Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek - 13 days

Budget Manaslu Trek(5.0)11 reviews
Know before you go
  • Duration 13 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season March - April and Oct - Nov
  • Trip Area Manaslu Region
  • Maximum Altitude 5106m.|16751ft.

Highlights

  • Unexplored trekking route 
  • Experience the warm hospitality of locals
  • Astounding and Breathtaking Views from Larkya Pass.
  • Experience the Himalayan range's views up close.
  • The lovely cultural blend of Nepalese and Tibetan people.
  • The jaw-dropping trail heads over the Budhi Gandaki River valley.

There are several thrilling trekking selections in Nepal. Due to the variety of trekking routes and destinations, anyone may become jittery. Some places are just so unique that you must go there when you visit Nepal, among which Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is one.

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking is the best trek, an alternative to the busier Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek for hikers who wish to take in the grandeur of Nepal while going through less-populated places. Manaslu Circuit tour offers breathtaking vistas of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, and Ganesh Himal, having its prominence as an undiscovered, off-the-beaten-path. The 13 days Manaslu Budget Trek is specially prepared for trekkers who want to trek to a less crowded area in a short time. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful tea house trekking tour around Mount Manaslu. As with the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang treks, the Manaslu trek is also gaining popularity among foreign travelers as Nepal's remote and restricted regions. Starting in Soti Khola, the trip continues to Lho, Samagaun, and the Larkya La pass at 5,200 meters, which connects Bimthang, Dharapani, and Besishahar. The Manaslu trail is busy with mule trains, villagers, and hikers traversing riverbeds via landslide and avalanche zones and walking on stone steps. This 13-day Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking tour is unique as it offers the best mountain views, challenging passes, and genuine Nepalese and Tibetan cultures at the most reasonable cost.

Since opening its service in 1992 AD, Manaslu has served thousands of domestic and foreign tourists from all over the world and all around the better trekking seasons. Every year, the number of visitors visiting Manaslu is increasing yet it is considered the underrated and less-crowded trekking trail as this is a newly developed route among a wide range of trekking regions. On the off-the-beaten-path trails, you will have the unique chance to explore, take in the scenery, and spend time with nature.

You will, however, pass through a remote region of Nepal that needs a special permit to reach. The number of people who can travel to the Manaslu region is less due to the specific restrictions for trekking. The guide must travel with the trekkers, and his name and insurance should be mentioned when applying for the permit, and there must be two trekkers (excluding the guide and porter).

Major Attractions 

Mt. Manaslu 

Mt. Manaslu (8163m.|26781ft.) is the world's eighth-highest mountain. In the heart of Nepal's Gandaki province ( Gorkha District), Mt. Manaslu offers several trekking routes and expedition chances. As Mt. Manaslu is typically simpler to summit than other summits in the nation, mountaineers come to Nepal in significant numbers to attempt it.

Larkya Pass 

During the Budget Manaslu Circuit Trekking, the highest point we could reach is the Larkya La Pass. At 5160m.|16925ft. above sea level, Larkya La Pass is one of the highest and most challenging passes in the Nepalese Himalayan ranges. During the Manaslu Budget Trek, the Larkya La pass provides the most exhilarating views of the extensive highlands and mountains.

Views during Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek

The Manaslu Budget Trek provides the most breathtaking vistas from close-up. You will stroll along a path surrounded by rich flora, fauna, and the stunning scenery of the lower and higher hills. You will be warmly welcomed by Mt. Manaslu (8163m), Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal, Mt. Annapurna (8091m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), and many other hills and mountains once you reach a certain altitude.

Warm hospitality by the locals

There are several villages on the Manaslu trekking tour. Different communities each have their customs and traditions. On the mainlands of the Manaslu trekking region, the Gurung and Tamang, Brahmin and Chhetri live nearby. The prayer flags and mani walls in various wards will delight you. The locals are simple and welcoming to everyone who visit the villages. You will be overwhelmed by nature, culture, and hospitality in the best trek experiences.  Along the route to Manaslu, there are numerous monasteries and gumbas where you find hospitable villagers and monks who would extend you warm hospitality.

Enchanting the natural beauty 

Manaslu is all about the enchantment of the Himalayas and the cherished, beautiful nature that lies in its path. While walking, you can explore local settlements, woodlands, and herds of grazing cattle. The lonely trail slowly curves up to the angular cliffs. As hikers enjoy the alpine, coniferous, and subtropical trees and vegetation, the mountains and waterfalls offer photographic opportunities.

What makes Nepal Nirvana Trails Unique?

Nepal Nirvana Trails is one of Nepal's reputable travel operators. The members at Nepal Nirvana Trails have been organizing and leading treks, tours, and climbing packages for over two decades. You will be provided with a knowledgeable trekking guide who will assist you in learning about the customs and cultures of the locals, hills, and Himalayas as you travel through the slopes and hills.

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

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The journey begins with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola. As you leave the city behind, the road winds through terraced hills, rivers, and small roadside settlements. The first part of the drive is relatively smooth, but it gradually becomes rough and adventurous as you get closer to the trailhead. You’ll pass through towns like Arughat and Soti Khola, catching glimpses of rural Nepali life. After about 8–9 hours, you arrive at Machha Khola, a small riverside village where you’ll spend your first night.

  • 900m.|2953ft.

Your trekking journey begins today. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through narrow paths carved into cliffs. You’ll walk through villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where natural hot springs can sometimes be found. The landscape is lush and subtropical, with waterfalls and dense greenery. After 5–6 hours of walking, you reach Jagat, a charming village with stone-paved streets and a checkpoint for the Manaslu region.

  • 1340m.|4396ft.

The trail starts to climb gradually as you move deeper into the restricted Manaslu region. You pass through small villages like Salleri and Sirdibas, with beautiful views of hills and cultivated fields. The culture also begins to shift, with more Tibetan influence visible in architecture and lifestyle. Crossing suspension bridges and walking through forested trails, you arrive at Deng  from Jagat after 6–7 hours.

  • 1865m.|6102ft.

Today’s trek takes you through forests of pine and rhododendron, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. The trail becomes quieter and more remote. You pass through villages like Ghap, known for mani walls and prayer flags, reflecting strong Buddhist traditions. After 7–8 hours from Deng, you will reach Namrung, a beautiful village with your first clear views of the surrounding mountains.

  • 2660m.|8725ft.

As you gain altitude, the landscape opens up dramatically. The forests thin out, replaced by alpine terrain and wide valleys. You’ll pass through Lho village, where you can see stunning views of Mount Manaslu. The trail continues to Shyala, a peaceful settlement surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The air feels thinner, and the scenery becomes more breathtaking.

  • 3500m.|11480ft.

Today is a shorter and more relaxed trek. You walk across open landscapes with incredible views of glaciers and peaks. After 4–5 hours, you arrive at Sama Gaon, one of the largest villages in the region. It has a strong Tibetan cultural influence, with monasteries and traditional houses. This is also a key acclimatization stop.

  • 3520m.|11549ft.

To help your body adjust to the altitude, you spend a rest day here. You can explore the village, visit nearby monasteries, or take a short hike to viewpoints or glacial lakes like Birendra Lake. The day is important for preventing altitude sickness while still staying active.

  • 3520m.|11549ft.

The trail gradually ascends through a dry and rugged landscape. Vegetation becomes sparse, and the terrain feels more like a high-altitude desert. After 5–6 hours, you reach Samdo, a small village near the Tibetan border. The culture here is deeply influenced by Tibetan traditions, and the views are vast and dramatic.

  • 3875m.|12713ft.

Another rest day to adjust to the increasing altitude. You can take short hikes to nearby ridges for better views or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This day prepares you for the challenging high pass ahead.

  • 3875m.|12713ft.

The trail climbs steadily as you approach the base of the Larkya La Pass. The environment is harsh and barren, with strong winds and colder temperatures. After 4–5 hours, you reach Dharmasala (also called Larkya Phedi), a basic stop used as a base before crossing the pass.

  • 4460m.|14633ft.

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You start early in the morning to cross the Larkya La Pass. The climb is long and demanding, but the views from the top are spectacular, with panoramic vistas of Himalaya peaks. After reaching the pass, you descend steeply toward Bhimtang, where the landscape changes again, becoming greener and more forested. The day takes around 8–9 hours.

  • 5160m.|16925ft.

The descent continues through beautiful forests, meadows, and rivers. You’ll notice a significant change in altitude and temperature, making the walk easier and more comfortable. Passing through villages and farmland, you eventually reach Dharapani after 7–8 hours.

  • 1930m.|6440ft.

On the final day, you drive from Dharapani to Beshisahar and then onward to either Kathmandu or Pokhara. The drive takes around 8–9 hours, following rivers and winding roads. This marks the end of your journey, bringing you back from the remote mountains to the comfort of the city.

    Share your travel plans, and our experts will craft a fully customized journey just for you. From thrilling treks and adventure activities to cultural experiences and nature explorations, we create every detail for a safe, seamless, and unforgettable holiday in 2026.

    Route Map

    Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek - 13 days map

    What's Included

    • Standard meals on the treks (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
    • A cup of tea or coffee with meal
    • Accommodations during the treks 
    • English-speaking Licensed trekking guide 
    • Guide Salary, food, equipment, and insurance. 
    • All applicable ACAP, MCAP, and MANASLU Special or Restricted permits 
    • KTM to Machha Khola and Dharapani to KTM or Pokhara Bus or jeep sharing
    • Nepal Nirvana Trails T-shirt, Trekking map, and Water purifications tablet 
    • Official expenses, all local and government tax and vat. 

    What's Excluded

    • International flight tickets and Nepal entry visa
    • Food and hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara 
    • Porter Cost: USD 300 per porter
    • Private Jeep: Kathmandu to Machha Khola - USD 200 per jeep (Comfortable for 6 people + Guide)
    • Private Jeep: Dharapani to Kathmandu/Pokhara - USD 250 per jeep (Comfortable for 6 people + Guide)
    • Travel and health Insurance which cover emergency Rescues and evacuations
    • Rent Trekking Poles: USD 10 per person for entire trip
    • Sleeping Bags: USD 15 per person for entire trip
    • Down Jackets: USD 15 per person for entire trip
    • Micro spikes: USD 10 per person for entire trip
    • Personal expenses such as snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, bottled-water, WI-FI, hot shower, battery charging, etc.
    • Tips for treks guide and porter (it is appreciated)

    Upcoming Departures

        
    Start DateTuesdayMay 19, 2026End DateSundayMay 31, 2026PriceAvailableUS $800
    Start DateFridayMay 22, 2026End DateWednesdayJune 03, 2026PriceAvailableUS $800
    Start DateMondayMay 25, 2026End DateSaturdayJune 06, 2026PriceAvailableUS $800
    Start DateThursdayMay 28, 2026End DateTuesdayJune 09, 2026PriceAvailableUS $800
    Start DateSundayMay 31, 2026End DateFridayJune 12, 2026PriceAvailableUS $800
    • We have fixed departure dates for the Manaslu Circuit 13 days budget trek 2026, and you may choose any date that best suits your schedule to secure your booking. If your preferred date is not listed, please get in touch with us to arrange a custom departure.
    • All scheduled departure dates are open for booking. If any trekkers are already confirmed on a particular date, this will be clearly mentioned, allowing you to join an existing group and enjoy a shared trekking experience. These departures are suitable for both solo travelers and groups, and you are always welcome to contact us to discuss booking details or alternative arrangements.

    Useful Info

    Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek Difficulty 

    Your physical stamina and fitness will determine how well you can trek in the Manaslu region. If you are in good physical and mental health, you can travel without much difficulty. When we walk to the lowlands of Manaslu, the difficulty level of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is moderate, but as we travel to high altitudes, the difficulty will rise. The trek to higher parts of Manaslu is difficult with the rocks and landscape. The highest you can reach on the Manaslu Budget Trek is the Larke La Pass, where you might get difficulty passing it. We don't recommend Manaslu Trekking after Mid-November because the snowfall is high, and it is hard to pass the Larke La Pass.

    Altitude Sickness during Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek 

    The Manaslu Circuit Trekking tour is between 900 and 5106 meters above sea level. This height difference enables exploration of the remarkable natural and geographic differences. We'll go over the gentle slopes to experience the thrills of the snowy Himalayas.

    The risk of altitude sickness is not predictable. There are several acclimatization days on our Manaslu Circuit budget trekking route. However, altitude sickness can strike anybody, so you must exercise caution during high-altitude trekking.

    Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek Permit Fees: 

    The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a Special permit (SRAP) should be for the Manaslu trek.

    Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) costs: NPR 3000 per person 

    Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP) costs: NPR 3000 per person

    Local Permit: NPR 1000 per person

    SRAP permit costs differ during the seasons:

    SRAP costs from September to November costs: $100 for the first 7 days and $15 per day after a week. 

    SRAP for December to August costs: $75 for the first 7 days and $10 per day after a week.

    Accommodation Services during the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek 

    The trail has teahouses that offer lodging and dining options. You will have moderate lodging services. Hot showers and internet facilities will take extra charges. It is challenging to provide modern conveniences because the location is remote. Trekkers can rest easy because of the high-quality benefits supplied during the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking tour. Your lodging will be the ideal option when trekking in the meantime.

    Food Services during the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek 

    Food facilities during the entire Manaslu Circuit Budget trek will be based on your choices and health basis. You will be provided with a wide range to choose from. You will have various types of veg, non-veg, and vegan options with the priority option of adding or reducing certain ingredients from the dish to make it even healthier and preferable. You have your own choice to choose the food depending upon your budget.

    Manaslu Circuit Budget Trekking Solo 

    Manaslu Circuit Trek is not possible to trek alone. You need to hire a registered trekking guide to obtain the permit for a Special Restricted Area Permit, and must have a group of at least two people to obtain a permit. Because Manaslu is in a remote and unexplored region, the government of Nepal does not permit people to visit the place alone for security reasons. 

    If you want we can get you a Porter cum Guide who has knowledge of the trekking trail and a government-certified license at $25 per day. At this cost, all his meals, accommodation, insurance, and necessary equipment are covered.

    Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek 

    The major season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the Autumn or Spring Seasons since these will be the most experience-based time for the Manaslu Trek in terms of walking and views of the surroundings.

    Spring Season (Mar-May)

    One of the best times of year to hike in Nepal is spring. Most likely, the Manaslu trekking area offers a better vista and splendor mountains in the spring. After the cold winter, the hills began to cover in greenery, and flowers began to bloom. There will be very little chance of rain or snow at the height, and the temperature is ideal for trekking.

    Autumn Season (Sep-Nov)

    The ideal time of year to visit Nepal is most likely autumn. Trekking conditions are perfect, and the holiday season enhances the beauty of settlement environments. Autumn is also a festive season in Nepal. The biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar, fall in the Autumn Season. You'll have a spectacular experience of trekking that will enrich your journey to Nepal. The holiday season in Nepal may lead you to learn more about Nepalese and Nepalese societies.

    Travel Insurance 

    We recommend that trekkers must have travel insurance for the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek. We strongly advise having good comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for things like medical evacuation costs, emergency helicopter rescue costs, and personal injury costs. While traveling with us, having adequate travel insurance will not only give you peace of mind but will also give you full coverage for any mishaps that may occur.

    Extra Expenses 

    You may want to spend some extra money for the facilities like a spa, massage, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi facilities, and hot shower during your trekking time. So, we recommend you carry some extra cash during the trek.

    Last-Minute Booking 

    Nepal Nirvana Trails offers last-minute bookings from its client at least three days before the departure date. We require your original passport for the permits, so please contact us at info@nepalnirvanatrails.com or via Whatsapp at +977 9841380469 before your arrival to Kathmandu or a couple of days before the departure of the trek.

    Client Reviews

    tptripadvisor
    • G
      GuidoNetherlandsMay 05, 2026

      Best first Nepal experience

      Absolutely incredible experience with Nirvana Trails Nepal!
      Our guide, Raju Tamang, was professional, kind, and deeply knowledgeable. He guided us safely through the mountains and made the whole trek unforgettable.
      When one of us got sick at high altitude, the emergency helicopter evacuation was arranged flawlessly. Everything was handled quickly and professionally, which gave us huge peace of mind.
      Highly recommended! These guys truly go above and beyond!

      Dear Guido, Namaste!
      Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for trusting us with your trekking experience. We are delighted to hear that Raju took great care of you and made your journey memorable. Your kind words about our team truly mean a lot to us.
      We hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventure in the future!
      Warm regards,
      KP Dhital & Nepal Nirvana Trails Team
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

    • M
      MichealUnited StatesApril 20, 2026

      Incredible tour of Manaslu

      Just finished Manaslu circuit with Nepal Nirvana. Incredible time. Ram was one of the best guides we’ve ever had. He’s not very good at card games, but he was super professional, safe, nice, and funny. Loved every minute of the tour and can’t recommend Ram and Nirvana more. Can’t wait to come back!

       

      Dear Michael, Namaste!
      Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re really happy you had an incredible time on the Manaslu Circuit with Ram. We look forward to welcoming you again soon.
      Warm regards,
      KP Dhital and the Nepal Nirvana Trails Team
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

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