How difficult is Manaslu Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas because of the trodden trekking route and remoteness of the region. The terrain is difficult and steep. You have to be physically fit and possess some sort of previous trekking experience. This trek is not for beginner trekkers.

How long is the Manaslu Trek?

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is 17 days long, including arrival and departure. You can also tailor-make the itinerary as per your requirements and time availability.

How to prepare for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

To go on Manaslu Circuit Trek, you not only have to prepare your body physically but also mentally. You can start preparing for the trek 3 to 4 weeks before the beginning of the journey. To prepare, you can exercise focusing on core strength and increasing stamina. Swimming, cycling, jogging, hiking, etc are also great ways to prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Likewise, you also have to prepare yourself to survive in bare minimum facilities and adjust to a very simple lifestyle during the trek. The trail is strenuous. You have to walk 6-8 hours a day on a rough, steep path. There will be nonstop ascending and descending throughout the trek.

Where is the starting and ending point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Soti Khola is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which takes around 8 to 9 hours of drive to reach from Kathmandu. Likewise, Tal is the ending point of the trek, and it takes 9-10 hours of drive from Tal to reach Kathmandu.

How is drinking water in Manaslu Region?

You can get bottled water in the house, but we don't recommend buying it every time because it will cost you a lot of money and increase unwanted litter. Water in the mountains is relatively cleaner than in the city and can be used to drink. You can carry a reusable water bottle and refill it every time it gets empty. For extra safety, you can carry water purification tablets.

What is Special at Manaslu? How is it Different from Everest and Annapurna?

The most unique thing about Manaslu Circuit Trekking is that the route does not follow a similar path even while descending. This means every day will bring new experiences and views. The trail is less crowded than Everest and Annapurna region. The views and the cultural heritage in the Manaslu region are unspoiled, and very few people traverse it every year because of all the challenges.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 17 Days in Nepal; Booking Open for 2024/2025

Overview

The frequently changing scenery, ancient Tibetan cultural heritage, off-beat track, and soaring Himalayan mountains make Manaslu Circuit Trek one of the most adventurous and excellent treks in the Himalayas. The trek takes you around Mt. Manaslu, the Mountain of the Spirit, and lets you relish its magnificent beauty. The less-crowded trail and unspoiled views make Manaslu Circuit Trekking a great alternative to the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek.

For your information, foreigners are not allowed to do Manaslu Circuit Trek solo. You can learn more about it in our useful information section. If you want to become part of this marvelous venture, then you have to be in good physical fitness and have previous trekking experience. The trail winds through the tropical zone to the arctic. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, you will pass by dense forests, waterfalls, and terraces, crossing several thrilling suspension bridges and remote villages.

Besides the adventurous part, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is also a very culturally enticing journey. You will visit ancient monasteries and get to see the lifestyle & culture of people from the Nurbi community. Trekking in the Manaslu region was opened in 1992 to 400 trekkers, and the strict travel rules imposed over the region by the Nepali government have successfully preserved the cultural heritage of the locals to this date.

While staying overnight in Sama Gaun, you will have the option to go on a hike to Pungyen Gompa (4,400 m), Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m), or Birendra Tal (3,640 m). Similarly, as per our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, you will hike to the Tibetan border during your acclimatization day in Samdo. The trail leads to the top of Larkya La Pass which offers breathtaking scenery.

Himalayan mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Himlung Himal (7,140 m), Mt. Kang Guru (6,981 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), and many other mountains will become your constant companion. Even trekking during the Manaslu Circuit Trek best season, you have to be well-prepared and guided by professional guides for maximum satisfaction.

Check out our Manaslu Circuit Trek map for more information about the trek route. There are many helpful Manaslu Circuit Trek blogs out there that offer extensive information about the trek. To know more about Manaslu Circuit Trek's cost or Manaslu Circuit Trek's cost for Nepali, you can contact us anytime.

We also organize Manaslu short Trek and private trips. Overall, the Manaslu trek is a once-in-a-lifetime venture that every adventure lover should try once. Also, see our famous Mardi Himal Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek.

Useful information
Booking Terms & Conditions, Health fitness & requirements, Nepal Travel adviser.

You'll see and experience

Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Scenic drive from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek
Trek through six climatic zones and get to see a range of vegetation
The trail ascends through dense forests and waterfalls, crossing numerous suspension bridges and remote villages
Get to see the unique lifestyle and culture of people from the Nurbi community
Visit ancient monasteries along the way
Go on a hike to Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, or Birendra Tal
Explore Tibetan border
Cross challenging Larkya La Pass
Witness breath-taking scenery and stunning mountain panoramas

Cost Details

Includes

Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
Welcome Dinner
Kathmandu City Sightseeing, Tour Guide, and private vehicle
3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
All ground transportation on private vehicles from Kathmandu to Shoti Khola
Dharapani to Besisahar Sharing Jeep
Besi Sahar to Kathmandu by private vehicle
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter) or if you want single as per your requirements minimum have two pax client
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
Mystic Adventure Holidays we provide a duffel bag put your things carried by the porter, and a trekking map (Note: Duffel Bag needs to be returned after the completion of the trip)
Mystic Adventure Holidays' T-shirt, trip completion certificate, trekking map, and a cup as a souvenir from the company.
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
All government and local taxes
An achievement certificate, Mug, and company souvenir
Airports Departure

Excludes

Nepalese visa fee
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess baggage charges
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Travel and rescue insurance
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion) Rental
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Tips for guide(s), porter(s) 10% of You Pay and driver(s)

Additional Info

Manaslu Circuit Trek Terrain & Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-beat trek, which means the journey is difficult. This trek is known as one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas because of its trodden terrain, remoteness, and several climatic zones. You will be crossing the high Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). The trek requires you to walk 6-7 hours daily. Therefore, good physical fitness and previous trekking experience are needed for this trek.

The trail goes through remote villages and barren areas. The services along the trail are the bare minimum, which may not suit many trekkers. Likewise, as the elevation increases, the chances of high altitude sickness will also increase. Our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary has enough rest days and a constant pace that will allow you to take plenty of rest.

You can learn more about altitude sickness and its symptoms here.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

Manaslu region (between Jagat and Dharapani) is a restricted area. It is done to control the tourism flow in the region and prohibit independent trekkers. To trek in the Manaslu region, you have to take a special restricted area permit from the government of Nepal, and only a registered Nepali trekking company can help you get the permit. Similarly, as per the rules, there have to be two trekkers in the group, not including the guide/porters.

*Note: Independent guides cannot help you to issue the necessary permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek needs three permits- Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.

Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (From Jagat till Sama Gaun)

Cost:

September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

Manaslu Conservation Area Project (From Philim)

Cost: USD 30 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (From Dharapani)

Cost: USD 30 per person

Best Time to go on Manaslu Circuit Trek

Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) is the best time to go on Manaslu Circuit Trekking because of the stable weather and mild climate. The Manaslu Circuit Trek route goes through six climatic zones- the tropical and subtropical zone, the temperate zone, the subalpine zone, the alpine zone, and the arctic zone.

You may face different weather conditions even in the spring and autumn. Therefore, we recommend you to pack for every weather. The night and morning can get quite chilly in comparison to day time.

Trekking in winter and monsoon is not recommended. The temperature can get below -20°C, and heavy snowfall/rainfall can block the trail. While trekking in spring, you can witness rhododendron blossoms. The trail gets very beautiful in the spring season. Likewise, you may get to see and be part of some of the biggest festivals in Nepal if you are on time in the autumn season.

Food & Accommodation During Manaslu Circuit Trek

The food and accommodation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek are very basic. You will stay in a simple teahouse during the trek that usually offers twin-sharing beds and a common washroom. The services in the teahouse are limited, and you may have to pay a few extra bucks to use a hot shower.

The meals will be served as per the menu of the teahouse. You can get oats, porridge, soup, toast, eggs, rice, curries, veggies, meat, pasta, momo, noodles, Tibetan bread, thukpa, tea, coffee, etc. As the elevation increases, the menu will get limited, with mostly Nepali and Tibetan dishes. We highly suggest you carry snacks and bars to munch on the trail.

Tips to make the journey smooth

Make sure to double-check all the trekking gear and clothing before leaving for the trek. Do carry a little pocket knife, torch, and lighter.
Buy water purification tablets and carry a reusable water bottle to save your money and the environment.
Don't forget to pack your favorite snacks and bars. We suggest you do not rely on tea shops to buy things.
Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and avoid altitude sickness.
Carry extra batteries or a solar charger to charge your electronic devices. Some places may ask you a few extra bucks to use charging booths.
Withdraw cash in the city to use on the trail as there are no ATMs.
You may not get WiFi everywhere, so Nepali SIM will come in handy to use cellular data.
Stick to your group and do not wander far alone.

Reviews

Add Your Own Review

Amazing adventure trekking the Manaslu and Tsum Valley, Kathmandu.

We would like share our experience trekking in Nepal with Ramesh Jung Thapa as our guide. We were recommended Ramesh by a couple we had met two years ago when we walked the Three Passes and Everest Base Camp Trek. They had just walked the Manalsu Circuit before Three Passes and met Ramesh along the way. They were impressed by him and luckily passed on Ramesh's details to us.
We contacted Ramesh in April 19, and booked him for Oct/Nov 2019. We arrived on the Sunday night in Kathmandu and Ramesh met us at the airport. The next morning Ramesh went and got all the permits required for our trek.
On Tuesday we were in a jeep travelling to the start of our trek. We were trekking for a total of 17 days with an additional two days jeep rides. Which Ramesh also took care of for us.
Ramesh is really friendly and very professional and certainly knew his way around these valley's. He also knew a lot of the tea house owners and was always able to secure a bed for us even when it got busy in some villages. Ramesh always organised the meals in the tea houses for us. Each night we planned the next day as far as breakfast time, leaving times, lunch stops and the next village we would be staying in and he was always ready to walk when we wanted to go, usually at 7.30am.
Ramesh was very helpful throughout the trek and was always looking out for us in steep or rockfall areas to make sure we were safe. We didn't have a porter and carried our own packs but if we were to do it again we would hire a porter.
We loved the Tsum Valley part of the trek and would love to go back and spend longer in this area. Especially beautiful scenery in Oct/Nov with all the autumn colours.
We would highly recommend Ramesh if you would like to do a trek in Nepal and we can't wait to do another trek in 2021.

Julie Smith and Peter AdamsCountry: New ZealandDate: November 28, 2019

Professional guide, caring and flexible enough to change the itinerary in the last minutE

Hi did the Manaslu Circuit with Ramses during 2 incredible weeks. I was always on top of things trying to provide the best possible service. Since it was just the 2 of us, we changed the itinerary and introduced new places to visit as days went by. I would say that this is very rare for a lot of guides who normally stick to the program. We had many chats and he shared some info about Nepalese history. I got the impression that he is very knowledgable but more importantly, this is his passion and his enthusiasm is contagious. I would definitely recommend him and I will be hiking with him next time I go to Nepal.

Manuel SGCountry: SpainDate: July 29, 2019