About Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an alternative trek route to Annapurna Base Camp ABC, Everest Base Camp EBC trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek, ACT trek. This trek is around Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), the world's eighth-highest mountain. Many people asked about the Manaslu trek difficulty and do we need a Guide for the Manaslu circuit trek. The trek is full of adventures, beautiful scenery, stunning snow-capped mountains, and rich traditional Tibetan and Himalayan sherpa culture. we need two clients to make a permit and a guide to this Trek. The trail includes several fine villages, picturesque valleys, countless waterfalls, and rivers. It is an off-the-beaten-track trekking experience that only a handful of travelers visit, making it a perfect option for anyone looking for solitude.
The trek commences at Machha Khola after a 9-hour bus ride (150 kilometers) from Kathmandu and proceeds steadily through densely forested paths and along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki. After a few days, the trail veers at Jagat to the northwest and begins a steady climb to higher altitudes, leaving behind the tree line and winding up through picturesque mountain villages.
Reigning supreme over the entire region is the majestic Manaslu and its striking twin peaks, skirted by glacial valleys, pine forests, and the scenic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal range. The trek essentially circles much of the mountain’s circumference until it crests Larkya La and drops into the neighboring valley of Marsyangdi, descending from there through the rock-strewn upper slopes and scenic alpine meadows to Dharapani, the modern trailhead for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
The trek offers more rewarding options than just about any other trek. One potential choice is to take the upper Manaslu route, a scenically spectacular and rarely-taken path across the mountain. Another detour is the pathway to the magical Tsum Valley, long locked away from public view and only opened on a restricted basis in recent years.
Overall, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is an outstanding wilderness experience that offers all the classic aspects of a great trek, from cascading rivers and precipitous trails to stunning views and subtropical forests, glorious mountain scenery, and a gradual ascent to a breath-snatching high pass, and a host of side trips and add-ons that have the scope to turn the experience into an epic journey.
Why Manaslu Circuit Trek with Beyond the Limits Treks & Expedition?
- Experience and expertise: Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition has years of experience in organizing treks in Nepal, and their team of trekking guides and porters are knowledgeable and experienced in the trekking routes and local culture.
- Locals: Our Management team and field staff are from the Manaslu circuit region, and we are the Local experts for this Trek. we know the local Culture, People, routes, cuisine, and paths around the region.
- Safety and security: Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition prioritizes the safety and security of our clients during the trek. we provide necessary safety equipment (two-way walkie-talkie Radionset, satellite Telphone for communication where there is no telephone signal) and trained staff to ensure a safe trekking experience.
- Quality services: Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition provide quality services, including comfortable accommodation, hygienic meals, necessary permits, and other Documents, We always customize and tailor-made packages according to our client's interest.
- Sustainable tourism: Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition is committed to sustainable tourism practices, such as responsible waste management, supporting local communities, and promoting eco-friendly trekking.
- Great Value of Money: Trekking packages provided by us are satisfying and memorable experiences for the cost paid. It could include features such as comfortable accommodations, experienced guides and porters, well-planned itineraries, necessary permits and paperwork, quality meals, and overall excellent service.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
Manaslu Circuit Trek requires physically fit hikers as all trek does. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude passes, including the Larkya La Pass, which sits at an elevation of 5,135 meters (16,847 feet). Therefore, it's important to acclimatize properly and follow a gradual ascent. You have to have good health and physical fitness to do the Manaslu Circuit Trekking.
Accommodation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Our trekking package includes a comfortable Three-star standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu for your convenience. During the Manaslu trek, you will be staying in lodges or tea houses nestled in the beautiful mountains. These accommodations offer simple and rustic rooms with shared toilets that may not have a Western commode. While toilet paper may not always be provided, it is advisable to bring your own. However, despite the basic amenities, the lodges/tea houses are clean and comfortable enough to provide trekkers with a good night's rest after a long day of hiking.
It is important to note that the lodges/tea houses provide blankets and pillows, but it’s better to bring a sleeping bag. You can rent a sleeping bag in Kathmandu if you do not have one, for which we can help. Additionally, while hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at some lodges/tea houses, they usually come at an extra cost. You can expect to pay around $2-$5 for a hot shower, and Wi-Fi costs around $3-$5.
Food during This Trek:
- Breakfast: Porridge, Pancakes with honey and jam, scrambled, boiled, or fried eggs, Bread and Jam, Tibetan Bread with honey or jam, Muesli.simple Breakfast set Breakfast etc.
- Lunch: Dal Bhat consists of steamed rice, lentil soup, a vegetable curry, (meat or fish Not recommended non veg item in the mountain), Momos, Fried Rice, Noodles, Thukpa, Chaumin, Pizza in some places, papad, Vegetable salad, Potato items, Pasta, soup.
- Dinner: Dal Bhat consists of steamed rice, lentil soup, a vegetable curry, meat or fish, Momos, Fried Rice, Noodles, Thukpa, Chaumin, Pizza in some places, papad, Vegetable salad, Potato items, Pasta, and Soup.
Note: It is advisable to have garlic soup, hot lemon, ginger tea, and lemon tea during the trek as they can help with acclimatization and can also provide warmth and comfort in the cold mountain climate. These hot drinks can also help to prevent dehydration, which is important at high altitudes. It is recommended to avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages as they can cause dehydration and can also worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Regarding food, it is generally recommended to have vegetarian items rather than meat as you go higher up, as the quality and freshness of meat can deteriorate at higher elevations.
- Snacks: You can also buy snacks like chocolate bars, cookies, and chips.
- Drinking Water: It is not recommended to drink tap water during the trek, as it may not be safe. Most tea houses and lodges sell bottled water, but this can get expensive. A more affordable option is to bring water purification tablets or a water filter to purify water from the streams or rivers along the trail.
Best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek 2024:
When it comes to trekking the Manaslu Circuit, timing is everything. You'll want to plan your journey carefully to ensure that you experience the best that this incredible region has to offer. Beyond The Limits Treks and Expedition offer 15 Days Package for Manaslu Circuit Trek from (March-May) and (September to November)
In the spring season (March to May), the trail is decorated with blooming rhododendrons, and the weather is warm and pleasant. This season is also the best time to witness the spectacular views of the Himalayan range.
In the autumn season (September to November), the weather is stable and dry, with clear skies and beautiful views of the mountains. This season is also the busiest time of the year for trekking, and the tea houses and lodges can get crowded, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance.
Fitness level required for Manaslu Circuit Trek
The trail takes you through remote terrain with steep ups and downs, which requires good physical fitness, and endurance. During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will encounter high altitudes, narrow ridges, and high altitude Larkya Pass, which can be difficult in snowy conditions. In addition, the trek demands 6-8 hours of walking up and down each day, which can be tiring on the legs.
Overall, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning mountain views, unique cultural experiences, and a chance to explore a less-crowded trekking region of Nepal. We advise you to train yourself physically and mentally before embarking on the journey to the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It's recommended to walk for 10-15 days for a couple of hours each day before starting the journey as Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered as “Challenging”.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost:
We at Beyond the Limits Treks & Expedition provide fully customized treks to our customers who have limited time but want to explore the beauty of the trek. Manaslu Circuit Trek cost can be adjusted depending on the number of days of trekking, your requirements, and the standard of service you like to take. Knowing your requirements we shall adjust the cost for you. For more information contact us.
Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Treks
To embark on your journey towards Manaslu, you will need to obtain three permits: the Special Permit, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
The Special Permit costs USD 100 per person per week for trekking between September to November. If you wish to stay for more than one week, it will cost an additional USD 15 per person per day. For trekking between December to August, the permit costs USD 75 per person per week, and extending the permit for more than one week costs USD 10 per person per day.
- The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs Rs 3000 for non-SAARC nationals and Rs 1000 for Indian nationals.
- The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) also costs Rs 3000 for Non-SAARC nationals and Rs 1000 for Indian nationals.
It is important to obtain all three permits before starting your trek. This will ensure that you have legal permission to trek in the Manaslu region and help in conservation efforts to protect the natural environment and local communities.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map:
Related Trips around Manaslu Regions:
Most Asked Question about Manaslu Trek?
1. How hard is the Manaslu circuit trek?
✔ The Manaslu circuit trek is moderately challenging, and the most demanding part of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass. The increasing altitude, strong winds, and steep trail may trouble you, but the views from the pass are worth every challenge.
2. What is the best time for Manaslu circuit trekking?
✔ The best time for Manaslu circuit trekking is March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn). During this time, the temperature is moderate, and the views are clear.
3. What type of accommodation is available on the Manaslu trek?
✔ During your Manaslu circuit trekking, you will stay in the local lodges/teahouses with basic facilities and clean rooms. However, as you move to a higher altitude, they provide a twin-sharing room with a common toilet.
4. Do I need a TIMS card for the Manaslu circuit trek?
✔ Since you need three other Permits, you will not need a TIMS card for the Manaslu circuit trek.
5. Is it possible to customize the Manaslu circuit trip?
✔ Yes, the trek can be customized to your liking. You can increase or decrease the trekking days or add the Annapurna circuit trek or Tsum Valley trek along with this.
