Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek from Pokhara
To trek in the Manaslu region, three permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, and the Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Manaslu.
Permit | Cost |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 per person |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | NPR 3,000 per person |
| Special Restricted Area Permit (September–November) | USD 100/person for first 7 days + USD 15/person/day thereafter |
| Special Restricted Area Permit (December–August) | USD 75/person for first 7 days + USD 10/person/day thereafter |
Best Time For The Manaslu Circuit Trek From Pokhara
The Manaslu Circuit Trek From Pokhara is at its finest during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when clear skies, well-defined trails, and sharp mountain views make for ideal trekking conditions.
Spring (March -May)
Spring, from March to May, is an ideal season for the Manaslu Trek. The weather is usually reliable, visibility is excellent, and the clear skies offer spectacular, crisp views of the Himalayas. As winter gradually gives way to spring, the Manaslu region awakens with renewed life and color. The trekking trails become especially beautiful as rhododendron forests burst into vibrant blooms with clear weather. Spring turns the Manaslu Trail into one of the most picturesque times to explore this remote Himalayan region with crisp mountain air, vibrant green landscapes, tumbling waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the peaks.
Autumn ( September- November)
Autumn (September–November) is widely considered the ideal and most dependable season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek from Pokhara. During this season, the Manaslu trails are generally dry, well-defined, and clearly marked, creating ideal conditions for comfortable and enjoyable trekking. The stable weather makes longer walking days more manageable and allows you to explore the mountain landscape with greater confidence. Temperatures remain pleasantly balanced throughout the journey,cool and refreshing in the higher elevations, while the lower valleys retain a mild and comfortable atmosphere, making the overall trekking experience especially rewarding.
Winter ( December-February)
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit in winter (December–February) is possible for experienced trekkers, but the season brings harsh conditions and several significant challenges. During winter, the Manaslu region transforms into a breathtaking world of snow and silence. Fresh snowfall blankets the rugged trails, alpine meadows, pine forests, and stone-roofed mountain villages, creating a pristine white landscape beneath the towering Himalayas. Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, icy trails, and unpredictable mountain weather can make higher sections of the route particularly demanding. The Larkya La Pass may also become difficult or temporarily inaccessible due to deep snow and extreme conditions, requiring careful planning, proper equipment, and flexibility with the itinerary.
Monsoon ( June -July)
Trekking the Manaslu Circuit during the monsoon season (June–August) is generally not considered ideal due to frequent rainfall, slippery and muddy trails, landslides, and unpredictable mountain weather. Heavy rain can also affect road conditions and trail accessibility, while clouds and mist may obscure the spectacular Himalayan views. Although the landscape becomes lush and vibrant during this period, the challenging conditions can make the trek less comfortable and more unpredictable.
Accomodation
Your stay in Kathmandu will be at a comfortable, tourist-standard hotel, providing a relaxing place to rest and prepare before and after your trek. Once you enter the Manaslu region, accommodation becomes more traditional and basic, with overnight stays in local teahouses along the trail. Rooms are generally simple and are usually shared on a twin-sharing basis, while a private single room can be arranged at an additional cost where available. Teahouses offer essential facilities such as beds, blankets, shared bathrooms, and communal dining areas, providing a warm and welcoming place to rest after a day of trekking.
Most teahouses have shared bathrooms, while hot showers may be available at selected lodges for an additional charge. Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in many villages but can be limited or unreliable at higher elevations. Despite the simplicity, the teahouses provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can relax after a long day of trekking, enjoy freshly prepared meals, and experience the hospitality of local mountain communities. The combination of basic mountain accommodation and genuine local culture is an integral part of the Manaslu trekking experie
Food
During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you’ll be provided with three wholesome meals each day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—prepared fresh and served by the local teahouses along the trail. You’ll have a good selection of dishes to choose from, including traditional Nepali meals, Tibetan-inspired dishes, noodles, pasta, rice, soups, and other simple yet satisfying options.
We highly recommend having dal bhat at least once a day. This traditional Nepali meal of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and other accompaniments is rich in carbohydrates and protein, providing the sustained energy you need for long days on the trail. It is also filling, nutritious, widely available, and one of the most economical meal choices during the trek.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as the journey takes you into a remote and high-altitude Himalayan region where medical facilities and emergency services are limited. Your insurance should provide comprehensive coverage for high-altitude trekking, including trekking above 5,000 meters, as well as emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and helicopter evacuation if required.
Make sure your policy specifically covers the maximum altitude reached during the trek, including the crossing of Larkya La Pass at around 5,100 meters. It is also advisable to have coverage for trip cancellation, delays, lost or damaged baggage, and unforeseen travel disruptions. Before starting the trek, carefully check the terms and exclusions of your policy and carry a copy of your insurance details and emergency contact information with you throughout the journey.
Packing
Packing appropriately for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is essential for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. The trek passes through a wide range of elevations and changing climatic conditions, from warm, humid lower valleys to cold, snowy high-altitude terrain around Larkya La Pass. Rather than carrying excessive gear, it is best to pack lightweight, versatile clothing that can be layered according to the weather and altitude.
Essential items include:
- Comfortable trekking boots with good ankle support and grip
- Lightweight trekking shoes or sandals for use around the teahouses
- Warm thermal base layers and moisture-wicking trekking clothes
- Fleece jacket and a warm down or insulated jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers, comfortable hiking pants, and lightweight T-shirts
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and neck warmer
- Wool or thermal socks and extra pairs
- Good-quality sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
- Sunglasses with strong UV protection
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and basic personal toiletries
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or a suitable water filter
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Personal first-aid kit and necessary medications
- Trekking poles for steep ascents and descents
- Backpack or daypack with a comfortable waist belt
- Duffel bag for carrying your main trekking equipment
- Power bank and charging cables
- Travel documents, permits, passport copies, and travel insurance details
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