Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Main Highlights

• Challenging Larkya Pass at 5160 meters for stunning views.
• Biodiverse Manaslu Conservation Area with its rich flora and fauna.
• Unique culture of the Nuri tribe on the Nepal-Tibet border.
• Breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountains.
• Scenic Budhi Gandaki River and beautiful landscapes.
• Influence of Tibetan culture in the border settlements.
• Diverse flora, fauna, and wildlife in the Manaslu region.
• Scenic mountain drive from Kathmandu to Machikhola and Besisahar.
• Unspoiled nature and stunning Himalayan landscapes.
• Highest peaks like Manaslu, Himlung, and Annapurna II.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview

The Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the most preferred treks in Nepal. The trail passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, offering an enchanting picture of the world's eighth-highest peak. Manaslu is one of the most exuberant among the 8000-metre-high peaks, bordered by the Annapurnaon the west and Ganesh Himal towards the east.

Unlike a normal expedition like the Everest base camp trek, which is always crowded with thousands of walkers worldwide, the Manaslu trek has fewer people. Remote, though it may be arduous, but enriched with culture and scenery enhancing.

This Manaslu Circuit trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu via Arughat to Soti Khola and, finally, Maccha Khola. Getting into the trekking zone is a whole-day trip. Starts from Maccha Khola to the forests of Jagat, passing via steep ridges, terraced fields, and suspension bridges. Afterwards, You hike from Jagat to Deng (1860m). Deng is a charming village in that region with breathtaking snow-covered mountain peaks and unique scenery.

Namrung is another scenic settlement that we shall visit after leaving Deng. There are several monasteries and chortens in the vicinity of Namrung, a well-known cultural site. Afterward, you hike to Lho Gham set (3180m) –another delightful village in that neighborhood.

Then, we shall trek to Samagaun (3500m). This will be the first acclimation process before moving forward along the trail. This trail further takes us to Samdo and Dharmasala at 4,480m. We shall cross Larkya la pass (5213m) from Dharamsala; after that, we shall descend to Bimthang (3720 m). Upon getting to Larkya La pass, you can observe Himlung, Kang Garu, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kung, and Mt. Annapurna II (7,937m).

The hike continues along the Budhi Gandaki River and ends in Dharapani village. We end our trek in a lovely village called Dharapani, where you can take it easy till you are ready for your next journey. You then ride to Kathmandu from Dharapani to Besisahar through a beautiful landscape of green hills, flowing streams, and waterfalls. Therefore, when you reach Kathmandu, you can enjoy a relaxed environment and celebrate the successful end of your journey. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is often regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging treks. The Manaslu circuit is a relatively new trekking route opened only in 1991. The highest point of the Manaslu circuit hike is Larka la Pass (5106 m). Adventure Altitude Treks offers this magnificent trek at an affordable price. Here is more to the package below.

Why To Choose Manaslu Circuit Over Other Treks?  

Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a remote and genuine trek in the Himalayas. In the same way, Manaslu differs from the popular treks to Everest and Annapurna since it provides access to villagers whose lives revolve around agriculture and livestock rearing. Due to the limited access rules, this trek is less touristy and commercialized, allowing less disruption of peoples' daily living patterns and providing peacefulness.

It's an amazing walk, which passes through clean nature along the Gandaki River, through a tropical forest into the arctic zone of Manaslu Base Camp, and the top of Larkya La.

Waterfall glaciers are common landscape features in an undisturbed site with suspension bridges across deep gorges. The trail covers most areas in the Manaslu Conservation Area, thus protecting the beautiful landscape. 

The landscape and culture are diverse, from the green Budi Gandaki valley to the white-coated slopes of Larkya La. Along the way, these villages show authenticity in preserving the traditional Buddhist culture and lifestyle. It has become a refuge for many people searching for an uncrowded and pure Tibetan experience in this modernized Tibet.

Trekking in the Manaslu regionis allowed, but one must hire a guide for safety because it's restricted. Having a guide around makes the journey safer since they know what the area is like and are familiar with the path, preventing navigation problems. Trekkers, on the other hand, must be mindful of high-altitude dangers.

Besides, this hike provides an opportunity to see Mount Manaslu – the world's eighth-highest mountain up close- and delight in the locals' worship of "the Spirit Mountain." Finally, you will challenge yourself with a different ascend to the Larkya la pass, the trek's highest point. 

The unique detour and trip extensions, such as visits to Tsum Valley and Manaslu Base Camp, further improve the experience. Manaslu region has a variety of fauna in Manaslu Conservation Area, including a rare snow leopard and flora. The Manaslu Circuit has a different advantage; one does not require any risky mountain flight as there is road connectivity to the trailhead. 

How difficult is Manaslu Trek? 

The Manaslu circuit trek is moderately difficult and has many ascends and descents. The track comprises many switchbacks and river crossings, hence making the trip tiring. 

In some cases, the trail passes through landside areas that are dangerous. Nevertheless, it does not involve any technical climbing. One can easily walk along old tracks that are well-established. 

Larkya La Pass, which has a height of 5106 meters, is considered the highest point in Manaslu Circuit Trek. Crossing the pass can also be very difficult, where walking on snow and ice requires climbing and descending along slippery and steep slopes. 

Crossing Larkya La pass is an 8-9 hour trek from Dharamshala. Similarly, Crossing the pass is challenging because it is powdered with snow and glaciers. You must begin your trudge before the first rays of a new day. Therefore, it is good to start earlier because the weather may deteriorate by mid-day.

The ascent passes through scree slopes and patches of ice before reaching the pass. The trek becomes harder due to its cold and low oxygen level. Also, the way down to Bimthang is no less difficult. This daunting journey through Larkya La is rewarded with awe-inspiring mountain scenery.

Though not much altitude gain, the circuit is strenuous because of the winding and narrow trails through uninhabited areas. Reaching other inhabited villages along the trail is a longer hike as they are spaced apart. 

Some say that compared to the other famous treks, the tea houses of the Manalsa circuit are a bit basic and rustic.

The Manaslu Circuit trek has less developed teahouses than those of other famous trekking trails. Some of the lodges are outdated and not highly facilitated. This trek might be difficult if you expect some luxury along the trail. On the other hand, as more travelers have visited the Manaslu Region in recent years, the locals have upgraded their teahouses.

How Will A Typical Day On Trek Look Like?  

The day starts early, at around 6 in the morning. You can then visit a teahouse and refresh before heading to the dining area for breakfast at about seven o'clock. 

Afterward, you can pack your luggage with snacks and water bottles for the trail. Along the trail, you will see splendid views of snow-capped mountains. 

You will find many stops along the path where you can pause to admire the scenery or capture photos of the beautiful landscape. Moreover, you will also spend your lunch in a local teahouse during this time.

We will be taking a rest of about an hour and continuing with our trek. You can rest at the local teahouse after arrival at your destination. Your arrival is expected at 5 PM, and then you are allowed to take some light refreshments.

The dining common hall also has a wood-burning stove where you may gather and sit next to it to warm yourself and interact with fellow trekkers. Trekkers will walk for about 5 to 6 hours each day. This involves traversing the highest mountain passes and rough terrains of the area.

As you take this great trekking journey, keep hydrating and allow your body to acclimate to these conditions very well. 

Dinner is served at around 7 PM, where you can also play cards and interact with other trekkers. You may then discuss your trekking adventure with your guide the following morning, involving the routes to be taken, their difficulties, and other issues after having dinner.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 

With Adventure Altitude Treks, this trek standard package is approximately USD 1400 per person. With this cost, trekkers can do the whole Himalayas experience that takes them from the lower altitude of Besisahar and Machha Khola up to Larke Pass, which is 5106 meters above sea level.

One of the key things known is that the Manaslu circular trip cost highly depends on the group size, timing during the year, and overall itinerary within the package. For instance, the hiking charges during spring and autumn will be expensive compared to the off-season prices. 

Nevertheless, trekking during the off-peak seasons will be riskier and more challenging than during the spring and autumn seasons. We offer last-minute bookingoptions and group prices, which are as follows. 

Having paid for the whole package cost, you do not have to worry about accommodation, transport, logistics, and food while on the trek.