-
5160m
-
Office
-
Bus
-
2-30
-
Kathmandu
-
B.L.D
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Trek is a pristine circuit, far less travelled, a remote wilderness, towering Himalayan peaks, and cultural depth. This 15-day trek takes one around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m)—the eighth-highest mountain in the world through deep gorges, alpine forests, Buddhist monasteries, & villages that have not been touched by the tourism of today. The trek offers adventure, remote wilderness & cultural depth for those who are looking for it, away from the busy trails of Annapurna & Everest. Trekking must be headed by a Nepal Government Licensed Trekking Guide with a special permit & ACAP permit also.
The itinerary is about 177 km long, and walking distances will range from 10 to 20 km per day, subject to terrain and acclimatization. The trek reaches the highest point at Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) and opens breathtaking views of Central Nepal’s highest peaks, including Himal Chuli (7,893 m), Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
On route, you will walk through diverse environments including the subtropical forests at lower altitudes (around 700 m) and alpine meadows above 3,500 m as well as the possibility of spotting snow leopards, Himalayan tahr and 200+ species of birds. The region contains around 9,000 residents in the 1,663 square-kilometre Manaslu Conservation Area and protects 2,000 plant species.
Trekking is most often done in the Fall (September – November) and Spring (March – May) with about 2,000 trekkers a year, significantly less than the 160,000 trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. Generally, the cost will be USD 700 – 1,100 for 13 – 18 days (with a majority for permits: Restricted Area Permit (75 – 100 USD for 7 days), MCAP (3,000 NPR), ACAP (3,000 NPR)). The trek will be between moderate and challenging, and you should be fit enough to walk 5 – 8 hours a day. A minimum of two trekkers are required as a group (not including your guide).
Travel insurance with high-altitude emergency coverage (up to 5,160 m) is necessary due to the sparse medical infrastructure, and without insurance, evacuations will range from $5,000–$10,000.
This itinerary strikes a balance between scenic walking, cultural experiences, acclimatization, and challenging high-altitude trekking.
Nepal’s Off-Beaten Restricted Trekking Trail
One of Nepal’s most stunning restricted trekking routes is the Manaslu Trek. It features the breathtaking Larkya La Pass (5106m) and the fascinating Tsum Valley, both of which are home to ancient mountain civilizations. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, you must obtain the following permits to experience its hidden culture and beauty.
To enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, a permit is required, which is issued by the Nepali government.
Permit for Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP): You will also require an ACAP permit because the Manaslu Circuit Trek concludes in the Annapurna region. The Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality Entrance Fee is available in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
You will also require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) because the Manaslu Circuit Trek ends in the Annapurna region. The Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality Entrance Fee is available in Pokhara or Kathmandu. The Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality has been charging entrance fees to travelers since last fall. You may get the permission in Jagat, and the entrance charge is NPR 1000 per person.
The Annapurna Area Conservation Project is known as ACAP, and the Manaslu Area Project is known as MCAP. Numerous villages, lakes, forests, landscapes, and side trails can be found. Thus, the most important thing is to have a guide with experience and good navigational skills. The trail is also located in a region that is prone to landslides. It calls for careful preparation and travel coordination.
Alternative Treks around the Manaslu Area
You can go in many different directions from this trail. The main task is for you to enjoy. You can, however, add one or two more days to your hiking trip. You can increase the satisfaction of this trek by doing this. The popular Annapurna Circuit Trek, the lower Manaslu scenic trek, the Manaslu base camp, the Tsum Valley Trek, and the Manaslu Circuit Trekking 12 Days were all combined into the Manaslu Circuit Trail.
The main side hikes you can do are to the Ganga Jamuna Waterfall, Barpak Village (the epicenter of the 2015 Nepal earthquake), and Tsum Valley. Our trekking package also includes the Tsum Valley. Please review all of the hiking routes in Nepal’s Manaslu region.
What time of year is best for trekking to the Manaslu Circuit?
Trekking to Manaslu Circuit and throughout the valley is typically most enjoyable in the fall and spring. During these seasons, the weather would be clear and ideal. The weather has been bright, greener, and less dusty from September to October. The weather would be warm until mid-October, and the fascinating scenarios are breathtaking.
There is no denying that spring is warmer than fall. It would be a better time to go hiking, climbing, and trekking. Many wildflowers, including lovely rhododendrons, golden flowers, and the anemone polyanthus, are present during this season. We strongly recommend March through May if you enjoy trekking and climbing Nepal’s well-known trekking peaks and adventures.
Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, superb visibility, and stable weather conditions.
Highlights
- Close-up views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and more.
- Authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture in Sama Gaun, Samdo, and Lho villages.
- A breathtaking crossing of the Larke La Pass (5,106m).
- Diverse eco-zones ranging from lush hills to arid highlands.
- Less crowded trails, ideal for solitude and unspoiled nature.
- Opportunity to explore the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr.
