Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a classic high‑altitude trekking route circling Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) through the remote Gorkha/Manaslu Conservation Area in Nepal. The trail combines dramatic Himalayan scenery, traditional Tibetan‑influenced villages, glacier valleys and the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). This trek is best for trekkers with good fitness and some high‑altitude experience.
Location
Manaslu Conservation Area / Larkya La Pass circuit, Gorkha (nearest district headquarters); trek starts typically from Arughat or Soti Khola, Nepal
Duration
Typically 14–18 days on trek + 1–2 days in Kathmandu for permits and logistics (total 16–20 days including travel).
Best Time to Visit
Best seasons: Late September–November (autumn) and March–May (spring). Shoulder windows: December–February for experienced trekkers (very cold); monsoon (June–August) not recommended because of landslides and limited views.
Pricing
Typical cost: US$1,200–2,200 per person for a 14–18 day trek (land package). Price depends on group size, season, inclusions (guide, porter, permits, accommodation, meals). Excludes: international flights, personal gear, travel/medical insurance, emergency evacuation. Permit fees (Restricted Area Permit + ACAP/TIMS) and guide wages are mandatory and often included in packages.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Close views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) and surrounding 7,000–8,000 m peaks
Crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) — the trek’s high point
Remote Tibetan‑influenced villages: Sama Gaun, Samdo, Samagaon
Manaslu Conservation Area biodiversity: rhododendron forests, alpine meadows
Glacial valleys, moraine landscapes and panoramic ridge viewpoints
Cultural experiences: monasteries, mani walls, mountain festivals (if timing allows)
Less crowded alternative to the Annapurna and Everest circuits
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu; permits and briefing
Obtain Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, ACAP and TIMS; meet guide, check gear. Keep 2–3 days spare for permit processing if needed.
Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola/Arughat
6–10 hours depending on road conditions; rough mountain roads. Alternative: jeep further up when roads are in good condition.
Trek Soti Khola to Maccha Khola
Follow the Budhi Gandaki valley, suspension bridges and riverbanks.
Maccha Khola to Jagat (or Deng depending route)
Passport checks at the Manaslu Conservation Area entry; steady climb through terraced farmland and villages.
Jagat to Deng
Trail follows narrow valleys; take care on exposed sections and river crossings.
Deng to Namrung
Entering higher alpine zone, views open up toward the Manaslu massif.
Namrung to Sama Gaun
Sama Gaun is a good acclimatization town with guesthouses and monasteries.
Acclimatization / day hike around Sama Gaun
Optional hikes to Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base views or circuits to aid acclimatization.
Sama Gaun to Samdo
Shorter day but gains altitude; Samdo is the last large settlement before the high pass.
Samdo to Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi) or Larkya Base
Final preparations for the pass; early night recommended.
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) and descend to Bimtang
Long, strenuous day with steep ascent/descent; expect snow/ice conditions outside peak season.
Bimtang to Tilije / downhill trek
Trail descends into the Marsyangdi valley; significantly warmer and lower altitude.
Tilije to Tal / Soti Khola (depending on exit route)
Final trekking day; longer roads and potential jeep transfer sections.
Drive/jeep back to Kathmandu
Long drive (7–10 hours) depending on road sections; fly/drive options from Pokhara for some itineraries.
Buffer days / departure from Kathmandu
Extra days recommended for contingency (weather, permit delays, acclimatization or recovery).
Safety Requirements
Permits & guide: Manaslu is a restricted area — you must trek with a licensed guide and carry a valid Restricted Area Permit, ACAP and TIMS.
Acclimatization: Plan for rest/acclimatization days; monitor for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Medical & evacuation insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high‑altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation is essential.
Fitness: Good cardiovascular fitness and experience with multi‑day hiking at altitude recommended.
Weather & terrain: Be prepared for snow, ice and river crossings; crampons/ice axe may be needed in shoulder seasons.
Local regulations: Follow conservation rules — pack out non‑biodegradable waste, respect local culture and monastery rules.
Tips
Hire an experienced, licensed guide and consider a porter to reduce fatigue; group permits are easier to process.
Carry copies of permits, passport, guide information and emergency contacts; keep extra cash (Nepalese Rupees) as ATM access is limited.
Bring layered clothing, a good sleeping bag rated for sub‑zero temps, sun protection and a reliable water purification method.
Acclimatize properly — ascend slowly, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol at altitude. Consider consulting a doctor about acetazolamide (Diamox).
Plan for contingency days for weather, illness or permit delays—do not rush over Larkya La.
Respect local culture: dress modestly in villages, ask before photographing people/monasteries, and support local teahouses.
Book peak‑season treks well in advance (October/November and April/May) to secure guides and teahouse rooms.
Carry a portable battery pack and headlamp; electricity in tea houses can be limited and may cost extra.
