Manaslu Trek Itinerary: The Best Choice for Manaslu Round Trip in 2026 and 2027

  • Rana Bahadur Khadka
  • Last Updated on Jan 16, 2026

The Manaslu Circuit Trekking, which includes crossing Nepal’s longest mountain pass, Larkya La Pass (5,106 m-5,160 m), offers a round trip to Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the 8th highest mountain in the world, making it one of the best off-the-beaten-path teahouse treks. Through remote valleys, Buddhist villages, and dramatic landscapes, it enters one of the most highly restricted areas of the country, the Manaslu Conservation Area.

For someone seeking a perfect blend of adventure, solitude, and authenticity, away from the massive crowds of more commercialized high Himalayan trekking routes like the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary is an ideal choice, including for the years 2026 and 2027. But what makes the itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trekthe right one? You will know here:

Table of Contents

Why choose the Himalayan trip to Manaslu Circuit in 2026 and 2027?

The Manaslu region was banned for foreigners until 1991, and even after its opening for adventurers, it remains one of the highly restricted areas, limiting mass tourism. Therefore, along with other high-altitude treks inside the region, such as the Nar Phu Valley Trek and the Tsum Valley Trek, including the itinerary of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Nepal boasts the best-preserved trekking corridors with raw natural beauty and Tibetan-influenced culture.

Also called the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek Itinerary for crossing the Larke La Pass remains largely less exposed to the mainstream, and in serenity, you trek through the diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and, at high altitude, almost desert-like terrain. A true teahouse trekking experience, recently upgraded from camping style amidst the dramatic mountains, it is worth everything for real adventure lovers.

Overview of the Itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The itinerary of the around Manaslu Trek typically spans anywhere from 14 to 16 days, more or less, based on your personal choices, time, budget, and specific route. Maximum elevation gain is at Larke La Pass (5,106 m-5,160 m), and a round trip covers approximately 177 km/110 miles, which also varies depending upon the trek's starting and ending points. Regarded as moderate to challenging in difficulty level, you do need a restricted area permit.

A special extra permit, which is issued only on the guided Manaslu Circuit Trek for groups of trekkers with at least two trekkers. Behind the majestic Mount Manaslu, since the Manaslu Circuit Hiking Trail lies towards the trans-Himalayan region in a rain shadow area, no wonder it is one of the best summer alternative treks, but the optimal time still remains spring and autumn, from March to May and September to November.

The standard Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary of 15 days

The 15 days itinerary to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trekking is handpicked by a well-experienced professional mountain guide from Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks. It is in regard to the fact that first-timers can complete it without hassle from start to end. The walking officially begins after you arrive in the Kathmandu Valley, with an extra day of UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing, and a drive to Soti Khola via Arughat.

Thereafter, the Manaslu Circuit Hike route progresses with overnight stays at Machhe Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Sama Gaon, Samdo, Dharamsala, and Bhimthang via Larke La Pass. From Bhimthang is a trek to Dharapani past the village of Tilije before officially driving back to Kathmandu on the very next day. A rest day in Samdo and 5-7 hours of balanced hiking—it is why the 15 days is taken as one of the best Manaslu Circuit trekking itineraries.

Day by Day Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trekking in Nepal

Day 1-Day 2: Arrival in Kathmandu, preparation, and city sightseeing

We offer free airport pickup in a private vehicle. Our representative welcomes you and also transfers you to your hotel. In the evening is the trip briefing and welcome dinner, and on the very next day, you set off to visit some of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Valley. A sneak peek into Nepalese culture and its Himalayan air.

Day 3: Drive to Soti Khola from Kathmandu via Arughat

On day 3, you leave Kathmandu behind and drive to the Manaslu Circuit Trek starting point, Soti Khola. At first, along the Trishuli River on an asphalt road up to Dhading; thereafter, as you arrive at Arughat, it is often off-road with bumps and can be muddy and slippery in monsoon season from June to August on the riverside of the Budhi Gandaki River.

Day 4 - Day 7: Hiking to Namrung via Maccha Khola, Jagat, and Deng

You enter the Manaslu restricted region. The Mani walls, monasteries, gompas, and typical stone houses, usually decorated with vibrant prayer flags, showcasing a strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism, welcome you. You stay at Jagat, Deng, and finally Namrung. Expect some ascents, gorges, and up-to-here charming villages guarded by Mount Manaslu.

Day 8 - Day 9: Trek to Sama Gaon and Samdo

Also called the twin villages of the Nupri region, largely inhabited by descendants of Tibetan immigrants, as you move deeper into the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trail, the transition in landscape is from lush valleys to rugged and arid, a unique visual delight further magnified by open views of Manaslu, Naike Peak, Himal Chuli, and Ngadi Chuli.

Day 10 - Day 12: Rest day in Samdo and Trek to Bhimthang via Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass

An extra day is spent at Samdo, so your body gets enough time to acclimatize to the alpine surroundings. You may do a side hike to nearby Pungyun Gompa or Birendra Lake so that you do not see symptoms of altitude sickness while crossing the Larkya La Pass, which further connects you to Bhimthang from Dharamsala.

Day 13 - Day 15: Trek to Tilije and Drive to Kathmandu via Dharapani and Besisahar

Day 13 is the last trek day on the Manaslu Circuit Hiking Itinerary of 15 days from Bhimthang to Tilije. Thereafter, at first you drive to Dharapani, then Besisahar, and finally Kathmandu. On the 15th day, is when you will leave the Kathmandu Valley behind. We help you with packing, including free drop-off at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Which is the longer Round Manaslu Trek itinerary?

If you like the Manaslu Trekking itinerary, it can be extended up to three weeks, such as the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek of 21 days and the combined Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek of 23 days, or you may add side trips to nearby high ridges, cultural villages, monasteries, and gompas. Pungyun Gompa, Birendra Lake, Mu Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, Rachen Gompa, and Milerapa Cave (Piren Phu) are all within the Manaslu Trek region.

On your request, we can customize the standard Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary; do inform us while booking, or you may choose to add some extra days midway. You will not regret it for sure. While additional days also mean added logistics such as meals, lodges, and permits as well, the cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking package also increases; it is worth it and allows an enhanced and immersive experience without rush.

How many days is the short itinerary of the Around Manaslu Trek?

At Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, one of the leading trek, tour, and climb companies in Nepal with more than two decades of expertise, here’s the 11 Days short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary that you can stick to for an enthralling journey in less than two weeks. For trekkers with limited time but prior high-altitude trekking and climbing experience, it is an excellent option.

But if you are a beginner, the best one remains the mid-length Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary of 15 days. Extensive high-altitude treks can be way too overwhelming for an absolute novice. The short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary guide is recommended only for those with a good level of physical fitness, well-trained individuals, and those comfortable with remote terrain guided by professional guides and porters.

What are the major challenges on the itinerary for the Manaslu Trek in Nepal?

We do our best to ensure that you complete the Manaslu Trek itinerary as planned. But it is your responsibility that you do not underestimate the Himalayas and the inherent risks that come with high-altitude treks and climbs in the remote rain shadow area. The health facilities are basic, and other modern amenities like wifi and electricity are almost nonexistent at the higher altitude; emergency helicopter evacuation to city areas is the only option.

Longer trekking days, early starts, some phases with steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, cold temperatures, unpredictable weather, and high altitude—it demands a good amount of physical fitness, especially while crossing the Larkya La Pass. The need for a special restricted area permit (RAP) can add further to the logistical challenges, so it is wiser to book a guided Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary, including for the years 2026 and 2027.

Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek Altitude: Altitude Sickness Preventive Measures

Whether you are on short treks like the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Khopra Danda Trek, and the Langtang Valley Trek, or high-altitude hikes such as the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, the Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek, or the Manaslu Circuit Hike itinerary, high altitude is the main concern. On rapid ascent without proper acclimatization, anyone can suffer from the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS).

If not taken care of on time, it can further lead to fatal conditions called HACE and HAPE. Therefore, the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary guide is to choose one that has allocated at least a day or two of buffer days. If you journey without rushing, listen to your body and rest when needed, rehydrate time and again, eat healthy, and avoid alcohol, as it can cause dehydration, imitating the symptoms, altitude sickness is actually preventable.

When is the best time to follow the Manaslu Trek itinerary?

Spring and autumn in Nepal feature the most favorable weather, generally stable throughout the day, with mild temperatures neither hot nor extremely cold, clear blue skies, and fully operating teahouses along the trekking trails at their best condition; hence, March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) serve as the prime seasons for completing the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek Itinerary.

Doable in summer; in the lower region, however, one may have to get ready for heavy rainfall and sometimes floods and landslides as well. Nights and mornings in winter can be extremely cold, especially in the high Himalayan region. Heavy snow dumps can block the trekking trail; most of the teahouses may remain closed and may add to the arrangements of the Manaslu Trekking Itinerary, so spring and autumn are the best times for the Manaslu trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary Guide: Preparation & Safety

High Himalayan treks and climbs are always best done with proper preparation and consideration for safety, including for a safe, successful, and enhanced experience for the completion of the itinerary for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. You should begin a training regimen at least 2-3 months before your trip. Focus on cardiovascular activities, building stamina, and increasing strength, such as running, cycling, swimming, squats, and lunges.

Make sure you have high-quality Manaslu Circuit trekking gear and equipment. Clothe properly with base, mid, and shell layers. Sturdy, well-broken-in trekking boots, poles, a 20-30 L daypack, and first aid are other basics. These are handy to keep you warm, comfortable, and flexible in gaining success to complete the itinerary for the Manaslu Trek in Nepal. Carry from your hometown, or rent and buy from the tourist town of Thamel.

Conclusion

The Manaslu Trek Itinerary remains one of Nepal’s most rewarding, less frequented trekking trails—a combination of pristine Himalayan beauty, culture, and high-altitude adventure. With improved trail management, reliable teahouses, and centuries-old preserved culture and traditions, the round Manaslu Trek itinerary makes its place in the top list of must-visit places places to visit places to visit at least once, including for the years 2026 and 2027.

Choose the route and itinerary that prioritizes acclimatization so you make it safely and make unforgettable memories from the lowlands to the frozen heights of the Larkya La Pass. Follow this Itinerary for the Manaslu Trek in Nepal for a better experience before it gains mass popularity. Bookings are now open for the years 2026 and 2027. Contact us, and reserve this life-changing journey for someone keen of authentic Himalayan trek.

Rana Bahadur Khadka

Rana Bahadur Khadka

In the world of outdoor adventure and exploration, only passionate individuals immersed in the wilderness can be travel guides in Nepal! My name is Rana Bahadur Khadka, and I am from Taplejing, Nepal. Born in 1971, I have collected 30 years of extensive knowledge in travel and tourism as a mountain guide and trip organizer. I have always been fond of exploring and navigating various gorgeous corners of the world and the challenges offered by nature.   

I hope that my over two decades of honed skills in mastering the art of leading treks safely, ensuring the participant's memorable and transformative travel experience, and my vivid insight into the world of adventure, nature, and self-discovery help you bridge the gap between the pristine Himalayan grace and the human spirit as an ambassador of the wilderness.