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Overview And Highlights
TRIP FACTS
The 13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek is a spectacular Himalayan adventure around the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). This remote and off-the-beaten-path trail is perfect for those seeking a less-crowded alternative to the Annapurna or Everest regions, offering a rich blend of pristine natural landscapes, ethnic cultures, Buddhist monasteries, and dramatic mountain views.
This classic circuit begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, eventually connecting with the Budhi Gandaki River and ascending through subtropical forests, deep gorges, and beautiful villages inhabited by Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan-origin communities. As you ascend, the scenery changes from green hills to alpine meadows and glacial moraine.
One of the main highlights of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,106m), a challenging but incredibly rewarding feat offering panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The circuit ends at Dharapani, where you can drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Unlike popular trekking areas, the Manaslu region remains less commercialized, offering a raw and authentic trekking experience in the lap of the Himalayas. The trail is now equipped with teahouse accommodations, making it accessible for those without camping support. A special restricted area permit is required, adding an element of exclusivity to this trek.
Trip Highlights:
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Circle the majestic Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world's 8th highest peak
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Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
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Experience the unique Tibetan-influenced cultures of the Nubri and Tsum Valley regions
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Trek through remote villages, ancient monasteries, and rhododendron forests
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Scenic drive through Arughat, Machha Khola, and Besisahar
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Off-the-beaten-path alternative to Everest and Annapurna circuits
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Teahouse accommodation with full board meals
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Acclimatization at Sama Gaon, with an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp
Best Season for Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Season | Months | Weather & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March to May | Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, excellent views |
| Autumn | September to November | Stable weather, best mountain visibility, ideal temperatures |
| Winter | December to February | Very cold, snow on the pass, fewer trekkers |
| Monsoon/Summer | June to August | Wet, slippery trails, high risk of landslides, not recommended |
Recommended: Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov)
What to Pack for Manaslu Circuit Trek (Categorized)
Clothing
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Base layers (thermal top/bottom)
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Fleece jacket / down jacket
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Waterproof shell (jacket & pants)
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Trekking pants and shorts
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Woolen hat, gloves, neck gaiter
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Sun hat and buff
Footwear
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Broken-in hiking boots
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Camp sandals/slippers
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Woolen socks and liner socks
Equipment
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Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C rating)
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Trekking poles
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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Daypack (30-40L)
Personal Items
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Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer
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Water purification tablets or filter
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First aid kit, blister care
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Personal medications
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Toiletries and quick-dry towel
Documents & Essentials
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Passport and passport-size photos
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Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, MCAP
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Cash (no ATMs on the trail)
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Travel Insurance with evacuation coverage
For Shorter version you can trek 12 days Manaslu Circuit trek.
Itinerary Expand All Close All
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through rolling hills and riversides via Dhading to reach Soti Khola, the trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
710
Crossing suspension bridges and passing through lush forest, we reach Machha Khola, a small riverside village.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
900
We trek through rocky trails, passing the hot springs at Tatopani and climbing to Jagat, a checkpoint village in the restricted zone.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1410
Continue along the Budhi Gandaki gorge to reach Deng, passing beautiful waterfalls and small settlements.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1840
The trail ascends gradually through pine and fir forests, with glimpses of the Himalayas.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
2160
Enter the alpine region with stunning views of Manaslu and stop at Lho, home to a large Buddhist monastery.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3150
A beautiful walk through Shyala brings you to the picturesque Sama Gaon, a cultural and scenic highlight.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3530
A beautiful walk through Shyala brings you to the picturesque Sama Gaon, a cultural and scenic highlight.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3530
Easy ascent through yak pastures to Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village with incredible views.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3860
Short but steep trail leads to Dharamsala, your base for crossing the Larkya La Pass.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
4460
The most challenging yet rewarding day. Cross the snow-covered Larkya La Pass, then descend to Bimtang.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3720
Descend through alpine forests and beautiful rhododendron valleys to Dharapani.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1860
End the trek with a long drive either to Kathmandu or Pokhara, as per your preference.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Services Included on Price
Cost 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
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu & during trek
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Porter service (optional)
- Personal trekking gear (jackets, 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
Standard Package Service Includes
- Accommodation
- 2 nights in 3★ hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Tea house/lodge stays during trek (twin-sharing)
- Transport
- Tourist bus 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/weather
Luxury Package Service Includes
- Accommodation
- 2 nights in 4–5★ 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)
- Luxury transfers in Kathmandu
- Welcome & farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- Meals
- All meals during trek with wide menu options
- Breakfast in Kathmandu
- 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
13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude Profile
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2025-09-22 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
| 2 | 2025-09-23 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
| 3 | 2025-09-24 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
| 4 | 2025-09-25 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
| 5 | 2025-09-26 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2025-11-05 | 13 Days | USD 880 | Available | Book Now |
FAQs
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Yes, a Restricted Area Permit is mandatory, along with ACAP and MCAP permits.
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Yes, it’s more remote and rugged with higher passes.
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No. Minimum two trekkers and a registered guide are required by law.
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It’s challenging due to altitude and length, but manageable with acclimatization.
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Yes, basic teahouses are available at every stop.
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Yes, but some lodges may charge extra.
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Limited Wi-Fi is available in some villages, but connectivity is weak.
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Standard Nepali meals (dal bhat), pasta, pancakes, and soups are available.
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Absolutely. Must include emergency helicopter evacuation.
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Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters.
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Guides carry a basic first aid kit and oximeter. Evacuation support is available.
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Yes, Annapurna Encounter can tailor the trek as per your need.
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Good physical fitness with some trekking experience is ideal.
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See our detailed packing list above.
Yes, carry enough NPR for the whole trek. No ATMs en route.
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