Offering a glimpse of majestic Himalayan peaks and the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, the exhilarating Manaslu Circuit Trek leads adventurers to the eighth-highest peak in the world. A less-trodden trek compared to the Everest or Annapurna summits, the Manaslu Circuit promises an enriching experience with blissful hikes through rivers, streams, and waterfalls, alongside stunning views, rich biodiversity and the warm hospitality of locals.
If you wish to traverse off the beaten path and explore a long but rewarding trek dotted with Tibetan wonders, consider a journey covering the Manaslu Circuit. Wondering how to start planning? Our detailed guide is here to help you plan one of the most beautiful treks in the world.
Explore our guide to the best hill stations in Nepal for more inspiration.
Manaslu Circuit: Best time to explore and how to reach
The best time to embark on Nepal’s Manaslu Circuit Trek is either from March to June or between September and November for pleasant weather.
The trek begins from the beautiful city of Kathmandu, perched at a height of 1,400 m (4,594 feet) above sea level. The Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is about 5 km from Kathmandu city centre or Pashupati Sadak. As travellers often plan a road trip to Nepal from India, consider heading to Kathmandu by car from Gorakhpur, 348 km away.
Also, check out our guide to the best time to visit Nepal for deeper insights.
Manaslu Circuit trek itinerary and key highlights
Besides Nepal Tourism, many adventure travel companies organise all-inclusive Manaslu Circuit Trek packages, typically including airport transfers, meals, accommodation, permits, porters, medical supplies, trekking gear, sleeping bags, and professional guides. Some of the best ones include Nepal Eco Adventure and Adventure Alternative.
The trek spans 15 to 18 days, depending on your sightseeing stops and destinations. Some key highlights include breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Ganesh, Larke, Himlung, Annapurna, Kang Guru, and Cheo, apart from Manaslu Himal. Additionally, you can marvel at the captivating Siachen Glacier during the trek. If luck favours, you can spot rare wildlife as well, including Himalayan tahr and snow leopard, alongside exotic flora and fauna.
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From trekking through dense forests and crossing the trek’s highest point at Larkya La Pass to experiencing a hot spring bath at Tatopani and navigating through rice fields and trails lined with pine and rhododendrons trees, this epic journey promises an enriching experience.
Also, explore our selection of the best rhododendron treks in India.
Other highlights include overnight stays at Deng Teahouse and Namrung Teahouse, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Nepal and a chance to experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Spend moments of peace at the Ribung Monastery, from where trekkers can descend to Damodar Khola. Visit other monasteries including Labrang Gompa and Kargya Chholing.
Apart from verdant valleys, lush forests, mighty peaks and peaceful monasteries, travellers can marvel at the serene lakes during the trek.
The 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary for Nepal (as offered by Nepal Eco Adventure) includes:
- Day 1: Kathmandu arrival
- Day 2: Local sightseeing
- Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola — approximately 10 hours
- Day 4: Trek from Machakhola to Jagat — approximately 7 hours
- Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng — approximately 8 hours
- Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung — approximately 6 hours
- Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Lho — approximately 7 hours
- Day 8: Trek from Lho to Samagaon — approximately 7 hours
- Day 9: Samagaon acclimatisation and exploration
- Day 10: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo — approximately 4 hours
- Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Dharamshala — approximately 5 hours
- Day 12: Trek from Dharamshala to Bimthang — approximately 8 hours
- Day 13: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani — approximately 8 hours
- Day 14: Drive from Dharamshala to Kathmandu — approximately 10 hours
- Day 15: Airport transfer
Things to remember before embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Here are a few points to remember before venturing on the trek:
- Carry quick dry clothes, enough warm layers and comfortable trekking shoes.
- Carry energy bars and a personal medical kit.
- Practise walking with a 5 kg sack for at least two weeks before commencing the trek.
- Work on your thigh and calf muscles, and indulge in cardiovascular activities.
- Get your travel insured before the journey.
- Be prepared to use drop toilets if required and carry necessary toiletries.
- You should be comfortable spending the night at accommodations offering the most basic necessities during the trek.
- Always check with the travel company for specific queries.
Places to visit in Kathmandu: Key attractions, hotels and restaurants
Explore the wonderful city of Kathmandu either before commencing the trek or after completing it. Some of the popular tourist attractions around the city include Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudha Stupa, Basantapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, and Narayanhiti Palace Museum.
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Some of the best restaurants and food outlets in Kathmandu include Nectar By Carpediem, Walnut Bistro, Kathmandu Grill Restaurant And Wine Bar, Yala Cafe, Nepalaya Rooftop Restaurant and Lavie Garden.
Also, read our copy on Namche Bazaar, gateway to the Everest base camp.
Book your stay at The Dwarika's Hotel on Booking.com
Book your stay at The Dwarika's Hotel on Agoda
The historical and spiritual city features opulent hotels, comfy homestays and heritage stays. Some of the best places accommodation options in Kathmandu include The Dwarika’s Hotel, Baber Mahal Vilas, Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, Gokarna Forest Resort and The Soaltee Kathmandu.
Book your stay at Baber Mahal Vilas on Booking.com
Book your stay at Baber Mahal Vilas on Agoda
(Feature image credit: Aleksandr Degtiarev/Shutterstock)
Related: Conquering Kedarkantha: A Beginner’s Guide To India’s Popular Trek
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The Manaslu Circuit Trek spans 15 to 18 days.
The difficulty level of Manaslu Circuit Trek can be classified as moderate to challenging.
Yes. It is always advisable to venture on a trek under proper guidance and supervision unless you are a professional trekker.
The highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is at 5,213 m (17,103 feet) while crossing the Larkya La pass.
Avoid the Manaslu Circuit Trek if you have altitude sickness issues.
Quick dry clothes, warm layers, medical kit and toiletries are essential for the trek.
Most areas do not have Wi-Fi or mobile network coverage during the trek.
You can expect simple home-cooked and wholesome meals made by locals and fresh fruits during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
You can stay at lodges and teahouses run by locals and experience Nepal’s cultural heritage and warm hospitality during the trek.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
Digital Writer - Growth, TravelA journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express ..Read More
