Manaslu Circuit Trek
Circle the world's eighth highest peak on Nepal's wildest trail
Manaslu Circuit Trek overview
The last great circuit. The Manaslu Circuit Trek circumnavigates Mt. Manaslu — the world's eighth highest peak at 8,163 m — through one of Nepal's last true wilderness zones. Opened to trekkers only in 1992, this restricted-area route demands a special permit and rewards you with something increasingly rare in the Himalayas: solitude. Over 16 days you'll cross the formidable Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), traverse remote Tibetan-influenced villages where ancient monasteries cling to cliff faces, walk beside roaring glacial rivers, and sleep under skies dense with stars. The trail winds through seven distinct ecological zones — sub-tropical jungle gives way to alpine meadows and finally to glacial moraines at the roof of the world. Unlike the crowded Everest or Annapurna circuits, the Manaslu trail sees only a fraction of the footfall, meaning genuine encounters with Nubri and Tsum valley cultures that have changed little in centuries. This is Nepal at its most raw, most dramatic, and most rewarding.
Country
Nepal
Duration
16 Days
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max. altitude
5,160 m
Best season
Mar–May / Sep–Nov
Difficulty level
Challenging
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Evening briefing and welcome dinner with your guide team.
Price includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers in Kathmandu
- Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide throughout
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 10 kg per porter)
- All tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek (twin sharing)
- All meals during the trek — breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- First aid kit carried by guide at all times
- Emergency high-altitude rescue coordination and support
- Government taxes and service charges
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Tsum Valley permit (if included in itinerary)
- Kathmandu–Soti Khola–Dharapani–Kathmandu road transport (shared jeep/bus)
What's not included
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival — approx. USD 50 for 30 days)
- Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear, clothing, and equipment
- Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and extra snacks on the trail
- Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi fees at tea houses
- Tips for guide and porters (customary and appreciated)
- Any costs arising from flight delays, cancellations, or itinerary changes
- Personal medical expenses and medications
Packing tips
Packing right is half the battle on any Himalayan trek. Keep your main bag under 15 kg — your porter will thank you. Everything in your daypack should be accessible on the trail.
Clothing & Layers
- Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
- Insulating mid-layer — fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers (convertible zip-off recommended)
- Warm hat, sun hat, and buff/neck gaiter
- Thermal gloves and waterproof over-gloves
- Woollen or synthetic trekking socks (5–7 pairs)
Footwear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (broken in before the trip)
- Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings at tea houses
- Waterproof gaiters for snow sections
Gear & Equipment
- 30–40 L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (reduces knee stress on descents)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag rated to −10°C (tea house blankets are provided but can be thin)
- Sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (3 L capacity recommended)
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter
Health & Safety
- Personal first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, and pain relief
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) — consult your doctor before
- High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective lip balm
- Insect repellent (lower elevations)
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Frequently asked questions
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