Why the Manaslu Circuit?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and crosses the dramatic Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m. It offers the big-mountain views of the Annapurna Circuit with far fewer crowds.
Along the way, trekkers pass through remote Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries and deep river gorges. It is one of the most rewarding teahouse treks in Nepal for those who want adventure and culture off the beaten path.
Trek at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Highest point | Larkya La Pass, 5,106 m |
| Duration | 14–16 days (including Kathmandu) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and lodges |
| Start / finish | Soti Khola or Machha Khola / Dharapani/Besisahar |
| Best seasons | Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) |
| Permits | Restricted area permit + conservation area permits |
Route Highlights
- Kathmandu to Soti Khola / Machha Khola: a scenic jeep drive into the Budhi Gandaki valley.
- Budhi Gandaki gorge: trails along the river, suspension bridges and waterfalls.
- Jagat to Deng: entry into the restricted Manaslu area and its remote villages.
- Namrung and Lho: first close-up views of Manaslu and colorful Buddhist monasteries.
- Samagaun: the main village and acclimatization stop, with side trips to Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp.
- Samdo: a Tibetan-style village close to the border.
- Dharmasala (Larkya Phedi): the base camp before the pass.
- Larkya La Pass (5,106 m): an early-morning crossing with panoramic views of Himlung, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II.
- Bimthang to Dharapani: a descent through forests, then a drive back to Kathmandu.
Our October group setting off from Thamel
Best Time to Trek
Autumn (September to November) is the most popular season, with clear skies, stable weather and the best mountain views. Spring (March to May) is the second-best choice, with warmer days and rhododendrons in bloom.
Winter brings heavy snow that can close Larkya La Pass, and the summer monsoon (June to August) means rain, leeches and landslide risk on the lower trail.
Permits and Guide Rules
Manaslu is a restricted area, so independent trekking is not allowed. You need at least two trekkers and a licensed guide, booked through a registered Nepali trekking agency.
Three permits are required:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), since the trek exits through the Annapurna region
Fees vary by season and length of stay. Red Rose arranges all permits for you, so you can focus on the trek.
Difficulty and Preparation
The trek is moderate to challenging, with 6–8 hours of walking on most days and a long, high-altitude pass day. No climbing experience is needed, but good fitness and proper acclimatization are essential.
- Train ahead: hike, climb stairs or do cardio for 6–8 weeks before the trip.
- Acclimatize: take rest days in Samagaun or Samdo and walk slowly at altitude.
- Pack warm layers: a down jacket, thermal base layers, gloves and a warm hat for the pass.
- Bring essentials: broken-in trekking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a headlamp and water purification.
- Get insurance: travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
Trek Manaslu with Red Rose
This October, our latest group set off from Thamel, Kathmandu, and is now on the trail toward Larkya La Pass. Our experienced, licensed guides handle permits, transport, teahouses and safety, so you can enjoy the mountains.
Ready to plan your Manaslu Circuit adventure? Contact us for upcoming departure dates and prices.
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: +977 9851123268
- Website: www.redrosetravelntours.com
