Are you dreaming of trekking in the Himalayas but unsure how experienced you are? Want to know if the Manaslu Circuit Trek is suitable for new trekkers like you? The good news is that with thoughtful preparation and the right support from experienced local trekking guides and porters who have hiked in these mountains their entire lives, your Himalayan dream can come true. This trek is a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility, making it great for those taking their first steps into higher altitude trekking.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Manaslu Circuit in terms of difficulty level, the best seasons to trek, permits you will require, expected cost, packing lists, and critical safety information. Whether you want to know how hard the trail is, the type of weather you will encounter, or how to deal with altitude sickness, we have you covered with the information you need to confidently make this life-changing trek through remote mountain villages and spectacular Himalayan scenery.
Overview of the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek wraps around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), providing trekkers with a clean alternative to Nepal's busier treks. Lasting in the range of 14 to 18 days, depending on weather and your pace, you'll trek through vibrant subtropical forests, into small, traditional Tibetan villages, and through high alpine passes to over 5,000 meters in elevation. This ends at Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters) to view the entire Manaslu range.
What is special about this trek is the authentic cultural experience. Unlike the busy trails of, say like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, the region still has cultural integrity because it is not overrun with tourism. You'll engage with ancient Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags waving in the mountain winds, and the ethnic communities who have trekked and inhabited these mountains for hundreds of years will warm you with their hospitality.
Here, the Manaslu Circuit has seen a rise in popularity among beginning trekkers because it has the best of both worlds—challenging enough to feel rewarded at completion, but not so challenging that one cannot prepare for it. There are several treks, like the Langtang Trek or Annapurna Base Camp trek, with a similar sense of accomplishment, but they can draw huge groups of trekkers. The Manaslu Circuit allows for a more intimate mountain experience.
Why the Manaslu Circuit Trek Is Beginner-Friendly
Mountain viewpoint with seating area overlooking forested Manaslu valley
Suitable Terrain and Gradual Elevation Gain
The Manaslu trekking circuit follows a well-established trail that increases altitude gradually, accommodating your body’s natural adjustment to the elevation. Most days will feature extended uphill walking, with a few flat and downward sections, unlike the steep vertical ascent found on many other treks. Starting at just 700 m (Machha Khola), the route ascends over the next 10-12 days to Muktinath after crossing Larkya La Pass.
Less Crowded in Comparison to Popular Treks
Although the Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit can attract thousands of trekkers each year, Manaslu enjoys incredible tranquillity. You will understand why once you experience the need for special permits in the conservation area, which helps limit the number of visitors. Here you will spend time interacting with local and international trekkers without feeling like you are walking through a tourist highway!
Great Teahouse Support
You will no longer need to camp, as the circuit has now journeyed to enough teahouses to make comfortable accommodations, at manageable increments. The teahouses, often run by local families, offer hot meals, a warm bed, and even hot dining rooms! Many of the teahouses will employ people with basic English understanding to help with your trekking needs if you feel shy about language barriers.
How Hard Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Physical Difficulty Explained
Manaslu Circuit difficulty is rated moderate to hard. You will travel 5-8 hours a day over rugged mountain terrain, which means a certain level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength is required. You don’t need any mountaineering skills, but you will require endurance and determination.
Altitude Issues
Altitude is the main issue. The route peaks at Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters of elevation. When you are at Larkya La Pass, you will feel the effect of thin air with only about 50% oxygen compared to what we breathe at sea level. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. However, carefully paced itineraries with acclimatisation days will greatly mitigate your risk of altitude sickness.
Daily Hours of Walking
The majority of trekking days involve 5-7 hours of walking, with the longest day (crossing Larkya La) being 8-10 hours. The trekking terrain varies between plush, gentle riverside paths to rocky mountain trails, and snow/neve passes.
Who Can Do It?
Anyone with good fitness, determination, and preparation can complete this trek. Prior trekking experience will help, but is not a prerequisite. If you can walk 4-5 hours at a time and are willing to put in the time to get in shape (cardio and leg strength), the Manaslu Circuit is possible for you.
Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Base Camp with pack animals and tents beneath towering peaks
Ideal Seasons for Beginners
The ideal times to take the Manaslu Circuit are in the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November). During these seasons, you can count on stable weather, unobstructed views of the mountains, and moderate temperatures.
Spring Months (March to May): These months have an explosion of vibrant color as the rhododendron forests bloom, temperatures begin to rise, and trails are more easily accessed as the winter snow melts away. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations (below 3,000m) average about 10-20°C.
Autumn Months (September to November): The skies are crystal clear and provide wonderful views of the mountains. Cool air with a post-monsoon freshness results in even better visibility. This is the trekking season throughout all of Nepal, including the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Weather, Temperatures, and Trail Conditions
In the lower elevations (below 3,000m), you will enjoy mild daytime temperatures and cool nights. Temperatures decrease significantly as you gain elevation. The temperatures at the Larkya La Pass can drop below -10°C to -20°C even in perfect trekking seasons.
When Not to Trek
Winter (December to February) involves terrible cold and snow. This can block the majority of the high passes and make it too cold to trek. Wherever you trek in Nepal, you will likely not find a single trekker or trekker in winter. The monsoon season (June to August) features very slippery trails, leeches, and clouds blocking views of the mountains. The benefits of trekking in the monsoon season are very limited, especially if you are not experienced.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary for Beginners
A typical beginner-friendly Manaslu Circuit itinerary spans 14-16 days:
Day 1-2: Kathmandu to Machha Khola (driving via Soti Khola) Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) Day 4: Jagat to Deng (1,860m) Day 5: Deng to Namrung (2,660m) Day 6: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m) Day 7: Acclimatisation day in Samagaon (explore Pungyen Gompa or Manaslu Base Camp) Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo (3,860m) Day 9:Samdo to Dharamsala/Larkya Phedi (4,460m) Day 10: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m) to Bimthang (3,720m) Day 11: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m) Day 12: Tilije to Dharapani (1,860m) Day 13: Dharapani to Besisahar Day 14: Drive back to Kathmandu
Recommended Acclimatisation Days
Build in at least one full rest day at Samagaon (3,530m) to allow your body to adjust. Some itineraries include an additional rest day at Samdo, which further reduces altitude sickness risk.
Total Distance and Duration
The complete circuit covers approximately 177 kilometers over 14-18 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule.
Required Permits for the Manaslu Circuit
Budhi Gandaki River flowing through valley with snow-capped Manaslu range
The Manaslu region is restricted, requiring several permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
This special permit is mandatory, and costs vary by season:
September to November: USD 100 per week (first 7 days), then USD 15 per day
December to August: USD 75 per week, then USD 10 per day
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 22) for foreign nationals.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Required as the trail exits through the Annapurna region. Costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 22).
Process and Required Documents
You cannot obtain an MRAP independently—you must trek with a registered guide and book through a licensed agency. Required documents include:
Valid passport with at least 6 months' validity
Nepal entry visa
Passport-sized photographs
Travel insurance details
Manaslu Trek Cost and Budget Breakdown
Total Estimated Cost: USD 1,200 - 1,800
Permit Fees: USD 150-200 (depending on season) Guide Costs: USD 25-35 per day Porter Costs: USD 20-25 per day (optional but recommended) Accommodation: USD 3-5 per night in teahouses Meal Expenses: USD 20-30 per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) Transportation: USD 40-60 (Kathmandu to trek start point and return) Equipment Rental: USD 50-100 (sleeping bag, down jacket if needed)
Extra or Hidden Costs Beginners Should Know
Hot showers: USD 2-4 per shower
Battery charging: USD 2-3 per device
Wi-Fi access: USD 3-5 per day
Emergency evacuation insurance: Essential
Tips for guide and porter: USD 50-100 total
What to Pack for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Snow-covered alpine meadow below dramatic Himalayan mountain peaks
Essential Gear Checklist
Quality trekking boots (broken in)
Backpack (40-50 liters)
Sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
Trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles or hydration system
First aid kit and medications
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Clothing for Trekking Seasons
Base layers (thermal underwear)
Fleece jacket
Down jacket (essential for high altitudes)
Waterproof jacket and pants
Trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
Quick-dry shirts
Warm hat and sun hat
Gloves (liner and insulated)
Wool socks (4-5 pairs)
What Not to Bring
Leave behind heavy jeans, cotton clothing (dries slowly), excessive electronics, and unnecessary toiletries. Pack light—porters typically carry a maximum of 15kg.
The Manaslu beginner trekking route starts in the Gorkha district, following the Budhi Gandaki River through subtropical forests before entering high-altitude desert landscapes.
Major Stops and Highlights
Machha Khola: Trek starting point beside the river
Jagat: First village with a permit check post
Namrung: Beginning of the Tibetan Buddhist cultural zone
Samagaon: Stunning views of Manaslu and an important acclimatization stop
Samdo: Near the Tibetan border with dramatic landscapes
Larkya La Pass: The trek's highest point with 360-degree mountain panoramas
Bimthang: Beautiful meadows with Manaslu views
Elevation Profile
The trek follows a gradual ascent from 700m to 5,160m over 10 days, then descends rapidly over 3-4 days back to lower elevations.
Trail Conditions
Expect well-maintained paths in lower sections, rocky terrain in mid-sections, and potentially snow-covered trails near the pass. Suspension bridges cross rivers at multiple points—exciting but safe with proper caution.
Safety Tips for First-Time Manaslu Trekkers
Trekkers celebrating at Larkya La Pass summit with prayer flags
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Observe the golden rule of high altitude: "Climb high, sleep low." Ascend in gradual increments, drink plenty of fluids (3-4 liters a day), and listen to your body. If symptoms worsen, descend as soon as you can. After consulting your physician, consider a trial of Diamox (acetazolamide).
Hydration & Pacing
Drink water throughout the day. Walk at a pace where you can talk. If you can’t talk because you are too breathless, you are going too fast. From my Nepali friend, the mantra is "Bistari bistari" (slowly, slowly).
Trail Precautions
When on rocky sections, pay attention to where you step, especially downhill. Use trekking poles for stability. Stay on marked trails and listen to your guide, whether the river crossing or the narrow pass.
Weather Safety Tips
On pass-crossing days, try to get up early to get to passes and back down before the weather can turn in the afternoon. Bring waterproof layers even if the forecast is clear. If conditions get very bad, take the guide’s lead on turning back or waiting for conditions to change.
Final Tips for Beginner Trekkers
Physical Preparation
Begin training 2-3 months before the trip. Choose a cardio exercise (running, biking, swimming), do leg-strengthening workouts (squats, lunges), and go for a hike with a heavy pack. Build up to 4-5 hours of walking on consecutive days.
Travel Insurance
Buy travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation from 6,000 meters (20,000 feet). Nationwide policies often don't cover high-altitude trekking, so you must do your research.
Pack Smart
Pack layers instead of bulky items. Use compression bags to gain extra space, too. Carry your essentials (e.g., passport, money, medication) in your daypack and not in a bag with the porter(s).
Maintain a Positive Mindset
Mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Some days are tough—embrace it! Remember, the experience is memorable and your discomfort is temporary. Engage with other trekkers and enjoy the ride!
FAQs
Do I need previous trekking experience for the Manaslu Circuit?
While experience is advantageous, it's not necessary. Physical fitness and the willingness to succeed are more significant than experience.
Am I able to go trekking on the Manaslu Circuit by myself?
No, per regulation, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide. This is not only for your safety, but also to benefit the local communities.
How much should I tip my guides and porters?
With the services provided, typically you could expect to pay around USD 100-150 for guides and USD 75-100 for porters for the entire trek.
Is altitude sickness common on the trek?
Some trekkers experience mild cases of altitude sickness, but a combination of gradual acclimatization, plus pacing to adjust to altitude, can minimize the risk of serious altitude illness.
What is the accommodation like?
Teahouses provide basic, but comfortable accommodations with typically twin beds and shared or multi-person bathrooms. There is no luxury expected, but clean and adequate.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great trekking option for beginners, as it is very doable yet deeply rewarding for a Himalayan adventure. With sufficient preparation and a well-balanced perspective on the Manaslu Circuit difficulty, an inexperienced trekker can make this trip happen. The stunning scenery, authentic encounters with culture, and sense of personal accomplishment will make this an unforgettable trek. Whether you are interested in your challenge crossing Larkya La Pass, or your intrigue is focused on exploring remote village mountain life, the Manaslu circuit has a special happen for every adventurous spirit.
Are you ready to chase your Himalayan dream? Contact Himalayan Recreation now to secure your Manaslu Circuit adventure, with the support and leadership of capable guides, who'll help to ensure your safety and success along the way.
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