What about the permits?

You will need a total of three permits to trek through the circuit Manaslu conservation area permit (MCAP) Annapurna conservation area permit(ACAP) Restricted area permit

Manaslu Circuit Trek: 12 Days Cost, Packages & Itinerary

Name: Manaslu Circuit Trek: 12 Days Cost, Packages & Itinerary
Brand: Mountain Routes
SKU: N/A
Price: 1350 USD
Availability: InStock

Manaslu circuit trek offers the most exciting and satisfying experience circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain (8,163m/26,781 ft). This 13 day trek through one of the restricted Himalayan areas is probably the most underrated yet extremely popular remote treks in Nepal.

You explore culturally rich and untouched Tibetan Villages and scintillating landscapes that are far less crowded than Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. This two weeks Manaslu Trek starts from Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft) and ends at Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft).

Cherish the hidden culture and beauty of lesser-known Himalayan region and thrilling Larkya La Pass in this one of most challenging and rewarding Manaslu trails. As a trusted Nepali trekking company serving since 2005, Mountain Routes has guided 5000+ trekkers from 23+ nationalities including the USA, UK, Australia, SAARC Nations and beyond.

Whether you’re coming in group or want to hike the trek solo, English Speaking licensed trek guides by us ensure that you’re safe and return with the most unforgettable memories ever.

Ready to experience one of Nepal’s most rewarding Himalayan adventures? Join Mountain Routes for safe, well planned and authentic Manaslu Circuit Trek experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Summary

What are reasons to choose Manaslu circuit trek? Here’s a quick overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal.

Trek Detail	Information
Trek Region	Manaslu
Total Distance	Approx. 177 km (110 miles)
Start Point	Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
End Point	Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft)
Highest Point	Larkya La Pass, 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
Trek Grade	Challenging
Accommodation	Teahouse (all included)
Best Seasons	Autumn (Sep–Nov) and Spring (Mar–May)
Guide Required	Yes. legally mandatory
Min. Group Size	Solo or group (guide mandatory)
Permits Required	RAP, MCAP, ACAP
Daily Walking	6–7 hours depending on the day
Total Permit Cost	Approx. USD USD 130–250 per pax (included in package)
Transportation	Drive, Walking
Cost	starting From $1,450 USD*

Major Highlights of the Manaslu Trek in Nepal

Though physically challenging, this two week less-commercialized Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you a culturally enriching and spiritually uplifting experience. The Manaslu Circuit's remoteness has preserved both its natural beauty and cultural authenticity in ways that Nepal's more famous trekking routes lost decades ago.

Here’re the major highlights of Manaslu Circuit Nepal.

Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft): The highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views of Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung and Kang Guru villages.
Close-up Views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m): Unrivaled, intimate views of the world's eighth-highest mountain and its surrounding peaks including Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.
Tibetan-Buddhist Culture: Exploration of remote, ancient villages like Samagaon, Samdo, and Lho, featuring monasteries (Gompas), mani walls, and prayer flags.
Untouched, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: A quieter alternative to Everest or Annapurna, offering a more serene and authentic trekking experience.
Dramatic Landscape Diversity: The trail transitions from subtropical forests and, terraced fields along the Budhi Gandaki River to high-altitude glacial terrain and rocky, alpine passes.
Birendra Tal (Lake): A stunning, serene and silent glacial lake near Samagaon known for its vibrant blue water.
Pung Gyen Gompa: A 400-meter-high monastery providing a dramatic, close-up viewpoint of Manaslu.
Natural Hot Springs at Tatopani: A welcoming place to relax muscles after days of trekking.
Rich Biodiversity: Potential to spot wildlife such as the rare snow leopard, blue sheep, Pika, Agali and Himalayan thar within Manaslu Conservation Area.
Authentic Teahouse Accommodation: Experience local hospitality, friendly people, authentic food and culture in family-run teahouses along the route.

What is Included and Excluded in Mansalu Circuit Trek Package?

Included

Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
English-speaking licensed guide
Porter service (2:1 basis — one porter for every two trekkers)
All trek permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS cards
Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek
All meals during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Basic first aid kit
Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek
All overland transfers to and from the trek start and end points

Excluded

Tips for your guide and porter
Your Travel Insurance
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Bottled drinks and alcoholic beverages
Helicopter evacuation (this must be covered by your travel insurance)
Personal expenses: laundry, phone, souvenirs, hot shower, wi-Fi, electronic device charging
Snacks, chocolate, tea breaks between meals

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit: Itinerary, Must-See Highlights & What to Expect

Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel. This is your day to rest after the long flight. Get your gear ready and meet your Mountain Routes guide for the pre-trek briefing. If you have missed anything, you can purchase or rent from the local market. All permits are arranged before this day. You walk in ready.

Travel Time: approximately 9 hours by bus and jeep

Distance: 160 km/99 miles

You leave Kathmandu early morning by bus to Arughat, then transfer to a jeep to reach Machha Khola. This is a long travel day. Our guide will pick you from hotel via taxi and take you to Kathmandu bus stand. We suggest having breakfast at hotel or getting it packed for the journey.

The drive takes you through hill towns, river valleys and increasingly remote terrain. You arrive at Machha Khola, settle in and sleep well. The actual trek begins the next day.

Walking Time: 6-7 hours

Distance: 21.8 km / 14 miles

After overnight stay at Machha Khola, you start walking the road alongside Budi Gandaki river to reach a small village Khorlabeshi. On the way you’ll find a lot of monkeys and langurs. After passing some of the Gurung villages you’ll reach Tatopani which means hot water.

Here you can take warm showers and some rest. Then, continue to your Manaslu circuit trek to reach Yaru and then Jagat by crossing many suspension bridges. Jagat is the first major checkpoint where your Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is checked. Our guides will take care of all the paperwork.

Walking time: approximately 7 hours.

Distance: 23.5 km / 14.5 miles

Now, you start the third day of Manaslu circuit trek by walking past Salleri and descending to Sirdibas. It’s a longer day while you pass through narrow gorges and dramatic river scenery. The trail begins to feel more remote as you leave for the lower villages behind to reach Philim where your permits are checked again.

Walking past the Manaslu trail, you cross the rhododendron forests, waterfalls, steep cliffs, overhanging rocks and the constant sound of the Budhi Gandaki below you. Then you reach Pewa and then Deng where you stay for rest of the day.

Walking time: approximately 5 hours.

Distance: 20 km / 12 miles

The altitude begins to climb noticeably today. You can see that the vegetation shifts from subtropical to alpine. Just follow the directions given by your guide to avoid any harm on this uneven trail of Manaslu circuit. Then you reach the beautiful Namrung village.

It’s a distinctly Tibetan village and you first real taste of the cultural shift that defines the upper Manaslu valley. You can enjoy here some of the finest teashops and rest houses.

Walking time: 3–4 hours

The next step in Manaslu trek itinerary Lho village which is famous for it’s local culture, landscapes, glowing mountains and historical Buddhist monasteries. Indeed, this is a shorter day by design. It’s where acclimatisation begins to matter. On a clear morning, Manaslu fills the northern horizon. This is a good day for a rest walk to the monastery above the village.

Walking time: 4–5 hours

You wake up to beautiful stunning view of Mt. Manaslu deep amid in Tibetan cultural territory. Next in this amazing remote Nepal Trek, comes Sama Gaun which is native of Nubri people. Here you can see the prayer flags and mani walls and you enjoy butter tea alongside pasta and dal bhat in teahouses.

Sama Gaun is the largest village in the upper Manaslu valley and is your base for acclimatisation.

Here at this acclimatization day of Manaslu trek, you can either choose Birendra Lake excursion (45 minutes each way) or visit Manaslu Base Camp visit (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Do not skip this day, it’s very important for your body to adjust to altitude, temperature and other external factors.

The jump from Sama Gaun to Samdo the next day, and then to Dharmasala, happens fast. Your body needs today to adjust. Most trekkers who develop altitude problems above Larkya La have skipped or shortened their acclimatisation.

Walking time: 3–4 hours

Distance: 5.7 km/3.7 miles

Now you are at high altitude so you must walk slowly and keep yourself hydrated. This is another short walking day in your circuit trek. Samdo is very close to Tibetan border and you can clearly see the main Tibet tracks over Larjyang La. Along the trail, yaks can be seen grazing the surrounding grasslands.

Only thing you need to care is walk slowly, drink water, sleep early and follow your guide’s instructions.

Walking time: 4 hours

Distance: 3 km/1 mile

Though the distance is not much but the altitude adds to the challenge which makes the journey longer. Make sure to watch for any symptoms for altitude sickness or AMS. Now you are heading for Dharamsala, your last teahouse before the pass.

Dharmasala is cold, basic and exciting. The teahouse here is sparse as this is genuinely a high-altitude accommodation. Eat a full dinner, drink plenty of fluids and make sure to sleep as early as possible. Your alarm is set for 3 am.

Walking time: 10–11 hours

Distance: 18Km/ 11 miles

This is the day you have been waiting for in this dream Manaslu trek. Wake up early, have breakfast and get ready to start at 3 am. The early start is important as the afternoon cloud and wind on Larkya La can be dangerous. The weather conditions deteriorate quickly after midday.

You trek by headtorch through darkness. After reaching the Larkya La Pass, you’ll be able to see a clear glimpse of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Tibet Kang Guru and the northern Annapurna range (Annapurna II). Provided the weather is clear.

After staying some time at the pass, then you start for long, knee-testing descent to Bimthang which is around 3 hours. On both sides you will see snow covered mountains in all directions. This is the hardest and most rewarding day of the Manaslu circuit.

Walking time: 6–7 hours

Distance: 21 km/ 13 miles

This is your long descent day in this trek. The altitude drops dramatically and your body will start feeling the relief. The Manaslu trail passes through rhododendron forests (look spectacular in spring) and high green pastures.

You’ll reach the village of Tilije before reaching Dharapani. It’s where the Manaslu circuit meets the Annapurna circuit.

Travel time: 9-12 hours

Distance: 240 Km/ 150 miles

You have successfully completed your Manaslu circuit trek. The drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara is long but the views of the Marsyangdi valley keep it interesting. Now you will be able to rest in your luxurious hotel in Kathmandu, take the shower and rest.

Fly home or extend with an extra Kathmandu day. Mountain Routes recommends keeping one to two buffer days between your trek end and your international flight. Reason being that weather delays, road conditions and the occasional slower day on Manaslu trail can push your schedule. Having a buffer day in hand will have peace of mind.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map & Route
Manaslu trek route is horseshoe shaped path around Mount Manaslu. Just think of it as a big loop where you start at the bottom and walk one side up the mountain and then come back at the other side.
Where you start: Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft). You get here by jeep from Kathmandu. It takes about 9 hours.
Where you finish: Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft). Mountain Routes drives you back to Kathmandu or Pokhara from here.

Manaslu Circuit Trek route explanation in four simple stages:

Stage 1 — The River Walk (Machha Khola to Jagat)

You follow the Budhi Gandaki River upstream through green forests, rice fields and small villages. The trail crosses lots of suspension bridges over the river. This is the warmest and most relaxed part of the trek.

Stage 2 — The Cultural Shift (Namrung to Sama Gaun)

As you climb higher, the forests change and so do the villages. Hindu temples disappear and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags and mani walls take their place. You are now walking through one of the most remote valleys in Nepal.

Stage 3 — The High Mountain Section (Samdo to Larkya La Pass)

This is where it gets serious. Trees disappear, the air gets thin, oxygen levels may drop and the trail leads you up toward Larkya La Pass. You cross the pass on Day 10, leaving at 3 am by headtorch. It is the hardest day and the best day too.

Stage 4 — The Descent (Bimthang to Dharapani) After the pass, you walk down through open valleys with the best mountain views of the whole trip — Manaslu, Himlung, and the Annapurna range all visible at once. The trail meets the Annapurna Circuit route at Dharapani, where your jeep back to civilisation is waiting.

Key checkpoints where your Manaslu permits are verified are Jagat, Samagaon, Samdo and Larkya Phedi. Your guide carries all documentation and handles checkpoint procedures. Do not leave Jagat without your RAP being stamped. We have seen many trekkers been turned back.

Global Trekkers We Have Guided on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
As an experienced trekking company in Nepal, Mountain Routes has successfully guided trekkers from the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Israel, India, and across Southeast Asia on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Offering Trek for over two decades, our team handles everything remotely before you land in Kathmandu, no matter where you are from. We have representatives in USA and UK who will guide you everything on plan, route, itinerary and how you can plan you two-week vacation the best way in Nepal.

How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal?
Talking about Manaslu trek difficulty, this remote Himalayan Circuit Trek Nepal is rated 7.5 on a scale of 10 and is considered challenging & strenuous. Though, it’s not technically demanding (no need of rope or ice axes) but requires a good endurance for 11 days of walking. Here’re some reasons why it is considered difficult and how Mountain Routes ensure taking care of it:
Altitude Changes - During this remote Nepal trek most of the time is spent above 3,500m sea level. The oxygen levels drop significantly which can result in AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness). Being an experienced trekking company in Nepal, we ensure keeping two dedicated acclimatization days in our Manaslu circuit trek itinerary. This helps our guests to adapt to changes gradually.
Remote Location – There are no proper roads, no hospitals and simple no shortcuts on the trek. We ensure pre-booking teahouse stops and maintain emergency communication throughout the trek
Basic Facilities - As the area has only teahouses throughout the journey, the options remain simple and basic when it comes to food and accommodation. Most of the teahouse stops provide you with extra facilities for a small extra charge.
Long Walking Days – Some of the days in Mansalu trek require 8-10 hours of walking. The longest walking day 10 i.e. the Larkya La pass crossing is an 11 hour day starting at 3 am. Your Mountain Routes guide sets the pace and keeps monitoring your condition throughout the journey.
Weather and Cold - Temperatures at Dharmasala and Larkya La drop well below freezing, even in peak season. We provide you with a detailed packing list so you are never unprepared for the conditions.
As one of the best trekking companies in Nepal, Mountain Routes has successfully guided trekkers from 18 to 65 years of age on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Hence, proving that with proper preparation and realistic expectations, Manaslu circuit trek is achievable for anyone in good health with determination and a sense of adventure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost & Budget Breakdown (Updated 2026)

As one of the best treks in Nepal, the average cost of Manaslu circuit trek stays between $1200 USD - $ 1500 USD for a good experience. Unlike other trekking agencies in Nepal, Mountain Routes promises offering you an honest and transparent pricing structure. Every service is clearly detailed in your booking confirmation. What we quote is what you pay. All other charges are explicitly shared with you.

Key components affecting Manaslu circuit Trek cost and budget 2026:

Permit Costs

All Manaslu permits must be arranged through a registered Nepali trekking agency. You cannot obtain them individually. Mountain Routes handles the full permit process remotely before your arrival. Manaslu Permit costs Approx. USD $130–$250 are already included in your Mountain Routes Manaslu Circuit Trek package.

Guide & Porter (Mandatory)

A licensed guide ($25-$40/day) is mandatory. This cost is already included in the base package offered by us for the Manaslu trek. A porter is strongly recommended ($18–$30/day). We have included a porter on 2:1 basis. Any additional porter will cost extra.

TIMS Cards

As of May 2026, the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card is mandatory for most treks in Nepal to ensure safety, costing NPR 2,000 (~$15-$16) for individual foreign tourists and NPR 1,000 (~$8) for group trekkers. Our package has this cost included.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Budget Types
Budget/Independent: USD 850–1,050 (approx. GBP 630–780 | AUD 1,300–1,600 | lower permit costs for SAARC nationals)
Standard/Mid-range (Recommended): USD 1,200–1,500 (approx. GBP 810–1,110 | AUD 1,700–2,300)
Comfort/Luxury: USD 1,800+ (approx. GBP 1,330+ | AUD 2,750+)
Travelling in groups will cost you less while going for a solo Manaslu trek will cost you high. Also, peak season will be costly as compared to off season.

Prime Seasons (Highly Recommended):

Spring (March-May):

Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Rhododendron forests burst with vibrant red, pink and white blooms in April
Consistently clear mountain views in the mornings and early afternoons
Stable weather patterns with occasional afternoon clouds
Lively villages as locals prepare fields for planting
Moderate trekker numbers—busy but not overcrowded

Autumn (Mid-September to November):

The most reliable weather with crystal clear mountain views
Daytime temperatures typically between 12°C and 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
Stable conditions for Larkya La Pass crossing
Festive atmosphere in villages during Dashain and Tihar festivals
Higher trekker numbers, especially in October
Peak season for teahouse availability and services

Challenging Seasons (For Experienced Trekkers Only):

Winter (December-February):

Daytime temperatures range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F), dropping significantly at night
Stunning clear skies and dramatic mountain vistas with exceptional photographic opportunities
Larkya La Pass may be impassable after heavy snowfall
Some tea houses close for the season in higher villages
Very few other trekkers—a truly solitary experience
Extra warm gear essential, including a four-season sleeping bag

Summer/Monsoon (June-Early September):

Frequent rain in lower elevations (often 4-6 hours daily)
Lush landscapes and vibrant greenery with flowering meadows
Higher risk of landslides, leeches, and difficult river crossings
Limited mountain views due to cloud cover
Very few other trekkers on the trail
Extra waterproofing and leech protection are necessary

Having guided treks in all seasons, we recommend spring and autumn for first-time Manaslu trekkers. For photographers seeking dramatic landscapes without crowds, late November or early March offers excellent compromises between weather stability and solitude.

What Permits Do You Need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu region remains one of Nepal's restricted trekking areas, requiring specific permits that Mountain Routes arranges for you: 1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Required for all trekkers entering the Manaslu Conservation Area
Must trek in groups of at least two people with a licensed guide
Valid for specific entry/exit dates only
Includes checkpoint photographs and documentation
Cost: $100 per week during peak season (Sep-Nov), $75 per week during off-season (Dec-Aug)

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Funds conservation efforts and community development
Required for entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area
Includes checkpoint verification at multiple locations
Cost: $30 per person

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Required for the final portion of the trek (after Larkya La Pass)
Supports conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives
Cost: $30 per person

4. TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Tracking system ensuring trekker safety
Provides emergency contact information
Cost: $10 per person

Permit Regulations:

Permits cannot be obtained individually—trekkers must go through registered agencies
You must carry original permit documents (not photocopies) at all times
Multiple checkpoints exist throughout the route where permits are verified
Trekking without proper permits results in significant fines or immediate removal from the area

These restrictions exist to preserve the region's pristine environment and protect traditional cultures while ensuring trekker safety in remote areas. Mountain Routes handles all permit arrangements, saving you time and ensuring compliance with current regulations.

Accommodation, Food & Water

The Manaslu Circuit's growing popularity has improved facilities, though they remain more basic than on Nepal's most popular treks:

Teahouse Accommodation:

Simple but clean twin-share rooms with basic furnishings
Shared bathrooms in most locations (toilet facilities range from Western-style to squat)
Hot showers are available at lower elevations (additional charge of $2-5)
Blankets are provided but sleeping bags are recommended for hygiene and warmth
Electricity for charging in most villages (often with hourly charges of $2-5)
Wi-Fi is available in some lower-elevation teahouses (usually paid service)

Higher Elevation Specifics:

At Dharmasala (4,460m), accommodation is dormitory-style with very basic facilities
Samdo and Bimthang have improved significantly, with new teahouses offering private rooms
Heating in common dining areas only, typically from a yak-dung burning stove
Very cold sleeping rooms at higher elevations—quality sleeping bags essential

Food Options:

Teahouse menus feature Nepali, Tibetan and basic Western options
Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables) remains the most reliable and filling option, with unlimited refills
Breakfast typically includes porridge, pancakes, eggs, and toast
Garlic soup is recommended at higher elevations to aid acclimatization
Menu variety decreases as elevation increases
Fresh meat is not recommended due to lack of refrigeration (vegetarian options are safest)

Water Safety:

Bottled water is available but creates plastic waste problems
We provide water purification tablets
Most teahouses sell boiled water for approximately $1-2 per litre
Many teahouses now offer filtered water refill stations
Personal water filtration systems are strongly recommended for both environmental and economic reasons

Having maintained relationships with specific teahouses for years, Mountain Routes secures the best available rooms for our trekkers, even during peak season when accommodations fill quickly. Our guides know which facilities are most reliable at each stop and work to ensure your comfort throughout the journey.

Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Proper preparation ensures your comfort throughout this challenging expedition:

Essential Clothing:

Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3 sets)
Insulating mid-layers (fleece or wool)
Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
Down jacket for high altitudes and evenings
Trekking pants (convertible recommended)
Thermal leggings for sleeping and high altitude days
Moisture-wicking underwear and socks (4-5 pairs)
Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
Buff or neck gaiter (doubles as a face mask in dusty conditions)

Footwear:

Well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
Camp shoes/sandals for evenings
Gaiters (especially useful during late autumn or spring when snow is possible)

Trekking Gear:

Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C/14°F)
Trekking poles (essential for Larkya La Pass descent)
Headlamp with spare batteries
Sunglasses (category 3-4 UV protection)
Backpack (30-40L day pack)
Waterproof pack cover
Dry bags for electronics and important documents

Personal Items:

Quick-dry towel and biodegradable toiletries
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer and toilet paper
Personal medications and basic first aid supplies
Water purification method (tablets, SteriPEN, filter)
Snacks from home for familiar comfort food
Camera with extra batteries (cold depletes batteries faster)
Power bank for charging devices
Cash in small denominations (no ATMs on the trek)

First Aid and Safety:

Personal prescription medications (bring extra)
Diamox (consult your doctor for altitude sickness prevention)
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (with medical advice)
Blister treatment supplies
Rehydration salts and anti-diarrheal medication
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications
Hand and toe warmers for high-altitude sections

Unlike the Everest and Annapurna regions, shopping opportunities are extremely limited once you begin the Manaslu trek. Our pre-departure meeting in Kathmandu includes an equipment check to ensure you have everything needed before setting out.

FAQ

The trek begins at Soti Khola, approximately 7-9 hours from Kathmandu by road. We arrange private jeep transportation that offers more comfort than public buses while giving flexibility for photo stops along the scenic route.

The trek is moderately challenging, with the Larkya La Pass (5,160m) being the most demanding section. Daily walking times average 6-7 hours, and while no technical climbing skills are needed, good physical fitness and mental determination are essential, especially for the pass-crossing day.

Focus on cardiovascular endurance with regular hiking, stair climbing, or uphill walking while carrying a light pack. Begin training at least 3 months before your trek, gradually increasing intensity. Weekend hikes of 5-6 hours help build stamina. Incorporate strength training for legs and core to manage the daily demands of trekking.

Manaslu offers what most popular Nepali treks have lost—authenticity and solitude. You'll experience pristine mountain landscapes, cultural immersion in traditional villages, and the sense of accomplishment from crossing a high Himalayan pass, all without the crowds that now dominate routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.

The trek offers spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Manaslu North (7,157m), Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Kang Guru (6,981m), Annapurna II (7,937m), and numerous other peaks above 6,000m.

Our guides are trained to recognise early symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If symptoms appear, we immediately implement rest, hydration, and medication protocols. If symptoms persist or worsen, we arrange descent to lower elevation—the most effective treatment. In severe cases, emergency evacuation is organized to ensure your safety.

October-November (autumn) offers the most stable weather with clear mountain views, while March-May (spring) features beautiful rhododendron blooms with generally good weather. Both seasons provide comfortable trekking temperatures and reliable conditions for crossing Larkya La Pass.

Electricity is available in most villages, though often for an additional fee ranging from $2-5 per hour or device. We recommend bringing a power bank with sufficient capacity for multiple charges, as power outages are common and charging points are limited, especially in higher elevation teahouses.

Larke La pass connects the two districts Gorkha and Manang. In the Tibetan word, La means Pass. People use this pass to travel from one valley to another to import and export good and services as the only means of transportation are Yaks, donkeys, and a helicopter. Crossing the High pass is quite challenging as the pass itself is at 5,160m the strong winds and cold weather makes it more challenging. It will take around 4 hours to reach the larke pass from Dharmasala and another 3 to 4 hours to descend down to bhimthang. This will be one of the most challenging days of the trek however we would have already trekked long ridges and hills and properly acclimatized so this wont be a problem for us.

While trekking in Manaslu circuit we will be hiking through high altitudes. The highest elevation we will encounter will be 5160m. due to the less treelines or no trees at all. The altitude has less level of oxygen and lower level of air pressure. Our body are not used to those sudden changes in pressure and needs some time to adjust with the environment. If we hurry and do not give required time then our body and mind will be the one to suffer from it. The rapid ascent may cause AMS and if not treated then can get worse and we may get HAPE or HACE. But these could be easily avoided through proper acclimatization , layering and right food. We have set our acclimatization and rest day at Samagoan 3530m

Most of the trekkers might feel sick during trekking it maybe of the new place, new heights, or new food but our company makes sure that you will get the basic techniques of avoiding those sickness. In case of emergency our guides are well prepared with the first aid kit who have taken the course of first aid. If the sickness arises from the altitudes and causes AMS the first and only option would be to descend down as soon as possible. IF the basic treatments does not work and gets more serious we will immediately arrange a helicopter and get you back to Kathmandu because our first concern is clients health and safety. The cost of the Helicopter and insurance will be forwarded to your mail before the trip

The first thing is not to get AMS. The best way to avoid AMS is through proper acclimatization, hygienic food and rest. You must inform the guides if you have a simple headache or cold. If the guides encounter the problem, they will try to treat it with the basic first aid and rest for few days. If the symptoms get worse then we need to descend down to lower elevations. Descending is the best way to treat AMS if experienced.

You will need a total of three permits to trek through the circuit

Manaslu conservation area permit (MCAP)
Annapurna conservation area permit(ACAP)
Restricted area permit

Well it depends on wat you are considering safe If you are talking about the Robbery, Thefts , Murder ,or fights then this region is absolutely safe there has never ever been cases of robbery or theft the people are highly influenced by Buddhism so they believe in compassion and kindness. And there are also Police stations a d tourist police conservation area workers and Our trusted guides who will always be with you every time. These people will also be responsible for your safety. Our guides will always make sure that you wont get these problems and incase any thing happens and our company will be responsible for your safety. If you got valuables like jewelry, huge amount of cash then you can deposit it at our office in kathmandu we will be responsible for its safety. But if your safety concern is about the natural Hazards, wild animals , trails, and weather. Then you don’t need to worry cause our company carefully analyzes the risk factor and asses the risk and only plan the further action. We do not travel at night as it is not safe we always follow the weather forecast and trek accordingly moreover we have contact with local guides who will transfer the information on the current scenario. If we found any dangers and risk then for clients safety we immediately take measures to mitigate those dangers and risk.

Local Expertise & Support

Our guides and porters come from Nepal's mountain regions, bringing intimate knowledge of local cultures, terrain, and conditions. This not only enhances your trekking experience but also helps support local economies in the areas we visit.

Personalized Experience

While we offer fixed departure dates, we recognize that every trekker has unique needs. Our team provides customized attention throughout your journey, adjusting pacing to match your fitness level and ensuring your specific interests—whether photography, culture, or nature—receive proper focus.

Safety First Approach

All our guides carry comprehensive first aid kits and receive regular training in wilderness medicine and emergency procedures. We maintain lower guide-to-trekker ratios than many companies, ensuring proper supervision throughout challenging sections of the trek.

Environmental Responsibility

Mountain Routes is committed to sustainable tourism practices. We adhere to strict waste management protocols, support local conservation initiatives, and educate our clients on minimizing their environmental impact while trekking in fragile mountain ecosystems.

Transparent Pricing

Unlike many operators who advertise low base prices and then add substantial hidden costs, our quoted price includes all essentials for a comfortable, safe trek. We believe honest pricing creates trust and allows for better trip planning. Above all, we view our trekkers not just as clients but as fellow mountain enthusiasts sharing in the magnificent experience that is the Manaslu Circuit. Our greatest satisfaction comes from seeing your accomplishment as you complete this challenging journey, having gained not just photos and memories, but a deeper connection to the natural world and the vibrant cultures of Nepal's mountain communities.

Book Your Manaslu Circuit Trek Now With Mountain Routes

Booking Process:
Check availability for your preferred dates
Complete our simple booking form
Make a 20% deposit to secure your spot
Receive detailed pre-trek information
Final payment due 30 days before departure
For private treks or custom itineraries, contact us directly to discuss your requirements. We typically respond within 24 hours to all inquiries. With limited group sizes to ensure quality experiences and responsible tourism, our peak season departures often fill months in advance. Book early to secure your place on one of Nepal's most rewarding trekking adventures. Not satisfied with what we offer? We can customize the trip to meet your specific needs and preferences. Contact us to discuss creating your perfect Manaslu adventure.

Departure

Request a private departure for this trip.

Request a Private Departure

Plan your trek on your own schedule. Private departures offer flexibility with dates, itinerary customization, and exclusive attention from our guides.

Choose your own start date

Exclusive guide and porters

Perfect for families and groups

Tailored Itinerary

Personalized Pace

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Elevation Profile

$1,350

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Manaslu Circuit Trek (Updated May 2026)