Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek

Circle Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the 8th highest mountain in the world.
Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days at a reasonable price.
Cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which is beautiful.
Trek to Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Areas with unique animal species.
Explore Tibetan-inspired towns such as Samagaon and Lho.
Travel along the ancient Budhi Gandaki salt-trading route.
Close to panoramic views of 6,500 m to 7,000 m high.
Get a feel of the authentic culture and local hospitality.

Trip Overview

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek – Explore Hidden Himalayan Treks

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is one of the least commercialized treks in the Himalayan range. At 8,163 meters (26,782 ft), Mount Manaslu, also called Kutang, the “Mountain of the Spirit”, is the 8th tallest mountain in the world. Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days takes you around this grand mountain through other stunning ranges, remote valleys, deep gorges, and high mountain passes of the Gorkha region of Nepal.

With Hill Sherpa Trekking, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is much more than a simple hike. We have aimed to give you the best experience and the most value while trekking the Manaslu region. We have designed this trip to be an affordable trek and to give you the most breathtaking landscapes possible.

The first successful ascent of Manaslu was in 1956 by the Japanese climber Toshio Imanishi and his partner Gyalzen Norbu. However, the Nepal Government opened the trekking route to foreigners only in 1992. Because of this, the trail is still beautifully preserved. The trek also follows the historical Salt Trading route that was used to trade salt from Tibet, and the trail is still along the Budhi Gandaki River.

Part of the journey on the 14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek includes traversing the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area, both of which boast the presence of unique wildlife: snow leopards, red pandas, and musk deer, among other rare critters. Wildlife and topography are both diverse, with changing subtropical forests, varying waterfalls, and snow capped rugged mountains, which we will pass on our journey to greater altitudes.

A highlight on this trek is the opportunity to cross Larkya La, with an elevation of 5160 meters (16929 ft). The sense of accomplishment when reaching the top is unparalleled, especially when the prizes are spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, which include other mountains reaching in altitude, some even over 7000 meters.

On the Manaslu trek, the overwhelming presence of the Nepali and Tibetan cultures is apparent. Tibetan influence is especially strong in the local villages of Samagaon and Lho, there are prayer clas, mani walls, and, of course, there are centuries old monasteries of great spiritual importance. To add even more to the experience, the local communities are known for their great hospitality and warmth.

What makes Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days unique is its perfect blend of all the elements that create the ideal trekking experience: challenge, culture, and unspoiled nature. While the trek is certainly challenging, the rewards are equally great. While the trek is remote, the richness of the culture is equally impressive. While the trek is adventurous, it is also very peaceful.

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is an authentic Himalayan trekking experience that will most certainly fit your budget and is guaranteed to provide you with a great adventure, stunning views, and a unique experience.

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

You will start by visiting Kathmandu the capital of Nepal, which is very colorful. A vibrant blend of old temples, busy streets and rich culture is all present in the city. Once there, you will be received by our representative of Hill Sherpa Trekking to airport and then to your hotel.

Use this time to unwind and get oriented with the kind of atmosphere that is presented by the city. According to your schedule, you may also travel around Thamel, buy trekking equipment and we will have briefing session where we will discuss the itinerary, prepare trekking permits, and clear the last minute questions before you start the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha khola

The adventure starts with a scenic drive in Kathmandu where you are briefed on the trip and then you start the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days with Machha Khola as your starting point. It is a road trip of about 810 hours that includes the fertile land of the valleys, terraced lands, and Nepal of the Nepal village.

It trails along the Budhi Gandaki River providing the views of the village life and the beautiful Himalayan foothills. On the journey, you can visit local towns to take tea, snacks, or take short breaks to stretch your legs and have a view of the scenic views.

Arriving at Machha Khola, you will stay at a teahouse in the town and get ready to take the trek. It is not simply a means of transport, but the introduction of Nepal dramatic scenery and isolated nature that the Manaslu Circuit Trek is about to present to you.

Duration

8-10 hours

Max Altitude

870 m

Activity

driving

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Trek to Jagat

The trail on the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is more of an adventure today, comprised of an assortment of small climbs and descents. Strolling with the Budhi Gandaki River, you will cross long suspension bridges, cascading falls, and have the most stunning nature around all day long. The hike approximately takes 6-7 hours at a laidback pace, and includes time to have tea breaks and take pictures.

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Trek to Samagaun visit via pungen gumpa

It is a very picturesque and significant day in the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek. You start with breakfast in Syala (3,200m), and then start a moderate climb to a quiet monastery beneath the towering south face of Mount Manaslu, called Pungen Gompa.

The excursion to Pungen Gompa is wonderful. During walks through the open alpine meadows, you are blessed with close up scenes of Manaslu, Himchuli and glaciating glaciers. The monastery itself is very tranquil and spiritual, and prayer flags wave in the mountain wind, and it is an ideal place to stop, meditate, and make shots.

Having visited Pungen Gompa, you go back to the main trail and proceed towards Samagaun (3,530m). It is a leisurely scenic stroll that follows stone houses, yak pastures, and large and broad glacially formed valleys.

In 4-5 hours of walking with the monastery visit, you reach Samagaun which is among the largest and most beautiful villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days. Having a strong Tibetan influence, old monasteries, and unbelievable mountainous views, Samagaun is the perfect place to stop, get acclimatized, and continue to the higher locations, Manaslu Base Camp and Larkya La Pass.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

3530 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Acclimatization/Hike to Manaslu base camp

The Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is an exciting, acclimatizing day to day since you will be hiking to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800m) starting at Samagaun (3,530m). This is a difficult day but a satisfying one as your body adapts to the higher altitude and you get some of the most breathtaking views of the entire trip, as seen in the mountains.

The path leads steadily further above Samagaun through the forests of birch, over rocky ridges, and pastures of yaks. The further up you go, the more mountainous and alpine the landscape becomes. The perspectives become dramatic, and the magnificent panoramas of Mount Manaslu, and glaciers, and all the snow-covered mountains around can be seen.

You have a number of hours of steep uphill walking, but after this time, you will find yourself in Manaslu Base Camp, where you will have wonderful close-up shots of the huge glacier and the towering north face of the eighth highest mountain in the world. The achievement and the serene environment of the Himalayas make the struggle well deserved.

You then spend a few hours at the base camp doing some phototaking and resting afterwards, but you come down to Samagaun, where you can rest till the night. It is a physically challenging hiking trip, though an experience that will not be forgotten and an indelible part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days adventure.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

4800 m

Activity

hiking

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Samdo village

Today, your walk is not as long or demanding as the satisfying Manaslu Base Camp hike of the previous day, as you will be able to ease into the slowly rising altitude of the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek.

Leaving Samagaun (3,530m), the road runs through wide alpine scenery with glaciers and panoramic views of other mountains. As the valley opens up more and opens more dramatically, you go through yak pastures, stone huts and long mani walls. It gets thinner and the terrain becomes more rugged as you approach the Tibetan border.

It is a fairly easy but significant acclimatization day in the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days because the trek to Samdo (3,875m) can be completed in an hour or two. Samdo is a small village with Tibetan cultural influences, well developed culture and magnificent mountain environment. It is the final permanent location before the Larkya La Pass that will make one feel really remote and high Himalayan adventure.

Duration

3-4 hours

Max Altitude

3875 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 10: Trek to Dharmashala

The current day expedition in the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek helps in taking you further in the peak of the journey. Out of Samdo (3,875m), the path steadily ascends through broad alpine terrains of spectacular mountain scenery and glacial valleys.

Across wooden bridges, you go, and on the hard path up the hillside. The scenery grows thin towards the altitude and the air is thinner. On the road, you can pass by herds of yaks grazing in the high pastures.

It takes 3-4 hours of trekking to reach Dharamshala (4,460m), also referred to as Larkya Phedi, the last mountain to stay before the Larkya La Pass. Trekkers planning to go through the difficult pass the next morning are the primary users of this small and simple stop.

It is relevant to have a good rest, keep hydrated, and get ready to have an early start, because tomorrow will be one of the most showsome though the most rewarding days of the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days adventure.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

4460

Activity

trekking

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3,720 m)via Larke pass

The biggest and most difficult day of the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is the present day. Beginning in Dharamshala (4,460m), to cross the Larkya La Pass (5,160m), the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The ascent is slow and gradual, on rocky and even snowy ground. Once you get at the peak of Larkya La, you are rewarded with a panoramic view of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. The peak is surrounded by colorful prayer flags, so that it is an ideal destination to congratulate your success.

Some rest at the pass and then the long descent to Bhimthang commences. The path sinks into glacial moraines and ice before descending to greener sceneries with meadows and streams.

You reach the valley of Bhimthang (3,720m) after 79 hours of hiking, where there are snow-capped mountains encircling a gorgeous valley. This is a quiet village and it is a good relief after going through one of the most spectacular high mountain passes in Nepal.

Duration

7-9 hours

Max Altitude

5,106 m

Activity

big day trek

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani village

The Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek walk is less strenuous and mainly downhill after the dramatic walk across Larkya La Pass. Around Bhimthang (3,720m), the trail follows down through gorgeous alpine meadows and thick rhododendron woodland.

At first glance you arrive at Gowa (Gho) a small hamlet with beautiful mountain scenery, and proceed downwards to the village of Tilche, in the midst of pine forests, and along the Dudh Khola River. The landscape is greener and warmer as you descend.

Crossing a suspension bridge and after taking the slow trail, you end up at Dharapani (1,960m). The Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days comes to an end with this, since the Manaslu route joins with the Annapurna region a great spot to rejoice in the successful completion of an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Duration

6-8 hours

Max Altitude

1960 m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu or pokhara

You drive out of Dharapani to Kathmandu or Pokhara after your successful completion of your Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek.

The trip starts with a picturesque ride through mountain highways, through rivers, waterfalls, terraced fields, and of small hillside villages. It is likely to be a countryside mountain road, which is rough and then becomes the main highway.

You have the option of going backto Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, or you can head to a beautiful city lakeside city of Pokhara, a nice place to rest after your adventure of the Manaslu Circuit trek 14 Days.

This motivation is your formal farewell to your memorable Manaslu expedition – an experience with the high mountain passes, the rich culture and the spectacular Himalayan scenery.

Duration

7-9 hours

Max Altitude

870 m

Activity

driving

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 14: Departure

It is the last day of your amazing Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek adventure and our team of Hill Sherpa Trekking will drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you will fly internationally.

Based on the time of your flight, you could have some final moments to sightsee the city, buy souvenirs, or just sit back and reflect on your adventure.

When you leave Nepal, you bring with you the priceless memories of the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days, the trip through Larkya La Pass and the authentic Himalayan culture and magnificent mountain views.

We hope you have a good trip back home and that you will come back to Nepal on another trip sometime.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek

How Does the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek Begin?

Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek starts with picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola basing on the road conditions. The route is approximately 8-10 hours, taking winding mountain roads, along rivers and terraced farms and small rural settlements. This trip already provides you with an idea of what it is like to live in Nepal. When you get to the starting point, the actual trekking experience starts as you carry on the Budhi Gandaki River, pass through suspension bridges and nice villages. The Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days has been designed as a gradual ascent through lower subtropics to high alpine terrain around the peak, which is known as the mountain Manaslu.

Best season to do the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the periods when the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek can be done most adequately. During spring, the climate is pleasant, and the hills are beautiful with rhododendron trees that are blooming. There is also bright sky, predictable weather and stunning mountain scenery in autumn following the monsoon rains. It is quite cold in the winter season and there is the risk of snowfall that will block the path, especially around Larkya La Pass. The monsoon is accompanied by rain and slippery roads. To have the greatest experience in the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days, spring and autumn are strongly considered.

Difficulty Level of Manaslu Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is deemed as moderately difficult. Trekkers tend to cover 6-8 hours of uneven landscapes each day in forested trails, rocky steps, rocky valleys, and mountainous trails. It involves the most challenging section of the adventure, which is the Larkya La Pass at the height of 5,160 meters. The elevation, along with the extended walking days, needs a physical fitness and a clear mind. The technical climbing skills will not be required, though, and so it can be done by well-prepared trekkers.

Can a beginner join this Adventure?

The answer to that is yes, beginners are allowed to join the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek, although they need to prepare. With good fitness level and a determination to train prior to the trek, it is possible to complete the trek. Cardio exercises and practice in hiking and strengthening of the legs will be very beneficial. The Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days itinerary has a period of acclimatization that will enable your body to accommodate higher altitudes and will also give you more chances of successfully completing your trek.

Altitude Sickness

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is prone to altitude sickness, particularly once they have gone beyond 3,000 meters. Your body takes time to adapt to you as you go up the villages such as Samagaon and eventually to Larkya La Pass. The symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness or shortness of breath. Some of the ways of mitigating the risk include slow walking, excessive water intake, proper dieting and adherence to appropriate schedules of acclimatization. An organized Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek has a gradual increase in altitude to reduce the risks of health complications to a minimum and be safe.

Food, Accommodation and Drink.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek will offer accommodation in the local tea houses. The rooms are basic and neat, suggesting that they typically have twin beds and shared bathrooms. This is a remote area, and there are not many luxury facilities, but the warm welcome of the locals will provide the stay with the comfort. Food is served in the tea house dining room, which has such choices as Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, fried rice, soups, potatoes, and Tibetan bread. Hot beverages like tea, coffee and hot lemon are sold extensively. The higher the level, the higher the food prices since transport is a problem.

Transportation for Manaslu circuit trek

The Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek is usually accompanied by transportation by a local jeep or bus between Kathmandu and the trek starting point or a drive back between Dharapani or Besishahar back to Kathmandu. The selection of local transportation would also make the cost affordable. The journey takes in picturesque countryside scenery and a natural traveling experience, even though the roads might be harsh in parts.

Permits for Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is found in a limited zone and, therefore, special permissions are needed. Trekkers will require a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). This requires the presence of a licensed guide and requires a minimum of two trekkers to get the restricted area permit. Before the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days commences, all the paperwork needed is done.

Trip Preparation and Fitness

The Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek requires proper preparation. Stamina is greatly improved by running and cycling or hiking cardio exercises. Vitality training of the legs and body will be of help too. Training using a backpack in the run up to the hike can help train your body to endure long hiking days. The psychological training is also essential, because trekking at a distance takes time and persistence.

Gadgets Charging & Internet

Most tea houses in the Manaslu Circuit Trek have availability of electricity; however, when it comes to charging your gadgets, an additional charge is usually imposed, particularly at high altitudes. Wi-Fi is restricted and might not be effective in isolated villages. It is prudent to have a power bank and extra batteries. The Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days is used by many trekkers to go offline and experience the natural environment to the fullest.

Your Extra Expenses

In the Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek, we organize the trip to include accommodation, local transportation, required permits and licensed guide. Nonetheless, the meals are not a part of this particular trip itinerary. Hence, you would get your own budget of about USD 20-50 per day, based on your expenditure culture and food preferences.

Your daily expenses will principally consist of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and tea/coffee, boiled water or mineral water) in tea houses on the trail. It is more expensive to buy food higher, as everything is carried by the porters or the mules. Besides meals, you can spend money on hot showers, charging of electronic devices, Wi-Fi connection, drinking water in bottles or boiled and snacks, soft drinks, bakery products, and additional drinks such as coffee or hot chocolate.

Giving a tip to your guide and porter also becomes a normal and welcome activity after the completion of the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days. The price of the tip varies according to your satisfaction and the size of your group, though it also forms a significant aspect of trekking culture in Nepal.

There are no ATMs in most areas of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, so before going to Kathmandu, it is highly important to carry plenty of cash in Nepali rupees. A good budget will enable you to have an enjoyable trek without having to worry about covering your expenses in the distant mountains.

Travel Insurance

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is compulsory to be covered by travel insurance. Your insurance should take care of high altitude trekking over 5,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation. As the Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 Days involves using the Larkya La Pass of 5,160 meters, a good insurance cover will guarantee that you are covered in case of a medical complication or unforeseen events.

Altitude Chart of Manaslu Circuit Budget Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Can beginners do this trek?

Yes, the beginners can finish the trek with some guidance, but good fitness and preparation are required.

How long is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The average expedition takes 14 days, and it is the entire route that surrounds the Manaslu mountain.

Why is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Special?

It is more of a peaceful, culturally diverse, and scenic journey with breathtaking Himalayan scenery, Tibetan influenced villages, and wildlife that is seldom seen.