The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 13 day trek that takes you on a journey around Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain Manaslu (8,163m). Trek along the route and find yourself around the soaring peaks of Manasalu, Himalchuli, Ngadichuli, Shringi Himal, etc, encounter the turquoise glaciers of Birendra Lake, Kaal Taal and watch the falling cascading waterfalls along the way. You'll also have the opportunity to immerse and experience the way of life of Tibetan people by visiting ancient monasteries, participating in local festivals, or interacting with villagers.
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 famous Annapurna 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
Experience the diverse temperatures of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, The Manaslu Round Trek weather is sunny and warm during the day time but the night temperature is cold.
March to June is the best time for the Manaslu Round Trek due to the weather and temperature. Temperatures range from 31 to 34°C, you'll trek alongside the Budhi Gandaki and Marshyangdi rivers. As you ascend, the landscape transitions through sub-tropical (1000m - 2000m) and temperate zones (2000m - 3000m), where temperatures vary from 22 to 25°C in (June to August) summer and drop to 6 to -2°C in winter. Dense forests give way to alpine meadows (3000m - 4000m), where temperatures range from 6 to 10°C annually, and finally to the arctic zone above 5000m, with temperatures often below freezing. Each zone offers unique flora and fauna, including Himalayan thar and Snow Leopards.
Best Season for Manaslu Circuit
There are 4 seasons in Nepal, out of which spring and autumn are the best seasons to trek in the Himalayas to experience the beauty of Nepal. Spring is the largest trekking season in Nepal and Autumn is another popular season to travel with clear skies, dry paths, and perfect weather. September to December is a fabulous month for trekking and hiking in Manalsu region as the monsoon ends with an approaching winter. The autumn and spring seasons offer an excellent opportunity for trekking in Nepal with a stable climate.
The winter season (January and February) is too cold and most of the trails are covered by snow. During monsoon, mid-June, July, and August experience 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. Including a Guide, Permits, bus transportation, meals, and accommodation while on trek, insurance, and equipment. Generally speaking, the 13-day Manaslu Trek costs between 875 USD to 1400 USD per person. You can complete Larke Pass Trek in 11 days as well if you are a prefossional mountain walker. Inquire us for 11 days itinerary and cost.
Manaslu Trek Permit cost for Spring and Autumn Season
The 13-day Manaslu circuit itinerary is carefully developed with experts placing an acclimatized day at Sama Gaun. The itinerary can be extended as per your interest and time. The proposed daily itinerary is outlined and the Manaslu round odyssey permit cost per person/day is below.
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 | 30 USD per person for single entry |
Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit | 30 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 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, the Manaslu Circuit 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.
Embarking on the Manaslu trek you should have proper gear, be physically fit, and have personal dedication. You are advised to consult a local company or a local guide for the updated 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek information. Now, you can book your hassle-free Manaslu Round Trekking with Global Eco Trails for a memorable Holiday. We are an established company organizing a small group trekking family tour, honeymoon trek, student group, and friend reunion tour at an affordable price. Talk with our experts now!