Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days

Manaslu circuit trek
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5100
  • Group Size 2
  • Starts Kathamdnu
  • Ends Kathamdnu
  • Activities Trekking & Adventures
  • Best Time March to may / October to December

One of the most exciting and well-known adventurous trekking routes in the Manaslu Region is the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. This trek will guide you through the peaceful remote areas in the west-central region of Nepal, with the breathtaking vistas of several beautiful Himalayan ranges. Similarly, the Manaslu Region is also known as the home of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, having an elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 ft) above sea level.

Likewise, Manaslu means “mountain of the spirit," derived from the Sanskrit word "Manasa," meaning “soul” or "intellect." Therefore, this area is known for its mesmerizing natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, lovely villages, and beyond, making it a truly enchanting destination for all travelers from around the globe.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is the perfect trekking expedition offering untouched and unspoiled territory for trekkers, which was permitted to trek for foreign trekkers on this route only in 1991 by the government of Nepal. You will be trekking through a series of off-beat tracks of the Manaslu, passing through lush rhododendron forests, clear crystal-like water-flowing rivers, elevated hills, remote villages, and waterfalls presenting beautiful glimpses of unique Himalayan flora and fauna. In addition, you can see the gorgeous panoramic views of mountains like Annapurna (8091), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Himal (6983m), Yangra Peak (7422m), Himalchuli (7893m), etc. which will make your trip unforgettable.

Your journey starts from Kathmandu City to Machha Khola, about an eight- to nine-hour drive. You will be spending the night in Machha Khola. Then, the next day, you will be trekking from Machha Khola. Along the trail, you will trek through many villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar people. As the trail further goes up, there are Bhotia people who are Tibetan descendants. You will have a great opportunity to learn about different ethnic groups and their rich cultures, customs, Himalayan lifestyles, and traditions, as well as how Buddhism shapes their lives.

In this Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be exploring Samagaun (3520m) and Samdo (3875 m), which are a few highland settlements in the Manaslu Region. You will be acclimatizing at Samagaun, or you can go on an optional trek to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m) too. You will be crossing one of the most amazing and challenging passes in Nepal, Larkya La (5160m), the highest elevation of this expedition, where you will be able to soak in the beauty of snow-covered majestic mountain peaks like Mt. Manaslu and others, as well as the Larkya Glacier. You will also witness native wildlife like Langur monkeys and yaks. Furthermore, we keep trekking past Samagaun, Samdo, Dharamsala, Bimthang, Dharapani, and finally Besi Shahar, where we end our trek and return by driving back to Kathmandu.

The bright and beautiful side of Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days is less crowded than other popular trekking destinations like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, which will provide the best experience of the journey. The best times for this journey are the spring and autumn seasons, which will provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime full of mesmerizing positive experiences.

Key Highlights Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days

  • Manaslu Circuit Trek: A 12-day adventure trip through Nepal's Manaslu region.
  • Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mt. Manaslu (8163m), the world's eighth-highest peak.
  • Meaning of Manaslu: "Mountain of the spirit," derived from Sanskrit, reflecting the area's spiritual significance.
  • Untouched Territory: A 12-day adventure trip through Nepal's Manaslu region.
  • Scenic Beauty:Stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mt. Manaslu (8163m), the world's eighth highest peak.
  • Meaning of Manaslu:Manaslu means "Mountain of the Spirit," which is drawn from Sanskrit and reflects the area's spiritual significance.
  • Untouched Territory:The unspoiled trekking path was allowed to foreign trekkers in 1991.
  • Natural Wonders: Trek through rhododendron forests, rivers, hills, remote villages, and waterfalls.
  • Panoramic Views: Views of Annapurna (8091), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Himal (6983m), Yangra Peak (7422m), Himalchuli (7893m), etc.
  • Cultural Immersion: Encounter Gurung, Magar, and Bhotia ethnic groups, learning about their traditions and lifestyles.
  • Highland Settlements: Explore Samagaun (3520m) and Samdo (3875m), with an optional trek to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m).
  • Challenging Pass: Cross Larkya La Pass (5160m), offering views of snow-covered peaks and the Larkya Glacier.
  • Wildlife Encounter: Spot Langur monkeys and yaks along the trek.
  • Route Overview: Trek from Machha Khola to Besi Shahar, passing through various villages and landscapes.
  • Less Crowded: A quieter alternative to popular trekking destinations like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.
  • Best Seasons: Spring and autumn provide optimal trekking conditions.
Itinerary

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – Customizable for Your Adventure

itinerary designed to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trekking experience. Please note that this itinerary can be adjusted to suit your pace, fitness level, and preferences. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Important Note: Due to unpredictable weather conditions in the Himalayas, the itinerary may need to be adjusted for safety reasons. Our experienced guides will monitor the weather and trail conditions daily to ensure a smooth and secure journey.

Trip Plan
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Altitude: 710 meters (2,329 feet)

- Distance: 140 km drive (8-9 hours)

- Details: Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat. The road follows the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers

-Altitude: 930 meters (3,051 feet)

- Distance : 14 km (5-6 hours)

- Details: Trek through forests, villages, and riverbanks, crossing several suspension bridges.

-Altitude: 1,410 meters (4,626 feet)

- Distance: 22 km (6-7 hours)

- Details: Pass through hot springs at Tatopani and enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.

 -Altitude: 1,804 meters (5,919 feet)

- Distance: 20 km (6-7 hours)

- Details: Trek through terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages

- Altitude: 2,630 meters (8,629 feet)

- Distance: 19 km (6-7 hours)

- Details: Ascend through forests and cross the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times

- Altitude: 3,530 meters (11,581 feet)

- Distance: 17 km (6-7 hours)

- Details: Enjoy views of Manaslu and other peaks. Pass through Lho and Shyala villages.

 -Altitude: 3,530 meters (11,581 feet)

- Details: Rest day with optional hikes to Birendra Tal (lake) or Manaslu Base Camp

- Altitude: 3,860 meters (12,664 feet)

- Distance: 8 km (3-4 hours)

- Details: Short trek with stunning views of Manaslu and the Tibetan border

 Altitude: 4,460 meters (14,632 feet)

- Distance: 7 km (3-4 hours)

- Details: Ascend to the base of the Larkya La Pass.

- Altitude: Larkya La Pass: 5,160 meters (16,929 feet); Bimthang: 3,720 meters (12,205 feet)

- Distance: 22 km (8-9 hours)

- Details: Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, then descend to Bimthang.

- Altitude: 1,860 meters (6,102 feet)

- Distance: 25 km (7-8 hours)

- Details: Descend through forests and villages, joining the Annapurna Circuit route.

- Altitude: Besishahar: 760 meters (2,493 feet); Kathmandu: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)

- Distance: 40 km drive to Besishahar (2-3 hours), then 175 km drive to Kathmandu (6-7 hours)

- Details: Drive back to Kathmandu via Besishahar, completing the trek

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Cost Details
What's Included
  • Airport /Hotel/Airport Transportation.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu: 2 night 2-3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu including Breakfast.
  • Three full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are included during the trek, 
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit
  • Local bus transportation is provided from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola and Besisahar to Kathmandu

  • An experienced and knowledgeable trekking guide is included in the package. This includes the guide's salary, food, accommodation, and transportation

  • A first aid kit is available during the trek, ensuring that basic medical needs can be addressed promptly

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit

  • Twin-sharing private rooms are provided throughout the trek

  • All Nepal government tax & company service charge 

What's Excluded
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu).
  • Your Travel insurance and emergency rescue evacuation
  • Lunch/ Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All bar bills, like beer, coke, bottle of water.
  • Tips for the guide and porter.