Manaslu Circuit Trek Full Travel Guide

December 19, 2025

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful and less crowded trekking route in Nepal. It takes you around Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. This trek is perfect for travelers who want a quiet trail, natural scenery, and local village life. Compared to popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu is more remote and peaceful.

The trek follows the Budi Gandaki River and passes through small villages, green forests, suspension bridges, and Buddhist monasteries. As you walk higher, the landscape changes to alpine valleys with stunning mountain views. The highlight of the trek is crossing Larkya La Pass (5,135m), which is challenging but very rewarding. If you have already enjoyed shorter treks such as the Poon Hill Trek or classic routes like the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek,  Manaslu offers a more adventurous experience.

The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area trek, so trekkers must have special permits and a licensed guide. Many travelers combine this trek with a Nepal Tour or a Kathmandu City Tour to explore temples, culture, and heritage sites before or after the trek.

This full travel guide covers the itinerary, cost, difficulty, permits, best time, food, and accommodation for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown

The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost depends on permits, transportation, guide and porter services, meals, and accommodation.
Below is a clear and detailed cost breakdown to help you understand all expenses involved in the Manaslu Trek.

1. Permit and Government Fees

Cost Item	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Sep–Nov)	USD 100 for first 7 days + USD 15 per extra day	100 – 160
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Dec–Aug)	USD 75 for first 7 days + USD 10 per extra day	75 – 120
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)	Government fee	30
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	Required after Dharapani	30

2. Transportation Cost

Cost Item	Route Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Kathmandu to Machha Khola / Soti Khola	Local bus or private jeep	30 – 80
Dharapani to Kathmandu	Jeep and tourist/local bus	25 – 50
Local sharing jeeps	Depending on road condition	10 – 30

3. Guide and Porter Cost

Service	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Licensed Trekking Guide	USD 30–35 per day (12–14 days)	360 – 490
Porter	USD 25–30 per day	300 – 420
Staff Insurance	Guide and porter insurance	Included
Food & Accommodation for Staff	During the trek	Included

4. Accommodation Cost

Accommodation	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Teahouse accommodation (trek)	USD 5–10 per night	60 – 120
Hotel in Kathmandu	Before and after trek	40 – 80

5. Meals Cost During the Trek

Meal Type	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner	USD 20–30 per day	250 – 400
Hot drinks	Tea, coffee, hot lemon	30 – 60

6. Other Trekking Expenses

Expense	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Drinking water	Bottled or boiled water	20 – 40
Hot shower	USD 3–5 per shower	10 – 25
Battery charging	Phone/camera charging	10 – 20
Wi-Fi	Limited availability	10 – 20

7. Optional and Personal Expenses

Item	Details	Approx. Cost (USD)
Trekking gear rental	Sleeping bag, down jacket	30 – 80
Travel insurance	Must cover high altitude trekking	50 – 150
Tips	Guide and porter tips	80 – 150
Personal expenses	Snacks, drinks, souvenirs	Variable

Estimated Total Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

Trek Type	Estimated Cost (USD)
Budget Trek	USD 1,050 – 1,250
Standard Trek	USD 1,250 – 1,500
Comfort Trek	USD 1,500 – 1,800

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult to challenging trek. It is more demanding than popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp due to its remote location, long walking days, and high mountain passes.

The main challenge of the trek is crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). On this day, the trail is long, cold, and can be snowy, especially in spring and autumn. The ascent is steady but tiring, and the descent is long. Good physical fitness and strong mental preparation are essential.

The trek usually takes 14–16 days, with daily walking of 6–8 hours on narrow trails, rocky paths, and landslide areas. Facilities are basic, especially after Samagaon, which can make the trek more demanding. Weather can change quickly, and altitude gain is gradual but continuous.

This trek is best for trekkers with prior high-altitude trekking experience. With proper acclimatization, a licensed guide, and good preparation, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is safe and very rewarding.

Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Choosing the right season is very important for a safe and enjoyable Manaslu Circuit Trek. Because this trek goes through a remote Himalayan region and crosses the high Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), weather and trail conditions play a big role. Based on real trekking conditions, spring and autumn are the best times to trek Manaslu.

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Spring Season (March to May) – Very Good Time

Spring is one of the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

• The weather is stable and getting warmer day by day
• Rhododendron forests are in full bloom at lower elevations
• Mountain views are clear, especially Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal
• Snow on Larkya La Pass is usually manageable

Day temperature: 10°C to 18°C (lower areas)
Night temperature: can drop below 0°C at higher altitudes

Best spring months: April and early May
This season is perfect for trekkers who want good weather and colorful nature.

Autumn Season (September to November) – Best Overall

Autumn is considered the best and most popular time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

• Clear sky after the monsoon gives sharp mountain views
• The weather is dry and stable, ideal for high passes
• Trails are in the best condition
• Cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar add local charm

Day temperature: 8°C to 15°C
Night temperature: very cold above Samdo and Dharamsala

Best autumn month: October
This month offers the safest crossing of Larkya La Pass and the best visibility.

Monsoon Season (June to August) – Not Recommended

Monsoon is the least suitable time for Manaslu trekking.

• Heavy rain makes trails muddy and slippery
• High risk of landslides, especially in the lower sections
• Leeches are common in forest areas
• Mountain views are often blocked by clouds

This season is only suitable for very experienced trekkers with flexible schedules.

Winter Season (December to February) – Challenging

Winter trekking in Manaslu is possible but difficult.

• Very cold temperatures, especially at night
• Heavy snow may block the Larkya La Pass
• Many tea houses close due to the cold and the low number of visitors

This season is recommended only for experienced trekkers with proper winter gear.

Best Time Summary

Season	Months	Trek Quality
Autumn (Best)	Sep – Nov	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spring (Excellent)	Mar – May	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Monsoon	Jun – Aug	⭐
Winter	Dec – Feb	⭐⭐

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For the best weather, clear views, and safe pass crossing, choose October or April for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These months offer the perfect balance of safety, scenery, and comfort.

Manaslu Circuit Trek – Detailed 14-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

• Altitude: 700 m
• Distance/Time: 135 km, 7–8 hours by jeep
• Description: The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu through winding mountain roads. You will pass lush green hills, terraced fields, rivers, and small rural villages. Soti Khola is a quiet riverside village where trekkers spend the first night. This day is mainly for travel and orientation to the trek environment.

Highlights: Scenic hills, riverside village, first views of the Himalayan foothills.

Day 2: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola

• Altitude: 869 m
• Distance: 10 km
• Trekking Hours: 5–6 hours
• Description: The trek begins gently along the Buri Gandaki River. The trail winds through forests of bamboo and rhododendron. You will cross suspension bridges and see small local villages. The path is peaceful and introduces you to traditional Nepali village life.

Highlights: Suspension bridges, forest trail, local villages, river scenery.

Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

• Altitude: 1,340 m
• Distance: 14 km
• Trekking Hours: 6–7 hours
• Description: Today, the trail gradually climbs through forests and terraced fields. Jagat is the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area, so you will pass the first checkpoint to show permits. Along the trail, you will experience views of distant mountains and traditional villages.

Highlights: Enter Manaslu Conservation Area, terraced fields, first mountain views, and river crossings.

Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng

• Altitude: 1,860 m
• Distance: 15 km
• Trekking Hours: 6–7 hours
• Description: The trail continues along the river, surrounded by dense forests and bamboo groves. You will see waterfalls and small villages where locals farm rice and millet. Deng is a scenic village, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Highlights: Forests, waterfalls, traditional villages, river views.

Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung

• Altitude: 2,630 m
• Distance: 10 km
• Trekking Hours: 5–6 hours
• Description: The trek begins to climb more steeply today. Terraced fields give way to alpine landscapes. Namrung is a beautiful village with a mix of Tibetan and Gurung culture. This village is known for its monasteries and local hospitality.

Highlights: Alpine scenery, Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, mountain views.

Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Lho

• Altitude: 3,180 m
• Distance: 8 km
• Trekking Hours: 4–5 hours
• Description: The trail becomes more rugged, passing cliffs and narrow paths. Lho offers breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 m). You will see traditional Buddhist prayer flags and monasteries. The village is a cultural hub for trekkers and locals alike.

Highlights: Close-up views of Manaslu, monasteries, cliff trails, and village culture.

Day 7: Trek from Lho to Samagaon

• Altitude: 3,530 m
• Distance: 8 km
• Trekking Hours: 4–5 hours
• Description: Today is a short and easy trek to Samagaon, the base village for climbers attempting Manaslu. The village has Tibetan-style houses and charming streets. You will also notice prayer wheels, mani stones, and local shrines. The surrounding scenery is dramatic, with views of glaciers and peaks.

Highlights: Manaslu Base Camp approach, Tibetan-style village, mountain scenery.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon

• Altitude: 3,530 m
• Distance: Optional short hikes
• Description: A rest day to acclimatize to high altitude. Trekkers can hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) or explore Pungyen Gompa, a monastery above the village. This day is important for avoiding altitude sickness and enjoying the Himalayan environment.

Highlights: Acclimatization, Manaslu Base Camp hike, monastery visits, village exploration.

Day 9: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

• Altitude: 3,860 m
• Distance: 8 km
• Trekking Hours: 3–4 hours
• Description: The trail ascends slightly today and passes high alpine terrain. Yak pastures and glacial streams are common along the path. Samdo is a Tibetan-style village, acting as the last stop before Larkya La Pass.

Highlights: High alpine scenery, yak pastures, Tibetan culture, glacier views.

Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala via Larkya La Pass

• Altitude: 4,460 m (Dharamsala), 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)
• Distance: 14 km
• Trekking Hours: 8–10 hours (challenging)
• Description: The most difficult day of the trek. You cross the Larkya La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal. The trail is rocky, steep, and exposed to cold winds. Panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and other high peaks make the effort worthwhile. Dharamsala offers a well-deserved rest.

Highlights: Larkya La Pass, high Himalayan views, alpine meadows, glacier landscapes.

Day 11: Trek from Dharamsala to Bimtang

• Altitude: 3,720 m
• Distance: 13 km
• Trekking Hours: 5–6 hours
• Description: The trail descends gradually through alpine meadows, moraine valleys, and small streams. Bimtang is a picturesque village with stone houses, prayer flags, and clear mountain views. This area is excellent for photography and enjoying nature.

Highlights: Alpine meadows, glacier streams, village life, mountain photography.

Day 12: Trek from Bimtang to Tilje

• Altitude: 1,700 m
• Distance: 18 km
• Trekking Hours: 7–8 hours
• Description: A long descent through forests and terraced farmland. The trail passes suspension bridges, rivers, and rural villages. Tilje is a peaceful stop where trekkers can enjoy the local hospitality and relax after a long day.

Highlights: Forest trails, terraced fields, village culture, river crossings.

Day 13: Trek from Tilje to Jagat

• Altitude: 1,340 m
• Distance: 20 km
• Trekking Hours: 7–8 hours
• Description: Return to Jagat following the Buri Gandaki River. The trail passes traditional villages, bridges, and scenic countryside. This day is mostly downhill and marks the last trekking night before the drive back to Kathmandu.

Highlights: Riverside villages, terraced fields, final trek through the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Day 14: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu

• Altitude: 1,400 m in Kathmandu
• Distance/Drive Time: 135 km, 8–9 hours
• Description: The trek ends with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the views of rivers, forests, and terraced hills along the way. You will arrive in Kathmandu in the evening and transfer to your hotel.

Highlights: Scenic drive, last views of Himalayan landscapes, arrival in Kathmandu.

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Accommodation During the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through remote Himalayan villages, and your accommodation is mainly in local tea houses (lodges). These are small, family-run guesthouses where trekkers stay overnight. Each village along the route has different types of lodging depending on the altitude and remoteness.

Lower Villages (Soti Khola to Jagat)

• Type of Accommodation: Larger lodges and guesthouses with simple rooms.
• Room Facilities: Twin or single beds, blankets, a pillow, and sometimes attached bathrooms.
• Extras: Electricity and occasional Wi-Fi are available.
• Experience: Staying in these villages gives you a chance to see local life, terraced fields, and rivers. The lodges are comfortable, and you can enjoy a warm meal in the dining hall.

Visual: Imagine a cozy two-story lodge with wooden doors and windows, a warm dining room with a small stove, and friendly locals serving hot food.

Mid-Altitude Villages (Namrung, Lho, Shyala)

• Type of Accommodation: Smaller tea houses built in traditional Tibetan style.
• Room Facilities: Simple wooden or stone rooms with beds and blankets. Bathrooms are shared.
• Extras: Hot showers may be available at a small fee.
• Experience: These villages are higher up, with dramatic mountain views. Evenings are quiet, with only the sound of wind and distant prayer flags fluttering.

Visual: A stone lodge with colorful prayer flags outside, a communal dining room with a stove, and a few trekkers chatting while enjoying hot soup.

High Villages (Samagaon, Samdo)

• Type of Accommodation: Very basic but cozy lodges, mostly stone-built.
• Room Facilities: Simple mattresses, shared toilets, and blankets provided.
• Extras: Some electricity, limited Wi-Fi, and charging options for devices.
• Experience: This is the heart of the Manaslu trek. You are surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and prayer flags everywhere. Lodges are small, so booking early is important.

Visual: A small stone lodge on a hillside, overlooking snow-capped peaks, with the smoke of a wood stove rising into the crisp mountain air.

High Pass Area (Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi)

• Type of Accommodation: Remote mountain huts and small tea houses.
• Room Facilities: Simple mats or wooden beds, no hot water, shared bathrooms only.
• Experience: This is the most challenging part of the trek, so accommodation is very basic. Most trekkers rest early after the long day crossing Larkya La Pass.

Visual: A tiny stone hut surrounded by high mountains, small windows, and a single stove in the dining hall providing warmth for exhausted trekkers.

Descending Villages (Bhimthang, Tilje, Jagat)

• Type of Accommodation: Lodges become slightly more comfortable.
• Room Facilities: Beds with blankets, shared bathrooms, and simple wooden furniture.
• Extras: Hot showers and Wi-Fi are sometimes available in larger villages.
• Experience: As you descend, the landscape becomes greener and warmer. It’s easier to find cozy lodges to rest after long trekking days.

Visual: A wooden lodge surrounded by pine forests, with smoke from the dining stove rising, and trekkers enjoying noodles or dal bhat after a long day.

General Tips for Accommodation

1. Sleeping Bag: Bring a warm sleeping bag for high-altitude lodges.
2. Cash: Most tea houses accept only Nepali Rupees, so carry enough cash.
3. Arrival: Reach lodges early in the day to choose a room, especially at Samagaon, Samdo, and Dharamsala.
4. Dining Hall: The communal dining room is where you stay warm, meet other trekkers, and enjoy meals.
5. Extras: Charging devices, Wi-Fi, and hot showers are often available for a small extra fee.

However, Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit is authentic and simple, ranging from cozy lodges in lower villages to basic huts near the high pass. While not luxurious, the lodges provide warmth, meals, and local hospitality, making your trek a true Himalayan experience.

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Manaslu Trek Food Menu List

1. Nepali Local Dishes

• Dal Bhat Set (Rice & Lentil Soup): The staple Nepali meal, usually served with steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, pickles, and sometimes chicken or meat curry.
• Thukpa: Tibetan-style noodle soup with vegetables, egg, or meat. Very popular at higher altitudes.
• Momo: Steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with chicken, buffalo, or vegetables, often served with spicy sauce.
• Sel Roti: Traditional Nepali sweet rice doughnut, usually for breakfast or snacks.
• Aloo Tama Bodi: Potato, bamboo shoot, and black-eyed pea curry, sometimes served with rice.

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2. Western / Trekker Dishes

• Fried Rice: Simple and filling, often with vegetables, egg, or meat.
• Fried Noodles: Quick and hot, usually with vegetables, egg, or chicken.
• Pasta / Spaghetti: Served with tomato sauce, vegetables, or sometimes meat.
• Pizza: Found in larger teahouses, mostly vegetable or cheese.
• Sandwiches: Veggie or cheese sandwiches, occasionally with eggs or chicken.
• Omelets / Fried Eggs: Often served with bread or potatoes for breakfast.
• Potato Dishes: Fried potato, mashed potato, potato curry, or potato with egg.

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3. Snacks

• Chips / Crisps: Packaged potato chips for snacking.
• Biscuits / Cookies: Available in almost every teahouse.
• Nuts & Chocolates: Popular energy snacks for trekkers.
• Instant Noodles / Cup Noodles: Easy to cook, especially at higher altitudes.
• Energy Bars: Some teahouses stock them.

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4. Beverages

• Tea / Milk Tea / Butter Tea: Common in every teahouse.
• Coffee / Cappuccino / Espresso: Available in larger lodges.
• Hot Chocolate: Popular at higher altitude lodges.
• Cold Drinks / Soda: Available in limited quantity at larger villages.
• Juices / Lemonade: Occasionally found in lower villages.
• Water / Mineral Water: Bottled or boiled; some lodges provide refillable filtered water.

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5. Breakfast Options

• Porridge / Oatmeal: Hot cereal with sugar, milk, or butter.
• Bread with Jam / Honey / Butter: Simple and easy to digest.
• Egg Dishes: Omelet, fried eggs, or boiled eggs.
• Pancakes / Crepes: Sometimes with honey, jam, or chocolate.

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6. Special or Seasonal Foods

• Yak Cheese / Curd: Found in higher villages; usually homemade.
• Local Meat Dishes: Chicken, goat, or yak meat curry in some teahouses.
• Vegetable Curry / Soup: Seasonal vegetables, depending on availability.

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Tips:

• Most teahouses have menu cards with both Nepali and Western dishes.
• Prices increase as you go higher; the most remote villages charge more for pizza, pasta, and drinks.
• Dal Bhat is usually all-you-can-eat, and most trekkers have it once or twice a day.
• Snacks like biscuits, chocolate, and instant noodles are good for high-altitude energy.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance:

Day	Route	Distance (km)	Trekking Time (hrs)	Altitude (m)	Highlights
1	Soti Khola → Machha Khola	7	3-4	760 → 870	Riverside walk, small suspension bridges, and farmland views
2	Machha Khola → Jagat	10	5-6	870 → 1,340	Terraced fields, Gurung villages, Bhudi Gandaki River, first major checkpoint
3	Jagat → Deng	12	6-7	1,340 → 1,860	Forest trail, suspension bridges, Shringi Himal views, and local villages
4	Deng → Namrung	11	5-6	1,860 → 2,630	Mani walls, Buddhist shrines, terraced fields, village culture
5	Namrung → Lho	8	5-6	2,630 → 3,180	Tibetan-style villages, Larkya River valley, and local monasteries
6	Lho → Samagaon	7	3-4	3,180 → 3,530	Stunning views of Manaslu, monasteries, and traditional teahouses
7	Acclimatization / Exploration in Samagaon	0	–	3,530	Rest day, optional Manaslu Base Camp day hike, glacier views
8	Samagaon → Samdo	5	2-3	3,530 → 3,850	Small Tibetan village, prayer flags, final preparations for the high pass
9	Samdo → Larkya La Pass → Bimtang	20	10-12	3,850 → 5,160 → 3,720	Challenging day, crossing Larkya La Pass, panoramic Himalayan views
10	Bimtang → Dharapani	15	6-7	3,720 → 1,860	Descending through alpine meadows, rivers, and pine forests
11	Dharapani → Jagat	13	5-6	1,860 → 1,340	Return trail, village settlements, forest path
12	Jagat → Arughat / Soti Khola	15	5-6	1,340 → 760	Trek ends, buses or jeeps to Kathmandu/Pokhara

Transportation to the Manaslu Trek Trailhead

The Manaslu Trek usually starts from Soti Khola or Machha Khola. To reach these places from Kathmandu, you mainly travel by road.

1. Private Jeep / 4WD (Best Option)

• Time: About 7–8 hours.
• Route: Kathmandu → Dhading Besi → Arughat → Soti Khola / Machha Khola.
• Details: The road is paved and smooth until Arughat, then it becomes narrow, rocky, and bumpy. A 4WD vehicle is best for this part.
• Advantages: Fast, comfortable, safe, and flexible — you can stop for food or photos along the way.
• Tip: Leave early in the morning to reach the trailhead before evening.

2. Local Bus / Shared Jeep (Budget Option)

• Time: 9–12 hours, depending on the road and stops.
• Route: Kathmandu → Arughat by bus, then take a local jeep to Soti Khola or Machha Khola.
• Details: Buses are basic and crowded, but cheap. Local jeeps are small and sometimes bumpy.
• Advantages: Low cost, travel like local people.
• Disadvantages: Slower, less comfortable, and roads may be rough.

3. Road Conditions

• Before Arughat: Smooth paved road, passing small towns and fields.
• After Arughat: Narrow, gravel road along rivers and hills. Dusty in the dry season, muddy in the monsoon (June–August).
• Scenery: Beautiful villages, rivers, forests, and mountain views along the way.

4. Tips for Travelers

• Carry water, snacks, and a light blanket for the long ride.
• Book a private jeep in advance if you want comfort and safety.
• Be ready for a bumpy ride, especially after Arughat.
• Try to start early in the morning to reach the trailhead before dark.

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How to Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek: Clothing, Gear, and Tips

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular high-altitude treks. Proper preparation is essential for safety, comfort, and enjoyment. This guide covers the key aspects: clothing, gear, and practical tips for a successful trek.

Clothing for the Manaslu Trek

Trekking in the Manaslu region involves a wide range of temperatures, from warm valley days to freezing nights at higher altitudes. Layered clothing is essential:

1. Base Layer: Thermal tops and bottoms made from wool or synthetic materials to retain body heat.

2. Mid Layer: Fleece jacket or lightweight down vest for insulation.

3. Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants (preferably Gore-Tex or similar).

4. Trekking Pants and Shirts: Quick-dry, comfortable, and breathable for daily walks. Include both long-sleeve and short-sleeve options.

5. Gloves, Hat, and Beanie: Warm gloves for high-altitude cold, a sun hat for daytime, and a warm beanie for evenings.

6. Socks: Wool or thermal socks, at least 3–4 pairs.

7. Sleepwear: Comfortable clothing for teahouse nights.

Footwear

• Trekking Boots: Waterproof, with good ankle support, suitable for rocky and uneven trails.

• Camp or Teahouse Shoes: Lightweight shoes or sandals for relaxing at night.

• Gaiters (Optional): Protects legs and boots from mud, snow, or water.

Essential Trekking Gear

1. Backpack: 50–65 L capacity with rain cover.

2. Daypack: 20–30 L for daily essentials.

3. Trekking Poles: Recommended for steep or uneven terrain.

4. Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -15°C for high-altitude nights.

5. Headlamp or Torch: With extra batteries.

6. Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder: Minimum 2 L capacity.

7. Sunglasses: With UV protection for high-altitude sunlight.

8. Sun Protection: Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 30+.

9. First Aid Kit: Bandages, blister treatment, painkillers, and altitude sickness medication.

Other Essentials

• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or chocolate for extra energy during trekking.

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.

• Quick-Dry Towel

• Camera or Phone: Extra battery or power bank.

• Dry Bags or Plastic Bags: To protect clothes and electronics from rain or snow.

Optional Items

• An additional down jacket for very cold nights.

• Microspikes or crampons if trekking in snow or icy conditions.

• Lightweight travel pillow for comfort during long nights.

Practical Tips for the Manaslu Trek

1. Pack Light: If hiring a porter, limit personal items to reduce weight.

2. Layer Clothing: Adapt to changing weather and temperature fluctuations.

3. Start Early: Begin trekking early in the day to avoid afternoon fatigue and reach your teahouse on time.

4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Drink water regularly and maintain energy levels with snacks.

5. Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Mountain weather is unpredictable; carry rain gear and warm layers even in summer.

Conclusion: Proper preparation is the key to enjoying the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek safely and comfortably. With the right clothing, gear, and planning, you can fully experience the breathtaking landscapes, remote villages, and high mountain vistas of this remarkable trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather by Month: Temperatures, Rainfall, Trekking Advice, Packing & Scenery

Month	Temperature (Lowlands / High Altitude)	Rainfall / Weather	Trekking Advice	Packing & Scenery Notes
Jan	5–15°C / -10–5°C	Cold, some snow at high altitudes	Quiet trails, very cold nights, prepare winter gear	Pack heavy winter layers, a down jacket, gloves, warm hat; enjoy clear views of snow-covered peaks
Feb	7–17°C / -8–6°C	Cold, dry	Good for experienced trekkers, fewer crowds	Pack warm clothing, thermal layers; early spring snow adds scenic beauty
Mar	12–22°C / -5–8°C	Moderate, mostly clear	Start of spring, rhododendron bloom, ideal trekking conditions	Pack light layers, trekking gear; enjoy blossoming forests and colorful villages
Apr	15–25°C / -3–10°C	Low, clear skies	Best month for mountain views, pleasant temperatures	Light layers and sun protection; excellent mountain panoramas and alpine flowers
May	18–27°C / 0–12°C	Slightly higher rainfall	Warm and colorful, a very popular season	Light clothing, rain jacket; vibrant landscapes, rhododendrons, green valleys
Jun	20–28°C / 5–15°C	Heavy rainfall (monsoon)	Trails are slippery, risky landslides; not recommended for beginners	Waterproof gear is essential; expect lush green forests but limited mountain views
Jul	20–28°C / 5–15°C	Heavy rainfall (monsoon)	Difficult conditions, avoid unless experienced	Full rain protection required; muddy trails, rivers swollen
Aug	20–28°C / 5–15°C	Heavy rainfall (monsoon)	Trails are muddy, and mountain views are often blocked	Waterproof clothing and footwear; limited visibility, fewer trekkers
Sep	15–25°C / -2–10°C	Low rainfall, clear skies	Ideal trekking, excellent views, pleasant weather	Moderate layers, trekking gear; crisp air, clear views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks
Oct	12–25°C / -5–10°C	Low rainfall, clear skies	Peak season, best visibility, slightly crowded	Layered clothing; enjoy clear mountain vistas and vibrant villages
Nov	10–22°C / -5–8°C	Low rainfall, dry	Clear skies, calm weather, great for photography	Warm layers for cold nights; excellent for photography and less crowded trails
Dec	5–15°C / -10–5°C	Cold, occasional snow	Quiet trails, very cold nights, good for experienced trekkers	Heavy winter gear needed; enjoy snow-capped mountains and peaceful trekking

Manaslu Trek Guide Requirement:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and challenging treks. To keep it safe and legal, you must hire a licensed trekking guide. Independent trekking is not allowed in this area because it is inside the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Your guide will know the routes, weather, and local culture, help you manage permits, and make sure you are safe from altitude sickness or tricky trails. Usually, one guide is enough for a small group, but bigger groups may need more. Guides often help arrange porters, too, so you can carry less and enjoy the trek comfortably.

Always choose a licensed, experienced guide who carries first aid equipment and knows emergency procedures. This makes your Manaslu adventure safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Costs (2026–2027)

To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you need three main permits because part of the route is in a restricted area and part goes through conservation areas.

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP / RAP)

This is the most important permit because the Manaslu region is officially a restricted trekking area.

• Must be applied through a registered trekking agency; cannot go on your own.

• Must trek with a licensed guide, usually a minimum of two people per group.

Cost by season (for foreign trekkers):

Example: 14-day trek in peak season → USD 100 + 7 × USD 15 = USD 205.

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

This permit allows trekking within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

• Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 (~USD 25–30)

• Same price all year

• Valid for the duration of your stay in the area

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The trek passes into the Annapurna Conservation Area after Larke La Pass.

• Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 (~USD 25–30)

• Fixed cost, the same all year

Do You Need TIMS?

No. A TIMS card is not required for the Manaslu Circuit because the restricted area permit tracks trekkers.

Typical Total Permit Costs

14-Day Trek (Peak Season)

• RAP: USD 205

• MCAP: USD 25–30

• ACAP: USD 25–30

• Total ≈ USD 255–265 per person

14-Day Trek (Off-Peak Season)

• RAP: USD 145

• MCAP: USD 25–30

• ACAP: USD 25–30

• Total ≈ USD 195–205 per person

Altitude Sickness Risk on the Manaslu Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through some of the highest and most remote areas of Nepal, reaching altitudes above 5,000 meters at points like Larkya La Pass. At such heights, there is a significant risk of altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. The risk increases if trekkers ascend too quickly without proper acclimatization.

To reduce the chance of altitude sickness on the Manaslu Trek, it is important to follow a gradual ascent, take rest days at key points like Samagaon or Manaslu Base Camp, and stay well hydrated. Listening to your body and avoiding overexertion are crucial. In some cases, mild medication can be used under a doctor’s guidance, but the safest approach is to ascend slowly and monitor your health carefully.

Although Manaslu is less crowded than Everest or Annapurna treks, its remoteness means medical help can be far away, making prevention essential. Trekkers should also be aware that descending immediately is the most effective treatment if severe symptoms appear. By taking precautions, most travelers can complete the Manaslu Circuit safely while enjoying stunning mountain views, traditional villages, and the serene natural beauty of this remote region.

Best Local Travel Company for a Safe Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Choosing the right travel company is very important for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as this is a remote and challenging route. A good company ensures proper planning, safe trekking, reliable guides, and all necessary permits, so you can enjoy the trek without stress.

Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted local company for this trek. They provide experienced guides and trained porters who know the trail well. The company arranges all permits, TIMS cards, and logistics, making your trek smooth and safe.

Safety is a priority with proper first-aid support, emergency arrangements, and communication systems along the route. They also select comfortable tea houses and provide good meals, ensuring trekkers are well cared for throughout the journey.

Being a local company, Safe Holiday Adventure supports local communities, practices responsible tourism, and gives authentic cultural experiences. Choosing a company like theirs ensures a safe, well-organized, and memorable Manaslu Circuit Trek.