Author |

Feb. 10, 2025 |

Discover the Manaslu Circuit Trek: Ultimate Guide (2026)

Located in the heart of the Himalayas, the Manaslu Circuit trek remains one of the top trekking destinations in the world. It is a remote and rugged trail that offers you jaw-dropping scenery, rich encounters, and a deep sense of adventure, which is hard to find in more commercial routes.

Off-the-beaten-path is a gem which is filled with ancient monasteries, towering peaks, and warm village hospitality which converge to create an unforgettable experience. The trekking route also has fascinating attractions such as Mount Manaslu, Larkya La Pass, and Birendra Lake. But before you visit this place, you should also check out some of the best seasons and their difficulty.

In this blog, we provide you with a guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek including aspects such as top attractions, best seasons, and its difficulty. Additionally, we shall also cover aspects such as cost, itinerary, permits, and preparation tips for the Manaslu circuit trek. So, keeping this in mind, let’s get started!

Top Attractions Of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is undoubtedly one of the best trekking destinations in the world. But the journey is not just about trekking; it is also about enjoying the attractions along the way as well. So, the question here is, what are some of the top attractions of the Manaslu circuit trek?

Some of the top attractions of this trek include:

Mt Manaslu

Mount Manaslu is undoubtedly one of the key attractions of the Manaslu circuit trek. This mountain, rising to an impressive height of 8,163 meters above sea level, earned its place as one of the most iconic landmarks. It is the eighth highest mountain in the world, and its remoteness makes it feel more mysterious and untouched when compared to Everest or Annapurna region.

Furthermore, you can witness the dramatic views of the glacier slopes, jagged ridges, and the various moods of the peak- glowing at the sunrise and damp with clouds, as you trek in the Manaslu circuit. It doesn’t matter if you take a glimpse of this peak from afar or face it closely near the base camp; the view of this peak is equally majestic.

Larkya La Pass

This is one of the key highlights and the physical climax of the Manaslu Circuit, located at 5,160 meters above sea level. Crossing this high Himalayan pass is a challenging yet rewarding experience as you need to climb this peak in the early hours and trek for nearly the entire day. As you ascend, you can feel the cold wind biting your face.

As tough as the journey can be, you also get equally rewarded with the stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, and parts of the Annapurna range. The sense of achievement that you get upon reaching the top is deep, and every step taken during the journey to reach here feels worth the effort.

Manaslu Base Camp

Since Manaslu circuit trekking is all about traversing around Mount Manaslu, it should not be a surprise to anyone that one of the key points of attractions for this journey is Manaslu base camp. This base camp is accessible as an acclimatization hike from Samagaon and is situated at around 4,800 meters above sea level, offering you with one of the closest views the towering north face of mount Manaslu.

he trail to reach here takes you past glaciers, icy streams, and the alpine tundra, providing you with a glimpse into the high altitude where mountaineers prepare for their expedition. Furthermore, since this place is rather far away from civilization, it is rather quiet, with only the sounds of nearby people and the wilderness. For trekkers who make an effort, the base camp offers solitude, unmatched scenery, and an unforgettable sense of scale.

Birendra Lake

Birendra lake is just a short hike away from Samagaon and it is formed by the glacial meltwater from the Manaslu glacier. This lake rests peacefully beneath the steep-ice-covered cliffs and is surrounded by boulders, pine trees, and fluttering prayer flags. The waters of this lake are calm and crystal clear, mirroring the mountains above in perfect symmetry. Needless to say, because of all of these aspects, Birendra Lake is an ideal spot for quiet rest and peaceful meditation breaks.

Namrung Village

Namrung village is another one of the key points of attractions in the Manaslu circuit trekking. This quaint village is located at around 2,630 meters above sea level, and it marks the cultural turning point in the trek as you enter into the areas that are heavily influenced by Buddhism.

You can witness stone-built homes ornate with wooden windows along the narrow trails alongside terraced fields, chortens, and colorful prayer flags. Namring village is also known for its hospitality, traditional Tibetan culture, and clear mountain views, especially of Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli. The village also serves as one of the great spots to learn about the local customs and interact with the local residents.

Samagaon

Samagaon is located at 3,530 meters above sea level and is one of the largest and culturally rich settlements on the Manaslu circuit. This village is a key spot for trekkers and is also one of the key cultural hubs for the Nubri region.

It is surrounded by the stunning peaks, and the wide-expansive yak pastures. In this village, you can find many ancient monasteries, mani walls, and prayer wheels, all of which contribute to the deeply peaceful atmosphere of the region. The residents, many of whom descend from Tibetan ancestors, maintain a slow-paced lifestyle rooted in tradition.

Nubra Valley

The key point of attraction that we have on our list is the Nubra Valley, which is more than just a geographical feature- rather, it is a sanctuary tucked away in the Himalayas. This valley is rich in Buddhist heritage and ancient traditions. Monasteries such as Pungyen Gompa cling to mountainsides, herds of yaks roam freely, and you can see monks in red walking along the trails. The valley is also dotted with villages where Tibetan dialects are spoken. You can also find barley and potatoes growing in high-altitude fields, and life flows slowly and peacefully in this region.

These are just some of the key points of attractions you can encounter and visit while going through the Manaslu circuit treks.

Best Seasons For Manaslu Circuit Trek

With the key points of attractions, we provided you with a glimpse into the key points and attractions on Manaslu circuit trek. But this begs the question- when is the best time to go on this trek so that you can witness these key points of attractions? The answer to this question is rather simple; the best season to visit Manaslu circuit trek is in the Spring and Autumn season. Following is a quick breakdown of why these two seasons are some of the best seasons to visit the Manaslu circuit trek:

Spring Season (March to May)

The spring season in Nepal lasts between March to May and is one of the best seasons to go on the Manaslu circuit trek. The temperature in this season is mild to moderate, the days are longer and warmer, and the trail in this trek is filled with blooming rhododendrons and alpine wildflowers.

It goes without saying that this is a great time for nature lovers and photographers. Wildlife during this season is also more active during this season, and the views of Manaslu and its surroundings are clear. Do note that despite the clear skies, you can expect some clouds and pre-monsoon showers at lower altitudes.
Highlights:

Rhododendron forests in bloom
Moderate temperatures and longer daylight
Great visibility for mountain views
Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another one of the best seasons to visit the Manaslu trek. After the monsoon, the air is crisp and clean, offering you some of the clearest views of the Himalayas. Temperatures are rather comfortable during the day. That said, it can get rather cold at night, especially at higher elevations. The trails in this season are dry, and the skies are mostly free of clouds. You can also witness local festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, adding a layer of cultural richness during your Manaslu circuit treks.
Highlights:

Stunningly clear mountain views
Stable weather and dry trails
Opportunity to witness local festivals

How Difficult Is The Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderate to highly challenging. Because of this, the trekking journey is ideal for experienced trekkers. However, you do not necessarily have to be an experienced trekker to go on this trek because as long as you are fit enough, you can go on the Manaslu circuit trek. The trek is not technical, but it does involve walking for days at high altitudes in some remote terrain. Some of the key factors that affect the trek difficulty include the following:

Altitude: It is one of the major challenges in the altitude as the trek begins at 700-900 meters and ascends to 5,160 meters at Larkya La Pass. This elevation increases the risk of altitude sickness.
Length and Duration: The trek generally takes around 19 days, which can be pretty taxing for you if you are not experienced and fit enough. On some days, you might even need to trek 15-20 kilometers a day.
Trail Conditions: The trails are windy in general with rocky terrain. In lower regions, it can be muddy, and in higher regions, ice and snow can cover the terrain, especially post-winter or around monsoon.
Remoteness: Manaslu religion is a rather remote and less developed region, meaning that there are fewer teahouses, limited medical facilities, and less infrastructure in general.
Larkya La Pass: It is one of the most strenuous parts of the trek, and it is a long-gradual trek, made even more challenging by the thin air, cold temperature, and unpredictable weather.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost And Itinerary.

Another key aspect that we shall discuss regarding the Manaslu circuit trek is its cost and itinerary. While the specifics of the cost and itinerary depend on the package, we can provide you with a rough estimation. Let's quickly cover the cost first.

In general, and on average, the cost of the Manaslu circuit trek is somewhere between $1,200 to $1,800 per person for the standard package. The package in question typically follows the itinerary we mentioned below:

Day 1: Arrival in KTM (1,342m/4,401ft) and transfer to hotel
Day 2: Ktm sightseeing + trek preparation
Day 3: Drive from KTM to Sotikhola (710m/2328ft) 7- 8hrs
Day 4: Soti Khola trek to Machhi Khola (900m/2,952ft) 6-7hrs
Day 5: Machhi Khola trek to Jagat (1,410m/4,625ft) 6-7hrs
Day 6: Jagat trek to Deng (1,804m/5,917ft) 6-7hrs
Day 7: Deng trek to Namrung (2,630m/8,626ft) 6-7hrs
Day 8: Namrung trek to Samagaon (3,530m/11,578ft) 6-7hrs
Day 9: Acclimatization day
Day 10: Samagaun trek to Samdo (3,860m/12,660ft) 4-5hrs
Day 11: Samdo trek to Dharamsala/Larkya Base Camp (4,460m/14,628ft) 5-6hrs
Day 12: Dharamsala trek to Larkya La (5,170m/16,957ft) - Bimthang (3,720m/12,201ft) 8-9hrs
Day 13: Bimthang trek to Tilije (2,300m/7,544ft) 6-7hrs
Day 14: Tilje trek to Tal (1,700m/5,576ft) 5-6hrs
Day 15: Tal trek to Syange (1,080m/3,542ft) 6-7hrs
Day 16: Syange trek to Bhulbhule 6-7hrs
Day 17: Drive from Bhulbhule to KTM 7-8hrs
Day 18: KTM sightseeing Buddhanath, Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath (Monkey temple)
Day 19: Departure

Required Permits For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Before you head toward the Manaslu circuit trek, you should also note that you need to have all of the required permits for the Manaslu circuit trek. Now, there are many permits that you need for Manalsu circuit treks. The key permits are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Required between Jagat and Dharapani
- Must be arranged via a registered trekking agency
- At least two trekkers and a licensed guide are required
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Required from Philim onwards
- Covers the entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Needed from Dharapani to Besisahar
- Covers the section in the Annapurna region
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
- Introduced in 2024 for local conservation and infrastructure
- Collected directly on the trail by local authorities
Documents Required
- Valid passport with Nepal visa
- Two passport-sized photos
- Proof of travel insurance
- Trek itinerary (usually provided by the agency)

Preparation Tips For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu circuit trek is a remote, picturesque, and culturally enriching trek. However, it is also a physically and mentally demanding trek. Therefore, it is important to prepare well. Some of the areas to prepare include:

Hiring a Guide and Porter: It is mandatory to take a licensed guide for the Manaslu Circuit as it is a restricted trek. A guide helps with navigation, communication, and permits, while a porter carries your bag to make the trek more comfortable. You can also take a porter-guide to save costs. Hiring through a registered trekking agency ensures compliance and safety.
Understanding Altitude Sickness: There is a high risk of altitude sickness on these treks, which pass over 5,100 meters on Larke Pass. Its symptoms are headache, dizziness, and nausea. Prevent it by slow ascend, drink, alcohol avoidance, and rest days to maintain fitness. Medications such as Diamox can be taken and always descend if the symptoms start getting worse.
Required Physical Fitness: This trek demands good fitness due to long walking days, high altitude, and rough terrain. Begin 2–3 months before your trip with cardio, weight training, and test hikes. Endurance building and leg strengthening is necessary, and flexibility exercises like yoga.
Suggested Packing List: Pack lightly and intelligently. Take warm clothes, waterproof gear, and good quality boots. A quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a 40–60L backpack are must-haves. Include items like sunscreen, water purification tablets, snacks, a first aid kit, and travel documents. Optional items like power banks or microspikes can be helpful.

Why Choose The Destiny Excursion For Your Manaslu Trek?

At Destiny Excursion, we do not just provide you with guide treks- we provide you with an unforgettable Himalayan experience, including the one for Manaslu circuit trekking. With our customized service and extensive knowledge, you can hike the Manaslu circuit safely, comfortably, and authentically. From organizing permits to ensuring your acclimatization and comfort at each step, we organize all the arrangements so that you can have the best experience.

Ready to conquer the Manaslu Circuit?

Make Destiny Excursion your trusted companion in the mountains.
Call us now to start planning your adventure!

Frequently Asked Question

How long is the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The typical Manaslu Circuit trek is 19 days, although this depends on the itinerary and acclimatization days. It is roughly 177 kilometers from the starting point to the finishing point.

Is the Manaslu Circuit trek worth it?

In fact, the Manaslu Circuit features the best blend of nature scenery, wilderness trekking, and gratifying cultural exchanges. It's less touristy compared to some other great trails, and as such, it's ideal for an off-the-beaten-path trek adventure.

Is the Manaslu Circuit more difficult than the Everest base camp?

Yes, in a way, the Manaslu Circuit is more challenging since it is in a more isolated area, has longer walking distances, and includes Larke Pass (5,106m) crossing. But it also appears more rewarding, with the remoteness and untouched landscape.

What is the most challenging trek in Nepal?

The Great Himalayan Trail is regarded as the toughest trek in Nepal, covering over 1,700 kilometers along high passes and isolated terrain. Upper Dolpo, Dhaulagiri Circuit, and Makalu Base Camp are some of the other demanding trails.

What is the highest point of the Manaslu trek?

The trek's highest elevation is Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 ft). The pass is one of the highlights of the journey and requires good acclimatization and preparation.

Is it possible to do the Manaslu trek without a guide?

No, it is not allowed to trek the Manaslu Circuit alone as it has been made a restricted area. You must be accompanied by a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers in your group to get the permits you require.