Manaslu Circuit Trek: Off-the-Beaten Path

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey on an exciting off-the-beaten trail. Trek in Manaslu is done around the 8th Highest Mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). Adventure here rewards you with the best raw vistas possible. Annapurna to the west and Ganesh Himal to the east add extra value to the trek.

The routes of Manaslu take you to the west-central region of Nepal within the Manaslu Conservation Area. It has been open for Trekking since 1992 and is known for its biodiversity and Tibetan Buddhist culture. The trek offers outstanding views of Mt Manaslu, Annapurna II, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29). 

Manaslu Circuit Trek allows one to complete the high mountain pass, Larkya La Pass (5,106m). This is the trek's highest point, which adds an adventurous and enjoyable part to the journey. Rewards await as you ascend the pass. You get breathtaking views of Himlung (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,162m), and Mount Manaslu (8,163m) from there. 

The Manaslu region is greatly influenced by Tibetan traditions. Each trail is adorned with colorful prayer flags, Mani walls, Chortens, and old monasteries. This takes back time as the steps pass by ancient pilgrims. Witness the change in scenery from subtropical Himalayan foothills to arid desert-like landscapes. The region amplifies the beauty of Himalayan Tibetan Buddhism perfectly!

Contact us, The Nepal Hiking Team, to plan your unforgettable adventure in the Nepal Himalayas!

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Visit Kathmandu Valley's four UNESCO World Heritage sites of Nepal. Tour the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Travel with a diverse ecosystem and pristine flora and fauna of Manaslu Conservation Area. You may witness Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan tahr, and many other wild animals.
• Experience Himalayan trekking on less crowded, pristine, and off-beaten trails in the Manaslu region.
• Interact with diverse ethnic groups like Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetans. Immerse yourself in their long-standing Himalayan customs.
• Feel the thrill while crossing long suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandhaki River and deep gorges.
• Closely witness the world's 8th highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163m).
• Explore the unique culture of Nubri and Kutang Valley, the Tibetan Buddhist way of living.
• Discover secluded Pun Gyen Gompa, rich in history, spiritual values, and scenic beauty with Pungyen Glacier.
• Get an authentic teahouse experience with a glimpse into the Tibetan way of living.
• Complete the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), one of the high mountain passes. Unforgettable panoramic mountain views of Manaslu, Gyaji Kung, Annapurna II, Himlung, and Cheo Himal from the Pass.

Route Overview/What to Expect on the Manaslu Circuit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek for 15 days starts with arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative, an introductory guide for the expedition, gives a warm welcome with a short briefing about the following day’s tour.

The second day includes a briefing on the overall trip. The day covers a valley tour of four UNESCO World Heritage sites here. To the Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. This tour provides a preview of Nepal's iconic architecture and history.

A scenic drive starts from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and continues to Macchakhola (869m) the next day. This drive passes through Tari Bensi with an uneven, dirt-laden road. Macchakhola is the primary destination where we first see Ganesh Himal. 

Then, the Trek around Manaslu Circuit continues through the villages of Khorlabesi and Tatopani before entering the Manaslu Conservation Area at Jagat. After Jagat, we pass through Salleri and Sirdibas, eventually reaching the Gurung village of Philim, which offers a stunning viewpoint of Sringi Himal.

Then we pass by Ekle Bhatti, Nyak, till we get to another Gurung village, Deng. This part of the trail includes views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. The route covers many suspension bridges, gushing waterfalls, lush forests, and the Budi Gandhaki River.

Our next part of the Manaslu trekking route includes Rana, Bihi Phedi, Bihi, and Ghap until our stop in Namrung village. However, the best part of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking begins after crossing Namrung. Mighty Manaslu and Himchuli become visible during this route. 

Later, the trail passes through villages like Lihi, Sho, Lho, Shyala, and Samagaun. Then, take a small hike to the sacred Pun Gyen Gompa of the region. Circuit Trek approaches the mountains and heads towards another challenge, Larkya La Pass (5,106m), the trek's highest point. Before Manaslu Pass, the trek crosses through the village of Samdo, Tibetan Market Larkya Bazar, and then Larkya Phedi.

The ascent of Manaslu trekking ends with Larkya la pass. The point shares breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna range. This rewarding trek ends with the charming villages of Bimthang, Goa, Tilije and a final drive to Kathmandu, followed by the departure flight the next day.

Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Choosing a suitable trekking period significantly determines the journey experience in the Nepal Himalayas. 

The best times for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking are spring (September, October, and November) and autumn (March, April, and May). These seasons offer stable weather conditions and comfortable temperatures, enhancing the trekking experience. 

Spring is best for trekkers looking for a blend of vibrant nature with the visibility of the bold mountains of Manaslu. Also, the weather is predictable during this time. The days are longer, with more time to explore the Manaslu circuit. Following this, the temperature is warm, and the mountains are more snow-capped.

Autumn, also known as the festive month, is another ideal time for the Manaslu trek. During the post-monsoon period, the environment starts clearing up. Hues fill the sky, the weather is delightful, and the mountain panorama has its allure. The period is also considered an achievable time to conquer the Larkya La Mountain Pass.

Winter (Dec, Jan, and Feb) and summer (June, July, and August) are unsuitable for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. During this period, accommodations in higher elevations like Samdo and Dharamsala villages are unavailable, and Circuit Trekking routes in Manaslu are closed. Weather conditions are unstable, with heavy snowfalls and rainfalls.

We, the Nepal Hiking Team, prioritize your safety and don't recommend that travelers trek in summer and winter. We strongly advise trekkers to trek in spring and autumn when the weather is more stable and the routes are safer. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty

The difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from moderate to strenuous. It depends upon the physical and mental endurance level of a trekker. The journey covers approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) and reaches an altitude of (5,106m) when crossing the Larkya La pass. The pass ascent is physically demanding due to the high altitude, steep climb, and varying weather. 

The journey includes long hours of walking and a high mountain pass. The altitude of the Manaslu circuit ranges from 900m to 5,106m. With the increase in altitude, there is a higher chance of altitude sickness. 

Circuit trekking in Manaslu mainly covers steep trails requiring good physical fitness. This trek's difficulty also depends on the time you choose to travel. So, make sure you travel on a suitable trek period. 

Difficulties during the treks are inevitable. But with us, the Nepal Hiking Team ensures you have a successful and safe Manaslu trip. We provide decades of experienced trekking guides in the Himalayas.

Alternative Routes for Manaslu Circuit Trek

We provide a couple of adventures in the Manaslu region, depending on the different interests and preferences of the trekkers.

One of our short alternate options for the 15-day Manaslu trek is the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. Both packages follow identical classic routes. Fourteen days in the Manaslu region are ideal for trekkers with less time.

And for trekkers with an extended period, there is the Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Trek, which is 20 days in duration. This exceptional package incorporates a trek to the scenic Tsum Valley, enhancing the overall journey with cultural significance.

Take time to traverse wild and geographically unique landscapes and immerse yourself in the preserved sociocultural mountainous way of life.

Got questions about the Manaslu Circuit Trek or our packages? Reach out to us anytime via WhatsApp or email—we’re here to help plan your perfect adventure!