Manaslu Circuit Trek- 15 Days

Duration: 15 Days
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Overview

  • Duration 15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,106 meters | 16,751 feet
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu-Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Gorkha, Manaslu
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn

Highlights

  • The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a 15-day adventure that offers a unique blend of Nepali and Tibetan cultures. 
  • The trek features a challenging ascent to the Larkya La Pass, situated at 5,160 meters (16,751 feet), providing panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range.
  • Opportunity to encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and even the elusive snow leopard.
  • Cost-effective with affordable accommodation options and local cuisine, making it accessible to a wide range of foreign visitors.
  • The adventure provides opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing interaction with welcoming villagers and visits to ancient monasteries along the route.
  • Throughout the journey, hikers will traverse peaceful mountain villages, such as Samagaon and Samdo, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals.
  • An awe-inspiring view of the Ice Lake also known as Birendra Lake.

The 15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remarkable off-the-beaten trek in Nepal. This trail covers a distance of 180 km through the Himalayas of Nepal.

The Manaslu Trek is a relatively new trekking trail in Nepal, offering a unique and less-explored experience. The trek begins in the village of Soti Khola in the Gorkha District and reaches the highest point of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet) at Larke La Pass. 

It is considered moderately difficult and usually takes 9 to 17 days to complete. This hike covers an average distance of 15-20 km per day. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of 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 the distinctive cultural blend of Nepali and Tibetan influences. The trek requires permits and a guide, and the area has some restrictions due to its restricted status. Despite this, the trip is relatively cost-effective, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. There are also budget-friendly options available, allowing trekkers to experience this off-the-beaten-path adventure without breaking the bank.

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). Here are some of the highlights of trekking during these seasons:

Autumn offers clear skies, 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).

Spring offers mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and vibrant landscapes, making it the optimal trekking condition. The days get warmer and grow lighter day by day, with temperatures ranging from 6 to 12℃, which is perfect for a hike.

Both seasons 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.

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

To avoid the crowd of trekkers, it would be best to visit mid-September or late October in the autumn and from March to May during spring.

15 days Manaslu Circuit Trek: Is It Right for Me?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek-15 Day in Nepal is a fun adventure that requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The trek is considered moderately difficult and 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 crucial, as travelers need to be ready for long durations of trekking, changing weather conditions, and unexpected situations.

Additionally, it is important to carry a medical kit, including basic medicines and prescribed ones. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is suitable for both novices and experienced trekkers. Still, we refer you to start preparing for the trek 2-3 weeks before the journey, focusing on strength endurance training, elevation training, and aerobic conditioning.

Permits and Guides for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Trek, which opened to international trekkers in 1991, is still considered a restricted area. However, permits can be obtained to explore this region. There are three essential permits required for the trek:

  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.

The Manaslu region is accessible only through government-registered trekking agencies and requires a minimum of two individuals. A government-licensed trekking guide is mandatory for the 15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek, as trekking independently is not allowed. The trek is in a restricted area, and the guide ensures the trekkers' safety and provides valuable information about the local flora and fauna.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 15 days: Cost Breakdown

This trip price ranges from $1150-$1400. 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 been currently banned in Nepal recently so, plan according to it.

Book this Trip

To book a spot for the 15-day short 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 15 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary is the following:

Show Detail ItineraryClose Detail Itinerary

After you land at the airport, our staff will pick you up and escort you to the hotel. The remaining day you can unpack and rest. You can explore the bustling streets of Thamel and end the day with us at a welcome dinner.

On the second day, we will pick you up after breakfast and start our journey. We will be visiting the sites, of Pashupatinath, swayamabhunath, Bouddhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sites are also called heritage sites of Kathmandu. And the remaining time we will complete the documentation necessary for the trek and have a small trek briefing as well.

Today, our guide will pick us up after we have our breakfast.  we start our drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola through Arughat and stay at Soti Khola overnight.

On the third day, we start our official hike. We journey from Soti Khola along the banks of Budi Gandaki passing by forest and hill till we reach Machhakhola for our nightstay.

On our Fifth day, we head towards Jagat. Starting from Machhakhola we pass by Khorlabesi to reach Tatopani. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs. After passing Tatopani, we cross the forested area of Dovan and reach Jagat, We will have our night stay at Jagat for today.

The 6th 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.

On the 7th day, 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 and passing through a forest of firs, oaks, and rhododendrons. Finally, we will ascend to Namrung village, which offers spectacular views of the peaks like Ganesh Himal and Mount Himchuli along with Sringi Himal.

The 8th day of the trek follows the green-hilled forests to reach the Lho village. Lho village is 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.

For the 9th day, we will Acclimatize at Samagaon. We can also visit on a side trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa for better acclimatization.

On the 10th day, we pass by yak and cattle Pastures before moving towards the valley below. Continuing along the trail we reach the Tibetan refugee village of Samdo. This will be our last destination for today.

On the 11th day, we trek 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 12th 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 our 13th day, we head from Bhimthang to Dharapani. We walk the field leading us to the smaller Karcher La Pass and pass through the Rhododendron forest to Tilije village. We cross the Dudh Khola River and pass mani walls and a chorten-styled arch before arriving at Thonje Village. After passing Thonje we enter Annapurna region at Dharapani. Where will we stay for the night. 

On our 14th day, we drive from Dharapani to reach Beshisahar passing by valleys and rivers to reach Kathmandu.

On the final day. our team will take good care of your hotel check-out and airport departure. They will call you to pick you up from the hotel lobby as per your flight departure time.

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Cost Details

Included

  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) will be provided after arrival and 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 by 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

Physical Requirments

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal 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 jump rope to build the necessary endurance. Training 2-3 weeks before the trek is advised to 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, making proper hydration, nutrition, and endurance training 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. Strength training, flexibility, and balance are also crucial for preparing for the rugged terrain and high altitudes of the trek. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional and ensure that you are physically fit for the journey.

Food 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 in Kathmandu, you will stay 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. 

Networks and Wifi

When traveling to natural areas, it is essential to be aware that network connections may not always be available. During the 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, WIFI and mobile connections are available at lower altitudes. They become less available as you ascend higher. Some places are out of reach of any kind of connection, so there is no need to worry.

Nowadays, many places have WIFI facilities available for anyone wanting to use them, but the cost of an internet connection must be borne by the individual. It is recommended to purchase an NTC SIM card before the trek, as it works in most places along the trail.
 

Price fromUS $1149US $1249per person
We offer group price
  
1 - 1 paxUS $1399
2 - 4 paxUS $1249
5 - 10 paxUS $1149
Total Price:US $1399

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