While the Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit trek remain as the top choices for trekkers visiting Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit trek has become a go-to trekking destination for trekkers who are looking for tranquil, untouched, and less commercialized trekking routes.
Opened in 1992, the Manaslu Circuit trek only welcomed around 400 tourists. Now, this trek has become one of the excellent circuit treks in Nepal. Popular yet reserved, the Manaslu Circuit trek is an adventure of a lifetime and a visual feast for your eyes.
You will also explore many ancient stupas and monasteries along the trail. Likewise, there will be exciting side hikes to Pun Gyen Gompa and Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake. The locals are welcoming and hospitable, which makes the trek even better.
Every trek in the Himalayas is adventurous. What is different about the Manaslu Circuit trek? You do not get to trek to the base camp of the eighth-highest mountain on Earth, Mt. Manaslu, on other treks. FYP: Mt. Manaslu is also known as the Killer Mountain.
Trekking to Manaslu Base Camp is quite iconic. You will travel the less-explored western-central Himalayan range of Nepal. The trail goes through beautiful terraces, lovely mountain villages, lush hills, alpine meadows, and glacier moraines.
The variety of scenery you will get to behold on the Manaslu Circuit trek is unreal. The journey is scenic from the very first day. Circling the giant Mt. Manalsu, you will cross the snow-bound Larkya La Pass and descend to Annapurna.
Imagine a trekking route that is exceptionally panoramic and adventurous, lets you live your empty trail dream, rich in local culture and history, and most importantly, still carries the sheer essence of raw Himalayan adventure. This is what differentiates the Manaslu Circuit trek from other treks in Nepal.
Highlights
- Enjoy stunning mountain views of Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, Manaslu, Kang Guru, and many others
- Trek through diverse terrain and altitude, exploring many types of flora and fauna
- Spend nights in beautiful mountain villages and get to know the locals of the Manaslu region closely in Sama Gaon and Samdo
- Explore ancient stupas, monasteries, and chortens along the trail
- Trek through terraces, lush forests, alpine meadows, and glacier moraines
- Navigate landslide-prone areas and rockfall areas
- Hike to Pun Gyen Gompa and Manaslu Base Camp via Birendra Lake
- Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass
- Witness breathtaking landscapes from the start to the end of the trek
What is it like crossing the Larkya La Pass?
The Larkya La Pass section of the trail is the most challenging and stimulating. Crossing the pass requires a 4 AM start. You have to cross the pass before the strong mid-morning wind hits it.
The trail goes through narrow, unclear glacier moraines and ridges and involves steep climbing. Although the climb will be demanding, the view from the top of the pass will make you forget the tough hike.
When you think this is the last breathtaking view, you will be amazed to see what comes after you leave the pass and trek along a corridor to the west. A great glacial cirque comes into the picture.
It is a spectacular wall made by Cheo Himal, Nemjung, Gyaji Kang, Himlung Himal, and Kang Guru. The wall casts down a stream of glaciers while the massive Annapurna II rises ahead. This view alone is enough to make the entire Manaslu Circuit trek worth every second.
Why is the Manaslu Circuit a restricted area for tourists?
The Manaslu Circuit trek is a restricted area for tourists, and treks in this region are strictly regulated by the Nepalese government because of the following reasons:
- The upper part of the Manaslu Circuit is very close to the Tibetan border. Regulating entry in this region is important to ensure border security.
- The Manaslu region has a very vulnerable ecosystem and is home to rare wildlife such as snow leopards, red pandas, etc. Restricting tourism is crucial to their preservation and survival.
- Although the Manaslu region has a small population, the locals are deeply connected to their culture, traditions, and faiths. Controlling mass tourism, like in the Everest and Annapurna regions, helps preserve mountain history and culture.
- Advanced trekking routes such as the Manaslu Circuit are complex to navigate and involve high risks of injuries. So, it is important to trek with a local expert.
Is the Manaslu Circuit trek suitable for you?
- Treks like the Manaslu Circuit are suitable for trekkers who have previous trekking experience and good fitness. Do not take the Manaslu Circuit trek lightly. This trek is very demanding both physically and mentally.
- If you are an experienced trekker or high-altitude dweller, the Manaslu Circuit trek could be your next big adventure.
- Thrill-seekers and adventurers alike, looking to challenge themselves on an offbeat route, would love the Manaslu Circuit trek.
- You simply want to experience a circuit trek in Nepal.
- You are looking for an alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit trek.
How to prepare for the Manaslu Circuit trek 13 days?
Have you made up your mind to do the Manaslu Circuit trek in Nepal? Now, it is time to prepare for the trek. First, make sure you have 4 to 8 weeks on hand at a minimum if you are not a regular trekker.
During this time, you will exercise regularly to improve your stamina and strength, arrange the trekking gear, and collect all necessary documents, including your valid passport.
Also, see videos on Manaslu Circuit trekking and read blogs. The better you understand the trekking conditions of the Manaslu Circuit, the better your overall experience will be.
What is Tsum Valley?
Tsum Valley is one of the most secluded high-altitude valleys in Nepal. It is a hidden valley, completely untouched by modern development.
If you think Manaslu Circuit is pristine, explore the Tsum Valley. It is an exclusive trekking area off the Manaslu Circuit.
If you are interested, check out the Manaslu Circuit trek with Tsum Valley package or the Tsum Valley trek package.
Manaslu Circuit trek cost & booking
Our Manaslu Circuit trek cost starts at USD XXXX per person. You can get special discounts for large groups. If you have any questions regarding our Manaslu Circuit trek price, feel free to talk to us anytime.
Bookings are open for Manaslu Circuit trek 2025/2026 departures. We have fixed departures and a private trek option. Both solo trekkers and groups can join us for the Manaslu Circuit trek 13 days.
Why do the Manaslu Circuit trek with the Hiking in Himalaya team?
- Professional management team: Our management team is an expert in organizing treks and tours in Nepal. Your trip will be hassle-free with our professional team.
- Reliable local trekking team: All of our guides are from the mountain regions of Nepal, including Manaslu. They are trained to offer the best trekking experience to foreigners and have many years of expertise.
- Guaranteed departures: We do not cancel our trips. In the worst case, we may reschedule the departure date, and that only to ensure a safe trip.
- Customizable package: Our Manaslu Circuit trek package is totally customizable. You can change the itinerary and include or exclude services as per your wish.
- Airport pick up and drop off: For a smooth start and end to your journey with us, we provide complimentary airport pickup and drop off service.
- Easy and safe booking system: Our website is powered by an updated system that allows you to easily book the trek and make payments safely.
