Where is the Manaslu Circuit located?

The Manaslu Circuit is situated in the western Himalayan region of Nepal, near the border of Tibet. It encircles Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world, offering trekkers an immersive experience of remote mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

What are the main highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Spectacular views of Mount Manaslu (8,156m), Ganesh Himal, Annapurna II, and other peaks.Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of the longest passes in the Himalayas.Passing through traditional Buddhist villages adorned with monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags.The chance to explore diverse landscapes, from terraced farmlands and dense rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and glacier moraine trails.Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek suitable for all levels of trekkers?The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderately to highly challenging due to its long distances, high altitude, and rugged trails. However, you can complete this trek, if you are a normal fit and determined.

What makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek unique compared to other treks in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out due to its relative remoteness and exclusivity. While it shares similarities with popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit, it offers a less crowded experience, allowing trekkers to connect more deeply with nature and local culture.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a truly unique and unforgettable adventure for those seeking to explore remote paths and experience the untouched beauty of the Himalayas. This journey takes you through isolated landscapes and pristine scenery that inspire awe and a deep sense of connection.

Dominated by the majestic Mount Manaslu, the “Mountain of the Spirit,” standing at 8,163 meters, this trek tests your endurance and determination as you cross high-altitude passes and face unpredictable weather. Successful completion depends on proper acclimatization and good physical fitness, rewarding trekkers with stunning panoramic views. Along the way, you’ll encounter small Tibetan villages and pastures near the Tibetan border, gaining insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The trek’s highlight is the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters, where you can witness the blending of two distinct cultures and breathtaking geography.

The best time to undertake this trek is from March to May and mid-September to December, with October being the most popular due to ideal weather. Off-peak seasons, however, provide the benefit of fewer crowds and a more peaceful connection with nature.

Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House during the trek
Best Season
Mar, Apri, May, Sep, Oct & Nov.
Maximum Altitude
5153m
Transportation
Jeep/ Car/ Tourist Bus.
Walking Hours
5-6 Hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is among Nepal’s finest treks, offering a chance to discover the hidden beauty of the Manaslu Valley and cross the stunning Larkya La Pass with breathtaking views.

Trip Highlights

Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, entering the remote and pristine Manaslu region.
Gradual trekking through diverse landscapes including dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields.
Exploration of culturally rich villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, and Sama Gaun with Tibetan Buddhist influence.
Acclimatization days with rewarding day trips to Manaslu Base Camp and Pungyen Gompa, offering spectacular mountain views.
Trekking to high altitude destinations such as Samdo and Dharmasala, witnessing stunning Himalayan panoramas.
Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft), the highest point of the trek, showcasing breathtaking vistas.
Experiencing authentic Himalayan hospitality and remote mountain lifestyle throughout the journey.

Day 01 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola

Route: Kathmandu → Arughat → Maccha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
Begin your adventure with a scenic 9-hour drive from Kathmandu through winding mountain roads and rural villages, ending in Maccha Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu region.

Day 02 :

Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat

Route: Maccha Khola → Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft)
Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River valley, passing through lush forests and small settlements. Reach Jagat, a cultural hub and checkpoint village surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Day 03 :

Trek from Jagat to Deng

Route: Jagat → Deng (1,804 m / 5,918 ft)
The trail ascends gradually through forests and river valleys, crossing suspension bridges. Arrive at Deng, a traditional village with stunning views and serene surroundings.

Day 04 :

Trek from Deng to Namrung

Route: Deng → Namrung (2,630 m / 8,628 ft)
Trek through alpine forests and terraced farmland, gaining altitude steadily. Namrung is a peaceful Tibetan-influenced village known for its monasteries and panoramic mountain views.

Day 05 :

Trek from Namrung to Lho

Route: Namrung → Lho (2,957 m / 9,701 ft)
A shorter trekking day to Lho, a traditional Tibetan village home to ancient monasteries, offering insight into local culture and spectacular Himalayan vistas.

Day 06 :

Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun

Route: Lho → Sama Gaun (3,530 m / 11,581 ft)
The trail climbs through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows. Sama Gaun is the last permanent village before higher altitude trekking, providing a perfect spot to prepare for the next stages.

Day 07 :

Acclimatization Day – Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa

Route: Sama Gaun → Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m / 15,750 ft) or Pungyen Gompa → Sama Gaun
Spend the day acclimatizing with a trek to the Manaslu Base Camp or a spiritual visit to Pungyen Gompa. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Manaslu massif and immerse yourself in Buddhist culture.

Day 08 :

Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo

Route: Sama Gaun → Samdo (3,865 m / 12,680 ft)
A short but rewarding trek to Samdo, a vibrant Tibetan village near the Nepal-Tibet border, known for yak herders and panoramic mountain scenery.

Day 09 :

Acclimatization Day – Day Trip to Tibet Border

Route: Samdo → Tibet Border (5,000 m / 16,404 ft) → Samdo
A challenging day trip to the high-altitude Tibet border to aid acclimatization. Enjoy expansive Himalayan views and the unique experience of the Tibetan plateau environment.

Day 10 :

Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala

Route: Samdo → Dharmasala (4,460 m / 14,632 ft)
Trek uphill to Dharmasala, a yak herder’s shelter and base camp for crossing Larkya La Pass. Surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, this is a vital rest point.

Day 11 :

Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass

Route: Dharmasala → Larkya La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft) → Bimthang (3,590 m / 11,778 ft)
The most strenuous day as you cross the highest point of the trek, Larkya La Pass. After soaking in awe-inspiring mountain panoramas, descend to Bimthang for rest and recovery.

Day 12 :

Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani

Route: Bimthang → Dharapani (1,970 m / 6,463 ft)
A long descent through forests and traditional villages, ending in Dharapani, known for its natural hot springs and rich cultural heritage.

Day 13 :

Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Route: Dharapani → Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft)
Conclude the trek with a scenic 10-hour drive back to Kathmandu, reflecting on the unforgettable journey through the pristine Manaslu region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

Includes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

Includes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Related trips you might interested in

Everest Base Camp & Island Peak Climbing

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek, Lobuche Peak Climbing, Kongmala Pass Trek, Island Peak Climbing

Gokyo–Renjo La Pass trek

Gokyo–Renjo La Pass trek