Trek Overview
The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of Nepal's best-kept secrets. Circling Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest peak, this trek crosses the dramatic Larkya La Pass at 5,160m. Walk through diverse landscapes from subtropical valleys to alpine highlands, encountering rich Tibetan-influenced culture along the way. This restricted area trek offers an authentic, uncrowded experience.
Highlights
- Cross the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
- Circle Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) – the 8th highest peak
- Authentic Tibetan-Buddhist culture and monasteries
- Restricted area with limited trekkers
- Diverse landscapes from subtropical to alpine
- Remote and pristine wilderness experience
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
8-9 hour drive through scenic hills to the starting point.
Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River through subtropical forest.
Continue along the river gorge with waterfalls and hot springs.
Enter the restricted Manaslu area. Pass through narrow gorges.
Trek through forested trails. Notice the shift to Tibetan-influenced culture.
Arrive at the gateway village to Manaslu with stunning views of the peak.
Explore the village, visit the monastery, and optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp.
Short trek to the last settlement before the pass. Tibetan trading village.
Day hike towards the Tibetan border. Prepare for the pass crossing.
Trek to the high camp below Larkya La. Stone shelters and stunning scenery.
Early start for the pass crossing. Incredible panoramic views. Long descent to Bimthang.
Descend through forests and valleys to the Marsyangdi River.
Continue descent joining the Annapurna Circuit trail.
Final trekking day. Trek and drive to Besisahar.
6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu.
Airport transfer. Trip ends.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- All ground transportation
- Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All meals during the trek
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service
- Manaslu restricted area permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area permit
- TIMS card
- First aid kit and oximeter
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory for restricted area)
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch/dinner)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
- Emergency evacuation costs
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Duration
16 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Soti Khola
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (2 sets)
- Heavy down jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex)
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Balaclava or neck gaiter
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Expedition gloves + liner gloves
- Warm socks (5-6 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Heavy-duty waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes or down booties
- Gaiters
- Insulated insoles
Equipment
- Backpack (40-50L)
- Sleeping bag (-20°C rated or lower)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L insulated)
- Water purification system
- Thermos flask
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
- Oxygen saturation monitor (optional)
Accessories
- Glacier sunglasses (Category 4)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank (high capacity)
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
- Playing cards for rest days
Frequently Asked Questions
Manaslu is a restricted area to protect its pristine environment and culture. A minimum of 2 trekkers is required for the permit, and you must trek with a licensed guide.
The pass at 5,160m is physically demanding but non-technical. Proper acclimatization (built into our itinerary) and reasonable fitness are essential. The crossing takes about 8-10 hours.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Lucas Müller
Switzerland · October 2024
The Manaslu Circuit is the hidden jewel of Nepal trekking. Crossing Larkya La pass at 5,160m was challenging but the sense of achievement was incredible. Very few trekkers compared to other circuits.
Sophie Laurent
France · November 2023
An extraordinary trek through diverse landscapes. From subtropical forests to high alpine terrain, every day brought something new. The restricted area permit makes it feel truly exclusive.
David Kim
South Korea · April 2024
Challenging but extremely rewarding. The cultural diversity along the trail was fascinating - from Hindu villages to Buddhist monasteries. Highly recommend for experienced trekkers.