Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Manaslu Circuit Trekking Information:

14 days Manaslu Circuit Trek is a thrilling adventure around the world’s 8th highest mountain peak Mt. Manaslu (8163m), and the ancient Trans Himalaya Route of Nepal to Tibet, where heavy trade of yak caravan loaded with Nepalese goods crossed through Manaslu high valley in the past.

An exciting Manaslu Circuit trek is blessed with the natural beauty of towering peaks and rich Tibetan cultural villages. The high-altitude Manaslu Valley was opened to foreign visitors in 1991. However, this zone has been listed under restricted areas, where international travelers require a specialized permit to enter the Manaslu region.

Most people worldwide are unaware of the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail and its breathtaking scenery, lively with a fascinating Tibetan-influenced culture. The first ascent was by Japanese Expeditions on May 9th, 1956, and since then, it has been climbed by many mountaineers from various nations.

The name Manaslu comes from the ancient Sanskrit word ‘‘Manas”, referring to the mind or soul of a god, similar to the holy Lake of Manasarover near Mt. Kailash in Tibet. The local name is Kutang for Manaslu, meaning a paradise land for yielding rich crops of barley, wheat, and buckwheat, as well as other seasonal vegetables.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hiking adventure trip beginning from a lower warm farm country to more excellent green hills and then finally arriving at the alpine region of ice and glaciers. The exciting part of the hiking adventure traverses from the Manaslu and Gorkha districts to the Manang region crossing high altitude Larkye-La Pass (5,106 m/16,752 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Then the hike descends towards Dharapani village in Manang district, where the mesmerizing Manaslu Circuit trek is completed. However, the trekking trip can be adjoined with the famous Annapurna Circuit Trekking if one wishes to drive back to Kathmandu.

Best Time For Manaslu Circuit Trek:

The best time for the Manaslu circuit trek is the year of mid-spring, April to May, and Autumn /Fall from September to early November. The villagers migrate to lower warm regions from mid-November, most of Upper Manaslu, to escape the cold winter.

Springtime of April and May is a lovely time when most days are clear and sunny. Mornings, late afternoons, and nights are more relaxed, but days are warmer with enough sunlight. This is when wildflowers are in seasonal bloom, making the trek more enjoyable.

The temperature during Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from a minimum of -5 to a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius from above the elevation of 2,000 m high. The wind-chill factor adds extra cold during the mornings and late afternoon. You can expect snowfall above 2,000m on the Larke-La pass to Bumthang.

The Autumn season, September to November, is another best season for this beautiful hiking trip. From above 1,800 m high, the temperature ranges from a minimum of -05 degrees to a maximum of + 20 degrees Celsius. However, one can get extra cold due to the wind chill factor around higher altitudes. You can expect snowfall above 2,000m on the Larke-La pass to Bumthang.

Benefits of Booking Manaslu Trek with Vertex Holiday

• Expert Guidance: Vertex Holiday’s experienced English-speaking local guides who are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management, ensuring safety and enriching the cultural experience.
• Logistical Support: Vertex Holiday handle all necessary permits, internal flights, fod, accommodation bookings, and porter services, significantly reducing planning stress.
• Acclimatization Planning: Vertex Holiday design itineraries with carefully planned ascent rates and built-in acclimatization days, maximizing the chances of a successful and safe trek.
• 24 Hours Company Assist: Vertex Holiday Team member will assist during the trip.
• Airport pick up & Drop Service: Vertex Holiday will provide personal Airport drop and pick up any time.
• Customize Trip Facility: During the trip some reason cannot get right place that time company and staff help you customize trip.
• Nepali Sim Card: After arrival in Nepal , vertex Holiday provide per person 1 Ncell sim card with 20 GB Data for easy connection
• Free luggage store at Vertex Holiday office Store in Thamel

TIMS, Permit, and Special Permits require For The Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Manaslu Circuit Trekking does not require a TIMS card (Trekking Information Management Systems). Trekkers are obliged to obtain special permission to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, which is US$ 50.00 per person for 07 days with an extra US$ 07 for each day after the mentioned days in the itinerary.

The additional permit cost for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP) is US $ 30 per person. Vertex Holiday has added all the costs of permits to the trip cost on booking payments. The entry fee for SAARC Nationals is NPR 200 per person and for other Nationals is NPR 2,000 per person.

Why choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less crowded hiking destination due to its restricted region, though it is more expensive than other mainstream trekking areas. However, it is worth an ideal adventure to experience the raw, unspoiled territory of the Mid-West Himalayas of Nepal and its remote, isolated villages.

The culture and customs similar to Tibetan are an exciting aspect to witness, along with the Himalayan Buddhist-influenced lifestyle. Besides, grand views of the snow mountain range of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal, including peaks of the Annapurna Himalayan region, are a significant attraction during Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekking Difficulty and Challenges:

Graded as a difficult trekking trip, the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail consists of several ups and downs. However, entering Manaslu valley leads to gentle ups. Only the altitude gain makes it difficult.

Taking slow and steady with a few more minor stops makes the trek enjoyable; the only most challenging part is the steep climb of a few hours to Larke-La Pass. The rest of the trail is downhill to the end of the walk at Dharapani village.

Critical Of Travel & Medical Insurance:

Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance is compulsory to obtain from your respective home countries after booking the Manaslu Circuit Trek trip with Vertex Holiday. Trekkers need Travel Insurance in case of bad weather. This might lead to canceling the trek or diverting to other safe destinations. Extra expenses can sometimes occur due to roadblocks or political strikes leading to trek delays.

Medical Insurance is essential in case of unfortunate accidents, altitude sickness, or inability to continue the trek. Accordingly, trekkers need immediate medical attention and probably evacuation by the fastest means of transport, like a Helicopter service. It is your personal choice to buy insurance from a reliable company from your respective country before departure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude Sickness:

As the altitude rises, oxygen decreases in the atmosphere raising the chances of getting mountain or altitude-related sickness. The risk is high for trekkers living in lower altitudes during Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Proper acclimatization is therefore essential for venturing into the higher altitudes, where a day after a couple of days of trek is reserved. During an acclimatization day, a side hike to a higher elevation than that of the camp will help your body to adapt accordingly.

For a high-altitude adventure trip around the Manaslu region, Vertex holiday recommends acclimatization at Samdo to reduce the probability of altitude-related sickness for travelers.

Another point not to avoid acclimatization during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the high Himalayan pass of Larke La pass because this place is situated above 5000 meters and has beautiful climatic conditions to prepare for high altitude and to cope with the frequently changing weather situations.

Generally, trekkers might suffer from altitude sickness as they cross the elevation mark of 3500 meters. Therefore, it is recommended to drink plenty of water and rest after an hour of walking.

Some symptoms include ongoing dry cough, minor fever, headache, vomiting, dizziness, and loss of consciousness which couldn’t be treated with painkillers or water.

Trekkers must be aware of altitude sickness if they have any symptoms regarding altitude sickness. If any such symptoms appear, then you should consult your guide or trek leader.

But when they complete their journey to the Samdo, they will have already acclimatized until reaching the alpine region of Larkya La pass. After reaching High altitudes, their body will start to cope with the harsh environment.

Fitness for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Fitness and good medical care are essential for the Manaslu Circuit trek, as this trek leads to far remote areas of the Himalayas, where some days lead to strenuous walking and climbing for long hours.

Before or after booking this trip, the client needs to exercise like jogging, running, and walking for an hour or more every day before departing for Nepal.

Walking up and down the stairs also helps to keep you fit. Staying healthy and physically provided before or after the trek makes your adventure holiday more enjoyable and memorable. In case you are interested in accomplishing this or other holiday trekking trips. Please, feel free to contact us to customize your exciting Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary.

Porters and Guides:

Our guides have more than 5 to 10 years experience leading high-altitude hikes over the Manaslu,  Annapurna, Everest and other Himalayan regions and hold government licenses. They have received training in emergency response, first aid, and altitude sickness awareness. The majority of our senior guides have been trekking for more than eight to ten years. In order to keep clients informed about weather and trail conditions and to maintain safety, they also carry satellite phones and other essential communication devices.

Porter welfare is very important to us. No more than 20 to 25 kg of total equipment for two hikers is carried by each porter, and we make sure that each porter has access to:

• Proper attire and footwear for elevated elevations
• Appropriate food and lodging
• Medical and accident insurance
• Equitable compensation in accordance with national norms
• Enough working hours and frequent rest periods will help avoid weariness.
• Instruction on basic first aid and safe carrying procedures

Vertex Holiday Safety Protocols During The Manaslu Circuit Trek

At Vertex Holiday, your safety is our top concern. We take stringent precautions to guarantee a safe trekking experience, such as routine health examinations and continuous observation of altitude sickness signs while you are hiking. Our guides are prepared to offer emergency care if necessary and are equipped with complete first-aid supplies. In the event of an emergency, we arrange for quick helicopter evacuations; however, the customer or your personal insurance usually covers the evacuation expenses. Our Kathmandu office also offers round-the-clock assistance to help you during your trekking journey.

•  Acclimatization briefings and routine health examinations
• First-aid-trained guides with complete medical kits
• Coordination of emergency evacuation (helicopter if necessary)
• 24/7 assistance from the Vertex Holiday office in Kathmandu
• Small group sizes and dependable communication devices

Manaslu Circuit Trek Food and Accommodation:

The local lodge and guest house, also known as a tea house, offers meals and lodging throughout the day for each overnight trip. Food depends upon the standard of the lodge, where a simple basic lodge provides a simple food menu. In comparison, standard lodges offer a comprehensive food menu during Manaslu Circuit Trek. Staff cook meals in a healthy environment and adequately take care of hygiene.

Generally during the Manaslu Circuit Trek, tea houses serve meals from breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including snacks as per the menu of continental, Indian, Nepali, and Tibetan dishes. But in the high tourist season, especially at Dharmasala, with few lodges to accommodate a large number of trekkers, better to order similar food for everyone in the group to save time and fuel energy. The best choice would be the famous Nepali Dal-Bhat with lentil soup and well-cooked mild vegetable curries.

Accommodations are simple on the Manaslu Circuit trekking trail, as this trek is not as popular as the Everest and Annapurna regions. Whereas lodges are basic but have cozy rooms with clean beds and with large warm dining rooms.

Most lodges till Dharapani have shared toilets and bathrooms with single rooms. At Dharmasala, due to the flow of trekkers in the high season, trekkers might need to spend overnight in tented camps, with meals in the lodge restaurants.

• Pre-trek briefings to prepare the mind and body
• Assistance with paperwork and permits
• Eco-friendly hiking methods
• Assistance with medical or nutritional requirements (with notice)
• Tailored schedules and post-trek support

Major Attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the least ventured regions around the restricted and particular region Mid-Western Himalayas of Nepal. Enriched with diverse climates, landscapes, vegetation, and wildlife, bio-diversity is the major highlight, from lush green vegetation and tall rhododendrons, pines, and fir trees to arid and windswept country.

Exploring various cultures of different hilly ethnic tribes, including the Tsum and Nubri people of Mid-West Nepal. Visiting impressive cultural villages and monasteries, the hiking trail follows the ancient Trans Himalaya Caravan and Salt Trade Route of Nepal and Tibet.

Glorious views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna mountain range, Boudha, and Himal-Chuli Himal enhance the trek experience. High Larke-La Pass offers a breathtaking panorama of the Mid-West Himalayas range while traversing from one beautiful valley to another exciting destination.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Routes:

Various options for Manaslu circuit trekking routes are possible, where the motorable road has reached as far as Machha-Khola beyond Arughat town. Another choice is to drive to Dharapani village in Manang district and trek clockwise, crossing Larke-La and then Machha-Khola.

The most popular Manaslu Circuit trek route is an anti-clockwise trail, starting with a drive of around 8 hours to Soti-Khola and beyond to Machha-Khola.

The walk follows the Budhi-Gandaki River upstream past Tatopani (hot spring) to Jagat. A medium-sized hilly village with simple lodges for accommodation is the entrance to the restricted area of Upper Manaslu Valley. Entering the high country, past Philim, Deng, and Namrung to Lo-Gaon is a picturesque village below the majestic North Face of Mt. Manaslu.

Stop at Lo Gaon overnight with time to explore this beautiful village and Buddhist monastery of great religious value would be worth it during the Manaslu circuit trek. Then the hike ascends to higher terrain, and the vegetation and tree lines slowly fade into smaller bushes. Finally, the journey leads to the heart of Manaslu valley at Sama-Gaon, one of the largest hamlets of the upper Gorkha district.

It is a favorite stop for acclimatization at the height of 3,525 m. Sama-Gaon is an exciting village located on the route to the Manaslu base camp, Larke-La Pass as well to the Tibet border in the north direction. On the acclimatization day at Sama-Gaon, there are various exciting and scenic places for short hikes.

One can visit Birendra glacial lake (3691m). Which is on the way to Manaslu base camp a couple of hours walk, and back at Sama-Gaon for a pleasant overnight stop.

After an enjoyable and exciting rest at the Sama-Gaon hike, the Manaslu circuit trek heads to the last remote village of Samdo, ahead of Larke-La pass. Spending the night at Samdo, the trekking journey slowly ascends to the main highlights reaching Larke-La base at Dharmasala or Phedi.

Next early morning climb to the top of Larke-La Pass, the highest spot of the adventure at 5,106 m.

A long descent takes you to the base of Larke-La within the district of Manang at Bumthang. Heading Back into the dense forest, then journey downhill to Dharapani village, located on the Annapurna and Manaslu circuit trek route. Spending overnight on an exciting long drive brings you to Kathmandu after a great experience on the Manaslu Circuit trek.

The Longest Himalayan Pass -Larke La Pass :

Larke Pass, also known as Larkya La Pass, is one of the most popular longest passes in the Himalayan region of Nepal. It lies at an altitude of 5,106 meters (16,752 ft) above sea level, and between Dharmashala and Bimthang, the highest point of Larke La pass is a center point of destination for the world’s 8th highest Mt. Manaslu, 8,163 meters (26,781 ft) in the restricted area of Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Larke-La Pass is the barrier between the Gorkha district, Manaslu Valley, and the Manang area. The pass is decorated with thousands of colorful Buddhist prayer flags and a board with the name of the access and its elevation.

The key offers a fantastic panorama of Manaslu as far as Ganesh, Damodar Himal, Annapurna mountain range, and Manang Himal.
After crossing the highest spot of Larke La pass, the route connects with another popular trail of the Annapurna circuit and treks down gradually towards Dharapani village.

Essential Equipment for the Manaslu Circuit Trek:

For the Manaslu circuit trek, you will need sleeping bags, down jackets, good trekking boots, warm inner clothing, headwear for the sun and cold, Sun-block, and good water bottle, a hiking pole, and a crampon besides your belongings and necessary items.

If it’s too much to carry from home, one can buy or rent in Kathmandu at a reasonable price. Apart from this, Vertex Holiday recommends an essential equipment list for trekking here as they are helpful and provide good support.

Clothing Base:

• Layers 3–4 moisture-wicking T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
• 3 thermal base layers (top & bottom)
• Insulation Layers 1 fleece or down jacket
• 1 synthetic insulated jacket (for evenings)
• 1 fleece or wool sweater
• Outer Layers Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Waterproof pants (for snow or rain)
• Trekking Pants & Shorts 2–3 pairs of trekking pants (lightweight, quick-dry)
• 1 pair of trekking shorts (optional)
• Underwear & Sleepwear 7–8 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear
• 1 pair of thermal sleepwear

Headwear & Handwear:

• Headwear Warm beanie or wool hat
• Sun hat or cap (with neck protection)
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Sunglasses (UV-protected, glacier glasses recommended above 4,000m)
• Lightweight gloves (liner)
• Insulated waterproof gloves (for cold days)

Footwear;

•  trekking boots (waterproof, ankle support)
• Camp shoes (sandals or Crocs for teahouses)
• 8–9 pairs of trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
• 2–3 pairs of thermal socks

Bags Daypack:

• 25–30L (for daily essentials)
• Rain covers for bags
• Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep clothes and electronics dry)

Sleeping Gear: if you want to Use your own

• 4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C / 14°F)
• Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and hygiene)

Personal Items & Accessories:

• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L total capacity)
• Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, chocolates)
• Lightweight towel

Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, etc.)

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes & toilet paper
• Small first aid kit (with altitude sickness meds like Diamox, ibuprofen, blister care)

Electronics:

• Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
• Charging cables
• Plug adapter (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M sockets)
• Camera or smartphone

Documents :

• Passport + extra passport photos
• Copies of travel insurance (with emergency evacuation)
• Family Contact Person

Optional :

• (but useful) Trekking poles (collapsible, highly recommended)
• Gaiters (for snow or mud)
• Notebook/pen
• Altimeter or GPS app
  

  Conclusion for Manaslu Circuit Trek

  For Manaslu Circuit trek Vertex Holiday provides knowledgeable guides, dependable porters, strict safety procedures, and individualized support from beginning to end to guarantee a trekking experience that is secure, comfortable, and responsible. Vertex Holiday Company and staff are dedicated to make your trip to the Himalayas easy, fun, and unforgettable, whether that means helping you with permits, eco-friendly activities, or emergency preparation.

Tempature Table of manaslu Circuit Trek