Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nepal 2026

nov 15th – DEC 1st 2026
Group of hikers at Larke Pass summit sign with colorful prayer flags draped over the at 5,106 meters on the Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and breathtaking mountain regions, where ancient villages, towering Himalayan peaks, and rich Buddhist culture await. Cross the iconic Larkya La Pass, stay in traditional teahouses, and challenge yourself on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you stronger, more confident, and deeply inspired.

This is a fully supported trekking expedition hosted by Tanya and led by a local Nepalese guide created for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

You’ll be part of a small group of people who are ready to show up, embrace the challenge, and experience Nepal beyond the typical tourist route. This is for those who are excited by adventure, comfortable getting a little uncomfortable, and willing to laugh through the realities of trekking life, including rustic teahouse bathrooms.

The Manaslu Circuit feels like what Everest Base Camp was 15 years ago: remote, authentic, and still untouched by mass tourism. Before the crowds, before the long lines, before it became another bucket-list checkbox.

We’re going while it still feels wild.


Key Trip Details

Dates: November 15 – December 1, 2026
Duration: 17 days / 16 nights

Start & End Point: Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)
Fly into Kathmandu, and we’ll take care of everything from there.

Accommodation:

  • 4 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
    • 2 nights before the trek
    • 2 nights after the trek
  • 12 nights in traditional Himalayan teahouses

Trekking:

  • 11 days of trekking
  • 2 acclimatization/rest days with optional bonus hikes
  • Distance: ~111 miles
    • Up to ~131 miles with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp and the Tibetan Border
  • Elevation gain: ~16,700 ft
    • Up to ~24,600 ft with optional hikes
  • Highest point: Larkya La Pass
    • 5,106 m / 16,752 ft

Difficulty Level:
★★★★★ Challenging

This trek is designed for adventurous travelers who are comfortable hiking long distances on rugged mountain terrain and are ready to embrace the challenges of high-altitude trekking.

Solo Travelers Welcome:
Most guests join on their own and leave with new trail friends. This is a great adventure for solo travelers looking to share an unforgettable experience with a small group.

Ready for a life-changing journey to Nepal? Reserve your spot now!


Itinerary

WOOHOO! Welcome to Nepal! Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), a private transfer will take you to the hotel. Over the next 17 days, you’ll experience the magic of this incredible country.

Plan to arrive by 4:00 PM so you can join our welcome briefing and kick off the adventure with a group dinner.

Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel

After breakfast, we’ll take care of the final trek preparations, including securing permits and making sure everyone has the gear they need. Once everything is ready, we’ll head out to explore the vibrant streets, temples, and culture of Kathmandu.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel

The adventure officially begins! We’ll leave Kathmandu behind and enjoy a scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills, following the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki Rivers to the small village of Machha Khola. Along the way, you’ll get your first glimpse of Nepal’s dramatic landscapes.

Drive Time: 8 hours (private jeep)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

It’s finally time to hit the trail! We’ll hike through lush subtropical forests, cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times on suspension bridges, and follow the river gorge to the picturesque village of Jagat.

Distance: 12.4 mi (20 km)
Hiking Time: 6- hours
Elevation Gain: 1,545 ft (471 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Today’s trail winds through waterfalls, forests, and charming mountain villages as we officially enter the Manaslu Conservation Area. Expect several exciting suspension bridge crossings and spectacular scenery throughout the day.

Distance: 13.6 mi (21.9 km)
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,700 ft (520 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

We’ll continue climbing deeper into the Himalayas as the valley narrows into dramatic gorges. As we gain elevation, the landscape changes and we’ll be rewarded with our first breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Distance: 13.4 mi (21.6 km)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,525 ft (770 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Today the valley opens up, revealing some of the most spectacular mountain scenery of the trek. We’ll enjoy incredible views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, and surrounding snow-capped peaks as we make our way to the peaceful village of Shyala.

Distance: 10.2 mi (16.4 km)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,855 ft (870 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

We’ll visit the ancient Pungyen Gompa, one of the region’s most beautiful monasteries, before continuing through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages to Samagaon, one of the cultural highlights of the Manaslu Circuit.

Distance: 10.6 mi (17 km)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 100 ft (30 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Today is an important acclimatization day to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. Those feeling strong can join an optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp for unforgettable glacier views, while others can relax and explore the village at their own pace.

Optional Hike: 8.2 mi (13.2 km) • 7-8 hours • ±4,200 ft (1,270 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

A shorter hiking day gives us more time to acclimatize as we continue toward Samdo, the final permanent settlement before crossing the high mountain pass. The surrounding alpine scenery becomes even more dramatic.

Distance: 3.2 mi (5.2 km)
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,130 ft (345 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

We’ll spend another acclimatization day at altitude. Adventurous hikers can take an optional hike toward the Nepal-Tibet frontier for incredible panoramic mountain views before returning to Samdo.

Optional Hike: 12.1 mi (19.5 km) • 8-9 hours • ±3,800 ft (1,155 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Today we’ll make our way to Dharmasala, the final stop before tomorrow’s pass crossing. After arriving, we’ll enjoy an early dinner and get plenty of rest for our pre-dawn alpine start.

Distance: 3.8 mi (6.1 km)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,920 ft (585 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Summit day! We’ll cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek, surrounded by panoramic views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and countless snow-covered peaks before descending into beautiful Bimtang.

Distance: 9.9 mi (15.9 km)
Hiking Time: 8 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,120 ft (646 m); Loss: 4,970 ft (1,516 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

We’ll descend through beautiful rhododendron forests and alpine valleys before reaching Tilje, where our private jeep will be waiting to take us to Besisahar.

Distance: 12.4 mi (20 km)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation Loss: 9,285 ft (2,830 m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 
Teahouse Lodge

We’ll enjoy one final scenic drive through the Marsyangdi and Trishuli River valleys as we return to Kathmandu. After checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax and celebrate an incredible achievement with a farewell dinner.

Drive Time: 8-9 hours (private jeep)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Enjoy a free day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. Visit iconic sites like Pashupatinath Temple or Boudhanath Stupa, shop for souvenirs in Thamel, or simply relax.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a huge sense of accomplishment after completing one of the world’s most spectacular treks.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Price: 1,995 USD

Reserve your spot with a 20% deposit ($399 USD). Solo travelers will be paired with a same-gender roommate, making this the perfect adventure whether you’re coming alone or with a friend.

Himalayan village with blue-roofed teahouses and a golden monastery set against snow-covered Manaslu and surrounding peaks

Travel Requirements & Other Important Info

Passport and Visa Requirements

To enter Nepal, you will need:

  • A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining from your date of entry
  • At least 2 blank passport pages
  • A Nepal tourist visa

Nepal Tourist Visa

30-day tourist visa costs $50 USD.

You have two options:

Option 1: Apply online before arrival

Complete the online application through the official Nepal visa portal before your trip.

Option 2: Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

You can obtain your visa when you arrive in Nepal. Be sure to:

  • Bring one passport-size photo
  • Complete the online pre-application before arrival
  • Select “Visa on Arrival” and follow the instructions

For the most current entry requirements, travel updates, and restrictions, please visit this website.

Fitness Requirements

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude adventure. A good level of fitness is strongly recommended to ensure you can safely enjoy the experience.

You should feel comfortable hiking:

  • 8–14 miles per day
  • On uneven, steep, and sometimes rugged terrain
  • With significant elevation gain at high altitude

Preparing your body before the trek will help you enjoy the journey, adjust to the altitude, and feel strong and confident throughout this incredible Himalayan adventure.

Travel Insurance

Please note that personal travel insurance with high-altitude trekking coverage is required for this expedition.

Your policy must include, at a minimum:

  • Emergency medical coverage
  • High-altitude trekking coverage (up to at least 5,106 m / 16,752 ft)
  • Emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue
  • Trip interruption and cancellation coverage (strongly recommended)

Proof of travel insurance will be required before departure. It is your responsibility to ensure your policy covers all planned trekking activities and elevations included in this itinerary.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The deposit to reserve your spot is non-refundable (20% of the trip cost). Any additional payments beyond the deposit are fully refundable until September 16, 2026. The full balance is due 60 days prior to the trip (September 16, 2026). After September 16, 2026, all payments are non-refundable.

Group Trip Terms & Conditions

FAQ’s

Is This Trip Right For Me?

This trip is a great fit if you:

  • Have been curious about Nepal but didn’t want to figure out the logistics alone
  • Are a consistent hiker — you don’t need to be elite, but you should be able to walk 6–8 hours on consecutive days
  • Have done at least one multi-day hike before, ideally with some elevation
  • Want a small, real group — not 30 strangers on a bus tour
  • Are okay with teahouse accommodation (think: clean, simple, no frills, spectacular views)
  • Can handle plans shifting because of weather or altitude — nature is in charge out here

This might not be the right fit if:

  • Your schedule is too tight to take 17 days
  • You need luxury hotels and guaranteed hot showers every night
  • You have serious heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions (altitude is no joke and I’ll be honest with you about this)
  • You want a packed party-every-night vibe

What is included and NOT included in the trip fee?

Cost Includes

Your trek package includes everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable Manaslu Circuit adventure.

Transportation

  • Private airport pickup and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport
  • Private jeep transfer from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
  • Private jeep transfer from Dharapani to Besisahar
  • Private jeep transfer from Besisahar to Pokhara

Accommodation

  • 4 nights accommodation in Kathmandu at a 3-star hotel (including breakfast)
  • 12 nights teahouse accommodation during the trek

Permits & Fees

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
  • Tsum Nubri VDC Permit
  • All government taxes and company service charges

Meals & Drinks During the Trek

  • Three meals daily during the trek:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Three hot drinks per day (tea or coffee)
  • Welcome dinner and farewell dinner

Trekking Support

  • Professional English-speaking trekking guide throughout the 13-day trek
  • One porter for every two trekkers
    • Porter capacity: up to 26 kg total
  • Guide and porter insurance

Complimentary Services

The following items are available for your convenience:

  • Sleeping bag (if needed)
  • Down jacket (if needed during the trek)
  • Trekking poles (if needed)
  • Water bottle and purification tablets
  • First aid kit
  • Manaslu trekking map
  • Seasonal fruit dessert after dinner
  • Trekking duffle bag
  • Branded trekking T-shirt and cap
  • Secure storage of personal belongings at the Kathmandu office

Cost Excludes

The following expenses are not included:

  • Any other expenses not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
  • International airfare
  • Nepal tourist visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not listed in the inclusions
  • Soft drinks and bottled water
  • Snacks and personal treats
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Internet and phone calls (unless provided free of charge)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers

Please note: Personal travel insurance with high-altitude trekking coverage is required for this expedition.


Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, there are 2 payment plan options:

  • Option 1 – $399 deposit, plus 2 payments of $798 (Aug 19 and Sep 16, 2026)
  • Option 2 – $399 deposit, plus 3 payments of $532 (Aug 19, Sep 2, and Sep 16)
What kind of weather should I expect?

The Manaslu Circuit takes you through an incredible variety of landscapes and climates as you climb from subtropical valleys to the high Himalayas.

The trek begins in the warm, humid lowlands at around 700 meters (2,296 ft), where daytime temperatures typically range from 27–30°C (81–86°F) and cool to around 19°C (66°F) at night. This section is filled with lush forests, terraced fields, rushing rivers, and tropical vegetation.

As you gain elevation between 1,200 and 2,500 meters (3,937–8,202 ft), the climate becomes cooler and more comfortable. Expect daytime temperatures of 20–25°C (68–77°F) and nighttime lows of 10–15°C (50–59°F). The trail winds through beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and bamboo.

Above 3,500 meters (11,482 ft), the scenery transforms into alpine terrain with wide-open valleys, rocky trails, and expansive mountain views. Daytime temperatures typically range from 10–15°C (50–59°F), while nights often drop to 0–5°C (32–41°F). At these elevations, the air becomes noticeably thinner and drier as you make your way toward the high mountain pass.


What do I need to pack for Manaslu Trek?

Packing List

Head

  • Sun hat, buff, or scarf
  • Warm beanie or insulated winter hat
  • Headlamp with extra batteries

Face

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Face/body wipes

Hands

  • Lightweight hiking gloves
  • Insulated waterproof gloves for high altitude

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking hiking shirts
  • Long-sleeve base layer
  • Lightweight T-shirts
  • Hiking pants
  • Thermal underwear
  • Fleece jacket
  • Sweater or mid-layer
  • Hooded waterproof rain jacket
  • Waterproof rain pants
  • Down jacket (rated to -25°C recommended)

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (Gore-Tex recommended)
  • Thick wool hiking socks (3-4 pairs)
  • Lightweight liner socks (optional)
  • Camp shoes, sandals, or flip-flops
  • Microspikes/crampons (season dependent)

Essential Gear

  • Daypack (25-35L)
  • Reusable water bottles or insulated bottle (1-2 L total)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -20°C or lower)
  • Rain cover for your backpack

Toiletries & Personal Items

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Wet wipes
  • Personal medications
  • Small first aid kit
  • Antiseptic cream or spray

Included Gear

The following items are provided:

  • Sleeping bag (rated to -25°C)
  • Down jacket (rated to -25°C)
  • Pulse oximeter (daily oxygen monitoring)
  • 1L water bottle & water purification tablets
  • Group first aid kit
  • Fresh seasonal fruit after dinner
  • Duffle bag (if using a porter)
  • Branded T-shirt & cap
  • Manaslu Circuit trek map
  • Emergency oxygen carried by your guide
  • Secure luggage storage at the Kathmandu office

Porter Information

Each porter carries up to 26 kg (57 lbs) total for two trekkers, so please limit your duffle bag to 13 kg (28 lbs) per person.

Packing light helps ensure a safer and more comfortable trek for both you and your porter.