Manaslu Circuit is one of the classic treks in Nepal around Manaslu the world’s eighth highest mountain followed by crossing Larkya La pass. This trek would appeal to anyone who is looking for a challenging trek in a remote region of the Nepal Himalaya. 

Manaslu Circuit Trekking is a new trekking destination but it still sees fewer trekkers compared to other regular trekking regions. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a stunning trek with spectacular views of Mount Manaslu (8163 m) and the Ganesh Himal Range, among others. Along the trail you encounter an interesting mix of authentic Hindu and Tibetan-style Buddhist villages. The trail follows the spectacular Budhi Gandaki River all the way from Arugath to its source just below the Larkya Pass (5125 m). As you start low, at around 700 m, the landscapes are incredibly varied ranging from green countryside and lush forests to spectacular high altitude landscapes skirting huge glaciers.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking is easily accessible from Kathmandu. It originally started in the town of Arughat Gorkha but now we can start at Soti Khola a bit further up the trail. Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a scenic drive from to SotiKhola via Arughat which approximately takes the whole day. On the following day, our trek begins to MachhaKhola. During the trek, we will be walking through beautiful forests, climbing onto ridges, walking past rice terraces and crossing suspension bridges. After trekking for about four days, we will be arriving at Deng, which starts to give us appearances of snow peaks. As we continue trekking, we will be crossing a small village then further reaching to Namrung village where it’s an amazing viewpoint for Ganesh Himal (7,422m) and Mt. Himalchuli (7,893m). Trekking a bit further, we will arrive at the highest village in Budi Gandaki valley; the Samagaon village. We will acclimatize at this village the following day and then continue our trek, heading towards Samdo followed by Dharamsala. At this point, we will be rewarded with the astonishing views of Larkya Glacier and the Larkya peak. We will be crossing the hightest pass in Manaslue,  Larkya Pass (5125 m) can be tough when there is snow. However, the stunning landscape with the mighty Himalayas towering straight above you and the spectacular glaciers make it more than worth the effort. The descent passes through beautiful alpine meadows at Bhimtang before joining the main Annapurna Circuit route heading to the trailhead at Besisahar. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty 

Manaslu Circuit trek lies in the northern Himalayan range, the west-central part of Gorkha districts. Normal duragion of Manaslu Circuit Trekking is about 17-days but we can make few day longer and shortern. Average distance each day will be approximately 15-20 KM and time will be about 8 hours each days. The trek can be made longer or shorter depending on the length of your walking days and starting point.

• You need to be physically and mentally prepared for Manaslu Trekking 
• It is important to train yourself and get used to walking on uneven surfaces in himalaya
• Crossing the Larkya La Pass at altitude 5,213 m is the most challenging day during this entire trek. But at the same time, it’s a more a test of your patience level.
• You’ve to walk on snow but you don’t need any technical skills to cross this high alpine pass.
• You will experience more wilderness, remote, local mountain culture and adventure during Manaslu Circuit trek.

Best time to visit Manaslu circuit trekking

Generally, the best time to trek Manaslu Circuit is autumn (October and November) and spring (March and April). There is relatively stable weather in the autumn season and will find some snow over 5,000 meters. The lush green forest and rhododendron will blossom during the spring season. But, Manaslu trekking can be done all year round.