Manaslu Circuit Trek - 13 days

Best Time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek

Spring and Autumn seasons are the ideal seasons for this incredible voyage. The weather is incredibly stable with clear views of mountains without negotiating the captivating nature that this trek has to offer. Meanwhile, it is highly recommended not to trek to the Manaslu region in the summer (monsoon) and winter due to the unfavorable weather conditions making the trail extremely challenging and slippery, and also there is always a high risk of landslides going around these two seasons. 

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

The spring season is always definitely the ideal time for hiking and climbing. The temperature is cool in the morning and warmer in the afternoon and evening, making it one of the most preferable treks among trekkers. Due to the appropriate weather, adventurers can plan this trek without worrying much about high humidity and heavy rainfall. On top of that, this season always brings out the best with its captivating views of wildflowers such as red rhododendrons and anemone polyanthus blooming, making the landscape filled with vibrant tones of color against the brown and dry shades. Not to forget, the trails are less crowded than in Autumn. So, it is undoubtedly the best season for enthusiastic trekkers who want to explore unspoiled nature peacefully. 

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

Autumn is supposedly the peak season for trekking to the Manaslu Circuit. As this season falls just after the monsoon, it offers perfect stable weather with crystal clear skies, greenery, and fresh alpine air offering a clear and close visibility of snowy peaks. Trekking in this ideal time is a meaningful experience as the major festivals of Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar fall right between October and November. While staying at the lodges/teahouses along the route, you can have a lively experience of these two festive along the eye-appealing views of nature surroundings. 

What to expect in Winter (December to February)?

Winter season can be challenging, especially when you are reaching such an altitude of 5106 meters. Ascending in such cold temperatures can be hazardous with the heavy risk of altitude sickness as the temperature falls below 0 to -10 degrees Celsius in higher elevations. Besides that, due to the heavy snowfalls, the trails can be slippery and muddy making it impossible to trek. Also, don't forget! many routes of the Manaslu circuit are closed during the winter time including the main point of this trek, Larkya La Pass. Nonetheless, the voyage can still be commenced with proper planning and the right trekking gear. The glimpse of landscapes dotted with snow and mountainous scenic views overshadows the hazardous trails. 

What to expect in Monsoon (June to August)?

Summer (Monsoon) falls under the rainy season in Nepal, so heavy continuous rainfall is quite expected during this time. Due to this, the trails are slippery, along with the heavy snowy terrains, causing an adverse situation for hiking. This trek includes some forest and riverside trails as well in the beginning section. So, the leeches and bugs are everywhere along this route, which can be a little irritating if you are a novice trekker. Also, the views of the mountains are covered with cloudy fog, and due to the heavy snowfall at this time, this trek can be delayed, causing it to exceed more days for this trip.

Foods throughout the Manaslu Trek 

Throughout the trek, you’ll get a full-course meal served and cooked by the local people of this region a variety of Western and local cuisines. There are many food options available on the menu that you can choose from. However, as much as you reach a higher elevation the wide range of the menu gets limited. 

Morning (Breakfast): In the morning time, you are offered a menu to choose from. Starting from local breakfasts like Tibetian bread with curry, Khapse (made out of wheat and sugar), and Puri (oily chapati) with vegetable curry with many others to modern breakfasts such as porridge, oatmeal, muesli, toast with eggs and butter jam, etc. are served.

Lunch and Dinner: For both sections of meals, the foods are even more delightful and fulfilling. The diverse sections of the menu consist of Momo, Pizza, Sandwiches, Ramen, Nepali noodles, Thukpa (made out of wheat, flour, and stew), soups (veg and non-veg), Spring rolls, french fries, and everyone’s favorite the ultimate Dal Bhat (served with rice straight out of farms, tomato pickle, spinach, green vegetables, lentil soup). The amazing part is this can be refilled as much as you can without any additional cost. It is highly recommended as it is fulfilling yet appetizing to indulge in. 

While having these foods, don’t forget to dine in the kitchen area, where there is a traditional heater used to warm the lodges. These wide varieties of foods and comfortable lodges make your trip truly easy to complete without any fuss. All these meals are included in our Manaslu Circuit Trekking package and are managed hygienically. 

Accommodations along the Manaslu Circuit 

All the lodges/ tea houses are managed by the locals themselves. So, the guest houses they offer are quite basic and simple but have a pleasureful aura to the surroundings. All the rooms dotted in this region are made out of wood and also covered by colorful Tibetan flags. In the kitchen area, we can see the dining area fully crafted with thangkas, paintings, mountain pictures, and traveler pictures with locals. 

Every room is comfortable and hygienic enough to stay in. You’ll get a foamed warm mattress, pillow, and cozy warm blankets. In the lower regions, single rooms are provided with double-sized beds. But moving to the upper regions, you’ll get twin bedrooms with two beds. As the tea houses are limited moving to higher elevations. However, there’s nothing to worry about. If the booking is done earlier the single rooms with double sized beds can be managed. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

On the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the total distance is approx. 180 km with 6-8 hours of hiking each day. Starting from the Macha Khola and ending at Dharapani, each day covers 10-20 km each day. We cover this distance by pushing ourselves up and down paths and uneven terrain in this ancient salt trading route for trade in Tibet and cross through the cultural villages of Jagat, Deng, Ghap, Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo and Dharamsala situated at the lap of Larkya La Pass (5,410 meters) itself.

This trail descends back along the trail through the villages of Bhimtang, Tiliche, Tal, and Bhulbhule by intermittently exploring the lush valleys and green meadows, Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, Mani walls, serene lakes, rivers, and waterfalls along with interaction with the locals for insight into the rich cultural legacy of the Gurung, Magar, Brahmin community. This trek concludes by arriving at Dharapani and finally returning to Kathmandu.

During our 13-day itinerary, we'll cover approximately 12-20 km with a minimum hiking of 5 hours per day excluding the day of crossing the Larkya La Pass. On this challenging day, we will be walking 8-9 hours by covering 16 kilometers. 

How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Regarding the difficulty, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is generally considered a moderately challenging trek which is even more challenging than the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp Trek due to its harsh landscapes, challenging terrains, and limited amenities. As, journeying to a remote area with rugged terrains along the limited tourist infrastructure, simple meals, and accommodation may be challenging for many trekkers. This trek demands both mental and physical fitness. The difficulty level depends upon the individual 3 P's (Perseverance, Persistence, and patience level) as you will trek through frequent ascends and descends with barren terrains.

This adventurous trek generally suits experienced trekkers with a proper level of fitness. It would be a perfect choice for enthusiastic trekkers who seek to explore the remote areas of Nepal and crave to spend peaceful time far away from the city. Starting from an altitude of 1,370 meters and reaching the highest point of Larkya La Pass 5,106 meters requires a proper level of physical fitness and some prior experience as well. Ascending to such high elevations with challenging terrains for 5-7 hours each day is not an easy task. The trek is quite strenuous and one needs to be prepared for other possible challenges like altitude sickness and unfavorable weather conditions.

Despite all the hurdles, if you are well prepared then the trek can go smoothly without any hinge of difficulties. Make sure to listen to the guide’s instructions during the trek. Although this this trek sounds challenging the region's authenticity and unspoiled views make your journey scenically captivating rather than frustrating. Nonetheless, the Manaslu circuit trek difficulty can be tackled with proper preparation, trekking gear, planned itineraries, and great optimism and endurance power. 

How to be prepared for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

This Manaslu Circuit Trek lasts for nearly 2 weeks. Along with the fascinating journey, there are always challenges going around the trek, especially in the restricted and remote areas of the Himalayas. Before starting this trip to the Manaslu, proper planning and careful plotting must be done to make this journey successful and enjoyable at the same time. Here are some of the things to consider before starting this magical journey. The Destination Himalaya Team is always there to guide you thoroughly if you have any hinge of questions regarding this trek to ensure that you do this 13-day trek without worrying about anything. 

Travel Insurance

For any treks in Nepal, Travel insurance is a vital part especially when you are trekking in the mountain areas. No matter how experienced a trekker is. In remote, restricted, and confined areas, there are always unseen challenges circulating. Having travel insurance acts as a safety net for you and also helps us to manage the emergency evacuation if it is unfortunately required. The travel insurance must cover medical injuries, theft, and loss of property and not to forget helicopter evacuation. These are essential for any kind of high-altitude trek. If these are not managed before the trek then it can cost thousands of dollars to cover the bills. So, please note to consider this.

Trek Permits

This trek is done all along the conservation areas that pass the route of restricted areas of Nepal. MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit), ACAP, TIMS Card- Trekkers Information Management System, and last but not least Manaslu Special permits are required for this trek. These permits mentioned can only be managed by a local registered trekking agency like us. Without these Manaslu Circuit Trek permits mentioned above, this trek is impossible.

Mental Preparation

Trekking to the Manaslu region is quite challenging as trekkers may face unfavorable weather conditions and unexpected situations in remote areas, requiring a high level of perseverance, persistence, and patience. It is more important than being physically fit as the trekkers feel the rise of altitude changes and tiredness. So, you must be mentally ready, create a positive mindset and great enthusiasm, and be fearless. Keeping these things in mind, trekkers can easily trail along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route without feeling any challenges. As it said, the subconscious mind always wins against any sort of hurdles. 

Physical fitness

Heading towards the mountain area means ascending every day with a high level of elevation. High stamina and being physically fit are mandatory as trekkers have to walk for at least 4-5 hours each day. To strengthen the body you can do some sorts of cardio like running, cycling, and hiking with some kgs of loads in the bag that makes the challenging trek smoother for beginner trekkers. 

Research

Even though there will be a professional guide throughout the trek, it’ll be great if you do proper research regarding the trail route. In addition, also about the favorable season, distance, elevation, and most importantly accommodation which would be the best choice for you with our management team. We love to hear your perspective as well and recommend what is best for you!

Altitude acclimatization

Trekking to the Manaslu Circuit takes you to higher altitudes each day, most importantly with the highest point being the Larkya La pass at 5,106 meters of altitude. Trekkers might feel altitude sickness which can lead to serious problems due to which it’s necessarily pivotal to acclimatize yourself allowing mind and body to gradually adapt to the increasing elevation. However, there's nothing to worry about the AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), Destination Himalaya always plans your itinerary thoroughly with the guidelines of professional teams. Acclimatization Day is set to prevent the risk of altitude sickness. 

Medical Considerations

Before heading towards the Manaslu Circuit Trekking, please pay 100% attention to your health and medical conditions to prevent any health issues as the Manaslu region accessibility is limited and remote, the immediate access to health care isn’t easy there so it is highly recommended to do a whole body check-up right before embarking on this journey and be prepared accordingly to the guidelines of doctor. 

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permits

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): This Permit is checked to enter the Annapurna region as this trek is connected with this conservation area as well. ACAP costs around USD 10 for SAARC nationals approx. NRS 1000/- and for foreigners, it costs around NRS 3000/- (USD 30). For Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), costs around NRS 3000 (USD 30) for foreigners and USD 10 (NRS 1000) for SAARC nationals. The cost is the same as ACAP. 

Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP): To enter the Manaslu restricted areas, this specific permit is required. This permit cost depends on the season you are trekking on. From September to November, it costs approx. NRS 11,000 (USD 100) for the first week and USD 15 (NRS 2000) for any other additional days. This RAP- Restricted Area Permit costs around NRS 9000 i.e USD 75 and NRS 1100 i.e USD 1000/- in any other additional days. 

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): It costs around NRS 3000 (USD 30) for foreigners and USD 10 (NRS 1000) for SAARC nationals. The cost is the same as ACAP. 

Note: These permits are managed by DHT upon your arrival. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo

Trekking to the Manaslu alone is not allowed. It has been mandatory to trek along with at least two trekkers in a group excluding the count of guide and Porter. Required permits are not granted by the government of Nepal if there’s no one along with you.

Regarding the guide, it is not allowed to trek without a guide and is considered a high risk as trekkers navigate through remote areas and high altitude sections. The Manaslu Circuit Trek guide must be from a local trekking agency and get a license from the government of Nepal.

The professional local guides are always there to guide you thoroughly, present great insights with small details, and most importantly, help you from any kind of adverse situation like altitude sickness and trail you through the safest and most enjoyable routes. 

Safe Trek Booking Procedure

Destination Himalaya Trek and Expedition is a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal that has been serving trekkers for more than 2 decades and member of TAAN (Trekking Agency Association of Nepal) and NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Nepal) that itself acts as a safety net for our valuable clients. On top of that, nothing is hidden charges here. We never charge you extra for anything. For more details, you can check our include/ exclude section thoroughly. 

To confirm your bookings, we require only 10% of the advance payment to book your domestic flight tickets and accommodations. For the payment, you can directly pay through our website or simply bank transfer the advance payment. After your booking is done, please send us your passport, 2 passport-sized photos, flight details, and also travel insurance. For the remaining payments, you can do it after arriving here in Nepal via card, debit card, credit card, PayPal, Cash, Western Union, or whatever you prefer. For extra details please mail or WhatsApp us. 

Last-minute Booking

Even though it is quite hard for us to book the trip, Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition will arrange it for you to make your trek to Everest Base Camp possible even during peak season without any problem. But to confirm the last-minute booking for the trek, you must pay 100% and there will be no refund as we must pay for a guide, porters, and accommodation before the trek just to make the trip sure.
For more details make sure to WhatsApp or Viber (+977 9851016814) or mail us directly at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com