Manaslu Circuit Trek
A wild, restricted circuit of the world’s eighth-highest peak — crossing the 5,106 m Larkya La through deep Tibetan Buddhist country.
About this trek
Manaslu is the connoisseur’s circuit: as varied as Annapurna once was, but far quieter and protected as a restricted area, so a licensed guide is mandatory. The trail climbs from steamy river gorges through increasingly Tibetan villages to the foot of Manaslu itself, crossing the high Larkya La pass before descending toward the Annapurna foothills.
It demands fitness and good acclimatisation, with a rest day at Samagaon before the pass. In return you get one of the Himalaya’s great walks, on trails where you’ll often have the mountains to yourself.
Trek highlights
- Cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m)
- Close-up views of Manaslu (8,163 m)
- Deeply Tibetan villages of Sama and Samdo
- Restricted, wonderfully quiet trails
- Dramatic river gorges and suspension bridges
- Optional side trip to Manaslu Base Camp
The itinerary
A typical day-by-day plan. We tailor pace and rest days to your group, and your guide adjusts on the ground for weather and acclimatisation.
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Arrive in Kathmandu
1,400 mAirport transfer, evening briefing, permit formalities and gear check.
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Drive to Machha Khola
870 mA long, rough and scenic drive to the trailhead on the Budhi Gandaki.
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Trek to Jagat
1,340 mFollow the river gorge past waterfalls and into the restricted area.
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Trek to Deng
1,860 mCross repeated suspension bridges as the valley narrows and steepens.
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Trek to Namrung
2,630 mClimb into the first distinctly Tibetan-Buddhist villages.
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Trek to Samagaon
3,520 mBig mountain views open up as you reach the largest village on the route.
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Acclimatisation in Samagaon
3,520 mAn acclimatisation hike toward Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra lake.
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Trek to Samdo
3,860 mA short stage to the last permanent village before the pass.
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Acclimatisation in Samdo
3,860 mA hike toward the old Tibet trading pass to aid acclimatisation.
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Trek to Dharamsala
4,460 mA short climb to the simple high camp below the Larkya La.
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Cross Larkya La to Bimthang
5,106 mA long, demanding pre-dawn crossing of the pass, then a knee-testing descent to Bimthang.
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Trek to Tilije
2,300 mDrop through forest and pasture into the Annapurna foothills.
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Trek to Dharapani
1,960 mJoin the Annapurna Circuit trail at the valley junction.
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Drive to Kathmandu
1,400 mA long mountain drive back to the capital.
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Departure
1,400 mAirport transfer for your onward flight, or extend your stay.
What's included
In your trip price
- Private ground transfers to and from the trailhead
- Licensed guide plus a mandatory restricted-area permit
- Insured porter team (one porter per two trekkers)
- Manaslu Conservation Area and special permits
- Teahouse lodging throughout the trek
- Three freshly cooked meals a day on the trail
- Group medical kit, pulse oximeter and first aid
Not included
- International flights to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (required)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Drinks, snacks and personal expenses
- Tips for your guide and crew (at your discretion)
From people who walked it
4.9 / 5 from 76 verified reviews
The Himalaya I’d dreamed of — wild, quiet and deeply moving. Flawless permits and logistics.
Larkya La was the hardest day of my life and worth every step. A crew I’d trust anywhere.
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Make the Manaslu Circuit yours
Tell us your dates and we’ll tailor this itinerary around you — at no cost until you book.