Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal: Itinerary, Cost, Difficulty & Planning Guide

Manaslu Circuit Trek Complete Guide: Route, Duration, Cost & Best Season

​​The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a remote and exhilarating trekking experience. The circuit trek takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) - the 8th highest mountain in the world - offering rugged Himalayan wilderness, unique Tibetan-influenced culture, and ever-changing landscapes. If you're seeking a trekking route that’s less commercial and more immersive, the Manaslu Circuit is an ideal outdoor adventure. Here is a complete guide to planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal

Why Trek the Manaslu Circuit?

​Unlike popular trails, the Manaslu region remains blissfully untouched, offering an authentic Himalayan experience for trekkers looking for solitude, cultural depth, and panoramic views.

• Fewer Crowds, More Wilderness:
  Compared to Everest and Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit sees far fewer trekkers, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy serene mountain landscapes and quiet village life without the crowds.
• Cultural Richness with Tibetan Influence:
  Villages like Namrung and Samagaon showcase a fascinating blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Nepali traditions, complete with ancient monasteries, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags.
• Diverse and Dramatic Scenery:
  From subtropical forests and terraced fields to glacial valleys and high alpine passes, the scenery on this trek is stunningly diverse. You’ll enjoy views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himlung, and Hiunchuli throughout the journey.
• Wildlife and Natural Beauty:
  The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, marmots, and if you're lucky, the elusive snow leopard. Trekking through this ecosystem is a dream for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal - Cultural Experience

How Long Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek: Duration & Distance

• ​The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically spans 13 to 15 days, including travel time to and from Kathmandu.
• The entire trekking distance is approximately 177 km, with 10-12 days of walking.
• The route begins at the height of 930 meters, and the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass (5,160 metres). 

​Considering the significant elevation gain, it’s strongly advised to take at least one acclimatization day, ideally in Samagaon or Samdo, where you can hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa before attempting the Larkya La Pass. Spending time at higher elevations and sleeping at a lower elevation for a night helps you acclimatize well to higher altitudes. For those preferring a shorter duration, a 9-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is also available. Each of the other days will need some reasonable rest, as rest days above and beyond the required will improve your overall comfort, safety and trek experience, especially in this remote and rugged section of the Himalayas.

Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) - Nepal

​Manaslu Circuit Trekking Route Overview

Here’s a rough breakdown of the day-to-day distances on the classic Manaslu Circuit:

• Kathmandu → Soti Khola → Machha Khola (869m): ~160 km by road
  
• Machha Khola → Jagat (1,410m): ~22 km
  
• Jagat → Deng (1,860m): ~20 km
  
• Deng → Namrung (2,630m): ~19.5 km
  
• Namrung → Lho Gham (3,180m): ~10 km
  
• Lho Gham → Samagaon (3,520m): ~8.2 km
  
• Samagaon (Rest Day): Hike to Manaslu Base Camp / Pungyen Gompa / Birendra Tal (~12 km round trip)
  
• Samagaon → Samdo (3,875m): ~8.2 km
  
• Samdo → Larkya Phedi (4,460m): ~6.1 km
  
• Larkya Phedi → Bimthang (3,590m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m): ~23 km
  
• Bimthang → Dharapani (1,963m): ~21 km
  
• Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu: ~210 km by road
  

​How Difficult Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

​While often labeled as hard or strenuous the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not technically difficult. The trails are well-maintained and don’t require climbing skills or gear. However, trekkers must be physically fit and ready for high-altitude hiking and long daily walks.

• The route includes many ascents and descents, especially in the early stages where you’ll cross multiple rivers and valleys.
• Altitude is a major factor—the trek rises from 700 meters to 5,106 meters, making acclimatization essential.
• Occasional landslide-prone zones and narrow trails require focus and sure-footedness, especially after rains or snowfall.

To sum up, the trek itself isn’t technically challenging, it is physically demanding due to the combination of altitude, terrain, and elevation changes. With proper preparation and pacing, the trek is suitable for most fit individuals with some prior trekking experience.

Best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit

​Autumn (September to November):
This is the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit. Expect clear skies, dry trails, mild temperatures, and fantastic views. It’s also peak season, so permits cost more and tea houses may be busier—though still quieter than other regions.

Spring (March to May):
Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, sunny mornings, and excellent conditions. However, melting snow may cause some trail issues or minor landslides. It’s colder at higher elevations, so layering is key.

Monsoon (June to August):
Trekking is an awful option during the summer, rainy season, or monsoon, and it’s best avoided. The heavy rainfall, poor visibility, leeches, and increased risk of landslides make it an unsafe time to venture into the mountains.

Winter (December to February):
Winter is not a wise choice for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Sub-zero temperatures, snow-covered passes, and icy trails make winter trekking challenging and potentially dangerous at higher altitudes.

How to  Plan and Organize a Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

​Independent Trekking Not Allowed
The Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area, so you must hire a Nepal government-registered guide (and an optional porter). Solo trekking is not permitted.

D.I.Y. Trek with Guide and Porter
If you want more flexibility, you can hire a local guide and porter in Kathmandu. You’ll manage your own meals, permits, and accommodation.

• Guides typically charge $25–$35 per day, including meals and lodging.
• Porters cost around $20–$25 per day, including meals and lodging.
• You’ll also pay separately for transport and restricted area permits.

​All-Inclusive Trekking Packages
For convenience and peace of mind, book an all inclusive Manaslu Circuit Trek through a local agency in Thamel, Kathmandu. Packages usually include permits, transport, guide/porter services, meals, accommodation, and insurance.

• Prices are lower with local operators compared to international agencies.
• Local guides often offer more personalized cultural insights.
• Be sure to check for operator reviews and guide qualifications before booking.