Most of Nepal’s Himalayan trekking trails generally reach over 5000 meters. Similarly, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the few trekking trails that run above 5,000 meters in altitude. The Manaslu region begins at an elevation of 500 to 5,160 meters, where you will explore three valleys. We conclude this section with the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, including the best possible side trip.
The two valleys en route to Around Manaslu are Nupri Valley, Katung (Manaslu) Valley, and another Tsum Valley.
The killer mountain, Mount Manaslu, was successfully ascended in 1956 by a team of Japanese led by Gyalzen Norbu & Toshio Imanishi. Mount Manaslu is known as a Japanese mountain.
Indeed, we are discussing the Manaslu Circuit Trek, a comprehensive guide for an enhanced experience. Besides that, with the breathtaking Himalayan vistas, you can see many extraordinary peaks, high tropical plants, and Buddhist shrines, such as monasteries, stupas, and mani walls, at some point during the trek.
Key Takeaways
- The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary typically spans 17 days, reaching altitudes above 5000 meters and including acclimatization days.
- Key side trips include Tsum Valley, Ganesh Himal Base Camp, and various monasteries, all of which enhance the trekking experience.
- Permits are required for trekking, with specific fees applicable to different seasons, as the Manaslu region is a restricted area.
- Accommodation options include tea houses, but camping may be necessary in remote areas without facilities.
- Autumn and spring are the best seasons to visit, providing stable weather and stunning views along the trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary
There are several itineraries for the Manaslu circuit. The 17-day Manaslu circuit trek itinerary (Kathmandu – Kathmandu) is per our recommendation for the Manaslu circuit trek, including two extra days for either acclimatization or side trips.
Expanding the trip to the Manaslu circuit via Tsum Valley requires at least seven days and a total of 24 days for the trek.
Finally, we do not recommend shortening this recommended itinerary, as the time allocated for walking distances and rest days is crucial for both 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 the 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 are needed 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 the 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 to 28 U.S. dollars.
Around Manaslu Lodge Trek
According to travel norms, one can organize both types of travel according to the traveler’s desire and need. Recently, the Manaslu Trek can be done as a Tea House (Lodge) Trek. So, it refers to the Manaslu Lodge Trek. The tea houses are not as luxurious as those you experienced in the Annapurna and Everest regions.
Now, it does not require having their accommodation facilities, i.e., a Tent (for camping). Therefore, there is no need to carry catering services, such as kitchen utensils, food, and a large number of porters. There is an increasing number of lodges in the Tsum Valley Trek, too.
But it is insufficient for travelers in places like Chumling and Nile. Nevertheless, it is still possible to spend a night in the Homestay.
Traveling with many trekkers requires organizing a camping trek and being accompanied by many Nepalese staff. Unfortunately, Mu Gompa (the last monastery of the Tsum Valley) has no proper lodge facilities.
It also involves a camping trek that leads up to the Tibetan border and the barren land of the Yak pasture and Lungden Gompa. There is still a need for accommodation on the monastery’s premises, albeit basic.
Tea Houses versus Fully Camping Trek
- A trek’s logistics are straightforward: Traveling comfortably, packing light, and taking some necessary items. On the other hand, this is an economy for travelers, rather than catering services and camping equipment through a trekking agency.
- Supporting the local economy: Consuming accommodation and eating services, which involve paying directly to them, also supports the local economy.
- Better interaction: Closely communicate with locals who engage in conversations, gaining a deeper understanding of their lifestyle, culture, and traditions, which results in a more enriching 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). However, 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 the need to share a sleeping basis with others, due to 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). Autumn weather is relatively stable, and snow can be found above 5,000 meters.
The lush green forest and rhododendrons will blossom during the spring season. But Manaslu trekking can be done 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, including altitudes and walking duration. 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 in Nepal compared to other trekking trails. The trek begins from the sub-tropical to the tundra climatic zones, traversing six different climatic zones.
Likewise, it spans from 715 to 5218 meters and traverses the Buddi Gandaki Valley, which encircles Mount Manaslu. It is challenging due to its gradual altitude, walking into thin air, and covering a distance of 177 kilometers.
The Manaslu Trek is ideal for people with excellent physical condition and a keen interest in walking at high altitudes. Please note that trekking in Manaslu is considered moderate to strenuous. Nevertheless, older 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 pay-as-you-go 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 available for charging batteries on a pay-as-you-go 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 for trekkers. Whenever you spend time outdoors, you strive to have the least negative impact on nature, and the principle of “leaving no trace” helps preserve 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 refrain from purchasing 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 that you opt for local food rather than imported food.
For example, you may eat Daal Bhat (a traditional Nepali dish) at lower elevations and order a variety of potatoes at higher altitudes. 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, ranging from $ 1,350 to $ 2,350 per person.
Yes, it requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), and MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project). We have also detailed the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost.
The autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons are ideal for this trek, although it can also be completed throughout the year.
It would be helpful if you were aware of this, as the highest point of this trek is Larkya-La Pass at 5,218 meters. It may cause altitude sickness if you attempt to ascend 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.
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 were also physically and mentally fit enough.
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Wrapping Up
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a compelling alternative to other popular trekking destinations, such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Manaslu, located in the remote Himalayas, is a mecca for thrill-seekers and enthusiastic trekkers.
This is one of Nepal’s most challenging treks, requiring a tremendous commitment and high physical fitness.
Being a restricted area, solo trekkers are not allowed to trek alone; however, it is still possible to obtain permits by sharing with others. You can do the Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo in this way. Don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange all the essential documents for a trek.
In conclusion, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a remarkable adventure for those seeking breathtaking views and authentic cultural experiences. Throughout this guide, we have shared valuable information about the trek, including the best possible side trip to Tsum Valley.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or looking to embark on your first Himalayan journey, Manaslu Circuit Trek has something to offer everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure with this complete guide to the Manaslu Trek. And don’t forget to write what you think about this incredible trek in the comments! Happy trekking! 😊
