The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most celebrated and pristine trekking experiences, offering a perfect blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and natural beauty. Managed by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, this 17-day journey takes you through one of the least explored yet most rewarding regions in the Himalayas. Unlike the more commercialized treks of Everest or Annapurna, Manaslu remains an off-the-beaten-path adventure that is rich in biodiversity, ancient Buddhist heritage, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. The trek circles around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth highest peak, offering surreal panoramic views and a true sense of isolation and wilderness.
The trail begins at Soti Khola after a scenic drive from Kathmandu and meanders through lush subtropical forests, deep river gorges, suspension bridges, traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, and high alpine pastures. Along the way, trekkers witness ever-changing landscapes — from rice terraces and rhododendron forests to snowy ridgelines and glacier-fed rivers. Key highlights include crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106m), visiting the serene Samagaon, and exploring the peaceful Pungyen Gompa, nestled beneath the Manaslu Glacier. Every village along the way reflects a unique blend of Nepalese and Tibetan culture, offering a spiritual and cultural immersion rarely found elsewhere.
With a carefully crafted itinerary by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, trekkers not only enjoy the natural beauty but also receive professional guidance, safety, and logistical support throughout the journey. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an enriching experience filled with challenge, tranquility, and discovery.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
The best time for trekking the Manaslu Circuit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide the most favorable weather, clearer skies, and stunning mountain visibility, which is essential when crossing high passes like Larkya La. Spring brings warmer temperatures and vibrant rhododendron blooms across the lower and mid-hills, making the trek especially scenic. It’s also a time when the trails are alive with birdlife and butterflies, adding charm to your journey.
Autumn, however, is arguably the most popular season due to its stable weather and crisp air. The skies are usually crystal clear, offering unobstructed views of the Manaslu range and neighboring peaks. Additionally, the autumn season coincides with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, providing a unique cultural touch to your trek. While monsoon (June to August) can make trails slippery and prone to landslides, and winter (December to February) brings extreme cold and snow to higher elevations, trekking during those months is only recommended for experienced adventurers.
Booking your trek through Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition during the optimal seasons ensures not just safety and comfort, but also the opportunity to fully experience the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness of the Manaslu region. Our experienced guides monitor weather conditions and adapt routes accordingly, ensuring your journey is smooth, safe, and spectacular, no matter when you choose to go.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderately to highly challenging trek, best suited for those with a good level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail spans approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) and involves daily hikes of 6 to 8 hours on rugged and sometimes steep terrain. The most physically demanding part of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), a high mountain pass that requires stamina, acclimatization, and strong determination due to its steep ascent and unpredictable weather.
Another challenge lies in the altitude gain. Starting from around 700 meters at Soti Khola, trekkers gradually ascend to over 5,000 meters, increasing the risk of altitude sickness if proper acclimatization is not observed. The itinerary offered by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition includes multiple acclimatization days, especially in Samagaon and Samdo, to help trekkers adjust to the thinning air. Our guides are trained in altitude management and always carry emergency equipment such as oximeters and first aid kits.
Despite its challenges, the Manaslu Circuit is a rewarding trek for those who are physically and mentally prepared. The trail is less crowded than others, offering a sense of solitude and connection with nature. With proper gear, planning, and the expert support of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, trekkers can confidently complete this journey and gain an incredible sense of achievement along with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.
Food and Accommodation for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
Food and accommodation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek have improved significantly in recent years, thanks to the growing popularity of the route. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures that trekkers have access to the best available tea houses and lodges throughout the journey. While the facilities may be more basic than those on the Everest or Annapurna trails, they are clean, comfortable, and offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Accommodation typically consists of local tea houses—small family-run lodges that provide a bed (usually twin sharing), blankets, and sometimes attached bathrooms in lower regions. At higher altitudes, rooms become more basic, and shared toilets are common. Hot showers are available in some places for an extra fee. Despite the simplicity, the hospitality of the local people makes the experience memorable.
In terms of food, the trek offers a wide variety of traditional Nepali meals, such as the popular dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), as well as pasta, fried rice, momos, soup, pancakes, and Tibetan bread. Vegetarian options are plentiful, and Plan Nepal Trek ensures that meals are hygienically prepared and nutritionally adequate to sustain energy levels for long days of trekking. Trekkers are advised to drink plenty of fluids and stick to boiled or filtered water, which we provide regularly along the trail.
Our company coordinates meal plans and accommodations in advance to guarantee availability, particularly during peak seasons. Whether you’re dining on a hearty meal in Namrung or sipping tea with locals in Samagaon, your comfort and nutrition are well taken care of throughout the trek.
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trekking
Choosing the Manaslu Circuit Trek is choosing an authentic, enriching Himalayan adventure that blends nature, culture, and spiritual connection. Unlike more crowded routes such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu remains a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path trek. Its diverse landscape—from subtropical valleys to glacial terrain—offers a microcosm of Nepal’s ecological zones. The cultural richness of the region, with its Tibetan-influenced villages, Buddhist monasteries, and ancient mani walls, makes the trek a profound journey into the heart of Himalayan heritage.
Another compelling reason to choose this trek is the sheer dramatic beauty of Mt. Manaslu and surrounding peaks. The feeling of trekking in a remote wilderness, crossing one of the highest passes in Nepal, and witnessing life in isolated mountain villages is deeply rewarding. Whether you’re a photographer, nature enthusiast, or spiritual seeker, the Manaslu Circuit offers moments that resonate long after you return home.
With Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, your experience is elevated through professional planning, personalized service, and unwavering commitment to safety and sustainability. Our experienced guides, porters, and staff ensure that you are supported every step of the way. We handle permits, logistics, and acclimatization so you can focus entirely on your adventure. Choosing us means choosing a company with local knowledge, passion for trekking, and dedication to creating life-changing journeys in the Himalayas.
TIPS FOR SAVING ENERGY WHILE TRAVELING.
It's very essential to be in touch with friends' families and colleagues during the trip to provide frequent updates on travel. To do so, the supply of energy to charge the devices to do the web access is very much required, which is very much necessary to save energy.
Following are some tips to save energy:
Upon our arrival in TIA Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Plan Nepal Trek who will drop you off at the hotel. After checking in, we will visit our office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Plan Nepal Trek PNT. For dinner, you will be served excellent Nepalese cuisine, which will introduce you to the country’s authentic food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu
After breakfast, we start a guided tour of several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks, including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is one of the largest stupas in the world, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the evening, we will brief you on your dream trip, trekking.
Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola. During the drive, we enjoy views of the Nepalese countryside along with the mountain scenery. We will be driving on a paved road from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi, the district headquarters of Dhading (1050 m), but the drive from Dhanding Bensi to Arughat will continue. Upon reaching Arughat, a major town in the region, we drive further towards Sotikhola. The road is rough. Overnight in Soti Khola.
On the first day of the trek, starting now with the crossing of the bridge, we trek through the beautiful forests, then climb onto a ridge above huge rapids on the Budhi Gandaki. We then reach Khursane, upon which the rocky trail weaves its way up and down, past two tropical waterfalls on a steep, rocky trail clinging to the side of a cliff. It eventually makes its way down and past a few rice terraces, then up and around to the Gurung village of Lapubesi. We further climb behind a rocky outcrop, where the valley opens up and the Budhi Gandaki meanders among wide gravel bars. Dropping to the sandy river bed, we walk along rounded stones before climbing over a side ridge. We head down again to the river and cross another suspension bridge to reach Machha Khola village. Overnight in Machha Khola.
The narrow trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Tharo Khola, reaching Khorlabesi. After a few more ascends and descends, we come across a small hot spring in Tatopani. From the hot spring, we climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. At this juncture, we climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Dobhan. Upon crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola, we climb the stone stairs, then drop to the river and again climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Crossing the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki, we'll go across a ridge, trek along the river, and then climb towards the village of Jagat where we'll be staying Overnight.
We'll begin today’s trek by climbing over a rocky ridge to Salleri and then descending to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola. We continue walking upstream to a long suspension bridge in Philim, a large Gurung village. The trail turns north just above the lowest house in the village and stays on a fairly level trail as it crosses millet fields to reach Ekle Bhatti. The route now enters a steep, uninhabited gorge. At this point, we descend to the grassy land slopes, cross the Budhi-Gandaki, then trek along the west bank for a while, then cross to the east bank and then back again. As we continue through the trail, the valley widens, and we pass through bamboo forests to the Deng Khola. Upon crossing the Khola, we reach the tiny village of Deng. Overnight in Deng.
After a brief walk beyond Deng, we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to Rana at 1910m. From the bridge, we climb a bit to join a trail from Bhi, then head west up the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail also passes through forests and mani, where we turn towards a corner that contours to Ghap. Even though there is another route, we take the route through Prok village. Prok village has a viewpoint for a beautiful sight of the Siringi Himal. We further crossed the Budi Gandaki several times today and came across several gompas en route. The trail follows the river upstream through a dense forest. After crossing the river at an impressive spot where it thunders down a narrow gorge, the forest becomes less dense, and the trail is fine again. The pleasant walk continues, and after a last steep climb, we reach Namrung. Overnight in Namrung.
Namrung village is a good viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal, and from the village, one can also see Mt. Himal Chuli in the south. We climb steadily, pass through forests, and reach Lihi, a fine village with many chortens and barley terraces. The trail drops and crosses the side valley of Simnang Himal, with Ganesh Himal always close by. We further pass through the Sho, Lho, and Shyala villages before reaching Sama Village. We enjoy extraordinary views of Mt. Manaslu from Lho village and also explore the famous Ribung Gompa. In Shyala village, we will be surrounded by high mountains like Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli) to the left, Manaslu and large glaciers straight ahead, and other snow summits to the right. At the far end stands Ganesh Himal. Today’s journey ends in Samagaon, where we spend the night.
We spent the day at Samagaon both for rest and acclimatization. Today, we get acquainted with the rich Sherpa culture. We enjoy the sight of thousands of Mani-stones with Buddhist texts and pictures and the Sherpa women clad in traditional clothes and ornaments. On a little hill near the Sama village is an old gompa (Pungyen gompa), a monastery with great views of the glacier. It is named after Manaslu, Pungyen means bracelet, which is a good description of the two peaks. It was destroyed a year after the first unsuccessful Japanese attempt to climb Manaslu. The locals believed that the climb angered the gods, and when the Japanese came back a year later, they met with so much resistance that they had to give up their attempt. They were finally successful in 1959. Samagaon will be our endpoint of the trip for the day where we'll stay overnight.
Now, we descend to the Budhi Gandaki River, which has turned north, and follow it to a bridge over a side stream. The trail to the left leads to the Manaslu Base Camp. The Larkya la Trail passes several mani walls as the valley begins to widen. It is an easy trail on a shelf above the river, passing the juniper and birch forests of Kermo Kharka. We drop off the shelf, cross the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge, and climb steeply onto a promontory between two forks of the river. From a stone arch, we can view a large white kani. Finally, passing through the kani, we'll reach Samdo where we'll be staying overnight in Samdo.
This is another day set aside for proper acclimatization. There are two options for us today. The option that we highly recommend is a hike up the valley, directly at the back of the Samdo village. This hike will take us to one of the trade passes to Tibet for excellent views of Mt. Manaslu along with other Himalayan ranges including Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkye Peak, Cheo, and possibly Kang Guru behind the pass. En route to these viewpoints, we pass many seasonal herding settlements called doksas and sight some beautiful mountain birds like the Lophophorus (the national bird of Nepal), Lammergeyer, and Himalayan Griffin soaring high above us. Another option for today could be a trip to the Gya La (‘large pass’) to the north of Samdo, a more frequently used trading route to Tibet. But this is a rather longer hike (the whole day) and hence could be a little tiring. Overnight in Samdo.
We continue our walk down the edge, cross the wooden bridge over Budi Gandaki, and begin walking upward. Upon crossing two streams and witnessing the Larkya Glacier, we go around the valley of the Salka Khola and climb up again to the stone guest house (4450 m), which is not a lodge but a kind of shelter called Dharmshala, also known as Larke Phedi. The short walk today also leaves plenty of time for acclimatization and relaxing in the afternoon. overnight stay will be at Dharmashala.
After a short climb, we reach a valley on the north side of the Larkya Glaciers, from where we can enjoy great views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Finally, we walk across the moraines of the glacier, making a gradual ascent that becomes steeper only in the last section of the pass. In the pass, there are outstanding views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangguru, and the huge Annapurna II. It is a longer day than usual to Bimtang, but to walk into these low pastures with the evening mist coming in with Mt. Manaslu looming close by is an overwhelming experience. Overnight in Bimthang.
From a ridge at Bimthang, we can enjoy great views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal. We descend further and cross a high pasture (Sangure Kharka) followed by a bridge over Dudh Khola. We walk through a rhododendron forest and follow a trail through a narrow valley until we reach the highest cultivated land of the valley at Karche, 2785 meters. We pass across fields before making a steep climb over a ridge. The trail comes off the ridge in a big, sweeping arc to the river bank at 2580m. A short distance beyond is the village of Gho. Due to yesterday’s tiredness, we might take an overnight rest at Gho but better lodges are available at Tilije, so Himalayan Glacier recommends we stay at Tilije. Overnight in Tilije Village.
We climb over a small ridge and enjoy the stone-paved trail as it passes through a beautiful village. We then cross the bridge over Dudh Khola and climb up through a chorten-shaped arch, pass a mani wall, and reach the Thonje village. At the village, we go through a police checkpoint and continue to Dharapani. We have entered the Annapurna circuit section from Dharapani. Further down, we come across Karte village and after quite a bit of walking, we cross a bridge over Marshyangdi Khola. We also come across some mani walls before reaching the village of Tal, situated at the foot of a large waterfall.
The drive from Tal to Kathmandu via Besisahar offers one an opportunity to enjoy both hill and mountain landscapes. The drive is often along the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. We also drive by some beautiful villages with farming terraces on both sides of the road. In Kathmandu, we will be escorted to our hotel. The day in Kathmandu can either be spent in leisure or perhaps we catch up with some last-minute shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. We will exchange our experiences and pictures with each other.
Today is your last day in Nepal. After a good breakfast in the morning, as per your choice, You'll be heading towards the airport for the flight, and on the way, you'll be accompanied by one of our delegates, who'll also be taking your feedback regarding the trip. The trip to the airport will be 3 hours before the flight, as per the regulations.
When I landed and walked ahead, I was greeted beautifully and with the best hospitality from the staff. It was one of the best and most memorable experiences of all of my trips. Thanks to Mr. Dinanath Panta and the team for the coordination and for making my trip one of the best and most memorable moments of my life.
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On average, you will spend 6 to 8 hours per day trekking, depending on the terrain, altitude, and specific segment of the route. Some shorter days (like acclimatization hikes) may only take 3–4 hours, while tougher days like crossing Larkya La Pass can require 8–10 hours of walking. Our expert guides from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition always ensure the pacing suits your fitness level and acclimatization needs.
Although your trek cost covers most expenses, you should allocate around USD 15–25 per day for additional spending, such as snacks, hot showers, WiFi, battery charging, or souvenirs. Remote areas have limited facilities, and prices increase with elevation. Carrying cash (Nepali rupees) is essential as ATMs are not available along the route.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll need the following permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
These permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency like Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, and a minimum of two trekkers is required due to government regulations.
Drinking water is readily available throughout the trek. Most tea houses offer boiled or filtered water for a small fee. While bottled water is available, it’s expensive and environmentally discouraged. We recommend bringing a reusable bottle with purification tablets or filters. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition supports eco-friendly trekking practices to protect the pristine environment of Manaslu.
Tea houses along the Manaslu Circuit are basic but comfortable. Expect shared rooms, clean bedding, and simple menus (dal bhat, noodles, soups, etc.). In higher altitudes, facilities can be limited, but hospitality remains warm. We at Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensure your accommodations are pre-arranged for comfort and availability during peak seasons.
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent mountain views. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain and landslides, while winter (December to February) can make the Larkya La Pass difficult to cross due to snow.
No, the Manaslu region is a restricted area, and trekking without a licensed guide is prohibited. You must also be in a group of at least two trekkers (excluding the guide). Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition provides experienced, government-certified guides who not only enhance your safety but also enrich your journey with cultural and geographical insights.
Avoid trekking alone, littering, and disrespecting local customs. Refrain from consuming alcohol at high altitudes as it can exacerbate altitude sickness. Don’t rush the itinerary—proper acclimatization is key. Always follow the guidance of your trek leader from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
The Manaslu Circuit is considered a moderately to highly challenging trek due to its remote nature, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. However, with proper preparation, physical fitness, and the support of Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, even trekkers with moderate experience can successfully complete this rewarding journey.
You’ll find a mix of local Nepali meals and basic international dishes. Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables) is a staple. Tea houses also serve pasta, pancakes, soups, and fried rice. Vegetarian options are widely available. Meat is not recommended at higher altitudes due to poor preservation.
Mobile networks (mainly NCELL and NTC) are available in lower regions but become unreliable as you gain altitude. Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but the connection is often slow. Be prepared to be largely off-grid, especially after Namrung. Inform loved ones in advance and enjoy the digital detox!
While you don’t need to be an athlete, good cardiovascular endurance and stamina are important. Training with hikes, stair climbing, or cardio workouts for at least 4–6 weeks prior to the trek is recommended. With proper guidance from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, most reasonably fit individuals can complete the trek successfully.
