Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 — Cost, Permits, Itinerary & Larkya La Pass Guide

Manaslu Trek Nepal offers a less-traveled path through Nepal, taking you deep into the heart of the Manaslu region, where the towering Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters), the world's eighth-highest peak, majestically stands. The 11-day itinerary promises awe-inspiring vistas, snow-capped mountains, pristine glaciers, and rare flora and fauna.

The name “Manaslu” holds profound meaning, translating to the “mountain of the spirit.” Local belief holds that Mt. Manaslu is the abode of “Palden Lhamo,” a revered Buddhist goddess known for her ability to dispel malevolent spirits, demons, and negative energies. Many pilgrims ascend Manaslu to pay homage to this goddess, seeking her blessings and protection during their ascent.

Starting from Machhakhola and concluding at Dharapani, the Manaslu Circuit Trek traverses numerous Nepalese cultural gems, including Tamang, Magar, and Gurung (Sherpa) settlements. Choosing the best trekking agency adds more value to your travel. This trek offers a distinctive experience and creates lasting memories compared to other renowned treks such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek.

The Manaslu Trek is a strenuous 11-day trek that reaches the Larkya La pass (5,106 m) and is best done in spring or autumn. It begins at Machhakhola/Soti Khola and ends at Dharapani, and requires three permits (RAP + MCAP + ACAP) plus a mandatory licensed guide.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires three permits in 2026: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A TIMS card is not required for Manaslu, but a licensed professional guide arranged through a government-registered trekking agency is mandatory. For 2026, there is no minimum-two-trekkers requirement — solo travelers can trek the Manaslu Circuit, provided they go with a licensed guide. Guideless solo trekking is not permitted in this restricted region.

The Restricted Area Permit is the big one, and its price changes by season. From September to November, it costs USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per additional day. From December to August, it costs USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 10 per additional day. The RAP covers the restricted stretch between Jagat and Dharapani.

The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) costs around NPR 3,000 (about USD 25), and because the final days of the loop drop into the Annapurna region, you also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), also around NPR 3,000 (about USD 25).

The guide and group rule (2026): a licensed professional guide hired through a government-registered trekking agency is mandatory for the Manaslu Restricted Area (Jagat to Dharapani, Gorkha district, Nepal). There is no longer a minimum-two-trekkers requirement, so even a single trekker can obtain the Restricted Area Permit and trek the circuit — as long as they are accompanied by a licensed guide. You cannot trek this region independently without one.

We handle the entire permit process for our clients — RAP, MCAP, and ACAP — so you arrive in Kathmandu with the paperwork already organized. We just need your passport details and passport-size photos in advance.

A guided Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026 typically costs between USD 950 and USD 1,900+ per person, depending on group size, season, and comfort level. Budget-guided packages start around USD 950, standard packages run about USD 1,500, and comfort packages reach USD 1,900 or more. These prices include permits, a licensed guide, transport, accommodation, and meals on the trail.

Manaslu costs more than comparable Annapurna treks mainly because of the Restricted Area Permit premium and the mandatory guide, plus the longer overland transport to and from the remote trailheads. You are paying for genuine wilderness, far fewer crowds, and a fully supported, compliant trip.

Per-day costs break down roughly as follows: a licensed guide is about USD 40 per day, a porter is USD 20–25 per day, and food plus accommodation on the trail runs about USD 25–45 per day. Overland transport from Kathmandu to the Soti Khola/Machhakhola trailhead and back from Dharapani is an additional shared cost, depending on whether you take a local bus, shared jeep, or private vehicle.

As a local operator, our pricing is fair and direct: you book with the team that actually runs your trek, with no foreign-reseller markup added on top. That keeps more of your money supporting local guides, porters, and the communities you trek through.

Due to its remote and rugged nature, this trek is classified as moderately challenging. Given its steep ascents and the potential for losing one's way on this less-traveled route, it can prove especially demanding for novice trekkers.

Photo: Turquoise-colored Birendra Lake en route the Manaslu Circuit trek

Carrying a map of the Manaslu Circuit is highly advisable for navigating confusing sections. For those new to trekking, gaining prior experience on other trails can be beneficial, helping to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Adequate physical fitness, appropriate trekking gear, and a dependable guide are essential elements to ensure safety.

Reminder: You can also combine the Manaslu Circuit Trek with the Tsum Valley Trek.

Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft, the high point of the Manaslu Circuit, in Gorkha district, Nepal) is the defining day of the trek — a 7 to 9 hour high-altitude push that usually starts around 4 a.m. from Dharmasala (Larke Phedi). Expect cold, thin air, frequent snow and ice underfoot, and a long, knee-testing descent to Bimthang on the far side.

The early start is deliberate: it gets you over the pass before the afternoon wind and cloud build up, and leaves enough daylight for the long descent. Headlamps, full layers, and a warm flask are essential for the dark, freezing first hours.

Depending on conditions, micro-crampons (or light traction spikes) are sometimes needed for icy stretches near the top, and your guide will advise on the day. The reward comes on the descent, when the trail opens onto a vast glacial cirque ringed by Himlung, Cheo, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II — one of the great mountain views in Nepal.

Success on Larkya La depends on the days that came before it. Proper acclimatization on the way up — including the built-in rest and exploration days around Samagaun — plus the steady pacing and judgment of an experienced licensed guide are what get trekkers safely across.

With Larkya La at 5,106 m, altitude is a genuine risk on this trek and must be taken seriously. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone above roughly 3,000 m, so the itinerary, your pacing, and your guide's judgment all matter for a safe crossing.

Watch for AMS symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping. The strategy that prevents it is gradual ascent with the built-in acclimatization days — particularly the rest day around Samagaun (3,520 m), where a day hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake helps your body adjust before you go higher.

Hydration is one of your best defenses: aim for 3–4 liters of water a day and eat well even when appetite fades. Some trekkers use Diamox (acetazolamide) to aid acclimatization, but you should only take it after consulting a doctor before your trip.

Critically, your travel insurance must cover high-altitude helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 m as well as medical costs. This is the single most important detail to confirm before you travel; standard travel policies often exclude trekking at this altitude. Our guides carry a first-aid kit with a pulse oximeter and are trained to recognize and respond to altitude problems early.

Trail conditions can change, especially after the monsoon. Please check our Manaslu landslide-update page for current trail conditions before you set off.

The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are Autumn (September to November), which offers the clearest views and most stable weather, and Spring (March to May), when the rhododendron forests bloom. These two windows give the safest conditions for the Larkya La crossing.

Winter (December to February) brings heavy snow that can close Larkya La for days, so it is only for experienced, well-equipped trekkers prepared for the risk of an impassable pass. The monsoon (June to August) makes trails slippery and raises landslide risk in the lower valleys, though the upper, rain-shadow sections can still be trekked with care.

For a full month-by-month breakdown of conditions, see our detailed season notes below and our wider best time to trek in Nepal guide.

Less Crowded Season

December is the least crowded time for the Manaslu trek. The initial days of December are the best time to trek around Manaslu. The trekkers' population drops by 80%. It allows you to immerse yourself more in nature, appreciate locals, and take in photogenic landscapes.

The summer season brings heavy rainfall to the trail, earning it the title of the off-season. Many trekkers prefer to avoid the challenges associated with rain during this time, resulting in a more isolated and pristine trail. However, those who opt for trekking during the rainy season are rewarded with breathtaking views of nature and the mountains, as more than 100 types of flowers bloom, painting the region with vibrant green and colorful scenery unparalleled in other seasons.

Worst Time to Trek

The extreme winter months of January and February pose the most challenging conditions for trekking in the Manaslu region. The weather is harsh, cold, and dry, with icy trails that increase the risk of injuries. Visibility is poor, and the threat of avalanches is heightened during this period.

This route follows 10 hrs drive to Jagat from Kathmandu. Gradually, you will trek through Tibetan-Buddhist villages of Dyang, Samagaun, Samdo, Bhimthang (Bimthang), and others. The trail is composed of uphill, downhill, forest route, and several bridges. Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m is one of the challenging segments because of its high altitude and low level of oxygen.

During the journey to Manaslu Base Camp, Samagaun village often serves as an acclimatization stop. Positioned at the base of Mt. Manaslu, this village is renowned for its captivating landscapes, thatched houses, yaks, and the nearby glacier lake known as Birendra Taal. The inhabitants of Samagaun are primarily of Tibetan origin and practice Tibetan Buddhism, infusing the village with traditional Tibetan culture.

The Manaslu Circuit is a teahouse trek, so you sleep in small, locally run mountain lodges along the route. Facilities are basic but steadily improving — villages like Namrung and Samagaun now have noticeably more comfortable lodges than the trail had a few years ago.

Rooms are typically simple twin-share with wooden beds and foam mattresses, and bathrooms are usually shared. Hot showers and wifi are often available lower down for a small extra fee (a few US dollars), but become scarcer and pricier as you climb toward Dharmasala.

Food is hearty and carb-rich for the effort: Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetables, usually with free refills) is the reliable staple, alongside noodles, pasta, soups, potatoes, and Tibetan bread. Menus simplify the higher you go.

One memorable, authentic detail worth knowing in advance: the upper Manaslu region around Samagaun and Samdo follows a sacred Buddhist meat-free tradition, so meat is generally not served there. Vegetarians will feel right at home, and all trekkers should expect plant-based meals in the high villages out of respect for local custom.

Choose the Manaslu Circuit for genuine wilderness and few crowds, the Annapurna Circuit for variety and easier logistics, or Everest Base Camp for the iconic bucket-list goal and the highest altitude. All three are classic Himalayan treks, but they differ in cost, crowds, and permit rules.

If you want a gentler introduction first, see our Annapurna Base Camp pillar guide. See also our Everest Base Camp guide; a dedicated Annapurna Circuit guide is coming soon.

You can travel on a local bus or hire a private Jeep to reach Machha Khola or Jagat—these most common initial points of the trek. The local bus does not directly reach Jagat; a private or shared Jeep ride is required to get there. During the monsoon, the trek generally starts from Jagat, while in summer, the trek starts from Machha Khola.

Transportation route from Kathmandu (8-10 hrs drive)

• Starting route: Kathmandu → Dhading Besi → Arughat → Soti Khola → Jagat
• Ending route: Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu

Transportation route from Pokhara (5-6 hrs drive)

• Starting route: Pokhara → Arughat → Soti Khola → Jagat
• Ending route: Dharapani → Besisahar → Pokhara

The Manaslu Circuit boasts features that make it a sought-after trekking destination. Its unique qualities stem from both natural and cultural influences.

One standout feature is its diversity in landscapes and ecosystems. From subtropical forests to ice-covered passes, trekkers experience a variety of environments. Each zone presents different flora and fauna, enriching the adventure.

The trek’s proximity to Tibet introduces a distinct cultural layer. Villages like Samagaun and Samdo reflect deep-seated Tibetan traditions. Trekkers witness ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, and a way of life little changed by time.

High-altitude experiences on the circuit include the Larkya La Pass. At 5,106 meters, it offers challenging conditions and breathtaking views. Successfully crossing it is a memorable milestone for many trekkers.

Manaslu is also a haven for biodiversity. The conservation area protects numerous species, adding a sense of ecological stewardship. Trekkers often glimpse rare birds and mammals, further enhancing the natural appeal.

Additionally, the trek is a choice for sustainable travel. The controlled access and permits ensure that tourism benefits local communities. Trekkers contribute to the conservation and development of this beautiful region.

In conclusion, Manaslu Circuit is best for:

• Varied landscapes from subtropical to alpine climates
• Rich Tibetan cultural elements and historical sites
• The thrilling challenge of crossing Larkya La Pass
• Biodiversity within the protected conservation area
• A sustainable tourism model supporting local development

These unique aspects make the Manaslu Circuit Trek a holistic and unmatched trekking experience. Each journey on this circuit promises a mix of adventure, culture, and natural wonder.

You can rent your trekking equipment from Thamel, a tourist area in Kathmandu. If you are in Pokhara, you can rent your trekking gear from the Lakeside area. Before renting, give the gear and clothes a close inspection. Renting 1 or 2 days prior to the trek can be helpful for exchange. Most importantly, seek advice from the trekking agency. They will provide you with the best advice.

Guide and Porter Service

Porters are not allowed to carry more than 22 kg of load. So, check the weights carefully and let us know if you need just one porter or two.

Accommodation Bookings

North Nepal Trek will handle all of your accommodation and bookings during the trek. In the mountains, the accommodation facilities are basic. The cost increases as you trek to higher altitudes. The cost is also affected by the comfort you seek. For instance, a shared room is cheaper than a private room in the teahouses or lodges.

Payment and Cancellation Policies

Payment can be done through a credit/debit card or an authorized mobile payment gateway. Widely, Nepalese currency is accepted. However, USD, Pound Sterling, and Euros are also accepted.

North Nepal Travel & Trek is a Pokhara-based, locally owned operator with over 10 years of experience and a 4.9-star average rating, including TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards from 2020 to 2024. For a restricted region like Manaslu, trekking with an established, properly licensed local team matters more than anywhere else.

We are fully registered and accountable: Nepal Tourism Board Registration No. 162883/073/074 and a member of the Trekkers' Association of Nepal (TAAN). Your trip is led by licensed local guides who know the Manaslu trail, the weather, and the safest pacing over Larkya La.

We handle the entire permit process for you — RAP, MCAP, and ACAP — along with transport, lodges, and logistics, so you can focus on the mountains. As a direct local operator, our pricing is fair with no reseller markup.

Come as a guest, leave as a friend. Ready to take on the last great teahouse trek? Message us on WhatsApp, and we'll help you plan the right dates, group size, and pacing for your Manaslu Circuit adventure.