Manaslu Trek Guide: Everything You Need to Know

The Manaslu Circuit is in theGorkha District of Nepal, northwest of Kathmandu. The trail circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) and passes through the Larke Pass (5,106 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.

Why Choose the Manaslu Trek?

The Manaslu region is often described as what the Annapurna Circuit used to be 30 years agopeaceful, authentic, and untouched. It sees far fewer trekkers compared to Everest or Annapurna but offers equally breathtaking views and cultural richness.

Here are a few reasons people choose Manaslu:

• Fewer crowds, more solitude

• Rich Tibetan-influenced culture

• Dramatic mountain views

• Remote villages and off-the-beaten-path experience

• Challenging high pass crossing (Larke La Pass)

How Difficult Is the Manaslu Trek?

This is a moderately difficult to challenging trek. Its not technicalyou wont need ropes or climbing gearbut it does require good fitness and some trekking experience. The biggest challenges are:

• Long walking days (68 hours daily)

• Steady elevation gain

• High altitude at Larke Pass

• Basic accommodation in remote areas

Most people can complete the trek without issue if they pace themselves and take time to acclimatize.

Permits Youll Need

The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so you'll need a few special permits. These must be arranged through a registered trekking agency. You can't trek the region independently.

Heres whats required:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (part of the trail overlaps with Annapurna)

• A minimum of two trekkers is required to get the RAP

Costs vary depending on the season, but budget around $100 to $150 total for permits.

Best Time to Trek

The best times to do the Manaslu Circuit are:

• Spring (March to May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and mild temperatures

• Autumn (late September to November): Best weather, great mountain views, and stable conditions

Winter can be very cold and the pass may be closed due to snow. Summer (monsoon) brings rain, landslides, and leechesgenerally not ideal for trekking.

Typical Itinerary (1418 Days)

The standard itinerary usually looks like this:

1. Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

2. Trek through villages like Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Namrung

3. Reach Samagaun (a key acclimatization point)

4. Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (optional acclimatization day)

5. Cross Larke Pass

6. Descend to Bimthang and then Dharapani

7. Drive back to Kathmandu

Youll gain altitude slowly, which helps with acclimatization. Side hikes like the one to Pungen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp are worth adding if you have time.

Accommodation and Food

Expect basic teahousessimple lodges run by local families. Rooms are usually twin-share with shared toilets. Heating is minimal, often limited to the common dining room.

Food is typical trekking fare:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables)

• Noodles, pasta, fried rice

• Tea, coffee, and basic snacks

The higher you go, the more limited and expensive food becomes due to transport challenges.

Cost of the Trek

A guided trek typically costs $1,200 to $1,800, depending on:

• Group size

• Trekking agency

• Inclusions (permits, transport, meals, guide, porter)

Independent trekkers (with a guide, which is mandatory) can manage the trek for a bit less by booking directly with local agencies.

Packing Essentials

Heres a quick list of what to pack:

• Warm layers (down jacket, thermal base layers)

• Rain gear

• Trekking boots (broken in)

• Sleeping bag (rated to -10C or lower)

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm

• Headlamp, water purification tablets, personal meds

You can rent or buy gear easily in Kathmandu if youre traveling light.

Final Thoughts

The Manaslu Trek is a great choice for anyone looking for a quieter alternative to the Everest or Annapurna regions, with rich culture and dramatic landscapes. Its a physically demanding journey but incredibly rewarding, especially for those who want a more remote and authentic trekking experience in Nepal.