A Complete Manaslu 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 Trek lets you discover the remote Manaslu region and its abundant beauty in its natural form.
Highlights of the 12 Days Manaslu 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 Trek
Larkya La Pass
The highest point of the Manaslu 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
Heavily influenced Tibetan Buddhism inhabits this beautiful village 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 Trek 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
12 Days Manaslu Trek Map
Trekking permit for Manaslu 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 for the Manaslu Trek
Spring (March-May):
Ideal trekking season with warm weather and blooming Rhododendron flowers.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
12 Days
Adventure Treks
USD799 per person
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 for Manaslu Trek
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 on Manaslu Trek
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 on Manaslu Trek
During the Manaslu 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 during Manaslu Trek
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 on Manaslu Trek
For the Manaslu 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 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.
guide, Jay was a really nice guy
Myself and three other guys who usually trek independently got together and used Harka’s company to organise aspects of our trek in Tsum valley. He responded to email enquiries promptly and did everything that was asked of him. He was personable and straightforward and immediately proved his worth before even leaving KTM when one of our group lost his passport and all his cash on the first day! Harka was able to sort out the issues with the Embassy and bank and made what could have been a total hassle a lot easier. Our guide, Jay was a really nice guy – professional, likeable and easy going. If you’re looking for a company to organise your trek, I can wholeheartedly recommend this one.
UK, April 2014
Manaslu circuit trek and Tsum valley
Excellent trekking company and guide Jayandra
We recently completed a 4 week trek in Manaslu and Tsum Valley with Himalaya Trip and Jayandra Gurung as our guide. Jayandra was very responsive to our email queries and got back to us quickly. On the trek, Jayandra was very conscientious about doing a good job and keeping us safe. He was patient and flexible with our suggestions. We specified wanted a guide who was flexible and responsive to our ideas and suggestions and Jayandra was excellent. Decisions were made together. He is easy going and very pleasent to be around. Jayandra went above and beyond by carrying fresh fruit for our dessert each night. What a treat! We were also able to visit Jay’s home in Kathmandu and his village while on the trek to meet his family. We really appreciated this opportunity. The head of the company, Harka, was also very helpful, and kept the communication flowing when Jay was out trekking with other clients. We had an excellent trek. No complaints at all.
Canada, Dec 2016
Lifetime memory thanks to Himalaya Trip / Guide / Porter
I did quite a bit of research for a reputable agency for my 16 day Manaslu Circuit trek. I emailed a number of different agencies, and got price quotes that ranged quite a bit. I decided to go with Himalaya Trip because the price was great, the communication was excellent, and equally important, the fixed prices quoted for things like a private jeep were exactly what the cost should be — this agency was not trying to hike up prices and make money off me like so many other agencies tried to do. I felt like I can trust these guys.
Our guide Jay, and porter Deep, were two really great guys. We shared a lot of laughs with them and they were near the top of the list of why this excursion was so great.
Jay was always looking out for us, making sure we’re ok, and safety was always his top priority. Our agency recommended crampons for the pass, and they came in handy. Most others that we passed on the trail did not have them.
If you’re looking to book a trekking trip or any other tour in Nepal, you will not go wrong with this company. Just email them and you will see … the communication alone will put you at ease.
FYI – many people like to “shop around” in Kathmandu for agencies because they will find a better price. We met some people who did that, and the price we paid with this agency was significantly lower than they ended up paying.
USA, March 2017
Magnificent Manaslu
The trip of a lifetime on one of the best treks in Nepal, professionally organized by Harka and his team at Himalaya Trip and especially my expert guide Shyam.
On arrival in Kathmandu Harka had all my permits ready. What followed was 17 days of pure adventure. Thanks to Harka. Himalaya Trip get a five star rating. Will be back again soon.
Ireland, Oct 2017
We just finished the Manaslu Circuit
We just finished the Manaslu Circuit. We booked with Harka and his team and it was perfect. The organization was very efficient: Harka is very responsive, and he answered all our (many!!) questions in no time.
Our guide Jayandra was the best. He is a wonderful guide, never trying to hurry, always being flexible and calm. We wanted the itinerary not to be too strict, as we like to take our time and walk as far as we get, not as far as the itinerary tell us. He helped us a lot, always showing us to the nicest locations in the villages and some great spots for our breaks. He always knew if there would be another good overnight option a little further down or if it was better to stay and most importand: He obviously always knew where to get the best Dal Bhat 😉 No request was ever too much trouble. We had a great trek!
Thanks a lot for the unforgettable time.
Germany, Nov 2017
Manaslu Circuit Trek was a Wonderful experience
Manaslu trekking with Surpa (Guide-porter) and Min (porter)
We had a fantastic time doing the Manaslu trekking with Surpa and Min. Surpa was really knowledgable and always tried to find the best places to stay for us. His help and support were necessary to bring us up to the top of Larkya La pass while one of us had altitude sickness. Min, our porter, was also fantastic. Always happy and ready to play card games when done with the day. Not only it was a physical experience but also a human one. Thank you Himalaya Trip for that time. Highly recommend!
French, April 2019
Wunderfull and unforgettable views and experiences Manaslu trekking including Larka pass 5106 meters.
We, father and son, did the 14 Days Manaslu Trekking in may 2022. We have very good experiences with Harka and Jay. They are very helpfull to make you a good time. From beginning to end they are pleased to help you to make up youre plans.
Germany, May 2022
Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalaya Trip
We did the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalaya Trip and it was quite awesome. We had quite some luck because monsoon season was bit longer as usual. But it almost did not rain.
Big thanks to Jay our guide and Mesak our porter. They did a great job and were really flexible, so we could have influence in the program. Also open to all the question we had about Nepal and especially the valleys we were in.
Switzerland, September 2023Packing List for Manaslu Trek
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 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.
