Panoramic Manaslu Circuit Trek
Mount Manaslu
Village Manaslu Circuit Trek

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days

31 reviews in Trip Advisor
11 reviews in Google Reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
13 Days
Trip Grade
Technical Challenging
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,135 M (16,847 ft)
Starts
Maccha Khola
Ends
Tilje

The Manaslu Base Camp trek is a challenging yet fulfilling adventure that leads you through rich subtropical forests and rough Himalayan landscapes. The ideal choice for discovering Mount Manaslu is the Short Manaslu Base Camp Odyssey. The Manaslu Circuit trekking route is less crowded than the Everest and Annapurna Base Camp routes in Nepal.

Highlights

  • The eighth-highest mountain in the world.
  • The Manaslu Base Camp is the gateway to Nepal’s epic treasures.
  • Stunning views of Manaslu mountain from the Manaslu base camp and Larke La Pass.
  • Different monastery sites like Sama Gompa and many more.
  • Lush rhododendron forests are especially vibrant during the time of spring.
  • Possible wildlife encounters like Himalayan Tahr and blue sheep.
  • Making your way over stunning suspension bridges.
  • Natural hot springs perfect for relaxing after a long day of trekking.
  • Compared to some other hiking trails, the Manaslu trek is relatively short.
  • Glacial lakes near the base camp and Larke La Pass.
  • Scenic river valleys with crystal clear streams and rivers, including Budhi Gandaki river.
  • Experience the unique culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the people living there.
  • A much less crowded Base Camp in comparison to the other Base Camps.
  • Chance to see new places beyond your imagination.
  • Embark on an offbeat voyage with the Manaslu Base Camp, where you discover hidden trails and experience.
  • The Manaslu Base Camp is a dream for many adventure seekers.

Trekking across the Larkya La pass provides stunning panoramic views of the Manaslu and surrounding mountains, creating a fulfilling adventure. The Manaslu Circuit trek stands at the highest peak in the Gorkha District and the eighth-highest peak overall. During the journey, hikers will pass through villages influenced by Gurung and Tibetan traditions, exploring ancient monasteries and immerse yourselves in the local way of life. The Manaslu trekking provides an amazing adventure in the Himalayas with stunning scenery and various cultures. Mount Manaslu is located in the Gorkha and Manang district of Nepal. The trekking trail of the Short Manaslu Base Camp is one of the less crowded trekking routes in this region. You will be passing through the Larkya La Pass which is one of the challenging routes of this region. You can see the panoramic views of major mountains like Himalchuli(7,893 m), Ngadi Chuli(7,871 m) and Gangapura(7,455 m). You can also see Himalayan Tahr and blue seep along with the Glacier lakes near the Base Camp and Larkya La Pass.

You can also witness the crystal clear streams and rivers including the Budhi Gandaki River. The Manaslu Base Camp provides a captivating change of location from busy cities to the untouchable beauty of the Himalayas. The Short Manaslu Base Camp not only offers breathtaking views of the mountains but also provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan Region. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Manaslu Base Camp which provides perfect relaxation and peace of mind.

Why do the Short Manaslu Circuit Trekki?

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is an excellent option for adventure seekers who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a limited amount of time. Below are some of the reasons why you need to navigate through the Short Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail.

  • Stunning Himalayan Views: The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you magnificent views of Mount Manaslu which is considered to be the world’s eighth-highest peak, along with other majestic mountains including Ganesh Himal and Himlung Himal.
  • Rich Cultural Experience: During the trekking trail to the Short Manaslu Circuit, you will be passing through Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, and various gompas which provide you with a well-deserved experience of the Gurung and Tibetan culture communities. One of the famous ancient monasteries such as Pungyen Gompa offers you a chance to interact with the local people and monks who can give you in-depth knowledge about the area.
  • Challenging yet rewarding trails: The journey to Manaslu Circuit is easy yet challenging where your trek aligns with crossing the Larkya La Pass. However, the panoramic views make the trek full of unforgettable experiences.
  • Diverse Landscapes: The trek offers you varied terrain conditions where the landscapes change from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and glacial valleys.
  • Suitable for Experienced trekkers: While the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is shorter, the trek still requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization.

Challenges of the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers you several challenges, which makes the trek demanding yet rewarding with a lot more experience of trekking in the Himalayas. The major challenge of the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass (5,160 M) which poses significant challenges due to the high risk of altitude sickness. The rugged and steep trail makes the trek require good physical strength along with some sections with unmanaged route conditions. Although, weather conditions in the Himalayas can be a major factor that determines your challenges. The higher you elevate the limited the facilities and infrastructure in the region get. Despite all the challenges, with proper preparations and a positive mindset, the trek remains a fulfilling adventure for trekkers.

Are you looking for a short exciting Base Camp trek? Then, we have got you the Short Manaslu Base Camp trek for 2025/2026. Embark on the journey that gives you a change of location shifting from familiar locations to the terrain of the Manaslu Base Camp. Grab this opportunity to feel like you’re stepping into a dream with majestic mountains and an unforgettable experience for a lifetime.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days Itinerary

Note:

  • If you want to book a private jeep for convenient and fast travel you need to pay an extra 250 USD for each side.
  • If you don’t need a private jeep then the cost is included in the trekking package.
Start Point: Maccha Khola
End Point: Tilje
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When you arrive at the airport in Kathmandu, the High Camp Adventure team will be there to welcome you. The visitors will help you reach your hotel using a private vehicle. The team will help you with both your luggage and the check-in procedure. Get ready to explore Kathmandu, a city abundant in historical significance.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Hotel

The journey officially starts in Kathmandu, leading you through Nepal’s varied terrain. The path leads you to the abundant green hills. You will encounter various rivers like the Trisuli River and during sunny days you catch a view of the Himalayas. The journey offers a glimpse into rural life in Nepal, featuring traditional villages, wooden and stone houses, and local markets. The trip from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola is a memorable adventure filled with enriching experiences and a combination of beautiful landscapes and cultural activities.

Max Altitude: 870 M (2,854 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Guest house

The journey from Maccha Khola to Jagat provides a delightful exploration of the stunning landscape in Nepal's Gorkha District. When departing Maccha Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Ganadaki River along the journey. The path includes various suspension bridges to cross and pass through rivers and valleys. Jagat is a resting place where hikers can appreciate the beautiful views. The village is surrounded by stepped fields and a thick forest that provides vistas of neighboring hills and a chance to see into the traditional way of life and experience a different culture.

Max Altitude: 1,340 M (4,396 ft)Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Jagat to Deng is a thrilling part of the Manaslu Circuit. On departing from Jagat, the trail gradually climbs up past terraced fields and dense forest next to the Budhi Ganadki River. The path includes multiple suspension bridges. Upon arrival at Deng, there is a tea house with beautiful views located in the village.

Max Altitude: 1,860 M (6,102 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Deng to Namarung provides breathtaking scenery and is the highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. Deng is a charming traditional village surrounded by lush forests and terraced fields, giving stunning views of the nearby mountains. Upon nearing Namrung, the landscape transforms into rough terrain offering breathtaking views of the Manaslu mountain range. Namrung is a village with authentic Tibetan-style houses providing a peek into the local customs and a gateway to the trek’s higher elevation.

Max Altitude: 2,630 M (8,629 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

Starting from Namrung, the adventure takes you through lush forests and terraced fields, providing stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. Ahead from there the terrain changes to alpine meadows and rugged paths with fresh water of glacial streams along the Budhi Gandaki River. It goes through small Tibetan villages which makes the trail unique and provides an experience of culture. With the dramatic views of the high-altitude villages, Sama Gaun is a great place to relax before trekking to a higher altitude. Get around the village and experience the local way of living.

Max Altitude: 3,520 (11,581 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

You will have an opportunity to rest and adjust to the altitude in Sama Gaun while also being able to explore the surroundings. It is suggested to visit Pungyen Gompa, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also choose to hike to Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake. You will have the opportunity to unwind and experience quality time with the locals.

Max Altitude: 3,520 M (11,581 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Sama Gaun to Samdo is a pleasant and uncomplicated experience. The path ascends gradually alongside the Budhi Gandaki River starting from Sama Gaun. You will hike across rugged terrain and numerous streams while appreciating the nearby mountains. Samdo, the place you're heading towards, is a serene village with a classic atmosphere, ideal for acclimating to the high altitude before starting a hike to an even greater altitude.

Max Altitude: 3,875 M (12,713 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea House

Another thrilling day filled with excitement at a greater altitude. Traveling from Samdo to Dharmasala will be a delightful experience as you will cross the Budhi Gandaki River via a wooden bridge. You will pass by the Athahra Saya River as well as the Larke River. On the way to Larkya La Pass, you will see Mani walls and prayer flags. Upon nearing Dharmasala, you will witness both the Larkya Glacier and Larkya Peak. When you arrive in Dharmasala, you will be accommodated at a tea house with stunning views of Larkya Glacier and Mount Manaslu.

Max Altitude: 4,460 M (14,632 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The exciting part of the trip involves trekking to the day's highest point, located close to the Larkya La Pass on the Manaslu Circuit. After the early morning breakfast, you will commence your journey to the next destination, which is a long distance away from Dharmasala. The route descends towards Bhimtang village, a popular stopover on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Different kinds of wildflowers and wildlife will be seen based on the season. This place is famous for its native culture and history.

Max Altitude: 5,135 M (16,847 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea house

After completing the challenging Manaslu Circuit trek, you will now begin the descent along the trail. It usually takes 5-6 hours to cover the 26.3 kilometers between Bhimtang and Tilje. The most difficult section of the journey is over and the paths ahead are simple and pleasant. On the way to Tilje, a charming village belonging to the Gurung community, one can spot numerous small houses and forests blooming with rhododendrons. You must use a wooden bridge to get across the Dudh Koshi River. Upon arrival at Tilje, you will be staying at a tea house serving you various local dishes. You can also try different local alcohols (Raksi) and Tongba which are made from fermented millet.

Max Altitude: 2,300 M (7,545 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

After completing your breakfast you will be heading towards Besisahar. The trek goes through a lush forest and suspension bridges with lovely waterfalls. After reaching Dharapani you will stop for lunch and then continue our journey by sharing a bus towards Besisahar. Besisahar is the next stop for your dinner. You will leave for Kathmandu after the dinner is completed. It is just 6 hour's ride from Besisahar and after reaching Kathmandu you will be transferred to your designated hotel.

Max Altitude: 1,400 M (4,593 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner providedAccommodation: Hotel

As you have completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek, now it’s time to return to your homeland or your next travel destination. Our team will assist you to the Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight. I hope you had a warm and nice stay! Feel free to give your recommendation and feedback for us.

Cost Details

Includes

  • Pick up and drop to and from the Airport facility
  • Stay at a 2 /3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast provided.
  • Registered and experienced expert Guide
  • If you’re trekking alone, you will be given a guide or both porters
  • Includes 3 meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation in a tea house
  • Transportation facility as per the itinerary
  • Basic First aid kit
  • Permit and Documents fee
  • Basic trekking equipment

Excludes

  • International flight ticket from and to Nepal
  • Insurance for trekking the Manaslu Circuit
  • Visa Fee for Nepal
  • Gears and equipment for personal use
  • Tips to guide and porters during the trek
  • Additional activities
  • Laundry and personal expenses during the journey
  • Fees for specific sites
  • Private vehicle charges

Dates & Availability

Ensuring the safety of our hikers is our top priority as a trekking company. Hence, you should strictly stick to our timetable. The itinerary is planned according to the weather, so if the weather is unfavorable, there could be modifications to the planned route and schedule of the trek.

Essential Information

Airport pickup and drop

High Camp Adventure provides you with well-managed transportation services which includes both the facility of pickup and drop. High Camp Adventure offers high-quality services and amenities to enhance the overall experience for its clients. We commit to offer superior qualities and services to enhance a more enjoyable and seamless experience for our clients.

Safety and security concerns

Manaslu trek is considered the eighth highest peak in the world so trekking at high altitude is challenging. Trekking agencies like High Camp Adventure commit to providing high-quality safety and security enhancing the overall protection and peace of mind for clients during their journey.

Accommodations and food during the trek

The Manaslu Trek is well supported by tea houses along the way. Rooms of the tea house are mostly twin shared so if you want a single room then you have to pay extra cost for that. Each tea house is equipped with basic facilities such as sleeping arrangements, essential amenities like a blanket hot shower, and a charging point for electronic devices. Our package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Trekkers during the trek mostly use a shared washroom in a tea house. Private washrooms are only provided in a hotel, not in a tea house.

For those who want to try local cuisine, you can get the opportunity to enjoy traditional Nepali dishes and local drinks. Some daily food items like dal bhat, Chapati, vegetable curries, Tibetan momo, hot drinks, and noodles are available during the trek. As you gain elevation, services and options will become less and more costly.

Permits for the trek

To trek Manaslu Circuit Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP) and Restricted Area Permit( RAP). These two are the permits required during the trek.

  1. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP): Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP) is necessary to access the Manaslu Conservation Area and is a must for trekking in that area. The Nepal Tourism Board(NTA) issues the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit.
  2. Restricted Area Permit(RAP): The Manaslu region is classified as a restricted area so, a permit for the restricted area is required for trekking in the Manaslu region. This license can be obtained from a certified trekking company in Kathmandu or from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). The permit costs approximately USD 30 per person.

Note:

  1. The permit and paperwork should ideally be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
  2. Trekking alone is not allowed in this area due to it being a restricted region.
  3. Verify the most recent requirements and rules since policies may be updated, and think about seeking advice from a trekking agency for the most current information and help obtain permits.
  4. Prices can vary slightly based on administrative fees, so it's good to check with the Nepal Tourism Board(NTA) or a registered travel agency for current rate and cost.

Best Season to trek in Manaslu Circuit Trek

During the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal, it is ideal to trek the Manaslu Circuit. These periods offer you favorable weather, clear mountains, and enjoyable trekking journeys. Other months are challenging due to cold temperatures, and snowfall, and the trail can be slippery.

  • Spring (March to May): The Manaslu Circuit trek during springtime is truly an enchanting experience. The weather is generally stable with mild temperatures and clear skies. The skies are generally clear, providing excellent visibility of the mountain. Rhododendrons and other wildflowers bloom during the time of spring. The temperature is moderate during the day. If the weather is favorable then you can see mountains.
  • Autumn(September to November): The Manaslu Circuit Trek during autumn is truly a stable weather condition after the monsoon season with clear skies and dry weather. The temperature is pleasant during the day, and cooler at higher altitudes. You can see lush greenery forests due to post-monsoon and excellent visibility of mountains. During this season you can have the best experience of the trek.

Note:Choosing the right time to trek at the Manaslu Base Camp ensures your safety, comfort, and the best experience with clear views of the mountains. During the time of Monsoon (June to September) and Winter( December to February), the weather is not good for trekking as the trails get more slippery, and heavy rainfalls reduce the visibility. So before trekking make sure that you go during the favorable conditions and get help from your trekking agency about the best time for trek.

Total cost

cost of The Manaslu Trek with High Camp Adventure changes depending on the quantity of hikers. The price for one solo hiker is 990 USD. The cost per person decreases to 890 USD when trekking with a group of 2 to 5 individuals. The cost per person is lowered to 840 USD for a bigger group of 6 to 15 trekkers. se rates generally include essential services such as permits, guide fees, accommodations, and meals.

Guides and porters during the trek

While trekking the Manaslu Circuit, High Camp Adventure offers licensed English-speaking guides and porters for your assistance. The guide will help the hikers along the way to ensure the hike is both more easier and comfortable. The trekkers are requested to behave with respect to the guides and porters. The trekkers are requested by the guides and porters to show them respect. Tipping guides and porters is not mandatory, but it is a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Altitude sickness

High altitude can affect trekkers when they ascend to a high altitude too quickly without giving their body proper time to acclimate to a decrease in oxygen level. Such high altitudes have challenges associated with decreasing oxygen levels.

  • Symptoms: Headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, difficulty in breathing, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty in sleeping, swelling of hands and legs, etc
  • Preventive measures: Keep yourself hydrated, add acclimation day to your itinerary, eat nutritious food, give proper rest to your body, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and maintain a balanced diet.

Connections and Wifi

Mobile network coverage can be patchy and unreliable in remote and mountain regions. Wifi and internet facilities are available in some tea houses along the Manaslu Trek. For a better network and connection, it's better to use an NTC sim card or maybe Ncell depending on the place where you use it. But the higher you trek there is a lack of signal as there are no tower signals at the higher elevations. So, you will get to use internet connections provided by the tea house only.

Travel Insurance

To trek with High Camp Adventure the trekker must be insured even though there are no compulsory policies by the government. But it’s better to do travel insurance before the trek because the weather is unpredictable at times. So, if you have insurance it can help you cover or decrease the cost of medical charges.

Money exchange for personal expenses

During your trek, only Nepali currency is acceptable so it’s better to exchange your money before the trek starts. For personal expenses, you need a sum amount of money or in case of emergency. You can exchange your money via Money exchanges in Thamel or from any of the banks. It is also possible to withdraw from the ATM but takes additional charges depending on the bank.

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - 12 Days FAQs

The Manaslu Trek is 180 kilometers long, roughly around 110 miles. However, each day varies in length and within the given itinerary.

The trek often starts from Macchakhola, depending on the specific itinerary chosen by the trekking agencies.

Yes, the Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area in Nepal, so you need special permission through a registered trekking agency. A restricted Area Permit(RAP) is needed for you to trek to the Manaslu Region.

The Manaslu Trek is moderately challenging but one of the toughest treks in the Himalayas. It involves long hours of continuous hiking, steep ascent descents, and high altitudes.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is popular because of its exceptional natural beauty and unique cultural encounters. It is also considered one of Nepal’s top treks. The Manaslu Trek is the best trekking place to avoid crowds and enjoy your trekking journey.

No, you cannot trek to The Manaslu Circuit alone or without a guide. The Manaslu Region is a restricted area and requires a Restricted Area Permit(RAP) through a licensed trekking agency. A group of two or more trekkers with a guide can only trek to the Manaslu Circuit.

The best time to trek The Manaslu Circuit is during the time of spring(March to May) and autumn(September to November). Both seasons are suitable for trekking to the Manaslu Circuit.

Yes, there are a lot of tea houses and lodges available during the Manaslu Circuit Trek available for accommodations throughout most of the trekking agencies, providing basic facilities of meals and shelter.

Yes, trekking in the Manaslu Region requires arranging your trek through a registered trekking agency in Nepal due to the permit regulations and the requirement to have a licensed guide.

Yes, trekking in the Manaslu Region is generally considered safe, especially when accompanied by a licensed guide who is familiar with the routes. So, be careful while selecting the most trusted trekking agency.

Yes, there is a facility for internet connection and mobile network. But as you trek to higher altitudes there is a lack of mobile network. Some of the tea houses and lodges provide you with internet connections.

Yes, vegetarians can do the Everest Base Camp trek. However, we recommend our trekkers to reduce their meat intake during the trek because it is responsible for digestive problems during the trek. Thus, most trekkers take in vegetables, which usually are fresh and offer nutrients during the trek. It helps you to keep your health and energy up.

Yes, as per many trekkers, the Spring and Autumn seasons are considered to be the most suitable time to trek. This season offers you moderate temperatures and predictable weather. Be sure about the season you trek, as it determines the challenges you have to face during your journey. However, trekking is possible with an experienced Guide throughout the year.

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