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A Day – by – Day Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek

25 September 2024
Planning a Trip to Nepal?
day by day itinerary for manaslu circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote trekking routes, taking you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet).The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience with pristine nature, ancient monasteries, and a deep immersion into Tibetan-influenced culture.

This trek typically takes 14 to 17 days and covers approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles). It is a demanding trek, requiring proper acclimatization and physical endurance, but the rewards are unmatched. The circuit is less crowded in comparsion to other popular trekking destinations like Everest region treks and Annapurna region treks.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)

Highlights: Cultural exploration of Kathmandu, preparation for the trek.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal you will spend the day exploring this vibrant city while preparing for your trek. Kathmandu offers a wealth of cultural landmarks such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath, and Durbar Square. It’s also a great place to check your gear and pick up any last-minute supplies.

Check more details about Cultural Tours in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Drive Time: 6-8 hours

Altitude: 700m (2,296ft)

Highlights: Scenic drive through Nepal’s countryside.

The adventure begins with a long drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. This journey, which starts smoothly on paved roads, becomes a bumpy ride as you approach Arughat and finally Soti Khola. You’ll pass through rivers, terraced fields, and small villages that give you a taste of the rural Himalayan lifestyle.

monk with red dress on top of a stone during manaslu trek

Day 03: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 870m (2,854ft)

Highlights: Lush forests, waterfalls, riverside paths.

Your first trekking day kicks off with an easy walk along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through shady forests and stunning waterfalls. As you hike, you’ll witness picturesque terraced farms and encounter locals carrying out their daily chores. You’ll cross suspension bridges before arriving in Machha Khola, a small village nestled beside the river.

Day 4: Machha Khola to Jagat

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 1,340m (4,396ft)

Highlights: Narrow trails, Gurung villages, hot springs.

Today’s trek is more rugged, with narrow paths hugging the cliffs beside the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll cross the river several times over suspension bridges and pass through Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs—an excellent spot to relax. From here, the trail becomes steeper as you head toward Jagat, a pretty stone-paved village and entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Day 5: Jagat to Deng

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 1,860m (6,102ft)

Highlights: Views of Shringi Himal, waterfalls, Buddhist stupas.

As you climb higher, you’ll start to feel the Tibetan influence in the architecture and culture. The trail leads you through rhododendron forests and across rivers via high bridges. You’ll pass through the village of Philim, where you can take a break, and continue toward Deng, a small settlement with amazing views of Shringi Himal.

crossing bridge during manaslu circuit trek

Day 6: Deng to Namrung

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 2,630m (8,629ft)

Highlights: Buddhist mani walls, dense forests, first glimpse of Manaslu.

Today’s trail is filled with cultural highlights. As you pass through forests of pine and oak, you’ll encounter mani walls (stone walls engraved with Tibetan Buddhist prayers), giving a spiritual touch to the trek. The village of Namrung marks the beginning of the highland Tibetan Buddhist region, where you’ll start to see mountain views, including Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.

Day 07: Namrung to Samagaon

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 3,530m (11,581ft)

Highlights: Tibetan monasteries, stunning views of Manaslu.

The trail from Namrung to Samagaon passes through some of the most culturally rich areas of the trek. You’ll cross more mani walls and monasteries as you walk through Lho and Shyala villages, with stunning views of Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu dominating the skyline. Samagaon is one of the largest villages on the route and a great place to explore Tibetan culture.

Day 08: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon

Altitude: 3,530m (11,581ft)

Highlights: Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Monastery.

An acclimatization day is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness as you ascend higher in the coming days. You can take a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m) or visit Pungyen Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist site with spectacular mountain views. This day allows your body to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the beauty of the region.

view of mt manaslu

Day 09: Samagaon to Samdo

Trekking Time: 4-5 hours

Altitude: 3,875m (12,713ft)

Highlights: Tibetan plateau landscape, yak pastures, barren hills.

Today’s trek to Samdo is relatively short and gentle, allowing more time for acclimatization. The landscape becomes more barren and remote as you approach this tiny village, just a day’s walk from the Tibetan border. Samdo offers a great chance to explore the local Tibetan culture and yak herding lifestyle.

Day 10: Samdo to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi)

Trekking Time: 4-5 hours

Altitude: 4,460m (14,632ft)

Highlights: Views of Larkya Glacier, rugged high-altitude terrain.

A shorter day of trekking leads you to Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, the base camp for crossing the Larkya La Pass. The trail ascends gently through valleys filled with mani walls and prayer flags, offering great views of Larkya Glacier. As you gain altitude, the air becomes thinner, and it’s important to stay hydrated and move slowly.

Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) to Bimthang

Trekking Time: 7-9 hours

Altitude: 3,720m (12,205ft)

Highlights: Larkya La Pass, panoramic mountain views, glacial landscapes.

Today is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. You’ll start early to tackle the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,106 meters. The ascent is long and steep, but the panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II from the top are breathtaking. After a steep descent, you’ll arrive in Bimthang, a beautiful alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks.

trekker with a guide during manaslu circuit trek

Day 12: Bimthang to Tilije

Trekking Time: 5-6 hours

Altitude: 2,300m (7,546ft)

Highlights: Descending into lush forests, views of Manaslu.

After the challenges of the previous day, today’s trek feels like a gentle descent into greener pastures. You’ll walk through forests of rhododendron and pine, eventually reaching the village of Tilije. The lower altitude brings more oxygen, and you’ll feel a sense of relief as you near the end of your journey.

Day 13: Tilije to Dharapani, Drive to Besisahar

Trekking Time: 5 hours

Drive Time: 2-3 hours

Altitude: 1,860m (6,102ft)

Highlights: Crossing into the Annapurna region, Jeep ride to Besisahar.

From Tilije, the trail continues to descend into the Annapurna Conservation Area, eventually reaching Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit officially ends. Here, you will catch a Jeep for a bumpy ride to Besisahar, where the roads are better and the journey back to Kathmandu begins.

Day 14: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu

Drive Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)

Highlights: Scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

The final day of the trek is a comfortable drive back to Kathmandu, where you can rest, explore more of the city, and reflect on the incredible journey around Manaslu. After nearly two weeks in the mountains, the return to city life feels surreal yet satisfying.

For the detailed information about additional trekking packages in check out Manaslu Trek region.

people with their lives in manaslu region

FAQs

What is the distance of Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manasu Circuit trail is roughly around 180 km, or 110 miles. From flat trails to rugged, stoney terrain, the Manaslu route is a voyage of diverse landscapes and cultures.

How challenging is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered challenging, suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and some trekking experience. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and the crossing of the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential to handle the demands of this trek.

What is special at Manaslu Circuit Trek? How is it different from Everest and Annapurna?

Manaslu is a restricted area in Nepal, and only a special permit can let you enter the region. Unlike treks in the Everest and Annapurna region, the trekking route is more on the steep side and less crowded. The journey offers very distinct landscapes from the other two regions. You will get to see rich Tibetan Buddhism culture and traditions as well.

Why is Manaslu Circuit Trek getting popularity?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is getting popularity because it takes you to the base camp and around the eighth-tallest mountain in the world, Manaslu(8,163m). With an extra day, you can even hike up to the Tibetian border.

Additionally, the number of teahouses and facilities on the trail Manaslu trek is increasing every year which makes it some of the best trekking routes in Nepal.

How much does Manaslu Circuit trek cost?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost ranges from USD 1100 to USD 1800 per person. The cost of the package depends on the itinerary and the company you are trekking. We offer the most reasonable cost for this trek. Likewise, for big groups, we also have special discounts.

What services are included in the Manaslu Circuit Trekking package?

Trekking packages for the Manaslu Circuit Trek typically include:

  • Airport transfers
  • Public Transportation to and from the trailhead
  • Accommodation in tea houses during the trek
  • Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Licensed trekking guide and porters
  • Necessary permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu
  • Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
  • First aid kit

Can you trek to Manaslu Circuit without a guide?

No, unfortunately, you cannot trek to Manaslu Circuit without a guide. Manaslu is a restricted area in Nepal, which compulsory demands trekking with a licensed guide. You also have to be in a group of at least two trekkers to do this trek.

How experienced is your guide? How well do they know the Manaslu Region?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is our top-selling trek, and as a result, our guides visit the area multiple times a year. This frequent exposure ensures they know the region inside out.

Is travel insurance required for trekking in the Manaslu Region?

Travel insurance is mandatory for the Manaslu Region Trek. The insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation. Ensure your policy includes coverage for altitudes up to 6,000 meters.

What is the best time to trek to Manaslu?

The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent views of the mountains.

What are the average temperatures during the day and night?

The temperature along the trek can vary depending on the altitude and season.

  • During autumn, temperatures typically vary between approximately 5 to 15 degree C (41 to 59 degree F) at lower elevations and -5 to -15 degree C (23 to 41 degree F) at higher elevations.
  • During winter which spans from December to February, colder temperatures prevail and snowfall is frequent in higher altitude regions. The average temperatures during this period vary between -10 to 5 degree C (14 – 41 degree F) at lower elevations and -10 to -20 degree C (-4 to 14 degree F) at higher elevations.
  • In spring temperatures typically range from 5 to 15 degree C (41 to 59 degree F) at lower elevations, while at higher elevations they range from -5 to 5 degree C (23 to 41 degree F).
  • The summer / monsoon (June to August) is generally warm during the day, with temperatures ranging from 10-20 degree C (50 – 68 degree F). At night, temperatures can drop to below freezing, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -5 degree C (14 – 23 degree F).

The weather in the high mountains, especially after 3000 meters, can be very unpredictable. It is crucial to understand the weather patterns.

What is the highest altitude we will reach during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The highest point reached during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). This altitude requires careful acclimatization and preparation to avoid altitude sickness and ensure a successful trek.

Is Larkya La Pass very difficult for beginner trekkers?

The Larkya La Pass is one of the most challenging sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is difficult for beginner trekkers due to its high altitude and steep ascent. Adequate preparation, acclimatization, and physical fitness are crucial for crossing the pass safely.

Can I solo trek in the Manaslu Region and without a guide?

No, you cannot complete this trekking alone because it's a restricted area trekking and at least two trekkers are required along with a licensed guide.

On the other hand, according to the new regulations of the government in Nepal, trekking to most of the popular trekking routes now requires a guide compulsorily.

How much extra money do you recommend to take us on the trek?

We advise you to carry an additional 10 to 15 USD per day for your trek. Please note that cards and foreign currency are not accepted in the trial. It’s essential to have Nepali Currency (Rupee) with you for all transactions during your trek.

Is it safe to drink running water on the Manaslu Trek?

You should not drink untreated running water on the Manaslu Trek. Bottled water is available, but it is recommended to use water purification tablets or filters to treat water from local sources to reduce plastic waste and ensure safe drinking water.

What kind of food is available in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

There is a variety of Western and Nepali food available on the trek. Meals are both vegetarian and vegan-friendly. You can see more about the food availability in Manaslu Circuit Trek here.

What kind of accommodation is available in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit ranges from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. The teahouses provide basic facilities such as a bed, blanket, and common toilet. The lodges offer more amenities such as hot showers, attached bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.
You may not get Wifi and hot showers in some parts of the trail especially on the higher elevations.

Is it possible to have a shower in the trek?

Yes, it is possible to do a shower in the trek. Hot showers cost roughly (USD 3 to USD 5).

Should I be worried about altitude sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts at an altitude of 800 m (2,624 ft) and you’ll approximately gain an elevation of 400 m (1,312 ft) each day. By Day 6, you will have ascended to 3,000 m (9,842 ft), providing ample time for your body to acclimatize.

Furthermore, there are two designated acclimatization days, one in Samagaun and another in Samdo, to ensure your body adjusts comfortably to the high-altitude environment.

Are there any age restrictions for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Although the trek has no age limits, it demands a decent level of fitness and endurance due to its demanding terrain and high altitude. Trekkers must anticipate difficult trekking and possible altitude-related difficulties.

Plan your journey with us, and let us be at your service, where we will make sure to give you the best Manaslu Trek experience. Adventure awaits; are you ready?

CONTACT US for more details.