Manaslu Circuit Trek – 17 days

Trekking and Hiking

Duration

17 Days Trip

Meals

16B, 14L, 16D

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Style

Guided Trekking Adventure

Max. Altitude

5,106m / 16,752 ft (Larke La Pass)

Trip Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Trek Distance

~160 km (depending on route)

Lodging

Teahouses (Mountain Lodges), Hotels in Kathmandu and Besisahar

Trip overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding adventures, taking you around the base of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. Over 17 days, the journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu and slowly follows the Budhi Gandaki River through quiet villages, rice fields, and forested hills before reaching the high mountain landscapes.
The path offers a wide range of experiences, including Buddhist temples, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and cozy towns that showcase both Tibetan and Gurung culture. Lush lowlands give way to alpine meadows and majestic peaks as the elevation increases. During the rest days in Samagaon and Samdo, visitors can wander, acclimatize to the altitude, and learn more about the local settlements.
Larke La Pass is the trek’s high point at an altitude of 5,106m, and the challenging ascent offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Manaslu ranges. The trail then gently descends through lovely meadows and forests before heading back to lower valleys and, ultimately, Kathmandu.
This trek is less crowded than other famous routes, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking adventure and a sense of peace in nature. Our team has carefully designed this 17-day itinerary to give you the perfect balance of challenge, safety, and cultural experience — so you can enjoy the mountains without worry and return home with unforgettable memories.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m).
  • Explore Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaon and Samdo, which are rich in culture.
  • Witness historic monasteries and engage with people who are still carrying out age-old traditions.
  • Cross the challenging yet rewarding Larke La Pass (5,106m) with panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Trek through deep river gorges, lush forests, and alpine landscapes.
  • Experience one of Nepal’s best off-the-beaten-path treks, less crowded than Annapurna or Everest.
  • Day to Day Itinerary:

Itinerary

  • Day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,539 ft.)

    You will arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. Once you arrive, our representative will be holding cards with your name to welcome you and drive you to the hotel.
    Upon reaching the hotel, you will get refreshed and rest. Or you can explore Thamel, the liveliest area in Kathmandu. Also, ensure all the needed gear is ready.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 02
    Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Soti Khola (710m)

    Today, we begin the journey with a long but scenic drive, following winding roads along rivers, terraced fields, and hillside villages. The road can be bumpy at times, but the changing scenery makes it exciting. By evening, we reach Soti Khola, a riverside village and our trek starting point.
    Overnight in Soti Khola.

  • Day 03
    Trek to Machha Khola (900m)

    We pass terraced farms, suspension bridges, and verdant sal trees along the walk. After passing through a few small communities along the Budhi Gandaki River, we reach Machha Khola, a little yet vibrant community.
    Overnight in Machha Khola.

  • Day 04
    Trek to Jagat (1,340m)

    We continue along the river, crossing streams and rocky trails. The walk passes through small Gurung and Magar villages before reaching Jagat, a beautiful stone-paved village and entry checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area.
    Overnight in Jagat.

  • Day 05
    Trek to Deng (1,860m)

    The landscape changes as more pine and bamboo forests appear. We walk through charming villages like Philim and cross suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki. By evening, we reach Deng, a small but culturally rich settlement.
    Overnight in Deng.

  • Day 06
    Trek to Namrung (2,630m)

    The trail gradually ascends through dense forests and alpine landscapes. Along the way, we start to notice Tibetan influences in architecture and lifestyle. Namrung offers stunning views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
    Overnight in Namrung.

  • Day 07
    Trek to Lho (3,180m)

    We trek through forests of rhododendron and oak, passing mani walls and prayer flags. Lho is a picturesque village with a large monastery and excellent views of Manaslu’s snowy peaks.
    Overnight at Lho.

  • Day 08
    Trek to Samagaon (3,530m)

    Today’s walk is full of breathtaking scenery—snow-capped peaks, terraced fields, and glacial streams. Samagaon is one of the largest villages on this route, with traditional Tibetan culture and a beautiful monastery.
    Overnight in Samagaon.

  • Day 09
    Acclimatization in Samagaon (3,530m)

    A full day for rest and acclimatization. You can explore nearby monasteries, hike up to Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint, or relax in the village while soaking in the mountain atmosphere.
    Overnight in Samagaon.

  • Day 10
    Trek to Samdo (3,860m)

    The trail is relatively short today, climbing gently above the valley with stunning mountain views. Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village, sits close to the Nepal–Tibet border and offers a unique cultural experience.
    Overnight in Samdo.

  • Day 11
    Acclimatization in Samdo (3,860m)

    Another acclimatization day before the high pass. Optional hikes include a viewpoint towards the Tibetan border or nearby ridges with panoramic views. This also helps your body adjust to higher altitudes ahead.
    Overnight in Samdo.

  • Day 12
    Trek to Dharmashala (4,460m)

    We climb steadily to Dharmashala, also called Larke Phedi, which serves as the base before crossing the Larke La Pass. The trail is shorter, but at a high altitude, so we take it easy and rest early.
    Overnight in Dharmashala.

  • Day 13
    Trek to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larke La Pass (5,106m)

    This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. We start early, climbing gradually to the top of Larke La Pass, the highest point of the trek, with breathtaking views of Himlung, Annapurna II, Kang Guru, and Manaslu ranges. After celebrating at the pass, we descend carefully to the beautiful valley of Bimthang.
    Overnight in Bimthang.

  • Day 14
    Trek to Tilije (2,300m)

    A long descent takes us through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and small streams. Tilije is a charming Gurung village with stone-paved streets and traditional houses.
    Overnight in Tilije.

  • Day 15
    Trek to Dharapani (1,960m) and drive to Besisahar

    We walk a few more hours to Dharapani, where the Manaslu Circuit meets the Annapurna Circuit trail. From here, we take a jeep ride to Besisahar, the district headquarters.
    Overnight in Besisahar.

  • Day 16
    Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu (1,400m)

    We take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, passing through terraced hills, rivers, and small towns. After checking into your hotel, you can relax or enjoy a last night in Kathmandu by strolling around areas like Thamel or Durbarmarg.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 17
    Departure

    This day is the day you left for your home.
    After breakfast, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or strolling around. We will ensure you arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. We bid farewell with beautiful memories of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and in the hope of meeting again, we separate.

Trip Includes:

  • Airport picks up and drops off.
  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
  • Accommodation in teahouses during the trek, hotels in Kathmandu.
  • Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two guests).
  • All government taxes.

Trip Excludes:

  • International airfares.
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
  • Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and others.
  • Money gratitude for the trekking guides and porters.
  • Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu if not on the planned itinerary.
  • All that are not mentioned in the includes.
Starting From

USD 2,200

per person

No. of people Price per person
2-5 pax USD 1,900
6-10 pax USD 1,750

Speak to an Expert

Matt Culbertson image 10

Trekking Expert

Nepal

WhatsApp +9779841603796

Additional Information:

Some important hints:

  • Scan VISA cards, passports and other critical documents to phone or email for easy access.
  • There will be one porter between two trekkers, carrying a maximum of 25 kg (12 kg max. each) in a supplied soft duffel bags.
  • Please keep packing to a minimum and let; 12/15 kg if possible.
  • Each trekker to carry water, jacket, fleece, camera and daily needs in a small back-pack.
  • Most toilets on trek will be traditional squat toilets, with no toilet paper because local people wash themselves with their left hand and water, then wash their hands really well afterwards. Having some hard soap or hand-sanitizer is obviously a good idea. It’s advisable to bring some wet wipes or toilet paper but discard it in the bin or bring the used paper with you in zip lock bags to be polite as throwing it down the hole is not advised.
  • If you can’t do without technology, think about bringing a camera or phone (with extra storage/batteries), charging cable (and universal plug adapter), power bank (solar optional), and offline trekking map app (Maps.me, Gaia, GPS).
  • You cannot drink water from the tap, anywhere in Nepal, not even brush your teeth with it! Bottled water is universally available, but it is not environmentally sustainable (think millions of plastic bottles that are not recycled).
  • Money exchange is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. So, when you arrived in Kathmandu you can easily change the USD in NPR.

Clothing and accessories on trek

  • Small back pack with thin pack liner and rain-cover
  • Beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Balaclava, buff or neck gaiter
  • Fleece or wool gloves
  • Windproof outer gloves
  • Socks
  • Undies
  • Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
  • Top and leggings for walking
  • Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
  • Top and leggings for sleeping
  • Polyprop/merino short-sleeved
  • Top for walking
  • Lightweight hiking shorts (lower altitude)
  • Lightweight trekking trousers (evening)
  • Polar fleece
  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof windproof raincoat
  • Boots with ankle support (well-worn-in)
  • Ultra-lightweight EVA plastic
  • Sandals (evenings)

Other

  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses (snow)
  • Notebook & pen
  • Reading glasses

Accomodation

Hotel Tibet

Hotel Tibet

Hotel Tibet, a family-run boutique hotel that have blended traditional Tibetan designs with a touch of modern simplicity.

Transportation

Tourist Bus

Tourist Bus

We provide professional Luxury Tourist Bus services designed for large groups, corporate retreats, and organized tours. Our fleet features modern, high-capacity buses equipped with comfortable reclining seats, full air conditioning, and wide windows for a premium sightseeing experience. With spacious under-carriage compartments for luggage and experienced drivers at the wheel, we ensure a safe, smooth, and relaxing journey on all major highways. Whether you are traveling across the city or across the country, our bus service offers the perfect blend of reliability, comfort, and affordability for your entire group.

Toyota Hiace

Toyota Hiace

Our Toyota Hiace service offers the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and flexibility for medium-sized groups and families. Known for its reliability and agility, the "Jumbo" Hiace provides a fast and efficient way to reach your destination, easily navigating both smooth highways and narrower mountain roads. With a high-roof design for extra headroom, air-conditioned interiors, and a private "door-to-door" service, we ensure a premium travel experience that gets you there ahead of the crowd.

Scorpio

Scorpio

Our Mahindra Scorpio 4WD service offers the ultimate combination of power, durability, and rugged luxury for explorers and small groups. Engineered to conquer the demanding terrain of the Himalayas, the Scorpio provides a robust and dependable way to navigate steep inclines, unpaved tracks, and challenging weather conditions. With its high ground clearance, heavy-duty suspension, and powerful 4x4 capabilities, our private "door-to-trailhead" service ensures you reach your destination safely and comfortably, no matter how remote. Featuring an ergonomic cabin, climate control, and ample space for expedition gear, we deliver a high-performance travel experience designed to get you deep into the heart of the mountains where others cannot follow.

Trip FAQs:

  • How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

    It is considered challenging. The trail includes steep ascents, long walking days, rugged terrain, and a high mountain pass. Good fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

  • What is the best season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

    The best times are:

    • Autumn (Sept–Nov) – clear skies, stable weather
    • Spring (Mar–May) – warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons

    Winter and monsoon seasons are not ideal due to snow and landslides.

  • Is altitude sickness a concern on Manaslu Circuit trek?

    Yes. The trek reaches above 5,000 m, so proper acclimatization, a steady pace, hydration, and listening to your guide are essential. Your itinerary includes acclimatization days to minimize risk.

  • Can I trek Manaslu solo?

    No. Since it is a restricted area, solo trekking is not allowed. You must trek with a licensed guide and at least one other trekker in your permit group.

  • How cold does it get on Manaslu Circuit?

    High altitude areas, especially near Dharmasala and Larke La, can drop to –10°C to –20°C at night in peak seasons.

Speak to an Expert

Matt Culbertson image 10

Trekking Expert

Nepal

WhatsApp +9779841603796

Your Himalayan Adventure Awaits

From Everest Base Camp to hidden valleys of Mustang, let us design a journey that’s truly yours.

Start Planning My Trip
chat-in-website
Need Help? Chat with us
chat-in-website
Need Help? Chat with us