Manaslu Circuit Trek- 16 Days

Duration: 16 Days
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Overview

  • Duration 16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,160m. | 16,751ft.
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Gorkha, Manaslu
  • Best Season Autumn and Spring

Highlights

  • This Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a 16-day adventure that offers a unique blend of Nepali and Tibetan cultures. 
  • A chance to experience the six climatic zones of Nepal in this journey.
  • 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.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a relatively new and less-traveled route in Nepal. This trip offers a distinctive and less-explored experience. This trek covers a distance of 180 km through the Himalayas, with reaches an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet) at Larkya La Pass.

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

Along the trail, trekkers can enjoy stunning 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.

This region is renowned for its breathtaking mountains and the unique cultural fusion of Nepali and Tibetan influences. Permits and a guide are required for this trek, and the area has some restrictions due to its restricted status. Despite this, the trek is relatively cost-effective, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. This journey to Manaslu Circuit also comes with budget-friendly options.

Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek 

The Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is during the Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) seasons. These periods offer clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for trekking. 

Autumn provides stunning mountain views, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures during the day, with chilly nights.

Spring offers mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and vibrant landscapes, creating optimal trekking conditions.

To avoid crowds, it's best to visit in mid-September or late October during autumn, and from March to May in spring.

Permits and Guides for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Trek, which became available to international trekkers in 1991, is still a restricted area, but permits are available for exploration. There are three permits required for the trek:

The Manaslu Restriction Area Permit (MRAP): This costs $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day for additional time from September to November. It requires a minimum of 2 individuals associated with a trekking agency and its guide, and cannot be issued for solo travelers. 

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This costs $30 per person and can be obtained upon arrival in Nepal with a passport copy.

The Annapurna Area Conservation Permit (ACAP): This also costs $30 per person and 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 obtaining the restricted area permit, and trekking independently is not allowed. 

16- Days Manaslu Trek: Is It Right for Me?

The 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is an exciting adventure that demands a moderate level of physical fitness. The trek is considered moderately challenging, involving extended, steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. To undertake this expedition, individuals must be physically able to walk for extended periods and cover distances of approximately 10 to 12 kilometers each day.

It is crucial to evaluate your fitness level and seek advice from a healthcare professional before embarking on this journey. Mental preparation is also vital, as trekkers need to be prepared for prolonged periods of trekking, changing weather conditions, and unforeseen circumstances.

Furthermore, it is essential to carry a medical kit, including basic and prescribed medicines. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers. However, it is advisable to commence preparations for the trek 2-3 weeks before the journey, focusing on strength endurance training, elevation training, and aerobic conditioning. Licensed guides and porters are mandatory for this trek.

The 16-day itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent choice for adventurers seeking a new and challenging experience in the Himalayas.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 16 Days: Cost Breakdown

This trip price ranges from $1250-$1500. 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 the 16-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 Following is The 16-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary:

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.

On the 8th day, we pass by various monasteries, forests, and farmland to open up to the view of Manaslu Peak. The hike for today will conclude at the village of Lho, where we will be staying for the night.

The 9th day of the trek follows the green-hilled forests from 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 10th 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 11th 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 12th 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 13th 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 14th day, we head from Bhimthang to Dharapani. We walk the field 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 15th 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 Requirements

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. The food selection is limited at higher altitudes, 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 16-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 $1249US $1350per person
We offer group price
  
1 - 1 paxUS $1499
2 - 4 paxUS $1299
5 - 10 paxUS $1249
Total Price:US $1499

Manaslu Circuit Trek- 16 Days Guides

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