Manaslu Circuit Trek is an iconic journey that circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m), which is the 8th highest mountain of the world.
Do you know there is a place in Nepal where you can find spirituality, serenity, tranquility, and mythical experiences at once? Yes, on the lap of the world’s 8th tallest mountain Mt. Manaslu, find the majestic wonders of Mother Nature and grandeur of ancient cultures. Dream Heaven Adventure presents you the magnificent Manaslu Circuit Trek package knitted by the local travel planners of the region.
Besides the natural elements, the cultural aspects of this journey are also quite fascinating. You will get the opportunity to explore the beautiful high altitude settlements that are massively influenced by the Tibetan Buddhism culture.
Nepal is probably the only country where trekkers find diverse experiences of the Himalayas, landscape, people, vegetation, and wildlife in one single trek! The Manaslu Round Trek route is the proof of this statement. Relish the chance to know more about Nepal’s low altitude authentic rural environment as well as life of high mountains! The agency is one of the leading companies that operates trekking in the Manaslu region! Book the trek with us and travel with the locals!
Explore Himalayas of Manaslu
Off beaten Manaslu trekking trail goes close to the Nepal-Tibet border and you will also take on one of the thrilling Himalayan passes, Lakya La Pass (5,106m). So, this journey in the west central Himalayas is a unique blend of culture, traditions, religious aspects, incredible natural allures, and the thrill of an adventurous journey.
If you are looking for a distinct experience from the regular routes and the trail that defines the true meaning of the Himalayan beauty and lifestyle, this circuit region is where you ought to be.
Which is an ideal Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary of the Dream Heaven Adventure is prepared by the travel planners who are from the Manaslu region. Therefore, our trekking itinerary is highly updated and altitude risk friendly. In addition, the number of hours allocated for walking every day is also scientific. The ideal Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary consists of regular trekking days including the arrival and departure. If your trekking itinerary of the Manaslu Trek doesn’t include the proper acclimatization and monasteries visit then it is not highly recommended.
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is the best way to explore the cultural, natural, and mountainous attractions of Manaslu region.
Major Attractions & Highlights of Manaslu
- One of the most iconic off beaten trekking journey in central Himalayas
- Circumnavigating the eighth highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
- Diverse landscape and captivating scenery that stretches across tropical zone to translate Himalayan
- Fascinating flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area
- An authentic experience away from the mainstream crowds
- Crossing one of the thrilling Himalayan passes, Larkya La Pass (5,106,)
- Opportunity to explore culture, traditions and lifestyle of Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Bahun, Chettri, Nubri and Tsum ethnic groups
- Breathtaking views of Manaslu, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Hiunchuli, Annapurna, Langtang, Ganesh Himal and many others
Where is the starting point of Manaslu Trek?
The journey of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal starts from Kathmandu but the trek starts from Machha Khola. It is the small village located on the banks of Budi Gandaki River. The road distance between Kathmandu and Machha Khola is about 165 kilometers. The condition of road from Kathmandu to Aaarughat is well maintained. However, the road between Aarughat and Machha Khola via Soti Bazaar is bumpy and offroad. It takes about 8 to 10 hours to reach Machha Khola. Nowadays, some group of trekkers start the trek from Jagat. As for 2025/2026 trekking season, Machha Khola is an ideal destination to start the trek.
Major Villages and Monasteries of Manaslu
Majority of the people living in the Manaslu Circuit Trek route are Brahmins, Chhetris, Dalits, Gurungs, and Tibetan origin Tsombos People. The lower altitude places are habituated by the indigenous people while the upper core Tsum areas are habituated by Tsombos. These people follow ancient traditional Tibetan culture and they have their own language. Philim, Samagaon, Samdo, Namrung, Lho, and Bihi are the major villages of the region. As for the monasteries, there are countless chortens, monasteries, memorials, and stupas in the trail.
Serang Monastery, Pungyen Monastery, Rachen, Sho Monastery, and Kalchhuman Monastery are the major monasteries of the region. However, if you book our Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek package then you can visit more than 7 prominent monasteries. Please note that you have to trek off the grid from main trekking trail for about 15 to 30 minutes to visit some of the monasteries on this trail.
What are the requirements for Trekking in Restricted Manaslu?
There are few requirements that trekkers must fulfill before trekking to the Manaslu region of Nepal. These requirements are similar to all the restricted areas of Nepal. Please note that the popular Upper Mustang Trek is similar to the Manaslu Trek alongside Nar Phu and Shey Phoksundo area of Nepal. However, Manaslu region is one of the popular restricted trekking zones and it is slowly becoming the commercial trekking region like the Everest region of Nepal.
Therefore, solo trekking is not allowed including the independent trekking. The trek must be done in a group of at least two trekkers. A trained and licensed guide assigned by the trekking agency, special restricted area permit, MCAP and ACAP permits are mandatory for the trek to begin. In addition, you must be in the proper physical fitness level with strong cardio – vascular abilities. You will be walking for about 6 to 7 hours every day to complete the Manaslu Trek itinerary.
Who Can Do The Trek to Manaslu Circuit ?
Are you wondering about the overall Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty and who can take part in the adventure? Well, this trekking adventure has been graded as a moderate level Himalayan journey. The trek is in the moderate level class, and do not include any kind of technical sections along the route.
Similarly, the journey is also not that physically demanding and challenging like a mountain expedition. In this modest class graded adventure, pretty much anyone who has basic fitness and good health can take part in it. Even if you are completely new to the high altitude treks, with the right amount of preparation, you will be able to complete this journey easily.
Even if this off beaten exploration has been graded as a moderate level experience, you shouldn’t underestimate the challenges you will have to face during the trek. This circuit trekking trip is still a high altitude journey and you will traverse across the remote trails of the mountain for multiple hours each day.
During this trek, you will reach the maximum altitude point at Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). Also the total trekking distance of the Manaslu circuit route is approximately 177 km (110 miles). So, if you are planning to just wing it, then that’s definitely not a good idea. Besides, the physical demands of the trail there aren’t any other major hurdles that you will have to face during your Himalayan journey.
Generally, there isn’t any kind of physical fitness level set for the trek and neither are there any kind of age restrictions. So, as long as you are physically capable and have enough determination to complete the mountain trails, Dream Heaven Adventure will guide the way.
What Makes Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal So Special?
Nepal is a top destination when it comes to the trekking adventures. There are several trekking prospects that you can explore during your visit to Nepal. Each destination you choose will provide a different experience.
Compared to other trekking adventures in the country, the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal is particularly popular as an off beaten experience. During this exciting journey in the west central part of the Himalayas, you will get the chance to admire the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
This off beaten trekking route which stretches across the less traversed route on the mountain ensures a tranquil experience. You will have the chance to explore raw and untamed territories of the mountain that will provide authenticity to the Himalayan beauty. Similarly, this trek also explores the high altitude settlements on the mountain that have still preserved their traditional ways.
This circuit trekking adventure in Manaslu will take you across the diverse settlements of Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Bahun, and Chettri in lower regions. As for the higher regions that are majorly influenced by the Tibetan Buddhist culture, the Nubri and Tsum ethnic groups are the majority.
So, the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal will be a unique blend of fascinating culture and traditions, breathtaking natural beauty and the authentic unspoiled wilderness that lacks in the other polular routes.
What to Expect During Manaslu Circuit Treks Nepal?
During the Manaslu Circuit Treks Nepal, you will start your journey from Maccha Khola after drive from Kathmandu. Once you start the trekking, each day of your journey will take you to further elevating points of the route that gradually leads you to the core part of the west central Himalayas.
You can expect a great cultural immersion and the opportunity to explore the fascinating raw wilderness of the region during each day of the trek. The days during the trekking part will start after enjoying your breakfast at around 7-8 AM. Your guide will brief you about the route, highlights, challenges, tips, etc, before starting the trek.
After breakfast, you will typically trek for about 3 to 4 hours to reach the lunch stop point. Don’t worry, you will get enough short breaks along the trail to admire the beauty of the region, learn about the highlights and take photographs. At the lunch stop point, you will rest for about an hour before moving along with the further part of the trail.
The trekking distance you have to cover after lunch is quite short generally. Just about 2 to 3 hours of walking will be enough to reach your resting destination. If the daylight is in your favor, you can also do a short sightseeing tour around the region.
Your dinner will be served at around 7 PM everyday and after the dinner, your guide will provide you some details on the next day’s trip. You can spend rest of your time socializing, playing card games or watching documentaries. But do make sure to get enough rest for the next day’s trek.
Private and Group Joining Manaslu Trek for 2025/2026
The standard trekking package of Manaslu Trek is a group joining package. In this option, trekkers from all around the world can join the exploration on the set dates. Don’t worry, there will be a group limit and we will provide an assistant guide for the large groups.
With the group joining option, you will be able to socialize and connect with the adventures that share similar interests as you from all around the world. There isn’t much flexibility in this type of exploration and you will need to stick with fixed dates.
As for the private trekking option, you will get more flexibility. Only your friend or family will be joining the trek, so there will certainly be a sense of privacy. In the private trip, you also won’t have to worry about the fixed departure dates and the itinerary plans.
Both the itinerary plans and departure dates are flexible in the private option, as only your group will be joining. So, you will be able to explore at your own pace and truly relish the experience with the ultimate shield of privacy.
Hence, whether you choose the private trip or group joining journey, we are here to assist you for the year of 2025/2026.
Preparation Before Trek to Manaslu
Although the trek to Manaslu Circuit is a moderate level of experience in the Himalayas, you will need to make a good amount of preparation to ensure comfort during your trek. Normally, you are recommended to train for around 3 to 6 weeks for high altitude treks such as this.
However, the training period should depend on your fitness level. If you work out routinely and have general fitness, you may not need to put that much effort during the training part. But, if you are barely physically active then you should stick to an efficient training program to meet the physical demands of the trail.
The mountain trails will test your strength and endurance level the most. That’s why you should emphasize on these aspects while training for the trek. Similarly, the cardiovascular and stamina exercises will improve your overall acclimatization capabilities. So, make sure to include them in your training program as well.
Please be advised: if you want to truly understand what the mountain terrain is like and which aspect you are lacking, you should consider practice hikes on hills close to you. Also, don’t forget to carry your backpack with some weight during this practice hike.
Packing for Manaslu Trek
Packing for the Manaslu Trek Nepal will mostly depend on what season you are doing this trek in. Generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the two most popular trekking seasons in Nepal.
During your trek in these seasons, you will not need to bring any extra gear besides the essentials as the climatic conditions are pretty favorable during these seasons. However, even if the climatic conditions are favorable you need to be prepared for the variation in the climate zones along the trekking route.
You will get started on the trekking route from Machha Khola (930 meters) which is in the tropical zones. Then, following the gradually rising trail, you will push all the way to the tundra zone at Lakrya La Pass (5,106 meters). So, the lower trekking trails are generally warm and you can get by with the light layers. As for the higher altitudes, you should bring warm and buff layers as the morning and night temperatures are quite chilly.
In case you are planning this trip during the off periods for trek such as winter (December to February ) and monsoon (June to August), you need to bring season appropriate layers and gear. The rainfalls are quite consistent during the monsoon season and the lower region trails are also slippery. Thus, the waterproof outer layers and boots with grip should be your top priority. For the winter which is the coldest period on the mountain, you will have to bring heavy equipment and clothes to keep yourself warm and comfortable during the trip.
You May Like: Manaslu Trek Packing List
Trek to Manaslu Base Camp: Manaslu Trek Acclimatization
Acclimatization is mandatory for any kinds of high-altitude trekking activities. It is to ensure that you are fully adjusted to the new altitude gains. Higher the altitude the lower is oxygen density level. Therefore, acclimatization should not be ignored. Trek to the Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaon village for acclimatization activity in this trekking trail. On the way to the Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m), trekkers stop at the famous Birendra Lake. It is about 1 hour away from the Samagaon village and provides visual aids on this tiring pursuit. Leave your footprints at the base camp of the world’s 8th tallest mountain Mt. Manaslu.
Manaslu Trek Cost and Budget
The average cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek begins from 950 $. The budget depends upon the group size, trekking season, and personal preferences of the trekkers. The Dream Heaven Adventure always offers trekking packages priced reasonably with full of quality services and impeccable hospitality.
How Hard is crossing Larke La Pass?
The Larke La Pass (5106 m) is one of the longest mountains passes of Nepal. However, it is not daunting or technical pass to cross despite its hefty altitude. The trail is rugged and often covered with snow in one side and the other side is full of scattered rocks and boulders formed by the glacier meltdown. The crossing starts before dawn and it is the longest day of the trekking. Therefore, you can call the Larke La pass crossing as fairly challenging!
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking in Nepal
If you are wondering about the best time to enjoy the Manaslu Circuit Trekking in Nepal, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) will be the most ideal period. During these peak periods which as considered Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can expect stable weather, pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery.
Although, both of these seasons are the peak season to enjoy this off beaten journey, each season has unique charms about them. During your exploration in the spring season, you can expect the colorful lit trails decorated with dotted rhododendrons and beautiful wildflowers. The landscape is also covered with lush greenery and the melting snow adds momentum to waterfalls, rivers and rivulets.
Similarly, the calm and pleasant climatic conditions accompanied by fresh temperatures is one of the strong points of the autumn season. The clear skies, dry walking trails, comfortable high pass crossing, wide Himalayan vistas and incredible cultural immersion are other highlights of this beautiful fall season.
You can also do this trek during the off seasons, such as winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August). However, during these periods, due to the challenging weather phenomenon, you will have to deal with the scaled level of overall trek difficulty. Thus, if you don’t have that much of high altitude trekking experience, you should stick with the peak seasons to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience.
Why Dream Heaven Adventure is the best agency for Manaslu?
Traveling is authentic and safe in unknown destination when you travel with the locals. The Dream Himalayan Adventure is the trekking agency run by the locals of the Lower Altitude places of Manaslu. Moreover, we always deploy the trekking staffs from the villages located in the trekking trail. This has helped the agency to maintain its motto of giving back to the society. Get the rarest chance to travel the places with the locals at the most reasonable cost.
Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek package with us and enjoy the impeccable local hospitality. Cross the high-altitude mountain pass and immerse into the century’s old traditions/culture! Get repose from mental drabness of every day life and dive into the world of realms and myth in the Manaslu region of Nepal.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola – 930 m / 3051 ft
Day 02: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat – 1,410 m/4,625 ft
Day 03: Trek from Jagat to Deng – 1804 m / 5918 ft
Day 04: Trek from Deng to Namrung - (2630m / 8628 ft) 6 hours
Day 05: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon - 3,530 m/11,581 ft
Day 06: Acclimatization day- hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pun Gyen Gompa
Day 07: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo - 3,875 m/12,713 ft
Day 08: Acclimatization day in Samdo (optional day hike to Tibet border)
Day 09: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala – (4,480 m / 14698 ft )
Day 10: Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass - (5106m/16808 ft)
Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani - 1,910 m/6,266 ft
Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar (760 m/2,493 ft) to Kathmandu ( 9-10 Hours Drive)
