(Viber, Whatsapp, Cell) +977 9851022814
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 17-day guided trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak. From Machha Khola, you follow the Budhi Gandaki River through forests and gorges to the Tibetan-style villages of Samagaun and Samdo, cross the 5,106 m Larkya La Pass, and finish at Dharapani, with two nights in Kathmandu at each end.
It is a restricted-area trek with far fewer trekkers than Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, so expect quiet trails, family-run lodges and real cultural contact. Our price includes your licensed guide, a porter for every two trekkers, tea-house lodging, four Kathmandu hotel nights and all permits.
Two acclimatization days are built in, so the trek suits fit walkers who want a challenge without the crowds. Guaranteed departures run on Nov 5 and Dec 5, 2026, and private dates are available for spring 2027. Read the full guide below or contact us.
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,325m/ 4,344ft)
Day 2 Sightseeing Kathmandu (1,325m/ 4,344ft) & Trek Preparation
Day 3 Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869m/ 2,851ft)
Early morning, leaving the city behind, a scenic drive takes you along winding mountain roads, terraced fields, and river valleys. Passing through Arughat and Soti Khola, you officially enter the Manaslu region. The journey is long but filled with dramatic landscapes, giving your first glimpse of the Manaslu Circuit Trek route and its rural charm. It's about 10-11 hours of driving off-road experience, but having black top and dirt road experience makes you have a full fun drive. Finally arrive at Machha Khola and overnight at the lodge.
Day 4 Trek from Machh Khola to Trek to Jagat (1,400m/ 4,593ft)
Day 5 Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860m/ 6,102ft)
Day 6 Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m/ 8,628ft)
Day 7 Trek from Namrung to Samagaun (3,530m/ 11,581ft)
Day 8 Acclimatization Day in Samagaun
Day 9 Trek to Samdo (3,880 m)
Day 10 Acclimatization Day in Samdo
Day 11 Trek to Dharamsala (4,460m)
Day 12 Cross Larke La Pass (5,160m) – Trek to Bimthang (3,720 m)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Starting early, you ascend to the spectacular Larke La Pass (5,160m), where panoramic views of snow-covered peaks stretch endlessly. After soaking in the achievement, a long descent brings you to Bimthang, surrounded by towering mountains and glacial valleys — a true highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary. Overnight at the lodge.
Day 13 Trek to Tilije (1560 m)
Day 14 Trek to Dharapani (1,860m)
Day 15 Drive to Besisahar and Kathmandu (1,350m)
Day 16 Free Day in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Day 17 Departure for home country
After trekking in the Annapurna region previously, I wanted something more remote, and Manaslu was the perfect choice. The trail felt untouched and far less crowded. The pace was well planned for acclimatization, and the support from the guide and porter was excellent. I always felt safe and well looked after throughout the trek.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek was everything I hoped for and more. Unlike busier trails, we experienced peaceful villages, authentic local culture, and incredible mountain scenery. Crossing Larke Pass was challenging but one of the most rewarding moments of my life. Alliance Treks managed every detail professionally, and our guide’s local knowledge made the journey truly special.
This was my first trekking trip in Nepal, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The itinerary was well planned, the tea houses were comfortable, and the guide made us feel safe throughout the journey. The views of Mt. Manaslu and the surrounding peaks were breathtaking. Thanks to Alliance Treks for making this trip so memorable.
I had an amazing time on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The villages, mountain views, and local culture made this journey truly special. Alliance Treks arranged everything perfectly, and our guide shared interesting stories throughout the trek. Crossing Larke Pass was challenging but absolutely worth it. I would definitely travel with this company again.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek was an unforgettable adventure. The landscapes changed every day, from green valleys to snow-covered mountains. Our guide was friendly, experienced, and always looked after the group. Everything was well organized, including permits, accommodation, and transportation. I highly recommend Alliance Treks to anyone looking for a less crowded trekking experience in Nepal.
Our 17 days Manaslu Circuit Trek plan with Alliance Treks was amazing. Crossing the Larke La Pass at 5,160m was tough. The views of the mountains made every step worth it. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an option if you want to avoid the busy trails in Nepal. The tea houses were cozy. Our guide knowledge made the high-altitude journey feel safe and fun. I highly recommend Alliance Treks and their team for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. They made our experience with the Manaslu Circuit Trek very enjoyable.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – this is my second time and I just loved it. Alliance Treks organized my group this time ever better, well organized and perfectly safe way leaded the entire team members. We 12 people from Poland did 14th April to 30th April 2026 beginning from Jagat and ended at Besisahar. It was fantastic trip. Larke-La (5,106m) was bit tough as we had lots of snow there but rest of the days were easy going.
Thank you Jaybir our guide and all the porters for fantastic trek. Manaslu trek is not so easy for normal trekkers but as we are doing trekking in Nepal with Alliance Treks almost every year for last 10 years, we found easy. Meals, lodge, people, views and service from Alliance Treks is excellent fro Manaslu Circuit Trekking. Prepare guys for this trekking do not push your limit. Manaslu Circuit trek is still calling us. Next time my suggestion to Mr. Kul Tsum and Manaslu circuit trek for sure.
Thank you Kul and team for your great service.
Wajcek and Team
Poland-2026 group
The Manaslu trek 18 Oct – 1 Nov 2023, The second time with Alliance Treks, Thanks to our Guide Ridi and porters Dol and Meka, his care, craftsmanship and flexibility, we crossed the Larke Pass effortlessly. It’s a fantastic trek, the combination of landscape and culture makes this trek one of the most beautiful experiences in Nepal so far. We will definitely come back
Manaslu Circuit Trek was fantastic trek in April 2026. Me and my friend Robert had 14 days trek for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Guide Babu and Porter Tensing were very professional. We book this trek in the last minutes but still Mr. Kul and team organized this trekking so smoothly. Thank you everyone making our trip wonderful and next time our trek will be Manaslu Tsum Trek and Langtang Valley Trek. We will have more days and better preparation.
Food, lodge, itinerary, trekking equipment all perfect. All villages are great but Sama Gaun is something we found quite interesting more.
Namaste and See you again my friends.
Josh and Robert
Italy
Manaslu Circuit Trek which is called Larke Pass (5,106m) trek too. We did with Alliance Treks in March 2026. Our Guide Ridhe and porters were great Heros. Thank you Mr. Kishor organizing such a beautiful trek and entire team members of Alliance Treks.
Great food, great lodge, great team and great response.
Highlights of the Experience:
This Manaslu Circuit Trek offered many unforgettable moments and this is what we found:
Because of these highlights, the journey became truly special and memorable for everyone in the group as we found on the way.
A Highly Recommended Trek:
We are very happy and recommend our friends Alliance Treks & Expedition (P.) Ltd. Our next trip is Everest Three High Passes Trek in spring 2027.
Namaste nepalese friends for such an incredible service. Manaslu Circuit trek is recommend for everyone being yourself physically fit.
Our lovely crew members said “Dal, Bhat Power, 24 hours” we love this word. God bless you all guys.
Nepal – Manaslu Circuit Trek.
It was a fantastic trip.
Rupak (Great guide!!!) took good care of us the entire time.
I highly recommend this agency and Rupak as a guide
The Manaslu trek 18 Oct – 1 Nov 2023, The second time with Alliance Treks, Thanks to our Guide Ridi and porters Dol and Meka, his care, craftsmanship and flexibility, we crossed the Larke Pass effortlessly. It’s a fantastic trek, the combination of landscape and culture makes this trek one of the most beautiful experiences in Nepal so far. We will definitely come back
Manaslu Circuit Trek was fabulous experience with Alliance Treks. Larke La (5,106m) was great experience and safe trekking. Alliance Treks is really trusty company and guide Ride and porter Naresh are highly professional. We thank you team of Alliance Treks looking after us so well and we love to visit again. We highly recommend others to use Alliance Treks.
We completed this trekking within 14 days although it was original plan 18days. Thanks John recommending us Alliance Treks and Kul.
We love Nepal and Nepali people with great hospitality.
Romain and Nani
New Zealand
Written by the Alliance Treks trip-planning team and reviewed by Kul Bahadur Gurung, 34+ years guiding Himalayan treks. Operated by Alliance Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., a Nepal government-registered company in Thamel, Kathmandu. Company registration no.: 27588 · Tourism licence no.: 666/061 · PAN no.: 301612920 · TAAN Membership ID: 2004-483 / NMA Membership No.: AM#472. See our legal documents and team.
| Trek length | 17 days in total, with 13 days on the trail |
|---|---|
| Route | Machha Khola to Dharapani, around Mount Manaslu |
| Highest point | Larkya La Pass, 5,106 m (some sources list 5,160 m) |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Walking per day | About 3 to 10 hours, depending on the day |
| Best seasons | March to May and September to November |
| Permits | Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP and a local fee, all arranged by us |
| Guide | Licensed guide required by law |
| Solo trekkers | Allowed with a registered company and guide (rule changed in March 2026) |
| Price | US$1,130 to US$1,670 per person, depending on group size |
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 14 to 18 day teahouse trek around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) in Nepal’s Gorkha district. It follows the Budhi Gandaki River to the Tibetan border villages of Samagaun and Samdo, crosses the 5,106 m Larkya La Pass, and ends at Dharapani, where it joins the Annapurna Circuit. The route is a restricted area, so you need special permits and a licensed guide. Alliance Treks & Expedition arranges both.
We have guided trips in Nepal since 1990, with more than 8,000 trips completed, and the Manaslu Circuit is one of the routes our guides know best.
Many people picture Nepal trekking as a long line of walkers heading for Everest Base Camp. Manaslu offers something quieter. The permit system limits numbers, and the lodges are small family-run places rather than large hotel-style tea houses. On many days you’ll meet more yak herders and mule trains than other trekkers.
The scenery also changes more than on most routes. You start in warm terraced farmland below 1,000 m, climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest, pass prayer-wheel walls and stone villages, and finally reach the glaciated ground below Manaslu’s north face. From the pass you see Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II. It makes a strong alternative to the Trek to Everest Base Camp and to the busier stretches of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
With Alliance Treks the trek costs US$1,130 to US$1,670 per person, depending on group size. That price covers permits, a licensed guide, a porter for every two trekkers, tea-house lodging, ground transport and four hotel nights in Kathmandu.
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | US$1,670 |
| 2 to 5 people | US$1,175 |
| 6 to 10 people | US$1,150 |
| 11 or more | US$1,130 |
What to budget on top: lunch and dinner on the trail are paid directly, at roughly US$12 per lunch and US$16 per dinner. Over 13 trail days that is about US$360. Add small amounts for hot showers, battery charging, snacks and tips, and carry Nepali rupees, because ATMs are not available on the route. For a group of two to five, a realistic total is about US$1,540 plus extras, before travel insurance and flights.
A dedicated porter for your own bags costs US$20 per day. Without one, you share a porter with another trekker (15 to 20 kg between you), so pack light.
You need three permits for the full circuit, plus a local fee. We arrange all of them, and they are included in our price. Fees can change, so we confirm current rates when you book.
| Permit | Typical fee | Where it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Sept to Nov | US$100 for the first 7 days, then US$15 per extra day | Jagat to Samagaun and beyond |
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Dec to Aug | US$75 for the first 7 days, then US$10 per extra day | Same section |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | NPR 3,000 (about US$23) | Whole Manaslu section |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 (about US$23) | After Larkya La, towards Dharapani |
| Local municipality entry fee | About NPR 1,000 | Collected at Jagat |
Permits are issued through registered trekking companies and the Department of Immigration, never at the trailhead. For the full list of documents and photos you need, see our Manaslu Circuit Trek permit guide.
Yes, but not independently. Since 22 March 2026 Nepal no longer requires a minimum of two trekkers per restricted-area permit, so a solo traveller can apply. The permit still has to go through a registered trekking company, and you must walk with a licensed guide. The Jagat checkpoint turns back anyone who arrives without one. Our solo price is US$1,670.
| Month | Conditions | Our rating |
|---|---|---|
| January, February | Cold, with snow likely to block Larkya La | Poor |
| March | Cold start, warming later; snow can remain high up | Good |
| April | Rhododendrons in bloom, warm days, good views | Excellent |
| May | Warm, with more haze and afternoon showers | Good |
| June, July, August | Monsoon rain, landslides and leeches | Not recommended |
| September | Wet early on, clearing later in the month | Good |
| October | Clearest skies and most stable weather; busiest month | Excellent |
| November | Dry and clear, with cold nights; early snow possible on the pass | Good |
| December | Cold; some lodges close and the pass can be hard to cross | Experienced trekkers only |
Our advice: go in late October to early November, or April to mid-May.
We grade it challenging. Days run from about three to ten hours, you sleep above 4,000 m for a night, and the pass day is long, cold and sometimes snowy. You don’t need climbing skills, but you do need good fitness and some multi-day hiking experience.
How to prepare (8 to 12 weeks ahead):
Altitude is the main risk on this route, so the itinerary is built around it. Two rest days (Samagaun and Samdo) and modest height gains between sleeping points give your body time to adjust. Our guides check every trekker daily for headache, nausea, poor sleep, and unusual tiredness, and carry a first-aid kit and an emergency phone.
If symptoms get worse, we descend. Never climb higher with symptoms. Our Kathmandu office coordinates evacuation when needed.
Travel insurance is required. It should cover trekking to at least 5,500 m, emergency medical care, and helicopter evacuation. Let us know your policy details before the trek.
| Rooms | Basic twin rooms with shared bathrooms; dormitory beds on some nights |
|---|---|
| Meals | Breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner are ordered from the lodge menu: dal bhat, noodles, momos, soup, pasta, eggs |
| Hot showers | Limited and paid; may be unavailable at higher lodges |
| Charging and Wi-Fi | Limited and paid; often unreliable at altitude |
| Water | Buy boiled or filtered water, or bring purification tablets |
| Cash | Carry rupees; no ATMs on the trail |
| Kathmandu | Atithi Hotel & Apartment in Thamel, with breakfast |
| Clothing | Thermal base layers, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell, trekking trousers, warm hat, gloves, sun hat, 4 to 5 pairs of socks |
|---|---|
| Footwear | Broken-in waterproof trekking boots, camp sandals, gaiters for snow |
| Gear | Sleeping bag (loan available), trekking poles, headlamp, 30 to 40 L daypack, water bottles, category 4 sunglasses |
| Health | Personal medication, blister kit, sunscreen, lip balm, purification tablets; ask your doctor about altitude medication |
| Documents | Passport, visa, insurance papers, passport photos, copies of everything |
We lend sleeping bags, down jackets and trekking bags free, to be returned after the trek.
The trek reaches 5,106 m and involves long days on rough trails. Please talk to your doctor before booking if you have any of these:
If you’re unsure, tell us your experience, and we’ll give an honest answer, or suggest a shorter route such as the Tsum Valley Trek.
| Manaslu Circuit | Everest Base Camp | Annapurna Circuit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 14 to 18 days | 12 to 14 days | 10 to 14 days |
| Highest point | 5,106 m (Larkya La) | 5,545 m (Kala Patthar) | 5,416 m (Thorong La) |
| Crowds | Low | Very high | Moderate to high |
| Permits | Restricted Area, MCAP, ACAP | Sagarmatha NP and local fee | ACAP and TIMS |
| Guide | Required by law | Recommended | Optional |
| Culture | Tibetan-influenced | Sherpa | Mixed Hindu and Buddhist |
Gurung communities live lower in the valley, and Tibetan-descended Buddhists live higher up in Namrung, Lho, Samagaun and Samdo. You’ll pass prayer-wheel walls, chortens, mani stones and working monasteries such as Ribung Gompa. The whole route lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, which protects habitat for snow leopard and Himalayan tahr. Please stay on the trail, carry out your plastic, and ask before photographing people. Read more about Mount Manaslu and Samagaun.
We can adapt dates and pace for private groups. To add the Tsum Valley, see our Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. After the trek, you can add a Nepal tour or a Bhutan tour. Contact us to plan your dates.
Alliance Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Once is not enough for naturally and culturally Himalayas