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Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and least traveled treks. It takes trekkers close to the ninth-highest mountain in the world. Since it is one of the longest treks in Nepal, many people want to know the Manaslu Circuit Trek distance before deciding to go. This trek lets you explore a beautiful, untouched area of Nepal. It follows an ancient trade route between Tibet and Nepal and offers various challenges, along with stunning views and rich cultural experiences. The trek covers about 177 kilometers and is considered strenuous, as it climbs from 900 meters at Machha Khola to 5,160 meters at Larke Pass.
The Manaslu Circuit trek starts with a scenic seven-hour drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Once we reach Machha Khola, we will leave the roads and begin our trek on the trails. We will visit villages like Jagat, Deng, Samagaon, and Samdo along the way. The trekkers will start seeing some of the best views of the trek as they pass through different landscapes like lush forests, rocky ridges, and tall, snowy mountains. Before reaching the highest point of the trek, the Larke La pass, it’s important for trekkers to understand the daily distances they must cover.
Overall Distance of the Manaslu Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a prominent hiking route surrounding Mount Manaslu, one of the highest mountains on Earth. The total trekking distance is approximately 170 to 180 kilometers (equivalent to around 105 to 110 miles). It is important to note that the distance may vary slightly based on the specific trails chosen and the potential for exploratory detours. The trek commences in lush, temperate lowland areas and progresses to higher altitudes characterized by snow-covered mountain landscapes. Participants may experience a dramatic transition from tropical to winter environments within a few days. Daily hiking distances will vary; on some days, one may cover around 10 kilometers, while on others, the distance may extend to approximately 25 kilometers. Hikers should anticipate spending 5 to 9 hours traversing the terrain daily.
Several factors contribute to the variability in daily hiking distances:
- The condition of the trails: Some paths are well-maintained and accessible, while others may be rocky and steep.
- Altitude: As elevation increases, the physical exertion required also increases, which can affect pace and stamina.
- Individual pacing: Each participant will have their own hiking speed, and proceeding at a comfortable rate is advisable.
| Day | Trek Destination | Distance | Duration |
| 1 | Machha Khola to Jagat | 17 kilometers | 7 Hrs. |
| 2 | Jagat to Deng | 20 kilometers | 6-7 Hrs. |
| 3 | Deng to Namrung | 17 kilometers | 6-7 Hrs. |
| 4 | Namrung to Samagaon | 17 kilometers | 6-7 Hrs. |
| 5 | Rest day (Hike to nearby places) | 6 kilometers | 4-5 Hrs. |
| 6 | Samagoan to Samdo | 8 kilometers | 3-4 Hrs. |
| 7 | Samdo to Dharmasala | 6 kilometers | 4-5 Hrs. |
| 8 | Dharmasala to Bhimthang via Larkya Pass | 22 kilometers | 8-9 Hrs. |
| 9 | Bhimthang to Tilche/Tilije | 25 kilometers | 6-7 Hrs. |
Manaslu Trek Distance and Duration in Table
Manaslu Trek Distance Breakdown Day by Day
Day 01: Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869m) Drive distance: 145 km
| Drive Hours: 9-10 hours Attractions: Scenic drive adoring rural landscapes, terraced farms, and small towns. It is a new experience for travelers to ride on the bumpy and uneven trail. Take a scenic drive from Kathmandu, adoring the rural landscape, terraced farms, and small towns, to reach Arughat. After another 2-hour ride on the bumpy and uneven trail through the river basin of Budhi Gandaki River, arrive at Machha Khola. For a comfortable travel experience, a private jeep can be hired. |
Day 02: Machha Khola – Jagat (1340m) Trek distance: 17 km
| Walking Hours: 7 hours Attractions: Tatopani-Natural Hotspring Confluence of Budhi Gandaki and Dobhan RiverBeautiful surroundings Walk past the bank of a raging river adoring beautiful surroundings and Khorlabesi. Passing Khorlabesi, come across a natural hot spring called Tatopani. Walking on ascending and descending trails, reach Dovan. Crossing Budhi Gandaki and Dobhan River confluence, continue walking to reach Jagat. Show your permits MCAP and MRAP at the office located in Jagat for verification. |
Day 03: Jagat – Deng (1860m) Trek distance: 20 km
| Walking Hours: 6-7 hours Attractions: Buddhist monuments, small Chhortens, Mani walls, and prayer flagsAttractive villages: Salleri, Philim, Bhang Sing, Ekle Bhatti, and LokpaFirst, glimpse of stunning Himalayan peaks: Shingri Himal (7161m) and Lapchun Himal (5996m) Following the river bank, pass through small hamlets and witness Buddhist monuments, small Chhortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags throughout the trail. Cross the attractive villages of Buddhist inhabitants like Salleri, Philim, Bhang Sing, Ekle Bhatti, and Lokpa. Upon reaching Lokpa. Stand at the confluence of two major rivers Budhi Gandaki and Syar, and cross the Budhi Gandaki River. Get your first glimpse of stunning Himalayan peaks: Shingri Himal (7161m) and Lapchun Himal (5996m) from Nyal Phedi and continue to trek to Deng. |
Day 04: Deng – Namrung (2630m) Trek distance: 17 km
| Walking Hours: 6-7 hours Attractions: Geological amusement of ManasluDensely populated villages such as Ranagaon, Bihi, Prok, and GhapDifferent landscapes at NamrungMajestic view of Mt. Manaslu Enjoying the geological amusement of Manaslu and admiring the surrounding beauty continue the trek. Pass along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, and densely populated villages such as Ranagaon, Bihi, Prok, and Ghap. Reach Namrung and be delighted to see different landscapes. Relish the majestic view of Mt. Manaslu. |
Day 05: Namrung – Samagaon (3620m) Trek distance: 17 km
| Walking Hours: 6-7 hours Attractions: Beautiful Li Gompa, Attractive settlements of Syogaon and Lhogaon. After breakfast, commence the trek through the flat lands of Namrung. Trek slowly as there is a chance of gaining elevation, and it might be difficult for some trekkers to breathe. Reach Lhogaon for lunch and trek forward. Walk on an ascending trail and pass by beautiful Li Gompa. Head towards Syogaon, an intersection between the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Himal Chuli Base Camp. Follow the west path to arrive at Samagaon. |
Day 06: Rest day at Samagaon (3620m). Trek distance: 4-5 km
| Walking Hours: 5-6 hours Attractions: Visit Sama MonasteryA trip to Pungyen Gompa (4-5 hours of a moderate hike)Manaslu Base camp and back (5-6 hours of a moderate hike)Birendra Tal and back (2 hours of a more leisurely walk) Samagaon is at an elevation of 3,620m and is the acclimatization stopover. It is very necessary to take a rest day to adjust your body to the surroundings and prevent altitude sickness. It is a rest day but the day is spent exploring nearby attractions. A short exploration of Birendra Lake is a good choice after visiting Sama Monastery. Also, trekkers can either hike to Manaslu Base Camp, or trip to Pungyen Monastery. |
Day 07: Samagoan – Samdo (3875m) Trek distance: 8 km
| Walking Hours: 3-4 hours Attractions: Hike to Samdo Peak Yak sheds: Lela Kharka and Kyonggma Kharka. Experience the altitude gain as you ascend from Samagaon. Cross the Budhi Gandaki River and encounter two yak sheds known as Lela Kharka and Kyonggma Kharka along the way. Reach Samdo and to acclimatize hike to Samdo Peak or explore nearby places. |
Day 08: Samdo – Dharmasala (4460m) Trek distance: 6 km
| Walking Hours: 4-5 hours Attractions: Changing landscapes, from lush green areas to dry, barren land. Amazing views of the Manaslu range and Lamjung Himal to the north. Cross the Larkya River, which starts from Larkya Peak, and continue trekking toward Dharmasala. |
Day 09: Trek Dharmasala – The highest point Larkya La Pass (5,106m) – Bhimthang (3590m) Trek distance: 22 km
| Walking Hours: 8-9 hours Attractions: Rocky and dry terrain of Larkya Phedi Highest point: Larkya La Pass (5,106m)Impressive views of Kangguru (6781m), Annapurna II (7937m), Cheo Himal (6807m), and Gyaji Kung (7030m) Ascend through the challenging rocky and dry terrain of Larkya Phedi slowly and maintaining the pace. The path is littered with glacial moraine and rocky sections. After trekking for 4-5 hours, reach the summit of Larkya Pass at an elevation of 5,106m. From the top, get impressive views of Kangguru (6781m), Annapurna II (7937m), Cheo Himal (6807m), and Gyaji Kung (7030m). Descend slowly and trek further to Bhimthang village. |
Day 10: Bhimthang – Tilche/Tilije (2515m) Trek distance: 25 km
| Walking Hours: 6-7 hours Attractions: Amazing mountain lifestyle landscapes, Alpine patches, and subtropical forests. Relishing the beautiful changing landscape views from alpine patches to subtropical forests, trek forward. Pass through the beautiful settlements of Puktu Kharka, Surki, and Gho to reach Tilche/Tilije. Adore the amazing mountain lifestyle of the locals. |
Day 11: Tilche – Dharapani – Beshisahar (760m) Drive distance: 50km
| Drive Hours: 5-6 hours Attractions: After breakfast, drive from Tilije or Tilche to Dharapani, Chamje, Jagat, Syange, Bhulbhule, and finally to the Besishahar. You will stay overnight at the Lodge. |
Day 12: Drive from Beshisahar – to Kathmandu. Drive distance: 175km
| Drive Hours: 6-7 hours Attractions: Scenic drive to Kathmandu, admiring the natural beauty of surroundings, small villages, flowing rivers, terraced fields, and snowy mountains. Enjoying a scenic ride admiring the natural beauty of surroundings, small villages, flowing rivers, terraced fields, and snowy mountains. Check into our hotel for an overnight stay upon arriving in Kathmandu. *Note: You can also hire a private Jeep/car/van to drive back to Kathmandu. Note: For flexibility, you may book your accommodations and a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, and you can stay more than one night in Kathmandu before and after the trek at your preferred place. |
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights Along the Route
The trek to Manaslu Circuit is an experience of personal adventure into a part of Nepal that’s still pretty wild and wonderful. Despite the difficulty, this trek is all about getting up close and personal with some seriously stunning mountains and real, everyday life in the Himalayas. So, picture this: you’re hiking around Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain on the planet, but the mountains are not only that is amazing. You will come across several amazing highlights of this trek along the route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
11 Days
Adventure Treks
USD 849 per person
Larkya La Pass
The first significant challenge of the trek is Larkya La Pass, which reaches an elevation of approximately 5,106 meters (16,923 feet). This ascent is undoubtedly demanding; however, the resultant views are exceptionally rewarding. From this vantage point, one can observe the grandeur of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II, with these impressive peaks sprawling magnificently across the horizon. The colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze connect vividly to the spiritual essence of the mountains.
Cultural Immersion
When you hike in the Manaslu region, you enter the lives of the Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan people. These are not just villages you walk through; they are communities with their own stories and traditions. The locals welcome you warmly. You will see how they live and work, and you might even share a cup of tea with them. This experience is a true cultural exchange that you will always remember.
Manaslu Conservation Area
Another stunning route the trekkers will experience is the Manaslu Conservation Area. From this beautiful place, they will experience stunning views of the Himalayas and sunrise. The Manaslu Conservation Area is also popular for the conservation and prevention of endangered plants and animals. MCA is home to about 9,000 people and has over 2,000 types of plants, 39 mammals, 201 birds, three reptiles, and 11 butterflies across 11 forest types. In 1998, the Government of Nepal declared MCA and gave management responsibility to NTNC for 10 years.
Buddhists Monastries
Trekking is the most popular activity in the Manaslu region. You can also visit its ancient monasteries, which are very important to the culture. The Manaslu region is considered one of the most sacred places in Nepal. People often call the valley a hidden gem. It is said that great meditators like Padmasambhava and Milarepa meditated in the caves here. This makes the area both spiritual and sacred. If you don’t visit the monasteries, you will miss the chance to learn about the authentic culture of Tibetan Buddhists in Nepal. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek or Tsum Valley Trek, you will see several monasteries, including Serang or Nubri Monastery, Shyala Monastery or Pungyen Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Ribung Monastery.
Challenges of Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a seriously incredible trek, but, like other less crowded treks of Nepal, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are some hurdles you’ll have to jump. Let’s be real, and it’s a mountain trek, so it’s gonna test you. Here’s a rundown of some of the challenges you might run into, just so you’re prepped because knowing what’s coming makes a difference.
High Altitude
First, altitude is the toughest challenge that trekkers face during a high-altitude trek. You will climb high, hitting over 5,000 meters at the Larkya La pass. Don’t underestimate it. Even if you’re super fit, altitude sickness can hit anyone. You might get headaches, feel nauseous, or just generally sluggish. It’s essential to take it slow, drink loads of water, and listen to your body. Seriously, if you’re feeling off, don’t push it. It’s better to take an extra day than to risk getting seriously sick.
Remoteness
Another major challenge is the remoteness of Manaslu Trek. We’re talking proper off-the-beaten-path stuff. You’re not gonna find any fancy cafes or supermarkets up there. Supplies are limited, and sometimes, well, things just run out. You might have to deal with basic food; toilets are quite traditional. Plus, if anything goes wrong, getting help can take a while. Of course, it’s all part of the adventure, but it’s something to remember.
Rugged Trails
The trails associated with this trek present a varied experience. Certain sections are well-maintained and clearly marked, while others may prove challenging, featuring steep, rocky terrains that become notably treacherous when wet. Hikers will encounter significant elevation changes, and there are instances where the path may be obstructed due to landslides or overgrowth. This undertaking is certainly not a trivial excursion; adequate hiking boots and a considerable amount of patience are imperative. There were moments during the hike when I questioned the exact location of the trail.
Changing Weather Condition
Weather conditions at higher altitudes can be highly variable and change unexpectedly. One may experience sunshine followed by clouds or sudden precipitation, including rain or snow. This unpredictability necessitates carefully packing layered clothing, as one must be prepared for various weather conditions. I recall a particular day when we encountered sun, rain, and hail, all within a brief timeframe; it was quite remarkable.
Mental Challenge
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not only physically but mentally challenging as well. You need to be mentally prepared for the difficulties of trekking at high altitudes. The difficulty can vary for everyone, but common mental challenges include altitude sickness, long trekking days, unpredictable weather, and the tough climb over high passes like Larke La Pass (5,106m). Being mentally fit means staying strong when facing these challenges, keeping calm when things go wrong, and staying determined to keep going, even when it gets hard. Everyone deals with these challenges differently; some may find certain parts more mentally difficult than others.
Conclusion
So, when you’re thinking about tackling the Manaslu Circuit, remember it’s roughly 177 kilometers of pure Himalayan adventure, which translates to about 10 to 20 kilometers a day, give or take. But honestly, it’s not just about the distance; it’s about the ups and downs, the rocky trails, and those incredible high passes. You’ll want to budget around 12 to 18 days to really savor the experience, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude and allowing for some flexibility if the weather or trails throw a curveball.
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu
We have just got back from an amazing 12 day Manaslu circuit trek organised incredibly quickly by Harka. He was super responsive and kept us updated at every point. Our guide, Mr Jayaram was amazing – he had incredible insight into the area, was always enthusiastic and checked in with us about our welfare regularly. Mr Jayaram was great at setting a good pace, ensuring we could take in the sights and save enough energy for the high pass. He also altered the itinerary to give us a slightly shorter day which had the benefit of a better view of Manaslu. Our porter, Shiva, was a great guy teaching us the ways of Nepalese rummy. To note; the public bus to Soti khola is little short on leg room but we had a sofa bus on the return which was comfortable. Absolute 10/10 experience all round, thank you!
Again, wonderful experience
Thanks to Himalaya Trip going to Nepal feels like going home. I completed the Manaslu Circuit trek two weeks ago, just after the protests in the Kathmandu valley. That has been my second trek in Himalayas with Himalaya Trip, and again it was an awesome experience: exploring extraordinary places, foods, culture and traditions. My guide, Ramesh took excellent care of me and made sure I would see off-the-beaten-track places, forgotten villages and that I would try local specialities tourists normally do not have chance of trying. Everything was well thought of and organized and I felt completely satisfied and safe. It is the best time to go trekking now, as the skies are clear, weather is favourable and the life has come back to normal in the Kathmandu valley after the demonstrations. I am looking forward to booking my next trip with these guys next year!
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
Harka provided us a confident and great guide for the Manaslu circuit trek and Tsum valley. We were 23 days in the mountains which was amazing. our guide was very reliable and helped with the meals and homestay accommodation. We also found him fun and a good companion for the journey. Overall we highly recommend Manaslu circuit and Himalaya Trip
UK, April , 2016
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
The whole Manaslu Circuit trek was a Wonderful experience! We enjoyed it thoroughly. Our guide Om an our porter Ram were just pefect in assisting, organizing and telling us everything we wanted to know. The weather at the beginning of October was also perfect. Not to forget Harka, who organized everything very well from Kathmandu. I can highly recommend Himalaya Trip ! Rainer Goetzelman
, October 26, 2018
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 2023Overall, the Manaslu Circuit trek is challenging but rewarding. Trekkers should consider total miles and daily elevation gains and losses, which impact trekking time and difficulty. A flexible schedule is important with varied terrain, including steep climbs, rocky paths, and suspension bridges. If you are still deciding whether to experience it, we hope our blog helped you decide.
