
Sachin Lama
Founder & Lead Expedition Leader
NIM Advanced Mountaineering (Grade A) · Wilderness First Responder · guiding since 2013

NEPAL JOURNEY STANDARD
Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the most spectacular and rewarding treks in the Himalayas of Nepal.
IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
A considered Himalayan journey for trekkers who want strong acclimatisation, clear logistics and support shaped around the route.
THE ROUTE
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 13-day high-altitude teahouse trek in Nepal that reaches 5,160 m. Kailasa grades it Moderate to Difficult. The best time to go is September – November. The published price with Kailasa Treks is ₹ 95,000 + 5% GST.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the most spectacular and rewarding treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. Surrounding the eighth highest peak of the world (8,163 m) Mount Manaslu, the trek is a great combination of stunning mountain views, high altitude adventure, Tibetan influence and remote wilderness.
The Manaslu region, as a whole, is a relatively untouched zone where trekkers can discover the real villages of the mountains, the old monasteries, thick forests, and the magnificent look of the high peaks. The trail meanders through deep gorges and traditional settlements next to the Budhi Gandaki River, then slowly climbs into the high Himalayan region.
One of the highlights on the trail is the crossing of the Larke Pass (5,160 m), which is one of Nepal’s most beautiful high mountain passes. Trekkers enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top towards Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II and many snow-capped peaks.
The remote nature of the trek, its long trek days, and the hike over Larke Pass (5,160 m) make it a moderate to difficult trek. Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not required. Other villages like Sama Gaun and Samdo provide a glimpse into a way of life that has not changed significantly over centuries and is influenced by Buddhism and the rhythms of life at high altitudes.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is a haven for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts, boasting a wealth of biodiversity. The lower sections of the forest route are lush with rhododendron and bamboo forests where red pandas, black bears in the Himalayas and many species of birds can be seen. Snow leopard, blue sheep (bharal) and Himalayan tahr can be seen by the keen eye at higher altitudes and are set against the harsh backdrop of the towns. The whole circuit is situated inside a protected area, whose management is dedicated to the conservation of this extraordinary ecosystem.
The Manaslu Circuit, in comparison to the popular trekking routes in Nepal, is relatively unpopulated, providing a more authentic and wild trekking experience.
| Region | Kathmandu, Nepal |
|---|---|
| Starts from | Kathmandu |
| Highest point | 5,160 m |
| Duration | 13 Days |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
| Best season | September – November |
| Price | ₹ 95,000 + 5% GST |
Route details last reviewed 23 September 2026. Terrain, weather and permits can change the plan on the mountain.
DAY BY DAY
Tap a day to see the route, distances and camps. The schedule can change with acclimatisation, weather and team safety.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
Details for this day are confirmed in your trip plan.
UNDERSTAND THE PRICE
The published price is ₹ 95,000 + 5% GST. Here is what it covers and what it does not, so nothing surprises you later. Your written quote confirms the final amount for your dates and nationality.
GETTING THERE
The expedition starts in Kathmandu. Day 1 of the itinerary: Day 01 – Arrive in Kathmandu.
Your exact meeting point and time are confirmed in your trip briefing.
PACKING LIST
Teahouses provide beds and blankets; a warm sleeping bag still makes the high nights far more comfortable.
WHO CLIMBS WITH YOU
Every Manaslu Circuit Trek team is led by certified Kailasa guides. You meet your assigned expedition leader at the technical briefing three weeks before departure.

Founder & Lead Expedition Leader
NIM Advanced Mountaineering (Grade A) · Wilderness First Responder · guiding since 2013

Sardar & fixed-rope team leader
22+ years on Himalayan expeditions · 16 Everest summits · Lhotse, Makalu, Dhaulagiri
CANCELLATION
What you get back depends on how long before the start date you cancel. You can take a refund or a credit for a future Kailasa trip, valid for one year.
| Before start | Refund | Future credit (same participant) | Future credit (another participant) |
|---|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days | 85% | 100% | Not stated |
| 60 to 30 days | 70% | 85% | 75% |
| 30 to 10 days | 40% | 70% | 65% |
| Less than 10 days | No refund | 50% | 40% |
BEFORE YOU ENQUIRE
It is a moderate to difficult trek, recommended for those with some hiking experience who are physically fit.
Yes. Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, trekking accompanied by a licensed guide is mandatory.
Larke Pass at 5,160 m is the highest point on the trek.
A Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is required, along with a restricted area permit.
Both the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are best. Spring is the least popular season, in part because of the fogs, and Summer is also less popular due to the constant change in weather.The clearest skies with the most stable weather are in the fall, and that is the reason for its popularity. In spring, with warm weather, there is more likely to be pre-monsoon cloud cover, but the rhododendrons bloom. The winter months (December to February) and monsoon season (June to August) are not advisable because of the amount of snow that can fall at altitude and flooding of the trails during the monsoon season.
Yes, it is highly recommended and is essential to have comprehensive travel and rescue insurance. The hike climbs above 5,000 m and in the case of a medical emergency or serious cases of altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation could be needed. Make sure that your policy includes coverage for trekking at high altitudes and helicopter rescues in an emergency, as many travel policies won’t include that coverage.
The following is a recommended Manaslu Circuit Trek packing list : Essentials include a good quality sleeping bag (-10°C or below), warm layering clothing, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, rugged trekking boots with ankle support, trekking poles, a headlamp (with spare batteries), sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit (altitude sickness medicine, including Diamox). You will be provided with a porter to carry most of your luggage (up to 25 kg total weight) so a smaller daypack will be required to carry essential items that will be needed on the trail every day.
Altitude sickness is indeed possible on the Manaslu Circuit, especially above the altitude of 3,500 m and crossing the Larke Pass at 5,160 m. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Itinerary is planned in order to allow progressive ascent, including a dedicated acclimatisation day at Sama Gaun (3,520 m) to allow time to acclimatise. The golden rule: Don’t go up when you have symptoms. The best preventive measures are to stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol and get up gradually. It is also recommended that a doctor be consulted prior to travel.
YOUR EXPEDITION STARTS HERE
Share your preferred dates, nationality and climbing history. Kailasa can assess route fit, then confirm the current itinerary, field support, permits, equipment and final amount in writing.
Reply within 24 hours · No payment to enquire · Written quote before you pay. Review the cancellation, privacy and booking terms before paying.
KEEP EXPLORING
THE KAILASA STANDARD
No blind checkout. No one-size-fits-all promise. Your enquiry begins with the route, your experience and the questions that matter before you commit.
Start a private planning conversationYour climbing history and readiness are discussed before the team recommends a route.
Acclimatisation, conditions and field decisions take priority over a fixed summit promise.
Ask for the current itinerary, inclusions, equipment plan and written final quote.
Confirm your expedition leader, support team and departure-specific safety arrangements.