Manaslu Circuit Trekking Guide: Cost, Itinerary & Map

Nepal's Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most incredible adventures you can undertake. If you're an experienced trekker or someone looking for an experience, then they'll never forget that Manaslu Trek Nepal will astound you, and so a detailed Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary should be considered by you. It offers breathtaking vistas, rich culture, and a physical challenge that will reward you in ways beyond description.

But don't rush off and start packing your bags and heading off to the center of the Himalayas just yet. You might want to know a few things—first and foremost, regarding the Manaslu Circuit Trek map, price, and route. And that's what we're going to look at today. By the end of this guide, you'll be set to plan your perfect trek and ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

 Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Before we get to the nitty-gritty, let's first look at what makes the Manaslu Circuit unique. In Nepal's majestic Gorkha country, the Manaslu Circuit is a spectacular trek that encircles Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). The trek involves you through rustic villages, verdant forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude passes—one each day having its new surprise.

This trek is less touristy than more famous routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, so you can experience more authentic Nepal in an uncrowded, personal setting. With incredible cultural history and gorgeous scenery, it's the definitive off-the-beaten-path adventure trek.

Why is the Manaslu Circuit Trek a must-do?

• Scenic beauty: You'll walk under the shade of Mount Manaslu and witness the stunning views of snow-crowned mountains, valleys, and glaciers.
• Cultural immersion: The trek passes through villages like Samagaon, where you can interact with the local Tibetans and hear about their way of life.
• Difficult but worthwhile: The trek is moderately challenging, so you must be in shape, but never fear; it will be well worth the hike!

If you are up for an adventure, read on as we guide you through the Manaslu base camp trek itinerary, the trek cost, and the Manaslu circuit trek map to prepare you for your trip!

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary lasts 14 to 17 days, depending on your speed. You'll trek through various altitudes and landscapes, and you must travel slowly to acclimate properly.

Let's have a look at the Manaslu base camp trek itinerary day by day:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Your adventure starts in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. You'll arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where your guide or trekking agency will meet you. Depending on when you arrive, you can visit some nearby attractions like the Kathmandu Durbar Square or Thamel.

Tip: In the evening, set and prepare your trekking equipment for the next couple of days.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Soti Khola

On day two, you will embark on a scenic drive (approximately 8-9 hours) from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the trek's beginning point. You'll witness terraced fields, rivers, and tiny villages along the way. Soti Khola will give you your first glimpse of what is in store.

Pro Tip: Allow time to acclimatize to the long drive and unwind.

Day 3: Soti Khola to Machha Khola

You need to spend six hours trekking to reach Machha Khola at the beginning of your journey. The route encompasses walking across suspension bridges and passing through forest areas along with stopping at local villages. The elevating path undergoes a complete transformation of scenery.

Do not forget to tread slowly and soak up the landscapes!

Day 4-5: Machha Khola to Jagat to Deng

From Machha Khola, you will ascend towards Jagat and afterward to Deng. Along the way, you will view beautiful scenery and imbibe the local culture. The trail also starts getting steeper upward, so don't forget to take it easy.

Day 6-7: Namrung to Samagaon

Namrung is your gateway to high altitude, and Samagaon is your acclimatization camp. The village is also the last village before the high-altitude section of the trek. You'll also have the opportunity to see the Tibetan culture and people.

Relax today—acclimatize and absorb the nature around you.

Day 8-9: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon

You must stay in Samagaon to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. You can take short hikes around the area to condition your body for future higher passes. The stunning scenery of Mount Manaslu from here is an experience you'll remember forever!

Day 10-11: Cross Larkya La Pass

This is the most challenging part of the trek but also the most rewarding. Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters/16,929 feet) offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. From the pass, you'll descend to Bhimtang overnight.

Pro Tip: Pack layers of clothing—temperatures drop sharply at higher altitudes.

Day 12-14: Trek Down to Tal

The last leg of your trek will be downhill through picturesque villages like Tilije and Tal, with Mount Manaslu and its ranges in view. The journey is exhausting but easier to trek than the past couple of days.

Day 15-17: Drive Back to Kathmandu

After a well-deserved rest in Tal, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu. This will be the time to relax, reflect on your adventure, and enjoy a warm shower after the long journey.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

Then, just how costly is the Manaslu Circuit Trek? Various items will feed into the final cost of your trek, from permits and guides to accommodations and beyond. Let us break it down for you:

Permits

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The most crucial permit on this trek, costing roughly USD 100 per first week, then $15 USD for every additional week.

TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System): This supplementary permit will cost around $20 USD.

Guide and Porter

Getting a guide is a good idea, particularly as the trekking area is off-limits. A guide will cost between $25-$30 USD per day, while a porter will cost between $15-$20 USD per day.

Accommodation

At Manaslu Circuit, you will be in tea houses or lodges. The accommodation, on average, costs about $5-$15 USD per night, depending on the location and the quality of the accommodation.

Meals

The meals on the trek cost between $5-$10 USD per meal. Basic Nepali plain food like dal bhat (lentil soup), rice, vegetables, and momos (dumplings) can be anticipated.

Total Estimated Cost

For a 15-day trek, you would be willing to spend approximately $1,500 - USD 2,500, depending on whether you trek independently or with guide and porter service, accommodation of your preference, and other expenses. Do note that this is an estimate, and the costs can vary.

Plan, book early, and fund your trek generously! Book Now Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

It is advisable to carry a Manaslu Circuit Trek map to know the route, landscape, and elevations you will encounter throughout the trip. You can get maps online or buy one from a shop in Kathmandu. The maps will help you keep track of your location and find landmarks around you.

• Map Details: The map will show the critical points of interest along the route, such as villages, trekking paths, and Larkya La Pass.
• Elevation and Terrain: It'll also help track the altitude gains and losses to plan your acclimatization days.

Be sure to download or purchase a map before starting your trek—it's a helpful tool for navigating the trail!

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately complex. It's not as strenuous as the Everest Base Camp Trek, but it requires good fitness and preparation. You'll trek for long hours at high altitudes and must prepare your body beforehand.

• Physical Fitness: You must be able to walk 6-7 hours a day, sometimes in steep terrain.
• Altitude: The highest point is Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters/16,929 feet), so altitude sickness is possible. Take it easy and follow acclimatization rules.

Recommended Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Hidden Gem of Nepal’s Trekkers’ Trails

Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With the stunning panorama of Mount Manaslu and the opportunity to observe Nepalese culture in close quarters, this trekking experience is absolute bliss for everyone. To make sure you make the most of this trip, plan your Manaslu circuit trek cost, map, and itinerary with special care.

Are you ready to begin your quest? Pack your bags, lace your boots, and get set to explore the heart of the Himalayas!

Book your trek today! Contact a local trekking agency or guide to book your Manaslu adventure now.