The Manaslu Circuit Trek is often described as the "new Annapurna Circuit" for those seeking a more remote and authentic experience. It encircles Mount Manaslu (8,163m) — the eighth highest peak in the world — passing through diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to high-alpine passes.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Peak Encircled | Mount Manaslu (8,163m) — world's 8th highest |
| Duration | 14–16 days |
| Highest Point | Larkya La Pass — 5,106m |
| Circuit Distance | ~177km |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Permit Type | Restricted Area (guide mandatory) |
This trek is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds of Everest Base Camp while still experiencing the grandeur of an 8,000-metre peak. The trail is culturally rich, transitioning from typical Nepali hill villages to Tibetan-style high-altitude settlements. Because it is a restricted area trek, the trail has maintained its traditional character and pristine environment.
Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit
- Larkya La Pass (5,106m): The dramatic climax of the circuit — a high col offering breathtaking panoramas of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
- Mount Manaslu Views: Trek in the shadow of the "Mountain of the Spirit" for two full weeks, watching its form change as you circle it through the Nubri valley.
- Cultural Diversity: Move through Hindu Gurung villages in the lower regions to Tibetan-influenced Buddhist settlements at Samagaon and Samdo.
- Birendra Lake: A short acclimatisation hike from Samagaon to this stunning turquoise glacial lake at the foot of the Manaslu glacier.
- Budhi Gandaki Gorge: One of the most dramatic river gorges in Nepal — narrow, roaring, and lined with waterfalls for several days of walking.
Detailed Manaslu Circuit Itinerary
- Day 1–2: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola (890m) and begin the trek to Jagat (1,410m).
- Day 3–5: Ascend through the narrow Budhi Gandaki gorge through Deng (1,804m) to Namrung (2,630m).
- Day 6–7: Reach Lho (3,180m) — the first village with clear Manaslu views — and Samagaon (3,530m).
- Day 8: Acclimatisation day in Samagaon — visit Birendra Lake or hike toward Manaslu Base Camp (4,900m).
- Day 9–11: Trek to Samdo (3,875m) and Dharmasala/Larkya Phedi (4,460m) — the last teahouse before the pass.
- Day 12: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) and descend to Bhimthang (3,720m) — the most demanding day.
- Day 13–15: Descend through Tilije and Dharapani, then drive back to Kathmandu from the Annapurna Circuit road.
Manaslu Circuit Permits and Cost
Permits Required
| Permit | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | USD 100/week (then USD 15/day) |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) | NPR 3,000 (~USD 22) |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 (~USD 22) |
Mandatory guide: A licensed guide is required to enter the Manaslu restricted area. Solo trekking is not permitted.
Full Cost Estimate
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu–Maccha Khola transport | USD 20–40 | USD 40–80 |
| Permits (14 days) | USD 215 | USD 215 |
| Accommodation & food (14 nights) | USD 200–350 | USD 400–600 |
| Licensed guide (mandatory, 14 days) | USD 350–500 | USD 350–500 |
| Porter (optional, 14 days) | USD 280–350 | USD 280–350 |
| Total (with guide + porter) | ~USD 1,100–1,500 | ~USD 1,300–1,800 |
Best Season for the Manaslu Circuit
- Autumn (October to November) ✅: The most popular season — clearest skies and most stable weather conditions for crossing the Larkya La.
- Spring (March to May) ✅: Beautiful rhododendron forests in full bloom on the lower sections; warmer at lower elevations.
- Winter (Dec–Feb) ⚠️: Very cold; Larkya La can be snowbound. Experienced mountaineers only.
- Monsoon (June–Sept) ❌: Heavy trails; views obscured. Not recommended.
Difficulty and Fitness Requirements
This is a Challenging trek. The Larkya La crossing at 5,106m requires excellent physical endurance and several days of proper acclimatisation. Prior experience on high-altitude routes (e.g., Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit) is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a guide mandatory on the Manaslu Circuit? Yes — the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit legally requires all trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide. This is enforced at checkpoints throughout the route.
How does the Manaslu Circuit compare to the Annapurna Circuit? Manaslu is more remote, requires a restricted permit, has fewer trekkers, and the facilities are simpler. The Larkya La (5,106m) is higher than the Thorong La (5,416m) and arguably offers more dramatic panoramic views. Many experienced trekkers prefer Manaslu precisely because it feels more like the "old" Annapurna Circuit before road construction changed it.
Can I combine the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley? Yes — a Tsum Valley extension from the main Manaslu Circuit adds 10–12 days and takes you into a deeply traditional Tibetan-influenced Buddhist valley with its own restricted area permit. One of Nepal's finest combined treks.
The Manaslu region is a conservation area that requires a special permit — and that is precisely what makes it special. The trail is significantly quieter than the Everest and Annapurna routes, offering a sense of wilderness and cultural authenticity that is increasingly rare in Nepal's trekking world.