The Manaslu Circuit Trek, organized by Mountain King Adventures, is a spectacular trekking route in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas. This trek circles around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), the eighth-highest peak in the world, offering trekkers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. The journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, where the team from Mountain King Adventures will help with preparations and sightseeing before heading to the remote regions of the Manaslu area.
The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lowland subtropical forests to high alpine terrains and rugged mountain passes like the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft). Along the route, trekkers pass through traditional villages such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaon, and Samdo, where the local Tibetan-influenced culture is vibrant and welcoming. Each day brings new experiences, whether it’s crossing suspension bridges, hiking along river valleys, or enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Himlung Himal and Shringi Himal.
The best seasons for trekking the Manaslu Circuit are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). During these months, the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate for trekking. Autumn is particularly popular due to the lush landscapes after the monsoon and the visibility of snow-capped peaks, while spring brings blooming rhododendrons and other alpine flowers, adding vibrant colors to the trek.
Trekking during the monsoon season (June–August) is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides. Winter (December–February) can be extremely cold with snow on high passes like Larkya La, making the trek more challenging. Mountain King Adventures ensures trekkers are guided with local expertise, safety measures, and suitable gear to match the season for a comfortable and safe journey.
Seasonal highlights:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is classified as moderate to challenging, suitable for trekkers with prior experience in high-altitude trekking. The trek involves long daily walks, steep ascents, and descents, and the crossing of high passes like Larkya La (5,106 m), which requires proper acclimatization. Mountain King Adventures provides expert guides and porters to ensure safety, pacing, and support throughout the trek.
Transportation to the trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, a gateway to the Manaslu region. During the return journey, trekkers are driven back to Kathmandu via Besisahar and Dharapani, offering stunning views of the Himalayan foothills. Vehicles used are usually private jeeps or buses, depending on the group size.
Difficulty and transport details:
Along the Manaslu Circuit, accommodation is mostly in teahouses and lodges, offering basic yet comfortable facilities. Rooms typically have beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. At higher altitudes, lodges may have limited heating, so trekkers are advised to carry warm clothing and sleeping bags.
Meals are hearty and designed to provide energy for long trekking days. The menu usually includes rice, noodles, soups, lentils, and local dishes like dal bhat. Hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are widely available and help maintain energy and warmth at higher elevations. Mountain King Adventures ensures trekkers enjoy clean and hygienic food and lodging, even in remote villages.
Food & accommodation highlights:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek passes through a restricted area, requiring multiple permits. Trekkers must obtain:
Mountain King Adventures handles all permit arrangements, ensuring that trekkers have valid documents before starting the trek. Permit costs also contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage in the Manaslu region.
Permit summary:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect combination of adventure, cultural exploration, and natural beauty. Compared to more crowded routes like the Annapurna or Everest regions, this trek offers solitude, untouched landscapes, and authentic village experiences. With Mountain King Adventures, trekkers benefit from experienced guides, well-organized logistics, and a safe, memorable Himalayan journey.
This trek is ideal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, majestic mountain views, and encounters with the rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture. From crossing challenging passes to exploring remote villages, the Manaslu Circuit is a trek that rewards effort with extraordinary experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
Reasons to choose this trek:
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by the Mountain King Adventures representative. After completing immigration and luggage formalities, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, as this will help you recover from your journey. In the evening, you may choose to stroll around Thamel, explore local markets, or enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine in nearby restaurants. Overnight stay in Kathmandu provides a comfortable start to your trek.
Today, after breakfast, your team will gather for a detailed briefing on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You will check your trekking permits, maps, and gear, ensuring everything is in order. Later, you will embark on a half-day sightseeing tour visiting iconic landmarks such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. This tour provides insight into Nepal’s rich culture and history. The evening is reserved for final preparation of your trekking gear and rest. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu allows you to recharge for the journey ahead.
After an early breakfast, you will drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, a journey of approximately 8–9 hours through scenic hills, terraced fields, and rivers. The drive offers an introduction to the rural beauty of Nepal with occasional glimpses of the snow-capped Himalayas. Upon arrival, you will settle into a local guesthouse or teahouse. The evening is free to relax and explore the village along the Budhi Gandaki River. Dinner will be a local experience, giving you the first taste of trekking life in the Manaslu region.
Today marks the beginning of the trek proper. Starting from Machha Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing lush forests, traditional villages, and suspension bridges. You will reach Dovan, a small riverside settlement, for a short break before continuing uphill to Jagat. Jagat is a charming village with small shops, tea houses, and monasteries, providing a glimpse of the local culture. This trek day is moderately challenging and serves as a gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking. Overnight stay in Jagat teahouse offers a cozy end to the first trekking day.
The trek today takes you through dense forests of oak and rhododendron as you ascend from Jagat. Passing through Philim Village, a traditional Gurung settlement, you will witness local life and architecture. The trail gradually climbs along the river, offering magnificent views of terraced fields and surrounding hills. By afternoon, you will reach Deng, a serene village with picturesque landscapes and a few tea houses. Deng’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for interacting with local villagers and learning about their culture. Overnight stay in Deng provides a peaceful night before higher altitude trekking.
Today’s trek is longer and involves a gradual ascent through lush forests, riverside trails, and small hamlets. You will pass several suspension bridges and waterfalls, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Namrung is a traditional Tibetan-influenced village, known for its colorful prayer flags and monasteries. The village provides stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Manaslu in the distance. Trekking today requires moderate stamina, as you steadily gain altitude. You will spend the night in a local teahouse, enjoying warm meals and a breathtaking Himalayan sunset over the valley.
From Namrung, the trail becomes steeper as you approach Lo-Gaon, a large village with strong Tibetan cultural influences. The hike passes through forests of pine and rhododendron, and the views of Manaslu’s majestic peak become more pronounced. Along the way, you may encounter yaks and herders, adding to the Himalayan experience. Lo-Gaon itself is known for its traditional stone houses, mani walls, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Overnight stay in Lo-Gaon gives you time to acclimatize slightly, while enjoying the serene mountain environment and local hospitality.
Today, the trek takes you to Sama-Gaon, the gateway to the higher Himalayas. The trail winds through forested paths, rivers, and pastures. As you approach Sama-Gaon, the landscape transforms into alpine scenery with snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon. Sama-Gaon is a Tibetan-influenced village with stone houses, monasteries, and prayer flags. Here, the air begins to feel thinner, signaling the start of high-altitude trekking. This evening is perfect for short acclimatization walks and preparing for the next few challenging days. Overnight stay is in a comfortable teahouse.
A rest day at Sama-Gaon allows your body to acclimatize to higher altitude. You can explore the village, visit local monasteries, and enjoy short hikes to nearby viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and surrounding peaks. This day is crucial for preventing altitude sickness before ascending higher. You will also have the chance to interact with local villagers and learn about Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions. Evening is spent resting in the teahouse, enjoying local cuisine, and preparing mentally and physically for the upcoming challenging trek toward Samdo and Larkya La Pass.
The trek to Samdo is moderately challenging as the trail steadily climbs through alpine terrain. You will pass small stone villages, glacial rivers, and yak pastures. Samdo is a picturesque village at the edge of the Tibetan plateau and serves as the last significant settlement before Larkya La Pass. The village is rich in Tibetan culture, with monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags adorning the landscape. Staying overnight in Samdo offers an early night to prepare for the higher altitude trek ahead, while also giving you magnificent sunset views over Manaslu.
Today is a challenging trek as you ascend to Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, which serves as the base camp for Larkya La Pass. The trail passes moraines, boulder fields, and the upper glacial region, requiring stamina and careful steps. The views of surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu, are breathtaking. Dharmasala is a small settlement with basic teahouses providing simple meals and accommodation. Overnight stay here is critical for acclimatization and preparation for the early morning crossing of Larkya La Pass.
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will start early to cross Larkya La Pass, one of the highest points of the trek at 5,106 meters. The ascent is steep and requires strong determination, but the panoramic views of the Himalayas are unparalleled. After crossing the pass, you descend to Bhimtang, passing alpine meadows and glacial streams. Bhimtang is a remote settlement with basic teahouses and spectacular mountain vistas. Today’s achievement is significant, providing a sense of accomplishment and an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
After a long and strenuous day, the trek now descends gradually toward Gowa. The trail passes through lush forests, rivers, and traditional villages, providing a welcome change from high-altitude terrain. Gowa is a peaceful village offering tea houses and local interaction. Trekking downhill allows your muscles to recover while still enjoying spectacular views of the mountains. The overnight stay in Gowa is a comfortable one, with warm meals and the opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey so far.
Today marks the final trekking day. The trail descends through forests and small villages, leading to Dharapani, a larger settlement with basic amenities. Upon reaching Dharapani, you will be picked up and driven to Besisahar, the administrative center of the Manang region. The drive provides a scenic farewell to the Budhi Gandaki Valley and its surrounding mountains. Dinner and overnight stay in Besisahar provide a comfortable end to your trekking adventure, allowing you to rest before returning to Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic landscapes of hills, rivers, and terraced farmland. The drive typically takes 6–8 hours, with short stops for photography and refreshments. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will check in to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. This is an opportunity to celebrate your trekking accomplishment, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner arranged by Mountain King Adventures. Overnight stay in Kathmandu prepares you for departure the next day.
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. You will carry with you unforgettable memories of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Himalayan landscapes, and the warmth of Nepalese hospitality. Mountain King Adventures ensures your safe departure, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and inspiration to explore more of the Himalayas in the future.
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit with Mountain King Adventures was an unforgettable experience. The route was less crowded but just as spectacular, with breathtaking views at every turn. The guides were attentive, knowledgeable, and made the journey safe and enjoyable. Highly recommended for adventurous souls!
Clothing
Handwear
Footwear
Gear
Miscellaneous
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderately to highly challenging, primarily due to its high altitudes and extended trekking days. Trekkers need good physical fitness, stamina, and the ability to handle long daily hikes that range from 5 to 10 hours. The highest point, Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft), can be demanding due to steep ascents and thinner air. Mountain King Adventures ensures proper acclimatization days and experienced guides accompany all groups to manage altitude-related issues and maintain a safe trekking pace for participants of varying fitness levels.
Trekkers should have a moderate to high level of physical fitness for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Daily hikes can range from 5 to 10 hours over uneven terrain, steep ascents, and river crossings. Preparing with cardio exercises, endurance training, and strength workouts several weeks in advance will help your body adapt to the physical demands. Mountain King Adventures also provides pre-trek fitness guidance and recommendations to ensure that clients are adequately prepared for both altitude challenges and long trekking days, enhancing overall safety and enjoyment.
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential concern, especially when crossing high points like Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, gradual ascent, hydration, and rest days are essential to prevent altitude-related issues. Mountain King Adventures carefully designs itineraries to include acclimatization days in Sama-Gaon and Dharmasala and guides are trained to monitor symptoms, provide advice, and respond to emergencies. Awareness and following recommended trekking guidelines significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The trek usually begins from Machha Khola, which is accessible by a scenic drive from Kathmandu or directly from Besisahar. The journey involves approximately 8–9 hours of travel through rural valleys, terraced fields, and river crossings. Mountain King Adventures arranges reliable transportation and ensures that trekkers are comfortably transferred to the starting point while enjoying beautiful landscapes along the way. The drive itself serves as an introduction to the region’s natural beauty and local culture before the trekking adventure begins.
While the Manaslu Circuit Trek is physically demanding and involves high-altitude trekking, beginners with good fitness, proper preparation, and a willingness to follow guidance can complete it successfully. Mountain King Adventures offers experienced guides, gradual acclimatization schedules, and support throughout the trek, making it accessible even to first-time high-altitude trekkers. Beginners should prepare in advance with endurance and strength training, follow the trek pace set by guides, and be mindful of altitude-related health precautions. With proper planning, the trek is achievable and rewarding for adventurous newcomers.
The ideal time for trekking the Manaslu Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are spectacular. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery, while autumn provides crisp air and excellent visibility of Himalayan peaks. Trekking during the monsoon or winter is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, snow, and potential trail hazards. Mountain King Adventures always advises clients to plan the trek according to these optimal windows for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, trekking in the Manaslu region requires special permits, including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a trekking TIMS card. The Restricted Area Permit is mandatory for entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area and is carefully regulated by the Nepalese government to protect the region’s environment and local culture. Mountain King Adventures assists trekkers in obtaining all required permits in advance, ensuring compliance with local regulations. Trekkers must carry these permits at all times, as authorities may request them during the trek.
Yes, hiring a certified guide is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The region is remote, and trails can be difficult to navigate, especially during adverse weather conditions. A knowledgeable guide from Mountain King Adventures ensures your safety, provides cultural insights, and assists with local interactions, accommodation, and logistics. Guides are trained in first aid and high-altitude trekking procedures, significantly reducing risks associated with altitude sickness, navigation, and emergencies. Solo trekking without a guide is discouraged due to the restricted nature of the area and potential language barriers.
Accommodation along the Manaslu Circuit Trek is primarily in tea houses and guesthouses, which offer basic facilities such as shared bathrooms, hot showers (where available), and simple meals. While the comfort level is modest compared to hotels in Kathmandu, these teahouses provide a unique cultural experience and the chance to interact with local communities. Mountain King Adventures selects reputable teahouses that maintain cleanliness and hospitality standards to ensure trekkers are comfortable during the journey, while also helping support the local economy.
Trekking along the Manaslu Circuit offers a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Most tea houses also provide Western options such as pasta, bread, and eggs. While food is generally safe and nutritious, prices increase with altitude due to transportation challenges. Mountain King Adventures advises trekkers to stay hydrated, carry snacks, and enjoy local cuisine while being mindful of hygiene and dietary preferences to maintain energy levels throughout the trek.
Packing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires careful preparation due to varying weather conditions and altitude changes. Essential items include warm clothing, waterproof jackets, trekking boots, hats, gloves, sunglasses, and a good-quality sleeping bag. Trekking poles, a daypack, and personal hygiene items are also important. Mountain King Adventures provides a detailed packing list tailored for the trek, advising on gear that balances comfort, weight, and practicality. Proper packing ensures safety, comfort, and a more enjoyable trekking experience in the remote Himalayan environment.
