Important Information

Region
Manaslu Region Treks
Duration
13 Days
Max Altitude
5160m
Best Season
March - November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 – 12 people
Transportation
Jeep

Explore the sensational view of Nubri Mountains including Mount Manaslu (8th highest mountain in the world with 8,156m), Tibetan immigrant culture, and experience the dramatic Larke Pass of 5,100 meters.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking, one of the best treks in Nepal regarded by many trekkers. Manaslu circuit trek can be easily done in a tea house style without the expensive camping trip. This trek comprises from sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to arid Trans Himalayan high pastures bordering Tibet and offers an astonishing view, increasingly mountainous landscape including a high pass crossing at Larke La. This trek is both geographically and culturally extraordinary. The residents of Nubri (the western mountains), a region known for Upper Buri Gandaki, are Tibetan immigrants decades ago. They have their own spoken language, dress, and customs which are almost nearly Tibetan. There is still continuous trade between Nubri and Tibet, for instance, Chinese beer and candies are found more frequently than Nepali ones. In this region Tibetan culture and religion have a strong influence, most places have Tibetan names with the meaning behind every name. The trekking route follows the ancient salt trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River. Trekking through the green forest, several gorges, beautiful waterfalls, typical villages, centuries-old monasteries, and the turquoise lake (Birendra Tal)

This trek was officially opened to tourists in 1991AD, but mountaineering expeditions had long access to the area. In 1950 a party led by HW Tilman trekked from Tilje to Bimtang and Colonel Jimmy Roberts crossed the Larke La Looking for an interesting mountain to climb. Mount Manaslu was attempted by Japanese expeditions every year from 1952 until 1956 when the first ascent was made. It thus became known as a "Japenese Mountain", and much of the information about this particular area was available only in Japan. Japanese continued to dominate the climbing scene in Manaslu until 1971.

We the Himalayan Wander Walkers are waiting for you to serve in this region, we organize groups of two trekkers and up in either camping or teahouse treks. The best season for the Manaslu trek is from March - November.

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek:

  • Scenic dirt road driving to Arughat from Kathmandu
  • Exploring the Budhi Gandaki River valley
  • Walking between the borders of Nepal and Tibet
  • Experience the Nepalese and Tibetan mixed culture
  • Crossing Larkya La over 5106 meters

    If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please Customize Your Trip. 

Your trip at a glance

13 days · highest 5,213 m

  1. Day 3 Drive Kathmandu to Machhakhola 8 hours hr 870m

    We will start the day early after breakfast. We take a drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi on a nice, paved road enjoying the views of the hilly areas, terraces, fields, and rivers. The drive from Dhading Besi to Arughat is a little rough one on rocky trails. The bus will directly drive to Macha Khola.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  2. Day 5 Trek to Jagat , 6-7 hours 1,340m

    The next day, From Machhakhola we follow a narrow trail that takes us to Tharo Khola and finally to Khorlabesi. After a few ascends and descends, we reach a popular hot-spring, Tatopani. We will spend some time here and can enjoy the natural sauna in the hot -spring and relieve all our tiredness and stress of the trek. We climb another ridge and cross the Budhi Gandaki on another suspension bridge. After this, we climb a staircase and then cross a landslide and a ridge to reach Doban.  After crossing a suspension bridge, we again climb the stone staircase then go down to the river and climb some stairs again to reach Thado Bharyang. Then we cross the west bank of Budhi Gandaki, climb over a ridge, walk along the river to reach the village of Jagat.
    Overnight at Teahouse.

  3. Day 6 Trek to Deng , 6-7 hours 1,860m

    On this day, we first reach Salleri after climbing a rocky ridge and then go towards Sirdibas.  We continue to Ghatta Khola and then walk upstream through a long suspension bridge to reach a Gurung village in Phillim. From the lower points of the village, the trail turns north and through leveled trails amidst maize fields. We reach Ekle Bhatti where you will have lunch and continue our trip from a steep gorge and then descend through grassy slopes to cross the Budhi Gandaki. After that cross bridges from west to the east bank and back again. As the trail widens, we pass through bamboo forests to reach the Deng Khola.  After crossing the river, we reach the tiny Deng village.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  4. Day 7 Trek to Ghap , 6 hours 2,260m

    We take a brief walk from Deng and then we cross the Budhi Gandaki and climb to reach Rana. From here we climb for a while and then head west to Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through forests and painted Mani stones and a corner from where we reach Ghap. Then we take the trail through Prok village which allows us to witness the beautiful view of Siring Himal. We follow the river, crossing it at many places and pass through dense forests and Gompas along the way. We continue our trail until we reach Bihi Phedi, where we take a rest and have lunch. The trail continues up and down with a narrow path with beautiful scenery. The trail ends when we cross Shringi Khola and reach the beautiful village, Ghap.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  5. Day 8 Trek from Ghap to Hinang Gumba 6-7 Days 3,100m

    After your breakfast you will climb the steep trail to Namrung village (2630m) which takes about 3-4 hours and probably stop for lunch there. From Namgrung you will have the best viewpoint for Siring and Ganesh Himal as well as Mt. Himal Chuli. From Namrung it is another 3 hours to reach Lihi village by passing Sho village. From Lihi you leave the main Manaslu Circuit trail and take the left trail toward west to Hinang Gumpa which takes about an hour. Hinang is popular for its Buddhist culture, Hinang Glacier and Himalchuli Base Camp view point. 
    Overnight at teahouse.

  6. Day 9 Trek form Hinang to Shyala 3,575m

    The trek from Hinang to Shyala is a section of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, involving about 5 to 6 hours of walking through forests and alpine pastures at an altitude of approximately 3,500 meters. The trail descends from Hinang Gompa (monastery), crosses the Hinang Khola, and passes through the villages of Sho and Lho before ascending to the village of Shyala, which is surrounded by impressive mountain views. 
    Overnight at teahouse.

  7. Day 10 Shyala to Sama via Pungyen Gompa hiking , 7 hours 4,200m

    Today you will have a side trek to Phugen Gompa. The trek from Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Gompa is a rewarding part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Manaslu. This route serves as both a scenic journey and an important acclimatization hike.  From Sama village where one gets to witness the amazing views of Mount Manaslu and explore the famous Ribung Gompa. The breathtaking view of the high mountains along with glaciers is the highlight of the trip.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  8. Day 11 Acclimatizing day at Samagaun 4,200m

    This day is set aside to rest and acclimatize to the increasing altitudes. We stay in Samagaon and explore the surrounding areas or visit Birendra Tal and Anie Gompa.  The main attraction of the day is the Pungyen Gompa with a spectacular view of the glaciers but it rather a long day only recommended for the fit hikers. It is situated on a hill near Samagaon. We hike up to the Gompa named after the two peaks of Manaslu which means bracelet.  It was destroyed when the Japanese first tried to summit the peaks. It was believed that the expedition to reach the summit might have angered the Gods. After the detour, we come back to Samagaon.

  9. Day 12 Trek to Samdo , 2-3 hours 3,860m

    We follow the Budhi Gandaki River up to a stream which we cross on a suspension bridge.  From here we take the trail on the right to Larke la. It is a fairly easy trail, passing through Mani walls and juniper and birch forests. We again cross a bridge over Budhi Gandaki and continue forward. From a stone arch, we can see a Kani and after crossing it, we reach the Last settlement of Tibetan immigrants called Samdo.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  10. Day 13 Trek to Dharamsala , 2 & half hours 4,480m

    We start our day trip by crossing a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and begin a hike upwards. After crossing a few streams and seeing a glimpse of the Larkya glacier, we go around a valley and make our way upwards again to reach a guesthouse called Dharmashala.  This short walk to Larke Phedi provides enough time and rest to acclimatize for the further trek.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  11. Day 14 Cross the Larke pass trek down to Bimtang , 8-9 hours Highest point 5,213m

    On this day, we make a short climb and reach a valley on the north side of the Larkya glacier with exquisite views of the Larkya peak.  We ascend the moraines of a glacier which becomes quite steep at the end before reaching the pass. From here we can enjoy the breathtaking views of Himlung, Cheo, Kanggru, and the Annapurna. It is a longer walk than other days and you reach the guest house among the low pastures at the dim lights of dusk. When we finally reach Bhimtang, the exquisite view of Mount Manaslu makes every step worth it.
    Overnight at teahouse.

  12. Day 15 Trek Bhimtang to Dharapani (6-7 hours) Highest point 5,213m

    After enjoying the splendid views of the mountains from a ridge in Bhimtang, we make our way down towards a high pasture and then a bridge over Dudh Khola. We walk through Rhododendron forests, narrow valleys, and fields before making a climb to the river bank that leads to the village of Gho. From Gho you will move in a stone-paved path passing through a beautiful village and then cross a bridge over Dudh Khola, move past an arch and Mani walls to get to the Thonje village. After passing through a police checkpoint we make our way towards Dharapani from where we enter the Annapurna circuit section.  
    Overnight at teahouse.

  13. Day 16 Drive back to Kathmandu from Dharapani Highest point 5,213m

    From Dharapani we take a Jeep to Kathmandu, which takes 8-9 hours. We drive along the banks of Marsyangdi and Trishuli River, witnessing the beautiful scenery of rice fields, terraced farms, rivers and valleys, and refreshing views of the hilly areas and mountains. After a few hours’ journeys, we reach Kathmandu.
    Overnight at Hotel.

What's included 11 items

  • Transport from Kathmandu to Machakhola and dharapani to Kathmandu by local bus/jeep sharing .
  • Tea House/lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • 2 Night accommodation in 3* hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • All Standard Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the Trek.
  • Official Himalayan wander walkers (Government registered and licensed) Expert Guide, 1 Assistant Guide Above 5 people in a group
  • Trekkers with accompanying porters (generally, 1 porter per 2 trekkers) to assist with carrying gear during the trek. (We cover the porters’ meals, lodging, salary, transport, insurance, equipment, and other essentials.)
  • Manaslu special permit $100 per person
  • All Government and local taxes.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before your international departure.
  • Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Permit (MCAP & ACAP)

What's not included 10 items

  • International flight airfare
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Meals (meal and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking.
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery re-charge fee extra porters, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landscape, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
  • Everything not mentioned in the include section

Route Map

Route map for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Fixed Departure Dates

5 guaranteed departures taking bookings

  • 22 Sep 2026 04 Oct 2026 13 days · Places available
    $1,200 per person
  • 12 Oct 2026 24 Oct 2026 13 days · Places available
    $1,200 per person
  • 26 Oct 2026 08 Nov 2026 14 days · Places available
    $1,200 per person
  • 09 Nov 2026 22 Nov 2026 14 days · Places available
    $1,200 per person
  • 23 Nov 2026 06 Dec 2026 14 days · Places available
    $1,200 per person

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS FOR MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, some cash is highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)
  • Clothing (Layered clothes, windproof and waterproof jackets,  fleece pullovers, thermal base layers, hiking pants, shorts, headwear, footwear, and other items according to your needs)
  • Personal Items and Toiletries (First-Aid Kit, Iodine tablets or a UV purifier to treat water, Sun Protection)
  • Travel and Health Insurance
  • Trekking gear and equipment(if you have your own trekking gear and equipment, such as trekking poles, sleeping bag, and shoes, then you can bring them; else you can rent them in Thamel, Kathmandu). Read more for trekking gears and peak climbing gears.

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
In Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN NEPAL
Doing treks in Himalayas of Nepal is a distinct culture and environment. Trekkers need to consider on following do’s and don’ts.

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently asked questions

Can I customize the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, you can customize the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Depending on your preferences, we can adjust the itinerary to suit your needs, such as shortening or lengthening the trek or adding extra days for rest. Just let us know your preferences: “Customize Your Trip."

What level of difficulty is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek is moderately difficult, with high-altitude challenges like the Larkya La Pass (5106 m). It's suitable for trekkers with some experience in mountain trekking or those who can train and keep fit before the trek.

Is a guide required for this Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, a guide is required for the Manaslu Circuit trek as it passes through remote areas. A guide also enhances your cultural and natural experience and provides you with a sense of security. Read more about trekking guides and porters in the Manaslu Region.

Do I need a special permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, for Manaslu Circuit Trek, the trekkers need four permits: a Manaslu Restricted Permit Area Permit, a Manaslu Conversation Area Permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and an Entrance Fee from the local government. For detailed information regarding these permits, read our Manaslu Area Permits and their Costs.

Can I get altitude sickness during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, you might get altitude sickness during the trek since we will be at an elevation of 5106 meters (Larkey La Pass). Altitude sickness is a common concern when trekking in high-altitude regions, and we take it seriously. To mitigate the risk, we have built-in acclimatization (rest) days into the itinerary, allowing your body to adjust gradually to the changing elevation. Staying hydrated, eating well, and taking things slow are keys to avoiding altitude sickness. If symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness appear, we encourage resting and informing your guide, who will follow proper protocols.

Is there internet access during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, there is internet access during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. NTC and Ncell SIM cards work in the lower region, with NTC being more reliable. Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a fee. It's recommended to buy an NTC SIM card in Kathmandu. While power is available in most villages, a spare battery is advised due to occasional outages at higher altitudes. Read more about internet access in the Manaslu Region.

What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

For the trek, the essentials include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, water bottles, sunscreen, a hat, and a small first-aid kit. Be sure to pack light but adequately for the weather conditions and trek duration. For more details regarding trekking gear and equipment, read our Trekking Gears blog.

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