The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most awe-inspiring trekking routes, offering adventurers a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Encompassing Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the trek takes travelers through remote villages, stunning mountain landscapes, and challenging high-altitude passes. Unlike the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Treks, this journey remains relatively untouched, allowing for a more immersive cultural and natural experience.
Why Trek the Manaslu Circuit?
- Less crowded than Everest and Annapurna regions.
- Diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to rugged mountain terrain.
- Spectacular views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Ganesh Himal, and Himlung Himal.
- Authentic encounters in Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaun, Lho, and Samdo.
- Opportunity to extend the trek to Annapurna Base Camp for an extended Himalayan experience.
Trekking Route: Discovering Villages and Peaks
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Machhikhola
Day 2: Machhikhola to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat to Deng
Day 4: Deng to Namrung
Day 5: Namrung to Samagaun
Day 6: Samagaun Rest
Day 7: Samagaun to Dharmasala
Day 8: Dharmasala to Bhimtang
Day 9: Bhimtang to Dharapani
Day 10: Dharapani to Kathmandu
Day 1: Welcome to Nepal | Arrival
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (890m / 2,965ft)
Day 3: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m / 4396 ft)
Day 4: Trek to Deng (1897m / 6224ft)
Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2630m / 8626ft)
Day 6: Trek to Shyala (3500m / 11480ft)
Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaon (3530m / 11581ft) via Pung Gyen Gompa
Day 8: Acclimatization at Sama Gaon & Trip to Manaslu Base Camp (4800m / 15748ft)
Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3875m / 12713ft)
Day 10: Trek to Dharmasala / Larkya Phedi (4480m / 14698ft)
Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3728m /12231ft) via Larkya La Pass (5160m / 16,929ft)
Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1910m / 6266ft)
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu (1400m / 4344ft)
Combining the Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp
For those looking to extend their adventure, combining the Manaslu Circuit Trek with the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an excellent option. From Dharapani, trekkers can continue through Chame, Manang, and Ghorepani, eventually reaching Everest base camp This journey offers an immersive experience in the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by peaks such as Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.
The combination trek allows for an in-depth exploration of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, providing a mix of rugged wilderness and well-established trails.
Best Time for the Trek
- Spring (March to May): Warm temperatures and blooming rhododendrons.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and the best conditions for mountain views.
Trekking Permits and Regulations
Since the Annapurna Circuit special permits are required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and travel in a group of at least two.
Accommodation and Food
- Teahouses offer simple yet comfortable accommodations.
- Meals include Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodle soup, momos, and Tibetan bread.
- Higher elevations have limited facilities, so carrying extra snacks is recommended.
Trek Difficulty and Fitness Level
- The trek is moderate to difficult, requiring physical endurance.
- Trekking days range from 5 to 9 hours.
- Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential to prevent altitude sickness.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an unparalleled Himalayan adventure, offering trekkers the chance to explore remote villages, cross high mountain passes, and immerse themselves in Tibetan culture. While Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp are more popular, the Manaslu Circuit provides solitude, natural beauty, and a unique challenge for seasoned hikers.
For those wanting an extended adventure, combining the Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp provides a breathtaking experience of Nepal’s finest trekking trails. Whether traversing glaciers, remote settlements, or stunning valleys, this journey offers memories to last a lifetime.
