Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek in the Nepal Himalayas, encircling Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). Trekkers traverse remote villages, lush forests, rivers, and high mountain passes, experiencing Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, and traditional lifestyles. The trek offers panoramic views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, and surrounding peaks, making it one of Nepal’s most rewarding circuits.

This trek is ideal for trekkers seeking a long, remote, and culturally rich high-altitude adventure.

Journey Begins: Gateway to Manaslu Circuit Trek

The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Maccha Khola, then trekking through Jagat, Philim, Deng, Namrung, Samagaun, Samdo, and Larkya La Phedi, before descending via Bhimtang, Tilije, and Dharapani.

Key villages and stops provide acclimatization, cultural exposure, and teahouse accommodation.

Trail Experience and Trek Highlights

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers challenging trekking with scenic and cultural highlights. Highlights include:

• Larkya La Pass (5,106 m): The highest and most demanding point of the trek with panoramic Himalayan views.

• Samagaun & Samdo: Tibetan-influenced villages with monasteries and traditional culture.

• Rivers, Forests, and Pastures: Dense forests, terraced fields, and yak pastures along the route.

• Mount Manaslu Views: Spectacular vistas of the 8,163 m peak and surrounding mountains.

This trek is strenuous to challenging, requiring good fitness, prior trekking experience, and high-altitude preparation.

Food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Food is available in teahouses along the trek, including Dal Bhat, noodles, rice, momos, soups, and tea/coffee.

Trekkers should carry snacks, energy bars, and electrolytes, especially for long trekking days and higher altitudes.

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Accommodation is mostly in teahouses, ranging from basic to moderately comfortable, depending on the altitude and village.

Some locations offer attached bathrooms and better facilities, while higher villages provide essential amenities only. Camping is optional but increases costs significantly.

Trek Duration and Distance

The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically takes 14 to 16 days for the standard circuit, or 22 days if including Tsum Valley.

The total trekking distance is approximately 177 kilometers, covering rivers, villages, forests, high passes, and valleys.

Highest Altitude on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters, offering panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks.

Optional side trips include Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) and Birendra Lake.

Best Season to Visit Manaslu Circuit Trek

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for clear skies, mild temperatures, and optimal trekking conditions.

Winter is very cold and challenging; monsoon season is avoided due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

How Challenging Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek is considered strenuous to challenging. Trekkers face high-altitude passes, long trekking days, rugged terrain, and remote conditions, suitable only for experienced and physically fit trekkers.

Average Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The average cost ranges from 1,400 to 2,000 USD per person, depending on group size, guide services, accommodation choices, and permit fees. Costs include transportation, accommodation, meals, guide and porter services, and permits. International flights, insurance, and personal expenses are not included.

Final Thoughts on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, high-altitude Himalayan adventure, offering cultural villages, Tibetan monasteries, rivers, forests, Larkya La Pass, and Mount Manaslu views. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a challenging, rewarding, and culturally immersive trek.