13 Sep 2023 7 min to read
Overview
‘All About Manaslu Circuit Trek‘ article is here to give ideas and insights for interested trekkers planning to explore this isolated region. Manaslu Circuit Trek’s journey takes you through lowlands to alpine pastures offering diverse mesmerizing vistas. Navigate through beautiful authentic villages, and banks of rivers, and admire cascading waterfalls. Walk past diverse fauna and flora with a backdrop of towering snow-capped Manaslu, Annapurna II, Hiunchuli, etc. in the vicinity of the Manaslu Conservation Area. The highlight of this Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the Larkya La at an elevation of 5106 m which is challenging and satisfying at the same time. Interact with locals, immerse in their culture, and adore their warm hospitality. Just be a part of this amazing trek and experience the untouched natural beauty of the Manaslu Region at its best.
Highlights
- Untouched natural beauty of the Manaslu Region
- Crossing the Highest pass Larkya La (5106 m)
- Traverse through the bank of rivers and cascading waterfalls
- Majestic views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Hiunchuli, and other peaks
- Beautiful villages, friendly locals, their culture, and traditions
Facilities during the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Accommodation
Teahouses or lodges owned and operated by locals are accommodations during the trek. The teahouses are simple with basic facilities and provide beds, pillows, and blankets. In the lower regions, there are attached bathrooms and as you go higher bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Enjoy facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, hot showers, and charging electronics by paying an extra charge.
Meal
The meal options are limited but full course 3 time meals are provided during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The main dish is Dal-Bhat which is an energy-giving meal served with fresh green vegetables and some pickles. Noodles, eggs, roti, soup, and hot drinks are other available options.
Drinking water
Tap water, boiled water, and bottled water are the drinking water options during the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We suggest carrying a water bottle, and water purifying kits for safe drinking water. Pay an additional cost for boiled water in the teahouses.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
For the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons. Both these seasons offer clear views, enjoyable weather, and stable temperatures. As the region is remote, during these seasons accommodation availability and comfortable trekking trail is the major highlight. Winter and Monsoon seasons offer unpredictable weather and unstable temperatures. Thus, only suitable for experienced or daring trekkers.
Trekking Permits
Manaslu Circuit Trek lies in a restricted region and requires the following permits:
a. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
USD 100/week per person + USD 15/person per day (beyond a week) [Sep-Nov]
USD 75/week per person + USD 10/person per day (beyond a week) [Dec-Aug]
b. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
USD 30/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC)
c. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
USD 30/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC)
d. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
NPR 2000/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC)
NPR 500/person (Foreign Officials & and their families)
Trek Route for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The trek route for Manaslu Circuit Trek commences from Soti Khola and ends at Dharapani.
Trek Route:
SotiKhola-MachhaKhola-Jagat-Deng-Namrung-Lho-SamaGaon-Samdo-Dharmasala-Bhimtang via Larkya La-Tilje-Dharapani
How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is termed a moderately difficult trek. The off-beat trekking trail, inaccessibility, rough ups and downs, and elevation gains are the challenging factors in the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Despite these challenges, trekkers with good fitness can complete this trek.
Altitude Sickness in Manaslu Circuit Trek
Getting Altitude Sickness in the Manaslu Circuit Trek is normal considering the high elevation factor. Trekkers can experience altitude sickness as the altitude rises. Therefore, acclimatization rest is mandatory. To prevent altitude sickness, follow the guide’s instructions and consult with a guide or experts if any doubts.
Symptoms and Preventions for Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness’s common symptoms are:
Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.
Preventions for Altitude Sickness are:
- Take an acclimatization rest
- Inform the guide
- Climb slowly and gradually
- Keep yourself Hydrated
- Avoid alcohol and salty foods
- Know your body limit
- Take a complete rest and sleep
- Take medicine consulting a guide
Physical Fitness for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The remoteness of the Manaslu region and off-beat trail make Manaslu Circuit Trek challenging. The tough trails with steep ascends and descends, high elevations, and long hours of walking daily demand good physical fitness from trekkers. Hence, we recommend trekkers participate in exercises like cardio, jogging, swimming, and short hikes before starting the Manaslu circuit Trek. Eat healthy food, do proper health check-ups, and consult a doctor if necessary.
Proposed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival, welcome and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Trek Briefing, Trek Preparation (Optional- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing with extra cost)
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (900m)
Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1340m)
Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1860m)
Day 07: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2100m)
Day 08: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3200m)
Day 09: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon (3500m)
Day 10: Acclimatization and exploration day.
Day 11: Sama Gaon to Samdo (3875m)
Day 12: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4460m)
Day 13: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimtang (3590m) via Larkya La pass (5106)
Day 14: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilje (2300m)
Day 15: Tilje to Dharapani (1725m) trek & drive to Besisahar
Day 16: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner in the evening
Day 17: International Departure
Note: We offer Manaslu Region Trek packages of 14 to 17 days, to choose from that best suit your preferences. Itinerary Customization is flexible with us.
Packing List
Sturdy hiking boots
Rubber sandals
Windcheater jacket
Thermals
Down Jacket
Fleece
Long sleeve shirts
Full finger Gloves
Towels
Inner garments
Trekking pants
Trousers
Shorts
Socks
Sleeping bag
Down jacket
LED headlight
Water bottle
First-aid kit
Water purification solution
Trekking poles
Raincoat
Sunglasses
Socks
Thermal cap
Sunscreen
Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs
Is a special permit required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, a special trekking permit called the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Do I need a guide for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory and it is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to its challenging nature and limited infrastructure. A guide can provide navigation assistance, cultural insights, and help with accommodation arrangements.
Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek independently?
No, you can’t independently trek Manaslu Circuit Trek as it is a restricted region and requires a compulsory guide.
Are there any age restrictions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
There are no specific age restrictions for the Manaslu Circuit Trek but children below 15 require parental assistance. However, due to its challenging nature, it is recommended that trekkers be in good physical condition and have previous trekking experience.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, having travel insurance is highly recommended for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It should cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, loss of belongings, and other unforeseen circumstances. Make sure to read the policy carefully and check if it includes high-altitude trekking.
Can I extend or customize the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be extended or customized according to your preferences. Discuss your requirements with a trekking agency or guide to tailor the itinerary to your needs.
