How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek is moderately challenging. It involves long walking days, steep climbs, and crossing the high Larke La Pass (5,176 m). With good fitness and proper acclimatization, it’s achievable for most trekkers.

What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months offer clear skies, good weather, and beautiful mountain views.

Do I need a special permit for this trek?

Yes. You need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).

The highest point is Larke La Pass at 5,176 m. There is a risk of altitude sickness, so proper acclimatization days are included in the itinerary.

What kind of accommodation is available?

You will stay in teahouses and lodges along the trail. They are simple but comfortable, offering basic meals and beds.

Is the Manaslu Circuit crowded like Everest or Annapurna?

Manaslu Circuit Trek - Geo Nepal Treks

Accomodation
Teahouses
Departure City
Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
Maximum Altitude
5,160 M
Destinations
Manaslu Region
Activities
High-altitude trekking
Trip Type
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Difficulty
Hard

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Gallery

FAQs

Map

Elevation Chart

Equipment

Essential Info

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Gallery

FAQs

Map

Elevation Chart

Equipment

Essential Info

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. This trek will take you through remote Himalayan villages, lush forests, alpine landscapes, and high mountain passes, including the challenging Larke La Pass (5,106 m). Known for its rich Tibetan culture, traditional monasteries, and warm local hospitality, the trek will offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and nature. Unlike more popular trekking routes, Manaslu Circuit is less crowded, allowing trekkers to enjoy a peaceful and authentic Himalayan experience.

The trek typically takes 14–16 days, starting from Kathmandu, with scenic drives, gradual acclimatization, and stunning mountain views along the way. Trekkers pass through villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaun, Samdo, and Bhimtang, experiencing local culture, Tibetan-style monasteries, and pristine natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

Panoramic Views of Mount Manaslu provide breathtaking scenery throughout the trek.
Larke La Pass is the highest point of the trek and offers unforgettable alpine landscapes.
Traditional Tibetan Villages and Monasteries allow trekkers to experience local culture.
Sama Gaun and Samdo Villages showcase authentic Himalayan lifestyle and hospitality.
Manaslu Base Camp offers an optional day hike to glaciers and high mountains.
Remote and Peaceful Trails give a serene trekking experience away from crowded routes.
Diverse Landscapes include forests, rivers, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

You will arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Depending on your arrival time, you can rest at your hotel and prepare for the trek ahead. You can take some time to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu Sightseeing

You will spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s cultural heritage, including ancient temples, stupas, and local markets. Popular spots include Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. This is a good opportunity to acclimatize to Nepal’s altitude and experience the rich culture.

Day 03 :

Drive to Machhakhola (930 m / 8 hrs)

You will start your journey toward the Manaslu region with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. The road passes through hills, rivers, and small villages, giving you your first glimpse of rural Nepal. Machhakhola is a peaceful village by the river where you’ll spend the night before starting the trek.

Day 04 :

Machhakhola to Jagat (1,300 m / 6 hrs)

Your trek will begins! The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages. Jagat is a small settlement where you can experience the warm hospitality of local communities.

Day 05 :

Jagat to Deng (1,860 m / 7 hrs)

The trail gradually climbs through forests and charming villages, crossing suspension bridges over the river. Deng is surrounded by hills and offers a comfortable place to rest for the night.

Day 06 :

Deng to Namrung (2,500 m / 6–7 hrs)

The trek today will ascends steadily along the river, with beautiful views of rice terraces, forests, and Himalayan peaks. Namrung is a lively village with traditional houses and local markets.

Day 07 :

The trek today ascends steadily along the river, with beautiful views of rice terraces, forests, and Himalayan peaks. Namrung is a lively village with traditional houses and local markets.

The path will climbs higher into the Himalayan alpine zone, with dramatic mountain views along the way. Shyala is a quiet village where trekkers can enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Day 08 :

You will trek to Sama Gaun, a beautiful village at the base of Manaslu. On the way, you will pass Pungen Gumpa, a famous Buddhist monastery, and experience the spiritual side of the region. Sama Gaun is known for its traditional Tibetan-style houses and friendly locals.

Day 09 :

Acclimatization Day (Day Hike to Manaslu Base Camp / 4,800 m)

Today is for acclimatization, essential before climbing higher altitudes. You can take a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp, enjoying breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the surrounding valley, before returning to Sama Gaun to rest.

Day 10 :

Today is for acclimatization, essential before climbing higher altitudes. You can take a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp, enjoying breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the surrounding valley, before returning to Sama Gaun to rest.

A shorter trek today will allows you to gradually adjust to higher altitudes. Samdo is a scenic village with traditional architecture and stunning mountain views, often considered the gateway to Larke Pass.

Day 11 :

Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460 m / 4 hrs)

The trail will ascends gently toward Dharmasala, the last stop before the high Larke La Pass. Along the way, you’ll see glacial rivers, alpine landscapes, and experience the high-altitude environment.

Day 12 :

Dharmasala to Bhimtang via Larke La Pass (5,106 m / 3,900 m)

This is the most challenging day of the trek, crossing the Larke La Pass, the highest point of the circuit at 5,106 meters. The climb is steep but rewarding, offering panoramic views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks. After crossing, you will descend to Bhimtang village, where you can relax and recover.

Day 13 :

Bhimtang to Dharapani (1,870 m / 6–7 hrs)

After enjoying the high mountains, the trail will descends through valleys, forests, and villages, bringing you back to lower altitudes. Dharapani is a lively settlement where you can rest and celebrate completing the challenging portion of the trek.

Day 14 :

Drive to Kathmandu/Pokhara (8 hrs)

The trek will concludes with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, passing rivers, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. After arrival in the city, you can rest, shop, or enjoy a final evening in Nepal reflecting on your adventure.