7 Days Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. The peace and solitude in this trek are unlike any other destination in Nepal. The scenic views of Manaslu and other mountains including the Annapurna range are wonderful in the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek lies above the foothills of the Gorkha District. You will encounter people of various ethnicities like Brahmins, Chhetris in the lower regions. But as you trek to the high altitude regions, you will meet Gurung people. The Gurungs of this region are adherents of Tibetan Buddhism.
You can see the influences of Tibetan Buddhism in various places along this trek. During your trek, you will get to various monasteries like Kargyu-Pemba Chholing Gompa, Labrang (Lama’s Place) Gompa, Pungyen Nunnery, etc. These monasteries let you explore the Buddhism of this region. These monasteries are also set beautifully amidst the mountains surrounding this region.
Manaslu Circuit Trek by Mount Mania starts after a scenic drive through the hills surrounding Kathmandu valley to Arughat and finally to Soti Khola. The trekking trails then take you along the gushing waters of Budhi Gandaki river.
The trail passes through several farmlands, bamboo, rhododendron, oak, and pine forests as you trek to the highest point of this trek in Larkya La pass. This pass is set at an altitude of 5125 meters. The pass is one of the best vantage points to view several mountains like Pawar Peak (6,620m/21,720ft), Cheo Himal (6,820m/22,376ft), the Himlung pyramid (7,126m/23,380ft), Gyaji Kung (7,030m23,065ft), Kang Garu (6,981m/22,905ft) plus Annapurna II (7,937m/26,041ft).
One of the best places during the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the village of Samagaon. You will spend a day acclimatizing to this village. Exploration of this wonderful place includes the visit to the various Gompas as well as mountain viewing spots.
After crossing the Larkya La pass, you will descend into the dense forests of the Manaslu Conservation Area. You will cross some picturesque villages along the way like Samdo and Bimthang before finally getting to Dharapani. From Dharapani, you will take a bus ride to Kathmandu. You can also extend this trip to Tsum Valley.
Manaslu Trekking Permit Cost
Manaslu Restricted Permit Fee
Manaslu trek permit from September to November (Autumn) will cost USD 100 for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional days Manaslu trek permit from December to August (Winter, Spring, and Summer) will cost USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 for each additional days
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Fee
MCAP Entry Fee for SAARC: NRs.1000 per person MCAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NRs. 3000 per person
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fee (ACAP)
ACAP Entry Fee for SAARC: NRs. 1000 per person ACAP Entry Fee for other nationals: NRs. 3000 per person
It is not possible to do the Manaslu Trek without a guide because the area from Jagat to Bhimthang is a restricted zone. You can't go trekking by yourself; you have to be with at least one guide or porter who has a license from the government.
Mount Mania invites you to this culturally, as well as a natural, blessed place of Manaslu. Its fresh trekking trails with awesome landscape and an astonishing backdrop of mountains are every trekker’s delight.
7 Days Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary
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Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat by Local Bus (180km / 6-7 hrs. 1360m)
Today, you will head out to the starting point of your trek i.e. Machha Khola. You will take a bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The route of the bus takes you along the Prithvi Highway. The road you through the middle hills till Malekhu. From Malekhu, a 30km road takes you north along the Trishuli river as you head towards Dhading Besi. A further 35-kilometer drive along a dirt road leads you to Arughat. As the road gets winding up to Gola Bhanjyang, you can see panoramic views Ganesh, Baudha and Manaslu Himal. A further 4 hours of ride leads you to Machha Khola. The bus ride countinue to Machha Khola is 9-10 hours.Then Change bus to jeep countinue Drive to jagat 2 hrs (1410m)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 180km / 6-7 hrs
Altitude: 1360m
Day 2: Trek from Jagat to Bihi Phedi (25km 7-8 hrs / 1900m)
After breakfast at a teahouse in Jagat, you will embark on your trekking journey. A gentle uphill trek followed by a trek along level fields takes you to a suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki. After crossing this suspension bridge, you will get to Philim. Philim is a large Gurung village that is home to small serene monasteries, stupas and prayer flags. You will have your lunch in Philim.
After lunch, you will trek through a flat leveled path. This path is inside pine and rhododendron forests. During the trek, you will also cross a few bridges that overlook quaint villages afar. After trekking for 6-7 hours from Jagat, you will arrive at Bihi phedi (1900 meters). Deng is home to a few houses. You can also enjoy an amazing waterfall lying at a small distance from Deng. This is an agricultural village that is famous for its potatoes, and buckwheat, barley, wheat, cabbage, & spinach. Deng is a village that is the point of entry to Kutang or lower Nupri (part of Tibet until the 1840s): It is a primarily a Gurung settlement with the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. They have their own language. The trail from Deng takes you along a winding path to Rana. After trekking past a series of uphills and downhills, you will get to a log bridge. After crossing a tributary from the bridge, you will get to an isolated water mill. Then you will descend gently along the trail to Bihi Phedi, which lies high above the river.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 1900m
Day 3: Trek from Bihi Phedi to Lho (19km 7-8 hrs/3000m)
Beyond Bihi Phedi, the trail descends as you cross the Serang Khola. Then, you will trek along a winding path that shapes up like an S. The path lies between sheer basalt walls. You can also see huge rocky crags to the right. You will also have splendid views of the waterfall above the maize and wheat fields. As you trek towards the northeast direction, the valley broadens. After trekking past a bridge and mani stone walls, you will reach the attractive village of Ghap (2,250m/ 7,382ft). Past the village of Ghap, you will trek through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests. On some days, you can also see birds like Impeyan pheasant (also known as Himalayan Monal)
This trail is above the steep descent of the river. For a short duration of time, you will trek to the north bank. Then you will head back towards the southern bank after crossing a bridge. After trekking for one hour from the bridge, you will reach Namrung. Namrung also has a police checkpoint for permits. Just before you get to Namrung, the trail overlooks Tum Khola from Tibet. This adds to the volume of water in Budhi Gandaki in the confluence. Namrung is a Tibetan village and serves as an entrance to Upper Nupri. As you trek past a mix of forest and barley fields, you will reach Lihi. You can see impressive chortens as well as great views of Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft) and Ganesh Himal. The trail then descends before entering a valley as you cross the Hinang Khola. After crossing Hinanag river on a bridge, you will trek along a steep uphill to a chorten, which offers spectacular views of Ngadi Chuli (7,873m/25,831ft).
As you trek further up a steep ridge, you will reach Lho. You can also visit a large monastery called Ribung monastery in Lho. You will then trek down a steep uphill before you reach Damonan Khola tributary. After trekking past a plateau, you will get to Shyala village (3,520m/11,549ft). Shayala overlooks many beautiful peaks like Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft), Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli, 7,873m/25,831ft); and Manaslu (8,156m/26,760ft).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 3000m
Day 4: Trek from Lho to Samdo (21km, 7-8 hrs/ 3860m)
As you trek further up a steep ridge, you will reach Lho. You can also visit a large monastery called Ribung monastery in Lho. You will then trek down a steep uphill before you reach Damonan Khola tributary. After trekking past a plateau, you will get to Shyala village (3,520m/11,549ft). Shayala overlooks many beautiful peaks like Himal Chuli (7,893m/25,897ft), Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli, 7,873m/25,831ft); and Manaslu (8,156m/26,760ft).
As you continue trekking, you will get to a bridge over Numla Khola. The trail then takes the left of Pungyen Gompa. After trekking for 6-7 hours from Namrung, you will get to Samagaon (3530 meters). Kargyu Chholing Monastery stands against a forested moraine around the edge of this village. From Samagaon, you can only see the upper sections of Manaslu and the Naike ridge.The initial part of today’s trek descends towards Budhi Gandaki. The trail is in the north towards the lake. You will walk along the Base Camp trail as you encounter several mani walls as the valley widens. The trek is relatively easy and lies a shelf above the river. You will walk past the forests of juniper and birch which surround Kermo Kharka. The trail then descends to a wooden bridge as you cross the Budhi Gandaki river.
Then you will trek along a steep uphill to a ridge that lies above the confluence of Budhi Gandaki and Mayol Khola. You will encounter a stone arch, and fields before you get to the entrance of the village. Although the place is an attractive one, it is primarily a yak and goat herding area. The village only turned out as a settlement in the late 1950s when Tibetans fled Tibet.
As you trek past these fields, you will get to several sets of flags on a high ridge. Here, you can catch superb panoramic views of Samdo Peak (6,335m/20,785ft) and its glacial basin, the Sama Valley, Manaslu range, Syacha Glacier, Dharamsala, and Larkya La pass. After trekking for 4-5 hours from Samagaon, you will reach Samdo (3860 meters). Samdo is the last village before Gho, in the Manang District. Only informal kharkas (with lodges) lie between these villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 3860m
Day 5: Trek From Samdo to Bhimthang via Larkya La pas (27km, 8-9 hrs/3720m)
You will trek past the fields in the northern village as you cross the Budhi Gandaki the final time. This will take place in the Larkya Bazaar site. The flow of the river takes it to the Pana Danda Valley in the north. You will then take the westward trail. You will trek past grassy slopes with scrub juniper, rhododendron and lichen covered granite. This trail is just above the Syacha Khola Valley. Along the way, you can also see the origin of Syacha Glacier, which descends from the Manaslu North ridge.
The trail works heads towards the Larkya Glacier. After trekking past the Larkya La Phedi, you will get to a settlement called Dharamsala (4460 meters). Today’s trek from Samdo to Bhimthang via Dharamsala is 4-5 hours long. A short walk from your guesthouse will take to a place with better views of the Larke (6,249m/20,503ft) and Naike (6,291m/20,641ft) peaks.
now continue you trek for 3-5 hours to ascend 800m/2,600ft to get to Larkya La Pass (5160 meters). You will then descend for 3-4 hours losing 1,500m/4,900 in altitude to get to Bimthang(3720 meters). If the wind blows, it can get really cold along the way. You have to be extra careful if you encounter ice and snow along the way.
The trekking trail from Dharamsala takes you along a gentle ascent to a ridge. Then will be a long gentle climb to the moraine. The trail along the northern moraine of the Larke Glacier is not quite steep. However, the trek is quite long and rocky. So you might find this a bit challenging. From the glacier, you can see the Larke Peak (Larke Himal) and Pawar Peak (Cheo Himal) on the south and north of the glacier respectively.
From the pass, you will trek uphill to an ablation valley. The trail then drops down to the first of four small scattered frozen lakes. As you trek uphill to the glacial moraine from the left, you will get to the first set of summit flags. The trail overlooks the Tibetan border ranges beyond Samdo Peak on the eastern side. There is a long moraine-ridge that is parallel to the Larke wall. A set of flags separates the Larke Wall. These flags are the markers of the border between the Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation areas.
This place is a wonderful point to see the various peaks like Pawar Peak (6,620m/21,720ft), Cheo Himal (6,820m/22,376ft), the Himlung pyramid (7,126m/23,380ft), Gyaji Kung (7,030m23,065ft), Kang Garu (6,981m/22,905ft) plus Annapurna II (7,937m/26,041ft).
After spending some time in Larkya La pass, you will start your descent begins from these prayer flags. The trail descends steeply from the moraine. Then you will get to a set of steep zigzags until you reach Dangboche Kharka (4,450m/14,600ft). The trail from Dangboche Kharka is not really steep. The trail winds along the lateral moraine of the Salpudanda/Bimthang glacier before getting to Bimthang Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 8-9 hrs
Altitude: 3720m
Day 6: Trek from Bhimthang to Dharapani (23km,7-8 hrs / 1960m)
Bhimthang is a beautiful settlement that gives you views of the Kechakyu Himal on the north and Manaslu’s northeast face. Bhimthang serves as a settlement of the people of Samdo village in the summer season. It was also an important trading post before the border to Tibet closed down. It was also a center of the Tibetan Khampa warriors around 1970.
Today’s trek begins as you walk past the Bimthang Plain. You will descend along a trail to cross the stony glacier before heading up a moraine to enter rhododendron and pine forest. All along this route, you will get wonderful views of Larke, Manaslu, Nadi and Chuli Himals. As you descend further, you will get to Hompuk and Sangura Kharka before reaching Karche. From Karche, you will trek past terraced fields and a steep uphill until you reach Gho.
The trail from Gho takes you through farmlands to Tilje (2,300m/7,546ft). From there, you will descend rapidly towards the Marsyangdi Valley in Thonje (1,960m/6,447ft) You will then join the new road along the main Annapurna Circuit route in Dharapani(3560 meters). Today’s trek is 5-6 hours long.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Distance: 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 1960m
Day 7: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu or Pokhara (8-9 hrs, 820m)
Today, you will head back to Kathmandu. You will follow the Prithvi Highway en route to Kathmandu. To reach our destination, we need to drive for about 7-8 hours by jeep and 9-10 hours by local bus. On the way, you can view natural waterfalls, rice-field, local house, forest, and streams.
English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
All Trekking Permits (ACAP, MCAP and Manaslu Special Permit)
Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner
Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed).
A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude)
All Government and Local taxes
Cost Excludes
International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
Travel and Rescue Insurance
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Drivers
Optional
Private jeep Kathmandu to Jagat USD300$ Per Transfer
Private jeep Dharapani to Kathmandu to USD275$ Per Transfer
Kathmandu Hotel Per Night Twin Sharing On BB USD 60$
Useful Information
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
The total length of the Manaslu Circuit trek is around 177 kilometers. You will be trekking for 8 days covering a distance of 15-20 kilometers every day.
Another factor that determines the difficulty of this trek is the uphills and downhills you will encounter along the way. Many times as you trek along the Budhi Gandaki river, the trek can be harrowingly steep. The trek up to Larkya La Pass is also quite challenging.
Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to the highest altitude of 5,213 meters in Larkya La Pass. The altitude is high enough to incite altitude sickness. The trails also can get quite breezy making the trails quite cold.
Taking all of these things into consideration, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a strenuous trek. As a result, you will have to be quite fit in order to complete this trek. 2-3 months of physical preparation will be necessary for you to complete this trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Time
Autumn (September, October, and November) is the most popular time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Autumn offers the most beautiful views of Manaslu as well as other mountains in the Annapurna Range.
Spring (March, April, and May) is the second most popular time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The rhododendron forests of the Manaslu Conservation Area light up beautifully in this season. The low rainfall in this season is another reason for the popularity of the spring season.
As you will trek to an altitude of more than 5000 meters in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the trek can be quite cold in the winters (December, January, and February) with temperatures going as low as -20 degrees C. In the summer season (June, July, and August), the trails can be quite wet with the monsoon. So you will have to pack and prepare extremely well to trek in these two seasons.
Yes, most nationalities can obtain a Tourist Visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. You can fill out the form online before arrival or use the kiosks at the airport. Be sure to have USD cash for the visa fee ($30, $50, or $125 depending on the duration).
Do I need to book in advance?
For the Manaslu Circuit, advanced booking (at least 2–4 weeks prior) is highly recommended. Because this is a restricted area, we need time to process your special permits, which require your passport copies, visa page copy and photos once you arrive in Kathmandu.
How do you transfer me from Tribhuvan International Airport to my hotel?
Our representative will meet you outside the arrivals gate holding a sign with our Company Logo. From there, you'll be driven via private vehicle directly to your hotel in Thamel or the surrounding area, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
Can I do the Manaslu Circuit without a guide?
No. The Government of Nepal classifies Manaslu as a restricted area. It is mandatory to have a licensed trekking guide and a minimum of two trekkers in a group to obtain the necessary permits.
Can your guide speak English?
Absolutely. All our guides are fluent in English and are trained to explain the culture, geography, and safety protocols clearly throughout the journey.
How experienced is your guide? How well do they know the Manaslu region?
Our guides have years of experience specifically in the Manaslu region. They are certified by the Nepal Government and have completed high-altitude medical training to ensure your safety and an enriched cultural experience.
Do I have to issue my own permit for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
No. As an individual, you cannot apply for these permits yourself. Only registered Nepalese trekking agencies can apply for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on your behalf.
What documents do you need for the permits?
We require a clear scan of your passport (valid for at least six months) and a copy of your Nepal visa (once you arrive in Kathmandu)
What permits do I need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
You need three main permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee
Mount Mania as a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu, we will apply all of these four permits.
Why do I need an ACAP Permit for the Manaslu Trek?
The Manaslu Circuit trail officially ends in Dharapani, which falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Therefore, an ACAP permit is required to legally exit the region through the Besisahar route.
What is covered in the amount I pay for the trek?
Typically, our packages include all necessary trekking permits, ground transportation from starting to end of the trip, an English-speaking trekking guide, strong porters, mountain teahouse accommodation during the trek, and three meals a day with one tea / coffee a day.
How much money do you recommend to take on the trek?
We suggest carrying $300–$500 (in Nepalese Rupees) for personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging electronic devices, bottled drinks, and tips for the staff.
What are the extra costs of the trek?
Extra costs include your international flights, Nepal visa fee, travel insurance (mandatory), tips, and personal trekking gear. On the trail, extra costs include snacks, soda/alcohol, and hot showers.
How much does it cost to trek the Manaslu Circuit?
Prices vary based on group size and service level, but a standard 14–18 day trek generally ranges between $1,200 and $1,800 USD.
How far is Manaslu from Kathmandu?
The drive from Kathmandu to the starting point (Soti Khola or Machha Khola) is approximately 140–160 km. However, due to mountain terrain, the drive takes 7 to 9 hours.
How high will I go on the Manaslu Trek?
The highest point is the Larkya La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 ft).
When is the best time to trek in Manaslu?
The best windows are Spring (March to May) for rhododendron blooms and stable weather, and Autumn (September to November) for the clearest mountain views and crisp skies.
Where is Manaslu?
Manaslu is located in the Gorkha District of Nepal, about 64 km east of Annapurna. It is the 8th highest mountain in the world.
How cold is it at Manaslu?
Temperatures vary by altitude. In the lower regions, it's pleasant (15°C to 20°C). However, above 4,000m, nighttime temperatures can drop to -10°C or -15°C, especially during late autumn and early spring.
What kind of food is available?
Tea houses serve a variety of meals including the traditional Dal Bhat (lentils and rice), pasta, noodles, potatoes, eggs, and pancakes. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Read this Manaslu Food Guide
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation consists of local tea houses (mountain lodges). Rooms are usually twin-sharing with basic wooden beds and blankets. They offer a cozy atmosphere and a warm communal dining hall.
I want a single room. What should I do?
We can arrange a single room in Kathmandu and at lower elevations. However, in higher altitudes (like Dharmasala), rooms are limited and sharing may be necessary during peak season.
Is it possible to have a shower on the trek?
Yes, most tea houses offer hot showers for a small additional fee (approx. $3–$5). As you get higher, showers may be "bucket showers" with heated water.
What is the ideal weight for my backpack?
If you are carrying your own gear, aim for 10–12kg. If you have a porter, your daypack should only weigh 4–5kg to carry your water, camera, and essential layers.
What is the weight limit for the porter?
A porter typically carries up to 20–25kg, usually shared between two trekkers (roughly 12kg per person).
Should I be worried about Altitude Sickness?
Altitude Sickness (AMS) is a risk on any trek above 3,000m. We design our itineraries with proper acclimatization days in Samagaun and Samdo to minimize risk. Our guides are trained to monitor your health daily.
How long is the Manaslu Circuit?
The total trekking distance is approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles), usually covered over 12 to 14 days of walking depending on the specific itinerary.
Highly recommend this trip! A friend recommended it to me, and I complete understand why. Landscapes are just insane. Ganesh was a great guide, took lots of care of us and adapted the trip to our wishes and needs. Price is also really fair taking into account that everything is included.
We had an amazing experience trekking through the manaslu circuit! Mountmania did everything to make the preparation and logistics smooth and our guide and porter were 2 of the friendliest, most knowledgeable and caring people we met in Nepal. Would highly recommend and we look forward to our next trek!!
What a great experience. Thank you to Mount mania - since I decided to do the trek just a week before the start and I had just 7 days to do it, I sent a request to Mount mania. Rupak was very helpful via whatsapp and the wish came true. The trek itself is perfect combination of Nepalese - tibets culture and nature. Old villages with not easy but happy life, colourful nature of rododendrons woods, alpine flowers and wild animals (marmots, mountain goats,...). The trek is demanding while doing in 7 days, but the guide Balu was very professional and planned accordingly to the situation. Balu recommended the best tea houses, traditional food (yes, mostly the Dal Bhat and the Mo-Mos are the must :). Thank you Balu, my friend, for showing the best of Nepalese heritage - kind and friendly man.
For those with prior high altitude, and/or long distance backpacking experience (i.e. 15-20 miles a day) I highly recommend 7-day Short Manaslu Circuit with Mount Mania. I just got back an amazing solo trip with Nima as my guide, and absoluetly recommend him. Initially I was unsure if the guides could keep up with the long hiking days, yet Nima handled it like a champ, and was able to set a good schedule and pace. His English is good, with a bit of an accent. I felt he was genuinely looking out for my safety and wellbeing the whole time.
My only critique with the front office, wish they could have been a bit more proactive with the communication. It would have been better to not find out last minute, that my tight schedule + arrival during Diwali/Tihar - would recommend hiring of private jeep transportation($). Yet in the grand scheme of things, this is small nitpick. I am extremely happy with my experience with Mount Mania, and the fact they delivered what they promised. I cannot recommend Mount Mania w/ Nima enough for those looking for a shorter Manaslu circuit hike.
