A 12-day loop that climbs from river valleys to the 5,105 m Larkya La, the Manaslu Circuit pairs remote high-mountain panoramas with authentic Tibetan-Nepalese villages. Expect long walking days, mandatory permits, and teahouse nights framed by prayer flags.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light strips the valley bare and the first views of Manaslu appear like an answer to a hard-earned question: sharp ridgelines, broad glaciers and villages that refuse to rush. The Manaslu Circuit is a sustained highland passage — a route that moves from subtropical river canyons through pine and rhododendron forests up onto high alpine moraine and the 5,105 m Larkya La.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
11–13 days (approx. 12 days listed)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and experience with multi-day altitude treks; ability to walk 5–8 hours daily on uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
The Manaslu region historically sits along trade and pilgrimage routes between Nepal and Tibet; monasteries and mani walls reflect long-standing Tibetan Buddhist influence.
Conservation
The trek passes through Manaslu and Annapurna conservation areas; stick to trails, pack out waste, and minimize firewood use to protect fragile alpine scrub and forest.
Reserve your spot on the Manaslu circuit trek and side trips today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Permit paperwork
Secure the Manaslu Restricted Area and Annapurna/Manaslu conservation permits in Kathmandu well before departure; guides typically handle processing.
Acclimatize deliberately
Include at least one full acclimatization day (Samagaon/Pung-gyen) and plan slow ascent rates to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Footwear and traction
Stiff-soled trekking boots with good ankle support are important for steep descents, rocky trails and glacier moraines.
Water safety
Carry a lightweight filter or treatment tablets; many teahouses will boil water but availability can be limited in higher camps.
Insulated down jacket
Warmth above 4,000 m and cold nights in teahouses require a reliable insulating layer.
Sturdy waterproof trekking boots
Support and protection on rocky trails, moraines and wet sections.
Water filter or purification tablets
Safe drinking water is essential where boiled water or bottled supply is limited.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and help on unstable moraine and snow patches.