MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK

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  • DURATION18 Days
  • DIFFICULTY-LEVELStrenuous
  • GROUP SIZE2-14

Highlights

  • Guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • A long and scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazar
  • Off beaten and adventurous trail
  • Get to see the lifestyle and rich cultural heritage of locals
  • Go on an excursion during the acclimatization day in Sama Gaun
  • Cross the Larkya La Pass
  • Witness jaw-dropping landscapes and panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains

Trip Overview

"Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the challenging treks in the Himalayas that offers off beaten trekking along with intimate encounters with locals and spectacular sceneries."

Manaslu Circuit Trek is famous for its unspoiled sceneries, adventurous terrain, isolation, and serene environment. Surrounded by Mt. Annapurna in the west and Ganesh Himal in the east, Mt. Manaslu stands 8,156 meters above sea level. Trekking through the Makalu Conservation Area, the trail gradually ascends toward the base of the 8th highest mountain, Mt. Manaslu. It is one of those long treks that lets you explore the deep corners of the Manaslu region and give you more than enough time in the Himalayas to unwind & relax.

Manaslu Circuit Trek does not see the crowd as Annapurna Base Camp Trek or other famous trails. Moreover, it is said to be the evolved version of Annapurna Circuit Trek decades ago. Even though the region is remote, you can find teahouses in every village that makes the trek attainable. Still, the trekker has to be in good physical fitness with some previous trekking experience to go Manaslu Circuit Trekking.

Beginning from the lowlands, the trail goes through sub-tropical forests to the terraces of millet & rice and continues to the alpine zone. On the way, you will pass by beautiful waterfalls and cross thrilling suspension bridges. From the start to the end of the trek, trekking in the Manaslu region is a visual feast for your eyes. You can visit the stunning Birendra Lake (3,450 m) while acclimatizing at Sama Gaon.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is the ideal package for wild adventure seekers. The trail is off-beaten and crosses challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). Every new village unfolds a distinct view and presents a unique experience. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek 18 Days, you will learn many things and witness the unbelievable wonders of nature.

Major Attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites involves a visit to Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. The tour will be guided by a professional tour guide who knows so many things about the monuments and their history.

A long and scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazar

The drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazar follows a well-made route that further gets a little bumpy. On the way, you can see views of green hills, rivers, terraced fields, waterfalls, and villages, along with snow-capped mountains.

Off beaten and adventurous trail

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail goes through dense forests and villages like Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaun, Samdo, Larkya La Phedi, Bimthang, Dharapani, Bhulbhule, etc. There are many ascends and descends along steep & rocky paths throughout the trek.

Get to see the lifestyle and rich cultural heritage of locals

Manaslu region is resided by people from different communities. The people here live a simple life. As the region is not developed, the lifestyle of the locals is the same as centuries ago. Thanks to the remoteness of the region, the cultural heritage, and traditions of the villagers are well preserved. On the way, you can see chortens, stupas, monasteries, and prayer flags.

Go on an excursion during the acclimatization day in Sama Gaun

While spending acclimatization day in Sama Gaun, you will have two options, either to go for Manaslu Base Camp (5,106 m) or Birendra Lake (3,450 m). Both of these places offer breath-taking views and have a scenic route. Along the trail, there are many other short trips that you can go on.

Cross the Larkya La Pass

Standing at 5,160 meters, Larkya La Pass is no doubt one of the challengings passes in the Himalayas to cross. From the Larkya Phedi, the trail ascends on rough and exposed terrain. This pass carries its dangers and difficulties. As you will reach the top of the pass, you can see high mountains touching the sky from left to right. The view is immaculate.

Witness jaw-dropping landscapes and panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be relishing the stunning views of Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Saula Himal (6,220 m), Dwijen Himal (6,169 m), Himlung Himal (7,140 m), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m), and many others. Likewise, along the way, you will come across lovely waterfalls and glistening lakes. The trail is full of excellent sceneries as well.

Itinerary

Open All DaysClose All

Your arrival day is free so that you can have enough time to relax and sleep early to get rid of jet lag. Meet with our airport representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport. He will escort you to the hotel and help you with check-in. We recommend you explore the vibrant streets of Thamel and dine as per your wish before heading back to the hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

The day is spent visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites today. An experienced tour guide will assist you during the tour and take you to the monuments like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. You get to see Nepali art and architecture and visit centuries-old temples, monasteries & palaces. Later in the day, meet with the trek guide and prepare for the trek. Arrange all the documents and equipment at a place and make sure nothing gets left behind.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

After having breakfast, you drive to Arughat Bazar. The drive begins early morning along Kathmandu Pokhara Highway. On the way, you can see villages, terraced fields, and hills. Enjoy the remaining day resting and getting ready for the trek.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 570
  • Arughat Bazaar

The first day of the trek begins from Arughat to Soti Khola. The trail goes through small mountain villages. Later, you will be following the Budhi Gandaki River and trek, enjoying beautiful views of Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 530
  • Soti Khola

From Soti Khola, you begin trekking, enjoying marvelous views of waterfalls and streams. The trail further goes through lush forests of sal and ascends above the Budhi Gandaki River. Passing by Liding, you trek and reach Khursane. From here, you trek through rice terraces and descend to Nauli Khola. Cross it on a suspension bridge and reach Machha Khola for the night stay.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 890
  • Machha Khola

Cross the Machha Khola River and follow an upstream route to Khorla Bensi. The trail then gets steep and crosses a suspension bridge. The path can get difficult at some point, however, the fantastic views will keep you accompanied. Trek through a forested path and reach Doban. The trail further takes you to Lauri, where you cross a suspension bridge and ascend towards Jagat.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1350
  • Jagat

The trail from Jagat moves uphill and follows a flat path. You Cross a bridge over Budhi Gandaki River and reach Philim. Philim is a big village resided mostly by Gurungs. From here, you start the trek to reach Deng. The trail offers superb views of waterfalls at a distance.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1860
  • Deng

Trekking along an easy flat path, you join an uphill route to Namrung. The trail goes through lush forests and remote villages. Get to see an excellent view of green hills, rock hillocks, and Mt. Manaslu on the way. Upon reaching Namrung, rest, and explore the village.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2900
  • Namrung

Following a winding path, you trek through the inner Himalayan range. The trail offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains like Saula Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Dwijen Himal, Lajing Peak, and numerous others. With the rise in elevation, the vegetation begins to decline. The trail later gets windy and cold. Passing by Lho Gaon, you reach Lihi Gaon and continue walking towards Sama Gaun to end the day.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3520
  • Sama Gaun

To adjust your body with the increased elevation, we have added a few rest days in between the trek itinerary. You will get time to relax and savor the local lifestyle & culture. You have the option to hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake (3,450 m). Both places offer stunning landscapes.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3520
  • Sama Gaun

It is going to be a pleasant walk today. Crossing a pasture, ascend to the valley. The trail further joins lush forests of birch and juniper. You descend to the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. From here, ascend following a steep path across a river and head towards Samdo, enjoying great views of snow-clustered mountains.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3690
  • Samdo

After having a warm breakfast, you begin ascending towards Larkya La Phedi. The route will be rocky and zigzag. Passing by Larky Bazar, you climb on a rugged trail that leads to Larkya La Phedi.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 4460
  • Larkya La Phedi

Wake up early and begin trekking towards the top of Larkya La Pass. The trail will be tough today. You will be ascending following a steep uphill route that leads to the top of the pass from where you can see breath-taking landscape along with gorgeous views of Mt. Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Ratna Chuli, and many others. Later, descend to Bimthang, passing by icy lakes.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 5135
  • Bimthang

From Bimthang, the trail drops down to Burdin Khola Valley. The trail then ascends to a ridge at 4,150 meters that offers fantastic views of Manaslu in the southeast and Annapurna II in the southwest. Further, trekking through lush forests of rhododendron, you walk by a narrow valley and reach Karche (2,785 m). You cross a stream to reach Tilje and continue trekking towards Dharapani.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1860
  • Dharapani

Continue trekking following a downhill path that goes along Dudh Khola and Marshyangdi River. The trail goes through Tal, where you will see a lovely waterfall. Further, trekking through lush green hills, you reach Jagat.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1300
  • Jagat

After having breakfast, you begin trekking towards Bhulbhule. The trail will be a steep descend from Jagat, following Marshyangdi river valley. On the way, you can see pretty landscapes.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 840
  • Bhulbhule

Leaving Bhulbhule behind, you drive back to Kathmandu with a pocket full of memories. The drive will be long and offers impressive sceneries. Upon reaching Kathmandu, move to a hotel and take your time to refresh. Stroll on the bustling streets of Thamel and shopping later in the evening. Join the team at a farewell dinner and end the night.

  • Hotel
  • B, L, D
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

The adventurous Manaslu Circuit Trek comes to an end. It is the last day of yours in Kathmandu. You will check-out of the hotel as per the flight departure time, and our airport representative will guide you to the international airport.

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What's Included

  • Airport transfers
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the above itinerary
  • 3-night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Transport by local bus Kathmandu - Arughat and Bhulbhule -Kathamndu
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek
  • Conservation entry permits, restricted area permit, and TIMS permit
  • 14-night accommodations in lodges/tea houses on the trekking
  • A guide and porter (1 porter for every two trekkers)
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service, which will be paid by your travel insurance company
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket, and a duffel bag (return after the trek)

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Food while you are in Kathmandu
  • The entire bar bills, hot and cold drinks, water, internet, and telephone charge
  • Entrances fees while visiting Kathmandu on the second day
  • Tips for the guide and crews
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Check Available Dates

  • We have set a date to depart the Manaslu Circuit Trek. So, select your date and book the trek.
  • If the preferred date is not listed, then contact us for the further process to book the trek on your date as the trekking is available on any date of the year.
  • We have listed the price for up to 14 people only so, if you are more than 14 people, then please contact us for the group price and process to book the trek.
  • The private trek is available on any date of the year, contact us for the booking.
  • The departure dates are your arrival dates in Nepal.
Start DateEnd DateAvailabilityPrice 
Start Date29 Oct, 2021End Date15 Nov, 2021AvailabilityAvailablePriceUS$950

Useful Information

Extra nights in Kathmandu for pre and post the Manaslu circuit trek

The extra night hotel in Kathmandu for pre or post the Manaslu circuit trek is available at the US $55.00 per night includes breakfast and airport transfers. Let us know if you are planning to arrive in Nepal earlier or stay in Nepal later than the scheduled dates and need extra nights. We then book the extra nights as per your requirements.

Electricity and battery charge on Manaslu circuit trek

Electricity is available in Kathmandu and most of the villages of Manaslu circuit trek to charges your camera/mobile batteries. However, you may have to pay a little fee to recharge these batteries.

We strongly suggest you bring spare/extra batteries to use in case of unavailability.

Guide and crew for Manaslu circuit trek

We provide a tourist guide for a day tour in Kathmandu on day 02 and a trained trekking guide for the whole trek who handles the logistics and guide you and your team on the Manaslu circuit trek.

We provide Sherpa (assistant guide) when there are eight or more members in the group. We also provide porters to carry your main luggage, there is one porter for every two members, and a porter carries about 20 - 22KG, which means 10 - 11 KG from each trekker.

Client Reviews

Recommended company Manaslu Circuit Trek

I just returned from my Manaslu circuit trek and had a very positive experience with Escape Nepal Holidays. Unfortunately, my trip was cut short due to a family emergency. I was well into the trek when I got the news and our guide Sanjay was very gracious and helpful in getting me back to Kathmandu so that I could fly home. I was trekking with a friend, and we decided that he should continue with our porter.

My last evening in Kathmandu, Arjun (the owner) came over and visited with me in the hotel garden. He was very kind and gracious as I was in a fragile state. I can't tell you how much that meant to me. I highly recommend them.

Jeff S, United States | 19 December, 2018

Manaslu circuit trek

Liaising with Escape Nepal was very easy as Arjun, the coordination was very prompt and helpful in his email replies. Our group of 5 took on the Manaslu circuit trek with Dipak as our guide and Ram & Sankar.

The trek was well managed, and our needs were well taken care of. We left Nepal with wonderful memories. Highly recommended to engage Escape Nepal for planning your trekking in Nepal.

RuhuiC, Singapore | 28 February, 2018

Best agency for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Escape Nepal is the most helpful and professional throughout our whole planning and trekking process for the Manaslu circuit trek. They put up with changes to our itinerary to the very last minute (up to the day we arrived in Kathmandu).

All the people we encountered from the company have been most excellent, from Arjun, who corresponded with us via email to Prakash and Ranjit on the trek. They were always patient, cheerful, responsible, and very knowledgeable!

We thoroughly enjoyed our experience with Escape Nepal and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to visit Nepal!

KristlA, Australia | 14 February, 2018

Best Trek in Manaslu Region

We did a marvelous tour with Escape Nepal and Dipak through the Manaslu region, Pokhara, and a city tour in Kathmandu. Everything worked perfectly on our tour. Dipak is a very reliable (funny and entertaining) guide, and he is full of knowledge about the mountains, treks, people, flora, and fauna.

Together with the porters, we got the best team one could wish for. All the transfers were exactly on time, we received a full service, including a taxi from and to the airport.

We recommend Escape Nepal!

EliotBlues, Germany | 16 November, 2016

FAQs

Yes, You need to have some permits to do the Manaslu circuit trek. The permits are Manaslu conservation entry, Annapurna conservation entry, TIMS (Trekkers' information management system), and a Special trekking permit from the government as the Manaslu is in the restricted/controlled area by the government of Nepal. We apply and get all these permits for you once you book a trek.

You need to have a moderate level of fitness with daily trekking between 3 to 8 hours to do the Manaslu circuit trek. You reach an altitude of 5100m on the adventure. So, You need to be physically fit, healthy, and strong stamina and desire to complete the trek. If you have previous trekking experience, that would be beneficial.

If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider before the book the Manaslu circuit trek.

Yes, You need travel insurance when you come for the Manaslu circuit trek. In case of a sickness or any injury, while you are trekking, we do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. And, You will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue. So, make sure that these expenses are covered by your insurance policy.

No, solo travelers cannot do the Manaslu circuit trek as it is a controlled area for trekking, and you need to have special trekking permits from the government of Nepal. And, there should be a minimum of 2 people to apply for these special permits.

However, We have fixed some dates for the small group trek for the Manaslu circuit trek, and we may have some people already booked, and you are welcome to join us for the trekking. Let us know when you are planning for the trek then we see if you can join our fixed group trek.

The Manaslu circuit trek is available and doable throughout the year. However, the autumn season (from mid-September till mid-December) and spring season (from the beginning of March until the end of May) are the best time to do the Manaslu circuit trek in terms of weather and temperature.

We provide a 3-star hotel for three nights in Kathmandu and simple lodge/teahouse accommodation for the rest of the 14 nights on the Manaslu circuit trek. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets on the trekking lodge/guest house. Please, remember that some of them are very basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary.

The hotel we provide:

  • Hotel in Kathmandu: Hotel Moonlight: 3 nights
  • Hotel on Trek Routes: Simple Mountain lodge: 14 nights

Notes:

  • Accommodation mostly will be on double/twin share, and a single room is available in Kathmandu hotels.
  • A hotel upgrade in Kathmandu is available. There are luxury 4 - 5-star hotels available in Kathmandu so, let us know if you want to upgrade the hotel in Kathmandu.

We provide a total of 47 meals (17 breakfast, 15 lunch, and 15 dinners) on the Manaslu circuit trek, and these meals are provided in hotels/lodges. You have breakfast and dinner at the lodges where you stay overnights and lunch at the lodge available along the trail.

You have a wide variety of Nepali and Western meals and drinks such as coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer) as well. However, these drinks are not included in the cost. So, you can buy them yourself on the available lodge/guest house.

We advise you to bring water purification pills/medicine while coming for the Manaslu circuit trek since you have normal water for free and use the medicine and drink, or you can buy bottled/boiled water.

No, International flights to arrive in Nepal and to return from Nepal are not included in our price and itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You need to book international flights yourself.

No, You do not have to carry your luggage on Manaslu Circuit Trek. We provide porters to carry your main luggage on trekking. You simply carry a day bag pack with a water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. - a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek.

Yes, you have to tip the Manaslu Circuit Trek staff. However, the tipping for all services is always a matter of personal discretion. However, please be aware that tipping is considered to be a part of the remuneration, and they may approach you for payment.

As a Suggestion, the US $ 5  for the guide and the US $3 for the driver from each of you on day two, and a total of US $120.00 from each for the trekking part, that is to divide guide and porters (it depends on the size of the group you traveling with). Our trek guide will give you a clearer idea of when the adventure ends).

Yes, you need some money for your expenses on the Manaslu circuit trek, and it depends largely on your habit. Most of the meals are included in the price of the Manaslu Trek. So, You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages), snacks, souvenirs, a hot shower (you have to pay in some places), etc.

If you do not drink alcohol and shopping, then the US $12-15 per day per person should be enough for these expenses.

We provide private transport for airport transfers and sightseeing in Kathmandu and local bus transport from Kathmandu to Arughat and from Bhulbhule to Kathmandu. However, private jeep/van transport is available on request to drive from Kathmandu to Arughat and from Bhulbhule to Kathmandu. So, let us know if you want to upgrade to private for a more comfortable drive.

Yes, we arrange free airport transfer services once you book the Manaslu circuit trek. The airport transfer services provided, if you arrive and depart on our scheduled dates or you book extra nights from us.

Important Note on Arrival: There can be many people around you to support you to carry your luggage or to put your luggage in the vehicle when you exit from the airport, and they ask for money as a tip at the end (these people do not belong to us).

So, be careful of them, and we advise you not to let to carry your bag/luggage. We suggest you take your bag/luggage yourself until you put on our vehicle as there are many trolleys that you can use free of cost.

Yes, you can combine the Manaslu circuit trek with the Annapurna circuit trek. Both Manaslu and Annapurna is the popular trekking region in Nepal, and some part of the Annapurna circuit trek (from Dharapani to Bhulbhule) are included in Manaslu itinerary/. If you want to extend the hiking to the Annapurna circuit, then we can continue trekking on the Annapurna circuit trail rather than return to Bhulbhule and Kathmandu. This extension needs several days and lets us know if you want to have a combined adventure, then we will send you as per your requirement.

Yes, We can shorten the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We have 15 days trek included in this 18-days package of Manaslu circuit trek. However, if you have a limited timeframe, then we can customize the trekking itinerary and make it shorter.

The given itinerary for the Manaslu circuit trek is mostly for the fixed departure group trek. And, if you want to shorten it, then you have to do private trekking. Let us know if you need a shorter version of the itinerary.

We wish that no one get AMS or any other sickness while on the Manaslu circuit trek. However, there is always a risk of AMS (Altitude mountain sickness) while going on a high mountain trek. Our guide will provide you information to avoid the AMS while on a trek. However, if in case if you or any member of the group get AMS, then we do everything to bring you back safely.

What we do in this situation is depends on the situation. As such, if you get AMS and still able to walk, then we take a day rest (while others continue the trek) with one of the porter/guides, and we see how the situation will improve, and we can continue the trekking from next day if the situation gets better.

Or, If there is not any improvement or even it gets worse, we do not have other options rather than return the same trail to avoid AMS. Or, if the situation gets worse and you are not able to walk further, then we rescue/evacuate and bring you back to Kathmandu to visit a doctor.

The cost of evacuation by helicopter is expensive in Nepal, and it is almost impossible to pay by the people so, we strongly suggest you buy an insurance policy that covers the evacuation in the worst situation.

Yes, you can add some extra tours/activities on our Manaslu circuit trek as you can add a mountain flight tour on the morning of day 2 before the Kathmandu tour starts.

Furthermore, if you have some extra days, then you can add Chitwan Jungle safari, Pokhara tour, Lumbini tour. Or, if you want to extend your holidays to another country, then you can add Tibet Lhasa Tour in Tibet or Bhutan Tour in Bhutan.

Equipment is very important to have a comfortable and successful Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. So, you need to pack your gear carefully and pack only the things that you need and not anything that you no need for the trek.

To help you to pack your gear for the Nepal student tour, we have given some list that you should not miss while you are packing.

General

  • Four seasons sleeping bag (we provide you one if you do not have).
  • Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep all your gear, which will be carried by the porter.
  • Daypack for yourself to keep your things, such as a camera, water, and things that you need for the day.
  • A small lockable bag to keep the extra stuff that you do not use on the trek, and this can be kept at the hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara and get a return after the trekking.
  • A down Jacket (we provide you one if you do not have
  • Shade hat
  • Warm wool hat to cover your ears
  • A pair of light-weight warm gloves
  • T-shirts 2 pieces
  • Lightweight thermal tops
  • A fleece jacket
  • Raincoat (if you are traveling in monsoon time)
  • A pair of trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
  • Some pairs of warm socks
  • A pair of light to medium weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots
  • A pair of light trekking shoes or sandals for camp/lodges
  • A water bottle
  • Head/torch Light
  • A medium-size towel
  • Walking poles (optional)

Medicines and First Aid Kits

  • We recommend consulting with your doctor for medication suggestions to take for these regions.

Miscellaneous but Important

  • Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies), these extra passport photos are necessary to obtain the trekking permits.
  • Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
  • Lip balm at least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
  • Sun cream with SPF 40
  • Pocket knife
  • Water purification Iodine tablets (optional)
  • Toiletry kit and be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.