Best Season for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The best times to trek Manaslu Circuit are in the spring (March to May) and autumn as well as a little winter (October to December). These times of year usually have stable weather, clear views of the mountains, and nice daytime temperatures.
The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain, possible landslides, and closed trails. Winter (Jan to February) is cold and might have snow at high passes.
What Makes Manaslu Circuit Trek Special?
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The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s more remote and authentic trekking experiences.
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It goes around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) and offers stunning views of the Himalayas, villages with Tibetan-Buddhist influences, and a hard high point in Larkya La Pass.
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Because the area is still less crowded than the more popular regions (Everest,Annapurna), trekkers get a deeper feel of nature, tradition, and off-the-beaten-path mountain life.
How Difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. You won't need to do any technical climbing, but you'll be trekking for many days in remote areas, often for 6 to 8 hours a day, with steep climbs and descents and crossing Larkya La Pass (about 5,100 m). You need to be fit and able to hike in all kinds of weather, and you need to be willing to walk on rough, high-altitude ground.
Permits Required
Because the Manaslu Circuit lies in a restricted area, you’ll need special trekking permits. These typically include:
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Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP or RAP)
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Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the part after crossing into the Annapurna-area valley (after Larkya La)
Also:
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You need to have a licensed guide with you when you go trekking, like those from Nepal Excursion. You can't go solo trekking in the Manaslu Circuit, which is off-limits.
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Some parts of the route require a minimum number of people in a group and registration through a Nepal-registered agency.
You’ll need valid ID, photos, passport/visa status, and Nepal Excursion will apply for these permits on your behalf.
Safety and Precautions
Because the trail passes through high altitude and remote locations, safety is very important. Some precautions include:
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Always trekking with a licensed guide familiar with the Manaslu region.
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Keeping an eye on the weather reports, especially for crossing Larkya La Pass, where snow, wind, or storms could happen.
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Carrying warm and waterproof gear (jackets, insulated layers), and being prepared for temperature swings.
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Making sure you have the right travel insurance that covers evacuation from high-altitude, remote areas.
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Drink a lot of water, take breaks while hiking to avoid getting tired, and bring a first-aid kit or medications for altitude sickness.
Training and Preparation
To prepare for a 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, it’s best to start training 4–8 weeks ahead:
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Cardiovascular exercise: hiking or walking uphill, climbing stairs, jogging, or biking to build endurance.
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Strength training: Work on your legs (quads and calves), core, and back muscles so you can carry a pack all day..
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To get used to walking on uneven trails, practice hiking with a full daypack.
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To lower the risk of joint and muscle strain, do some stretching, yoga, or core exercises to improve your flexibility and balance.
Also plan to pack and test your gear ahead of time — boots, layers, rainwear, etc.
Mountain Views
One of the best things about this route is the amazing views of the Himalayas you'll see along the way. You'll see snow-capped peaks around the Manaslu massif, rivers fed by glaciers, and wide valley views from high passes like Larkya La and remote alpine areas. When the weather is nice, you can see the peaks of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna in the distance after you go down past Larkya La and the Budhi Gandaki Gorge that was carved by rough terrain.
Internet and Mobile Phone Network in Manaslu Trek
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Because you will cross high altitude (Larkya La often above 5,000 m), altitude sickness is a real risk. To minimize it:
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Gradually go up, with days off or acclimatization days built into the schedule.
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Drink plenty of water and eat enough.
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Don't drink alcohol or work too hard on days when you're at a high altitude.
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Be on the lookout for signs like headaches, dizziness, and nausea, and tell your guide right away.
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Instead of pushing yourself up a hill quickly, walk at a steady pace.
These practices help reduce risk and help you enjoy the trek more comfortably.
What to Expect During Manaslu Circuit Trek
You can expect to travel through remote river valleys, high-altitude villages with Tibetan influences, and a variety of landscapes, including lower subtropical and forested areas, mid-hills with rhododendron and oak forests, alpine meadows, moraine-style trails near the pass, and finally down to the Annapurna-area side.
You stay in teahouses (simple lodges) at night, eat local food, and in some remote areas, phone and Internet service may be slow or not available at all. The weather can change quickly. The trek is a mix of adventure, beautiful views, culture, and a challenge. There aren't many people around, so it feels like you're alone.
Internet and Mobile Phone Network in Manaslu Trek
Why Choose a Nepal Excursion for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
When you choose Nepal Excursion, you'll get the benefit of local knowledge, licensed guides who are allowed to lead treks in restricted areas, full handling of all permits (MRAP, MCAP, ACAP), a carefully paced itinerary that allows for acclimatization, porter/guide support, meals and lodging arranged each night, transportation to the trailhead and back, and emergency backup.
Nepal Excursion can tailor the pace and comfort level to match your fitness and preferences while keeping you safe and legal in a restricted zone.
Things You Should Know
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The trail is far away, so Wi-Fi and mobile data might not work well after the middle.
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At higher altitudes, lodges and teahouses become more basic.
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Nights near the pass will be colder because the air is thinner and the winds are stronger.
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The weather is hard to predict, especially near the pass. Even in the best season, it could snow, rain, or wind.
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You should bring cash because cards might not work in remote areas, and trekking poles will be very useful on steep or rocky parts.
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek for Me?
This trek is suitable for trekkers who:
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Have a good level of fitness and stamina and are comfortable hiking multiple consecutive days.
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Are adventurous and like to hike in remote, high mountains instead of crowded trails.
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Enjoy life in a mountain village with Tibetan influences.
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Want a serious Himalayan challenge — crossing a high pass — but prefer non-technical climb rather than technical mountaineering.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek may be the best choice for you if you can walk 6 to 8 hours most days, are willing to get used to the altitude, and want to see Nepal in a way that isn't on the main trails.
Tea house Accommodation and Meals during Manaslu Trek
Plan Your Manaslu Circuit Trek Today
Your 16-day itinerary can start with a drive (or drive + flight) to the trailhead (e.g. start around Arughat / Machha Khola area) and then follow a circuit around Manaslu, including side trips, crossing Larkya La, and then descending to join the Annapurna edge (e.g. Dharapani), with return transport arranged by Nepal Excursion. We take care of everything, from getting you there to getting you permits, meals, a place to stay, and a guide or porter.
Highlights
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Crossing Larkya La Pass (about 5,100 m)
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Walking around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m)
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Tibetan-Buddhist villages far away (like Samagaon, Samdo, Namrung, etc.)
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Stunning views of mountains and glaciers, narrow gorges, and high-altitude alpine zones
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Not as many people on the trek compared to more popular ones
Why Choose Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great choice for trekkers who want a real Himalayan adventure without a lot of other people. As you cross the beautiful Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), you can see Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) in the distance. It has the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. The path goes through old monasteries, remote villages that have been shaped by Tibetan culture, and a variety of landscapes. This hike is a great way to get both a challenge and some peace away from busier routes.
Backpacking / Gears for Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Upper Parts: Few pairs of t-shirts (3-4), couple of long sleep shirts, fleece jacket or marino shits, One down jacket, light glove , thick glove with water/windproof outer shell, waterproof jacket, windstopper, scarf for neck/ head, warm hat, sun hat, sunglass uv protection, suncream (+40 or more), trekking poles
- Lower Parts: few pairs of shorts (2-3), underwear - 4-5 pairs , one trekking trouser, fleece or merino warm underpants , waterproof/ windproof trouser, gaiters, few pairs light trekking socks (3-4), warm socks -2 pairs, micro crampons, trekking shoes, light sport shoes or sandal
- Toiletries: One quick-drying towel, antibacterial hand gel, tooth paste, tooth brush, shower gel, soap, toilet papers, tissue papers, nail cutter,face cream, wet waives ,
- Miscellaneous: First aid kids, headlight with batteries, trekking maps, camera, books,water bottle, chargers, powerbank, water purifying tablets, vitamins, minerals, sleeping bag - 15 degrees minimum, small lock to secure your main luggage etc.
