Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days

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US$
1230
per person
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek
  • Monastery at the foot of Manaslu.
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek
  • Monastery at the foot of Manaslu.
15%
OFF
$1199 US$ 1999 Per Person (Group Size: Min 2 pax)
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Secure Online Booking
  • Flexible Booking Dates
  • Decades of experience in Trekking

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At a Glance

Duration

14 days

Destination

Nepal

Trip Difficulty

Moderate

Max altitude

5,110m

Group Size

2 - 16 Pax.

Activity

Trekking & Sightseeing

Accommodation

3 star hotel in Kathmandu & standard lodge during trek

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the trek

Vehicle

Private car and flight

Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent trekking option for those who love the spectacular mountain hikes in the remotest region of Nepal. This trek is now transpiring as an alternate option to the well-known and popular treks around Annapurna and Everest Base Camp.

The route to the Manaslu Circuit trek is slightly still outside the mainstream trekking tours. There is still a lack of extensive infrastructure favorable for Western tourism. Therefore, the trail is away from the crowds of tourists offering you the intimate and authentic experience of the Himalayas of Nepal.

Along the Manaslu circuit trek route, you will walk through varied landscapes along the remarkable Budi Gandaki Valley. You will first pass the farmland and lush subtropical forest, then you will climb the grand Larkya La Pas standing tall at 5130 m above sea level.

We will then go on gaining elevation approaching the rocky kingdom of ice-capped Himalayas. We can admire as many as 10 mountains elevating more than 6000 m above sea level along the route. We will also observe the majestic rise of the 8th tallest mountain in the world- Mount Manaslu at 8163 m.

After submitting the Larkya La Pass, we will descend to the Marshyangdi River Valley where the path meets the popular Annapurna trail. During this expedition, we will see the dazzling natural wonders of Nepal and enjoy colorful encounters with the cultures of local ethnic minorities.

We walk through several villages of Namrung, Lho, Samagaun, Dharmasala, Bimthang, and Tilche situated on the mountain slopes. We will also take a small tour of local Buddhist monasteries and learn about their knowledge of spirituality. The animated prayer flags, Mani Walls, and Yak bells are integral parts of this landscape which constantly accompany us on the route.

Ready to participate in the wondrous journey to Manaslu Circuit? Contact us now and reserve your seats for this astounding adventure in Nepal.


Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Spectacular views of Annapurna Himal, Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Gorkha Himal, Manaslu, and Himlung Himal all along the route
  • Extraordinary views of the highest snow-capped Himalayas including Manaslu, Himlung, and Cheo from the summit of Larkya La Pass
  • Opportunity to conquer new altitudes passing from typically agricultural areas through high-mountain villages
  • Contact with living Buddhist culture and a chance to explore local ancient monasteries and obtain ancient wisdom
  • Decent probability of encountering the endangered snow leopard and red pandas, grey wolf, Asian black bear, lynx, Himalayan goral, woolly hare, Himalayan mouse hare, and black-lipped pika
  • Walking through the unusual and less crowded remote terrain of Nepal with the feel of uncontaminated nature and air
  • Opportunity to extend the trip by merging with the Annapurna trekking trail

Travellers sharing their experience

Itinerary

01

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu

Namaste! Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal. Our representative will meet you at the gate of the International Airport and will drive you to the 3-star hotel we have reserved for you in the center of the city.

Rest, relax and in the afternoon, take a walk around the vibrant streets of Kathmandu and dine in one of the finest restaurants.

Duration

30 minutes

Max altitude

1300m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

02

Day 02 Trip preparation day

Today, we will spend half a day preparing for the trek ahead. Our agent will collect your document and head to obtain the required permits for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Meanwhile, we will take a brief tour of the Kathmandu Valley and shop for needed equipment and clothing. Overnight stay at a 3-star hotel.

Max altitude

1300m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

03

Day 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

Machha Khola is the starting point of the remote Manaslu circuit trek lying at a distance of 140 km from Kathmandu. We will take a private jeep for a comfortable drive of 6 to 7 hours to Machha Khola where we will retire for the night.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max altitude

1050m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

04

Day 04 Trek from Machha Khola – Jagat

From now on, we will be continuously gaining height. After breakfast, we will along the Budhi Gandaki River to other villages of Khorlabesi and Tatopani. After taking a short break at Tatopani, we will resume our walk passing the villages of Dovan, Thulo Dunga and finally arriving at Jagat.

Duration

6 to 7 hours

Max altitude

1340m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

05

Day 05 Jagat – Deng (2360)

After breakfast, we begin our hike climbing a rocky ridge and admiring the magical view of Shringi Himal. We will pass through colorful cultivated fields of corn, and millet and enter the village of Nupri which translates as Western Mountains. Shortly, we arrive at the Buddhist village of Deng where we will take shelter for the night.

Duration

6 -7 hours

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

06

Day 06 Deng – Namrung

Leaving Deng, we cross a suspension bridge to reach the villages of Rana and Bihi Phedi. We then walk through several landslide zones to reach the village of Ghap. A few hour walk then take us to the beautiful village of Namrung where we stay for the night.

Duration

6 to 7 hours.

Max altitude

2660m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

07

Day 07 Namrung – Lho

Today we will climb steadily. We pass through the forests and reach Lihi, a wonderful village with many courts and barley terraces. The trail then go down and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal with Ganesh Himal. We then hike across the rocky route to reach the village of Lho- a village for our overnight stay.

Duration

3- 4 hours

Max altitude

3180m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

08

Day 08 Lho gaun – Sama gaun

A short and easy trail will take us to the small village of Shyala. Along the way, we can view Mount Manaslu and discover the famous Ribung Gompa temple. We can also witness the high mountains of Himal Chuli and Peak 29. an hour’s walk further and we will be at Samagaun where we spend the night.

Duration

4 to 5 hours

Max altitude

3530m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

09

Day 09 Rest and exploration day

Samagaon is an ideal place to unwind and acclimatize for a further challenging hike. We will utilize this day by either visiting the Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. It will take around 4 to 5 hours to reach Manaslu base camp.

During the trek, we can see the glacial lake and Birendra Tal Lake, admire the snow-capped peaks, and finally reach the beautiful village of Samagaon. Or, we can go on a short walk to the Gompa.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

10

Day 10 Samagaun - Samdo

After breakfast, we will walk along the green yak pastures observing the long Mani Walls of Kermo Kharka. Then we cross the bridge over the Budi Gandaki river and finally arrive at White Kani. A little further, we are at the village of Samdo where we will have traditional food and rest overnight.

Duration

4 hours

Max altitude

3990m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

11

Day 11 Samdo - Dharmasala (Refugee camp)

After breakfast, we will resume our journey crossing the two streams. Along the trail, we will be able to witness the Larkya glacier. Further, we walk along the Salka Khola and ascend to the small stone guest house known as Dharmasala or Larke Phedi. Stay overnight at Dharmasala.

Duration

4 hours

Max altitude

4200m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

12

Day 12 Dharmasala – Larkya Pass - Bimthang

We have a long and difficult walk today so we will start early at around 4 am. We will first overcome the moraine embankments and pass four glacial lakes which remain usually frozen throughout the year. We then ascend the Larkya La Pass and see Mount Manaslu, Annapurna Himal, Himlung Himal, and Kangurru.

We will then descend to Bhimthang which will take us approximately 4 hours.

Duration

9-10 hours

Max altitude

5130m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

13

Day 13 Bhimthang – Tilche

Duration

6 to 7 hours

Max altitude

2120m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

14

Day 14 Drive back to Kathmandu, through – Dharapani - Beshisahar

After early morning breakfast, we take a jeep ride from Tilche to Beshisahar. Here we will have lunch and take a bus or jeep to reach Kathmandu where once again we will be in the luxury of a hot shower and WIFI.

Duration

7 to 8 hours

Max altitude

1300m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Is this Offered Itinerary Not Suitable For You?

Inclusion/Exclusion

What's Included?

  • Airport peak up and drop off.
  • 3-night  hotel in Kathmandu (2  in on arrival, and one on departure B/B
  • Three times meals on the trek (breakfast, lunch &, and dinner)
  • Hot drinks Tea or coffee.
  • Fresh fruit after dinner every day
  • Accommodation during the trek as available best place in town.
  • Professional  guide.
  • (Two people one porter) weigh limit 20 – 25 kg.
  • Manaslu Conservations fee
  • Manaslu restricts  permit fee
  • Annapurna conservation permit fee.
  • Tims card
  • All the sharing baseground transportation by bus and jeep.
  • Treated drinking water.
  • All the Ground transportation.
  • First aid kit bag
  • Duffle bag for the trip (refundable after the trip
  • Last night’s dinner at Nepali Kitchen with a cultural dance show.
  • Nature Explore Trek T-shirt
  • All the trip necessary documents
  • VAT and tax
  • Trekking Map.

What's Excluded?

  • Personal  travel insurance
  • International airfare
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Trekking equipment
  • All type of beverage
  • Extra expenses like   Buttery charge, WIFI- Hot shower, Laundry during the trek.
  • Tipping for staff.

Departure Dates

Departure Date

Availability

Price


Everest Base Camp Treks - 7 Days

Departure: Aug 19, 2023
5 Seats
US 1755$

Everest Base Camp Treks - 7 Days

Departure: Aug 19, 2023
5 Seats
US 1755$

Everest Base Camp Treks - 7 Days

Departure: Aug 19, 2023
5 Seats
US 1755$

Everest Base Camp Treks - 7 Days

Departure: Aug 19, 2023
5 Seats
US 1755$

Trip Information

How journey starts?

Our 13-day Manaslu Circuit trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. From here, our trek begins and we will continue gaining altitude each day. After hiking for about 7 hours, we will reach the village of Jagat. From here on, we will cross numerous remote yet the most unique Buddhist villages of Deng, Namrung, Lho, and Sama Gaun.

At Samagaun, we will spend a day for rest and visit Mansaly Base Camp and the local Pungyen Gompa. We then hike to Samdo and 4200 m high Dharmashala. The next day, we ascend the 5130 m high Larkya La Pass and descend to Bhimthang. From here on, we continue losing height as we culminate our journey once again in Kathmandu.

Best Time

Like in other trekking trips in Nepal, Manaslu is best in the seasons of spring and autumn. Spring from March to May comes after the cold winter season before the arrival of the Monsoon. Spring months paint the entire landscape green with the blooming rhododendrons on the mountains. But at higher altitudes, there may still be snow.

The autumn months of September, October, and November come after the end of monsoon until the onset of winter frosts. The period is phenomenal with transparent fresh air. And the intensity of the colors combined with the snow-capped peaks is unreal. However, the days can be shorter with lower temperatures at high elevated zones.

Elevation and distance

 Our Manaslu circuit trek will take us to the foot of the eighth tall mountain in the world perched at an altitude of 8163 m above sea level. The maximum elevation we gain in this 13-day trek is at Larkya La Pass elevated at 5130 m above sea level.

The Manaslu Ciruit is located 177 km away from the capital of Nepal and 140 km away from the starting point of the trek- Machha Khola. It will take us about two weeks to cover this distance on foot.

Our multi-day hike needs you to walk for 9 days covering an average of 13 km each day. We will be hiking for 5 to 10 hours which shouldn’t be a problem for endurance and sure-footed mountain hikers.

Maximum/Minimum walk per day

When attempting for our 13-day Manaslu circuit trek, be prepared to walk for 5 to 7 hours each day along the unpaved trails. However, the trek duration of each day depends on the village we intend to stay overnight as scheduled in our itinerary. Therefore, the duration of your walk may vary some days sometimes needing you to walk for 4 hours only, and sometimes even 8 to 9 hours.

The minimum hour you walk will be on day 7 of the itinerary when you traverse from Namrung to the village of Lho. On this day, you will only walk for about 3 to 4 hours. The maximum walk will be on day 12 of the itinerary when you will ascend the behemoth Larkya La Pass and descend to Bhimthang.

Difficulty and Acclimatization

This is a moderately challenging high-altitude trek in one of the isolated regions of Nepal. The route to the Manaslu circuit is devoid of technical difficulties and does not require climbing skills. However, it includes crossing a mountain Pass situated more than 5000 m altitude above sea level.

In addition, it requires you to hike along the tiring mountainous terrain, and rugged trails for at least 4 to 7 hours each day. Therefore, you must have sufficient physical strength to be able to walk for long periods of time every day.

You must also pay attention to the high-altitude challenges. And you must allow your body to gradually adapt to the thin air of the high mountains. For this purpose, we reach the altitude relatively slowly and use the rest day at Samagaun wisely. We also have minimized the waking hours as much as possible so you can conveniently complete this trek without facing any difficulties.

Can a beginner trek to Manaslu Circuit?

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit trek is accessible to all who enjoy a good level of physical and mental health. The trek doesn’t need any technical skills or the usage of any complex climbing equipment. Even the descent from and approach to the Larkya La Pass is routed in such a way that mule caravans with supplies pass through it. But the trail does need a good level of physical endurance and the ability to walk for long hours along the arduous terrain.

You also need to be prepared for the basic services and let go of luxury for at least 10 days. The region is isolated and not accustomed to the luxury western tourism as the other treks in Nepal. Therefore, there are not many lodges or tea houses along the route. These accommodations provide fundamental services adequate for a night stay.

Preparation and training

Since this trek requires a good level of physical fitness, we recommend you participate in aerobic exercise and strength training at least 45 days before your trek. Swimming, running, cycling, weight lifting, and leg exercises are some of the activities that can help build your endurance level. If you have low-altitude mountains in your locality, you can also go hiking with a lightweight backpack on your shoulder. This will prepare you for long day hikes in Nepal.

Please also practice some yoga and meditation for mental strength. You don’t have to join any specialized yoga or meditation center for this. Watch some YouTube videos and practice them at home. Try to give away some of the luxuries for a few days such as hot water, and WIFI as a preparation for the trek in the beautiful Manaslu region of Nepal.

Alternate routes

There is one alternate route you can take to trek around Manaslu. For the other option, you can take a bus from Kathmandu to Manabu from where you will take on the uphill trek to the villages of Yarsta, Kasigaun, Keranja, Runchet, Hulchuk, and joining DObhan and Jagat.

Please keep in mind that these villages are still young at tourism therefore, you may not be able to accommodate in the lodge or tea house. Instead, you will have the chance to directly connect with local inhabitant by enjoying their homestay. This alternate route requires a few more days of trek from you.

Altitude Sickness

Manaslu Circuit trek although not challenging is not easy and light as well. Altitude-related problems, including headaches, dizziness, weakness, and insomnia, are experienced by almost everyone from an altitude of approximately 3,000-3,200 m above sea level. Therefore, during the passage at an elevation of more than 3000 m, we will take the acclimatization day in Samagaon.

From here on, we will walk gradually at our pace giving our body time to adapt to greater heights. We will also take precautions by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Please be aware of the signs of altitude sickness and descend immediately when they occur or take Daimox to alleviate symptoms

Transportation, Meals and Drink

As part of our comprehensive package, we look after all your accommodation, transportation, and meals during the entire trekking journey. After arriving at the airport, we will drive you to the hotel in Kathmandu by private car or van.

We will then drive to Machha Khola from Kathmandu in a private jeep and begin our trek. When ending the trip, we will take a jeep ride from Tilje to the capital passing Besishsra and Dharapani.

During the entire trekking period, breakfast, lunch and dinner is included in the package with seasonal fruit in the evening and hot cup of tea or coffee after every meal.

The lodge or tea house despite its remoteness still manages to provide decent options of food. From local fresh food of Dal, Vat, and Tarkri, you can also enjoy fried rice, dumplings, Thukpa, any style of potato (boiled or fried), spring rolls, or western dishes like pasta, pizza, noodles, egg, porridge, muesli, chapati, Tibetan bread, etc.

Communication, Gadgets charging, and Internet/wifi

Although far away, but the Manaslu region has well-developed mobile reception and phone service. Both the NTC and NCELL SIM have good coverage in the entire Nepal. They also provide several internet data packages at a reasonable cost.

Most of the villages including Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, Bhimthang, and Dharapani have good WIFI connections but as you move on further, the internet connection may not be available. in such cases, mobile data packages can be useful.

Regarding your gadgets charging, the lodges provide rooms with electrical and power sockets. Besides all villages have 24-hour of electricity supply thanks to the good work of our Nepal electricity board. So gadget charging will be no problem at all but be ready to pay the minimal price for the service.

Permits

You need three types of permits for the Manaslu Circuit trek: Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP).

The MCAP and ACAP cost USD 30 per person while the cost of the Manaslu RAP costs USD 100 per person in the peak stages of spring and autumn and USD 75 per person in the of seasons of winter and summer.

Visa Information

Upon arrival at the international airport of Kathmandu, you will have to go through certain formalities to obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa. You can either fill up the online form available on the Nepal Immigration website or at the VISA issuing department of the airport.

Present your passport copy, photo, and the filled form with the VISA fee. For this trek, a VISA of 30 days will suffice for which you have to pay USD 50 per person.

Your Extra expenses

We have covered almost all of your in our package for the Manaslu circuit trek except for your personal expenses including the cost of a hot shower, WIFI, Gadget charging, alcoholic beverages, guides and porter tips, and souvenir shopping. On average, NPR 30 K is enough for your expenses.

What to expect?

Regarded as a trekker’s paradise, the Manaslu circuit trek will take you through stunning mountain landscapes, remote villages, and ancient monasteries.

You will get the stunning mountain views of Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world, and other peaks such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. You will explore secluded villages and meet the local people and their culture such as the Gurung, Nubri, and Thumba tribes.

You will also get the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries and Buddhist temples including Rachen Gompa and Pungyen Gompa. You will also cross the gigantic Larkya La Pass which is considered one of the highest mountain passes in the world.

You will also get the opportunity to encounter the rare wildlife of the Manaslu region where they roam around at their own pace.

Trip Extension

If you have some time to spare, it is worth extending this trek with a visit to the Tsum side valley, which takes about 4-5 days. Or, you can also continue your trek to the Annapurna Circuit Trail in Dharapani.

If you have no desire for further trekking, you can also extend your stay in Pokhara and participate in some extreme sports. Such as paragliding, bungee jumping, rafting, zip flying, etc. Or, you can also rest and relax and join some meditation centers.

You can also extend your stay days in Kathmandu Valley and participate in the excursion tour of the valley visiting the important landmarks of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQ'S

Q

How hard is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu circuit trek is considered a moderately challenging trek. However, the challenges and complexities all depend on your perception. With adequate health, you can easily manage this trek.

Q

How long does Manaslu Circuit take?

Two weeks are needed to complete the Manaslu circuit trek.

Q

Is Manaslu better than Annapurna?

Each trek in Nepal has its own unique feature. Annapurna trek is like a stadium where you will be surrounded by exceptionally beautiful mountains. Manaslu circuit on the other hand will travel you back in time where nature still remains the same: untouched, unspoiled, and uncontaminated.

Annapurna trail is well developed and therefore allows you to enjoy your trek in comfort. But in Manaslu, you may have to give away some of the luxuries and adapt to spend a few days in the basic remote settings of Nepal.

For nature lovers, Manaslu is a great option than Annapurna.

Q

Is the Manaslu Circuit trek safe?

Absolutely. Manaslu circuit trek is safe in every respect, we will travel in groups. Even if you like a private tour, our skilled guide and porter will accompany you during the entire trek. They will ensure your safety, and comfort all the time.

Q

Can you trek Manaslu without a guide?

No, the Nepal Government has banned solo trekking in Nepal from April 2023. In every high-altitude remote trek, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide and you must approach the registered travel and trek agency of Nepal.

Q

Is Manaslu harder than Everest?

Both the Manaslu circuit trek and Everest Base Camp trek come with their own challenges. The Manaslu circuit is 177 km long while the Everest Base Camp trek is 130 km long. The highest point of the Everest Base Camp trek is at Kala Patthar at almost 5555 m while the Larkya La Pass at almost 5200 m is the highest point of the Manaslu trek.

In Manaslu circuit trek, you will start your hike from the lower region but in Everest Base Camp, you will begin your hike from Lukla. The Manaslu circuit trek route is not well developed, rugged devoid of comfort and luxury. But the Everest Base Camp route is now fully developed. So relatively, the Manaslu circuit trek is a little harder than the Everest Base Cam trek.

Q

Why is Manaslu so popular?

Manaslu region is well known around the world for its diverse culture, pristine nature, and rare flora and fauna.

Got a question about Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Reach out to our travel experts.

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Customer Reviews

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400+ Excellence Reviews
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Ms. Amelia Wright
United States of America (the), California
- Excellent

Best Bhutan Trip

From the moment I arrived until my departure, I felt well taken care of. The knowledgeable guides shared captivating stories, and historical anecdotes, and ensured that I had a deep understanding of Bhutan's culture and heritage. The accommodations were comfortable, showcasing traditional Bhutanese architecture and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Read more + Date: 30th May 2023
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Mr. Matthew Harris
Toronto, Canada
- Excellent

A memorable trip to Bhutan

My tour of Bhutan was an extraordinary adventure that exceeded all expectations. The awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and genuine warmth of the Bhutanese people left an indelible impression on me. Bhutan is a true gem, where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist, and where the pursuit of happiness takes center stage. If you seek a destination that will enchant

Read more + Date: 29th May 2023
15%
OFF
$1199 US$ 1999 Per Person (Group Size: Min 2 pax)
  • Best price guaranteed
  • Secure & easy online booking
  • Flexible booking dates
  • Decades of experience

If you have question about Manaslu Circuit Trek, please fell free to ask

user-image Ask to trip expert
US$ 1150