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KiteiceTravel & Treks

Manaslu Circuit Trek

A remote, off-the-beaten-path circuit around Manaslu (8,163 m), crossing the Larkya La pass through Tibetan-Buddhist villages.

Duration
15 Days
Max Altitude
5,106 m
Difficulty
Strenuous
Group Size
2–12
Best Season
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Start / End
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
Hotel in Kathmandu, teahouses on trek
Activity
Trekking

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted-area trek that circles the world’s eighth highest mountain. It combines subtropical river valleys with high alpine villages like Samagaun and Samdo.

The crossing of the Larkya La (5,106 m) is one of the most dramatic pass crossings in Nepal, with views of Himlung, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II.

Trip Highlights

  • Remote trail with far fewer trekkers
  • Tibetan-Buddhist culture in Samagaun and Samdo
  • Crossing the Larkya La pass (5,106 m)
  • Views of Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest peak

Detailed Itinerary

  1. 1

    Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

    Airport pick-up and permit processing.

  2. 2

    Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (930 m)

    Long drive via Arughat along the Budhi Gandaki.

  3. 3

    Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m)

    Enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.

  4. 4

    Day 4: Trek to Deng (1,860 m)

    Enter the restricted area.

  5. 5

    Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m)

    Forests, waterfalls and mani walls.

  6. 6

    Day 6: Trek to Lho (3,180 m)

    First big views of Manaslu.

  7. 7

    Day 7: Trek to Samagaun (3,530 m)

    Largest village in the upper valley.

  8. 8

    Day 8: Acclimatization day in Samagaun

    Hike to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp viewpoint.

  9. 9

    Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3,875 m)

    Village close to the Tibetan border.

  10. 10

    Day 10: Trek to Dharamsala (4,460 m)

    Short day to the base of the pass.

  11. 11

    Day 11: Cross Larkya La (5,106 m), trek to Bimthang (3,720 m)

    Early start for the longest and highest day.

  12. 12

    Day 12: Trek to Tilije (2,300 m)

    Descend through pine and rhododendron forest.

  13. 13

    Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar

    Jeep and bus back to Kathmandu.

  14. 14

    Day 14: Free day in Kathmandu

    Rest or optional sightseeing.

  15. 15

    Day 15: Departure

    Transfer to the airport.

What’s Included

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
  • Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
  • All necessary permits and TIMS/entry fees
  • Staff salary, insurance, food and lodging
  • First-aid kit and oximeter
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and ACAP permits
  • Private jeep/bus transport

Cost Excludes

  • International flights and Nepal visa fee
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal expenses: drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging
  • Tips for guides and porters

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trek the Manaslu Circuit solo?

No. Manaslu is a restricted area: you need a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers to get the permit. We can help you join a group.

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