Is it possible to customize the trip?

Yes, you can customize the Manaslu circuit trek with us. Our travel consultants will help you custom design the trip as per your budget and requirements. For more information, get in touch with us.

Why is the short Manaslu Circuit trek highly recommended?

If you have previous trekking experience or if you have already trekked famous trekking routes in Nepal like Langtang valley , Annapurna base camp , Annapurna circuit, Everest base camp , etc., then your next endeavor must be the Manaslu circuit trek of 14 Days. It is a challenging trek that sees less number of tourists and offers an adventurous venture to the authentic Tibetan villages and around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu.

When should I trek to Manaslu?

The best time to do the short Manaslu circuit trek is during the spring and autumn seasons run from March to April and October to November, respectively. You will get the ideal weather conditions and climate in these months to do the Manaslu circuit trekking .

How hard is the short Manaslu Circuit trek?

Manaslu circuit trek is a challenging trek in one of the restricted areas in Nepal. You will be following an offbeat trekking route. The terrain has many steep sections and passes by landslide areas. You will cross a high mountain pass and explore a remote area. The lack of adequate facilities along the Manaslu circuit trail also makes the overall journey very demanding.

How long does the Manaslu Circuit trek take?

The Manaslu circuit trek can go from 12 days to 22 days. Our Manaslu circuit trek itinerary is 14 days long, including your arrival in Kathmandu, preparation day, and departure from Kathmandu. The 14-day itinerary begins from the day, you arrive in Nepal and ends when you return to your Home country or other destination.

Do you need a guide for Manaslu Circuit?

Yes, you'll need a guide for the short Manaslu circuit trek. The trail from Jagat to Bimthang is a restricted area, so you cannot enter the region without a guide. One other thing you should know is that only a registered Nepali trekking company like us can organize treks in restricted areas in Nepal, including Manaslu. So, the only way you can do this trek is with a guide. Not even, an independent license guide can help you get the restricted area permit.

How much does the short Manaslu Circuit trek cost?

The Manaslu circuit trek cost can vary from USD 900 to USD 2000 per person. The cost of the package can go above USD 2000 depending upon the travel company and the services included in the package cost. At Nepal Nirvana Trails, you will get the best Manaslu circuit trek price that covers all the necessities, permit fees, expenses of the guide & porters, and all transportation as per our itinerary. You can customize the short Manaslu circuit trek as per your budget too with us.

What is special about the Manaslu circuit? How is it different from the Annapurna circuit?

If we talk geographically, Manaslu and Annapurna are two different regions in the western Himalayas of Nepal. The Manaslu circuit explores around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, whereas the Annapurna circuit explores around the tenth-highest mountain in the world. Annapurna circuit is an iconic trekking route visited by hundreds of adventure seekers. The trail has better services than the Manaslu circuit and is less offbeat. However, the Manaslu circuit sees fewer travelers and is much more demanding in every aspect.

Is Manaslu harder than Everest?

Yes, Manaslu circuit trekking is harder than the Everest base camp trekking . EBC trek route is well established and offers very good facilities to travelers in the region. However, the short Manaslu circuit trek route does not have accommodation and meal services like the EBC trail. Manaslu circuit trek is rather very remote, difficult, and isolated.

How to prepare for the short Manaslu circuit trek?

To prepare for Manaslu circuit trekking, you can go on a regular long walk. Better if you do it with a backpack weighing a few kg. You can go on short hikes and do cardio activities like swimming, cycling, running, etc. Likewise, you can train your body in the gym. You have to improve your core strength, stamina, and leg muscles.

How are telecommunication and wifi facilities in the Manaslu region?

40% of the Manaslu circuit trail has mobile network coverage. You can use a Nepali tourist sim (our team will help you get one, additional charges apply) to use data while trekking. The network will not be that great or stable all the time. Villages at the lower elevation may offer you paid WiFi service. Do not hope for high-speed internet at all.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek | 14 Days, Best Itinerary, Cost 2024|2025

Short Manaslu circuit trek in a summary

The Manaslu Circuit is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you through the remote region surrounding Mount Manaslu (8,163m.|26,781ft.), the eighth-highest peak in the world. The circuit, which can be completed in 14 days, offers stunning views of the Himalayas and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and glacial rivers.

Along the way, you'll have the chance to interact with local communities and experience the rich culture and traditions of the region. The trek is physically demanding, so it is best suited for experienced hikers in good physical condition. However, the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking beauty of the region make it a journey that is well worth the effort.

What to expect during the Manaslu trek?

The Manaslu circuit is an off-the-beaten trekking route that explores the natural wonders of the Manaslu Conservation Area. It is a fantastic trekking package for true adventure lovers who want to push themselves and test their endurance. The short Manaslu circuit trek begins at Machha Khola at 900m.|2953ft and gradually goes above the Budhi Gandaki river valley to Larkya La at 5160m.|16925ft.

If you have already trekked to Everest base camp and done the Annapurna circuit, then the short Manaslu circuit trek should be your next venture in Nepal. It is a restricted area trekking that takes you to upper Nubri, a well-protected and preserved Tibetan Buddhist community. The Manaslu circuit trekking involves lush rhododendron forests and hanging bridges over gushing rivers. You will walk past waterfalls, stupas, chortens, and streams.

Share the trail with yak caravans and occasionally with other trekkers. Follow a narrow river valley route that goes through picturesque villages and includes frequent steep slopes. On the way, you will be seeing views of many giant Himalayan mountains. At the start of the short Manaslu circuit trek of 14 days, Mount Annapurna (8,091m.|26,545ft.) dominates the west side of the sky, whereas the east part of flanked by Ganesh Himal (7,422m.|24,350ft).

Gradually, as the trail opens up from dense forests to vast meadows, the mountain views become prominent. Since the opening of the Manaslu circuit trek route in 1992, only a handful of travelers have discovered the unspoiled mesmerizing landscapes of the Manaslu region.

One of the most fascinating places you will come across trekking is the 195 meters long Cantilever Walkway Bridge, built with the latest Swiss technology on the way before reaching Jagat.

As you make your way to the snowbound Larkya La pass, you will come across ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition. Many locals are either descendant of Tibetans or Tibetan refugees. During the short Manaslu circuit trek, you'll visit ancient monasteries like Pungen Gompa (in Sama Gaon at 3,870m.|12,697ft.).

Similarly, you will also explore Manaslu Base camp (4,400m.|14,436ft.) from Samdo. We also have an optional hike to Birendra Lake (3,691m.|12,110ft.) in Samdo.

Near the Nepal-Tibet border, the trail crosses the epic Larkya La pass. One of the most interesting facts about the Manaslu circuit trail is it is part of the Great Himalayan Trail.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

The short Manaslu circuit trek covers approximately 127.5 kilometers in total. On average, you will walk 14 kilometers a day, which means roughly 6 to 7 hours a day. The day begins early. You will be hitting the trail by 8 AM (some days even earlier) to reach the destination by 4 PM - 5 PM. We will take a lunch break on the way and have dinner and breakfast at the tea house we'll spend the night.

Why short Manaslu circuit trek?

Our short Manaslu circuit trek itinerary allows you to do this world-class adventurous trek in 14 days. This 14-day itinerary fits travelers who commit to the usual two-week-long treks. The Manaslu trek is led by an experienced guide and supporting porters who will ensure your safety in the mountains. In total, you will be spending 9 days trekking and 2 days driving to and from the starting/ending point of the trail.

Best Viewpoints on the Manaslu trail

There are many spots on the Manaslu circuit trail from where you can witness breathtaking mountain landscapes. The trail is dotted with hills and mountains. Every new village unfolds a brand new scenery. But if we have to pick the best spots, then it will be Shyla (3,500m.|11,480ft.) and Bhimtang (3,720m.|12,205ft.). Both villages offer a stunning mountain panorama.

Transportation used during the short Manaslu circuit trek

Our short Manaslu circuit trek package covers 7 to 8 hours of jeep ride from the starting and ending point of the trail. As per the group size, we will be booking the four-wheeler. The ride cost is included in our short Manaslu circuit trek cost, so you do not have to pay extra money.

Likewise, we provide airport pick-up and drop service during your international flights too.

Permits for the short Manaslu circuit trek

Manaslu circuit trek requires three permits, and each of them is covered in our short Manaslu circuit trek package cost. Our team obtains the permit in advance for you. Below are the three permits needed for this trek:

Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP)

September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

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

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

Similar trekking packages

We have many adventurous trekking packages in Nepal for all kinds of trekkers. Whether you are looking for a beginner-friendly trek or an advanced trek, we got you. And you can customize every package as per your need with us.

First of all, here are some of our other famous trekking packages in the Manaslu region- Manaslu circuit trek 16 days, Tsum valley trek via Barpak Gurung village, Tsum with Manaslu Circuit Trek, and Lower Manaslu trek 6 days.

Likewise, these are some similar treks for experienced trekkers in Nepal- Everest three high passes trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek, Limi valley trek, Makalu base camp trek, and Kanchenjunga circuit trek.

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

Our delegate will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. There will be a briefing with the trek guide, who will inspect the gear and trekking clothes and suggest you buy or rent if anything is necessary. In the evening, while touring Thamel's busy streets, you can shop for last-minute items for the hike.

2-star Hotel
1400m.|4593ft.

Today is the free day before starting the trek to Manaslu. We will meet you at 9 am and take your original passports and two copies of the photos. You can explore the Kathmandu Valley in the afternoon. If you like to go for a day hike like Champadevi Hiking, or Nagarkot Tour, we can arrange that too. At 5 o'clock, the guide will meet you at our office and return your passport.
Note: The permits are prepared only on the weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) and Friday - half day. So, we suggest you be in Kathmandu according to those days, during Saturday and other public holidays, the immigration office is closed, and we cannot make your permits.

2-star Hotel

The guide will receive you up from your hotel and take you to the bus park. From the bus park, we will head on a magnificent journey of approximately 150 kilometers to Machha Khola. You may see the stunning views, terraces, lush hills, and views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, and Manaslu as you reach the ridge of the Kathmandu Valley. Due to the bumpy road, the road drive is challenging. We will reach Machha Khola, enjoying the local bus ride of Nepal.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
900m.|2953ft.

Following breakfast in the rural area, the route takes us up a rocky trail. We ascend and descend rivers and scale notched trees. Our journey is made delightful by the waterfalls on either side of the Budhi Gandaki River and the chirping sounds of different bird species in the forest. While walking from Machha Khola to Jagat, we ascend to the Gurung village and fields of maize and millet. We can enjoy stunning views of Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Himal Chuli from the narrow valley assembled by the Budhi Gandaki River.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
1340m.|4396ft.

Today's hiking concerns the gradual hike up a broad hillside while passing by a waterfall right above us, through a narrow, stunning gorge portion with towering walls, and across a suspension bridge. When the skies are clear, Philim offers spectacular views of the Bhudhigandaki Valley and delightful mountain ranges. Our day travel begins after breakfast and passes through the little town of Ekle Bhatti. We reach the beautiful waterfall named Nyauli Jharana before the main trail junction of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. To walk towards Manaslu Trail, leaving the Tsum Valley trail, we descend, cross a bridge, and then continue along the river bank via a series of small gorges. We cross the Bhudhigandaki River today a couple of times. The trail skirts the riverbank before arriving in Deng. Lapuchen, Dwijen, and Lumbo Himals are all visible from here.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
1865m.|6102ft.

We hike from Deng to Namrung in 7 to 8 hours, following the trail that leads through a valley, over a bridge twice, and then steeply ascends to the small village. After continuing the hike through pleasant pine forests, we reach Bihi Phedi, where we can see Kutang Himal in the distance. We also see Mani stones, evidence of the tiny Tibetan footholds left behind in high Himalayan locations. Trek through the deep forest, cross the wooden Budhi Gandaki bridge, and gently ascend to Namrung.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
2630m.|8626ft.

After having breakfast, we begin the trek that leads to a settlement called Lihi and descends the Lidanda Glaciers to the beautiful hamlet of Sho at an elevation of 3000. The breathtaking vistas of Ngadi Chuli and Manaslu itself, on the route to Lho, make for a great afternoon. Lho is a settlement adorned with numerous prayer flags. After Lho, the trail ascends from the Gomba to the picturesque hamlet of Shyala, which offers breathtaking mountain views.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
3500m.|11480ft.

The majority of trekkers spend their rest day in Sama Gaon interacting with other tourists, but Nepal Nirvana Trails have designed your itinerary specifically so that you can explore the hamlet and Gombas, a tiny bit of old Tibetan culture and avoid the crowds in this treasured land. After enjoying breakfast in a stunning location, we hike for 2 to 3 hours to Pungen Gumba (3870m.|12696ft.). We take the packed lunch from the hotel while hiking to Pungen Gompa. After a satisfying lunch, we begin our walk towards Sama Gaon.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
3870m.|12696ft.

After having breakfast at Sama, we begin our journey for today. We hike either to Birendra Lake or the Mt. Manaslu Base Camp(4,400m). After spending a couple of hours taking in the breathtaking scenery and capturing the views in the photographs, we head toward Samdo. The trail takes us to a stunning mountain landscape where blue sheep can be seen grazing. This might be one of the perfect hiking days of the entire trip.

Note: If we Hike Via Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp it's 3 to 4 Hours longer, 10.1 miles|16.4 km.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
3875m.|12713ft.

The path takes us to the former trade route with Tibet via a bridge and up to Larkya Bazaar's marketplaces. After hours of ascent via glaciers and increasingly stunning vistas, and reach Dharamshala, where we enjoy lunch amid breathtaking mountain scenery. Enjoy a more relaxing afternoon and be comfortable because you'll feel the elevation and the cold here. We'll have dinner early to sleep early and get ready for tomorrow's pass-crossing.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
4460m.|14633ft.

After breakfast early morning, the trail leads to the northern part of the Larkya Glaciers, from which we can see Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. After around four hours of hiking, we will reach the top of Larkya La (5160m.|16925ft.), from where we can see the Himlung Himal (7126m), Cheo Himal (6820m), Gyagi Kung, Kang Kuru (6981m), and the Annapurna II (7937m) from opposite sides. In the direction of Bhimtang, the fall is steep across moraines. We will descend through the treacherous trail reaching Bhimtang.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
5160m.|16925ft.

As it descends, the trail passes stony riverbeds, fig and rhododendron tree forts, sloping hillsides, and a few little green towns. We eventually arrive in the huge village of Tilje, whose residents are a mixture of Manang (of Tibetan heritage) and Chettris (Hindus), who has a distinctive architecture, and culture and consume mixed dishes such as buckwheat Dhido, Dal Bhat, Tsampa, and Tibetan salt-tea, after a long but very gorgeous day. At Dharapani, we carry on walking. We notice ahead signs of the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) boards at Dharapani on this easy trekking day as we follow the Dudh Khola through bamboo trees. Our current location is the main trail of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, a picturesque Tibetan settlement in Thongje with prayer flags flapping at the Gomba.

Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
1930m.|6440ft.

Take a bus or a vehicle for 3 to 4 hours to get from Dharapani to Besisahar. With our leisurely driving, it will take 5 to 6 hours to travel from Besisahar to Kathmandu, so we'll aim to leave early and eat lunch en route. Back within the Nepali hills, it is a completely different world, and the soft light transports us back to Kathmandu, the bustling metropolis of Nepal. Tonight definitely calls for a celebration!

2-star Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch and Farewell Dinner
1400m.|4593ft.

We will encounter you at the hotel, say our last goodbyes, and make arrangements for the car to take you to the airport.

Breakfast

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Start DateThursdayJanuary 30, 2025	End DateWednesdayFebruary 12, 2025	PriceAvailableUS $900

Start DateThursdayJanuary 30, 2025

End DateWednesdayFebruary 12, 2025

PriceAvailableUS $900


1 - 1 Pax	US $1399
2 - 2 Pax	US $1030
3 - 3 Pax	US $990
4 - 4 Pax	US $960
5 - 5 Pax	US $930
6 - 10 Pax	US $900

Client Reviews

J
JornNetherlandsMarch 28, 2024
Great adventure!
We really enjoyed our Adventure with Nepal Nirvana Trails during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The nature is stunning and we’ve had an impression how Nepalese people live in the mountains. Fysically we were ok, only the day of the pass was hard. For the readers: we are a sportive couple of age 27.
Our guide, Sukram, gave us good tips about altitude sickness. Due to his rest we made it through Larkya Pass without taking Diamox. We were also able to ask all our questions about the mountains, culture, etc.
It’s been an unforgettable adventure we will never forget! Special thanks to Sukram 🙏
Dear Jorn, Namaste!
Thank you for sharing an incredible review of your experience of the Manaslu Circuit Trek with the Nirvana Trails team! We are pleased to guide you with services meeting your expectations and hear about your experience with our guide, Sukram. Hopefully, we can assist you again for your next adventure in Nepal. Best Regards,
Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
WhatsApp: +977 9841380469
G
GuyCanadaNovember 20, 2023
Nepal Nirvana trails - Manaslu - Chitwan National Park
Father and two children, we have just returned from a trek around Manaslu with the company Nepal Nirvana Trails. Throughout our stay in Nepal, we were wonderfully supported and advised by KP, director of the company and his team. For the trek, the guide Sukram and two porters Dawa and Sisher joined our group making our stay most pleasant. The entire KP team was very friendly and attentive.
A few days before the end of our trek, we contacted KP to organize a three-day stay in Chitwan National Park. In one day latter, he had coordinated transportation, bed, meals and activities for us.
We highly recommend KP and his team at Nepal Nirvana Trails Company.
KP, sincerely thank you for this great experience.
Dear Guy, Namaste!
Thank you for leaving a review about your experience at the Manaslu Circuit Trek under the guidance of Mr. Sukram and Porters Shishir and Dawa. We are glad you were satisfied with our guide and porter and the logistics handled by the company for both the trek and the Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour. I'm really looking forward to providing services again.
Best regards,
Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
WhatsApp: +977 9841380469