What exactly is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit is a high-altitude trekking route in the Gorkha district of northwestern Nepal. It circumnavigates Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth highest peak at 8,163 metres, via the Budhi Gandaki River valley to the north and the Dudh Khola valley to the south. The circuit is completed by crossing the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres, which is the highest point of the route. The rapid version of the trek completes the full circuit over nine days.

How is the Manaslu Circuit different from the Annapurna or Everest treks?

The most significant difference is remoteness. The Manaslu region receives a fraction of the visitors that the Annapurna and Everest regions see annually. The restricted area permit system limits numbers, and the longer approach drive discourages casual visitors. The cultural character is also distinct, the upper Budhi Gandaki valley is home to the Nubri people, a Tibetan-speaking community with traditions not found on the more accessible routes. Trail infrastructure is less developed, which means the experience is more raw and the sense of genuine adventure is higher.

What is the total trekking distance on the rapid itinerary?

The full circuit covers approximately 177 kilometres from Jagat to Dharapani. Over the nine-day rapid schedule, daily distances range from 12 to 20 kilometres depending on the terrain and elevation change.

How physically fit do I need to be for this trek?

You need to be genuinely fit, not just 'active.' This is not a walk in the hills, it is a sustained, multi-day physical effort at altitude, covering long distances on rough terrain. You should be able to walk uphill for 5 to 7 hours carrying a day pack without significant difficulty. Good cardiovascular fitness and strong legs are both essential.

What training should I do before the trek?

Begin training at least two to three months before departure. The most relevant preparation is long-distance walking on hilly terrain with a loaded pack. Hiking on consecutive days simulates the accumulated fatigue of a multi-day trek better than any gym-based programme. Supplement with regular cardiovascular exercise, running, cycling, or swimming, to build aerobic capacity. Core strength training, particularly for the lower back, helps manage the pack load over multiple days.

Do I need prior trekking experience in Nepal or at altitude?

Prior altitude experience is helpful but not strictly required if you are otherwise physically well prepared and have completed multi-day trekking in challenging terrain. Having completed a trek such as the Annapurna Base Camp route, the Langtang Valley trek, or an equivalent multi-day route at home before attempting the Manaslu Circuit is a sensible approach. The rapid itinerary is not designed for beginners.

Can I obtain the permits myself?

No. The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit can only be obtained through a registered Nepali trekking agency. Individual trekkers cannot apply for it directly through the government. We obtain all three required permits as part of the package, RAP, MCAP, and ACAP, before the trek begins.

What happens if my permits are not in order at a checkpoint?

You will be turned back. The checkpoints on the Manaslu Circuit are staffed by the Nepal Army and are not negotiable. All permits must be originals and must match the passport details of the trekker. This is one reason why using a professional agency for a restricted area trek is not merely convenient but necessary.

What visa do I need for Nepal?

Citizens of most countries can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. As of 2025, the fee is USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa. You will need a passport-sized photograph, a completed arrival card, and the visa fee in cash or by card. Citizens of India, China, and a small number of other countries have different arrangements, check the current requirements from the Department of Immigration Nepal before travelling.

What insurance coverage do I need specifically?

Your policy must cover emergency medical helicopter evacuation to a minimum altitude of 6,000 metres, inpatient hospital treatment in Nepal, and trip cancellation or interruption. Standard travel insurance policies often do not include high-altitude helicopter evacuation, you must specifically confirm this coverage before purchasing. We will ask to see your insurance documents during the pre-trek briefing and will not allow trekkers to depart without adequate coverage in place.

How many guides and porters will we have?

Every group has a minimum of one licensed trek guide. Larger groups have an additional assistant guide for groups above six people. Porter allocation is one porter for every two trekkers. On the rapid itinerary, porters carry your main bag, typically between 10 and 15 kg, while you carry a day pack with water, snacks, rain gear, and personal items.

What languages do your guides speak?

All our guides speak English fluently. Several of our senior guides also speak conversational German, French, or Italian. All guides are native Nepali speakers and most speak or understand basic Tibetan, which is relevant for communication in the upper villages of the Manaslu Circuit.

Are the tea houses comfortable?

They are comfortable in a functional rather than a luxurious sense. Beds have mattresses and pillows. Blankets are provided but are rarely adequate for the coldest nights, bring a sleeping bag. Dining rooms are warm. Bathrooms are shared in most lodges, and hot water availability varies. The tea houses in the lower villages and Samagaon are better resourced than those at Dharamsala. The pre-pass camp at Dharamsala is deliberately basic and that is simply the nature of camping at 4,460 metres.

Is there heating in the bedrooms?

No. Bedrooms on the Manaslu Circuit are unheated. Temperatures inside unheated rooms above 3,500 metres can drop to 0 degrees or below overnight. A sleeping bag rated to at least -10 degrees Celsius is essential.

What are the best things to eat on the trail?

Dal Bhat is the answer, and not just because it is ubiquitous. It is the best-adapted meal for sustained trekking, high in carbohydrates, reasonably balanced nutritionally, freshly cooked, and available with unlimited refills. Garlic soup is worth ordering at dinner for its altitude-adaptation associations. Avoid meat above Deng. Carry your own energy bars and nuts as supplementary snacks, particularly for the first day when the trekking window is very long.

Is the water safe to drink?

Tap water from lodge sources is not safe to drink without treatment. Boiled water, available at all tea houses for a small fee, is safe. Water purification tablets, iodine or chlorine dioxide, make any water source safe within 30 minutes. A UV pen purifier is an alternative. Bring a reusable bottle rather than purchasing single-use plastic, both for environmental reasons and because the cost of bottled water compounds significantly over nine days.

What is the weather like on the day of the pass crossing?

The pass crossing begins in the dark during the coldest part of the night. Temperatures at the pass in October typically range from -10 to -15 degrees Celsius, compounded by wind chill that can push the effective temperature significantly lower. Wind on the pass can be strong enough to require sunglasses to protect against blowing snow and grit. By late morning, wind speeds often increase, which is one reason the crossing starts so early. Full winter kit, down jacket, balaclava, warm gloves, and insulated trekking boots, is necessary regardless of season.

What happens if weather closes the pass?

In the event of severe weather making the pass dangerous, we hold at Dharamsala for up to 24 hours while conditions are monitored. Most weather systems over the past resolve within this window during the spring and autumn trekking seasons. If conditions do not improve, we discuss options with the group, including an alternative return via the approach route. Itinerary changes due to weather are handled on a case-by-case basis, and your safety is always the determining factor.

What should I do if I develop a headache above 3,000 metres?

Stop ascending. Report the headache to your guide immediately. Rest, hydrate, and take ibuprofen or paracetamol for pain. Do not take the headache as a sign to push harder. If the headache does not improve within 12 hours, or if any additional symptoms appear, such as nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath at rest, or confusion, your guide will initiate the descent protocol. Early reporting is the single most important thing you can do.

What are the three most important pieces of gear?

Trekking boots that have been fully broken in before the trek. A sleeping bag rated to -10 degrees Celsius or lower. And a down jacket suitable for the conditions at Dharamsala, where temperatures overnight can drop well below freezing. These three items are non-negotiable for a safe and comfortable experience. Everything else, poles, gaiters, base layers, headlamps, matters but can be improvised or borrowed if needed. The boots, sleeping bag, and down layer cannot.

How far in advance should I book?

For the autumn season, particularly October departures, booking three to four months in advance is strongly advised. Tea house availability in key villages like Samagaon is limited and fills quickly as the peak season approaches. Permit processing for the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit requires a minimum of three to five working days. For spring departures, six to eight weeks of lead time is generally sufficient, though earlier is always better.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies vary based on how far in advance you cancel relative to the departure date. Contact us directly for the current terms applicable to your booking. Please note that permit costs incurred on your behalf are non-refundable from the point at which permits are submitted for processing, typically two weeks before departure.

Why a private jeep rather than a bus or shared transport?

The road from Kathmandu to Jagat is rough and takes 9 to 11 hours. A private jeep gives you control over rest stops, a guaranteed seat, and flexibility if road conditions cause delays. It also means that if there are only two or three people in the group, you are not waiting for a bus to fill. On the return journey from Dharapani, after eight days of hard physical effort, the privacy and space of a private vehicle is genuinely appreciated.

Is the drive to Jagat dangerous?

The road to Jagat involves sections of unpaved, narrow mountain track through landslide-prone terrain, particularly in the monsoon season and immediately after. Our drivers are experienced on this route and drive at appropriate speeds for conditions. The road has been improved incrementally in recent years, though it remains a genuine backcountry drive. Road closures due to landslides are possible in the rainy season, we monitor conditions before departure and adjust timing if necessary.

9-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek | Larkya La Pass 5,106m |

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Why Choose Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Last updated May 12, 2026

The Manaslu Circuit is one of Nepal's least-visited yet most rewarding high-altitude treks. It loops around Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth highest peak at 8,163 metres, threading through the remote Gorkha district along the Budhi Gandaki River valley. Unlike the heavily trafficked Everest and Annapurna routes, this corridor still feels genuinely wild. Terraced fields give way to dense rhododendron forests, which thin out into boulder-strewn moraines and eventually the wide, wind-scoured plateau approaching the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 metres. The nine-day rapid itinerary compresses a route that standard groups complete in fourteen to eighteen days, making it ideal for experienced trekkers who are physically prepared and want maximum mountain immersion in a shorter window.

The trail passes through a remarkable string of settlements, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, and finally Dharapani, each one a living record of the Nubri and Tsum people whose culture sits at the crossroads of Nepali hill tradition and Tibetan Buddhism. Prayer walls carved with the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum line the paths between villages. Ribung Gompa in Lho and the ancient monastery above Samagaon are among the oldest surviving religious sites in the entire Gandaki zone. On the descent from Larkya La you drop into the Dudh Khola valley and eventually join the Annapurna Circuit trail at Dharapani, giving the route a pleasing sense of completion. Every elevation band from subtropical river gorge to glacial high camp is crossed within the nine days, which is part of what makes the schedule both demanding and uniquely varied.

This package is designed for people who want a structured, supported adventure with nothing left to chance. We handle every permit, every jeep transfer, and every night's accommodation so that your energy stays where it belongs, on the trail. Whether your goal is to stand on Larkya La and look across a frozen ocean of Himalayan peaks or to sit quietly at dawn in a courtyard while the Manaslu massif turns gold, this trek delivers. Contact us to check departure dates and secure your spot.

Seven Reasons to Choose the Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. One of the Remotest Major Treks in Nepal

The Manaslu Conservation Area did not open to international trekkers until 1992, roughly two decades after the Everest and Annapurna regions. As a result, the infrastructure is lighter and the crowds are a fraction of what you encounter on those iconic routes. In peak autumn months the trails see only a few hundred trekkers per week compared to several thousand on the Annapurna Circuit. This translates directly into a more personal experience: you share tea house dining rooms with a handful of travelers instead of long queues, and the local people you meet have not been overexposed to tourism. The landscape has a rawness to it that more accessible treks have gradually lost.

2. Crossing the Larkya La Pass, A Genuine High-Mountain Achievement

At 5,106 metres, Larkya La is the central challenge of this trek and the moment most trekkers describe as the high point of their Nepal experience. The crossing begins in the dark, usually between 3 and 4 in the morning, so that you reach the top before the afternoon winds build. From the prayer-flag-draped cairn at the summit you can see Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Cheo Himal (6,820 m), Kang Guru (6,981 m), and the enormous bulk of Annapurna II (7,937 m) filling the southern horizon. The descent into Bimtang, across scree and residual snow, takes several hours and finishes in a broad glacial meadow ringed by peaks. Few physical accomplishments in non-technical mountaineering come close to this.

3. Authentic Nubri and Tsum Cultural Corridor

The upper Budhi Gandaki valley is home to the Nubri people, a Tibetan-speaking community whose religious and social life has changed relatively little over the past several centuries. Villages like Samagaon and Samdo were historically trading posts on the trans-Himalayan salt route connecting Nepal with Tibet, and that heritage is visible in the flat-roofed stone architecture, the chortens and mani walls at every trail junction, and the gompas that anchor community life. Spending two nights in Samagaon, as the itinerary requires for acclimatization, gives you genuine time to explore the village, visit Pungen Gompa, and talk with locals rather than just passing through.

4. Rich Natural Diversity Across Every Elevation Zone

The trek descends to roughly 1,340 metres at the start and climbs past 5,000 metres, passing through five distinct ecological zones. Sub-tropical forest along the lower Budhi Gandaki holds langur monkeys and a wide range of birds including the Himalayan monal pheasant, Nepal's national bird. Higher up, oak and maple give way to stands of silver fir and rhododendron, spectacular in flower during March and April. The alpine scrub zone around Namrung and Lho supports Himalayan tahr and musk deer. Above 4,000 metres the terrain transitions to moraine and glacier, with snow leopard tracks occasionally reported near Pungen Glacier. This is one of Nepal's richest wildlife corridors outside the Terai national parks.

5. Acclimatization Built Into the Schedule

The rapid itinerary is not simply a compressed version of the standard route. The rest day in Samagaon (Day 5) is a non-negotiable part of the schedule and is positioned to give your body adequate time at 3,530 metres before the big push to Dharamsala at 4,460 metres and then over the pass. The daily elevation gains are calibrated against the broadly accepted guideline of not sleeping more than 500 metres higher than the previous night once you are above 3,000 metres. This approach, combined with an early start on the pass day, gives fit and prepared trekkers a strong safety margin. We monitor every trekker's health through the journey and our guides carry pulse oximeters.

6. Fully Managed Logistics in a Restricted Area

The Manaslu region is a government-designated restricted area, which means independent trekking is not permitted. Every visitor must be part of a registered group of at least two and must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. Three separate permits are required, the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). We handle every piece of paperwork and take care of the checkpoint procedures at Jagat and subsequent control posts along the trail. For trekkers who are unfamiliar with Nepal's permit system, this removes a significant source of confusion and ensures there are no delays at the start of the trek.

7. Local Expertise, Fair Employment Practices, and Responsible Tourism

Our guides are all certified by the Nepal Mountaineering Association and hold wilderness first aid qualifications. Many grew up in mountain communities and have personal connections to the Gorkha region, which gives their cultural commentary a depth that outsider guides cannot replicate. We use family-run tea houses at every stop rather than group camps, which channels spending directly into the local economy. Our porters are employed on fair-wage contracts that exceed the minimum set by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, and each porter carries no more than 20 kg in line with the Porter Protection guidelines. Sustainable tourism is not a marketing term for us, it shapes every operational decision we make.

Trip Summary

Day 1

Kathmandu (1,350m) → Jagat (1,340m)

Your Manaslu adventure begins before dawn in Kathmandu. The private jeep departs early to make the most of the daylight hours on a route that crosses some of the most scenically varied terrain in Nepal. From the Prithvi Highway you follow the Trishuli River westward before turning north into the Budhi Gandaki gorge system. The road passes through Arughat Bazaar, the last town of any size before the mountains close in, and from there the track narrows and roughens considerably.

For much of the drive you follow the Budhi Gandaki River, the same waterway you will walk beside for the first several days of the trek. The gorge walls rise steeply on both sides and waterfalls appear at regular intervals, threading down mossy cliffs. Villages of ochre-walled houses cling to terraced slopes above the river. Landslide-prone sections of road require slow, careful driving, particularly during and after the monsoon season. This is genuine backcountry Nepal, not a tourist highway.

Jagat sits at 1,340 metres and serves as the official entry point to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Your permit details are recorded at the checkpoint here, and you get your first look at the tea houses and stone walls that will define the visual character of the next several days. Dinner in Jagat is a simple, filling affair, typically Dal Bhat or noodle soup, and an early night is strongly advised. Tomorrow's walking begins in earnest.

Why this day matters: The long drive is not wasted time. It eases you into the rhythm of remote Nepal, giving your mind and body a chance to shift from city pace to mountain pace before any physical effort is demanded. Many trekkers find the journey along the river gorge just as memorable as sections of the trail itself.

Daily Summary

Duration8–9 hrs drive

Distance240 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsD

Mountain SeenGanesh Himal (distant), mid-hill landscapes

Day 2

Jagat (1,340m) → Deng (1,860m)

The first morning on the trail has a quality that stays with people long after the trek is over. The air is cool and clear, the river is loud in the gorge below, and the path ahead is narrow and unpredictable in the best possible way. From Jagat the trail descends briefly to a suspension bridge and then begins its pattern of river crossings and riverside traverses that will define the next two days.

The villages of Salleri and Philim appear in the mid-morning, separated by sections of forest where grey langur monkeys move through the canopy overhead. Philim is a Gurung village of some size, with a small school and a handful of shops selling tea and biscuits. The community here practices Hinduism rather than Buddhism, making it culturally distinct from the higher Tibetan-influenced settlements you will reach later in the trek. Prayer flags begin to appear more frequently as you continue north.

The trail passes through several narrow gorge sections where the river squeezes between near-vertical rock walls and the path is cut into the cliff face. Steel suspension bridges, many of them replaced after flood damage in recent years, carry you across the churning water. As you approach Deng, the valley begins to open slightly and the peaks on either side rise higher. The settlement of Deng sits on a small bench above the river and has a handful of tea houses offering basic but warm accommodation.

Cultural note: In many of the lower villages you will see ancient mani walls, long structures made of flat stones, each one carved with Buddhist scripts. The correct practice is to always pass these walls on the left, keeping them to your right, as a mark of respect. Your guide will explain the significance of these walls and the chortens that stand at village entrances throughout the journey.

Daily Summary

Day 3

Deng (1,860m) → Namrung (2,630m)

The character of the landscape changes noticeably as you climb out of Deng. The subtropical river forest of the lower gorge transitions into mixed temperate woodland dominated by pine, oak, and rhododendron. The rhododendron trees here are not the low shrubs familiar from lower altitude gardens, they are large trees, some more than ten metres tall, whose bare branches in winter become spectacular torches of red and pink blossom in March and April. The forest is home to Himalayan monal pheasants, whose metallic green and red plumage flashes between the trees.

The trail is consistently uphill today with few flat sections. Rock steps worn smooth by centuries of use climb steep ridges, and several sections traverse above the river on narrow ledges where care is needed. Ancient mani walls appear with increasing frequency, some of them running for twenty or thirty metres along the path, their carved stones weathered by hundreds of years of mountain weather. Occasional clusters of prayer flags mark high points on the trail.

Namrung sits at 2,630 metres and is one of the more attractive villages on the lower circuit. The stone houses are well maintained and the settlement has a genuine community feel, fields of buckwheat and potatoes surround the houses, and the sound of children from the village school carries across the terraces. From Namrung you get the first clear views of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) and Himal Chuli (7,893 m), two peaks that dominate the southern horizon from here upward. In clear weather the views at dusk, when alpenglow colors the snow summits, are extraordinary.

Altitude note: Today you cross 2,500 metres for the first time. Some trekkers begin to notice mild symptoms of altitude at this elevation, a slight headache or feeling of tiredness more than usual. These are normal responses. Drink two to three litres of water through the day, avoid alcohol, and sleep as soon as you feel tired. Report any persistent headache to your guide.

Day 4

Namrung (2,630m) → Samagaon (3,530m)

This is the day that many trekkers point to as their favourite on the entire circuit. The trail climbs steadily from Namrung through the villages of Lho and Shyala, each one higher and more exposed to the great peaks above. In Lho, you pass Ribung Gompa, a monastery perched on a promontory above the village with an unobstructed view of the south face of Manaslu. The gompa dates to several centuries ago and contains murals and statues that represent some of the finest examples of Tibetan-influenced Buddhist art in the Gorkha region. A short detour through the monastery takes only fifteen minutes and is strongly recommended.

Above Lho the tree line begins to break and the path emerges onto open terrain where yaks graze on rough alpine grass. Shyala, the next village, sits in a wide bowl surrounded on three sides by enormous peaks, Manaslu and its satellite peaks to the north, and Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m) and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli's neighbour) to the east. The 360-degree mountain panorama from Shyala is one of the most complete in Nepal, you can count more than eight peaks above 6,000 metres from a single viewpoint.

Samagaon is reached after a straightforward descent from Shyala. The village, at 3,530 metres, is the largest settlement in the upper Budhi Gandaki valley and the main hub for Manaslu Base Camp expeditions. It has a permanent population of several hundred Nubri people, a school, a small health post, and several well-run tea houses. The presence of the Manaslu Glacier terminus is visible from the upper end of the village, its dirty grey moraines providing a dramatic contrast to the green irrigated fields below. You will spend two nights here.

What makes the Nubri community distinctive: The Nubri people (also spelled Nubpa) speak a Tibetan dialect and follow the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Their calendar year is structured around both agricultural cycles and religious festivals, the most significant of which is Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year celebrated in late January or February. If your trek coincides with any community celebration, your guide can arrange for you to observe the proceedings respectfully.

Day 5

Acclimatization Day at Samagaon (3,530m)

The rest day at Samagaon is not optional and should not be treated as a day off. The body does its most important acclimatization work during the first night spent at a new altitude, but consolidating those gains through a second night dramatically improves the success rate on the pass crossing two days later. The rule that guides use, hike high, sleep low, applies here. The acclimatization hike should gain at least 300 metres of elevation before you return to Samagaon to sleep.

The two most popular acclimatization options from Samagaon are the hike to Birendra Lake and the longer walk to Pungen Gompa. Birendra Lake sits at approximately 3,780 metres in a glacially scoured hollow about ninety minutes above the village. It is a genuine alpine lake, turquoise with glacial melt, and on clear days the reflection of Manaslu's summit pyramid in the water is striking. Pungen Gompa, an ancient monastery at roughly 4,000 metres on the lateral moraine above the Pungen Glacier, requires a longer effort of three to four hours round trip but rewards with close views of Manaslu's southwest face and the full extent of the glacier below. More adventurous trekkers can continue from Pungen Gompa toward Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m), though this extension is suitable only for those who feel genuinely strong.

The afternoon should be spent resting. Eat well, your appetite may be suppressed at this altitude, but your body needs calories. Dal Bhat is particularly good here because the unlimited refill policy means you can eat as much as you need. Drink consistently through the day. Avoid caffeinated drinks in the evening as they interfere with sleep, and avoid alcohol entirely. Your guide will conduct a brief health check in the late afternoon, noting blood oxygen saturation levels with a pulse oximeter. A reading above 80% is generally considered normal at this altitude for acclimatized trekkers.

Cultural exploration: The monastery in the centre of Samagaon itself is worth a morning visit. The resident monks welcome respectful visitors and the building contains thangka paintings and ritual objects that give a detailed picture of the religious life of the community. Ask your guide to make an introduction, conversations with the monks, translated through your guide, often provide the most memorable moments of the trek.

Day 6

Samagaon (3,530m) → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m)

Today's stage is short in distance but high in psychological weight. You are moving to the last camp before the pass, and the landscape reflects this transition clearly. Samagaon, with its fields and monastery and warmth, is left behind as the trail climbs north toward the Tibetan plateau. The vegetation diminishes rapidly above the village and the path moves through a moraine landscape of bare rock and occasional hardy cushion plants.

The route passes through Samdo at 3,875 metres, the highest permanently inhabited village on the Manaslu Circuit and one of the closest settlements to the Tibetan border on the Nepal side. Samdo was historically a trading village where Tibetan salt and wool were exchanged for grain and manufactured goods from the south. Some of those cross-border connections persist in attenuated form today. The village has a small gompa and several tea houses and makes a natural lunch stop. Beyond Samdo the trail crosses several streams on wooden or stone bridges and follows the diminishing Budhi Gandaki toward its headwaters.

Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, meaning 'base of the pass', is a collection of basic stone lodges built specifically for trekkers preparing to cross the Larkya La. There is no permanent population here. The accommodation is spartan: wooden bunks in shared dormitory rooms, simple meals of soup and noodles, and a dining room heated by a single metal stove burning dried yak dung. The atmosphere, however, is charged with a mix of anticipation and camaraderie that characterises high mountain camps the world over. You will almost certainly be sharing the dining room with trekkers of several nationalities, all of whom are having the same pre-pass conversation.

Preparation for tomorrow: Go to bed early. Set your alarm for 3:00 AM. Eat a warm meal before sleeping. Ensure your headlamp has fresh batteries. Pack your day bag the night before so there is no fumbling in the dark. Put your warmest layers, gloves, and balaclava at the top of your pack. Drink plenty of water through the evening. Your guide will brief the group after dinner on the exact departure time and the sequence of the pass crossing.

Day 7

Dharamsala (4,460m) → Larkya La Pass (5,106m) → Bimtang (3,590m)

You start by headlamp in air cold enough to freeze the water in your bottle. The trail from Dharamsala is steep from the outset, climbing first over rough moraine before transitioning onto a glacier that must be crossed with care, crampons are sometimes useful depending on conditions, and your guide will advise. The sky above is typically spectacular in the pre-dawn hours, with stars unusually bright and numerous at this altitude. The sound is mostly wind and your own breathing.

The final approach to the pass is a long slog up a broad snowfield. The gradient is not extreme but the combination of altitude, cold, and accumulated fatigue from the previous days makes each step deliberate. The summit of the Larkya La (5,106 m) is marked by a large cairn and prayer flags, their colours bleached by sun and wind. In good weather the view from the top encompasses Himlung Himal (7,126 m) to the northeast, Cheo Himal (6,820 m) to the northwest, and the distant summits of the Annapurna massif to the south. Annapurna II, at 7,937 metres, dominates the southern skyline. Allow fifteen to twenty minutes on the summit for photos and for the moment to settle before beginning the descent.

The descent to Bimtang is long and in places steep, crossing loose scree and boulder fields before dropping into the glacial valley below. Some snow patches remain throughout the year and require careful footwork. After three to four hours of descending you emerge onto the broad grassy plain of Bimtang (3,590 m), a summer grazing ground for yaks that is inhabited only from late spring to early autumn. The meadow is ringed by glacier-capped peaks, with Manaslu and its satellites visible to the north and the long wall of the Annapurna range to the south. The relief of arriving here after the physical and psychological effort of the pass is enormous.

Completing the Larkya La puts you in a small and specific category of people. Fewer than five thousand international trekkers attempt this crossing each year. The pass has been used by local people for centuries as a trade and migration route, and some of the spiritual significance attached to high mountain crossings in Tibetan Buddhist culture attaches to it. Your guide may offer a small ceremony of thanks at the summit, burning juniper incense and hanging a prayer flag as a mark of completion.

Day 8

Bimtang (3,590m) → Dharapani (1,900m)

The day after the pass is one of contrasts. Your legs are tired, the elevation is dropping rapidly, and the landscape transforms in real time from alpine rock and ice to temperate forest. The descent follows the Dudh Khola river southward through terrain that becomes progressively more lush with every hundred metres lost. Rhododendron forests reappear, then oak and maple, and eventually the subtropical vegetation of the lower valley. The air thickens noticeably, and many trekkers feel a surge of energy as oxygen becomes more plentiful.

The village of Tilije at around 2,300 metres is reached after three to four hours of walking. This is a Gurung settlement and one of the few places in the upper Marsyangdi valley known for apple cultivation. The orchards around the village are beautiful in spring when the trees are in blossom and produce solid harvests in autumn. Apple brandy, known locally as Raksi, is produced here and you can buy a small bottle to mark the completion of the Larkya La if you choose. Tilije also has more comfortable tea houses than the post-pass camps, and a warm lunch here feels like a significant luxury.

The trail continues downstream from Tilije, passing through the village of Thonje before reaching Dharapani at 1,900 metres. Dharapani is the point at which the Manaslu Circuit trail meets the Annapurna Circuit route. It has a police checkpoint where your permits are checked one final time. The settlement is larger than anything you have seen since leaving Kathmandu, with a range of tea houses, shops, and basic services. This is where your trekking journey officially ends.

What this day means: The descent from Bimtang to Dharapani is one of the great downhill experiences in Himalayan trekking. You lose over 1,600 metres in a single day while passing through an extraordinary range of ecosystems. For many trekkers the combination of post-pass relief, improving altitude, and the return of full oxygen makes this one of the most emotionally vivid days of the entire journey.

Day 9

Dharapani (1,900m) → Kathmandu (1,350m)

The final day is a long drive from the mountains back to the capital. From Dharapani the road follows the Marsyangdi River valley southward through Besisahar before joining the main Prithvi Highway near Dumre. The route from Besisahar to Kathmandu is on surfaced road and moves considerably faster than the rough mountain tracks of the inward journey. The drive passes through the town of Mugling, a busy trucking junction on the Trishuli River, and from there it is a steady climb into the Kathmandu valley.

The journey gives you time to decompress and reflect. Nine days ago you left this city heading toward something unknown; now you are returning with the full weight of experience that only a real mountain journey produces. The landscape outside the window, fields, temples, roadside towns, children in school uniforms, looks different when viewed from the far side of a high pass. Many people find this drive unexpectedly moving.

On arrival in Kathmandu you will be dropped at your hotel. We recommend booking one additional night after the trek before any onward travel, as the drive can be exhausting and a hot shower followed by a full night in a comfortable bed is genuinely restorative. Kathmandu's tourist district of Thamel has restaurants representing cuisines from across the world, and a proper sit-down dinner somewhere good makes an excellent way to mark the completion of the circuit.

Your guide will arrange a final debrief and collect any feedback you want to share about the experience. Tips for guides and porters, if you wish to give them, are best handled at this point. The standard recommendation in the Nepal trekking industry is the equivalent of USD 10 to 15 per day for the guide and USD 6 to 8 per day for each porter, though this is entirely your decision.

Daily Summary

Meet Our Expert Guides

Shiva Kumar Shrestha

Managing Director & Senior Guide

20 years of experience

I am an experienced and knowledgeable Senior Guide who has accompanied countless travelers throughout their time spent hiking in Nepal. Beginning my working life in 2004 as a porter, I am now a government-licensed trekking guide in Nepal with many years of experience. I was born and raised in the mountainous region of Dhading, and as a result, I have an in-depth understanding of the region's history, traditions, culture, and festivals. I have extensive experience trekking in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Dolpo regions.

Deepak Gurung

Trekking Guide

12 years of experience

I have more than ten years of experience directing hikers across the high terrain of the Nepal Himalaya. I was born and grew up in the Gorkha highlands, which has given me profound awareness of the mountains and the way of life of the people who live in them. I have led numerous expeditions to Everest Base Camp and other locations in the Everest and Annapurna ranges. I received training from the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) as a Trekking Guide. I am especially skilled at directing groups of senior citizens and families with children.

Ramsaran Shrestha

Senior Trekking Guide

19 years of experience

Anyone who spends some time with me will eventually recognize me for the respectful and knowledgeable gentleman that I am. I started working as a hiking guide at the end of the nineties. Since 2004, I have been one of Accessible Adventure's employees, and I currently have a position as one of the company's senior trekking guides. I am one of the most experienced, competent, and professional trekking guides, and I speak English fluently. I have traveled with trekking groups on an uncountable number of Nepal's trails.

Meena Karki

Trekking Guide

13 years of experience

I am from the Kaski district in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Trekking has been my passion since childhood as I grew up seeing trekkers and hikers stepping up the trails for trekking adventures. Following my dreams, I took female trekking guide as my profession and now I have more than a decade of experience in this field. I have been to Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Mustang and most of the trekking regions numerous times. With in-depth knowledge of routes, culture, and history, I ensure your trekking adventure is extra special.

Prakash Gurung

Trekking Guide

8 years of experience

I am a young and enthusiastic guide with enough knowledge in guiding the Himalayas. Having sound experience in the trekking sector, I bring rich experience and readiness to assist trekkers with professionalism and dedication. I respect not only my own culture but also those of other communities. My unwavering commitment has been an enormous boon to the organization's ability to function smoothly. I recently received my license from the Ministry of Tourism Hotel Management tourist training center and have a certificate for providing first aid at high altitudes.

Ram Hari Dhamala

Trekking Guide

11 years of experience

I am a field member of Accessible Adventure with more than a decade of experience working in the field of travel and tourism. I am certified as a trekking guide and was brought up among the wondrous sights and sounds of Mother Nature in the picturesque town of Dhading. The rolling landscape complete with mountains, valleys, and rivers has always piqued my interest. Because of my deep love for the outdoors, I decided to pursue a career in tourism. My disposition is cordial and upbeat, and I am responsible and experienced.

Additional Information

SpO₂ Acclimatization & Monitoring Chart

Day	Place	Altitude (m)	Estimated SpO₂ (%)	Comment
1	Kathmandu → Jagat	1,340 m	95–98%	Comfortable altitude with normal oxygen availability; long overland drive into Budhi Gandaki valley
2	Jagat → Deng via Salleri & Philim	1,860 m	93–96%	Mild altitude gain; most trekkers feel normal with steady hydration
3	Deng → Namrung	2,630 m	89–93%	First noticeable altitude zone; mild headache or fatigue possible
4	Namrung → Lho → Shyala → Samagaon	3,530 m	82–88%	Significant altitude increase; acclimatization becomes very important
5	Acclimatization at Samagaon (Birendra Lake / Pungen Gompa)	3,530 m (hike up to 4,000m+)	80–87%	Oxygen adaptation day; short higher-elevation hike improves acclimatization
6	Samagaon → Samdo → Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi)	4,460 m	74–82%	Thin air becomes noticeable; slower walking pace recommended
7	Dharamsala → Larkya La Pass → Bimtang	5,106 m (Highest Point)	68–75% at Pass	Lowest oxygen level of the trek; cold temperatures and altitude demand steady pacing
	Bimtang (overnight)	3,590 m	80–86%	Oxygen improves after descending from the pass
8	Bimtang → Tilije → Dharapani	1,900 m	93–96%	Major altitude drop; breathing becomes significantly easier
9	Dharapani → Kathmandu	1,350 m	95–98%	Return to near-normal oxygen levels and full recovery environment

Typical Day During Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Waking Up to a Himalayan Sunrise

A normal day on the Manaslu Circuit begins with the very cold and still air of the high mountains and the dark rocks slowly turning bright as the sun reaches the peaks. It is almost always freezing before the sun comes over the high ridges, which is why waking up very early is a part of the daily routine for every hiker. For some people, staying up late to see the bright stars through the thin mountain air makes all the hard work feel worth it. The view is truly amazing, with the open sky offering a clear look at the Manaslu massif while peaks like Machhapuchhre and Hiunchuli are left behind for the giants of the Gorkha region. For most of the trekkers who travel from other countries, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that stays in their memory. A lot of people go outside their lodges to catch the beauty of the Himalayas in photos, and for a place at this height, the scene is breathtaking.

A Hearty Breakfast to Start the Day

The mountain lodges on the Manaslu trail have dining halls where trekkers can get a warm meal in the morning to fuel their long walk. The breakfast menu usually has Tibetan bread served with local honey or jam while pancakes and oatmeal porridge are also very common choices. Sitting with other travelers who are sharing stories of their trip creates a sense of unity and helps everyone feel like part of a team. The high altitude climate takes a lot of energy from the body so having a big meal is necessary for those who want to climb higher or walk for many hours. How these nutritional needs are met makes a big difference in how comfortable the hiker feels as they move through the steep valleys.

Exploring the Villages and Surroundings

As the day begins, most of the hikers spend some time looking around villages like Samagaon or Lho to see the local culture. Samagaon is a large and beautiful settlement that lies at an elevation of 3,530 meters and offers a great look at the 360-degree mountain views. The high peaks of Mount Manaslu and Naike Peak are clearly visible from these high settlements, which feel very remote. Some trekkers choose to walk towards the nearby glaciers while others prefer to sit near an old monastery to reflect on their long journey so far.

Relaxation and Acclimatization

Because the oxygen levels are much lower in the Manaslu region, hikers must spend time letting their bodies adjust while resting their muscles. The body needs to adapt to the thin air, so most visitors avoid doing too much hard activity during their rest times. Many people spend their free time in the tea houses, enjoying hot tea and talking with their guides or other travelers. Many others try to document their trip by writing in their journals or looking through their photos to remember their mountain trek.

A Warm Meal and Afternoon Rest

Lunch at a local lodge is another memorable experience of the region, with meals like Dal Bhat, which is lentils and rice, or hot noodle soup. The hikers find it very relaxing to sit in the sun as the temperature stays cool during the later parts of the afternoon. While some people are getting their gear ready for the next day, others go on short walks around the village for a new view of the snowy mountains.

Sunset Over the Manaslu Range

When the evening comes, the mountains start to change their colors, and they are covered with shades of orange and purple. Watching the sunset on the steep walls of Mount Manaslu is truly a mesmerizing sight. The cold wind usually gets much stronger after the sun sets, which makes people step inside to feel warm and enjoy their dinner.

Nighttime in the High Mountains

With very little electricity available and no loud entertainment, the nights in these remote villages are very peaceful. Many hikers spend a short time gazing at the bright stars because of the very clear Himalayan sky. Some get into their warm sleeping bags early to prepare for the long walk in the morning. The combination of the wind outside and the giant mountains all around makes the night feel very special.

Conclusion

The sunrises and sunsets over the high Himalayan peaks are sights to behold, and they are just one part of the amazing experience on this trek. An adventure like this provides many different things to do, whether you are trekking on the trail or just soaking in the views. The glory of a day on this route involves great moments and a deep connection to the nature of Nepal.

Best Time for the Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Understanding the Seasons in the Manaslu Region
The trek through the Manaslu Circuit is possible during different times of the year but your experience will change with the weather. The best time for you to go will depend on the temperature and how clear the mountain views are. Nepal has four seasons which are spring and summer and autumn and winter and each one offers a unique way to see the peaks.

Spring (March to May) – One of the Best Seasons

Spring is a very popular time for the Manaslu trek because the temperatures are moderate and the weather is usually stable. The days are pleasantly warm and the nights are not as cold as they are in the winter.

Temperature: Daytime is usually between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius while nights are around 0 or -5 degrees in the high areas.
Scenery: This is when the rhododendron forests are blooming with many colors and the hills look very beautiful.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August) – Emphasis on Scenery Rather than Challenges

The monsoon season brings heavy rain which makes the air very humid and can sometimes cause landslides. While you can still trek during this time you must be very careful and have a flexible schedule.

Weather: Average daytime temperatures are between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius and it stays warm at night.
Terrain: The waterfalls and green plants are at their most beautiful because of the rain.
Hurdles: The trails are often muddy and slippery and there are many leeches in the lower forest areas. The clouds often hide the mountains so you might not see the peaks as much.
Benefits: There are very few other hikers which means you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

Autumn (September to November) – The Best Time to Trek

Most people think that autumn is the best time for the Manaslu trek because the weather is very stable and the views are very clear.

Temperature: Daytime is usually between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius while nights can drop to around -10 degrees at high altitudes.
Scenery: You get the clearest mountain views and the sky is a bright blue which is perfect for photos.

Winter (December to February) – For Snow Lovers

In the winter, the region is covered in deep snow, which makes the mountains look like a wonderland. However, the extreme cold and the risk of the pass being closed make it a very hard time to go.

Temperature: Daytime might only reach 5 degrees while nights can drop as low as -20 degrees Celsius in the high camps.
Scenery: The snowy nature is beautiful, but you must have very good winter clothes and gear.
Challenges: Many tea houses might be closed, and the trails can be very icy and dangerous.
Advantages: There are very few trekkers, which makes the path feel very tranquil and special.

Weather for Manaslu Circuit Package (January - December)

Understanding the Weather on the Manaslu Circuit

The weather in the Manaslu region is very important to think about when you are planning your trip. Because you will climb from low valleys to a high pass, you will see many different weather conditions. Every month has its own unique feel, and knowing what to expect will help you pack the right clothes.

Winter (December - February) – Cold and Snowy

The winter months are the coldest time of the year in the mountains. While the skies are often clear, the temperatures can be very low, especially at night.

Conditions: You can expect deep snow on the high parts of the trail, and the pass can be very hard to cross.
Temperature: during the day it might stay around 5 degrees, but at night it can drop to -20 degrees Celsius.
Experience: There are very few other hikers, which makes it very quiet, but you must have good winter gear.

Spring (March - May) – The Blooming Season

Spring is one of the best times to visit because the weather starts to warm up and nature comes back to life.

Conditions: the days are usually sunny, and the weather is stable for walking.
Temperature: daytime is comfortable between 10 and 20 degrees, and nights are not as cold as in winter.
Highlights: This is when the colorful flowers are blooming, and the hills look very beautiful.

Summer/Monsoon (June - August) – Lush and Wet

The summer months bring the monsoon rain, which makes trekking more difficult.

Conditions: It rains almost every day, which makes the trails muddy and slippery.
Temperature: it is the warmest time of the year with daytime temperatures up to 25 degrees.
Hurdles: You have to be careful of leeches in the forest and the risk of landslides.

Autumn (September - November) – The Prime Time

Most hikers choose to go in the autumn because the air is very clear and the weather is perfect.

Conditions: the rain from the monsoon has stopped, leaving the air fresh and the views very sharp.
Temperature: the days are warm and pleasant, though the nights start to get colder.
Highlights: This is the most popular time to cross the pass because the ground is dry.

Month	Average Day Temp (Lower)	Average Night Temp (Lower)	Average Night Temp (Upper)	Trekking Conditions
January	5°C to 10°C	0°C to 5°C	-15°C to -20°C	Extreme cold, snowy, and challenging
April	12°C to 18°C	5°C to 10°C	-2°C to -8°C	Clear skies, stable, peak season
July	18°C to 25°C	10°C to 15°C	5°C to 10°C	Rainy, muddy, low visibility
October	12°C to 18°C	5°C to 10°C	-2°C to -6°C	Excellent visibility, dry, stable

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit can be trekked at any time if you are prepared, but spring and autumn are the best seasons. Each month offers something special in these giant mountains. Picking the right time will make your journey more memorable.

Difficulty Level for Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Evaluating the Trekking Difficulty
The Manaslu Circuit is known as one of the more challenging and difficult treks in Nepal. It is usually rated as strenuous because it takes place in a very remote area where there are fewer services than in other popular regions. To complete this trek, you need to have a good level of physical fitness and a positive mind. While you do not need to be a professional climber, the trek is much harder than lower altitude walks because of the steep climbs and the very high pass.
The Distance Covered and Duration of the Trek
On this rapid trek, you will cover a total distance of about 177 kilometers over nine days. This means that some of your days will involve long hours of walking through different types of terrain. On average, you will be walking for 6 to 8 hours every day, which can be very tiring. Because the schedule is shorter than the standard trek, you will have fewer rest days, so you must be in good health and have the stamina to keep going.

Issues Related To Altitude and Acclimatization
The biggest challenge of this trek is the large gain in altitude over a short time. You will climb up to over 5,000 meters, which puts a lot of stress on your body. Altitude sickness is a real risk for everyone, no matter how fit they are, and you must follow the advice of your guide. Because this is a rapid itinerary, you have to be extra careful to listen to your body.

Terrain and Trekking Conditions
The trail through the Manaslu region is very rugged and is often narrow and uneven. You will walk up and down many steep stone steps and cross long bridges. In some parts, the trail is carved into the side of rock faces, and you must be very careful with your footing. Near the high pass, the ground is often covered with loose rocks or snow, which makes walking even slower.
Physical Fitness and Preparation
To have a good time on this trek, you should start training at least two or three months before you leave home. Doing regular exercises like running or swimming is the best way to make your heart and lungs strong. You should also practice walking on hills with a pack on your back to get your legs ready. Being physically ready will help you handle the long days and the thin air much better.

Feature	Manaslu Circuit Difficulty Detail
Total Walking Distance	Approximately 177 km (110 miles)
Average Daily Walking Hours	6 to 8 hours
Maximum Elevation Reached	5,106 meters at Larkya La Pass
Terrain Type	Rugged stone steps, narrow cliff paths, moraines
Difficulty Grade	Strenuous / Challenging

Meals during trekking

Nourishing Yourself on the Trail

Eating the right food is very important while you are on a trek because your body needs many calories to keep going. every day you will be walking for long hours at a high altitude which is hard work for your heart and your muscles. the tea houses on the Manaslu path serve fresh and healthy meals that are made to give you energy for the mountains. even though the choices are simpler than in a city the food is warm and filling and uses local ingredients.

Breakfast - A Strong Start to the Day

You should always have a big breakfast before you start walking so that you have enough strength for the trail. most tea houses serve breakfast early in the morning so everyone can start on time.

Tibetan Bread: This is a thick and fluffy bread that is fried in a pan and is very good with honey.
Oatmeal Porridge: A warm bowl of oats is very gentle on your stomach and gives you a steady release of energy.
Pancakes: These are a popular choice for many hikers and can be served with fruit or chocolate.
Eggs: You can get eggs that are boiled or fried or made into an omelet which is a great source of protein.
Hot Drinks: A cup of warm tea or coffee will help you feel more awake in the cold morning air.

Lunch - A Midday Energy Boost

You will usually stop for lunch at a lodge halfway through your day to rest and refuel your body.

Dal Bhat: This is the most famous meal in Nepal and includes rice and lentil soup and vegetable curry. it is very good because you can always get more for free if you are still hungry.
Fried Noodles: many people enjoy a plate of noodles with vegetables for a quick and tasty lunch.
Momo: these are traditional dumplings filled with vegetables or cheese that are very popular.
Soup: a hot bowl of soup is very comforting on a cold day and helps you stay hydrated.

Dinner - A Filling End to the Day

After you reach your lodge for the evening you will have plenty of time to rest before having dinner.

Pasta and Macaroni: many lodges serve pasta with cheese which is a good source of energy for the next day.
Potato Dishes: potatoes are a very important part of the diet in the high mountains.
Garlic Soup: many people believe that eating garlic soup every day helps their body adjust to the high altitude.

Snacks and Hydration

Besides your main meals you should always have some snacks like nuts or energy bars in your pack. drinking a lot of water is the most important thing for your health and you should try to drink at least three liters. you should avoid drinking alcohol at high altitudes because it can make you feel very sick.

Conclusion

The food on the Manaslu trek is simple but very good and will help you complete your journey safely. eating well and staying hydrated is the best way to enjoy the incredible beauty of the mountains.

Altitude Sickness, Prevention, Recognition, and Response

Altitude sickness is a genuine risk on this trek and must be taken seriously. Mount Manaslu's circuit reaches 5,106 metres at the pass, and even fit, experienced trekkers can develop symptoms if the ascent schedule is not respected. Understanding the physiology helps.

Above roughly 2,500 metres, the partial pressure of oxygen in the air falls to a point where the human body's ability to extract oxygen from each breath begins to decline. The body compensates through a series of physiological adaptations, including increased breathing rate, higher red blood cell production, and altered kidney function, but these adaptations take time, typically 24 to 72 hours at each new altitude band. When you ascend faster than the body can adapt, the result is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Recognising AMS

Mild AMS: persistent headache, fatigue, mild nausea, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite. These symptoms are normal in the first 12 hours at a new altitude and are not alarming unless they worsen or fail to improve.
Moderate AMS: severe headache unresponsive to ibuprofen, persistent vomiting, marked fatigue, and reduced urine output. If these symptoms appear, no further ascent should be made until the trekker has fully recovered.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): breathlessness at rest, wet cough, cyanosis (bluish tint to lips or fingertips), extreme weakness. HAPE is a medical emergency requiring immediate descent.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): severe confusion, loss of coordination, inability to walk a straight line, extreme drowsiness. HACE is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate descent and, if available, supplemental oxygen.

Prevention Protocol

Ascend gradually: Follow the itinerary as designed. The rest day in Samagaon exists precisely to prevent AMS on the high-altitude section.
Hydrate consistently: Aim for 3 to 4 litres of water per day above 3,000 metres. Dehydration accelerates AMS symptoms.
Avoid alcohol: Alcohol suppresses respiratory drive, impairing the body's overnight response to altitude.
Sleep at lower altitudes when possible: On the acclimatization day in Samagaon, even a short hike to 200 metres above the village before returning to sleep is beneficial.
Diamox (Acetazolamide): A prescription medication that speeds acclimatization by stimulating breathing. Standard preventive dose is 125 mg twice daily beginning 24 hours before major altitude gain. Consult your physician before the trek to discuss whether this is appropriate for you.
Listen to your guide: Our guides use pulse oximeters to measure blood oxygen saturation at high camps. A reading below 70% at rest, combined with symptoms, will prompt a consultation about descent.

The most important rule: descend if in doubt. No view from a high pass is worth your health. Helicopter evacuation from the Manaslu region is possible in good weather and takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes to reach Kathmandu. This is why travel insurance covering high-altitude helicopter rescue is mandatory for this trek.

Travel Insurance, Why It Is Mandatory and What to Look For

Travel insurance is not optional on this trek. We require all participants to hold a valid policy before the trek begins, and we will ask to see documentation of coverage during the pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu. This is not bureaucratic caution, it is a direct response to the realities of operating in a remote, high-altitude environment where medical emergencies require expensive interventions.

A helicopter evacuation from the Manaslu region to Kathmandu costs between USD 3,000 and USD 8,000 depending on the pickup location and weather conditions. Treatment at a hospital in Kathmandu for serious altitude-related illness, injury, or illness can add several thousand dollars more. Without insurance, these costs fall entirely on the trekker. With the right policy, they are handled entirely by the insurer.

Key Coverage Requirements

High-altitude trekking: Many standard travel insurance policies cap medical coverage at 3,000 to 4,000 metres. This trek reaches 5,106 metres. Your policy must explicitly cover activities at 6,000 metres or above to provide adequate protection.
Emergency medical evacuation: The policy must cover helicopter evacuation from remote mountain terrain. Verify that the coverage applies to Nepal specifically and that there is no geographical exclusion for the Himalayan region.
Medical treatment: Inpatient and outpatient treatment costs in Nepal or, if required, in a third country with appropriate facilities.
Trip interruption and cancellation: Coverage for costs incurred if you must leave the trek early due to illness, family emergency, or extreme weather.
Equipment and baggage: Replacement cost coverage for trekking equipment lost or damaged in transit or on the trail.

Well-known providers with specific adventure trekking policies suitable for this trek include World Nomads, Battleface, and Columbus Direct. We recommend reading policy exclusions carefully, in particular, note whether any pre-existing medical conditions are excluded and whether the policy requires you to call an emergency assistance number before arranging evacuation. Always carry both a printed and digital copy of your policy documents.

Essential Equipment required during the trek

Arranging for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Having the right gear is one of the most important things for a safe trip into the high mountains. The weather in the Manaslu region can change very quickly, and you will go through many different climates. You must have the correct clothes to protect yourself from the wind, the sun, and the cold temperatures.

Clothes for Lodging and Protection from the Elements

The best way to stay warm is to wear your clothes in layers so that you can add or remove them as you get warm or cold.

Base Layer: This layer stays next to your skin to keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body.
Mid Layer: This is for warmth and usually includes a fleece jacket or a light sweater.
Outer Layer: You need a strong jacket and pants that are waterproof and will stop the cold wind.
Warm Layer: A heavy down jacket is very important for the cold mornings and the evenings.
Hats and Gloves: You need a warm hat and a pair of good quality gloves.

Footwear for Comfort and Stability

You will be walking for many hours every day on rough ground so your footwear is very important for preventing pain.

Trekking Boots: You must have strong and waterproof boots that support your ankles.
Camp Shoes: It is a good idea to have a pair of light shoes to wear in the lodges so your feet can rest.
Warm Socks: You need several pairs of thick wool socks to keep your feet warm and prevent blisters.

Accessories and equipment that aid trekking

Several other items will make your trek easier and safer:

Backpack: You need a small bag for your daily needs and a larger one for your gear.
Sleeping Bag: You must have a high-quality sleeping bag that is rated for very cold temperatures.
Trekking Poles: These are very helpful for keeping your balance on the steep parts of the trail.
Headlamp: You will need a good light for the early morning climb to the pass.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun is very strong at high altitudes, and you must protect your skin.

Precautionary Measures and Essentials in Medicine

You should carry a small first aid kit with you to handle any minor problems.

Personal Medicines: Make sure you have enough of any medicine that you take every day.
Altitude Sickness Medicine: Many people carry Diamox just in case they have problems with the thin air.
Water Purification: You must use tablets or a filter to make sure your water is safe to drink.

High Caloric Foods and Foods that Recharge Strength

It is a good idea to bring some of your own snacks from Kathmandu because they are hard to find in the high villages. Things like energy bars, nuts, and chocolate are great for giving you a boost.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit is a grand adventure, but it requires good preparation and the right equipment. Having the correct gear will make your journey much more comfortable and safe.

Why Trek With Our Local Company

Local Expertise That Makes a Measurable Difference

Our guides are not interpreters with a map. They are mountain professionals who have spent years or in several cases decades working in the high-altitude environment of the Gorkha and Manang districts. Several of our senior guides grew up in communities along or near the Manaslu Circuit and have personal relationships with tea house owners, monastery lamas, and village leaders that open doors, literally and figuratively, that are closed to outside agencies. When you sit down for tea at Ribung Gompa in Lho, or spend an evening talking with a monk at the monastery in Samagaon, that access comes from relationships built over years, not from a guidebook.

Every guide holds a certification from the Nepal Mountaineering Association's Trekking Guide Training Programme and carries a current wilderness first aid qualification. They are trained in the recognition and management of altitude sickness, the use of Gamow bags in HACE and HAPE emergencies, and the protocols for helicopter evacuation coordination with Kathmandu-based rescue services. Their language skills extend beyond English; most speak conversational German or French or both, and all are fluent in Nepali and Hindi.

Sustainability and Community Investment

We spend a significant share of every package fee inside the communities you pass through. Our accommodation choices prioritise family-run tea houses over larger commercial lodges wherever both are available at a given stop. This is not sentiment; family-run operations direct income to households that depend on tourism for a meaningful portion of their annual earnings, while larger lodges often shift profits to investors based in Kathmandu or outside Nepal entirely.

All our porters are employed on contracts that include written terms covering daily rates (which exceed the minimum set by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal), load limits capped at 20 kg, appropriate clothing and shelter, and insurance coverage for medical emergencies. Porter welfare is a subject the Nepal trekking industry has sometimes handled poorly, and we regard our standards in this area as non-negotiable.

We operate a clean-trail policy on all our routes. Guides carry out any waste that cannot be composted or burned cleanly at tea house stops. No single-use plastic bottles are distributed to group members; we provide refillable bottles and arrange boiled water at each stop. On the Manaslu Circuit, where the permitted trekker numbers are controlled, maintaining the pristine quality of the environment is directly in the interest of everyone who depends on the region's reputation.

Safety Record and Emergency Preparedness

Our guides have assisted in over twenty helicopter evacuations in the past decade, always for legitimate altitude emergencies, never for avoidable incidents that proper preparation and slower ascent schedules would have prevented. Our zero serious altitude fatalities record reflects the fact that we take the rest day in Samagaon seriously, we do not pressure trekkers to push on if they are showing AMS symptoms, and we have clear protocols for descent and evacuation that every guide knows and is authorised to initiate without consulting the Kathmandu office first.

Pre-trek health screening is part of our standard process. We ask all participants to complete a brief medical questionnaire before departure, and we encourage anyone with a history of cardiovascular conditions, respiratory illness, or previous altitude sickness to consult a travel medicine physician before booking. This is not legal protection; it is genuine care for the people in our charge.

Permits and Regulations

The Manaslu region is a restricted trekking area under Nepal government regulations. This status exists to control the number of visitors, protect the cultural integrity of communities near the Tibetan border, and generate revenue that contributes to conservation of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Three permits are required, all of which we obtain on behalf of every participant.

Permit Type	Peak Season (Sept-Nov)	Off-Peak (Dec-Aug)	Notes
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)	USD 100 first 7 days	USD 75 first 7 days	Mandatory for Jagat to Dharapani
RAP Additional Days	USD 15 per day	USD 10 per day	After the initial 7-day period
Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP)	USD 30 (NPR 3,000)	USD 30 (NPR 3,000)	Single entry fee
Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)	USD 30 (NPR 3,000)	USD 30 (NPR 3,000)	Required for Dharapani exit
Chumnubri Rural Municipality Fee	USD 15 (NPR 2,000)	USD 15 (NPR 2,000)	Collected at Jagat checkpoint

Key Regulations to Know

Minimum group size: Solo trekking is prohibited in the Manaslu restricted area. All trekkers must be part of a group of at least two.
Licensed guide requirement: Every group must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide registered with a recognised Nepal trekking agency. We handle this automatically.
Checkpoint compliance: Your permits will be inspected at multiple checkpoints along the route, at Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Dharapani at minimum. Always carry your permits in an accessible pocket.
Photography near the border: The northern sections of the trail near Samdo run close to the Tibet border. Photography of military or border infrastructure is prohibited.
Cultural respect: Monastery visits require appropriate clothing, covered shoulders and knees. Ask permission before photographing people, particularly monks and elderly community members.
Waste management: It is illegal to leave non-biodegradable waste on the trail or at tea house stops. The fine for littering in conservation areas is substantial.

Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Why Choose Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Seven Reasons to Choose the Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

1. One of the Remotest Major Treks in Nepal

2. Crossing the Larkya La Pass, A Genuine High-Mountain Achievement

3. Authentic Nubri and Tsum Cultural Corridor

4. Rich Natural Diversity Across Every Elevation Zone

5. Acclimatization Built Into the Schedule

6. Fully Managed Logistics in a Restricted Area

7. Local Expertise, Fair Employment Practices, and Responsible Tourism

Trip Summary

Kathmandu (1,350m) → Jagat (1,340m)

Daily Summary

Jagat (1,340m) → Deng (1,860m)

Daily Summary

Deng (1,860m) → Namrung (2,630m)

Namrung (2,630m) → Samagaon (3,530m)

Acclimatization Day at Samagaon (3,530m)

Samagaon (3,530m) → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460m)

Dharamsala (4,460m) → Larkya La Pass (5,106m) → Bimtang (3,590m)

Bimtang (3,590m) → Dharapani (1,900m)

Dharapani (1,900m) → Kathmandu (1,350m)

Daily Summary

Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek Departures

Select Departure Date

September 2026

October 2026

Speak to an Expert

Meet Our Expert Guides

Shiva Kumar Shrestha

Deepak Gurung

Ramsaran Shrestha

Meena Karki

Prakash Gurung

Ram Hari Dhamala

Additional Information

SpO₂ Acclimatization & Monitoring Chart

Typical Day During Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Best Time for the Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Weather for Manaslu Circuit Package (January - December)

Difficulty Level for Rapid Manaslu Circuit Trek

Meals during trekking

Altitude Sickness, Prevention, Recognition, and Response

Travel Insurance, Why It Is Mandatory and What to Look For

Essential Equipment required during the trek

Accessories and equipment that aid trekking

Why Trek With Our Local Company

Permits and Regulations

General Information

Now Offering 100% Private Treks

Tailor-Made Itineraries

Dedicated Guide & Porter

Safety & Health Focus

Flexible Scheduling

Privacy & Comfort

Daily Summary

Daily Summary

Daily Summary

Daily Summary

Daily Summary

Daily Summary

Preparation and Fitness

Permits

Insurance and Visa

Guides and Support Staff

Accommodation

Food and Drink

Weather and Seasons

Health and Safety

Packing and Gear

Booking and Payments

Transportation