The Manaslu Circuit is a 13-day trek that invites you to embark on a soul-stirring journey around mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, stands at 8,163 meters. Walking along the ancient Salt TradeRoute, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of towering peaks like Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadichuli, and Shringi Himal, their majestic presence filling you with awe. Along your path, the sparkling turquoise waters of Birendra Lake and Kaal Taal will captivate your heart, while cascading waterfalls will serenade you with their timeless beauty.
Manaslu Circuit trek offers you a rare chance to connect deeply with the land and its people. You’ll step into the rich culture of the Tibetan communities, visiting sacred monasteries that echo with centuries of history. Along the way, you’ll have the privilege of participating in local festivals and engaging with villagers of Tsum Valley, each interaction a beautiful reminder of the simplicity and warmth of life in the high Himalayas. Manaslu Circuit is a journey not just through nature, but into the heart of a way of life that has endured for generations
Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Jaw-dropping scenery: The trek takes through some of the most beautiful scenery in Nepal, including the Mt. Manaslu massif, the Annapurna Ranges, and Ganesh Himal. Trek from the subtropical forest at a lower altitude, through the Himalayan foothills to the high, cold, and challenging high altitude of Larke-la Pass (5,160 meters).
- Cultural encounters: Grab the opportunity to immerse, meet, and learn about Tibetan people who live in this region.
- Unspoiled region: Compared to other trekking destinations in Nepal, the Manaslu Round Trek is less crowded and is an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Challenging trek but rewarding: Breathe in the thin air knowing you’ve reached the high point of the trek, Larkya La Pass (5,160m). It’s a demanding adventure that pushes your limits, and for those who accept the adventure, the rewards are unparalleled. The intermingling of culture and tradition, diverse flora and fauna, and terrain landscapes add beauty to the trek.
The 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best alternative trek after the famousAnnapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp Trek. The Manaslu Journey starts from Machhekhola after 8 hours public bus journey. Manaslu region is a wild and remote trek area, yet there are plenty of tea houses along the trek route with enough food grains. The Manaslu Circuit Trek features everything you'd want from a classic trek in Nepal; epic scenery, intimate encounters with local people, cross-culture exchanges, and an adventurous (5,160m/16,925 ft.) Larke La pass crossing.
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the pristine Himalayas on the Manaslu Circuit Trek which offers an immersive experience in the Himalayas of Nepal.
177 km Manaslu Circuit treks skirt the massive Mt Manaslu over the Larke La (5160 m) down to the Annapurna region at Dharapani. Manaslu region was opened in 1991 for trekking and tours. The Trek follows the ancient salt trading route of Nepal along the Budhi Gandaki.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Temperature
The Manaslu Region has huge climatic variation. Within 100 km, there is extreme climatic variation from Arughat to Larke Top. The region has six climatic zones.
Tropical climatic zones: below 1000m along the Budhi Gandaki and Marshyangdi River basin. The temperature is very hot.
Subtropical climatic zones: Altitude between 1000m to 2000m. The temperature in summer 31°C and in winter temperature is 13°C
Temperate Climatic zones: 2000m to 3000m. Summer temperature is 20°C and in winter 6°C is expected.
Subalpine climatic zones: 3000m to 4000m. 4 to 6 months occurs by snowfalls and temperature also falls about 6 to 10°C.
Alpine Climatic Zones: The alpine zone between 4000m to 5000m is open grassland. Expected temperature is about a maximum of 6°C in a sunny day.
Artic Climatic Zone: Above 5000m altitude there is no human settlement and temperature is freezing throughout the year.
Best Season for Manaslu Circuit
Obviously, Nepal for all Seasons! Trekking in high-altitude and remote areas such as the Manaslu Circuit, you need to be aware of the weather and temperature. Spring (March, April, May and June) and Autumn (September, October, November, and December) are the best times of the year to travel to Nepal. Spring is the biggest season that offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant beauty of blooming landscape and a relaxed trekking experience. Autumn (late September to December) is another popular trekking season, offering clear skies, dry paths, and pleasurable weather. The autumn and spring seasons offer an excellent opportunity for trekking in Nepal with a stable climate and clear visibility.
The winter season- January and February is a winter wonderland all frosted and serene. The high-altitude teahouses shift to lower altitudes due to the heavy snowfall. Monsoon season- from mid-June, July, and August experiences heavy rainfall, resulting in landslides and slippery paths.
13-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost
The cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek depends on several factors. Number of participants, Trekking seasons, mode of transportation, meals, and accommodation type while on trek, are major components that determine the price. Global Eco Trails offers the best price possible so every trekker can embark on the Manaslu trek and enjoy it. The 13-day Manaslu Trek costs start from 700 USD per person.
From Which Place the Manaslu Restricted Area Started?
A special permits is required for Manaslu Circuit Treks due to its proximity of Tibetan border, Himalayan Eco system and sensitive nature of flora and fauna.The Manaslu restricted area decleared between Jagat Village to Bimtang. Bimtang is the border of Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Round Trek. Same like Tsum Valley restricted area begins from Lokpa. Cross the Budhi Gandaki and follow the eastern trails.
Manaslu Trek Permit cost for Spring and Autumn Season
Manaslu circuit Trek falls within the Manaslu Conservation and Restricted area of Nepal due to the proctection of biodiversity, Himalayan eco systems, endanger species such as Musk deer and show leopard, remoteness and challenging terrain. Solo travellers are not permitted on Manaslu Circuit trek, a minimum of two foreign trekkers required to obtain the special permit, which must be obtain through a government recognized local trek company. Here are the permit fees structure for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
September to November | 100 USD per person/week, 15 USD per person/ day. (beyond a week) |
December to August | 75 USD per person/week 10 USD per person/day (beyond 1 week) |
Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACA) | 28 USD per person for single entry |
Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit (MCA) | 28 USD per person for single entry |
TIMS-Card (Trekkers Information Management System) | 18 USD per person for single entry |
ACAP permit for SAARC Citizens | 1000/ Rupees.per person for single entry |
MCAP permit for SAARC Citizens | 1000/ Rupees.per person for single entry |
Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek suitable for you?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that could be hard for beginners but we have placed acclimatization day in itinerary for the convenience. Manaslu Trek consists of moderate to challenging grades. Walking through the rugged terrain and daily walking of 5/7 hours in the rising altitude, you need to adjust your body in long-distance walking. Compared to other popular trek routes in Nepal, Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is less crowded and you will have a great opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayas. If you're looking for an adventure that will take you to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Nepal, extend the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek is a great deal, you shouldn’t miss!
Places to Visit While Manaslu Circuit Odyssey
T- sum Valley with Mu Gumpa
Required a different special permit, this valley is a newly opened area bordering Tibet, the lifestyle and culture are very similar to Tibetan known as mini Tibet. Tourism, husbandry work, agro-farming.
Nubri Gumba known as Sarang Gompa (3100m) lies T- sum above the Bhi village. It is a meditation center, and Buddhist sanctuary located in this high-altitude southern slop.
Kal Tal, meaning 'Death Lake' (3,600 m)
The detour to Kal Tal is 4 hours of walking above the Prok village.
Hang Gompa and Himalchuli Base Camp (4,020 m)
It is a beautiful monastery in the Manaslu region. It takes about one hour to reach the monastery in the meadows of pine forest.
Phungen Gompa (4,050 m./13,284 ft.)
It is recommended to take a detour from Shyalla or Sama Gaon. This is the most picturesque place overlooking Manaslu region shooting.
Birendra Tal (3,450 m./ 11,316 ft.)
This is a high-altitude freshwater turquoise lake fed by glaciers. It is about 3 hours to and from Sama Gaon.
Manaslu Base Camp (4,900 m./16,072 ft.)
The base for the Manaslu expedition fixed its tent and stayed for acclimatization. It is a 4-hour walk from Sama Gaon through the steep slope. The scenery is extraordinary with the lake, glacier, landscape, and forest.
Manaslu Trek Accommodation
Each night, you'll be staying in local teahouses run by the local communities along the trek. Most teahouses are quite basic but comfortable, with two single beds in each room. There is a common area for meals and relaxing, which is a great place to stay warm around the fire at night. The room comprises of bed, mattress, bedsheet, and a pillow which will be more than enough to catch a good sleep. You may carry a sleeping bag for a sound sleep.
Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is calling — but success demands the right gear, strong fitness, and true determination. Don’t go in blind — connect with a trusted local guide or company for the latest route updates and expert insights.
Make it easy on yourself. Book your 13-day Manaslu Round Trek with Global Eco Trails for a seamless, unforgettable experience. We’re a well-established company specializing in:
Small group adventures
Family trekking holidays
Honeymoon treks
Student trips & friend reunions
All at affordable prices — no stress, just stunning Himalayan views and real connection.