Manaslu Circuit Trek - 18 DaysManaslu Circuit Trek - 18 Days

Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

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  • Duration15 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Maximum Altitude 5213m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 1-16
  • Accommodation Hotels in Kathmandu and Teahouse in Mountains
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Best Season March-May and September-December
Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. The peace and solitude in this trek are unlike any other destination in Nepal. The scenic views of Manaslu and other mountains including the Annapurna range are wonderful in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek lies above the foothills of the Gorkha District. You will encounter people of various ethnicities like Brahmins, and Chhetris in the lower regions. But as you trek to the high-altitude regions, you will meet Gurung people. The Gurungs of this region are adherents of Tibetan Buddhism.

You can see the influences of Tibetan Buddhism in various places along this trek. During your trek, you will get to various monasteries like Kargyu-Pemba Chholing Gompa, Labrang (Lama’s Place) Gompa, Pungyen Nunnery, etc. These monasteries let you explore the Buddhism of this region. These monasteries are also set beautifully amidst the mountains surrounding this region. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek by Mount Mania starts after a scenic drive through the hills surrounding Kathmandu Valley to Arughat and finally to Soti Khola. The trekking trails then take you along the gushing waters of the Budhi Gandaki River.

The trail passes through several farmlands, bamboo, rhododendron, oak, and pine forests as you trek to the highest point of this trek in Larkya La pass. This pass is set at an altitude of 5125 meters. The pass is one of the best vantage points to view several mountains like Pawar Peak (6,620m/21,720ft), Cheo Himal (6,820m/22,376ft), the Himlung pyramid (7,126m/23,380ft), Gyaji Kung (7,030m23,065ft), Kang Garu (6,981m/22,905ft) plus Annapurna II (7,937m/26,041ft). 

Are you Planning a Short Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

One of the best places during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the village of Samagaon. You will spend a day acclimatizing to this village. Exploration of this wonderful place includes the visit to the various Gompas as well as mountain viewing spots.

After crossing the Larkya La pass, you will descend into the dense forests of the Manaslu Conservation Area. You will cross some picturesque villages along the way like Samdo and Bimthang before finally getting to Dharapani. From Dharapani, you will take a bus ride to Kathmandu. You can also extend this trip to Tsum Valley

What makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek different?

The Manaslu circuit stands out among all the other treks accessible in the country because of the entire natural symphony, cultural values, and wild discoveries that provide the best opportunity to gather a once-in-a-lifetime experience of this immaculate trek. This remote trail circuits its way through Manaslu's tiny cliffs. The trails wind through a lush forest that provides spectacular photographic opportunities for subtropical, alpine, temperate deciduous, and moderate coniferous forest types.

The trek circuits the sweltering lowlands with their rice and millet terraces to the majestic Budi Gandaki gorges with their turquoise streams and stunning waterfalls. The Manaslu region's suspension bridges are unparalleled in length and height, and the yearly monsoon frequently washes out minor bridges, forcing trekkers to rely on semi-submerged rocks.

People here, unlike in the city, still wear traditional Nepalese attire and engage in agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism. The trek allows you to explore the region's quiet villages. The circuit trek across the Himalayan foothills is sure to transport you back in time. You can immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a variety of ethnic groups and communities in these distant settlements.

How is the 14 Days Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek designed?

The circuit trek offers spectacular mountain sceneries and a fascinating cultural experience. It begins in Sotikhola and continues through Arughat. Arughat is a small town between the Gorkha and Dhading districts of Nepal. The trail begins along the Budhi Gandaki River and winds its way around and up to the Nupri area. The Tibetan impact on customs and traditions becomes more pronounced as we progress upward. Many endangered wild creatures, such as the Snow Leopard and Musk Deer, can be found in this region. Pungyen Gumba (4,400m) is a significant landmark of the trek.

Slowly, you make your way north to the Larke La Pass, which is snowbound and close to the Tibetan border. The "Larke La Pass," which stands at 5,106 meters, is regarded as one of the most difficult routes traversing the Himalayas and is also the highest point on this trek. The altitude is a challenge here, but the breathtaking vistas of Manaslu make it virtually unnoticeable. On the descent, micro crampons are frequently utilized. The trek to the pass must begin at 3 a.m. to reach the highest point before the winds arrive, which generally arrive around mid-morning.

While Annapurna II rises ahead, a magnificent wall formed by Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, and Kang Guru throws a stream of glaciers. The view alone is reason enough to make the Manaslu Circuit Trekking a reality. Looking back, the way you trekked from the pass provides a clear perspective, but the most incredible vista occurs after you leave the pass and continue along a corridor to the west.

Major Attractions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Off-the-beaten trekking trail

The Manaslu region is an off-the-beaten-path excursion, opened not long ago for foreign visitors, which explains why there are fewer people here. Another reason there are fewer trekkers on this trekking path is that the government has designated it as a restricted territory for the preservation of the nature and culture of the region.

The trek is also remote, and it is not as well-equipped as the Annapurna base camp or Annapurna circuit trek. This is what makes the trekking route space unique from other trekking counterparts. It is still a teahouse trek, and the folks are fairly traditional, so everything tastes authentic. As a result, it is considered one of the most remote and off-the-beaten-path walking pathways.

The challenging Larke La Pass

The Larke La Pass is becoming increasingly popular among trekkers. The "Larke La pass," at a height of 5,160 meters, is the highest point of the Manaslu circuit trek and is considered one of the most grueling crossings traversing the Himalayas. The Manaslu circuit trekking allows you to have some of the most thrilling Himalayan experiences of your life. The path that leads to the top of the pass is difficult, and it may test your strength and passion several times. But the view you get to see and the feeling of accomplishment you get to feel once you've reached the top cannot be explained in words. You have to see that for yourself.

Low foot traffic for solitude lovers

Manaslu receives fewer tourists than other trekking trails in Nepal, such as the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna circuit trek, and poon hill trek. This is due to government restrictions and low popularity. Only opened to 400 foreign tourists in 1992, this trekking route is yet to gain the popularity it deserves, but its tranquil atmosphere is something to be grateful for because it helps you connect to the environment better.

Getting around a lot of people can feel a bit frustrating when all you want is a peaceful vacation! The circuit trek is perfect for trekkers who prefer to be calm and peacefully explore the untamed outdoors, enjoying their solitude. You will also get a lot of opportunities to interact with the locals, so your social battery is still on!

Best kind of local hospitality

We treat visitors or guests as gods in Nepal, which is why Nepalese people strive to provide the best hospitality to visitors. All Nepalese are extremely welcoming, and the people of the Manaslu region are just as nice, if not more. The folks on the trekking trails are quite pleasant and cheery. As soon as they see you, they greet you with a sweet smile on their faces. Some may even say "Tashi Delek," which means "joyful to meet you." All these qualities make trekking in Nepal an adventurous as well as humbling experience.

Paradise-like journey

Another reason people enjoy the Manaslu circuit trek is that many enjoy walking on snow in Nepal's High Himalayas and crossing glaciers while in Nepal. It feels like a piece of paradise, as they say. On this circuit trek, you will very certainly have to make the journey through moving glaciers and walk through the snow. The Larke La Pass is covered with snow for the majority of the year. Thus, circuit trekking in Manaslu is an excellent choice for your journey toward tranquillity.

Which mountains can be seen from Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu region is Nepal's most scenic trekking trail, with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense, luscious forests, pristine waterfalls, gushing rivers, small hilly and Himalayan settlements, and agricultural lands. The landscape is especially fascinating because of the mountains you pass through and the peaks you observe from the trail. The valley is steep and narrow until you reach Lho, and you can't see the mountain very well, but once you reach Samagaun, the valley opens up and gets calmer. When you're at Samagaun, you can glimpse the mountains in all their glory.

The Manaslu region houses numerous mountain peaks, and you'll be trekking through the bottom or base of those high mountain peaks. Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trekking are the two sections of the Manaslu Region trek. Mountains like Siring Himal (7,165 m), Himal Chuli (7,893 m), Buddha Himal (6692 m), Cheo Himal, Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), Manaslu (8,153 m), Samdo Peak, Manaslu North, Larke Peak, Himlung Himal, and many other summits can be witnessed during the 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Why is Manaslu Circuit Trek a cultural experience and not just natural?

In the Manaslu region, you will get a unique cultural experience because you will pass through villages with unique cultural identities. Buddhists and Hindus coexist here. You will learn about Hinduism at the trekking start point in lower altitudes; then, you will continue the trek to the upper regions, where you'll explore Buddhist culture as you progress higher.

The chorten at every village entry, as well as the numerous Mani walls, will astound you! You'll see that the locales are fairly traditional in their attire. During the circuit trek, you can witness large monasteries in the Manaslu region where monks study Buddhism. You can learn more about the culture there! Interacting with the local inhabitants who are descendent of Tibet and who honor their Tibetan Buddhist Traditions to this day can be eye-opening.

Among the several monasteries, you can visit during the adventurous trek to the Manaslu region, the largest of which is Mu Gompa, where you can appreciate the warm hospitality of the local people and also explore the cluster of hallowed caves where the great master Milarepa meditated.

Manaslu Restricted Permit Fee

Manaslu trek permit from September to November (Autumn) will cost USD 100 for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional day
Manaslu trek permit from December to August (Winter, Spring, and Summer) will cost USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 for each additional day

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Fee 

MCAP Entry Fee for SAARC:  NRs.1000 per person 
MCAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NRs. 3000 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fee (ACAP)

ACAP Entry Fee for SAARC: NRs. 1000 per person 
ACAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NRs. 3000 per person

Manaslu Circuit Trek Route

Beginning with a beautiful journey from Kathmandu to Arughat and then to Soti Khola, the Manaslu Trek begins.

The trip to the trekking area lasts the entire day. The journey officially starts on day two when we leave Soti Khola and go up to Machha Khola (890m/2,965ft). As you pass through lovely forests, rocky ridges, terraced farms, and suspension bridges, the ride will be enjoyable.

You will pass through various locations on your Manaslu Circuit trek, including Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Smangaun, Samdo, Darmasala Bhimtang, and Kathmandu. A variety of mountains, including Manaslu (8163m/26774ft), Annapurna I (8091m/26545ft), Annapurna South (7219m/23693ft), Gangapurna (7455m/24457ft), Machhapuchhre (6997m/22950ft), and Annapurna III (7555m/24350ft), will be seen throughout the entire walk.

You will cross suspension bridges, rhododendrons, pine, hemlock, and oak tree forests, as well as waterfalls, rivers, streams, mani walls, and many other natural features. The 14-day Manaslu circuit trek involves 10 days of trekking and an acclimatization day.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is commonly quoted as one of Nepal's most magnificent treks. The Manaslu circuit was first made accessible for hiking in 1991. The trek's highest point is the Larkya La pass (5106 m). This amazing trekking program is available from Nepal Trek 

Adventure at an affordable price. Continue reading to learn more about the Manaslu circuit trip and other important details.

Kathamdnu - Arughat- Soti Khola- Machha Khola- Jagat- Deng-Namrung- Samagaun- Samdo- Dharmasala- Bhimtang- Darapani-Kathmandu

Best Season For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Spring season in Nepal, which lasts from March to May, is best for both this climb and other treks throughout the country. During this time of year, Manaslu has temperatures between 4 and 18 degrees Celsius. Flora and vegetation are in bloom during this time of year. Along the route is a lovely rhododendron forest, and the sky is clear, allowing for striking mountain views. April in particular is thought to be the ideal month for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Temperature is neither too hot nor too chilly from September to November during the Autumn season. The temperature ranges from 8 to 20 degrees Celsius on average. In higher altitudes, the temperature can drop to -3 degrees Celsius at night.

The coldest time of year is from December to February when temperatures range from -10 to 15 degrees Celsius. At an elevation of more than 4,000m/13,123ft, snowfall requires particular precaution. The trek can be planned at the end of February because it is the end of the winter season and there are clear views of the Manaslu peak. Due to rain, the monsoon and summer seasons are muddy and hazardous. It is advisable to avoid it because landslides and floods could occur.

Accommodations And Food For The Manaslu Circuit Trek

The tea houses along the trail offer rather basic food and lodging. Travelers will love these tea houses. They offer traditional lodging and dining services. A room with twin beds, a pillow, a mattress, and a warm blanket will provide you with the greatest results.

Trekkers should reserve these dining and lodging options in advance to avoid any hassles. These teahouses typically have squat toilets that are outside of the teahouses. There is wifi, hot water, charging, and other equipment, but it costs extra to use it.

These tea rooms typically serve meals with "Dal Bhaat," which is a dish made up of rice, dal, lentils, veggies, pickles, and other ingredients. You will be served eggs, toast, and porridge for breakfast. These teahouses also serve various beverages such as tea, coffee, hot cocoa, and garlic soup.

The tea houses also offer other Western food cuisine. While hiking on this trip, you can also bring a lot of protein bars, granola bars, dry fruits, and other refreshments.

Electricity On The Manaslu Circuit Trek

While on the trek, there is access to electricity, it is not wholly reliant. Since most tea houses have solar panels, there may occasionally be an electrical shortage caused by insufficient sunlight. To save it for the night, several tea houses also turn off the electricity. As you climb, though, the owners of the tea houses typically charge you USD 1 or 2 per hour for charging your batteries.

It is recommended to carry one or two spare batteries with you at all times. If not, you can travel with portable solar panels and power banks. Another way to conserve battery life is to keep your phone in flight mode and a battery saver.

 

 

Highlights
  • Guided city tours in Kathmandu.
  • Scenic drive to Solti Khola from Kathmandu.
  • Explore the Budhi Gandaki River valley.
  • Experience the Nepalese and Tibetan mixture of culture.
  • Walking along the ancient trade route between Tibet and India
  • Himalayan Floras and Faunas
  • Walking between the borders of Nepal and Tibet.
  • Crossing Larke  Pass over 5,215 m.
Itinerary

You will begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, which is situated at an elevation of 730 meters. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, traditional villages, and winding roads. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the countryside and the surrounding hills.

  • Max. Altitude:730m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

On the second day, you'll start your trek from Soti Khola and head towards Machha Khola. The trek takes around 5-6 hours. You'll follow the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and walking through lush forests. Machha Khola, located at an altitude of 900 meters, is a small village known for its scenic beauty.

  • Max. Altitude:900m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Continuing the trek, you'll proceed from Machha Khola to Doban. The trek duration is approximately 5-6 hours. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes, including terraced fields and forested areas. Doban, situated at an altitude of 1070 meters, is a tranquil village along the Budhi Gandaki River.

  • Max. Altitude:1070m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

From Doban, you'll trek to Philim, located at an altitude of 1570 meters. The trek takes around 5-6 hours to complete. As you ascend, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding mountains and encounter small settlements along the way. Philim is a traditional Gurung village known for its cultural heritage.

  • Max. Altitude:1570m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Continuing your journey, you'll trek from Philim to Deng, situated at an altitude of 1860 meters. The trek duration is approximately 4-5 hours. The trail passes through charming villages and terraced fields, showcasing the rural lifestyle of the region. Deng is a small village with scenic surroundings and warm hospitality.

  • Max. Altitude:1860m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

From Deng, you'll trek to Ghap, located at an altitude of 2250 meters. The trek takes around 4-5 hours. The trail gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the mountains and passing through dense forests of pine and rhododendron. Ghap is a serene village with traditional houses and a peaceful ambiance.

  • Max. Altitude:2250m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Continuing the trek, you'll proceed from Ghap to Namrung, situated at an elevation of 2660 meters. The trek duration is approximately 4-5 hours. The trail meanders through beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas. Namrung is a culturally rich village with stunning views of the Manaslu range.

  • Max. Altitude:2660m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

From Namrung, you'll trek to Lho, located at an altitude of 3180 meters. The trek takes around 5-6 hours. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Lho is a scenic village with traditional stone houses and a monastery that showcases the rich Tibetan-influenced culture of the region.

  • Max. Altitude:3180m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Continuing your journey, you'll trek from Lho to Samagaun, situated at an elevation of 3530 meters. The trek duration is approximately 4-5 hours. The trail passes through alpine forests and charming villages, providing glimpses of the local lifestyle. Samagaun is a Tibetan-influenced village with awe-inspiring views of Manaslu and its neighboring peaks.

  • Max. Altitude:3530m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

This day is reserved for acclimatization at Samagaun. It is essential to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude before proceeding further. You can explore the village, interact with the locals, and enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery. Additionally, you may choose to take a side trip to Birendra Tal or Pungyen Gompa.

  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

From Samagaun, you'll trek to Samdo, situated at an altitude of 3875 meters. The trek takes approximately 3-4 hours. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and crosses a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. Samdo is a remote village located near the Tibetan border, known for its unique cultural heritage.

  • Max. Altitude:3875m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:3-4 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Continuing your journey, you'll trek from Samdo to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. Dharamsala is situated at an altitude of 4480 meters and serves as a resting point before crossing the challenging Larkya Pass. The trek duration is approximately 4-5 hours, and the trail offers stunning mountain views.

  • Max. Altitude:4480m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

This is a challenging day as you trek from Dharamsala, cross the high-altitude Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), and reach Bhimtang. The trek can take up to 7-9 hours. The Larkya La Pass offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. Bhimtang, situated at an altitude of 3720 meters, is a beautiful valley with panoramic mountain vistas.

  • Max. Altitude:5,106m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:7-9 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

From Bhimtang, you'll drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, which is at an elevation of 760 meters. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through scenic landscapes and traditional villages. From Besisahar, you can choose to drive back to either Kathmandu or Pokhara, marking the end of your memorable trekking adventure.

  • Max. Altitude:1960m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Additional Tips For Beginners

Before beginning a trek in a remote area of Nepal, it is best to be fully informed on the terrain and important considerations. Beginners should have a basic understanding of Nepalese culture, way of life, and trekking practices. The following are some suggestions for making the trek successful for new hikers:

  • Get in shape before the trek: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. Make sure to prepare yourself by doing regular cardio and strength training exercises in the weeks leading up to the trek.

  • Hire a guide: Hiring a guide is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Not only will they help you navigate the trail, but they will also provide valuable information about the local culture and history.

  • Acclimatize properly: Altitude sickness is a serious concern on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Make sure to acclimatize properly by taking your time on the trek and following a steady pace. Avoiding alcohol and staying well hydrated can also help.

  • Pack appropriately: Pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots for the trek. Make sure to also bring a first-aid kit and a personal water filter to ensure you have access to clean water along the trail.

  • Be respectful of local culture: The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through traditional villages where local customs and traditions are still very much alive. Be respectful of the local people by dressing modestly and being mindful of your actions.

  • Be prepared for rugged terrain: The trail can be challenging at times with steep climbs and descents, rocky terrain, and uneven paths. Make sure to take your time and be mindful of your footing.

  • Be flexible with your itinerary: Weather and trail conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary if necessary to ensure your safety.

  • Pack enough Cash: Cash is king in the remote area, so make sure to bring enough cash to cover expenses such as accommodation, food, and any other incidentals.

  • Get travel insurance: Make sure to purchase travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency evacuation in case of an emergency.

  • Respect the environment: The trek takes you through beautiful and fragile natural environment, make sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Manaslu Circuit Trek might be related to transportation. Before starting the trek, you usually need to travel from Kathmandu (the capital of Nepal) to the trek's starting point, which is typically in a town called Soti Khola or Arughat.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Arughat can be done by public buses or by hiring a private jeep. The public bus option is more affordable but may take longer and be less comfortable. On the other hand, a private jeep offers more flexibility in terms of departure time, comfort, and speed.

The cost of hiring a private jeep can differ based on factors like the number of passengers, the season, and your negotiation skills. In September 2021, it was commonly estimated at around $300 for a one-way trip from Kathmandu to Soti Khola or Arughat. If you prefer a comfortable and personalized package with your own private jeep, All Nepal Hiking can be your ideal choice.

Cost Details
Includes
  • All airport/hotel transfers
  • Farewell dinner
  • All accommodations and meals during the trek
  • Pickup and drop to start your trek and from the ending point to your Hotel In Kathmandu or your destination
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (9 trekkers:1 assistant guide), and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permits, TIMS)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes
Excludes
  • Meals not specific in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary.
  • Travel insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks and water, soft drinks, etc.
  • Hot showers during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory)
Departure Dates
Select a Departure Month
Trip Date PriceStatus 
Start DateStartsSep 26, 2023End DateEndsOct 10, 2023PriceUS$949StatusAvailable
FAQs
  • The total distance of the Manaslu Circuit trek is approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) in a circular route.

  • To reach the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek, Soti Khola, you can take a private vehicle or public bus from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar, and then hire a local jeep or ride a public bus to Soti Khola.

  • While photography is generally allowed, it is recommended to ask for permission before photographing local people, cultural sites, or monasteries. Respect local customs and guidelines regarding photography.

  • Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Ensure that your insurance policy covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation in case of any unforeseen circumstances or accidents.

  • While it is possible to rent trekking equipment in Kathmandu, it is advisable to bring your own personal gear such as trekking boots, backpacks, and clothing that suits the weather and terrain conditions. Renting equipment may be more suitable for specialized gear like sleeping bags or trekking poles.

  • Teahouses along the Manaslu Circuit trek offer a variety of food options, including Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and international cuisines. You can expect meals such as dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soups, momo (dumplings), chapati, and a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

  • Mobile network coverage is limited during the Manaslu Circuit trek. In some areas, you may find sporadic or weak signals. The most reliable network coverage is available in the lower sections of the trek, while it may be more challenging to find network coverage in the higher altitudes.

  • Yes, it is possible to customize the duration of the trek according to your preferences and requirements. However, it is important to consider acclimatization requirements and the availability of necessary permits.

  • Yes, there are alternative routes and side trips available during the Manaslu Circuit trek. Some popular side trips include a visit to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungen Gompa, and Tsum Valley. These side trips may require additional days and permits.

  • While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered moderately to strenuously challenging, and having some trekking experience will enhance your enjoyment and safety.

  • The Manaslu Circuit trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. It is a remote and challenging trek, offering breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, and an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.

  • To trek in the Manaslu region, you need the following permits and documents: a restricted area permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, and a valid passport with a visa.

  • Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Manaslu Circuit trek due to the high elevations. It is essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow a gradual ascent to minimize the risks. It is advisable to consult with a doctor, prepare a suitable itinerary, and be aware of the symptoms and precautions related to altitude sickness.

  • Yes, it is mandatory to trek with a registered guide and be accompanied by a licensed trekking agency in the Manaslu region. It is also recommended to hire a porter to carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek comfortably and enjoy the journey.

  • Yes, tea houses or lodges are available along the Manaslu Circuit trekking route. However, the infrastructure is less developed compared to popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek. Basic accommodation and meals are available in tea houses, but it is advisable to be prepared for simple facilities and bring essential supplies.

  • The Manaslu Circuit trek is considered a moderately to strenuously challenging trek. It involves long hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high mountain passes. A good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience is recommended.

  • The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions. However, it is important to note that the trek can be done in other seasons as well, but weather and trail conditions may vary.

  • Yes, a special permit is required to trek in the Manaslu region. The trek falls under a restricted area, and a restricted area permit is necessary. Additionally, you need to trek with a licensed trekking agency and be accompanied by a registered guide.

  • The Manaslu Circuit trek typically takes around 13-17 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and trekking pace. This duration includes both trekking days and acclimatization days.

Clients Reviews
  • green star

    Great time with All Nepal Hiking Team

    We booked our 18-day Manaslu & Annapurna Trek combined with this agency and everything was great. They were very helpful and we could suggest our own itinerary. The guide was great and we had a wonderful time!

    D
    David HabbSwitzerland,Jul 2023
  • green star

    Manaslu trek with All Nepal Hiking

    Great service, Jasmine was very helpful and gave us all the info we needed before our Manaslu circuit trek, and was easily contactable before we were in Nepal. Our guide Dinesh Lamichhane was amazing, he was super knowledgeable about all the local villages and gave us lots of info about the local culture. On top of that, he was super friendly and especially caring when my girlfriend had a little altitude sickness. We couldn't have asked for a better guide, he made the 14-day experience all the more better.

    V
    Viraj BhaktaUnited Kingdom,Jun 2023
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