KAILASA TREKS & EXPEDITIONS
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Kathmandu, Nepal · 5,160 m · 13 Days
THE ROUTE
About this journey
Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the most spectacular and rewarding treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. Surrounding the eighth highest peak of the world (8,163 m) Mount Manaslu, the trek is a great combination of stunning mountain views, high altitude adventure, Tibetan influence and remote wilderness.
The Manaslu region, as a whole, is a relatively untouched zone where trekkers can discover the real villages of the mountains, the old monasteries, thick forests, and the magnificent look of the high peaks. The trail meanders through deep gorges and traditional settlements next to the Budhi Gandaki River, then slowly climbs into the high Himalayan region.
One of the highlights on the trail is the crossing of the Larke Pass (5,160 m), which is one of Nepal’s most beautiful high mountain passes. Trekkers enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top towards Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and many snow-capped peaks.
The remote nature of the trek, its long trek days, and the hike over Larke Pass (5,160 m) make it a moderate to difficult trek. Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not required. Other villages like Sama Gaun and Samdo provide a glimpse into a way of life that has not changed significantly over centuries and is influenced by Buddhism and the rhythms of life at high altitudes.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is a haven for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts, boasting a wealth of biodiversity. The lower sections of the forest route are lush with rhododendron and bamboo forests where red pandas, black bears in the Himalayas and many species of birds can be seen. Snow leopard, blue sheep (bharal) and Himalayan tahr can be seen by the keen eye at higher altitudes and are set against the harsh backdrop of the towns. The whole circuit is situated inside a protected area, whose management is dedicated to the conservation of this extraordinary ecosystem.
The Manaslu Circuit, in comparison to the popular trekking routes in Nepal, is relatively unpopulated, providing a more authentic and wild trekking experience.
Route details are based on Kailasa’s published trip page. Terrain, weather and permits can change the plan.
DAY BY DAY
Itinerary
The schedule below follows the published route. The guide may adjust it for mountain conditions and team safety.
01Day 01 – Arrive in Kathmandu
02Day 02 – Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869 m)
03Day 03 – Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (1,340 m) — 6 to 7 hours
04Day 04 – Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,980 m) — 6 hours
05Day 05 – Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m) — 6 to 7 hours
06Day 06 – Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun (3,520 m) — 7 hours
07Day 07 – Rest and acclimatisation day at Sama Gaun
08Day 08 – Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,860 m) — 3 hours
09Day 09 – Trek from Samdo to Dharmasaala (4,460 m) — 3.5 hours
10Day 10 – Trek from Dharmasaala to Bimthang (3,750 m) via Larke Pass (5,160 m) — 7 to 8 hours
11Day 11 – Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (2,300 m) — 5 to 6 hours
12Day 12 – Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, then to Kathmandu
13Day 13 – Departure
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Inclusions & exclusions
These lists reflect the published trip page. Confirm the current quotation and what is supplied for your departure.
Included
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All ground transport
- All standard meals during the trek — breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
- Lodge and guesthouse accommodation during the trek
- Nepal Government licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Required local staff and porters (one porter per two guests, luggage below 25 kg)
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all staff
- Entry permit for Manaslu Conservation Area
- All land transport from Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Dharapani to Besisahar then Muglin
- Additional guide for groups of 7–15 persons
- Guide and porter salary and insurance
- Certificate of achievement upon return from the trek
Not included
- Meals during road journeys
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
- Any extra flight booking amount should be paid on actuals by the participant (over the amount mentioned in the Inclusions section)
- Expedition Permit Fee of USD 300 per Foreign National
- Mandatory Outdoor Insurance ( Sum Insured USD 15K)
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
Trip questions
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek difficult?
It is a moderate to difficult trek, recommended for those with some hiking experience who are physically fit.
Is a guide required for the Manaslu Trek?
Yes. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, trekking accompanied by a licensed guide is mandatory.
What is the highest point on the trek?
Larke Pass at 5,160 m is the highest point on the trek.
Which permits are required?
A Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is required, along with a restricted area permit.
Is the best time of year to make the Manaslu Circuit Trek December or January?
Both the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are best. Spring is the least popular season, in part because of the fogs, and Summer is also less popular due to the constant change in weather.The clearest skies with the most stable weather are in the fall, and that is the reason for its popularity. In spring, with warm weather, there is more likely to be pre-monsoon cloud cover, but the rhododendrons bloom. The winter months (December to February) and monsoon season (June to August) are not advisable because of the amount of snow that can fall at altitude and flooding of the trails during the monsoon season.
Is insurance a requirement for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, it is highly recommended and is essential to have comprehensive travel and rescue insurance. The hike climbs above 5,000 m and in the case of a medical emergency or serious cases of altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation could be needed. Make sure that your policy includes coverage for trekking at high altitudes and helicopter rescues in an emergency, as many travel policies won’t include that coverage.
What should I pack for the Manaslu Trek?
The following is a recommended Manaslu Circuit Trek packing list : Essentials include a good quality sleeping bag (-10°C or below), warm layering clothing, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, rugged trekking boots with ankle support, trekking poles, a headlamp (with spare batteries), sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit (altitude sickness medicine, including Diamox). You will be provided with a porter to carry most of your luggage (up to 25 kg total weight) so a smaller daypack will be required to carry essential items that will be needed on the trail every day.
Will there be any altitude sickness issues on this trek?
Altitude sickness is indeed possible on the Manaslu Circuit, especially above the altitude of 3,500 m and crossing the Larke Pass at 5,160 m. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Itinerary is planned in order to allow progressive ascent, including a dedicated acclimatisation day at Sama Gaun (3,520 m) to allow time to acclimatise. The golden rule: Don’t go up when you have symptoms. The best preventive measures are to stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol and get up gradually. It is also recommended that a doctor be consulted prior to travel.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Ask for the current trip plan.
Share your mountain experience and preferred dates. Kailasa can confirm the current itinerary, departure, price, equipment and eligibility.
Published base price on the source page: ₹ 95,000. Confirm the final quote and tax before booking.
Review the cancellation, privacy and booking terms before paying.