The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-the-beaten-path journey through the Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. The trip offers deep insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic walks through dense forests and across milky white rivers, and panoramic views of peaks like Mt Manaslu (8163 m), the eighth highest peak in the world.
Key Highlights of Manaslu Trek
- Opportunity to explore cities like Kathmandu, the historical city of Nepal, and Pokhara, the city of lakes.
- Cross the highest point of the trek - Larkya La (5106 m), high high-altitude mountain pass.
- Enjoy the views of mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8163 m) - the 8th highest peak in the world, Ngadi Chuli (7871 m), and Mt. Himchuli (6441 m).
- Explore the culture of the locals - the Nubri and Tsumba people.
- Visit picturesque places like Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m), Dharamsala (4480 m), and Samagaon (3530 m).
- Trek through the beautiful landscapes of Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Learn about the local culture and religion at Pungyen and Nubri Monasteries.
- Appreciate the beauty of Birendra Lake, numerous waterfalls along the way, and rivers like Budhi Gandaki, Marshyangdi, and Dudh Khola.
- Customize your trek to cover the Annapurna Circuit during your journey.
- Take a glance at Tibet by making your way to the Tibetan border from Samdo.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 13 days long journey that allows you to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in Gorkha and Lamjung districts.
The trek starts from Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani. It’s a moderate-level trek that mesmerises you not just with natural spectacles like the Budhi Gandaki River and Birendra Lake but also with religious heritages like Mu Gompa and Nubri Monastery.
In comparison to other treks like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, or Langtang Trek, this trekking route is less traveled. The route offers the same goodness - natural beauty, mountain views, and unique culture- presents the same challenge, but with the joy of exploring something new and unprecedented.
The trip is also an opportunity to explore Tsum Valley, one of the most beautiful mountain valleys of Nepal, known for its natural beauty and unique culture influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. A trekker could also enjoy wonderful settings at and around Manaslu Base Camp. The camp offers up-close views of Mt Manaslu in addition to other major peaks here.
It is a complete trek meant for anyone who is looking to enjoy the remoteness and wilderness in the western hills of Nepal.
Special Features of Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal
There are so many features that make trekking to Manaslu in Nepal a special journey. These attributes make the Manaslu Trekking an ideal journey for trekkers from around the world.
Entry into the Natural Heritage of Nepal
Manaslu Circuit Trekking takes you through a few of the most stunning areas in the hills of western Nepal, one of which is the Manaslu Conservation Area, a natural heritage populated with unprecedented species of flora and fauna.
Panoramic Views of Mountains in the Manaslu Region
Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Himchuli (6441 m), and Mt. Ngadi Chuli (7871 m) are a few of the many pristine mountains that will grace you with their pleasing views throughout the Manaslu Trekking. Mt Manaslu is the eighth-highest peak in the world.
Explore a section of the Great Himalaya Trail
The Manaslu Region happens to be a significant part of the Great Himalaya Trail, a trekking route in the Himalayas, extending from Nanga Parbat in Pakistan to Namche Barwa in Tibet.
Experience the Culture of the Local People
On the trail, you will get a chance to explore the mountain culture. The Nupri and Tsumba people here have an interesting philosophy towards life that’s worth looking into.
Taste Adventure at a High Altitude Mountain Pass
Trek to Manaslu has an adventurous side to it as well, as it takes you through a few of the highest places in the hills of Nepal. Larke La (5106 m), a high-altitude mountain pass, is a prime example of it.
History of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Though there is a long history of trekking in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit trek route officially opened for foreign and local trekkers only in 1992.
For a significant amount of time, the Manaslu Region remained a restricted area for travellers. Access was given only to a limited number of people, considering their purpose for visiting the area.
In 1992, even after the government made the route open for all the trekkers, foreigners were discouraged from trekking in the region.
In the present, things are completely different. Foreigners and locals alike can easily enter and trek in the Manaslu Region. However, they need a special pass to do so.
Manaslu Trekking : A Restricted Trekking Route in Western Nepal
For a long time, the Manaslu Region remained a hidden gem, and Manaslu Trekking was restricted. Foreign nationals and even Nepalese weren’t allowed entry into the region for various reasons.
The prime purpose is the conservation of nature and culture. The Manaslu Region is home to not just some of the rarest species of flora and fauna but also indigenous people belonging to the Nubri and Tsumba tribes. The government made it a point to preserve nature and culture by preventing encroachment from people.
Another important reason is that the area is highly sensitive since it borders Tibet. For a long time, Tibetan rebels used the region as their base, and security was a big concern as the government couldn’t track them down. People from outside weren’t allowed to enter to prevent any kind of political incidents or loss of life.
As mentioned above, visiting the region and trekking to Manaslu was allowed after 1992, lifting the restrictions. Now, anyone can acquire the permits and explore the beauty of Manaslu.
How do we prepare the Mount Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2025 & 2026?
If you are planning to go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, it is crucial that you undergo the preparation process. You will be able to have the best possible experience when you are properly prepared for the trip.
Visit your Doctor
Manaslu Circuit trekking can put a toll on your body, so it is important that you visit your doctor so that you can have an expert consultation. You need to be sure that your body can handle the altitude, the cold, the tough walk on rough terrain, and other challenges.
Upscale Fitness Level
A lot of times, just a little bit of physical preparation can make your trekking simple. The Manaslu trip can get challenging at points, so if you do a little exercise at home – brisk walking, breathing, inclined walking, jogging, and so on – you will be better prepared for the trek.
Get in Touch with Travel Partner
Before and after you book your trek, remain in touch with your travel partner. Consult with them regarding subjects like packing lists, things to keep in mind, and any other important things that you need to do before catching the flight to Nepal and embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Journey.
Prepare Travel Documents
Make sure that your passport is in the right condition. You don’t have to worry about a visa, as you can get it on arrival. Without travel insurance, you can’t trek on the Manaslu Circuit. So get one, and make sure to email a copy to your travel partner before catching your flight to Nepal.
Book Flight Tickets
It is recommended that you reach Kathmandu at least 24 hrs before your trip to the Manaslu Region. It will give you ample time to explore the city and do any last-minute preparation or shopping. Book your flight tickets way in advance to ensure this.
Make a Checklist
After consulting with your travel partner, make a list of things that you need to pack for the trek to Manaslu. There are certain items that you could buy in Nepal, so why bring them all the way from home? Plan accordingly, and stay organized with a checklist.
Do the Necessary Shopping
Whatever items you’re lacking, make sure to buy them well ahead of time so that you can pack them in an organised manner. Categorize the items that you need to buy at home and the ones that you can buy in Nepal. This will keep your luggage light.
Note to our Clients
We entertain all kinds of queries that our clients may have regarding their trip to Manaslu, including ‘how to prepare for the Manaslu Trek’. We insist our clients contact us for any kind of information needed.
Recommended reading: Manaslu Trip Guide in Detail
How hard is the 13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
This trek is a moderate-level journey. It is a balanced trip, as it has both difficult elements, like rough terrain, and soothing features like tea houses. The following aspects make it an average difficulty level trek.
Tea House Trekking
Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse trek. On the route, you will be served hot meals, and you get to rest in comfortable beds. There are proper restrooms in these lodges, so you don’t have to worry about cleanliness and sanitation. All these facilities make your trek quite comforting.
High Altitude Places
During the trek, you will cover numerous high-altitude places like Dharamsala (4460 m), Pungyen Monastery (4700 m), and Larke La (5106 m), the highest point in the trip. Crossing these areas is challenging, as there is a constant risk of altitude sickness.
Scenic Areas
On the trek, you will reach many viewpoints that offer amazing views of the mountains. You will walk through dense forests, cross white rivers, and spot beautiful waterfalls. Even the villages like Jagat, Lho, and Bimtang are quite scenic, nestled beautifully in nature.
Rough Terrains
Once you cross 4000 m, you will realize the vegetation is getting sparser and the path is becoming rougher and rockier. It will obviously be tough to walk on this terrain for a long duration. You might also need to walk on snow once you cross 4800 m, adding to the difficulty.
Recommended reading: Manaslu Circuit Trip Difficulty in detail
How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is 13 days long. It starts at Machha Khola and ends at Dharapani. On the route, you are offered two days of acclimatization - on Day 7 at Samagaon (3530 m) and on Day 9 at Samdo (3860 m).
Mount Glory Treks offers customized trekking packages as per the demand of the clients, so length is never an issue. We have a shorter version of the Manaslu trek available, which is only 8 days long. In the same way, you could add Tsum Valley or Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek to the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, which would lengthen the trek duration by a few days. So, depending on the number of days that you could spare, you have a bunch of options available.
This itinerary opens doors to some of the most pristine landscapes, whether it be around Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m), Birenda Lake, or Larkya La (5106 m). You are also able to enjoy astounding views of peaks like Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Ngadi Chuli, and Mt. Himchuli. What makes the trip even more interesting are the local people that you come across and their culture and lifestyle that you partly experience.
What are the alternatives to Manaslu Trek packages?
If you feel that the trek to Manaslu is not the one for you, you can go for other treks in the Manaslu region or outside. The following are the alternatives to Manaslu Trek packages:
Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek is meant for trekkers who want to experience a comparatively different aspect of the Manaslu Region. Tsum Valley is a serene and hidden part of the region. The valley is known for being deeply spiritual and culturally rich.
Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a variation of the Manaslu Trek. On this trip, you are able to explore the Manaslu Base Camp, which is known to be the gateway to Mt Manaslu, in addition to Birendra Lake, a scenic mountain waterbody.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
You could either add the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary to the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary and go for a combined trek. Or, you could go for the Annapurna Circuit Trek separately. The route develops through the Annapurna Conservation Area, offering you all its goodness.
Note to our Clients
In addition to all these trekking packages, we also offer treks in other popular regions of Nepal, like Everest, Langtang, Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, and so on. Pick us as your trekking partner Mount Glory Treks for a wonderful trekking experience across the hills of Nepal.
Recommended reading: Alternatives Trek in the Manaslu region
When is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking?
The best time for Manaslu Circuit trekking is autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May).
Autumn
It is neither too hot nor too cold during this season. During the day, the temperature ranges between 12 ℃ and 20 ℃, and during the nighttime, the temperature can drop below 0 ℃. The weather is clear and enables you to enjoy amazing mountain views.
Spring
During the day, the temperature could range between 5 ℃ and 20 ℃. However, during the night time, it could go as low as -5 ℃. The weather, though pleasing, can get unclear at times, often cloudy, preventing you from enjoying the mountain views.
Monsoon
Generally, the months between June and August are considered the monsoon season. Now, though it is recommended not to trek during this time, quite a few trekkers tend to go for the trek to Manaslu during the monsoon season.
During the day, the temperature could range between 15 ℃ and 25 ℃. However, during the night time, it could range between 5 ℃ and 15 ℃. The temperature can drop significantly if the rain occurs.
The path during this season could be wet and slippery, making your trek quite difficult. Having to deal with the rain while trekking is yet another unpleasant thing to experience. At times, the clouds could block the mountain views.
Winter
Normally, the months between December and February are considered the winter season. Now, though it is recommended not to trek during the winter season, quite a few trekkers tend to go for the Manaslu Trekking during this time.
During the day, the temperature could range between 5 ℃ and 12 ℃. However, during the night time, it could drop even lower than -15 ℃. In addition to lower temperatures, the trekkers might need to deal with snowfall in certain high-altitude places.
The accumulated snow could make walking on the trail quite tough. It’s not just wet and slippery but also numbing. Needless to say, the views are the worst during this time because of both the clouds and fog.
Note to our Clients
We organise treks in the Manaslu region throughout the year, regardless of the size of the group. Our treks are safely conducted as we take the right measures when it comes to dealing with problems like rain and snow on the route. So, if you want to trek during the off-season, whether it’s monsoon or winter, we will assist you as your travel partner.
Recommended reading: Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit
Why Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Mount Glory Treks?
Affordability, credibility, and customer satisfaction are the three main attributes of Mount Glory Treks. We are known for our excellent support services, as we provide the most relevant and accurate information to our clients. We also offer customisable packages catering to the interests, time, and feasibility of our clients.
We guarantee high-quality services thanks to our family, which comprises individuals who are experts in their fields and have decades of experience working in the travel industry of Nepal. All these features make us one of the best travel partners in Nepal.
Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek Package with Mount Glory Treks because of the reasons below:
- Member of Trekking Agencies Of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA)
- Nepal Government-licensed trekking company
- Recommended by TripAdvisor, Viator, and GetYourGuide
- Nepal Government Licensed English Speaking Sherpa Guides and porters
- First Aid Assistance and Food & Health Consultation
- Professional and highly Credible Team
- Highly Customizable Affordable Packages
- Best Quality Services aimed at Customer Satisfaction
- Eco-tourism Prioritized
Recommended reading: Best Reason to Choose Mount Glory Treks
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 & 2026
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 & 2026 is $910. In the package, against that cost, you are offered accommodation on the trekking route, three meals a day during the trek, a farewell dinner in Kathmandu, required trekking permits, and a licensed English-speaking guide.
We also offer medical assistance during the trek, transportation from Kathmandu to Macha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu in local buses and jeeps, and a few other services.
In addition, we offer discounts to the groups. So, if you book a Package for a group of 4 or more, you will be offered a heavy discount on the package cost per person.
Mount Glory Treks manages a group cost breakdown for 2025 & 2026. Please follow the group discount table based on group size.
No of Travelers | Cost Per Person |
1-1 | USD 1050 |
2-3 | USD 910 |
4-6 | USD 850 |
7-12 | USD 810 |
Note: If travelers are more than 12, they can directly contact our operations team for a special group discount offer.
Recommended reading: Updated Trek Cost of Manaslu Circuit for 2025 & 2026