How many days, and how much cost for Nepal Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Nepal Manaslu Circuit is the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 metres (26,781 ft) above sea level. Manaslu means “mountain of the spirit” and the word is derived from the Sanskrit word manasa, meaning “intellect” or “soul”. Manaslu was first climbed on May 9, 1956, by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu, members of a Japanese expedition.

Manaslu Peak is in the Gorkha of Nepal and to the east of Annapurna, the tenth highest mountain in the world at 8,091 metres (26,545 ft) above sea level. The Manaslu region offers a variety of trekking options. The popular Manaslu trekking route circles the Manaslu massif over the pass down to Annapurna.

The Manaslu Circuit opened for trekking since 1991. The trekking trail follows an ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River. En route, 10 peaks over 6,500 metres are visible, including a few over 7,000 metres. Larkya La at an elevation of 5,106 metres, the highest point reached along the trek route.

The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) was established in 1997 with the primary objective of achieving conservation and sustainable management of the delimited area, which also includes Manaslu. Hence, MCAP, ACAP and RAP permits are necessary trekking around Manalsu. Apart from climbing Manaslu, trekking around Manaslu Circuit is popular, a notable path for trekkers in Nepal.

Manaslu is popularly known among trekkers, provides views of the snow-covered mountains of the Himalayas and allows close interaction with the different ethnic groups who live in hill villages scattered along the trek route.

The trekking route is through mountainous terrain prone to the consequences of monsoon rainfall, landslides, and landfalls. Hypothermia and altitude sickness, as well as encounters with passing yaks, are common. Trekking to Manaslu is thus a test of endurance.

The Manaslu is a sanctuary to many highly endangered animals, including snow leopards and red pandas. Other mammals include lynx, Asian black bear, grey wolf, Assam macaque, Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, mainland serow, Himalayan goral, woolly hare, horseshoe bat, Himalayan mouse-hare, and black-lipped pika. Over 110 species of birds, 33 mammals, 11 butterflies, and 3 reptiles have been recorded. Conservation of wildlife in the area has been achieved by monks of the monasteries in the area by putting a hunting ban in place. This action has helped wildlife to prosper. The area is now an important habitat for the snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, and the Himalayan tahr.

Some 110 species of birds have been identified in the area, including golden eagle, Eurasian griffon, Himalayan griffon, blood, Impeyan, kalij and koklass pheasants, Himalayan and Tibetan snow cocks, and the crimson horned pheasant.

Manaslu Circuit has a rich ecotone diversity and includes nineteen different types of forests, most prominently rhododendron, and also Himalayan blue pine, which is flanked by Ganesh Himal and the Sringi ranges. Medicinal herbs and aromatic plants have also been recorded in different forest types and adjoining vegetation. Overall, the presence of 19 types of forests and other forms of dominant vegetation have been recorded from the area. An estimated 1,500–2,000 plant species grow here.

The Nubri and Tsum people find in Manaslu Circuit trail. They are rich in their traditional culture, art, and tradition. Gurungs are the main ethnic group who have joined the Brigade of Gurkhas in large numbers. Closer to Tibet, the Bhotia, akin to the Sherpa group, of Tibetan ethnicity dominate the scene as can be discerned from their flat-roofed houses, and they are distinctly Buddhists. The region is dotted with austere monasteries, mani walls, chortens and other Buddhist religious landmarks.

The Manalsu Circuit offers a variety of trekking options, usually starts in Soti Khola and ends two to three weeks later in Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Manaslu tea-houses trek means using local accommodation, requires a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. Trekkers are required to travel in a group of at least two persons with a registered guide. The trek lies on the newly developed Great Himalaya Trail.

The best season to hike the circuit is spring (March, April, or May), just before the monsoon season begins. During this period, you can expect dry trails, stable weather, excellent visibility, and long trekking days. Similarly, autumn (September, October, and November) is another good season for the circuit, following the monsoon season.

People add Tsum Valley and the Ganesh Himal Base Camp as acclimatization trips before going on expeditions through the high passes. The Tsum region, which was restricted for tourists for a long time, is now the centre of attraction for trekkers, with the government of Nepal recently opening it for group tourists. In order to retain its pristine culture and sustain its fragile ecosystem, the Tsum Welfare Committee is involved in the promotion of responsible tourism in Tsum. However, local participation for sustainable tourism is still a challenging task with a long road ahead.

How many days does it take to do the Manaslu Circuit?

Manaslu Circuit is the fourth most popular trekking in Nepal, 9 to 15 days taking to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek including Larke La Pass. Manaslu is famous for its stunning natural beauty and remote trekking experience. It boasts breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and traditional Tibetan culture. Manaslu Circuit Trek that takes 9 to 20 days to complete it. Here is some Manaslu Trek Itineraries.

Manaslu Circuit Trek 9 days
Manalsu Circuit Trek 10 days
Manalsu Circuit Trek 11 days
Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 days
Manaslu Circuit Trek 13 days
Manaslu Circuit Trek 14 days
Manaslu Circuit Trek 15 days
Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek 20 days
Tsum Valley Trek 12 days

How hard is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging with its beauties. The Manaslu Circuit Trek distance is long but moderately difficult.

What is the death rate of Manaslu Circuit?

The death rate climbing Mount Manaslu, recorded 9%. In Between 1956 and 2022, over 80 climbers died in Manaslu due to avalanches, falls, and altitude-related complications.

Preparations for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Packing the right gear is essential for a successful Manaslu trek. Remember to pack sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a reliable backpack. Additionally, make sure to pack essentials such as a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high-energy snacks.

The Killer mountain-Mount Manaslu

Manaslu is known as “Killer Mountain” because of its high death rate and low summit record compared to other mountains. The peak has taken the lives of 89 mountaineers, with just 2,172 reaching the summit. As a result, the peak is a tough ascent for climbers, with just a 60% success rate.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

The full Manaslu Circuit Trek distance is around 180 km/ 111.8 miles. Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters is the highest point of the trek. Each day varies in length, and a fit walker should expect several days of walking for 6 to 7 hours and some challenging days within the itinerary.

Nepal Manaslu Circuit Trek Strictly Banned Without Guide

Trek without guide to Manaslu Circuit is strictly banned for solo trekkers and small group trekkers. It is applied to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers, as well as to respect the local customs and traditions.

Manaslu Circuit, a safe travel destinations in Nepal

In terms of wildlife encounters, Manaslu trek is generally considered safe. You may snow leopards, and red pandas on the trails. Trek to Manaslu Cirucit is unquestionably unsafe during monsoon season due to heavy rain and mudslides. Many teahouses remain closed, and the trail becomes treacherous due to the increased risk of landslides. So, it is advised not to trek to Manaslu Circuit during winter and rainy seasons.

How much does it cost for the Manaslu Circuit?

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit ranges from US$ 950 to 1800, it depends on various factors, like services and group size. It also varies based on the trekking agency.

Accommodation and Food on the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Accommodation and food on the Manaslu Trek offers an authentic mountain experience. The trek primarily features basic tea houses for accommodation with minimal amenities. The majority of teahouses have squat toilets and communal dining areas. Meals are predominantly prepared over an open fire and are similar to that of the other treks in Nepal. Overall, the accommodation and food may be basic, the trek surely offers a lifetime experience.

Attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek

The attraction of the trek is the authentic Tibetan villages, its culture and the world’s eighth-highest mountain at 8,163 meters (26,781 Ft.)-Mt Manaslu. Manaslu Trek is highly recommended to avoid the crowds of Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Here is all Manaslu Trek information before you go.

How to get to Manaslu Circuit Trek

Good news if you don’t like flying in small planes – there are none. You have to reach the starting point of this trek by road. Your trekking agency will organize either local bus or a private jeep to take the 6 to 7-hour drive to Soti Khola. If there is a choice. Go for the private jeep. For one thing you will be picked up at the door of your hotel in Kathmandu.  The local bus will involve two buses and going to the bus station in the early morning. Local buses are also less than comfortable. On the bright side, you will see a lot of local color.

Necessary permits for Manaslu Circuit Hike

The three permits are necessary to trek around Manaslu Circuit. These are the RAP (Restricted Area Permit), MCAP and ACAP (Manaslu and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). That we will take care to issue it. Manaslu Trek isn’t possible to hike independently. You must hike with a guide and there must be at least two in your group, as well as the guide. For the 3 permits cost comes around USD 180 per person.

Guide is necessary for Manaslu Trekking

A guide is required on this trek and the guide manages all of the logistics, distances, directions, and tea houses. The directions weren’t always very clear like on the Everest Base Camp trek and having the guide manage all of the logistics is great.

Advisable Packing Lists for Manaslu Trek

Pack your bag as light as possible, wash most of your clothes possible each afternoon/night on the first half of the trip. In the latter stages of the trip, it is pretty cold. Warm clothes are necessary the higher you trek. It is nice to bring sleeping bag in the trek. Below is a simple guide to packing lists for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts

1 pair of shorts

1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants

1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt

1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt

2 Short-sleeve t-shirts

1 Thermal long underwear

4 pairs of quick-dry underwear

1 Lightweight down jacket

1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket

1 Beanie

1 Cap

1 Sunglasses

1 Neck Buff

1 Gloves

Hiking boots

Micro spikes

Headtorch

1 pair Gaiter

1 pair of warm summit socks

2 pairs of regular socks

1 Sunscreen

1 Trekking poles

1 Water filter

1 Power bank

WIFI Connection during Manaslu Trek?

WIFI is available, most of the teahouses along the trail. Costs from $free to $4 to use WIFI at the guesthouses. Buy an NTC Sim before you go. It worked early on in the trek with a weak signal. Samagaun had decent WIFI and you will stay there for two nights to acclimatize your body, so caught up with all of the news and action online.

Electricity Availability on Manaslu Trek

Electricity is supplying by small hydro power and solar panel in the tea houses. You will have to pay from $free at low elevations to $5 to charge your power banks, cameras, and phones. The key is to get a fat power bank. Pay to charge that then charge everything from your power bank. Your power bank lets you charging your phone and four camera batteries before it would be done.

Cost for Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The Manaslu Trek cost ranges from USD 800 to USD 1700, it depends on the length of trek and the services. Basically, the price covers your transport, accommodation, food, guide fees, porter and trekking permit fees. Such as beer, snacks, hot showers, recharging your phone or camera, tipping the guide and porter are not included in the package price.

Tips to guide and porter

The guide and porter will expect a tip. This can reflect your overall satisfaction but it should be in the region of USD 150 for the guide, USD 100 for a porter. This amount is shared between the trekkers in your group.

Safety

You have already done the groundwork regarding the safety record of the trekking company, and you have bought your insurance. The guide will be carrying a first aid kit. But we recommend you also carry your own, particularly if there are special medicines you require. Probably the most common injury on a trek is a sprained ankle or sunburn. But you should also take into consideration altitude sickness.

Altitude Sickness

This is not something we can predict. It is not known why some people suffer while others do not. It has nothing to do with age or fitness level. Pushing ahead too quickly, climbing too high too fast can result in problems. AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness occurs when we ascend too quickly. Normally at altitudes 3,000m/ 9,840ft or over.

What does it feel like?

Headache, shortness of breath and light-headedness. These are also related to being dehydrated. Stay hydrated and your body will most likely adjust to the altitude itself.

What if it gets worse?

If the symptoms continue, tell your guide. Especially if you are suffering from:

Difficulty in sleeping.

Need an unusual amount of sleep.

Loss of appetite.

Vivid dreams.

The need to rest/ catch your breath frequently, especially above 3,500m/ 11,483ft.

Runny nose.

Need to pee more.

Dizziness.

Altitude sickness can vary between mild symptoms and more serious stuff. Mild symptoms should clear up themselves with drinking lots of water, walking slowly and taking rest. More severe symptoms are a sign you must descend immediately.

Conclusion:

Aside from any injury or illness, there are two things that can spoil your trek. The first is the guide. Which is the reason you want to meet him first. And it helps if you speak the same language. The second is the food. Food on some of the more popular treks is pretty amazing. On the more remote trails or those which see less trekkers the food can be more repetitive. And it’s only as good as the lodge owner’s/ lodge owner’s wife’s skills in the kitchen.

See you in Kathmandu. I hope, it has made you excited to come to Manaslu Trek. Please feel free to write us at missionecotreknepal@gmail.com or call or message on WhatsApp at +977 9851023742 for free query regarding the Manaslu Circuit trip.