Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Manaslu Circuit Trek Summary

The Manaslu Circuit Trek, a very popular but yet less crowded trek unlike Annapurna Base Camp, is an excellent trekking tour that encircles the mighty (Mount Manaslu (8,163 m or 26,781 ft), the eighth-highest peak in the world in northern Gorkha district, Nepal. Join our life-changing Manaslu Circuit Trekking with an 11-day Manaslu Trek short itinerary and inclusive tour price with complete services including a local guide, permit, and all the necessities for the years 2025 and 2026.

Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Soti Khola, at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level, and is a charming village on the bank of the Budhi Gandaki River. From lush rice paddies terraced fields with water buffalo and thatched huts, we walk north along the incredible, mountain-capped high route, through sprawling Gurung villages perched on high, terraced hilltops covered in rhododendron, to reach Kutang, or lower Nubri. Here, the ethnically Tibetan inhabitants speak their dialect, partly Tibetan and partly Gurung, and live a lifestyle that spans Nepal and Tibet.

Trekking to Manaslu Circuit is ever higher to upper Nubri, purely Tibetan culture and tradition; we share the trails with yak caravans. Here, trade with Tibet continues as it has for centuries, and Tibetan villages have been forged from the wilderness by Tibetan refugees. Inspiring mountain panoramas, dominated by Manaslu itself, are a highlight of the trek, as are day hikes to Pun Gyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaun, and Rui La, a traditional trade route to Tibet at the Nepal-Tibet border from Samdo Village, the valley above Samdo near the border of Tibet, and the epic crossing of the snow-covered Manaslu Larke Pass to Bimtang and Manang regions of the Annapurna circuit. This rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek program is planned for those fit and strong people already acclimatized in the Alps or the Himalayas with previous trekking experience that allows them to experience the marvelous Manaslu region in a short period. If you are looking for a relaxing and leisurely Manaslu trek, we recommend you choose our 13 Days around Manaslu Trek program, which allows you to have a proper acclimatization process and trek without rush, or the Manaslu Trek with Tsum Valley which requires a minimum of 18 days to complete the trek. 

What makes Manaslu Circuit Trekking in Nepal special?

According to trekking professionals, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best among all the treks in Nepal. Although it’s recently grown in popularity, the Manaslu Trek remains remote and less crowded compared to the well-established teahouse treks in Nepal. The trek takes you through unique Nupri culture, villages, and a gorgeous mountain trail that leads to Manang through Larke Pass (5135 meters high)

The main features of Manaslu Trekking are

  • It is a popular trek but still less trekked compared to peers at Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp. The word is getting out about Manaslu, but there are still about 10 times fewer trekkers on the Manaslu Trail.
  • The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area where foreign trekkers must be accompanied by a registered guide as per state law. Solo Manaslu Circuit Trekking and trekking to Manaslu Circuit without a guide are not permitted
  • The hike around Manaslu offers wild and wilderness experiences with authentic local culture and people, but it is no longer a camping trek.
  • Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a tea house trek (lodge-to-lodge trek), so it doesn't require any camping gear. 
  • easily accessed, and no stressful domestic flights are required.
  • The first part of the trail follows the Buri Gandaki, a deep, long river gorge with many suspension bridge crossings. 
  • This trek fulfills all the taste of Nepal: you'll walk from the subtropical jungle at lower altitudes through the Himalayan foothills to the alpine zone, the cold and daring Larkya Pass above 5100 meters (17,000 ft).

How do I get to the Manaslu Circuit? 

Public buses leave every morning between 6 and 7 am from Kathmandu to Arughat-Soti Khola. If you are trekking around the Dashain festival, local buses are overloaded as more than two million people leave Kathmandu Valley for various destinations to celebrate the Dashain festival and visit their families back home in the villages during the holiday. It is hard to get a seat on buses for the last hour of booking if your trek is around a festival that usually falls at the end of September and October. Except around festival time, there are easily available bus seats. If you are in groups of 3 to 4 or above and considering renting a private Jeep, it is a good choice because it provides way better and more comfortable travel and will cost an extra fee of USD 175, which is a shared price among the participants. 

The alternative Manaslu Circuit Trek Route & Trail to avoid road

Now, the Nepali army has been constructing the road since 2014, and the government plans to link roads to the Tibet border. So because of road construction, the first part of the Manaslu Trekking Trail has been affected, and trekkers have to walk on unsealed roads for the first 2 days. And soon, in the future, they will build the road even further up to Sama Gaun and then link to China (Tibet). A new alternative trail has been researched through the village of Arughat (600 m), Manbu-Kashi Gaon (1800 m), and Kerauja (2075 m), finally conjoining to the main Manaslu route at Dovan This new trail has basic logistics and trekking is more aerobic since it involves much up and down, but this “off-beaten trail” rewards with the experience of various ethnic groups of Ghale, Magar, and Gurung people, villages and real culture. Trekking through alternative trails will take a couple of extra days, so your Manaslu trek will be around two weeks long.   

Transportation to the Manaslu Circuit Trekking start point from Kathmandu? 

Local buses are often full of passengers, even in the passages. They stop many times to take people in and drop them off. Usually, local people travel with a basket of vegetables, sometimes chicken, and a bag of rice. Drivers play non-stop music during the journey. You might find less legroom as it is sized for Asian people. Still, many of our Western clients use it, It is good if you want to experience the locals and don’t mind doing as the locals do. And, of course, it comes at a cheap cost. And yes, you have a choice to opt to rent a comfortable private jeep, as said above. 

What will the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek be? 

Yes, this quescost of manaslu circuit trektion can be the first among many Manaslu circuit trek questions. To answer this question, we need to know your trekking requirements. Guide in Himalaya: the best local trekking agency for the Manaslu Circuit Trip is economically affordable; the package price is USD 869 per adult based on a minimum of two people sharing for the 11 days Manaslu Circuit Trek Package. The price includes a guide, porter, meals, lodges, Manaslu Trekking Permits, local bus transportation, and a public shared Jeep after the trek to return to Kathmandu and you can end this trip in Pokhara. Our Manaslu Circuit Trek guide will assist you in getting a bus ticket to Pokhara from Besishahar.

The cost varies depending on the following factors:

  • If you choose a private vehicle instead of the local bus,
  • Group size does affect price; the larger the group, the lower the cost.
  • Many people prefer private groups in terms of making the itinerary flexible. 
  • The duration of the trek and the selection of trekking day matter for the trip cost. 
  • Camping treks are more expensive than Teahouse treks in terms of price in Nepal.
  • Extra services like appetizers, hot table drinks in pots, hot bags, etc. will cost extra. 
  • Including accommodation, meals, transfers, and sightseeing in Kathmandu. 

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

The distance of Manaslu Circuit is roughly 177 km (109.983 miles), and it differs depending on where you start your trek and where you conclude the tour. On the other hand, Nepal is the only country where trekking distance is measured in days. Typically, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 12 to 14 days long. If you include more side visits, it will take more days.A sidee trip to Tsum Valley requires an extra time of 5 to 7 days, and there are many other day-long side trip destinations such as Serang Gonpa, Kaal Taal (Death Lake), Hinang Gompa, Himalchuli Base Camp, Manaslu Base Camp, Pungyen Gompa, Rui La, etc. Hence, the itinerary is determined according to the time you have, yourinterestst, your previous trekkinghabitst, your physical fitness, etc.  Our 11-day pre-set trip is a short version of the Manaslu trek that is primarily designed for fit trekkers traveling on a budget.  If you are not happy with this itinerary, for a customized trip, please get in touch with us. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

We have provided a 10-night, 11-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary for fit and young budget trekkers; this includes a two-day drive and a nine-day hike. However, this trek can last up to 21 days, depending on the side visits you include in the trek (check the best-recommended side trips while doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek), the pace of your walk, and the number of days you need for the trek. Some gentle trekkers tend to begin the trek at a lower altitude for a proper acclimatization process that also varies your trek itinerary. 

Brief Itinerary

Day 01: Land travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869 m/2850 ft) 160 Km, 8 to 9 hours
Day 02: Hike from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340 m/4395ft) Walking Distance: 21 km/6 to 7 Hours
Day 03: Jagat to Deng (2095 m/6871ft) Walking Distance: 20 Km/7 Hours
Day 04: Deng to Namrung (2900m/9512ft) Walking Distance: 19.4 km/6/7 6/7 Hours
Day 05: Lho Gaun to Samagaun (3500 m/11480ft) Walking Distance: 8.5 Km/4 Hours
Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Samagaun; hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp.
Day 07: Samagaun to Samdo (3690 m/12103ft) Walking Distance: 8 Km/3-4 Hours
Day 08: Samdo to Dharamsala (4450 m/14596ft) Walking Distance: 7 Km/4-5 Hours
Day 09: Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3590 m/11775ft) traverse Larkya La Pass (5125 m/16812 ft) 23 KM / 8-9 Hours
Day 10: Bhimtang to Tilje or Dharapani (2300 m/7545ft) Walking Distance: 20 Km/8-9 Hours
Day 11: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar to Kathmandu/Pokhara. Long day drive

Trip Highlights

  • A scenic ride through charming landscape to Machha Khola from Kathmandu.
  • Hike around the world’s eighth-tallest peak; Mount Manaslu (8163m)
  • Short and best itinerary for fit and adventure trekking passionates.
  • Manaslu Route; the blend of culture and natural heritages.
  • Hike through the Budhi Gandaki River gorge
  • Pass through the dramatic Larke Pass that offers a memorizing panoramic view
  • A life-changing mountain holiday in Nepal.
  • Value for money and all-inclusive package. 

Itinerary

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1
Day 01: Drive to Machha Khola (869m) from Kathmandu

Early morning, drive to Arughat to Maccha Khoal, some 8 hours by bus and then connecting jeep to Machha Khola or rent a private jeep for more comfortable drive. After getting at Arughat we have a connecting local bus/jeep ride to Machha Khola, at the bank of Budhi Gandaki River. Overnight in trekking lodge. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Cost Includes:

  • A government-registered local friendly trekking Manaslu Trekking Guide.
  • One sharing porter between two trekkers to carry your main pack (weight limit 20 kg).
  • Fullboard Meals: 10 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, and 10 Dinners during the trek.
  • Hot table drinks: tea three times a day during the trek.
  • Manaslu Trek ground transportation by public shared vehicles.
  • Group first aid kit and water purifier tablet.
  • Accommodation on a twin-shared basis in the teahouses.
  • Guide and porter fee with all their other expenses.
  • One complimentary Manaslu Trekking Map
  • All necessary Manaslu Trekking Permits.
  • Insurance and trekking gear for guide and porters.
  • Manaslu Trek documentation fee and the taxes.
  • Renting down sleeping bag (if necessary) 
  • Rescue operation co-ordination with your travel insurance company in case of any emergency.  

 

Cost Excludes:

  • Airport shuttles, hotels, and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Guided tour and heritage entrance fees in Kathmandu
  • Bar and beverages drinks during the trek
  • Hot shower, hot water, internet, and phone calls.
  • Toiletries and other personal nature expenses. 
  • Personal travel insurance and trekking equipment.
  • Rescue operation charge in case of emergency.
  • Tips for your guide/porter.

Dates & Prices

We are a local trekking agency based in Kathmandu; we guarantee small private group departures on any date that suits your time. Contact us for your customized departure date, itinerary, and price. 

Start Date End Date Availability Price  
12 July, 2025 22 July, 2025 Available US$ 869
26 July, 2025 05 August, 2025 Available US$ 869
Rated 5/5 based on 4 reviews
  • Lifetime Experience Manaslu Trek
    United States

    Lifetime Experience Manaslu Trek

    Rating:

    If you are interested in doing a trek in Nepal, I highly recommend Guide in Himalaya. After shopping around my friends and I settled on using this company for several reasons. Pardip is easy to work with, responsive, and offered a fair price. The trip views, guide, and experience were excellent.  If you have specific interests for a particular trek, make sure to mention those beforehand. We had some difficulty communicating trip adjustments to our guide.

  • Manaslu Circuit Trek - 2018
    United States

    Manaslu Circuit Trek - 2018

    Rating:

    While searching for a reliable trekking agency in Nepal for the Manaslu Circuit trek, I came across Pradip online. His prompt responses and clear communication stood out immediately—his excellent English made planning effortless. He tailored a perfect itinerary of the 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek to fit our tight schedule and arranged an experienced guide who knew the Manaslu Circuit intimately and spoke decent English. The trek was absolutely incredible—flawless from start to finish. Without a doubt, 10/10! We are very happy that we chose this adventure."

  • Manaslu Circuit Trek (2015)
    Germany

    Manaslu Circuit Trek (2015)

    Rating:

    Manaslu Circuit Trek 2015: A Journey from "Namaste" to "Tashidelek" and Beyond! As first-time trekkers in Nepal, we set out to explore the Manaslu Circuit in October 2015—geared up with a deep appreciation for local culture and a commitment to eco-friendly travel. However, the devastating earthquakes earlier that year left us uncertain: Were the trails safe? Was it ethical to visit so soon, or would our presence feel like crisis tourism? Safety was also a major concern—not just for us, but for our guide and porter. We nearly postponed the trip—until we met Pradip Tamang from Wilderness Excursions Pvt. Ltd., a turning point that transformed our entire experience. Pradip wasn’t just a guide; he was a walking encyclopedia of the Manaslu region. His expertise covered everything from altitude sickness and trail conditions to local customs, flora, and fauna. What set him apart was his honesty—he gave us clear, realistic expectations while remaining flexible to adapt to the post-earthquake landscape. His deep connections in the area meant we had reliable, up-to-date information at every step. We wanted an authentic, low-impact journey—no tourist traps, just real encounters with local life. Pradip made it happen: staying in homestays, cooking dal bhat together, learning to make momos, and warming up with dudh chiya (milk tea) by the fire after long trekking days. Thanks to him, we didn’t just see Nepal—we experienced it, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s challenges and resilience. Beyond the incredible landscapes, what made this trip unforgettable was Pradip himself—along with his assistant, Rahul. Their professionalism, warmth, and dedication turned a simple trek into an adventure we’ll always cherish. Now, we’re already dreaming of our next trek—perhaps Dolpa?

  • Manaslu Circuit Trek 2011 with Pradip
    Switzerland

    Manaslu Circuit Trek 2011 with Pradip

    Rating:

    I recently had the incredible opportunity to trek the Mystique Manaslu Circuit Trek with my mom, cousin sister, and her husband. The Manaslu Circuit Trek was nothing short of magical—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left us in awe of Nepal's breathtaking landscapes. Our guide, Pradip Tamang, was exceptional—knowledgeable, passionate, and full of energy. We booked our trip through his newly established company, and he went above and beyond to make our journey unforgettable. This was my seventh time visiting Nepal, yet the country never fails to amaze me. From the majestic Himalayas to its hidden paradise and village charm, Nepal remains a unique destination for adventure enthusiasts. I’m already dreaming of my next trip back to explore more of its stunning trails after this Manaslu Circuit Trek!" Thank you Guide in Himalaya and Team

Trip Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

Useful Info

Trip Note: This trip can be modified as per your travel needs that meet your time and budget. The package price we have offered here is on double occupancy basis. The trip cost will be according to trip mode and group volume. Using private vehicle to Machha Khola will cost extra 225 (share the price in group). Please kindly do let us know if you want us to include the accommodation in Kathmandu. International tour leaders are highly encouraged to get discounted rates. 

Trip Price: US$ 869
  • Trip Duration 11 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Trip Difficulty Medium Hard
  • Trip StyleTrekking
  • AccomodationTeahouse and Lodge
  • Transportation: Local Bus, Jeep
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max Person: 15 Pax
  • Min Person: 2 Pax
  • Max Elevation: 5135m
  • Daily walking hours: 5-7 Hours.
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