Manaslu Circuit Trek

The 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off-the-beaten track that is highly recommended if you are looking for a secluded but qualitative experience. Encircling Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, the circuit trek was opened to the public in 1992. Settled between the Annapurnas and the Ganesh Himal, this breathtaking route is sometimes overlooked compared to its more renowned neighbor, the Annapurna Circuit. Today, it boasts increased popularity.

Located in Nepal’s western central region, Treks in the Manaslu region has rich biodiversity and deeply assimilates Tibetan Buddhist culture. On the trail to Manaslu Circuit, you will enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is famous for its rich biodiversity of various plants and animals. You can also witness ten peaks over 6,500m and 7000m, including Mt. Manaslu, flanked by Himalculi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna II, and others.

The trekking route to Manaslu Circuit follows you back in time as you trod the steps of ancient pilgrims and earlier explorers. Colorful prayer flags, mani walls and chortens, spiritual prayer wheels, and age-old monasteries await you. Withstanding the passage of time, Tibetan traditions greatly influence the Manaslu region. Moreover, the changing scenery of subtropical Himalayan foothills and the arid desert-like landscapes bordering Tibet will spellbound you.

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking

• Walk the off-the-beaten-pathway. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is perfect for those looking for respite from heavy crowds.
• Visit Kathmandu Valley’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Experience exhilaration while crossing long suspension bridges that guide you over the flowing Budhi Gandaki River and deep gorges.
• Explore the Manaslu Conservation Area, known for its rich biodiversity and wild natural beauty. The trek takes you through diverse ecosystems and pristine flora and fauna.
• Enjoy the unique culture of the Nubri and Tsum valleys, where the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism are a way of life.
• Experience the unique Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang cultures, their authentic lifestyles, and age-old Himalayan customs. Interact with the locals, enjoy their hospitality, and learn about them.
• Witness the astounding views of the Manaslu Peak (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
• Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), the highest point of the trek, which offers astounding panoramic views of the Himalayas: the ethereal Manaslu Peak (8,163m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), and Annapurna II (7937m). Experience the impressive views of Himlung Himal Cheo Himal.
• Trek through the diverse landscapes that range from Himalayan foothills to alpine terrains to lush emerald forests to mighty mountains adorned with glaciers, rivers, and cascading waterfalls.
• Taste beverages prepared in local tea houses that offer an insight into the local way of life.

Route Overview

Your 15-day Trekking to Manaslu Circuit starts from Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival in Kathmandu. A Nepal Hiking Team representative, your introductory guide for the expedition, will be standing with a display board waiting for you.

You also have a choice whether to do the Kathmandu Valley tour before or after the trek, depending on what you feel comfortable with. The tour includes exploring the valley’s prominent and archaeologically significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, imposing Boudhanath Stupa, impressive Kathmandu Durbar Square, and ageless Swayambhunath Stupa. All of them will provide you with architecturally and historically profound legends and varied cultural and spiritual learning.

The next day, your trek journey starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and then Maccha Khola. You will reach your destination after driving through Tari Bensi and a rugged, dirt-laden road. Along the way, you will be allured by Nepal’s beautiful rustic countryside.

From Machha Khola, you hike uphill and downhill until you reach Khorlabesi Village. Your next stop is the natural hot spring of Tatopani.

A trading post between Nepal and China, you will witness the hustle and bustle of entrepreneurs, teahouse owners, shoppers, travelers, etc. From Tatopani, we will cross a wild, forested area and reach Dovan, where we can have lunch. After passing through Sal forests, small rivers, streams, and gushing waterfalls, we finally get to the trail’s jewel in the crown: Jagat. It is a small, scattered village and welcomes travelers with its rural appeal and warm hospitality. Small mani walls and chortens also adorn the pathways.

As we head towards Deng and Namrung, the landscape becomes more rugged. We also observe a gradual change in the influences of Tibetan culture. Gompas (Buddhist monasteries) and mani walls create a rich cultural ambiance.

While passing the villages, you may taste locally made alcohol prepared from fermented barley. Ascending towards the rhododendron-covered valley hills, you will reach Lho Gaun and Samagaon for respite and acclimatization (needed for your body’s adjustment to the high altitude). You take pride and satisfaction in knowing you have achieved a milestone: reaching the Manaslu Base Camp (4750m).

After that, we continue to Samdo, a small Tibetan refugee village with stunning mountain views. Our last stop is Dharmasala before moving towards the challenging Larkya La Mountain Pass (5106m). Viewing the mountains from the past will be a forever-etched memory.

On the horizon, you will see the spectacular Himalayan range of Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyaji Kung (7030m), and Annapurna II (7937m) – towering mightily and arrayed beautifully with Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) magnificent in the backdrop.

We descend to Bhimtang, hiking through diverse terrains filled with plush forests and roaring rivers. We then continued to Goa and stayed overnight. We end our trek in Tilije and then catch a jeep to Beshishahar, bidding farewell to the mountains. A drive from Beshishahar brings us to Kathmandu, where you'll have time to rest and reflect on your amazing Himalayan journey.

Similar Trips to Manaslu Circuit Trek

You have alternate options for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, depending on whether you wish to include the Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tour or skip it. We recommend the one-day city tour. It will provide excellent insight into Nepal’s historical and sociocultural roots and development.

Thus, the 15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek includes an extra day. The 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking also covers the same route as the 15-day package. Except it omits the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Apart from this difference, both packages follow identical routes.

Secondly, for those seeking longer trekking days, a deeper experience and learning of the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the valley. The Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek is the ideal choice, spanning 20 days. This exceptional package incorporates a trek to the scenic Tsum Valley, enhancing the overall journey with its cultural significance. It gives you time to traverse wild and geographically unique landscapes as you immerse yourself in the rich sociocultural mountainous way of life.

Best Time for the Trekking Manaslu Circuit

The best time travel on the Manaslu Circuit trek is during spring: March, April, or May. This period is strongly recommended and is before the monsoon season. The reason is that the temperatures rise, creating a warmer trekking climate enhanced by the blossoming of flowers and plants, bright colors, and greenery.

The high-altitude lakes start to thaw, and villagers who had sought refuge in lower villages to evade the harsh winter begin to return to their homes. The surrounding peaks also retain considerable snow, creating surreally picturesque mountain views that inspire.  

Dry paths, consistent and most-of-the-time stable weather, excellent visibility, and extended hiking hours are robust features of Nepal’s spring trekking season.

Similarly, autumn is another ideal time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Extended over September, October, and November, the period is a massive favorite among trekkers owing to the season’s mild temperatures and breathtakingly magical mountain vistas.

The autumn season is a golden time for trekking. It is a post-monsoon phase when the environment starts clearing up, and enchantment is in the air. The skies are filled with rich hues, the weather is delightful, the mountain panoramas have their own allure, and the snowfall is minimal.

It is also a suitable and achievable time to conquer the Larkya La Mountain Pass (5106m).

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is categorized as a moderate-to-difficult-level trek depending upon your physical and mental preparedness level and state. The journey covers an approximate distance of 177 kilometers (110 miles) and reaches an altitude of (5,165m) when crossing the Larkya La pass (5106m).

Accommodations are essential, and food options are somewhat limited. Also, the trails in the Manaslu region can be steep and slippery. While walking, you must be vigilant and wear suitable trekking boots with a good grip. Along the trail, you may come across narrow bridges that hang over fast-flowing rivers. During these times, you should be careful while crossing. A few valuable and best tips are to acclimate during the trek properly, stay hydrated, have rest days, and make a gradual ascent.

In this way, you must understand and know your needs, as the Manaslu area is remote and challenging. Previous trekking experiences and know-how are an added advantage. However, even if it’s your first trek, NHT will ensure you are correctly oriented, informed, and prepared for this secluded and immensely rewarding trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you a stimulating and enriching outdoor journey. While you are challenged physically and mentally, you will see stunning, diverse landscapes, experience rich cultural heritage, and go beyond the limits of your adventurous spirit. It is a highly recommended trek for the avid, explorative trekker. So, if you’re up to a daring Himalayan experience, please inquire and book your trip now to start your adventure in the Himalayan nation of Nepal!