tsum valley trek.

Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Trek

$1190

Destination

Nepal

Activity

City sight seeing/ Trekking

Region

Manaslu Region

Duration

15 days

Altitude

5135m/ at Larkya La Pass

Accomodation

Tea-Houses / Hotels

Meal

Full board on trek

Transportation

Private Car/ Bus/ Van/ Hiace

Best Seasons

Sep-Dec and Mar-May

Group Size

2-30

Grade

Moderate/Difficult

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Overview

Trip Highlights For Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • The trek's highest point is Larkya La Pass (5167 meters).
  • Forests, rivers, and plants in the Manaslu region provide breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Since the trailhead may be reached on foot, domestic flights are not required.
  • A variety of species of animals and plants including, Tahr, Agali, Pika, Himalayan Marmots, rhododendron, fir,  birds and reptiles, and if you're lucky, musk deer, Snow Leopard, the Himalayan bear can be observed. 
  • The Budi Gandaki, a deep, long river gorge, is followed by the route for the first portion of its length, with numerous suspension bridge crossings.

All About the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The extraordinary 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek starts in the bustling market town of Soti Khola, winds up and back along a different route, and ends in Syange. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the most demanding teahouse treks in Nepal, and the finest seasons to hike it are in the spring and autumn depending on the trekker's physical health. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles around Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters above sea level. In contrast to the more well-known treks in Nepal, the Manaslu Trek is still rural and off-the-beaten-path, where travelers could discover much remote uniqueness: mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and flora and fauna

The Manaslu region includes the arid Trans-Himalayan high meadows bordering Tibet as well as the subtropical foothills of the Himalayas. Manaslu, which means "Mountain of the Spirit," is a Sanskrit word that is derived from Manasa. The well-known Manaslu trekking path circumnavigates the mountain range and descends to Annapurna across a pass. The Budhi Gandaki River trekking path follows the historic salt trading route and the year 1956 marks the first successful Manaslu expedition. Moreover, Larkya La pass, the trek's highest point, 5167 meters, is typically covered in snow and frost and little crampons are frequently employed when descending. A clear view of the route you have just taken is available from the pass, but the most breathtaking view is seen after leaving the pass and proceeding along a corridor to the northwest.

Trekkers in the Manaslu region will get an opportunity to observe the typical Nepali lifestyle along with their culture and traditions on the bank of the famous Budhi Gandaki River. Moreover, the trekkers will have a wonderful opportunity to be a part of local feasts, food, and festivals as Nepali communities have numerous cultural programs on the basis of ethnicity  caste, and creed. Furthermore, one of the longest and highest passes in the world, the Larkya La pass, provides a view of the world’s famous mountains like Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Langtang, Manaslu, and many more. 

In addition, Mountain Guide Trek and Expedition will assist travelers in many different ways to satisfy their interests and desires. The Manaslu Rupina La Pass, the Manaslu Larkya Circuit Trek, and the Tsum Valley Trek would all make excellent vacation alternatives if you had unlimited time. 

 Permit for Manaslu Circuit trek

The optimum seasons for hiking in Nepal are believed to be spring and autumn. For the Manaslu trek, the price of the permit varies between the spring and autumn seasons. During the months of September through November, the Manaslu trek permit costs USD 70.00 for the first seven days and USD 10.00 for each subsequent day. From December to August, a Manaslu trek permit costs USD 50.00 for the first 7 days and USD 7.00 for each additional day.

Manaslu is a restricted area; hence, a special permit is needed to walk there. Independent and alone hikers are not permitted. A local guide must accompany trekkers on their journey, and treks must be scheduled through a local organization. The following licenses are required in order to hike the Manaslu Circuit Trail.

Permit for Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP)
Permit for Manaslu Restricted Area
Permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)

 

Best season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek


Any time of year is suitable for the Manaslu Circuit excursion. Every season offers a unique set of benefits and adventures. But the best seasons to hike Manaslu are spring and fall when the weather is more predictable and milder.

If you are looking for adventure and want to experience something new, you can trek in the monsoon and winter as well. However, these times of year should be avoided since, in the monsoon, the routes are muddy and slick and there is a chance of a landslide, and in the winter, the snow will block the trails. For the most part, the teahouses along the top section of the route will be closed during these times.

 

Accommodation during the Manaslu circuit trek

 A variety of lodging options are available, from budget hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels for travellers in Kathmandu. Any of the hotels of your choice can be a place for accommodation and relaxation before beginning the Manaslu circuit trek. After starting the trek, you have additional options for lodging in Soti Khola. The trailhead from Seti Khola opens to a number of options for accommodation at teahouses.  Moreover, Camping is also an alternative option but you need to be well-equipped with your belongings. 

What makes the Manaslu circuit trek so special?

The Manaslu Circuit is in itself unique and special. The name "Manaslu"  denotes "intellect" or "soul," with some spiritual connection with the mountain, and refers to the "mountain of the spirit." In addition, the mountain is the eighth-highest peak in the globe, with distinctive features. The main draw of Mt. Manaslu is the breathtaking landscape. The Budhi Gandaki river's steep bank serves as the trek's route, which was once used for the salt trade. Moreover, during the trek, ten peaks that are taller than 6,500 meters are visible, including some of the summits that are higher than 7,000 meters from sea level. The Manaslu Circuit is significantly less crowded than the well-known Annapurna circuit trek, Everest Circuit trek, Mustang trek, and Ghorepani Poonhill trek. 

 How difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

A moderately challenging trip, the Manaslu Circuit Trek starts at 900 meters above sea level and ascends to 5106 meters. In lowland humid terrain, daily rises of 300–400 meters over the first few days will be rather simple. The main challenge starts as you ascend and the temperature drops. Physical stamina and cliff-walking skills are essential for trekking. Visitors can encounter rough terrain while hiking. They must travel along the Budhi Gandaki River Gorge, through snow-covered cliffs and boulders, and through the Manaslu Conservation Area to reach Larkya La Pass (5167 meters).

At Larkya La Pass, you gain the most elevation (5106 meters), and since elevations beyond 3500 meters can be challenging, AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) may develop. But in order to prevent AMS, our schedule includes 2 days for acclimatization. We advise you to maintain your body hydrated, get enough rest, and refrain from stress for your own preventive. Diamox is an additional option (medication for AMS). Please let your guide know about any symptoms you observe.

You avoid altitude sickness and other bodily ailments by moving slowly at a high altitude. You should always have warm clothing and trekking gear with you when you go on a hike. Additionally, Mountain Guide Trek and Expedition will provide you with the essential information that guests need if you get in touch with us. 

Photos

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome from Mountain Guide Trek staff upon your arrival in Nepal. After check-in, if time allows, you will visit the MGT office to meet your trekking leader as well as other participants for the final preparation of the trip.  (Overnight at deluxe hotel on BB basis) 

Day 02: Drive to Macha Khola (1300m) 7-8 hour drive

We take an 8-9 hrs Jeep ride to Machha Khola, passing the Arughat Bazaar in Gorkha district, The village of Arughat is in two parts, on opposite sides of the Budhi Gandaki; Arughat Bazaar is clean and prosperous with hotels and shops selling cloth, food, and hardware. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 03: Trek Macha Khola - to Jagat (1410m) 11km-6hours walk)

Machha Khola and then hike on to  Khorlabesi. Crossing Khorlabesi passes to Tatopani, At Tatopani, there is a hot spring where the porters will no doubt take the opportunity to have a quick wash. After Tatopani, the route follows the route through the forest,  until we reach the village of Doban and further up the river valley. The camp for this day will be in the village of Salleri an hour or so beyond Jagat. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 04: Trek Jagat to Deng (8 hours walk)

After the village of Sirdibas, we cross the Budhi Gandaki river's large suspension bridge and climb steeply to Philim. The trail traverses the hillside and passes Ekle Bhatti (lonely teahouse) before crossing the conflux of Budi Gandaki and Siyar Khola. Finally, the trail makes its way up the west side of the valley and offers a pleasant walk through bamboo forests up to the village of Deng. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 05: Trek to Namrung (7 hours walk 2630m)

After breakfast, we enter the area influenced by Buddhism. After a few hours walk ups and downs through the hills and forests, the team finally arrives at Ghap. Here you can watch well-preserved paintings and elegant Mani wall structures.  From here, the valley becomes steeper and there is a long climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest  until you reach the village of Namrung. . (Overnight at teahouse on full board basis) 

Day 06: Trek to Lho (3 hours walk 3200m)

On day 6, the trek sets for Nurpi from Namrung. The villagers are the descendants of Tibetan migrants who are supposed to arrive over 500 before. The village includes entrance gates, mani walls, and Buddhist gompas. This valley opens the route for the Tibetan village of Sho. Above this village, we get beautiful views of Manaslu and Naike Peak and the next village to reach is the village of Lho. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 07: Trek to Sama Gaun (3hours walk 3520m)

Follow the Budi Gandaki north to a bridge over a side stream where the trail splits, with the left leading to the Manaslu Base Camp and the right, passing several Mani walls, leading to the Larkya La. The valley widens along an easy trail past juniper and birches forest to the stone huts at Kermo Kharka and then drops off. After a few hours' walk, we view an amazing white stone (Kani/mine) which marks the entrance to Samdo. (Overnight at Teahouse on full board basis)

Day 08: Trek to Samdo (3 hours walk 3875m)

On day 8, the team ascends to the pass downhill through the terrace field until they come up to the old Mani wall before dropping to the river, and crossing the man-made wooden bridge. This place shows up on maps as the mythical Larka Bazaar, which used to be a flourishing market. Another Mani wall marks the beginning of the ascent to the pass where the trail starts climbing through the tundra and juniper; the huge Larkya Glacier coming from Manaslu can be seen from here. (Overnight at teahouse on full board basis)

Day 09: Trek to Larkya Phedi(4460m)

Another mani wall marks the beginning of the ascent to the Larkya La pass, where the trail starts climbing through the tundra and juniper up to the huge Larkya Glacier coming from Manaslu. The beautiful view can be seen from Larkya Phedi. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 10: Trek to Bimthang (Larkya La 5213m 9 hours walk)

After an early start, we soon reach the ablation valley on the left side of the Larkya Glacier with impressive views of Cho Danda and Larke Peak. The trek continues along the glacial moraine until the ascent to the summit of the Larkya pass. The top has enchanting panoramic views of the nearby mountains (Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II). The valley starts growing wider as the trails move down past the mani wall and a small rest house at Bimthang. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 11: Trek to Goa/ Tilje (5hours walk 2515m)

On this day the team departs from Bimthang to a glacial stream of Dudh Khola and finally descends into a pine and rhododendron forest. From here you reach Karcher's fenced fields, and after a few hours walk descent to the river bank at Gho/Goa. The trail continues through fields and intermittent stands of rhododendron and oak to arrive large Gurung village at Tilje. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (5hours walk 1963m)

The trek starts on this day from Tiji to Dharapani. As you walk along the trail to the Marsyangdi Valley, finally, the houses of Dharapani start appearing in the distance. Dharapani lies across a long suspension bridge built over the Marsyangdi river. The trail then follows the Annapurna Circuit route in reverse as you pass through the s Marsyangdi George. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 13: Dharapani Jeep to Besi Sahar (4hour Jeep 670m overnight hotel)

We drive to Dharapani village after our long trekking. This is a great place to stay with and scenic view of mountains and the beautiful landscape close to your eyes, rest and relax at the local Teahouse. (Overnight at Teahouse  on full board basis)

Day 14: Bus or Jeep to Kathmandu (6hours with bus, 1350m)

On day 14, we drive back to Kathmandu glancing at the scenic views of the countryside through the headquarter of the Lamjung district Besishar. Annapurna mountain range can be clearly visualized as we move ahead from Besishahar. As we are back to Kathmandu we take a rest and relax (Overnight deluxe hotel on a BB basis)

Day 15: Farewell Friend

This day is the last day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. If you are interested you can buy some gifts for your friends and families from Nepal. You can also explore some interesting places in Kathmandu. Remember, Mountain Guides Trek and Expedition will be hosting a fantastic celebration "Farewell dinner" at a traditional Nepalese restaurant along with Mountain Guide Trek staff on the occasion of the successful completion of the Manaslu Circuit Trek before final departure from Nepal. Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight,  a representative from Mountain Guide Treks will lead you to the airport. 

Cost Details

Includes
  • Airport pick-up drop service
  • All land transportation as per itinerary
  • Luxury Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a BB basis.
  • "A Farewell dinner party" before departure day from Nepal. (Optional)
  • Guest house accommodation     (sharing in 2 bed-room)
  • 3 meals per day (Breakfast, lunch, Dinner) during the trek (drinks excluded)
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging.
  • An experienced porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) includes (salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging).
  • Down jacket, sleeping bag ( Mountain Guide treks & Expedition kit ) trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bags,  to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National park permit, TIMS, Special permit, rural municipality permit )
  • A comprehensive medical kit(carried by a guide)
Exclude
  • Nepal entry visa: you can get a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu (A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos)
  • International airfare
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary
  • Extra nights accommodate because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any personal reason) besides itinerary.
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • All kinds of drinks and beverage
  • Trekkers' personal  and extra expenses (telephone, laundry, wifi, bar bills, battery recharge, water bottle, hot shower and so on)
  • Personal trekking equipment & clothing
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Any donation and monuments entrance fee
  • Everything not in the included section

Note:- The cost includes and excludes section may give you a better idea of how the trip is organized. Once you let us know the number of interested travellers and the departure date we would get back to you with the actual cost for the trip.

Equipment

Head
  • Light or warm fleece hat.
  • Watch with light & alarm
  • Sun hat and scrap
  • Sunglasses
Upper Body
  • T-shirts (4)
  • Light and expedition-weight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or sweater
  • T-shirts (4)
  • Light and expedition-weight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or sweater
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
  • Body lotion/Anti-sunlight cream
Hands
  • Playing cards
  • Lightweight gloves (water/windproof)
  • Trail map and guidebook
  • Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower Body
  • Underwear (4)
  • Hiking shorts (4)
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Lightweight thermal bottoms
  • Fleece or wool pants
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Feet
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks (4-pairs)
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4-pairs)
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
Accessories
  • Sleeping bag
  • Money belt
  • Head touch and batteries
  • Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
  • Water bottle
  • Toiletries
  • Small wash towel
Optional Items
  • Swiss Knife
  • Playing cards/backgammon/chess set
  • Trekking map
  • Books (Highly Recommended)
  • Camera & extra batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Reading books
  • Journal & pen
  • Photo of home/family
  • Energy/protein bars (optional)

Dates & Price

Start Date End Date Seats Available Price Book
2022-11-14 2022-11-29 10 1390 Book Now
2022-11-16 2022-12-02 8 1390 Book Now
2022-11-20 2022-11-06 12 1390 Book Now
2022-11-23 2022-12-09 10 1390 Book Now
2022-11-27 2022-12-13 10 1390 Book Now
2022-11-30 2022-12-16 12 1390 Book Now

Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map

FAQ's

Mt. Manaslu, located in the northern Gorkha region of Nepal, has consumed more than 65 lives so far and will continue to do so until the end of 2022. The avalanche that occurred in the month of September ended the life of a famous American ski mountaineer, Hilary Nelson. The same "Killer Mountain" is revealed as "the mountain of the spirit" by the locals. 

Furthermore, with its treacherous summit, Manaslu is the world's eighth-highest mountain. To be able to reach the peak summit, one needs both solid technical proficiency and expertise. Most people climb it before Everest in order to learn about the risks of mountain climbing. Furthermore, the sudden avalanches that can occur at any moment, the steep cliffs, and the lower level of oxygen make Manaslu a killer mountain.

Among top ten classic mountains in the world above 8000+, Manaslu, K2 and Everest are regarded to be the toughtest mountain peaks. Everest (8848.84m) and Manaslu (8163m) both are technical mountains and are quite challenging even for climbers with high expertise. But the climbers regard Manaslu as a "Killer Mountain" because you may have to face the risk of altitude, avalanche, and climate. Whereas the summit level climb of everest is quite difficult and many climbers lose their life in "death zone". 

Manaslu region trek is a Moderate/ Difficult level trek. Manaslu Circuit trek circles the periphery of the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Remember this is a mountainous region and we can have the risk of altitude sickness. The daily pace during the hike remains 6-7 hours.  The circuit consist of rivers, gorges, forest, villages, terrace farm land, lakes, snow line areas, and some of the passes. Normally, your trek starts on the second day of your arrival and it can extend up to 13-18 days depending upon your time and priority.  Kathmandu- Soti Khola (small town) - Sama Gaun are some of the major places you will explore.

The cost for Manaslu region trek depends upon many things. It includes trek permit, transportation, government tax, lodging, fooding, porter charges, phone calls and wifi, the days you spend there and the activities you get involved with. The normal charge for the trek is 1200-1500 U.S dollar. If there  are many in  group then the cost can be lower and if the travellers are few the charges can be more. So it is always better to trip during the season. (autumn-spring). 

Mt. Manaslu is situated to the northwest of Nepal's capital city Kathmandu in the remote village of Gorkha district. The base camp can be reached after 5-6 days of the hike. 

Definitely, Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the best hikes in Nepal.  It is comparatively easier than the Everest circuit trek and is within a few days' reach from the capital city of Kathmandu.  

The height of Mount Manaslu has not recently been determined. With a height of 8163m, Mt. Manaslu now holds the record for being the eighth-tallest mountain peak in the world.

A world-famous ski mountaineer Hilaree Nelson died after Manaslu's avalanche on 26 September 2022. 

Hilaree Nelson went missing after an avalanche in Manaslu mountain on 26 Sep. 2022. Two days later, on the 29 Sep, her dead body has been found. Nelson's dead body has been cremated by a Buddhist monk according to Buddhist rituals. 

The porters and guides for the Manaslu Circuit trek are highly skilled and experienced with government licenses. Besides Mountain, Guide and Expedition Trek Agency provides you with reliable visitor-friendly porters and guides.  

In case of emergency, oxygen cylinders are needed for the Manaslu Circuit trek. The trekkers typically don't carry oxygen cylinders when traveling.

Internet services are provided by most of the lodges and teahouses during the Manaslu Circuit trek. They normally add a few more charges on their services for the internet/wifi. 

A Trek permit is compulsory all over Nepal for foreign visitors. The visitors can collect their permit/pass by submitting their required documents. In case of confusion, you can ask for help from the travel agency. 

If needed you can buy a paper map for the Manaslu circuit trek. The maps are available in the bookstores in Thamel. 

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