A Complete 12 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide
6 Sep 2023 Himalaya Trip
Overview
A Complete 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is an amazing journey through the mountains in Nepal. Explore beautiful hidden Tibetan-style Buddhist villages. Immerse in the diverse cultures, festivals, and lifestyles of local ethnicities. Traverse the highest Larkya La Pass standing at an elevation of 5106 m and witness breathtaking views of the surroundings. Adore the towering peaks including Manaslu (8163m), Larkya Peak, Annapurna II, Ganesh Himal, and more. This adventure Manaslu Circuit trek lets you discover the remote Manaslu region and its abundant beauty in its natural form.
Highlights of the trek
- Adore the towering peaks including Manaslu (8163m), Larkya Peak (6249m), Annapurna II, Ganesh Himal, and more
- Witness breathtaking views while traversing the highest Larkya La Pass (5106m)
- Immerse in Tibetan-style Buddhist villages
- Embrace the diverse cultures, festivals, and lifestyles of Gurung, Nubri, and other tribes.
- Encounter protected wildlife and wildflowers as you traverse this pristine region
- Traverse through picturesque villages like Sotikhola, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo
- Trek through huge suspension bridges, pass through farm terraces showcasing local agriculture
- Discover beautiful waterfalls for scenic stops
Attractions in 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
Larkya La Pass
The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek standing at an elevation of 5106 m offers splendid views of the Manaslu and surrounding peaks. Traversing this pass is challenging but worth it.
Birendra Lake
The turquoise water of Birendra Lake originating from Manaslu Mountain is one of the popular attractions during this circuit trek. This lake is named after the Late King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah and is located after Samagaon.
Sama Gaon
This beautiful village is inhabited by heavily influenced Tibetan Buddhism and serves as an acclimatization spot during the trek. The village’s scenic beauty lures everyone. Connect with friendly locals and try to immerse in their culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
Manaslu Base Camp
The base camp lies at the bottom of Mt. Manaslu and can be reached with a 4-5 hour hike from Samagaon. It is at an elevation of 4800 m and trekkers can witness some splendid views from here.
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Drive Kathmandu to Machhakhola
Day 02: Trek Machhakhola – Jagat
Day 03: Trek Jagat – Deng
Day 04: Trek Deng – Namrung
Day 05: Trek Namrung – Samagoan
Day 06: Rest day
Day 07: Trek Samagoan – Samdo
Day 08: Trek Samdo – Dharmasala
Day 09: Trek Dharmasala – The highest point Larkya La Pass (5106m) – Bhimthang
Day 10: Trek Bhimthang – Tilche
Day 11: Drive Tilche – Dharapani – Beshisahar
Day 12: Drive from Beshisahar – Kathmandu
Trekking permit for Manaslu circuit trek
3 permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Ensure you have these permits before embarking on your Manaslu Circuit trek to comply with local regulations. The permits are:
a.Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP):
- December to August Cost:
First week: USD 75 per person
After 8 days: USD 10 per day
- September to November Cost:
First week: USD 100 per person
After 8 days: USD 15 per day
Note: An original passport is required, and it takes a day to process.
b. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit:
- Cost: USD 30 per person
- Allows one-time access to MCAP
Note: Requires two photographs and is accessible in Kathmandu through the trekking agent.
c. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit:
- Cost: USD 30 per person
Note: To obtain it, requires a photograph.
The best time to visit
Spring (March-May): Ideal trekking season with warm weather and blooming Rhododendron flowers.
Autumn (September-November): Excellent post-monsoon season, featuring clear, warm trekking weather.
Winter (December-February): Extremely cold with heavy snow, potential trek closures.
Summer (June-August): Monsoon season with daily rain, cloudy skies, and landslide risk; rain gear essential.
Preparation and fitness
The Manaslu region doesn’t allow solo trekking. Since the route is tough with steep hills, it’s not ideal for beginners. Trekkers should be physically fit, do cardio exercises, and consult a doctor if needed. Building strength and stamina with cycling or jogging a month before proves beneficial for a comfortable Manaslu Circuit trek.
Accommodation and Internet facilities
Along the Manaslu Circuit Trail, you’ll find tea houses resembling Alpine lodges. They provide basic accommodations with beds, quilts, and pillows. An additional payment for Wi-Fi, laundry, and hot showers (costing USD 1-2) must be paid.
Foods
During the Manaslu Circuit trek, teahouses offer a mix of Nepalese and Continental dishes, including Dal Bhaat, a local favorite with rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry. Breakfast options like Tibetan bread and pancakes are available. If you have dietary needs, tell your guide in advance for accommodations.
Drinking water
You can get water easily in the Manaslu region by paying at teahouses or buying bottled water. It’s a good idea to bring a water bottle and a purifying solution for safe drinking water.
Mode of transportation
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the typical mode of transportation is as follows:
Kathmandu to Machha Khola: You can take a public bus or opt for a private jeep, depending on your preference and budget.
Tilije to Besishahar: Use of Public Jeeps
Besishahar to Kathmandu: Upon completing the trek, you can return to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
How hard is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek presents challenges due to high altitudes, rocky terrain, and remoteness. Altitude Sickness can occur beyond Samagaon, due to a rise in elevation. The trail to Larkya La Pass is uneven and demanding, requiring pre-trek fitness preparation. Difficulty varies based on fitness. Thus, having good physical fitness is fruitful.
Packing List
Essential Gear:
- Trekking boots (break them in to prevent blisters) with spare laces.
- Warm hat, scarf, and gloves.
- Wool-blend socks, liner socks, and thermal underwear (three pairs).
- Fleece jacket and down jacket/vest.
- T-shirts (2-3) and a long-sleeved, collared shirt for sun protection.
- Warm trousers for higher altitudes, plus shorts and regular trousers/skirt.
- Running shoes/sandals for camp.
- Sunhat, polarizing sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 20+).
- Water purification method (iodine, tablets, or filter).
- Pocket knife, insect repellent (for lower elevations), and emergency kit.
- Earplugs, backpack, and duffle bag.
- Sleeping bag with silk liner, water bottle, torch with spare batteries.
- Gaiters, trekking poles, quick-drying camp towels, and daypack.
- Plastic bags (for clothes separation) and personal medical supplies.
Optional Gear:
- Camera, memory card, and charger
- Altimeter, GPS unit, binoculars
- Books/magazines, small duffle bag for Kathmandu
- Backpack cover (waterproof), small pillow/headrest (optional)
- Notebook, pen, pencil, personal entertainment items
- Thermarest inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, passport photos
Conclusion
A Complete 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal promises an incredible adventure through challenging terrain and remote Tibetan-style villages. With its spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and cultural immersion, indeed a unique experience for trekkers. With proper preparation and good physical fitness, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is possible. For a pleasant and smooth trekking experience, plan during spring or autumn to ensure a rewarding and memorable journey.
FAQs
Is prior trekking experience necessary for the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, prior trekking experience is necessary for the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek as this region is restricted and the trek route is challenging.
Is there an age restriction for this trek?
There is no such age restriction for this Manaslu Circuit Trek but kids below sixteen require parental assistance and all participants must be both physically and mentally fit.
Is this trek suitable for you?
Yes, this Manaslu Circuit Trek is suitable for you if you are physically healthy and have prior trekking experience for a stress-free trek.
