Manaslu Circuit Trek

What makes the Himalayan Spirit Adventure best for the Manaslu Circuit trek

• More than 25+ years of expertise in the mountains of Nepal 
• Fully customizable itinerary and services in the package
• 100% guaranteed departure
• Trek completion certificate
• 24/7 support and a safe payment gateway
• Complimentary welcome dinner in Kathmandu
• Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Professional English-speaking mountain guide and native porter with their travel insurance
• First-aid kit with an oximeter to monitor your oxygen level during the trek
• Online trip briefing to answer all your questions and doubts
• Free space to store extra luggage in our office during the trek
• Best Manaslu Circuit trek price and service - no hidden charges
• Himalayan Spirit Adventure's duffel bag to use during the trek
• Complementary company's t-shirt and cap
• Win-win cancellation and refund policy
• We specialize in ecotourism- You Will Only Leave Your Footprint Behind With Us!

Trek highlights

• Embark on the most adventurous and challenging treks in Nepal
• Trek around the eighth-tallest mountain in the world
• Explore the rich flora and fauna of the Manalsu Conservation Area
• Walk through densely forested hills following the Budhi Gandaki River
• The trail slowly leads to alpine meadows and brings you to the arctic zone
• Enjoy incredible scenery shift as your trek from sub-tropical forests to the arctic zone
• Experience authentic mountain lifestyle and discover the ancient Tibetan Buddhism heritage
• Explore old stupas, monasteries, prayer wheels, mani walls, and prayer flags along the trail
• Witness breathtaking views of mountains like Annapurna II, Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Kang Guru, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, etc
• May get to spot rare wildlife like the snow leopard
• Hike to Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, and Pun Gyen Gompa
• Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass
• Best Himalayan experience and push your limits

The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the Best Treks In Nepal.

Not as famous as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp treks, the Manaslu Circuit trek offers a quieter, deeper, and far more rewarding experience.

In fact, the Manaslu Circuit trek is considered one of the best alternatives to the popularAnnapurna Circuit trek.

The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of those treks in Nepal that still presents untouched, authentic mountain experiences. This trek circles Mt. Manaslu, the 8th-tallest mountain in the world.

The journey begins in Kathmandu, a buzzing metropolitan city. From here, you will drive to Machha Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek.

Commencing the trek from Machha Khola, you will explore terraces, lush river valleys, and dense forests. The trail goes alongside the Budhi Gandaki River and gradually ascends to high altitudes.

On the way, you will discover remote villages with stone houses, gorgeous waterfalls tumbling down steep cliffs, and dramatic bridges over gushing rivers and streams.

Soon, the trail leaves the tree line behind and brings you to alpine zones. Air sharpens, forests thin out, and terrain transforms into dramatic glacial valleys and Himalayan panoramas.

From Machha Khola to Larkya La Pass, you will see a constant shift in landscapes. You cannot fathom the change in scenery on the Manaslu Circuit trek. It's incredible and a significant highlight of this iconic trail.

Crossing the Larkya La Pass is the biggest challenge of the Manaslu Circuit trek. It is a high mountain pass with strong winds and steep, narrow trails.

The other side of the pass descends to the Annapurna region. The trail descends along a corridor to the west. You will see a great glacial cirque. It will be the most outlandish view of the entire Manaslu Circuit trek.

You will drop into the lushness of the Annapurna Conservation Area and end the trek at Tilje. From here, drive back to Kathmandu via a small but major town called Besisahar. 

Manaslu Circuit trek distance, duration, and altitude

The Manaslu Circuit trek distance is approximately 160 kilometers. It is a 14-day trek, and the highest altitude reached on this trek is 5,106 meters (16,752 ft).

What to expect during the Manaslu Circuit trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a two-week trip to Nepal that takes you deep into the central-northern Himalayan mountains. It is an adventurous trek with authentic mountain villages, beautiful nature, and a humbling experience.

Beyond the incredible scenery, the Manaslu Circuit trek offers an excellent opportunity for self-discovery and a deep connection with nature. In villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo, you re-learn to live.

Every village on the Manaslu Circuit trek route presents a slow rhythm of life shaped by giant mountains and ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions that are deeply woven into the everyday lives of the villagers.

The chirping of birds, crisp air, earthy scents, spinning prayer wheels, trails lined with mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags make the Manaslu Circuit trail truly special.

Unlike the commercial trek routes in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit lets you experience the journey to the fullest. You are not only covering the trails but fully immersing yourself in mountain culture.

Our Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary is not rushed, nor do we organize one-size-fits-all types of treks. Every day of the trek is carefully curated to balance adventure, experiences, and acclimatization. And, every journey is thoughtfully personalized to meet our guests' fitness and interests!

➡ Location: The Manaslu Circuit is located in the Gorkha district, bordering Tibet. It is the central-northern part of the Himalayan range in Nepal, home to the world's eighth-highest peak.

➡ Trek duration: The whole trip is 14 days long. You will spend 10 days trekking in the mountains, and the remaining time, traveling to/from the trailhead.

➡ Starting and ending points: Machha Khola is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek. It is situated 160 km northwest of Kathmandu. The ending point of the trek is Tilje. It is located 195 km from Kathmandu.

➡ Trail and terrain: The Manaslu Circuit trail is offbeat. The terrain is rugged, rocky, and steep. Trekkers have to navigate narrow tracks and landslide-prone areas and cross numerous suspension bridges.

➡ Altitude diversity: The Manaslu Circuit trek route goes from subtropical forests and valleys to alpine meadows and the arctic zone, where snowbound Larkya La Pass is situated. You will travel from 870 meters to 5,106 meters in just nine days of walking.

➡ Villages you spend nights at: Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Shyala, Sama Gaon (2 nights), Samdo, Larke Phedi, Bimthang, and Tilje.

➡ Mountain views along the trails: Manaslu, Boudha Himal, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Simnang Himal, Naike Peak, Shringi Himal, Kang Guru, etc.

➡ Challenges: Daily 6 hours of hiking, offbeat terrain, steep ascents and descents, landslide and rockfall areas, Larkya La Pass crossing, high altitude, climate variation, and limited services along the trail.

➡ Accommodation on the trail: Simple teahouses. Twin shared rooms and common washrooms. A mix of western-style and squat toilets.

➡ Other services: Hot shower, WiFi, and charging cost extra money (not covered in the Manaslu Circuit trek package).

➡ Meals and drinking water: We provide three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Boiled water is available in all teahouses for drinking. Common foods include dal bhat, thukpa, momo, fried noodles, Tibetan bread, thenduk, fried rice, stew, porridge, pancake, toast, roasties, and potatoes.

➡ Communication: No mobile network in most parts of the trail. The WiFi network is also not reliable. A satellite phone is available in many villages, but it comes at a good price.

➡ Personal expenses during the trek: You have to pay for charging, WiFi, and hot showers by yourself. Likewise, if you decide to buy snacks and souvenirs, you have to pay yourself.

Why is Manaslu a restricted area for foreigners in Nepal?

The Manaslu Circuit or the Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal because of the following reasons:

• To protect its fragile ecological and cultural heritage
• To manage border security with Tibet
• To ensure the trekker's safety in a remote, high-altitude region

To trek in the restricted areas like Manaslu, foreigners have to follow the following strict rules:

• Only an authorized Nepali trekking company like Himalayan Spirit can organize a trek in restricted areas.
• Trekking with a Nepali agency is a must because only an authorized trekking company can help you issue a restricted area permit.
• A licensed guide must accompany you.
• There must be at least two trekkers in the group. 

As of March 22, 2026, there is no minimum 2-person requirement for restricted area trek in Nepal - The Department of Immigration (DoI) has removed the minimum trekker requirement for restricted area adventures in Nepal. Foreigners can now do solo treks in regions like Manaslu, Kanchenjunga, Dolpo, and others with their guide and an authorized travel agency. Check out this article with detailed information about restricted area trekking rules 2026.  

The indigenous Nubri community

You must have heard about Sherpas. They are the indigenous community of the Everest region. Likewise, the Nubri are the indigenous community of the Nubri Valley, the upper Manaslu region (Ghap village onwards).

Nubri is a language that the villages in the valley speak, which has led to the name Nubri community and Nubri Valley. Nubri language is an unheard, undocumented, and undiscovered language.

HKU (University of Hong Kong) started documenting and studying the Nubri language in 2017, and the study is still ongoing. Get to know the locals of Nubri Valley, their lifestyle, and traditions.

The Tsum Valley- a hidden gem

Tsum Valley is located northeast of the Manaslu Circuit. The trail to Tsum Valley separates from Lokpa village (on the way from Jagat to Deng).

Many trekkers do the Manaslu Circuit trek with Tsum Valley. It extends the trek by almost a week to 10 days. The Tsum Valley is known as a Hidden Valley and is more remote than the Manaslu Circuit.

Trekking in the Tsum Valley is more adventurous and challenging. Here, you will meet the Tsumba community, another indigenous Nepali group.

The trail ascends to Mu Gompa (3,700 m) and also includes side quests to Ganesh Himal Base Camp.

Is the Manaslu Circuit trek 14 days suitable for you?

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a demanding, high-altitude adventure. It is best for trekkers who have good physical fitness, hiking experience, and a desire for a remote, offbeat excursion.

You do not have to be an athlete to do the Manaslu Circuit trek. However, you have to be in good shape, able to walk 6 hours a day, and fine with limited services.

Similarly, the Manaslu Circuit trek is not for beginner trekkers. However, if you are fit and determined, you can do the Manaslu Circuit trek. Pre-trek training is a must for this trek.

Manaslu Circuit trek cost

The Manaslu Circuit trek costs USD XXXX per person. We also have group discounts for 2 or more trekkers.

If you need any specific service, feel free to contact us. We can design the Manaslu Circuit trek package as per your budget and requirements.

Bookings are open for Manaslu Circuit trek 2026 departures. Get your seat with us and enjoy a stress-free, safe trip in the Himalayas. 

How to train for the Manaslu Circuit trek?

Core, strength, and endurance exercises should be your main focus while training for the Manaslu Circuit trek. We recommend starting training for the trek at least 8 weeks before your departure date.

➡ Strength training is great to make your legs, back, and shoulders strong for the trek.

➡ Core exercises will help you strengthen your lower back, hips, pelvis, and abdomen, which is great for stability, balance, and posture.

➡ Endurance training improves your stamina and boosts energy levels. It enables you to efficiently use oxygen.

➡ Stretching will help you with flexibility. You have to be flexible to traverse complex terrain smoothly.

➡ Mental training is also an important part of Manaslu Circuit trek preparation. Your mental training should include learning about the trail and services. Preparing your mind for high altitudes, varying climates, and limited facilities.

Why do the Manaslu Circuit trek 14 days with Himalayan Spirit Adventure?

We provide exceptional service and support to trekkers. From the moment you land at Kathmandu Airport, our team will be at your service.

You do not have to haggle with taxis or stress over permits and logistics for the trek. Himalayan Spirit Adventure's team will handle everything.

➡ No city chaos: Kathmandu can get brutal if you do not know the ways to move around the city and strategically plan your stay. We take care of airport transfers, hotel bookings, and provide a dedicated consultant who will assist you.

➡ No permit stress: We fulfill the permit documentation and obtain it on your behalf. For a restricted area permit, you may have to visit the Department of Immigration. Everything will be pre-arranged, so you just have to go and receive the permit.

➡ Licensed and experienced guides: We have the best mountain guides for the Manaslu Circuit trek. Our guides are licensed and trained to lead trekkers. Likewise, they have numerous years of expertise. You can rely on their judgment and information.

➡ Small group size: Our fixed departure groups are small (2 to 8 trekkers). It allows us to provide attention to all of the trekkers.

➡ Customizable itineraries: You can customize the Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary and even services in the package as per your interests and budget.

➡ Safety guarantee: Trekking in the Himalaya comes with unpredictability. We have trained our guides to tackle those unpredictabilities, so you can travel freely. Our guides are trained to offer first aid. Likewise, we have a very steadfast helicopter evacuation plan if needed.

➡ Transparent pricing and no hidden charges: From the very first day, we have been clear about our Manaslu Circuit trek pricing. Our team explains all additional expenses during booking. So, you will not be a victim of any surprise expenses.

Alternative adventure trek options that you may like

First of all, we have a range of Manaslu Circuit trek packages available, such as:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek from Barpak
• Tsum Valley Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Trek with Serang Gumba
• Manaslu Circuit Trek Annapurna Circuit

Similarly, below we have shared some more adventure treks in Nepal:

• Everest Three Passes trek
• Kanchenjunga Circuit trek
• Upper Mustang trek
• Nar Phu Valley trek
• Upper Dolpo trek