Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, Map, Cost, Elevation, Packing List

This travel guide covers the Manaslu circuit trek itinerary, map, major attractions, cost, and permits, everything you need to know before Manaslu region trekking. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a true adventure in the wilderness. Travelling over the off-the-beaten path with jaw-dropping views, this trek circles around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest peak in the world. Before joining this trek, it’s essential to know the Manaslu Circuit Trek map and itinerary details for a successful trip.

Manaslu is located in the Gorkha district of north-central Nepal. It lies in the Manaslu Conservation Area, so it is a highly restricted area. The pristine forests, Himalayas, high mountain passes, alpine landscapes, animals, traditional mountain villages, Gurung and Tibetan culture are the heart of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

In Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit language, where manasa means “intellect” or “soul.” It also means “Mountain of the Spirit.” The whole journey of the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is unforgettable. The peaceful route and raw beauty of nature give trekkers a more immersive cultural experience.

The adventure is remote, that’s why it needs detailed and careful planning. Having a clear idea of the Manaslu Circuit Trek map and itinerary beforehand is a must. Trekking for more than a week on rugged terrain, and passing by scarce infrastructure, and some permits requiremnt, you will need a proper team.

To make your dream come true as quickly as possible, we have prepared a Manaslu Circuit Trek map and itinerary travel guide. This Manaslu Circuit Trek guide will give you all the essential and must-know information regarding maps, distances, costs, and sample itineraries of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. So, keep scrolling and be part of this adventure.

What Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map Show, and How Long is the Trek?

14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Map

The classic Manaslu Circuit Trek route goes in a loop around Mount Manaslu. The trek starts from Maccha Khola (Budhi Gandaki Valley) and ends in Tilije Village. The route follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes by villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo. Along the route, you cross Larkya La (5,106 m), and trails drop to Bhimtang, Tilije, and Dharapani. Trekker can also do a detour into the Tsum Valley (if trekkers wish to extend their trip).

Related Packages

Manaslu Circuit Trek - 14 Days

5 / 5 based on 14 reviews

• 5,160 m/16,952 feet
• Moderate to Challenging
• All Inclusive Plan

Before US$1755 Now US$1490 15% Off

• Enquire Now
• Book Now
• Coupon Code

The total Manaslu Circuit Trek distance is roughly 177 km (110 miles). However, the total distance completely depends on the itinerary of the package. If the itinerary is shot distance will be less, and if the itinerary is longer, it takes more distance.

The standard and most popular itinerary is the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14-day itinerary. It goes at a gradual pace with enough acclimatization days. Therefore, the Manaslu Circuit Trek map is essential as it helps to mark and plan daily hikes.

Go through the Manaslu trek map before th trek and highlight villages, rest stop, bridges, monasteries, and elevation gains. By knowing where Jagat, Namrung, Samagaon, Samdo and Larkya La lie, you can pace yourself and prepare for the long passes ahead.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Elevation Detailed Guide:

• Machha Khola: 870 m
• Jagat: 1,340 m
• Deng: 1,804 m
• Namrung: 2,630 m
• Shyala: 3,575 m
• Samagaon: 3,530 m (acclimatization village)
• Samdo: 3,875 m
• Dharmashala (Larkya Base): 4,770 m
• Larkya La Pass: 5,106 m (highest point)
• Bhimtang: 3,720 m
• Tilije: 1,900 m
• Besisahar: 760 m (trek end)

What Permits are Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu region shares a border with Tibet, and it is a highly restricted area for tourism and trekking. Therefore, trekking solo is not allowed; you must trek with a licensed guide, and permits are mandatory. Manaslu Circuit Trek Permit fees vary depending on how many days you trek. If you are doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek agency like Access Nepal Tours and Trekking, we will handle all the paperwork and permit costs as well.

Permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trek are:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Chum Nubri Municipality Permit

Sample of Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits

How Much Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek Packages Cost?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek package is USD $1,490 per person. This price is of standrad package, and it may vary depending on itinerary length, travel agency, services, seasons, and group size.  Choose a package according to your preferences and go through the inclusions and exclusions beforehand.

Still, if you are trying for budget travel and want to know about the total Manaslu Circuit Trek cost, here is the breakdown:

• Permits Costs: $130-$160 total (RAP + MCAP + ACAP + local fees)
• Licensed Guide: $25-$35 per day (mandatory & excluding the tips)
• Porter (optional): $20-$25 per day (shared by 2 trekkers)
• Accommodation: $5-$15 per night for a teahouse (dorm or twin room), price may go up the higher you climb)
• Food: $15-$30 per day (3 meals). Food prices increase as you hike higher (carry energy bars and snacks from home).
• Transportation: $50-$100 per person for local bus/jeep transfers.
• Personal Expenses: Carry extras $5-$10 per day for hot showers, charging phones, bottled water, tips, etc.

Cost of everything rises up at higher elevationa nd during peak season. If you are doing in a group price might go down. Carrying a Nepali cash is must during the trek. Cards and Atm are not avilable along the route. Bring small bill for daily costs even if you are doing atrek with travel agency. You can withdraw money at Kathamndu or Pokhara.

How Do I Plan the Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu?

The standard Manaslu Circuit Trek package starts from Kathmandu (1,400 m). From Kathmandu, you have to take a long jeep drive to Machha Khola (870 m) by road. The drive can take about 7-9 hours, covering a total of 160+ km distance. The route heads through the Trishuli River gorge via Arughat and Soti Khola.

From Machha Khola (870 m), the trek officially starts, leading to villages like Jagat, Dyang, and Nmarung following the Budhi Gandaki River. You can easily start the Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu by either renting a jeep or taking a local jeep.

You can start the Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu with a long drive to Machha Khola (870 m). Most of the trekking packages start with your arrival in Kathmandu, and from Kathmandu, it officially starts. The drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is quite long, taking 7-9 hours with 160+ km of distance. Following the Teishuli River on the sides, it goes through Arughat and Soti Khola.

360-degree panorama view

You can easily get bus or jeep tickets to Machha Khola from the bus station. You can either join a group or just travel alone on a local bus/jeep. Passing by the rolling hills, beautiful terraced farms, and villages.

Day 1 is mostly for driving from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. From day 2, the trek officially begins with a hike to Jagat (1,340 m) following the Budhi Gandaki River. The total hiking distance from Machha KHola to Jagat is 20 km. Basically, the trek doesn’t start from Kathmandu. From here, you take a drive to the trailhead, and then it starts.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days Itinerary:

This is the standard itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek package of Access Nepal Tours and Trekking. It is an all-inclusive and customizable (which means you can change or add more on exisiting itinerary).

The group successfully completed the 14-day Manaslu circuit trek in 2026

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Jeep Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870 m), 157 km/9-10 hrs
• Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola (936 m) to Jagat (1,342 m), 20 km/8-9 hrs
• Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Dyang (1,906 m), 21 km/8-9 hrs
• Day 5: Trek from Dyang to Namrung (2,630 m), 19 km/6-8 hrs
• Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Shyala (3,426 m), 14 km/5-6 hrs
• Day 7: Trek from Shyala (3,575 m) to  Samagaon (3,530 m), 16 km/4-5 hrs
• Day 8: Rest Day at Samagaon (3,530 m). Acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) or Birendra Lake (4,100 m), then back.
• Day 9: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,876 m), 6 km/2-3 hrs
• Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Larkya La Phedi (4,770 m), 6 km/3-4 hrs
• Day 11: Cross Larkya La (5,106 m) and Descend to Bhimtang (3,570 m), 22 km/9-10 hrs
• Day 12: Trek from Bhimtang (3,570 m) to Tilije (2,300 m), then drive to Besisahar, 20 km/7-8 hrs
• Day 13: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu (1,440 m), 175 km/7-8 hrs
• Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

What Should I Pack and Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit?

Packing is an essential part of trekking for safety and the best experience as well. Due to its location in the Himalayan region, this area is mostly cold throughout the year. Therefore, what you pack and bring during the trek is the most crucial part of the journey.

• Lightweight base layers
• Fleece Jacket
• Down jacket
• Windproof
• Thermal Set
• Trekking Pants
• Trousers
• Sleeping bag
• High-quality trekking boots
• Crampons
• Neck and leg gaiters
• Scarf
• Warm hat
• Gloves
• Trekking poles
• Basic First-Aid Kit
• Sun block (SPF 50+), lip balm, & moisturizers
• Sunglass
• Personal toiletries
• wool/synthetic socks
• Power bank & extra batteries
• Cash in Nepali rupees
• Photocopies of the passport
• Extra passport photos
• Permit paperwork

You can easily rent a good quality trekking gears in Kathmandu at resonable price. Renting down jackets and sleeping bags is good but bring your own well-broken-in trekking boots and base layers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List

When is the Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit?

The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These are the peak trekking seasons in Nepal, as it offers favorable weather and temperature for trekking.

Autumn season offers clear skies, great visibility, crisp air, stable weather, and cool temperatures. Likewise, the spring season brings warm temperatures, green valleys, and colourful rhododendron blooms throughout the trail.

Winter (December-February) is not recommended for beginners. The winter adventure of the Manaslu Circuit is extremely cold and risky due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Most of all, crossing the Larkya La pass is impossible as it gets blocked by snow.

Similarly, the monsoon season (June-August) is not good for trekking as well. This season brings heavy rainfalls, causing landslides and leeches along the trails. At the end, the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is spring and autumn.

What About Health and Safety on the Manaslu Circuit?

Your health and safety are the main priority before enjoying the adventure. You can have a memorable journey only if you are safe and in good condition. And to be honest, mountains and remote areas carry lots of challenges. If you do not use precautions, then you might get affected.

Manaslu Circuit Trek difficulty level is a moderate to challenging high-altitude adventure. On a daily average, it requires a trekker to hike for 5-8 hours on steep trails. The itinerary also includes crossing the high mountain pass called Larkya La, which is very steep, rough, and challenging.

The major challenge of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is altitude sickness. Trekkers have to spend a night at villages like Samdo and Dharmashala, whose altitudes are as high as 3,876 m and 4,770 m. Furthermore, the highest point of this trek is at 5,106 m at Larkya La Pass.

That’s why a well-paced itinerary is very important for the Manalsu Circuit Trek. Trekkers have to be very attentive throughout the trek. Do not push yourself too hard. Know your limit and listen to your body. If you feel any of the altitude sickness symptoms, such as headache. fatigue, and nausea, descend and inform your guide immediately.

Drink lots of water, sleep properly, do not skip meals, avoid alcohol and smoking, acclimate properly, and follow the guide instructions. Your guide will monitor your health condition every day. They also carry oximeters, altitude sickness medicine, and first-aid kits. In case of an emergency medical condition, helicopter evacuation is immediately arranged, which is covered by your insurance. Therefore, travel insurance is mandatory.

Mental preparation is another important aspect during the trek. The journey includes hiking every day over rocky trails, boulder fields, crossing rivers and wooden bridges, steep hills, etc.

Start tarining your body 2 or 3 months prior of the trek. Exercixe like cardio, strength training, and weight training will be very helpful.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Over Other Treks?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a full package of adventure, culture, nature, and breathtaking Himalaya views. Less crowded than the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp trails, it offers a peaceful and authentic trekking experience. The Nepali Tibetan communities, local culture, tradition, religion, rustic villages, centuries-old monasteries, and remote location are a core part of this trek.

Throughout the trek, a 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna ranges, Manaslu, and many other peaks greet you. And another best part is the majestic open view of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and many more from the top of Larkya La Pass.

Gompa during the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek route map and itinerary pass through mountain villages like Manang and Gorkha. This region is hevality influence by Tibetan, so you will experience the authentic Tibetan culture throughout the trek first-hand. So, if you choose the Manaslu Trek, that means you signed up for solitude, breathtaking views, wilderness, and deep cultural immersion. This trek is highly suitable for those who love peaceful trekking and wanna expereince the authentic Himalayan lifestyle. Manaslu Circuit Trek gives you everything.

Can the Manaslu Circuit Trek be done in 7 or 10 days?

Yes, you can do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 7 or 10 days. However, it is possible technically only. Physically, it is very challenging. The 7 or 10-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is way too short, and everything crams up. It excludes rest days, and the altitude gain becomes extreme.

Doing a Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary 7 days means extremely long hiking days (often 20+ km) and very little acclimatization, and sometimes not at all. Even if you choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary 10 days, it won’t have rest stops. Yous till have to hike for 15 to 20 km daily.

On 10 days itineray, the adventure covers all the main landmarks, but it will be physically exhausting. Because it does not include extra rest days jut daily walking. This type of itinerary is only suitable for experienced trekkers. For beginners and average-level trekkers, this is very risky.

Trekking in the Manaslu region

Our advice is to at least choose the 15-day Manaslu Trek Itinerary or the 12-day Manaslu Trek itinerary for safety. 12 days adventure can also be aggressive, but doable as plane follows: 10 hiking + 2 rest.

Completing a whole circuit trek in just 7 or 10 for an ultra expert. If you think of skipping some places or choosing a shortcut just to finish Manaslu Circuit Trek fast is not good as it doesn’t make a full circuit of Manaslu. If you have very limited time, then at least choose 12 days Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary. You have to be physically and mentally strong to complete this trek.

In conclusion, before joining the trek, understanding a Manaslu Circuit Trek map and itinerary information is key. It helps you prepare for the adventure accordingly. Most of all, without knowing any of these, it will be hard for trekkers to prepare mentally and physically as well. Understanding all these details of the Manalsu Circuit Trek map and itinerary gives trekkers a surface level of knowledge, so they are ready beforehand. If you are really interested and wanna join the Manaslu Circuit Trek, booking for 2026 and 2027 is now exclusively open. Access Nepal Tours and Trekking offers an all-inclusive package with some complements as well. So, do not hesitate and mark your calendar and join our autumn (peak season) group.