
  • First aid medical kit & route map of Manaslu circuit trek 2026.
  • Applicable Nepal government taxes and Company service charges.
  • Manaslu Circuit trek appreciation certificate after completion of the trek. 

Excludes

  • Nepal entry visa fee (Not applicable for Indian residence).
  • International flights.
  • Drone & special filming permit.
  • Lunch & dinner during stay in Kathmandu.
  • Personal trekking gears.
  • Medical & emergency rescue insurance (Minimum coverage USD $15,000).
  • Tips for guide & porter (Minimum 12% of the total amount per member).
  • Any other services not mentioned under “Service Includes”.

Trip Notes

Please do remember these things.

We schedule our trips in the most favorable seasons. However, the above-mentioned itinerary may change as per the expedition’s obstructions but the quality of our service is guaranteed.  In case of a delayed flight, we are obliged to inform you that besides the total number of days included in the itinerary, clients are compelled to bear the expenses of the extra days themselves.  Apparently, 8k Expeditions will assist necessary arrangements for your comfort.


Trekkers are advised to schedule their flights at convenient time frames as we shall not be responsible for missed international flights or luggage before our reception. You are also suggested not to carry insignificant materials for your own ease.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK

What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a scenic high-altitude trekking adventure in Nepal’s Gorkha region that circles Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain at 8,163 metres. The route follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley through traditional Himalayan villages, Buddhist monasteries, forests and dramatic mountain landscapes before crossing Larkya La Pass. It is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking remote trails, cultural experiences and spectacular Himalayan scenery.

 

How many days does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 16-day package, including arrival in Kathmandu, road transfers, trekking and final departure including time to travel through the Manaslu region, acclimatize at altitude, cross Larkya La Pass and return toward Kathmandu. 

 

What is the highest altitude of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass, approximately 5,106 metres above sea level. The crossing takes trekkers through spectacular high-altitude Himalayan terrain, with panoramic views of surrounding snow-covered peaks. 

 

Why choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek over other treks in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek combines remote mountain scenery, traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, less-developed trekking routes and the challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass. Compared with more heavily visited routes, it offers a distinctive experience through secluded valleys, ancient villages, monasteries and dramatic landscapes around Mount Manaslu.

 

How much does the Manaslu Circuit or round Trek cost?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit or round trek with 8K Expeditions depends on group size, trekking season, permit fees, accommodation preferences, guide and porter arrangements and customization. 

 

What is included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek package?

The package includes scheduled ground transportation, three nights of Kathmandu hotel accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis, tea-house accommodation during the trek, three daily meals while trekking, applicable trekking permits, a certified trekking guide, porter support, and specified arrival and departure services. 

 

What is excluded from the Manaslu Circuit Trek package?

Exclusions include international flights, Nepal visa fees where applicable, personal trekking equipment, medical and emergency rescue insurance, meals in Kathmandu other than those specified, tips for guides and porters and special filming or drone permits. 

 

How can I book the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

To book the Manaslu Circuit Trek, contact 8K Expeditions through the package page and request a quotation. Share your preferred departure date, group size, trekking experience, and accommodation preferences so the team can recommend a suitable arrangement and explain the booking terms. 

 

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek involving long walking days, steep ascents and descents, remote trails, and a demanding crossing of Larkya La Pass. Trekkers should have good cardiovascular fitness, endurance and preparation for consecutive days of walking. The route does not normally require technical mountaineering skills but weather and snow conditions can increase its difficulty.

 

Do trekker need previous trekking experience for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Previous multi-day trekking experience is highly beneficial because the route involves sustained physical effort and high altitude. 

 

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches elevations above 5,000 metres, where altitude sickness can affect trekkers regardless of fitness. Proper acclimatization, a gradual ascent, awareness of symptoms and prompt descent when necessary are essential. Trekkers should discuss altitude-related health concerns with a qualified medical professional before departure.

 

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek safe for solo travelers?

Solo travelers can inquire about joining an organized group, but the Manaslu restricted area has special permit and guided-trekking requirements. Independent solo trekking should not be assumed to be permitted. 

 

What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally the preferred seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These periods often offer favorable trekking conditions and mountain views, although weather can change rapidly at high altitude. 

 

What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and the applicable conservation-area permits for the route, including the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Requirements and fees depend on current regulations, travel dates and eligibility.

 

Is a licensed trekking guide mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu restricted area has specific guided-trekking and permit requirements. Trekkers should arrange the trip through a qualified trekking operator and confirm the latest rules for guides and group eligibility before departure. The 8K Expeditions provides a certified trekking guide. 

 

What type of accommodation is available on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Accommodation generally consists of tea houses or mountain lodges along the trekking route, with hotel accommodation in Kathmandu. Facilities become more basic in remote and higher-altitude villages, so trekkers should be prepared for simple rooms, shared facilities at some stops and limited services.

 

What should trekker pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Essential equipment includes broken-in trekking boots, layered clothing, an insulated down jacket, waterproof outerwear, warm gloves, a hat, trekking poles, a headlamp, sun protection, a reusable water bottle and a suitable sleeping bag if required by your itinerary. For the Larkya La crossing, bring appropriate cold-weather gear and traction equipment if current trail conditions call for it. 

 

Can the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary be customized?

Yes, 8K Expeditions invites travelers to discuss customized arrangements. Depending on availability and logistical requirements, you can inquire about departure dates, group size, accommodation preferences and additional services. Any changes should preserve sufficient time for acclimatization and a safe crossing of Larkya La Pass.

 

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