Manaslu Circuit Trek

Larke La Pass (5106 m) - Highest Point of the Manaslu trek

Resting at 5,106 meters above sea level, Larkya La Pass stands as one of Nepal's most formidable mountain crossings. It serves as the dramatic climax of the renowned Manaslu Circuit Trek.

This high-altitude gateway connects two of Nepal's most pristine conservation areas on your way back: the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. This pass is named after the towering 6,249-meter Larkya Peak that dominates the skyline.

From the pass, the Manaslu (8,163m) dominates the eastern horizon. At the same time, Annapurna II and other legendary peaks create a stunning backdrop that seems almost too magnificent to be real.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Season

The most favourable seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are spring and autumn.

Spring (March to May): This is an ideal time for trekking, as the skies are typically clear, offering stunning views of Manaslu, Annapurna, and the surrounding mountains. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C, making it comfortable for walking. More tea houses and lodges are open during these months, making it easier to find a place to stay.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings steady weather and clear skies almost every day, offering excellent visibility throughout the Manaslu Circuit trek. Days are warm, while nights turn cooler, making for good trekking conditions. Since this is a popular season, expect to meet more trekkers along the trail.

Why are Winter and Monsoon Unfavorable?

In winter (December to February), trekking becomes quite difficult in the Manaslu region because deep snow often blocks the trail around Samdo and Dharmasala. The freezing temperatures at higher altitudes make it hard to stay warm and safe, and there are fewer places open for accommodation during these months.

During the monsoon season (June to August), heavy rains make the Manaslu Circuit Trekking trails slippery and hazardous, with landslides sometimes washing away significant portions of the path. The mountains are usually hidden behind clouds, so the views are poor, and the humid, wet conditions bring out leeches, which can make the trek even more unpleasant.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost and Price

The cost of your Manaslu Circuit Trek can vary depending on several factors, including trek duration, group size, accommodation standards, and the services provided.

Our Manaslu packages include expert local guides with intimate knowledge of the region's hidden gems. We cover essential permits, including the restricted area permit of Manaslu, comfortable lodges, and authentic cultural experiences in Tibetan-influenced villages.

Group size and Price with Nepal Hiking Team for Manaslu Trek

No. of Travellers    Price per Traveller

• 1 Pax                     US$ 1900
• 2 - 4 Pax                US$ 1450
• 5 - 7 Pax                US$ 1350
• 8 - 10 Pax              US$ 1300

We strongly recommend bringing 25,000 to 35,000 NPR in cash for personal expenses during your Manaslu Circuit trek. This includes additional snacks at remote teahouses, refreshing beverages, and unique handicrafts created by local artisans.

Your Manaslu Circuit trek directly supports the resilient families of the Nubri and Tsum valleys. It helps them preserve their ancient Tibetan-influenced culture while providing sustainable livelihoods for local guides, porters, and teahouse owners. This meaningful connection between adventure and community support makes your journey even more rewarding.

Manaslu Base Camp Trek or Manaslu Circuit?

Manaslu Base Camp Trek is not a separate trek; it’s a crucial acclimatization day that’s built right into the famous Manaslu Circuit Trek. This base camp is a magnificent detour that prepares you to conquer Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16752ft), which serves as the highest point of the trek.

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek unfolds perfectly during your acclimatization day in Samagaun(3,520m/11,548ft) on the circuit route. The journey covers about 5.1 kilometers from Samagaun to Manaslu Base Camp. It takes roughly 6-7 hours for the complete round trip.

This base camp sits at 4,800 meters, offering trekkers the opportunity to witness the north face of Mount Manaslu in all its glory. What makes this side trip truly special is how it prepares your body for the higher altitudes while delivering spectacular mountain photography opportunities.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance and Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek route covers 125 to 135 kilometers (77 to 83 miles). It has various landscapes that keep the journey interesting and demanding.

The Manaslu trek spans 15 days, with 10 days dedicated to walking, beginning in Machha Khola and concluding in Tilije.

The level of difficulty shifts from moderate to strenuous, as trekkers must acclimatize to higher altitudes, manage exhaustion, and stay focused.

Transportation: How to reach Manaslu?

Our Manaslu Circuit package includes both airport pick-up and drop-off services for all trekkers. Upon arrival, our representative will safely transport you to your hotel and drop you off three hours prior to your flight.

We handle all the ground transportation and take you from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (the starting point of the Manaslu trek) by jeep, where your trek officially begins. In this drive, you can watch the landscape transform from urban chaos to terraced hillsides and rushing rivers. On your return journey, we'll head back from Tilije with a comfortable ride to Kathmandu.

Mountain Manaslu - Eighth-highest Mountain Peak

Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters above sea level) is the eighth-highest peak on Earth and one of Nepal's most captivating mountains. It is locally known as Kampunge. This towering giant derives its name from the Sanskrit word "manasa," meaning "intellect" or "soul," which gives it the poetic title "mountain of the spirit."

Manaslu is located in western-central Nepal and dominates the Manaslu Himal range, which forms the border between the Gorkha and Manang districts.

The key geographic features include the Larkya Glacier, a striking feature that dominates the route. It passes notable landmarks such as Larkya La Pass, Pinkar, and Nyamlo Lakes, as well as the dramatic northeast ridge route that leads to the summit.

The mountain continues to attract serious mountaineers seeking to test themselves against one of Earth's most formidable and spiritually resonant peaks.

Essential Manaslu Circuit Trekking Guide

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an authentic adventure that takes you through some of Nepal's most pristine terrain. Every decision matters, from your insurance policy to the way you lace your boots. Here are some insights that can make your trip more memorable and convenient.

Travel Insurance Can Save Your Money

When you’re above 5,000 meters, if your head pounds or if you can barely catch your breath, you’ll need a helicopter evacuation in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This can cost you from $3,000 to $5,000 for a rescue operation.

That’s why you need specialized high-altitude coverage that includes emergency helicopter evacuation and medical coverage extending up to 6,000 meters during the trek. This survival planning can help you save money while being safe.

Rabies Vaccine is a Smart Precaution

Himalayan sheepdogs (Bhote Kukur) aren't only photogenic but also sometimes unpredictably aggressive. It’s essential to have a pre-exposure rabies shot before embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek to ensure safety.

Even the nearest proper medical facility could be days away on foot. If you get bitten, you're looking at an emergency evacuation just to get basic treatment during the Mount Manaslu trek. The rabies vaccine series requires several weeks to complete, so begin this process well in advance of your departure.

You'll Cross Dozens of Suspension Bridges

If you're a trekker who gets sweaty palms looking over height, the suspension bridges on the Manaslu Circuit can be a little scary for you.

Our guide has crossed these bridges thousands of times, often in conditions far worse than what you'll face. Don't be embarrassed to ask for a steadying hand or to take your time. You'll get used to it, and by the end of the trek, you might even find yourself enjoying the gentle sway.

Sleep Early at Dharmasala (Larke Phedi)

Dharmasala is a place for you to rest properly. This camping spot, located at 4,460 meters, exists for one purpose: to prepare you for the Larke La Pass. The accommodations are basic, the food is simple, and the temperature drops significantly after sunset.

While in Dharmasala, we recommend that you eat your dal bhat while it's still warm, crawl into your sleeping bag by 7 or 8 PM, and try to get some rest. You'll be starting your climb in the dark, and by 10 AM, the winds on the pass can become brutal. Every hour of sleep you get here is an investment in your summit success.

Leave Heavy Gear Behind for Base Camp Hike:

The side trip to Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaon is a steep and long journey. That’s why you don't need to suffer from carrying your entire trekking equipment. This is where strategic packing pays off.

Leave your main pack at the lodge in Samagaon and go light. Pack just the essentials such as water, snacks, rain gear, and warm layers. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning views instead of counting every step.

Take It Slow, Respect the Altitude

You need patience, respect, and humility to have a convenient and safe trekking experience for the Nepal Manaslu Trek. As you'll be walking 6 to 8 hours a day, steadily climbing higher into thinner air is better for you.

That’s why maintaining a good base for acclimatization helps you deal with altitude sickness. Drink water even when you're not thirsty, eat even when food doesn't appeal to you, and listen to your body. Your guides are trained to spot the early warning signs of altitude problems. Trust their experience and speak up immediately if something doesn't feel right.

Train Before You Arrive

Your preparation starts at home, not at the trailhead. Begin your training regimen 1 to 2 months before departing for the Nepal Manaslu Trek. For the basic training, you can start with morning jogs or uphill walks while carrying a light pack.

You can also dedicate weekends to longer day hikes on local hills or trails. Practice walking for 2 to 3 hours continuously, then gradually extend your endurance.

Most importantly, break in your boots properly. Blisters at 4,000 meters aren't just painful, they can end your trek. The fitter you arrive, the more you'll enjoy every sunrise, every prayer flag, and every moment of this incredible journey.

For Larke La Pass, Gear Smart, Not Light

Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You'll begin the climb in pre-dawn darkness, often facing cold, fierce winds, and sometimes snow that can reduce visibility to just a few meters.

That’s why your gear list for the pass should include a reliable headlamp with extra batteries. As you need to walk at 4 AM, walking with a mobile phone in hand can be inconvenient and cold. Be sure to wear a down jacket, warm gloves, gaiters, microspikes, thermal base layers, and windproof pants.

Respect Sacred Spaces

The Manaslu Circuit route follows a living pilgrimage path that has been woven through centuries of Buddhist tradition. Always walk clockwise around mani walls, stupas, and chortens; this shows respect for Buddhist tradition.

Remove your shoes before entering the gompa and keep your voice low. Never climb on or sit atop religious structures, no matter how great the photo opportunity might seem.

Surprising Facts of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek holds secrets that most trekkers never discover. Beyond the standard trail descriptions and route maps, this remote Himalayan journey reveals extraordinary stories and ancient traditions.

Shocking Climate Zones

Walking the Manaslu Circuit means experiencing dramatic climate shifts that would typically require international travel. Here you can experience six different climatic zones as the trek begins in subtropical valleys at 700 meters and goes above 5,000 meters.

The final push to Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft) enters the Arctic zone, where glaciers dominate the terrain and oxygen levels drop significantly. Trekkers might spot langur monkeys during the initial days and blue sheep during the middle part of the trek, a wildlife range that typically spans continents.

Trekking Solo is Illegal

The Manaslu region operates under special permit regulations established by the Government of Nepal in 1992. Every foreign trekker needs to travel with a licensed guide and in groups of at least two people.

Local officials keep careful records of visitors, and officers at checkpoints often check the makeup of groups and the licenses of guides. These rules have played a crucial role in preserving the area’s untouched beauty by limiting the number of people who visit the Manaslu Region.

"Death Lake" Is a Hidden Sanctuary

Local villagers from Prok call it "Death Lake," but this name is more reflective of the lake's remote location. Kalcchuman Lake requires a challenging side trek that most commercial groups skip entirely.

During full moon nights, Tibetan Buddhist practitioners from nearby villages make pilgrimages to burn juniper branches on the lake's shores. The ritual, known as "sang offering," purifies negative karma and honors mountain deities. Many locals believe the glacial waters possess healing properties, particularly for joint ailments and altitude-related issues.

A "New" Old Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa

Before modern mountaineering established the current Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa served as the primary staging point in the 1950s. This ancient monastery, situated at an elevation of 4,000 meters, has been there for over 400 years and offers active meditation retreats throughout the year.

The Gompa's location offers diverse views of Manaslu's north face, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Peak. The monks here follow traditional Tibetan Buddhism practices through donations from visiting trekkers and support from Kathmandu Buddhist organizations.

Birendra Lake: Glacier's Evergreen Reflection

Named after Nepal's former King Birendra, this glacial lake demonstrates the dynamic nature of high-altitude water bodies. Birendra Tal experiences dramatic seasonal changes fed by snowmelt from Manaslu's glaciers.

Photography enthusiasts often spend hours here waiting for the perfect moment when Manaslu's reflection appears undisturbed.

Samdo: Tibet's Cultural Doorstep

At 3,875 meters, Samdo village of Manaslu region sits where the cultures of Nepal and Tibet blend. The village monastery holds centuries-old Buddhist manuscripts, written in the classical Tibetan script.

From Samdo, skilled trekkers can tackle the steep Rui La Pass, which rises to 4,998 meters, offering striking views into the secluded valleys of Tibet. Samdo was once a vital stop for salt traders, who carried Tibetan salt south and brought back grain from the lowlands.

Dharamsala: Ghostly Teahouses at the Pass

The name "Dharamsala" traditionally refers to rest houses for pilgrims, and this remote settlement, located at 4,460 meters, fulfills its purpose.

The tents here represent the last reliable accommodation before Larkya La Pass (Highest point of the Manaslu Trek). The accomodation consists of shared dormitory-style rooms with minimal heating and basic dal bhat meals.

Trekkers Burn Up to 6,000 Calories a Day

The combination of altitude, cold temperatures, and daily Manaslu hiking burns between 4,500 and 6,000 calories per day. At elevations above 3,500 meters, your body works overtime to process oxygen during the trek, while cold conditions force additional energy to maintain body temperature.

No Killing, Not Even Mosquitoes in Tsum Valley

The upper Manaslu region, particularly areas connected to Tsum Valley, operates under strict Buddhist principles that prohibit harming any living creature. This includes not just obvious animals like yaks and birds, but extends to insects, worms, and even plants when possible.

The policy has created a unique ecosystem where wildlife shows little fear of humans.

Birds often approach trekkers closely, and the region supports stable populations of blue sheep, musk deer, and occasional snow leopards.

Local people believe violating these principles brings immediate karmic consequences, making the area one of the world's most successful examples of religious conservation.

Beyul: A Hidden Spiritual Kingdom

According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, Guru Rinpoche blessed the remote valley "beyul". These hidden lands remain pure and protected from worldly corruption. The upper Manaslu region, particularly around Mu Gompa, is considered one of these sacred spaces.

Local lamas teach that the beyul becomes accessible only during times of great spiritual need or political upheaval. The concept extends beyond geography to encompass a spiritual state in which practitioners can achieve rapid enlightenment.