Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 – Local Experts in Nepal

You drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930 m) and follow the Budhi Gandaki River north through rice terraces, gorges and long suspension bridges. Above Jagat the valley turns Tibetan Buddhist, with stone villages, mani walls and monasteries at Lho and Sama Gaun (3,530 m), where you take a rest day to acclimatize. From Samdo and Dharmasala (4,460 m) you cross the Larkya La (5,106 m), the high point of the trek, then descend through rhododendron forest to Bhimthang and Dharapani, where the route joins the Annapurna Circuit.

Manaslu is a restricted area, so you need three permits: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), because the trail exits through the Annapurna region. The RAP costs USD 75 to 100 for the first 7 days depending on the season, and each conservation permit is NPR 3,000. You must trek with a licensed guide booked through a registered agency. Since March 2026, solo travellers can get the RAP on their own without a second trekker. Our Nepal trekking permits guide has the full breakdown.

September to November brings clear skies and the most stable weather on the pass. It is the busiest season, and the RAP is charged at its higher rate. March to May is the second season, with rhododendrons in bloom on the lower trail. Winter brings heavy snow to the Larkya La, and the June to August monsoon can close the roads to Machha Khola and from Dharapani. Read Manaslu Circuit Trek in April for what spring is like on the trail.

The trek is moderate to challenging. Walking days run 5 to 8 hours, and the pass day is the longest. You don't need climbing experience, but you should be comfortable walking several days in a row at altitude. The itinerary builds in a rest day at Sama Gaun and a short day from Samdo to Dharmasala to help your body adjust before the pass.

Our treks start at $649 for the Budget Manaslu Trek. The standard 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek is $975 and includes your permits, a licensed guide, lodges, meals on the trek and transport from Kathmandu. The Manaslu Luxury Trek, at $2,790, uses the most comfortable lodges on the route. Message us on WhatsApp if you'd like a custom itinerary.