# Manaslu Circuit Trek

> The Manaslu Circuit trek is a 15-day guided trek around Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, in a restricted area of west-central Nepal. Follow the deep Budhi Gandaki gorge from subtropical villages to the Tibetan Buddhist communities of the Nubri valley, spend an acclimatisation day in Samagaun (3,530 m) beneath Manaslu's glaciers, and cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m) into the Annapurna region.Often described as the Annapurna Circuit before the roads arrived, the Manaslu Circuit is quieter, wilder and more traditional. It is graded strenuous and is best from March–May and September–November. Restricted area permits require a licensed guide and at least two trekkers; we arrange the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, conservation area permits, guide, porters, private transport and teahouse lodges with meals.

## Trip facts
- **Destination:** Nepal
- **Duration:** 15 days
- **Difficulty:** Strenuous
- **Activity:** Trekking
- **Max altitude:** 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
- **Best season:** Mar–May, Sep–Nov
- **Group size:** 1–12 people
- **Accommodation:** Hotel in Kathmandu, teahouse lodges
- **Meals:** Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek
- **Price:** from US$1,590 per person
- **Web page:** https://himalayanhiking.com/manaslu-circuit-trek
- **Book:** https://himalayanhiking.com/booking?trip=manaslu-circuit-trek

## Overview
For trekkers who want the adventure of a classic Himalayan circuit without the crowds, the **Manaslu Circuit** is one of the best treks in Nepal. The route opened to foreign trekkers in 1991 and still sees only a fraction of the visitors of the Everest and Annapurna trails. It follows an ancient salt-trading route between Nepal and Tibet, through villages where life still revolves around barley fields, yak herds and Buddhist monasteries.

The landscapes change dramatically on the way: from rice terraces and waterfalls in the lower **Budhi Gandaki** valley, through pine forest, to the high, open valley of **Nubri** with its long mani walls and chortens, and finally the glaciers and ice walls around Manaslu and the high crossing of the **Larkya La**.

### Manaslu Circuit trek at a glance

Trip factDetailsDuration15 days from Kathmandu (10 days of trekking)Trek distanceAbout 170 kmHighest pointLarkya La pass, 5,106 m (16,752 ft)GradeStrenuousDaily walking6–7 hours; 8–10 hours on the pass dayStart and finishKathmandu, by road to Machha Khola and back from DharapaniAccommodationHotel in Kathmandu, teahouse lodges on the trekPermitsManaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and ACAPRulesMinimum 2 trekkers with a licensed guideBest timeMarch–May and September–November### Why trek the Manaslu Circuit?

- **Circle Manaslu (8,163 m)**, the eighth-highest mountain on Earth.
- **Cross the Larkya La (5,106 m)**, with views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II.
- **Tibetan Buddhist culture** in Lho, Samagaun and Samdo, close to the Tibetan border.
- **The Budhi Gandaki gorge**, with suspension bridges, waterfalls and cliffside trails.
- **Quiet trails** thanks to the restricted area permit system.
- **Side trips** to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Tal and Pungyen Gompa from Samagaun.

### The Manaslu Circuit route

A long drive from Kathmandu via Dhading Besi and Arughat reaches **Machha Khola** in the lower Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail follows the river north through **Jagat**, where permits are checked, and **Deng**, then turns west around the mountain into the Nubri region at **Namrung**. Villages such as **Lho** and **Samagaun** offer close views of Manaslu, and an acclimatisation day at Samagaun allows a hike towards Manaslu Base Camp or to Pungyen Gompa.

From **Samdo**, a village of Tibetan origin near the border, you climb to **Dharamsala** (Larkya Phedi) and cross the **Larkya La** before dawn the next day. The descent leads to the glacial meadows of **Bimthang** and down through forest to **Dharapani**, on the Annapurna Circuit, where a jeep takes you back towards Kathmandu.

### Manaslu permits and rules

Manaslu is a **restricted area**. You need the **Manaslu Restricted Area Permit**, the **Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)** and the **Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)** for the descent. Restricted area permits are issued only through a registered agency to groups of **at least two trekkers** with a **licensed guide**. All permits are included in this trip. If you are travelling alone, contact us and we will explain the options.

### How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit?

The Manaslu Circuit is graded **strenuous**. The days in the lower gorge include many ascents and descents on rough trails, and the pass day is long: an early start from Dharamsala at about 4,460 m, a climb over moraine to the Larkya La at 5,106 m, and a steep descent to Bimthang. Previous multi-day trekking experience and good fitness are recommended.

### Acclimatisation

The route gains height gradually, which helps acclimatisation, and this itinerary includes a rest day at **Samagaun (3,530 m)** and a night at Samdo before the high camp at Dharamsala. Your guide monitors each trekker daily, carries a first-aid kit and pulse oximeter, and will adjust the plan if anyone shows signs of altitude sickness.

### Best time for the Manaslu Circuit

**Autumn (September–November)** is the best season, with clear skies and a snow-free pass. **Spring (March–May)** is also excellent, with rhododendrons in the lower forests; early March can bring snow on the Larkya La. In winter, heavy snow often closes the pass, and during the monsoon the lower valley is affected by rain and landslides.

### Accommodation and food

Teahouse lodges now operate along the whole circuit. They are simpler than on the Everest and Annapurna trails, with basic twin rooms and shared bathrooms in the higher villages. At Dharamsala, accommodation is very basic. Meals are simple and filling: dal bhat, noodles, Tibetan bread, potatoes and soups. There are no ATMs on the circuit, so bring enough cash from Kathmandu.

### Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna Circuit?

Both circle a great massif and cross a pass above 5,000 m. The **Manaslu Circuit** is quieter, more remote and less affected by roads, with stronger Tibetan culture. The **Annapurna Circuit** has more facilities, more flexibility and a higher pass. Some trekkers combine them by continuing from Dharapani onto the Annapurna Circuit.

### Why book the Manaslu Circuit with Himalayan Hiking?

- **All restricted area and conservation permits** arranged for you.
- **Acclimatisation day in Samagaun** and a gradual approach to the pass.
- **Private jeep transport** adapted to current road conditions.
- **Experienced, licensed guides** who know the Larkya La.

## Highlights
- Cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m) with views of Himlung and Annapurna II
- Circle Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world
- Tibetan Buddhist villages of Lho, Samagaun and Samdo
- Acclimatisation hike to Pungyen Gompa or towards Manaslu Base Camp
- The narrow Budhi Gandaki gorge and its long suspension bridges
- Quiet trails in a restricted trekking area

## Day-by-day itinerary
### Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Someone from our office will be waiting at arrivals to take you to your hotel. We finalise your restricted area permits and hold a trek briefing.
_Altitude: 1,400 m · Overnight: Hotel_

### Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (930 m)
A long, scenic drive via Dhading Besi and Arughat into the Budhi Gandaki valley to Machha Khola (about 8–9 hours, depending on road conditions).
_Altitude: 930 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge_

### Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m)
Follow the river past Tatopani's hot spring and cross suspension bridges to Jagat, a paved stone village and the restricted area checkpoint.
_Walking: 6–7 hours · Altitude: 1,340 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 22 km_

### Day 4: Trek to Deng (1,860 m)
Walk through the narrowing gorge past Philim and Ekle Bhatti, with waterfalls and bamboo forest, to Deng.
_Walking: 6–7 hours · Altitude: 1,860 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 20 km_

### Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m)
Cross the river several times and climb through forest to Namrung, the gateway to the Nubri region, with views of Siringi Himal.
_Walking: 6–7 hours · Altitude: 2,630 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 19 km_

### Day 6: Trek to Lho (3,180 m)
Pass through Lihi and Sho, with mani walls and chortens, to Lho and its monastery, with a classic view of Manaslu.
_Walking: 4–5 hours · Altitude: 3,180 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 11 km_

### Day 7: Trek to Samagaun (3,530 m)
Walk via Shyala, with views of Himal Chuli and Manaslu, to Samagaun, the largest village of the upper valley.
_Walking: 3–4 hours · Altitude: 3,530 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 8 km_

### Day 8: Acclimatisation day in Samagaun
Hike to Pungyen Gompa or towards Manaslu Base Camp, or visit the turquoise Birendra Tal, then return to Samagaun to rest.
_Walking: 4–6 hours · Altitude: 4,000 m+ · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge_

### Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3,860 m)
A gentle walk up the valley past yak pastures to Samdo, a village of Tibetan origin close to the border.
_Walking: 3–4 hours · Altitude: 3,860 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 8 km_

### Day 10: Trek to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)
Climb steadily past the Larkya Bazaar ruins to Dharamsala, the high camp below the pass. Rest and prepare for an early start.
_Walking: 3–4 hours · Altitude: 4,460 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Basic lodge · Distance: 12 km_

### Day 11: Cross Larkya La (5,106 m), descend to Bimthang (3,720 m)
Start before dawn, climb over moraine to the prayer-flag-covered Larkya La with views of Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II, then descend steeply to Bimthang.
_Walking: 8–10 hours · Altitude: 5,106 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 24 km_

### Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1,860 m)
Descend through rhododendron and pine forest via Tilije to Dharapani on the Annapurna Circuit.
_Walking: 7–8 hours · Altitude: 3,720 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner · Overnight: Teahouse lodge · Distance: 22 km_

### Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Drive by jeep to Besisahar and on to Kathmandu (about 9–10 hours).
_Altitude: 1,860 m · Meals: Breakfast · Overnight: Hotel_

### Day 14: Reserve day in Kathmandu
A buffer day in case of delays, or time for sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley.
_Altitude: 1,400 m · Meals: Breakfast · Overnight: Hotel_

### Day 15: Final departure
We drive you to the airport in time for your flight home.
_Altitude: 1,400 m · Meals: Breakfast_

## What is included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in private vehicles
- 3 nights in a hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Jeep transport Kathmandu – Machha Khola and Dharapani – Kathmandu
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and ACAP
- Teahouse lodge accommodation during the trek (11 nights)
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
- Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide trained in first aid
- Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers) with their wages, food, lodging and insurance
- Sleeping bag and down jacket on loan if needed
- First-aid kit and pulse oximeter carried by the guide
- All government and local taxes

## Not included
- International flights to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance covering trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation (compulsory)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Drinks, snacks, hot showers, battery charging and Wi-Fi on the trek
- Extra nights caused by early return, flight delays, landslides or cancellations
- Helicopter evacuation or charter
- Personal equipment and expenses
- Tips for your guide and porters

## Useful information
### Fitness and preparation

You should be comfortable walking 6–7 hours a day for many days on rough mountain trails, with one very long pass day. Previous multi-day trekking experience is recommended. Train for at least three months.

### Altitude sickness

This trek reaches 5,106 m on the Larkya La. Symptoms of acute mountain sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and poor sleep. Walk slowly, drink 3–4 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about any symptoms. If symptoms get worse, descending is the most effective treatment. Talk to your doctor before the trip about whether altitude medication is right for you.

### Weather and temperatures

The lower gorge is warm and humid; nights above Samagaun are cold, and the pass can be very cold and windy before dawn. Snow can fall on the pass in early spring and late autumn.

### Permits

The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and ACAP are included. Restricted area permits require at least two trekkers and a licensed guide; bring your passport and several passport photos.

### Money, charging and Wi-Fi

Take out cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before you set off: there are very few ATMs on the trail, and the ones that exist often don't work. Lodges charge a little for hot showers, charging and Wi-Fi, so a power bank saves money.

### Drinking water

Bring a refillable bottle and either purification tablets or a filter. Lodges also sell boiled water, which is cheaper and better for the trail than bottled water.

### Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover trekking to 5,500 m, medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation. Please send us your policy details before departure.

### Visa

Most visitors get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport, or apply online before they fly. Your passport needs six months' validity, and bring a few passport photos for trekking permits.

## Packing list
### Clothing

- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Fleece jacket or mid-layer
- Warm down jacket (can be borrowed from us)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers and shirts
- Warm hat, sun hat and buff
- Liner gloves and insulated gloves
- Trekking socks

### Footwear

- Broken-in waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes or sandals for the lodges

### Equipment

- Sleeping bag rated to about −15°C (can be borrowed from us)
- Daypack of 25–35 litres with rain cover
- Trekking poles
- Head torch with spare batteries
- Water bottles and purification tablets
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Power bank and charging cables
- Microspikes for snow or ice on the pass
- Extra cash for the whole trek (no ATMs)

### Personal items

- High-factor sunscreen and lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit and medication
- Toiletries, quick-dry towel and wet wipes
- Snacks such as energy bars and nuts
- Passport, insurance details and copies

## Frequently asked questions
### How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
This itinerary takes **15 days** from Kathmandu, with 10 days of trekking, an acclimatisation day in Samagaun and a reserve day in Kathmandu.

### Do I need a special permit for the Manaslu Circuit?
Yes. You need the **Manaslu Restricted Area Permit**, **MCAP** and **ACAP**, all included. Restricted area permits require at least two trekkers and a licensed guide.

### Can I do the Manaslu Circuit solo?
Restricted area permits are issued only for groups of at least two trekkers with a licensed guide. If you are travelling alone, contact us and we will explain the options.

### How hard is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
It is **strenuous**, with long days on rough trails and a pass day of 8–10 hours over the Larkya La (5,106 m). Previous trekking experience is recommended.

### What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit?
**September–November** and **March–May**. Heavy snow often closes the pass in winter, and the monsoon brings landslides to the lower valley.

### Are there teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit?
Yes, teahouses operate along the whole route, although they are simpler than on the Everest and Annapurna trails. Dharamsala, below the pass, is very basic.

### Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna Circuit?
Manaslu is quieter, more remote and more traditional; Annapurna has more facilities and a higher pass. Both are superb, and they can be combined.

### Is there phone signal and Wi-Fi on the trek?
Mobile signal and Wi-Fi are available in some villages but are limited and unreliable, especially in the upper valley. Your guide stays in touch with our office.

### Are there ATMs on the Manaslu Circuit?
No. Bring enough Nepali rupees from Kathmandu for drinks, snacks, charging, hot showers and tips for the whole trek.

### Can I add the Tsum Valley?
Yes. The Tsum Valley, a sacred Buddhist valley near the Tibetan border, can be added for about 6–7 extra days. It needs a separate restricted area permit.

### What if the Larkya La is closed?
If snow makes the pass unsafe, the group waits at Samdo or Dharamsala or returns the way it came. Safety always comes first, and the reserve day helps absorb delays.

### How much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost?
You pay per person, with a discount for groups (see the price box). It includes all permits, jeep transport, hotel, lodges, meals on the trek, a guide and porters.