Manaslu Circuit Trek
14 Days
104 Km
17,100 FT
18+
Difficult
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a breathtaking offbeat adventure around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. Known for its pristine landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, and dramatic mountain scenery, this trek is often considered a quieter alternative to the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks. The route takes trekkers through lush forests, deep river gorges, high-altitude meadows, and the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), offering a truly immersive Himalayan experience.
Why This Trek?
- Less Crowded & Remote: Experience the beauty of the Nepali Himalayas without the tourist crowds.
- Spectacular Views: Get breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and Ganesh Himal.
- Rich Tibetan Culture: Explore Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and traditional villages near the Tibet border.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and snow-covered passes.
- Challenging & Rewarding: Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), a thrilling high-altitude achievement.
Included/Excluded
Scoutripper
Member Since Apr 2024
Select Dates
{{type.name}}
{{type.display_price}} per person
Guests
Extra prices:
- {{total_price_html}}
- {{pay_now_price_html}}
Guest in maximum
BOOK NOW Book NowItinerary for
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Complete Trek Information
The best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Spring (March-May) offers blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, while autumn (September- November) provides stable weather and excellent mountain views. Winter (December-February) is freezing, making the Larkya La Pass difficult to cross, and monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rainfall and landslides.
Traveling from India to Kathmandu, Nepal, is convenient and offers multiple options, including flights, road trips, and train connections. Here’s how you can reach Kathmandu from different parts of India:
By Air (Fastest & Most Convenient Option)
Direct flight from India is the easiest and fastest way to reach Kathmandu. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Varanasi. Major airlines such as Air India, Nepal Airlines, and IndiGo operate regular flights, with Delhi to Kathmandu being the most frequent route (approx. 1.5-hour flight).
By Road (Budget-Friendly & Scenic Option)
If you prefer a road trip, you can travel from India to Nepal by bus or private vehicle via the following border crossings:
- Sunauli-Bhairahawa (from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh): The most popular and well-connected route.
- Raxaul-Birgunj (from Patna, Bihar): Another major entry point with train connectivity.
- Panitanki-Kakarbhitta (from Siliguri, West Bengal) : Ideal for travelers from East India.
- Banbasa-Mahendranagar (from Uttarakhand): Suitable for those from North India.
- Daily Delhi-Kathmandu luxury buses operate via Gorakhpur-Sunauli, taking about 24-30 hours to reach Kathmandu.
By Train + Road (Cheapest Option)
There is no direct train from India to Kathmandu, but you can take a train to Gorakhpur (UP) or Raxaul (Bihar) and then continue by road.
- From Gorakhpur, take a bus or shared taxi to Sunauli border, then another bus to Kathmandu (7-8 hours).
- From Raxaul, cross the border into Birgunj, then take a bus/taxi to Kathmandu (6-7 hours).
Pack smart, trek safe!
Ensure you're prepared for every adventure with this essential checklist of gear and supplies. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, the right equipment makes all the difference. Download checklist's pdf here
Basic Gear
| Backpack with Rain Cover | (40 - 50 ltr) Comfortable Shoulder Straps |
| Day pack with Rain Cover | 20 - 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
| Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
| Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 Bottles(1 liter each), Hydration Pack 1 (Pack) + Bottle |
| Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
| Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
Clothing
| T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 1 Half sleeves |
| Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
| Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
| Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Nos |
| Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | Not required |
| Waterproof gloves | Not required |
| Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
| Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head Gears
| Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
| Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
| Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
| Balaclava | Not required |
| Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos |
| Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles - (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Foot Gears
| Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
| Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
| Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
| Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 Pair (provides when required) |
| Micro spikes | 1 Pair (provides when required) |
Personal Utilities
| Sunscreen cream | 1 Nos |
| Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
| Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
| Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
| Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
| Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
| Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
At Scoutripper, we understand that plans can change. You can reschedule your booking up to 24 hours before your experience begins. Changes are subject to availability and any applicable price adjustments. Rest easy knowing your adventure is flexible!
At Scoutripper, we value flexibility but also adhere to clear cancellation guidelines:
- Full Refund: Cancel at least 6 full days before the experience starts.
- 50% Refund: Cancel between 2 and 6 full days before the start time.
- No Refund: Cancellations made less than 2 full days before the experience start time will not be refunded.
Additionally:
- Changes are not accepted less than 2 full days before the experience begins.
- Cut-off times are based on the local time of the experience.
- Some experiences require a minimum number of participants. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Enjoy peace of mind with our clear and transparent policies!
Mobile Network & Internet:
-
Last mobile network coverage: Available in Soti Khola (before the trek starts).
-
Patchy network: Available in Jagat, Namrung, and Samagaon (Ncell and Nepal Telecom).
-
No connectivity in high-altitude areas like Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass.
-
Wi-Fi is available at some tea houses, but it’s slow and chargeable (cost increases with altitude).
-
Best SIM options: Get Ncell or Nepal Telecom SIM in Kathmandu for better coverage.
ATMs & Cash Availability:
-
Last ATM: Available in Arughat and Soti Khola, but unreliable due to cash shortages.
-
Best option: Withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu before starting the trek.
-
Carry at least NPR 15,000-20,000 for trek expenses, as tea houses only accept cash.
Electricity & Charging Points:
-
Charging is available at tea houses but costs increase with altitude.
-
Charging cost: Ranges from NPR 200–500 per charge (higher at Lho, Samagaon, and Dharamsala).
-
Frequent power cuts, so carry a high-capacity power bank (10,000–20,000mAh).
-
Solar charging is available in some villages but is slow and weather-dependent.
FAQs about
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered moderately to highly difficult due to its long duration (14–18 days), high altitude (up to 5,160 meters at Larkya La Pass), and remote terrain. The trek requires good physical fitness and endurance, as some days involve long hikes with steep ascents and descents. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
The best time to trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. Winter (December to February) brings heavy snowfall, making Larkya La Pass difficult to cross, while the monsoon season (June to August) can make trails slippery and landslides common.
Yes, the Manaslu region is a restricted area, and trekkers need three permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (since the trek exits through the Annapurna region) Additionally, trekkers must be in a group of at least two people and hire a licensed guide to obtain the restricted area permit.
The highest point is Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters / 16,930 feet). It is one of the longest and most challenging passes in the Himalayas, often covered in snow. The ascent to the pass requires an early morning start and slow, steady walking to prevent altitude sickness.
No, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is far less crowded compared to the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks. Since it is a restricted area with permit requirements, fewer trekkers visit this trail, making it a perfect choice for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal.
The trek mainly offers teahouses, which provide basic accommodation with simple beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. As the trek is remote, facilities are more limited compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging points may be available at an extra cost in some teahouses.
The trek starts from Soti Khola or Machha Khola, which are about 7–9 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. The roads are rough, and in the monsoon season, landslides can make travel more challenging. Some trekkers opt for a private jeep to make the journey more comfortable.
Yes, since the trek goes above 5,000 meters, altitude sickness is a major concern. Proper acclimatization days are included in the itinerary, and trekkers should ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and be aware of symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. If symptoms worsen, descending immediately is necessary.
Teahouses serve Nepali and Tibetan-style food, including dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), momos (dumplings), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Some teahouses may offer pasta, pancakes, and eggs. The higher you go, the more expensive food becomes due to transportation costs.
The cost depends on whether you trek independently or through an agency. On average, the trek costs between $1,000 to $2,500 per person, covering permits, accommodation, food, guide/porter fees, and transportation. Since it is a restricted trek requiring a guide, it is slightly more expensive than other popular trekking routes in Nepal.
Guest reviews
You might also like
