Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking in Manaslu is in itself an adventure, but we are offering this trek with a little twist in our Manaslu circuit trek itinerary. The trekking package has become more than just an adventure. We are avoiding the customary routes to the Manaslu (which is via Soti Khola) and following the higher highway that runs to the Salyankot. This package is thoughtfully designed to enable the Manaslu trekkers to revel in a unique place in a unique way.

For decades, the high pass of Larkya La has fascinated the trekkers with its immense glory. The mountain views from this point are so sensational that you will begin to fall into the fantasies and the defying glimpses of the mountains. They are truly stupendous. Besides, the colorful monasteries and vibrant shortens, adorned with classic paintings and historical carvings of godly images, have helped Manaslu gain a new identity of spirituality. Visitors come to admire the monastic complexes and traditional stone masonry in the Manaslu. In this particular package, we have added new historical places and their inspiring stories to give you a unique experience in the Manaslu trekking. It is a natural, cultural, and historical trekking package. Check out our itineraries to know more about the places and mountains in the Manaslu Region.

Planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an exciting trip, but because of its difficulty, it necessitates meticulous planning. In order to successfully complete a trek, one must obtain the necessary permits, choose the right time of year, create a detailed itinerary, consider hiring a local guide and porter, engage in physical preparation, acquire the necessary gear and equipment, create a thorough packing list, understand how to prevent altitude sickness, purchase travel insurance, ensure access to safe food and water, make arrangements for communication and emergency equipment, budget for costs, and demonstrate responsibility. Safety and adaptation are paramount on this challenging, high-altitude journey over the Himalayas.

The Best time to do the Manaslu Circuit:

Throughout the spring (March to May), this journey delivers an incredible array of colors and scents. The weather continues to be stable, with nice temperatures during the day. Rhododendron woodlands bloom, creating a beautiful backdrop for your walk. Clear skies are typical, providing unobstructed vistas of the towering peaks.

Autumn (September through November) is another fantastic season. This period follows the monsoon season and has dry and consistent weather. The monsoon rains have made the walkways lush and verdant, adding color to the surroundings. The sky is always clear, giving for stunning vistas of the mountains. The cool yet temperate temps provide for great trekking conditions.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not recommended during the monsoon or summer months (June, July, and August). Furthermore, the winter cold (December, January, and February) is unbearable for the ordinary hiker.

Manaslu Trekking: Food and Accommodation:

Your food and lodging are mostly supplied by Teahouse or guesthouses throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These lodges provide a variety of lodging choices, from modestly nice rooms with attached bathrooms in certain locations to simple rooms with communal amenities. The rooms don't have upscale facilities despite frequently having double beds, comforters, and heating stoves in them. Teahouses during our Manaslu trekking provide a range of meals, including some foreign selections and traditional Nepali fare like Dal Bhat. Additionally, you may discover common foods like spaghetti, noodles, and pizza. To lower your chance of contracting a foodborne illness, choose vegetarian meals. It's also a good idea to include snacks and energy bars for on-the-go refueling.  

It is also recommended to consult your guide for better and hygienic options.

Transportation used for Manaslu Trekking:

The hike usually begins in Maccha Khola(starting point). Our journey begins in Kathmandu, where a public vehicle (shared Jeep) will take you to Maccha Khola which will take around 9 to 10 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. You may alternatively choose a private vehicle (4 hours), which goes significantly faster but is not included in this plan, thus an additional payment will be applied. Our trip officially begins when we reach Machha Khola. From here, we'll continue on foot along the Manaslu Circuit Trek path. As you make your way towards Lho, Samagaon, and other significant destinations on the trip, you will pass through diverse villages, terraced fields, woods, and finally higher heights.

Our journey will come to a conclusion at Jomsom, from where you may fly back to Pokhara or take a Jeep ride that would take 8 to 9 hours, depending on the state of the roads.

Necessary Permits & TIMS:

The Nepali government recently decided to outlaw solo travel in the Manasalu Region (between Jagat and Dharapani) to reduce tourism. As a result, individual trekkers are prohibited from entering Manaslu, and those who wish to do so must get entrance permits. Additionally, the government has passed laws requiring that at least two hikers in a group always have a local guide with them.

To help with conservation efforts and to allow you access to the restricted region, three different types of permits are needed at this place. For this trip, a TIMS permission could also be necessary. These permissions must be handled by an authorized organization.

(Freelance guides are unable to obtain the appropriate permissions for the Manaslu Circuit.)

1. Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP):

      Before entering the Manaslu region, you must first get a Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit. In order to enter the Manaslu Conversation Area from Philim, you must have this permit.

Cost: Nrs 3000 per person. There are no restrictions or pricing changes based on the number of days spent inside MCAP.

2. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit):

      An ACAP Permit is required to enter Nepal's Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) for trekkers and tourists. From Dharapani until the time you exit ACAP in Beshi Sahar, this permit is necessary.

Cost: Nrs 3000 per person. There are no restrictions or pricing changes based on the number of days spent inside ACAP.

3. Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (RAP):

     The Nepalese government has granted the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu, a legal document that enables trekkers to enter and trek through particular restricted regions, including the Manaslu region. From Jagat to Sama Gaun, this Manaslu trek permit is necessary. You also need this permission to enter Tsum Valley.

Cost: USD 100 per person for the first seven days (September to November), plus an additional USD 15 per person per day starting on the eighth day. Whereas USD 75 per person for the first seven days (December to August) and an additional USD 10 per person per day commencing on the eighth day.

4. Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS):

      A Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card was required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. TIMS is essential since it aids hikers in ensuring their protection and safety when traveling over the Himalayas.

Cost: Around Nrs 3000 per person and for SAARC tourists Nrs 1000 per person.

(All the Permits and TIMs cards are included in this package.)

Necessary Documents for Permits and TIMS:

• Passport-size photos, one (For ACAP and MCAP permits)
• One scanned photograph (to be uploaded for RAP's online form)
• Photocopy of your passport (with at least six months' validity)
• Travel insurance papers (includes helicopter evacuation of up to 6000m)
• Nepal tourist visa and original passport (required for Department of Immigration, Nepal)

Other Popular Trekking Trails in Nepal

If you would like to explore other trekking trails in Nepal besides Manaslu Circuit, please feel free to visit our trekking packages in Nepal.