Manaslu Circuit Trek
Nepal's most dramatic circuit — a remote loop of the world's eighth-highest mountain.
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The Manaslu Circuit Trek completes a full loop of Manaslu (8,163 m) — the world's eighth-highest mountain — via the demanding Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). Sharing the first stages with the Tsum Valley, it then climbs through increasingly remote Tibetan-influenced villages to the high-altitude crossing, with views that rival Everest. Far less trafficked than Annapurna or Everest, the Manaslu Circuit delivers wilderness and drama in equal measure.
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Itinerary
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive Kathmandu (1,350 m)
▲ 1,350 m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Drive Kathmandu → Soti Khola (700 m); begin trek
▲ 700 m
Overnight: Soti Khola area
Trek Soti Khola → Machha Khola (869 m)
▲ 869 m
Overnight: Machha Khola
Trek Machha Khola → Jagat (1,340 m)
▲ 1,340 m
Overnight: Jagat
Trek Jagat → Deng (1,860 m)
▲ 1,860 m
Take the Manaslu route (not the Tsum Valley fork) and climb into the higher reaches of the Budi Gandaki. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Deng
Trek Deng → Namrung (2,630 m)
▲ 2,630 m
Dramatic gorges and waterfalls as the valley deepens and Manaslu begins to reveal itself. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Namrung
Trek Namrung → Samagaon (3,530 m)
▲ 3,530 m
Emerge into the wide Nubri Valley — a landscape of yak pastures, ancient gompas, and the full wall of Manaslu ahead. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Samagaon
Acclimatization: optional Manaslu Base Camp hike (4,400 m)
▲ 4,400 m
A rest day with the option of hiking toward Manaslu's base camp for closer views of the mountain's massive south face.
Overnight: Samagaon
Trek Samagaon → Samdo (3,875 m)
▲ 3,875 m
A short but important acclimatization trek to the high village of Samdo, close to the Tibet border. 3–4 hrs.
Overnight: Samdo
Trek Samdo → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)
▲ 4,460 m
Trek to the high camp directly below the Larkya La — an austere camp in a wild glacial landscape. 3–4 hrs.
Overnight: Larkya Phedi
Cross Larkya La (5,160 m); descend to Bimthang (3,720 m)
▲ 5,160 m
The crux of the circuit: an early start (2–3 am) to cross the high pass before afternoon winds. Sweeping views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II on the descent to Bimthang's flower-filled meadows. 8–10 hrs.
Overnight: Bimthang
Trek Bimthang → Tilije (2,300 m)
▲ 2,300 m
A long descent back into the temperate forest zone. 6–7 hrs.
Overnight: Tilije
Trek Tilije → Tal (1,700 m)
▲ 1,700 m
Join the lower Annapurna Circuit trail along the Marsyangdi river. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Tal
Trek Tal → Syange / Besisahar (1,100 m); drive Kathmandu
▲ 1,100 m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Leisure in Kathmandu
Overnight: Kathmandu
Departure
Gallery
Moments from the route
Route
Route Map
Route and durations are approximate and can be customised to your schedule.
Included
What's Included
Exclusions
Not Included
Before You Go
Important Notes
- Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit + MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) + ACAP + TIMS — arranged by TempleFront. Restricted area: licensed guide required, minimum 2 trekkers.
- The restricted-area permit fee is set by the Department of Immigration and varies by season and number of days — TempleFront confirms the current cost with your quote.
- Licensed guide mandatory — solo trekking is not permitted in the restricted zone.
- Best seasons: March–May and October–November. Early season may have snow on Larkya La.
- Larkya La crossing starts at 2–3 am — cold, demanding, and unforgettable. Proper acclimatisation at Samagaon is essential.
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking to 5,200 m and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory.
- Fitness: a challenging trek — you should be able to walk 6–7 hours a day for two weeks on rough, often steep trails, with one long, cold pass day. Train with cardio and loaded hill walks beforehand.
- Remoteness: facilities are basic and there are no road exits between Jagat and Dharapani. Carry enough Nepali rupees in cash (no ATMs on the route) and all personal medication.
- Packing: a sleeping bag rated to −15°C for the high camps, layers, sturdy boots, trekking poles, sun protection, and microspikes for an early-season Larkya La.
Frequently Asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private trek?
Yes — every TempleFront trek is guided exclusively for your group. We never combine you with other trekkers.
What is included in the price?
All required permits, a licensed English-speaking guide, porters, teahouse accommodation, and breakfast and dinner throughout. Lunches are on your own account at teahouses en route.
How does Manaslu Circuit compare to Annapurna Circuit?
Both are classic long circuits, but Manaslu is significantly more remote, less trekked, and culturally wilder — a raw Tibetan-Buddhist landscape with few other trekkers. Annapurna has better infrastructure and higher altitudes on Thorong La (5,416 m) vs Larkya La (5,160 m). Manaslu is the choice for those who want genuine adventure.
How difficult is the Larkya La crossing?
The Larkya La (5,160 m) is demanding but achievable — an early 2 am start through snow and glacier terrain. No technical equipment is required but crampons may be needed in early spring. Your guide carries safety equipment. The descent to Bimthang's flower-filled meadows makes it all worthwhile.
What about altitude sickness?
The circuit reaches 5,160 m at Larkya La with a dedicated acclimatisation day and optional hike at Samagaon (3,530 m). Consult your doctor about altitude medication. Report any symptoms immediately.
What gear do I need?
Sturdy trekking boots, crampons (rental available at Samagaon), layers for cold Larkya La start, trekking poles, sleeping bag rated to -10°C, and waterproof shell. A full kit list is provided on booking.
What are the teahouses like?
Comfortable and improving throughout the circuit. Best in Machha Khola, Jagat, and Samagaon. Simpler above Samdo and at Larkya Phedi. Your sleeping bag is essential.
How do I confirm a booking?
Send us a WhatsApp or email enquiry. We respond same day with a detailed quote and permit checklist. A deposit secures your dates.
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Everest Base Camp Trek
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Every tour is private and fully customisable. Drop us a message and we'll build the perfect itinerary for your group.