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- 10 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
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Overview & Highlights
Trip Facts
- AccommodationTea house
- Max Altitude5106
- Best SeasonSpring/ Autumn
- Trip GradeAdventurous
The 10 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a thrilling Himalayan adventure into one of Nepal’s most untouched trekking regions. Encircling the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, this route takes you through authentic Tibetan-influenced villages, deep gorges, pristine river valleys, and over the awe-inspiring Larke La Pass (5,106m).
Unlike the crowded Annapurna and Everest regions, the Manaslu Circuit remains a relatively less-traveled gem, rich in biodiversity and cultural depth. In just 10 days, this itinerary offers the full trekking experience—from subtropical hills to alpine landscapes, dense pine forests to windswept passes. It’s a moderate to challenging trek, perfect for fit adventurers who seek off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Starting with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the journey unfolds along the Budi Gandaki River, ascending gradually through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon—a beautiful village that serves as an acclimatization stop and base for day hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. After crossing Samdo and Dharamshala, the trek culminates in a dramatic crossing of Larke Pass, offering views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
The descent through Bimtang to Dharapani is equally spectacular, eventually ending with a drive back to Kathmandu. This short version packs all the dramatic elements of the Manaslu trek into a 10-day frame, ideal for 2025 and 2026 travelers with limited time but high adventure spirits.
Trip Highlights
Remote and culturally rich trek around Mt. Manaslu
Less crowded trail with authentic Himalayan experience
Scenic landscapes: rivers, forests, glaciers, and high passes
Tibetan-influenced Buddhist villages and monasteries
Epic views from Larke La Pass (5,106m)
Ideal for fit trekkers seeking off-the-beaten-path treks
Best Seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Season | Months | Weather Condition | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March to May | Clear skies, warm | Rhododendron blooms, ideal weather |
| Autumn | September to Nov | Stable, dry | Crisp air, best mountain visibility |
| Winter | Dec to Feb | Cold, snowy | Quiet trails, but Larke Pass may close |
| Monsoon | June to August | Wet, slippery | Not recommended due to landslides |
What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layers
Fleece or insulated mid-layer
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Trekking pants & thermal leggings
Down jacket (for high altitude)
Gloves, wool hat, buff/scarf
Footwear
Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
Camp sandals/shoes
Warm socks (woolen and synthetic)
Gear & Accessories
Sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
Day backpack (30-40L)
Trekking poles
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water purification tablets or bottle
Power bank & charging cables
Personal Items
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Lip balm, toiletries
First aid kit & personal medication
Passport, permits, cash (no ATMs)
Itinerary
Explore the day-by-day plan for your journey.
Distance: 170 km
Duration: 9–10 hours
Mode: Private jeep or shared vehicle
Start your journey early from Kathmandu and embark on a long yet scenic drive through Dhading and Arughat to reach Machha Khola. The route offers panoramic views of hills, rivers, terraced farms, and villages. Overnight in a teahouse at Machha Khola near the banks of the Budi Gandaki River.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
900 m.
Distance: 22 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
The trail today follows the Budi Gandaki River valley, crossing suspension bridges, lush forests, and small settlements. Pass through Tatopani (hot spring area) and Dovan before ascending to the stone-paved village of Jagat—a checkpoint for entering the restricted Manaslu region.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1410 m.
Distance: 20 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Ascend gradually through the narrow gorge, terraced hillsides, and charming Gurung villages. Cross the river multiple times, traverse through forested paths, and continue to the culturally rich village of Deng. The trail today starts revealing hints of Tibetan influence.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1804 m.
Distance: 19.5 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Today’s trail climbs steeply through pine and fir forests, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and deep river valleys. Pass through the picturesque villages of Rana, Bihi Phedi, and Ghap before reaching the fortified stone village of Namrung, offering a first real glimpse of Mt. Manaslu.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
2630 m.
Distance: 18 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
This is one of the most scenic days of the trek. Traverse through the traditional Tibetan-influenced villages of Lho and Shyala, with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, and Ganesh Himal. Reach Samagaun, a large and culturally significant village, nestled below Mt. Manaslu.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3530 m.
Distance: 7.5 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
A short and gradual trek across yak pastures and mani walls leads to Samdo—a remote village near the Tibetan border. This area is excellent for observing Tibetan refugee culture and local herding practices.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3800 m.
Distance: 6.5 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
Today’s trek ascends gently to Larke Phedi, also known as Dharamshala. It's a small settlement used as a base before crossing the Larke Pass. Use the afternoon to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the longest and highest pass crossing the next day.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
4460 m.
Distance: 24.5 km
Duration: 8–9 hours
Start early to cross Larke La Pass (5,106m)—the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek. Expect stunning panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After crossing the pass, descend through glacial moraines and snowy trails to Bimtang.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
5106 m.
Distance: 23 km
Duration: 7–8 hours
Descend steeply through rhododendron forests, pasturelands, and several small villages such as Gho and Tilije. Reach Dharapani, a gateway village that intersects with the Annapurna Circuit trail. Overnight at a comfortable lodge.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1860 m.
Distance: ~200 km
Duration: 9–10 hours by private jeep
After breakfast, drive through the Marsyangdi Valley toward Besisahar and onward to Kathmandu or Pokhara. End of the trek with unforgettable memories of the majestic Manaslu region.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Teahouse
Trip Cost & Services
Luxury Package Service Includes
Accommodation
2 nights in 4–5-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
Best available lodges during trek (attached bathroom where possible)
Transport
Private jeep Kathmandu → Soti Khola
Private jeep Dharapani → Kathmandu (direct, more comfortable)
Luxury transfers in Kathmandu
Welcome & farewell dinners in Kathmandu
Meals
All meals during trek with wide menu options
Breakfast in Kathmandu hotel
Welcome & farewell cultural dinners
Guide & Porter
Senior trekking guide (restricted area experienced)
Porter service (20–25 kg per porter)
Staff insurance included
Permits & Fees
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Extras
Loaner trekking gear (sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles)
Emergency evacuation coordination (insurance required)
Daily health monitoring with oximeter
Cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu (optional add-on)
Luxury Package Service Excludes
International airfare
Nepal visa fees
Comprehensive travel insurance
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)
Alcohol, bottled water, soft drinks
Tips for guide, porter, driver
Optional upgrades (helicopter, single supplement)
Costs due to delays/weather/natural disasters
Standard Package Service Includes
Accommodation
2 nights in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
Tea house/lodge stays during trek (twin-sharing)
Transport
Private Jeep Kathmandu → Soti Khola
Private jeep Dharapani → Besisahar
Tourist bus Besisahar → Kathmandu
Airport transfers in Kathmandu
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu hotel
All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)
Guide & Porter
Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, 15–20 kg)
Permits & Fees
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Extras
Pre-trek briefing
First aid kit with oximeter
Standard Package Service Excludes
Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
Personal trekking equipment (rentable in Kathmandu)
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging in lodges (paid locally)
Travel insurance
International airfare & Nepal visa fees
Alcohol, bottled water, snacks
Tips for guide, porter, driver
Extra costs due to delays/weathe
Budget Package Service Includes
Accommodation
Tea house/lodge stays during trek (basic, twin-sharing)
Transport
Local bus Kathmandu → Soti Khola (trek start)
Local jeep Dharapani → Besisahar
Local bus Besisahar → Kathmandu
Airport pick-up in Kathmandu
Meals
Not included – trekkers pay directly at lodges
Guide & Porter
Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (mandatory for restricted area)
No porter service (optional at extra cost)
Permits & Fees
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Extras
Pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu
Basic first aid kit with guide
Budget Package Service Excludes
Meals in Kathmandu & during trek
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
Porter service (optional)
Personal trekking gear (jacket, poles, sleeping bag, etc.)
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging in lodges (paid locally)
Travel insurance (mandatory)
International airfare & Nepal visa fees
Alcohol, bottled water, snacks
Tips for guide, porter, driver
Costs due to delays/weather/natural disasters
Altitude & route map
Select a preview for a full-width, zoomable view.
10 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude Profile
Trip visual
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers for planning this trip with confidence.
Not recommended for beginners; best for experienced or fit trekkers.
Yes, it’s mandatory to trek with a guide in the Manaslu region due to its restricted area status.
It’s moderately challenging; early morning starts and proper acclimatization are crucial.
Yes, you’ll need a Manaslu RAP, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS card.
Yes, at most teahouses (solar/electricity), but expect extra charges.
Limited. Wi-Fi is available at some lodges with cost.
Mostly Nepali/continental meals like dal bhat, noodles, pasta, soups, eggs.
Yes, with coverage for evacuation above 5,000m.
Boiled water and purification tablets/bottles are recommended.
Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) offer the best weather.
Yes, but can be prevented with proper pacing and acclimatization.
Yes, Annapurna Encounter offers fully customizable itineraries.
2 to 10 trekkers, but private trips can be arranged.
Roughly 140–160 km depending on acclimatization side hikes.
No, it's less crowded than Everest or Annapurna routes.
Basic teahouses and lodges along the trail.
As low as -10°C to -15°C at high altitudes in autumn/spring.
Yes, Annapurna Encounter provides secure luggage storage.
- Be cautious of altitude, drink clean water, and carry basic meds.
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