Trip Facts
Country:
Manaslu region, Gorkha district, Nepal
Duration:
14 Days
Max Altitude:
Larkya La (Larke Pass), 5,106 m (16,752 ft)
Activities:
Trekking and hiking
Region:
Manaslu (Manaslu Conservation Area)
Grade:
Moderate to Strenuous
Group Size:
Min 1
Accomodation:
Teahouses on the trail, hotel in Kathmandu
Notice
Manaslu is a restricted area. By law, every trekker must have a licensed guide and book through a registered agency. This still holds after the March 2026 rule that lets solo travellers apply for a restricted-area permit (Kathmandu Post, 2026).
The high point is the Larkya La pass at 5,106 m (16,752 ft). You cross it on Day 11. It is the longest and hardest day of the trek.
The circuit ends at Dharapani, where it meets the Annapurna Circuit. So you carry three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. Spade Himalaya arranges all three.
Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek 14-Days
Quick answer: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 14-day, moderate-to-strenuous loop around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), crossing the Larkya La pass (5,106 m). It is a restricted area, so a licensed guide and special permits are required, and it is best in spring and autumn.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 14-day loop around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain on earth. The name comes from a Sanskrit word that means “soul” or “spirit”. So Manaslu is often called the “Mountain of the Spirit”. The peak was first climbed in 1956, and the region stayed closed to outsiders for decades. That late opening is exactly why the trail still feels remote and unspoilt today.
The trek follows the Budhi Gandaki river north from the farms of Gorkha. First, it climbs through warm forest. Then it reaches high, Tibetan-style villages like Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo. After that, it crosses the Larkya La pass (5,106 m), one of the longest passes in the Nepal Himalaya. On the far side, the trail drops fast into the green Bimtang valley. It ends at Dharapani, the junction with the Annapurna Circuit Trek. So in two weeks, you pass from rice fields to glacier moraine, and from Hindu hill culture to Buddhist high country.
Almost the whole route lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. This 1,663 km2 zone was set up in 1998. It runs from 1,400 m up to the summit of Manaslu, and it shelters snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. Compared with the busy Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu sees a fraction of the foot traffic. A big reason is the restricted-area rule: you cannot walk it without a licensed guide.
Spade Himalaya runs this trek with licensed Nepali guides. So your guide sets a safe pace, watches the weather, and checks your health each day. The plan adds a rest day at Samagaun (3,530 m) and short, gentle stages before the pass. The route is demanding, but with sensible acclimatization, it is within reach of any fit, well-prepared trekker. For a wilder base camp option, see the Makalu Base Camp Trek.
Manaslu paperwork trips up more trekkers than the pass does. So start with our Manaslu permit guide, which covers the restricted permit, MCAP, ACAP, and the current rules. For the rest of your planning, read the full circuit guide, the cost breakdown, and our take on how hard the circuit really is. Still comparing routes? Then see Manaslu vs the Annapurna Circuit.
Trips Highlights
- Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world
- Cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m), one of the longest high passes in the Nepal Himalaya
- Trek a real off-the-beaten-path route, with a fraction of the crowds of Everest or Annapurna
- Follow the Budhi Gandaki river from warm farmland up to glacier country
- Walk through Tibetan-style villages: Lho, Samagaun, and Samdo, near the Tibet border
- Visit the monasteries of Samagaun and the mani walls and prayer flags of the high valleys
- Spend a rest day at Samagaun (3,530 m), with side hikes to Birendra Tal and Manaslu Base Camp
- Take in pass-top views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II
- Spot wildlife of the Manaslu Conservation Area, like blue sheep, tahr, and langur monkeys
- Finish at Dharapani, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, for a green, fast descent
Route Details
Kathmandu (1,400 m) → drive to Soti Khola (710 m) → Machha Khola (930 m) → Jagat (1,410 m) → Deng (1,860 m) → Namrung (2,630 m) → Samagaun (3,530 m) → acclimatization day → Samdo (3,860 m) → Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m) → Larkya La pass (5,106 m) → Bimtang (3,720 m) → Dharapani (1,960 m) → drive to Kathmandu via Besisahar.
In short, you follow the Budhi Gandaki river north and uphill from Soti Khola to Samagaun and Samdo. Then you cross the Larkya La pass into the Bimtang valley. After that, you descend west to Dharapani. There the trail meets the Annapurna Circuit and the road back to Kathmandu.
Trips Itinerary
A Spade Himalaya guide meets you at the airport. Then a private car takes you to your hotel. In the evening, you meet your guide for a briefing. They check your gear and sort the restricted-area permit papers. If there is time, you can shop for last items in Thamel. So bring your passport, photos, and a copy of your insurance.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
After breakfast, you leave Kathmandu and drive west toward Gorkha. The road follows the Budhi Gandaki river to the trailhead at Soti Khola. The last stretch is a bumpy, winding dirt road through villages and terraced hills. It is a long travel day. But the change from city to deep river valley is a fine start. Overnight in Soti Khola.
- Duration: 7 to 8 hrs Drive
- Max Altitude: 710 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
Now the trek begins. The trail climbs over a ridge, then cuts into the cliff above the river before dropping to Lapubesi. You cross bridges and follow the Budhi Gandaki past sandy banks and small farms. The day ends at Machha Khola, which means “fish river”. It is an easy first day that eases you into the rhythm of the trail.
- Duration: 5 - 7 hrs hike
- Max Altitude: 930 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
You follow the river to Khorlabesi and the hot spring at Tatopani. Then you cross to the east bank and pass through Doban and Yaru Bagar. Several bridges and short climbs bring you to the gate of the Manaslu Conservation Area at Jagat. This tidy village has a flagstone square. A ranger checks permits here, so keep your documents handy.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hrs Hike
- Max Altitude: 1,410 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
Above Jagat, the trail climbs to Salleri and Sirdibas, then to Philim, a large Gurung village. The land grows wilder as you pass waterfalls. At Ekle Bhatti, a side trail branches off to the Tsum Valley. Then you climb above the gorge of the Budhi Gandaki. Finally, you head through Pewa to the small village of Deng.
- Duration: 6 to 8 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 1,860 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today the forest changes. You climb through fir and rhododendron, full of birds and langur monkeys. You cross the river a few times and feel the first real chill. Namrung was once a customs post on the old salt route from Tibet. From here, the Tibetan style in the houses, dress, and Buddhist culture becomes clear.
- Duration: 7 to 9 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 2,630 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
This is a beautiful day through the high villages of Lho and Shyala. Here Manaslu fills the skyline at last. The trail passes mani walls, chortens, and barley fields. Then you reach Samagaun, the largest village in the upper valley. It is home to several old monasteries. So you arrive with the afternoon free to rest and start to adjust.
- Duration: 5 to 7 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 3,530 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
This is a planned rest day. The best option is the day hike to the lake of Birendra Tal and on toward Manaslu Base Camp (about 4,800 m). From there, you get a close look at the mountain’s icefall. A gentler choice is the walk to Pungyen Gompa. Either way, you climb high and return to sleep at 3,530 m. So your body gets ready for the pass.
- Max Altitude: 3,530 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today is a short day that protects your acclimatization. The trail drops to the river, then climbs gently past the Manaslu Base Camp junction. You pass through a white gateway into Samdo, the last permanent village before the pass. It sits close to a trade route into Tibet. If you feel strong, an afternoon climb on the ridge gives wide views.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 3,860 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
This is another short day on purpose. You climb steadily toward the foot of the pass, with views of Manaslu and the Syacha Glacier. You also have a good chance to spot blue sheep. Dharmasala, also called Larkya Phedi, is a simple cluster of huts. It is the last shelter before the crossing. So you arrive early to rest, drink, and prepare.
- Duration: 6 - 8 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 4,460 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
This is the big day. You set off before dawn and climb past frozen lakes and moraine. At the top of the Larkya La pass (5,106 m), prayer flags snap in the wind. This is the highest and most exposed point of the trek. The reward is a sweep of peaks: Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. Then a long, careful descent leads to the green meadows of Bimtang. Your guide checks the conditions first, because fresh snow can make the pass risky.
- Duration: 7 to 8 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 5,106 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
Today is a long, knee-friendly descent below the huge face of Phungi. You follow the Dudh Khola down through pine forest and fields to the villages of Gho and Tilche. Then you pass through stone-paved Gurung settlements and cross the Marsyangdi river. Finally, you reach Dharapani, where the trail meets the Annapurna Circuit. The green, warm air feels like a different world after the pass.
- Duration: 6 to 7 hrs walk
- Max Altitude: 1,960 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Launch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Guest House
You leave Dharapani by shared jeep on the rough road to Besisahar. Then you continue by vehicle to Kathmandu. On the way, the Himalaya shrinks behind you and the lowlands return. Back in the city, the evening is yours to rest, celebrate, and shower properly. Spade Himalaya hands you a trip-completion certificate.
- Duration: 6 - 7 hrs drive
- Max Altitude: 1,400 m
- Meals: Breakfast Included
- Accommodation: Star Hotel
After breakfast, a Spade Himalaya guide drives you to the airport. We suggest arriving about three hours before your flight. Then you fly home. So ends your Manaslu Circuit Trek.
- Meals: Breakfast Included
Trips Include
- Airport transfers in a private vehicle.
- 2 nights' hotel in Kathmandu (arrival and post-trek).
- .Kathmandu to Soti Khola transport (local bus or shared jeep) and Dharapani to Besisahar to Kathmandu return transport
- All teahouse and lodge accommodation during the trek.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- A licensed guide, experienced English-speaking.
- All government and local taxes and official paperwork.
Trips Exclude
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa
- Travel and medical insurance
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu
- Drinks, bottled water, snacks, and desserts on the trail
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging at teahouses
- Tips for guide, porters, and drivers
- Personal expenses and any costs arising from early departure due to illness or other reasons
- Any other expenses not mentioned under “Trips Includes”.
Packing List
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (provided by Spade Himalaya for use, returned after the trek)
- Sleeping bag liner
- Puffy down jacket (provided by Spade Himalaya for use, returned after the trek)
- Duffel bag (provided by Spade Himalaya, carried by the porter, returned after the trek)
- Daypack, 30 to 45 litres, with a rain cover
Upper Body
- Warm hat or beanie that covers the ears
- Neck gaiter, buff, or scarf
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunscreen (SPF 35 to 60) and lip balm
- Technical base-layer tops (long and short sleeve)
- Fleece jacket or wool pullover
- Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal base-layer trousers
- Comfortable trekking trousers
- Casual or sport trousers for the teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell trousers
Hands
- Wool or technical liner gloves
- Insulated shell outer gloves
- Light gloves for using walking poles (optional)
Feet
- Waterproof trekking boots (well broken in)
- 4 to 5 pairs of warm wool socks and sock liners
- Light shoes or sandals for the evenings
- Micro spikes or instep crampons (useful if there is snow on the pass)
Undergarments
- Quick-drying technical underwear
- Thermal underwear set for cold nights
First Aid Kits
Your guide carries a kit, medication, and a pulse oximeter, but a personal kit is strongly recommended.
- Assorted adhesive and butterfly bandages
- Blister treatment cream and antiseptic ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain relief
- Altitude medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox), only if advised by your doctor
- Insect or anti-itch ointment
- Water-purification tablets
Others
- Passport, 4 passport-size photos, and a copy of your insurance and flight details
- Reusable water bottle and a water filter or purifier
- Toiletry kit, quick-dry towel, toilet paper, hand wipes, and soap
- High-energy snacks (bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Waterproof or dry bags for documents and electronics
Optional
- Trekking poles (your own, if you prefer them; otherwise provided)
- Power bank and spare batteries
- Camera with memory cards, charger, and spare batteries
- Music player and earphones
Good to Know
Before you go
You only need a few things ready. First, bring your passport, four photos, and a copy of your insurance. Then Spade Himalaya can sort your RAP, MCAP, and ACAP. The restricted-area permit is only issued through a registered agency, even for solo trekkers. Since March 2026, it also uses an online, pre-arrival system, so we can start yours before you land (Kathmandu Post, 2026). Also, carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu, because there are no ATMs on the trail. Last, train before you come, because the pass day is long.
Manaslu has required a licensed guide far longer than Nepal’s general regions. As a restricted area near the Tibet border, it can only be trekked with a licensed guide and a permit from a registered agency. The March 2026 update eased the old two-person minimum. But it kept the licensed-guide and registered-agency rules firmly in place (The Himalayan Times, 2026). Spade Himalaya is a registered agency with licensed guides. So your permits, plans, and emergency cover are handled end to end.
The plan follows the climb-high, sleep-low rule. So it adds a rest day at Samagaun and short stages to Samdo and Dharmasala before the pass. Drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day, walk slowly, and skip alcohol up high. Tell your guide early if you feel unwell. Carry altitude medicine only if your doctor advises it. Going down is the best cure, and your guide will make that call fast if needed.
You sleep in simple teahouses with twin rooms. Higher up, rooms are basic and nights are cold, so the sleeping bag matters. The food is filling: dal bhat, noodles, potatoes, soup, and bread. Vegetarian meals are easy, and meat is best avoided up high. For water, refill and purify rather than buy bottles. Snow can close the Larkya La from about mid-December to mid-March, so micro spikes help in the shoulder seasons, and your guide always checks the pass first.
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Trips FAQs
Trek Difficulty: Who Can Trek?
It is graded moderate to strenuous. There is no climbing skill needed. Still, you walk 5 to 7 hours a day for about two weeks, and you cross the Larkya La pass at 5,106 m. The thin air and the long pass day are the main challenges, not the trail. So anyone reasonably fit who trains and acclimatizes can finish it at a guided pace.
The Larkya La sits at 5,106 m, and it is one of the longest passes in the Nepal Himalaya (Wikipedia, 2026). The crossing is the toughest day. You start before dawn, climb over moraine and snow, then drop steeply to Bimtang. In all, it takes 7 to 9 hours. Your guide checks the conditions first and turns back if the pass is unsafe.
Guide Requirement & Trek Regulations
Yes. Manaslu is a restricted area, and the law requires a licensed guide for every trekker. The March 2026 rule lets solo travellers apply for a permit on their own. But they still must trek with a licensed guide from a registered agency (Kathmandu Post, 2026). So you cannot walk it alone. That is part of why it stays so quiet.
Permits and Entry Requirements
You need three. First, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Second, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Third, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP costs US$100 per person for the first 7 days in September to November, and US$75 in December to August, plus a daily fee after that (Nepal Department of Immigration, 2026). MCAP and ACAP are about NPR 3,000 each. Spade Himalaya arranges all three.
Because the circuit ends at Dharapani, inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The last two days and the descent toward Besisahar pass through Annapurna land. So an ACAP is needed on top of the Manaslu permits. Want to extend your trip? The same valley is the start of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Best Time to Trek the Manaslu Circuit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are best, with stable weather and an open pass. October is the busiest and clearest month. Winter is cold, and snow can block the Larkya La. The summer monsoon brings rain and leeches low down. For winter on a connected route, see our Annapurna Circuit winter guide.
Trekker's Well-Being & Safety
The risk rises above about 3,000 m and grows the higher you go. So the plan adds a rest day at Samagaun and gentle climbs to Samdo and Dharmasala. Your guide also checks your oxygen twice a day with an oximeter. Drink 3 to 4 litres of water daily, skip alcohol, and go down early if symptoms appear. These steps keep the risk low.
Yes, it is a must. Your policy has to cover trekking up to 5,500 m and a helicopter rescue. Many normal policies do not, so check the wording first. Arrange it at home before you fly. Then leave a copy with Spade Himalaya at the briefing, so the team can act fast in an emergency.
