The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and adventurous trek in the Himalayan region of Nepal. This trek takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Manaslu region, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks, lush forests, raging rivers, and traditional villages.

The trek starts in the town of Machha Khola and follows the Budi Gandaki River upstream, passing through the lush forests and terraced fields of the lower valley. As you ascend higher, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with soaring peaks and rugged terrain.

The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Crossing the pass is a challenging but rewarding experience that requires proper acclimatization and physical fitness.

Manaslu Circuit Trek also offers a chance to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local communities. You will pass through several traditional villages, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions.

The trek usually takes around 14 to 16 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and your pace. The best time to do the trek is from March to May and September to November when the weather is clear and stable.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and physical challenges.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers many highlights. Here are some of the main highlights of the trek:

Overall, The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, making it an unforgettable experience.

Important Notes for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek in Nepal that takes you through stunning landscapes, remote villages, and high mountain passes. Here are some important notes to keep in mind when planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Permits: You need a restricted area permit, a Manaslu Conservation Area permit, and an Annapurna Conservation Area permit to trek in the Manaslu region. Make sure to obtain these permits before starting your trek.

Guide and Porter: It is mandatory to hire a licensed guide and porter for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is not only for your safety but also to support the local economy.

Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness is a serious concern on this trek as you will be crossing high mountain passes. Acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness. It is recommended to spend at least two nights at a high altitude before crossing any pass.

Weather: The best time to trek in the Manaslu region is from September to November and March to May when the weather is clear and stable. However, the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden changes.

Accommodation: Tea houses or lodges are available along the trekking route, but they can be basic and sometimes crowded. It is advisable to carry a sleeping bag and a warm jacket.

Physical Fitness: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness. It is recommended to train and prepare yourself before embarking on this trek.

Cultural Sensitivity: The Manaslu region is home to many ethnic groups with their own unique traditions and customs. It is important to respect their culture and traditions while trekking in this area.

Environmental Responsibility: The Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through a fragile environment, and it is important to minimize your impact on the environment. Carry all your trash and dispose of it properly in designated areas.

Accommodation and Food: Accommodation on the trek is basic and can vary in quality. It’s important to be prepared for basic facilities and pack accordingly. Food is generally simple and consists of local Nepali dishes, such as dal bhat.

Guided Trek: It’s highly recommended to undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a licensed and experienced guide. A guide can provide important information about the trek, assist with permits, help with acclimatization, and ensure your safety.

Porters: Porters can only carry 20kg.  So please pack lightly.  We will provide you with a bag/duffle bag that is easy for porters to carry.

Meals: Meals on the trek are included in the price.  This does not include hot or cold drinks, alcohol, or extra snacks.  In Kathmandu, breakfast is included, but not lunch or dinner.

Wifi Hot Shower: There are extra expenses at Mountain for hot showers ($3 to $5) and charging your Battery, Camera, Mobile Phone, etc ($1 to $3).

Weather Change: Weather can change dramatically and quickly in the mountains, so please bear with us if there are delays.  Please follow the advice of your guide if he needs to change the itinerary in any way due to the weather.

Drone Flying: Drones are not permitted unless you have a special permit to fly them in the Manaslu Region.  If you need a special permit for a drone then please contact us after booking your trekking. We will try our best to make your drone permit.

Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is clear and stable, and the skies are usually blue, making for stunning views of the mountains and landscapes.

In the autumn season (September to November), the temperatures are mild and the skies are generally clear, making it the peak trekking season. This is also the time when the Manaslu region sees the most visitors, so the trekking routes and tea houses can be crowded.

In the spring season (March to May), the temperatures are warmer, and the trails are surrounded by lush green forests and blooming rhododendron flowers, making for beautiful scenery. This is also the time when the local wildlife is active, and the chances of spotting rare animals like the snow leopard and red panda are higher.

However, it’s important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and it’s possible to encounter occasional snowfall or rain during these months. It’s essential to be prepared for sudden changes in weather and carry appropriate clothing and gear.

Trekking Permit for Manaslu Region Trekking:

To trek in the Manaslu region, you need the following permits:

1. Restricted Area Permit: As Manaslu Circuit Trek falls in a restricted area, you need to obtain a restricted area permit through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. The permit fee for the Manaslu region changes depending on the time of year, but it typically costs around USD 70 per person per week during the peak season (September to November) and USD 50 per person per week during the off-season (December to August).

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): The MCAP is a conservation fee that goes towards the preservation of the Manaslu region’s natural environment. It costs NPR 3,000 (around USD 30) per person.

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is also a conservation fee that goes towards the preservation of the Annapurna region’s natural environment, which you pass through during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It costs NPR 3,000 (around USD 30) per person.

Note that you must obtain these permits through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide and porter throughout the trek. These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers and to support the local economy.

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is available in the form of tea houses or lodges along the trekking route. Tea houses are basic lodges that offer simple accommodation and food, while lodges are slightly more upscale and offer better facilities.

The quality of the tea houses and lodges can vary, and the facilities available can be basic. Most tea houses and lodges have shared bathrooms, and hot showers may not always be available. Some tea houses may also have a limited electricity supply, and charging your devices may incur an additional fee.

It’s recommended to carry a sleeping bag and a warm jacket as the temperature can get quite cold at night, especially at higher altitudes. Some tea houses may provide blankets, but it’s always better to be prepared.

Overall, the accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is simple but comfortable, and staying in tea houses or lodges is a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality of the region.

Food options for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Food options on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are limited, but you can still find a variety of tasty and nutritious meals to keep you fueled throughout the trek. Most tea houses and lodges offer a menu that includes local Nepali dishes as well as some basic Western dishes.

Typical Nepali dishes you can expect to find on the menu include dal bhat (a dish consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry), momos (dumplings filled with vegetables or meat), and thukpa (a noodle soup with vegetables or meat). Other popular dishes include fried rice, noodles, and pasta.

Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, and many tea houses and lodges can accommodate special dietary requirements upon request. However, note that the food options may become more limited at higher altitudes, and it’s always best to check with your guide or the tea house owner regarding the availability of certain dishes.

It’s recommended to avoid meat dishes on the trek as the meat may not have been stored or cooked properly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Instead, opt for vegetarian dishes or dishes made with canned or packaged meat.

It’s also important to stay hydrated on the trek, and you can find a variety of hot and cold beverages at tea houses, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks. It’s advisable to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of altitude sickness.

Trek Difficulty And Physical Fitness Required For Manaslu Circuit Trek:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek and requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trek involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high mountain passes.

The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) and requires a significant amount of energy and stamina to cross. The altitude can also cause symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

It’s recommended that you prepare for the trek by following a regular exercise routine that includes cardiovascular and strength training. It’s also a good idea to start hiking and walking on hilly terrain to build up your endurance and get accustomed to the altitude.

It’s also advisable to hire a licensed guide and porter to accompany you on the trek. They can provide valuable assistance and support and help you acclimatize to the altitude.

Overall, while the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek, it’s a rewarding experience that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the region.

Weather and Climate at Manaslu Circuit

The weather and climate on the Manaslu Circuit Trek can vary depending on the season and altitude. It’s important to plan accordingly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally dry and stable. During these seasons, you can expect clear skies, mild temperatures during the day, and cold temperatures at night. The average daytime temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing, especially at higher altitudes.

During the summer monsoon season (June to August), the trekking route receives heavy rainfall, making it difficult to trek. The trails can be slippery and muddy, and there is an increased risk of landslides and flooding. It’s not recommended to trek during this season.

During the winter season (December to February), the temperatures can drop significantly, and the trekking route may receive snowfall, making it challenging to cross the high mountain passes. However, the views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks are stunning during this season.

It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before embarking on the trek and to pack accordingly. It’s essential to carry warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a good quality sleeping bag to stay warm and dry during the trek.

Extend Your Trip After Manaslu Circuit Trek

There are several options to extend your trip after the Manaslu Circuit Trek to explore other parts of Nepal. Here are some popular options:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is another popular trek in Nepal that offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. The trek takes about 7-12 days and takes you through beautiful villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes.

Everest Base Camp Trek: The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and challenging treks in Nepal that takes you to the base of the world’s highest peak. The trek takes about 12-16 days and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience the Sherpa culture.

Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Nepal that offers a unique wildlife experience. The park is home to Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and other wildlife, and you can explore the park on jeep safaris, elephant-back rides, or canoe rides.

Pokhara: Pokhara is a picturesque city located about 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. The city is known for its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and mountain views and offers a range of activities such as paragliding, kayaking, and hiking.

Kathmandu: Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath Stupa. The city is also known for its vibrant culture, colorful markets, and delicious food.

You can customize your itinerary and combine these options to create a unique and unforgettable travel experience in Nepal.

Packing list for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Packing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be challenging as you need to be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions and varying terrain. Here is a list of essential items that you should consider packing for the trek:

1. Clothing:

• Base layers (moisture-wicking t-shirts and long underwear)
• Insulated jacket or down jacket
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Fleece or wool sweater
• Hiking pants or trousers
• Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
• Hiking socks and liners
• Sturdy hiking boots

2. Equipment:

• Backpack (30-40 liters)
• Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Water bottles or hydration system
• Snacks and energy bars
• Camera or smartphone

3. Toiletries:

• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Lip balm with SPF
• Quick-drying towel
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Toilet paper and tissues
• Personal medications and first aid kit

4. Other:

• Passport and necessary permits
• Cash and credit card
• Map and guidebook
• Travel insurance documents

Remember to pack light and only bring essential items as you will need to carry everything on your back during the trek. You can also hire porters to carry your luggage if needed. It’s important to dress in layers to adjust to changing weather conditions and temperatures, and to pack waterproof and windproof clothing to stay dry and warm.