OVERVIEW OF TRIP
The major highlight of the trekking is the opportunity to explore Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. If you are willing to see the 8th tallest peak ( Manaslu ) at a very close distance along with many other peaks, then this route is for you. During this trip, we’ll reach the upper part of Gorkha District. In 1991 AD, Manaslu Region was opened for trekking. The sight of Manaslu Peak is awe-inspiring and leaves you humbled by the sheer power and beauty of nature.
Trip Name : | Manaslu Circuit Trek ( Around Manaslu ) |
Maximum Altitude : | 5,125meter ( 16, 814 feet ) |
Trip Duration : | 12 Days |
Group Size : | 1 to 10 person |
Best Time : | Autumn and Fall |
Difficulty Level : | Adventure |
Start / End Point : | Kathmandu |
Activity : | 6 to 7 hrs walking(Approximate) |
Nature of Trek : | Teahouses/Lodge |
Why do Manaslu Circuit instead of others trekking?
Among the list of trekking in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit is one of the best. It is less demanded than trekking to Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp Trekking. Throughout the journey, we can see stunning views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna II, Shringi Himal, and many more mountains which are still unnamed. Around Manaslu and Tsum Valley is a combination of 2 restricted areas for trekking which you can do within 20 DAYS. Doing these 2 trips allows seeing Mt Manaslu ranges as well as the hidden town Tsum Valley. We can start this trip from Machhakhola and Ends in Dharapani which will be 12 days trip from and to Kathmandu.
Culturally, this route is equally fascinating. As you pass through remote villages, you have the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life. The unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures in the region is evident in the traditional villages, monasteries, and prayer flags that dot the landscape. It is a humbling experience to witness the devotion and spirituality of the people living in this remote mountainous region.
The reason behind Getting Popular
Manaslu Trekking is greeting popular day by day. The best part, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is less crowded nature compared to other popular treks in Nepal. The restricted area status requires a special permit, resulting in fewer trekkers on the trail. This adds to the sense of adventure and tranquility, allowing you to truly connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The trek itself is challenging but rewarding because we have to cross Larke Pass ( 5,125m ). Nonetheless, the steep ascents and descents, along with high-altitude passes, test your physical endurance and mental strength. However, the effort is well worth it when you reach Syala as well as Larke Pass. Each step is rewarded with breathtaking views that make you appreciate the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Overall, the Manaslu Trekking is a must-do for all adventure enthusiasts seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas.
Which Trekking Agency is best?
Regarding the BEST TREKKING COMPANY for the Manaslu Circuit Trip, it varies from person to person. There are more than 2,000 registered trekking agencies in Nepal. Most of them are trusted and have great reputations. Therefore, there is not only one best tour operator. You can select one from among them.
In terms of logistics, it is advisable to opt for a guided trek to ensure a hassle-free and safe journey. If you go with a local trekking company, they will take care of all the arrangements, including permits, accommodations, and meals, allowing you to focus on the trek itself.

COST FOR MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK ( Cheapest Cost )
According to BASE CAMP HIKE’S PLAN for the MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK, it costs 755 USD per person (based on 2 people). As this package includes everything you need to explore Manaslu, we can say that our package price is very reasonable (cheapest package).
PRICE FOR GUIDED MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK ( Cheapest Price )
No. of Tourist | Price Per Person |
---|---|
1 person ( Solo Trekker ) | USD 1067 |
2 person | USD 755 |
3 person | USD 751 |
4 person | USD 750 |
5 person | USD 738 |
6 person | USD 705 |
7 person | USD 707 |
8 person | USD 698 |
9 person | USD 690 |
10 person | USD 685 |
Best Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trekking
You might be wondering why some companies have 18-day itineraries, while others have 12-day itineraries, and so on. This depends on where the trip ends and where it starts.
Until a few years ago, the Manaslu trek itinerary was typically around 18 days. This was because there were no roads beyond Arughat and from Dharapani to Besisahar at the time. Therefore, the starting point was Arughat and the end point was Besisahar.
Today, we can do the trek in 12 days (starting from Machha Khola and ending in Dharapani). This means that you can complete the Manaslu Circuit in two weeks.
BASE CAMP HIKE offers a 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is the best short version of the trek. However, if you would like a longer or shorter trek, please contact us. We will create a custom itinerary that suits your needs.
SHORT ITINERARY For MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK – 12 DAYS
Day | Itinerary | Altitude | Hour |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Drive to Machhakhola from Kathmandu | 2,920ft/900m | 9 to 10 hr |
Day 2 | Machhakhola to Jagat | 4,495ft/1,370m | 6 to 7 hr |
Day 3 | Jagat to Deng | 5,919ft/1,804 m | 7 to 8 hr |
Day 4 | Deng to Namrung | 8,629ft/2,630 m | 6 to 7 hr |
Day 5 | Namrung to Shyala | 11,483ft/3,500m | 4 to 5 hr |
Day 6 | Shyala to Samagaun | 11,581ft/3,530m | 3 to 4 hr |
Day 7 | Acclimatization Day ( Rest Day ) | 11,581ft/3,530m | NA |
Day 8 | Samagaun to Samdo | 12,664ft/3,860 m | 4 hr |
Day 9 | Samdo to Dharmashala | 14,633ft /4,460m | 4 to 5 hr |
Day 10 | Dharmashala to Bhimthang via Larke Pass | 11,778ft/3,590m | 8 to 9 hr |
Day 11 | Bhimthang to Dharapani | 6,102ft/1,860 m | 7 to 8 hr |
Day 12 | Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar | 4429ft/1,350m | 8 to 10 hr |
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ITINERARY IN DETAIL OF MANASLU CIRCUIT TREKKING
Day 1: Drive to Machhakhola from Kathmandu
Today early in the morning, we’ll drive to Machhakhola from Kathmandu using the Local Bus. On the way to Machhakhola, you’ll see the beautiful Ganesh Himal Range as well as the beautiful landscape of Dhanding District.
On the way to Machhakhola, we’ll have lunch before Arughat. The road structure from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi is blacktop but from Dhading Besi to Machhakhola road structure is a fully off-road drive.
- 9 to 10 hours
- Machhakhola
- B, L, D
- 2,920feet/900 m
Day 2: Machhakhola to Jagat
On the 2nd day, we’ll trek to Jagat from Machha Khola. On this day, we’ll make our journey by passing beautiful villages such as Khorlabesi, Tatopani, and Dovan. Eventually, we’ll get to Jagat villages where we stay Overnight. Jagat is the starting point of a Tibetan-influenced village on this route.
- 6 to 7 hours
- Jagat
- B, L, D
- 4,495feet /1,370 m
Day 3: Jagat to Deng
On the 3rd day, we’ll make a journey to Deng from Jagat Village. Deng is a Buddhist village on Manaslu Trail. On the way to Deng, you’ll see Shringi Himal(7, 187m) from Saguleri. Not only that, we’ll see the field of Maize, Potato, Millet, and many more.
- 7 to 8 hours
- Deng
- B, L, D
- 5,919feet/1,804 m
Day 4: Deng to Namrung
Today, we will trek to Namrung from Deng. Around 4 hour walk from Deng, we’ll reach Ghap. The Ghap is also a Tibetan village. On the way, you’ll have an impressive view of Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Kutang Himal. Nonetheless, we’ll see several Mani Walls(walls with Buddhist scriptures) onward to Namrung. Upon passing the colorful forests of Firs, Oaks, and Rhododendrons, we’ll finally get Namrung. Stay Overnight at Namrung.
- 6 to 7 hours
- Namrung
- B, L, D
- 8,629 feet / 2,630 m
Day 5: Namrung to Shyala
On the 5th day, we will move from Namrung to Shyala village. Crossing a large stream flowing down from the Lidanda Glaciers, we’ll reach Sho( a Tibetan village of Manaslu). From Sho, we get first views of Manaslu North and then of Manaslu Main. The next station after Sho village is Lho. The Lho village is located at 3150m and here you can see a little monastery and several Chortens and Mani walls. Finally, we stop today’s hiking at Shyala. From Shyala, you can see Himal Chuli, Peak 29(Ngadi Chuli), and Manaslu.
- 4 to 5 hours
- Shyala
- B, L, D
- 11,483 feet/ 3,500m
Day 6: Shyala to Samagaun
On the 6th day, we will have short walk from Shyala to Samagaon. It takes approximately 3 to 5 hours to reach Samagaon. Along the way to Samagaon, we’ll have stunning mountain views.
- 3 to 4 hours
- SamaGaun
- B, L, D
- 11,581 feet / 3, 530m
Day 7: Acclimatization at Samagaun
Before reaching Dharmasala, we will STAY SAMAGAON for better acclimatization. To do Larke Pass, an acclimatization day is required for trekkers. So on this day, we explore Birendra Taal (lake) and Pun Gyen Gompa. From Pungyen Gompa, we’ll see stunning views of Manaslu. After visiting Gompa, we’ll go back to the hotel and take a rest at SamaGaun.
Samagaun (3350M) is one of the famous places on the Manaslu region trek. This village lies just opposite part of Mt. Manaslu (8167m)which is one of the top 14 mountains above 8000-meter height.
If the weather is clear you can see the sunrise on the top of Mt. Manaslu.
- NA
- SamaGaun
- B, L, D
- 11,581 feet / 3, 530m
Day 8: Samagaun to Samdu
After breakfast in Samagaon, we will move to Samdu village. After around 4 hours of easy walk from Samagaun, we reach the picturesque village of Samdo. Along the way, you’ll have stunning mountain views. Not only that we reach close to the Tibetan border. Stay overnight at Samdu.
- 4 hours
- Samdo
- B, L, D
- 12, 664 feet / 3,860 m
Day 9: Samdu to Dharmashala
On the 9th day, we’ll have a short walk to Dharamshala which will be 4 to 5 hours. On the way, we walk through a seasonal Tibetan market called Larke Bazaar. Along the way, you’ll see many traditional monasteries.
Dharmashala is also known as Larke Phedi(base of Larke pass). At Dharamshala, there is only one basic teahouse. Stay overnight at Dharmasala.
- 4 to 5 hours
- Dharamshala
- B, L, D
- 14, 633 feet/4,460m
Day 10: Dharmasala to Bhimthang via Larke Pass
Today ( Day 10 ) is the most awaited day of this entire trip. Because on this day, we will do Larke Pass. Early in the morning, we’ll begin for Larke Pass. Around 700m ascent from Dharmasaala, we’ll reach Larke Pass.
From Larke La(16, 929 feet / 5,160m), you can see the thrilling views of Larke Peak, Annapurna II, Cho Danda, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kangaru, and many more. Afterward, we descend to the Bhimthang(approximately 1500m). Stay Overnight at Bhimthang.
- 8 to 9 hours
- Bhimthang
- B, L, D
- 11, 778 feet/ 3, 590m
Day 11: Bhimthang to Dharapani
From Bimthang, we can enjoy impressive views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and many more. Upon having breakfast at Bhimthang, we will walk to Dharapani. On this day, we cross beautiful mountain villages such as Goa and Tilje before reaching Dharapani Village. The Dharapani village is a junction between Annapurna Circuit Trekking and Manaslu Circuit.
- 7 to 8 hours
- Dharapani
- B, L, D
- 6,102 feet / 1,860m
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu
This is the last day trek of our 12 days Manaslu Circuit Trip. On this day, we’ll take a local Jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar. On the way to Besisahar, you’ll see many impressive waterfalls and amazing landscapes. Upon reaching Besisahar, we’ll take a drive to Kathmandu using a Local Bus/Micro Bus. All in all, it will be a 9 to 10 hours drive on this day.
- 8 to 10 hours
- B, L
- 4429 feet / 1, 350m
INCLUDED AND EXCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE
Includes in Package
- Airport Pick Up and Drop off (Arrival/Departure)
- Kathmandu to Machha Khola by Local Bus ( upgrade to Private Jeep – $240 total )
- Dharapani to Besisahar by Sharing Jeep ( upgrade to Private Jeep – $150 total )
- Besisahar to Kathmandu by Local Bus ( upgrade to Private Car/Jeep – $170 total )
- Meals on Trekking (12 X Breakfast, 12 X Lunch, 11 X Dinner/ the main course )
- All Required Trekking Permits
- An Experienced Trekking Guide
- All expenses of the Guide
- First Aids Kit with an Oximeter
- Seasonal Fruits each day throughout the trip
- Trekking Completion Certificate if you want
- Nepal Government Taxes, VAT, and official charges.
Excludes in Package:
- All types of Drinks and Dessert foods
- Porter for Trekking ( 2 Guests = 1 Porter, carries maximum 20kg )
- MEALS and ACCOMMODATION during the staying in Kathmandu
- All types of Personal nature expenses
- Tip for Guide and Porter ( Tipping is expected but not Compulsory )
- Any other things which are not mentioned on the list INCLUDED
Frequently Asked Questions
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking is about 177 kilometers long. In the past, there was no road access to the Manaslu region or the Annapurna Circuit (from Dharapani to Besisahar). Therefore, the only way to do the Manaslu Circuit was to trek the entire circuit. This is known as the Classical Manaslu Circuit, which takes 17 days to complete, starting in Arughat and ending in Besisahar.
Today, there are several different customized Manaslu Circuit itineraries available, ranging from 12 to 20 days. The 12-day and 14-day itineraries are for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek, while the 20-day itinerary is for the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trekking.
It’s important to choose the best time for Manaslu Circuit Because we need to cross Larkya La (5,125m) on the Manaslu Trek. The best time to go is from March to April and September to December. During winter time, it’s difficult to trek from Samagauon to Bhimthang due to the cold temperatures.
You can get to the trek starting point by local bus or private jeep. Jeeps are more comfortable and faster than local buses. It takes around 6 to 7 hours to reach Sotikhola by Jeep, if there is no traffic jam.
From Dharapani, you can reserve or hire a jeep to Besisahar. From Besisahar, you can take a microbus, car, local bus, or tourist bus back to Kathmandu.
Local buses take around 8 hours to reach Sotikhola. They are often full of passengers and make frequent stops. They are also cheaper than jeeps, but the seats are not as comfortable, especially for international travelers.
Larkey La (5,125m) is a difficult trek for beginners, including 3 nights above 4000m. Experienced hikers can do this trek.
Expeditions to Manaslu are challenging because of its fickle weather. More than 60 climbers have died on the treacherous slopes of Mount Manaslu while attempting to summit. Thus, Mount Manaslu is also known as Killer Mountain.
Manaslu is a restricted trekking region of Nepal, so you need to buy a special permit to trek there. Solo trekkers cannot get a permit individually, but they can join a trekking group to obtain one.
Trekking to restricted areas is always more expensive than trekking to other areas. This is because you have to pay permit charges according to days and seasons. For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the permit fee is USD 100 for the first 7 days during peak season (September to November) and USD 15 for each additional day. During low season (December to August), the permit fee is USD 75 for the first 7 days and USD 10 for each additional day.
There is a lunch spot every 3 to 4 hours along the Manaslu trek. You can order meals from the menu, and both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available during trekking to Manaslu.
When the trail was opened to foreigners, it was compulsory to camping trek in order to explore Manaslu. Because there was no Teahouse. But slowly local people made teahouses. Nowadays you can get a room with two single beds. In some places, they also made rooms with inside toilets. It looks simple but it is neat and clean.Before sleep, you can sit in a warm dining hall. Hotel to firewood heating system to make the dining hall warm. Nowadays they are improving their teahouse. Hotel owners are concerned to improve the quality of Teahouses.
Yes, you can get WiFi and mobile network during the Manaslu trek, but not throughout the trip. Especially once you reach higher altitudes(above Namrung), there is no connection to mobile networks or WiFi. However, in the lower altitudes of the trail, there is generally good mobile network coverage from both NTC and Ncell. There is also WiFi available in most teahouses on this route.
Sure. If you want to hire only a local guide for the Manaslu Trek, it is possible with us. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, you must have a Nepali licensed trekking guide. For guide hire details, please visit our page on trekking guide hire in Nepal. One of the best things about us is that we have some local expert guides of the Manaslu region. If you are interested in hiring a local expert guide, please contact Base Camp Hike.
Customer Testimonials ( Reviews )
Great Experience
Base Camp Hike gave us a great experience through the Manaslu Circuit trek. Our guide was super nice as well as Jayaram. They made our trip unforgettable. We would definitely recommend everyone to choose this company.
Wonderful Manaslu Circuit Trip!!
With a group of 3 people, we did the Manaslu Circuit in 13 days. Jayaram with his agency( Base Camp Hike) gave us all the necessary permits, the jeep for transport to Machhakhola, a great guide, and the strong porters. The service was punctual and efficient. I highly recommend Base Camp Hike.
Get QUOTE For Trekking to Manaslu Circuit
The group departure dates listed below are specially quoted and specified for GROUP JOIN TREKKING. Please let us know if our departure dates are not suitable for you. BASE CAMP HIKE can arrange private trips departing on any date that suits your holiday.
💡 Exciting News!
🚶 Receive a SPECAIL DISCOUNT for booking this trek in November and December.! 🌄 Limited time offer, BOOK NOW and save on your journey. 🌟 Don't miss out on this SEASONAL OFFER!
Departure Dates | Price in USD | Space Left | Booking |
Sept 03 - Sep 14 ,2023 | 755 | 4 | |
Sept 07 - Sep 18 ,2023 | 755 | 5 | |
Sept 13 - Sep 24 ,2023 | 755 | 4 | |
Sept 15 - Sep 26 ,2023 | 755 | 5 | |
Sept 19 - Sep 30 ,2023 | 755 | 3 | |
Sept 23 - Oct 04 ,2023 | 755 | 4 | |
Sept 25 - Oct 06 ,2023 | 755 | 3 | |
Sept 28 - Oct 09 ,2023 | 755 | 5 |
Price US$ 795
USD 755 P.P
No. of people | Price Per Person |
---|---|
1 pax | USD 1067 |
2 paxes | USD 755 |
3 paxes | USD 751 |
4 paxes | USD 750 |
5 paxes | USD 738 |
6 paxes | USD 705 |
7 paxes | USD 707 |
8 paxes | USD 698 |
9 paxes | USD 690 |
10 paxes | USD 685 |
More than 10 | Contact Us |
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