Manaslu Circuit Trek
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable Himalayan journey through the Manaslu Conservation Area, circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mount Manaslu (8,163 m). Covering approximately 177 kilometers, the trek begins in the subtropical valleys of the Budhi Gandaki River and ascends to the challenging Larke Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the route. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Major attractions include Machha Khola, Namrung, Samagaon, Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, Samdo, and the dramatic crossing of Larke Pass.
The trek offers a rich cultural experience among Gurung and Tibetan-influenced communities, where Buddhism is deeply rooted in daily life, reflected in ancient monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags. Vegetation varies from dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak to alpine meadows and rugged high-altitude terrain. Local people depend on farming, trade, tourism, and yaks, which are vital for transporting goods across mountain trails. The conservation area is also home to diverse wildlife, including the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan monal. Combining spectacular mountain scenery, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystems, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking adventures.
Day-by-day itinerary
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Transfer from the trailhead and begin walking into the Manaslu region, settling into the first overnight stop.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A short excursion nearby to aid acclimatization, followed by an easy afternoon at altitude.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A short excursion nearby to aid acclimatization, followed by an easy afternoon at altitude.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
A short excursion nearby to aid acclimatization, followed by an easy afternoon at altitude.
A full trekking day through changing scenery, with stops in local villages along the way.
The main scenic highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, reached after an early start.
Final travel day back to the start point, with time to rest before your onward journey.
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Domestic flights/transport as required
- Tea house accommodation throughout the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Licensed English-speaking guide and porters
- Required permits for the Manaslu region
- First-aid kit and satellite communication device
Not included
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance (mandatory, incl. helicopter evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Tips for guides and porters
Packing list
Safety & permits
- Manaslu Region Permit / TIMS card - arranged by your guide before the trek begins
Trekker reviews
1 review
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Ravi Menon
Remote and demanding in the best way. Restricted-area paperwork was completely painless.