Manaslu Circuit, 12 Days Itinerary
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit, 12 Days Itinerary is one of our most popular and rewarding adventures. This incredible journey takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge.
Experience the thrill of exploring remote terrains while being supported by our expert team. Whether you are seeking panoramic mountain views, dense forest trails, or fascinating local encounters, this trip promises unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Detailed breakdown of your trekking journey
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, leaving behind the bustling city as the road winds through rolling hills, rivers, and traditional villages. After a long but rewarding drive, you arrive at Machhakhola, a peaceful riverside settlement where you'll spend your first night in the mountains.
The trek starts by following the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through charming villages and terraced fields. As you gradually gain altitude, you'll reach the beautiful stone-paved village of Jagat, the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Today's trail winds through forests, waterfalls, and narrow gorges as the scenery becomes more dramatic. Crossing several suspension bridges and passing small settlements, you'll arrive at the peaceful village of Deng, where Tibetan culture begins to appear.
The trail climbs through forests and traditional villages with beautiful mountain views along the way. By afternoon, you'll reach Namrung, a charming Tibetan-style village surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery.
Today's walk offers incredible scenery as you pass mani walls, prayer flags, and mountain villages. You'll enjoy your first clear views of Mount Manaslu before arriving at the beautiful village of Lho.
The trail continues through open landscapes with breathtaking views of Manaslu and nearby peaks. Arriving in Samagaon, you'll experience the rich Tibetan culture and peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Today is reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You can explore the village, visit nearby monasteries, or take a short hike to enjoy the surrounding mountain views.
The trail gently climbs through wide alpine valleys with stunning Himalayan scenery. After a short trek, you'll arrive at the traditional village of Samdo near the Tibetan border.
Today's trek follows high alpine trails with panoramic mountain views. Upon reaching Dharamsala, you'll rest and prepare for the challenging crossing of Larkya La Pass the following day.
An early morning start takes you to Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending through glacial valleys to the beautiful meadows of Bimthang.
Leaving the alpine landscape behind, you'll descend through rhododendron forests, pine woods, and traditional villages before reaching the peaceful village of Tilije.
Your final morning on the trail leads to Dharapani, where the trek ends. From there, you'll drive to Besisahar, enjoying one last look at Nepal's beautiful mountain landscapes.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport pickup and drop-off service in Kathmandu
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besisahar as mentioned in the itinerary
- All necessary trekking permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (typically 1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying shared luggage)
- Guide and porter salary, insurance, food, accommodation, and allowances
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (if included in the package)
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Guide’s first aid kit and basic medical support
- Trekking map and necessary trip arrangements
- Government taxes and official service charges
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Personal expenses during the trek
- Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (unless mentioned in the package)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and snacks
- Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi fees at teahouses
- Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, and internet
- Emergency helicopter evacuation or rescue costs
- Tips for guide, porter, and support staff
- Any additional costs caused by weather, natural disasters, flight delays, road blockages, or unforeseen circumstances
- Any services not mentioned under Cost Includes section
Payment Terms
Advance Deposit Payment (40%): 40% advance payment is needed to ensure your booking.
Balance (60%): Balance payment has to be made prior to the tour departure date as agreed upon at the time of booking.
Such procedure guarantees your booking while providing an opportunity for additional payment arrangements.
Equipment Lists
- Backpack (35–45L for daily use)
- Duffel bag (carried by porter, if included)
- Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
- Down jacket
- Waterproof trekking jacket
- Waterproof trekking pants
- Warm fleece jacket
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Warm gloves
- Trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
- Comfortable trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3 liters)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Personal toiletries
- Quick-dry towel
- Personal first aid kit
- Prescription medications (if required)
- Energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, energy bars)
- Power bank
- Camera or smartphone
- Passport and trekking permits
- Cash for personal expenses and charging facilities
Additional Information
Best Season
The best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, beautiful mountain views, pleasant temperatures, and the best trekking conditions.
Required Fitness Level
This is a moderate to challenging trek. You should be in good physical condition and able to walk 6 to 8 hours a day on mountain trails. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not required.
Visa Information
Travel Insurance
Important Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip Summary
Need Help?
Have questions about this trip? Our team is here to help!
Join Our Adventure Community
Subscribe to the Apex Himalaya newsletter for exclusive travel tips, new trek announcements, special offers, and inspiring stories from the world's highest peaks.
Your privacy matters to us. We never share your information with third parties and keep all data secure. You can unsubscribe from our newsletter anytime with just one click. View our privacy policy.
We are Affiliated with
