Trip Details
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Destination: Nepal
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Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
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Trip Style: Trekking and sightseeing
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Transport: Public & Private vehicles
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Food: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner
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Accommodation: Hotel & Teahouse
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Group Size: 02 - 12 Persons
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Max Elevation: 5,215m/17,1059.5ft
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Start at: Kathmandu
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End at: Kathmandu
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Best Season: Mar - May & Sept - Nov
Highlights
- Trek through epic, changing scenery
- Glimpse traditional Tibetan homes and livelihoods
- Set sight on Manaslu (8163m), the 8th highest peak above sea level
- Bag Manaslu Basecamp (4800m)
- Cross the bone-chilling Larkya La (5160m)
- Become very physically fit
About Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an epic long-distance walk into a little-visited world of ethnic minorities, big mountain scenery, and world-class trails. This is a walk for those who delight in the wonders of undeveloped Himalayan scenery and long, rewarding days of walking in a Nepal of yesteryear.
From the humid subtropics of Arughat (530m) to the icy winds of the Larkya La (5160m), you will traverse the Manaslu Conservation Area, a restricted area home to 11 different types of forests housing more than 100 species of birds and 33 mammals. You will gaze upon Manaslu (8163m), Earth’s 8th highest mountain above sea level, walk through golden millet fields, and build legs of steel.
Our walk begins in MacchaKhola, following an exciting dirt-road journey that dropped us 1000 meters lower than Kathmandu. As we proceed up the western flanks of the valley, we are quickly introduced to the raging Budhi Gandaki, the aqua-colored glacially-fed river that originates in higher altitudes of the Manaslu region and that accompanies us for much of our walk.
As we continue, we encounter some of the most stunning scenery in Nepal: from deeply cut valleys and a broad, sweeping Budhi Gandaki to golden, swaying millet fields on terraced mountainsides and valley plateaus, from old, traditional homes to incredible old-school trails that offer us an enticing taste of how Nepal was before the 21st century.
In the higher alpine, we discover ancient Tibetan trade centers and Gompas, muse over yaks munching on the hillsides, and challenge ourselves to take one more step. From Sama (3500m) we bag Manaslu Base Camp (4800m) and take in the stunning Birendra Tal. From Dharmasala (4460m), we enjoy a northern view of Manaslu and its northern massif. As we close the circuit, in Bimthang (3700m) we catch staggering amphitheater-esque views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu from the west!
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging, rewarding, and off-the-beaten-path long-distance walk calling adventurers out there looking for a different experience.
Why Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal?
Expedition in the Manaslu Circuit Trek certainly has many amazing places that we suggest no trekkers miss at all, Trekking has always been one of the best ways to escape the chaos of the city area while also testing one's physical ability. However, these are not the only reasons why people visit the Manaslu Circuit Trek because there is a lot more than that in this trekking route.
Here are a few reasons why one should go for the 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek expedition at least once in their lifetime:
Moderately Difficult yet Adventurous Trekking Route
Unlike many other trekking routes in this region, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is moderately difficult, meaning that people with comparatively less trekking experience can also hit this trekking route in Nepal. However, its difficulty level does not stop the Manaslu Circuit Trek journey from being one of the most adventurous trekking routes in Nepal.
Starting with the scenic drive from Kathmandu to ascending from Dharmashala to Larkya La Pass, each point and stop has mesmerizing and stunning natural vistas to offer. Moreover, the entire trekking route is also very adventurous due to which trekkers can experience their adrenaline-rushing and the cardiovascular system being happier than ever.
Local People and their Lifestyle
Most of the Himalayan regions of Nepal are highly influenced by Buddhism. Moreover, the entire area is densely populated by Chhetri, Brahmins, Magars, and Tibetan Burmans, which make their lifestyle significantly different from the ones you see in Kathmandu. Another reason for these people having dissimilar lifestyles is the geographical structure of the Manaslu Area.
People of this region (especially the upper part) live a minimalist life with very few facilities like electricity, internet, education, farming, etc. One of their major sources of income is the tea houses and lodges that you can find on your Manaslu Circuit Trek route. However, the hospitality and warm welcome you get from these people are the showstoppers. Therefore, for exploring the remote religion-influenced lifestyle of the Nepalese, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a perfect option.
Multiple Gompas, Monasteries, and Maximum Devotion to Buddhism
If you want to learn the actual meaning of Buddhism, you can learn that from the Himalayas of Nepal. Local lifestyles are so highly influenced by Buddhism in the Manaslu Circuit Trekking that you can encounter many monks while ascending. From the food they eat, the clothes they wear, and even the way they build their houses (prayer flags and scribbles), everything reflects Buddhism and Buddha's learning.
Due to that reason, the Manaslu Circuit Trek route consists of numerous Gompas, monasteries, and Buddhist temples. Besides, you can also hear religious hymns and see monks performing rituals early in the morning.
Manaslu Base Camp 4,900 m / 16,072 ft.
One of the major reasons why everyone must visit the Manaslu Circuit Trek is to reach the Manaslu Base Camp. Just imagine the feeling you get while standing at the base of the eighth-tallest peak in the world. Besides, trekkers can also get a golden chance to meet several summiteers who are on their way to reaching the peak of Manaslu Mountain.
Also, we encourage you to take as many photos and videos as possible while you are in this place because these photos and videos can act as sources of encouragement for future trekking and expeditions.
Larkya La Pass (5160 meters)
Larkya La Pass is the last and the highest point of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trekking Map. This place is at an altitude of 5160 meters above sea level. Due to its extensive altitude, Larkya La Pass offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding environment, Moreover, trekkers also get a feeling of accomplishment once they reach here.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Expedition with Adventure Bound Nepal
Adventure Bound Nepal is a trustworthy trek operator agency in Nepal with more than 15 years of experience in providing trekkers and travellers with the most affordable, reasonable, and adventurous trekking packages. Besides, we have also received multiple recognition and positive reviews from trekkers all over the world because of our services and push towards a better trekking and traveling experience.
Adventure Bound Nepal team not only organizes treks and travel packages for the customers but also works for the betterment of the remote part of the country, cleanliness, and hygiene of the Himalayan region of Nepal. Moreover, our team also tries its best to generate employment opportunities for the local youths of Nepal.
- Highly experienced and seasoned guides and porters who can communicate in English fluently.
- Arrangement of the best hotels for accommodation in Kathmandu and also throughout the trek.
- A brief one-on-one description of the entire Manaslu Circuit Trekking map and factors affecting your trekking journey.
- Proper arrangement of buses and jeeps for transportation from Kathmandu to Macchakhola and vice versa.
- Supporting, interactive, and proactive guides and porters for navigation throughout the trekking journey.
- Provision of duffle bags, down jackets, and water purification tablets before heading out for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
- A dinner dedicated to the successful expedition after you return from the 16-day Manaslu Circuit Trek.
- 24/7 Support and trekkers' satisfaction is always on the topmost priority.
Useful Information
Preparation for the 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal
Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be difficult due to its rough terrain and steep slopes to ascend on. However, there is nothing to worry about for the trekkers who are well-prepared for the trek. Yes, preparation plays a crucial role in determining how simply, efficiently, and without much difficulty can anyone complete the 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal. Let us provide you with some of the best ways to prepare for this expedition:
1) Do some Homework (Research)
If you think that the Manaslu Circuit Trek is your next destination for an adventurous and thrilling vacation amid the Himalayas of Nepal, you need to start with some homework. Try doing as much research about the entire trail, habitats, flora, fauna, tradition, and culture of the Manaslu region. Remember that, knowing all these aspects are highly advantageous while trekking the Manaslu Circuit.
The best way to research this circuit in the Himalayas is by reading blogs, and articles, watching documentaries, reports, success rates, and many more. Besides, another way to do research is by contacting different trekking operators, reading the packages they offer, and talking to them personally. After all this research, you can go for the next step of preparation for the 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek.
2) Prioritize Physical and Mental Preparation
As you have researched the Manaslu Circuit and have made up your mind to go on this trekking journey, it's time to prepare yourself physically and mentally. Keep in mind that your physical and mental strength are your biggest allies while trekking in the Manaslu Circuit. Here are how you can train your body and mind for the Manaslu Circuit Trek journey:
- Normalize exercising and start that a few months before going on the trekking adventure.
- Go for endurance training because that helps your body to walk easily even in higher altitudes.
- Try doing some minor treks to make your body familiar with the higher altitude and lower temperature.
- Prioritize regular practice of meditation, yoga, and other activities to enhance your mental health, calmness, and flexibility of the body.
3) Pack as Smartly as Possible
Do you know that packing correctly and adequately is one of the most crucial parts of going for a trek? If you think about walking by the Himalayas, your packing needs to be smart and so much different than any regular tour packing. Therefore, we request all the trekkers to check their backpacks multiple times and confirm that they have everything they need for the journey in the Manaslu Circuit Trek's 16 days expedition.
However, you also must keep in mind not to pack too many of things because that can cause difficulty while ascending the higher altitude. Nevertheless, you will have a porter accompanying you by carrying your belongings, you need to put the basic requirements like water, snacks, etc on the backpack that you carry yourself. Besides, if you have any confusion regarding what to pack and how to pack for the 16 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can contact the Adventure Bound Nepal Team.
4) Physical Fitness is required
If you plan to go for the 16-Day Manaslu Circuit trek or any other trek in Nepal, Adventure Bound Nepal recommends you to prioritize fitness training as much as possible. You must be active and ready to face the higher altitude and the thinner oxygen level. Going for hiking or running in a day basis a month prior the trekking is recommend to keep your body in play.
Permits 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal
Mt. Manaslu lies in the Conservation Area of Manaslu in the northwest of Kathmandu in Gorkha district. It is a restricted area bordering with Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. There are several permits required to trek the 16 Manaslu Circuit Trek which are listed as follows: -
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Entry Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Entry Permit
- TIMS(Trekkers' Information Management Systems)
Availability of electricity and internet during Manaslu Circuit Trekking
One of the major concerns of trekkers and travellers these days are electricity, internet, and mobile services. In this digital era, the internet, mobile services, and SIM Cards are very essential for everyone. Moreover, electricity also stands as one of the important factors of life.
Electricity
Trekkers can find the proper provision of electricity throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek journey. You can even get access to electricity in hotels and lodges in the higher altitude. In the lower part of the trek, houses and lodges have direct access to the national grid of electricity. However, as we ascend to the higher part, we can see solar power used to generate electricity.
Remember that, in the higher altitude you might have to pay for the electricity and it costs around $2 to $3 per hour. That is because people in that area have to face many challenges in bringing electricity. Electricity is either generated through solar power or even some cases they also use micro hydro. However, one thing to be assured of is that trekkers will get electricity access throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trekking map.
Internet and Mobile Services:
Mobile networks operated by NTC and Ncell cover the entirety of the Manaslu region, facilitating communication for trekkers. You can call to your house and keep updating them about your progress. Many guesthouses along the Manaslu Circuit route offer WiFi and internet services, for an additional but affordable cost. These facilities are highly required and appreciated by trekkers from all around the world.
Local SIM Card:
Having a local SIM Card is the best to communicate on mobile phones inside Nepal. You can get yourself a local SIM Card of either NTC or NCELL and all you need for that is a passport copy and a passport-sized photo. Once activated, you can also opt for data packages to access the internet while on the trekking trail.
Accommodation and Food in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Accommodation:
Throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek's 16 Day journey, Adventure Bound Nepal arranges the best accommodation for the trekkers. All the hotels and tea houses have many facilities like electricity, cozy rooms, tasty and fulfilling food options, and many more. You can even get a hot shower in almost all of the hotels. Besides, the hotels and lodges are very clean and hygienic for anyone to stay. Even after being at such a higher altitude, the accommodations at the Manaslu Circuit Trek do not leave any chance to impress the trekkers and travelers.
While many of the guesthouses are simple some guesthouses even provide attached bathrooms with hot showers, albeit with limited facilities. Additionally, many establishments offer conveniences like electricity, telephone access, and Wi-Fi for an extra fee. Rooms typically feature twin beds or dormitory-style arrangements with multiple beds in a room.
Food:
Food certainly is one of the most important factors to keep trekkers active, healthy, and walking throughout the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Therefore, Adventure Bound Nepal does its best to provide all the trekkers with the most healthy, fulfilling, and energizing food during the ascend. Besides, tea houses and guesthouses along the Manaslu Circuit Trek have diverse menus provided by MCAP, catering to various tastes, including Chinese, Nepali, Continental, and Indian cuisine.
Moreover, you can find different food items to eat like Nepali Thali set, Dal Bhat, and other cuisines like pizza, macaroni, spaghetti, eggs, bread, chapatis, muesli, porridge, and much more. However, some of these might not be available on the higher part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Therefore, we request trekkers to compromise in the food options for a few days at the higher altitude.
Manaslu Circuit Trekking Temperature / Weather
Temperature and weather conditions can have a huge impact on 16-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek. Therefore, Adventure Bound Nepal has come up with this section where we describe the weather and climatic conditions of the entire trekking route. Nepal has four seasons; Spring, Autumn, Winter, and summer season. All these seasons have different challenges, conditions, and other factors affecting the Manaslu Circuit Trek journey.
The temperature in the Manaslu Circuit Trek always depends on the seasons. Here is some general information about the temperature of the Manaslu region.
Spring Season
Spring is sunny and clear weather. In this season, the temperature stays between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius and 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In the highlands, the temperature goes to 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to that, it is somewhat okay to go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the summer season. However, we request the trekkers to keep themselves hydrated. Moreover, we also expect them to follow a steady pace if they ascend the 16 Day Manaslu Circuit Trek in the summer season.
Summer Season
This season, the temperature even goes higher. In the low land, 15 to 25-degree centigrade, 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In higher elevations, 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring is considered to be the most adequate season for trekking in Nepal due to the beautiful and adequate weather conditions for climbing purposes. You will also get the most amazing views of the mountains, valleys, and clear skies.
Autumn Season
During this season, the temperature is 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and in the lower elevations, 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In the higher elevation, 0 to 10 degrees Celsius, 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. After spring, autumn is also considered to be a favorable season for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Winter Season
This season is the coldest and lots of snow falls in the higher elevations and the temperature goes down. In the lower elevation, 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Besides, in higher elevations, below 0 degrees to -15 degrees Celsius, 14 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter season, we suggest that only the highly professional trekkers go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Is it possible to Trek in the Winter Season in Nepal?
Trekking in the Manaslu Circuit in winter can be challenging and generally not recommended for inexperienced and usual trekkers. However, if you are a professional trekker and have a strong mindset, you can go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Adventure Bound Nepal. However, remember that ascending this trekking route in the winter season requires you to have maximum knowledge about all the gear bad trekking equipment. Our team is enthusiastic and fully equipped and insured to conduct the Manaslu Circuit Trek even in the winter season, drawing upon our skillful experience and knowledge of high-altitude trekking during the winter season.
Winter can be harsh, characterized by heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and the potential for avalanches. This makes it very crucial for trekkers to possess all the necessary skills for a successful trekking expedition. Adventure Bound Nepal includes skilled seasoned trek guides, well-versed in handling winter challenges. Moreover, if you go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek in the winter season, we suggest you to have proper preparation and mountaineering skills.
How to book my Manaslu Circuit Trip?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the highly preferred trekking journeys in Nepal. Every year, many people visit Nepal to go on this amazing trekking expedition. If you want to book the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can easily book it with Adventure Bound Nepal. We offer the most adventurous, affordable, and reasonable package for the circuit trek at the base of the Manaslu mountain.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is our top-selling trek package in Nepal. Adventure Bound Nepal offers the best 16-day itinerary to Manaslu Trek from arrival to departure. Take maximum satisfaction at the most reasonable cost for the Manaslu Circuit trek as the bookings are open for 2024 and 2025.
