Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a pristine, remote trek that circles the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m). This restricted area trek offers ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, spectacular scenery, and high-altitude challenge without the heavy crowds of Everest or Annapurna.
Trip Highlights
- Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m) with panoramic views
- Trek in a restricted area, experiencing untouched Tibetan Buddhist culture
- Spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal, and Kang Guru
- Walk alongside the roaring Budhi Gandaki River canyon
- Explore ancient monasteries in Samagaon and Samdo villages
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Welcome. Prep for restricted permits and group briefing.
Drive Kathmandu to Soti Khola / Machha Khola (900m)
A bumpy but scenic 7-8 hour drive to the trek starting point in the Gorkha region.
Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)
Trek through forests, cross suspension bridges, and pass hot springs at Tatopani to enter the restricted zone checkpoint at Jagat.
Trek Jagat to Deng (1,800m)
Climb over rocky ridges, pass bamboo forests, and cross the river to Deng village.
Trek Deng to Namrung (2,630m)
Enter the Buddhist culture zone. Trek through forests and uphill past mani stones and prayer flags.
Trek Namrung to Lho (3,180m)
Enjoy first-class views of Mt. Manaslu. Explore Ribung Monastery in Lho.
Trek Lho to Samagaon (3,530m)
Walk through pine forests to Samagaon, the largest village in the region with traditional stone houses.
Acclimatization Day in Samagaon (Hike to Manaslu Base Camp)
Hike up to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) or Birendra Tal lake to prepare for Larkya La Pass.
Trek Samagaon to Samdo (3,860m)
Short trek up the valley towards the Tibetan border. Acclimatize and relax.
Trek Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m)
Ascend to the stone shelter at the foot of the pass. Rest early for tomorrow's crossing.
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) & Trek to Bimthang (3,720m)
A long, challenging, and rewarding day crossing the pass at sunrise, descending to Bimthang.
Trek Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860m)
Descend through dense rhododendron and pine forests, joining the Annapurna Circuit trail at Dharapani.
Drive Dharapani to Besisahar & Pokhara/Kathmandu
Jeep drive along the Marsyangdi River back to Besisahar, followed by a private van return to Kathmandu.
Departure from Kathmandu
International departure transfer. Farewell and dhanyabaad!
Cost Details
What's Included
- Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
- Internal flights (e.g., Lukla) or ground transportation as per itinerary
- Airport pickup and drop services in a private vehicle
- Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All necessary permits (TIMS Card, National Park or Conservation Area permits)
- An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide
- Local porters/crew to carry luggage or manage logistics
- First aid kit, including pulse oximeter carried by the guide
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes, office service charges, and paperwork
What's Excluded
- International airfare to/from Nepal and airport departure taxes
- Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
- Travel insurance that covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (mandatory)
- Personal expenses (alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, laundry, telephone, Wi-Fi)
- Electricity/Battery charging and hot shower fees in tea houses
- Personal trekking or climbing equipment (sleeping bag, boots, jacket)
- Tips and gratuities for trekking guide, climbing guide, porters, and driver
Gear & Packing List
Clothing & Layers
6 items- Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3 sets)
- Insulating fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Trekking trousers & thermal leggings
- Warm hat, sun hat & UV-rated sunglasses
- Waterproof gloves (liner + outer)
Footwear & Accessories
5 items- Broken-in waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes or lightweight sandals
- Merino wool trekking socks (3-4 pairs)
- Trekking poles (adjustable, recommended)
- Gaiters (for snow/mud sections)
Equipment & Essentials
6 items- 4-season sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
- 40-50L trekking backpack + rain cover
- Headlamp/torch with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle + purification tabs
- SPF 50+ sunscreen & lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit & medications
Most gear can be rented or purchased affordably in Kathmandu's Thamel district. Pack smart — your porter will carry a main duffel (up to 15kg), so keep daily essentials in your daypack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits are required for this trek?
All necessary trekking permits are included in your package cost. This typically includes the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the relevant National Park or Conservation Area entry permit. Our team handles the entire paperwork process for you in Kathmandu before departure.
How do I prevent altitude sickness (AMS)?
Our itinerary is carefully designed with proper acclimatization days built in. We recommend staying hydrated (3-4 liters/day), ascending gradually, and avoiding alcohol at altitude. Our guides carry pulse oximeters and first-aid kits to monitor your health daily. We can also advise on Diamox (Acetazolamide) consultation with your doctor before departure.
What level of fitness is required?
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. We suggest starting a training routine 2-3 months before the trek — focusing on cardio exercises like jogging, stair climbing, and hiking with a loaded backpack. The daily trekking hours typically range from 5-7 hours at a comfortable pace.
Are meals and drinking water provided?
Yes. Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included throughout the trek, served at teahouses or lodges. The food is hearty and nutritious — dal bhat (lentils and rice), pasta, soups, eggs, and fresh vegetables. Drinking water and purification options are always available.
What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Along the trail, you'll stay in locally-owned teahouses (mountain lodges). Rooms are twin-sharing with basic beds and blankets. Hot showers and charging facilities are available at most stops for a small fee. In Kathmandu, you'll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel with modern amenities.