Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal - Nepal's Hidden Gem
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal - Nepal's Hidden Gem
Trek Itinerary
Trek Itinerary
About Manaslu
Explore this amazing trekking adventure in the beautiful Himalayan region.
Trek Itinerary
Trek Itinerary
Trek Itinerary
Trek Details
Manaslu Circuit Trek: A Complete Guide to Nepal’s Hidden Gem
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem in Nepal, offering breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. This trek takes you through remote villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes, making it a thrilling alternative to the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks, without the heavy crowds.
Set in the heart of the Manaslu Conservation Area, this journey is perfect for trekkers seeking untouched natural beauty, Tibetan-influenced culture, and a true high-altitude adventure. If you plan to explore the Manaslu Circuit Nepal, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
If you're looking for a trekking experience combining breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fewer crowds, the Manaslu CircuitTrek is perfect. Unlike the more commercialized trails like Everest or Annapurna, this route takes you through the untouched beauty of the Manaslu region, offering an adventure like no other.
Unmatched Mountain Views – Witness stunning panoramas of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak in the world, along with other towering Himalayan giants like Ganesh Himal(7,422 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Annapurna South (7,219 m).
Authentic Cultural Experience – Immerse yourself in the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Manaslu region, where centuries-old monasteries and traditional villages offer a glimpse into a unique way of life.
Fewer Crowds, More Serenity – Unlike the busy Everest and Annapurna treks, the Manaslu Circuit remains a hidden gem, allowing you to enjoy the journey in peace and solitude.
Diverse and Breathtaking Landscapes – Walk through lush forests, terraced farmlands, glacial valleys, and high-altitude meadows, making every day of the trek a new adventure.
A True Himalayan Challenge – Conquer the Larke La Pass (5,106 m), one of Nepal’s highest trekking passes, and experience the thrill of trekking in the remote wilderness of the Manaslu region.
Whether you're an experienced trekker or someone looking for a unique Himalayan adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable journey filled with nature’s wonders and cultural richness.
How to Reach the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek officially begins at Machhakhola, a village in the Gorkha district of Nepal. To get there, start from Kathmandu, taking a public bus or private jeep to Soti Khola (7–8 hours), followed by a short drive or trek to Machhakhola. Roads are rough and can be affected by weather, so a private jeep is often preferred for comfort and speed.
The trek ends at Besisahar, a common trailhead for the Annapurna Circuit, making it easy to exit. From Besisahar, you can take a shared jeep or local bus back to Kathmandu, which takes about 6–7 hours.
Ensure all permits—Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), MCAP, and ACAP—are arranged before the trek. A registered guide is mandatory for the Manaslu region.
Key Statistics About the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most stunning and less-crowded high-altitude adventures. Encircling the majestic Mount Manaslu—the world’s eighth-highest peak—it offers a perfect blend of raw natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge. Here are the key statistics to help you plan your journey:
Trail Length
The trek covers approximately 174 km (108 miles) from Machhakhola to Besisahar, winding through remote mountain terrain and culturally rich villages.
Duration
Most trekkers complete the circuit in 10 to 14 days, depending on acclimatization needs, side trips, and pace.
Maximum Altitude – Height
The highest point is Larke La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), offering breathtaking panoramic Himalayan views.
Difficulty Level
The trek is rated moderate to strenuous, requiring good physical fitness due to long distances, high altitude, and rugged trails.
Temperature Range
Temperatures range from -10°C to 20°C depending on the season and altitude. Nights at higher altitudes can be very cold, especially in winter.
Permits Required
You’ll need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A registered guide is mandatory here as it lies in the restricted area of Nepal.
Popular Stops
Key overnight halts include Machhakhola, Samagaun, Samdo, Dharmashala, and Bimthang, with highlights like Birendra Lake, Pungen Gompa, and Manaslu Base Camp along the route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Itinerary for beginner-level
Day 1: Machhakhola (845 m) to Yaru Bagar (1,291 m)
Begin your trek with a 14 km hike from Machhakhola (845 m) to Yaru Bagar. A moderate 4.5-hour ascent offers scenic views and sets the pace for the days ahead.
Day 2: Yaru Bagar to Nyak Phedi (1,678 m)
Trek 16.2 km through steep ascents and descents to reach Nyak Phedi. A challenging 6-hour journey with significant elevation gain.
Day 3: Nyak Phedi to Ghap (2,084 m)
Cover 15.3 km in about 7 hours with tough climbs and descents. The trail to Ghap tests endurance with noticeable elevation changes.
Day 4: Ghap to Syogau (2,287 m)
Hike 13.6 km in 6.5 hours through forested trails and ascending paths. This day is demanding yet rewarding as altitude continues to rise.
Day 5: Syogau to Samagaun (3,525 m)
Ascend to high-altitude Samagaun over 11 km in 4.5 hours. A crucial acclimatization day with breathtaking alpine views.
Day 6: Samagaun - Pungen Gompa Loop (4,057 m)
Trek 14.4 km round-trip to the ancient Pungen Gompa in 5–6 hours. Gain 900+ meters elevation with cultural insights and stunning panoramas.
Day 7: Samagaun - Manaslu Base Camp Loop (4,799 m)
Trek 12.5 km to Manaslu Base Camp and back in 7 hours. Cross Birendra Lake en route with incredible high-altitude scenery.
Day 8: Samagaun to Samdo (3,851 m)
A gentle 3–4 hour hike to Samdo helps acclimatization. Short distance with gradual elevation gain and Himalayan views.
Day 9: Samdo to Dharmashala (4,469 m)
A steep climb over 3–4 hours to Dharmashala. Prepares you for the Larke La Pass, with mesmerizing high-mountain landscapes.
Day 10: Dharmashala - Larke La Pass (5,106 m) - Bimthang (3,706 m)
Cross Larke La Pass and descend to Bimthang in one of the trek's most demanding days. Enjoy glacial vistas and rugged terrain.
Day 11: Bimthang to Tilche (2,262 m)
Descend 17.8 km through forests and meadows over 7 hours. A long but scenic journey to lower altitudes.
Day 12: Tilche to Chamche (1,660 m)
Hike 16.7 km downhill for 5.5 hours to reach Chamche. A mix of descent and light climbs with diverse terrain.
Day 13: Chamche to Ngadi (927 m)
Descend steeply for 17 km in 5.5 hours, dropping over 2500 m. Pass lush valleys as you approach the lowlands.
Day 14: Ngadi to Besisahar (786 m)
End your trek with a 13.6 km, 3.5-hour descent to Besisahar. A relaxed finale to an epic Himalayan journey.
The time calculated here is strictly the walking time and does not include the breaks in between. Elevation gain/ loss is the cumulative gain/ loss from the starting village to the end village for the day.
Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
For the best experience, plan your Manaslu Circuit Trek in autumn or spring, when the weather is stable, the scenery is at its finest, and the journey is both safe and enjoyable!
Autumn (September-November) – Ideal season for the Manaslu Trek Nepal is autumn that offers crisp, dry weather with spectacular mountain views. The skies remain clear, and the cool air makes trekking comfortable. Plus, this is the time for Nepal’s biggest festivals Dashain and Tihar, adding a cultural charm to your adventure.
Spring (March-May) – This is one of the best times for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The skies are clear, the weather is mild, and the trails come alive with colorful rhododendrons. The temperatures are comfortable, making the trek enjoyable while offering breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The weather for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not suitable in the Monsoon & Winter. It’s advisable not to trek during this period, but if you do plan then Laliguras will make sure to take care of you during the off season as well.
Manaslu Circuit Trek - Advanced
The Manaslu Circuit Trek for advanced trekkers offers a thrilling and remote Himalayan adventure, circling the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mount Manaslu. Known for its rugged terrain, steep ascents, and high-altitude, this trek is ideal for experienced hikers seeking fewer crowds and the raw natural beauty. Crossing the formidable Larke La Pass (5,106 m), trekkers navigate through remote villages, glacial valleys, and Buddhist monasteries. The Manaslu Circuit Trek for advanced adventurers promises an unforgettable journey filled with cultural depth and dramatic alpine landscapes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek - Expert
The Manaslu Circuit Trek for expert trekkers offers a thrilling challenge through one of Nepal’s most remote and rugged terrains. This off-the-beaten-path adventure demands high endurance, navigating steep ascents, rocky trails, and high-altitude passes like the formidable Larke La Pass (5,106 m). Ideal for seasoned hikers seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty, the Manaslu Circuit Trek for expert-level enthusiasts also rewards with rich Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and awe-inspiring views of Mount Manaslu and surrounding peaks. It's a demanding yet deeply rewarding trek.
Essential Tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Here are some essential tips for the Manaslu Circuit Trek to help you prepare for a safe, enjoyable, and successful journey:
1. Advanced Training
Build stamina and leg strength through regular hikes, cardio, and strength training. The trek is physically demanding, especially at high altitudes.
2. Hire a Registered Guide
Guides are mandatory and essential for navigating trails, arranging logistics, and ensuring safety in restricted areas.
3. Pack Smart and Light
Pack layered clothing for varying temperatures, including warm gear for higher altitudes. Don’t forget essentials like a water bottle, trekking poles, and a first aid kit.
4. Acclimatize Properly
Include acclimatization days, especially at Samagaun, to avoid altitude sickness and adjust gradually to higher elevations. One can also visit the nearby Pungen Gompa, Birendra Lake and Manaslu Base Camp during this time.
5. Stay Hydrated & Eat Well
Drink plenty of water and eat energy-rich meals to keep your body fuelled and hydrated throughout the trek.
6. Be Insured
Get travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, just in case.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable journey through remote Himalayan wilderness, offering a perfect mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural splendor. Circling the majestic Mount Manaslu, this trek leads you through authentic Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, dramatic gorges, and high mountain passes like Larke La (5,106 m).
Far less crowded than its Annapurna or Everest counterparts, it rewards those seeking solitude and raw, untouched beauty. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and guidance, the Manaslu Circuit stands as one of Nepal’s most rewarding high-altitude treks—a true gem for seasoned adventurers and curious explorers alike.
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