Manaslu Circuit Trek – Epic Himalayan Adventure

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and less-traveled Himalayan adventures, taking trekkers through remote villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes, including the iconic Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters. Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey combines cultural exploration and natural beauty, with visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites before heading into the serene landscapes of the Manaslu region. Along the trek, you will pass traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, witness ancient monasteries, and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Shringi Himal, and Ganesh Himal.

This trek is perfect for those seeking an authentic and immersive Himalayan experience. From suspension bridges over glacial rivers to vibrant local festivals and markets, every day offers something unique. The route balances adventure and culture, allowing trekkers to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Himalayas while learning about local traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

High-altitude challenges like Larkya La Pass make this trek an unforgettable accomplishment, while the support of experienced Mountain King Treks guides, cooks, and porters ensures comfort, safety, and fresh meals throughout the journey. Accommodation ranges from cozy teahouses to tented camps, offering warmth and rest amid the rugged terrain.

For adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a journey of a lifetime, combining pristine landscapes, thrilling high-altitude trekking, and rich Himalayan culture. Experience a lifetime adventure with Mountain King Treks, where every step opens the door to Nepal’s hidden treasures.

Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and adventurous Himalayan journeys, ideal for trekkers who seek a combination of pristine natural beauty, rich culture, and high-altitude challenge. This trek takes you deep into the remote and less-traveled regions of the Manaslu area, offering an authentic experience far from the crowded trails of other popular treks. Along the way, you will pass through traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, where you can witness the daily lives of local people, explore ancient monasteries, and even time your visit to coincide with vibrant local festivals and cultural ceremonies. The trail offers a stunning variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced farmlands to alpine meadows and dramatic high mountain passes. One of the highlights of the trek is the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), a thrilling high-altitude crossing that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and surrounding Himalayan giants. The trek also features sparkling rivers, cascading waterfalls, prayer flags fluttering across valleys, and snow-capped peaks rising above serene villages, creating countless opportunities for photography and spiritual reflection. With carefully planned acclimatization, teahouse accommodations, and the guidance of experienced local trekking teams, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a perfect balance of adventure, safety, and comfort. Whether you are an experienced trekker seeking high-altitude challenges or a traveler wishing to immerse yourself in Himalayan culture and landscapes, this trek promises unforgettable memories, unparalleled scenery, and an authentic journey through one of Nepal’s most captivating and culturally rich regions.

Short Itinerary – Manaslu Circuit Trek

Day 1 Arrive Kathmandu 1,400 m Airport transfer hotel check-in rest

Day 2 Kathmandu sightseeing 1,400 m Pashupatinath Boudhanath Durbar Square finalize permits 5–6 h

Day 3 Kathmandu → Soti Khola / Machha Khola 700–900 m 7–9 h Scenic drive along rivers

Day 4 Machha Khola → Jagat 10 km 1,340 m 5–6 h Start trek through villages and forests

Day 5 Jagat → Deng 12 km 1,860 m 5–6 h Enter restricted area pass terraced fields

Day 6 Deng → Namrung 10 km 2,630 m 5–6 h Views of Siringi Himal and Buddhist villages

Day 7 Namrung → Shyala 12 km 3,520 m 5–6 h Pass Lho for lunch Ribung Monastery overnight Shyala

Day 8 Shyala → Samagaun via Pungyen Gompa 8 km 3,520 m 4–5 h Visit Pungyen Monastery en route

Day 9 Samagaun 3,520 m Acclimatization day optional hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp

Day 10 Samagaun → Samdo 8 km 3,875 m 4–5 h Short day to adjust to altitude

Day 11 Samdo → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi 12 km 4,460 m 5–6 h High-altitude camp before the pass

Day 12 Larkya La Pass → Bimthang 12 km 3,720 m 8–10 h Challenging pass with stunning Himalayan views

Day 13 Bimthang → Tilije / Dharapani 15 km 1,860 m 5–6 h Descend through forests and meadows

Day 14 Dharapani → Besisahar / Kathmandu 760 m 6–7 h Scenic drive back to Kathmandu

Day 15 Final departure from Kathmandu

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Trip Facts – Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Duration: 15 Days (12 Days Trekking + 3 Nights Kathmandu)
• Maximum Altitude: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Region: Manaslu Region, Nepal
• Accommodation: Teahouses during the trek; 3★ standard hotel in Kathmandu
• Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu; full board during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Start Point: Kathmandu
• End Point: Kathmandu
• Transportation: Bus for long-distance travel; private vehicle for local transfers and sightseeing
• Best Season: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)

Checklist / Trek Preparation & Packing – Manaslu Circuit Trek

Clothing & Layers:

• Moisture-wicking base layers (shirts, thermal leggings)
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece jackets, down jacket)
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell
• Trekking pants and shorts for lower altitudes
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarf or buff
• Comfortable trekking socks

Footwear & Gear:

• Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support
• Trekking poles for steep and rocky trails
• Daypack for daily essentials
• Sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures
• Water bottles or hydration system

Health & Personal Items:

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Insect repellent
• Sunglasses and sun hat

Documents & Permits:

• Passport with at least six months’ validity
• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP & ACAP
• Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking

Optional / Extras:

• Camera or GoPro, binoculars
• Power bank and charging cables
• Rain cover or trekking umbrella

Physical Preparation:

• Cardio exercises (walking, running, cycling)
• Hiking practice with elevation gain
• Leg-strengthening workouts (squats, lunges

Best Season for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is best undertaken during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, when the weather is most stable and the views of the Himalayan peaks are clear.

• Spring (March to May): The trail comes alive with blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers, making the scenery vibrant and colorful. Temperatures are moderate, and most of the snow from higher passes has melted, making trekking safer.
• Autumn (September to November): After the monsoon, the air is crisp and clear, offering panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and surrounding peaks. This is also the most popular trekking season due to stable weather and comfortable temperatures.

Winter (December to February) can be very cold, especially near Larkya La Pass, and monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and limited visibility, making trekking more challenging.

Customize Your Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek can be tailored to match your interests, fitness level, and schedule. The standard itinerary already includes extra acclimatization days at Tsum Valley, Samagaun, and key Manaslu villages, ensuring a safe and comfortable high-altitude experience.

Trekkers seeking additional adventure can choose optional extensions, such as a day hike from Samdo to the Tibet border, or extended treks to Nar-Phu Valley, Tilicho Lake, or Thorong La Pass. These side trips allow for breathtaking mountain views and immersive cultural experiences without disrupting acclimatization.

Other customizations include accommodation preferences, meal options, and personal trekking pace, allowing each trekker to enjoy a comfortable, personalized Himalayan journey. With the guidance of experienced trekking staff and porters, every route can be carefully adapted to create a memorable, safe, and fully tailored adventure in the Manaslu region.

Why Choose Mountain King Treks for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

With over 35 years of experience in Himalayan adventure and travel, Mountain King Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted leader in high-altitude trekking in Nepal. We specialize in providing safe, well-organized, and unforgettable experiences for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, combining breathtaking mountain landscapes, cultural immersion, and expert guidance. Our team is committed to ensuring each trekker enjoys the best of Nepal’s natural and cultural treasures with comfort, safety, and personal attention.

Why Trek with Mountain King Treks:

• Experienced, licensed guides with in-depth knowledge of the Manaslu region, culture, and ecology
• Professional support staff, including porters and cooks, ensuring comfort, nutrition, and safety
• Personalized itineraries with proper acclimatization, optional side trips, and flexible pacing
• Focus on authentic cultural experiences in Tibetan, Gurung, and Manangi villages
• Eco-friendly and responsible trekking practices that support local communities
• Well-equipped camps and quality teahouses, providing safety and comfort at every stage
• 35+ years of Himalayan adventure expertise, guaranteeing reliability, trust, and insider knowledge

Choosing Mountain King Treks means experiencing the Manaslu Circuit in a safe, immersive, and memorable way, with every detail thoughtfully arranged for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Related Guides & Manaslu Travel Insights – Manaslu Circuit Trek

Enhance your Manaslu Circuit Trek experience with our curated guides and insights, designed to help you plan, prepare, and enjoy this Himalayan adventure with Mountain King Treks.

Upcoming Guides & Insights:

• Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit, Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Everest Base Camp, and more
• Best Time to Visit the Manaslu Region: Seasonal tips for trekking, photography, and weather
• Cultural Insights: Tibetan, Gurung, and Manangi village experiences along the trail
• Photography & Mountain Views Guide: Capture Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and surrounding peaks
• Trekking Preparation & Packing Tips: Gear, permits, acclimatization, fitness, and high-altitude safety advice

These resources provide practical guidance, cultural insights, and inspiration for a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey through the Manaslu region.

FAQs – Manaslu Circuit Trek

Q1: What is the total duration of the trek?

A1: Typically 16–18 days, including 3 nights in Kathmandu and 13–15 days of trekking.

Q2: What is the highest point of the trek?

A2: Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) is the highest point. Optional side hikes include Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) and Tilicho Lake (4,919 m).

Q3: What is the difficulty level?

A3: Moderate to challenging. Suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some high-altitude experience.

Q4: What type of accommodation is provided?

A4: Teahouses or lodges during the trek; 3★ hotels in Kathmandu.

Q5: Are meals included?

A5: Yes, all trekking meals are included, with tea or coffee at each meal.

Q6: Do I need trekking permits?

A6: Yes. Required permits include Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, TIMS card, and any additional permits for optional side trips.

Q7: Is it safe for first-time high-altitude trekkers?

A7: Yes, with proper acclimatization and guidance from our experienced trekking team.

Q8: Can the trek be customized?

A8: Yes, optional extensions, extra acclimatization days, or slower pace can be arranged to suit your preferences.

Start Your Manaslu Circuit Adventure Today

Experience the iconic Manaslu Circuit Trek, a high Himalayan adventure through remote villages, stunning mountain landscapes, and culturally rich communities. Enjoy comfortable teahouse stays, expert local guides, and optional side hikes to places like Pungin Gompa, Birendra Tal, and Manaslu Base Camp, all tailored to your pace and interests.

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📧 Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com

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