Manaslu Trek in 9 Days

Day 01: Kathmandu → Machha Khola

Trip Facts: Drive 140 km, 6–7 hrs (with stops), altitude 869 m.

Today, our Manaslu adventure begins! After breakfast at your hotel, we depart early from Kathmandu and head towards Machha Khola. The drive takes us along the Prithvi Highway, winding through the Trishuli River valley and terraced farmland. You’ll pass local villages where farmers work in rice paddies, and small markets where locals sell fresh produce. Midway, we stop for tea and refreshments while enjoying the mountain views peeking through the hills. The weather is usually warm in the valley, but mornings can be misty. Arrive in Machha Khola in the afternoon, check into a teahouse, unpack, and rest. Evening is perfect for a short walk in the village or along the riverbank. Tip: Wear comfortable clothes for the drive; keep a light jacket for the evening chill. Photo Spots: Marsyangdi River, terraced fields, and local villages.

Day 02: Machha Khola → Jagat

Trip Facts: Trek 15 km, 6–7 hrs, altitude 1,410 m.

After breakfast, we start trekking along the Marsyangdi River. The first section is gentle, passing through lush forests and small terraced fields. You’ll cross your first wooden suspension bridges, with sparkling river water below, and see local farmers tending crops. The trail leads through villages like Chyamje, where traditional stone houses and colorful prayer flags welcome us. Stop for lunch at a scenic riverside teahouse and enjoy views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, the trail gradually ascends, passing small streams and pine forests. Arrive in Jagat in the late afternoon, check into your teahouse, and enjoy dinner. Tips: Walk at a comfortable pace, keep your camera ready, and wear trekking shoes. Highlights: River valley, bridges, village culture, terraced fields.

Day 03: Jagat → Deng

Trip Facts: Trek 19 km, 7–8 hrs, altitude 1,860 m.

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast with the river views. Trek through terraced fields and pine-rhododendron forests. Cross multiple suspension bridges and streams. Pass through villages like Tal and Philim, experiencing Gurung and Manangi culture, stone chortens, and fluttering prayer flags. Stop for lunch at Koto or a scenic riverside spot. After lunch, trek gradually uphill along the river valley. Late afternoon arrival in Deng, check into your teahouse, enjoy tea, and watch the sunset over distant peaks. Tips: Keep your pace slow for acclimatization; drink plenty of water. Highlights: Village life, river valley, morning mist, forest scenery.

Day 04: Deng → Namrung

Trip Facts: Trek 18 km, 7–8 hrs, altitude 2,630 m.

After an early breakfast, begin trekking through Bagarchhap and other small villages. Cross streams, mani walls, and several suspension bridges. Terraced fields gradually give way to alpine meadows. Stop for lunch at a teahouse with views of Manaslu (8,163 m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m). Afternoon trek ascends steadily through forests and yak pastures. Arrive in Namrung in the late afternoon, check into a teahouse, and rest. The weather is cooler with occasional winds. Tips: Wear layers, carry water, and take short breaks to enjoy the views. Highlights: Alpine scenery, mountain peaks, yak pastures, prayer flags.

Day 05: Namrung → Samagaun

Trip Facts: Trek 15 km, 6–7 hrs, altitude 3,520 m.

Wake up early; the air is crisp. Trek gradually uphill, passing Dudham and small hamlets. Cross stone bridges and streams. Fields now are high-altitude pastures with grazing yaks. Stop for lunch at a teahouse overlooking the Manaslu Glacier. Afternoon trek passes mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Arrive in Samagaun, a picturesque high village with panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163 m). Evening is chilly — relax in your lodge and enjoy a warm dinner. Tips: Use sunscreen and sunglasses; drink enough water to avoid altitude effects. Highlights: Glacier views, panoramic peaks, village life, yak grazing.

Day 06: Samagaun → Dharamshala

Trip Facts: Trek 14 km, 7–8 hrs, altitude 4,480 m.

Start early after breakfast. Trek through rocky trails, small streams, and alpine pastures. Cross stone bridges and yak grazing areas. Stop mid-morning for tea. Lunch is at a scenic teahouse with views of Himalchuli (7,893 m) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m). Afternoon trek ascends further to Dharamshala, near the glacier. Afternoon is cold; rest and hydrate for tomorrow’s high pass. Tips: Dress in layers; the sun is strong during trekking, but the air is cold. Highlights: Alpine landscapes, glacier streams, high mountain peaks.

Day 07: Dharamshala → Bimtang via Larke Pass

Trip Facts: Trek 20 km, 8–9 hrs, altitude 5,160 m (Larke Pass) / 3,720 m (Bimtang).

Today is the highlight of the trek: crossing Larke Pass, the highest point. Wake up before sunrise — it’s very cold. Begin with a gentle 20-minute warm-up walk, then start the steep ascent. Wear thin layers under your jacket; pace yourself, drink water, and take breaks to enjoy the views. Mid-morning, cross rocky trails and moraine fields, seeing snow patches and glacial streams. Lunch at the top of Larke Pass, with breathtaking 360° views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m). Afternoon descent to Bimtang passes alpine meadows and yak grazing areas. Check into the teahouse, rest, and enjoy dinner. Tips: Cold and windy — carry gloves, hat, and sunglasses. Highlights: Larke Pass, panoramic peaks, glaciers, yak grazing.

Day 08: Bimtang → Dharapani

Trip Facts: Trek 22 km, 7–8 hrs, altitude 1,910 m.

After breakfast, begin the descent through forests, rivers, and small suspension bridges. Pass villages like Rokpa, terraced fields, and waterfalls. Stop for lunch at a riverside teahouse. Trek continues through pine forests and settlements where locals farm. Afternoon arrival in Dharapani, check into the lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner. The weather is milder. Tips: Easy pace on the descent; take plenty of photos. Highlights: Waterfalls, river valleys, village culture, and terraced fields.

Day 09: Dharapani → Kathmandu/Pokhara

Trip Facts: Jeep/Bus 210 km, 6–7 hrs, altitude 1,350 m.

Wake up early, enjoy breakfast, and drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Pass terraced fields, forests, and rivers. Stop for tea and lunch along the way. Enjoy mountain and valley views, and glimpse the local life of hill villages. Arrival in Kathmandu or Pokhara in the afternoon. Check into your hotel, rest, and reflect on your unforgettable Manaslu adventure. Highlights: River valleys, terraced hills, distant Himalayan peaks.

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

Manaslu Circuit Trek Location and Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles Mount Manaslu, Nepal’s eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). This trek offers one of the most remote and beautiful trekking experiences in Nepal, passing through diverse landscapes such as lush forests, deep river valleys, and high alpine terrain. Along the way, trekkers experience traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture in villages with ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens. Unlike more popular routes like the Annapurna or Everest regions, Manaslu remains less crowded, giving you a peaceful adventure surrounded by pristine nature and friendly local communities.

Duration and Distance

The trek covers approximately 170 to 180 kilometers (about 105 to 112 miles), usually completed in 14 to 16 days. Each day involves trekking between 5 to 8 hours, depending on altitude gain and terrain. The route starts low, near Soti Khola or Arughat, and gradually ascends through valleys and villages until reaching the highest point, Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward the Marsyangdi River valley and ends near Besisahar or Dhading, where transportation back to Kathmandu is arranged.

Permits and Regulations

Since Manaslu is a restricted area to protect the environment and local culture, trekkers need a special Restricted Area Permit. You must also obtain the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) because parts of the trek lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. These permits are strictly controlled, and you should apply for them before starting your trek. Trekking without the correct permits can lead to fines or being turned back by authorities. Usually, trekking agencies or guides help arrange these permits for you.

Physical Fitness

The Manaslu Circuit Trek demands a good level of fitness due to its length, altitude, and sometimes rough terrain. Trekking involves long hours walking uphill and downhill, often on uneven, rocky paths. You should prepare by regularly walking or hiking, building endurance with cardio exercises, and practicing with a backpack to get used to carrying weight. While not technically difficult like climbing, the trek’s challenge comes from its altitude and daily walking distances. People with some trekking experience and good health usually manage well.

Acclimatization

Altitude sickness is a risk when trekking above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), and the Manaslu trek reaches more than 5,000 meters. To avoid this, the itinerary includes acclimatization or rest days, typically at villages like Sama Gaon or Samdo. These days allow your body to adjust to lower oxygen levels. Other ways to prevent altitude sickness include drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and smoking, eating light meals, and ascending slowly without rushing. Symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, or breathlessness should not be ignored.

Accommodation and Food

Most accommodation along the trek consists of simple tea houses or guesthouses. These offer basic rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms (sometimes cold showers). Facilities are modest but clean enough for a good night’s rest. Food available is often local Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice with lentils), noodles, soups, and sometimes bread or potatoes. In larger villages, you may find some Western options like pasta or fried rice. Prices tend to increase at higher altitudes due to transportation difficulties. Bringing some snacks, like an energy bar, is a good idea.

Weather and Best Season

The best time to trek Manaslu is autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). During these months, the weather is stable with clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent mountain views. Autumn offers fresh, crisp air and colorful rhododendron blooms in spring brighten the forests. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides. Winter (December to February) brings cold weather and snow, especially on the high pass, making trekking more difficult and sometimes unsafe.

Guides and Porters

Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory in the Manaslu region because it’s a restricted area. Guides know the trails, can communicate with locals, and help manage permits. A guide also enhances safety, especially in bad weather or emergencies. You can also hire a porter to carry your heavy backpack, which helps conserve your energy and supports the local economy. Porters usually carry about 15-20 kilograms (33-44 pounds) and are experienced in trekking at high altitude.

Safety and Emergency

Manaslu is remote, with limited medical facilities along the trail. Basic health posts exist, but serious medical issues require evacuation. Helicopter rescue is possible but very expensive and can only operate in good weather conditions. It’s important to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Carry a basic first aid kit, know the symptoms of altitude sickness, and always trek with a guide who can assist if problems arise.

Communication

Mobile phone signals are generally available only in larger villages and are often unreliable. Internet access is limited and usually slow. If staying connected is important, consider purchasing a local SIM card with 3G or 4G coverage and be prepared for limited use. Many trekkers use the breaks in villages to update family or friends. Enjoy the disconnection as a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature and local culture.

Cultural Respect

The Manaslu region is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities with strong traditions. Visitors should dress modestly, especially near religious sites like monasteries and stupas. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly monks and elders. It’s respectful to greet locals with a smile and learn simple Tibetan or Nepali greetings. Observing local customs enhances your experience and shows appreciation for the culture.

Transport to Start Point

The trek usually begins from Soti Khola or Arughat, reachable from Kathmandu by bus or private jeep. The journey takes about 6 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions. Roads are mostly rough and winding, sometimes affected by weather. Private vehicles are faster and more comfortable, but more expensive. Starting early in the morning is recommended to avoid delays.

Packing Essentials

Packing smart is important for comfort and safety. Bring layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures, including thermal underwear, fleece jackets, waterproof outerwear, and warm hats and gloves. Good hiking boots with ankle support and trekking poles help on rocky trails. Carry a warm sleeping bag, water bottles, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a headlamp, and a basic first aid kit. Keep your pack light to make trekking easier.

FAQs about Manaslu Circuit Trek 

1. What level of trekking experience is recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The trek suits intermediate to experienced trekkers because of its length, altitude, and remote terrain. Some previous trekking experience in the Himalayas is helpful, but not mandatory.

2. Is it mandatory to hire a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, due to the restricted area regulations, hiring a licensed local guide is mandatory for all trekkers on the Manaslu route.

3. Can I hire a porter on the Manaslu trek?
Yes, porters are available and recommended to carry heavy backpacks, allowing you to conserve energy during the long trek.

4. Are there any health risks unique to the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Altitude sickness is the primary risk due to high elevations. Besides that, the remote nature of the trek means limited medical facilities, so travelers should be cautious and prepared.

5. How reliable is mobile phone and internet connectivity along the route?
Mobile signals are generally limited to larger villages and can be unreliable. Internet access is slow and sparse, so expect minimal connectivity.

6. What types of cultural experiences can I expect on the Manaslu Circuit?
Trekkers pass through Tibetan Buddhist villages with ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and local festivals, providing rich cultural insights.

7. What kind of food is typically available during the trek?
Local Nepali and Tibetan-style dishes such as dal bhat, noodles, and soups are common. Western food options may be available in bigger villages, but are limited.

8. How difficult is the Larkya La Pass crossing?
The Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters is the highest and most challenging point on the trek, requiring good physical condition and acclimatization.

9. Can the Manaslu Circuit Trek be done independently without an agency?
It is possible but not recommended, since permits, guides, and logistical support are mandatory and more easily handled by trekking agencies.

10. What kind of accommodation can I expect along the trail?
Simple tea houses or guesthouses with basic amenities, including beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms, are the norm.

11. Are there rest days included in typical itineraries?
Yes, rest or acclimatization days are usually scheduled to help trekkers adjust to the altitude safely.

12. How is the trail condition on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The trail varies from dirt paths and rocky sections to wooden suspension bridges; it can be rugged and steep in places.

13. What wildlife might I encounter on the trek?
You might see Himalayan birds, monkeys, and sometimes musk deer or other small mammals in forested areas.

14. What are the best months to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) offer the best weather and views.

15. What should I do in case of an emergency on the trek?
Always trek with a guide who can assist. Serious cases may require helicopter evacuation, which is costly and weather-dependent.

16. How physically demanding is daily trekking on the Manaslu Circuit?
Trekking days typically last 5-8 hours with significant altitude gain and loss, so good stamina is important.

17. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but trekking with a guide or group is recommended for safety and permit reasons.

18. Are there shops or places to buy supplies on the trail?
Basic supplies are available in larger villages, but prices increase with altitude; it’s wise to carry essentials.

19. What languages are spoken along the Manaslu Circuit?
Nepali and Tibetan dialects are common; English is spoken mainly by guides and in tourist areas.

20. How environmentally responsible is the trek?
Trekking agencies and locals encourage eco-friendly practices to protect the fragile environment, including waste management.