Trail Nepal
Duration
14-18 Days
Difficulty
Challenging
Elevation
5,106m
Best Season
March - May
Starting Point
Kathmandu

Trek Overview

Everything you need to know about the journey

The Manaslu Circuit is Nepal's most compelling wilderness loop, tracing a complete circle around Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak at 8,163 metres through terrain that changes so dramatically it feels like several expeditions rolled into one. The route follows the ancient Budhi Gandaki river valley northward, climbing from subtropical gorges at 700 metres through dense rhododendron and pine forests, past thundering waterfalls and traditional stone villages, before breaking into the high alpine world above 3,500 metres. Culturally, the trail moves through Gurung, Nubri, and Tsum communities whose Tibetan Buddhist traditions have remained largely intact mani walls, centuries-old gompas, and prayer flags strung across glacial ridgelines mark every significant landmark. Because the circuit sits within a restricted area requiring a special permit and a licensed guide, the trail sees a fraction of the traffic found on Everest or Annapurna routes, meaning you will share the path with yak caravans more often than other trekking groups.

Trek Timeline

Day-by-day breakdown of your journey

Early departure from Kathmandu by jeep through Arughat and along the Budhi Gandaki river valley.

time7-8 hours (drive)distanceN/Aelevation700m

When Should I go?

Climbing windows and weather for Manaslu Circuit Trek

PEAK
DANGER
CAUTION
JAN
Closed
FEB
Closed
MAR
Good
APR
Peak Season
MAY
Warm
JUN
Beginning of Monsoon
JUL
Danger
AUG
Peak Monsoon
SEP
Post-Monsoon
OCT
Perfect
NOV
Excellent
DEC
Closing

What to Expect

Understand rhythms before you go

Manaslu Circuit Trek expectations

The Manaslu Circuit is Nepal's most compelling wilderness loop, tracing a complete circle aroun...”

Remote Wilderness LoopExperience one of Nepal's most pristine trails with far fewer crowds than Everest or Annapurna.

The Larkya La PassConquer the 5,106m pass for unmatched views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and the massive Manaslu.

Cultural FusionWitness the transition from Hindu-influenced lower villages to the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture of the high valley.

Challenging EnduranceTest your limits with a strenuous trek requiring stamina for multiple high-altitude days and basic teahouse living.

Gallery

Memories made during adventure

Manaslu
En route to Pung Gyen Gompa in Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Manaslu, Samagaun, Nepal
Trekking over Hillary Suspension Bridge
Trekking over Hillary Suspension Bridge
Trekking over Hillary Suspension Bridge
mountain-img

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Gear Checklist

Make sure you have everything you need

Progress0 / 9 Items

Essential

0 / 6 packed
0.70kg
1.50kg
0.40kg
1.30kg
0.50kg
0.40kg