The Manaslu Circuit Trek  is one of Nepal’s most stunning and remote trekking routes, offering adventurers a chance to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, explore traditional villages, and witness breathtaking mountain scenery. This trek encircles Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world, and presents an unspoiled alternative to the more frequented Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Treks. As you journey through the rugged terrain, you’ll pass through charming villages, cross high-altitude passes, and even have the opportunity to extend your adventure to the Annapurna .
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
- Spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II.
- Crossing the thrilling Larke Pass (5,106m), a high-altitude challenge that rewards with breathtaking panoramas.
- Exploring remote villages such as Samagaun, Lho, and Samdo, rich in Tibetan culture and Buddhist heritage.
- Opportunity to combine with the Everest base camp, offering a more extensive Himalayan experience.
- Diverse landscapes, from lush forests to barren, high-altitude terrain.
- Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
-
Day 1: Kathmandu to Machhikhola
Day 2: Machhikhola to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat to Deng
Day 4: Deng to Namrung
Day 5: Namrung to Samagaun
Day 6: Samagaun Rest
Day 7: Samagaun to Dharmasala
Day 8: Dharmasala to Bhimtang
Day 9: Bhimtang to Dharapani
Day 10: Dharapani to Kathmandu
Day 1: Welcome to Nepal | Arrival
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft)
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
Day 4: Trek to Deng (1897m / 6224ft)
Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2630m / 8626ft)
Day 6: Trek to Shyala (3500m / 11480ft)
Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft) via Pung Gyen Gompa
Day 8: Acclimatization at Sama Gaon & Trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m / 15748ft)
Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4480m / 14698ft)
Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft) via Larkya La Pass (5160m / 16,929ft)
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
The Journey: Trekking Through Villages and Mountains
Connecting to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
For trekkers who wish to extend their journey, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect choice. From Dharapani, travelers can continue towards Chame, Manang, and Ghorepani, leading them to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). This trek brings adventurers into the Annapurna Circuit , surrounded by towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.
The combination of Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp creates a truly immersive Himalayan experience, allowing trekkers to explore both remote and popular trekking regions in Nepal.
Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The ideal trekking seasons are:
- Spring (March to May) – Pleasant weather and blooming rhododendrons.
- Autumn (September to November) – Clear skies and the best mountain visibility.
Permits and Regulations
Since the Manaslu region is restricted, special permits are required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers must travel in groups of at least two and be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Accommodation and Food
- Teahouses provide simple but comfortable lodging along the route.
- Meals include Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodle soup, momos, and Tibetan bread.
- Higher elevations have more basic facilities, so carrying extra snacks and a sleeping bag is recommended.
Trek Difficulty and Preparation
- The trek is moderately to highly difficult, requiring physical fitness and endurance.
- Daily trekking durations range from 5 to 9 hours.
- Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential to prevent altitude sickness.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure, offering a unique blend of remote villages, challenging high passes, and awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, this trek is a rewarding alternative to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.
Whether trekkers choose to extend their journey to Annapurna Base Camp or simply immerse themselves in the beauty of the Manaslu region, this trek guarantees an unforgettable experience. From towering peaks to charming villages, the Manaslu Circuit remains one of Nepal’s most breathtaking trekking routes, perfect for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion in the heart of the Himalayas.
