Manaslu Circuit Trek trek in Nepal - Challenging trekking route

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Challenging

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. This remote trek offers pristine landscapes, authentic Tibetan culture, and fewer crowds compared to more popular routes. The highlight is crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106m, offering spectacular views of the Manaslu range.

14-16 days

Duration

177 km

Distance

5,106m

Max Altitude

$800-1500

Cost Range

Trek Overview

Essential Information

Difficulty:
Challenging
Duration:
14-16 days
Distance:
177 km
Max Altitude:
5,106m
Min Altitude:
700m
Cost Range:
$800-1500
Guides Required:
Yes
Solo Friendly:
No
Family Friendly:
No

Best Seasons

March-May
September-November

Required Permits

TIMS Card Permit required for this trek
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Permit required for this trek
Restricted Area Permit Permit required for this trek

Trek Highlights

Complete circumnavigation of Mount Manaslu (8,163m)
Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
Experience authentic Tibetan culture
Remote and less crowded trekking experience
Stunning views of the Manaslu range
Beautiful Budhi Gandaki Valley
Ancient monasteries and traditional villages

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

700m
Route: Kathmandu → Soti Khola
Duration: 8-9 hours drive
Drive to the trek starting point

Day 2

930m
Route: Soti Khola → Machha Khola
Duration: 6-7 hours
Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River

Day 3

1,410m
Route: Machha Khola → Jagat
Duration: 6-7 hours
Enter the Manaslu Conservation Area

Day 4

1,804m
Route: Jagat → Deng
Duration: 6-7 hours
Trek through beautiful valleys

Day 5

2,630m
Route: Deng → Namrung
Duration: 6-7 hours
Enter the restricted area

Day 6

3,530m
Route: Namrung → Sama Gaon
Duration: 6-7 hours
Reach the main village of the region

Day 7

3,530m
Route: Sama Gaon → Sama Gaon
Duration: Acclimatization day
Rest day with optional hikes

Day 8

3,860m
Route: Sama Gaon → Samdo
Duration: 4-5 hours
Trek to the last village before the pass

Day 9

4,460m
Route: Samdo → Dharamsala
Duration: 4-5 hours
Base camp for Larkya La Pass

Day 10

3,720m
Route: Dharamsala → Bimthang
Duration: 8-10 hours
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m)

Day 11

2,515m
Route: Bimthang → Gho
Duration: 5-6 hours
Descend through beautiful forests

Day 12

1,860m
Route: Gho → Dharapani
Duration: 5-6 hours
Join the Annapurna Circuit

Day 13

1,300m
Route: Dharapani → Jagat
Duration: 6-7 hours
Continue descent

Day 14

1,400m
Route: Jagat → Kathmandu
Duration: 8-9 hours drive
Return to Kathmandu

Essential Tips

This trek requires a guide and restricted area permit
Book permits well in advance as they are limited
The Larkya La Pass crossing requires good weather and early start
Carry enough cash as ATMs are not available
Be prepared for significant altitude gain and loss
Respect local customs and dress modestly
Consider hiring a porter for the challenging sections

Packing List

Warm sleeping bag (-10°C rating)
Trekking poles
Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal layers
Down jacket
Sunscreen and sunglasses
First aid kit
Water purification tablets

Emergency Contacts

Nepal Police: 100
Tourism Police: 1144
Manaslu Conservation Area Office: +977-1-470123
Weather Info

Related Treks

Everest Base Camp Trek
12-14 days • Moderate to Challenging
Annapurna Circuit Trek
15-18 days • Moderate to Challenging
Langtang Valley Trek
8-10 days • Moderate

Quick Facts

Fitness Level
Excellent physical fitness required, previous trekking experience necessary
Altitude Sickness Risk
High risk above 3,000m, proper acclimatization essential
Accommodation
Tea houses, Lodges, Guesthouses
Transportation
Bus to Soti Khola, Bus from Dharapani
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