About This Trek / Tour
The Manaslu Circuit Trek encircles Manaslu (8,163m) — the world's eighth-highest mountain — through a restricted zone that requires a special government permit. This means far fewer trekkers and a genuinely wilderness experience on one of Nepal's most dramatic trekking routes.
The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley through ancient villages with a rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage — ancient gompas, mani walls stretching for hundreds of metres, and prayer-flag-strewn ridges. The crowning challenge is the Larkya La Pass at 5,106m — a long, cold, technically demanding but non-technical crossing with sensational views of Manaslu's south face.
Permits Required: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card — all arranged by us.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival. Briefing and permit documentation. Welcome dinner.
7–8 hour drive west to Sotikhola (700m) where the Manaslu Circuit officially begins.
First day trekking along the Budhi Gandaki through tropical forest and terraced farmland. Machha Khola (869m). 6 hours.
Trek through the dramatic gorge with massive waterfalls. Enter the restricted zone checkpoint at Jagat (1,340m). 6 hours.
Tibetan cultural zone begins. Villages have whitewashed chorten (stupas) and ancient monasteries. Deng (1,860m). 6 hours.
Trek through Ghap and Lho villages — spectacular views of Manaslu's east face emerge. Namrung (2,630m). 6 hours.
Reach the high Tibetan plateau landscape. Samagaun (3,530m) is the trek's most important cultural base — large Pungyen Gompa nearby. 5 hours.
Day hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) for a stunning close-up view of Manaslu's massive south face. Return to Samagaun.
Short acclimatisation day. Cross into the Samdo valley at 3,860m. Explore the Tibetan refugee village. 3 hours.
Ascend to Dharamsala (4,460m) — the last teahouse before Larkya La. Short walk but important for acclimatisation. 3 hours.
The big day! Pre-dawn start (3–4am). Long ascent to Larkya La (5,106m). Magnificent views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Kangguru and Annapurna II. Steep descent to Bimthang (3,720m). 9–10 hours.
Descend through yak pastures and pine forest into the upper Marsyangdi valley. Tilije (2,300m). 5 hours.
Trek to Dharapani where the trail meets the Annapurna Circuit. Drive or walk to Besisahar. 4 hours trekking + transport.
Full-day drive back to Kathmandu. Celebratory dinner.
Transfer to airport. End of Manaslu Circuit Wilderness Trek.
What's Included
- All airport/hotel transfers in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu–Sotikhola–Kathmandu private vehicle
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu (3-star, B&B)
- 12 nights teahouse accommodation
- All meals on trek (B, L & D)
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- ACAP permit & TIMS card
- Experienced licensed guide (Manaslu-certified)
- One porter per two trekkers
- Guide & porter insurance, food & accommodation
- First-aid kit & oxygen cylinder
Not Included
- Nepal visa
- International flights
- Travel & helicopter rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Personal gear
- Beverages & personal snacks
- Tips for guide & porter
- Extra nights due to itinerary changes
Practical Travel Tips
Restricted Zone: A minimum group of two trekkers is required to enter the Manaslu restricted area. Solo trekkers must join a group or hire a second guide.
Larkya La Conditions: The pass can be icy in early spring and late autumn. We always carry crampons and emergency bivouac equipment. Start no later than 4am on crossing day.
Remote Experience: Teahouses are more basic than on the Annapurna or Everest circuits. Expect shared bathrooms, limited electricity (solar) and no WiFi above Sotikhola — part of the adventure!