Manaslu Circuit Trek: Height, Route, Cost & What It Really Is

What Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, high-altitude 14-to-17-day walking journey that loops around Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak (8,163 meters / 26,781 feet) in Nepal. This trek comes up to 15 days and covering roughly 177 kilometers (110 miles), this challenging trek takes adventurers from subtropical river valleys up to the dramatic, high-altitude Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). Often celebrated as a quieter, more authentic alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit, the route offers a rich blend of raw nature and deep cultural immersion. 

As you ascend along the Budhi Gandaki River, the landscape gradually changes from the lush paddy fields, terraced farmland, and more densely settled villages of the lower region to the Tibetan-influenced settlements of the Nubri Valley, where ancient monasteries, stone chortens, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags become an integral part of the mountain landscape.

Located within the Manaslu Conservation Area, the trail is also rich in biodiversity, occasionally playing host to wildlife like the elusive snow leopard and Himalayan tahr.  

Important 2026 Update : The previous minimum-group requirement for trekking in Nepal’s restricted areas has been removed. From 2026, a single traveler can trek in the Manaslu Restricted Area with one licensed guide. However, independent or completely solo trekking is still not permitted. Travelers must obtain the required restricted-area permits and arrange their trek through a government-authorized, registered trekking agency, with a licensed guide accompanying them throughout the restricted section.

The Manaslu Circuit is best experienced during the more stable spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December) seasons, when generally favorable weather and clearer mountain views make the high-altitude sections more enjoyable.

Note : If you are planning your Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can explore the complete itinerary and package details directly on the Beyond the Limits Treks Manaslu Circuit Trek page. For custom bookings, inquiries, or expert assistance with your permits and logistics, you can also reach out to the team via their Contact Us page.

What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek and where is it located ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a premier restricted-area trekking adventure in the Nepalese Himalayas that loops around Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain. Geographically, it is located in the Gorkha District of north-central Nepal, close to the border of Tibet, within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Map : 

How high is the Manaslu Circuit Trek and what is its highest point ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches high Himalayan altitudes, starting from subtropical lowlands around 900 meters and ascending progressively through alpine villages before entering the high mountain zone. Its highest point is Larke Pass (Larkya La) at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet).

Manaslu Circuit Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,106 m at Larke Pass, starting from lower valleys around 900m and ascending progressively through alpine terrain. The last overnight stop before the pass is Dharmasala at 4,460 m, where many trekkers begin to feel the effects of altitude most strongly. To aid acclimatization, the itinerary typically includes one rest day in Sama and another in Samdo before crossing the pass. Although Larke Pass is slightly lower than Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit (5,416 m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), it remains a significant high-altitude challenge due to the long approach, cold temperatures, and exposed terrain.

How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek typically costs around USD 900–2,800 per person for a standard 15-day itinerary in 2026, depending on group size, season, and level of service/comfort.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

Quick Cost Summary Table

Cost Breakdown Table for Manaslu Circuit Trip

Note: Want to plan your budget in detail? Check out our complete guide on Manaslu Circuit Trek Costs to learn more about hidden expenses, tipping, and payment tips.

How much does a 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek package cost ?

A 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek package with Beyond the Limits Treks costs USD 995 per person for a group of 2–6 trekkers in 2026.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: Inclusions & Additional Costs

For a full line-item breakdown and permit details, see their Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown Guide and the main 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek page.

What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, including RAP, MCAP, and ACAP ?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires three main permits: RAP (Restricted Area Permit), MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit), and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), plus a local municipality entry fee. 

RAP is mandatory because sections of the Manaslu region are designated as a restricted trekking area and must be arranged through a registered Nepali trekking agency in 2026/27 it costs USD 100 for the first 7 days in peak season (September–November) plus USD 15 per extra day, or USD 75 for the first 7 days in off-season (December–August) plus USD 10 per extra day, making a typical 14–15 day circuit cost around USD 215–275 for this permit alone. MCAP and ACAP each cost NPR 3,000 (about USD 22–24) for foreign trekkers and support conservation and community projects in the Manaslu and Annapurna areas, with ACAP required because the route enters the Annapurna Conservation Area after crossing Larkya La. 

Local municipalities may also charge an additional entry fee, and all permits generally require your passport copy, visa details, photos, travel insurance, itinerary, and confirmation of guide and agency; for complete fee tables, document lists, and application steps, refer to the Manaslu Trek Permits 2026/27 guide

Manaslu Gaining Altitude: Total Ascent, Highest Point, and Elevation Profile

The Manaslu Circuit Trek climbs from around 890–900 m at Machha Khola to 5,160 m at Larkya La Pass, with a total cumulative altitude gain of roughly 4,200–4,450 m (13,780–14,600 ft) depending on side hikes and exact route. The maximum altitude is 5,160 m (16,929 ft) at Larkya La, while the lowest trekking point is near 570–900 m along the Budhi Gandaki valley road. This steady, staged gain typically over 10–12 trekking days before the pass is the core of the trek’s physical and acclimatization challenge.

Total Trek Walking Distance, Driving Distance, and Flight Distance (km / miles)

Note : Distances vary slightly by itinerary (10/12/14/15/16 days), exact trailhead (Soti Khola vs Machha Khola), and endpoint (Dharapani vs Besisahar), but 177 km walking and 335–350 km driving is the widely cited standard.

How Manaslu’s Distance and Altitude Gain Compare to Other Classic Treks
 

Frequently Asked Question

1. What is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high-altitude trekking route in Nepal that circles Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain. The route passes through the Budhi Gandaki Valley, Nubri Valley and high Himalayan terrain before crossing Larkya La Pass.

2. Where is the Manaslu Circuit Trek located?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is located in Gorkha District of north-central Nepal, near the Tibet border, within the Manaslu Conservation Area.

3. How high is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek starts at roughly 900 m in the lower region and reaches its highest point at Larkya La Pass, which the article discusses as approximately 5,160–5,160 m.

4. How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

It is a challenging high-altitude trek because of the long walking distance, substantial elevation gain, cold conditions and the crossing of Larkya La Pass at more than 5,000 m.

5. How many days does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?

A complete Manaslu Circuit itinerary generally takes around 14–17 days, while the article specifically focuses on a 15-day itinerary.

6. How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost in 2026?

The estimates of overall cost at approximately USD 900–2,800 per person, depending on group size, season, accommodation, transportation and level of service.

7. How much does a 15-day Manaslu Circuit Trek cost?

According to the package information in the article, the 15-day trek costs USD 995 per person for groups of 2–6, while the listed price is USD 1,285 for one person, USD 930 for groups of 7–9, and USD 895 for groups of 10–12.

8. What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The trek requires the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), along with a local municipality entry fee where applicable.

9. Can one person trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?

According to the 2026 update, one traveler can trek in the Manaslu Restricted Area with one licensed guide. However, completely independent solo trekking is still not permitted, and the trek must be arranged through a registered, government-authorized trekking agency.

10. What is the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The highest point is Larkya La Pass, listed in the article at approximately 5,106–5,160 m (16,752–16,929 ft).

11. How far do you walk on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The approximately 177 km (110 miles) for the standard trekking route, although the exact distance varies according to the starting point, endpoint and side trips.

12. How much altitude do you gain on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The estimates altitude gain of approximately 4,200–4,450 m, depending on the exact route and side hikes. The elevation increases gradually from the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley toward Larkya La Pass.

13. What is the best time to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best time to trek Manasalu Circuit Terk is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December) because these periods generally provide more stable conditions and better mountain visibility.

14. How do you travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back from Besisahar?

The standard route uses road transportation, with the article listing Kathmandu–Machha Khola at the beginning and Dharapani–Besisahar–Kathmandu toward the end. Private vehicle upgrades are also mentioned as an option.

15. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek harder than the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp?

The three treks by distance, maximum altitude, transportation and elevation gain. Manaslu reaches around 5,106–5,160 m at Larkya La, compared with 5,416 m at Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit and 5,364 m at Everest Base Camp.

Content Reviewed By

Beyond The Limits Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. 

A licensed trekking company in Nepal specializing in trekking and adventure travel across the Langtang, Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu regions. The company's professional team regularly reviews trekking information, route conditions, permit requirements, and travel logistics to ensure content accuracy and reliability.
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