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The Manaslu Trek is a stunning trek in Nepal that takes you around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163m). It is a remote and less-traveled route that offers breathtaking scenery, diverse cultures, and challenging terrain.

Here are some essential tips and information for your Manaslu Trek:

Manaslu Trek Permit

Trekkers interested in the Manaslu Circuit Trek should be aware of its location within the restricted Manaslu Himalaya region of the upper Gorkha district, Nepal. Since its opening to trekkers, adventurers, and mountaineers in 1992, the region requires a special permit from the Nepal Tourism Board.

Solo trekking (FIT) is not permitted in this region. All foreign visitors must join a government-registered local trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

These agencies will handle all necessary permits and entry fees upon booking. Additionally, a minimum group size of 2 or 3 people is required for both the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Tsum Valley area.

Special permit for Manaslu

During the winter, spring, and summer seasons, the Manaslu Circuit Trek special permit costs US $110 per person for the first week, with an additional US $7 charge per day beyond the first week. For the autumn/fall season, the permit costs US $165 per person for the first 7 days and US $10 for each additional day as per the trekking itinerary.

MCAP permit
MCAP-permit

Note: Obtaining a special permit is mandatory for trekking in the Upper Manaslu Restricted Area, which starts from the village of Jagat and extends to Dharapani in the Manang district. These permits help regulate trekking activities and contribute to conservation efforts in the region.

Manaslu Trek Cost Breakdown:

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek varies depending on the chosen itinerary and the number of participants in your group. Most local agencies offer a standard 14-15-day itinerary.

Cost inclusions:

  • Accommodation: The package price typically covers your entire trip, including hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The standard of accommodation will vary based on your chosen package and budget.
  • Transportation: Depending on the group size and chosen package, transportation options may include local buses, private cars, four-wheel drives, or even coaches.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon refreshments) are usually included in the trip cost.
  • Permits: The package typically covers all necessary trekking permits, including special permits for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
  • Guides and Porters: A government-licensed guide and porters (depending on group size) are usually included in the cost.

Price Range:

The overall trip cost typically ranges from USD 1,800 to USD 2,100 per person for groups of 2-3 people with the above inclusion. It’s important to note that the cost can vary depending on various factors, including:

  • Itinerary duration: Longer itineraries might cost more.
  • Accommodation standard: Choosing higher-end hotels will increase the cost.
  • Group size: Smaller groups might incur higher costs per person due to fixed costs like guide fees being spread across fewer participants.

Recommendation:

Contacting a reputable local trekking agency and discussing your specific preferences and budget can help you find the Manaslu Circuit Trek package that best suits your needs.

Accommodation:

  • Soti-Khola onwards: Expect basic lodge accommodation with rooms shared by two people (twin rooms) as per the standard package price. Single rooms might be available at an additional cost, depending on availability. Rooms are generally small but clean and comfortable.
  • Sleeping bags: It’s recommended to bring your sleeping bag for comfort, warmth, and hygiene.
  • Sanitation: Most lodges offer shared bathrooms and toilets. Hot showers might be available for an extra fee.
  • Lo and Sama-Gaon: Larger villages like Lo and Sama-Gaon offer better accommodation options, including some guesthouses with attached bathrooms and toilets.
  • Dharmasala/Larkya Phedi: Accommodation near the high Larkya La pass is limited to basic lodges with dorm rooms for 4-6 people. During peak season, tents might be set up outside the lodges to accommodate trekkers.
  • Dharapani: At the end of the trek, Dharapani offers better quality lodges due to its location on the popular Annapurna Circuit trek route.

Food:

  • Variety: Lodges offer a variety of dishes, including Western, continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan, and Nepali options.
  • Large groups: For groups of more than 6 people, set meals can be more efficient and save fuel.
  • Dal Bhat: Most places offer Dal Bhat, a staple Nepali dish consisting of boiled rice, lentil soup, vegetable curries, and pickles/salad. This is a good option for responsible trekking as its preparation requires less fuel.
  • Other options: Homemade bread like Chapatti and Tibetan bread are popular options alongside vegetable curries.
  • Meat availability: Meat options are limited, especially in higher areas due to Buddhist beliefs. Yak, lamb, or chicken might be available occasionally, but choices are limited.

Best time for Manaslu Region Trek

Seasons for Trekking in Nepal and the Himalayas:

Nepal and the Himalayas experience four distinct seasons: spring, summer (monsoon), autumn (fall), and winter. Each season offers unique conditions for trekking, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek is no exception.

Spring (March-May):

  • Considered the best time for trekking in general, including Manaslu Circuit and peak climbing.
  • Characterized by clear skies with occasional afternoon clouds.
  • Mornings and nights are cold, especially at higher altitudes.
  • Wildflowers, especially rhododendrons, are in bloom during this season.

Autumn (September-November):

  • Another favorable season for trekking is Manaslu, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures for daytime walks.
  • Days are shorter due to reduced sunlight hours.
  • Mornings, afternoons, and nights are significantly colder than spring.
  • Note: Higher villages might close their lodges from mid-November onwards, as locals migrate to escape the winter cold.

Related: Best time to Trek Manaslu

Manaslu Circuit Trek Gear:

Packing for Spring and Autumn:

Clothing:

  • Days:
    • Women: Skirts or lightweight trousers, T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sun hat.
    • Men: Shorts, lightweight pants, T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sun hat.
  • Evenings and Higher Altitudes: Warmer clothes (fleece, thermals)

Essential Gear:

  • Trekking boots
  • Runners or sports shoes
  • Slippers or sandals
  • Fiber pile jacket
  • Breeches/tracksuit/ultra-fleece jacket and trousers
  • Duvet/down jacket (for autumn/winter and early spring)
  • Woolen balaclava and mittens (for autumn/winter and early spring)
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Sun hat/cap
  • Scarf (silk or nylon)
  • Sunglasses or snow goggles (100% UV protection)
  • Sunscreen (high SPF or high-altitude glacier cream)
  • Lip balm
  • 1-liter metal water bottle
  • Toiletries
  • Headlamp (spare batteries and bulb)
  • Sewing kit
  • Small Swiss army-style knife
  • Notebook/diary, pen, small padlock
  • Money belt
  • Personal first-aid kit (as recommended by your doctor)

Optional:

  • The thermarest or similar self-inflating mattress
  • Camera gear
  • Walking sticks or ski poles

Rental Options:

Some items like sleeping bags and trekking poles can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don’t want to carry them from home.

Manaslu trek transportation:

Transportation options on the Manaslu Circuit Trek vary depending on group size, chosen package, and budget. Here’s a general overview:

Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat
Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat

Reaching Arughat:

  • Group size: Larger groups might use private cars or coaches, while smaller groups or budget travelers might opt for regular tourist buses.
  • Cost: The chosen mode of transportation may be included in your trek package or charged separately.

Arughat to Soti Khola:

  • Terrain: The route involves hilly mud/dirt tracks mainly accessible by four-wheel drives or similar vehicles.

Dharapani to Kathmandu/Pokhara:

  • Transportation: Similar options as reaching Arughat are available upon returning from the trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is graded moderate to challenging due to several factors:

  • High altitude: The trek involves significant elevation gain, particularly after Jagat, Deng, and Namrung villages. This can lead to altitude sickness, especially when combined with strenuous activity.
  • Snow conditions: Crossing the high Larkya La Pass can be challenging due to snow and ice, requiring proper equipment and experience.
  • Terrain: While the initial path is gradual, the trek progresses to steeper sections and uneven terrain, which can be strenuous.
  • Long distances: Some days, especially between Macha Khola and Jagat, and towards Namrung, involve long and tiring walks.

Tips for Managing Difficulty:

  • Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to managing altitude sickness. Take rest days and ascend gradually.
  • Pace yourself: Walk slowly and take frequent breaks, especially during challenging sections.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
  • Choose a longer itinerary: Opting for a longer itinerary (15-16 days) allows for more acclimatization time and shorter daily walking distances.

Additional points to consider:

  • Trekkers with no prior experience in high-altitude trekking should seriously consider their physical fitness and potential risks before attempting the Manaslu Circuit.
  • Consulting a doctor about altitude sickness and proper preparation is essential before starting the trek.

Overall, the Manaslu Trek is a beautiful and rewarding trek for those who seek an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal. It is recommended to hire an experienced guide and plan your itinerary with plenty of time for acclimatization to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.