Overview

Looking for an adventure-filled journey? Then you have come to the right place. Embark on Manaslu Circuit Trek, an exhilarating journey to the northern Himalayas to explore the ancient villages nestled under the shadows of awe-inspiring Mount Manaslu (8163 m). This beautiful journey allows trekkers to uncover the timeless villages of Samdo and Samagoan.

 

You can also hike through the dense forests of the Manaslu Conservation Area, encounter diverse wild vegetation, and admire the stunning visuals of the giant Manaslu range. Crossing Larkya La pass adds extra excitement to this already exhilarating experience. So don’t miss out on the chance to explore the wonders of the Himalayas that receive little attention but offer an abundance of unforgettable memories. 

 

Major Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • A thrilling drive from Kathmandu to Seti Khola offers stunning views of the rugged landscape.
  • Cross the winding Budhigandaki River and Dudh Khola, a vital lifeline for the villagers.
  • Engaging in immersive cultural encounters, mingling with locals, and delving into traditional ways of life as you traverse historic villages such as Samdo, Samagoan, and others.
  • Absorbing the social and spiritual ethos while discovering significant monasteries like Ruchen Gompa, Annie Gompa, Pungyen Gompa, Sama Gompa, Mu Gompa, and numerous other religious landmarks.
  • Experience diverse landscapes, including lush green valleys, terraced fields, dense forests, glacial rivers, and high mountain passes, providing unparalleled natural beauty at every turn.
  • Crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), surrounded by panoramic views of the Himalayas, glaciers, and alpine terrain.
  • Explore the unique wildlife and flora in the pristine environment of the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to diverse species of plants and animals.
  • Breathtaking views of the Manaslu range, including the eighth-highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m).

 

Journey to Manaslu Circuit Trek

The captivating journey to Manaslu begins with a drive to Seti Khola from Kathmandu. The drive is thrilling because you will drive through some of the most rugged paths you have ever seen. The official trek from now on starts as you embark on a journey to Machha Khola, another layover before opting for another quaint town of Jagat. The trail follows a verdant forest, and roaring Budhigandaki river, crossing suspension bridges and several farmlands until you reach the charming village of Deng. 

 

The trek starts to get a bit challenging as we will be ascending and descending through steep and rugged paths. Walking past such trails brings you to the rural town of Namrung, decorated with mani, chortens, and stupas indicating the practice of Buddhism. The town also offers a great view of Hiunchuli, Ganesh Himal along with other giant peaks. As we approach our destination, we notice a changing landscape and enter into the ancient village of Lho, quiet and isolated but full of cultural insights. 

 

After appreciating the beauty of Lho, the journey continues to Samagoan, another enchanting village with a backdrop of beautiful Himalayas and glaciers. The trek offers you a great view of Mt. Manaslu among other iconic peaks. Samagoan is one of the resting sites as well thus trekkers can go for an energizing hike to Birendra Taal, one of the beautiful lakes in the country. The village has several monasteries such as Annie Gompa, Pugyen gompa where trekkers can visit to learn more about the culture and social values of the place. 

 

The trek resumes as we follow the Bhudhigandaki river trail to the traditional Tibetan village of Samdo. Crossing streams do not stop as we head towards another remote yet charming Tibetan town called Dharamshala. Surrounded by the majestic Larkya peak (6249m), this culturally insightful journey also offers a great chance to cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m) and have the majestic 360-degree view of the gigantic Manaslu range along with Himlung, Kanguru, Cheo Himal and Annapurna Himal. 

 

After that elating experience, we descend to Bhimphedi, following pastoral land, and trek down to Tilije and Chamje, the last village in this beautiful journey. Your journey of hiking the Manaslu circuit concludes in Kathmandu with a scenic and exciting drive with which you began the journey. 

 

In Conclusion,

The trek provides insightful encounters for travelers visiting a rural Himalayan village. The scenes are the highlight but the people and their culture are a pleasant bonus you will have in this trek. Nevertheless, if you want more from this trek, the option to extend or choose Tsum Valley Trek, another beautiful journey in this region is available. The team at World Alpine Trek is here to assist you in whichever way suits you the best. 

The first day marks your arrival day in Kathmandu. Clear all the visa requirements and customs clearance, if any, at the arrival section of the airport. As you come out, you will find a representative from World Alpine Treks waiting for you holding a board with your name. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. The representative will inform you shortly about the plans ahead.

  • Overnight at a 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu
  • No Meals included

On this day, your guide will pick you up around 7 a.m. and start our drive to Machha Khola, which will take us approximately 9 hours. The road will be gratifying for the first 5 hours to Arughat but will be bumpy for the second section to Arughat. From Arughat, we will drive another 4-5 hours until we reach the village of Maccha Khola.

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Maccha Khola
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

Leaving Maccha Khola, we follow a trail that narrows down to Tharo Khola and moves ahead to Khorlabesi. From here, our trail undulates up and down to the hot water spring of Tatopani. At Tatopani, we can enjoy a hot water bath to soothe our nerves and senses. After enjoying some quality time at Tatopani, we climb up a ridge and cross Budhigandaki Khola.

From the river, climb up a stone-paved staircase to Thulo Bharyang via Dohan. Finally, after crossing the west bank of the Budhigandaki River, we climb up to reach the village of Jagat.

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/Lodge in Jagat.
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

 

Today, we leave Jagat and climb up a rocky ridge to the village of Salleri and then to Sirdibas. We follow the trail that leads us to Ghatta Khola and climb up to a charming village of Gurung people known as Phillim. From this village, the trail turns north through the farmlands to Ekle Bhatti and then descends along a grassy slope to the Budhi Gandaki River.

Here, we cross a bridge and walk through the bamboo forests to the Deng Khola. After crossing a bridge over the river, we reach the village of Deng. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Deng
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

 

From Deng, we take a short walk to the Budhigandaki River and climb up to the village of Rana. We continue our climb and walk west to the Budhigandaki Valley. As we open up to the valley, we can enjoy a pleasant walk along the forests and paths adorned with painted mani stones. We pass the village of Ghap and enter Prok village. From the village, we can witness the alluring beauty of Sringi Himal.

Further, we pass the dense rhododendron forests, gompas, rivers, and gorges on the way to Namrung. Namrung is also famous as a vantage point for the best views of Hiunchuli and Ganesh Himal. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Namrung
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

The trail climbs up steeply and passes through a dense forest on the way to the village of Lihi. The village looks amazingly beautiful with the chortens and barley terraces. As we move ahead, we cross the valley of Simnang and pass the village of Sho to reach Lho.

Lho Gaon is a beautiful, isolated village in the Manaslu region enriched with its preserved culture. Upon arrival, we can visit an ancient monastery in the village of Lho. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Lho Gaon
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

Today, we leave Lho gaon and continue our walk towards Samagaon. We pass Shyala village on the way to Samagaon. Upon arrival, we will be rewarded with some amazing views of Mt. Manaslu. There is an ancient monastery in the village popular as Ribung Gompa. We visit the Gompa and enjoy our time exploring the village in the backdrop of beautiful Himalayas and glaciers. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Samagaon
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

We enjoy an extra day in Samagaon to acclimatize ourselves to the rising elevation. We spend our day exploring the village and visiting some important places in the surroundings. We visit a lake called Birendra Tal nearby and then head towards Anie Gompa.

Further, we head towards Pungyen Gompa, which is a beautiful place that offers some scenic views of mountains and glaciers. After a hike up to the gompa, we return to Samagaon for the evening. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Samagaon
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

Leaving Sanagaon, we follow the trail along the Budhi Gandaki River and hike up to a stream. We cross a suspension bridge over the river and ascend to the right of Larkya La. The trail is easy, with beautiful mani walls and alpine forests that decorate the way. We again cross a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and follow a trail leading us to Samdo. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Samdo
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

Early in the morning, after breakfast, we cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and climb up towards Dharamshala. We cross a few streams and walk around the valley with wonderful views of the Larkya glacier on sight. We continue our walk through the trail until we reach Dharamshala. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Dharamshala
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

Today, early in the morning, we climb up and open up to a valley on the northern side of Larkya Glacier. We ascend steeply, enjoying some exquisite views of the Larkya Peak. As we go steep, we come across the pass and cross the pass with some stunning views of Himlung, Kanguru, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna Himal on sight. From the pass, we descend to Bhimtang, enjoying the close views of Mt. Manaslu. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Bhimtang
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

From Bhimtang, we descend to the high pastures and then to Dudh Khola. We further walk through the dense forests of rhododendrons, narrow valleys, and fields to make a final ascent up to the village of Gho. A short walk from the village brings us to Tilije. 

We drop down through the trail and walk along the stone-paved path through a village to Dudh Khola.  We pass the village of Thonje and walk towards Dharapani. 

  • Overnight at a Guesthouse/ Lodge in Dharapani
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

 

We are in the final days of our trekking journey. We wrap our trekking journey with a drive back to Kathmandu. On the way back, we can witness the beautiful scenery of villages, terraced farmlands, lush hills, and valleys. Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, you will be escorted to your hotel room in Kathmandu.

  • Overnight at a 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Breakfast and Lunch included

Before a few hours of your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the international terminal of Tribhuwan International Airport. 

  • Breakfast included

 

 

Cost Includes

Ground Transportation

  • All Airport pick-up/ drop-off facilities by Tourist Car.
  • Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola & Dharapani to Kathmandu by Private Jeep.

 

Accommodation

  • 2-night accommodation in a three-star category hotel in Kathmandu.
  • 11-night accommodation in Guesthouses/Lodges during the trekking journey.

 

Meals Plan

  • Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking days
  • Breakfast at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Seasonal available fresh Fruit during trekking days.

 

Trekking Staff

  • English-speaking trekking Guides with their salary, accommodation, food, and airfare.
  • 1 helpful porter for 2 trekkers to carry your trekking equipment and personal stuff with their salary, accommodation, and food.

 

Require Permit

  • Manaslu Area Restricted Area Permit (Special Permit)
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers Information Management Permit (TIMS)

 

Essential Equipment

  • World Alpine Treks'  Duffel bag, trekking Map, Company T-shirt,
  • Sleeping Bag to use during trekking (To be returned after completing the trek)
  • World Alpine Treks First Aid Kit.
  • Oximeter to measure Oxygen & Pulse Levels during the trekking days.

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare to/from Nepal.
  • Nepal entry visa fee - You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50  for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days visas. You need 2 passport-size photos.
  • Travel insurance to cover emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
  • Hot showers during the trekking.
  • Extra night hotel Kathmandu in case of early arrival or late departure.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Personal refreshment expenses - soft drinks, hard drinks, mineral bottled water, cigarettes, chocolates, etc.
  • Utility expenses like telephone, electricity for charging, internet (WI-FI), laundry services, etc.
  • Tips for support crew members of your trekking team.

Useful Info

Manaslu Circuit Trek Accommodation

Accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek consists mainly of teahouses and lodges-basic, but comfortable, family-owned establishments. Teahouses are warm places where trekkers rest and share meals with the company after long days of hiking. The rooms, most shared by two to three persons, have basic bedding of mattresses, pillows, and blankets.

However, a sleeping bag is essential for added warmth on cold nights at high altitudes. Many of the lodges also offer a common area where a heating stove is lit, and meals and tales can be shared by fellow trekkers. The atmosphere is friendly, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and hospitality.

Facilities in the teahouses vary along the trek. Most of them have very basic shared bathroom and toilet facilities, though often hot showers are available at an extra cost. WiFi might be available in some, but usually for a cost, and it can also be unreliable because of the position. Electricity is generally accessible for charging devices, although often extra charges may apply.

The guesthouses of some of the places have better services: hot showers and WiFi. The accommodation cost starts from $3 to $8 per night, depending on the altitude and the season. The basic type of accommodation provides warm, friendly surroundings that boost each trekking day with varied landscapes and cultural encounters. 

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Food 

Food is the prime factor on the Manaslu Circuit Trek that differs altogether and helps people gain more energy during this strenuous hike. Local cuisine is available for trekkers, mainly in teahouses on the route. 

Dal Bhat is consumed the most, and it is a lentil soup-dal, boiled rice-bhat, vegetable curry, and usually pickles or meat. This is nutritious but also refillable since one can ask for more servings without extra cost. Other common options include Tibetan bread, thick and pan-fried for breakfast, and momos, which are vegetable or meat dumplings served with a spicy sauce.

You may also get options like oats, cornflakes, pancakes, and different types of eggs for breakfast. Options reduce at higher altitudes, but staple foods like bread and eggs are commonly available at any height. Lunch and dinner include noodles, pasta, and sometimes pizzas, but higher above the food stalls, it gets challenging to provide certain things due to transport issues.

As the altitude rises, fresh produce is scarce, so it's best to avoid meat. Overall, meals are nourishing and sustaining - plenty of energy for the extended days of trekking and an opportunity to sample the delicious local tastes of Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Season

The best time to go to the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during spring- three months between March and May- and during autumn- three months between September and November. These two have really ideal weather conditions. 

During spring, the landscape comes alive with wildflowers, especially with rhododendrons painting it with colored flowers. The temperature generally varies from 2°C to 15°C.

Spring starts in March, and with clear skies and crystal views of the mountains, the trekker will feel depressed as the snow has started melting away. April is the month when everything looks the most beautiful; greenery attains its full capacity, and flowers bloom all over, making the scenery very spectacular.

The other peak time for trekking is autumn, starting from September and continuing up to November. The weather remains stable and dry with clear skies during this period, offering great views of the peaks surrounding it, including that of Mt Manaslu.

Generally, October is considered the best month for trekking because it has comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. During the daytime of this season, temperatures in these areas usually range from 12°C to 15°C, while nights are pretty cold, especially at higher attitudes. This is also the time of some local festivals that add much to the trek.

It is possible to trek in winter from December to February and summer from June to August, but there are still a number of hitches during these seasons. Winter brings freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall at altitude, making trails hard to follow while.

Where in Nepal, summer ushers in monsoon rains that bring about landslides and muddy trails, gradually making it unfavorable for trekking. 

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather

The weather varies throughout the year during the Manaslu Circuit Trek, thus changing the nature of the trek. The best time for the trek is spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November.

Spring temperatures in the lower areas range from 15°C to 25°C. Usually, it is clear and at the most beautiful state; you can see rhododendrons. April is one of the best months, and there is a mild and stable temperature. Many trekkers come at this time. With the increase in height, the temperature goes down, and during night-time, it gets really cold.

Just like autumn, it lies between 10 to 20 degrees. This is also one of the prime seasons to make a trek since the weather is stable and one can enjoy excellent views of the mountains.

June, July, and August coincide with the monsoon season. These months are identified when rainfalls are so heavy that trails become slippery. Landslides do happen during these months. It is still warm but lingers in between 15°C to 25°C. Treks have become much harder with the rain and not much fun.

Winter-December to February, It is cold and mostly carries a temperature below zero at night. It might get difficult to trace the routes as it usually gets covered with snow. While winter trekking may offer crystal-clear views and less crowded trails, this season does require good preparation in order to handle cold temperatures.

 

Transportation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Transport to Manaslu Circuit Trek normally begins from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours and covers around 160 km.

The trip is usually done by private jeep or tourist bus. The cost varies from $10 to $30 depending upon the kind of vehicle and group size. Once at Machha Khola, the trek becomes a walking affair since there are no roads that strike deeper into the circuit. 

The trail itself is well-marked but can also be quite rugged and steep in some areas, requiring trekkers to make their way along various types of terrain, including rocky trails and suspension bridges. Note that local transportation, like shared jeeps that can cut off shorter distances along the trek, is available; however, these are rare. Admittedly, it takes some travel logistics to reach the starting point, but once on the trail, trekking is the main form of transportation through this dramatic part of Nepal. 

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded from moderately difficult to highly difficult considering the altitudinal gain and challenging terrain conditions. Walking over approximately 177 kilometers of distance, trekkers are normally able to complete this in 12 to 20 days, which includes daily walking of 5 to 8 hours. 

Starting off with a few days, this trek includes steep ascents and, particularly in Budhi Gandaki Gorge, which might be really exhausting for trekkers.

Besides, the trekkers have to make their way onto both rocky trails and suspension bridges on uneven surfaces which would bring fatigue eventually, especially to those who are not well-prepared or physically fit. 

Probably the most challenging part of the trek is crossing Larkya La Pass, standing at an altitude of 5,213 meters. At this height, the air gets thin; thus, breathing becomes hard; hence, the risk of altitude sickness increases.

The altitude sickness can be one of the bigger concerns in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, starting from very low elevations to such a high altitude so fast. Symptoms can even start as low as 2,500 meters, even for the most experienced trekkers. 

Moreover, the weather conditions might range from heavy rain during the monsoon months to snow in winter, which may make the trails slippery and challenging. The trek also requires camping in rather isolated regions where the lodging facilities could be more refined, which is why the trekkers mostly carry with them all the supplies and equipment they need. 

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

The Manaslu Circuit Trek map is actually for successfully working one's way through this lovely, challenging route in Nepal. The trek starts off with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which covers a distance of about 160 km and takes approximately 8 to 9 hours in all. From Machha Khola, trekkers follow the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through different villages such as Jagat, and Deng while making gradual ascents.

This map shows day-to-day routes to be trekked, distance, and altitude so that trekkers can very efficiently plan their tour accordingly. Key highlights of the trek include the ascend to Larkya La Pass, which is 5,106 meters above the sea and has a breathtaking view of surrounding peaks, including Mount Manaslu.

 

Manaslu-Circuit-Trek-Map

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

The normal Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for the trek is US $1380 per head, while the discount or group rate is US $1200 per head.

The price includes basic services such as permits, guide and porter costs, meals, and accommodation. The Manaslu Trek Cost will cover your safe and successful trek. However, the subsidized price is pretty group-friendly, making it more amiable. Until this time, World Alpine Treks professionally managed the trek and made it a memorable adventure.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit

Since the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area marked by the government of Nepal, you will require permits to enter the area.

You will require three major permits when trekking in that region: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit or RAP; the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit or MCAP; and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit or ACAP.

You will have to travel in a group of at least two people with a licensed guide. The permit processing is possible only through registered trekking agencies, and they will handle all the necessary paperwork and fees on their behalf.

On the trek route, there are checkposts along Jagat and Samagaon, among others that demand that trekkers show their permits since control mechanisms have been instituted to ensure local regulations aimed at taking care of the ecological balance are followed.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Price

Quoted for $100 per person for the first seven days of the high season fall peak, September to November, and US$15 per person thereafter, a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit currently costs a group a base rate of US$75 in the off-season months December to August. Each day beyond the first seven days adds US$10 on top of that price.

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit costs around $30 per head and so does the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. If you think of diverting to Tsum Valley in your recent tour, then you will be required to part with a total of around $35 for the additional permit.

Such permits can be paid either in USD or, rather, in Nepalese Rupees, keeping in mind an equivalent value in dollars. Therefore, all such permits, generally, are of vast importance in ascertaining the success of safe and legal trekking in this beautiful part of Nepal.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Without Guide

The government’s rule states that no one is allowed to trek through the Manaslu Circuit without a guide. Since Manaslu comes under a restricted area, every trekker must be accompanied by a licensed guide. In basic terms, it is for safety purposes as the trek in this region encompasses a huge variation of altitude with difficult terrain that poses various risks in the form of altitude sickness or interaction with the local community.

For this, trekkers have to pass through a licensed trekking agency through whom a guide can be arranged, and all the regulations of a local nature can be taken care of accordingly. However others may want to travel independently of guiding services, and hence needs to be realized that a guide will legally be required for the trek in this pristine and far-flung area.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Guides and Porters

Since this region does not allow solo trekkers, you must go through a trekking company and hire a guide.

Guides are worth their weight in local knowledge, helping trekkers to negotiate the trails safely and proficiently. They also can be of immense help regarding cultural insights, further enriching the trekking experience. Most guides cost anywhere between $25-$40 depending on experience and the company being trekked with. 

Porters will lighten your load by carrying heavy gear so you can enjoy the trek more. Prices range anywhere from $15-$25 per day. To make things easier, most people hire guides and porters together. Most of the trekking agencies will provide packages for both services combined. This tends to be cheaper and less hassle-free, and it offers security at times during your journey. 

 

WiFi and Internet on Manaslu Trek Nepal

WiFi and mobile internet are available during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. However, it greatly relies on the location and altitude. WiFi services can be offered at most of the teahouses, but generally, one needs to pay a fee in order to use their service. The usual amount for WiFi access would fall between NPR 400 to NPR 600, or about USD 3 to USD 5.

For example, the connection is much better at low altitudes, such as the places of Machha Khola and Jagat. However, it worsens with the increase in altitudinal height again because of things like weather conditions and perhaps too many users operating on the same connection.

Mobile network coverage is also available but becomes limited as you climb higher. You can expect decent coverage up to Samagaon, but beyond that point, connectivity drops dramatically. Beyond Samagaon, the network may reappear at Dharapani, which is approximately a day’s trek from the Larkya La Pass. If you want to use mobile internet, buying a local SIM is a good idea. Generally speaking, the government-owned Nepal Telecom (NTC) offers better coverage compared with the private provider Ncell.

You can buy an NTC SIM card in Kathmandu for around USD 2. You can also get data packages, including 1 GB, for around USD 10. Overall, while there is some internet access along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you should prepare for being disconnected and for slower speeds as you continue into the more remote parts of the Himalayas.

 

Electricity and Battery Charging

Electrical and battery charging facilities are available along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route; however, its accessibility and reliability vary from one place to another. You can get electrical plugs in your room in most of the lower-altitude villages like Soti Khola and Machha Khola, where you can quite easily charge your devices.

However, this is limited as you ascend to higher altitudes, such as in the villages of Samagaon and Dharmashala. At most teahouses, this power is from solar or micro-hydropower, and thus, power outages are common, particularly on cloudy days. Charging your batteries at the lodges normally entails payment of about NPR 250 to NPR 500, approximately USD 2 to USD 4, depending on the place and the type of device.

For example, the price for charging a phone is about NPR 250, while for big batteries or power banks, it is higher. If possible, it’s highly recommended to bring with you a portable power bank or solar charger in order to ensure sufficient power supply during the trek, as charging facilities are not always reliable at higher altitudes. 

 

Drinking Water on Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek has high altitudes and involves some exercise; clean drinking water, therefore, has prime importance in this area. Bottled water can be purchased at the different teahouses on the way. Prices start from about $1 per bottle, where a few bottles are bought daily, probably totaling over $70 on the whole trek. It is recommended that people save money by carrying an extra portable water bottle to avoid plastic waste. 

The teahouses In the lower villages, like Jagat, for example, will often refill your teapot for free. Natural water springs and water taps are accessible for free at higher altitudes; however, the water should be treated with tablets or chlorine before drinking. Treating water prevents gastrointestinal problems. 

 

Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth tallest mountain boasts a height of 8,163m and is the mascot mountain of the Manaslu region in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers one of the most scenic views of terraced farmlands, forests, and the snowy Himalayan treks. This trek is a little different from the others – it brings through the towns to the traditional villages of the Gurung and the Tibetan people.

 The greatest attraction of the trek is to cross the Larke Pass at an elevation of 5,106m and this point offers an excellent view of the mountains. This makes Manaslu less busy than other trekking areas which makes trekking around Manaslu very unique form of Himalayan adventure.

Sitting to the south of Manaslu and often obscured by it, Tsum Valley is also a culturally shocking Himalayan iteration of a Buddhist valley deeply connected to Tibetan traditions. 

This beautiful location has monasteries that are centuries old, such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa which would give travelers opportunities for peeping into the lifestyles of monks and nuns. The valley is scenically located surrounded by deep gorges, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. 

Tsum Valley Trek offers you a different experience of time with untouched areas and ancient culture. Both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek will be loved by nature lovers, anthropology lovers, and those seeking the realization of feeling completely isolated in the middle of the mountains and picturesque valleys of Nepal.

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List

  • Backpack (50-70 litres)
  • Sleeping bag (-10°C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Base layers moist-wicking
  • Mid-layers for insulation (fleece or down jacket)
  • Outer layer waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • Trekking pants and shorts
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • Waterproof and sturdy trekking boots
  • Camp shoes or sandals
  • Several pairs of trekking socks, wool or synthetic
  • First aid kit
  • Personal medications
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration system
  • Snacks: energy bars, nuts, dried fruit
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Lip balm (with SPF)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Camera or smartphone (with extra batteries)
  • Power bank (for charging devices)
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Toiletries: biodegradable soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, wet wipes
  • Towel: quick-dry travel towel
  • Documents: passport, trekking permits, insurance details
  • Cash: Nepali Rupees to pay for teahouses and shops

 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Highest Altitude

The highest point of Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass, at 5,106 m/16,752 ft above sea level. The Crossover of Larkya La also presents steep ascents, and it gets to be very cold, so it is challenging yet rewarding. High Lights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is famous for its diversified landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Prime attractions include very good views of high peaks, including Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Ganesh Himal. 

Not only this, but even in forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages where Gurung and Tibetan communities can be explored. In such treks, ancient Buddhist monasteries can be explored, and local customs and traditions can be experienced.

FAQ's

The Manaslu Circuit Trek can take you between 12-20 days depending on the itinerary you choose.

A licensed guide is indeed compulsory, as solo trekking in this restricted area is not permitted.

The max altitude you will reach at the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 5106 meters which is at Larkya La Pass.

There is a total of three permits needed for this trek- the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Restricted Area Permit costs around $100 for peak season and $75 for off-peak, while MCAP and ACAP cost around $30 each.

No, an independent trek is not allowed there; at least you need to have one local guide and a minimum of two trekkers in your group.

The best seasons are during spring, from March to May, and during autumn, between September and November, since the weather is good during these seasons.

Most of the teahouses will have electricity to which you will be able to recharge devices, but this service may come with a price.

The difficult terrains and high altitude mean that this trek involves moderate to strenuous trekking.

Yes, altitude sickness may occur; thus, acclimatization has to be done properly with a knowledge of symptoms.

Yes, it is possible, but the Manaslu Circuit combines with Tsum Valley and requires some extra permits.

Tea houses serve the usual Nepalese food and snacks like Dal Bhat, noodles, and Tibetan bread, supplemented by some Western options.

You do find WiFi in some teahouses, but it's sometimes a bit slow and not as reliable the higher up.

Most trekkers take an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. This takes around 8-10 hours.

Yes, it offers views of ancient monasteries and chortens; local culture can also be seen in villages that dot the route.

The possible wildlife spotting includes Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopards, and many bird species.

High-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation covered by travel insurance is highly recommendable.

You are supposed to take care of your permits; without a permit at checkposts en route, you will be sent back.

Cardiovascular exercises, like hiking, running, and cycling, are helpful in building endurance before the trip.

Normally, it is allowed; however, respect the local customs and manners by asking permission for photos that include people.

Always inform the guide in case of emergencies. Guides are trained to respond to these situations and they are going to help with evacuations when needed.

The weather also changes very fast. One must be flexible about the program, such that there might be rain or snow, after which the trails are going to be blocked.

There are problems due to altitude sickness, hard terrain difficulties, unpredictable weather changes, and unfriendly facilities on higher altitudes.

Although a great number of travelers do it without getting involved in serious accidents, it is always better to be in groups or to use reputed services for transport and accommodations.

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Chiakiar, HongKong

ABC Sanctuary Trek

I recently embarked on the ABC Sanctuary Trek with the World Alpine Trek and had the privilege of being guided by Deepak. I can confidently say that it was an extraordinary experience that exceeded all expectations.

It's so important for me to feel relaxed and relieved not only during the trek but before and after that.
He is very faithful and suave, which gave me such feelings perfectly.
Needless to say, the 2 treks he organized were awesome.

Moreover, I'm glad to know there is a woman who works for this company. I'm hopeful for his company's growth.
I believe a new era has come to this fascinating country and this company will lead that.
Good luck, Shubha Kamana.


 

Price: US $1720 US $1199 Per Person
Min Person Amount
2 - 2 pax US $1380
3 - 7 pax US $1250
8 - 11 pax US $1230
12 + US $1199
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Duration 14 Days
Best Season March - Dec
Grade Challenging
Max Elevation5160m/16873ft
Group Size 2-20 Pax

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