Trek around the world's eighth-highest mountain through remote Tibetan villages, pristine Himalayan landscapes and the spectacular Larkya La Pass on one of Nepal's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path trekking routes
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s finest long-distance trekking adventures, circling the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu (8,163m), through some of the most remote and culturally fascinating landscapes in the Himalaya. Closed to foreign trekkers until 1991, the Manaslu region remains far quieter than Nepal’s more established trekking routes, offering an authentic wilderness experience rich in mountain culture, dramatic scenery and Himalayan biodiversity.
Beginning in the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley, the trail passes through subtropical forests, terraced farmland, deep river gorges and traditional villages inhabited by a remarkable mix of ethnic communities including Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, Tamang and Tibetan peoples. As the trek progresses northwards, the landscape transforms dramatically into alpine meadows, glacial valleys and remote Tibetan-influenced settlements adorned with prayer flags, mani walls, chortens and ancient monasteries.
The route enters the culturally rich Nubri Valley, where centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist traditions continue largely unchanged. Spectacular views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal and numerous surrounding peaks accompany trekkers as they journey towards Samagaun and the high mountain settlements beneath Manaslu’s towering north face.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,100m), one of Nepal’s most dramatic Himalayan passes. The crossing rewards trekkers with breathtaking mountain panoramas before descending into the beautiful alpine meadows of Bhimtang and eventually joining the Annapurna region.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is also home to rare Himalayan wildlife including snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr and blue sheep, making this trek an exceptional combination of culture, nature and mountain adventure.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, passport collection for permits
Day 2: Trek briefing, preparation and permit processing.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola or Tatopani (900-930m), approx. 5-7 hours.
Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,410m), approx. 5-8 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Philim (1,590m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Philim to Deng (1,800m), approx. 4.5 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m), approx. 4.5 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,530m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 10: Acclimatisation day in Samagaun.
Day 11: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,100m) and descend to Bhimtang (3,720m), approx. 9-10 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije/Dharapani (2,300m).
Day 15: Drive from Tilije to Besisahar, approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu.
Day 17: Departure
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Permit Processing
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Your passport will be collected to begin the restricted permit processing of the Manaslu region.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is reserved for a comprehensive trek briefing and final preparations. Meet your guide, review the route and ensure all equipment is ready for the challenging days ahead.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola or Tatopani (900-930m) | Approx. 5-7 Hours (B L D)
Following the Budhi Gandaki upstream, the trail winds through narrow valleys and along rocky riverbanks. Depending on conditions and group progress, we either camp at Machhakhola or continue to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs.
Overnight camping.
Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,410m) | Approx. 5-8 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route continues through dense forest and traditional villages, crossing the Budhi Gandaki multiple times via suspension bridges. As altitude gradually increases, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic before reaching the stone-paved village of Jagat.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Philim (1,590m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day allows time to enjoy the changing culture and scenery. As we continue north, Tibetan Buddhist influences become increasingly visible through mani walls, prayer flags and chortens. Philim is a large Gurung village with impressive mountain views.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Philim to Deng (1,800m) | Approx. 4.5 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows a dramatic gorge through forests and cultivated fields before reaching Deng. This marks the entrance to the Nubri Valley, where Tibetan culture becomes increasingly prominent and the landscape begins to change noticeably.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,660m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
A longer day through beautiful bamboo and rhododendron forests. Ancient mani walls become larger and more elaborate as we gain elevation. Arriving in Namrung, we are rewarded with our first close views of the higher peaks.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 8: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m) | Approx. 4.5 Hours (B L D)
Entering the upper Nubri Valley, the scenery opens dramatically. Magnificent views of Manaslu, Himalchuli and neighbouring peaks dominate the horizon. Upon reaching Lho, we enjoy our first unforgettable view of snow-covered Manaslu.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 9: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3,530m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
The trail climbs gradually through alpine terrain and traditional Tibetan villages. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, we reach Samagaun, the largest settlement in the region and an important centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 10: Acclimatisation Day in Samagaun (B L D)
A vital acclimatisation day allows the body to adjust to increasing altitude. Optional hikes include visits to Manaslu Base Camp viewpoints, glacial lakes or Pungyen Gompa, an important monastery associated with local spiritual traditions.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 11: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo (3,860m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
A shorter trekking day across high alpine grasslands beneath towering peaks. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and remote as we approach Samdo, one of the last permanent settlements before the Tibetan border.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,480m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
Today’s gradual climb takes us to Dharmasala, the high camp below Larkya La Pass. The surrounding mountains feel remarkably close, and the afternoon is spent resting and preparing for tomorrow’s challenging pass crossing.
Overnight camping.
Day 13: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,100m) and Descend to Bhimtang (3,720m) | Approx. 9-10 Hours (B L D)
The highlight of the trek begins before dawn. A steady ascent leads to Larkya La Pass, one of Nepal’s most spectacular high mountain crossings. From the summit, breathtaking views stretch across Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and Manaslu.
A long descent brings us into the beautiful alpine meadows of Bhimtang, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks.
Overnight camping or teahouse.
Day 14: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije or Dharapani (2,300m) (B L D)
The trail descends through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows before entering lush woodland. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the warmer temperatures provide a welcome contrast after the high mountains.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 15: Drive from Tilije to Besisahar | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The final day follows drive to lower valley trails and sections of road before reaching Besisahar, where comfortable accommodation and a hot shower await.
Overnight in Besisahar.
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu | Approx. 6-7 hours (B)
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu along the Trishuli River, passing scenic countryside, river valleys and rural settlements. Upon arrival in the capital, your Manaslu Circuit Trek comes to an end.
Day 17: Departure (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map
Additional Information
Permit Information: To obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, your original passport is required at least two working days before departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
Similar Trips
Trip Photo Stories
FAQs for Manaslu Circuit Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
15 Days
Annapurna Region
Moderate/Strenuous
