Lies behind the majestic Himalayan ranges, Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain in the world. Rising to 8163 meters ( 26781 ft ), its name originated from the Sanskrit word “Manasa,” meaning soul. Locals even call this mountain the Kutan, which translates to “the holy peak” or “Mountain of the Spirit. "
First mounted by a Japanese expedition led by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu (Sherpa) in 1956 AD. Since then, Manaslu has become the crowning jewel of the Himalayan range of Mansiri. Manaslu not only shows its formidable beauty but also echoes the spiritual significance to locals.
Despite its magnificence, Manaslu remains untouched by the Mountaineers and explorers than other 8000m Peaks. So, if you are seeking untouched, raw, and authentic Himalayan wilderness Manaslu Circuit Trek is for you.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Map overview

Manaslu circuit trek revolves around Mount Manaslu, one of the 8 highest peaks. The route is located in Gorkha District and lies in the Manaslu Conservation Area next to the Tibetan plateau to the North. Generally, the journey starts from the Soti Khola at 710m with lush green hills and roaring river valleys, moving forward to the next destination, Machha Khola at 910m, following the Budi Gandaki River upstream. Going higher, reaching the 1340 m, we will reach the first checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area. Moving ahead to Deng at 1860m, we will start to see Tibetan cultural influence. As we advance, we reach the nemrung at 2630m, where we can see the first clear view of Manaslu and Ganesh Himachal. Slowly but steadily, we reach Loh at 3180m, Samagaun at 3530m, and Samado at 3860 m, where we see beautiful monasteries and a Tibetan-influenced cultural village. Before we go any further, we first adjust to the new environment and conditions to avoid altitude sickness because after we reach around 4000m, the trek is going to be difficult.
Ascending from bottom to top, we reach Dharma Sala at 4460m, and we camp before the highest point. Now we tighten our seatbelts to reach the highest point in the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Larkya La Pass at 5106m The journey does not end here, as we have to descend to Bimtang and Tilije/Dharapani. Now the trek ends, and it connects to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
The journey resembles unique combinations of landscape, culture, and Himalayan peaks. So, get ready to get started on the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Horizon Treks.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlight
- View of the most underrated peaks among the 8 highest Peaks of Nepal
- Exploring Tibetan-influenced villages and culture
- Going through the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA)
- Discovering the diverse landscape and alpine forest of the Manaslu region
- Navigating through Epic High altitude
- Rugged and off-beat trails and hikes
- Experiencing the Authentic Culture of Nepal
- Undergoing through spiritual awakening
- Passing through Larkya La pass at an elevation of 5160m
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty
Facilities like a teahouse, medical services, and a hotel are limited, so trekkers should be prepared for long isolation. The route is long, usually taking up to 9-10 days, and the weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures at higher altitudes and potential snowfall or rain. Despite its difficulty, the trek offers an amazing wilderness experience, making it suitable for intermediate trekkers with prior high-altitude trekking experience. The overall challenge comes from the combination of length, altitude, and terrain, but for those who are physically and mentally fit and prepared, it’s an incredibly rewarding adventure.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Outline
| Days | Activity Outline |
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola |
| Day 2 | Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat |
| Day 3 | Trek from Jagat to Deng |
| Day 4 | Trek from Deng to Namrung |
| Day 5 |
Trek from Namrung to Lho |
| Day 6 | Trek from Lho to Samagaon |
| Day 7 | Trek from Samagaon to Samdo |
| Day 8 | Cross Larkya La Pass to Bimthang |
| Day 9 |
Trek from Bimthang to Tilije/Dharapani |
