Mt. Manaslu Mountaineering Expeditions Quick Facts
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49 days, 48 nights (arrival to departure)
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About 12 trekking days to and from base camp, 22 days set aside for climbing (Days 15 to 36), 2 driving days
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Mt. Manaslu summit at 8,163 m / 26,781 ft
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Gorkha district, Gandaki Province, west-central Nepal
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Manaslu mountaineering permit, RAP, MCAP
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September to October and April to May
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Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek and at base camp. Breakfast in Kathmandu, plus a welcome dinner.
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Private coach or tourist bus (by group size) from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, private jeep or bus back. Airport transfers and sightseeing transport.
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1 - 12
Trip Highlights
- Climb Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth-highest mountain
- Trek a week up the Budhi Gandaki valley to Sama Gaun before you climb
- About three weeks on the mountain for rotations and a summit window
- Base camp below the peak near Birendra Tal, with views of the Manaslu range
- Tibetan Buddhist villages such as Namrung, Lho and Sama Gaun on the way in
- Licensed guide, all permits and expedition paperwork handled in Kathmandu
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Online nowOverview
The Mt. Manaslu Expedition is a 49-day guided climb of Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), the world’s eighth-highest mountain. You drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, trek up the Budhi Gandaki valley to Sama Gaun, and set up base camp below the peak. About three weeks on the mountain give you time to acclimatize and wait for a summit window.
The walk in follows the same trail as our 14-day Manaslu Circuit trek. You pass Jagat, Namrung and Lho, then rest at Sama Gaun before heading up to base camp. On the way out you come back the same way, so this trip does not cross Larkya La.
Manaslu is a restricted area. You need a licensed guide, trekking permits and a mountaineering permit from the Government of Nepal. We arrange all of them. See the Manaslu permit guide for the trekking side.
This expedition is for climbers who already have high-altitude experience. If you want a first 6,000 m summit, start with the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb. If you only want to see the mountain up close, look at the Manaslu Base Camp Trek.
This is a full 8,000 m expedition. You get a week-long trek to base camp, about three weeks on the mountain for rotations and the summit push, and two spare days in Kathmandu at the end.
What Is the Mt. Manaslu Expedition?
The Mt. Manaslu Expedition is a 49-day guided climb of Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain, in west-central Nepal. It is a serious high-altitude climb on snow and ice, with fixed ropes and several camps. Autumn and spring are the climbing seasons. It suits fit climbers with previous experience above 6,000 m.
Why Choose the Mt. Manaslu Expedition
- An 8,000 m peak with a long approach. You walk for a week through villages before you reach base camp, so your body adjusts slowly.
- Plenty of time on the mountain. Days 15 to 36 are set aside for load carries, rotations and the summit bid, so you can wait for good weather.
- Rest built in. You spend a full day at Sama Gaun (3,530 m) and two days at base camp before you start climbing.
- A cleaner base camp. Day 39 is for packing up and carrying out all gear and waste from the camps.
- Culture on the way in. From Namrung up you walk past monasteries, chortens and mani walls on the old salt-trade route to Tibet.
- Paperwork handled. We arrange the restricted area permit, the conservation permit and the mountaineering permit, and file the expedition report in Kathmandu.
| Mt. Manaslu Expedition | Manaslu Circuit Trek and Larke Peak Climb | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 49 days | 19 days |
| Highest point | Manaslu summit, 8,163 m | Larke Peak, 6,249 m |
| Route | Out and back from Machha Khola | Full loop over Larkya La |
| Days on the mountain | About three weeks above base camp | One high camp night and one summit day |
| Skills needed | Previous high-altitude climbing, fixed ropes, crampons, ice axe | Crampons, ice axe and fixed ropes |
| Climbing permit | Manaslu mountaineering permit | Larke Peak climbing permit |
Mt. Manaslu Expedition Itinerary: 49 Days at a Glance
| Day | Route | Overnight altitude | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu | 1,340 m | Airport transfer |
| 2 to 3 | Climb preparation and Kathmandu sightseeing | 1,340 m | Day tour |
| 4 | Drive to Machha Khola via Soti Khola | 930 m | About 8 hours |
| 5 | Machha Khola to Jagat | 1,345 m | About 6 hours |
| 6 | Jagat to Pewa via Philim and Deng | 1,625 m | About 6 hours |
| 7 | Pewa to Namrung | 2,630 m | About 6 hours |
| 8 | Namrung to Lho | 3,185 m | About 4 hours |
| 9 | Lho to Sama Gaun | 3,530 m | About 7 hours |
| 10 | Acclimatization day at Sama Gaun | 3,530 m | Rest or short hike |
| 11 | Sama Gaun to base camp via Birendra Tal | 4,400 m | About 5 hours |
| 12 to 13 | Rest and climb preparation at base camp | 4,400 m | Rest and training |
| 14 | Base camp to advance camp | 5,980 m | About 5 hours |
| 15 to 36 | Rotations, load carries and summit bid (8,163 m) | Upper camps | Weather dependent |
| 37 to 38 | Descend to base camp | 4,400 m | About 2 days |
| 39 | Clean up and pack base camp | 4,400 m | Camp day |
| 40 | Base camp to Sama Gaun | 3,530 m | About 5 hours |
| 41 to 45 | Trek back down to Machha Khola | 930 m | About 5 days |
| 46 | Drive to Kathmandu | 1,340 m | 6 to 7 hours |
| 47 to 48 | Free days in Kathmandu | 1,340 m | Free |
| 49 | International departure | – | Airport transfer |
Altitude and Acclimatization on the Mt. Manaslu Expedition
You sleep above 3,000 m for more than four weeks. The trek in takes you from 930 m to 3,530 m in five days, then you rest at Sama Gaun before moving up to base camp at 4,400 m.
On the mountain you climb high and sleep low. You carry loads to the upper camps, come back down to rest, then go higher on the next round. Your expedition leader sets the plan for each rotation and the summit push from the weather forecast.
Watch for these signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): headache, nausea, dizziness, poor sleep and loss of appetite. Mild symptoms often ease with rest and water. Worsening symptoms mean going down. Confusion, a wet cough or loss of balance can mean HAPE or HACE, and you descend at once.
How Difficult Is the Mt. Manaslu Expedition?
It is very strenuous and technical in places. The trek in is moderate. Above base camp you climb steep snow and ice on fixed ropes, cross crevassed glacier and spend many nights in tents in deep cold.
- Hardest part: summit day. You leave the top camp in the dark and climb the final snow slopes and ridge to 8,163 m, then descend the same day.
- Experience: you should have climbed at least one high peak (6,000 m or more) and be at ease with crampons, an ice axe, a jumar and abseiling on fixed lines.
- Main risks: avalanches, crevasses, sudden storms and severe cold. Your guide may turn the team around if conditions are unsafe.
- Best preparation: six months or more of endurance training with a heavy pack, plus a recent climb at altitude.
- Talk to your doctor first if you have a heart, lung or blood pressure condition, or any condition that high altitude can make worse.
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Online nowItinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Written & checked by Nim Bhatta
Licensed by the Nepal Department of Tourism, Nim has led treks on the Manaslu Circuit since 2009 and is trained in wilderness first aid and altitude sickness response. He last walked the full Manaslu Circuit in spring 2025 to check lodges and trail conditions.
Last updated:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft- Accommodation: Tourist standard hotel
On first arrival in Kathmandu at Nepal International Airport received by our staff and guide, with warm Nepali traditional welcome. After, getting organized and then a short transfer to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city.
At the hotel check into your lovely rooms with refreshing rest after a jet-leg.
Then join in with other members of the group, for briefing at meeting halls or garden.
Our guide and leader will provide you with useful information regarding the treks and climb, standard of lodge, foods and so on. If in doubt, can ask questions to make yourself at ease, after briefing enjoy the dinner in a typical Nepalese Restaurant.
Day 02 - 03: Trek and Climb Preparation day & sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft- Accommodation: Hotel
We have two days in Kathmandu, for full preparation to collect needful documents and permits, as well to buy necessary gear.
As well to get into local culture exploring the Kathmandu city, for interested people can join in our exclusive tour. After a hearty breakfast, as per the time informed by our guide and staff our tour guide will meet. A short drive and walk in the heart of Kathmandu city, where the famous old Durbar Square located.
An ancient palace and courtyard of earlier kings from Malla to former Shah Period. Interesting areas adorned with temples and old palace, as well with resident of famous Living Goddess the Kumari.
Includes a temple of Kasthamandap, where Kathmandu name derived from, meaning a temple built from the wood of a single tree.
The temples and monuments of Durbar Square, listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After an interesting tour, a short drive leads west of the city to another famous landmark of Nepal. The Swayambhunath Stupa of Buddhist monuments, located on a hillock, one can enjoy views of Kathmandu city and the valley.
The Stupa one of the oldest in Nepal and probably in the world of more than 2,600 years of history. After an impressive morning tour back to hotel, rest of the day preparation for Mt. Manaslu Mountaineering Expeditions.
Day 04: Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola via Soti Khola
Maccha Khola 930 m / 3,051 ft 8 hrs- 8 hours drive
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / local lodge
Depart for wonderful adventure Mt. Manaslu Mountaineering Expedition, taking a private coach or comfortable tourist standard bus. As per the size of a group, a long drive takes you beyond Kathmandu valley towards the Gorkha district.
Located Nepal Mid-West around Gandaki Zone, a country of low and mid-hills, heavily cultivated farm areas. The drive follows Nepal’s main busy highway for some hours and then diverts heading north to Arughat town.
Arughat town is situated on low farm areas close to the raging Buri Gandaki River, from here another few hours of drive on the dirt country road to Soti-Khola.
From here drive continues on newly built motorable dirt road to Machha Khola for an overnight halt.
Drive heads north following the Buri Gandaki upstream. Afternoon ride leads to a short climb for a few hours past smaller farm villages then end the long day drive on reaching at Machha Khola.
A moderate size farm village with a number of simple and basic lodges for an overnight stop. The name Machha Khola means a Fishing stream.
Day 05: Trek to Jagat
Jagat 1,345 m / 4,413 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / local lodge
From Machha Khola, after a pleasant overnight stop first day walks lead to cooler hills. On leaving the low sub-tropical heavily farmed areas, the route follows slow ups and downs. Walking through a patch of forest reaching Tatopani, a place with a natural hot spring, enjoy the refreshing bathing as time permits.
Walk to Khola Besi and then to Dovan, a nice farm village for a short refreshing stop and continue the climb. As the day ends reach a nice moderate size hill village at Jagat for an overnight halt.
At Jagat, with time a short walk around to observe the local cultures, a blend of Hindu and Buddhism religions.
Day 06: Jagat to Pewa
Pewa 1,625 m / 5,331 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
After a pleasant time at Jagat, from here onwards starts the Restricted Area of Upper Manaslu.
Where all foreign visitors need to obtain a special permit to enter Upper Manaslu till Dharapani villages if reached. The walk leads to climbing and then crossing a bridge to Nagjet and Philim villages, a lovely farm area.
As route leads past the neatly tended farm terraces reaching a cool shade of the forest on reaching Deng.
From here onwards into strong Buddhism culture, as walk follows higher past the village of Deng. Slowly the long day trek comes to an end on reaching a small village of Pewa, for an overnight stop.
Day 07: Trek to Namrung
Namrung 2,630 m / 8,629 ft 6 hrs- 6 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
From the small village of Pewa, the climb leads to a forested ridge lined with tall rhododendron, pine, and fir trees.
A slow and steady downhill to Bhi Bazaar, situated near the riverside, after a pleasant stop. The walk continues heading towards farm areas with nice cultivated terraces of millets and barley and then reaching Namrung.
After checking into the best available lodge, enjoy the grand views of Mt. Manaslu North Face with an array of peaks.
Day 08: Trek to Lo-Gaon
Lo-Gaon 3,185 m / 10,449 ft 4 hrs- 4 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge
Adventure today leads into the high Manaslu valley on entering one of the prettiest and charming village of Lo Gaon. Having good breakfast, then setting off for the long enjoyable scenic trek to Lo-Gaon. As walk follows to a slow gradual climb, and within cool shade of forest lined with pine and rhododendron trees.
Trek heads high above the Buri Gandaki River, and then on winding up past few summer settlements of cattle herder. Then finally ending the enjoyable pleasant day walk on reaching at nice large village of Lo-Gaon.
Lo-Gaon is a beautiful village within the shadow of majestic Mt. Manaslu with a contrast of green forest and white snow peaks. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of wonderful landscapes and snow peaks
Day 09: Trek to Sama-Gaon
Sama-Gaon 3,530 m / 11,581 ft 7 hrs- 7 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
Enjoy the morning picturesque scenery of wonderful landscapes and snow peaks, as the walk continues heading due west.
Adventure follows on gradual uphill trail around Upper Manaslu through a number of farm villages and Yak herder camps. An interesting walk on high Manaslu valley, enclosed by high rocky cliff and snow peaks.
The view of Mt. Manaslu and Sringi Himal remains constant for some hours as walk finally comes to an end on reaching at Sama-Gaon.
Sama-Gaon, the main village of high Manaslu valley as well one of the highlights of the adventure. Check into a nice lodge, with time to browse around the village and witness the local fascinating culture of Buddhism.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Sama-Gaon
Sama-Gaon 3,530 m / 11,581 ft- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
Explore around the village and visit Pungyen Gompa.
A free day as well to support acclimatization, a perfect height at 3,530 m for a local short hike. Several best places for interested and eager trekkers and adventurers, one can enjoy exploring Sama Gaon of great cultural interest.
Day 11: Trek to Base Camp
Base Camp 4,400 m / 14,436 ft 5 hrs- 5 hours walk
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
After a pleasant day at Sama Gaon, walk today leads to our main destination and adventure towards Manaslu Base Camp. Walk follows on winding faint track heading south of maximum 5 hours trek. But due to gain of altitude and walking on dry air makes the walk slower. Slowly walk reach at lovely glacial Bhirendra Tal / lake, located on a scenic location within green tree lines ahead of majestic
Mt. Manaslu.
Having short refreshing rest, walk continues further then reaching at the base of
towering Mt. Manaslu, where our Base Camp is established for more than
three weeks.
Day 12-13: At Base Camp
Base Camp 4,400 m / 14,436 ft- Accommodation: Tented Camp
For climbing preparation and acclimatization.
A necessary rest day at base camp to get organized as well for acclimatization and final preparations. Our guide and leader will offer final briefing and information regarding the climb as well of technique skill needed for the climb.
Day 14: Trek and Climb to Advance Camp
Advance Camp 5,980 m / 19,619 ft 5 hrs- 5 hours walk
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
From the base camp walk and climb leads to cross a high plateau and then skirting a ridge of lateral moraine. As climb continues to the foot of towering
Mt. Manaslu, after a steep climb reaching a moraine and glaciated areas and then setting our High or Advance Camp.
From here our true adventure begins, with enough time to scout and explore the remote wilderness of Mt. Manaslu facing fabulous surrounding scenery.
Day 15-36: 20 days for preparation and summit bid
8,163 m / 26,781 ft- Accommodation: Tented Camp
On route Mt. Manaslu Summit. Approx. 20 Days.
At Advance Base Camp, final preparation for the long haul to the summit of
Mt. Manaslu. Within twenty days of full time, getting busy packing and checking the equipment and ferrying loads to higher camps.
The leader and main climbing guide will set up the plan for further camps before the summit day. Depending upon the favorable weather forecast, the expedition leader will control the daily routine of the expedition.
Camp-I will be set at the height of 5,260 meters similarly Camp II, at above
6,000 m. The last final Camp III at 6,000 m to 7,000 m, depending upon the suitable spot for the main summit day.
After ferrying and making the route accessible, return back to Base Camp or at Advance Camp for rest. The activities climbing up and down will support acclimatization also, the wait for the final signal.
Start the summit day on reaching the last Camp III, taking few days of tough climb. Backed and supported by our expert climbing guides, who have experience on various 7,000 m and 8,000 m peaks.
The climb from Advance Base Camp leads to moraine covered in glacier with short descend to Camp-I. If there’s no snow a steep path leads up to an interminable scree slope which will be a good support for the climb.
Tackling some technical section in few places as climb gets tougher reaching
7,500 m high. The ridge blocked by a line of ice cliffs then fixing ropes and pitching snow bars. Normally will have one rope for the ascent and another for descent on this pitch at about 60 meters high.
The hardest section of the climb, but with least difficulty, as adventure proceeds high above a serac to a small plateau cut by huge crevasses, a winding path between to pitch Camp II at about 5,600 meters.
Summit day depending on snow conditions might encounter some easy scrambling as the climb progress heading across a low angled South West Face.
Then finally reaching atop of the summit on a small snow plateau, enjoy the breathtaking panorama of Annapurna-Lamjung and Ganesh Himal with adjoining peaks of Manaslu range Bauddha and Himal Chuli.
After feeling in high spirit, and enjoying the glorious views descend to advance base camp on the same day. This will depend on snow conditions and members fitness.
Day 37-38: Back to Base Camp
Base Camp 4,400 m / 14,436 ft- Accommodation: Tented Camp
Losing elevation on route Base Camp. Approx. 02 Days.
Climb and descend finally ends on reaching at Base Camp, where all staff and members should be at the base camp. Have a day to pull up the energy and preparation for return journey back to low warm farm areas.
Day 39: Clean up and packing
Base Camp 4,400 m / 14,436 ft- Accommodation: Tented Camp
Pack up base camp and carry out all gear and waste.
On carrying all the remaining equipment from all camps, then packing the gear for porters and pack animals to carry. Leaving nothing at the camp carrying all the garbage, and leaving nothing but for your foot prints.
Day 40: Trek back to Sama-Gaon
Sama-Gaon 3,530 m / 11,581 ft 7 hrs- 7 hours walk
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Lodge-Tea House
A leisure and pleasant walk brings you back at civilization at Sama Gaon, enjoy the party after checking your rooms in a nice local lodge.
Day 41-45: 5 days for return trek to Machha-Khola
930 m / 3,051 ftIncludes Accommodation in local lodge with all meals B-L-D. Approx. 05 days.
The return journey to Macha-Khola can take five days or less, walk on the same earlier route back to lovely Lho-Gaon and then to Namrung, Deng towards Jagat village.
Enjoy the last day walk of the adventure heading downhill to Machha-Khola for last overnight stop around Manaslu and Gorkha district.
Day 46: Drive from Machha-Khola to Kathmandu
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft 6–7 hrs- 6-7 hours drive on private jeep or bus
- Accommodation: Hotel
Start the morning early for a long interesting overland journey heading towards Arughat town, and then drive leads uphill around Dhading district. On leaving the Gorkha region, as drive leads on the main good busy highway.
After a good exciting drive reaching at Kathmandu and back to your hotel in the late afternoon or evening time for dinner.
Day 47-48: In Kathmandu free day for individual activities
Kathmandu 1,340 m / 4,396 ft- Accommodation: Hotel
A free day in Kathmandu after a tough long climb and walk around Manaslu with classic adventure climb on top of Mt. Manaslu. Enjoy the day relaxing with individual activities or join in for another exciting tour.
On these two days the leader and guide will submit the report of expedition to the Ministry of Tourism, as well to Nepal Mountaineering Association NMA.
Day 49: Final International departure from Homeward Bound.
1,340 m / 4,396 ftLast day in Kathmandu and Nepal, after a great memorable adventure on
Mt. Manaslu Mountaineering Expedition. Our staff transfer you to the international airport terminal, and then bidding farewell to the guide and staff.
As you head for the smooth flight homeward bound.
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Online now1,340 m4,396 ftDay 02 - 03 Trek and Climb Preparation day & sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa
1,340 m4,396 ftDay 04 Drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola via Soti Khola
930 m3,051 ftDay 05 Trek to Jagat
1,345 m4,413 ftDay 06 Jagat to Pewa
1,625 m5,331 ftDay 07 Trek to Namrung
2,630 m8,629 ftDay 08 Trek to Lo-Gaon
3,185 m10,449 ftDay 09 Trek to Sama-Gaon
3,530 m11,581 ftDay 10 Acclimatization Day at Sama-Gaon
3,530 m11,581 ftDay 11 Trek to Base Camp
4,400 m14,436 ftDay 12-13 At Base Camp
4,400 m14,436 ftDay 14 Trek and Climb to Advance Camp
5,980 m19,619 ftDay 15-36 20 days for preparation and summit bid
8,163 m26,781 ft8,163 m26,781 ftDay 37-38 Back to Base Camp
4,400 m14,436 ftDay 39 Clean up and packing
4,400 m14,436 ftDay 40 Trek back to Sama-Gaon
3,530 m11,581 ftDay 41-45 5 days for return trek to Machha-Khola
930 m3,051 ftDay 46 Drive from Machha-Khola to Kathmandu
1,340 m4,396 ftDay 47-48 In Kathmandu free day for individual activities
1,340 m4,396 ftDay 49 Final International departure from Homeward Bound.
1,340 m4,396 ft135791113151719
High -1°C30°F · Low -10°C14°FJanFeb Samagaon
High 1°C34°F · Low -9°C16°FFebMar Samagaon
High 3°C37°F · Low -5°C23°FMarApr Samagaon
High 6°C43°F · Low -1°C30°FAprMay Samagaon
High 8°C46°F · Low 3°C37°FMayJun Samagaon
High 13°C55°F · Low 7°C45°FJunJul Samagaon
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High 15°C59°F · Low 10°C50°FAugSep Samagaon
High 13°C55°F · Low 8°C46°FSepOct Samagaon
High 8°C46°F · Low 2°C36°FOctNov Samagaon
High 5°C41°F · Low -3°C27°FNovDec Samagaon
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High -11°C12°F · Low -18°C0°FJanFeb Manaslu Base Camp
High -9°C16°F · Low -16°C3°FFebMar Manaslu Base Camp
High -7°C19°F · Low -13°C9°FMarApr Manaslu Base Camp
High -3°C27°F · Low -9°C16°FAprMay Manaslu Base Camp
High 0°C32°F · Low -5°C23°FMayJun Manaslu Base Camp
High 4°C39°F · Low 0°C32°FJunJul Manaslu Base Camp
High 6°C43°F · Low 2°C36°FJulAug Manaslu Base Camp
High 6°C43°F · Low 2°C36°FAugSep Manaslu Base Camp
High 4°C39°F · Low 0°C32°FSepOct Manaslu Base Camp
High 0°C32°F · Low -6°C21°FOctNov Manaslu Base Camp
High -4°C25°F · Low -10°C14°FNovDec Manaslu Base Camp
High -7°C19°F · Low -15°C5°FDec
High -17°C1°F · Low -24°C-11°FJanFeb Camp 1
High -15°C5°F · Low -22°C-8°FFebMar Camp 1
High -13°C9°F · Low -19°C-2°FMarApr Camp 1
High -9°C16°F · Low -15°C5°FAprMay Camp 1
High -6°C21°F · Low -11°C12°FMayJun Camp 1
High -2°C28°F · Low -6°C21°FJunJul Camp 1
High 0°C32°F · Low -4°C25°FJulAug Camp 1
High 0°C32°F · Low -4°C25°FAugSep Camp 1
High -2°C28°F · Low -6°C21°FSepOct Camp 1
High -6°C21°F · Low -12°C10°FOctNov Camp 1
High -10°C14°F · Low -16°C3°FNovDec Camp 1
High -13°C9°F · Low -21°C-6°FDec
High -21°C-6°F · Low -28°C-18°FJanFeb Camp 2
High -19°C-2°F · Low -26°C-15°FFebMar Camp 2
High -17°C1°F · Low -23°C-9°FMarApr Camp 2
High -13°C9°F · Low -19°C-2°FAprMay Camp 2
High -10°C14°F · Low -15°C5°FMayJun Camp 2
High -6°C21°F · Low -10°C14°FJunJul Camp 2
High -4°C25°F · Low -8°C18°FJulAug Camp 2
High -4°C25°F · Low -8°C18°FAugSep Camp 2
High -6°C21°F · Low -10°C14°FSepOct Camp 2
High -10°C14°F · Low -16°C3°FOctNov Camp 2
High -14°C7°F · Low -20°C-4°FNovDec Camp 2
High -17°C1°F · Low -25°C-13°FDec
High -24°C-11°F · Low -31°C-24°FJanFeb Camp 3
High -22°C-8°F · Low -29°C-20°FFebMar Camp 3
High -20°C-4°F · Low -26°C-15°FMarApr Camp 3
High -16°C3°F · Low -22°C-8°FAprMay Camp 3
High -13°C9°F · Low -18°C0°FMayJun Camp 3
High -9°C16°F · Low -13°C9°FJunJul Camp 3
High -7°C19°F · Low -11°C12°FJulAug Camp 3
High -7°C19°F · Low -11°C12°FAugSep Camp 3
High -9°C16°F · Low -13°C9°FSepOct Camp 3
High -13°C9°F · Low -19°C-2°FOctNov Camp 3
High -17°C1°F · Low -23°C-9°FNovDec Camp 3
High -20°C-4°F · Low -28°C-18°FDec
Average temperatures (approx.), 2015 to 2024. Source: Open-Meteo, adjusted to each village's altitude.
Culture and History
The trek to base camp starts in Hindu and mixed farming villages such as Machha Khola and Jagat. Higher up, from Namrung onward, the people follow Tibetan Buddhism. Villages have monasteries, chortens and long mani walls. Walk to the left of these walls, as locals do.
Sama Gaun is the largest village in the upper valley. On your rest day you can visit the monastery or walk up toward Pungyen Gompa. Locals call this land Kutang.
The upper Manaslu valley was part of the old salt-trade route between Nepal and Tibet. The area opened to foreign trekkers in the early 1990s and is still a restricted area, protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area Project.
Best Time to Climb Manaslu
| Season | Months | What to expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | September to October | The main Manaslu climbing season. Settled weather after the monsoon, busy base camp, cold summit days | Best overall |
| Spring | April to May | Fewer teams, longer days, more wind and snow on the upper mountain | Good choice |
| Winter | December to February | Extreme cold, strong wind and deep snow | Not recommended |
| Monsoon | June to August | Heavy rain on the approach, landslides and high avalanche risk | Not recommended |
- Autumn: the most popular season and the most reliable weather. Expect a busy base camp and fixed ropes in place.
- Spring: quieter, with rhododendrons in bloom on the trek in. Upper slopes can hold more snow and wind.
- Winter: only for very experienced winter climbers. Cold and wind make the summit extremely hard.
- Monsoon: the roads and trail to base camp can wash out, and snow on the mountain is unstable.
Read more: Best Time for Manaslu Trek: A Season-by-Season Guide
Required Permits for the Mt. Manaslu Expedition
Manaslu is a restricted area and an 8,000 m peak. You need trekking permits for the walk in and a mountaineering permit from the Government of Nepal for the climb. We apply for every permit, so you only send your passport copy, visa details, passport-size photos, insurance details and your climbing record.
| Permit | Where it applies | Fee for foreign visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Manaslu mountaineering permit | The climb above base camp | Set by the Government of Nepal and varies by season. We confirm the current figure when you book. |
| Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | From Jagat through the upper Manaslu valley | September to November: USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per extra day. December to August: USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per extra day. |
| Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | The protected Manaslu area | NPR 3,000 |
| Chumnubri Rural Municipality fee | The Chumnubri section of the trail | NPR 1,000 |
Rules to know:
- A licensed guide is required on the trek and on the climb.
- Only a registered agency can apply for the restricted area permit and the mountaineering permit. You cannot apply yourself.
- Solo trekkers can now get the restricted area permit alone. The old two-trekker rule was removed on 22 March 2026. The guide and agency rules did not change.
- Expeditions must bring their waste down from the mountain. We pack out all gear and rubbish from every camp.
- After the climb, the expedition report goes to the Department of Tourism. We handle this in Kathmandu on Days 47 and 48.
- Fees and rules are set by the government and can change. We confirm current figures before you travel.
Last checked: October 2026. Read our full Manaslu trekking permit guide.
Mt. Manaslu Expedition Packing List
| Head and hands | Sun hat, warm hat, balaclava, glacier sunglasses (category 4), ski goggles, liner gloves, insulated gloves and down summit mittens |
|---|---|
| Upper body | Base layers, fleece, softshell, waterproof shell jacket, warm down jacket for camp, and a high-altitude down suit or down jacket and pants for summit day |
| Lower body | Trekking pants, thermal base layer pants, waterproof shell pants, insulated pants |
| Feet | 8,000 m double or triple mountaineering boots that take crampons, broken-in trekking boots for the walk in, liner and wool socks, camp booties |
| Climbing gear | Harness, crampons, ice axe, helmet, jumar (ascender), belay or descender device, locking carabiners and slings. We confirm what we supply and what you bring before you travel. |
| Camp gear | Sleeping bag rated to about minus 30 to minus 40 degrees C for the upper camps, sleeping mat, headlamp with spare batteries, insulated water bottles, pee bottle, power bank or small solar charger |
| Health | Personal first aid kit, any medicines your doctor advises, high-factor sunscreen and lip balm |
| Documents and money | Passport with visa, insurance that covers climbing to 8,163 m and helicopter evacuation, passport-size photos for permits, a copy of your climbing record, enough Nepali rupees for the trip |
For the trek in, see what to carry for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Accommodation & Food
Kathmandu: hotel nights before and after the expedition, with breakfast.
Lodges (teahouses): on the trek in and out you stay in simple local lodges, twin share. Most have shared bathrooms. Hot showers cost extra in most villages.
Base camp and upper camps: you sleep in tents from Day 11 to Day 39. Base camp is your home for about four weeks, and our cook prepares your meals there.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on the trek and at base camp. In Kathmandu you get breakfast and a welcome dinner. Other meals in Kathmandu, and drinks, are extra.
Drinking water: lodges sell boiled or filtered water. Bring a filter or purification tablets. At base camp water comes from melted snow or streams and is boiled.
Power and Wi-Fi: lodges charge a small fee for charging and Wi-Fi, and the signal drops in the high valleys. Carry power banks for the weeks at base camp and above.
Safety & Guide Information
Your guide: a licensed, experienced climbing guide leads the climb. He scouts the route, decides when to move between camps and sets the turnaround time. His call on the mountain is final.
Weather and summit day: the team moves up only when the forecast allows. If the team has not reached the top by the turnaround time, or the weather turns, you come down.
Emergencies: if someone has serious altitude sickness, frostbite or an injury, we organize a descent to a safe altitude. If needed, we arrange a helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu. Evacuation costs are your responsibility, so you need insurance that covers climbing to 8,163 m and helicopter rescue.
Medical kit: your guide carries a first aid kit with essential medicines. Bring your own personal kit too.
Communication: mobile coverage exists along parts of the trail but is unreliable in deep valleys and on the mountain.
Seasons to avoid: the monsoon from June to August brings landslides on the approach and unstable snow. Winter cold and wind make the summit very dangerous.
- The World's 8th Highest PeakA full 49-day expedition to the summit of Manaslu (8,163 m).
- Time to AcclimatizeThe long schedule leaves time to adapt to altitude before the summit push.
- Experienced Local TeamOur Nepali team runs base camp logistics, permits and support on the mountain.
- Climbing Permits ArrangedWe handle the expedition permit and paperwork with Nepal's authorities.
- The Classic ApproachWalk in along the old Trans-Himalayan salt trade route through Buddhist villages.
- 24/7 SupportOur office stays on call through the expedition, including emergency evacuation coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
The trip runs 49 days from arrival in Kathmandu to departure. You trek about a week to base camp, spend Days 15 to 36 climbing, then trek and drive back, with two free days in Kathmandu at the end.
Manaslu is 8,163 m (26,781 ft), the eighth-highest mountain in the world. It sits in the Gorkha district of west-central Nepal, close to the border with Tibet.
It is a serious 8,000 m climb. You move on steep snow and ice with fixed ropes, cross crevassed glacier and live in tents in deep cold for weeks. Summit day is long and exhausting.
Yes. You should have climbed at least one high peak of 6,000 m or more and be at ease with crampons, an ice axe, a jumar and abseiling on fixed ropes. Tell us your climbing record when you enquire.
You need a Manaslu mountaineering permit from the Government of Nepal, a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. A small Chumnubri Rural Municipality fee may also apply. We handle all the paperwork.
Base camp sits at about 4,400 m above Sama Gaun, past the glacial lake Birendra Tal. You reach it on Day 11 after an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun.
Days 15 to 36 are kept for load carries, rotations between camps and the summit bid. This gives the team time to acclimatize and wait for a safe weather window.
Autumn, from September to October, is the main climbing season and has the most settled weather. April to May also works. Winter and the June to August monsoon are not suitable.
You stay in a hotel in Kathmandu, in simple local lodges on the trek in and out, and in tents at base camp and the upper camps from Day 11 to Day 39.
Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on the trek and at base camp. In Kathmandu you get breakfast and a welcome dinner. Drinks and other Kathmandu meals are extra.
You need travel insurance that covers mountaineering up to 8,163 m and helicopter evacuation. Rescue and medical costs are your responsibility, so check the policy wording before you book.
No. You walk in and out on the same Budhi Gandaki trail between Machha Khola and Sama Gaun. If you want to cross Larkya La, look at our Manaslu Circuit trips, such as the Larke Peak climb.
