Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you around the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu, at 8,163 meters (26,781 ft). The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, diverse landscapes, rich culture, and wildlife. The trek typically lasts 10 to 14 days and requires a special permit1. The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 ft), which is often covered with snow and ice. The best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally during the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) seasons. These seasons offer moderate temperatures, clear skies, less rainfall and snowfall, and great visibility of the mountains and landscapes. The spring season also brings colorful flowers such as rhododendron along the lower trails32. The autumn season coincides with some major festivals in Nepal such as Dashain and Tihar.

 However, some trekkers also choose to do the trek during the winter (December, January, and February) and monsoon (June, July, and August) seasons. These seasons are less crowded and cheaper than the peak seasons, but they also pose more challenges and risks. The winter season can be very cold and snowy, especially at higher altitudes, making the trek more difficult and dangerous. The monsoon season can be very wet and humid, causing landslides, leeches, muddy trails, and poor visibility. Therefore, depending on your preference, budget, experience, and physical condition, you can choose the best time to do Manaslu Circuit Trek. However, it is advisable to consult with a local specialist before planning your trek to get the latest information on weather, permits, trails, and safety

 Some of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek are:

It is less crowded and more remote than other popular treks in Nepal, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.

It follows the Buri Gandaki River gorge, crossing many suspension bridges and passing through lush forests, waterfalls, and villages.

It showcases the diverse culture and lifestyle of the Nepalese and Tibetan ethnic groups living in the region31.It offers spectacular views of Manaslu and other Himalayan giants such as Himlung, Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Nemjung, and Kang Guru. It can be combined with a side trek to the Tsum Valley, a hidden valley of happiness and ancient Buddhist culture.

The permits required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek are:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): This permit is required to enter the restricted area of the Manaslu region from Jagat to Sama Gaun. The cost of this permit varies depending on the season and the number of days you spend in the restricted area the cost is:

September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): This permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area from Philim onwards. The cost of this permit is USD 30 per person throughout the year. You need a printed photograph for this permit.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area from Dharapani onwards. The cost of this permit is also USD 30 per person throughout the year. You also need a printed photograph for this permit.

You do not need a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card for the Manaslu Circuit Trek unless you are heading toward the Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani1. You also need an additional permit if you are planning to visit the Tsum Valley, which is USD 40 per person for the first eight days and an additional USD 7 per person per day from the ninth day onwards.

You cannot obtain these permits by yourself. You need to process them through a registered trekking agency with a local guide. Freelance guides cannot issue these permits for you. You also need a minimum of two trekkers in a group to obtain these permits.

How long does it take to get the permits?

The time it takes to get the permits depends on the trekking agency you choose and the availability of the permits. Usually, it takes about one or two days to process the permits if you have all the required documents and payments ready. However, it may take longer during the peak seasons or if there are any delays or issues with the permit-issuing authorities. Therefore, it is advisable to book your trek well in advance and provide your trekking agency with all the necessary information and photographs as soon as possible. This will help them to obtain your permits faster and avoid any last-minute hassles.

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek usually includes:

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on various factors, such as the season, duration, itinerary, service level, and trekking agency you choose. However, based on online sources, the average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek ranges from USD 1200 to USD 1,500 per person for a standard package of 10 to 14 days.

Transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat and from Dharapani to Kathmandu by bus or jeep.

Food and accommodation during the trek in teahouses or lodges.

Permits for Manaslu Restricted Area, Manaslu Conservation Area, and Annapurna Conservation Area.

A professional and licensed trekking guide and a porter (if needed)

Basic first aid kit and emergency rescue arrangements.

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek usually excludes

International airfare to and from Nepal.

Nepali visa fee.

Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and evacuation.

Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, phone calls, internet, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.

Extra nights or services in Kathmandu or on the trek due to unforeseen circumstances.

Any additional activities or side trips not included in the itinerary.

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek may vary depending on the season you choose to trek. The peak seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are more expensive than the off-season of winter (December-February) and monsoon (June-August). This is because of the higher demand, better weather, and more crowded trails in the peak seasons.

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek may also vary depending on the duration and itinerary you choose to trek. The longer you stay in the region, the more you have to pay for food, accommodation, permits, and guide fees. The shorter you stay, the less you have to pay but also the less you get to see and experience. The itinerary may also affect the cost depending on how many side trips or detours you take. For example, if you want to visit the Tsum Valley along with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you have to pay an extra permit fee of USD 40 per person for the first eight days and an additional USD 7 per person per day from the ninth day onwards.

The average cost of Manaslu Circuit Trek may also vary depending on the service level and trekking agency you choose to trek with. The service level refers to the quality and standard of food, accommodation, transportation, equipment, and staff provided by the trekking agency. The higher the service level, the higher the cost. The lower the service level, the lower the cost. The trekking agency also affects the cost depending on their reputation, experience, expertise, and customer service. The more reliable and professional the trekking agency is, the more likely they are to charge a reasonable and fair price. The less reliable and professional the trekking agency is, the more likely they are to charge a cheap or expensive price.

Therefore, before booking your Manaslu Circuit Trek, it is advisable to do some research and compare different options available online. You can also contact us for more information and assistance regarding your Manaslu Circuit Trek. We are a local and registered trekking agency with years of experience and expertise in organizing the Manaslu Circuit Trek. We offer competitive and affordable prices with high-quality services and customer satisfaction. We hope this helps you to plan your budget and enjoy your Manaslu Circuit Trek.