14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less-crowded alternative to Nepal’s more famous and popular trail, offering a truly beautiful experience into the remote Himalayas. Walking around the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eight highest mountain, this trek shows the mix of rugged landscapes, authentic Tibetan-influenced culture and high mountain adventure.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Facts
Kathmandu
Strenuous
Full Board on Trek
Tea House or Lodge
Jeep / Bus
5106 meters
Spring and Autumn
1-10 Pax
Teahouse
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights
- Witness the beautiful view of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli and other peaks.
- Walk through the remote Himalayan villages like Sama Gaun, Samdo and Lho.
- Cross one of the most difficult passes of Nepal, Larke La Pass (5,160m).
- Start your trek with a drive to Seti Khola from Kathmandu.
- Get the insights of rich culture of the locals, of Manaslu Region.
- Scenic trails along the Budhi Gandaki River, through forests, high alpine meadows.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek Outline
Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters) transfer to hotel.
Day 02- Drive from kathmandu to Machha Khola (900 meters) 7hours drive.
Day 03 – Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat(1410 meters)7hours walk.
Day 04 – Trek from Jagat to Ngyak (1950 meters)6hours walk.
Day 05 – Trek from Ngyak to Ghap (2050 meters)7hours walk.
Day 06 – Trek from Ghap to Lho (3200 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 07 – Trek from Lho to Samagaon (3500 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 08 – Acclimatization and exploration day.
Day 09 – Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3875 meters) 5hours walk.
Day 10 – Trek from Samdo to Dharamasala (4460 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 11 – Trek from Dharamasala to Bhimthang (3590 meters) via the Larkya La pass (5106 meters) 8hours walk.
Day 12 – Trek from Bhimthang to Tilje village (2300 meters) 4hours walk and drive to Besisahar.
Day 13 – Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu 6hours drive.
Day 14 – Transfer to the international airport for your final departure.
Affordable Manaslu Circuit Trek Packages (2025–2026)
The cost of Manaslu Circuit trek depends upon the group size, duration and services included in the trek. The price for the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trek ranges from USD 1,500 to USD 1,700 per person for standard 14-days itinerary, starting from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and ending in Tilije village. The round trip highlights major places such as Jagat, Ngyak, Ghap, Dharamsala, Larkya La Pass and Bhimthang. The service typically includes domestic flights, permits, accommodation, meals, an experience guide, and porter services. A large group trek to Manaslu Circuit trek can be a budget-friendly option compared to smaller groups, as the per-person cost can be reduced. It also allows for a shared experience, along with support of a professional group leader and local team.
SERVICE INCLUSION
- Standard twin sharing accommodation in two/three star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included (2 nights).
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by car / van / bus.
- Stander meal Lunch , Dinner, and Breakfast and Tea house accommodation during the trek.
- A government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek, 1 porter between 2pax, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and a general first aid kit.
- Annapurna and Manaslu conservation area permit, and all necessary permits.
- Surface Transfer from Kathmandu and Besi sahar.
- We provide Down Jacket, duffel/kit bag and sleeping bag(which needs to be returned after the trek.
- All our government taxes.
What's not included?
- Lunch ,dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
- Personal trekking Equipment.
- Tips for trekking staff and driver.
- Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
Useful Info
Best Time of Year for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek is during the spring season from March to May and autumn season from September to November. These months offers trekkers with clear skies, stable and mild temperature and excellent mountain views. Trekkers can witness clear and breathtaking mountain views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli and several other peaks. The summer season is also suitable for trekkers who are fond of blooming flowers, lush vegetation, and vibrant green landscapes. Along the trails, spring season showcases with blooming rhododendron forests and lush landscapes whereas in autumn season showcases with dry, clear skies, with excellent visibility, spectacular Post-monsoon Mountain views, cool and comfortable temperature, which is ideal for trekking and photography. Monsoon season (June to August) is avoided due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and cloud-covered mountains. While winter season (December to February) brings extreme cold and snow, offering snow covered trials with risk of avalanches. For the best experience in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, plan your trek in spring or autumn when the weather is favorable, trails are dry, and views are at their finest.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance in KM and Elevation in Meters
The Manaslu CircuitTrek covers a distance of approximately 170 to 180 kilometers, starting from Machha Khola and making a round trip back to Tilije village via Jagat, Ngyak, Ghap, Dharamsala, Larkya La Pass and Bhimthang. Each day while ascending, trekkers walk between 10 to 15 km, depending on the terrain, and elevation gain. Trekkers ascend around 4,200 meters after starting from Machha Khola to the Larkya La Pass, and then descend gradually through the popular villages like Bhimthang, Tilijeand Besisahar. The starting point of this trek at Machha Khola sits at an elevation of 900 meters, while Larkya La Pass lies at 5,106 meters. Larkya La Pass is the highest point on this trek which offers you with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli and several other peaks.
Reliable and Safe Manaslu Trekking Experience
At Mountain Hawk, your safety is our top priority. We provide expertly guided Manaslu Circuit treks with a focus on health, care, and emergency preparedness. Trekkers need to follow the guide instruction properly for safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience that takes them to the famous pass in the Manaslu region, known as Larkya La Pass. Our experienced, licensed guides are trained properly with safety, ensuring you journey is both achievable and rewarding. From planned itinerary, quality gear advice, and responsive rescue coordination, we offer a level of service that gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, you can depend upon Mountain Hawk for a safe, attentive, and unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure.
Physical Preparation Guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek doesn’t require technical climbing skills but it does demand a good level of physical fitness. Many beginners have successfully completed the Manaslu Circuit trek with our company, so mountaineering experience is not much required. However, normal level of physical fitness is necessary. Trekkers will be walking 6 to 8 hours a day at high altitudes on average, often on rocky, uneven trails and sharp elevation gains. People who regularly engage in fitness activities such as swimming, cycling, or cardio exercises find it easier to accomplish this trek. Trekkers with experience in long-distance walking or high-altitude trekking will adapt more easily, but even beginners can succeed with the right preparation and a slow, steady pace. Proper acclimatization and mental preparedness are equally important to cross the high-altitude Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters Pass. If you are preparing for the Manaslu Circuit trek, mountaineering experience is not much essential, but a good level of physical fitness is important.
Transportation Options
The Manaslu Circuit trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. You will take a 7 hours’ drive to Machha Khola, which is the starting point of your trek. You also need to take a drive from Tilije village to Besisahar. While returning, you will take a drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. The option of driving or taking a domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu depends on your preference. Private Jeeps up to Machha Khola and from Besisahar to Kathmandu are also available for more flexible option, with additional costs being charged depending on the per person cost and group size.
Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, challenging and adventurous trekking route in the Manaslu region of Nepal. This trek offers the diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests, lush rhododendron forests to high alpine passes, including the famous Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered strenuous trek, as it involves high altitude and steep climbs, which require proper acclimatization. Crossing Larkya La Pass is challenging as it involves rocky trails and steep slopes. However, technical climbing skills are not required for this trek.
To prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, focus on improving your physical fitness, as it is essential for the trek, and also understand the challenges of high-altitude trekking, such as lower oxygen levels, risk of altitude sickness, cold temperatures, and reduced stamina.
You will need a layered clothing system, warm jackets, trekking pants and shirts, Trekking boots, several pairs of trekking socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, personal water bottles, etc. We recommend packing some essential items to ensure safety and comfort during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Yes, beginners can do the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekkers should have passion, dedication, and be physically fit to successfully complete the trek. Trekking with an experienced guide is also highly important for beginners.
Yes, licensed guides are compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as the area is restricted. It is compulsory to have a minimum of two people while doing the trek. However, the route involves high-altitude challenges, long daily hikes, and steep sections, especially around Larkya La Pass and Thorong La Pass. Therefore, we recommend hiring an experienced guide to ensure your safety, assist with navigation, and provide local insights. A porter can also reduce your physical load, making your trek more comfortable.
Along the trek, you will stay in basic teahouses and lodges that provide simple rooms and meals. At lower altitudes, these places are more comfortable and better managed. However, as you go higher toward the Larkya La Pass, the accommodation becomes more basic.
Yes, Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage are available at most major villages along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, such as Jagat, Ngyak, Samdo, Dharamasala, etc. Most teahouses charge their customers for Wi-Fi access. Trekkers should expect limited connectivity on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route, as the Wi-Fi and mobile network can be unreliable due to weather and local infrastructure.
Temperatures vary by season and altitude. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C and 15°C. At nighttime, temperatures can drop to -10°C, even during peak seasons. Winter treks may experience temperatures as low as -15°C or colder at nighttime.
Yes, teahouses offer charging facilities for a small fee (USD 2-5 per device). We recommend carrying a power bank or solar charger, as electricity may be limited at higher altitudes.
Credit cards are not widely accepted along the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Most of the teahouses and small shops on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route do not accept credit cards. It’s best to carry enough Nepali Rupees for the entire trek, especially for hot showers, Wi-Fi, hot water, and tips. Credit cards are accepted in major cities such as Kathmandu.
Larkya La Pass is safe for all the trekkers during peak seasons. There are steep slopes, ice patches and rocky trials while crossing the Larkya La Pass. However, snow, ice, and rockfall increase during off-seasons such as winter and monsoon. We recommend hiring an experienced guide or porter for safety and navigation.
You can expect traditional Nepali meals such as dal bhat, along with noodles, soup, eggs, and tea/coffee. In higher altitudes, food choices may be limited, and prices increase due to transportation challenges.
CANCELLATION
- 20% of the trip cost will be charged for the confirmed trip getting canceled.
- 50% of the trip cost will be charged if canceled between 30 to 10 days before the trip departure date.
- No refund if canceled within 10 days of the trip date or in the case of not showing.
- Regrettably, in the case where the trek/tour cannot be completed due to the customer’s own problem, sickness, or unfavorable weather, there will be no refund.
- If the trekking/tour is extended more than the given itinerary extra charge will be applied accordingly.
- If the agreed trip cannot be organized due to bad weather or any unforeseen events, a similar trip will be organized (in mutual understanding with the travelers).