Manaslu circuit trek

Overview

 

“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.”

– Mary Davis

 

Located far into the remote Himalayas, Manaslu district and Larkya La Pass (5,160m) form an untouched sanctuary of cultural heritage and nature. Homelands of the Gurung and Tibetan-descent folk, the area oozes with old Buddhist culture, prayer flags fluttering over centuries-old monasteries. Manaslu Conservation Area is full of life—snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahrs roam its forests, and rhododendrons edge the trails in splashes of color. As trekkers approach the breathtaking Larkya La Pass, they are well rewarded with breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru, thereby making this one such true Himalayan jewel.

 

 

 

Attraction

 

 💠  Mount Manaslu (8,163m)

The Eighth-Highest Mountain on Earth, a Himalayan giant of colossal size with breathtaking vistas, massive glaciers, striking ridges, and a spiritual and symbolic goal.

 

 💠  Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m)

A High-Altitude Marvel – A stunning viewpoint above Samagaun (3,530m), offering close-up views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and its massive glaciers.

 

 💠  Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

The Summit of the Trek – A challenging high-altitude traverse with superb panoramas of Himlung Himal (7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Kang Guru (6,981m), and Annapurna II (7,937m).

 

 💠  Budhi Gandaki River

A Himalayan Lifeline – A glacial river flowing through deep gorges, green valleys, and rock cliffs, with breathtaking suspension bridge crossings.

 

 💠  Birendra Lake (3,450m)

A Pristine Glacial Lake – A stunning turquoise lake located near Samagaun, fed by the Manaslu Glacier. This high-altitude lake offers breathtaking reflections of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and picturesque resting point for trekkers before heading towards Manaslu Base Camp.

 

 💠  Manaslu Conservation Area

A Sanctuary for Rare Wildlife – A 1,663 sq. km protected area home to snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahrs, and over 110 species of birds.

 

 💠  Samagaun & Samdo

Ancient Himalayan Villages – Traditional Tibetan-influenced villages with centuries-old monasteries, prayer flag-lined pathways, and hearty mountain hospitality.

 

 💠  Birendra Lake (3,450m)

A Turquoise Glacial Wonder – A stunning high-altitude lake near Samagaun, fed by the mighty Manaslu Glacier, reflecting the snow-capped mountains surrounding it.

 

 💠  Pungyen & Larkya Glaciers

Frozen Himalayan Giants – Towering icefalls and flowing glaciers showcasing the raw, untamed power of the Manaslu terrain.

 

 💠  Mani Walls & Prayer Wheels

Holy Symbols of Buddhist Heritage – Stone-inscribed prayers, turning wheels, and painted Chortens marking spiritual milestones along the path.

 

 💠  Yak Pastures & Alpine Meadows

A Himalayan Tradition of Agriculture – Rolling Meadows where yaks graze, adding a picturesque beauty to the high-altitude terrain.

 

 💠  Traditional Hospitality & Local Cuisine

Intimate tea houses offering dal bhat, Tibetan bread, tsampa porridge, and yak butter tea, offering a warm, authentic mountain experience.

 

 💠  Variety Climate & Continuously Changing Landscapes

A walk through tropical forests, temperate woodlands, alpine tundra, and snowy high passes, showing Nepal’s incredible geographic diversity.

 

 

 

Accessibility

 

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Manaslu Circuit and Larkya La Pass, a remote but rewarding trek in Nepal’s western Himalayas. One of the most scenic and culturally rich treks, reaching the trailhead requires careful planning, and we ensure a hassle-free travel experience for our trekkers.

 

𖥟 By Air

For those desiring the most direct journey, we arrange a 35-minute internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or from Kathmandu to Siddharthanagar (Bhairahawa) followed by a drive to Soti Khola or Machha Khola. The flight gives fabulous aerial views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. Flight is, however, subject to weather conditions, and we advise flexibility in planning to accommodate any possible delay in your itinerary.

 

 

𖥟 By Road

A more scenic and better option is a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The drive is on the Prithvi Highway, passing through beautiful scenery of green hills, meandering rivers, green fields, and villages. We switch to rough mountain roads at Dhading Besi or Arughat and use off-road vehicles for a comfortable ride to the start of the trek. Depending on road conditions, some of our trekkers like to begin their trek from Arughat, making the transition smoother into the trail. Everything is organized by our staff, so it is a hassle-free and satisfactory initiation to your trekking adventure.

 

 

 

Accommodation in the Manaslu Circuit Trek

 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers varying levels of accommodation, from luxurious city hotels to basic but comfortable teahouses in isolated mountain villages. Compared to treks that include full camping gear, this trek has well-established teahouses, meaning that trekkers enjoy warm and comfortable stays throughout the journey. While facilities are not as elaborate at higher elevations, they still have basic amenities, offering a warm place to rest after a day’s hike.

 

𖥟 Accommodation in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the start and finish of the trek, has a range of hotels to cater to many budgets.

 

Most of the Kathmandu hotels offer:

Large en-suite toilet and hot shower rooms

Internet, power points, and work tables for communication and planning

Restaurants for Nepali, Indian, and international cuisine

Laundry facilities, luggage storage, and airport transfers

Heating and air conditioning, ideal for fluctuating weather

 

 

𖥟 Accommodation in Pokhara

Pokhara, the adventure capital of Nepal and gateway to the Manaslu trek is the perfect place to relax before or after the trek. Nestled on Phewa Lake, the city offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, where one can relax amidst modern comforts.

 

Common Features of Pokhara Hotels:

Spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking Phewa Lake or the Annapurna range

24-hour hot showers, Wi-Fi, and power backup for hassle-free convenience

Roof-top restaurants and lake-side cafes serving a mix of Nepali, Indian, and international cuisine

Spas, wellness centers, and massage parlors to soothe tensed muscles after the trek

Convenient access to local attractions, like Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and World Peace Pagoda

 

 

𖥟 Teahouse Accommodation along the Trek

Hospitality along the Manaslu Circuit consists of community-run lodges and locally-owned teahouses. The humble but clean lodges offer a cozy family-like atmosphere, with simple but comfortable facilities:

 

Twin-sharing wooden rooms with pillows and blankets

Semi-deluxe bathrooms with running water (one can take a hot shower for an additional charge)

Shared dining halls with fireplaces to warm and socialize

Homely-cooked food, normally in the form of Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, and local soups

 

⟡ Soti Khola & Machha Khola (Start Point, 700m – 900m)

Good teahouses with decent beds and quality food

There is electricity and Wi-Fi available, though the networks might be poor

Fresh meals prepared with locally-grown ingredients

 

 

⟡ Jagat & Deng (Midway, 1,340m – 1,860m)

Wooden-paneled teahouses with warm and simple bedding

Solar-powered charging points with lower network connectivity

Blinding sunlight over green valleys and thundering rivers

 

 

⟡ Namrung & Lho (Higher Elevation, 2,630m – 3,180m)

Larger teahouses with more amenities, including occasional access to Wi-Fi

Dinner with fresh organic vegetables and dairy products procured locally

Visits to the local monastery for an appreciation of local culture

 

 

⟡ Samagaun & Samdo (High-Altitude Villages, 3,530m – 3,875m)

Satisfactorily operated teahouses for trekkers and climbers

Heated communal areas and thicker blankets for cold-weather comfort

A key acclimatization point, with side trips to Manaslu Base Camp optional

 

 

⟡ Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi, 4,460m) – The Final Stop Before Larkya La Pass

Very primitive teahouses due to extreme altitude and remoteness

Limited bedding, with extra blankets or sleeping bags recommended

Plain fare, mostly soup and energy-rich foods to fuel trekkers for pass-crossing

 

 

⟡ Bimthang (3,720m) – Rest after Pass

More established teahouses with views of glacial landscapes and summits

Crisp dining rooms with fireplace to warm up after trekking over Larkya La Pass

Deserved hearty meal to regain strength after the toughest part of the trek

 

 

⟡ Tilije & Dharapani (Descend, 2,300m – 1,860m)

Convenient teahouses with slightly more luxuries

Larger mobile connections and provision of Wi-Fi facilities in most places

Great points to celebrate the end of the trek with fantastic local food

 

 

 

Amenities in the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a mix of modern and simple amenities to trekkers, ensuring that they have all the basic services while traversing one of Nepal’s most beautiful trekking routes. From nutritious food and clean drinking water to charging facilities and emergency medical attention, everything in the trek is designed to ensure the journey is comfortable and safe.

 

✻ Food & Water

Trekkers can enjoy fresh, high-energy meals en route, with classic Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and Gurung bread being long-standing favorites. Teahouses also offer pasta, eggs, pancakes, and seasonal vegetables for a change. Locally grown organic foods provide slow-releasing energy, which is necessary for long trekking days. Teahouses carry drinking water, but it is recommended that trekkers carry purification tablets or filters as a precaution. While bottled water may be found occasionally, the use of refill stations and purified water reduces plastic waste and helps support sustainable trekking. Drinking enough boiled or filtered water during the trek is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.

 

 

✻ Electricity & Charging Facilities

Electricity is available in Kathmandu (1,350m), Pokhara (822m), and lower sections of the trek but is rare at higher elevations. Solar is the source that most teahouses utilize, and charging electronic devices is typically an additional fee. Chame (2,650m) and Manang (3,519m) are a few of the villages with good power connectivity, but as trekkers ascend towards Thorong Phedi (4,540m), charging facilities are increasingly sparse. It is highly recommended to bring a power bank or solar charger as cloudy weather can reduce the effectiveness of solar charging. Trekkers are also asked to bring extra camera batteries and power-saving devices to enjoy uninterrupted usage of essential electronics.

 

 

✻ Mobile Network & Internet Connectivity

There is mobile phone coverage in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the lower trekking regions, but it gets extremely poor as trekkers ascend higher than Manang (3,519m) and Yak Kharka (4,020m). Some teahouses in Manang and Muktinath (3,800m) have Wi-Fi facilities, but the connection is slow and not stable. Trekkers are recommended to download offline maps and trekking apps such as Maps.me and GPS navigation software before the trip begins. For those who need to be in constant communication, a satellite phone is a great backup, especially in the isolated sections after Thorong La Pass (5,416m). It is also advisable to inform family and friends of likely connectivity lags on the trek.

 

 

✻ Health & Medical Facilities

Safety is always our top priority, and every trekking group carries first-aid kits. There are few medical facilities along the way, with clinics at Manang (3,519m) and Jomsom (2,743m) only. In an emergency or if there is a problem with altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation can be organized, but one should have comprehensive travel insurance. Acclimatization is essential for a successful trek, and travelers are encouraged to have rest days in Manang so that their bodies can get accustomed to the higher altitudes. Hydration, keeping up a steady rate, and high-energy meals aid in avoiding altitude sickness. Natural hot springs at Tatopani (1,190m) provide an ideal means of relieving aching muscles and relaxing after the taxing trek.

 

 

 

Inclusion and Exclusion

 

Inclusions & Services Provided

☑       Full-Board Meals – Enjoy wholesome and energy-dense meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) daily, specially designed for high-altitude trekking.

☑       Daily Beverages – Stay hydrated with four rounds of tea or coffee daily, including morning, mid-day, afternoon (with light snacks), and evening.

☑       Evening Treats – Fresh seasonal fruits served post-dinner for a healthy and satisfying end to your meals.

☑       Comfortable Accommodation – Stay in comfortable, well-maintained teahouses along the trail, offering warmth, hospitality, and stunning mountain views.

☑       Professional Trekking Support – Hike with a licensed, insured, and experienced guide, along with porter support (1 porter between 2 trekkers) for a seamless and enjoyable trek.

☑       Effortless Transfers & Permits – Private vehicle transfers and all trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Rural Municipality) arranged for your convenience.

☑       Safety & Health Monitoring – Daily oxygen level and heart rate monitoring, first-aid kit, and helicopter arrangement in an emergency (insurance paid) for your safety.

☑       All-Inclusive Pricing – Govt. taxes, service charges, and an assistant guide for a group of 5+ trekkers for a hassle-free experience.

☑       Lifetime Deposit Policy: Secure your spot with a lifetime deposit, allowing you to postpone or reschedule your trek without losing your booking deposit

☑       Free Booking: Secure your trek without any initial payment, allowing you to organize and finalize your trip at your convenience—no risk, no pressure.

 

 

 

Exclusions: What’s Not Included

☒       Pre-Trek Arrangements – Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek are not included.

☒       Visa & Entry Fees – Nepal entry visa fees must be arranged separately ($50 for a 30-day visa, payable on arrival).

☒       Insurance – Travel, trekking, and medical insurance are mandatory for safety and emergency evacuation coverage.

☒       Travel Costs – International airfare to and from Nepal is not included in the package.

☒       Beverages & Personal Expenses – Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and other personal expenses are at the trekker’s discretion.

☒       Teahouse Amenities – Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging at teahouses are available at an extra cost.

☒       Gratuities – Tips for guides, porters, and drivers are not included but are customary and highly appreciated.

We cover all the essential aspects of your trek so you can focus entirely on the adventure. These exclusions ensure transparency, allowing you to plan accordingly for a smooth and well-prepared experience in the Himalayas.

 

 

Permits & Laws for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trek to a controlled area, and specific permits must be acquired in order to govern tourism, keep its unique culture intact, and protect the region’s fragile ecology. You will need to acquire the necessary permits for a trouble-free and compliant trekking expedition. Our personnel ensure all necessary permits are received, and thus you can focus on the impending adventure.

 

Permits Required

To trek in the Manaslu Circuit region, the following permits are required:

 

✔ Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

🔸 Required for all trekkers entering the restricted Manaslu region to experience controlled tourism and conservation.

 

✔  Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

🔸Permits entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area for facilitating biodiversity conservation and infrastructure development.

 

 

Permit Fees

MRAP (September to November)

🔸 USD 100 per individual for the first 7 days, and USD 15 more per day.

 

MRAP (December to August)

🔸 USD 75 per individual for the first 7 days, and USD 10 more per day.

 

MCAP

🔸 USD 30 per individual.

 

Permit fees are subject to change according to government policies.

 

 

Where to Obtain Permits

🔸 MRAP is provided by Kathmandu’s Department of Immigration and must be obtained by a government-registered trekking agency (solo trekking is prohibited).

 

🔸 MCAP may be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara or through a trekking agency.

 

 

Trekking Regulations

🔸 Trekkers must keep permits with them at all times for verification at checkpoints.

🔸 Solo trekking is forbidden – A minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide must accompany them.

🔸 Travel insurance that includes high-altitude rescue and medical emergency coverage is mandatory.

🔸Environmental conservation is stringently upheld – Littering and degradation of natural habitats are strictly prohibited.

 

 

Checkpoints & Verification of Permits

🔸 Several checkpoints along the trekking routes screen for permits.

🔸 Failure to produce permits can result in fines or denial of entry to controlled regions.

 

We manage all permit applications, regulations, and bookings so that you can trek the Manaslu Circuit without any hassle. Our experienced staff does the paperwork so that you can be fully engaged in the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and challenging trails of the Himalayas.

 

 

 

Essential Advice for Trekkers

 

⦿ Acclimatize Properly

Ensure you take time to acclimatize to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. Stick to the principle of “climb high, sleep low.”

 

⦿ Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the trek. Dehydration can significantly affect your performance and overall well-being at high altitudes.

 

⦿ Pack Light, But Smart

Only carry the essentials. Prioritize warm clothing, a reliable pair of hiking boots, and a good-quality sleeping bag for higher altitudes.

 

⦿ Physical Preparation       

Focus on cardiovascular and strength training exercises to build stamina. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.

 

⦿ Mind Your Footwear

Invest in high-quality, comfortable hiking boots. Well-fitted boots are essential for tackling the rugged terrain.

 

⦿ Embrace Local Culture

Respect local traditions and customs. Positively engage with the local community and learn about their culture for a richer experience.

 

⦿ Be Prepared for the Weather

Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Always bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden temperature changes.

 

⦿ Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Help preserve the environment by minimizing your impact on nature. Respect wildlife and dispose of trash responsibly.

 

⦿ Listen to Your Body

If you feel unwell or fatigued, don’t push yourself. Rest and adjust your schedule if necessary. Remember, safety comes first.

 

⦿ Travel with a Licensed Guide

For safety and smoother navigation, hire an experienced, licensed trekking guide who knows the route and the terrain well.

 

 

 

Why Himalayan Explore Line?

 

🔶 Safety & Expert Guidance

Led by government-licensed guides with first-aid and crisis-management expertise.

Daily oxygen-level and altitude safety health check-ups.

Emergency response and evacuation protocols always ready.

 

🔶 Smooth Logistics

Essential permits and private transfers arranged in advance.

Pre-booked lodges/teahouses with verified hygiene and comfort.

Gear rentals and porter services streamlined for convenience.

 

🔶 Cultural & Scenic Sophistication

Immerse in Himalayan villages, ancient monasteries, and local traditions.

Trails showcasing iconic peaks, pristine valleys, and biodiverse forests.

Cultural interactions, from tea ceremonies to folklore storytelling.

 

🔶 Luxury Nutrition

Energy-providing nutritious meals at high altitudes.

Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-free meal choices.

Tea/coffee break daily with local sweets.

 

🔶 Clear Pricing

Unambiguous packages without additional charges.

Ethical operation: fair labor practices, sustainable operations.

Inquiries and modifications available 24/7.

 

 

Our Commitment

We deliver secure, culturally enhancing Himalayan journeys with meticulous logistics, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience.

 

 

 

Terms and Condition

 

Reservation and Payment

To confirm your booking, a 30% non-refundable deposit is required. The remaining balance can be paid before your trip. We recommend confirming your reservation before arriving in Nepal to help us plan your journey smoothly.

Payments can be made via digital wallet, credit card, or bank transfer (processing fees may apply). A 4% surcharge applies to all card payments, including deposits and other transactions. Bookings are only confirmed once you receive a Client Confirmation Letter from us. To receive this, you must complete the booking form with accurate details such as your name, contact info, and travel dates.

 

 

Policy on Cancellations and Refunds 

 

By Client:

• More than 2 months before departure: 80% refund

• 2 months to 29 days before: 70% refund

• Less than 15 days before: 50% refund

• Less than 7 days before: 50% credited toward a future trip (non-refundable if unused)

We strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance at booking. No refunds will be issued if you cancel after the trip has started, including for unused services like accommodation, transport, meals, or activities.

 

 

By Company:

If Himalayan Explore Line must cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances—such as natural disasters, flight cancellations, strikes, civil unrest, illness, quarantine, government restrictions, or severe weather—you will be offered an alternative trip of equal value and features, agreed upon mutually.

Please note that major changes do not include adjustments to airline carriers, flight schedules, or itineraries, provided the departure and return dates remain unchanged. Similarly, changes to hotel accommodations are not considered major as long as they are within the same category.

 

 

Itinerary Changes:

Weather in high-altitude areas is unpredictable, and domestic flight delays at the start or end of the trip may lead to itinerary changes. Flexibility is essential, as local conditions can affect plans, accommodations, or transport on short notice.

Clients are responsible for any extra costs caused by delays, natural disasters, or if alternative arrangements (e.g., helicopter flights) are chosen. These changes are binding, and any additional expenses beyond our control will be the client’s responsibility.

 

 

Insurance:

Himalayan Explore Line does not provide travel insurance. Clients must secure insurance covering high-altitude emergencies, medical costs (including pre-existing conditions), repatriation, trip delays, cancellations, and personal liability. Proof of insurance is mandatory. The company reserves the right to cancel your participation without a refund if valid insurance cannot be provided upon request.

 

 

Acceptance of Terms:

By booking with Himalayan Explore Line, you agree to the terms and conditions, including any updates. It is your responsibility to stay informed and comply with any changes.