The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and rewarding trekking routes, offering a perfect combination of remote wilderness, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion. Situated in the Manaslu Conservation Area, this trek encircles Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. Though often overshadowed by the more well-known Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Circuit provides a unique adventure with fewer crowds, allowing trekkers to experience the pristine beauty of the Himalayas in solitude.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and other Himalayan peaks.
- Crossing the challenging Larke Pass (5,106m), which offers panoramic mountain vistas.
- Exploring remote villages such as Samagaun, Samdo, and Lho, where Tibetan culture thrives.
- Trekking through diverse landscapes, from lush green forests to rugged high-altitude terrain.
- A rich cultural experience with visits to Buddhist monasteries, ancient mani walls, and traditional settlements.
Comparing Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp Trek is famous for its stunning views of Mount Everest (8,848m) and vibrant Sherpa culture, while the Annapurna Circuit offers a mix of lush landscapes and towering peaks, leading directly to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The Manaslu Circuit Trek, in contrast, provides a less commercialized and more secluded trekking experience with equally breathtaking scenery and cultural richness.
Unlike the Annapurna region, which has seen significant road development, Manaslu remains untouched, preserving its raw beauty. Similarly, while Everest Base Camp is often overcrowded, Manaslu provides a peaceful alternative where trekkers can immerse themselves in nature and traditional Himalayan life.
Trekking Route and Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Your journey begins in Nepal’s capital, where you will prepare for the trek, obtain necessary permits, and explore the vibrant city.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Machhikhola
Day 2: Machhikhola to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat to Deng
Day 4: Deng to Namrung
Day 5: Namrung to Samagaun
Day 6: Samagaun Rest
Day 7: Samagaun to Dharmasala
Day 8: Dharmasala to Bhimtang
Day 9: Bhimtang to Dharapani
Day 10: Dharapani to Kathmandu
Day 1: Welcome to Nepal | Arrival
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft)
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
Day 4: Trek to Deng (1897m / 6224ft)
Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2630m / 8626ft)
Day 6: Trek to Shyala (3500m / 11480ft)
Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft) via Pung Gyen Gompa
Day 8: Acclimatization at Sama Gaon & Trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m / 15748ft)
Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4480m / 14698ft)
Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft) via Larkya La Pass (5160m / 16,929ft)
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are:
- Spring (March to May) – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and moderate temperatures.
- Autumn (September to November) – Best mountain visibility and stable weather conditions.
Winter and monsoon seasons are less favorable due to extreme cold and heavy rainfall.
Permits and Regulations
Since the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area, special permits are required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- A minimum of two trekkers with a licensed guide is mandatory.
Accommodation and Food
- Teahouses provide basic but comfortable lodging with traditional Nepalese meals like Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), momos, and Tibetan bread.
- The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become, so carrying extra snacks and a sleeping bag is recommended.
Difficulty Level and Physical Preparation
- Rated moderately difficult, suitable for trekkers with good fitness levels.
- Daily walking duration ranges from 5 to 9 hours.
- Altitude sickness can be a concern, so proper acclimatization and hydration are crucial.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary journey through Nepal’s remote and unspoiled landscapes, offering an adventurous alternative to the Everest base camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks. With its stunning mountain vistas, rich cultural encounters, and challenging trails, this trek is perfect for those seeking to experience the true essence of the Himalayas away from the crowds. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or an adventurous spirit, the Manaslu Circuit Trek will leave you with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s breathtaking mountains and traditional villages.
