About the trek
As you stand at the base of Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, a sense of awe washes over you. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not for the faint-hearted. It's a 14-day journey that will test your limits, both physically and mentally. The trek takes you through remote Tibetan-Buddhist villages, deep river gorges, and pristine high forests that are home to elusive snow leopards. The highlight? Crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5160m, an experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty of the surroundings. This trek is for those who seek the thrill of the summit, the challenge of high-altitude trekking, and the reward of standing on a roof of the world. You'll face steep ascents, rugged terrain, and the ever-present risk of altitude sickness. But the sense of achievement when you complete this trek is unparalleled. You'll be part of an elite group who have dared to conquer Manaslu.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Crossing the remote Larkya La Pass at 5160m, one of the highest points in the trek.
- 02Largely unspoiled compared to busier Nepal treks, offering a more authentic experience.
- 03Passing through ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture, providing a deep dive into local traditions.
- 04Home to rare wildlife like snow leopards, offering unique wildlife spotting opportunities.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Soti Khola
🚩 Starting Point
Deng
Waypoint 1
Namrung
Waypoint 2
Samagaon
Waypoint 3
Samdo
Waypoint 4
Larkya La
▲ Highest Point
Bimthang
Waypoint 6
Dharapani
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Soti Khola
730m
Deng
1,800m
Namrung
2,630m
Samagaon
3,530m
Samdo
3,875m
Larkya La
5,160m
Bimthang
3,590m
Dharapani
1,960m
Start
730m
Peak
5,160m
Total Gain
+4,430m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov. Avoid Jun, Jul, Aug — heavy rainfall makes trails risky.
Mar
BESTOpening
2–15°C
Apr
BESTPleasant
8–20°C
May
BESTBest Season
12–25°C
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Oct
BESTBest Season
5–18°C
Nov
BESTCold
0–12°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Kathmandu Airport, Kathmandu, 110 km
Nearest Railway
Muglin Railway Station, 120 km
Flight to Kathmandu (₹10,000, 2 hours), then bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Train to Gorakhpur (₹500, 12 hours), then bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000, 8 hours), and finally bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Direct road route via Gorakhpur (1,200 km, 24 hours, bus or car options, ₹3,000)
Flight to Kathmandu (₹12,000, 3 hours), then bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Train to Gorakhpur (₹800, 24 hours), then bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000, 8 hours), and finally bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Road route via Gorakhpur (2,000 km, 36 hours, bus options, ₹4,000)
Flight to Kathmandu (₹15,000, 3.5 hours), then bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Train to Gorakhpur (₹1,000, 36 hours), then bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000, 8 hours), and finally bus/cab to Besisahar (₹1,500, 6-7 hours)
Road route via Gorakhpur (2,500 km, 48 hours, bus options, ₹5,000)
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or local bus from Besisahar to the trek start point.
Pro tip: Book your transport and permits in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹25,000–₹50,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide.
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹2,500 – ₹3,500 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- Waterproof boots
- Gaiters
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag -15°C
- 55L pack
clothing
- Down jacket
- Thermal layers x2
- Fleece
- Waterproof hardshell
- Warm gloves and hat
essentials
- Restricted Area Permit
- TIMS
- Altitude meds
- Water purifier
- Emergency cash
Safety Tips
- 1Restricted area — licensed guide mandatory
- 2Larkya La has taken lives in bad weather — check conditions before crossing
Permit & Entry Info
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: USD 100/week (Sep-Nov), USD 75/week (Dec-Aug). MCAP entry fee: NPR 3000. Licensed guide and group minimum (2 persons) required.
Emergency Contacts
Nepal Tourism Board
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is classified as challenging. It involves steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high-altitude conditions. Daily distances range from 6 to 12 km, with significant altitude gain.
The best months are March, April, May, October, and November. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making the trek more enjoyable and safer.
The cost ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000, depending on your style, accommodation choices, and whether you hire a guide. This includes transport, food, permits, and guide fees.
Yes, a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) is required. It costs around ₹3,500 and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Besisahar.
No, this trek is not suitable for beginners due to its challenging terrain, high altitude, and technical difficulties. It's best for experienced trekkers.
The max altitude is 5160m at Larkya La Pass. Altitude sickness is a risk; acclimatize properly and consult a doctor if symptoms arise.
Essentials include high-altitude clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag rated for -10°C, a hydration system, trekking poles, and a first-aid kit.
The nearest city is Kathmandu. From there, take a bus or shared cab to Besisahar (110 km, 6-7 hours), then trek-in to the base camp.
The total distance is approximately 120 km. Daily distances vary from 6 to 12 km.
It's not recommended. The trek is challenging and remote; a guide ensures safety, navigation, and a richer experience.
In the best season (Mar-May, Oct-Nov), daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, while nights can drop to -5°C to 5°C.
Mobile network is limited, and there are no ATMs. Carry enough cash for expenses and be prepared for limited connectivity.
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