The Manaslu Circuit Trek encircles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world at 8,163 meters, offering a remote and authentic Himalayan adventure in Nepal’s Gorkha District within the Manaslu Conservation Area. This 177-190 kilometer loop takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced rice fields to alpine meadows, glacier-carved valleys, and Tibetan-influenced villages with ancient monasteries and mani walls. Less crowded than the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, it attracts those seeking solitude, cultural immersion, and stunning views of peaks like Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II. The trek’s highlight is crossing the challenging Larke La Pass at 5,106-5,160 meters, providing panoramic vistas and a sense of achievement. In 2025, with stable regulations emphasizing sustainable tourism, the trek remains restricted, requiring a licensed guide and group travel, making it ideal for experienced hikers or fit beginners craving wilderness. Typically spanning 13-14 days of walking (plus travel), it starts and ends in Kathmandu, covering elevations from 700 meters to over 5,000 meters. Best seasons are spring (March-May) for blooming rhododendrons and mild weather, or autumn (September-November) for clear skies and festivals, avoiding monsoon rains or winter snows.
Preparing for the Trek
Thorough preparation is essential for this moderate-to-strenuous trek, which demands good fitness due to long days (6-8 hours), steep ascents, and high altitudes. Begin training 8-10 weeks in advance: incorporate cardio like running, cycling, or swimming 4-5 times weekly for 45-60 minutes; strength exercises such as squats, lunges, and step-ups 2-3 times a week; and weekend hikes with a backpack to simulate conditions. Focus on flexibility with yoga to prevent injuries. Acclimatization is critical to combat Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)—ascend gradually (no more than 500 meters sleeping elevation per day above 3,000 meters), hydrate with 3-4 liters daily, and consider Diamox for prevention. Recognize AMS symptoms like headaches or nausea and descend if needed. Prior experience on shorter treks like Langtang Valley helps, but it’s not mandatory.
Packing should prioritize lightness (10-12 kg total), with porters handling heavier loads up to 20-25 kg. Use a layering system: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells for variable weather. Essentials include sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support, trekking poles, a -10°C sleeping bag, headlamp, reusable water bottle with purification (e.g., LifeStraw), sunglasses, sunscreen, first-aid kit with altitude meds, and crampons or microspikes for potential snow on Larke La. Don’t forget thermal gloves, hat, gaiters, and personal items like toiletries, cash in Nepali Rupees (no ATMs on trail), power bank, and travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation. Rent gear in Kathmandu’s Thamel to save weight.
Documents are crucial: Obtain permits through a registered agency in Kathmandu—Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP: $100 for first week in Sep-Nov, $15/additional day), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP: $30), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP: $30). Solo trekking is prohibited; a licensed guide is mandatory, and groups must have at least two trekkers. Carry passport copies and insurance details for checkpoints. Book agencies early for 2025, especially in peak seasons.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A standard 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary allows for acclimatization and scenic enjoyment.
- Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700m), 7-9 hours by jeep or bus along bumpy roads—settle into basic teahouses.
- Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930m), 6-7 hours through forests, suspension bridges, and villages like Lapubesi.
- Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m), 6-7 hours along river gorges, passing hot springs and entering the restricted zone.
- Day 4: Jagat to Deng (1,804m), 6-7 hours via Philim, with mani walls and first glimpses of Siringi Himal.
- Day 5: Deng to Namrung (2,630m), 6 hours through alpine terrain and villages like Ghap, gaining Manaslu views.
- Day 6: Namrung to Lho (3,180m), 4-5 hours past monasteries and prayer wheels in Sho and Lihi.
- Day 7: Lho to Samagaun (3,530m), 4-5 hours through meadows to Shyala, with close-up Manaslu panoramas.
- Day 8: Acclimatization in Samagaun—hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m), Pungyen Gompa, or Birendra Lake for adjustment.
- Day 9: Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m), 4 hours to a remote Tibetan village near the border.
- Day 10: Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m), 4 hours of steep ascent to high camp.
- Day 11: Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larke La Pass (5,160m), 8-9 hours—the toughest day with rewarding views of Cheo Himal and Annapurna II.
- Day 12: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m), 6 hours descending through rhododendron forests.
- Day 13: Tilije to Dharapani (1,970m), 4-5 hours, joining the Annapurna Circuit.
- Day 14: Drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu (8-9 hours).
Variations include adding Tsum Valley for 5-7 extra days of cultural exploration.
Challenges and Tips
The trek’s remoteness brings challenges: altitude sickness, cold nights (down to -15°C), long bumpy drives, basic teahouses with limited Wi-Fi and hot showers, and unpredictable weather like snow on the pass or monsoon landslides. Physical strain from steep, rocky paths and the demanding Larke La day tests endurance. Safety tips: Trek with a guide for navigation and emergencies, carry insurance for helicopter evac, respect local customs (e.g., “Namaste” greetings, no photos without permission), eat carb-rich dal bhat, purify water, and pack out trash for sustainability. Use NCell or NTC SIMs for patchy coverage, and add buffer days for delays. For families or solos, join groups; it’s doable with preparation but not for young children due to altitude.
Costs in 2025
Budget $1,100-$2,500 per person, varying by group size and style. Breakdown: Permits ($150-175), guide/porter ($20-40/day each), accommodation/meals ($20-30/day), transportation ($300-400 round trip), insurance ($100-150), and extras like tips ($50-100), Wi-Fi/charging ($100-150). Group tours save costs; private options add flexibility for $1,400+. Off-peak discounts available, but book via agencies for 2025 updates.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025 delivers an unmatched blend of raw Himalayan beauty, cultural depth, and personal challenge, leaving trekkers with memories of towering peaks, serene villages, and triumphant pass crossings. Plan responsibly, trek ethically, and embrace the wilderness—it’s a transformative journey beyond the beaten path.
