Manaslu Circuit Guide Service
| Trip code | |
| Package name | Manaslu Circuit Guide Service |
| Duration | 14 |
| Max. elevation | 5106 m |
| Level | difficult |
| Transportation | All ground transportation (bus) as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | <p>Kathmandu-Machha Khola-Jagat-Deng-Namrung-Lho-Sama Gaun-Samdo-Dharmashala-Larkya La Pass-Bimthang-Goa-Kathmandu</p> |
Highlights
- Walk the full Manaslu Circuit with a government-licensed Sherpa guide, with all four required permits handled for you
- Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) with panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru and Annapurna II
- See Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m) and the Ganesh Himal range
- Trek a quieter, more remote trail than the Everest or Annapurna routes
- Meet Nubri and Gurung communities and pass monasteries, chortens, mani walls and prayer flags
- Stay and eat where you like and pay teahouses directly, so you control your budget
- Acclimatize at Sama Gaun with a hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa
- Optional Tsum Valley extension, subject to trail status
- Spot Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, pheasant (danfe) and rich bird life (with luck, even a snow leopard)
- Walk through lush rhododendron and pine forest
- Walk through several suspension bridges
- See yaks and naks along trail
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Guide Service is made for trekkers who want to walk one of Nepal’s most remote Himalayan trails on their own terms. The circuit around Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, is a restricted area, so it cannot be trekked independently. We provide the licensed Sherpa guide and every permit, and you choose where to sleep, what to eat and how to pace the journey. It is a quieter, more authentic alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek.
The trail is known for its dramatic scenery, rich culture, high-altitude challenge and far fewer crowds than Nepal’s best-known routes. Snow-covered peaks, roaring rivers and traditional mountain life create a rare sense of wilderness, and crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) is the highlight of the journey.
Along the way you pass through villages such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaun and Samdo, where daily life stays closely tied to ancient customs. Lower villages reflect Gurung culture, while higher settlements show strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. Stone houses, mani walls, prayer flags and spinning prayer wheels line the trail, and your guide helps you read the customs, visit monasteries and chortens, and understand the traditions that shape local life.
This cultural depth makes the Manaslu Circuit a natural partner to the Tsum Valley Trek or the Upper Mustang Trek, both known for their Tibetan heritage.
What the Guide Service Covers
- A government-licensed, English-speaking Sherpa guide for the whole trek
- All four permits, the paperwork and checkpoint registrations
- A pre-trek briefing and gear check in Kathmandu
- Daily trail and bridge checks, with route changes when needed
- 24/7 support and emergency coordination
Teahouse rooms, trail meals and transport are not part of the service. You pay teahouses directly or add transport and a porter as options. If you would rather have everything arranged for one price, choose our full-package Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Trip Facts of the Manaslu Circuit Guide Service
- Duration: 14 days
- Max altitude: 5,106 m (Larkya La Pass)
- Best season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
- Accommodation: Teahouses, paid directly by you
- Meals: Paid directly at teahouses
- Trip grade: Difficult
- Start and end point: Kathmandu
- Service: Licensed guide, all permits and 24/7 support
Who Is the Manaslu Circuit Guide Service For?
The service suits trekkers who:
- Want a remote, less crowded trekking route in Nepal
- Prefer to choose their own teahouses, meals and daily pace
- Have their own flights, hotel or transport and need only a guide and permits
- Enjoy cultural immersion alongside mountain scenery
- Are comfortable with long trekking days, high altitude and good physical fitness
The trek is physically demanding, but the reward is a rare blend of wilderness, culture and adventure.
Best Time for the Manaslu Circuit
Autumn (September to November) brings clear skies, excellent visibility and mild temperatures. Spring (March to May) offers warm weather, clear mornings and colorful rhododendron forests in the lower sections. The Restricted Area Permit costs less from December to August, so spring trips carry a lower permit cost.
Manaslu Circuit Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit is a demanding Himalayan trek that suits people with good physical fitness. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky paths, suspension bridges and remote terrain, and the biggest challenge is crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m). Most days involve about 5 to 8 hours of walking. With good preparation, proper acclimatization and a steady pace, trekkers with previous hiking experience can complete it. No climbing or mountaineering skills are needed.
Permits for the Manaslu Circuit
You need four permits, and we arrange all of them:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality Entry Permit
Fees at a glance (set by the government, can change, and covered in your service price):
- Restricted Area Permit, September to November: US$100 for the first 7 days, then US$15 per extra day
- Restricted Area Permit, December to August: US$75 for the first 7 days, then US$10 per extra day
- MCAP and ACAP: about NPR 3,000 each (roughly US$25–30)
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality permit: NPR 1,000 (about US$8)
Accommodation and Food Along the Trail
You stay in teahouses, which are simple but warm and comfortable after a long day. Meals are freshly prepared and usually include Nepali and Tibetan dishes that give you energy at altitude. You pay for rooms and meals directly, and your guide helps you choose lodges and order. There are no ATMs on the trail, so carry enough Nepali rupees for the whole trek.
Trail Update [UPDATE DATE AND STATUS BEFORE PUBLISHING]
Floods on the Budhi Gandaki River on 11 October 2026 damaged parts of the trail. Trekking from Jagat through Philim towards Nubri and Larkya La resumed from mid-October, while the route to Tsum Valley was still being repaired at last report. We check conditions with local teahouses and the conservation area office before every departure, and your guide adjusts the plan if a section is not safe.
Why Trek with Higher Path Treks & Expeditions
Trekking in a restricted region like Manaslu takes careful planning, and Higher Path Treks & Expeditions is a Sherpa-owned company with 13 years of Himalayan experience. Our team understands the challenges of altitude, weather and terrain.
Experienced Local Guides: Our licensed guides know the Manaslu region well, from acclimatization and trail conditions to local culture, which improves both safety and the experience.
Safety First: Safety is our top priority. Your guide monitors your health, weather and trail conditions every day.
Transparent Pricing: We state clearly what is included and excluded, with no hidden costs.
24/7 Support: Our team is available before, during and after your trek.
Logistics and Permits: Manaslu needs special permits because of its restricted status. We handle all the documentation, so you can focus on the journey.
This support makes the trek accessible even for trekkers who have already completed routes like the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and want something more remote.
Final Thoughts: Your Manaslu, Your Way
The Manaslu Circuit is a journey into Nepal’s untouched Himalayan heart: roaring rivers, quiet monasteries, high passes and vast alpine landscapes. With the Guide Service you get a trusted Sherpa guide and every permit, while you keep the freedom to shape the trip around your own budget and pace.
Contact Higher Path Treks & Expeditions to confirm your dates, permits and guide.
Helpful Blogs About Trekking in the Manaslu Region
Trip Preparation
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can rest from your journey or explore the lively streets of Thamel, filled with trekking shops, cafés, temples, and local markets. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where you meet your guide, review trek details, and make final preparations. This relaxed first day allows you to settle into Nepal’s vibrant atmosphere and prepare mentally and physically for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola (869 m) - 8-10 Hours
After an early breakfast, we begin a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat. The journey winds through terraced hillsides, river valleys, and traditional villages, following the Trishuli River for much of the way. As you approach the Budhi Gandaki Valley, the landscape becomes more rugged and remote. Occasional views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu appear in the distance. Upon reaching Machha Khola, a small riverside village, you’ll check into your lodge and relax after the drive. Overnight in Machha Khola
Day 3 : Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m) - 6-7 Hours
Leaving Jagat, the trail continues upstream through forested paths and crosses several suspension bridges. A steady climb leads to Philim, a large Gurung village surrounded by green hills and farmland. From here, the trail becomes quieter as you move deeper into the Manaslu region. Passing through pine forests and terraced fields, you reach Deng, a peaceful village influenced by both Gurung and Tibetan cultures. Views of Sringi Himal add to the beauty of the day’s walk. Overnight in Deng.
Day 4 : Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,804 m) - 6-7 Hours
Leaving Jagat, the trail continues upstream through forested paths and crosses several suspension bridges. A steady climb leads to Philim, a large Gurung village surrounded by green hills and farmland. From here, the trail becomes quieter as you move deeper into the Manaslu region. Passing through pine forests and terraced fields, you reach Deng, a peaceful village influenced by both Gurung and Tibetan cultures. Views of Sringi Himal add to the beauty of the day’s walk. Overnight in Deng.
Day 5 : Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630 m) - 6-7 Hours
Today’s trek gradually gains altitude as the trail winds through rhododendron and pine forests. You’ll cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times and pass small settlements and yak pastures along the way. As you climb higher, the first clear views of Manaslu and surrounding peaks begin to appear. Reaching Namrung, a traditional Tibetan-style village with stone houses and prayer flags, feels rewarding. The cooler air and mountain scenery signal your entry into the high Himalayan landscape. Overnight in Namrung
Day 6 : Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180 m) - 4-5 Hours
The trail from Namrung ascends gently through barley fields and alpine landscapes. Passing through villages like Lihi and Sho, you’ll encounter mani walls, chortens, and classic Tibetan architecture. Mountain views become more dramatic with each step, especially the sight of Manaslu rising high above the valley. Arriving in Lho, you’ll have time to explore the village and visit its beautiful monastery. The peaceful setting and close-up views of Manaslu make this a memorable day. Overnight in Lho
Day 7 : Lho to Sama Gaun (3,530 m) - 4-5 Hours
Today’s walk offers some of the most scenic views of the trek. The trail passes through pine and rhododendron forests before descending to cross the Damonan Khola. A steady climb then leads to Shyala village, surrounded by towering peaks. Continuing onward, you arrive at Sama Gaun, a large and picturesque Tibetan village nestled beneath Manaslu. The shorter trekking day allows time to explore the village, rest, and enjoy the stunning mountain surroundings. Overnight in Sama Gaun.
Day 8 : Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa)
This day is set aside for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the altitude. You can hike to Manaslu Base Camp, where you’ll enjoy incredible views of the glacier and the massive north face of Manaslu. Alternatively, a visit to Pungyen Gompa offers a quieter cultural experience with panoramic mountain scenery. Both options provide excellent acclimatization while adding depth to your trekking experience. After the hike, return to Sama Gaun for a restful evening. Overnight in Sama Gaun.
Day 9 : Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,875 m) - 3-4 Hours
Leaving Sama Gaun, the trail ascends gradually through juniper and birch forests, with wide views of the Manaslu range. The landscape becomes drier and more rugged as you approach Samdo, a small Tibetan village near the border with Tibet. The relatively short trek allows plenty of time to explore the village, interact with locals, and rest. The high-altitude environment and open terrain make this day both peaceful and visually striking. Overnight in Samdo.
Day 10 : Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala (4,460 m) - 4-5 Hours
Today’s trek takes you closer to the high point of the Manaslu Circuit. The trail ascends through rocky terrain and alpine landscapes, passing views of glaciers and rugged ridges. You’ll reach Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, a basic settlement at the base of Larkya La Pass. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the challenging pass crossing the next day. The quiet, high-altitude setting adds to the sense of adventure. Overnight in Dharmasala.
Day 11 : Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang (3,720 m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106 m) - 8-10 Hours)
This is the most demanding yet rewarding day of the trek. Starting early, you ascend steadily to Larkya La Pass, marked by prayer flags and breathtaking mountain views. From the top, panoramic vistas include Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. After celebrating the achievement, you descend carefully across moraines and glacial terrain to Bimthang. Surrounded by vast valleys and snowy peaks, Bimthang feels like a well-earned haven after a long day. Overnight in Bimthang.
Day 12 : Trek from Bimthang to Goa (2,500 m) - 6-7 Hours
Leaving the alpine landscapes behind, the trail descends through rhododendron forests, pastures, and small villages. You’ll reach Ghowa. The warmer air, green hills, and comfortable lodges mark a pleasant transition back to lower elevations. Overnight in Ghowa.
Day 13 : Trek to Tilije and drive Kathmandu (1,400 m)
After breakfast, trek to Tilije about 1 hour then begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu by local jeep or bus. The journey passes through river valleys, terraced farmland, and traditional villages, offering a final look at rural Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free to rest, enjoy local cuisine, or explore the city’s cultural highlights at your own pace. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 14 : Free or final departure
Today is free day for you. You can explore Kathmandu city, shopping or simple relax. If your international flight is scheduled today, our team will transfer you to the airport.
Inclusions
What is included?
- Tea house accommodations during the trek
- All ground transportation (bus) as per the itinerary in a comfortable private vehicle
- Government-licensed, English-speaking Sherpa trekking guide for the full trek
- Guide’s salary, insurance, food, lodging and equipment
- Porter service - 1 porter for 2 clients (Optional)
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- MCAP, ACAP and Chumnubri Rural Municipality permits
- All permit paperwork, itinerary submission and checkpoint registrations
- Pre-trek briefing and gear check in Kathmandu
- Daily trail and bridge condition checks with route adjustments when needed
- 24/7 office support and emergency coordination
- All government and local taxes and service charges
What isn't included?
- Airport transportation (pick-up and drop-off)
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Personal trekking equipment (e.g., sleeping bag, trekking poles)
- Personal expenses such as cold drinks and alcohol during the trek
- Hot showers and charging facilities for electronic devices during the trek
- Internet usage fees and battery charging costs during the trek
- Tips for guide and porter
- Any additional expenses not mentioned in the "Included" section
- Extra costs from delays, trail closures or natural events beyond our control