Manaslu Circuit Trek: Complete Guide

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $100 (Peak: Sept–Nov) or $75 (Off-peak: Dec–Aug) for the first 7 days, plus $15 or $10 for each extra day.

• Solo trek: You may use such permits for a single person and trek to Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp. 

• Conservation Permits: Both the MCAP (Manaslu) and ACAP (Annapurna) cost NPR 3,000 (approx. $23) each, and TIMS cards are NOT required.

• Local Municipality Fee: A mandatory NPR 1,000-2,000 (approx. $8–$15) fee is collected by the Chumnubri Rural Municipality at the Jagat checkpoint.

• Road Connectivity: Most trekkers now save time by taking a 4x4 jeep from Kathmandu directly to Machha Khola, skipping the dusty walk from Soti Khola.

• Mandatory Guide: The government recently announced that trekkers can now trek solo, but a licensed guide is still required.

• Teahouse Tech: Improved solar and satellite infrastructure now provides Wi-Fi and charging in small towns like Samdo and Lho (fees apply).

• Pass Conditions: Micro-spikes are now standard gear for the Larke La descent, which remains icy well into Spring and late autumn.

Larkya La Pass (5,160 m) is one of the major highlights of this trek. It is the high mountain pass, the most demanding but most rewarding section of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

Larkya La Pass offers awe-inspiring sights and 360-degree panoramic views of the great snowcapped Himalayas, including Manaslu (8,163 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kang Guru (6,981 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m).

This section of the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires good physical strength. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. 

The best seasons for trekking on the Manaslu Circuit are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). These months offer clear skies and gorgeous green surroundings, making them ideal for high-altitude trekking in Nepal. 

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn is considered the perfect season in Nepal's Himalayas. During this season, the air is cool and crisp, with green surroundings and scenic horizons, with visibility of the Manaslu range and other surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Daytime temperatures are mild, around 15-20°C in lower elevations; as you trek higher, the weather gradually cools. You'll experience the best time in the Nepal Himalayas. 

Crossing Larkya La Pass is relatively easy during this season. Also, during this season, Nepal observes major festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhat. Trekkers can enjoy the festival with local people. 

Spring (March–May)

Spring is also an ideal time to trek in Nepal. Trails are alive with rhododendron blooms, alpine flowers, and wildlife activity. The temperature is warm and pleasant at lower elevations, but near the pass, it remains cold.

The views are generally clear in the mornings, though there are often afternoon clouds. This season is also ideal for photography; the contrast between snow-capped peaks and the blooming hillsides is simply striking.

Other Season

Winter (December–February): This is a freezing season, and Larkya La Pass is usually blocked by snow. It is considered dangerous to cross. The lower sections of the trek may be accessible, but the entire circuit is not recommended.

Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rain brings muddy trails, leeches, and landslides. Clouds often keep the views hidden. However, if you don't mind complete solitude and lush greenery everywhere, the Tsum Valley can be visited as a side trek off the Manaslu circuit.

Trekkers must hold the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. 

For the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, you'll need to pay NRS 3000 per person. 

All these permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board, or your travel company can arrange them for you.  

Food

The food options on the Manaslu Circuit Trek are basic and limited, but you'll have an excellent opportunity to sample local, authentic cuisine. They use local ingredients and add their own flavor. Your heart will be so happy. 

In the city area, you'll get a variety of food options, like traditional Nepali food, street food, or continental cuisine. 

Standard Food Options are: 

• Dal Bhat (Nepali meals) 

• Curry

• Momo

• Noodles

• Hot Thukpa

• Tibetan Bread 

• Bread and Omelet

• Pasta

• Fried Rice

• Chow mein

• Garlic Soup

• Tea, Coffee, and hot chocolate options

Note: Do not drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes. It is prohibited for high-altitude trekking. 

Accommodation

You'll get simple, cozy, and warm rooms to sleep in. During your trek on the Manaslu Circuit, you'll stay at a local teahouse that provides a wooden bed, a mattress, a pillow, and a warm blanket.

During peak season, you might need to share your room with other fellow trekkers. 

Bathrooms are shared, and hot showers will be available as you gain altitude. You'll need to adjust to the limited facilities, but you'll enjoy each day. 

Electricity may not be available as you gain altitude. Most people use solar energy at high altitudes, so if you need to charge your accessories, you may incur additional costs. 

Wi-Fi will be available in a few teahouses (Samagaon, Samdo, Lho), but connectivity is limited. 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately to strenuously difficult trekking trail in Nepal. This trek requires good physical and mental strength.

It does not require a technical climb, but the altitude, length, and rugged terrain require good physical and mental strength.

However, the rewards you will receive from your challenging trek make the journey worthwhile.

Proper acclimatization is essential when trekking in Nepal's high-altitude regions. Proper acclimatization helps to avoid altitude sickness, as trekkers will reach elevations above 5,000 meters.

Spending extra days for gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

We already mentioned that this area is restricted; therefore, solo trekking on the Manaslu Circuit is not recommended. You can connect with fellow trekkers and trek the Manaslu Circuit with your experienced guide.

Group Trekking can be incredible. Joining other trekkers or planning your trek with your group will make your Manaslu Circuit trek more enjoyable.

Groups usually range from 4 to 10 trekkers. Group treks are often more affordable, as costs for guides, permits, and logistics are shared. The only trade-off is less flexibility in pace and schedule.

Note: If you are a solo trekker and wish to trek the Manaslu Circuit, your travel agency will arrange a group permit, and you can trek in this area with your guide.

• Acclimatize properly – Give your body enough time to adjust to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.

• Carry sufficient cash – ATMs are scarce along the trek, so bring Nepalese rupees for meals, permits, and services.

• Hire a licensed guide – Solo trekking is prohibited; a registered guide ensures safety, permits, and a smooth experience.

• Start early for Larkya La Pass – begin the day early to safely cross the highest pass and enjoy clear views.

• Use micro-spikes or crampons – essential for icy sections on the Larkya La descent, especially in Spring and autumn.

• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water to maintain energy and help with altitude adjustment.

• Avoid alcohol at high altitudes – alcohol can worsen dehydration and increase the risk of altitude sickness.

Good packing is essential while trekking the Manaslu Circuit. Here is the crucial list of items to carry in your trekking bag.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking t-shirts and thermal underwear.

• Fleece jackets or down sweaters for warmth.

• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.

• Trekking pants and shorts

• Warm gloves and a hat

• Buff or scarf

• Wool or synthetic trekking socks

• Trekking boots, camp shoes, and sandals

Gear

• Backpack: 40–50 liters for trekking essentials.

• Daypack: For short excursions and essentials during the day.

• Sleeping bag: Rated for -10°C to -15°C for high-altitude nights.

• Trekking poles

• Headlamp or flashlight

• Water bottles or hydration system

• Water purification tablets or a filter

Personal Items

• Sunglasses

• High SPF Sunscreen & lip balm

• Toiletries

• Quick-dry towel

• Personal medications

• First aid kit

Electronics

• A camera or smartphone

• Power bank

• Universal travel adapter if needed.

Documents & Money

• Passport and visa

• Permits

• Cash in Nepalese Rupees

Optional Items

• Sleeping liner for extra warmth.

• Snacks

• Notebook or journal for documenting your trek.

Add-ons & Options

Boundless Adventure has established a remarkable reputation for providing thrilling adventures for many years. As the trekking market continues to grow daily, our service to clients is also expanding with the addition of new features.

This time, we have added an add-on feature with distinctive additional services. We have designed the add-ons section to meet your expectations and ensure every moment of your trip is full of excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.

Kathmandu to Macchakhola by Jeep

The journey to the Manaslu Circuit begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Macchakhola. As mentioned in our tour package, you will travel to Macchakhola by public bus. However, this add-on service offers a Jeep drive to Macchakhola from Kathmandu.

As you approach Macchakhola, the road conditions are unpaved; therefore, the jeep ride will be comfortable. One Jeep can carry up to six people, so if you are a group of six or fewer, please let us know, and we’ll arrange the Jeep for your journey to Macchakhola. The Jeep will be your private one, and the cost is US$ 290/- Per Jeep.

Beshishar to Kathmandu by Jeep

On your journey from the Manaslu Circuit, drive back through Dharapani to Besishar, then to Kathmandu. We offer a public bus to move back to Kathmandu as per our package. However, Jeep service is available upon request.

From Dharapani to Beshishar, public jeep service is accessible. From Besishar to Kathmandu, drive back in a comfortable private jeep or van, as you prefer. The cost for a jeep from Besisahar to Kathmandu is US$280/per Jeep.

Porter Cost

We have not included the Porter service for the 13-day Manaslu Circuit trek in our package, as hiring a guide is a subjective decision. However, we have a highly experienced porter who can handle all your equipment, giving you the freedom to trek on the Manaslu Circuit.

If you would like to hire a porter, please let us know. You can have a shared or private porter; note that one can carry up to 22 kg. Furthermore, one porter's costs US$ 308/- Per porter

Helicopter Tour to Everest

Most of our clients want to climb Everest after completing the Manaslu Circuit trek. Thus, we added a helicopter tour to Everest to the Manaslu Circuit package. The Everest Helicopter tour is 3 hours. Therefore, the tour is suitable for those with even less time to spare. 

Five people can travel in one helicopter; however, if there are more than five in your group, please let us know, and we'll arrange two helicopters to accommodate your group. We provide you with an AS350 B3 helicopter, the latest one, along with a skilled pilot. We guarantee each passenger a window seat to ensure a clear view of the Everest region.

The helicopter flies over the entire Sagarmatha National Park. However, experience the eye-catching view of the Langtang Himalayan Range, Gaurishankar Himalayan Range, Jugal Himalayan Range, Mount Everest Himalayan Range, and Rolwaling Himalayan Range from the comfort of your helicopter seat.

Furthermore, you'll have a landing at Pheriche to enhance the tour. A one-hour helicopter tour costs US$ 1,380 per person.

Tour to Everest by Plane

Keeping in mind travelers with limited time, we have included a plane ride to Everest in our Manaslu Circuit trekking package. The airplane flight is suitable for those with less time, as the tour lasts 1 hour. The plane takes off early in the morning from Kathmandu, Nepal's domestic airport.

Within an hour, travelers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Everest region. Mount Everest, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and other surrounding peaks will surround the visitors from outside. The Khumbu Icefall, terraced fields, and a traditional village are mesmerizing from the air.

A plane tour to Everest costs USD 240/-  per person, including ground transportation.

Medium to buying an Add-on

To get add-ons, you can follow straightforward steps

Phase 1: Click “Book this trip.” The bottom is at the right corner of the website, and continue filling in the blanks.

Phase 2: Fill in your details

Phase 3: Choose your trip details

Phase 4: Write your payment details.

Phase 5: You may choose Add-Ons as Options

Phase 6: Follow the payment details with the number of travels