Level of Difficulty
The 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging excursion, which suits perfectly for those individuals with prior trekking experience or just a good physical fitness level. The trip covers approximately 177 km in 12 days, averaging 12-14 km and just 5-7 hours walking daily. Even though it is known as one of the strenuous mountain adventures, it is easier than the Everest 3 Passes or the Annapurna Circuit, standing out as smoothly accessible for fit beginners who prepare properly.
The trailhead does not include any technical sections; however, it proceeds through varied kinds of terrain, like rugged, rocky, steep, with multiple ascents and descents, which might be a bit difficult for first-timers. So, it is very crucial to engage in prior preparations through cardio or other activities, to be fit and take an easy walk every single day. The biggest obstacle is crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters, one of Nepal's most demanding high mountain passes, where on the summit day, you have to walk approximately 10-11 hours. The track is more intense than any other day, which involves steep, glacial paths and significant altitude exposure at the same time.
As long as you're fit, you're good to go. The risk of altitude sickness is low thanks to the gradual ascent and a rest day at Samagaun before the pass attempt. Apart from just relying on the itinerary, also follow the preventive guidelines throughout, such as hydrating enough, fueling the body with nutritious meals, hiring a professional local guide, and considering bringing a porter. With proper preparation and fitness, the 12-Day Manaslu Trekking offers an unforgettable adventure through remote Himalayan landscapes and pristine wilderness.
Ideal Seasons
The best time to explore Manaslu are Spring is from March to May, and Autumn from September to the end of November, due to weather stability and excellent views. During this particular season, the chances of rain and snowfall typically remain low, making the walking terrains dry throughout and beginner-friendly. The temperature conditions are also mild and moderate, neither going too high nor too cold, and a comfortable night's stay for the trekkers.
Both seasons have their own uniqueness and beauty, making them the most preferred time of the year. In the spring, the whole lush green valley gets beautifully covered with red rhododendrons and pines, with the crystal clear mountain views in the background, without any hindrance. The day sunlight also lasts for a longer time, allowing you enough time to explore around, without any rush.
Whereas the Autumn season is known to be the most crowded time, when the trail experiences a heavier flow of trekkers than any other time, as Nepal's major festival falls within this timeframe, attracting local and international tourists at the same time. As this season comes after the conclusion of the monsoon, the possibility of the cloud burst is zero or low, due to which the trekkers get to experience impeccable views throughout the day. The whole landscape becomes more intriguing, with brown and golden shaded landscapes, with locals engaging in agricultural harvesting at the farms.
On the other hand, the monsoon and winter seasons are known to be off-season periods because of the heavy precipitation and uncertain climatic conditions. The frequent changes of the weather situations may be too overwhelming to some who are just new to such a mountain excursion. Meanwhile, if you have some prior trekking experiences, and the time does not align with the peak span of the year, then you can choose off-seasons as well, just make sure to plan well, schedule the itinerary with extra buffer days and carry essential gears and equipment as the season demands.
Foods and Accommodations
Throughout the 12-day Manaslu Hike, you will be accommodated at the tea houses, run by the local people themselves. The lodges are on the simple and basic side, however, comfortable, and well-sanitised, which ensures a good sleepover, even at high altitudes. The rooms has it's diverse variations, from single or double-sized at lower terrains, to group sharing as high as you, that you can select as you prefer. There are only eastern-style sharing bathrooms available, so do not expect to find attached bathrooms, like in the popular Everest region. Even though the rooms are basic and remote, you will get every amenity required, like wifi, hot showers, laundry services, and charging sockets, to plug in the gadgets, by paying an extra fee.
The tea house comprises variations of meal options, featuring a menu that caters for the tastes of everyone. You can find a wide range, like western, American, continental, Asian, Nepali, and local Tibetan dishes, cooked by the mountain people. The meals are freshly cooked, soon after you order, and served at the communal dining hall. To know more about the meals and accommodations availability, you can take an overview of our recently published article.
Travel Insurance
As the Manaslu Circuit is a high-altitude trek, no matter what the total duration remains, getting travel insurance is one hundred per cent crucial. As the trail is remote and isolated, with no health posts or hospitals, if any immediate conditions occur, the only way out is the helicopter evacuation, to get you quickly to the city area. We are not saying that the trip poses any dangers, but in the Himalayas, you never know, so you must be prepared for the worst situations.
Getting insurance also saves a lot of money for the medical expenses, without much of a burden to you, even in minor cases, and also gives you ease and peace of mind. Make sure that your insurance policy covers every essential, not missing out, medical expenses, theft, trip cancellation or delays and most importantly, the evacuation up to 5500 or 6000 meters.
Trekking Permits
For this trip, lasting for 12 days, there are different permits required: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Restricted Area Permit (RAP). These must be obtained through a locally based travel agency, where the permits and paperwork must be arranged by them. The permit costs go directly to the protection of the special area, boost the economy of locals, and promote sustainability. The conservation area costs remain throughout the year, whereas the special restricted permits cost changes throughout the year depending on the seasonal time.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costs approximately NPR 3000 (USD 28) per person
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit costs the same as the ACAP
- Restricted Area Permit costs vary in different seasons; the fee from September to November costs around USD 100 (NPR 11,200) per week, and an additional USD 15 (NPR 1800) every other day. Meanwhile, the RAP for December to August is priced at USD 75 (NPR 8,100) for a week, and an additional USD 10 for every additional day.
Transportation Service
Our 12-day Manaslu Trekking cost includes extensive transportation services that will take you from Kathmandu to the starting point, Maccha Khola, and from Dharapani or Besisahar back to Kathmandu. Besides, we also offer private car airport arrival and departure services to and from your hotel on your arrival day in Nepal. Whereas, for the transit to Maccha Khola, the shared transport, either via bus or jeep, will be provided from Kathmandu, and a local jeep to transfer from Dharapani to Besisahar and ends with a comfortable Hiace to get back to Kathmandu from Besisahar.
To make the costing more on the budget friendly side, we've included a shared transport service; however, if you want a more comfortable and cosy private jeep or car service, then you can alter it accordingly, or just go through our add-ons section and include the private 4WD jeep service to the package.
How to book the trip?
To confirm your booking, you just have to pay 20% of the total trip cost, and the rest of the amount can be paid after you arrive in Nepal, in person. You can just go through the "Book This Trip" section and make the booking through the bank transfer via the website, Western Union, or if you have already arrived in Nepal, then you can use cash, credit card or debit card as well. We at Destination Himalaya Treks offer our valuable clients pre-booking and last-minute booking options at the same time. We accept the last booking option 2 days before the scheduled departure date, as you prefer. For more queries, feel free to email info@destinationhimalayatreks.com or call or WhatsApp at +977 9851016814.
