MANASLU TREK

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a premier, 16-day, off-the-beaten-path adventure around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak (8,156 m/26,758 ft). Reaching a trekking highest point of 16,000ft, this trek is celebrated for its untouched natural beauty, stunning Himalayan landscapes, and rich Tibetan-influenced culture. As a highly restricted area, it welcomes a limited number of trekkers annually, ensuring a less crowded trail for those seeking unparalleled cultural immersion and insight.

The journey typically begins with a scenic drive from Besisahar to Macchakhola, the trek’s starting point. The trail winds through lush valleys, home to Indigenous Gurung and other Himalayan communities with strong cultural ties to Tibet. Along the Manaslu Trekking Trail, trekkers will encounter cascading rivers, monasteries, mani walls, and dense forests, ultimately ascending to Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). This is the highest altitude gain, offering a profound sense of achievement amidst breathtaking scenery and the serene presence of Mount Manaslu, also known as the “Killer Mountain.”

Considered moderately challenging, this 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek promises raw Himalayan beauty and true serenity. It is best suited for high-altitude-experienced hikers with moderate fitness levels. Opened to tourists in 1992, this remote Himalayan trek provides a comprehensive high-altitude experience, blending physical demands, cultural immersion, and spectacular mountain views. For those seeking excellent trekking alternatives to popular options like the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trekking Trail, Annapurna Circuit, or Langtang Valley Trek in Nepal for 2025 and 2026, the Manaslu Circuit is an ideal choice.

What makes the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Special
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a two-week adventure around Mount Manaslu (“Mountain of the Spirit”) in west-central Nepal’s Mansiri Himal range. This unique trek combines stunning Himalayan scenery with rich cultural experiences.  Starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Gaon, the journey gradually ascends through villages like Jagat, Deng, and Samagaun. An acclimatization hike from Samagaun to Manaslu Base Camp precedes the trek’s highest point. Trekkers will encounter breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and Tibetan-influenced settlements and monasteries.  With expert guides, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is achievable for beginners with adequate physical preparation, acclimatization, and proper packing, offering an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Off the beaten path adventure in Nepal
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique, secluded experience compared to popular Nepalese treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna. As a restricted area, it limits visitors, requiring groups of at least two, special permits, and a local guide. This isolation preserves Manaslu’s natural and cultural heritage, offering untouched landscapes and tranquility. It’s an unparalleled choice for an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path adventure in a premier conservation area.

Authentic Rich Cultural encounters
The Manaslu Circuit’s Himalayan journey passes through traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages like Macchakhola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, and Samagaon. These diverse communities, predominantly Gurungs in lower regions and Tibetans in higher altitudes such as Nubri, preserve distinct ways of life. Their strong Tibetan Buddhist influence is evident in villages like Samagaun and Samdo, which feature numerous monasteries, chortens, and mani walls. Sustaining themselves through agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism, these communities offer an authentic glimpse into Himalayan life on this less-traveled trail.

Witness the ever-changing landscape of the Manaslu Trekking Region
The Manaslu Circuit Trek journeys from Macchakhola through diverse ecosystems, from subtropical forests and farmlands to alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, culminating in the arid, high-altitude environments of Manaslu Base Camp and Larkya La Pass. This trek offers spectacular topography and unparalleled views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), a true regional marvel.

INCLUDED

* Accommodations in Kathmandu  : 3 nights at a 5 star hotel Mulberry Hotel
* Accommodation in Pokraha: 1 night at 5 start hotel Waterfront Hotel 
* Domestic Flight: Pokraha to Kathmandu
* Transportation throughout duration of trip
* Welcome dinner: Restaurant in Kathmandu
* Farewell dinner: Restaurant in Pokhara
* Meals and Lodging in Tea Houses: 3 meals a day (BLD; including hot beverages
* Permits : Trekking Permit including MCAP and special permit, TIMS Card & conservation entry fee
* Staff Insurance : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek
* Luggage: Up to 15 Kg, 30 LBS per guest for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters
* Camping Equipment: All necessary camping equipment during the trek if required
* Guides: Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek
* Porters: (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek
* Staff Salary and Allowance: All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing
* Medial Kit: Comprehensive Medical kit
* Pre-Trip Fitness Planning/Guide
* Detailed packing list, Pre-trip zoom meets, and any additional support needed pre-trip

NOT INCLUDED

* International Flights : International flight airfare (to and from Kathmandu).
* Nepal Visa: Nepali Visa fee is US$ 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 120) – visa can be issued in Nepal itself, specifically at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu
* Meals: Any extra meals Kathmandu/Pokraha
* Additional Accommodations: Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu than the scheduled itinerary.
* Travel Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
* Rescue Evacuation : Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.) *mandatory
* Personal Expenses : Telephone calls, internet, laundry, soft drinks, any alcoholic beverages. Internet facility during the trek is not included.
* Extra Porter : $30 USD for an extra porter per day (If an extra porter is demanded).
* Gratiuity: for Guide, porters, and staff.

Best time to trek Manaslu Circuit

The best times to trek Nepal’s Manaslu Region are spring (March-May). Spring seasons offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, lush hills, and panoramic views of this rain-shadowed, desert-like trans-Himalayan region. Spring is especially known for vibrant wildflowers and abundant wildlife.

Manaslu Trek Difficulty

The 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is moderately challenging, reaching 5,106m (16,751 ft) at Larkya La Pass, posing an altitude sickness risk. Daily 5-8 hour hikes on rugged, icy, and steep trails, coupled with limited infrastructure, require caution. Beginners with good fitness can complete it with proper preparation, acclimatization, and guidance. Prioritize cardio, jogging, swimming, and simulated high-altitude treks.

Accommodations, meals, and or other amenities at teahouses

Manaslu Trek teahouses offer basic comfortable accommodations, shared external bathrooms, and local meals like Dal-Bhat. Hot drinks are available, but bottled water isn’t eco-friendly; purification tablets with boiled water are recommended. Wi-Fi and charging are better at lower altitudes. A local SIM (Ncell/NTC) from Kathmandu is advised for improved internet.

Travel Insurance for Manaslu Circuit Trek is highly recommended 

Due to unpredictable Himalayan weather and increased altitude sickness risk above 5,000 meters (16,000 ft), comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. This should cover high-altitude medical emergencies, injuries, helicopter rescue, trip cancellations/interruptions, and lost baggage.

16 DAYS ITINERARY

Starts: Kathmandu Ends: Kathmandu

Day 01: Arrived at TIA Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our guides will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, attend an evening briefing session with dinner, where you’ll receive detailed information about the Manaslu Circuit Trek and have your essential gear checked.

Max Altitude: 1,330 m/4,634 ft
Meal Included: Dinner
Accommodation: Mulberry Hotel 

Day 02: Trek preparation day

Day two focuses on acclimatization and trek preparations. This includes acquiring any needed gear. If time allows, explore Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Changunarayan Temple.

Max Altitude: 1,330 m/4,634 ft
Meal Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mulberry Hotel 

Day 03: Trek Machhakhola to Jagat (1340 m/10,301 ft) – 6 Hrs

The 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek officially begins at Macch Khola. From here, the journey to Jagat commences, leading you through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, particularly stunning in spring when they are in full bloom.  Along the route, you’ll encounter Gurung villages such as Lower Khorlabeshi and Tatopani, which boasts a natural hot spring. The path reveals the untamed beauty of the Manaslu Trekking Regions, especially as you cross high suspension bridges before reaching Jagat for the night.

Max Altitude: 1,340m 10,301 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 04: Trek Jagat to Deng (1,860 m/ 6102 ft) – 6 Hrs

The trail from Jagat to Deng climbs past Salleri, descends to Sirdibas, then ascends to a tea house. The route showcases Buddhist heritage with gompas and prayer flags, set amidst rhododendron and pine forests. Rivers and high suspension bridges, like the Siyar Khola Bridge to Tsam Valley, add to the adventure. Stone-roofed villages with wheat and barley farms are encountered on the way to Pewa and Deng, offering a serene experience for adventurers.

Max Altitude: 1,860m
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch |Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 05: Trek Deng to Namrung (2,600 m/ 8,530 ft) – 6 Hrs

Day six of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking takes you from Deng to Namrung. The trail winds through a beautiful bamboo forest, past Rana, Bihi Phedi, and many Tibetan Mani walls. Keep an eye out for Langur, a white monkey, along the way. The day’s trek mostly involves open valleys, eventually leading to Namrung, where you’ll find teahouses, restaurants, and rest houses for your overnight stay.

Max Altitude: 2,600m
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch |Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 06: Trek Namrung to Lho (3,160 m/10,367 ft) – 5 Hrs

In Namrung, experience the authentic Nubri lifestyle in a tranquil setting. Approaching Lho, a traditional village on the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll find an untouched ancient culture. The uphill trek rewards with beautiful Mani Walls, terraced fields, houses in forests, and stunning panoramic views of Manaslu and Manaslu North from higher ridges.

Max Altitude: 3,160 m/10,367 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast| Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 07: Trek Lho to Samagaon(3,540 m/11,614) via Pungen Gompa – 6 Hrs
The day starts with a hearty Himalayan breakfast before trekking to Samagaon. The trail winds through a forest to Shyala village, amidst agricultural fields and wooden resting structures. Trekkers will notice a change in the air, from warm to crisp. A visit to Pungen Gompa, a hidden gem of the Manaslu Trekking Region, offers a deep dive into Tibetan Buddhist culture and spirituality. Afterward, the journey continues to Samagaon, crossing a small stream from the Pungen Glacier. This last flat village near Manaslu Base Camp offers stunning views, making every step worthwhile.

Max Altitude: 3,540 m /11,614 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 08: Rest day in Samagaon

This important buffer day is dedicated to acclimatization. We recommend a morning side trip to Manaslu Base Camp, a 5-6 hour hike, as ascending and then resting at lower elevations aids acclimatization. Alternatively, you could hike to Birendra Tal or revisit Pungen Gompa. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the village’s natural and cultural beauty, where you might spot Himalayan tahr and yaks under the watchful gaze of Manaslu Peak.

Max Altitude: 4,800 m/15,748 ft at Manaslu Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast |Lunch| Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 09: Trek Samagaon to Samdo (3875 m/12,713 ft) – 4hrs

Our journey continues to Samdo, a unique Himalayan settlement dedicated to yak herding, situated close to the Tibetan border at nearly 4,000m above sea level. This sensitive area, requiring a Special Restricted Permit (RAP), allows only a limited number of visitors annually.  Samdo is also the final village before embarking on the challenging yet rewarding Larkya La Pass, a major section of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The path from Samagaon to Samdo, however, offers a pleasant walk through picturesque juniper and birch forests, descending to the Budhi Gandaki River. Along the way, you’ll cross bridges and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and other peaks.

Max Altitude: 3,870 m/12,696 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 10: Trek Samdo to Dharamshala/Larkya la Phedi (4,460 m/14,632 ft) – 3hrs

This is a relatively short trekking day, starting in Samdo and ending with an overnight stay at Dharamshala/Larkya La Phedi (4,460 m). There’s a significant altitude gain, so it’s crucial to maintain a slow and steady pace. The terrain might be a bit challenging, but the trek should take approximately 3 hours, allowing ample time to acclimatize to the higher Himalayas of Nepal’s Manaslu region at Dharmashala/Larkya La Phedi.

Max Altitude: 4,460 m/14,632
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 11: Trek down to Bimthang (3590 m/11,778 ft) via Larkya La pass (5,106 m/16,751 ft) – 10 Hrs

Prepare for an unforgettable day as you reach the pinnacle of the Manaslu Circuit Trek: the Larkya La Pass (5,160m above sea level). Here, you’ll be treated to the closest possible view of Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trek begins earlier than usual to avoid the challenging afternoon Himalayan winds.  This section of the trek is considered the most demanding, featuring steep ascents and descents through the remote, high-altitude Himalayas. However, the rewards are immense, offering 360-degree panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu, Larkya Peak, Boudha Himal, Himalchuli, and Peak 29 above, complemented by lush hills and valleys below. The entire trek spans approximately 10 hours, culminating in a descent to Bimthang for the night.

Max Altitude: 5,106 m/ 16,751 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast |Lunch |Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 12: Trek Bimthang to Gho (2,560m) – 4 Hrs

After experiencing the ultimate serenity, unparalleled mountain views, and true sense of achievement at Larkya La Pass, the trek from Bimthang to Gho offers a delightful downhill journey. This path leads through pristine alpine woodlands into warmer landscapes.

Max Altitude: 3,590 m/ 11,778 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local- Tea-House

Day 13: Trek Gho to Dharapani (1700 m/5577 ft) – 3 Hrs

The final day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you from Gho to Dharapani, the initial starting point, sharing a section of the Annapurna Circuit Trail at Tiliji. This descending route, suitable for those with good physical fitness, winds through terraced farms and pasturelands. As you descend, the surrounding high hills and mountains offer captivating views, playing hide-and-seek before you reach Dharapani for the night, from where you’ll drive back to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 2,560 m/ 8398 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast |Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Tea-House

Day 14: Dharapani to Phokrah- 8 Hrs

After an early breakfast at your Manaslu lodge, you’ll begin your full-day return journey to civilization via a scenic private drive through valleys and villages, savoring the landscapes and reflecting on your adventure. Your evening destination is Phokrah, a serene lakeside town known for its Annapurna views. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable hotel to unwind. Consider a traditional Nepali massage to rejuvenate. The evening is yours to relax, perhaps with a lakeside meal.

Max Altitude 900 m /2700 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4 start hotel Waterfront Resort Lakeside

Day 15: Flight from Phokrah to Kathmandu – 30mins
Overnight stay at Mulberry Inn in Kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1,330 m/4,634 ft
Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Mulberry Hotel 

Day 16: Departure Day from Kathmandu

On the last day of your trip, our airport representative will make sure you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) three hours prior to your flight’s scheduled departure.
Meals: Breakfast

Why we partner with Nepal’s premier mountaineering outfitters and why choosing the best for your Trek matters:
Mountain Ascents founder, led by Prem Magar, an Aspirant Guide recognized by the International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations (IFMGA), International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA), and Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) for having completed the internationally valued Mountain Leader Course. Our team consists of experienced, globally certified mountaineers.Prem Magar’s extensive list of mountaineering, trekking, and high-altitude accomplishments includes successful guided expeditions on:

• Ama Dablam (6,814 m)
• Himlung Himal (7,126m)
• Lobuche (6,091m)
• Imja Tse (Island Peak, 6,160m)
• Mera Peak (6,470m)
• Chulu East Peak (6,584m)

Prem Magar has also summited five of the world’s majestic eight-thousanders, including:

• Mount Everest (8,848m) – the highest mountain on Earth
• Mount Manaslu (8,163m) – the eighth tallest peak, also known as the “Killer Mountain”
• Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
• Annapurna I (8,091m)
• Lhotse (8,516m)
  
  

Your safety is our priority on Himalayan expeditions. Mountain Ascents experienced guides and Sherpas, with decades of collective experience, provide continuous communication with our Kathmandu office, monitor weather, arrange evacuations, and offer medical support. They also implement structured acclimatization, provide high-quality equipment, and offer staff insurance for a successful and fulfilling adventure.

Best Value
Mountain Ascents offers well-organized, high-quality treks and expeditions. Their team of local experts provide exceptional service, experienced, knowledgeable guides, and top-notch equipment. 

We are together with Local
Mountain Ascents is dedicated to supporting local communities. They prioritize employing local guides, Sherpas, and porters from underprivileged Himalayan regions, and partner with regional businesses for food, accommodation, and services. This fosters economic growth, improves local well-being, promotes cultural exchange, and preserves traditions through fair wages and ethical treatment, creating opportunities for residents.