The 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek will take you through the remote and untouched beauty of the Manaslu Region. The trek will take you through many remote villages, lush forests, and beautiful landscapes starting from Kathmandu. You will also get views of the Himalayas throughout the journey. With this adventure, you will be covering a total distance of about 180 kilometers, and the highest point you will reach is 5,160 meters at Larkha La Pass. You will witness the views of Mount Manaslu, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, and many more.
The trek encircles the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters). You will explore some popular villages, such as Samagaon, Samdu, and Tsum Valley. Passing through these places, you can immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan-inspired Buddhist culture and tradition. You will enjoy the quiet, untouched natural beauty and the chance to experience the rich Buddhist culture of the Gurung and Magar people. The best time to take this trek is in spring or autumn when the weather is clear and the trekking trails are not too crowded.
With the involvement of some challenges, only experienced trekkers are requested to opt for this trek. If you are planning to book this adventure with a travel agency, you can feel free to contact us by mail or phone. These guides will help you understand the details of the trip in more depth. Our 12 days Manaslu Circuit Trek is perfect for you if you are looking for a beautiful and thrilling adventure in the Himalayas.
The 12 Days Manaslu Circuit journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The route follows the banks of the Trishuli River, which runs about 140 km before joining the Narayani River. Along the way, you can see the terraced fields, small settlements, and mountains like Ganesh Himal (7,429 m) and Annapurna II (7,937 m). Finally, you’ll reach Arughat, located at an altitude of 550 m. It serves as the gateway to the Manaslu region.
From Arughat, the drive continues towards Machha Khola (869 m). You’ll follow the Budhi Gandaki River until you reach there. The name Machha Khola has its typical Nepali meaning, as “Machha” means fish and “Khola” means river; together, we call it “Machha Khola”. It is the first overnight stop and the starting point for the walking portion of the Manaslu Circuit.
Distance:
140 km (86.9 miles)
Altitude:
869 m (2851.05 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Machha Khola
Drive Time:
6–7 hrs/day
After having breakfast, the trek from Machha Khola to Jagat begins on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail moves northward and after bout 2 hrs, you’ll reach Khorla Besi (970 m). It is a popular resting resting on the Manaslu Circuit. You can take a rest here and admire the beauty of Ganesh Himal at a distance.
From Khorla Besi, the trail moves towards Tatopani. Tatopani is known for its hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties for skin and rheumatic conditions. After several more suspension bridge crossings, the trail climbs to Jagat (1,340 m). It is a stone-paved village that serves as a checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area. Here, you will end your trek for the day.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Distance:
22 km (13.6 miles)
Altitude:
1,340 m (4,396 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Jagat
The trail starts from Jagat to Deng, climbing towards Salleri, and continues to Sridibas (1,430 m). It is a village of the Gurung and Buddhist community that follows the Tibetan culture. The path then heads towards the Sridibas village. To reach there, you have to follow the Budhi Gandaki River and the Ganesh Himal range. This part of the trek will be more scenic and interesting.
From Sridibas, the trail drops to cross the Budhi Gandaki on a long suspension bridge and reach Nyak Phedi. From there, you’ll move through bamboo and pine forests before entering Deng (1,860 m). Deng is a small Gurung settlement beside the Budhi Gandaki and serves as the overnight stop.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Distance:
19 km (11.8 miles)
Altitude:
1,860 m (6,102 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Deng
Your fourth day of the Manaslu Circuit trail begins from Deng and heads towards Rana (1,980 m). This village has stone houses and Mani walls that show the start of the Tibetan influence. The path continues through fields of wheat and potatoes. Pine and rhododendron forests make the walk peaceful. The Budhi Gandaki River, which flows for 153 km, keeps you company along the way.
From Rana, the trail climbs to Bihi Phedi (2,130 m). This village is known for barley and potato farming. After Bihi Phedi, the trail passes a small settlement and finally reaches Namrung (2,630 m). Namrung is an important checkpoint in the region. It has old monasteries, stone houses, and clear views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himal Chuli (7,893 m), and Saula Himal (6,235 m).
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Distance:
18 km (11.18 miles)
Altitude:
2,630 m (8,629 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Namrung
Day 5 of the Manaslu Circuit trek starts from Namrung. The trail moves through a terraced field and a small village. You walk along the Budhi Gandaki River for a while. The path is surrounded by pine and rhododendron forest. After a short climb, you’ll reach Lihi (2,860 m). The views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli are stunning from here. Farmers grow barley, potatoes, and buckwheat around the village.
From Lihi, the trail climbs to Lho (3,180 m). You may spot yaks grazing in the pastures along the way. Lho is known for its traditional Gurung culture and Buddhist monasteries. It offers a panoramic view of the Manaslu range and surrounding peaks. It is a moderate climb, which gives you a good chance to acclimatize before heading towards high altitude.
Trek Time:
4–5 hrs/day
Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Altitude:
3,180 m (10,433 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Lho
Early in the morning, after having a healthy local breakfast, you’ll get ready for another trek. The trek begins from Lho and passes through pine and birch forests. After about an hour, you’ll reach Syala (3,480 m). Syala is a small village famous for its sunrise and sunset views over Ngadi Chuli (7,817 m), also known as Peak 29.
From Syala, the trail climbs through alpine meadows where you can see yaks and goats grazing. After a short trek, you’ll arrive at Samagaun (3,530 m). Samagaun is a larger village and the main stop in the Manaslu region. It has stone houses, tea lodges, and a Smamagaun monastery. The village offers a clear view of Manaslu and Himal Chuli.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Distance:
17 km (10.5 miles)
Altitude:
3,530 m (11,581 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samagaun
Today is the rest day at Samagaun. You’ll spend the day walking around the village. Short hikes to the Budhi Gandaki River Valley help your body adjust to a higher altitude. You can rest at teahouses, drink butter tea, also known as Po Cha, and hydrate well. The village has stone houses and narrow paths; exploring this village gives a sense of local life and culture.
You can also visit the Pungyen Gompa. It is one of the main activities done by every trekker who rests in Samagaun. The monastery is 200 years old and is active during Losar, the Tibetan New Year. During festivals, locals light butter lamps, chant prayers, and perform masked dance, also called Cham dances. If you get the chance to be part of it, then you’ve to follow some etiquette. You should remove your shoes, speak quietly, and avoid touching religious objects. Photography is allowed only with permission. Pungyen Gompa is small but important to the community.
You’ll also spend time resting and observing the surrounding peaks like Ngadi Chuli and Annapurna II, which are visible from the village. Short walks for sightseeing, photography, and short hikes help with acclimatization. Hydration and light meals are important throughout the day. The day is relaxed but useful to prepare for the high altitude trek ahead.
Trek Time:
3–4 hrs/day, short hikes (Acclimatization day)
Distance:
3–5 km (1.8–3 miles)
Altitude:
3,530 m (11,581 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samagaun
After acclimatization, your next day’s trek starts early in the morning from Samagaun. You’ll pass traditional Tibetan-style houses and Mani walls along the way. The Budhi Gandaki River flows nearby, creating small streams that cross the trail. The village of Samdo sits at 3,875 m. It is the last permanent village before the Tibetan border.
The trek today takes just a few hours, depending on your pace. You may visit the Samdo Monastery, which is small but important for local rituals. The air gets thinner as you climb, so you can rest here to adjust. The village has simple teahouses where you can rest and eat local foods like Tsampa and Thukpa. This day also helps your body acclimatize before reaching higher altitudes like Larkye La Pass.
Trek Time:
3–4 hrs/day
Distance:
8 km (5 miles)
Altitude:
3,875 m (12,713 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Samdo
You’ll start your trek from Samdo and head towards Dharamsala (4,460 m) also known as Larkya Phedi, which is a small resting point with basic teahouses. You can see yak caravans transporting goods along the route. The air is thin, so frequent breaks are important. Snow patches may appear depending on the season, and prayer flags mark the path. This part of the Manaslu Circuit trek path gives you a clear view of Ngadi Chuli mountain.
Finally, you’ll reach Larkya Bazaar. It is famous for its mountain views and trading history between Nepal and Tibet. It offers a stunning view of Manaslu, Cheo, Naike, and Kang Guru. After roaming around, you’ll descend back to Dharamsala for your final stop. This day is crucial for acclimatization, so you have to drop back to a lower altitude. Just following the “trek high, sleep low” method.
Trek Time:
4–5 hrs/day
Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Altitude:
4,460 m (14,633 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Dharamsala
On Day 10, you’ll reach the highest point of the trek, i.e, Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). The day starts early from Dharamsala because the climb to Larkya La is long and steep. The trail is rocky with snow and ice patches, so careful steps are needed. You may see yaks and locals carrying the supplies, “the reason for high prices in remote areas”. The cold wind and thin air make the climb challenging, but the views of peaks like Himlung Himal and Ngadi Chuli at the top of Larkya Pass are clear and striking.
After crossing Larkya La, you’ll descend towards Bhimthang, which is at 3,720 m. The descent passes through moraine fields and small streams. The teahouse in Bhimthang provides rest, warm food, and basic shelter. Crossing the pass is a key highlight of the Manaslu Circuit trek; therefore, this day is special for anyone conquering this trek.
Trek Time:
8–9 hrs/day
Distance:
24 km (15 miles)
Altitude:
3,720 m (12,205 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Bhimthang
Starting your day, you’ll trek from Bhimthang to Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka is a grazing area at 4,050 m where locals often graze their yaks and goats. From Yak Kharka, you’ll head towards Gho. Gho is a tiny settlement often used as a rest stop by trekkers heading for the Tsum Valley Trek. On this part of the trek, the Manaslu Circuit trek weather can change quickly, so carrying warm layers like a down jacket, socks, and rain protection is essential.
From Gho, you’ll continue descending to Tilije (2,300 m). The trail moves through rhododendron forests and crosses the Dudh Khola. Teahouses here provide meals and rest after the long trek. The descent is easier on the legs than high-altitude climbs but requires attention to rocky paths and river crossings. It marks the end of the trekking part of the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Distance:
18 km (11 miles)
Altitude:
2,300 m (7,546 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tilije
On the final day of our trek, you’ll drive from Tilije to Besisahar. The road passes through villages, rivers, and farmlands. You’ll pass the Marshyangdi River and several small bridges along the way. Besisahar is the headquarters of the Lmajung district and a transport hub for the Manaslu Circuit journey. Here, you can stop for short breaks, buy supplies, or rest before continuing to Kathmandu.
From Besisahar, the journey continues by road to Kathmandu. Road can be rough in some sections, so the driver will carefully drive following the safety protocols. You’ll follow the Marshyangi River up to Mugling and then the Trishuli River until you reach Galchi. Reaching Kathmandu marks the end of the Manaslu Circuit trek, bringing you back to the city with memories of high passes, rivers, and villages. Note that we do not include lodging in Kathmandu, so please plan accordingly.
Distance:
160 km (99 miles)
Altitude:
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Accommodations:
Not included
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Kathmandu
Drive Time:
6–7 hrs/day
You may be wondering why you chose Manaslu Circuit for your next adventure. With this trek, you will witness some breathtaking mountain views. You will pass through many remote villages and even experience the untouched natural beauty along with a unique cultural experience. Additionally, located within Manaslu Sanctuary, you can also witness the diverse flora and fauna of this trekking region. Here are some major points on why you should consider the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. The major highlight is Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world, at 8,163 meters (26,781ft). Besides that, with this adventure, you will also get a sight of the other highest mountain, Mount Annapurna(8,091m). Other views are Ganesh Himal, Cheo Himal, and Ngadi Chili. Imagine how beautiful these views from the major stops can be. Isn’t that wonderful?
Considered to be the highest pass in the Manaslu Region, located at 5,160 meters, the Larkya La Pass is the major highlight of the circuit trek. It is also the highest point you will reach during the journey. Conquering this section of the journey can be quite a challenge with its rugged and steep terrain. However, upon reaching the top, the breathtaking panoramic views of Manaslu, Annapurna, and other mountains make all the hard work rewarding. It is the perfect spot for photography and creating the most memorable adventuress.
Most of the people residing here are Gurungs and Tamangs, followed by some other groups such as Brahmins and Chettri. They follow the traditional inspired Buddhist culture, which can be quite a unique immersion for you. You can understand their culture by having a close intersection with them. Additionally, participating in their local festivals and traditional dances and even trying out their local cuisine can offer you the best Himalayas adventure. Throughout the journey, you can also make a short visit to many monasteries and witness several flags and mani walls.
As the trek passes within the conservation area, you will get the perfect opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna the region offers. If you are lucky enough, you can also witness some rare animals, such as red pandas and Himalayan Thar. Trekking within here, you will also pass through straight cliffs, which are perfect for photography. The alpine subtropical forests and vegetation are another region for you to consider when embarking on this adventure in the Manaslu Region.
Choosing between a guided and solo trek for the Manaslu Circuit depends on your experience and preferences. A guided trek is perfect if you want a hassle-free adventure. If you have a guide with you, he/she will take care of permits, logistics, and safety so you can focus on enjoying the trek. They will also share local knowledge about the culture and trails, enriching your journey. If you are new to trekking or prefer not to worry about navigation, a guided trek is a great option.
Solo trekking gives you freedom and flexibility, as you will be traveling alone. Having a solo trip means you can set your own pace, explore side trails, and enjoy the solitude of the mountains. However, it requires experience since you will handle navigation, permits, and emergencies on your own. This option is better if you are confident in your trekking skills and comfortable with challenges. For most trekkers, especially on the remote Manaslu Circuit, we recommend a guided trek to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.
The Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area to preserve its pristine environment and unique culture. To enter, you need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), which is issued only to trekkers with a licensed guide and a minimum group size of two. The permit cost depends on the season. From September to November, it costs USD 100 for the first 7 days and USD 15 for each additional day. From December to August, it costs USD 75 for the first 7 days and USD 10 for each additional day. This permit ensures regulated trekking and supports local conservation efforts.
The MCAP is required to trek within the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region that houses diverse flora, fauna, and local communities. This permit helps fund conservation projects and maintain the ecological balance of the area. It costs USD 30 per person and is essential for anyone entering the conservation zone. Carrying this permit ensures you are a responsible traveler and also contributes to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
The ACAP is needed for the final section of the Manaslu trek, which passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area. Similar to the MCAP, this permit costs USD 30 per person and helps protect the biodiversity and cultural richness of the Annapurna region. It supports trail maintenance, local livelihoods, and environmental conservation. Having the ACAP is mandatory as you transition from Manaslu into Annapurna.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best time for spring ( March to May) and autumn ( September to November). You will find clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures during these seasons. In Spring, you will get a chance to witness blooming rhododendrons, which add vibrant color to landscapes. Similarly, during Autumn, you can take part in the two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, which can be a cultural experience. Imagine getting beautiful views with the best climate and safety. It is the cherry on top.
Besides these two seasons, we do not recommend you choose the remaining two seasons, Summer/Monsoon (June to August) and Winter (December to February). Although the temperature in summer is warm, the continuous rainfall makes the trail slippery, along with increasing the chances of landslides. Similarly, winter brings freezing temperatures, which can be quite challenging to manage. These popular seasons are not ideal seasons for safety purposes.
During your trek to Manaslu Circuit, you will be staying in teahouses for most of the days. Our 12-day adventure includes 11 days of night stay at teahouses along the route. These teahouses will offer basic facilities such as a shared room with a bed, blankets, pillow, and shared bathrooms. However, they offer you a communal dining space where you can have your meal and even interact with other fellow travelers to make new memories.
Along with that, these places will also provide you with hot water and Wifi facilities. However, you are required to pay some additional charges for it. During the peak season, we generally recommend you make your prior booking to secure your staycation. You need to understand that the higher altitude you climb, the more basic all the facilities you will start to get.
You will get the food offered by teahouses during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. From national to international, you will get it all. However, a wide variety of dishes are not available, but whatever you get is tasty and healthy enough to keep you energized throughout the journey. We generally recommend you avoid non-vegetarian food during your trek. Furthermore, carrying some snacks for breaks during the trek is also generally recommended.
| Meal | Typical Options |
| Breakfast | Porridge with honey or fruits, toast with jam or butter, muesli or cereal with milk, pancakes with syrup or honey, eggs with bread, tea, or coffee |
| Lunch | Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice, vegetables, and pickles), momos, sandwiches, noodles or pasta, fried rice, soup, tea or coffee |
| Dinner | Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice, vegetables, and pickles), thukpa, stew, chapati with curry, fried rice, seasonal vegetables with rice or bread, tea or coffee |
When trekking the Manaslu Circuit, most trekking agencies and guides provide porter services, allowing you to carry up to 10 to 15 kg of baggage per trekker. It is best to pack light and bring only essentials like clothing, toiletries, and trekking gear. You should avoid overpacking, as excess weight can strain porters and slow your journey. A well-organized duffel bag is ideal for porters, while you can carry a daypack with water, snacks, and essentials like a jacket or camera.
If you are a foreign national, you need a Nepal tourist visa to trek the Manaslu Circuit. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at Nepalese embassies abroad. The visa fee is USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, and bring a few passport-sized photos. For Indian nationals, no visa is required to enter Nepal.
Travel insurance is mandatory for the Manaslu trek and should cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,500 meters). You should look for policies that include emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellations. Helicopter evacuation costs can be very high in remote regions, so insurance is vital for peace of mind. You need to make sure your policy also covers theft, loss of baggage, and unforeseen weather-related disruptions. Keep a printed copy of your insurance with you throughout the trek.
To complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you need to focus on building your physical stamina and strength. Start a fitness routine at least 8 to 12 weeks before the trek, incorporating cardio exercises like running, cycling, or swimming to boost your endurance. You should add strength training for your legs and core, which will be crucial for steep ascents and descents. Hiking with a weighted backpack will simulate the trekking experience and help you adjust to carrying a load. Do not forget flexibility exercises like yoga to prevent injuries.
Your mindset plays a huge role in completing a challenging trek like this. Prepare yourself mentally for long days of walking, unpredictable weather, and basic amenities in teahouses. You can visualize your trek and set realistic expectations. It is not just about reaching the destination but also about enjoying the journey. Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay calm and focused during tough moments. With a positive attitude, you will handle the highs and lows of the trek like a pro.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be a challenging adventure in the Himalayas. Graded to be 7 out of 10, to complete this adventure, you need to be physically and mentally fit. The trek is located at a higher elevation, reaching over 5,000 meters, meaning the chances of getting altitude sickness are also high. With this adventure, you will be covering about 10 km daily, hiking for 6 to 7 hours. This demands more physical fitness and can be quite tiring.
In addition to that, the rugged terrain with steep ascends and descends, rocky paths, and narrow trails add some more challenges to it. Besides that, the trek passes by some of the remote locations of Nepal. Getting proper facilities with a variety of accommodations and good-quality medical services is also not possible. Furthermore, the unpredictability of weather, diverse cultures, and language barriers can create more difficulties in tour adventure towards the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not considered to be a beginner-friendly adventure. Before starting this adventure, there are key factors every beginner should consider. If you’re new to high-altitude trekking, this Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide to Beginners highlights the essential things to know. The first and foremost thing as a novice trekker is that you should consider your physical fitness. If you are not quite fit, we recommend you not choose this trek and opt for another trek like Poon Hill or even Everest Base Camp Trek.
Similarly, being mentally fit is also essential. You should have a strong, positive mental state if you are trekking here. Along with that, hiring a trekking guide is also generally recommended. They help you navigate and enhance your overall safety. If you are an experienced one, then it might not be that challenging as you can easily tackle those.
HCTreks offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support.
Experienced, licensed guides ensuring safety and memorable journeys.
Your safety is our top priority throughout the journey.
Tailor your trek based on preferences, fitness, and time.
We promote sustainable, zero-waste, eco-friendly trekking experiences.
Top-notch service at affordable, transparent, and competitive rates.
Receive daily weather forecasts and route updates for safety.
