Our Manaslu Circuit trek guide is your complete resource for planning one of Nepal’s most remarkable Himalayan adventures. Circling Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) — the eighth-highest mountain in the world — this route blends remote mountain scenery, Tibetan-influenced culture, and a true sense of wilderness.
If you’ve already trekked to Everest Base Camp or through the Annapurna region, the Manaslu Circuit trek offers your next challenge — quieter, rawer, and every bit as rewarding.
Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit
The Manaslu Circuit trek is best completed in either spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November).
- Autumn: The skies are clear, mountain views are sharp, and conditions for crossing Larke La are ideal.
- Spring: Wildflowers fill the lower forests, and days are warmer, with occasional clouds in the afternoon.
Avoid midwinter (snow makes the pass impassable) and monsoon months (heavy rain and leeches in lower regions).
Permits and Regulations
Since Manaslu is a restricted area, trekkers require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) plus entry permits for both the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP).
Your trekking company and guide will handle this entire process for you. Trek Climb Ski Nepal will ensure every permit is correctly issued before departure and coordinates all logistics so you can focus purely on the experience.
Typical Route and Duration
Most itineraries for the Manaslu Circuit trek take 12–14 days, beginning at Machha Khola and finishing at Dharapani or Besisahar. Key villages include:
- Jagat
- Deng
- Namrung
- Lho
- Samagaun
- Samdo
- Dharamsala
- Bimthang
The highlight of the trek is the Larke La Pass (5,106 m) — a breathtaking, snow-covered crossing offering unmatched Himalayan panoramas.
👉 For a full day-by-day journey and photos, see our Manaslu Circuit Trek page
Fitness and Difficulty
The Manaslu trek is graded moderate to challenging. Expect 5 – 7 hours of trekking per day, with gradual altitude gain and one major pass crossing.
Proper acclimatisation days are built into the itinerary at Samagaun or Samdo, ensuring your body adjusts to the altitude. A good base fitness level — walking, hiking, or stair training — will make a big difference to your enjoyment and comfort.
Accommodation and Meals
You’ll stay in local lodges — small, family-run guesthouses offering hot meals and warm hospitality. Rooms are simple but comfortable, and dining areas usually feature a wood burning stove for warmth.
Meals are filling and fresh, with options like rice and lentils, chicken, noodles, soups, or potatoes. At Trek Climb Ski Nepal, we maintain an all-you-can-eat food policy, ensuring every trekker stays fuelled for altitude and effort.
What to Pack
Weather changes fast on the Manaslu Circuit. A good layering system is key:
- Lightweight trekking clothing for lower altitudes
- Down jacket*, gloves, and thermals for higher camps
- Waterproof (Gore-tex or equivalent) jacket
- Trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Sleeping bag* rated to –15 °C
- Trekking poles, sunglasses, headlamp
- Power bank for mobile phone
- Wet wipes and personal items
*A hire down jacket and sleeping bag is supplied on all Trek Climb Ski Nepal trips. See our Everest Base Camp packing guide for detailed packing guidance.
Responsible Trekking and Local Culture
The Manaslu Circuit trek passes through ancient Buddhist villages, where prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries mark the path. Respecting local customs is part of the journey — always walk clockwise around shrines, dress modestly, and support local tea houses and shops.
We’re proud to work closely with the local communities who make this region so special. Learn more about this on our Valued Partners page.
Costs and Inclusions
A typical Manaslu Circuit trek package costs around AUD 3,800 – 4,800, depending on group size and inclusions. This generally covers:
- All permits and park fees
- Kathmandu accommodation
- Lodging and all meals on trek
- Experienced Sherpa guides and porters
- Private vehicle transfers to and from Kathmandu
Extras include drinks, tips, and personal travel insurance.
Why Trek with Trek Climb Ski Nepal
For over two decades, Trek Climb Ski Nepal has led safe, successful Himalayan expeditions — from Everest and Annapurna to the wild valleys of Manaslu. Our approach is simple: expert Sherpa leadership, strong safety culture, and exceptional hospitality.
When you trek with us, you experience Nepal the way it should be — authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding.
Plan Your Adventure
We trust you’ve found our Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide helpful. If you’ve been dreaming about a remote, culturally rich journey in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit trek delivers everything a true Himalayan adventure should.
👉 Start planning your next exciting adventure today. Read our full Manaslu Circuit Nepal article or explore our Everest Base Camp Treks for more inspiration.
