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Discover Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Guide to the Hidden Gem

Manaslu circuit trek Overview

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular journey and is a hidden gem that takes you through the remote and untouched regions of the Nepalese Himalayas. The trek is named after Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rugged landscapes, and picturesque villages.

The Manaslu Trekking route takes you around the majestic mountain, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. The trail passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary typically takes around 14-16 days to complete, and it involves crossing the Larke Pass, the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). This challenging but rewarding journey requires a good level of fitness and acclimatization, but the stunning views and unique cultural experiences make it all worth it.

You can’t take the Manaslu Circuit Trek solo, so you need to hire a guide, depending on your preferences. If you opt for a guided trek, you'll have the advantage of a local Manaslu Trek guide who can offer invaluable information and insights into the region's culture and history.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost varies depending on several factors, including the itinerary, the duration of the trek, and the services provided. The Manaslu Circuit Trek package typically includes accommodation, meals, and permits. The cost of a Manaslu Circuit Trek without a guide can be significantly lower than a guided trek, but it's important to note that trekking alone is strictly forbidden in the special area of Manaslu.

The Manaslu Base Camp is one of the main attractions of the trek, and it's a great place to rest and acclimatize before heading to the Larke Pass. The Manaslu Trek without guide option is impossible, as the Manaslu region is special area and Nepal government will not issue the permit without guide. It's important to note that a guide can be helpful in navigating the trail and ensuring your safety.

The best time to go on a Manaslu Circuit Trek is from March to May and September to November when the weather is favorable, and the views are at their best. You'll need a Manaslu Circuit Trek permit to trek in the area, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency.

In summary, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trekking experience that combines stunning mountain scenery, unique cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure. The Manaslu Trekking information, including the cost and itinerary, will help you plan an unforgettable journey through the beautiful Manaslu Trail.

Sample Itinerary for Manaslu circuit trek 14 days

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu

Upon arrival in Kathmandu for the Manaslu Trek, you'll be met at the airport by your guide or representative who will transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you'll have a briefing about the trek and obtain your passport and photo for necessary permits.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

On day 2 of the Manaslu Trek, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the cultural landmarks of Kathmandu. The first stop on your sightseeing tour will be the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and observe the daily rituals of the local Buddhist community.

Next, you'll visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the most sacred sites in Nepal. You'll witness the rituals and cremation ceremonies that take place on the banks of the Bagmati River and gain insight into the Hindu religion and culture.

Finally, you'll visit the Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former royal palace of the Malla Kings. Here, you can admire the intricate Newari architecture, visit the temples and museums, and soak up the history and culture of the city.

Overall, the Kathmandu sightseeing tour is a great way to kick off your Manaslu circuit Trek and gain insight into the cultural richness of Nepal.

Day 3: Drive to Arughat (550 m) and to Machhakhola (825 m)

On day 3 of the Manaslu Trekking, you'll start your journey by driving to Arughat, a small town located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. The drive will take around 6-7 hours and will take you through scenic landscapes and rural villages.

Once you arrive in Arughat, you'll have a quick break for lunch before continuing your journey to Machhakhola. The drive to Machhakhola will take you through dense forests, rice paddies, and along the Budi Gandaki River. Then, you'll arrive at Machhakhola, a small village situated at an altitude of 825 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a hot meal and a well-deserved rest after a long day of travel.

Day 4: Machhakhola (825 m) - Jagat (1330 m)

On this day of the Manaslu base camp Trek, you'll start your trekking journey along the Budi Gandaki River towards Jagat. The trek will take you through beautiful forests and steep cliffs, with stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. You'll pass through several small villages and cross several suspension bridges over the river, which can be quite exhilarating. The trail will gradually ascend, and you'll start to feel the altitude as you climb higher.

After around 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Jagat, a small village situated at an altitude of 1330 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest in preparation for the next day's trekking. Jagat is a great place to acclimatize to the altitude and soak up the culture of the region, with its traditional houses and narrow streets.

Day 5: Jagat (1330 m) - Deng (1860 m)

You'll trek from Jagat to Deng, following the trail through steep cliffs and forests. The Manaslu trail will take you through a few small villages, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life.

The trail will gradually ascend, and you'll start to feel the altitude as you climb higher. You'll also pass through a few rocky sections, which can be challenging but rewarding as you get closer to your destination.

After around 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Deng, a small village situated at an altitude of 1860 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest. You can also explore the village and interact with the locals, who are known for their hospitality and kindness.

Day 6: Deng (1860 m) - Namrung (2580 m)

On day 6 of the Manaslu Trekking, you'll continue your journey from Deng to Namrung. The trail will take you through dense forests and steep cliffs, with stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.

You'll cross several suspension bridges and pass through a few small villages. As you ascend higher, you'll start to notice the change in the landscape and the vegetation.

After around 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Namrung, a small village situated at an altitude of 2580 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest. Namrung is a great place with its stunning views of the Manaslu mountain range and the surrounding peaks. You can also explore the village and visit the local monasteries and Gompas, which are known for their intricate carvings and paintings.

Day 7: Namrung (2580 m) - Samagaun (3480 m)

On day 7 of the Manaslu base camp circuit Trek, you'll trek from Namrung to Samagaun. The trail will take you through beautiful forests and steep cliffs, with stunning views of the Manaslu mountain range and the surrounding peaks.

You'll pass through several small villages and cross several suspension bridges over the river, which can be quite exhilarating. The trail will gradually ascend, and you'll start to feel the altitude as you climb higher.

After around 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Samagaun, a small village situated at an altitude of 3480 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest. Samagaun is a great place to acclimatize to the altitude and soak up the culture of the region, with its traditional houses and narrow streets. You can also visit the local monasteries and gompas, which are known for their intricate carvings and paintings.

Day 8: Rest day Samagaon (3480 m); acclimatization walk to Birendra Tal and eventually to Manaslu Base Camp (4500 m)

Day 8 is a rest day in Samagaun for acclimatization purposes. However, instead of just lounging around, you'll take an acclimatization hike to Birendra Tal and, if you're feeling up to it, Manaslu Base Camp.

After breakfast, you'll start your hike to Birendra Tal, a beautiful glacial lake situated at an altitude of 3450 meters. The hike is relatively short, but it will help you acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the higher elevations. You'll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the glacial lake.

If you're feeling good and up for a challenge, you can continue your hike to Manaslu Base Camp, which is situated at an altitude of 4500 meters. The hike is quite steep and challenging, but the views from the base camp are absolutely breathtaking. From there, you'll have stunning views of Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, and the surrounding peaks.

After spending some time at the base camp, you'll return to Samagaun for the night, where you can relax and recharge for the next day's trek. The acclimatization hike to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp will help prepare you for the higher elevations to come and ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Day 9: Samagaon (3480 m) - Samdo (3865 m)

On day 9 of the Manaslu Trek, you'll leave Samagaun and head to Samdo. The trek will take you through beautiful forests and along the Budhi Gandaki River, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The trail will gradually ascend as you climb higher, and you'll start to feel the altitude as you gain elevation. The landscape will start to change, and you'll see fewer trees and more rocks and glaciers as you approach the Tibetan border.

After around 4-5 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Samdo, a small village situated at an altitude of 3865 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a local teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest. Samdo is a great place to acclimatize to the altitude and soak up the culture of the region, with its traditional houses and narrow streets. You can also take a short hike to the nearby Tibetan border and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 10: Samdo (3865 m) - Dharmasala/Larke Phedi (4470 m)

On day 10 of the Manaslu circuit Trek, you'll leave Samdo and trek to Dharmasala, also known as Larke Phedi, which is situated at an altitude of 4470 meters. The trek will take you through the beautiful and rugged terrain of the Manaslu region, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

As you trek towards Dharmasala, you'll start to feel the altitude more intensely, and the air will become thinner. The trail will gradually ascend, and you'll cross several streams and climb up steep sections of the path.

After around 4-5 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Dharmasala, where you'll spend the night at a teahouse. Dharmasala is a basic teahouse with limited facilities, but it's the last stop before crossing the Larkya La Pass. It's important to take plenty of rest here to prepare for the challenging ascent to the pass the next day. You'll need to have a good night's sleep and eat a nourishing meal to get ready for the demanding trek ahead.

Day 11: Dharmasala/Larke Phedi (4470 m)-Bimthang (3740 m) walk via Larkya La (5106 m)

Day 11 of the Manaslu Circuit Trek will be the most challenging and exciting day of the entire journey. You'll start early in the morning and make your way towards the Larkya La Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5106 meters.

The trek to the pass will be steep and strenuous, and the thin air will make it even more challenging. You'll have to ascend slowly and take plenty of breaks to catch your breath and rest. The ascent will take around 4-6 hours, depending on your fitness level.

Once you reach the top of the pass, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mt. Manaslu. You'll take a break at the pass and savor the moment before starting your descent towards Bimthang.

The descent will be long and steep, and you'll have to be careful with your footing as you make your way down. You'll pass through beautiful alpine landscapes and forests, with the sound of the river and the chirping of birds filling the air.

After around 6-8 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Bimthang, a small village situated at an altitude of 3740 meters. Here, you'll spend the night at a teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's rest after the challenging trek over the Larkya La Pass.

Day 12: Bimtang (3740 m) - Dharapani (1860 m)

On day 12 of the Manaslu Trekking, you'll leave Bimthang and start your descent towards Dharapani, a small village situated at an altitude of 1860 meters.

The trek from Bimthang to Dharapani will take you through beautiful forests, small streams, and charming villages. You'll descend gradually, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.

As you make your way towards Dharapani, you'll pass through several villages, including Gho and Tilje. These villages are situated at lower altitudes, and you'll notice the air becoming thicker and easier to breathe as you descend.

After around 7-8 hours of trekking, you'll arrive in Dharapani, where you'll spend the night at a teahouse. Dharapani is a small village situated on the Annapurna Circuit trail, and you'll find plenty of amenities and facilities here. It's a great place to relax and unwind after the challenging trek over the Larkya La Pass.

Day 13: Drive from Dharapani (1860 m) to Besisahar (760 m) 6 hours, bus to Kathmandu

On day 13 of the Manaslu Trekking, you'll leave Dharapani and drive towards Besisahar, a town situated at an altitude of 760 meters. The drive will take around 6 hours, and you'll pass through beautiful landscapes and charming villages along the way.

Once you arrive in Besisahar, you'll board a bus and make your way back to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. The bus journey will take around 5-6 hours, and you'll pass through several towns and villages before arriving in Kathmandu.

Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you'll be dropped off at your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after the long journey. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city, trying out local cuisine, or shopping for souvenirs to take back home. It's the perfect way to end your Manaslu Trek adventure and reflect on the amazing experiences you've had over the past two weeks.

Day 14: Departure and Farewell

On the final day of your Manaslu Trek, you'll say goodbye to the stunning Himalayan Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of Nepal. You'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

As you depart from Nepal, you'll carry with your memories of the breathtaking mountain views, the warm hospitality of the local people, and the sense of accomplishment from completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It's an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime.

We hope you had an unforgettable experience trekking in the Manaslu region of Nepal. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Nepal in the future for more unforgettable adventures. Farewell! 

Crossing small bridge along the way to Manaslu trek
trail of Manaslu circuit trek
trail of manaslu with prayers flag

Highlights of Manaslu circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning trekking experience that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Here are some of the highlights of the trek:

  1. Stunning Mountain Views: The trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), Ganesh Himal, and the Annapurna range.
  2. Cultural Diversity: The trail passes through several remote villages inhabited by the Gurung, Tibetan, and Sherpa ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions. You'll have the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
  3. Secluded and Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit trek, offering a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience.
  4. Larke Pass: The trek involves crossing the Larke Pass, the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). This challenging but rewarding journey requires a good level of fitness and acclimatization.
  5. Flora and Fauna: The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda.
  6. Manaslu Base Camp: The trek includes a visit to the Manaslu Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). It's a great place to rest and acclimatize before heading to the Larke Pass.
  7. Remote Villages: The trek passes through several remote villages, including Soti Khola, Machhakhola, Jagat, and Samagaon. These villages offer a glimpse into traditional Nepalese life and culture.

In summary, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning trekking experience that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The highlights of the trek include stunning mountain views, cultural diversity, the Larke Pass, flora and fauna, Manaslu Base Camp, and remote villages.

Average cost for manaslu circuit trek package

There are many trekking agencies and tour operators that offer package tours for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These packages typically include transportation to and from Kathmandu, permits, accommodations, meals, and the services of an experienced guide and porters. The average cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek package varies depending on several factors such as the duration of the trek, the size of the group, and the level of accommodation. On average, the cost ranges from $1200 to $2000 per person for a 14-day trek. This includes the cost of permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide and porter fees. It's important to choose a reputable trekking agency to ensure the best experience and value for your money.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

Permits are required for Manaslu Trekking, as it is a restricted area. To obtain a permit, you must have a registered trekking agency and be accompanied by a licensed guide. The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are also required for the trek. Also, a special permit is required for trekking in the Manaslu region of Nepal. The special permit is in addition to the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and is required because the Manaslu region is a restricted area. Moreover, TIMS is also another permit that is required to obtain before beginning for the trek. The cost of permits varies depending on the season, with peak season permits costing more than off-peak season permits. It's important to obtain the necessary permits to ensure a safe and legal trekking experience. Failure to obtain the permits can result in hefty fines and legal complications.

Cost of Manaslu circuit trekking Permits

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) cost NPR 3000 each. Additionally, a special permit costs $100 per week during the peak season of September to November, and $75 per week during the off-peak season of December to August. Beyond one week, the special permit costs $15 per person during peak season and $10 per person during off-peak season. Lastly, a Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) permit costs NPR 2000 per person. It's important to obtain all the necessary permits to ensure a safe and legal trekking experience.

Lodges in Manaslu

There are many lodges available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. The lodges offer basic accommodation and food, and some of them have attached bathrooms as well. The lodges are owned and operated by locals, and they offer a unique insight into the local culture and way of life. The lodges are located in small villages along the route, and they offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys. The cost of the lodges varies depending on the location and the level of comfort provided. The lodges are a great option for trekkers who want to experience the local culture and hospitality of the Manaslu region while trekking.

Best time for Manaslu circuit trek

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is dry and clear, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding mountain ranges. The temperatures are mild and comfortable during the day, making it ideal for trekking. The months of December to February can be very cold, and there is a high chance of snowfall, making it challenging to trek. The monsoon season from June to August brings heavy rainfall and landslides, making it difficult to trek. However, some trekkers prefer to trek during the monsoon season for the lush greenery and fewer crowds. Overall, the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the dry months of September to November and March to May.

Manaslu circuit trek without guide

It is impossible to trek the Manaslu Circuit without a guide, and it is not recommended for inexperienced or solo trekkers. The Manaslu Circuit is a challenging trek that involves high altitudes, rugged terrain, and remote areas where proper navigation and survival skills are required. Solo trekking in the Manaslu region is not allowed due to the regulations that require trekkers to obtain a special permit and hire a registered guide. The Nepalese government has implemented these regulations to ensure the safety of trekkers in the remote and rugged terrain of the Manaslu region. Hiring a guide or porter can also contribute to the local economy and support the livelihoods of the local people.

How difficult Manaslu Circuit trek is?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trail is remote and often steep, with long ascents and descents, crossing high mountain passes and rocky terrain. Trekkers will encounter altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, and rugged landscapes. However, the breathtaking mountain scenery, unique culture, and the sense of accomplishment at the end of the trek make it all worth the effort. A positive attitude, proper preparation, and a good guide are essential to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Crossing the suspension bridge of Manaslu trekking

How long is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is typically a 14 to 16 days trek, covering a distance of approximately 177 kilometers. The trek starts from Arughat and passes through various remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, before ending at Besisahar. The total duration of the trek may vary depending on factors such as acclimatization, physical fitness, and weather conditions.

Which is better Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna?

Both Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna are great trekking destinations in Nepal, each with its own unique charm and beauty.

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience, passing through unspoiled landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning mountain views. The trek is more challenging and requires a special permit, but the rewards are incredible.

Annapurna Circuit Trek, on the other hand, is more accessible and offers a more diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences. It passes through lush forests, high mountain passes, and traditional villages, with spectacular views of the Annapurna range.

Ultimately, the choice between Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit depends on your personal preferences, fitness level, and the amount of time you have available for trekking. Both treks offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Is Manaslu circuit trekking harder than Everest base camp trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek and the Everest Base Camp trek are both challenging and require a good level of physical fitness and endurance. However, the Manaslu Circuit trek can be considered slightly harder than the Everest Base Camp trek in terms of altitude gain and terrain difficulty. The Manaslu Circuit trek involves crossing the Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,106 meters, while the highest point of the Everest Base Camp trek is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters. Additionally, the Manaslu Circuit trek involves trekking in remote areas with limited facilities, whereas the Everest Base Camp trek has more infrastructure and lodges available along the route. Ultimately, both treks are rewarding and challenging experiences that require proper preparation and acclimatization.

Larke pass

Larkya La, also known as Larke Pass, is a high mountain pass located in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and sits at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu (8,156 meters), Himalchuli (7,893 meters), and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 meters). The trek over Larkya La is considered challenging due to the high altitude and steep ascent, but the incredible scenery and sense of achievement make it well worth the effort.

Lake pass of Manaslu circuit trek

Manaslu trek route

The Manaslu Trek route is a remote and challenging trail in Nepal that takes trekkers around the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters). The trail follows a circuit around the mountain, starting in the town of Arughat and passing through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Here's an overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trek route, including the major points of interest and their elevations:

  1. Arughat (550 m)
  2. Soti Khola (597 m)
  3. Machha Khola (825 m)
  4. Jagat (1330 m)
  5. Deng (1860 m)
  6. Namrung (2580 m)
  7. Samagaon (3480 m)
  8. Birendra Lake (3691 m)
  9. Manaslu Base Camp (4500 m)
  10. Samdo (3865 m)
  11. Dharmashala / Larke Phedi (4470 m)
  12. Larkya La Pass (5106 m)
  13. Bimthang (3740 m)
  14. Dharapani (1860 m)
  15. Besishahar (760 m)

Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime! Book your Manaslu Circuit Trek now and experience the beauty of Nepal's Himalayas up close. With stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience, this trek is truly unforgettable. Our expert guides and carefully planned itinerary will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable journey. So, what are you waiting for? Click the button below and start planning your trek today!

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