Among the several thrilling trekking selections in Nepal. Due to the variety of trekking routes and destinations, anyone may become jittery. Some places are so unique that you must go there when you visit Nepal, among which 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking is one of the best. The trekking route is not discovered and consumed by many but loved and repeated by most trekkers who have experienced once. The trekking route is rated highly by many people who has been there before. Thats why it will be an adventurous yet enjoyable trekking route to the Manaslu Conservation and Annapurna Conservation areas.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is the best trek, an alternative to the busier Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek for hikers who wish to take in the grandeur of Nepal while going through less-populated places. Manaslu Circuit Trek offers breathtaking vistas of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, and Ganesh Himal, having its prominence as an undiscovered, off-the-beaten-path. The 12 Days Manaslu Trekking is specially prepared for trekkers who want to trek to a less crowded area quickly.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a magnificent tea house trekking adventure around Mount Manaslu. The Manaslu ascent, like the Annapurna,Everest, and Langtang treks, is gaining popularity among foreign travellers due to Nepal’s isolated and restricted locations. Starting in Machha Khola, the route continues to Lho, Samagaun, and the 5106 -meter Larkya La pass, which connects Bimthang, Dharapani, and Besishahar. Mule trains, villagers, and hikers go over the Manaslu trail, which crosses riverbeds via landslip and avalanche zones and is paved with stones. This 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking is unique in that it provides the greatest mountain views, tough passes, and authentic Nepalese and Tibetan cultures at the most economical cost.
Since beginning its operations in 1992 AD, Manaslu has serviced thousands of domestic and foreign travelers from all over the world and, during the best trekking seasons. The number of visitors to Manaslu increases year after year, yet it is still considered the underestimated and less-crowded hiking trail because it is a freshly created route among a variety of trekking regions. The off-the-beaten-path avenues provide a unique opportunity to explore, take in the beauty, and connect with nature.
You will, however, pass through a remote part of Nepal that requires a special permit to reach. The number of individuals who can come to the Manaslu region is limited due to trekking limitations. The guide has to join the trekkers, and his name and insurance should be mentioned when applying for the permit. There must also be two trekkers (without the guide and porter).
Table of Contents
Highlights 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking
- Relatively unexplored and outskirt trekking route
- Experience the local hospitality and cuisine
- Thrive yourself the eye-catching Views served from Larkya Pass.
- Experience the Himalayas from a close perspective.
- The lovely cultural blend of Nepalese and Tibetan people.
- The once-in-a-lifetime trail heads over the Budhi Gandaki River valley.
- Embark through the two most thrilling outskirts of Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Areas.
- Enjoy the most rewarding panoramic view shapes during the acclimatization day
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Royal Holidays Adventure designed the Manaslu trek itinerary to allow enough of time for acclimatization. It is an important factor to consider while travelling on rugged and rocky high-altitude trails. The most rewarding trekking seasons in Manaslu region are autumn and spring. The sky are clear, and the sights are stunning. Healthy persons with ordinary physical fitness, a cheerful attitude, and a strong determination are prepared to embark on this amazing trekking adventure in Nepal. Join Royal Holidays and spend time with local tribes. Learn about Tibetan Buddhism’s interesting customs, legacy, and routine.
01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola
On the first day of the scheduled trek, we will catch a drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola in Gorkha district. It will be a drive of about 7 hour and will serve as our gateway to the Manaslu Circuit trek.
02: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat (6 hours trek)
On the second day, we will have a light breakfast before starting the stroll up from Machhakhola. The first day route is easy with the scenic and floral natural beauty of upper Chure in the region.
03: Trek from Jagat to Deng (6 hours trek)
This will be a rather fascinating day of trekking as we will have to walk over the unpaved and rocky path. We will start slowly and gradually we will level up our walk and the legs can get going.
04: Trek from Deng to Namrung (7 hours trek)
We will encounter with lots of local culture and ethnic traditions of the local people on this day. A fascinating day with the lovely and hospitable people of Northern Nepal waiting ahead.
05: Trek from Namrung to Shyala (5 hours trek)
From this day we will start to see the Himalayas from closer perspective. A 5 hour stroll up towards Shyala will be full of engraving the beautiful memories of Himalayas.
06: Trek from Shyala to Samagaon (3 hours trek)
The day of trek will be a mix of physical toughness and Panoramic beauty. Your will wont tired of watching those beauties even if you are tired of the trek already.
07: Acclimatization day in Samagaon (side trip to Pungyan monastery and manaslu Base Camp) (5-6 hours)
We will be at the halfway of the trek during the day. We will stay at Samagaon for acclamatizing and resting our legs but wont waste a chance to visit the Manaslu Base Camp. The base camp will a remarkable point to your trek so far.
08: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (5 hours trek)
This short day of hike will be a bit difficult physically but serves as an pure Himalayan vibes with all the unpaved outskirts and mouthwatering views of Manaslu and Annapurna during the trek.
09: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (5 hours trek)
This day will be the beginning of crossing one of the highest passes in the country. Brace yourself for another brilliant day of trekking.
10: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimtang via Larke Pass (5106 meter) 8 hours trek
We will wake up early in the morning, before the sunrise and start our trekking to cross the Larke La Pass as soon as possible. It will definitely test your abdomen and the adrealine but will be worth of sweat once you are on top of the path. We will further trek downhill to Bhimtang on this day after spending some time on the pass(if weather allows)
11: Trek from Bhimtang to Dharapani (6-7 hours trek)
This will be our last day of walking as we will walk for 6 hours from Bhimtang to Dharapani. The rewarding and abdomin testing trek will be completed successfully. We may have the little glimpse of party in Dharapani as well.
12 : Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besishar
On this day we will drive from Dharapani via Besisahar and further down to meet Tribhuwan Highway. The rewarding and resilient trek will finally be over on this day.
Major Attractions Of the Trek
- Mt. Manaslu
Mt. Manaslu (8163m.|26781ft.) is the world’s eighth-highest mountain. In the heart of Nepal’s Gorkha district, Mt. Manaslu serves for several trekking routes and expedition opportunities. As Mt. Manaslu is comparatively simpler to summit than other summits in the nation, mountaineers come to Nepal in significant numbers to attempt it.
- Larkya Pass
During the Manaslu Circuit Trekking, the highest point we can reach is the Larkya La Pass. At 5106m.|16751ft. above sea level, Larkya La Pass is easily the one of the highest and most challenging passes in the Nepalese Himalayan ranges which is enough to test the guts and resilience of the trekker. Out of challenges, the Larkya La pass provides the most exhilarating views of the extensive highlands and mountains which will be icing on pain of passing through the adventurous route of the Pass.
- Views during the trek
The Manaslu Trek provides the most fantastic and beautiful viewshapes of the himalayas on the roll. You will walk alongside the high mountain and will be surrounded by rich flora, fauna, and the stunning scenery of the lower and higher hills. The mountains like Mt. Manaslu (8163m), Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal, Mt. Annapurna (8091m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), and many other hills and mountains will be waiting to embrace with their snowy white rocks once you reach a certain altitude.
- Warm hospitality by the locals.
Nepal is a hospitable country and there will be no difference in hospitality during this trek despite being on the remote and unexplored side of Nepal. Several villages on the Manaslu trekking tour provide the hospitable glimpse of Nepali ethnic culture and traditions. Different communities have their customs and traditions. On the Manaslu trekking region’s mainlands, Gurung and Tamang, as well as Brahmin and Chhetri, reside close by showcasing the beauty of “unity in diversity” of Nepal. The prayer flags and mani walls in the various wards will captivate you. The residents are straightforward and friendly to anyone who visit the villages. The best trek experiences will leave you feeling overwhelmed by nature, culture, and friendliness.
Along the way to Manaslu, there are various monasteries and gumbas where you can meet friendly people and monks who would extend you a warm welcome.
- The cultural Blend of the locals
We will pass through the route where people following different religions, embracing different cultures and traditions living happily and in unity. That shows the cultural unification of Nepal despite being so diverse and rich in culture and tradition. Brahmins, Chhetris, Gurungs, Tamangs will be seen sharing each others’ culture on a daily basis and it will be fascinating to any person visiting the place for the first time. Not only for himalayan views and adventerous trekking route, The Manaslu Circuit Trek is valuable and worthy being travelled on the basis of cultural mix and the diversity.
- Enchanting the natural beauty
Manaslu is all about the enchantment of the Himalayas and the cherished, beautiful nature that lies in its path. While walking, you can explore local settlements, woodlands, and herds of grazing cattle. The lonely trail slowly curves up to the angular cliffs. As hikers enjoy the alpine, coniferous, and subtropical trees and vegetation, the mountains and waterfalls offer photographic opportunities.
Useful Info about Manaslu Circuit Trekking
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
Your ability to trek in the Manaslu region will depend on your level of physical fitness and endurance. Travelling is not too tough if you are in good physical and mental condition. The Manaslu Circuit Trekking has a reasonable degree of difficulty when we arrive at the lowlands, but it gets harder as we ascend higher. The terrain and rocks make the hike to Manaslu’s higher elevations challenging. The Larke La Pass is the highest point on the Manaslu Trek and may be challenging to cross. Since the Larke La Pass is difficult to cross and there is a lot of snowfall after mid-November, we do not advise Manaslu trekking.
Altitude Sickness during Manaslu Circuit Trek
The geographical range for the Manaslu Circuit Trekking excursion is 900–5106 meters above sea level. Exploration of the striking geographic and ecological variations is made possible by this height disparities. To enjoy the excitement of the snowy Himalayas, we’ll ascend the mild slopes.
Altitude sickness risk is unpredictable. Our walking route around the Manaslu Circuit includes one acclimatisation day. However, altitude sickness can affect anybody, so you must use caution when high-altitude trekking.
You won’t have to worry about altitude sickness if you’ve done high altitude trekking before and engage in rigorous lifting exercises at the gym.
Even if you dont have the previous experience, our experienced guides will make sure you complete the trek on the safest way possible.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit Fees
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Local permit by municipality, and a Special permit (SRAP) should be for the Manaslu trek. As it is inside the premises of Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area, double permit is required to enter in the region.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) costs: NPR 3000 per person
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP) costs: NPR 3000 per person
Entry permit by local government in Manaslu region costs: NPR 1000 per person
SRAP costs from September to November costs: $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day after a week.
SRAP for December to August costs: $75 for the first 7 days and $10 per day after a week.
Accommodation Services during the Manaslu Circuit Trek
There are teahouses along the trail that provide places to stay and eat. Your lodge services will be average. Additional fees will apply for internet access and hot showers. Due to the location’s remoteness, providing modern infrastructure is difficult. The excellent perks offered throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trekking excursion allow trekkers to rest comfortably. Your accommodation will be the best choice for trekking in the meantime.
Food Services during the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Throughout the entire Manaslu Circuit trek, food options will be determined by your preferences and health. There will be a large selection for you to pick from. With the primary option of adding or removing specific ingredients from the recipe to make it even healthier and more palatable, you will have a variety of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and vegan options. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the food.
Drinking water facilities
There are abundant drinking water facilities in the Manaslu Circuit trekking area. The tea houses owners are kind enough to give away the drinking water. However, requesting hot water and a shower could cost a few rupees. Don’t forget to bring your thermos or water bottle.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Solo
Manaslu Circuit Trek is not possible to trek alone. You need to hire a registered trekking guide to obtain the permit for a Special Restricted Area Permit and must have a group of at least two people to obtain a permit. Because Manaslu is in a remote and unexplored region, the government of Nepal does not permit people to visit the place alone for security reasons.
If you want we can get you a Porter cum Guide who knows the trekking trail and a government-certified license at $30 per day. At this cost, all his meals, accommodation, insurance, and necessary equipment are covered.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The major season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Autumn or Spring Seasons since these will be the most experience-based time for the Manaslu Trek in terms of walking and views of the surroundings.
- Spring Season (Mar-May)
In Nepal, spring is one of the best seasons for hiking. In the spring, the Manaslu trekking area probably gives a better view and more breathtaking mountains. Following the chilly winter, flowers started to bloom and the hills started to get greener. The temperature is perfect for trekking, and there is very little chance of rain or snow at the elevation.
2. Autumn Season (Sep-Nov)
Autumn is perhaps the best season to travel to Nepal. The Christmas season adds to the splendour of the settlement environs, and trekking conditions are ideal. In Nepal, autumn is also a time for celebrations. Autumn is when the two largest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar, take place. Your trip to Nepal will be enhanced by your amazing hiking experience. You might discover more about Nepalese culture and society during the country’s holiday season.
Travel Insurance
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, we advise trekkers to purchase travel insurance. Having adequate comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, emergency helicopter rescue, and personal injury expenses is something we highly recommend. Having sufficient travel insurance will not only provide you with piece of mind when you travel with us, but it will also fully cover any accidents that may arise.
Extra Expenses
You may want to spend extra money on facilities like a spa, massage, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi facilities, and hot shower during your trekking time. So, we recommend you carry some extra cash during the trek.
Last-Minute Booking
The Royal Adventure offers last-minute bookings from its client at least three days before the departure date. Send us your inquiry for reservation.
