Manaslu Circuit Trek

The 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek starting cost is USD 1680 per person that invludes all-includive cost. However you can get discounts if you decide to choose group trekking instead of just two people. Other factors like transportation, accommodation, meals, etc can impact the overall value of trekking cost as well.

Determining which trek is “harder” depends on individual factors, but generally, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered more challenging than the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek. While EBC reaches a higher altitude at Kala Patthar, the Manaslu Circuit involves longer distances, more rugged and remote terrain, and the challenging Larkya La Pass. Manaslu typically has more basic teahouse accommodations.

The worst month for the trek in the Manaslu region generally falls during the peak winter, or the monsoon season. July falls during the peak monsoon season with relentless rainfall, and adiitional possiblities of natural disasters. January falls during peak winter season, with harsh weather, and freezing temperature. Constant blizzards, and snowstorms also hinders trekking.

The trekkers looking to explore Manaslu Circuit trek must issue three permits which are Manaslu restricted area permit, Manaslu Conservation area permit, and Annapurna Conservation area permit. Since this destination is at restricted region, trekkers must show these permits at many checkpoints throughout the trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is undeniably challenging, though whether it’s the “hardest” is subjective and depends on individual experience. It presents significant difficulties due to its remote location, rugged terrain, high altitude, including the challenging Larkya La Pass at over 5,100 meters, and unpredictable weather. These factors, combined with long daily treks and basic teahouse accommodations, demand a high level of physical fitness and mental resilience.

The average trek duration of Manaslu Circuit Trek is from 10 to 12 days, however it can be extended to 18 days for proper itinerary, and to explore all the important places of the destination. The longer duration also enables proper acclimatization day for trekkers to minimize the possibility of altitude sickness.

Accommodation options on the Manaslu trek include clean huts, tea houses, guesthouses and upgraded hotels at some places. These hotels have room heaters and en-suite toilet and bathroom facilities. Every year, lodge owners are adding more amenities and trying to provide more comfort to their customers. When you book a trip with AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions, we will always book the best lodges and guesthouses available along the route throughout the trek. For more details, please visit our accommodation page.

Manaslu Circuit Trek has several popular landmarks that trekkers can reach and explore. Along the trek, they reach popular places like Sama Gaun, Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, Larkya La Pass, etc, which are the must-see landmarks for trekkers to experience.

The Manaslu trek is less crowded, attracting only a few thousand trekkers each year. It requires a special permit for groups of at least two hikers. Trekkers should not expect luxury accommodations or a wide variety of food options. The Manaslu Nepal trek is one of the untouched paths in the Himalayas and offers a deep experience of local culture and traditions.

Yes, you’ll need microspikes for the Manaslu trek, especially when crossing Larkya La Pass, where snow and ice are common. A solid pair of hiking boots with full ankle support and good grip is also important, along with trekking poles to help with balance and reduce strain on steep sections.

The Manaslu circuit trek is challenging due to its longer duration of trekking days and a maximum elevation of 5,160m/16,930ft at Larkya La Pass. The daily average walking hour is 6-7 hours. Unlike other famous trekking regions of Nepal, Manaslu is still considered off the beaten path, so a basic sense of adventure is required on this trek. Previous trekking experience is not required, but you must be fit and comfortable walking 6-7 hours daily carrying your day pack. There are some factors of trek that make Manaslu Circuit Trek hard, and they are:

High Altitude

Manaslu Circuit is one of the toughest high-altitude treks of Nepal. The trekkers have to reach an elevation of 5,106 m, which invites altitude sickness. Altitude sickness poses a significant risk for those trekking the Manaslu Circuit, particularly at high elevations like Larke La Pass (5,106 meters). Symptoms often start mild—headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and nausea—but can escalate to more severe issues like vomiting, confusion, and dizziness. The most severe form, high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), is life-threatening and can occur in trekkers with acute mountain sickness at high altitudes. Proper attention to symptoms is crucial to prevent serious consequences.

Long Distance and Duration

Another factor in the difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit trek is the long distance and duration. The average duration of this trek is about 16 days and can be extended up to 21 days. Each day, trekkers have to trek for six to seven hours. The long distance and duration of the trek can take a huge toll on the physicality of the trekkers. Hence, this is why trekkers must be physically fit and start preparing months before the trek.

Harsh weather conditions

Another difficulty for trekkers on a journey to Manaslu Circuit Trek is the dynamic weather conditions, especially at high altitudes. The weather constantly changes from sunshine to winds to snow. The temperature increases during the day but falls below freezing at night, making it tougher for trekkers to cover more distance.

Remoteness

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the remote trekking destinations in Nepal. Since this destination is restricted, few trekkers can reach it without a proper permit or verification. The trekking destination has limited infrastructure, such as transportation, hotels, hospitals, banks, etc., which makes trekkers’ daily lives difficult.

Rugged Terrains

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers trekkers a tough and varied landscape. You will face steep climbs and descents, rocky paths, and slippery areas, especially near high-altitude passes like Larkya La Pass. The trek moves through different environments, from subtropical forests to dry, high-altitude areas, which requires good physical fitness. You will walk alongside the Budhi Gandaki River and over glacial moraines, making it important to have the right trekking gear and be prepared for a good workout.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the toughest treks in Nepal, as it takes you to the high elevation of Larkya La Pass. The adventure towards Larkya La Pass is challenging but equally rewarding. Let’s be real—crossing Larkya La Pass is no walk in the park. It’s thrilling, sure, but it’s also tough. Most people would say it’s moderately challenging—not the hardest trek out there, but definitely not a breeze.

One of the biggest hurdles is the altitude. At 5,160 meters (16,930 feet), the air is thin, and every step can feel like a workout. Altitude sickness is a real risk, so taking it slow and letting your body adjust is key. Then there’s the weather. It can get brutally cold and windy near the pass, especially early in the morning or late in the season. Snow can blanket the trail, turning it into a slippery, tricky path.

The Trails are also long, steep, and demanding. Crossing the pass usually takes about 8 to 10 hours of hiking, which can be exhausting if you’re not used to long treks. Despite the challenges, so many people make it through—and you can too. With the right preparation, gear, and a solid dose of determination, crossing Larkya La Pass is absolutely doable. And when you do, it’s not just a physical accomplishment; it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.

The Manaslu region is designated a restricted area of Nepal. There are many restricted areas in Nepal, including Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Tsum Valley, and the Dolpo region. These regions are restricted to protect and safeguard their delicate natural environment and unique cultural heritage. Keeping places like Manaslu a restricted area helps the government regulate the tourist flow and conserve the local culture and traditions.

Another reason for restricting this trek is the conservation area. The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to endangered flora and fauna species. Over the years, ethnic groups like Tamangs and Gurungs have generally maintained their customs and traditions.

By controlling tourism inflow, the government and tourism board have prevented cultural dilution and provided an authentic view of local life and the people residing there. To experience a restricted region like Manaslu, trekkers must obtain a special restricted area permit and trek with an authorized trekking agency.

Understanding the weather and temperature of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can enhance your trekking experience and make your journey far safer. The ideal weather and temperature for trekking make the trek fun. In contrast, constantly facing dull or challenging weather and harsh temperatures can hinder your encouragement and make you mentally weak. Hence, this is also the reason trekkers must do research and find the ideal season for perfect weather and temperature for tough treks like the Manaslu circuit.

The ideal weather and temperature for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are the Spring and Autumn seasons. The spring season starts in March and ends in May, and the weather and views are crystal clear. The temperature is also quite favorable for trekking, with a high temperature of close to 20 degrees and a lower temperature of around -5 degrees.

Similarly, the Autumn season is also quite ideal for trekking in terms of weather and temperature. The average temperature trekkers will feel during Autumn is about 18 degrees during the day and around -10 at night at high altitudes.

Spring: March – Increasing clarity, some lingering winter chill, and blooming flowers start. Daytime Temperature 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F) – Nighttime Temperature -6°C to -12°C (21°F to 10°F)
April – Clear skies, stable weather, warmer days. Daytime Temperature 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F) – Nighttime Temperature -2°C to -8°C (28°F to 18°F)
May – Warmest spring month, with clear views and occasional pre-monsoon showers. 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) – Nighttime Temperature 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F)
Autumn: September – Post-monsoon clarity, gradually cooling temperatures. Daytime Temperature 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) – Nighttime Temperature 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F)
October: Excellent visibility, stable and dry conditions, comfortably cool. Daytime Temperature 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F) – Nighttime Temperature -2°C to -6°C (28°F to 21°F)
November: Clear skies and colder temperatures, especially at night. Daytime Temperature 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F) – Nighttime Temperature -5°C and -10°C (23°F and 14°F)

Manslu Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley Trek offers a unique experience at the base of Manaslu Mountain, taking you through the hidden Tsum Valley and remote villages. Located north of Gorkha, the route follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing colorful rhododendron forests and the hot springs in Tatopani. Entering the heart of Tsum Valley from Chhokangparo, you’ll discover scenic paths adorned with chortens and Mani walls. This beautiful area is nestled among Buddha Mountain, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Mountain, and Sringi Mountain. The Tsumba people regard Manaslu, meaning “spirit mountain,” as a spirit deity.

Trekking in this area became accessible to foreigners in 1992 and remains a controlled area. Locals believe Guru Rinpoche established settlements in Tsum Valley during the 8th century as refugees for Tibetans fleeing conflict and famine. Tsum is one of the best-preserved valleys, where polyandry is still practiced. This moderately strenuous trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,240 m at Rachen Gompa.

Ground transportation in the Manaslu Circuit Trek mostly involves public or tourist buses, cars, and shared or private jeeps. The trek’s starting point is Machha Khola, which you can reach from Kathmandu by public or tourist bus and private vehicles. The local public bus is a budget-friendly mode of transportation, costing about $5 per person. Similarly, you can also choose the tourist bus, which costs $10 to $12 per person. 

Another option for transportation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is private vehicles like cars or jeeps. During off-beaten treks like Manaslu, trekkers generally prefer traveling in jeeps rather than cars. You can also choose either the private or shared mode of jeep transportation based on your budget. Private jeep mode is more flexible but expensive, as it may cost about $300 to $500 per person, and on the other hand, the shared mode of jeep transport costs about $150 to $200 per person.

Manaslu Circuit trekking offers the chance to immerse in the unique culture and traditions of the people living in the region. The people trekkers will interact in the Manaslu region differently from other treks in Annapurna, such as the Annapurna circuit trek. This trek offers the rich and diverse cultural experience of the Nubri and Tsum people, who have strong ties to Tibetan Buddhism.

At the start of the trails, you’ll encounter primarily Chettri, Brahmin, and Magar people. As you go further, you’ll meet Indo-Aryans and Tibeto-Burmans in the upper regions. The Gurung people are predominant in the Manaslu region, while the Nubri and Tsum communities live along the Chikkur River. Both groups practice Buddhism, Animism, and the Bonpo faith, speaking Nepali with their native languages, Numbri and Tsum, and some also speak Sino-Tibetan languages.

Festivals in Nepal foster unity and preserve a rich culture. In the Manaslu region, celebrations like Loshar showcase traditional dances and attire. Lhosar, or “New Year,” is celebrated by the Tamang, Gurung, and Sherpa communities, with Tamang people marking Sonam Lhosar in January or February, gathering to exchange warm wishes. Another important festival in the Manaslu region is Tsum Shagya. The highlight of this festival is the nonviolent tradition of Tsum Valley. Tsum Valley has been a sacrificial place since 1920, emphasizing the power of non-violence and spirituality.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is very challenging for beginners. However, it is still possible for trekkers with no prior experience to complete the trek successfully. You should have moderate fitness, but no prior experience is needed. This trek can take 14 to 18 days, depending on your pace, the season, and the itinerary. It begins in Maccha Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley. The trail circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

The Manaslu trek requires physical fitness because it involves long walking days on rough terrain and high altitudes, especially at the Larkya La Pass, which is over 5,100 meters high. Beginners should train before the trek with cardiovascular and strength exercises to build stamina and endurance. They should also consider trekking with a trusted agency and experienced guides. Guides are extremely important as they offer support, provide safety, help in navigation, and can also issue permits. Additionally, the trek involves walking for 6-7 hours daily, adding to the challenge for beginners.

Foods

Throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek, tea houses serve food. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. However, it’s advised to avoid non-vegetarian food while trekking, as it may strain your metabolism and cause digestive issues at higher elevations. Still, we provide trekkers with food to choose from, anything from the menu.

Additionally, frozen food is often unhygienic due to long transport times. To stay healthy during hikes, stick to locally sourced vegetarian food. Generally, trekkers get to eat three meals every day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and trekkers have it before starting their trek. Some of the breakfast menus are Breakfast Sets, Pancakes, Tibetan Bread, Eggs, etc. The menus for lunch and dinner are somewhat similar, with Nepali Dal and Bhat being the main serving. Trekkers can also eat Western meals like Pizzas, Burgers, Dumplings, etc.

Accommodation

During your journey, we manage your accommodation from Kathmandu to Manaslu. You will stay in the highly reputable Kathmandu Hotel Vajra, which has many facilities and services in Kathmandu. After you leave Kathmandu and start climbing altitude, you will find simple hotels, lodges, and teahouses as your means of accommodation. The cost of accommodation depends on the hiking season and the altitude. During peak season, lodging at lower altitudes costs $3 to $5 USD. As you go higher, the cost rises to about $7 to $10 USD. In the off-season, lower elevation lodging costs $2 to $3 USD, while higher altitude accommodation costs about $5 to $7 USD.

The trek in the Manaslu region is one of the toughest because it is in Nepal’s remote and restricted area. The difficulty ranges from challenging to strenuous, which shows that trekkers must prepare and pack the necessary items to complete this trek successfully. So, let’s take a look at some of the items you can pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Clothing

• Sunglasses
• Buff/Neck Warmer/Neck Gaiter
• Knit Hat
• Balaclava
• Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
• Sports Bra
• Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt
• Lightweight Thermal Tops
• Softshell Jacket
• Down Jacket (Puffer Jacket)
• Waterproof Jacket
• Liner Gloves
• Medium weight gloves
• Fleece Pants
• Hiking Pants
• Light thermal trouser
• Hiking Socks
• Running shoes or trainers
• Gaiters (optional)
• Trekking Sandals
• Trekking Boots
• Microspikes

Trekking Equipment

• Sleeping Bag (-15 Degree Celsius)
• Head torch with extra batteries
• Daypack (35-40 liters) with raincover
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping bag liner
• Water Bottle
• Microspikes
• Duffel Bag, 90L
• Book/Diary/Games

Medicines and First Aids

• Oral Rehydration Sachets
• Painkillers
• High-calorie snacks (optional)
• Water purification tablets or water filters
• Antibiotics
• Sunscreen cream
• Plasters, Bandages, & Zinc Oxide Tape
• Hand sanitizer
• Altitude sickness drugs
• Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
• Prescriptions
• Lip Balm
• Antidiarrheals
• Foot Powder
• Insect repellent
• Cough Lozenges
• Skin blister repair kit
• Eye drops