Manaslu Circuit
A remote and less-crowded circuit around the world's 8th highest peak through pristine Himalayan landscapes.
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an incredible journey around Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth highest peak. This restricted area trek offers a more remote and authentic Himalayan experience compared to the more commercialized routes. The trail passes through dramatic gorges, subtropical forests, traditional Tibetan villages, and high alpine terrain before crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,106m. The cultural diversity is remarkable — from Hindu lowland villages to Buddhist highland communities influenced by Tibetan culture.
16
Days
Challenging
Difficulty
Manaslu
Region
Highlights
- ✓Trek to the base of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)
- ✓Cross Larkya La Pass at 5,106m
- ✓Explore ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries
- ✓Walk through pristine and uncrowded trails
- ✓Dramatic scenery of Himachuli and Cheo Himal
- ✓Rich cultural diversity from Hindu to Buddhist traditions
- ✓Traditional villages of Nubri and Tsum Valley nearby
Gallery
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive and transfer to hotel. Trek briefing.
Drive to Soti Khola
Drive through scenic countryside to the trailhead at Soti Khola.
Trek to Machha Khola
Follow the Budhi Gandaki river gorge through small villages.
Trek to Jagat
Continue through the gorge crossing several suspension bridges.
Trek to Deng
Enter the restricted area. Trek through forests and villages.
Trek to Namrung
Trek through subtropical forests with views of Manaslu.
Trek to Samagaon
Arrive at Samagaon, the main village at the base of Manaslu.
Acclimatization Day
Day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) or Pungyen Gompa.
Trek to Samdo
Short hike to the Tibetan refugee village of Samdo near the border.
Trek to Dharamsala
Trek to Larkya Phedi/Dharamsala, the base for Larkya La crossing.
Cross Larkya La, Trek to Bimthang
Early morning crossing of Larkya La (5,106m). Long descent to Bimthang.
Trek to Tilije
Descend through rhododendron forests to the village of Tilije.
Trek to Tal
Continue descent through beautiful villages and past waterfalls.
Trek to Syange
Final trekking day through the Marsyangdi valley.
Drive to Kathmandu
Drive from trail back to Kathmandu via Besisahar.
Departure
Transfer to airport for onward journey.
Inclusions
- ✓Airport transfers
- ✓Hotel in Kathmandu
- ✓Restricted area permit
- ✓Manaslu Conservation Area permit
- ✓Tea house accommodation
- ✓All meals during trek
- ✓Licensed trekking guide
- ✓Porter
- ✓Kathmandu-Soti Khola transport
- ✓Return transport to Kathmandu
Exclusions
- ✗International flights
- ✗Insurance
- ✗Meals in Kathmandu
- ✗Personal expenses
- ✗Tips
Packing List
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this a restricted area?
Manaslu is near the Tibet border. A special restricted area permit is required.
How crowded is the trail?
Much less crowded than Everest or Annapurna, especially before Samagaon.
Read Before You Book
- ⚠Restricted area permit requires a minimum of 2 trekkers
- ⚠Good physical condition is essential
- ⚠Remote area with limited facilities
Starting from
$1690
per person (USD)
Based on 100+ reviews