Manaslu Circuit Trek- 12 Days

Duration: 12 Days(5)of 10 reviews
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Overview

  • Duration 12 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

  • An immersive experience of the local culture and nature in the Gorkha and Manaslu regions. 
  • Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and the chance to spot the elusive snow leopard.
  •  A Budget-friendly trip with reasonable accommodation options and local cuisine. Making it accessible to a wide range of foreigners.
  • An adventure providing cultural immersion opportunities, allowing interaction with friendly villagers and visits to ancient monasteries along the trail.
  • A challenging ascent to the Larkya La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,751 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range.
  • Pass through serene mountain villages, such as Samagaon and Samdo, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals.
  •  a unique and less crowded hiking experience in the recently opened in restricted area as a destination, Manaslu region. A  place of pristine beauty and unspoiled trails.

The 12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less crowded trekking trail in Nepal. The journey starts from the village of Machhakhola in the Gorkha District and reaches an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet) at Larke La Pass. 

The 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, trekkers can enjoy 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, diverse landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. The trek requires permits and a guide, and the area has some formalities due to its restricted status. The trip has less cost comparatively, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is best experienced during autumn (September to December) and spring (March to June). These 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).

Spring, on the other hand, has mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and vibrant landscapes. That makes it the optimal trekking conditions, making it the best time to embark on the trek. Both seasons provide a unique and enriching trekking experience, with clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures.

It is recommended to choose the hiking trail before it becomes too crowded, like the Everest Region. 

12-day Manaslu Circuit trek: Is It right for me?

The 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal is a captivating adventure suitable for various hikers, provided they are adequately prepared. It presents a moderate to challenging difficulty level, requiring a certain level of physical fitness and endurance. However, with proper training and preparation, individuals of different age groups can embark on this remarkable journey

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.

The trek is considered moderately difficult and requires a high level of physical fitness, involving long and steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and demanding adventure, and it is instructed to have a medical kit, including basic medicines and a few prescribed ones. Start preparing for the trek 2-3 weeks before the commencement of the journey, with strength and endurance training, elevation training, and aerobic conditioning. Mental preparation is also important, as travelers need to be prepared for long days of trekking, changing weather conditions, and unexpected situations.

Licensed guides and porters are compulsory, and it is important to make sure your body can handle all the challenges that lie ahead on the trail.

Permits and guides for the Manaslu Circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek, which was opened to international travelers in 1991, is still considered a restricted area. However, foreigners can obtain permits to explore this area and witness the stunning Manaslu short Trekt.

  • The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) costs $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day for additional days 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.
  • The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) costs $30 per person and can be obtained with a passport copy once you arrive in Nepal.
  • The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) also costs $30 per person. The permit includes Value Added Tax (VAT) and other government taxes. The permits can only be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara, not at checkpoints along the hiking trail. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek 12-day: Cost Breakdown

The price of Manaslu Circuit Trek 12-day typically ranges from $900-$1200 per person. The budget is calculated based on the number of travelers, food, accommodation, and time of stay. This hike will cost you extra if you are a single person to find another hiker to gain a permit.

Book this Trip

To book a spot for the 12-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 Itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 12 days: 

Show Detail ItineraryClose Detail Itinerary

After having breakfast, our guide will come to the hotel to start our journey. Today, we will travel from Kathmandu to Soltikhola through Dhading Besi, Arughat, and reach the district headquarters of Dhading, Soltikhola, where we will spend the night.
 

Today, we commence our hike from Soltikhola after breakfast. Our path runs alongside the Budigandaki River, taking us through forests and mountains, and offering plenty of scenic views. Our goal for the day is to reach Machha Khola, where we will spend the night at a guesthouse.
 

On the third day of our hike, we will cross Machha Khola and pass Khorlabesi (920m) to reach Tatopani, a famous destination known for its natural hot springs. As we continue, we will pass through a forested area to Dhovan Khola and enter the Budhi Gandaki Valley. The vegetation will change as we progress, and we will ultimately reach Jagat village, where we will spend the night.
 

On the fourth day of our hike, we will travel through the valley to reach Sardibas Village, where we can enjoy the view of Shringi Himal. We will cross a suspension bridge on our way to Phillim, with waterfalls hanging on both sides of the valley. After that, we will cross Ekle Bhatti, Phewa village, and finally reach Deng Village.

On the fifth day of our trek, we will cross the Budhi Gandaki River and ascend through small settlements and numerous Tibetan mani walls on our way to Ghap village. From Ghap, we will proceed to the small settlement of Prok. We will walk alongside the river and cross it multiple times as we pass through a forest of firs, oaks, and rhododendrons. Finally, we will ascend to Namrung village, where we will be treated to views of peaks such as Ganesh Himal, Mount Himchuli, and Singri Himal.

On the sixth day of the trek, we will follow the green-hilled forests to reach Lho village, which is influenced by Tibetan culture. Along the way, we will see various mani stone walls and enjoy the snow-capped Ngadi Chuli (7871m | Peak 29). From Shyala, we will walk for an hour to reach Samagaon, where we will conclude our walk for the day.

After reaching Samagaon we will be doing acclimatization for the day. There will be a side trip to the Manaslu Base Camp based on the preference and the guide.

Today, we will journey through yak and cattle pastures before descending into the valley below, providing a front-row view of the surrounding peaks. Continuing along the trail, we will reach the Tibetan refugee village of Samdo, which will serve as our final destination for the day.

Today, we will begin our day with a gentle trek over a wooden bridge that spans the Budi Gandaki River. We will then embark on a gradual ascend that leads us to Dharamsala, a village nestled in the verdant fields and framed by majestic mountains. In the distance, the awe-inspiring Larkya Glacier will sparkle, and as evening falls. we will settle into our accommodation, where we will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

The upcoming day is considered the most challenging as we will be reaching Bhimthang via the Larkey La Pass (5106m/17,121 ft). Before reaching our destination, we will first have to climb Cho Chanda to reach the high-altitude pass. And from here we can enjoy the stunning views of many snow-capped mountain peaks. After that, we will descend a steep slope and trek across rocky mounds/moraines until we finally reach Bhimthang.

You will descend, crossing the Dudh Khola River on a suspension bridge. The route will take you through Rhododendron and Oak forests until you reach Dharapani, also known as the common Annapurna circuit gateway in the Annapurna region. You will stay in Dharapani for the night.

Today is the last day, we will travel to Kathmandu, experiencing beautiful views along the way. We can choose to take a local bus, which offers an 8-9 hour scenic journey, or a faster jeep, which takes 6-7 hours. We will see green hills, terraced fields, and stunning mountains during the trip. Our journey will end in the lively city of Kathmandu, where we will be taken to our comfortable hotels.

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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 back to Kathmandu
  • 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 12-day difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderate-difficult trek that starts at a comfortable altitude of 900 meters and gradually climbs up to a breathtaking 5,160 meters. The gradual ascent makes acclimatization easy for most trekkers.

You will walk for 4-7 hours each day, crossing different terrains from humid forests to chilly mountain passes. The changing conditions can be a little challenging, but the views are worth the effort.

The journey presents some challenges that can be divided into simple ways. Altitude mountain sickness is a common problem, especially as you approach Larkey La Pass. It is important to stay hydrated, wear warm clothes, and consider taking Diamox medication if you experience any symptoms. It is also important to pace yourself, listen to your body, and take breaks whenever you need them. 

The slower you go, the better you'll adapt to the altitude. The trek is a challenge, but it's also an incredible experience. With careful planning and preparation with the tour operator, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable adventure. It is recommended to pack layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

Physical requirements 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not categorized as difficult; however, first-time trekkers should focus on developing their strength and stamina. Cardio exercises such as running, brisk walking, swimming, and jump rope can help increase endurance and fitness levels. It is recommended to start training 2-3 weeks before the trek to build stamina and prepare the body for the physical demands of the journey. 

For frequent trekkers, while the journey may not be difficult, it is still important to be physically and mentally prepared. Increasing stamina and oxygen intake is advisable, especially considering the potential impact of altitude sickness on the body.

The trek is moderately challenging, involving steep and rocky terrains, and reaching altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Proper hydration, nutrition, and endurance training are important for maintaining energy levels during the trek.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and demanding adventure, and careful physical and mental preparation is essential for a successful and unforgettable experience 

Food and Accommodation

Food

Throughout your journey, you will be staying in lodges or teahouses, with better-quality options available at lower altitudes. Staple foods in the mountainous regions consist of potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. At higher altitudes, there is a limited food selection, with many potato-based dishes, as they are high in carbohydrates and provide essential energy.

Accommodation

In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel of at least 3-star standard. While during the trip, the quality of teahouses is better at lower altitudes. However, it's important to note that the higher the altitude, the lower the quality of accommodation, with more basic rooms. For instance, you may find comfortable and better-quality teahouses at lower altitudes, but at higher altitudes, the accommodation may offer more basic rooms with only the bare necessities.

Networks and WI-Fi

While traveling to places that are closer to nature you need to know the networks will not be always available. In this 12-day Circuit trek, you will be able to use WIFI and mobile connection at lower altitudes. while the higher you go less available they become. some places are out of reach to any kind of connection so, do not worry. Nowadays many places have WIFI facilities for anyone wanting to use. Of course, you have to bear the cost of an internet connection yourself.

Price fromUS $899US $999per person
We offer group price
  
1 - 1 paxUS $1199
2 - 4 paxUS $1049
5 - 10 paxUS $899
Total Price:US $1199

Client Reviews

Showing 10 reviewsWrite a Review
  • TripAdvisor

    "Unforgettable Manaslu Adventure: Exceptional Experience with Himalayan Scenery"


    Our journey on the Manaslu circuit surpassed all expectations, becoming an incredible memory. Our group of four, including two newfound friends, added to the enjoyment of the trip. The trek itself was a breathtaking experience, made even more special by the scarcity of fellow trekkers, granting us an almost private connection with the mountains.

    Our guide, Namaraj, from Himalayan Scenery, was incredibly attentive to our every need. The seamlessness of the entire trip, starting from our arrival in Kathmandu (where Namaraj personally greeted us at the airport) to our departure (Santosh arranged our airport taxi and personally bid us farewell), left a lasting impression.

    Undoubtedly, Himalayan Scenery's professionalism shines through, making them an excellent choice for anyone seeking a remarkable adventure.

    C
    Carla JiménezFrom: Spain,May 17, 2023
  • TripAdvisor

    "Awesome Adventure on the Manaslu Trek!"

    I wanna tell you about our super fun time on the Manaslu circuit. The views were amazing, and the paths were quiet. We saw different things, like pretty rhododendron forests and big snowy peaks. Our guide, Gopal, knew a lot and helped us understand the people and nature there. He made sure everyone in our group had a good time, no matter how much hiking they did before. Himalayan Scenery set up everything, even picking us up from the airport. Ramkrishna told us about the trip on the first night, and both he and Gopal took us for a yummy dinner with dancing in Kathmandu. They took really good care of us, and if you want to have a cool adventure, I totally say go with them to explore Manaslu. It's like a hidden treasure waiting for you!

    W
    William FortinFrom: Canada,May 03, 2023

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