Manaslu Circuit Trek

Majestic Himalayan peaks of the Manaslu Circuit, showcasing snow-capped mountains
Majestic Himalayan peaks of the Manaslu Circuit
Manaslu Circuit
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Manaslu Circuit Trek
At a Glance
Duration12 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5106
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeSpring and Autom

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an off the beaten journey in the wilderness of the Himalayas. This outstanding adventure follows the mountainous trails that circumnavigate the giant Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters/26,781 feet), the eighth tallest peak on the planet. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the popular restricted routes in the Himalayas of Nepal. 

Manaslu Circuit trekking routes lead you through the unique and abundant biodiversity of Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area. It rewards you with the incredible scenery of highlands and numerous lofty mountains. Moreover, you will reach a height of 5,106 meters at Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek. Here, you will find yourself surrounded by the 360 degree panorama of breathtaking hills, valleys and snow capped peaks at every turn.   

The adventurous and rewarding trek along the Manaslu Circuit trail offers you a truly gratifying Himalayan experience. Enthusiastic trekkers are sure to find excitement and satisfaction in undertaking the remarkable adventure of venturing into the restricted Manaslu region through circuit trails. You will pass through the trails close to the Tibetan border and spend nights in different Tibetan influenced villages.

As a restricted zone in Nepal, special permits are required to access the Manaslu region for trekking. Due to its regulated status, the region is open to only a limited number of visitors. So, unlike other popular Himalayan trekking destinations, Manalsu is not flooded with the trekker's crowds. This has made it possible to preserve its uniqueness. So, the Manaslu Trek is an odyssey of unspoiled natural beauty and untampered Himalayan culture in the hidden landscapes of the country.

Major Attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Exploring the pristine nature and untampered rich culture at the foothills of gigantic Manaslu massif.
  • The scenic drive between Kathmandu and the starting/ending point of the trek through lush countryside landscapes.
  • Traversing varied Himalayan terrains from lower region subtropical forests to alpine meadows, snowfields and glaciers.
  • Venturing deep into the unique biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area and Manaslu Conservation Area.
  • Enchanting walks through vibrant woods of pine, oak, birch, rhododendrons, etc.
  • Opportunity to encounter several precious birds and wildlife of the region.
  • Accompanied by the spanning panorama of the majestic snow clad mountains wherever you go.
  • Eye filling vistas of icy mountains like Annapurna, Himlung, Cheo, Ganesh, Gyaji Kang, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, Ngadi Chuli, Hiunchuli, Siringi, Kang Guru, Nemjung and many adjoining peaks on all sides. 
  • Enthralling views of golden sunrise and sunset over the marvelous snow coated peaks from different parts of the trek.
  • Crossing the high pass of Larkya La at 5,106 meters.
  • Meeting people of different ethnicities such as Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, Tamang, Sherpa and Tibetan descendants. 
  • Experiencing a harmonious blend of Nepalese and Tibetan influenced culture.
  • Immersing in the heartwarming welcome and genuine hospitality of the friendly and kind local people. 
  • Glimpses into the typical lifestyle of local communities based on farming, animal husbandry and tourism. 
  • Hiking to either Pun Gyen Gompa or the Manaslu Base Camp on the acclimatization day in Sama Gaon.
  • Walking the routes adorned with vibrant prayer flags and marked by giant mani walls and spinning prayer wheels. 
  • Rewarding off the beaten adventure experience through solitary Himalayan trails of the untouched Manaslu region and deep delve into its rugged beauty.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

A Typical Day of Manaslu Circuit Trek

A typical day during the Manaslu Circuit Trail begins with a warm tea or coffee after you wake up in the teahouse. Then, you will enjoy a light, delicious breakfast. Your porter will carry your backpacks and we will step on the trail.

Every day you will encounter new wonders and discoveries. Your journey will be enriched by the rich mountain culture and stunning highland landscapes. You will trek across diverse Himalayan terrains surrounded by incredible views of upland environment and colossal mountains. You can photograph natural beauty and cultural exposures along the way. 

A professional and friendly guide will accompany you sharing information and providing insights into different places that are traversed during the journey. En route, you will enjoy a few brief stops to rest, hydrate and enjoy some snacks. 

After some hours of walking we will stop for lunch at one of the teahouses along the route. After lunch, you will have some time to rest before we resume our journey. We will ascend and descend the trails to reach our destination, which will be a particular village. 

If time allows, you can wander around the village until evening. Once you return to the teahouse, you will have some time to rest and rejuvenate before dinner. Between 7 PM and 8 PM, we will gather in the dining area to enjoy a delicious dinner together. Then, the guide will brief you on the plans for the next day before you head to bed.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Best Time to Visit the Manaslu Circuit 

The best time for Manaslu Trek in the alpine Himalayas is during the favorable spring and autumn seasons when the weather tends to be stable and the temperature remains moderate. Spring (March to May) is a pre monsoon time and autumn (September to November) is a post monsoon period. Being far from the drenching monsoon rain, these dry seasons are ideal for trekking in the mountains, offering optimal conditions for outdoor adventures. 

You can expect high visibility in the Himalayan surroundings at this time. The clarity and sharpness in detail in which you can observe the scenery is contributed by clear sky, fresh air, clean atmosphere and bright sunshine. The unobstructed views of the majestic snow covered peaks will enrich your journey immensely. 

Moreover, reduced humidity and precipitation lead to less chance of rain and snow. You can enjoy a comfortable walk over the unwet and stable terrain, enhancing your overall trekking experience. Furthermore, with no extreme heat or cold, you can experience pleasant, enjoyable and manageable conditions throughout your trek.

Itinerary

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 12 days adventure through one of Nepal's most remote and stunning regions. The trek’s highlight is a challenging mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Day 01: Drive From Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Day 02
Day 02: Trek From Machha Khola to Jagat
Day 03
Day 03: Trek From Jagat to Deng
Day 04
Day 04: Trek From Deng to Namrung
Day 05
Day 05: Trek From Namrung to Sama Gaon
Day 06
Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Sama Gaon. Hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pun Gyen Gompa
Day 07
Day 07: Trek From Sama Gaon to Samdo
Day 08
Day 08: Acclimatization Day in Samdo (Optional Day Hike to Tibet border)
Day 09
Day 09: Trek From Samdo to Dharmasala
Day 10
Day 10: Trek From Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass
Day 11
Day 11: Trek From Bimthang to Dharapani
Day 12
Day 12: Drive From Dharapani to Kathmandu
Tour Plan
Day 01

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters/4,594 feet

Maccha Khola Elevation: 930 meters/3,051 feet

Drive Duration: 8 to 9 hours 

We will begin our adventurous journey of Manaslu Circuit Trek today. After breakfast we will depart from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu for our destination, Maccha Khola. Our vehicle moves through the Prithivi Highway and reaches Malekhu after a few hours. From there, we will take a local road to Maccha Khola.

The scenic countryside drive to the starting point of our trek travels you through diverse, wonderful landscapes. On the way, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of rural towns and villages, cultivated farmlands, forests, rivers and waterfalls from your vehicle window.

The last hours of the ride through narrow, bumpy and dusty local roads winding through the hillsides finally take us to the picturesque village of Maccha Khola. This Gurung village provides you with a stunning setting of terraced fields, rolling hills, rushing rivers and vibrant forests. 

We will spend a marvelous night immersed in the kind hospitality of local families and their delectable traditional dishes. After an enjoyable time, you can relax and have a restful sleep in a cozy teahouse bed. 

Day 02

Jagat Elevation: 1,410 meters/4,626 feet

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

We will start our trail days from Maccha Khola. After waking up in the teahouse, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on the trail. Leaving Machha Kjola behind, we will make our way towards this day’s destination, Jagat. Following the Budhi Gandaki Riverbed, we will move forward. We will soon navigate a long suspension bridge spanning over this river. 

After river crossing, we will slowly ascend through thick forests and walk past cascading streams and waterfalls. We will also pass through terraced farms and villages like Tatopani, Dobhan, Yaru and Thado Bhanjyang. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot spring, where you can take a short break to bathe into its therapeutic waters. 

Finally, we will navigate a giant arch bridge and descend to Jagat for an overnight stay.

Day 03

Deng Elevation: 1,800 meters/5,905 feet

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

After breakfast, we will leave Jagat. Beginning on the trail, we will cross a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. Then, we will ascend through terraced fields of villages like  Salleri and Sirdibas. We will further traverse other villages of Philim and Ekle Bhatti, journeying through lush forested trails, crossing swaying suspension bridges and following picturesque riverbanks.

On the final leg of this day’s trek, we will make a steep climb towards Deng, navigating the Deng River via a wide and long suspension bridge. Time permitting, you can explore the village and engage with the local residents. 

Day 04

Namrung Elevation: 2,660 meters/8,727 feet

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

After breakfast, we will depart from Deng and head towards Namrung through the awe inspiring Manaslu Circuit routes. Leaving the village, we will gradually ascend through the vibrant woods of dense bamboo grooves. 

After a forest clearing, we will encounter the Budhi Gandaki River and cross it through a hanging bridge. After traversing forests, rivers and swinging bridges several times, we will finally reach the charming Namrung village.

Day 05

Sama GaonElevation: 3,520 meters/11,549 feet

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Coming out of Namrung, we will follow steadily ascending trails through house gardens and terraced fields that offer insights into the Tibetan influenced way of life of the local people. 

Gradually, we will enter vibrant forests of fir, pine, oak and rhododendron. The stunning views of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal are seen at the backdrop.

Enroute, we will pass through the quaint hamlets of Lihi, Sho, Lho and Shyala. The trails are mixed of flat, steep and rocky with some sections lined by the trees of pine and rhododendrons. Eventually, we will arrive at the picturesque Sama Gaon village encircled by the high mountains.

Day 06

We are above 3,500 meters at Sama Gaon and it is our first acclimatization day. It is important to acclimatize to cope with the thinning air and lowering oxygen level of the rising altitude. 

You can spend time leisurely at the teahouse until lunch. Then, we will leave our belongings behind and set off on short acclimatization hikes to explore the nearby popular spots around Sama Gaon.

Firstly, you can stroll around the village at a slow and relaxed pace and visit local homes to interact with native communities. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of the culture, tradition, customs and history of the place. 

Afterward, you can choose to extend your hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pun Gyen Gompa. The ancient Buddhist monastery of Pun Gyen Gompa is a significant site with a rich history and culture. Likewise, Manaslu Base Camp, the foot of the gigantic Manaslu massif, provides you with close views of the towering peaks in the Manalsu region.  

By evening, we will retreat to the teahouse in Sama Gaon for an overnight stay. 

Day 07

Samdo Elevation: 3,860 meters/12,664 feet

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

As we depart Sama Gaon, we will follow the descending trails through small streams and spanning Yak pastures. Then, we will make our way through dense forests of colorful rhododendron trees. 

The trek towards Samdo now brings us to the Budhi Gandaki River one more time. We will navigate it through a wooden bridge this time. Slowly we will traverse rugged trails and reach white Kani. It is a neighboring village of Samdo. 

Continuing further, we will arrive at our destination, Smado, which is a charming settlement of Tibetan refugees.

Day 08

On our second acclimatization day in Samdo, we will spend time resting and taking brief acclimatization walks to the surrounding areas of the village. Firstly, you can explore this scenic hamlet and connect with the villagers.

You can also extend your hike to the Tibetan border. This extension offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and cultural influences of the borderlands in the north. 

We will return to the teahouse in Samdo early in the evening and spend a restful night.

Day 09

Dharmasala Elevation: 4,460 meters/14,633 feet

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

The trek from Samdo to Dharmasala starts by ascending through Yak's pasture lands and is followed by rugged terrains. The magnificent panorama of surrounding peaks in the background will enchant your journey. 

Today, we will mostly follow the uphill trails, so be wary of the possible altitude sickness and pace slowly. On the final stretch, a steep climb will take us to Dharamsala, a picturesque mountain hamlet.

Day 10

Bimthang Elevation: 3,800 meters/12,467 feet

Larkya La Pass Elevation: 5,106 meters/16,752 feet

Trek Duration: 9 to 10 hours

Today we will navigate the challenging high Himalayan pass of Larkya La. So rise and shine early and prepare to embark on the trek. An early start will help us to cross the pass while the weather is good and avoid the potential high winds that often sweep through in the afternoon. 

Surrounded by the incredible views of the mountains on every side we will traverse remote terrains towards the pass. After several ups and downs on rocky trails, we will reach the top of Larkya La. The 360 degree vistas of valleys and mountains from the pass are phenomenal. 

Gradually, we will descend to the other side of the Larkya La and walk for a few hours to reach the scenic hamlet of Bimthang.

Day 11

Dharapani Elevation: 1,963 meters/6,440 feet

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

This is our last day on the route. Bidding goodbye to Bimthang, we will head towards our final trek destination, Dharapani. We will move downhill and traverse pasture lands, gushing rivers and lush forests of rhododendron and pine. 

After passing through the rural villages of Tilije, Tal and Bagarchhap, we will arrive at the ending point of our Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Day 12

Drive Duration: 9 to 10 hours

It is the final day of our unforgettable Manaslu Circuit Trek. Today, we will head back to the capital, concluding this adventurous journey. The road distance from Dharapani to Kathmandu is approximately 230 kilometers. So, it will be a long day drive for which you have to wake up quickly and prepare for the return journey.

As you pass through the diverse landscapes of the countryside, you will be blown by the beauty and charm of the picturesque views and serene atmosphere. Make the most of your drive until you arrive in Kathmandu. After reaching the capital city, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.

Cost Details
Included
  • Trek Permits: All required  entry permit, TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
  • Transportation: Round-trip  from Kathmandu to Arughat or Soti Khola or  Machha Khola
  • Accommodation: Lodging in tea houses/lodges along the trekking route
  • Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Guide & Porters: Licensed trekking guide, porter services
  • Transportation: Ground transportation to/from Kathmandu airport
  • Basic Equipment: Sleeping bag and down jacket (rented, if necessary)
  • First Aid Kit: Basic first aid and emergency medical supplies
  • Insurance for Staff: Insurance for guides and porters
Excluded
  • International Flights: Flights to/from Kathmandu
  • Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa fees
  • Personal Travel Insurance: Insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation
  • Trekking Gear: Personal gear such as boots, backpacks, trekking poles (if not rented or included)
  • Beverages and Snacks: Alcohol, bottled water, snacks, and personal expenses along the trek
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides and porters
  • Extra Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
Additional Info

Difficulties and Preparations for the Manaslu Circuit Trek 

Manaslu circuit Trek difficulty is categorized as moderate. The trek lasts for around 11 to 15 days. During each trekking day, you have to walk around 6 to 7 hours to cover the total Manaslu Circuit Trek distance of approximately 170 to 200 kilometers round trip. 

Moreover, you need to navigate the trails carefully, which are rugged and have several twists and turns, given the backwood Manaslu locations. Additionally, the crossing of the high mountain pass of Larkya La demands excessive physical exertion. Therefore, you should possess considerable physical fitness with reasonable strength and stamina to endure and overcome the tricky trails over a prolonged time at high altitudes. 

To get in shape, you can get involved in a training regime several weeks before the start of the trek. Consider incorporating strength workouts and cardiovascular exercises in your training sessions, which will help to build the stamina and endurance required for the journey. Beyond physical preparation, maintaining a strong mental state characterized by determination, positivity, courage, and resilience is crucial for a successful journey.

The Manalsu Circuit Trek takes place in isolated high Himalayan areas. The secluded nature of the Manaslu region adds to the difficulty level of the trek. You will be at remote mountain corners with only a few settlements and limited facilities. Accommodations along the routes are ordinary and you need to be accustomed to simple living styles. 

It is wise to be self sufficient equipping with all the trek essentials. This lets you stay comfortable and safe throughout the adventure. Furthermore, preparing well with layered clothes and the right trekking gear for cold temperatures and unpredictable mountain weather is important.

Can Anybody Do This Trek?

Despite being a physically exhaustive adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trail does not involve technical sections requiring advanced skills like ice climbing, rock climbing, glacier travel, crevasse rescue, etc. This makes the journey accessible to trekkers with moderate experience and a good level of physical fitness.

People with sound health conditions, positive attitudes and proper strength can join this Himalayan adventure. You also need to be prepared to overcome potential trek challenges like rugged paths, limited facilities, fatigue, unpredictable weather, altitude sickness, etc. So, though you do not require technical navigation skills for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, other factors matter, such as your physical and mental preparation. Additionally, having a few previous experiences in high altitude trekking is beneficial. 

Involve in activities like jogging, swimming, hiking, dancing, rowing, running, skipping, cycling, yoga, pull ups, push ups, shoulder press, plank, burpees, plunges, leg raises, deadlifts, step ups, squats, etc. These will raise your flexibility on the trails and enhance your breathing efficiency. If you are in good shape and prepared to trek for about 5 to 6 hours daily at a moderate pace you can participate take on this adventurous journey.

During your remote mountain journey, there is a chance of slips and other injuries while navigating mountainous trails. Hence, having a basic knowledge on using a first aid kit helps you to address minor injuries. Likewise, the trek goes over 5,000 meters and the elevation gain and loss each day carries the risk of altitude sickness. So you should be aware of the symptoms and preventive measures of mountain sickness. 

The most assured way to travel is to purchase a comprehensive trekking package from a reputable trekking agency and all inclusive travel insurance policy to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

Why Should You Choose Us?

  • We are a registered trekking company and have several years of experience in successfully organizing treks in the high Himalayan areas, including the restricted Manalsu region.
  • We can customize the itineraries to align with your requirements, interests, preferences, travel time and capabilities. This will help you experience a personalized journey of traveling at your own pace and enjoying desired views while on the way.
  • We provide all arranged and well organized trips by handling everything like permits, transportation, food, accommodation, guides, porters and other logistics that are needed for a comfortable mountain adventure.
  • Our guides are government license holders and have extensive knowledge and expertise in tackling tricky trails and leading you safely. 
  • Friendly and helpful guides will ensure that your journey will be easy, smooth, enriching and remarkable.
  • Our guides are proficient in English and you will not have any difficulties communicating with them. 
  • You can expect an interactive journey with guides serving as language barrier breakers by translating the dialects into an understandable form for both parties (you and local people).

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Useful Information 

Food and Accomodation 

Throughout the journey of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will be provided with three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. The traditional teahouses of the local families that are mainly established along the trekking trails will serve you healthy and fresh meals along with comfortable accommodations.

The ingredients in meals are usually locally grown crops and vegetables. So, they are nutritious and good for your health. In teahouse menus, you can find a range of traditional and Western cuisines made from veg and nonveg items. Dalbhat is a a staple food in the teahouse, which is a combination of rice, lentils and pickles. Besides, you can enjoy dishes like momo, chowmein, Yak steaks, flatbreads, egg and jam bread, thukpa, potato curry, pizza, pasta, sandwiches etc.

The rooms in teahouses are simple and shared. You will find two to three beds in a single room. In bed, there will be pillows, a warm blanket and mattresses. Likewise, toilets (mostly squat styles), bathrooms and eating halls are also common. You will get basic amenities for your stay in teahouses. Additional facilities like hot showers, WiFi and electronic charging costs you an extra amount. The facilities and availability of teahouses decline as you ascend more but the prices increase. You also have the option to choose more upscale teahouses at a higher cost.

Guide and Porter 

Guide and porter are the crucial aspects of remote and high altitude mountain journeys. There is a high chance that in unfamiliar and wilderness Himalayan locations, you may lose way or encounter tough situations. Likewise, you may not proceed through rough mountainous terrains with loads of heavy backpacks. For this very purpose, you need to hire a government licensed and experienced trekking guide from an authorized trekking agency as well as a strong local porter. 

Guides help you safely navigate complex mountainous trails and terrains. They also provide valuable insights into the rich history, diverse landscapes, local traditions, architectural heritage and breathtaking natural features of the trekking regions. Guides are well known about the local terrain and weather conditions and safeguard you from potential dangers. Furthermore, they also serve as a medium of communication by translating languages between you and the native communities. 

On the other hand, porters let you enjoy the trek hands free. They will relieve you from the burden of backpack weights and allow you to fully focus on enjoying the journey. Local porters are accustomed to traversing the rugged mountain routes and are skilled at handling difficulties along the way. So they can ensure a safe and smooth adventure for you. 

Risk of Altitude Sickness, Symptoms and Preventive Measures 

The risk of altitude sickness is high during the alpine Himalayan journey of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It will take you to the breathtaking elevations in the high mountains. At significant heights, there will be less air pressure and low oxygen levels, which will eventually lead to altitude sickness.

During the Manaslu Circuit trekking journey, you will be staying over 3,000 meters for many days. Likewise, you will cross the high Himalayan pass of Larkya La, which is at 5,106 meters. So, the chance of altitude sickness occurring cannot be denied during this alpine journey 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Symptoms of altitude sickness

The symptoms of altitude sickness are generally seen after crossing an elevation of over 2,500 meters. These symptoms include: 

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Dizziness 
  • Fatigue
  • Sleeplessness
  • Breathlessness

If you notice these symptoms, inform your guides and get down to the lower altitudes immediately. Remain there until you recover fully and only continue to ascend further. 

Preventive measures of altitude sickness.

  • Keep yourself well hydrated by drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of water every day. You can also have fruit juices, herbal teas and other liquids.
  • Avoid smoking cigarettes and intake of alcoholic beverages. This will exacerbate the threat of altitude sickness.
  • Eat foods that are fresh, healthy and nutritious. Do not go for packaged meals or after the taste. 
  • Taking frequent breaks for hydration and relaxation. Pacing steadily and ascending slowly to the altitude helps your body to get ample time for proper acclimatization. 
  • Sleep well and get enough rest. Avoid taking sleeping pills, which affects acclimatization. 

Permits Required for the Journey 

The essential permits to go for the adventurous journey of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal are:

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) or Gorkha Manaslu Area Permit. 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit.

The cost for MCAP and ACAP permits is NPR 3,000 per person. However, for MRAP or Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit, you have to pay two different fees depending on the trekking season. From September to November, the MRAP fee is USD 100 per person per week and after one week, it rises by USD 15 per person per day. Likewise, from December to August, the cost for restricted area permit is USD 75 per person per week and beyond one week, it increases by USD 10 per person per day.

You cannot apply for the restricted area permit by yourself. Rather, you will have to purchase a guided package from a reputable travel agency to go on the Manaslu Circuit trekking journey. And at least there must be two members in a group to get this special permit. So, if you are traveling alone, we will join you with the other traveler's group and obtain permits. 

We will help you get all the permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek beforehand on your behalf. However, you will have to send us the required documents, such as a copy of your passport and airline tickets and two passport-size photographs. 

Is Travel Insurance Needed?

Yes, travel insurance is necessary during the high altitude mountain endeavor of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Your remote adventure can face difficulties and unexpected emergencies. Travel insurance is vital to take you out of those conditions. This way, you can have peace of mind and can fully immerse yourself in the journey. 

With travel insurance, you can rest assured of the following happenings.

  • To cover losses or provide financial protection for different unforeseen circumstances during your remote travel. 
  • For immediate access to medical facilities and treatment in the event of sickness, injuries or accidents. 
  • Travel insurance covers medical expenses such as ambulance services, hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency surgeries, medication bills and more. 
  • To receive reimbursement for non refundable costs such as transportation, permits, accommodation, trek bookings, etc, in the case of a trip cancellation. 
  • It handles your lost, delayed and stolen baggage during the journey. Travel insurance provides compensation for the value of lost or stolen items in your baggage. It also covers the cost of essential items you need to buy while waiting for your delayed baggage to be returned.
  • It also takes care of expenses due to travel delays caused by bad weather, political strikes, natural disasters and other covered reasons.
  • Quick rescue from a helicopter and emergency evacuation to a nearby hospital in urgent situations

We recommend you purchase an all inclusive travel insurance policy that covers alpine trekking and a helicopter evacuation. After you book the trek with us, you are requested to submit your insurance documents. This will allow us to use your insurance policy to proceed with the process and offer you prompt assistance if needed. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Packing Ideas and Recommendations for Manaslu Circuit Trek

While packing for the alpine adventure of the Manaslu Circuit trek, you need to be considerate of the time of your travel. Mostly for the high altitude trekking journey in the high Himalayan regions, you should pack clothes in a layered approach.

The weather in the Himalayan areas is usually unpredictable and unstable. Likewise, the temperature here fluctuates a lot, generally being colder for most of the time. Hence, you need to pack comfortable layers that can be added up or removed quickly as per changing weather and temperature conditions. 

Include lightweight, breathable and moisture wicking base layers. You can normally wear these layers during the lower region treks. Similarly, bring insulated and thermal mid layers for warmth as temperatures drop when you ascend more to the altitudes. Likewise, carry waterproof and windproof outer layers to shield from rain, snow and strong winds. Additionally, carry a down jacket and pants for extremely cold high altitude mountain weather, which is usually more experienced in early morning and nighttime. 

Apart from the clothes, pack comfortable footwear for easy and smooth walks. Consider wearing sports shoes for short and easy hikes. Likewise, for walking over uneven ground surfaces and off the beaten wilderness areas, you need sturdy and worn in trekking boots. Plus, do not forget to include slippers or flip flops in your backp[ack, which counts to be easy during teahouse stays. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Regarding the trekking gear, you should bring a roomy backpack, reliable trekking pole, UV protected sunglass, flashlight with spare batteries, sleeping bag etc. Other essential accessories for the trek include smartphone and camera with charger, reusable water bottle, travel documents, personal care items, snacks and energy drinks, first aid kit and personal medications.

FAQs

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect blend of pristine natural beauty, cultural richness and utmost adventure in the remote mountains. The enriching factors of this trek are: the breathtaking mountain panorama, diverse landscapes, Tibetan influenced cultural villages, serene trails, a wide variety of flora and fauna, alpine passes and many others. 

The Manaslu Circuit trek takes around 11 to 15 days to complete. The duration of the trek usually depends on diverse factors like the route taken, transportation modes, weather conditions, acclimatization needs, level of experience and fitness of a trekker, trekking pace and more. 

The highest altitude of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the high Himalayan pass, Larkya La, at 5,106 meters/16,752 feet. From the breathtaking height of this pass, you can enjoy the 360 degree view of the landscapes characterized by verdant hills, deep valleys and lofty mountains. 

For the extra luggage that you do not require for the trek, you can store it at two different places: your hotel or the trekking agency office. Most of the hotels offer luggage storage facilities to their guests as a part of their service. They may or may not charge you an additional fee for this. However, at our place, we will provide storage spaces for your extra belongings in a safe and secure manner without charging you a bit. 

Yes, you can enjoy internet services during the Manaslu Circuit Trek at teahouses along the route. While not all teahouses, most of them provide you with WiFi connections at the payment of an extra few dollars. However, the internet speed can be slow with weak signal strength and you might experience intermittent and unreliable connections. 

Every day during the Manaslu Circuit Trek starts by waking up around 6 AM and having breakfast in the teahouse. Then, you will set off on the trail towards each day’s destination by 7 to 8 AM. The trek continues until you reach a particular village to stay for the night at the teahouse. There will be short breaks for rest, snacks and hydration and around half hour pause for lunch.