Manaslu Circuit
Restricted-area circuit around Mt Manaslu (8,163 m) over the 5,160 m Larkya La pass. 14 days, three permits, mandatory guide.
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit is the connoisseur’s alternative to Annapurna — a remote, restricted-area trek around the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu (8,163 m). It crosses the Larkya La pass at 5,106 m and carries far fewer trekkers than the classic circuits, rewarding you with raw Himalayan scenery and deeply Tibetan-influenced highland culture.
Because it is a restricted area, the Manaslu Circuit requires a special permit, a minimum of two trekkers, and a licensed guide — you cannot trek it solo. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki river gorge up through Gurung and Tibetan villages, past the monasteries of Lho and Samagaon, before the high crossing into the Annapurna region.
It is a strenuous teahouse trek with genuine wilderness feel and excellent acclimatisation built around Samagaon. Autumn is the prime season; the trek can be linked with the sacred Tsum Valley for a longer cultural journey.
Highlights
- ▸Circle Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s 8th-highest peak
- ▸Cross the Larkya La pass (5,106 m)
- ▸Restricted-area trail with a fraction of the crowds
- ▸Tibetan-Buddhist culture at Lho, Samagaon and Samdo
- ▸Side hike to Manaslu Base Camp or the Birendra glacial lake
- ▸Optional extension into the sacred Tsum Valley
Day-by-day itinerary
Most trekkers · arrival day in Kathmandu · 2 acclimatisation days · best pass-day success rate (~95%)
What's included — from $1,100
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and national-park / conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between Kathmandu/Pokhara and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork (TIMS where required)
- ✓Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), MCAP and ACAP
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals in Kathmandu / Pokhara and on rest days in cities
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, device charging and bottled/boiled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed under “included”
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost in 2026?
A guided Manaslu Circuit trek typically costs USD 1,000–1,500 per person. The restricted-area permit adds a per-day fee (higher in September–November), and the mandatory guide plus two-person minimum are built into the price.
Do I need a special permit for Manaslu?
Yes. Manaslu is a restricted area requiring the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) plus the MCAP and ACAP conservation permits. You must trek with a licensed guide through a registered agency and have at least two trekkers — solo trekking is not allowed.
How hard is the Manaslu Circuit?
It is graded Strenuous. The Larkya La pass (5,106 m) day is long and demanding, and the trail is more remote with fewer facilities than Annapurna. Good fitness and solid acclimatisation are essential.
How many days does the Manaslu Circuit take?
The standard itinerary is 14–16 days. Adding the Tsum Valley extension brings it to roughly 18–21 days.
When is the best time to trek Manaslu?
October–November is ideal, followed by March–April. The Larkya La can be blocked by snow in deep winter, and the monsoon makes the lower gorge wet and leech-prone.
Can I trek Manaslu solo?
No. As a restricted area, Manaslu requires a minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency. Lekaly matches solo travellers into groups to meet the requirement.
Is Manaslu better than the Annapurna Circuit?
It depends what you want. Manaslu is wilder, quieter and more culturally Tibetan, but more remote with fewer comforts. Annapurna is more accessible and varied. Many experienced trekkers now prefer Manaslu for its solitude.
How remote is the Manaslu Circuit?
Quite remote — teahouses are simpler and further apart than on Annapurna, and connectivity is limited. This is part of its appeal, but it means good preparation and a capable guide matter more.
Related treks
Plan Manaslu Circuit with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.