A demanding 12-day loop through Nepal’s Manaslu Conservation Area, this trek moves from subtropical valleys to the Larkya La pass at 5,213 m. Expect Tibetan-influenced villages, hot springs, high pastures and glacial vistas—plus required special permits and strict acclimatization.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn on the Prithvi Highway feels like the first page of the Manaslu story: rice terraces slip away, the Budigandaki River dares you upriver, and forested gullies tighten into the granite ribs of the high Himalaya.
Difficulty
difficult
Duration
12 days
Fitness Level
Strong aerobic base and prior multi-day trekking experience above 3,000 m; be comfortable hiking 6–10 hours with a daypack.
Wildlife
History
The Manaslu region crosses historic trade routes between Nepal and Tibet and sits in the Gorkha district—home to Nepal’s storied Gorkha soldiers and centuries of Himalayan trade and pilgrimage.
Conservation
The Manaslu Conservation Area enforces permits and limits to protect fragile alpine meadows and glacial waters; trekkers should minimize waste, avoid open fires and use established toilet facilities when available.
Reserve your spot on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking 12 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Get the permits sorted early
Manaslu Special Permit and conservation permits are required before you enter the restricted area—arrange through your operator well in advance.
Pace for altitude, not mileage
Build in the acclimatization day at Samagaon and plan shorter uphill days before Larkya La to reduce AMS risk.
Bring water treatment
Reliable water purification (tablets or filter) avoids reliance on sugar-heavy tea-house drinks and reduces plastic waste.
Expect basic teahouses above 3,500 m
Carry a lightweight down liner and warm sleeping layers—rooms are simple and heating is limited.
Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots
Ankle support and solid soles are essential on rocky, icy ascents and long descents.
Insulated down jacket
Warmth for cold nights and high passes—compressible and lifesaving above 4,000 m.
Micro-spikes or mini crampons
Useful for icy patches on Larkya La and early/late season snow on the pass.
winter
Lightweight water filter or purification tablets
Treat river and teahouse water to avoid illness and reduce single-use plastic.