No of people | Price per person |
---|---|
1 - 1 | $1,390 |
2 - 4 | $1,098 |
6 - 8 | $1,068 |
10 - 12 | $1,038 |
14 - 16 | $1,020 |
"MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK , Cultural and Scenic Adventure Around the World’s 8th Highest Mountain, Mt. Manaslu"
1. How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?
2. New Local Area Entry Permit is Introduced in Manaslu Region
3. Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring
4. Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Service Details
5. Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
One requires good preparation for your Manaslu Circuit Trek since it is a challenging and adventurous trek in Nepal in the Manaslu region. A Level of fitness and stamina is required for this trek as you are ascending 5000m high above sea level that is Larkya La Pass(5,106 metres (16,752 ft), one of the highest mountain passes in the world.
One needs to have prior trekking experience above 4000m above sea level and needs to do tough physical exercises going ups and downs with a backpack. Also, prepare the right and reliable trekking equipment/gear that will help you make your Manaslu Circuit Trek more convenient and memorable.
On your first arrival at Kathmandu and Tribhuvan International Airport, a Haven Holidays representative will receive you at the arrival section. After being introduced to the staff, your baggage will be loaded in the car, coach or bus as per group size and you will take short drive, a short drive to the center of Kathmandu city, Thamel, where your hotel is located.
On checking into your lovely rooms, get refreshed from a long international flight, then get ready for group briefing where you will meet with other members of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The guide or group leader brief with related information regarding the trek, culture, accommodation and foods Including information about hours of walks and overnight stops and views along the treks. You can put your queries if you have any before venturing onto the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Enjoy a beautiful dinner in the evening and stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu, Thamel.
In Kathmandu, you will have good preparation for the Manaslu Circuit trek with an exciting sightseeing tour to historical, religious and cultural places which are listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu is steeped and enriched with historical and religious interesting places, including many world heritage sites. Today, you will visit some popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Swyombhunath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Bouddhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple.
After you end this exciting tour in Kathmandu, you will thoroughly prepare for your Manaslu Circuit Trek. Enjoy the evening with the meal you like and also can do some shopping as you like if you lack any trekking equipment and light snacks.
Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Starting the Manaslu Circuit Trek, in the early morning for a long and interesting overland journey to Machhakhola. Heading beyond Kathmandu valley, and down to low warm farm villages and towns along Trishuli River. The drive follows the main highway, the Prithvi Highway, then diverts from the busy road, heading towards the mid-hills of Dhading and Gorkha areas. You will enjoy a beautiful views of Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal on the way to Arughat and Machhakhola. On leaving the main good road, the drive continues on country rough tracks towards low farm areas at Machha-Khola. A moderate village, slowly developing into a town, having several good simple lodges. You can get some stuffs and ordinary trekking equipment here in Machhakhola. Even, you can exchange your currency at Machhakhola thes days.
Check into the best lodge available for an overnight stop, after a long interesting drive arriving on time before dinner.
Another early morning starts after breakfast for the first day of trekking, which leads you to a long walk to Jagat village. Trekkers might feel better walking than the long drive of yesterday, beginning the morning following the massive Budi Gandaki River.
They head past several spread-out farms and smaller villages to enter a cool shade of forest. As the walk continues up the river on a narrow path with short up and down. The trail leads to cross Tharo Khola / stream to Khorla Besi. Then reach Tatopani, a place with natural hot springs, from here climb over a ridge across the Budhi Gandaki. Crossing a suspension bridge, the walk follows on stone stone-paved staircase to Dovan for possible lunch. A small farm with few simple lodges to accommodate travelers.
Afternoon starts to cross another suspension bridge over Yaru Khola, as it leads climbs on stone steps reaching Tharo Bhanjyang. Lovely Gurung villages with lush green forest above. The walk continues towards the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki River with the last limb of the day to reach Jagat. A nice moderate-sized village having good lodges and shops. From here start the entrance to Upper Manaslu and Restricted Area of Nepal bordering to Tibet. At Jagat after a tiring long day walk, check into a nice lodge, and rest before dinner.
Today’s walk is fairly moderate with a slow climb with some descent, after a good breakfast, start the morning from Jagat. The trail follows various landscapes and walks into dense forests to cross a small stream. The journey continues past farm terraces and villages, and over a rocky ridge to Salleri, then down to Sirdibas. The valley widens as the walk heads towards Ghatta Khola / stream, following the path to cross a suspension bridge. On reaching a large farm village at Philim, from here head north above the village. Walk leads on a fairly level trail through crop fields of millets, then reaches a small settlement of Ekle Bhatti.
After having a few refreshing stops, the trail leads to a steep, uninhabited gorge downhill to a grassy slope. The trail gets wider on reaching a bamboo forest to Deng Khola, crossing the stream then the day walk ends reaching an overnight stop at Deng. A small, nice village, and from here onwards one can experience the Tibetan culture.
Get refreshed with shower or rest or drinks you like and stay overnight at lodge after dinner at Deng.
The walk from Deng onwards gets better and more interesting around important and culturally significant sections of the adventure. The morning walks head across the Budhi Gandaki River with climb further to Bihi a small place.
The walk follows the north-west of the valley through a forested path and dense vegetation past a few smaller farm villages. On a walk with a great glimpse of the giant peaks of the region, facing views of Sringi Himal. The trail leads to cross Budi Gandaki River several times and then comes across Buddhist prayer monuments and Gompa. The last part of the walks rewards the magnificent experience of observing the Manaslu Conservation Area which has preserved the region to its pristine form. The trek leads to the last steep climb of the day to Namrung for an overnight stay, a lovely village. Namrung with good guest houses and lodges provides a comprehensive food menu to enjoy overnight stop in Namrung.
The village Namrung has a police check post where you need to present your trekking permits inspections. Namrung also has plenty of camping sites in the forest.
Enjoy your meal and stay overnight at local lodge in Namrung.
After a pleasant overnight stay in a lovely lodge at Namrung, having a nice breakfast, the morning begins with a gradual walk towards Lo-Gaon, another beautiful village, as the walk leads enjoying grand views of snow peaks. Overlooking views stunning views of Sringi, Ganesh Himal, and Himal Chuli towards the south.
The trail climbs through a lovely cool forest to Lihi, a small farm village with many stupas and terraces of barley and buckwheat. The walk heads down across the side of the valley floor, the trek continues further to Sho village. Slowly the day walks complete reaching Lo-Gaon for an overnight stop. A nice village, located on beautiful, scenic landscapes amidst lovely woods of pines and rhododendrons.
Above Lo-Gaon enjoy views of majestic Mt. Manaslu North Face (7157m) and Naike Peak(5515m). Overnight in one of the best lodges with time to explore the village and Ribung monastery.
From Lo-Gaon, having a pleasant overnight stay, today’s walk heads towards Sama-Gaon, the main village around Upper Manaslu Valley.
Start the morning walks on a gradual trail, with slow winding ups and down to Shayla, a nice small village. You can see a small chorten and a small gompa here at Shayla with massive colorful prayer flags. The walk continues along with impressive views of Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli). Includes views of Manaslu massif glaciers straight above from the trail with an array of snow-capped peaks.
The walk slowly comes to an end reaching Sama-Gaon for two overnight stops, in the comfort of a nice lodge.
Enjoy a well-earned rest and a free day in Sama-Gaon at 3530 Meters from sea level, the best place and the right altitude for acclimatization. Very important before heading towards the highest point of the adventure on top of Larke-La. Several options that one can enjoy on a free day, explore Sama-Gaon the traditional village of great culture.
Energetic trekkers can take a short day hike in old Pungyen Gompa. A monastery with dramatic grand views of the glacier as well as visit the serene glacial pond of Birendra Tal. Sama-Gaon is also on route Mt. Manaslu Base Camp, a walk of more than 4 hours. It will be a tiring walk with a rise of high altitude, both ways take nearly more than 6 hours. Not recommendable unless the trip involves base camp, staying overnight in a tented camp.
Walk back to Samagaon, rest and relax with hot drinks and your best item of food. Prepare for the next days walk to Samdo.
Enjoying a pleasant moment at Sama-Gaon, the morning walks head down to Budhi Gandaki River. The trail follows to a small bridge coming across rows of Mani walls, as the walk proceeds, the valley opens wider after an hour of good scenic walks. During the walk facing views of giant snow peaks, as the walk leads closer towards Samdo village. A short climb to Samdo village the last village of Gorkha and Manaslu Valley, located on a high plateau. Which is en route to the Nepal and Tibet border as well as to Manang areas via Larke-La Pass (5106m).
Overnight in a nice simple guest house or a lodge, overlooking views of snow-capped peaks.
From Samdo a short morning walk to the end of the valley rim at Dharmasala, or Larke Phedi. At the base of Larke-La Pass, the walk follows down to a river bed and crosses streams towards our overnight stop. As well as for lunch, an exciting small place with few huts, serves as a lodge and guest houses. During the high seasons of trekking, this place can be crowded, and some visitors have to spend overnights in tents. The camping is provided by the lodge, but foods are served in the dining of the guest house. Afternoon enjoy the surrounding views of towering peaks with glaciers fed from the Larke peak.
Prepare a good level of organization of trekking equipment including sleeping bag for overnight stay in Dharmasala tonight.
A big and long day of adventure, rising early for breakfast and then on the move, following the lead guide. The walk leads past Dharmasala and then climbs on an undulating uphill path over a moraine and few traces of glaciers.
After hours of strenuous climb having few stops, they reach on top of Larke-La Pass elevation of 5,106 Meters from sea level. The top is festooned with Buddhist prayer flags and rock cairns, and the signboard stands with the name of the pass and altitude. From Larke-La pass enjoy the stupendous panorama of the Snow Mountains. Overlooking views of Manaslu as far towards Ganesh Himal with Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, with peaks of Annapurna II-III, IV. From the top, after a spectacular panorama, a long descent leads past Cheo Danda and Larcia, small yak herder settlements. Finally after a long downhill reach the bottom of Larke-La.
From the western base of Larke-la enter the Manang district and back into a forest of tall trees rhododendron, pine and oaks. The walk gets better near the lever path to reach Bhimtang for an overnight halt, this place is also called Bhimthang.
Bhimtang, located on a lovely wide grassy meadow amidst pine forest has several nice, good lodges.
Today’s walk is much shorter to Gowa a small settlement with few nice lodges for overnight stops. We have allowed a short day, due to the tough long walks of the previous day, and start the morning having a leisurely breakfast. The trail follows downhill through dense woods, a pleasant morning walk with few short-ups to reach Gho. After a great lovely morning walk to Gho for overnight lunch and overnight halt, have time to relax and enjoy the surrounding magnificent views.
Walk down to Dharapani through picturesque landscapes and local villages for 3-4 hours via Tilche. Tilche is a beautiful local town with some teahouses for lunch and some light snacks.
After arriving at Dharapani, you will take a jeep drive to Besisahar. This drive will last for 3-4 hours again with marvelous views and experiences driving along the country off-road. You will encounter some natural waterfalls and paddy fields before you arrive at Besisahar.
Enjoying a pleasant overnight stop at Bhesisar town, morning having breakfast taking a ride on vehicle. As per the size of the group, the overland journey on a good motorable road to Kathmandu. On leaving Bhesisar town, the drive heads towards Dumre town, situated on the main Pokhara and Kathmandu highway.
From here the ride is more enjoyable and exciting on the busy highway, following the Marsyndi and Trisuli River for some hours. Then on winding uphill to the valley rim, overlooking views of Kathmandu city. After an hour from the valley outskirts reach back to the hustle and bustle of city life of Kathmandu.
On arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your respective hotels for the last overnight in Kathmandu and Nepal. Evening a farewell group dinner before parting from each member of different nationalities.
Evening farewell
dinner in a nice authentic Nepali restaurant, dinner with an exciting Nepali
cultural program.
This is your Last day in Nepal and in Kathmandu, as time for your respective airline's flight departures, our guide and staff transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport, then bid farewell to Nepal till you return for another exciting adventure.
Collect all your belongings if you have stored at the hotel reception before you leave the hotel for your international flight.
Or optionally, you can begin another trip in Nepal or in any other country you choose.
I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a reputable trekking company Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd, and I cannot praise them enough for their exceptional service and expertise. From start to finish, the company provided a seamless experience, ensuring that every aspect of the trek was well-planned and executed flawlessly. Our guide, Pradip, was an absolute gem throughout the journey. His extensive knowledge of the Manaslu region, combined with his warm and friendly personality, made him the perfect companion for the trek. Pradip's professionalism and dedication were evident from the beginning, as he meticulously organized the logistics, including permits, accommodations, and meals. He ensured that we were well-prepared and equipped for the challenging terrain ahead. During the trek, Pradip's guidance and support were invaluable. He constantly checked on our well-being, providing helpful tips for acclimatization and offering encouragement when the going got tough. His expertise in navigating the trail was remarkable, and he effortlessly led us through mesmerizing landscapes, including breathtaking mountain passes and charming local villages. Pradip's deep understanding of the local culture and his willingness to share insightful anecdotes enriched our experience even further. He introduced us to the warm hospitality of the local communities and facilitated meaningful interactions with the locals, fostering a deeper connection with the region. Overall, I can confidently say that the trekking company Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd and our guide, Pradip, exceeded all expectations. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine passion for the trekking experience made the Manaslu Circuit Trek an unforgettable adventure. I would highly recommend both the company and Pradip to anyone seeking a memorable and well-organized trekking experience in the Manaslu region.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking 16-days adventure through the majestic Manaslu region of Nepal, guided by the experienced and knowledgeable Pradip from Haven Holidays. This trek offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Starting in the bustling city of Kathmandu, the trek takes you through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, providing stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including the towering Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. Pradip, your dedicated guide, will lead you through the diverse landscapes, sharing his expertise and ensuring your safety throughout the journey. The trek also offers opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture, as you pass through traditional villages inhabited by Gurung and Tibetan communities. You can interact with friendly locals, visit ancient monasteries, and witness colorful Buddhist rituals along the way, gaining a deeper understanding of the region's rich heritage. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is known for its challenging yet rewarding nature, as you navigate high mountain passes, such as the Larkya La Pass, at an altitude of 5,135 meters. Pradip will provide necessary guidance, making sure you acclimatize properly and enjoy the journey to its fullest. Overall, this 16-days trekking with Haven Holidays and Pradip as our guide promises a memorable and awe-inspiring adventure, combining breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment as you conquer the Manaslu Circuit.
My journey through the Manaslu Circuit with Haven Holidays, guided by Nava, was nothing short of extraordinary. Nava, our guide, was a true gem who not only showcased his expertise but also shared his deep knowledge and love for the region. The Manaslu Circuit is a remote and breathtaking trek, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayas, charming villages, and pristine landscapes. Nava's guidance made the experience even more magical. He navigated us through challenging terrains, ensuring our safety at every step. His familiarity with the local culture and customs enriched our encounters with the warm and welcoming communities we met along the way. Nava's passion for the environment was evident as he emphasized responsible trekking and eco-friendly practices. His stories and anecdotes about the region's history and folklore added depth to the journey, making it not just a physical challenge but a profound cultural experience. Haven Holidays' seamless organization and Nava's exceptional guidance allowed us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Manaslu region. This trip was truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, made unforgettable by Nava's expertise, warmth, and dedication to creating an unforgettable experience. I will forever cherish the memories of this incredible journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend Haven Holidays and Nava as the ideal companions for exploring the Manaslu Circuit.
Ensure you choose gloves that fit well and allow for comfortable movement. Gloves that are too tight may restrict circulation, while those that are too loose may not provide sufficient warmth. Consider trying on different sizes and styles to find the right fit for your hands. It's often a good idea to pack an extra pair of gloves in case of unexpected circumstances, such as getting wet or losing a glove.
Water purification is most important during outdoor activities, especially when you may not have access to clean and safe drinking water sources. There are several methods you can use to purify water in such situations:
Additionally, you may want to consider including personal items such as any prescribed medications, an EpiPen for severe allergies, or any specific items required for your unique circumstances or medical conditions.
For various important reason the Upper Manaslu remains as Restricted Areas in Nepal. The first is due to close border with Tibet / China, where some trekkers might wander and enter the frontier. The next is to preserve its natural beauty of flora and fauna, allowing only limited trekkers in the best seasons of the year.
The other reason is to make Upper Manaslu from Jagat village onwards, as a special area. So only trekkers in group can visit with proper guide and booking with authorized local trekking agencies.
Yes and No, the altitude gains at slow and gradual pace as walk progresses and stopping at designated overnight lodges. At certain altitude helps and support to get acclimatize, the only toughest part of the trek. Is steep long climb to the top of Larke-La Pass, the highest point of the adventure? The hardest walk is just for one day, as well on the first day of trek from Machha Khola to Jagat. Although the altitude does not effect, but walking a long distance can make the trek strenuous for some people. The rest of the trip is pleasant and easier with few uphill and downhill climb.
Yes, nearly all lodges have the facilities of hydroelectricity, some few small villages runs the electricity by solar-power. All trekkers needs to pay extra for charging each electronic gadgets as per hour basis at minimum reasonable cost.
Nearly all overnight stop lodge and guest-house have the facilities of internet and Wi-Fi. But sometime on the mountain the connection is quite slow and disturbing due to terrain and weather wise.
The foods on every meals like breakfast, lunch and dinner are amazingly of best quality, prepared with care and hygienic. All lodge restaurants serves as per the food menu wise on La Carte basis or Set meals of Nepali Dal Bhat (boiled / steamed rice with lentil soup and mild vegetable curry served with pickles).
The foods on the menu includes from Continental, Chinese, Indian to Nepali, some restaurants on treks also provides bakery items as well.
Most popular is Nepali Dal / Bhat, noodle soup or fried noodle with veg and eggs or meats, Mo-Mo dumpling stuffed with meats or vegetable is also popular dishes found on the treks.
It is very important and necessary that all trekkers requires Travel and Medical Insurance. Which should be purchased after or before booking the respective trekking programs with Haven Holidays Nepal. The insurance should be made in your own home countries, which is much easier than in Nepal.
The travel and medical insurance should cover all needful transportation required on emergency evacuation by any means of transportation and using helicopter service. As well all medical expenses, if the trip is delayed and get cancelled due to political disturbance and strikes. As well if the trek needs to be rerouted to other areas in some cases due to bad weather and road conditions.
Manaslu Circuit Trek takes at least 14 days to complete. If you go with more flexible itinerary, it takes 15/16 days to successfully accomplish your Manaslu Circuit Trek.
These 15 days are allocated like this: day one for arrival and other rest of the 13 days will be for the real trekking days in the mountain. Out of them, one particular day will be for acclimatization at Samagaon (3530m) before we go for crossing Larkya La Pass (5160m). This acclimatization day at Samagaon is very essential to let your body adjust new elevation and the surrounding before you go above 5000m. It is the same thing like people do in Everest Base Camp Trek at Namche Bazaar (3440m) and Dingboche (4410m) for two days before heading for Everest Base Camp(5163m) and Kalapatthar (5545m).
Actually, 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary is very tight schedule and those who have got very sound stamina with high level of confidence can accomplish it or the moderate trekkers need at least 15 or 16 days for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Have 15 or 16 days for your Manaslu Circuit Trek and celebrate this adventure trekking in Nepal is restricted area between Nepal and Tibet. In fact, this trekking trip is distinctly different from other trekking trails like Annapurna Base Camp Trek and even Everest Base Camp Trek.
Ascending above 5000m is always challenging for the trekkers and same goes with Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. Manaslu Circuit Trek takes the trekkers up to 5160m that is Larkya La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes of the world and offers the absolute thrills of adventure with true remoteness.
Manasalu Circuit Trek is a very challenging trek in the sense that:
- The trekking trail is located in one of the wildest and remotest areas of Nepal
- Vast and hardest landscapes with tough ups and downs
- Deep gorges to cross, descend and ascend
- Hard to find right and luxury accommodation during the trek
- Restricted area trekking in Nepal between the border of Tibet and Nepal
- Sometimes, encounter with weather extremes like heavy rain an heavy snowfall
- Lack of luxury transportation
- Crossing Larkya La Pass (5160m) one of the highest passes of the world
However, if you dare to face all these challenges, you will easily conquer over Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larkya La pass as well with marvelous experiences of adventure trekking with astonishing mountain views in Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package cost ranges between USD 1500 to 1600 depending on what type of package you go with like: full board meal and BB basis. Actually, if you want a full board meal and accommodation package, the cost will be like around USD 1600 and if you go with only BB ( Breakfast and Bed basis, the cost will be even less than USD 1500, may be like USD 1300-1400 for 15/16 days itinerary.
The full board package cost means, it includes the following things :
If you choose only half board package, then, the trek package includes only :
So, in full board package, you don’t need to pay any kind of basic payments like for food, accommodation, guide and porter service, transportation and farewell diner in Kathmandu but in half board package only includes your accommodation with breakfast and you have to pay extra cost for your lunch and dinner.
In regard of views and landscapes, mountain panoramas, remoteness, wilderness, civilization and local culture, less crowded trail, definitely, Manaslu is better than Annapurna. However, all who wish to do Manaslu trek may not be able to conquer due high altitude above 5000m. Actually, ascending above Dharmasala to Larkyala Pass (5160m) is very tough through Samagaon (3540m).
But, those who have done both trekking trips: Annapurna Base Camp Trek/Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek and if they are asked a question which one do they prefer, here, they always go with Manaslu Circuit Trek rather than Annapurna Base Camp Trek for better views and better experiences with wild nature in less crowded and restricted area trekking of Nepal.
Therefore, if you really love doing adventure trekking ascending above 5000m in less crowded and in far remote areas of Neapl with grand lasdscapes and mountain panoramas, you can go with Manaslu Circuit Trek rather than Annapurna trekking.
Actually, the perfect Manaslu Circuit Trek is 14/15 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. However, some people choose doing it in 16-18 days with more days for exploration and acclimatization as the trek is strenuous and challenging taking you above 5000m.
The best and the ideal Manaslu Circuit Trek is 14 days as the jeep directly takes you to Machhakhola or Jagat these days and you can use the same jeep drive while returning from Dharapani. In this 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, you will have 2 days acclimatization too before you go for Larkyala Pass (5160m), the highest elevation of the trek which is very challenging yet rewarding with mesmerizing experience of thrills of adventure and astonishing mountain panoramas including giant Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
So, if you are thinking of doing adventurous Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, you’d better go with 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary which will suit you with right pacing and ascent all round the trek.
If you want to know more about Manaslu Circuit Trek, click: a-complete-trekkers-guide
Manaslu Trek takes minimum 14 to maximum 16 days. Previously, there wouldn’t be any means of transportation to access to the beginning point of the trekking trail and the trekking days would be like 16/17 days but as the road construction has been developed and the trekking beginning point like Machhakhola is linked by either public bus or sharing four wheel jeep drive and the same thing will be there at the end of Manaslu trek before arriving Besisahar.
So, the 14 days Manaslu Trek Itinerary will be very ideal for the trekkers with all required days of acclimatization and the days of arrival and departure. It means, if you have 14 days to spend in your vacation trip in Nepal with thrills of adventure, then, go with 14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek which will satisfy you with all sorts of amenities on the trail. If you want to explore the Manaslu region with some more spare days, then, you also can go with 16 days Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Planning your Manaslu trek for 14-16 days will be perfect itinerary to less crowded, less spoiled and restricted area of Nepal bordering to Tibet in Annapurna Conservation and Manaslu Protected Area.
Actually, both trekking trips are equally challenging but Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be more strenuous than Annapurna Circuit Trek. This is according to the experiences shared by the trekkers who have experienced the both trekking trips in Nepal.
Both trekking trips, Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, take the trekkers above 5000m but technically, Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in very remote area and the trekkers really don’t find the accommodation and food items they like to have. They have to satisfy on very basic accommodation and certain items of food during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Relatively, in Annapurna Circuit Trek, the trekkers will have more comfortable timings and accommodation during the trek. So, people who have done both trekkingin Nepal find Manaslu Circuit Trek harder than Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded as a difficult and challenging trekking trip in Nepal. One requires to have sound level of stamina and confidence to conquer over it. Ascending above 5000m and crossing Larkya La Pass (5140m), one of the highest mountains passes of the world is not an easy job as majority of the people think. It required sufficient level of preparation and trekking with very reliable trekking gear in best weather in Nepal of the year and also should know about the altitude sickness.
Trekkers who are doing their Manaslu Circuit Trek needs to walk at least 8 hours a day at higher elevation like 4000m and above mostly. So, if you are well shaped and passionate to experience this adventure trekking in Nepal in less explored and less spoiled region of Nepal, you can go for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Actually, Manaslu Pass is Larkya La Pass( 5106m) which is one of the highest mountain passes of the world like other high passes of Nepal’s mountains: Thoronagla Pass (5416m), Chola Pass(5420m), Renjola Pass (5345m) Kongma La ( 5545m). The Manaslu Pass is 5106m high above the sea level. It is very hard to cross Larkya La Pass or Manaslu Pass as it is above 5000m and the trails, sometimes, gets more challenging with thin layer of oxygen, rainfall and snowfall. Therefore, one who is planning or doing or already on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail, needs to have a sound level of confidence, stamina and all required preparations with very reliable trekking equipment. Hydrate sufficiently, be confident, get equipped with reliable trekking equipment and trekking crew and go to conquer Larkya La Pass. When you are at the top of Larkya La Pass, you feel that you have won over the entire world being at the top of the mountain panoramas.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Package from Kathmandu to Kathmandu Cost ranges between USD 1300-1500 depending on the service you want during the tour. If you want a very basic hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, bus ride from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and back to Kathmandu via Dharapani and Besisahar and teahouse accommodation with basic three items of meal a day, it costs USD 1300 and if you want to upgrade it to more luxurious one, adding luxury hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and jeep ride to Machhakhola and back to Kathmandu from Dharapani via Besisahar, then, it costs USD 1500. So, it depends on you what type of package you want to go with and need to prepare accordingly. It means, the accommodation and transportation you choose to take during the trip makes difference in cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek starting from USD 1300-1500.
Important: Some people prefer half board meal during the trip means only bed and breakfast and they can enjoy lunch and dinner on their own. This way will make your trip flexible and more relaxing.
If you want to go with only bed and breakfast with all other includes excluding lunch and dinner, then, the Manaslu Circuit Trek Package from Kathmandu costs USD 1000-1200. So, you just need to prepare and have USD 1200 to do your Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal as an adventure passionate.
It costs USD 1100 per individual to do Manaslu Circuit. This is the cost of half-board package cost. It means, this is the cost of required permits, transportation, guide and porter and bed and breakfast. If you are looking for a full board package including all required things during the trek like foods (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and accommodation, required permits, guide and porter and transportation, it costs USD 1300-1500.
Actually, some people prefer only breakfast and bed with all other required things like permits, guide and porter service and transportation excluding lunch and dinner. This way, they can enjoy their lunch and dinner what they like during the trip and can be flexible as well. If you want his kind of Manaslu Circuit Trek Package, you can pay only USD 1100 per person to cover all the things except of lunch and dinner all round the trip. If you want to include lunch and dinner along with other services and required things in your Manaslu Circuit Trek Pack, it is called Full-Board Package and it costs USD 1300-1500 depending on the mode of transportation you prefer. The mode of transportation means either public bus or private jeep ride to Machhakhola while beginning the trek and Dharapani to Kathmandu while returning.
Some people may offer you the cost like USD 800 or similar like that for your Manaslu Circuit Trek which seems almost impossible to cover all required things, permits and services. Though they offer the cost like this, the services you receive during the trek will be very poor and won’t be reliable and qualitative as you expect. However, the choice ups to you and if you want this kind of package in the mountain with low quality of service and things during the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you still can do it. But, we really don’t recommend you going with this cost as the services you get are going to be poor and your whole trip will be spoiled.
Therefore, we recommend you going with the cost at least USD 1100 for bed and breakfast and maximum USD1500 for Full-Board Package
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit fee is USD 180 in total including all four trekking permits. These 4 different trekking permits for Manaslu are: TIMS Card ( Trekking Information Management System)-USD 10 , Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit Cost- USD 30, Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit – USD 30 and Manaslu Restricted Area Permit – USD 75-100 depending on the trekking season you choose) and the total cost will be 180 maximum. So, those who are planning their Manaslu Circuit Trek require collecting 4 different trekking permits and they have to make the total payment of maximum USD 180.
You can collect these trekking permits for Manaslu Trek through your travel agent located in Kathmandu. For the restricted area permit, you must present your physical/real passport and photographs. You need to be at least two people to get Manaslu Circuit Restricted Area Permit. No single/individual traveler is permitted Manaslu Circuit Restricted Area Permit.
Since, Manaslu Trek is restricted are trekking trip in Nepal bordering Tibet, no solo or independent traveler without guide is permitted to go Manaslu area and you are recommended to prepare your trekking permits for Manaslu through trekking company you are using for your Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal.
One requires planning Manaslu Circuit Trek very comprehensively as it is truly a challenging trekking trip in Nepal. The trail is located at the border between Nepal and Tibet and takes you above 5000m into the less spoiled, less crowded and solely remote area of Nepal. Therefore, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a unique and distinct trekking trip in Nepal than other trekking trips like Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. Actually, you are ascending above 5000m which is Larkya La Pass (5160m), the highest point of this trek and also known as Manaslu Pass. Since you are walking above 5000m in this trip into the wild nature of Manaslu region, you must plan this trip very technically and organized way.
Manaslu ( Dharapani) via Besisahar is 68 kilometer from Pokhara and Machhakhola, Manaslu is 165 kilometers from Pokhara via Gorkha. You can go Manaslu, Machhakhola or Dharapani both from Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you want to know Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation, you can visit Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation Service Details
Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is a restricted area trekking in Nepal and no trekkers are permitted doing Manaslu Circuit Trek without taking guide with them. Along with guide, the trekkers who are doing Manaslu Circuit Trek must obtain Manaslu Restricted Area Entry Permit which costs USD 100 in peak trekking seasons (Autumn and Spring) and USD 75 in low trekking seasons( Rainy and Winter) for a week. If you want to extend the permit duration, you have add USD 10 per day.
Guide is must and porter is optional for your Manaslu Circuit Trek. This is the rule of the government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism not to permit the trekkers enter into Manaslu Conservation Area without restricted area permit and licensed trekking guide. So, do not try to enter Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail without a licensed trekking guide from a registered trekking company and restricted entry permit. Hire a professional and experienced and licensed guide for your Manaslu Circuit Trek and celebrate this adventure trekking in less spoiled area trekking in Nepal with your guide with authentic information of nature and culture.
Manaslu is harder than Annapurna as Annapurna takes you to only up to 4160m which is Annapurna Base Camp and Manaslu takes you to 5106 which is Larkya La Pass. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote area which is less facilitated trekking trip in Nepal and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is , relatively, more felicitated and modern trekking trip. In Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the trekkers are not going to cross and encounter any kind of high mountain pass like Larkya La Pass in Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The weather extremes like snowfall, basic accommodations and meals, remote trails with steep ups and downs, deep gorges, rocky trails, high mountain pass ( Larkya La Pass( 5106m) make Manaslu Circuit Trek harder than Annapurna Base Camp Trek. If you talk about Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, both trekking trips in Nepal are in same category, categorized as challenging and strenuous Trek. Even Annapurna Circuit Trek has a high mountain pass ( Thorongla Pass 5460) like Manaslu Circuit Trek has Larkya La Pass ( 5106m) to encounter.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is graded as moderate trekking trip in Nepal whereas Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are graded as strenuous and very challenging trekking trip in Nepal. Therefore, only the experienced and the people with high level stamina can do Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek and even beginners can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Moderate preparations are okay for Annapurna Base Camp Trek whilst high level preparations are must for Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Manaslu is so popular for the following highlights:
Yes, Manaslu is harder that Annapurna as Manaslu consists of more challenging ups and downs, longer working hours and takes you to Larkya La Pass (5106m) which is one of the highest mountain passes of the world. Actually, Annapurna Base Camp is located below 5000m and Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail is above 5000m and the trekkers who are doing Manaslu Circuit Trek may have altitude related issues along the trail. But, in Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the trekkers will rarely have the issues related to acute mountain sickness.
Annapurna Base Camp is more facilitated area comparing to Manaslu Circuit as Manaslu is remote and restricted area trekking located at the borderline between Nepal and Tibet. In Manaslu Circuit Trek, one has to survive with very basic food items and accommodation, even outdoor camping sometimes, completely deprived of modern luxuries and facilities along the trek. Therefore, Manaslu circuit is considered to be more challenging than Annapurna Base Camp. Manaslu Circuit Trek demands more technical skills of hiking and trekking comparing to Annapurna Base Camp. So, only few people, who are passionate to adventure trekking in Nepal, go with Manaslu Circuit. It also requires very comprehensive preparation and packing checklist to conquer over Larkya La Pass( 5106m) with giant Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain peaks of the world.
The time of the year to do Manaslu Circuit Trek is Autumn months( Sep-Nov). These three months of the year welcome the trekkers who are doing Manaslu Circuit Trek with most rewarding temperature and atmosphere with no snowfall and rainfall. The moderate temperature in the mountain with very delightful surrounding makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek perfect and rewarding. Since the trekkers are ascending above 5000m, they, definitely, require the most favorable weather condition which is offered by Autumn months, the months of Sep, Oct and Nov. Even, the mountain views are simply breathtaking during Autumn while doing Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Second best option of the time of the year you have is doing Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring months (Mar-May). The spring, like Autumn equally sets such environment with little rainfall sometimes that the adventure lovers find the weather very fine and suitable to walk 7-8 hours in the higher elevation above 4000m. Even the springtime is considered to be the finest time of the year for climbing and expeditions in Nepal.
The flowering rhododendron, magnificent mountain views, natural water falls, migratory birds and butterflies, one of the greatest festivals of Hindus, Holy and most importantly, the most rewarding temperature in the mountains of Manaslu make Manaslu Circuit Trek more exhilarating to do in Springtime.
Yes, Manaslu Circuit Trek is safe to do but high level of preparations and research is required beforehand. Since Manaslu Circuit Trek takes the trekkers above 5000m above the sea level which is Larkya La Pass( 5106m), is not easy to conquer over. So, a comprehensive preparations and research works are essential for Manaslu Circuit.
However, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail is safe. There is no threat of landslides, flood, avalanches and glacier lakes on the trail to Larkya La and Manaslu Circuit. The trail is safe to walk, wide and no such steep climbs. But, if you receive heavy snowfall from Dharmasala, you are not suggested to go ascend Larkya La as you are going to encounter more terrible snowfall. So, beforehand heading towards Larkya La, one requires to make sure that there won’t be any other more devastating problems on the trail.
Otherwise, there in such cases that the trekkers encountered the landslides, avalanches, heavy snowfall and rainfall during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. There are several security posts like even in Samagoan on the trail and the entire Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail is connected with good connectivity of Wi-Fi and phone calls. In case of emergency, one can instantly call and use helicopter rescue from Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail. Even the Manaslu Circuit Trek Transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and back to Kathmandu from Besisahar by drive is safe to do along the Prithvi Highway and thorugh some part of country road.
A licensed and authorized trekking guide is mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Since Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area trek in Nepal and the foreign tourists are not allowed to enter into the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail without having an authorized and licensed trekking guide.
One requires obtaining a restricted area entry permit joining a group of at least two people and hire a professional and licensed trekking guide for their Manaslu Circuit Trekking. You can ask your trekking company who is operating your Manaslu Circuit Trek to provide you a licensed mountain guide for you successful and safe Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trip in Nepal.
If you want to hire the guide independently, you can still do it and the guide for Manaslu Circuit Trek Costs between USD 35-40 per day. The cost includes guide’s meals, insurances, accommodation, personal expenses and all transportations. Only the extra cost you require paying to your guide is tipping. You can tip him/her as much as you like. There is no bottom-line for tipping for your guide. The tipping for your guide begins from USD 100 to 300. It ups to you how much you want to tip your guide at the end of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.