Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary and Cost

13th May, 2019

Find the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary and cost details to plan your trek with accurate prices and useful tips for a safe and enjoyable adventure in Nepal’s remote Manaslu region. This includes detailed costs for transport, accommodation, meals, permits, and guide and porter services.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary and cost can vary depending on the starting and ending points of the trek and the transportation options used. Additionally, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek differs based on several factors, including the trekking agency you choose, the season you travel, the size of your group, and your personal preferences. Therefore, prices may change according to each itinerary.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary can be customized based on your available vacation duration, especially with the development of new road extensions. This trek can be completed in 10 to 15 days, starting and ending in Kathmandu. Options include the 10-day, 12-day, or 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. Each itinerary covers the essential highlights, such as crossing the Larkya La Pass, enjoying mountain photography, experiencing natural beauty, and immersing yourself in the rich local culture.

Manaslu Circuit Trek – Cost

10-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – USD 900 per person (minimum 2 people, group basis)
12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – USD 1,050 per person (minimum 2 people, group basis)
15-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – USD 1,150 per person (minimum 2 people, group basis)

These prices include all public transportation, meals and accommodation during the trek, a licensed guide and porter, and all necessary permits for trekking and staying in Nepal. Please note that additional costs may apply for luxury accommodations, private transportation, and personal expenses.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights

Experience the authentic Nepali journey through hilly, zigzag, narrow, off-road paths. Though the distances are short, the drives feel long and adventurous
Create a flexible itinerary that can be adjusted to be shorter or longer, depending on traveler vacation time and budget
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires a minimum of two people, making it more affordable as you can share costs and experiences with your trekking partner
Traverse through lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, and alpine meadows. Cross several impressive suspension bridges over fast-flowing glacial rivers like the Budhi Gandaki.
Experience the unique lifestyle and traditions of the local communities in villages such as Gap, Namrung, Samagaun, and Samdo.
Visit ancient monasteries, including Pungyen Gompa, and encounter Tibetan-influenced culture, especially in the upper parts of the trail.
The trek is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected area home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like the snow leopard, Himalayan Thaar, and red panda. In spring, the forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the trail.
Explore old mani walls, prayer wheels, and stupas along the route. Participate in local festivals and witness traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Enjoy breathtaking mountain views of Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters, and other Himalayan peaks such as Himal Chuli, Ngadi Chuli, Shringi Himal, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
The crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters is one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the trek, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
Experience the off-the-beaten-path atmosphere of the Manaslu Circuit, which is less crowded compared to the Everest and Annapurna regions, providing a more remote and peaceful trekking experience.
The trek is physically demanding, requiring good fitness and acclimatization. Encounter a mix of steep ascents, descents, rocky paths, and narrow trails, giving a strong sense of achievement.

Manaslu Circuit Trek at Quick Look

Durations: 10 to 15 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Max. Elevation: 5,115m (Larke Pass)
Trek Start/Finish: Soti Khola/Besisahar
Difficulty: Moderate and Challenging
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse
Itinerary: Flexible depends on your time
Cost: Budget friendly

Manaslu Circuit Trek Details Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer by private vehicle to hotel (1,350 m), overnight stay at hotel

High Pass Adventure warmly welcomes you to Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A member of our team will be waiting for you outside the baggage hall, holding an A4-sized paper with your name and our company name.
This representative will escort you from the airport to your hotel in Kathmandu via a private vehicle. Upon arrival at the hotel, you can check in, rest, and freshen up before attending a meeting at our trekking office to discuss the details of your stander Manaslu Circuit Trek program.

Day 02: Sightseeing tour in the Kathmandu valley and day of trek preparation in Kathmandu (1350 m); overnight stay in a hotel

You will enjoy breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the Kathmandu Valley tour, starting around 9:00 AM with an experienced tour guide and a private vehicle. The tour will include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley, such as Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath—three of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the valley. These sites offer fascinating insights into Buddhism, Hinduism, ancient art, historical architecture, and the lifestyle and culture of the people in the Kathmandu Valley.

After the tour, you will return to the hotel or office to finalize your trekking clothing and gear. Our guide will review your trekking equipment to determine what you need and what you can leave at hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Arughat-Sotikhola (715 m), 8-9 hours drive. Overnight at tea-house

The Manaslu Circuit Trek begins from Soti Khola, which can be reached by private or public vehicle. Our guide will arrive at your hotel on time to pick you up. After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will travel to Soti Khola with your guide. The journey takes about 8 to 9 hours by vehicle, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Nepali hilly region. The road can be bumpy, especially during the last 2 hours from Arughat to Soti Khola. Although the long drive may be tiring, it is richly rewarding with breathtaking scenery and a unique travel experience.

Day 04: Trek to Khorla Besi (1080 m), 6 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

From Soti Khola, the trekking journey begins. After breakfast at a teahouse in Soti Khola, the trail heads toward Khorla Besi, passing through the Khorsane settlement, Saal forest, and Machhakhola. The trekking trail is relatively easy, with gentle and flat sections, running along a constructed road above the Marsyangdi River on a cliff. Along the way, you will enjoy pleasant views of the surrounding local villages with their typical houses, lush jungle, towering rocky hills, occasional waterfalls, and suspension bridges, all of which enhance the trekking experience.

Day 05: Trek to Jagat (1400 m), 6 hours walk. Overnight at tea-houseFrom Khorla Besi, you will head to Jagat. After

breakfast at the Khorla Besi teahouse, the trekking trail leads to Jagat, passing through Tatopani, Dovan, Bklbhatti, Yaruphat, and lower Jagat. In Tatopani, you can visit a small natural hot spring before continuing uphill. While you can follow the road to Jagat, there is an older trekking trail from Dovan to Jagat. To reach Dovan, you will cross the Marsyangdi River via a suspension bridge. The trail is gentle and steep up to Yaruphat but is rewarded with beautiful views of nature and local lifestyles. Before reaching Jagat, you will enjoy views of the surrounding landscape and towering rocky hills. Jagat is the entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area and leads to the scenic village of Jagat, with its rugged setting and narrow paved lanes.

Day 06: Trek to Deng (1860 m), 6/7 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

Our trekking day begins with a walk through a series of small local villages, including Salleri, Philim, Ekle Bhatti, and Pewa, as well as bamboo and pine forests. These villages are beautifully situated with terraced fields on rocky terrain. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see the majestic Sringi Mountain before reaching Philim Village. You will cross suspension bridges four times over the Marsyangdi River during this stretch. After Ekle Bhatti, the trekking trail reaches the junction of the Tsum Valley and Larke La Trek. From there, the trail heads northwest toward Deng, passing through Nyak Phedi and Pewa in lush green bamboo forests.

Day 07: Trek to Namrung (2630 m), 6-7 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

Today will be a slightly longer trekking day with some ascents and descents, passing through local villages and pine forests. This day is perfect for trekking, as you will enjoy the first real views of the major mountains: Sringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Kutang Himal, and other stunning peaks. Additionally, you will get a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the highland people while experiencing diverse and beautiful landscapes.

Day 08: Trek to Lho village (3175 m), 4 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

Today will be a short trekking day with a gentle ascent and relatively flat mountain trails leading to Lho Village, taking about 4 to 5 hours. From Namrung, the trail climbs slightly and passes through lush green forests to reach Lihi Village, which is known for its Chortens, barley terraces, and apple farms. After crossing Lihi, we continue to Sho Village and finally arrive at Lho Village. After our half-day hike to Lho, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views of Manaslu and other snow-capped peaks, as well as to visit the Rebung Gompa, located on the hillside of Lho Village. This day will be ideal for trekking, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes while gradually increasing altitude for acclimatization.

Day 09: Trek to Samagaon (3550 m), 4 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

Although this day covers a short distance, it may feel challenging due to the high elevation. After a two-hour hike up from Lho Village, the trail passes through Shyala Village, set amidst pine forests, before continuing to Sama Village. Shyala Village offers spectacular vistas of Manaslu, North Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Nadi Chuli, Naike Peak, Kutang Himal, and Pangbuche Himal. The relatively short hike to Sama Village allows ample time to visit local monasteries and the serene Birendra Lake.

Day 10: Acclimatizing day at Samagaun.

As you ascend above 3,000 meters, it is crucial to rest for acclimatization to adapt to the increasing altitude. During the rest day at Sama Village, it is recommended to hike 400–500 meters higher to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. There are several options for day hikes. The main attractions for the day include Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, and a short hike to Birendra Lake. You can discuss with your guide which areas to explore. All these places offer wonderful hiking experiences with rewarding landscapes and breathtaking mountain views.

Day 11: Trek to Samdo (3860 m) 3/4 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

This day involves a relatively easy hike to Samdo Village, though the increasing altitude may make it feel more challenging. The trekking trail is gently flat as it follows the Budhi Gandaki River through alpine forests and crosses a suspension bridge over the Budi Gandaki River. After crossing the bridge, the trail ascends gradually toward Samdo. Expect windy conditions, but you'll have opportunities to enjoy stunning Himalayan views along the way, making it a wonderful trekking day.

Day 12: Trek to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala) (4460 m), 4-5 hours walk. Overnight at a tent camp

From Samdo Village, we begin our trek on a gentle flat trail along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing a suspension bridge over the river. From there, the trail ascends northwest toward Larke Bazaar. Once a bustling marketplace, Larke Bazaar no longer retains its former activity. The trail then climbs steeply, gaining altitude as it leads to Larke Phedi through juniper forests and a stunning Himalayan landscape. Although the hike to Larke Phedi is relatively short, trekkers may find it challenging due to the high elevation. Upon reaching Larke Phedi (also known as Dharmasala), there will be plenty of time to rest and acclimatize, helping to prepare for the next stage of the trek.

Day 13: Trek to Bhimthang (3880 m) via Larke Pass (5160 m), 8-9 hours walk. Overnight at tea-house

From Larke Phedi (Dharmasala) to Bhimthang is a long and challenging walk, although trekking over the Larkya Pass at a spectacular 5,160 meters is not strictly difficult. From Larke Phedi, the trail gradually ascends, crossing glacial moraines and passing frozen lakes on the way to the pass. The trail is rocky, and at times it may be icy or snow-covered. It takes approximately 4-5 hours to reach the Larkya Pass. However, we will walk slowly and pay attention to our bodies as we gain altitude; some may experience symptoms like nausea or headaches.

At the top of the pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Gyaji Kung (7,030 m), Kang Guru (6,981 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m). The trek then descends from the Larkya Pass to Bhimthang along a steep gorge. This section involves a long descent on a rocky gravel trail. While this day requires more walking than others, the sense of achievement from crossing the challenging pass will make reaching Bhimthang a truly rewarding experience, even if you feel tired.

Day 14: Trek to Tilche (2300 m), 7 hrs walk. Overnight at tea-house

After breakfast and enjoying the splendid mountain views at Bhimthang, the trekking trail descends to Tilche, passing through forests and high pastures. Gradually, you leave behind the alpine climate, transitioning into familiar pine and rhododendron forests and passing through Chauli Kharka, Karche, and Gowa Village. Along the way, you may spot wildlife and birds such as white monkeys, deer, and the Impeyan pheasant (the national bird of Nepal) before reaching Tilche Village. Although the day might feel long due to fatigue from crossing the Larkya Pass, the easier descent and the surrounding natural beauty make the journey enjoyable and rewarding.

Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu (1350 m), 5-6 hours drive. Overnight at Hotel

There is a road connecting Kathmandu to Besisahar, but the section from Besisahar to Tilche is narrow and bumpy. After breakfast in Tilche, we’ll catch a shared jeep to Besisahar. The jeep ride, which follows the banks of the Marsyangdi River along rocky cliffs, takes approximately 3-4 hours. From Besisahar, we’ll transfer to another vehicle for the journey back to Kathmandu. The drive from Besisahar follows the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers, offering stunning scenery of small towns, villages, rice fields, terraced farms, valleys, and refreshing views of the hilly regions and mountains. After a 5-7 hour drive, we’ll arrive in Kathmandu, where you’ll spend your final night in Nepal, marking the end of your Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can rest at the hotel after the long drive. In the late evening, you will be invited to a farewell dinner at a Nepali cultural restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.

Day 16: Final departure day

Today marks the last day of your trip to Nepal. One of our High Pass Adventure staff members will accompany you to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight departure.

If you wish to plan an additional trip to Nepal or return for another adventure, we are always here to assist you with your next journey and adventure activities.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost details

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on various factors such as trekkers’ preferences and requirements, group size, trekking duration, season, and the level of services you choose, including transportation options like private or public vehicles. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is less expensive than the Everest Base Camp Trek due to transportation costs but more expensive than the Annapurna Circuit Trek due to the special permits required for the Manaslu region.

Our standard Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is 12 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, but we recommend allowing a total of 15 days for the trip, including your arrival and departure days in Nepal.

For our 15-day itinerary, the cost ranges from USD $900 to $1,200. This includes transportation, accommodation, meals, an experienced guide, a porter, and all required permits for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Please note that this cost does not include emergency evacuation, personal drinks, luxury accommodations, or private transportation upgrades.

We recommend obtaining detailed quotations from a few reputable trekking agencies to compare prices and services. However, we are confident in offering high-quality service at a reasonable cost within the above price range for an unforgettable Manaslu trekking experience.

Manaslu Circuit Trek permits cost

The Manaslu Circuit Trek route is a restricted area as per the rule and regulations of the Nepal Government. So, you must need a special trekking permit to enter the region. The area is conserved by the Manaslu Conservation area project and Annapurna Conservation Area Project. It requires both permits to enter the region.
The total permits costs are given below:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The cost varies depending on the season and the number of days.

Cost: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 each day from December to August and USD 100 for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 each day from September to November for all nationality

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Required for trekking within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Cost: SAARC Nationals' entry fee is 1000 (one thousand) Nepali Rupees per person and 3000 (three thousands) Nepali Rupees for others nationality.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required after crossing the Larke Pass and entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Cost: SAARC Nationals' entry fee is 1000 (one thousand) Nepali Rupees per person and 3000 (three thousands) Nepali Rupees for others nationality.

Chum Nubri Rural Municipality Entrance fees: Required for visit the Chum Nubri Rural Municipality like villages of the villages of Sirdibas, Bihi, Prok, Lho, and Sama Gaun in the Nubri Valley, and Chekampar and Chumchet in the Tsum Valley.

Cost: NPR 1,000 for foreign visitors and NPR 200 for local travelers per person.

Transport Cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek:

There are various factors of transport cost of the Manaslu Circuit trek such as pick up and drop up from/to international airport, public bus or private jeep cost to Sotikhola from Kathmandu and also public bus or private jeep cost to Kathmandu from Dharapani. Private transport makes an easy and comfortable journey on the Nepali Road. Public vehicles stop at any time and it takes long hours to get to our destinations as it is considered the cheaper transport then private vehicles but private vehicles will be faster to reach on target then public vehicles.
The tentative transport costs are given below:

Pickup from Airport to Hotel transport (car) cost: USD $ 15
Drop up from Hotel to Airport transport (car) cost: USD $ 15
Pickup from Airport to Hotel transport (jeep) cost: USD $ 25
Drop up from Hotel to Airport transport (jeep) cost: USD $ 25
Pickup from Airport to Hotel transport (mini bus) cost: USD $ 40
Drop up from Hotel to Airport transport (mini bus) cost: USD $ 40
Kathmandu to Sotikhola by public transport cost: USD $ 12 per seat
Kathmandu to Sotikhola by Private Jeep cost: USD $ 300
Dharapani to Kathmandu by public Transport cost: USD $ 30 per seat
Dharapani to Kathmandu by private jeep cost: USD $ 350

Food and accommodation cost during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

For detailed information about food, accommodations, and drinks cost on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, please click here. There are tea houses and lodges available for accommodation with basic twin sharing rooms during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The room may have a basic bed with mattress, blanket, bed sheet and pillow. So, I recommend bringing a sleeping bag for warmth and comfort especially at higher altitude. Toilet and bathroom (shower) are the limits in the teahouses, so we have to share with other trekkers.

The teahouses usually offer a variety of local and international dishes but options will be limited compared with cities. You may get local dishes such as chapati, rice (Dal Bhat), potato item, tsampa porridge, Tibetan bread, Sherpa stew, Momo (dumplings), Tenduk, noodles, thukpa etc. They also offer international dishes such as pasta, noodles, pizza, and some baked items but you have to expect the taste is different then western food.

There are many choices of accommodations in a few places and the cost of the accommodations will be expensive in the higher elevation. The tentative cost of the per accommodation range is USD $ 5 to 10 dollars per night. The food cost also gets expensive in the higher elevation. The food cost range is USD $ 5 to 10 dollars per meal. You can have hot drinks along the Manaslu Circuit Trek such as Black tea, milk tea, black coffee, milk coffee, hot chocolate, ginger tea and hot lemon. The cost of the hot drinks also gradually rises in the higher elevation.

Guide and Porter cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Rule of the Nepal government, the trekking guide is mandatory for Manaslu Circuit Trek. It means you must hire and take a guide for your trip to Manaslu Region. Guide will be part of the hero to successfully complete your trip as well as he is your most dependable and closest companions during the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Hire a Guide, Porter cum Guide and Porter cost:

Guide Cost: USD $ 30 per day, including his meals, accommodations, equipment, salary, and insurance.
Porter cum Guide cost: USD $ 25 per day, including his meals, accommodations, equipment, salary, and insurance.
Strong porter Cost: USD $ 23 per day, including his meals, accommodations, equipment, salary, and insurance.

If you want to hire a professional guide to speak your own language (other than English language), the guide cost will be more expensive.

Nepali Visa Cost

You can easily get a Nepali visa in the airport, after your arrival. It means, there are facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing a visa on arrival at the airport in Kathmandu.
Visa Requirements Those Things
01: A valid passport and one passport -size photo with a light background.
02: Visa can be obtained only through payment of cash in the following currency: Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar and Japanese Yen.
03: Credit card, Indian currency and Nepali currency are not accepted as payment of visa fees
On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD
Visa Extension Fee
01: Tourist visa extension is done for a minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.
02: In case of delay less than 150 days, additional USD 5 per day as late fine.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult trek in the Manaslu Region of Nepal but does not require any technical climbing skills and trekking experience. This trek is a little bit difficult because of the high altitude, Larke Pass(5200 m) and the trek duration is long. Normally, trekkers have to walk at least 4 to 7 hours a basic day without the acclimatization days. So, this trek is challenging for beginner trekkers.
However, this Manaslu Circuit Trek 15 day’s itinerary is perfect for you, if you are doing trek in Nepal without physical stress. After crossing the Larke Pass (5200m) that will be an incredible experience, even for beginner trekkers. So, you may not think about the difficulty of the whole trek.

Moreover, the trekkers in the Manaslu Circuit must remain healthy, fit and have a basic level of mental strength. You need to prepare yourself with rigorous training before the trekking. There are definitely some factors that add to Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty such as acute mountain sickness, long walks, accommodation facilities, etc. Those factors should help you for the trekking experience and our guide will manage along the trail.

Conclusion

Most of the travelers search in Google about the Manaslu Circuit trek Information. You can also easily find many blog posts about Manaslu Circuit Trek on Google, but all the blog posts are not the right information. This blog post is genuine and reliable to everyone because we had a lot of trekkers successfully complete the Manaslu Circuit trek and they advised us to write genuine news about Manaslu Region trekking. Here is all information about trekking highlights, Itinerary, Cost and other activities. We heartily recommend to you before book the trek; you should choose the best and informative Trekking Company to easily complete the trip in Nepal.