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The Manaslu Circuit Trek, a well-known Himalayan trek in Nepal that takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, is known for its spectacular mountain views, various cultural experiences, and exciting terrain.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes through villages, forests, and high alpine meadows, offering a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences. The entire Manaslu Circuit Trek typically takes about 10-16 days to complete and involves some challenging high-altitude passes, so it is recommended for experienced trekkers in good physical condition. It is possible to hire a guide and porter for the trek, and there are several tea houses and lodges along the route where you can stay.
The best time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is clear and dry.
Now that you know a brief about Manaslu Circuit Treks, let’s find out how difficult it is!
How difficult is the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderately challenging trekking trail, with difficulty varying depending on the individual trekker’s fitness and experience. It is a longer trek and involves several high-altitude passes that can be physically demanding. The highest point on the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which reaches an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet).
The trek can be easier if trekkers take their time, adapt gradually to the change in altitudes, and hire a guide or porter to help with the logistics. Learn more about the specific challenges of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
It is crucial to be in good physical condition before attempting the trek, as it will require you to walk for several hours each day on sometimes rugged terrain. If you are an experienced trekker in good physical condition and can handle long days of walking, the Manaslu Circuit Trek should be manageable for you.
So, how long does it take to do the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek usually takes around 10-16 days to complete, conditional on the pace of the trekkers. The trek can be shortened to 8 days by taking a jeep to Soti Khola and starting the trek from there, but this option involves missing out on some of the best parts of the trek.
Most itineraries for the Manaslu Circuit Trek include a few rest days to allow for proper acclimatization and to allow for flexibility in case of inclement weather. It is important to take your time and acclimatize properly on this trek, as it involves reaching high altitudes where altitude sickness can be a concern. The trek can be done more slowly by adding additional rest days or by taking shorter hiking days, but this will lengthen the overall duration of the trek.
And when is the best time to trek Manaslu?
The best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on the type of weather you prefer. The trek can be done throughout the year, but the weather and conditions will vary depending on the season.
Here is a brief overview of the different seasons of the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
Spring (March-May):
Spring is considered the best time for Manaslu Trek, as the weather is typically clear and dry with pleasant temperatures. The rhododendron forests are also in bloom during this time, adding to the beauty of the trek.
Summer (June-August):
Summer is the monsoon season in Nepal, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be wet and muddy during this time. The trails can also be slippery, making the trek more challenging. However, the summer season can also be a good time to visit the trek if you don’t mind the rain and prefer fewer crowds.
Autumn (September-November):
Autumn is another popular time to visit the Manaslu Circuit Trek, as the weather is typically clear and dry with pleasant temperatures. The autumn season is also known for its clear views of the mountains, making it a great time for photography.
Winter (December-February):
The winter season on the Manaslu Circuit Trek can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing at higher elevations. The trails may also be covered in snow, making the trek more challenging. However, winter can also be a good time to visit if you do not mind the cold and prefer fewer crowds.
In general, the best time to visit the Manaslu Circuit Trek is from September to November and from March to May, when the weather is typically clear and dry. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, and the season choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and tolerance for different weather conditions.
But, why Manaslu is called Killer Mountain?
Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, is sometimes referred to as the “Killer Mountain” due to the high number of fatalities that have occurred on its slopes. The mountain, which is located in the Nepal Himalayas, was first climbed in 1956 AD by a Japanese expedition, but several people have died while attempting to climb it since then.
One of the reasons for the high number of fatalities on Manaslu is its steep and technical terrain, which requires a high level of skill and experience to navigate. The mountain also has a reputation for being prone to avalanches, which can be particularly dangerous for climbers.
In addition, the high altitude of Manaslu can make it more difficult for climbers to acclimatize and can increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Despite these challenges, Mount Manaslu (8,163m) is a popular mountain to climb, and many climbers are drawn to its challenging terrain and stunning views. However, it is important for climbers to be well-prepared and to take necessary precautions when attempting to climb the mountain.
So, how much does the Manaslu Circuit trek cost?
The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can vary depending on several factors, including the length of the trek, the time of year, the level of comfort you desire, and the services you choose to include.
Here is a rough breakdown of the costs you can expect to incur on the Manaslu Circuit Trek:
Permits:
An Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, An Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are required to trek in the Manaslu region. The cost of these permits is currently NPR 3,000 (around USD 28) for the ACAP permit, NPR 3,000 (around USD 28) for the MCAP, and USD 70 per week for the RAP.
Transportation:
If you are starting the trek from Kathmandu, you will need to pay for transportation to the trailhead at Arughat. This can be done by local bus and will cost around NPR 1,500 one way.
Guide and Porter:
Hiring a guide and porter is optional, but it is recommended if you are new to trekking in Nepal or are not comfortable navigating the trail on your own. A guide will cost around NPR 3,000-4,000 per day (USD 28- 38), and a porter will cost around NPR 2,000 per day (USD 18).
Accommodation:
There are a range of accommodation options available on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges. Prices will vary depending on the level of comfort you desire, but you can expect to pay around NPR 1,000-3,000 (USD 8-28) per night for a basic room in a tea house.
Meals:
The cost of meals will depend on your appetite and the types of food you choose to eat. You can expect to pay around NPR 700-1,500 (USD 6-13) for a basic meal of dal bhat (a traditional Nepali dish of rice and lentils) in a tea house.
Altogether, the Manaslu Circuit Trek can cost anywhere from around USD 500-1,500, depending on the factors mentioned above. This is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Consult A Travel Expert Now!
Planning a Manaslu Circuit trek can be complex, but you don’t have to go it alone. A travel expert from MCT can help you navigate every step of the way, from choosing the best time of year to go and preparing the necessary equipment to arrange transportation and accommodations. They are experienced in the Manaslu Circuit and can answer any questions you may have about the route, the weather, and the local culture.
Contact an MCT travel expert today to start planning your unforgettable Manaslu Circuit adventure! You can also call us at +977 9851179975 for more information about the Manaslu Circuit trek cost and itinerary, or for any other trekking inquiries in Nepal.
