Discover the untouched beauty of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where towering peaks meet rich Himalayan culture. A perfect blend of serenity, adventure, and authentic village life, highlighted by the thrilling crossing of Larke La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft).
At Quick Glance
-
Destination
Nepal
-
Duration
16 Days
-
Trip Difficulty
Challenging
-
Activities
Trekking
-
Altitude
5,160m / 16,929ft
-
Best season
September to November
-
Transportation
Privet Jeep
-
Accomodation
Tea House
-
Group Size
Min 2 Person
15 Nights 16 Days
Trip Highlights
- Scenic and peaceful trail in a restricted region, far from crowded trekking routes
- Exploration of Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft) – the world’s 8th highest mountain
- Crossing the adventurous Larke La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft) with panoramic mountain views
- Diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glacial valleys
- Cultural immersion with Tamang and Sherpa communities and Tibetan Buddhist heritage
- Visit to ancient monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and the scenic Birendra Lake
- Opportunity to combine with the culturally rich Tsum Valley – “The Hidden Valley of Happiness”
- Manaslu Conservation Area rich in flora, fauna, and high-altitude biodiversity
- Requires special permits: RAP, MCAP, and ACAP – trek must be arranged through a registered agency
- Best seasons: Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies and stable weather
- Basic teahouse accommodation with local hospitality and traditional Nepali meals
- Daily altitude gain allows for proper acclimatization and gradual trekking experience
- Ideal for trekkers seeking a blend of high adventure and authentic cultural encounters
- Safe for solo female travelers when accompanied by a licensed guide
- Perfect option for those looking to explore an off-the-beaten Himalayan trail with unmatched beauty
Trip Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a peaceful journey through one of Nepal’s least-traveled yet most rewarding trekking regions. Known for its untouched natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural authenticity, this route takes you around Mt. Manaslu—the world’s eighth-highest peak—through remote villages inhabited by Tamang and Sherpa communities. With dramatic mountain views, glacial valleys, and ancient monasteries, this trek is perfect for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion away from the crowded trails.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu and leads you deep into the secluded highlands of the Manaslu region, a land blessed with soaring peaks, pristine glaciers, ancient monasteries, and untouched Tibetan-influenced villages. Dominated by Mount Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, this trek offers an immersive journey across diverse terrains and rich cultural settings.
Unlike the more crowded trails in the Everest or Annapurna regions, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure ideal for trekkers seeking raw natural beauty, preserved traditions, and a challenging high-mountain experience. The journey circles around the Manaslu Himalaya range, traversing the rugged Budi Gandaki River Gorge, crossing pine forests and alpine meadows, and culminating at the thrilling Larke La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft)—the highest point of the trek.
One of the highlights of this trek is the warm hospitality of the ethnic groups who inhabit this remote region. The Tamang, Gurung, and Sherpa communities along the trail still follow traditional ways of life. Their vibrant Buddhist culture, seen in the form of colorful prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and ancient monasteries like Pungyen Gompa, adds spiritual depth to the adventure.
Another treasure of this trek is Birendra Lake, a serene glacial lake nestled beneath the Manaslu glacier near Samagaun (3,850m / 12,631ft). Trekkers also have the opportunity to do a side hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m / 15,748ft) for jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Himlung Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal ranges.
From a geographical and ecological standpoint, the Manaslu Conservation Area covers diverse ecosystems ranging from subtropical forests to alpine zones. This protected region is home to elusive wildlife like the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr, and more than 110 species of birds. The trail winds through multiple climate zones, allowing trekkers to witness the transformation of the landscape as they ascend in altitude.
This trek generally takes around 14–16 days, depending on the pace and rest days. It's graded moderate to strenuous, so prior trekking experience and a good fitness level are essential. The most favorable seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable and mountain views are crystal clear. Winter trekking is possible but requires extra gear for snow and ice.
Since the Manaslu region falls under a restricted zone, trekkers are required to obtain special permits, including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Trekking in this area is only allowed through a registered trekking agency, and you must be part of a group with a minimum of two trekkers, accompanied by a government-licensed guide.
The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek varies based on group size, itinerary length, services, and time of year. On average, it ranges from USD 1,200–1,800 per person, which includes transportation, accommodation in teahouses, meals, permits, guide/porter, and airport transfers. Helicopter evacuation is available in emergencies and travel insurance is highly recommended.
Adventure High Pass designs custom itineraries for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering both standard and luxury options based on your preferences. We ensure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and memorable with our experienced local guides and 24/7 assistance.
If you’re looking for a less commercialized Himalayan journey packed with natural splendor, spiritual encounters, and a challenging mountain pass adventure, the Manaslu Circuit with Larke La Pass trek is the perfect experience to embrace Nepal’s hidden beauty.
Manaslu Circuit Trek with Larke La Pass itinerary for 2025/2026
Short Itinerary
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) and transfer to hotel
- Day 2 : Kathmandu sightseeing & permit preparation (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
- Day 3 : Drive to Machha Khola (900m / 2,953ft) – 8–9 hours
- Day 4 : Trek to Jagat (1,340m / 4,396ft) – 6–7 hours
- Day 5 : Trek to Deng (1,865m / 6,119ft) – 6–7 hours
- Day 6 : Trek to Namrung (2,630m / 8,629ft) – 6 hours
- Day 7 : Trek to Lho (3,180m / 10,433ft) – 4–5 hours
- Day 8 : Trek to Samagaun (3,530m / 11,581ft) – 4–5 hours
- Day 9 : Acclimatization Day at Samagaun (3,530m / 11,581ft) and Hike to Birendra Lake (3,650m / 11,975ft) and Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m / 15,748ft)
- Day 10 : Trek to Samdo (3,860m / 12,664ft) – 4 hours
- Day 11 : Trek to Dharmasala / Larke Phedi (4,460m / 14,632ft) – 4–5 hours
- Day 12 : Cross Larke La Pass (5,160m / 16,929ft) & trek to Bimthang (3,720m / 12,204ft) – 8–9 hours
- Day 13 : Trek to Tilije (2,300m / 7,546ft) – 5–6 hours
- Day 14 : Drive to Kathmandu – 8–9 hours by private jeep
- Day 15 : Free day in Kathmandu
- Day 16 : International Departure
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off service in Kathmandu.
- 4 nights' accommodation at a BB (Bed & Breakfast) hotel in Kathmandu.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek with tea or coffee.
- Private ground transportation: Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Tilije to Kathmandu by jeep.
- 10 nights' twin-sharing accommodation at local tea houses during the trek.
- 1-night accommodation in Dharmashala (basic lodge).
- Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide with all expenses covered.
- 1 porter for every two trekkers to carry luggage.
- Sleeping bag rated to -20°C for the trek (to be returned after trek).
- All necessary trekking permits (MCAP, ACAP, and Manaslu Restricted Area Permit).
- Pocket-sized trekking map of the Manaslu region.
- Company duffle bag and Adventure High Pass t-shirt.
- Farewell Nepali cultural dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal visa fee (approx. USD $30 for 15 days, available on arrival).
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Accommodation and meals before/after the trek beyond the mentioned nights in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses such as snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging.
- Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude emergency evacuation up to 6,000m).
- Personal trekking gear and clothing.
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver (optional but appreciated).
- Any services not specifically mentioned under the "Included" section.
Detailed Itinerary
Upon the arrival at Tribhuban International Airport, a representative from Adventure High Pass will receive you and transfer to the hotel have booked We will go to Adventure High Pass if you arrive earlier in a day, if not we will make settlement of due amount and introduce guide.
Today, we tour to heritage sites at Kathmandu. We start a guide tour from your hotel to four heritage site in Kathmandu which is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First we visit to Pashupatinath Temple situated in Gausala and banks of Bagmati River where Aryaghat, famous funeral site for Hindus lies. After sightseeing, we visit to Boudhanatha, the Buddhists shrine which is one of the largest stupa in the world. Boudhhanath is one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimages that include over 50 Tibetan Gompas or monasteries and popular tourist destination. Tour leads to Kathmandu Durbar Square also known as Basantapur holds the medieval king’s palaces who had ruled over Kathmandu Kingdom once. Our last tour will be Swayambhu (the self-existent) which is one of the famous touristic areas where we find large number of monkey population.
After sightseeing, we go back to you hotel and you can take rest and prepare for trekking. At the same time, our representative make all required permits and government document for restricted area zone trek.
The 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m / 2,953ft) covers around 160 km, transitioning from smooth highways to rugged off-road trails. Following the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers via Dhading Besi and Arughat, the journey offers scenic views, waterfalls, and insights into Gurung and Magar villages—an adventurous start to the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
We walk on the rough parts of Budhi Gandaki and climb up and down rocky hills and reach village of Jagat. We walk on the slippery rocks so you must be very careful. During the trail, we visit to the beautiful tropical vegetation with thrilling suspension bridges.
We walk through Ghatte khola to Phillim where we can see large and prosperous village of Phillim. From Phillim, we walk through George, grassy slopes with tall pine trees, cross Budhi Gandaki Bridge where we can see large Shar Khola and Tsum valley on the opposite side of the bank. The trail widens from the western side where we walk through the bamboo forest leading us to Deng. We stay overnight.
The trail from Deng climbs up to Bihi Phedi, cross Sringi Khola, Budhi Gandaki valley in the west and climbing steeply up and down the forest we reach Ghap. From Ghap we walk through the dense forest of rhododendron, fir and bamboo where we can see various birds and animals including Nepali’s national bird, Danphe enter Namrung via stone archway.
From Namrung, we walk past a mani wall to Lho experiencing beautiful forest of firs, oaks and rhododendron and beautiful mountains like Manaslu, Manaslu North and Naike Peak. Then we head steeply down and head to Lho Gaon exploring river originates from the glacier of Pungyen, glimpse of mountains like Hiunchuli (7,893m), Manaslu and Ngadhi Chuli (7,879m). In the afternoon we will visit Monastry and Monk school at Lho village.
From Lho to Samagaun very interesting trekking. Gentel climbing to syala village. Small but very beutifull village and we keep walk through green forest and open valley to Sama gaun.
Day 9 is an important acclimatization day at Samagaun (3,530m / 11,581ft) to help your body adjust before heading toward higher altitudes. You can choose a moderate hike to Birendra Lake (3,650m / 11,975ft), a serene glacial lake nestled at the foot of the Manaslu Glacier, which takes around 2–3 hours and offers beautiful views in a peaceful setting.
For those feeling more energetic, a tougher hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m / 15,748ft) is available. This full-day hike provides panoramic views of the Manaslu range, glacier fields, and high mountain landscapes. Both hikes support acclimatization while immersing you in the natural and cultural beauty of the region.
From Sama Gaun, we head across flat land with grassy grazing area climbing up the valley leading us to Samdo. During the trail we come across the beautiful view of Manaslu that looks outstanding.
From Samdo, we walk across the wooden bridge through old mani walls and climb gradually up to the valley leading to Larkya Glacier. The trail takes us to Salka Khola where we climb up to stone guest house called Dharmasala. We stay here in a Lodge.
We walk early from Dharmasala as today we will have longest and toughest trek of this trail around Manaslu crossing the Larkya La Pass (5160m). We walk across the moraines of the glacier to the pass. We can have spectacular views of Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, the huge Annapurna II and Kangguru from the pass. Experiencing the sceneries, we head to Bhimthang.
We walk through the rhododendron forest to Karche which is the highest cultivationg place then descend to Gho village. We head to Tilje village, crossing the Dudh Koshi and wooden bridge.
Today marks the end of the trek with a scenic 8 to 9-hour drive back to Kathmandu by private jeep, retracing the route along the Budhi Gandaki and Trishuli rivers.
It is a free day to relax, shop, or explore Kathmandu’s rich culture and heritage before your departure.
you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight, concluding your unforgettable Manaslu Circuit adventure.
Fixed Departure Schedule 2025/2026
We offer flexible daily departures for the Manaslu Circuit Trek during the main trekking seasons, allowing you to choose your preferred travel dates. You can either join an existing group or opt for a private trek tailored to your needs. To ensure guide availability and smooth logistics, we recommend making an early inquiry or booking in advance. If you have any questions or need assistance, simply reach out to us through the Contact Us form—we’re here to help you plan your perfect Himalayan adventure.
