Manaslu Circuit Trek- 13 Days

Duration: 13 Days
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Overview

  • Duration 13 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,106 meters | 16,751 feet
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Gorkha, Manaslu
  • Best Season Autumn and Spring

Highlights

  • The 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a blend of Nepali and Tibetan Cultures.
  • A trek featuring a demanding ascent to the Larkya La Pass, situated at 5,160 meters (16,751 feet), providing panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range.
  • Travelers can encounter various flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and even the elusive snow leopard.
  • Cost-effective trip, with affordable accommodation options and local cuisine, making it accessible to a wide range of foreign visitors.
  • An adventure providing opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing interaction with welcoming villagers and visits to ancient monasteries along the route.
  • Throughout the journey traverse the tranquil mountain villages, such as Samagaon and Samdo, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a recently opened trekking trail in Nepal. The 13-day route starts from the village of Soti Khola in the Gorkha District and reaches an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet) at Larke La Pass. 

The regular trek is moderately difficult and typically takes around 9 to 17 days to complete, covering an average distance of 15-20 km per day.

Along the trail, hikers can enjoy views of the Manaslu 8,163 meters| 26,781 Feet,  Annapurna 8,901 meters| 26,540 feet, Ganesh 7,429 meters| 24,370 feet, and Lamjung 6,983 meters| 22,907 feet.

The region is known for its stunning mountain views and unique cultural mix of Nepali and Tibetan lands.

The trek requires permits and a guide, and the area has some requirements for permission due to its restricted status. The trip is relatively cost-effective, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Manaslu Region has more budget-friendly options available too.

Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is best experienced during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). Both seasons offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. 

During autumn, the skies are clear, providing breathtaking views of the mountains in the Manaslu region. The weather is stable, with comfortable temperatures during the day and chilly nights, making it the ideal time to cross the challenging Larke La Pass (5,106 meters | 16,751 feet).

During spring, there will be mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and vibrant landscapes making it the optimal trekking conditions.

Autumn and spring provide a unique and enriching trekking experience, with clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. However, we advise you to choose the hiking trail before it becomes too crowded, like the Everest Region.

13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek: Is It right for me?

The trek is considered moderately difficult and requires a Moderate level of physical fitness. It involves long, steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and rugged terrain.

To undertake this expedition, one needs the physical capability to walk for long hours and cover distances of approximately 10 to 12 kilometers each day. It is important to assess your fitness level and consult with a healthcare professional before attempting this hike. Mental preparation is also important, as travelers need to be prepared for long durations of trekking, changing weather conditions, and unexpected situations. It is also important to have a medical kit, including basic medicines and a few prescribed ones.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek 13-day is suitable for both novices as well as experienced trekkers. But it is best to start preparing for the trek 2-3 weeks before the commencement of the journey. Strength endurance training, elevation training, and aerobic conditioning are necessary. 

Licensed guides and porters are also compulsory. For adventurers seeking a new adventure this 13-day itinerary is the best choice of option.

13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek: Permits and Guides

The Manaslu Trek became accessible to international trekkers in 1991. It is still considered a restricted area but permits can be obtained to explore this region. The trek requires three essential permits:

  1. The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) costs $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day for additional time from September to November. It cannot be issued for solo travelers and requires a minimum of 2 individuals associated with a trekking agency and its guide.
  2. The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) costs $30 per person and can be obtained once you arrive in Nepal with a passport copy. 
  3. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is also priced at $30 per person. The permits can only be obtained in Kathmandu, not at checkpoints along the hiking trail. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek 13-day: Cost Breakdown

This trip price ranges from $950-$1250. The budget is broken down based on the individuals, days of stay, food, accommodation, and transportation. There will be an extra charge if you are a solo traveler, which will require you to find a group or partner to join. Solo trekking has currently been banned in Nepal recently so, plan according to it.

Book this trip

To book a spot for the 13-day long Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can contact the tour operator via phone at +977-9851083619 (Ramkrishna Timalasina) on WhatsApp or through their email at info@himalayanst.com. Alternatively, you can directly book the trip using the following link. 
 

Itinerary

The Manaslu Circuit Trek 13 Days Itinerary is as follows:

Show Detail ItineraryClose Detail Itinerary

After having breakfast, our guide will pick us up from our hotel. We will be driving to Soti Khola through Arughat. Our overnight stay will be at Soti Khola.

On 2nd day, we will start our trek from Soti Khola. Our walk will follow the banks of Budi Gandaki passing many hills and forests. We will reach Machhakhola for the night stay today.

On the third day, we will start the journey from Machhakhola while passing Khorlabesi to reach Tatopani. Tatopani is a famous place for hot springs. After crossing Tatopani we will reach Jagat, bypassing the forest area of Dovan. We will stay in Jagat for the night.

The 4th day takes us through the valley to reach Sardibas Village, from where we can overlook the beautiful Shringi Himal. After crossing the Suspension Bridge we will be on our way to Phillim, with waterfalls hanging on both sides of the valley. After that, we cross Ekle Bhatti, Phewa village, till we reach Deng Village.

Today, we will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and climb the pass through some tiny settlements and countless Tibetan mani walls on the way to Ghap village. From Ghap, we will head towards the little settlement of Prok and walk alongside the river, crossing it several times as you pass through a forest of firs, oaks, and rhododendrons. Finally, you will ascend to Namrung village, which offers spectacular views of the peaks like Ganesh Himal and Mount Himchuli along with Sringi Himal.

The trek follows the green-hilled forests to reach the Lho village, a village influenced by Tibetan Culture. We will see various Mani stone walls and a picturesque view of Snowcapped Ngadi Chuli (7871m. | Peak 29). From Shyala, Samagaon is an hour's walk from where we will conclude our walk for the day.

Today we will Acclimatize at samagaon. We can also visit on a side trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa for better acclimatization.

Today, we pass by yak and cattle Pastures before moving towards the valley below, with the front view of surrounding peaks. Continuing along the trail we reach the Tibetan refugee village of Samdo. This will be our last destination for today.

Today we will acclimatize at Samdo. We can do a side trip to Samdo Peak for better adaptation to the high altitude or Birendra Lake (Ice Lake).

On the 10th day, we trekked toward Larkya Bazaar crossing several rivers. This place is a trading post for traders coming from Tibet. After passing Larkya Bazaar we arrive at our destination for today, Dharamsala.

On the 11th day, we will begin our hardest climb toward Larke La Pass. To reach this pass we have to climb Cho Chanda and continue toward the Pass on snowy trails. From the pass we can see, Himlung Mountain (7,126m. | 23,379ft.), Choe Himal ( 6,820m. | 22,3375ft.), Gyaji Kung (7,030m. | 23,097ft.), Kang Koru (698m. | 2,290ft.), Annapurna II (7,937m | 26,037ft.). After crossing the pass, we head down toward Bhimthang, our stay for the night.

On this day, we head downhill passing an alpine forest. We will now enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and reach near the Annapurna Circuit route. After this, we will reach Goa and place our overnight stay.

This is the last day of our journey. We will cross Dudh Khola and take a vehicle to Besisahar via Dharapani and then to Kathmandu.

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Cost Details

Included

  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) will be provided during the trek
  • Accommodations in trekking guest houses in Twin Sharing
  • All necessary permits, including ACAP, MCAP, and restricted area entry permits
  • Shared local bus transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and from Dharapani to Besishahar shared Jeep and Besishahar back to Kathmandu local bus
  • Government-licensed English-speaking guide with salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance
  • A porter one each for two trekkers, with food, accommodation, transport, insurance, and salary
  • Availability of a medical kit 
  • Use of an oximeter to monitor pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily for safety during the trek
  • Accident insurance for all staff
  • Trekking map, Trekking Hat, duffel bag, and trip achievement certificate
  • Government taxes & office service charge
  • Severe case Evacuation Management

Excluded

  • Private Transportation (can be customized)
  • Nepal entry visa fee 
  • Your personal expenses are not covered
  • Tipping for guide, porter, and driver
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusion

Useful Info

Manaslu Circuit Trek 13-day difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately challenging adventure that starts at 900 meters and gradually ascends to 5,160 meters. That allows for easier acclimatization.

Trekkers typically walk for 4-7 hours daily, encountering various terrains and changing conditions. The trek presents challenges such as altitude sickness, which can be mitigated by staying hydrated, wearing warm clothes, and pacing oneself. 

The journey is a rewarding experience, and with careful planning and preparation, it can be an unforgettable adventure.

We advise you to pack layers of clothing to adapt to the changing temperatures. The trek is considered moderately strenuous and challenging. Also requiring trekkers to be physically fit and prepared for long, arduous days of hiking. Especially due to the altitude, long hours of hiking, and potentially hazardous terrain

Physical requirements

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderately challenging, requiring trekkers to focus on developing strength and stamina. For first-time trekkers, it is recommended to engage in cardio exercises such as running, brisk walking, swimming, and jumping rope are necessary exercises.

Training 2-3 weeks before the trek is advised to build stamina and prepare the body for the physical demands of the journey. Frequent trekkers should also focus on increasing stamina and oxygen intake, considering the potential impact of altitude sickness.

The trek involves steep and rocky terrains, reaching altitudes above 5,000 meters. Proper hydration, nutrition, and endurance training are important for maintaining energy levels. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and demanding adventure, requiring careful physical and mental preparation for a successful and unforgettable experience.

Foods and Accommodation

Food

Staple foods in the mountainous regions include potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. At higher altitudes, the food selection is limited, with a focus on potato-based dishes due to their high carbohydrate content. Which also provides essential energy. The trek offers a variety of dining options. Moreover, it's essential to be prepared for the changing availability of food options as you ascend and descend.

Accommodation

While you are in Kathmandu you will be staying in at least a 3-star hotel. As you embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the quality of accommodation in teahouses is better at lower altitudes. It becomes more basic at higher elevations, with limited choices and more basic rooms.

Price fromUS $949US $1050per person
We offer group price
  
1 - 1 paxUS $1249
2 - 4 paxUS $1099
5 - 10 paxUS $949
Total Price:US $1249

Manaslu Circuit Trek- 13 Days Guides

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