Manaslu Circuit Trek - 13 Days

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 13-day trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Nepal's eighth-highest peak. Starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the trek follows forested ridges, rivers, and waterfalls, reaching Machha Khola by day two. The trail leads through narrow gorges and villages like Jagat, where trekkers enter the restricted Manaslu region.

Passing suspension bridges, trekkers reach Deng and ascend to the scenic, Tibetan-influenced village of Namrung. After arriving at Samagaon, an acclimatization day allows exploration of Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. From Samdo, close to the Tibetan border, trekkers proceed to Dharamsala, the base for crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160m), the trek’s highest point. The challenging pass rewards trekkers with views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II, followed by a descent to the peaceful village of Bimthang.

The last days of the trek involve a descent through forests to Tilije and Dharapani, where the trek ends. A drive from Dharapani brings trekkers back to Kathmandu.

Key Information

Best Time to Trek:

• Spring (March to May): The best season for trekking with clear skies, warmer temperatures, and vibrant rhododendron forests in full bloom. This is also the prime time for views of the snow-capped peaks.
• Autumn (September to November): The most popular season due to stable weather conditions, crystal-clear mountain views, and comfortable trekking temperatures.

Permits Required:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): As the Manaslu region is a restricted area, a special RAP permit is required, costing $100 for the first 7 days and an additional fee for each extra day. It is necessary to trek in a group of at least two people, accompanied by a licensed guide.
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit is needed to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. The fee is NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25) for foreign trekkers.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): After crossing the Larkya La Pass, the trail enters the Annapurna Conservation Area. The ACAP fee is NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25).

Guide Requirement:

Due to the restricted nature of the Manaslu region, trekkers are required to hire a licensed guide and trek with a registered agency. Solo trekking is not allowed.

Physical Fitness and Acclimatization:

This trek requires a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience, as it involves long days of walking and significant altitude gains. The highest point, Larkya La Pass (5,160m), can cause altitude sickness if proper acclimatization is not followed. Taking rest days, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually are key to a successful trek.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• Unique Cultural Experience: The trek offers a deep dive into the local Tibetan-Buddhist culture, with visits to ancient monasteries, remote Tibetan villages, and traditional festivals.
• Unspoiled Beauty: Compared to more crowded treks like Everest and Annapurna, Manaslu remains less commercialized, providing trekkers with a more peaceful, remote experience.
• Adventure: Larkya La Pass is one of the highest and most scenic passes in Nepal, providing a thrilling challenge and unmatched views of surrounding peaks.