Find Your Perfect Manaslu Circuit Itinerary

Introduction of Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Guide (2025/2026)

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most adventurous trekking routes. The trek encircles the eight highest mountains of the world, including Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters). The trek also allows crossing the famous Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), which is also the highest altitude reached during the trek. Unlike the classical routes like the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Manaslu region is more remote.

The remoteness of the region allows for a more authentic trekking experience. The trek covers typical Nepalese villages, which showcase breathtaking mountain views and Tibetan-influenced culture. The trek also encompasses the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to rare flora and fauna. The wildlife inside the conservation area includes Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Impeyan Pheasant, and others. The trek is loved by wildlife photographers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The Manaslu Circuit trek offers a variety of routes. When planning to trek in this region, choosing the right itinerary is one of the most critical decisions. The length of the trek, depending upon the itinerary, highly influences the budget, comfort, acclimatization days, and safety. A correct itinerary according to interest and physical fitness allows for a balanced trekking experience, thereby making the trek more rewarding.

This Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Guide from Nature Excursion will allow you to take you through the variety of available options. It aims to help you determine the best itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, tailored to your fitness, Time, and budget.

How to choose a suitable itinerary as I am a beginner trekker?

Suppose you are new to the world of trekking. In that case, it is necessary to understand the importance of choosing the correct itinerary. For a safe and enjoyable experience in a remote trek, trekkers find it challenging to select the best itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. 

Beginners often underestimate the challenges of the Manaslu trek. The altitude, long day walks, and frequent change of high altitude weather conditions are found to be a severe problem for novice trekkers. It is essential to go slowly and choose an itinerary that includes enough acclimatization days.

For a beginner, the most suitable option can be the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary. The 14-day trek allows for a balanced pace with gradual altitude gain. The trekking itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Sama Goan, which is intended to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. So, trekkers can stroll, managing the natural pace for a comfortable experience.

However, some trekkers might get attracted to shorter itineraries, including the 12-day Manaslu Circuit or 13-day Manaslu Circuit Trek. These treks sound promising in terms of saving cost and Time, but are best for experienced trekkers. For first-time trekkers, it is best to take things slow to ensure a guaranteed completion of the trek without altitude problems. So, pick the itinerary that matches your interests and allows you to go at a slow pace without feeling rushed.

Does the length of the itinerary make a difference in package price?

Yes, the length of the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary does make a direct difference in the package price. The treks with shorter length (12-13 days) are generally cheaper due to fewer days. The cost of accommodation, food, guide, porter service, and permits is cut off. But these shorter treks are physically demanding as trekkers need to complete the trek in a limited days.

Meanwhile, the longer itineraries (14-19 days) are generally costlier due to additional days. These treks provide a more effective acclimatization experience with a smoother pace. In the longer itinerary, trekkers can also take side trips, including the Tsum Valley, which can add cultural and spiritual richness to the entire trek. Besides, it is no fun to skip some of the popular destinations along the route due to time limitations.

In short, shorter itineraries do mean lower cost, and longer itineraries do come with a higher price. A shorter itinerary benefits the budget travelers who wish to see only the main highlights. But with longer itineraries, there is also a chance to acquire a deeper, safer, and rewarding experience.

How to choose a perfect Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary?

To answer which is the best itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek depends on numerous factors. Some factors include personal time availability, fitness level, age, and budget. The right balance in these elements ensures the most enjoyable trekking Time with cultural and scenic immersion.

Your availability of Time

Trekkers with limited Time can choose a trek with shorter itineraries. These include the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days or Manaslu Circuit Trek 13 Days. However, if you have more Time to spare, then go for extended trips. Some longer itineraries include the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek-19 Days. These treks allow for an in-depth exploration of the Manaslu region.

Ultimately, it is the trekkers who need to pick the itinerary according to their schedule. But to ensure an enjoyable experience, choose the itinerary that doesn't cause rush, and increases fatigue.

Fitness Level

Experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness can book the shorter itineraries, which require intensive walking. Beginners who are new to the field of trekking should go for a longer itinerary. Longer itineraries have more rest days, which allows beginners to follow a steady pace and get enough acclimatization.

If you are a beginner, go for the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, which has fewer daily walking hours and enough rest days. Such a trek will pose less risk of altitude sickness. Similarly, based on physical fitness, trekkers can engage in other activities, such as photography, and take in the natural beauty.

Age

Age is an essential consideration for the Manaslu Circuit trek. With an adequate level of fitness, all the age groups can complete it. Still, the right itinerary plays an important role. Young trekkers, probably in their 20s or 40s, can handle the shorter intensive itineraries. However, older trekkers who are inexperienced with the high altitude trek need longer days for completion.

But age isn't a limitation; some trekkers are old enough to handle shorter days, too. The primary key is to understand how the body adjusts to the altitude and physical fatigue. Selecting a slightly longer itinerary will help the body cope with unnecessary strain for all age groups.

Budget

Budget for the Manaslu Circuit trek determines the itinerary. Shorter treks are mostly cheaper due to fewer days. So the money is spent less on accommodation, food, guides, porters, permits, and other expenses. However, with fewer days, trekkers have an increased risk of fatigue.

In longer itineraries, the cost is higher with extra service, and additional nights in a lodge. There is also the possibility to explore hidden areas like the Tsum Valley. For a beginner who prioritizes comfort and safety, spending extra on a longer itinerary often is a wise choice.

Does the length of the itinerary affect difficulty?

Yes, the length of the itinerary directly influences the effort of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Short treks have longer walking days and more altitude gain, which makes the trek challenging and susceptible to altitude sickness. Treks that are longer spread the walking Time per day, have acclimatization days, and make the trek comparatively easy, especially for novices.

In simple words: the shorter the trek, the tougher it is; the longer the trek, the smoother and safer the journey.

Comparative Overview of Manaslu Circuit Trek Durations (Use a table or comparative list to help users quickly grasp the differences.)

Best itinerary for Manaslu Trek of Nature Excursion

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhikhola
• Day 3: Trek from Machhikhola to Jagat
• Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Dyang
• Day 5: Trek from Dyang to Namrung
• Day 6: Trek from Namrung to Lho Village
• Day 7: Trek from Lho Village to Samagaum
• Day 8: Acclimation Day at Samagaun
• Day 9: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo
• Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala
• Day 11: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimtang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) via Larkya La Pass
• Day 12: Trek from Bhimtang to Tiliche
• Day 13: Take a drive from Tiliche to Besisahar and Kathmandu
• Day 14: Final departure

Manaslu Larkya La Pass 13 Days

• Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
• Day 2: Walk from Soti Khola to Machha Khola
• Day 3: Journey from Machha Khola to Jagat
• Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Deng
• Day 5: Trek from Deng to Namrung
• Day 6: Travel from Namrung to Lho Gaon
• Day 7: Trek from Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon
• Day 8: Acclimatization Day
• Day 9: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo
• Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala
• Day 11: Trek to Bhimthang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) via Larkya La Pass
• Day 12: Trek from Bhimthang to Tilije
• Day 13: Trek to Dharapani and drive back to Kathmandu (1,300 m) via Besisahar (760 m/2,493 ft)

Manalu Circuit Best Itinerary for 13 Days

• Day 1: Drive to Machhi Khola
• Day 2: Trek from Machhi Khola to Jagat
• Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Dyang
• Day 4: Trek from Dyang to Namrung
• Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho
• Day 6: Trek from Lho to Shyala (Hike to Pungen Gompa)
• Day 7: Trek from Shyala to Sama Gaun (hike to Birendra Lake)
• Day 8: The trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo
• Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala
• Day 10: Trek from Dharmasala to Bhimtang (via Larkya La Pass)
• Day 11: Trek from Bhimtang to Goa
• Day 12: Drive from Goa to Besisahar
• Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu

14 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat
• Day 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola
• Day 4: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat
• Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng
• Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung
• Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Sama Gaon to spend the night
• Day 8: Acclimatization day
• Day 9: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo
• Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Larke Phedi (Dharamsala)
• Day 11: Trek from Dharamsala to Bhimtang (3,720 m/12,205 ft) by crossing Larkya la pass
• Day 12: Trek from Bhimtang to Tilije
• Day 13: Trek from Tilije to Dharapani and drive to Kathmandu (1,300 m) via Besisahar (760 m/2,493 ft)
• Day 14: Final Departure

Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek 19 Days

• Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
• Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
• Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa
• Day 4: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling
• Day 5: Trek Chumling to Chhokangparo (Upper Tsum)
• Day 6: Trek Chhokangparo to Mu Gompa via Milarepa Piren Phu Cave
• Day 7: Acclimatization day- hike to Chhoyseng Lake or Kalung Kharka
• Day 8: Trek to Chumling
• Day 9: Trek to Lokpa
• Day 10: Trek to Deng
• Day 11: Trek to Ghap
• Day 12: Trek to Lho
• Day 13: Trek to Samagaon, have lunch & hike to Manaslu Base camp & Birendra Lake
• Day 14: Trek to Samdo
• Day 15: Trek from Samdoto Larkya Phedi, also known as Dharamsala
• Day 16: Trek from Larkya Phedi to Bhimthang (3,720 m/12,205 ft), crossing Larkya La pass
• Day 17: Trek from Bhimthang to Goa
• Day 18: Trek from Goa to Dharapani
• Day 19: Drive back to Kathmandu.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is the single most crucial element in a safe, memorable, and enjoyable Himalayan adventure. First-time trekkers can experience the perfect balance of pace, acclimatization, and cultural immersion in the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary. At the same time, longer treks allow more time to explore remote valleys like Tsum and absorb the local culture.

The length of your trek not only determines difficulty and cost but also sets the tone for your entire experience on this incredible trek. With considerations like fitness, age, budget, and time easily at hand, you can select the most appropriate Manaslu Trek itinerary that suits your purpose and offers a fulfilling experience in the midst of Nepal.

With proper planning and guidance, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not just a trek but a lifetime experience of towering, magnificent mountains, peaceful monasteries, and rich Sherpa culture.