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Private Vehicle
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Max 12
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5106
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Star Hotel, Tea House
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Moderate to High
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
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Live Personal Trekking Guide
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Trekking
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English
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Includes (BLD)
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Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (USD 100 per week September-November, USD 75 per week December-August), Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), TIMS Card.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 15-day restricted-area trek around Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,106m). The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, then climbs through the Budi Gandaki river valley past Tibetan-influenced Gurung and Tibetan-Buddhist villages, monasteries, and prayer-flag-draped mani walls. The route reaches its high point at the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi, and the Cheo Himal, before descending into the Annapurna region via the Dudh Khola valley. The Manaslu Circuit offers everything that the Annapurna Circuit once did before the road came: untouched Tibetan-influenced villages, dramatic high passes, varied ecology from subtropical forest to alpine tundra, and a genuine sense of journey.
Highlights
- Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106m) with panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi.
- Trek through Tibetan-influenced Gurung villages with ancient monasteries and mani walls.
- Walk the complete circuit around Manaslu (8,163m), the world's 8th highest mountain.
- Experience restricted-area wilderness with limited tourist traffic.
- Visit the ancient Pungen Gompa and other monastic sites along the route.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – 15 Days Itinerary
Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner and briefing.
8-hour scenic jeep ride from Kathmandu through the Gorkha district.
Begin trekking along the Budi Gandaki river through terraced hillsides and Gurung villages.
Continue up the Budi Gandaki, crossing suspension bridges and entering the restricted area.
Climb through forest and Tibetan-influenced villages with mani walls and chortens.
Enter the high-altitude Tibetan Buddhist region with dramatic mountain views.
Reach Samagaun, the highest permanent village, with views of Manaslu.
Acclimatization hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m) for spectacular close-up views of the mountain.
Acclimatization hike toward Larkya La high camp to prepare for the pass crossing.
Early start for the dramatic crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106m) with panoramic mountain views. Long descent to Bhimphedi.
Continue descending into the Dudh Khola valley, leaving the high country behind.
Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight.
What is Included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- All airport pickups and drops in private vehicle
- Kathmandu hotel (3 nights, B&B) with welcome and farewell dinners
- Domestic flights where applicable to itinerary
- All ground transport in private vehicle
- All necessary permits (TIMS, National Park, Conservation Area, Restricted Area where applicable)
- Three meals daily (BLD) during the trek with tea/coffee
- Tea house or camping accommodation during the trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide and assistant guide for groups of 6+
- Porters (1 per 2 trekkers, 15kg luggage allowance) with full insurance
- Sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag (refundable deposit)
- First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, and emergency oxygen
- Satellite phone for emergency communications
- All government and local taxes
- All restricted area permits (Manaslu)
What is Not Included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days)
- Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, device charging, and alcoholic beverages
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost)
- Costs from unforeseen events (weather, flight delays, route changes)
Things to Carry for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Headwear
- Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
- Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
- Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
- Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
- Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow
Upper Body Layering
- 2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
- 1x mid-layer fleece jacket
- 1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
- 1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
- 1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)
Lower Body
- 2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
- 1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
- 1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
- 2x merino wool underwear
- 1x swimwear (for hot springs)
Hands
- 1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
- 1x insulated waterproof gloves
- 1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m
Footwear
- 1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
- 1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
- 4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
- 2x pairs liner socks
- Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud
Sleeping Gear
- 1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
- 1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)
Trekking Equipment
- 1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
- 1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
- 1x 20-30L day pack
- 1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
- 1x dry bag for electronics
- 1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)
First Aid & Health
- Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
- Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
- Ibuprofen and paracetamol
- Imodium for stomach issues
- Rehydration sachets (ORS)
- Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
- Antiseptic wipes and bandages
- Lip balm with SPF 30+
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
- Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and wet wipes
Electronics
- Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
- Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
- Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
- Headphones
- eReader or book
Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
- Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 5106m)
- Flight tickets
- Credit cards and USD cash
- Emergency contacts
What We Provide (Rental)
- 4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
- Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
- Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
- Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
- First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
- Water purification tablets
- Satellite phone on remote treks
Related Packing Guides
Read our detailed packing guides: Manaslu Tsum Valley Packing List, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Gear Insurance Checklist, Manaslu Circuit Trek Gear Cash Documents Checklist, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Gear List.
Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.
Know Before You Book – Manaslu Circuit Trek Information
Trip Name: Manaslu Circuit Trek – 15 Days
Duration: 15 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 5106m
Group Size: Max 12
Difficulty & Fitness
This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 5106m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.
Read our difficulty guides: How Does Manaslu Circuit Trek Compare With Everest Base Camp For Difficulty, Api Nampa Vs Manaslu Circuit Scenery Difficulty Days.
Best Time to Go
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Read our seasonal guides: Manaslu Circuit Spring Vs Autumn Season, Best Season Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.
Food and water guides: Manaslu Tsum Valley Tea House Camping, Manaslu Circuit Trek Tea Houses.
Transportation
Transport: Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.
Flight and transport guides: Jomsom Muktinath Trek Transport Backup Flights Roads, Shey Phoksundo Trek Days With Transport Buffer.
Required Permits
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (USD 100 per week September-November, USD 75 per week December-August), Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.
Permit guides: Manaslu Tsum Valley Permits And Guide Arrangements, Guided Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Permits Transport.
Altitude Safety
Maximum altitude is 5106m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.
Altitude safety guides: Manaslu Circuit 14 Day Acclimatization Safety, Manaslu Circuit Acclimatization Check.
Training & Preparation
Read our training guides: Prepare Custom Manaslu Tsum Valley Group Itinerary, Manaslu Tsum Valley Tea House Conditions.
Insurance Requirement
Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 5106m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.
Insurance guides: What Cancellation Terms And Travel Insurance Details Matter Before Booking A Ren, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Insurance Needed.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.
Culture guides: Manaslu Vs Annapurna Circuit Village Culture, Manaslu Vs Tsum Valley Culture Villages.
Booking & Payment
To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.
What is Not Included
International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
This trek is rated Hard and requires excellent fitness and previous high-altitude experience, 6-8+ hours daily. The maximum altitude is 5106m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises. Consult your doctor before booking if you have medical conditions.
Read more: Prepare Custom Manaslu Tsum Valley Group Itinerary.
Required permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (USD 100 per week September-November, USD 75 per week December-August), Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5106m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal.
Related permit guides: Manaslu Tsum Valley Permits And Guide Arrangements.
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory.
Read our altitude safety guides: Manaslu Circuit 14 Day Acclimatization Safety, Manaslu Circuit Acclimatization Check.
Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.
Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list.
Packing guides: Manaslu Tsum Valley Packing List.






