Most of the Himalayan trekking trail of Nepal generally reaches over 5000 meters. Similarly, the Manaslu circuit trek is one trekking trail running above 5000 meters altitude. The Manaslu region starts with a height of 500 to 5160 meters, where you will explore the three valleys. So, we conclude these things in this Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, including the best possible side trip of the trek.
The two valleys fall en route to Around Manaslu—namely Nupri Valley, Katung (Manaslu) Valley, and another Tsum Valley.
The killer mountain, Mount Manaslu, was successfully ascent in 1956 by a team of Japanese led by Gyalzen Norbu & Toshio Imanishi. So, Mount Manaslu is known as a Japanese mountain.
Indeed, we are talking about the Manaslu circuit trek, a complete guide for a better experience. Besides that, with the adorable Himalayas panorama, you can see many extraordinary peaks — the high and tropical plants and Buddhist shrines like monasteries, stupas, and mani walls at some point during the trek.
Table of contents
Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary
There are several itineraries for the Manaslu circuit. 17-days Manaslu circuit trek itinerary (Kathmandu – Kathmandu) as per our recommendation for the Manaslu circuit trek, including two extra days for either acclimatization or side trips.
Expanding the trip Manaslu circuit via Tsum Valley requires at least seven days and an altogether 24-day trek.
Finally, we would not recommend shortening this recommended itinerary, as the time needed for walking distances and rest days is crucial for health and enjoyment.
Moreover, taking more days for the trek is, of course, highly recommended and worthwhile. It is a short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary, allowing you to know day by day.
Kathmandu – Arughat (9h00 drive by local bus)
Arughat – Lapubensi (7 hours walk)
Lapubensi – Dovan (7 hours walk)
Dovan – Philim (7 hours)
Philim – Bihi Phedi (8 hours walk)
Bihi Phedi – Lho Gaon (6 hours walk)
Lho – Sama Gaon via Pungen Monastery (7 hours walk)
Sama Gaon – Samdo via Birendra Lake (5 hours walk)
Samdo – Larkya Phedi (Dharmashala) (4 hours walk.)
Dharamshala – Larkya-La – Bhimthang (11 hours walk)
Bhimthang – Dharapani (8 hours walk)
Dharapani – Bensi Shahar (5 hours by jeep)
Bensi Shahar – Kathmandu (5 hours by car)
Manaslu Trek Via Tsum Valley and Its Side Trips
Side trips: In Tsum Valley Trek
Ganesh Himal Base Camp: base point Lungden Gompa
Side trips: In our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary
Kal Taal: base point Prok village
Hilang Monastery: base point Lihi
Pungen monastery: base point Shyala or Sama Goan
Birendra Lake and MBC: base Point Sama Goan.
Tibet border – Rui La: base point Samdo
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Permits & Logistics For Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu region is declared a restricted area; it requires permits for trekking issued by the immigration department. However, it must apply through the registered trekking agency; at least two trekkers need in a group. Please visit the immigration department’s website for further information regarding the revised visa and trekking permit fees.
The Manaslu permit fee for the Autumn Season (Sept – Nov)
$100 per week (Additional $15 per day beyond a week).
The Manaslu permit fee for Winter, Spring, and Rainy seasons. (Dec – Aug)
$75 per week (Additional $10 per day beyond a week)
The Tsum Valley permit fee for the autumn season (September- November) is $40 per person per week and $10 per day beyond a week.
The Tsum Valley Permit fee for winter, spring, and summer seasons (December – August) is $30 per person/week, USD 7 per person/day (beyond a week)
Conservation Area fees:
MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project): 3000 NRS Convertible 28 U.S Dollars.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project): 3000 NRS convertible 28 U.S Dollars.
Around Manaslu Lodge Trek
According to the traveling norms, one can do both types of organization per the traveler’s desire and hubbies. Recently, the Manaslu Trek can do as a Tea House (Lodge) Trek. So, it refers to Manaslu Lodge Trek. The tea houses are not as luxurious as you experienced in the Annapurna and Everest region.
Now, it does not require having their accommodation facilities, i.e., a Tent (for camping). So, no need to carry catering services like kitchen utensils, food, and the number of porters. There is an increasing number of lodges in Tsum Valley Trek too.
But it is insufficient for travelers in places like Chumling and Nile. Nevertheless, there is still possible to spend a night in the Homestay.
Traveling with many trekkers requires organizing a camping trek and being accompanied by much Nepalese staff. Unfortunately, Mu Gompa (the last monastery of the Tsum Valley) has no proper lodge facilities.
It is further making a camping trek that leads up to the Tibet border and barren land of the Yak pasture and Lungden Gompa. There is still needing to sleep on the premises of the monastery with basic accommodation.
Tea Houses versus Fully Camping Trek
- A trek’s logistics are straightforward: Traveling comfortably, arranging the travel light, and simply taking some necessary items. In another way, this is an economy for travelers instead of catering services and camping equipment through the trekking agency.
- Support local economy: Consumption of accommodation and eating services that mean paying directly to them also supports the local economy.
- Better interaction: Closely comprise with locals that exchange conversation and know better their lifestyle, culture, and tradition gain a better experience.
But we cannot do without compromising.
A compromise on food quality and quantity – while some trekkers prefer to enjoy local food (mainly Daal Bhat). But there found some trekkers were not satisfied with the menu for a long journey.
A compromise on accommodation – some villages along the Tsum Valley and Manaslu circuit still have basic lodges. And need to sleep sharing basis with others being the increasing number of travelers in the Manaslu region.
Best time to visit the Manaslu circuit trek:
Generally, the best time to visit the Manaslu Trek is autumn (October – November) and spring (March – April). There is relatively stable weather in autumn, and snow over 5,000 meters will be found.
The lush green forest and rhododendron will blossom during the spring season. But Manaslu trekking can do all year round.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Map:
We provide an updated Manaslu Circuit Trek Map for each group, which helps find valuable information while on a trek. The Manaslu Circuit Trek map enables you to navigate the routes, such as altitudes, walk duration, etc. Therefore, we offer a variable Manaslu circuit trek itinerary per your needs.
Manaslu Trek Difficulty
Mount Manaslu, the spirit of the Himalayas, is the 8th highest mountain on earth. It is one of the longer trekking trails compared to other trekking trails in Nepal. The trek begins from sub-tropical to tundra climatic zones, traversing six different climatic zones.
Likewise, it spreads from 715 to 5218 meters and goes through the Buddi Gandaki Valley, which encircles Mount Manaslu. It is challenging due to its gradual altitude, walking into thin air, and covering 177 kilometers.
The Manaslu Trek is ideal for people with excellent physical condition and keen to walk at high altitudes. Note that trekking in Manaslu is moderate to strenuous. Nevertheless, old-aged people can also complete this trek if they properly acclimate.
Some Other Essentials Addon
Telecommunication: Most villages are expanding telecommunication services, except Deng and Ghap. However, you can find a satellite or cellular-based phone that can connect with the world on a payable basis. In addition, Internet services are available in Philim, Namrung, Lho, and Sama Gaon.
Electricity: Due to the micro-hydro project, 220-volt electricity is available in many villages. Likewise, Light and power sockets are possible for charging batteries on a payable basis. Villages without electricity generally use solar panels for light and battery charging.
Sustainability Tips
As a sustainable tourism operator, Himalayan Exploration Travel would like to share some sustainable tips while on a trek. Whenever you spend time outdoors, you attempt to have the most negligible effect on nature, and the values of “leaving no trace” assist in preserving the environment you enjoy so much. However, walking through isolated Himalayan settlements makes it more complicated.
In terms of sustainability, try to order what locals eat. Please do not buy bottled water or snacks. You may get boiled water from every lodge. If you are not 100% sure about its purity, please use water-purifying pills. We highly recommend you have local food than imported ones.
For example, you may eat Daal Bhat (Nepali cuisine) in the lower elevation and order a variety of potatoes at a higher altitude. Please learn about our sustainability policy here.
Get to know about the region before you go. Read the book ‘The Snow Leopard” by Peter Matthiessen and investigate anthropologist Geoff Childs’ research on communities in this area.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
We offer only $1350 per person per published service on the website. However, prices may differ widely based on the benefits, from $1350 to $2350 per person.
Yes, it requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), and MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project). We have mentioned in detail on Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost as well.
The autumn (September – November) and Spring season (March to May) are ideal for this trek, even though this trek can also be completed all year round.
It would help if you were aware of it because the highest point of this trek is Larkya – La Pass at 5218 meters. It may cause altitude sickness if you are trying to go rapidly. However, you may prevent it by taking proper acclimatization.
Some essential pieces of trekking gear are required for the Manaslu trek. It reveals you to a series of high altitudes where the temperatures vary tremendously between night and day. The route is long and moderately strenuous.
We highly recommend seeing our essential information section for details.
You may also be interested in reading: 15 Important Tips For A Successful Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderate to strenuous and crosses over Larkya La Pass at 5218 meters. It requires walking 5 to 9 hours in a single day. But, it is still possible for first-time trekkers. It would help if you also were physically and mentally fit enough.
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Wrapping Up
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best alternative to other popular trekking destinations, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Manaslu, located in the remote Himalayas area, is a mecca for thrill-seekers and enthusiastic trekkers.
This is one of Nepal’s most strenuous treks, involving tremendous commitment and physical fitness.
Being a restricted area, the solo trekker does not allow to trek alone, but it is still possible to get permits based on sharing with others. You can do Manaslu Circuit Trek on Solo in this way. Don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange all the essential documents for a trek.
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