Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days
Set out on an unforgettable adventure through the eighth-highest mountain in the world, the Manaslu region with our Manaslu Circuit 14-Day Trek. Situated in the west-central part of Nepal, this trek offers a unique and less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna and Everest regions.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Price: USD $1350-
Price per person
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2-4 pax$1350
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5-7 pax$1250
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8-13 pax$1150
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14+ pax$1000
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Manaslu Circuit Trek Facts
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Crossing the Larkey Pass
- An adventurous trekking route with immersive Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage
- Off the beaten path with less crowd
- Exploration of Manaslu Base Camp Base Camp at 4,494 meters
- Crossing the Larkey Pass at 5,163 meters
- Diverse Landscapes like alpine meadows, and rugged valleys
- Stunning Views of Manaslu, Larkye, and other impressive peaks
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit is renowned for its breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With its moderate difficulty level, this trek is suitable for trekkers with a good level of fitness and a thirst for adventure.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Length and Terrain
The Manaslu Circuit trek is long, around 180 kilometres, but the path is generally well-trodden and easy to follow. You won't need special climbing gear or mountaineering skills, just a good pair of walking boots and a sense of adventure.
You'll encounter friendly locals and yaks along the way. Remember, when meeting a yak, always step aside to avoid the cliff edge. Trekking poles can be helpful, especially on steeper sections and higher altitudes.
The weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for hot days and cool nights. After Lho village, you'll enter the Nupri region, a culturally rich area inhabited by Tibetan immigrants.
Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit trail is typically in lodges and tea houses run by local families. While some people may prefer camping, most will find comfortable lodging in these establishments.
Lodges often have a communal area with a stove for warmth, while bedrooms are unheated. It's essential to bring a 3-season sleeping bag (-10°c), and the lodge will provide additional blankets if needed. Most lodges have gas-powered showers and basic toilet facilities.
One of the charms of the Manaslu region is its remoteness. Different from the more popular Khumbu or Annapurna regions, you won't find the same level of connectivity or modern amenities. While this may mean limited phone access, it offers a more authentic and immersive experience.
Expect delicious local food, warm hospitality, and breathtaking scenery.
Packing List for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Clothing:
- Base Layers: Merino wool or synthetic tops and bottoms to wick away moisture.
- Insulation Layers: Fleece jacket, down jacket, or synthetic insulated jacket for warmth.
- Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against the elements.
- Trekking Pants: Durable, comfortable pants suitable for hiking.
- Trekking Shirts: Quick-drying, breathable shirts for hiking.
- Warm Hat: A beanie or fleece hat to keep your head warm.
- Sun Hat: A wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun.
- Gloves: Warm gloves for cold weather and lightweight gloves for sun protection.
- Socks: Warm, moisture-wicking socks for trekking and a pair of lighter socks for camp.
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Gear:
- Backpack: A 40-litre backpack to carry your daily essentials.
- Trekking Poles: These can be helpful for stability on steep sections.
- Headlamp: Essential for early morning starts to Larkya La Pass
- Water Bottles: Multiple water bottles to stay hydrated.
- Water Purification Tablets or Filter: For treating water from local sources.
- Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the sun and glare.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from sunburn.
- Lip Balm with SPF: To protect your lips from sun and wind.
- First-Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit with essential medications.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.
- Toilet Paper: Essential for remote areas.
- Sleeping Bag: A warm, comfortable sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures.
- Sleeping Bag Liner: For added warmth and hygiene.
To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, pack light, layer your clothing, break in your boots, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, respect local culture, and pack rain gear.
Still, have questions about your gear? Don't hesitate to contact us via phone or email. Remember, this is a long trek, and while it's possible to wash items along the way, drying them might be challenging at times. So, pack wisely!
Manaslu Circuit Trek Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Nepal | Arrival
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft)
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
Day 4: Trek to Deng (1897m / 6224ft)
Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2630m / 8626ft)
Day 6: Trek to Shyala (3500m / 11480ft)
Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft) via Pung Gyen Gompa
Day 8: Acclimatization at Sama Gaon & Trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m / 15748ft)
Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4480m / 14698ft)
Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft) via Larkya La Pass (5160m / 16,929ft)
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
The Manaslu Circuit region offers a captivating and less crowded trekking experience in Nepal. Situated in the heart of the country, this region is renowned for its stunning mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows an ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and high glacier lakes. With peaks reaching heights of over 6,500 meters, including the impressive Mount Manaslu at 8,156 meters, it provides a truly awe-inspiring backdrop.
One of the highlights of trekking in the Manaslu Circuit region is the chance to explore the unique culture of the local ethnic groups. Trekking through the region allows for encounters with traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements, providing insight into their way of life and customs.
The Manaslu Circuit offers a longer trek compared to some other routes in Nepal, ranging from 13 to 17 days. The total distance of the circuit is approximately 180 kilometres, though it can vary depending on the chosen itinerary. While trekking, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, including forests, river valleys, and high alpine meadows.
To get the most out of this trek, Places Nepal's experts recommend choosing the best season for the Manaslu Circuit, which is usually during spring (March to May) or autumn (October to November). These seasons offer favourable weather conditions and clear mountain views, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
Overall, the Manaslu Circuit region promises an enchanting adventure that combines awe-inspiring natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of exploration. As you trek through the region, you'll be captivated by the snow-capped peaks, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and create lasting memories of this remarkable journey.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
- Transfer to your hotel and rest
- Welcome dinner and trip briefing in the evening
- Start your trek as we drive to Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft) by local transportation (Option private car on extra charge- 180$)
- Enjoy scenic views of the countryside and small villages along the way
- Overnight stay at Machha Khola
- Trek from Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft) to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
- Walk through beautiful landscapes, crossing suspension bridges and waterfalls
- Experience the local culture and lifestyle of the villages
- Overnight stay at Jagat
- Trek from Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft) to Deng (1897m / 6224ft)
- Pass through lush forests and terraced fields
- Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and valleys
- Overnight stay at Deng
- Trek from Deng (1897m / 6224ft) to Namrung (2630m / 8626ft)
- Encounter diverse flora and fauna on the way
- Explore the traditional villages and monasteries
- Overnight stay at Namrung
- Trek from Namrung (2630m / 8626ft) to Shyala (3500m / 11480ft)
- When we arrive in Lho, we will be treated to a breathtaking vista of Mt. Manaslu, the world's 8th-highest peak. Again, we can take in the stunning views of Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left and Himal Chuli, Mount Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal on the far right, all surrounding the beautiful Shyala village, where we conclude our today’s trek.
- Visit the Shyala Village, Shyala Gompa, Tibetan School
- Overnight stay at Shyala
- After enjoying breakfast and the morning views of the Himalayas in Shyala (3480m / 11480ft), the trek begins with the continual uphill through the beautiful green forest towards Pungyen Gompa (4050m/13287ft).
- After 3 hours of scenic walk, we will visit Pungyen Gompa and trek back to Samagaun (3530m / 11581ft) for an hour.
- Samagaon is perhaps the most beautiful village on the Manaslu Circuit Trek trip. Once here, visit the best view of Mount Manaslu and explore the famous Ribung monastery if time permits.
- Overnight at Teahouse, Samagaun.
- Acclimatization
- Optional day trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m / 15748ft) or Birendra Lake (3691m / 12109ft)
- Explore the high-altitude landscapes and enjoy the stunning views
- Overnight stay at Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft)
- Trek from Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft) to Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
- Ascend through rocky trails and moraines
- Reach Samdo village, located at the Tibetan border
- Overnight stay at Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
- Trek from Samdo (3875m / 12713ft) to Dharmasala (4480m / 14698ft)
- Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a suspension bridge
- Reach Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi
- Overnight stay at Dharmasala (4480m / 14698ft)
- Start early and cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft)
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers
- Descend to Bhimthang, a beautiful meadow with stunning views
- Overnight stay at Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft)
- Trek from Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft ) to Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
- Walk through pine and rhododendron forests
- Pass through villages and terraced fields
- Overnight stay at Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
- Drive back to Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft) by local bus. (Option private car on extra charge- 160$)
- Farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of the trek
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure
- End of the trek and departure from Kathmandu
INCLUDES
At Places Nepal, we extensively vet our hotel, travel, and accommodation partners, and operate our trekking with the world-class mountaineering equipment available, to ensure the highest safety standards possible. The following is included in your booking.
- Airport pick up and drop off by private vehicle
- 2-night accommodation with breakfast at a prestige tourist hub hotel in Kathmandu
- All needed ground transfers as per the itinerary.
- 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek days.
- The best available comfy twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly professional guide.
- Porters (1 porter per 2 person) and their food, accommodation, salary, and equipment.
- Accident insurance for all staff
- First-Aid kit and oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes.
- Permit for Restricted Area Trek & TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) permit. (Please bring 2 passport-size photos for the permit)
- Assist in arranging rescue and evacuation arrangements in the worst case during the trek due to weather conditions, natural disasters, etc.
- Assistant guide group size above 9+ people.
- Government taxes & office service charge
- Trekking Caps, Duffel bag, T-shirt and trip achievement certificate
EXCLUDES
The following are not included in the price of the trekking tour:
- Individual travel insurance
- Airfare for international flights
- Visa fees upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- Additional porter services, if needed, at a rate of $35 per day
- Personal trekking equipment
- Gratuity for the trekking team members
- Anything that is not mentioned in the "Includes" section
Please note that these are just some of the possible additional costs that may be incurred during your trip.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map
Manaslu Circuit Trek Dates
Manaslu Circuit Trek - Useful Information
This trek is challenging and reaches an altitude of 5,106 metres. It is important to understand that this mountain journey is not a stroll but a demanding endeavour. There is a slight possibility of encountering altitude sickness and unexpected situations, such as injuries, illnesses, floods, landslides, or sudden weather changes.
Insurance & Safety
Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Every trekker must provide Places Nepal with a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate. This policy should cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, including the costs of helicopter rescue and evacuation at high altitudes, for all trek members.
While we can offer recommendations for insurance companies based on the experiences of our previous clients, we do not sell insurance policies. We urge our esteemed clients to provide us with detailed insurance information once they have confirmed their trekking booking. In an emergency, we will rely on the insurance policy and the documents you shared with us. This information is essential for us to promptly and efficiently organize rescue operations, arrange emergency medical assistance, and more.
It is imperative that your insurance policy explicitly covers the costs associated with mountain rescue services at the highest elevation of the trek (5,650m). We advise you to contact your insurer to verify that their policy includes helicopter rescue in addition to the expenses related to medical treatment.
Visa
All foreigners except Indian nationals need a valid visa to enter Nepal. On-arrival visas are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and Nepal's land borders with India and Tibet. To apply for a visa, you will need a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-size photo, and the visa fee. The current cost of a 30-day visa is US$50, payable in cash.
Children under the age of ten are eligible for a free visa. Visa requirements are subject to change without notice, so please visit www.immigration.gov.np for the latest information. Citizens of China and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) are exempt from visa requirements.
Citizens of certain countries may be denied a visa upon arrival. On-arrival visas may be denied to citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan. Please visit your nearest Nepali embassy if you are a citizen of one of these countries.
Additional Personal Expenditures
The Manaslu Circuit Trek package does not include all expenses so, you must carry spending money for a variety of reasons. This package does not include meals or lodging in Kathmandu and Pokhara as they are Nepal's tourism center with many cuisine options. We invite you to explore the city and eat anything you like. Trekkers, too, require money for visa fees, travel insurance policy purchases, beverages, snacks, gratuities, souvenirs, tips, and so on.
