Manaslu Circuit Trek: Itinerary, Permits, Difficulty and Best Time

Manaslu stands in the Gorkha district of Nepal, roughly 100 kilometres north-west of Kathmandu, close to the border with Tibet. At 8,163 m it is the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The name comes from Sanskrit and translates roughly as "mountain of the spirit". The circuit lies between the Annapurna massif to the west and the Ganesh Himal to the east, a position that gives it a character quite different from both its neighbours.

The route of the Manaslu Circuit follows the Budhi Gandaki river northwards from the lowland village of Machha Khola, climbing through progressively narrower gorges, suspension bridges and terraced farmland before the valley opens out into the Nubri valley higher up. From there the trail crosses the Larkya La, also known as the Larke Pass, at 5,106 m, and descends steeply into the Marsyangdi valley. At Dharapani the Manaslu Circuit joins the Annapurna Circuit route, and from there transport takes you to Besisahar and back to Kathmandu.

Manaslu Circuit Nepal: where the trek starts and finishes

Trekking Manaslu in Nepal starts with a full day on the road: from Kathmandu you drive via Dhading Besi into the Budhi Gandaki valley to Machha Khola, where the walking begins the next morning. The circuit finishes at Dharapani on the Annapurna side; from there it is about five hours by 4x4 or bus to Besisahar for the last night, and on the final day you drive back to Kathmandu. On our trek the airport pick-up and all these transfers are included; hotel nights in Kathmandu before and after the trek are not, so plan at least one night on each side of your flights.

The restricted-area status of the Manaslu region exists because of its proximity to the Tibetan border. The practical effect for trekkers is significant: visitor numbers are kept low, the trail infrastructure remains simple and the villages along the upper Budhi Gandaki have not been reshaped by mass tourism. In Samagaon, Samdo and the villages between them, Tibetan-influenced culture, language and religion are part of everyday life rather than a display for visitors. Samdo itself lies about four kilometres from the Tibetan border, which trekkers may not cross; there is a Tibetan refugee settlement there that gives the village a distinct character.

If you are deciding between the Manaslu Circuit and Nepal's more famous routes, the honest summary is this: the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal offers quiet trails, genuinely remote villages and a compulsory licensed guide who becomes your main point of contact for the duration; the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp offer more variety in lodge comfort and more trekker company on the trail. Neither is objectively better, but they suit different people. Our 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek covers 122 km over ten walking days, with the longest single day reaching 18.4 km.

Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary: the route day by day

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek runs over 13 days from Kathmandu: ten walking days, one acclimatisation day in Samagaon and two driving days at the start and end. Total distance is 122 km, total ascent 5,670 m, total descent 4,950 m. The table below gives the exact figures for each stage.

Days 2 to 4: the lower Budhi Gandaki valley. These are three of the longest days by distance, and the ones where most trekkers feel the first real physical effort. The trail climbs in and out of river gorges, crosses a series of suspension bridges that seem to hang from nothing, and passes through Gurung and Magar villages with terraced fields on the slopes. On Day 2 you reach Tatopani, where natural hot springs offer a genuine reward after the first full day on the trail. The path narrows and steepens as you move north, and by the time you reach Deng on Day 3 (the longest day at 18.4 km) the character of the valley has begun to shift.

Days 5 to 9: into the Nubri valley. The stages become shorter here, and that is intentional. Days 5 and 6 ease you into higher altitude before Samagaon, the cultural heart of the trek, where you spend the full rest day on Day 7. From Samagaon you get your first sustained close view of the Manaslu, with glaciers filling the upper valley. Day 8 to Samdo is a gentle three-hour walk through increasingly high, open terrain; Samdo sits close to the Tibetan border and has a different feel from the lower villages. Day 9, the short climb to Dharamsala, is designed to leave your legs fresh for the following morning.

Days 10 to 12: the pass, the descent and the road. Day 10 is the defining day of the whole Manaslu Circuit Trek: an early departure from Dharamsala, a long climb over moraine to the Larkya La at 5,106 m, and then 1,440 m of descent to Bhimtang, arriving often as dusk settles. Day 11 is a long descent of 1,820 m through rhododendron forest to Tilche. On Day 12 a short two-hour walk reaches Dharapani, where you join the road and take a vehicle to Besisahar for the final night before the drive home.

Why 13 days? Itineraries for the Manaslu Circuit range from about 12 to 20 days. Longer versions usually add days in Kathmandu, extra acclimatisation or spare days for bad weather. The trailhead and the end point now lie deeper in the valleys than they used to, so our itinerary starts and finishes where the walking is worthwhile and avoids long stretches on the road, while keeping the rest day in Samagaon and the short day below the pass.

Manaslu Circuit trek map and navigation

The route follows one main valley up and another down, which makes the overall direction straightforward. Your licensed guide leads the way each day, knows every village and lodge, and handles decisions about where to stop. A printed route map is included in our trek, and the trip page shows every stage with its distance and ascent. See the full Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary with stage-by-stage detail on the trip page.

Manaslu Base Camp: the side trip on the rest day

On Day 7 in Samagaon, with a full acclimatisation day available, you have the option to hike towards Manaslu Base Camp. The approach gives excellent views of the Manaslu glacier and icefall, Samdo peak, Nagdi Chuli and Simnang Himal surrounding you. This is a steep climb well above the village, and the idea is not to reach a fixed point but to go as high as feels comfortable and then turn around; the altitude gain helps your body prepare for the Larke Pass three days later. The side trip is optional and your guide will give you an honest assessment of conditions and your readiness on the morning.

The best months for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are October and November in autumn and April and early May in spring. Both windows offer stable weather and clear mountain views; outside them, the trek becomes either much harder or inadvisable.

Autumn (September to November). This is the peak trekking season across Nepal. After the monsoon the skies clear, the views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks are at their sharpest, and the trail is in good condition. September can still bring residual rain from the tail of the monsoon; October is widely considered the prime month. November is quieter on the trail and noticeably colder at night and on the Larke Pass, but the clarity is excellent.

Spring (March to May). The second season brings longer days, rhododendron blossom in the lower forests, and gradually warming temperatures as the weeks progress. It is the second-busiest time on the trail. Late April and early May are the sweet spot before the first monsoon cloud arrives.

Monsoon (June to August). Heavy and persistent rain makes this period unsuitable for most trekkers. Landslides are a real risk on the steeper sections of the Budhi Gandaki valley, paths can become impassable and cloud often hides the peaks.

Winter (December to February). The Larkya La can be heavily snowbound or closed altogether, and a number of lodges shut for the season. Experienced cold-weather trekkers sometimes attempt it, but it is not recommended as a first visit to the Manaslu region.

For UK and US travellers, an October or November departure fits neatly with the post-summer window and brings some of the clearest mountain days of the year. If you are reading this in winter or early spring, you are in the planning phase for either the coming spring season or the following autumn. Permits, guide, porter and lodges all need to be arranged in advance, and lodges fill up in peak season, so booking early pays off. See our best time for trekking in Nepal guide for a full breakdown across all routes, and browse all Nepal treks if you are still comparing options.

Choosing between the Manaslu Circuit and the Annapurna Circuit for trekking in Nepal involves considering various factors that cater to individual preferences and trekking goals.

The Manaslu Circuit stands out for its relatively lower popularity, offering a less crowded and more remote trekking experience. The trail takes you off the beaten path, providing a sense of exploration and adventure. The region is known for its cultural diversity, with encounters with different ethnic groups like the Nubri and Tsum people. The restricted access and special trekking permit add to the trek's appeal, contributing to the preservation of the area's natural and cultural heritage. Additionally, the trek offers stunning views of Mount Manaslu, at 8163 meters the eighth highest mountain in the world. On the other hand, the Annapurna Circuit has its own attractions, including diverse landscapes, ethnic villages, and the iconic Thorong La Pass. It is more developed in terms of infrastructure and facilities, making it a more accessible option for some trekkers.

The decision between the two treks depends on personal preferences for solitude, cultural diversity, and the level of adventure sought. Both the Manaslu Circuit and the Annapurna Circuit offer unique experiences, and the choice ultimately rests on the trekker's individual priorities and interests.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately hard to hard. There is no technical climbing involved; it is a tea-house trek walked in boots, without ropes or glacier equipment. Our trip page grades it Intermediate. The difficulty comes from the combination of three factors, and understanding each one helps you prepare realistically.

Fitness. The trek covers 122 km over ten walking days, with 5,670 m of total ascent. Five walking days are longer than 15 km (Days 2, 3, 4, 10 and 11), and five of them take between seven and nine hours. Your legs need to be accustomed to consecutive days of climbing and descending with a daypack, not just a single long day-walk.

Altitude. The Larkya La at 5,106 m is the highest point, and the nights before the pass are all spent high up in the valley. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level or prior experience at altitude. That is precisely why the acclimatisation day in Samagaon and the deliberately short stage to Dharamsala are fixed parts of the itinerary and not optional rest days. Your guide carries an altitude kit and checks pulse and oxygen saturation twice a day throughout the trek. Talk to your doctor about altitude before you travel.

Comfort. The lodges on the Manaslu Circuit are simpler than those on the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna trails. Hot water and reliable electricity are not guaranteed everywhere, particularly at higher altitudes, and you will sleep in basic rooms. The trek demands a degree of tolerance for modest conditions that some routes in Nepal do not require.

Who does it suit? Healthy, well-prepared hikers with experience of multi-day mountain walks manage it well. Can a fit beginner do it? Honestly, yes, if they train seriously and are comfortable with the idea of a remote, high-altitude route where evacuation is not straightforward. That said, most first-time high-altitude trekkers find a shorter route a better introduction; our guide to trekking in Nepal covers the full range of options. Training should build over several weeks, combining long uphill walks with descents and including at least a few consecutive days carrying a daypack.

Larkya La (Larke Pass): the crux of the circuit

Day 10 begins with an early start from Dharamsala. The first section climbs steadily over moraine, and the gradient increases as you approach the top of the Larke Pass. At 5,106 m the pass is marked by prayer flags; on a clear morning the views take in Himlung, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and the Annapurnas stretching to the south-west. From the top, the descent to Bhimtang drops 1,440 m, which is both the long section that makes the day roughly nine hours in total and the point at which tired legs feel it most. Depending on the season, there can be snow on the pass. Arrival in Bhimtang is often around dusk.

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal is only legally possible under three firm conditions: you must be accompanied by a government-licensed guide arranged through a registered trekking agency; you must hold valid permits for the area; and you must be part of a group of at least two trekkers. This is not a guideline or a recommendation. You cannot walk the Manaslu Circuit independently, and there is no permit available for solo, unguided travel.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and ACAP

Three permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This is the primary permit and the most significant in cost. The price is set by the Government of Nepal and is higher during the September to November peak season than outside it; you pay for the first week and then a supplement for each additional day. The amounts change from time to time; on our trek they are included in the price.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Required because the route passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, which protects the biodiversity and landscapes of the region.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Required because the stages after the pass run through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

All three permits are included in our trek price and are arranged by our local team before you set foot on the trail. You do not have to visit any permit office yourself.

A note for solo travellers: you cannot hike the Manaslu Circuit solo, because the minimum-group rule asks for at least two trekkers in the party. If you are travelling alone, contact our trekking expert before booking; the trip page does show a price for one person, and a solo booking comes with a guide, but the exact arrangements depend on your situation and departure timing. For a broader look at how guides work across different regions of Nepal, our trekking in Nepal guide explains the system in plain terms.

Tea houses in Nepal, particularly in popular trekking regions like Annapurna and Everest, serve as essential accommodations for trekkers. These establishments provide a communal and cozy atmosphere, offering basic sleeping arrangements, communal dining areas, and local cuisine. The hosts are known for their warm hospitality, creating a social environment where trekkers from diverse backgrounds can interact.

Tea houses often serve simple yet hearty Nepali dishes such as dal bhat and noodles. Facilities can vary, with some places providing hot showers and electricity, but trekkers should be prepared for basic living conditions, especially at higher altitudes. The scenic locations of tea houses, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and mountain views, enhance the overall trekking experience. As trekkers ascend to more remote and challenging terrains, the facilities may become more basic, with accommodation sometimes taking the form of simple lodges or guesthouses. Trekkers may need to book in advance, particularly during peak trekking seasons when tea houses can fill up quickly.

One of the unique aspects of staying in tea houses is the cultural experience they offer. Trekkers have the opportunity to interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and gain insights into the rural way of life in the Himalayan regions of Nepal. Despite the basic amenities, tea houses contribute significantly to the charm and authenticity of the trekking adventure, making them an integral part of the overall journey.

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek is run by our local team in Nepal. The following is included in the trek price:

• Airport pick-up and all transfers within the itinerary (including the drives to Machha Khola and from Besisahar to Kathmandu)
• All lodge and tea-house accommodation during the trek
• An English-speaking, government-licensed guide for the full 13 days
• One porter per two trekkers (a solo booking comes with a guide who assists with carrying; no porter is assigned separately)
• Salary, food, insurance and accommodation for the guide and porter
• All meals on trek: breakfast, lunch and dinner, with tea or coffee in the morning
• All three permits (RAP, MCAP, ACAP), arranged before departure
• A down jacket and sleeping bag for use during the trek
• A duffel bag carried by the porter
• A T-shirt and a printed route map
• An assistant guide for groups of more than six
• An altitude kit with which your guide checks pulse and oxygen saturation twice a day

The following is not included and needs to be budgeted separately: international flights to and from Kathmandu; the Nepal visa (check requirements with the Nepalese embassy before you travel); hotel nights in Kathmandu before and after the trek (see our guide on where to stay in Kathmandu); travel insurance covering trekking at altitude and repatriation (this is essential and not optional); personal spending, drinks and extras on the trail such as hot showers, bottled water, desserts and wifi; and tips for your guide and porter.

On tipping: the trip page suggests roughly 10 percent of the trip price as a guideline, but the amount is entirely your decision.

Manaslu Circuit trek cost: what you pay

The price for the 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek (2027 season, as of October 2026) is 995 euros per person when two of you book together, 940 euros per person in a larger group, and 1,070 euros if you book alone. Permits, guide, porter, meals and all lodge nights are included in these figures. The trip page can display prices in pounds or dollars if you switch currency. A deposit of 25 percent secures your place, and free cancellation applies up to eight weeks before departure. See current prices and available dates for the Manaslu Circuit Trek on the trip page.

The main additional costs to budget for are flights, the Nepal visa, hotel nights in Kathmandu, travel insurance and tips. Guide and porter wages, their food and lodging, permits and your meals on the trail are already in the price, so you do not need a separate budget for them.

Tea houses on the Manaslu Circuit are simple, family-run lodges with a shared dining room where the host family cooks. Rooms are basic; facilities become more rudimentary higher up the valley, and hot water and electricity cannot be relied on at every stop. Dal bhat, the traditional lentil and rice dish, is the daily staple and an excellent source of energy at altitude. For a fuller picture of what to expect, our Nepal tea house guide covers the practicalities in detail.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: frequently asked questions

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately hard to hard. It is a tea-house trek without technical climbing, graded Intermediate on our trip page. The real challenges are the combination of long walking days (up to 18.4 km and nine hours on the pass day), the altitude of the Larkya La at 5,106 m, and simple lodge conditions in a remote area with no easy exit.

Can a beginner do the Manaslu Circuit trek?

A fit beginner who trains seriously can complete the Manaslu Circuit trek, because there is no climbing and the itinerary builds in acclimatisation time. However, it is a long, remote trek at high altitude where evacuation takes time. Most first-time high-altitude trekkers find a shorter Nepal trek a better introduction before committing to this route.

How much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost?

On our 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek (2027 season, as of October 2026), the price is 995 euros per person when two people book together, 940 euros per person in a larger group, and 1,070 euros for a solo booking. Permits, guide, porter, all meals and all lodge nights are included. Flights, the Nepal visa, Kathmandu hotels, travel insurance and tips come on top. See the full price breakdown for the Manaslu Circuit Trek on the trip page.

How many days do you need for the Manaslu Circuit?

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek takes 13 days from Kathmandu: ten walking days, one full acclimatisation day in Samagaon and two driving days. Add your arrival and departure days in Kathmandu, which you arrange separately; most trekkers allow at least one night each side for the international journey.

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek in kilometres?

Our itinerary covers 122 km over ten walking days, with 5,670 m of total ascent and 4,950 m of descent. The longest single day is 18.4 km (Jagat to Deng on Day 3). The average walking day is 12.2 km, though the range is wide: from 5 km on Day 12 to 18.4 km on Day 3.

Is the Manaslu Circuit harder than Everest Base Camp?

The two routes are different rather than one being simply harder. The Manaslu Circuit has longer walking days, a high mountain pass to cross and considerably simpler lodges; the Everest Base Camp trek takes you to greater altitude overall but follows a busier, better-equipped trail with a wider range of lodge options.

Which is better, the Annapurna Circuit or the Manaslu Circuit?

The honest answer is that it depends on what you are after. The Manaslu Circuit offers quiet trails, remote Tibetan-Buddhist culture and a compulsory licensed guide. The Annapurna Circuit gives you more variation in lodge quality and comfort and more trekker company on the trail. Manaslu suits those who prioritise quiet trails and remote villages; Annapurna suits those who want more infrastructure along the way.

Can you do the Manaslu Circuit without a guide?

No. The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area in Nepal: you need a government-licensed guide arranged through a registered agency and you must trek in a group of at least two. There is no independent-trekking permit available for the Manaslu region. On our trek the guide and all three permits are included in the price, arranged by our local team before you depart.

Which month is best for the Manaslu Circuit trek?

October and November in autumn and April and early May in spring are the best months for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. October is the most popular month overall, combining clear post-monsoon skies with comfortable daytime temperatures. Late April and early May work well in spring, with rhododendron in bloom at lower elevations and settled weather before the monsoon arrives.

How high is the Larkya La (Larke Pass)?

The Larkya La, also known as the Larke Pass, stands at 5,106 m and is crossed on Day 10 of our itinerary. The day begins with an early start from Dharamsala, climbs over moraine to the pass, then descends 1,440 m to Bhimtang in a total of around nine hours. It is the longest day by walking time and the most demanding of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.