Highlights -Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Breathtaking views of the Manaslu massif, which includes the eighth-highest peak in the world – Manaslu (8,156m)
- The difficult Larkya La Pass (5,160m), has a wide view of the Himalayan peaks around it.
- The Manaslu Conservation Area has a lot of different plants and animals, some of which are endangered.
- Traditional villages of Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang people, each with its own culture and way of life.
- The region’s rich history and culture can be seen in the many old monasteries and chortens that dot the landscape.
- The beautiful Manaslu Base Camp has impressive views of the Manaslu massif and the glaciers around it.
- The people who live there are warm and welcoming, and they are always happy to talk about their culture and history.
- The fantastic views of the Himalayan peaks, such as Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, and Ganesh Himal.
- The chance to see rare and endangered animals, such as red pandas, snow leopards, and Himalayan tahr.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular and challenging trekking route in the western part of Nepal. The Trekking trail follows the path around the Manaslu mass – the eighth-highest mountain peak in the world.
The Manaslu Circuit trek offers the opportunity to explore the untouched natural beauty and diverse culture and traditions of the Manaslu Region, making it the one of best trekking destinations in Nepal.
Typically, the trek starts from the small town of – Arughat Gaupalika in the Gorkha District of Nepal. The trail passes through the lush forest, terrace fields, and traditional villages.
The trail basically ascends towards the Larke-La Pass, which is also the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek at an altitude of 5,106 M above sea level offering beautiful snow-capped Himalayan views all around.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is more challenging like Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. Which requires trekkers to be physically fit and mentally prepared to face the high altitude harsh terrain and unpredictable weather in the Himalayas. The trekkers need to trek normally for 7-8 hours a day in the Manaslu region.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek also offers a wide opportunity to explore the diverse culture and unique traditions of the Manaslu region. The Manaslu region is home to several ethnic communities including the Ancient Tibetans, Tamangs, Sherpas, and Gurungs with their own unique traditions. language and lifestyle.
The trekkers can interact with the local people, visit the traditional villages explore the Ancient Tibetan Monasteries, and learn more in-depth about the history and culture of the Manaslu region.
While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area where the trekkers need to issue a special permit to enter the region. The trek basically takes 14-18 days to complete depending on the itinerary.
The best time to trek is from Late September to November and March to May when the weather is clear and the high mountains will closely open up with beautiful vistas.
However, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a unique traditional trekking experience, with a mixture of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a challenging trekking route. The trail will be a perfect choice for experienced outdoor trekkers who are looking for a less crowded and more adventurous trekking trail in Nepal.
Today after having breakfast we will commence our trekking days in the Himalayas to the western belt of Nepal via our private Bus/Jeep/Car or also on Public vehicles as per your preference.
While driving you will explore the hills with the best panoramic views and the people rafting on the Trishuli River.
Although the road is rough and busty with narrow roads to reach Machha Khola. You will see the beautiful forest and the water streams along the way. As we will stop in the small settlement of Machha Khola for our overnight stay.
while you may also explore the natural hot spring in Machha Khola to relax your muscle and body and gain good trekking energy in the high altitude.
Waking up in the Himalayas with the good views and the good hospitality of the local people. We will have our breakfast and will commence our trek in the classic Manaslu circuit hike.
As we will be passing via the Budhi Gandaki River Gorge and as we enter the forest we will witness the different animals and birds.
Passing via the dense forest we will reach the Gurung village where you may explore and experience the traditional Gurung culture and the lifestyle in the local community.
Crossing the Suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River we will reach the Doban and after we ascend uphills for 3 hours following the Gurung village trails.
Following the river near the Yaru and crossing the wooden bridge, we reach the village of Jagat where we need to show all our special permits to enter the restricted area in the Manaslu region. And our overnight will be in Jagat in the Tea house.
We will trek to the Salleri and again descend to the Sirdibas village where you will be welcomed by the local people with their unique culture and traditions.
Along the trail, you will be passing through Monasteries, Carved Manis, Stupas, and colorful Tibetan flags.
As crossing the Siyar Khola bridge we will encounter two ways one for Tsum Valley and another to Manaslu Circuit Trek leading us to the Village of Deng for our trekking overnight stay.
As our trail takes us through remote villages and lush forest with beautiful views of the Mountain ranges and also offers the opportunity to experience the local culture and the lifestyle of the people.
The trail starts to descend as crossing the Budi Gandaki River on the suspension bridge. As we keep on trekking towards the Rana, you will witness more beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas.
while the trail will pass via the river and you will be passing beautiful villages like Bhi, Ghap, and Pork as reaching the Namrung village for our overnight stay.
Today we will explore the Nubri village and experience the traditional culture and unique lifestyle of the local communities. Also, we will explore the Ancient Tibetan Monasteries, Stupas, Chortens, etc.
Along the trail we will also pass many chortens, Stone carved manis and the lush forest leading us to Lhi and Sho villages.
You will also have beautiful views of Mt.Manaslu and Manaslu North while our overnight stay will be in Lho village in the Himalayas
The early morning after our heavy breakfast in the Tea house our trail passes with the mesmerizing views of the massif Mt.Manaslu.
While we will be on the trail to Shyala through the dense forest of Rhododendrons, Flora, and fauna Found in the Manasalu region and the different species of birds and Animals.
As we pass the Shyala village within an hour we will enter the Sama Gaun for our overnight stay in the Himalayas.
Though as we enter the Sama Gaun the mesmerizing views of the mountains will fade away while the yak and the traditional human settlements will lure you to explore more.
While today we will rest in the Sama Gaun to adapt to the high-altitude environment. We will hike to the Pungyan Gompa which lies on the east of Nubri valley.
We need to take our packed lunch box today and by reaching the top you will experience the most beautiful depth all around the mountains and beautiful valleys.
If you wish to hike to Manaslu Base Camp is also possible which lies north of Nubra Valley. You may follow the trail of Birendra Taal and on turning left you will reach the Manaslu Base Camp.
Though in the high altitude, it is more important to be hydrated to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS) so make sure your body is well hydrated.
As to be familiar with high altitude you need to climb high and sleep at a low altitude, so following the same slogan you need to get back to the hotel for an overnight stay.
As we gain more altitude it makes it difficult to breathe, so we will trek for a few hours covering short meters of elevation.
As we pass through the trail, the tree line disappears and the Himalayan small herbs and shrubs seem to appear with good smells.
Along the trail today you will be hiking through the long stone-carved mani with colorful Tibetan flags and the small stupas welcoming you and wishing you for your successful trekking in the High Himalayas.
You need to climb up to cross the wooden bridge of the Budi Gandaki River leading us to the village of Smabdo via white Khani.
As you reach the Samdo you may explore the Samdo peak and the unique culture and the lifestyle of the local communities. Overnight stay in the tea house and lodge.
Today, you will be hiking at a very high altitude near the mountains, so you need to be very sensitive about your health conditions and very importantly be more hydrated than normal days.
The trail will be more adventurous while the mesmerizing views of the mountains will make you feel more blessed. You will be passing through the rough terrain of the Manaslu region. Following the trail, we will each to Dharamsala for our trekking overnight stay in the Mountains.
Today is a special day for you as you will be standing and crossing the highest point of the trek and also passing the most beautiful and most popular pass in the trekking world i.e. Larke Pass at an altitude of 5,160 M above sea level.
While to pass the Larke Pass we need to wake up at 3 Am in the morning and should pass the Larke pass before the afternoon.
As you reach the top of Larke Pass you will witness the beautiful mountain ranges with the beautiful yak Kharka and the Manaslu glacier. This part is more challenging but if we walk at a good pace and a well-qualified guide will pass successfully.
On reaching the top of the Larke Pass we will explore for a few hours and capture the pictures and videos for our memories and after that, we will descend down towards the Bimthang for our overnight stay in the lap of Larke Pass.
On the final day, you will be passing through the flora and fauna and the different varieties of Rhododendron flowers.
We will be trekking back following the trails of Dudh Khola and within a few hours we will be within the dense green forest all around us with warm air. and we will reach Gurung Goa.
From here you will witness the agricultural lands and the people working in the fields and their day-to-day lifestyle with proper traditional infrastructure. Following the beautiful trail we will reach the Dharapani for our last trekking overnight stay in the Himalayas.
Today, after our beautiful trekking breakfast in the mountains we will take a jeep to Besisahar. And then we will take a Bus and direct drive to Kathmandu.
Where our delicious meals and drinks are waiting for us. On reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the Hotel, and in the evening we will have our successful trekking party in the Thamel in a good restaurant.
What is Included in Manaslu Circuit Trek ?
What's Included?
- Kathmandu to Machhakhola by Private Jeep
- Dharapani to Besisahar by Sharing Local Jeep
- Best available lodge accommodation during the trek twin sharing
- All standard meals full board with tea/ coffee (Lunches, Dinners, and Breakfasts) during the trek
- Government licensed holder Blue Lake Adventure experienced trek Guide and porter ( Every two trekkers 1 Porter Carry 11 kg Baggage
- Guide and porter include their salary, meals, lodging, and insurance
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water during
- Manaslu Trekking Permit
- (TIMS) card Trekkers Information Management System
- Everyday Seasonal Fruits
- Down Jackets, Sleeping Bag, Blue Lake Adventure T-Shirt, and Annapurna Base camp map ( Down jacket and Sleeping bag to be returned after the trek )
- Medical Kits
- All Nepal Government taxes and office expenses
- Rescue operations in case of complicated in funded by travel insurance
- Blue Lake Adventure Certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
- Airport drop
What's Excluded?
- International Flights ticket
- Nepal Entry visa fee
- Visa Cost on Arrival in International Airport Kathmandu (15 Days, $ 25- $30 30Days – $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
- Extra luggage (limit is 11 kg per trekker)
- All Accommodation and meals before and after the journey in Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal Expenses (Snaks, ( tea/ Coffee) cold drinks, Alcohol, Boil water Wi-Fi, hot shower, battery re- Charge, telephone call, and extra porter
- Personal Gear and clothes
- Personal Trekking equipment
- Tips, Guide, Porter, restaurant, Driver
- Additional Costs like delays caused due to circumstances beyond our control, for example- itinerary modification, change of government policy, Strikes, illness landslide, etc
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular and challenging trekking trail in the Manasalu region that offers a wide opportunity to explore the mixture of natural beauty, cultural diversity, stunning mountain ranges, waterfalls, and traditional villages. While the cost may depend upon the various factors which determine the cost of Manaslu Trek.
The major cost of the Manaslu circuit is as follows:
- Nepal Visa: Firstly, while entering Nepal you need to pay certain amounts to the Department of Immigration to enter Nepal which cost USD 10,20,30 respectively as per the visa norms and conditions of the trekkers traveling in Nepal.
- Permit Fees: While trekking to Manaslu Circuit Trek you need to issue a Special Permit to enter the restricted area in the Manaslu region which costs around USD $100 per person per week and additionally USD $15 for each day. While you also need to get ACAP permits to enter Annapurna Conservation Area Permit which cost around USD $30.
- Guide and Porters: Hiring a guide and porter is recommended for the Manaslu Circuit as the trail can be challenging and remote. The cost of hiring a guide can range from US $25 to US $35 per day, while a porter can cost around US $20 to US $25 per day.
- Transportation: The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts and ends in the town of Machha Khola, which is around a 9-hour drive from Kathmandu. The cost of transportation can vary depending on whether you hire a private jeep or take a public bus. Private transportation can cost around US $200 to US $300, while a public bus can cost around US $15 to US $25
- Accommodation: you will need to stay in tea houses or lodges along the trekking route, which offer basic accommodation and meals. The cost of accommodation can range from US $5 to US $20 per night, depending on the season and location. Meals can cost around US $5 to US $10 per meal.
- Food and Drinks: The Food and drinks during the trek to Manaslu Circuit hike depend upon the food you wish to consume and the location of the Tea house and Lodges also vary the cost of Meal which cost around USD $ 10 for typical Nepali cuisine Dal Bhat and many more as per your choice.
- Equipment and Gears: You will need to bring appropriate trekking gear and equipment for the Manaslu Circuit, such as a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, and warm clothing. The cost of these items can vary depending on their quality and brand.
Accommodation during Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit hike is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through different landscapes, traditional villages, and beautiful mountain scenery. Along the trekking route, people stay in simple tea houses or lodges that offer basic services and facilities.
On the Manaslu Circuit journey, you can expect to stay in the following places:
- Tea House And Lodge: The Tea house and the Lodges along the Manaslu Trek offer basic accommodation with shared and attached bathrooms with cozy and comfortable bedrooms. while the rooms will be basically small with simple furnishing and basic amenities.
- Facilities: The Tea House and Lodge offer basic facilities to all the trekkers along the trail to the Manaslu circuit with shared bathrooms and private bathrooms, a dining room to have delicious food, and get to know other trekkers.
- Availability: There are a number of Hotel and Tea houses during the trek to Manaslu Circuit journey and the availability varies on the trekking season and the popularity of the trekking route. So, when it’s peak trekking season, it’s highly recommended to book a tea house in advance for ease.
Altitude and Terrain of Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit journey is a difficult trek in Nepal that takes you through a variety of landscapes, such as lush forests, remote valleys, and high mountain passes. Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek, is at an altitude of 5,160 meters. This makes it a high-altitude trek that needs proper preparation and acclimatization.
Here’s what you can expect from the Manaslu Circuit journey in terms of altitude and terrain:
- Altitude: The Manaslu Trek starts in the town of Soti Khola, which is about 700 meters above sea level. As you walk through remote valleys and over high mountain passes, you slowly gain altitude. Larkya La Pass, at 5,160 meters, is the highest point of the trek. It is a tough climb that needs to be done in the right way to get used to the high altitude.
- Terrain: The Manaslu Circuit Walk has a variety of terrain. There are steep climbs and descents, river crossings, and narrow mountain paths. The terrain is hard to navigate because it has rocky trails, muddy paths, and rocky outcroppings.
- Weather: The weather on the Manaslu Circuit walk varies by season, with the monsoon season (June to August) being the wettest and the winter season (December to February) being the coldest. People say that the best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is usually dry and mild.
- Altitude sickness: Because the trek is hard and the altitude is high, people who go on the Manaslu Circuit may worry about getting altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can be prevented with proper acclimatization and preparation, such as drinking enough water, eating well, and getting enough rest.
Cultural Diversity During Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu circuit hiking is a popular and famous trekking destination for those who want to trek in less crowded trails of the Manaslu region. It gives an opportunity to explore more in-depth the unique lifestyle, traditions, cultural history, and language of the region.
The following is the overview of the People and Culture of the Manaslu region:
- Ethnic Groups: The Region is mainly home to many ethnic groups such as Tamang, Sherpa, Gurung, and Rai with their own unique traditions and culture.
- Religion: The Manaslu Region is mainly full of the Buddhist religion which follows the Buddha Philosophy in the high Himalayas. They worship in the Monasteries, Stupas, and Carved Mani.
- Lifestyle: The people in the high altitude of the Manasu region follow a very simple lifestyle. Their main occupation is Tourism, animal husbandry agriculture etc.
- Food: The food in the Manaslu region is mainly organic with the grown in the farm with the compost without any pesticides. It makes the food taste good with proper nutrition etc.
- Traditional Clothing: The people of Manaslu region do have a unique dress code which reflects the unique history and the culture of the people.
Gears and Equipment for Manaslu Circuit Trek
While Trekking to the High altitude in the Manaslu region it is more important to pack the proper gear and equipment for trekking in the High altitude of Manaslu Region.
The following gear and equipment should be carried with you during the Manaslu trek:
- Backpack (BAGS): Pack a high-quality backpack that can hold at least 35 to 45 liters of gear and supplies is essential.
- Trekking Boots: High-quality hiking boots or trail running shoes, ideally with plenty of support and traction, are a must for rough terrain.
- Sleeping Bag: Comfortable sleeping gear is required for overnight stays at the trail’s teahouses.
- Tent: A tent that is both lightweight and durable is an absolute necessity if you enjoy camping.
- Clothing: Due to the unpredictability of the weather, you should bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and quick-drying clothes.
- First Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes are just some of the essentials that should be included in a first-aid kit.
- Water Bottle: Keep yourself hydrated by packing at least a couple of water bottles and, if possible, a water purification system.
- Snacks and Chocolate: High-energy snacks, like energy bars, trail mix, and dried fruits, are essential for sustaining you on the trail.
- Google Maps and Compass: In the event that the weather turns bad, you will need a good map and compass to find your way.
- Trash Bags: Use trash bags, and remember to empty them before you leave. Garbage bags are helpful for transporting trash from one location to another.
- Sunscreen Cream: Sunscreen is crucial for skin protection, especially at higher altitudes, where the sun is more intense.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the Autumn season (September to November) and the Spring season (March to May). During the season, the weather is good and fine with the warm environment and the good vistas of the Himalayas.
During the Autumn season, trekking at the high altitude will be more favorable. The weather will be dry with close-up Himalayas and a warm day and cool during the night. The mountains will closely open up for better views and the season is best to trek to experience the local festivals and the unique traditional culture.
The Spring season is also the best season to trek in the high mountains for those who wish to explore the flowers such as Rhododendron in the Himalayas with its different varieties. The panoramic views of the hills and the mountains look very mesmerizing along the trail to the high mountains.
Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area in Nepal so all the trekkers willing to trek in the Manaslu Circuit should issue a special permit for the restricted area which is issued by the Department of Immigration in the Kathmandu Office.
The Following Permits should be issued by all the trekkers before entering the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The Restricted Area Permit should be issued before commencing the Manaslu circuit Trek which basically costs USD $70 per person per week during the Peak trekking season (September to November) and USD $50 per person per week during the off-season (December to August).
The RAP can be issued from the Department of Immigration in the Kathmandu Office. The trekkers should hire a Government-licensed trekking guide during their entire trekking days in the Manaslu region.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permits (MCAP)
The Manaslu Conservation area permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation area. Which costs around USD 30 for foreign and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS CARD)
The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers planning to trek in Nepal. It costs USD 20 for individual personnel and USD 10 for the group members.
FAQ-Manaslu Circuit Trek
The highest elevation of the Manaslu circuit is Larke Pass at an altitude of 5,160 M above sea level.
While commencing your trek in the High altitude all the basic amenities will be provided by the Tea house while you need to pack your personal belongings such as a good backpack, water bottle, thermals, down jacket, sunglasses, and many more.
Typically the Manaslu Circuit hike can be done in 12-16 days depending on your trekking experience and your physical fitness.
While trekking in the mountains, you need to be sure that there you won’t be getting luxurious service so with a few amounts you may trek in the mountains.
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