Trekking in Nepal
16 Jan 2024
Trekking in Nepal remains one of the world’s most sought-after adventure experiences, blending breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural encounters....
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem among Nepal’s trekking routes — remote, rugged, and remarkably untouched. Offering breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), dramatic landscapes, and culturally rich Tibetan-influenced villages, this circuit gave us an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Over the course of 17 days, we journeyed from the low river valleys of Soti Khola to the snow-covered heights of Larkya La Pass, before descending into the lush forests of the Annapurna region.
Unlike the more commercialized treks to Everest or Annapurna, Manaslu is less crowded and more immersive. With the expert guidance of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, we navigated remote trails, experienced authentic mountain culture, and overcame physical and mental challenges along the way. From securing permits to arranging logistics and providing a knowledgeable guide and porter, the company made every step smooth and safe.
This guide shares our firsthand tips and stories — from what to pack and how to acclimatize, to where to find the best teahouse meals and the most photogenic viewpoints. Whether you're considering this trek or already planning your journey, our experience can help you prepare, stay safe, and get the most out of this incredible adventure.
Why you’ll love the Manaslu Circuit:
Nestled in the shadows of the eighth-highest mountain in the world, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most captivating and less-trodden trekking routes. Spanning around 177 kilometers through remote Himalayan villages, lush forests, deep gorges, and alpine terrain, this trek takes adventurers around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). The route is challenging, scenic, and culturally rich — making it ideal for trekkers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience away from the more commercialized trails.
When deciding on a trek in Nepal, we carefully considered the classic options — Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit. While both offer majestic scenery and iconic status, they’ve become heavily populated with trekkers, teahouses, and tourist infrastructure. In contrast, Manaslu offered remoteness, cultural immersion, and raw natural beauty — all supported by fewer crowds and well-managed conservation efforts. This sense of exclusivity and adventure drew us in.
Key Reasons We Chose the Manaslu Circuit:
With the expert guidance of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, we embarked on a journey that was not only adventurous but deeply transformative. Their experience and support helped us uncover the hidden gems of the Manaslu region with confidence.
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit requires a bit more planning than the more mainstream treks due to its restricted area status. But with proper preparation and the right trekking agency — like Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition — the process is smooth and well worth the effort.
To enter the Manaslu region, you’ll need three key permits:
These permits can only be obtained through a registered Nepali trekking agency, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide — solo trekking is not allowed. Our agency, Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, handled all permits and logistics efficiently, allowing us to focus on the adventure ahead.
Other key planning tips:
Taking the time to plan properly ensures a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable trek. Thanks to Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition’s local insight, we avoided common pitfalls and stayed well-prepared throughout the journey.
Packing smart is absolutely critical for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where you'll experience drastic changes in elevation, climate, and trail conditions — sometimes within the same day. From steamy river valleys at 700 meters to glacial winds above 5,000 meters, your gear needs to handle it all. We learned this the hard way, and in hindsight, there are a few items we couldn’t have survived without — and a few we wish we had brought along.
We packed using the "layering system" for clothing — base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells. A light down jacket was essential in higher altitudes like Samdo and Dharamsala, while moisture-wicking T-shirts and breathable trekking pants were ideal for lower altitudes like Soti Khola and Maccha Khola. Footwear-wise, we were grateful for broken-in, waterproof hiking boots and a few pairs of quality wool socks.
What We Packed (and recommend):
What We Wished We Had:
With the expert advice of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, we were able to rent a few items and buy affordable gear in Kathmandu before heading out. Their checklist ensured we were well-prepared without overpacking — a critical balance for a trek like this.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a gradual ascent into the heart of the Himalayas, looping around the towering Mount Manaslu while passing through terraced farmland, subtropical forests, Buddhist monasteries, and eventually the alpine landscapes of the high Himalayas. Guided by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, our route spanned 17 days, offering both physical challenge and cultural immersion.
The journey began with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, a small riverside village and the trek’s official start. From there, we followed the Budi Gandaki River, moving through Machha Khola, Jagat, and Deng, gradually acclimatizing and absorbing the Tibetan-influenced culture. Samagaon was a standout highlight — not just for its views of Manaslu, but also for the sacred Pungyen Gompa side trip.
Key Itinerary Highlights:
Daily Challenges and Wins:
Thanks to the careful planning by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, the pace of our itinerary was just right — not rushed, yet always rewarding. Their guides adjusted the route based on our energy levels and weather conditions, ensuring safety and comfort throughout.
One of the most memorable aspects of the Manaslu Circuit Trek was staying in traditional teahouses — local lodges run by Nepali families. These accommodations are basic but cozy, offering a warm bed, hot meals, and a chance to connect with the local culture and fellow trekkers. Thanks to Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, we always had clean and comfortable places to stay, even during the busier trekking season.
Teahouse rooms typically come with two single beds, thin mattresses, blankets, and pillows, though we highly recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag for colder nights. Bathrooms range from shared squat toilets to Western-style with flushing, depending on altitude and remoteness. The higher you go, the simpler the facilities become. Hot showers are usually available for a small fee — though we often skipped them at higher elevations due to the cold.
Food Options in Teahouses:
Safety & Tips:
Overall, the teahouse experience gave us a deep sense of community and culture while keeping us nourished and rested for the challenging days ahead.
No trek in the Himalayas comes without challenges, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek is no exception. While the scenery and culture are deeply rewarding, we had to navigate demanding terrain, unpredictable weather, and high altitudes. What made the difference was our preparedness and the steady guidance of our team at Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition.
Altitude was our biggest concern — especially above 3,500 meters, where the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) increases. We followed the “climb high, sleep low” principle and took acclimatization days in Samagaon and Samdo, which proved crucial. Our guides closely monitored us for AMS symptoms like headaches, nausea, or insomnia, and kept our pace slow and steady. Staying hydrated, eating well, and avoiding alcohol helped a lot. We also carried Diamox (acetazolamide), just in case.
The weather varied drastically. In the lower valleys, we trekked under sunny skies and warm temperatures, while higher up, snow, wind, and freezing cold were common — especially near Larkya La Pass. One afternoon, we had to take shelter due to sudden snowfall in Dharamsala. Having layered clothing and waterproof gear made a huge difference in comfort and safety.
Terrain Challenges:
But through it all, the expertise of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition helped us adapt, stay motivated, and complete the trek safely. Their well-timed breaks, route adjustments, and constant support turned each obstacle into an opportunity to grow.
While the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Manaslu Circuit Trek steal the spotlight, what truly enriched our journey were the people we met along the way. This region is home to ethnically Tibetan communities, primarily Gurung and Nubri people, who live in high-altitude villages nestled against the Himalayas. These locals offered not just warm hospitality, but also deep cultural insight that gave our trek a meaningful dimension beyond just physical achievement.
In villages like Jagat, Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo, we observed Buddhist traditions, spinning prayer wheels, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags fluttering across the landscape. The monasteries, especially Pungyen Gompa near Samagaon and the ancient monastery in Lho, were spiritual and architectural highlights. Visiting these peaceful places, surrounded by snowy peaks, felt like stepping back in time.
The people we encountered were kind, resilient, and welcoming. Despite living in tough conditions, they always greeted us with a smile and a “Namaste.” Our guides from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition acted as cultural bridges, helping us communicate, understand local customs, and respectfully participate in daily village life.
Cultural Highlights:
These cultural experiences made the trek unforgettable, reminding us that it’s not just about the mountains — it’s about the people who live among them.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. Proper preparation and mindful trekking can make all the difference between a challenging trek and an unforgettable experience. Here are some hard-earned tips from our journey, shared with the support and experience of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition.
First, fitness matters. While you don’t need to be an athlete, we recommend training at least 6–8 weeks before your trek. Focus on cardio, endurance, strength (especially for legs), and hiking with a loaded backpack. Stair climbing and long hikes on uneven terrain are especially useful for mimicking the trail conditions.
Hiring a guide and porter was one of the best decisions we made. Our guide not only ensured our safety but also gave us deeper insight into the culture, environment, and daily life along the trail. Our porter carried our heavier gear, allowing us to enjoy the trek more comfortably and sustainably. Working with Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition gave us reliable, licensed staff with ethical labor practices and deep knowledge of the region.
Success Tips for Trekkers:
Lastly, we encourage all trekkers to practice eco-conscious travel. Avoid plastic bottles, carry your waste out, and support local businesses along the route. The Manaslu region is still unspoiled — let’s all do our part to keep it that way.
Looking back, it’s hard to choose just a few favorite moments from the Manaslu Circuit — there were so many. From the early morning sun rising over the snowy peaks to the simple joy of sharing tea with villagers, each day brought new surprises and unforgettable memories. One of the most emotional moments was reaching the top of Larkya La Pass (5,160m) — after a pre-dawn start and a challenging ascent, the views of Cheo Himal, Himlung, and Annapurna II made every step worth it. The feeling of standing on that pass, surrounded by silence and snow, was indescribable.
Another highlight was our acclimatization hike to Pungyen Gompa, a hidden monastery perched on a ridge with Mt. Manaslu towering behind it. We arrived just as clouds were parting, revealing the full face of the mountain. It was quiet, meditative, and completely awe-inspiring. Thanks to Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, we had plenty of time to soak in these moments, without feeling rushed.
Best Photo Spots on the Circuit:
These snapshots only tell part of the story, but each one brings us right back to the peace and power of the Himalayas.
Without a doubt — yes, we’d do it again. The Manaslu Circuit Trek was not just a physical adventure, but an emotional and spiritual journey as well. It challenged us, changed us, and opened our eyes to a part of the world few people get to experience. Every blister, steep climb, and chilly night was worth the views, the culture, and the sense of accomplishment we felt at the end.
We learned the importance of patience, preparation, and perspective. The mountains teach humility — they don’t rush for anyone. And with the right support, like what we received from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, even the hardest days became manageable. Their planning, expert guides, and deep local knowledge made a big difference in our experience — we never felt unsafe or unsure, even in the most remote areas.
Advice for Future Trekkers:
The Manaslu Circuit is a hidden gem, still untouched by the crowds of Everest and Annapurna. If you're looking for authenticity, challenge, and breathtaking beauty, don’t think twice — just go. And when you do, let Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition take you there with care, knowledge, and heart.
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