The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a wild off-beaten adventure that gives you a ticket to step into Nepal’s untouched wilderness, circling the iconic Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), immerses you in the preserved culture of the Nubri people, and finally ascends to the Larkya La Pass - 5106 meters, offering a sense of accomplishment.
Imagine yourself immersed in the remote villages where ancient monasteries are surrounded by the echo of the chant of monks, with the soothing sounds of the flapping of prayer flags all over the highlands, well! This is what you should expect from this well-customized 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trekking, which unveils the majestic corner of one of the most isolated areas of Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Overview:
Explore the unexplored hidden treasure, Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, that exists far away from the influence of modern lifestyle, where the rich culture of Tibetans is preserved to date in its ancient era, which surely promises to transport you back somewhere in the 1980s livelihood.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking stands out as the remote trails in the Himalayas, which encircles the whole corner of Mount Manaslu- 8163 meters, the world’s eighth highest peak, also considered as “Killer Mountain” across the globe. Located at the heart of Gorkha District and bordered by Tibet (China), this trailhead offers Buddhist landmarks engraved with art, fascinating paintings, and classical sculpture.
This 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek also includes a side visit to the Tibetan Border Rui La Pass (4998 meters) through Lajyung Pass, pristine Birendra Lake, and reaches the Manaslu Base Camp (4895 meters), the lap of the globally known 8th-tallest mountain during two acclimatization days.
Considered as the home to many remote off-beaten Himalayan adventures, this trip takes you to the diverse terrains and rugged topography of rich Tibetan villages, and the alpine valleys dotted with spiritual beliefs and cultures, surrounded by the vibrant prayer flags, chortens, with the backdrop view of the iconic mountains.
Going a little forward in time, trekking to the Manaslu Circuit was out of bounds till the year 1991. Even though it was initiated back then, a real game-changer for the region began when 300 foreign explorers like us visited the trails of Manaslu, highlighting how raw and authentic this region is, protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area than any other crowded, famous expedition like Everest Base Camp.
Since then, Manaslu Trek has been captivating enthusiastic trekkers worldwide who want to feel what trekking in the ’90s feels like with a sense of accomplishment reaching the vantage point of Larkya La Pass (5106 m./16754 ft.). A glacial, icy, and snow-covered trail where the prominent views of several snow-capped peaks, such as Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and Mt. Manaslu itself, will undoubtedly leave you speechless after a long, tiring hike to the top of Larkya la.
In the present day, it requires a special restricted area permit to access the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek, with strict rules limiting the tourist flow. Due to the less footprinted area, the pristine lakes, wildlife diversity, and ancient gompas surrounded by mani walls and chortens, remote villages are still preserved in their natural state and pristine form. So, one can imagine why the trek to the Manaslu region is exceptional among all.
While we might perceive that the Manaslu Trekking ends with the fascinating mountain views, the ancient monasteries such as Syangen Gompa, Lho Gompa, Sama Gompa, and not to forget the Pungen Gompa that has been residing here in the middle of landscapes for 500 years, will surely take us to the 90s alley. The red shrines, chortens, prayer wheels, and the Tibetan prayer flags fluttering in the prayers of the monks meditating accompany us throughout the 16-day odyssey.
Flanked by the famous Budhi Gandaki River and Marshyangdi River, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is once in a lifetime opportunity that lets you walk along the cascading waterfalls, river streams, and deep gorges, and crossing long suspension bridges while making jokes and swaying, the bridge remains in your heart forever.
Make your way to one of the most pristine, remote trekking routes of the highlands and be ready to be captivated by the distinct landscapes that take you along the Nepal-Tibet border. This well-planned 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary offers a unique fusion of wilderness, cultural devour and panorama of mountains covering every highlight corner of this region with the professional expert teams and trekking guides, from the very beginning to the end of this expedition.
Note: This Manaslu Circuit Trek 14-day package includes an arrival day; meanwhile, if you are already here in Kathmandu, then you can opt for our 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek that starts and ends here in Kathmandu, which is slightly cheaper. Otherwise, the trip can also be customized as per your time duration and budget as well.
14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trekking Highlights
- Get to learn about the ancient Tibetan lifestyle with a glimpse of their daily livelihood of animal husbandry, wood carvings, and agricultural farming
- Walk along the less crowded trail on the off-beaten trails, exploring the pristineness of the Himalayas
- Explore the remote, untamed villages of Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo, glancing into the unchanged culture and tradition of Tibetan Buddhism communities
- Discover the famous Birendra Lake, and reach the Tibet Border- Rui La Pass (4998 m.)
- Visit the ancient monasteries, caves, and gompas, including the historic and spiritual Pungen Gompa, Serang Monastery, Mu Gompa, and Ribung Gompa, and gain insight into the monks' meditation and practices
- Reach the lap of the world's eighth-highest peak- Manaslu Base Camp (4880 m.) and get the prominent panoramic view of none other than Mt. Manaslu with other iconic peaks
- Attain the almighty Larkya La Pass (5106m/16754 ft) and feel the spiritual connectivity with the magical aura, flanked by colorful prayer flags
- Head out on the 14-day Manaslu Trek with a fine customized itinerary and budgetable option, with the assistance of professional teams
- Witness the marvelous transition of lush green valleys to the alpine tundra of several mountains
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route
The journey to the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal begins as soon as we depart from Kathmandu through a private/shared jeep to Maccha Khola via Aarughat and Soti Khola. Maccha Khola is the starting point of our Manaslu Trek.
From Machakhola, our walking trail begins to Jagat by entering the Manaslu Conservation Area, passing by the rugged landscape, and beautiful forest that leads us to Khorla Besi- a culturally rich small village where the “Gurung people” referred to be the brave Gurkha warriors, reside. Moving a bit further, we’ll reach Tatopani- a famous natural hot spring nestled in the middle of the Himalayas. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, the pathway takes us to the village of Doban and navigates to the village of Jagat (1349 m.).
Continuing our trek, from Jagat we’ll move further to Deng by traversing through Philim large settlement of Gurung and Magar. Enjoying the agricultural terraces of millet where yaks and buffaloes are grazing stunningly, the route traverses through Ekle Bhatti, then Deng village (1804 m.). Deng is a Buddhist village surrounded by mani walls and chortens, where the first glimpse of Mount Manaslu can be seen.
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking continues where the trail passes through Namrung (2630 m.) to Shyala via Lho village on the seventh day. Exploring the famous Nyingma Rimjung Gompa, a famous monastery believed to be 600 years old, that sits in the historically rich village of Lho. On the eighth day, we’ll trek to Samagaon from Shyala, where the prominent view of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, and Peak 29 rewards us.
As soon as we reach Samagaun (3530 m.), the altitude increases to adapt to the rising elevation, so we’ve set this day as an acclimatization day. Exploring the village means learning the remote lifestyle and culture of Manaslu within this culturally rich white stone-built house with ancient roofs and ancient monasteries. During the acclimatization day, we’ll be exploring Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa, and reaching the Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m.)- the lap of the world’s eighth highest peak.
The next day, we’ll leave for Samdo- a village of Tibetan refugees surrounded by the panoramic view of several snowcapped peaks such as Cheo Himal, Simrang Himal, Hiunchul, and Mt. Manaslu itself. Another acclimatization/excursion day is set for the 10th day to undertake the trip to the Tibet Border Rui La Pass (4998 meters) through Lajyung Pass. Leaving Samdo behind, we continue the Manaslu Trek by navigating to the Dharamsala or Larkya Phedi- the last stop before reaching the highest point of Larkya La Pass.
From Dharamsala, the trek descends to Bhimtang by crossing over the enchanting Larkya La Pass (5106 m./16754 ft) from where the alluring views of several snowcapped peaks such as Annapurna II, Kanguru, Himlung Himal wrap around us. The Manaslu Trek concludes after we descend towards Dharapani along the Dudh Koshi River (milky river), where the famous trail of the Annapurna Circuit Trek gets connected. Taking a bus ride from Dharapani, our Manaslu Circuit Trekking Tour ends after we get back to Kathmandu or Pokhara by bus.
What makes the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2025/ 2026 truly special?
Trekking to the Himalayas represents the self-reflection of how far one can go and gain valuable insights that set one apart from city life. Likewise, Manaslu Trekking in Nepal stands out to be one of the best treks to exist that lets you know what the rugged terrains, varied landscapes and ancient treks are supposed to look like, far away in the himalayas with a rich tapestry of culture, of Tibetans as the region sits close to the Tibetan border where the cultures are still preserved as if at 90’s livelihood.
Not to exaggerate more, here are some of the highlighted experiences that you will explore during this Manaslu Circuit Trekking that beat any other expeditions and surely captivate you to enlist this Manaslu Trek as your no. 1 bucket list for 2025 and 2026.
Unspoiled Tibetan Cultural Villages and Locals
The whole Manaslu region is deeply rooted in the traditional customs and the culture of diverse ethnic groups such as the Tsum, Nubri, Gurung, and Tibetan communities who have been settling here for more than the 8th century, carrying the same lifestyle and inheritance to date. You will be amused by knowing the fact that these locals make their living depending on animal husbandry and agricultural farming.
Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit takes you to the ancient tea houses and villages where you can see the insights of locals engaging in some sort of traditional activities with a smile on their faces. Also, make sure to bring chocolates to the children here, or even a copy or pen, or any toys if you want, the smiley faces and thankful greetings remain within your heart forever.
While settling at Lho and Sama Gaon, the landscape turns into a deeper and insightful Tibetan Buddhist territory, where you can see women engaging in wool carvings, thangka painting, and yak herding wearing Tibetan clothes as they migrated from Tibet in 1959.
While making through diverse remote culturally rich Tibetan villages, you can see the locals engaging in prayers, chanting "OM MANI PADME HUM", with beads in their hands, with this sacred mantra, and greeting you with "Tashi Delek", their way of showing respect and welcoming the visitors to their homeland. The route itself takes you on the distinct perspective of the Manaslu Trek, where every passage, alleys, and highland are covered with red shrines, Tibetan stone engraved with mantras, whitely washed chortens, mani walls, and prayer wheels, representing local beliefs and spirituality.
If you are trekking in Manaslu in the springtime being which falls under March - May, then participating in the thriving festivals, such as Buddha Jayanti, Tibetan New Year - Lhosar is something that you surely do not want to miss out. Whereas, trekking in Autumn means that you get to take a deep dive into the joyous happiness of family reunitement coming from the city to the villages, as Dashain and Tihar come in between this span of the year, which is the major festival in Nepal, celebrated in every corner of the Himalayas.
These festivals are performed in the form of prayers, meditation, chanting, folk dances, and songs with colorful masks, with butter lamp lighting, and the woman beautifully covered with traditional dresses and jewels, showing you a distinct, meaningful side of the Himalayas, rather than being just a simple mountain adventure.
Side Trip to Birendra Lake: The Emerald Wetland
The Birendra Lake side trip from Samagaon is one of the most loved excursions by many adventure seekers and adventurers. This lake is formed by the melting of Mount Manaslu, which sparkles beautifully under the reflection of Ganesh Himal and the Manaslu itself, which is named after the late Birendra, King of Nepal. The shine of this oasis in the color of green emerald will surely be one of the most rewarding insights of this Manaslu Circuit Trekking Tour, which is located near the Pungen Glacier.
This side hike is only 3.8 kilometers away; that begins entering the pine fir forest, with a tranquil route, and takes you to the elevation of 3692 meters and shows you the surreal, blue-emerald, shiny lake, where the Himalayan panorama range, along with Manaslu Glacier, Naike Peak, sweeps away the icy glacial valleys astonishingly.
Adventurous Trek to Manaslu Base Camp: Adreliane Boasting Experience
One of the major highlights of this Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out to be the Manaslu Base Camp from Samagaon, which takes you to the lap of the world's 8th tallest peak - Mt. Manaslu (8163 meters) during the acclimatization day. This trip is the only one excursion/side trip that leads you to the up front view of such a gigantic peak, Manaslu, that is considered sacred, passing through the traditional Tibetan cultural settlements, the pine forested area, glacial terrains, and some spiritual monasteries, along with the twinkling oasis of Birendra Lake.
For adventure seekers, well, this is your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that pushes your limits and boosts your adrenaline level as the trip itself demands 6 to 7 hours in total in and out, with a final thrilling ascent through loose gravel, and trust me, it's brutal yet the same with experienced guides. However, after such hurdles, reaching the base camp at an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,400 feet), your every step is gonna be worth it, and trust me, the surrounding fish lens views of Manaslu range, Samdo Peak, Larke Peak, and the glacier, will spellbind you with its 360-degree front view.
Cultural visit to Pungen Gompa
Located at the hilltop at an elevation of 4700 meters, Pungen Gompa is one of the religious side trips during the Manaslu Trekking, which signifies the Buddhist spread throughout this region, as it was built in honor of Buddhist master Lord Pungyen, who spread Buddhist teachings, said to be built between 200 to 300 years ago, that shows an impeacciable view of the mountains and dry Tibetan plateau landscapes.
The trail starts from Sama gaon, demanding 5 to 6 hours of hiking, in and out, passing by the yak pastures and agricultural farms of locals, and gradually, it transforms into its alpine vegetation and navigates via Manaslu Glacier fed by Mount Manaslu itself. A final ascent to Pungyen Gompa demonstrates the panoramic 360-degree views of the mountains, including Peak 29, Himalchuli, and several others, blending with the rugged view of the thundering Himalayas.
This simple, single-story, and multi-tiered-roof Pungen Monastery features arts, crafts, architecture, and statues of Buddhas, and Guru Padmashava, with a monk's rituals, meditation, and prayers serving as a meditative place for spiritual seekers. Following the same route, this side trip ends with a descent to Samagaun, along the Manaslu glacier side by side.
Side Trip to Rui La Pass: Tibetan Border
The best highlighted section, which makes this 14-day Manaslu Trekking itinerary distinct and unique, is that it also takes you to the Tibetan border known as Rui La Pass, following the remote, rugged, and completely dry terrains from Samdo village, passing via the ancient salt trade route. The route is adventurous and long, demanding, 7 to 8 hours of round-trip, where the route navigates through rocky, desert-like, shaded, like the Sahara desert, and believe me, when I state this, as the Rui La itself lies near the Tibetan border, which separates the border of Tibet (China) and Nepal. Reaching the pass, it rewards you with the best panoramic view of the Kang Guru, Simnang Himal, surrounded by the Tibetan plateau, with the griffon vulture soaring overhead, and yaks, blue sheep, grazing in the terrains beneath, if luck favours you.
Cross Over the Daring Larkya La Pass (5106 meters): Highest Footprint of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
While trekking the Manaslu Circuit, the highest point stands to be the Larkya La Pass that soars at an elevation of 5106 meters, with frosty, snowy trails that require at least 3-4 hours to attain. Waking up early at 4 AM and leading to the summit point of Larke La is surely the most challenging part of the overall rewarding you, with a sense of accomplishment, with the best possible mountain ranges such as Samdo Peak, Larke Peak, Manaslu North, and Manaslu South bordering the massive Manaslu Himalayas, and not to forget! The Cheo Himal with its 360 panorama.
The trailhead simply kicks off from Dharamsala, following the north side of the moraine of the Larke Glacier, with thin air, altitude, and cold winds, and finally attains to the summit pinnacle of the pass with a final uphill climb, which is even more challenging; however, the breathtaking view of Cho Danda, four glacial lakes, and Larkya Peak keeps you engaged.
It is one of the most challenging sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, so do not give up, feeling the high altitude cold, breezy air, just believe in the guidance and assistance of the trekking guide, and ascend with low, gradual pace, with the right acclimatization days, set for straight 2 days in Samdo, and Samagaon, the tip point of Larke Pass can surely be achieved without any risk, and hazardous situations.
Reaching the top, the alluring views of the greatest iconic peaks like Samdo Peak, Mt. Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, and other peaks bordering Tibet, Larkya Peak to the southeast, the Annapurna region, including several mountains, and the view of Annapurna II in the west, magically surround you.
All in all, this trek is once in a lifetime opportunity that truly unveils the majestic beauty, wilderness, and remoteness of the Himalayas, just like the ancient era, without being influenced by modern infrastructure and western culture. While many individuals across the globe crave this trip, just for the mountain views and scenery or attaining the Larkya La Pass, the captivating spiritual beliefs, locals, cultures, rich flora and wildlife, and the historic monasteries will be the best highlighted section of your journey that leaves a mark in your heart forever.
To showcase the limitless experiences, we've created a blog, 'Why choose Manaslu Trekking for the upcoming years,' detailing 10 key reasons why it's becoming a popular trek in Nepal.
Customizing the Manaslu Trek itineraries as per your price and holiday duration for 2025 and 2026
Doesn’t match your time bound and estimated cost with us? Well! Do not worry! Our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary can be easily customizable with the help of our pro expert teams within just a few minutes, that too with the best pricing possible and your time constraints. Every year, we lead many enthusiastic hikers like you around the Manaslu region in Nepal, keeping in mind that you get to explore the best of the isolated Himalayas.
Let us craft your packages for 2025 and 2026; the idea and plans are yours! But to safely execute the trips with a safely customized itinerary and assist you in every step within the territory of the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Do not wait any longer! It’s your time to discover what trekking Manaslu feels like, as per your preference, without burning your pockets.
Alternative Route to Manaslu Circuit: More Adventure and Wilderness
Every step of the Manaslu is a dreamy adventure, as it is known as the best trek in Nepal that everyone must undertake once in a lifetime. While being one of the most loved regions that caters to all the tastes of hikers, whether they are beginners or not, no matter what age or experience you have, you can surely undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trekking with ease. The fascinating part is! There are several combo packages available, extending from 2 to 5 days if your time fits. To know more, you can visit our Manaslu region packages.
To enrich the trip even more, you can combine this trek with the Tsum Valley as well by extending it 3-4 days. Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek encircles the whole of Mount Manaslu at the same time, with an exploration of the Nubri communities and several monasteries, visiting ancient hamlets that also visit Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and the lower trail. Or else, you can just add Barpak Village (the valley that was destroyed in the earthquake of 2015).
If you are quite limited in time, and settling back just because the long 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary doesn’t match your timeframe, then the good news is! You can undoubtedly shorten this hike to Manaslu for 10 days, and complete the Manaslu Trek within 10 days, and the best part is that it is set with a gradual ascent, which means you have enough time to acclimatize, suiting the pace of every hiker.
Whereas this trekking route also meanders through the Annapurna Circuit Trail, you can even do the combo of trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit that ascends to both the thrilling passes of Larkya La and Thorong La at once within just 23 days.
No matter what you choose, you will surely cross this enchanting Larkya La Pass (5106 meters) and enjoy the panoramic vista of several high mountains with the rich tapestry of Tibetan-influenced culture.
Add-ons Side Trips during 14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
If you want to extend this Manaslu Trekking itinerary, then you can just lengthen the expedition by 2-3 days, visiting many other popular, notable stops that remain hidden, as it is not included in the standard itinerary, which can just extend the trip to 20-22 days. This extension can enrich the journey by letting you explore the treasure here and discover more, leaving an everlasting impression. Here are some notable and iconic side trips on the Manaslu Circuit Trek that you must consider for this trip:
- Serang Gompa: Explore a 400 to 500-year-old Serang Monastery, located at 3200 meters, within Kyimolung Valley, that starts from Bihi Phedi, demanding 6 to 7 hours of walking duration.
- Kal Tal (Death Lake): Take a side trip to the high-altitude, freshwater lake at an elevation of 3600 meters, Kal Tal, translated to Death Lake, in English, which shows the 360 panoramic mountain views of Sringi Himal, and Mt. Manaslu with a reflection of blooming rhododendrons in springtime. Hosting eight joint stupas and Kal Chokkang Gompa, it is a trip, starting from Prok village, with a 5 to 6-hour round trip covering 14 to 16 kilometers in distance.
- Hinang Gompa: Unveil the culturally rich monastery of Manaslu region - Hinang Gompa that resides between Lihi and Sho villages, which is also, educational sector and permanent housing for 40 young monks learning to shape up to become future lamas. This trip is one of the shortest side trips, demanding only 3 to 4 hours, but shows the alluring views of Peak 29, Himal Chuli, and Shringi Himal, with spiritual and cultural insight.
- Himal Chuli Base Camp: Reach the base camp of Mount Himal Chuli, perched at over 4000 meters, which starts from Sama Gaon, passing through the diverse terrains, and bring your nose-touching proximity to Himal Chuli - 7896 meters, requiring an extra day, and 7 to 8 hours round-trip walking distance.
- Ponkar Lake: Located at an elevation of 3972 meters, this trip brings you to the foothill of the Larkya La Pass, starting from Bhimthang, with a 4 to 5 hours of hike.
These are the suggested side trips that you can possibly add to the itinerary by extending 1 to 2 days, which lets you go deeper into the rich cultural and traditional historic sites, and also, the wetland and lap of the almighty mountain.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Cost for 2025 and 2026
The Manaslu Circuit Trek price depends on various factors such as the duration of the trip, accommodation, meals, trekking seasons, and also the preference of whether you seek for luxury expedition or a simple one. Our trekking package starts from $ 899 to $ 1350, depending on how many pax your group holds. For instance, if you have more than 6 pax, then it can be minimized to $899, and over 6, the price will be much cheaper.
If you choose our 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek package, it costs approximately $ 1350 for each individual and can be minimized with the number of hikers in the group. It includes all your meals, accommodation, permits (ACAP, MCAP, special permit), transportation facilities, guides, porters, and the fees and travel insurance for helping guide and porter with some extra equipment and complimentary essentials.
Here is a detailed overview of the costing based on the number of pax that each group holds, especially customized for the year 2025/2026:
| No. of Pax | Standard Price (In USD) |
| 1-1 | 1350 per head |
| 2-3 | 1295 per head |
| 4-5 | 1095 per head |
| 6-7 | 1045 per head |
| 8-11 | 985 per head |
| 12-15 | 899 per head |
For a detailed breakdown of the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost. See our comprehensive guide. On the other hand, please check our cost details section to get to know what facilities are included in this package.
Benefits of Booking with Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition
Having served more than a hundred hikers in every corner of Nepal, Destination Himalaya Treks carries a great expertise in serving the best guided teams who have experience of 10+ years. Our trekking guides are professional and medically equipped, ensuring that safety is your first and foremost priority. We also believe that transparency shall always be there; hence, our Manaslu Circuit Trek cost and itinerary don't have any hidden costs. We even provide many other benefits, so you can enrich the trek even more with the best exploration of every corner of this territory:
- (Airport shuttle) Free airport pick up and drop off in a private transportation
- If you are extending your holiday in Nepal, then we can offer you a 1-2-day staycation at our "Hotel Bihani" for free of cost
- Customizing the itinerary as per the budget and time duration
- Luxury staycation at a 4-star hotel with a cultural program dinner in Kathmandu
- Private exclusive tour (must be a minimum of 2)
- 5% special discount to the family group (must be over 4)
- Free excess luggage at our office during the trek with safety assurance
- Online Pre-Trip Booking and In-Person Booking after arrival
- Easy and safe payment system
- 24/7 hour communication at +977 9851016814 or email at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com
- Sleeping Bags, Jackets, Caps, Oximeters- to check oxygen level, Water purification tablets- to purify the water, Satellite phone to communicate, and Basic First Aid Kits
