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Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Explained: Is It Hard for Beginners?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a moderate to challenging journey located in the Himalayan region of Nepal. This trek is challenging because of a combination of long daily walking hours, remote terrain, limited facilities, and significant altitude gain. You have to go over the high Larkya La Pass, which is 5,100 meters above sea level.

At this point, you find nothing other than thin air and inclement weather. These conditions test your physical endurance and mental strength. For beginner trekkers like you, these factors can significantly impact you. That's why proper preparation and acclimatization are required to successfully complete the trek. 

In this blog, we provided detailed information regarding the Manaslu circuit trek difficulty level, whether it is hard for beginners, key factors that define Manaslu circuit trek difficulty, and do we need a guide and porter for the Manaslu circuit trek. Along with this, we have also given the insights into altitude sickness on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the best time to visit, a packing list, and essential tips. 

Manaslu Circuit trek Difficulty level

The Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty level is considered moderate to challenging because of high elevation (5,106?m), rugged terrain, long duration, and a remote setting. This trek is physically demanding as you have to ascend and descend steeply to complete this journey. You need to cross the daunting Larkya La pass (5,106 m) - one of the highest and challenging mountain passes on this trek.

Crossing this pass requires strong endurance and mental resilience. In addition to that, you have to trek for around 5 to 6 hours daily in steep, rocky, and uneven paths with a cold and unpredictable climate in order to successfully complete the trek. During trekking, you need to traverse through narrow ridges, stone staircases, and areas with the risk of landslides.

The difficulty is further increased by small and limited teahouses with basic amenities, unpredictable mountain weather, and minimal road access. This trek mainly depends on physical fitness, stamina, and prior trekking experience rather than technical climbing.

Is The Manaslu Circuit Trek Hard For Beginners? 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the difficult treks in the Himalayan ranges. As it is a rather difficult trek, the beginners may find it hard because of long days of hiking, difficult routes, and a high-altitude mountain pass. Moreover, this trek involves a difficult combination of steep climbs and descents, harsh weather, and isolated routes, making it even harder for beginner trekkers.

Because of these challenges, proper physical fitness, stamina, and prior trekking experience are essential to complete the trek safely. In addition to this, the beginners should also acclimatize properly and do preparation such as managing gears, planning logistics and checking supplies to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. By doing these things and planning carefully, beginners can complete this trek successfully and enjoy a rewarding experience. 

Key Factors That Define The Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

By taking the information from the previous topic, you know that the Manaslu Circuit trek is hard but not impossible for beginners. But at this point, the question can be raised, "What are the reasons behind the Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty?" Well, the reasons behind trek difficulty are listed below: 

• Path condition: In the Manaslu circuit trek, you find a huge variety of trail conditions, starting from lowland paths through forests and terraced fields to high mountain landscapes with rocky and uneven trails. You can also encounter the narrow paths carved into hillsides, long stone staircases, loose gravel sections, and areas affected by landslides. This constantly changing surface needs a steady footing, good balance, and continuous physical effort, which makes the trek even more demanding. 

• Long and Continuous Daily Walking Hours: While performing Manaslu circuit trek, you need to spend most of the time in trekking. You have to trek for around 5-6 hours per day in order to reach the destination intended for that particular day. This is a 14-day trek that has several hours of trekking every day.

• Remote and Isolated Nature of the Trek: Manaslu Trek is relatively more remote, isolated, with fewer developments in terms of infrastructure, and only limited facilities of the tea houses. The facilities available here have simple tea houses with fewer facilities, along with limited food. You need to be fully prepared for simple living conditions, as on this trek, you find a lack of road access and fewer nearby settlements. 

• Weather Variability and Environmental Challenges: The weather here changes frequently, even during the popular season (spring and Autumn). In a few minutes, pleasant weather can suddenly change into sudden rain, snowfall or strong winds. This can heavily affect the trail safety and comfort. The poor weather can make the trail slippery, which results in slowing down the trekking pace and an increase in physical and mental fatigue. 

• Limited Trekking Support and Services: As compared to other treks such as the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Manaslu Circuit trek contains very few trekking support and services. You can find a few medical posts and rescue facilities. It is because this trek lies in remote and isolated locations. You need to fully rely on the guide, porters and your own preparation to complete the trek. 

• Physical Fitness, Stamina, and Preparation: To successfully complete the Manaslu circuit trek, you should have good training regarding physical fitness, stamina and preparation tips. You should be sure that your leg muscles are strong, have good cardiovascular endurance and the ability to carry the daypack for long periods before heading for a Mansalu Circuit Trek. In addition to that, the preparation also helps you to cope with long days, challenging terrain, and cumulative fatigue over the course of the trek. 

• Altitude: The highest altitude of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 5,106 m, which is reached at Larkya La Pass. The continuous ascent from the lower river valleys to high mountain terrain, with a significant elevation gain in a few days, makes this trek more challenging. At high altitude places, the air is thinner, the climate is cold, and the lower oxygen levels can make you feel fatigued. Therefore, a proper acclimatization is important.

• Accommodation: The accommodation found at this trek includes the simple tea house and lodge with basic amenities, particularly at the high altitude places. The rooms are often filled with twin beds, shared bathrooms, and limited heating. Furthermore, you get a few food options, a few facilities and minimal comfort. It is better to bring your own sleeping bag to spend the night here, as a single blanket cannot protect you from the cold. You must be prepared for simple living conditions for a Manaslu circuit trek.

Do I need a guide and porter to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Guides and porters play a key part in the Manaslu circuit trek. The guides help you to navigate the remote trails, manage permits, and ensure safety; the porters carry heavy backpacks, making long trekking days more comfortable. They make your trek safer, smoother, and more enjoyable. Some of the reasons why guides are required are listed below: 

• Helps by offering guidance when the path is unclear.

• Manage lodging in isolated places. 

• Assist with permits and paperwork. 

• Help to provide cultural insight through local understanding.

• Offers essential urgent assistance.

• Helps to mitigate the challenges during trekking. 

Some of the reasons why porters are required are listed below: 

• Assists you by reducing the burden of your belongings. 

• Help to concentrate more on the journey. 

• Helps to enhance your enjoyment during the trek.

• Assist you in minimizing the challenges of the trek. 

Can I get altitude sickness while trekking the Manaslu Circuit trek?

One of the key challenges of the Manaslu circuit trek is its rapid gain of altitude. The higher you go, the risk of having altitude-related problems increases. The Manaslu circuit trek starting point is Machha Khola. While continuing the journey, the altitude gradually increases to the highest point - Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). It is possible for you to have problems with altitude at this point.

Above 2,500 meters, the atmosphere becomes low in oxygen. So, a beginner trekker may experience altitude sickness or AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Therefore, it is a must to do proper acclimatization. Even though some trekkers do acclimatization, they can feel the symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness due to thinner air at higher altitudes. 

It is important to carefully pace your steps, stay hydrated, take proper rest, and monitor your body's response at high elevations to reduce the risk. Therefore, we have arranged the schedule of acclimatization at Samagaon to adjust your body to the high altitude, and for rest. Those trekkers who follow the gradual ascent schedule and listen to their bodies can manage these effects safely. 

Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking at the best times for this trek plays an important role in reducing difficulty and making the climb more manageable. Additionally, it not only helps in avoiding extreme weather but also allows you to trek under safer conditions. The best times for the Manaslu circuit trek are the Spring and Autumn seasons.  

Spring Season

The spring seasons include the months March, April and May. In these seasons, the trails are relatively dry and stable, temperatures are moderate, and the snow slowly melts on high passes. This makes trekking much easier compared to the summer and winter seasons. During the daytime, you may feel more comfortable for a long trek. At night, you may feel cold. This season offers moderate difficulty, as stable trails and predictable conditions can make it easier for you to handle the physical demands of the trek.

Autumn season

Autumn is an ideal season for trekking the Manaslu Circuit. This season comes after the monsoon finishes, making the trail dry, solid and less slippery. This reduces the falling risk and makes steep ascents and descents easier for you. During this time, rivers are calmer, which makes crossings safer and less tiring. Additionally, the weather is stable than in other seasons, making this journey moderately easier compared to other treks. However, you should still be prepared to face some unexpected occurrences.

Packing List For Manaslu Circuit Trek

Packing the essential items and gear is a must for the Manaslu Circuit trek as it helps you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for varying weather and trail conditions. In addition, you should pack your gear wisely to avoid overpacking or underpacking. If you pack wisely, you can tackle the intermediate-level sections of the trail with less fatigue and more confidence. Some of the packing list includes: 

• Head wear

• Warm hat

• Sunglasses

• Brimmed Hat

• Balaclava or Neck Gaiter

• Head Scarf

• Body Wear

• Rain Gear

• Hiking Shorts

• Down Jacket

• Hiking Pants

• Soft Fleece Jacket

• Light Thermal Tops and Trousers

• Underwear

• Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt

• Hand Wear

• Waterproof Gloves

• Fleece Gloves

• Travel Footwear

• Trekking Boots

• Gaiters

• Hiking Socks

• Slippers

• Equipment

• Trekking Poles

• Water Bottle

• Duffel Bag

• Binoculars

• Compass

• Day Backpack

• Small Locks

• Dry bags or plastic

• Rain Coat

• Sleeping Gear

• Pillow

• Sleeping Bags

• Sleeping bag liner

• Ear Plugs

• First Aid and Medicines

• Diamox

• Bandages

• Hand sanitizer

• Prescriptions drugs

• Insect repellant

• Painkillers

• Sprain spray

• Tablets

• Water purification tablets

• Foot Powder

• Antidiarrheals

• Cough Lozenges

• Skin blister repair kit

• Eye drops

• Toiletries and Hygiene

• Hair Brush

• Toilet Paper

• Toothpaste

• Toothbrush

• Dry Shampoo

• Multi-purpose soap

• soap bottle

• Quick-drying towel

• Deodorants

• Nail Brush

• Miscellaneous

• Cell Phones

• Camera

• Portable charger

• Universal adapter

• Charger

• SIM card

• Earphones                                                                         

Tips To Make the Manaslu Circuit Easier for Beginners

The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be challenging for first-time trekkers, but with the help of the right preparation, beginners can successfully complete this trek in a more manageable and enjoyable way. Being prepared can further reduce risks and boost confidence. There are several practical tips for beginners that help them make the Manaslu Circuit trek easier. Some of them includes: 

• Prepare physically: Physically prepare yourself by performing cardio workouts such as jogging, biking, and brisk walking and leg strengthening exercises before starting the trekking journey. You should train yourself by doing daylong hikes carrying a loaded backpack.

• Pack Smart: It is essential to pack the trekking material nicely and wisely before going for the trek, which can make your trekking easy. You should bring lightweight, layered attire, trekking poles, sunglasses, and first aid kits to ensure safety from injuries and manage small health concerns while trekking.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: During the trek, you should drink plenty of water and eat nutritious foods such as apples, bananas, apricots, and raisins that provide the high energy required for the trek. At the same time, it would also be important to pack energy-rich snacks such as energy bars and nuts. These snacks produce energy inside the body and help you trek more comfortably.

• Listen to Your Body: Listening to your body is the most important thing to be done while trekking. You need to take breaks if required and not try too hard on tougher routes. Maintaining the same rhythm through the trek is more beneficial than rushing towards the destination. 

• Carry enough cash: You should carry enough cash for the Manaslu circuit trek, as you won't find any ATMs available there. Therefore, to buy some energy snacks and meals, you should bring lots of money for the trek. 

Related Blog:- Discover the Manaslu Circuit Trek: Ultimate Guide (2026)

Conclusion

The Manaslu circuit trek difficulty is moderate to challenging. Although the trek is challenging, the beginners who are prepared and motivated can complete it. This trek challenges your physical fitness level, mental resilience, and ability to adapt to high altitudes with limited facilities, although you don't need to perform technical climbing.

Even beginners can attempt this trek if they spend time training themselves and if they trek with a licensed guide. This trekking route is best suited for beginners, as they would be interested to come out of their comfort zone. With the right preparation, you can overcome the challenges and make your journey memorable. 

In this blog, we provided detailed information regarding the Manaslu circuit trek difficulty level, whether it is hard for beginners, key factors that define Manaslu circuit trek difficulty, and whether we need a guide and porter for the Manaslu circuit trek. Along with this, we have also given the insights into altitude sickness on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the best time to visit, a packing list, and essential tips.

For further information regarding the Manaslu circuit trek, feel free to check out some other blogs. Additionally, if you are interested in trekking, contact Destiny Excursion - one of the best trekking company in Nepal. 

Frequently Asked Question 

What is a Strenuous and Demanding Trek?

Challenging or demanding trek refers to the types of treks which require physical fitness and skills. It involves trekking for a long period of time on uneven or rough terrain. The trekker may experience basic accommodations, lack of facilities, variable weather, or remote trekking points in this trek.

What Physical Fitness Level Is Required to Complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

A strong level of physical fitness is required to complete the Manaslu circuit trek.You should trek for around 5 to 6 hours daily over steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. Powerful leg muscles, good cardiovascular endurance, and overall stamina are required to handle long ascents and descents.

How Long Does It Take to Complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

It takes about 18 days to complete this Manaslu Circuit Trek. Among 18 days, the actual trek duration is 14 days, and the other 4 days include the driving and acclimatization days.  It is done to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience. 

What is the hardest part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The most challenging part of the Manaslu Circuit trek is crossing the Larkya La pass-5,106 meters above sea level. This part of the trail has a long, steep climb and a tough descent, usually on rocky, icy, or snowy ground. In this section, you face cold temperatures, strong winds, and thinner air, which makes the day physically demanding and mentally tough.

Do I need prior trekking experience for the Manaslu Circuit?

Prior trekking experience is highly recommended for the Manaslu circuit trek. However, if you are a beginner, you need to get adequate training and accompany a guide with prior experience to complete the trek. The main reason for this is that the trek requires high-altitude ascents and descents along with an uneven track at some stages. In fact, the trek requires treks through high-altitude villages that possess limited facilities as well.

What is the distance of Manaslu Circuit trek? 

The Manaslu circuit trek distance is around 177 kilometers (110 miles). To complete this trek, it takes around 18 days, with 14 days of continuous walking. For trekking around 144 km, you should be physically fit and prepared for a long daily walk in rocky terrain.