Destination
Nepal Tour
Duration
15 days and 14 nights
Difficulty
Challenging
Max. Elevation
N/A
Group Size
N/A
Accommodation
Standard Options
Vehicles
N/A
Food
No bed or meals included
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 15-day Himalayan adventure that will take you deep into the remote mountains encircling the eighth-highest summit in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). With no other climbers crowded on the roads like Everest or Annapurna, the route presents unadulterated wilderness, genuine cultural experiences, and immaculate mountain sceneries. The expedition traverses verdant subtropical valleys and terraced fields, to mountainous alpine meadows, ice glaciers and the astounding Larkya La Pass (5,106m).
Along with the natural beauty, the expedition will provide an impression of Gurung and Tibetan cultures. The state of Namrung, Sama Gaun and Samdo villages offer an insight into the ancient life, Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags, as well as the ancient traditions. Acclimatization also makes side hikes up to Manaslu Base Camp and the Tibet Border possible, which contributes to the adventure of the journey.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a demanding yet very rewarding cultural experience. It is the perfect destination for those trekkers who seek an environmentally-friendly and less-travelled variant in the Nepal Himalayas, where each step brings you deeper into the wild and friendly mountain environment.
- Scenery & Landscapes: Terraced fields, subtropical valleys, alpine meadows.
- Culture & Traditions: Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, gompas.
- Nature & Wildlife: Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, marmots, snow leopards, waterfalls.
- Adventure & Challenge: Suspension bridges, rocky trails, rugged terrain.
The Kathmandu–Maccha Khola drive marks the start of the trek. The trail crosses the Budhi Gandaki River and goes through forests, rice terraces, and mountain villages like Jagat and Namrung. Higher up, alpine scenery dominates with massive mountains.
Tibetan-influenced villages like Lho, Sama Gaun, and Samdo provide cultural insights. The trail peaks at Larkya La Pass (5,106m) before descending into the Bimthang and Dharapani valleys, joining the Annapurna Circuit and returning to Kathmandu.
- Day01Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Arrive in the capital of Nepal. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel, the lively tourist district filled with cafes, trekking stores, and restaurants. Attend a short trek briefing and orientation. Rest or explore the area.
- Day02Day 02: Kathmandu to Maccha Khola Drive
A scenic, bumpy drive out of the city through Dhading Besi and Arughat. Follow rivers, terraced hills, and traditional villages until reaching Maccha Khola, the starting point of the trek.
- Day03Day 03: Trek to Jagat
Begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross suspension bridges and pass through small Gurung villages and Tatopani hot springs before reaching the stone village of Jagat.
- Day04Day 04: Trek to Pewa (1,870m)
Hike through forested paths and farmlands, cross several suspension bridges, pass Philim village, and continue to the peaceful forested area of Pewa.
- Day05Day 05: Trek to Namrung
Trail ascends into alpine regions. Panoramic views of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. Pass Deng and Ghata Khola. Steeper climbs before reaching the culturally rich Namrung village.
- Day06Day 06: Trek to Lho
A short yet scenic day. Pass Lihi and Sho villages, mani walls and prayer flags. Reach Lho, a picturesque village with sunset views over Manaslu from its monastery.
- Day07Day 07: Trek to Sama Gaun
Trek through Shyala village with jaw-dropping 360° views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. Reach Sama Gaun, a culturally Tibetan village filled with monasteries and stone homes.
- Day08Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaun
Rest and acclimatize. Optional side hikes to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m) or Pungyen Gompa for spectacular glacier views and spiritual experience.
- Day09Day 09: Trek to Samdo
Gradual climb through yak pastures and barren terrain. Reach Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village with insight into high-altitude mountain life and old trade routes.
- Day10Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Samdo
Another rest day for altitude adjustment. Optional hike to the Tibetan border plateau for dramatic views and historical insights. Prepare for the pass ahead.
- Day11Day 11: Trek to Dharmasala (Larke Phedi)
Trek through desolate, rocky landscapes with majestic mountain views. Reach the basic lodge at Dharmasala, your last stop before crossing Larkya La Pass.
- Day12Day 12: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) – Trek to Bimthang
Start early. Cross the high, windy Larkya La Pass, the trek’s highest point. Panoramic views of Annapurna II, Himlung, and Kang Guru. Descend into the lush Bimthang Valley.
- Day13Day 13: Trek to Dharapani (1,970m)
Descend through rhododendron and pine forests, past villages like Tilije. Landscapes transition from alpine to agricultural. End the trek at Dharapani.
- Day14Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu (8–9 hrs)
Drive from Dharapani via Besisahar back to Kathmandu. Spend your final night enjoying dinner, shopping, or relaxing in Thamel.
- Day15Day 15: Kathmandu Departure
Final departure day. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Trip concludes with unforgettable memories of the Manaslu region.
- Spring (Mar–May): Clear skies, rhododendrons
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Best visibility, harvest season
- Avoid Monsoon (Jun–Aug) and Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Spring (Mar–May): Clear skies, rhododendrons
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Best visibility, harvest season
- Avoid Monsoon (Jun–Aug) and Winter (Dec–Feb)
Permits Required
- Restricted Area Permit (USD 70 for 8 days + USD 10/day extra)
- Manaslu RAP
- TIMS card required (not for solo travelers)
Difficulty
- Demanding trek: steep ascents, river crossings, high altitude
- Requires good fitness and mental strength
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage:
- Medical & hospitalization
- High-altitude evacuation
- Flight cancellation
- Lost baggage
Estimated cost: USD 90–140 for 2 weeks
Physical Fitness
- Recommended: Jog 5km in 30–35 mins or cycle 15km in 45 mins
- Training: Cardio + strength 2–3 weeks in advance
Accommodation
- Tea houses: Vary from basic to comfortable
- Facilities: Electricity, Wi-Fi, hot water (fees apply at high altitude)
- Bring: Sleeping bag rated to -20°C
Meals
- Meals: Dal Bhat, momo, noodles, pasta, porridge, pancakes
- Included: 3 meals/day + tea/coffee on trek, 1 dinner in Kathmandu
- Dietary options: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free available
Transportation
- All transport included
- Options: Local bus, private jeep, flight from Pokhara (USD 105)
Charging & Internet
- Available in tea houses (solar or generator-powered)
- Bring: Power bank
- Wi-Fi: Available for $2–3, may be unreliable
Porters
- Recommended: Carry max 20 kg shared load
- Lets you trek light with just a daypack
Currency & Payments
- Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Exchange: Available in Kathmandu/Pokhara
- Cards: Accepted with ~3.5% fee
- ATMs: Found in Thamel (limit Rs 10,000–35,000)
Packing List
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket/trousers
- Down or Gore-Tex jacket
- Hiking pants (2), shorts (2), t-shirts (4–5)
- Thermal base layers (1–2 sets)
- Gloves: fleece + waterproof
- Beanie, sunhat, neck gaiter
Footwear
- Trekking boots (ankle support, waterproof)
- Camp sandals or sneakers
Accessories & Equipment
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Trekking poles, headlamp, Swiss knife
- First-aid kit, toiletries, towel, wet wipes
- Power bank, batteries, adapters
- Sleeping bag (-15 to -20°C), liner
Bags
- Main backpack (60L)
- Daypack (25–30L)
- Rain cover
Give us a review
Pricing
Number of people
Price per person
Solo Tour
$1,799.00
2 - 3 people
$1,763.02
4 - 6 people
$1,727.04
7 - 9 people
$1,709.05
10+ people
$1,673.07