12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

Destination

Nepal, Manaslu Region

Max. Altitude

5,106M/16,752FT

Difficulty

Strenuous

Best Season

Mar,Apr,May,Sep,Oct,Nov

Transportation

Local Bus | Shared Jeep

Start / End

Kathmandu / Kathmandu or Pokhara

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Distance

Machha Khola to Tilje (138KM/86Miles)

This short Manaslu Circuit trek walks the full Manaslu Circuit trek route around Mount Manaslu (8,163M), the eighth highest mountain in the world, and over Larkya La (5,106M) in twelve days from Kathmandu and back. A local bus takes you to Machha Khola, ten days on the trail lead up the Budhi Gandaki River and down the Marsyangdi side, and a shared jeep from Tilje meets the bus home at Besisahar. It is a high-altitude trek and a classic Nepal trek in the restricted Manaslu trekking region, so a licensed trekking guide is compulsory, and this trekking package includes the guide, all three permits, eleven tea house nights and 34 meals, from USD 845 per person.

Twelve days is the shortest Manaslu trek we run that keeps a proper day to acclimatize: two nights at Samagaon (3,530M) with Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake in between, and a detour to Pungyen Gompa (4,000M) on the way in. The walking comes to about 138KM. The trek offers Gurung farming villages, Tibetan Buddhist settlements, the best view of Manaslu from Lho and the beauty of the Manaslu region, with a quieter trekking experience than Everest or Annapurna. What this plan leaves out is a second night at Samdo, so it suits trekkers who have already been above 3,000M. For a first trek at altitude, the 13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek adds a day trip toward the Tibet border, and the 14 day Manaslu Circuit Trek adds arrival and briefing days in Kathmandu.

Per Person From

$845

12 Days

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Per Person From$84512 Days

Major Highlights of 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • The full Manaslu Circuit, Machha Khola to Tilje over Larkya La (5,106M), in 12 days from Kathmandu.
  • Two nights at Samagaon (3,530M) with a hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800M) or Birendra Lake.
  • A detour to Pungyen Gompa (4,000M) below Manaslu on the way to Samagaon.
  • The Tibetan Buddhist villages of the upper Nubri valley: Namrung, Lho, Shyala and Samdo.
  • Views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Himlung and Annapurna II.
  • From USD 845 per person, with the guide, permits, tea houses, meals and road transfers included.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek at a Glance

Distance, walking time and high point for each day
DayItineraryDistance / TimeAltitude
01Kathmandu to Machha Kholaroad transfer160 km10 hrs1,400 m| Kathmandu
02Machha Khola to Jagat19 km7 hrs1,340 m| Jagat
03Jagat to Deng19.2 km8 hrs1,860 m| Deng
04Deng to Namrung19 km7 hrs2,630 m| Namrung
05Namrung to Shyala16 km7 hrs3,500 m| Shyala
06Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Gompa15 km7 hrs4,000 m| Pungyen Gompa
07Acclimatization Day in Samagaon, Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake4,800 m| Manaslu Base Camp
08Samagaon to Samdo8.5 km3 hrs3,875 m| Samdo
09Samdo to Larkya Phedi6 km4 hrs4,460 m| Dharamsala
10Larkya Phedi to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass16 km9 hrs5,106 m| Larkya La Pass
11Bimthang to Tilje, Then to Besisahar19 km7 hrs3,720 m| Bimthang
12Besisahar to Kathmandu or Pokhararoad transfer175 km7 hrs1,400 m| Kathmandu
On foot, across 10 trekking days137.7 km59 hrs5,106 m

Reviews from our Guests

From travellers on closely related departures of this trip, the same route walked to a different plan.

★★★★★

I just finished the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and it was so amazing! We started with a long drive to Machha Khola and then walked through small and peaceful villages like Jagat, Deng, and Namrung. The views got better and better every day as we moved forward. When we reached Sama Gaon, we were surrounded by huge mountains that looked mesmerizing. We stayed there for a day to rest and acclimate to the height. For me, the hardest part of the trek was crossing Larke Pass. It was a long and tiring day, but let me tell you, the view from the top was totally worth it. After that, we walked down and finally ended the trek in Dharapani. The whole trip was well-planned, and our guide took great care of us. If you're looking for a quiet and beautiful trek in the mountains, I highly recommend the Manaslu Circuit.

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AW
Adreana WhiteJuly 2025 · Guided by Nabaraj
★★★★★

we did the Manaslu trek with Rajendra amgain, it was amazing experience with the top level guide, the trek was outstanding, not over crowded and not over touristic, and Rajendra was extremely professional, fluent in English and very helpful!! highly recommended!!

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RA
roy alony AlonyAugust 2024
★★★★★

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a remarkable journey to Upper Mustang Trek with Himalayan 360, and it's safe to say that this trip exceeded all expectations. From start to finish, it was an experience of a lifetime. Highly recommended. General: We did the trek in the middle of September 2022. We also tried to get in contact with the Manager and send him this text first, but the only feedback we got was that he wanted to talk (As we already did a lot of times) so no feedback at all on our review. First things first we had a great time even 9 of 10 days walking were with rain. The trip/trek itself was well organised and we had a really good time during the trek. Transport: It was really comfortable to have a 4x4 straight from Thamel to Macha Khola and we were happy to choose this option. Going back from Dharapani to Beshisahar with a shared 4x4 was fine. Only point here, our lagguage where lying in a sauces of dirt back in the trunk. Luck for us we had the raincover on those bags. From Beshisahar we were expecting a shared option, which is also mentioned in the contract but the agency took the cheapest options which was the local public transport. We had to change 3 times till Pokhara it was exhausting. Guide: Aang was a really good guide. We learnt a lot about fauna, flora and got a overview about the Buddhism. He was super organized and answered all our questions. The porter was also super nice. Both did a fantastic job. Food and accommodations: The accommodations where all ok. Few where in bad condition, especially the first one (Machha Khola) was a bit ugly. Food was all in all good and the portions where huge. All chefs and hosts made the most of the hospitality. Information: We got no cost details just summary of the total costs. Even based on our request we did not get closer informations. We did not have the chance to compare with other because we felt pushed to sign the contract asap. Trip worth: It was totally worth to to do Manaslu trek instead for example Annapurna. Since there would be a lot of cars on the route. We are happy we chosen Manaslu over Annapurna. Value of Money From our point of view it was too expensive to do this. The agency took too much compared to other groups on the same trek. Sometimes they had even with better conditions. Another couple, they had 2 nights included in Kathmandu + private lift from and to the trek (going back to pokhara as well) the costs where 2/3 of the price we payed. As we also did not have any details from about the costs, it was hard to see where all this money went. We also got a bit a overview how much a guide and porter will take for such trip. The agency organised a accommodation in Pokhara which we paid extra. It was the „Queens Park“. It was not value the money we spent and a bad recommendation. The room was not clean and we had a lot of mold in the bathroom and on the curtains. Overall the rooms where in bad shapes as we even changed ones. Remarks We felt pushed and a bit forced to buy and sign the contract and we did not have the chance to compare to some other companies. The tour operator even said that nowadays big companies just bought small agencies to earn their reputation. We highly recommend to compare other agencies and operator for prices. Other The thing with the walking poles and additional equipment for the trek was quite annoying as we could just simply buy stuff in Thamel but he promised us to give us everything which was missing from our side. Mainly there was the sleeping bag and the poles. We got four different poles and only three worked. One was completely garbage. The sleeping bags wehre quite smelling and they did not feel as washed as we expected. Last but not least, everything worked out as planned, everything was well organised and in place when we needed it. 🙏1

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SB
Shreeya BudhathokiAugust 2024
★★★★★

Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalayan 360 was a venture into the heart of Nepal's untamed beauty, a. From the very start, Himalayan 360's  planning and knowledgeable guides ensured a trek that was not just challenging but also deeply rewarding. The trek unfolded like a tapestry of landscapes lush green valleys, pristine mountain lakes, and the ever-dominant presence of Mount Manaslu. From sharing stories with locals in quaint villages to participating in traditional ceremonies, every interaction felt like an authentic glimpse into the rich tapestry of Manaslu's cultural heritage. As I stood at the Larke Pass, surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas, I realized that the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalayan 360 was not just an adventure it was a transformative experience that pushed boundaries and left me with a profound appreciation for the wonders of Nepal. For those seeking an adventure that transcends the ordinary, the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalayan 360 is an absolute must.

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ZH
Zhong HuaDecember 2023 · Guided by Nabaraj
★★★★★

From the rugged trails to the towering peaks, every moment was a testament to the region's  inspiring beauty and the expertise of the Himalayan 360 team. The journey was seamlessly easy , thanks to the planning and guidance of our seasoned Himalayan 360 guides. Navigating through diverse landscapes, from  villages to lush forests and high mountain passes, provided a comprehensive panorama of Nepal's natural wonders. The teahouse accommodations were a delightful surprise, offering a cozy retreat each evening and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers.

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L
LeeNovember 2023 · Guided by Binod Poudel
★★★★★

I recently completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Himalayan 360 and the entire experience was beyond my expectations. From the very beginning till the last day of my trip, the team demonstrated professionalism and genuine commitment to providing an outstanding adventure. The pre-trip briefing was comprehensive, ensuring that I felt well-prepared and confident about the upcoming adventure. They made sure that everyone in the group was comfortable and enjoying the trek. The accommodations, meals, hospitality, basically everything was top notch. I look forward to embarking on future adventures with Himalayan 360. Highly recommended!

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RG
Richard GrahamOctober 2023 · Guided by Ram Bhandari
★★★★★

The trek to Manaslu Circuit was a memorable experience for me and my friend. I enjoyed the trip from the first day when we began our trek from Machha Khola till the very last day of our trek to Dharapani village. We were welcomed at the airport itself in a traditional way with a traditional scarf the name of which I found out is 'Khada' and we were taken to the hotel and the ambience and the hospitality of the staffs were so welcoming. Talking about the trek, I genuinely enjoyed every part of it and the friendly and knowledgeable guide who was with us throughout the trek, made our trip even more fun. The accommodations along the trekking route were comfortable and I feel blessed to have been able to witness the glorious views of the mountains and beautiful landscapes throughout the trek. If you're looking for a Manaslu Circuit Trek, then Himalayan 360 is an excellent choice.

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CT
Chloe TaylorSeptember 2023 · Guided by Nabaraj

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, Day by Day

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Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola

Day details
FactDetails
Travel Distance:160KM/99Miles
Travel Duration:8-10Hours
Highest Altitude:1,400M/4,593FT | Kathmandu

Day one is a long road day. Your guide meets you in Kathmandu early in the morning for the local bus, which leaves Gongabu Bus Park between 6:00 and 7:00 AM. The road heads west out of the valley along the Trishuli River, then turns north up the Budhi Gandaki past Arughat and Soti Khola. It is paved as far as Arughat and becomes a rough, bumpy track cut into the side of the gorge after that, so the last few hours are slow.

The drive covers about 160KM and takes 8 to 10 hours, with stops for tea and lunch. You arrive at Machha Khola (870M), a small roadside village where the walking begins, and spend the first night in a simple tea house. Take enough Nepali rupees from Kathmandu for the whole trek, because there is no ATM after Arughat. If you would rather skip the bus, a private jeep can be added when you book and is usually a couple of hours faster.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 02: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat

Day details
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Trek Distance:19KM/11.8Miles
Ascent:470M/1,542FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:6-7Hours
Highest Altitude:1,340M/4,396FT | Jagat

The first walking day follows the Budhi Gandaki upstream through a warm, low gorge. From Machha Khola the trail passes Khorla Besi and Tatopani (about 990M), where warm spring water runs from taps beside the trail, then continues through forest to Dovan, the usual lunch stop beside the river.

After lunch the path crosses the river on long suspension bridges, passes waterfalls and climbs over rock steps cut into the valley wall before dropping into Jagat (1,340M), a stone village with paved lanes. It is about 19KM and 6 to 7 hours with 470M of height gain, a good day to settle into a steady pace rather than hurry. Jagat is where the Manaslu restricted area begins, so your guide shows your permits at the checkpost as you arrive.

Day details
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Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 03: Trek from Jagat to Deng

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:19.2KM/11.9Miles
Ascent:520M/1,706FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:7-8Hours
Highest Altitude:1,860M/6,102FT | Deng

Leaving Jagat, the trail climbs to Salleri and drops to Sirdibas, where the first prayer flags and small chortens appear. You cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge and climb to Philim, a large Gurung village of stone houses and millet terraces, where your permits are checked again. On a clear morning, look back from the bridges below Philim for your first view of Shringi Himal.

Beyond Philim the valley narrows. You pass Lokpa, where the trail to the Tsum Valley turns off to the north east, then follow the main trail through pine and bamboo forest, crossing the river several times as the gorge closes in, to Pewa and finally Deng (1,860M). Allow 7 to 8 hours for the 19.2KM, one of the longer walking days on this itinerary.

Day details
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Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 04: Trek from Deng to Namrung

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:19KM/11.8Miles
Ascent:770M/2,526FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:6-7Hours
Highest Altitude:2,630M/8,629FT | Namrung

After crossing the Budhi Gandaki below Deng, the trail climbs to Bihi and heads west up the valley past Rana (1,910M). The forest thins, and the first long walls of mani stones carved with Buddhist prayers line the path. Local custom is to pass them with the wall on your right. Lunch is usually at Ghap.

From Ghap you pass Prok, with views across to Shringi Himal and Ganesh Himal, and then face a steep final climb through forest to Namrung (2,630M). Namrung marks the start of the Nubri valley, where the people, language and houses are Tibetan, and it has some of the more comfortable tea houses on the route. The day is about 19KM and 6 to 7 hours, with 770M of height gain.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 05: Trek from Namrung to Shyala

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:16KM/9.9Miles
Ascent:870M/2,854FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:7Hours
Highest Altitude:3,500M/11,483FT | Shyala

Past the Namrung checkpost the trail climbs through Banjam and leaves the forest for the wide, open upper valley. Barley and buckwheat fields, stone houses and prayer walls line the path through Lihi and Sho, and the snow peaks of Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli rise ahead.

You pass Lho (3,180M), where Ribung Gompa sits on a hill above the village with Manaslu directly behind it, perhaps the best view of Manaslu on the whole trek. From Lho the trail continues more gently to Shyala (3,500M), with Manaslu and its glaciers close above the village. It is about 16KM and 7 hours with 870M of height gain, the biggest rise in sleeping altitude on the 12 day plan, so walk slowly, drink 3 to 4 litres and keep your down jacket handy for the evening.

Day details
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Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 06: Trek from Shyala to Samagaon via Pungyen Gompa

Day details
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Trek Distance:15KM/9.3Miles
Ascent:500M/1,640FT
Descend:470M/1,542FT
Trek Duration:7Hours
Highest Altitude:4,000M/13,123FT | Pungyen Gompa

Instead of walking straight to Samagaon, the 12 day plan climbs to Pungyen Gompa (4,000M), a monastery about 400 years old below Manaslu and its glacier. The Nubri people believe the protector deity Pungyen watches over the valley from here, and on a clear morning the views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli are among the best of the whole trek.

After time at the monastery the trail drops through pine and rhododendron forest and yak pastures to Samagaon (3,530M), the largest village in the upper valley, with a large gompa, shops, a health post and a heliport. You stay two nights here. The day is about 15KM and 7 hours, with 500M of height gain to the monastery and 470M of height loss to the village.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon, Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake

Day details
FactDetails
Ascent:1,270M/4,167FT
Descend:1,270M/4,167FT
Highest Altitude:4,800M/15,748FT | Manaslu Base Camp (optional)

This is the one day on the 12 day itinerary without a change of village, and the most important day of the trek. A second night at 3,530M gives your body time to adjust before Samdo and the pass. The rule is to walk high and come back down to sleep, so most trekkers take one of two side trips.

The harder option is the side trek to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800M): 6 to 7 hours up and back, climbing about 1,270M on a steep trail beside the glacier, with close views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. The easier option is Birendra Lake (3,691M), a glacial lake at the foot of the Manaslu glacier, an hour or two there and back. Either can be combined with a slow afternoon in Samagaon, visiting the gompa and watching village life.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 08: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:8.5KM/5.3Miles
Ascent:345M/1,132FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:2-3Hours
Highest Altitude:3,875M/12,713FT | Samdo

A short, easy day along the Budhi Gandaki across open yak pasture. After about two hours you reach Kyongmo Kharka, a high grazing meadow (kharka is the Nepali word for a pasture), then cross a wooden bridge and climb steeply to Samdo (3,875M), the last village before Larkya La.

The walk is about 8.5KM and 2 to 3 hours with 345M of height gain, so you arrive by late morning. Because the 12 day itinerary has no second night at Samdo, use the afternoon well: walk slowly up the slope above the village for an hour, then come back down to sleep. From the hill you can see the old trade route that leads north toward Tibet. Charge your headtorch and power bank here if you can, because Dharamsala has very little power, and tell your guide about any headache or nausea from here on.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 09: Trek from Samdo to Larkya Phedi

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:6KM/3.7Miles
Ascent:585M/1,919FT
Descend:0M/0FT
Trek Duration:3-4Hours
Highest Altitude:4,460M/14,633FT | Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi)

A short but steady climb to the foot of the pass. From Samdo the trail drops to cross the Budhi Gandaki, then climbs gradually above the last of the trees across open, windswept ground, with glaciers and snow peaks along the Tibetan border on either side.

You reach Dharamsala (4,460M), also called Larkya Phedi, after about 6KM and 3 to 4 hours, with 585M of height gain. It is little more than a few lodges with shared rooms and very limited charging, and in October and April your guide reserves beds ahead. Arrive early, eat a big dinner, drink plenty and get to bed soon after dark, because tomorrow starts before dawn.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 10: Trek from Larkya Phedi to Bimthang via Larkya La Pass

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:16KM/9.9Miles
Ascent:646M/2,119FT
Descend:1,386M/4,547FT
Trek Duration:8-9Hours
Highest Altitude:5,106M/16,752FT | Larkya La Pass

The hardest and most rewarding day. You leave Dharamsala around 3 AM by headtorch to cross Larkya La (5,106M) before the wind builds in the afternoon. The climb follows moraine and passes frozen ponds, gaining 646M over several hours, and the last hour to the prayer flags is slow simply because of the thin air.

From the top the views open west onto Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II. The descent is the tricky part: steep, loose and often icy at first, then long as the trail drops 1,386M into the valley, and trekking poles make a real difference. You reach Bimthang (3,720M), a wide meadow with tea houses and views back to Manaslu, in the afternoon. In all it is about 16KM, but 8 to 9 hours at this altitude.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Tilje, Then Drive to Besisahar

Day details
FactDetails
Trek Distance:19KM/11.8Miles
Ascent:0M/0FT
Descend:1,420M/4,659FT
Trek Duration:6-7Hours
Travel Distance:45-50KM/28-31Miles
Travel Duration:3-4Hours
Highest Altitude:3,720M/12,205FT | Bimthang

The last walking day is downhill all the way. From Bimthang the trail crosses glacial moraine and drops into forest of rhododendron, pine and oak, through Karche and Gho, as the valley turns greener and warmer. This side of the pass is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is why the trek needs an ACAP permit as well.

After about 19KM and 6 to 7 hours, and 1,420M of height loss, you reach Tilje (2,300M), where the road begins. A shared jeep takes you down the Marsyangdi valley past Dharapani to Besisahar (760M), about 45 to 50KM and 3 to 4 hours on a bumpy road. Besisahar is a busy market town, and you spend the last night of the trip in a lodge there.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House / Lodge

Day 12: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu or Pokhara

Day details
FactDetails
Travel Distance:175KM/109Miles
Travel Duration:7Hours
Highest Altitude:1,400M/4,593FT | Kathmandu

After breakfast you take the local bus from Besisahar. The road down the Marsyangdi joins the Prithvi Highway, and the bus follows the Trishuli River back into the Kathmandu valley, about 175KM and 7 hours in all. If you are travelling on to Pokhara instead, you take the road west from the highway. Lunch on the way is included.

Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not part of the trek price, so book your first night back before you set off. If you would rather travel privately, a jeep from Besisahar to Kathmandu can be added to your booking.

Day details
FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation:N/A

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost: Included and Excluded

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Transfer

  • Kathmandu to Machha Khola by local bus
  • Tilje to Besisahar by local shared jeep
  • Besisahar to Kathmandu or Pokhara by local bus
  • International flights
  • Airport transfer
  • Private jeep transfer during the trek

Accommodation & Meals

  • 11 nights in mountain tea houses (shared basis)
  • Food: 11 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 11 dinners
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Extra nights during the trek

Support

  • Government-licensed, English-speaking local trek leader
  • Porter to carry bags (one porter for two trekkers)

Permit & Insurance

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (Manaslu RAP)
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance that covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (compulsory)

Others

  • Government and local taxes and agency service charges
  • Free luggage storage in Kathmandu
  • Appreciation certificate after the trek
  • Free consultation before and after booking
  • Farewell dinner at the end of the trek
  • Staff insurance, salary, equipment, food and clothing
  • Duffel bag for the trek (to be returned afterwards)
  • Comprehensive medical kit
  • Personal clothing, gear and expenses: shopping, snacks, boiled water, drinks, hot showers, alcohol, Wi-Fi, calls, battery charging and extra porters
  • Tips for staff (expected)
  • All other costs not listed under includes
  • Additional costs caused by events beyond our control, such as weather, landslides, itinerary changes, illness, government policy changes or strikes

Route & Elevation

01k2k3k4k5kD1D2D3D4D5D6D7D8D9D10D11D12| Larkya La Pass 5,106 m
Highest point reached on each day, plotted against distance walked. Metres on the left, day number along the bottom.

FAQs for 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Information

Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days: How Hard Is It?

Strenuous, and not technical. No ropes, crampons or climbing skills are needed on this route in spring or autumn. What the 12 day itinerary asks for is endurance: ten days on the trail, most of them 6 to 8 hours, with only one day to acclimatize before the pass.

  • Altitude. Six nights are spent above 3,000M, and Dharamsala at 4,460M is the last bed before Larkya La (5,106M). Altitude sickness is the most common reason trekkers turn back.
  • One day to acclimatize. You spend two nights at Samagaon but only one at Samdo, so the climb from 3,875M to 4,460M and the crossing of the pass come on consecutive days.
  • The pass day. About 16KM but 8 to 9 hours, leaving before dawn, with a steep 1,386M drop to Bimthang.
  • Cold. Near the pass it reaches -20°C even in season, and nothing above Samagaon is heated.
  • Remoteness. There is no road past Samagaon, so a helicopter is the only way out in an emergency.

Train for 6 to 8 weeks with hikes of 5 to 7 hours on hills, ideally two days back to back with the daypack you will carry, and add step ups and squats for the long descents. If you have not trekked above 3,000M before, choose the 13 day version.

Manaslu Trek Route and Terrain

The Manaslu Circuit trek route starts at Machha Khola in the Gorkha District and follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley north through a deep, canyon-like gorge, then swings west around the Manaslu range close to the border with the Tibet Autonomous Region before crossing Larkya La into the Marsyangdi valley. It is a horseshoe rather than a true circle, which is why the trek needs transport at both ends. Almost all of it lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected area where open fires are banned and rubbish must be carried out.

The landscape and vegetation change every few days: subtropical forest and suspension bridges below Jagat, pine and rhododendron to Namrung, open yak pasture and mani walls in the Nubri valley, then moraine and scree above Samdo, with views across to the Annapurna range from the pass. Expect long walking days of 6 to 8 hours, and a descent from Larkya La, the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit, that is harder on the knees than the climb.

Altitude Sickness and How to Prevent It

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) feels like a bad hangover: headache, nausea, dizziness and tiredness. Two rarer forms are dangerous. HAPE affects the lungs and causes breathlessness at rest, and HACE affects the brain and shows as confusion, poor balance and out-of-character behaviour. The risk of altitude sickness rises above 3,000M, which on this Manaslu trek means from Shyala onwards.

  • Above 3,000M, gain no more than 300 to 500M of sleeping altitude a day where the route allows. The day to Shyala gains more, so it is walked slowly.
  • Drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day and keep eating even when your appetite drops.
  • Treat the second day at Samagaon as part of the trek, not a day off: climb high and sleep low.
  • Tell your guide the moment you notice symptoms. Descending is the treatment, and some trekkers take preventive medication on medical advice.

Trekking Manaslu Circuit 12 Days: Pacing and the Larkya La Crossing

With only one day to acclimatize, pacing decides how the 12 day plan feels. Walk the day to Shyala slowly, use the second day at Samagaon for the climb toward Base Camp or the walk to Birendra Lake, and spend the free afternoon at Samdo walking up the hill behind the village before coming back down to sleep. On the morning you leave Dharamsala, start around 3 AM so you reach the pass before the wind builds, and save something for the 1,386M descent to Bimthang. If you feel unwell at Samdo, tell your guide straight away rather than pushing on.

Can a Beginner Do the 12 Day Trek?

A fit beginner can, but the 12 day plan leaves little room for a bad night at altitude. Nothing on the trekking trail needs mountaineering skills, so what matters is condition and pacing. If you can already walk 6 to 7 hours on hills, two days running, carrying a daypack, you have the base. More treks end early because of new trekking boots and sore knees than because of thin air, so break your boots in and use poles on every descent.

Best Season and Packing List, Manaslu Circuit 12 Days

Autumn, from late September to November, is the best time, and spring, from March to May, is second. Both give stable weather and a Larkya La crossing that needs no winter equipment.

  • Autumn, September to November. The sharpest mountain views of the year, with daytime temperatures of 10°C to 20°C lower down. October is the most reliable month, and Dashain and Tihar bring festivals to the villages. It is also the busiest time, so book early.
  • Spring, March to May. Rhododendrons flower below 3,000M and temperatures are moderate. Haze builds through late April and May, and snow can still lie on Larkya La in early March. April is the strongest spring month.
  • Winter, December to February. Cold and quiet. Larkya La can be snow covered and dangerous, and many tea houses close.
  • Monsoon, June to August. Heavy rain, leeches, landslide risk in the Budhi Gandaki gorge and cloud over the peaks. Most agencies do not run the route in these months.

In any season the night at Dharamsala (4,460M) is the coldest of the trek, and temperatures near the pass reach -20°C.

Weather and Temperature on the Trail

The Manaslu trek passes through three climate zones in under two weeks, which is why one packing list has to cover leeches and frostbite.

  • Subtropical, below 2,000M. The Budhi Gandaki River gorge from Machha Khola to Jagat. Warm and humid, with leeches after rain and landslide risk in the monsoon.
  • Temperate forest, 2,000M to 3,500M. Deng to Shyala. Pine, fir and rhododendron, mild days and cold nights.
  • Alpine, above 3,500M. Samagaon to Larkya La. Freezing nights, and near the pass it reaches -20°C even in trekking season.

In October and April the Manaslu region is busy, and the pinch point is beds at Dharamsala rather than the trail, so book early. Late September, early December and early March are quieter, and still the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit if you want the trail more to yourself.

How to Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Book as early as you can for October and April, when the few lodges at Dharamsala, also written Dharamshala, fill first. To book the Manaslu Circuit trek, send us a passport copy, your Nepal visa or Visa Application Submission ID, two to four passport photographs and an insurance certificate covering trekking to 6,000M with helicopter evacuation, because the permit application needs all four. The permit is usually issued the same working day, but never on Saturdays or public holidays.

Winter trekking in the Manaslu region, from December to February, suits experienced trekkers only. Snow can close Larkya La and many teahouses shut, so it is not the time to trek the Manaslu Circuit on a first visit.

Manaslu Circuit 12 Days Packing List

This is the checklist we send every trekker, grouped by what each item is for. Tick it off as you pack, or download it to take shopping.

0 of 24 packed

Non-negotiable

Layers

Feet and pack

Small things that matter

Documents

Practical Tips, Trekking Manaslu Circuit 12 Days

Practical information for this trip
PermitsNothing extra, because all permits are included in the price. Trekking in the Manaslu region needs three: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (USD 100 for the first 7 days and USD 15 a day after from September to November, or USD 75 and USD 10 a day from December to August), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, which funds the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, at NPR 3,000 (about USD 22) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit at NPR 3,000 (about USD 22). Only a registered agency can file it, and a licensed guide is compulsory between Jagat and Dharapani.
InsuranceYes. It is compulsory and not included. Your policy must cover trekking to 6,000M including helicopter evacuation. Insurers sell 5,000M and 6,000M bands with nothing between. A 5,000M policy covers every other day of this trek, but not Larkya La at 5,106M, so take the 6,000M band for peace of mind. It matters because no road reaches you above Samagaon and an uninsured evacuation costs USD 5,000 to 7,000. We need the certificate when we file your permits.
AccommodationEleven nights in teahouses on the Manaslu Circuit, family-run lodges with twin beds, thin mattresses, shared bathrooms and no heating, and a stove in the dining room. Hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging are paid extras and thin out above Samagaon. Dharamsala (4,460M) has only a few lodges, so beds there are reserved ahead in October and April, and the last night is in a lodge in Besisahar.
Staying hydratedDrink 3 to 4 litres a day throughout the trek, and more on the pass day. Carry purification tablets or a filter and refill at tea houses instead of buying bottled water, which gets dearer the higher you go. Hot drinks count toward the total, and it is best to skip alcohol above Samagaon.
CrowdsBusier than its reputation. Permit records counted 14,986 trekkers in the Manaslu Conservation Area in 2025, up from 902 in 2021. October and April are now crowded, and the pinch point is beds at Dharamsala rather than the trail. Late September, early December and early March are quieter.
Cultural etiquetteThe culture of the Manaslu region follows Tibetan Buddhism in the upper valley, so walk clockwise around gompas and chortens, and pass mani walls with the wall on your right. Ask before photographing people or the inside of a monastery, take off your shoes and hat when you enter one, and do not point your feet at an altar or touch offerings. Dress modestly. From around Namrung upward villagers often greet you with Tashi Delek, while Namaste is used lower down and understood everywhere.
Supporting the valleySpend in the valley: eat and sleep in the tea houses, buy snacks and crafts in the villages, and hire a local porter. Follow the conservation area rules of no open fires, carrying all rubbish out and staying on the marked route, and refill a bottle instead of buying plastic. Tip your guide and porter at the end, as tips are an expected part of their income.

Still have doubts? Talk to the team who runs this trip.

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Weighing It Against the Alternatives

If you are still deciding, this is how 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek sits against the trips people most often weigh it against — on days, distance, difficulty and cost.

This trip compared with the alternatives
TripDays / DistanceDifficultyFrom
12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekthis trip12 days138 kmStrenuous$845
13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek13 days158 kmStrenuous$890
Manaslu Circuit Trek14 days129 kmStrenuous$920
Annapurna Circuit Trek10 days65.6 kmChallenging$599
Everest Base Camp Trek14 days114.48 kmStrenuous$1,260

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