In need of a mountain retreat and longing to disconnect from the hustle of life and trek to untrampled trails, brocade of slate roofs and prayer flags, and heavenly horizons? Then, discover the allure of one of the true gems of the beaten trails with our best Manaslu Circuit Trek package.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is an alluring and ultimate agrarian Himalayan trail in Nepal. It is probably the most unheralded trekking pathway and is counted among the premier restricted multi-day hiking circuit treks in Nepal. This region hosts very few adventurers, which makes the visit here more exclusive and unaltered, best for those who dare. Manaslu welcomed travelers for the first time when the silence was broken in 1991. It provides jaw-dropping visual drama along Nepal’s territorial edge with Tibet. It is now a controlled trekking route, allowing organized trekking groups to obtain special and region-specific permits to explore its spectacular Manaslu circuit.
Manaslu boasts a rare highland ecosystem, which is exceptionally brimming with biodiversity, making this region the finest tourist destination across generations. The majestic Himalayan frontier in this area comprises a mosaic of cultures and raw alpine beauty, featuring high-altitude, romantic ice floe lakes and a striking range of habitats. The Manaslu trekking route is less crowded, offering no-frills support facilities for voyagers. The trekkers get to eat at the traditional inns and stay in the most rudimentary spaces, which gives them a closer look at intimate glimpses of the rural culture of Nepal. This is among the many draws that make trekking in this area pristine and worthwhile.
Over the whole Manaslu Circuit, Larkya La pass is intensely rigorous and an endless pass in the Himalayas of Nepal. The Larkya Pass lies between Dharmasala (also known as Larkya Phedi) and Bhimthang. The summit of Larka La pass is extremely ravishing and encircled by the massive Himalayas. Trekkers can see panoramic views of prominent peaks such as Mt Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Annapurna II (the 2nd highest peak in the Annapurna massif), Kang Guru, Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29), and Ganesh Himal.
The hibernal landscape will be blanketed in snow during wintertime, making it challenging to cross. Due to heavy snowfall, the trekking trails would be blocked near the Larkya La pass.
Mount Manaslu, standing at 8,163m, is the eighth-highest mountain in the world and the heart of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Known for its inner realm and dramatic structure, it lures trekkers and adventurers from around the globe.
Trekking in the Manaslu Himalayas unveils Nepal’s hidden beauties and whispered secrets, showcasing that Nepal offers beyond Mt Everest, Lumbini, and Annapurna. The Manaslu Circuit Treks Nepal mingle stunning Himalayan views, deep cultural masterpieces, and primal pathways. For those who want to find peace, kinship with natural comeliness, and hear the story of those legends that have become myth and yet to be told, then join the Manaslu Trek package, stand at the foothill of the powerful peak, Manaslu.
The 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trip with Index Adventure begins upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, with a smooth transfer to your hotel.
Then, you’ll have an extra night in Kathmandu, where you can organize your belongings, rest, and prepare for your Manaslu Trip. The next day, we start the jaunt with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola passing via Arughat bazar and Soti Khola, which were the initial point of Manaslu Circuit Hike yesteryear.
From Machhakhola, our foot journey proceeds to Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho Gaun, Shyala, and finally to Samagaon (Ryo) via Pung Gyen Gompa (said to be old Manaslu Base Camp). Throughout the trail, you’ll witness miniature mani walls and chortens (stupa), which are inscribed with Buddhist monks & prayers and decorated with Tibetan prayer flags.
Then, there is an acclimatization day at Samagaun. At Samagaun, we’ll take a short hike to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp, which is situated at 4895m. After acclimatizing, we’ll continue making our way to Samdo through Budhi Gandaki, big mani walls, and Taka choeling Gumba. Then, we halt at Samdo and then head to Dharamsala. Crossing the thrilling Larkya La Pass, we’ll now reach Bhimtang and stay there for the night.
After resting for the night, we’ll make our way towards Sangure Kharaka, Goa, and then trek to Tilije. From Tilije, we’ll take a drive to Besishar and Kathmandu, marking the end of the trek.
Manaslu holds numerous side trips you can explore. While the Manaslu Circuit Trek boasts its acclaim through the high Pass, Larkya La, there are plenty of places, concealed and secret yet to be discovered, within the region.
Kalcchuman Lake, also known as Hidden Death Lake, Kal Tal, is in the valley. It is adorned with Kal Chokkang monastery and eight connected stupas, located between Bihi Phedi and Namrung, and can be accessed from Bihi.
Another one, Tsum Valley. Recently in the highlight but still in the shadow of Manaslu, the Tsum Valley Trek is an interesting detour around Manaslu. The lifestyle of the Tsumba people is guided by the Buddhist tradition of Shyagya, which emphasizes rejecting violence.
An extended trek to Manaslu is the Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Trek. This exceptional package incorporates a trek to scenic Tsum Valley, enhancing the overall journey with cultural significance.
Difficulty: The elevation of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderate to strenuous. It depends on the physical and mental endurance level of a trekker. The journey covers approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) and reaches an altitude of 5,160m when crossing the Larkya La pass. MCT includes long hours of walking and a high mountain pass. High altitudes are a common difficulty of treks in Nepal. The altitude of the Manaslu circuit ranges from 900m to 5,160m. With the increase in altitude, there is a higher chance of altitude sickness.
Circuit trekking in Manaslu mainly covers slippery, steep trails requiring good physical fitness. The difficulty of the Manaslu trek also depends upon the time of trekking. Like, there are limited teahouses with decent accommodation during peak seasons.
Difficulties during the treks are inevitable. Our team, with decades of experience, guides in the Himalayas, assists in trekking to Manaslu. Your designated guide ensures trekkers ' safety and security on the trip. Our Index Adventure exists to provide comfortable trips to Nepal.
Travelers are in safe hands with us, the Index Adventure.
Craft your Manaslu Trekking Itineraries with Index - 2025/26
We don’t offer any specific Manaslu Circuit Trekking packages, as we customize and craft the outlines according to trekkers’ pace, holiday time, preferences, plans, side trips, and budgets.
We, at Index Adventure, the local agency, have been operating various trips around the Manaslu area for decades, and we are happy to provide you with your preferred treks in Nepal. Whether it is Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 days or 15, you are the one to pick; we are here to guide and to discover the world’s 8th-tallest peaks with countless memories to create.
Do you have any queries about trekking in Manaslu or the related packages? Feel free to email us via WhatsApp or email on our website.
A representative from Index Adventure will meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport entrance gate and transfer you to your hotel. You'll likely have a briefing session with us to discuss the Manaslu trek itinerary, necessary gear, and safety precautions.
On your preparation day, dedicate your time to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. You can stroll around your hotel, buy necessary gear and souvenirs, or rest for your upcoming trip to the Himalayas.
If you want an itinerary (Manaslu Circuit 14-day package) that avoids a preparation day in Kathmandu, we are happy to arrange it for you.
Early in the morning, a guide picks you up at the hotel. Today, you depart from Kathmandu via scenic drive to Macchakhola via Arughat Bazar, Kurepani (Gurung and Magar villages), and Soti Khola.
The drive starts with a smooth, paved road covering 115km, which takes 5 hours to reach Tari Bensi. And the road becomes increasingly uneven and rugged until your last stop, Macchakhola.
You set your first foot on the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail today. After breakfast, you start a hike from Macchakhola that mixes uphill and downhill. Further, you reach the village of Khorlabesi.
Then you head towards the next stop, Tatopani (natural hot spring), which is popular and busy with numerous teahouses. You stop here for lunch. The sighting of Ganesh Himal is a highlight of the day.
This portion of the journey takes you through a dense forest, with mules along the way. As you ascend, the scenery starts to change its colors with an excellent view of the Sringi Himal. Mani walls are placed on the way to Jagat, where the MCAP office & Custom office are located.
Today starts with an early hike from Deng, crossing the river and high hanging bridges, and ascending the hill. As the trail continues, Mani Stone passes by along the path. Each stone has a Buddhist mantra, indicating a Tibetan culture-influenced region.
Pass by Rana Gaun, Bihi Phedi, Bihi (can go for a side trip to Kalchumman Lake and Kal Chokkang Gompa), Ghap, and Ghapsya, and witness typical villages with typical lifestyles.
Pass by the bold atmosphere of dense forest with the sounds of insects and trees. It feels like you've reached Namrung in no time. As you reach Namrung (2,630m), your permit will be checked again.
Today, the trail has magnificent sights of the mountains, like Himchuli, the Shringi range, and Mount Manaslu. Then trek via Lihi and Sho Gaun, passing by Ghumna and Tong gompa.
Finally, a long stone mani wall marks your presence in the village of Lho Gaun. As you enter the Lho village, a splendid view of Manaslu Massif comes close, so does the Ribung Gompa and Kandjur scripts monastery. As you hike, we will reach Shyala village, one of the affected towns by the Nepal earthquake 2015.
You hike to the sacred Pun Gyen Gompa of the region. The Gompa provides breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, 29 peaks, Puggen taal, Numla Khola, and Pungyen Glacier. This area holds a tranquil ambiance with glittering cultural aspects of the Nubri of the Manaslu region.
The trail stretches towards the settlement of Samagaun, one of the most beautiful villages during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The remaining time is free for you to explore.
Today, stay at Samagaun for acclimatization, an essential part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary. Let your body acclimate to the high altitude.
You can hike to base camp to conquer Manaslu Base Camp (4895m), where you can get magnificent views of Manaslu glacier and Mt Manaslu (Kang Pungen). This round trip takes you 7-8 hours to complete. If you wish to explore differently, there is a glacier across the valley (Birendra Tal).
Also, you can skip the hike and rest at Samagaun and explore the village if you wish to.
Today, the trail swiftly moves across pastures and Honing Khola before gradually elevating. Keep your head up for the stunning sight of Manaslu as you reach Samdo. It is a small Tibetan refugee village very close to the Tibet border.
The people around the Samdo Gou are called Bhotia. After lunch, you may go for a hike around the village or explore the Bhotia community, Taka Choeling Gompa, with the view of Naike and Pangbuche peak.
After breakfast in Samdo, you pass by the thrilling suspension bridge and the Tibetan market Larkya Bazaar, which operates during certain seasons.
Descend to the Budi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. Follow the route that includes crossing two streams with stunning scenery of the Larkya glacier and Larkya peak.
Pass by the valley of Salka Khola and climb until you reach Dharamsala, Larkya Phedi (4460m). Tomorrow is a significant and strenuous day: a climb to the Larkya-la pass.
Today is the most awaited day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Today is the day you pass, Larkya la (5,106m). After you leave behind Dharamsala, a gradual climb towards Cho Chanda and moraine routes leads you to Larkya la Pass.
Witness the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view from Larkya. Mountains visible from the Pass are Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Walking along the glaciers, snow screen, rock-falling area, and direct steep descent, you reach Bimthang, where you will stay for a night.
After a good sleep, rise with the fantastic views of dominant Mt Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Lamjung Himal. Starting this day, you descend through vast pastures to the riverbed of the Dudh Khola. Cross a wooden bridge as the trail climbs alongside terraced paddies before Kharche.
This mountain pass is less spectacular than Larkya La. But affords excellent views of the path you are going to take. Witness Marsyangdi River winding through a forested valley far below. After a few hours of walking, past the small settlements like Kharche and Goa, you reach Tilije.
After a long hike, we conclude the day and the Manaslu round trip with a drive to Besisahar by Chyamche and Jagat. These points are the starting point of another popular trip in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit.
Today is when you leave behind the Manaslu with memories filled with unforgettable natural vistas, local cultural experiences, and challenging passes. and then continue to Kathmandu or Pokhara in a drive-by Bus.
Today is the longest day of the trip before you enjoy your well-deserved nap during the night.
As your 15-day Manaslu Circuit Package comes to an end, we will transfer you to the airport for departure and bid you farewell until we see you again. You take the memories and we keep the friendship we share during the trail.
With us, Index Adventure, the Manaslu journey carries quiet gifts along the way—small touches, deeply rooted in care. Our add-on services aren’t surplus; they’re gentle hands that steady your path, warm moments around shared tea, and local wisdom that opens the trail like a conversation, making your Manaslu Circuit Trek premium.
Each offering is chosen not to impress—but to hold space for you to feel the adventure to Manaslu more fully, more closely, more truly.
Porter Service – US$250: Let our experienced porter carry your load, so you can wander freely and take in the beauty around you. One porter can be shared between two trekkers, carrying a total of up to 25 kg (55 lbs).
Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Machhikhola – US$220: Kickstart your trip in style with a private jeep—easy, comfortable, and built for the bounce. Each jeep fits up to 6 passengers.
Besisahar to Kathmandu via Private Jeep – US$230: Enjoy a relaxing ride back to Kathmandu in a private jeep. Each jeep fits up to 6 passengers.
The major ethnic groups of the Manaslu region are Nubri and Tsum. However, Gurung dominates the central part. The majority of the population in the Manaslu region follows Tibetan Buddhism. We find many old monasteries, Chortens, prayer flags, and wheels that symbolize Buddhist local culture.
The answer is no. You can't rely on credit cards in the Manaslu region. The area is remote, and there's no solid infrastructure for card payments. Tea houses, local shops, and lodges deal strictly in cash, mostly Nepali Rupees. ATMs are nearly nonexistent once you leave Kathmandu or Pokhara. Even where cards might work, extra charges or poor exchange rates are common.
Yes, you can use regular and normal internet services during the Manaslu trek, but the signal of the internet package could be fluctuating or with high speed. The internet service comes with a cost; it is not available for free, so if you need it, you can buy the internet service. Somewhere, Mobile coverage as 3G or 4 G works, but it depends on location and weather.
There are no ATMs in the Manaslu circuit trail. There is no access to credit/debit cards either. The trekking guide does 3-time meals and accommodation costs during the trek.
We also suggest you take at least Nepalese rupees cash, Rs 2000-3000 per day, for extra expenses (hot shower, drinks, extra snacks, network connectivity, device charging, and more). Before your hike starts, withdraw some amount in KTM.
Trek during the Manaslu Circuit passes through many uphill and downhill sections. There are steep descents, where trekking poles help to maintain stability. Even when you cannot balance due to high altitude, poles for trekking poles support your body. Comparatively, poles also help with heavy baggage. We recommend taking trekking poles for circuit treks in Manaslu.
Yes, travel insurance is required and very compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is a high-altitude trek with potential risks such as altitude sickness, accidents, injuries, and unexpected disruptions. Covers emergencies like helicopter evacuation or medical treatments. Protects against loss of property, trip cancellations, or delays.
Regarding the Nepal visa info, most tourists get an on-arrival visa at the Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, but your passport should be valid for 6 months.
At this time, the online forum/app for arrival and departure to Nepal must be submitted before the flight. You can check updated information and policies of the Nepal visa on the government sites. Review the official link of Nepal immigration for more details: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/
Trekkers can do the Manaslu Circuit Trekking without any previous experience. However, one must be physically fit. Cardiovascular exercises, stretching, and yoga are ways to stay fit before trekking Manaslu.
Our itinerary has rest days or acclimatization days (on day 9 at Samagaun) to prevent Altitude sickness. During the trek, slow walking and plenty of water help to acclimate to the area properly. Consult a trekking guide if you experience headaches, fatigue, and breathing difficulties.
No, you cannot do the Manaslu trek solo. Trekkers are not authorized to trek alone around the Manaslu valley due to the Manaslu area being a restricted region (as designated by the Nepalese Authority), which requires a minimum of two people in a group. A single person is unable to issue a special permit, and a licensed guide is mandatory from a government-registered company.
Larkya La Pass (5,160m) is the highest and most demanding section of the Manaslu trek. It takes around 7 to 8 hours to complete the Larkya La pass. Stay more careful during the steep descent from the pass. This point of the trek provides the finest panoramic view of the mountains.
The duration of the Manaslu trek depends on the trekker's holiday. Trekking days are customizable as per the traveler's choice. Considering the differences, we primarily provide short and extended treks to Manaslu.
For the Manaslu region, we provide a 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek and a 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. We also offer the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Trek for a more extended stay at Manaslu.
In the Manaslu region, particularly among the Tsumba autochthonous, meals typically consist of traditional Nepali dainty and Tibetan dishes. Dal Bhat (Lentil-Rice), a staple of rice, lentil soup, aachar (pickle), and vegetable curry, is a mainstay with an offer of unlimited refills.
Other popular choices include noodles, dumplings (momos), Thukpa (noodle soup), and various rice dishes. You'll also find Tibetan bread, butter tea, pancakes, porridge, and dishes featuring potatoes.
In higher altitudes, menus may be more limited, but you can still find fresh vegetables (spinach, potatoes, beans and others) and, in some areas, even yak meat, milk, or butter. In restricted area you can find all vegan, veg, and gluten-free meals, just let your guide know before you order.
Yes, drinking water is available on the Manaslu Trek, but it must be treated before consuming. Brooks and torrential river water flowing from glaciers may look clean, but they can carry harmful bacteria or parasites.
Use disinfectant tablets (pills), a purifier attached to a bottle, or drink boiled water from tea houses. Bottled water is also sold, but it costs more and harms the environment. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
The blissful period and summery time to hike Manaslu is in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November). Spring arrives with green mounds, limpid and lucid skies, and trails lined with blooming laliguras near Lho and Samagaon.
In autumn, the monsoon retreats, revealing austere peaks and gilded fields near Namrung and Sho. The air turns spirited, and festivals like Dashain and Tihar lend a deeper throb to the land of Bhotia.
Winter and summer times should be highly avoided. Winter and summer distort the path with ice, landslides, and heavy rain. We recommend that you choose the peak season to trek in the Manaslu area.
To trek the Manaslu Circuit, you’ll need 3 different permits:
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The RAP costs US$100 for the first 7 days from Sept, Oct, and November & US$15 for each additional day. From Dec to Aug, it’s US$75 for 7 days and US$10 for each extra day. Both the MCAP and ACAP cost USD 30 per person.
A licensed guide is compulsory for this region, and all necessary permits are arranged by Index Adventure.
As soon as you land at the Kathmandu Airport and complete the arrival procedure, Index Adventure Treks’ staff will be there to pick you up. He will be standing at the entrance gate with the company brand name “Index Adventure” or with your name on a placard. Then he will transfer you to your designated hotel.
