Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Best Trekking Destination for 2025

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most renowned and highly-rated treks in the world. It is located in the north-central part of Nepal’s Gorkha District. The word “Manaslu” is derived from the Sanskrit word Manasa, meaning “soul” or “spirit“; thus, it is named “Mountain of the Spirit.” It is about 126 kilometers (78 miles) northwest of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. It lies pretty close to the border separating Nepal from Tibet, China, sharing a good deal of cultural and geographical features with the Tibetan plateau.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is the destination which has joined the top list in Nepal gradually but surely as of this time. Manaslu shares its major contribution, being the 8th highest mountain in the world. These treks have gained their fame for beautiful views, diverse cultural insight, and hidden charms. Manaslu Trekking is one of the best places to hike this year as 2025 approaches.

Source– Google

If you are reading this blog, you must be planning the Manaslu trek. Let’s consider what makes this trek special and why it should be on your bucket list.

Major Highlight of Manaslu Trek

1. Preserved Beauty

Manaslu region is famous for its untouched beauty, subtropical forest, high altitude altitude alpine meadow, picturesque villages, and serene beauty of nature away from the bustling city.

Some of the major preserved beauty of Manaslu are-

• Budhi Gabdhki River 

In the Manaslu region, the Budhi Gandaki River flows, which is an exciting view to watch. This is the exact place where you get to see an ideal cliff and a cascading fall. In some areas like Tatopani and Jagat, gorges are too narrow and on both sides of the river, it has steep walls of rocks. You can find one of the most thrilling suspension bridges during your trekking, which makes your tour more adventitious.

• Manaslu Glasier 

Manaslu Glasier near Manaslu Base Camps, this big glacier flows down from the glaciated faces of Mount Manaslu. Due to thawing glaciers, the stream of water and ice joins and merges with Budhi Gandaki River, enriching its scenery.

2. Stunning Mountain Views

The trek focuses on Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world, reaching a height of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). You will see breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks such as Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna ranges throughout the trek.

On the Manaslu Circuit Trek, trekkers are treated to amazing views of many tall mountains in the Manaslu area and nearby ranges.

1. Himalchuli (7,893 metres)

Himalchuli mountain is very close to Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli is the second-highest peak in the area and is known for its huge, glacier-carved ridges.

2. Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) (7,871 m)

Ngadi Chuli is also called Peak 29. It is a very beautiful mountain with steep, rough sides which can be seen from many places along the trail.

3. Ganesh Himal Mountains

The Ganesh Himal Mountains flank the Manaslu region to the east. Many of its peaks, including Ganesh I 7,422 m and Ganesh II 7,118 m, are visible during the early parts of the trek.

4. Shringi Himal (7,161 meters)

Shringi Himal is small in size compared to other mountains but the beauty of this mountain stands out in the lower Manaslu range, especially from villages like Ghap and Namrung.

5. Larke Peak is 6,249 meters high.

This mountain is visible from Larkya La Pass this peak offers a very dramatic view of the background of this rugged pass and surrounding Glaciers.

6. Annapurna II (7,937 meters)

Near the end of the hike, the Annapurna range can be seen, and one of the highest peaks visible from the trail is Annapurna II.

7. Himlung Himal (7,126 meters)

You can see this peak from higher places, especially around the Larkya La Pass, which makes the views more dramatic.

8. Buddha Himal (6,674 meters)

Buddha Himal is situated near the Tibetan border, this mountain is another visually striking feature of the trek.

3. Rich Cultural Experience

Manaslu Trekking provides an authentic cultural experience in the forbidden culture areas with villages lying remotely filled with Tibetan origin inhabitants. Mainly locals constituted of Gurung and Tibetan peoples, who hospitably welcome trekkers with sharing culture, monasteries, and festivals. Manaslu Region portrays a lot about culture diversity mainly dominated by Tibetan Buddhism. 

You can explore:

• Traditional Villages: The tradition and structure of Samagaun, Samdo, and Lho have always been Tibetan. These villages– Samagaun, Samdo, and Lho– will give one an idea about the lives of people residing in the Himalayas. Visit the monasteries and turn the praying wheels to be lost in the depth of its culture.

• Major monasteries include Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Monastery, the major sites of culture and spirituality. Tsum Valley: Known as “Hidden Valley,” this is a peculiar way of Tibetan Buddhism, holy caves, and beautiful views.

4.Budhi Gandaki Valley

The various picture-postcard-like villages hosting Budhi Gandaki valley epitomize the faces of culture and ways of life for the locals. Lho, Samagaun, and Jagat are typical villages typical in the Himalayas. Locals here are Gurungs and Tibetans who have maintained their culture in their houses and monasteries and practice it with great zest and zeal.

During  our trek and stay in Budhi Gandhaki Valley you can find-

• Trekkers can go through lush, green, terraced rice fields running along the lower slopes. You can find the surroundings covered by mountain landscapes, creating a spectacular visual effect during planting and harvesting seasons when the fields are animated by life.
• In Budhi Gandhaki Valley you can find Tibetan Buddhist Influence. The villages are under the strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism, with monasteries and prayer wheels found scattered throughout the valley. Monasteries like Ribung Gompa and Pungyen Monastery give a glimpse into the spiritual life of the local people, where trekkers can see traditional Buddhist rituals, prayer flags waving in the wind, and monks saying prayers.
• Further along the valley, the village of Lho provides spectacular views of Mount Manaslu, one of the highest mountains in the world. Seeing this massive mountain towering over the valley is one of the highlights of the trek. The views from Samagaun, higher up, are even better, with Manaslu and its neighboring peaks, such as Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal, on full display.
• The Budhi Gandaki Valley is pretty and gives trekkers a feeling of adventure and peace that is hard to find in other places.
• Compared to other popular trekking routes, including the Everest or Annapurna circuits, the Budhi Gandaki Valley is much more peaceful and tranquil. The fewer crowds allow trekkers to immerse themselves in nature and the local culture, enjoying the serenity of the valley.

5. Manaslu Conservation Area

The Manaslu Conservation Area is one of the major attractions of the Manaslu region.

• You will be able to view the Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep and the snow leopard in the Manaslu Conservation Area. It provides shelter to many rare and endangered animals, including the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the Himalayan black bear.
• These are a wide variety of flora and fauna, from warm forests to cold mountain grasslands. The ecosystems are a residence for over 200 species of birds that include the Himalayan griffon vulture and the bearded vulture.
• Starting from the rhododendron, pine, and oak forests of the lower parts, this highly diversified vegetation of the conservation area changes to other types grown in the higher regions. That specific blend of the environments has made it suitable for different species of plants and animals to put their habitats there.

Manaslu Trek Itinerary Overview

Here’s a general 14-day itinerary for the Manaslu Trek:

Here’s a detailed day-by-day explanation of the Manaslu Trek route, highlighting the main destinations you’ll reach each day. The trek usually takes about 14 to 16 days, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Soti Khola

On day one, you will be having a 6-7 hour drive. You will be driven from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Trek, which is pretty scenic as the route goes through several small villages and lush landscapes. This road is pretty rough and bumpy in some places but with a magnificent view presented by the foothills and rivers. The night will be spent in basic teahouse accommodation at a small village, Soti Khola.

Great views surrounding Soti Khola alongside the Budi Gandaki River will be a destination from day one.

Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola

Having breakfast at Seti Khola, you start your trek upward along the Budi Gandaki River, cross suspension bridges, and pass through forests. The trail is quite easy as it goes upward with fascinating views of cascading waterfalls, small villages, and terraced fields. You’ll leave the village of Lapubesi and head up to Machha Khola. Today, you will cover about 14 km.

Day two, your destination will be Machha Khola small, peaceful village located near the river with lovely views of surrounding hills. Machha Khola is a small village having few teahouses where you can rest.

Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat

Today you will continue up along the river and pass through several villages like Khorla Bensi and Dobhan. It’s a rather steep trail in some places but largely an easy walk. Cross over a few suspension bridges and reach the village of Jagat. Jagat is a favourite stop for most trekkers, and there are a couple of teahouses operating in this place. The views from here are brilliant, and all in all a great place to rest. Total distance covered will be 22km today.

Third Day: Today, the destination is Jagat, a traditional village with mixed cultures of Hindu and Buddhist people, marking entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Day 4: Jagat to Deng

Today’s hike goes through dense forests, mostly along the river, with the crossing of many suspension bridges and passing through small settlements. The terrain gets steeper as you go upwards to the village of Deng. Manaslu’s and other peaks distant views will be seen, along with the surrounding peaks. You‘ll be covering a distance of 19km on this day.

The tiny village of Deng will be your destination on your fourth day, serving as a rest point for trekkers and affording them a peek into the culture.

Day 5: Deng to Namrung

Early on, the hike starts with a gentle and steep climb upwards through forests, passing by the small villages of Bihi Phedi and Ghap. You then enter into Manaslu Conservation Area, and the sceneries again change; this opens up to great views of the dramatic mountains. Namrung village has a really strong influence from Tibet, holding spectacular views across to Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. The distance covered today would be 10-11 kilometers.

Namrung Village is your stop for the fifth day. The village is very picture-like and is culturally very rich in Tibetan culture; in addition, the view of surroundings including Mt. Manaslu stands immense.

Day 6: Namrung to Samagaon

Today’s trail will be up the forests of rhododendron and pine with scenes of the peaks snow-covered, such as Manaslu. Gradually the route, with increasing altitudes, converts into an alpine with unruly topography. Samagaon is one of the biggest villages en route to trekking and largest in this area. This village at the foot of Mount Manaslu provides awesome views of this mountain. Today, you cover 13 km.

Your destination on the sixth day will be Samagaon, a Tibetan village situated at the base of Mount Manaslu. It is the perfect place to rest and get acclimatized for the days to come.

Day 7: Samagaon to Manaslu Base Camp (Optional)

Day trips today are to Manaslu Base Camp; this is highly recommended for a fact that gives views of Mount Manaslu in proximity, yet it is optional. The trek to the base camp goes higher into the mountains opening up spectacular views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. Later from base camp, you head to Samagaon for the night.

Your destination today is Manaslu Base Camp, the actual base camp of Mount Manaslu. It lies at an altitude of 4,800 meters above sea level and provides great close-up views of the peak.

Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo

On this day trek is relatively short, but it still offers an excellent chance to acclimatize. You’ll cross the Budi Gandaki River and ascend to the village of Samdo. Samdo is a small Tibetan-influenced village and is one of the highest villages along the trek. It’s a great place to rest before crossing the high-altitude Larkya La Pass. On this you you will be covering only 6 km which is relatively easier than another day.

On the eighth day, your destination will be Samdo It is a high-altitude village near the Tibetan border, that provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and offers great acclimatization opportunities.

Day 9: Samdo to Larkya Phedi

Today, you’ll continue ascending toward Larkya Phedi, the base camp for Larkya La Pass. The trail climbs steadily through alpine meadows, and the landscape becomes more barren as you approach the pass. Larkya Phedi serves as a resting point before the challenging crossing of Larkya La Pass.

Your destination for day nine will be Larkya Phedi. Larkhya Phedi is the base for the Larkya La Pass, offering accommodation and a place to rest before tackling the pass the next day.

Day 10: Larkya Phedi to Bhimthang (Larkya La Pass)

Today, you’ll cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, which stands at 5,160 meters. The pass is often covered in snow, making it both a physical and mental challenge. The trek starts early in the morning to ensure enough time to cross safely. After crossing the pass, you’ll descend to Bhimthang, a beautiful alpine meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

 Bhimthang is your day ten destination. It is a scenic meadow with stunning views of the peaks surrounding the valley. It’s a peaceful destination after crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass.

Day 11: Bhimthang to Tilije

After the exhausting day at Larkya La Pass, today’s trek is mostly downhill. You’ll pass through dense forests and small villages before reaching Tilije. The village is known for its traditional stone houses and beautiful surroundings. You will be covering around 19 km this day.

Your destination for this day will be a charming village with a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, offering peaceful surroundings and beautiful views called Tilije.

Day 12: Tilije to Dharapani

The final day of the trek involves a long descent, passing through forests and villages. You’ll descend to Dharapani, which is a major junction where the Manaslu Circuit connects to the Annapurna Circuit. This day you will be covering 16 km.

Your destination for this day is Dharapani – A bustling village at the junction of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits, marking the end of the Manaslu Trek.

Day 13: Dharapani to Besisahar

From Dharapani, you’ll drive to Besisahar, where you can take a bus or jeep back to Kathmandu. Your drive will be almost 6-7 hours. Besisahar – A small town and the gateway to the Annapurna region, offering a place to relax after your trek.

Day 14: Besisahar to Kathmandu

You’ll complete your journey with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu after 7-8 hours drive.

This detailed day-by-day explanation of the Manaslu Trek covers the key destinations and offers a glimpse into the trekking experience. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, and the journey provides ample opportunities to experience both natural beauty and culture.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu

1. Spring (March to May)

Spring is considered one of the best times to have Manaslu Trek, it is because during this time –

• You can find plead wether. During day time it is sunny and warm and during nighttime, it is not freezing cold.
• You can find clear views of mountains like Mt.Manaslu and other mountains due to the absence of monsoon clouds.
• You can also find different local festivals during this time, which might provide you the chance to experience other cultures.

2. Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak season for Manaslu Trekking, with stable weather This is the best to experience trek beauty.

• During this time you can find unobstructed views of the Himalayas. Days are warm but during night time it is very cold but can be managed by using the gears.
• You can find post-monsoon beauty. During this season after monsoon rain, the forest and trails are more eye-catching than in other seasons with the perfect blend of flowing rivers and green trails.
• During this time, it is said that there is a high chance of spotting Himalayas wildlife such as blue sheep and various other animals.

Essential Tips for the Manaslu Trek

1. Permits: First of all, you need to obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
2. Guides and Porters: Before starting your trek you need to know that Solo trekking is not allowed in this trek. You need a registered guide and at least two trekkers. If you searching for a trustworthy guide then you can contact us through our website.
3. Physical Preparation: A person should be fit enough to hike and run. His stamina needs to be in the correct state because the higher altitude would be needed to be faced.
4. Altitude Sickness: To reduce the risks and get your body accustomed to altitude sickness, it is following the schedule proper of guides. Drinking ample amounts of water would help to keep your body hydrated and adapt it to the surroundings.
5. Currency: Don’t forget to carry Nepali currency during your trek because you won’t be finding any ATMs on your way.

Items you need to carry for your Trek.

Source- Google

While packing for this trek the major thing to carry is warm clothes. As the trek starts there will a varying temperature, so we suggest you –

• Carry warm jackets, insulated jackets, and waterproof jackets. You need to carry warm hats, gloves, and thermal socks for the cold temperature.
• You need to carry comfortable trekking boots with good ankles so that your foot won’t hurt while trekking.
• Don’t forget to carry your gear like trekking poles, sleeping bags, and handlamps. Make sure to carry a sleeping bag rated for low attitudes. 
• Carry your suncream, lip balm, and sunglasses for low altitude as personal items, and don’t forget to carry your snacks such as protein bars, and junk foods for your appetizers during the trek.
• Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit for the times of emergency such as painkillers,nims, attitude sickness, purification tablets, etc. 

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not just a trekking destination but a journey of learning about the environment, culture, and lifestyle. You will be able to witness the beauty of the landscape to the beauty of the mountain. We bet you this is going to be your once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you want to set off on the adventure of a lifetime in the Manaslu Region, Contact us today at Happy Mountain Nepal, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. We will prepare your package as per your flexibility.

FAQs

Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the Manaslu Trek in Nepal:

1. What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

 The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most famous treks around the eighth highest mountain, which is 8,163m high and called Mount Manaslu.

2. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek is considered normal to challenging as it involves high altitude hiking and long daily walking hours from 6 to 7 hours. For this beautiful journey, trekkers should be in good physical shape and prepared for altitudes up to 5,135 m at Larkya La Pass.

3. What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best seasons are Spring – March to May and Autumn – September to November because the weather will be stable, and you get clear views, vibrant local festivals.

4. Do I need a permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

 Yes, you do: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP); in case you are extending up to the Annapurna region, you need Anapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

5. Is a guide mandatory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Yes, since Manaslu happens to be a restricted area, you must go with a licensed guide in this area and are supposed to also be in a group of at least two trekkers.

6. How long does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?

It generally takes 12 to 16 days, but that depends on the route taken and the speed of an individual. For a detailed itinerary, one can always refer to our website.

7. What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest point of Manaslu Trek is Larkya La Pass, which lies at an altitude of 5,135 meters above sea level. This forms another major highlight because it provides a panoramic view.

8. Are teahouses available along the trail?

Yes, the trek allows teahouse accommodation with the basic facilities, including meals and beds, sharing bathrooms. Yes, if you are looking into Luxury options they are very minimal in this route.

9. What are the risks of altitude sickness on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

As the trek ascends over 5,000m altitude sickness is a concern. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual ascent are critical.

10. What should I pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Some of the essentials packing are:

• Warm clothing like layers, a down jacket.
• Comfortable trekking boots.
• Sleeping bag for -10°C or lower.
• Trekking poles, first aid kit, and snacks.
• Waterproof gear and sun protection.