Nestled in the remote folds of Nepal’s majestic Himalayas lies a trek that remains untouched by mass tourism—Manaslu Circuit Trekking. This exhilarating trail circles Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters, and takes adventurers through serene valleys, deep gorges, lush forests, and traditional mountain villages. For those seeking a quieter, more authentic Himalayan experience, the Manaslu Circuit offers a perfect alternative to the more popular Annapurna and Everest treks.
The Manaslu Circuit Trekking route starts from the town of Soti Khola, weaving through the Budhi Gandaki River Valley and climbing gradually to the high-altitude Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters before descending into the Annapurna region. This challenging yet rewarding journey typically takes 14 to 18 days and covers a distance of around 177 kilometers.
What makes the Manaslu Circuit special is its combination of breathtaking scenery, cultural depth, and relative solitude. While thousands flock to Everest Base Camp each year, only a fraction experience the raw beauty of Manaslu. The trek is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) and classified as a restricted area, meaning fewer trekkers and well-preserved local culture.
The Manaslu region is home to some of the most stunning mountain views in Nepal. Besides the towering Mount Manaslu, the trek offers dramatic views of Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Shringi Himal. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from subtropical forests and rice terraces to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks.
One of the trek’s most memorable moments is crossing the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the circuit. This part of the journey requires determination and acclimatization, but the reward is worth it. From the top, trekkers enjoy panoramic views of glaciated valleys, frozen lakes, and snow-covered summits—a truly spiritual moment for many.
The Manaslu Circuit winds through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages such as Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo. You’ll find Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and locals in traditional dress, practicing customs passed down for centuries. These communities are primarily inhabited by the Nubri and Tsum ethnic groups, who follow Tibetan Buddhism and maintain a deep spiritual connection with the land.
Unlike the crowded teahouse routes of Annapurna and Everest, Manaslu Circuit Trekking offers peace and tranquility. You can walk for hours without seeing another trekker, allowing for a deeper connection to nature and a more introspective journey. The trails are quieter, accommodations less commercialized, and interactions with locals more genuine.
Due to its location near the Tibetan border, the Manaslu region is a restricted area and requires special permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (as the trail merges with the Annapurna Circuit after Larkya La)
Trekkers must be in a minimum group of two and be accompanied by a licensed guide, which helps ensure safety and support for local communities.
The two best seasons for Manaslu Circuit Trekking are:
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, excellent mountain views, and moderate temperatures make this the most popular time to trek.
- Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons bloom in the lower altitudes, and the weather is warm and stable.
Winter trekking is possible but harsh due to heavy snow on the pass, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings rain, leeches, and slippery trails.
Along the trail, teahouses provide simple lodging and meals. Rooms are basic but comfortable, usually with shared bathrooms and communal dining areas. Expect local dishes such as dal bhat, noodle soup, Tibetan bread, and momos. While some teahouses offer limited Wi-Fi and charging facilities, connectivity becomes sparse at higher altitudes.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking is considered moderate to challenging, primarily due to the long days, steep ascents, and altitude. Trekkers should be in good physical shape and prepared for daily hikes of 6–8 hours. Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary, especially in Samagaon, where trekkers can also enjoy a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.
A guided Manaslu Circuit trek typically costs between $900 to $1,500 USD, depending on group size, itinerary, and services. This includes permits, guide and porter fees, transportation, accommodation, and meals. Additional costs include personal gear, snacks, tips, and optional upgrades.
Tsum Valley Trek is a hidden treasure in Nepal’s trekking landscape. With its spectacular mountain views, diverse ecosystems, spiritual encounters, and authentic Himalayan culture, it offers everything a trekker could dream of—without the hustle of the mainstream trails. For those looking for adventure, solitude, and a deeper connection to the mountains, the Manaslu Circuit delivers a once-in-a-lifetime journey.