Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs

Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the amazing trekking destinations Nepal has to offer and trekkers have many questions related to this trek. In the post below, I have put together Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQs to help trekkers like yourself.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is an epic walk around Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world, with a height of 8163 meters (that’s 26,781 feet).

Trekking to the Manaslu region opened for foreigners only in 1991 and it is still a restricted region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek gives you a lifetime opportunity to witness the remote wilderness of the Manaslu region.

Is trekking to Manaslu in your mind?

Do you have doubts about whether to opt for this trek or not?

With this article, we will help you clear some of the Manaslu Circuit trek FAQS.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek doable for reasonably fit person?

Manaslu Circuit is a moderately strenuous trek.

But if you are reasonably fit and can walk for like 6 to 8 hours every day with a light backpack, then definitely you can do the Manaslu Circuit trek without any problems.

Having some trekking experience can serve as an advantage to go for the Manaslu Circuit trek.

With proper packing list as per the varying season and physical as well as mental preparedness, the trek is absolutely doable.

Walking at a higher altitude can be more difficult than walking in the lower elevation.

But, the itinerary designed for Manaslu trek allows proper acclimatization, so you should do fine doing this trek.

However, it is important to be physically and mentally prepared for the trek.

Also, you should read Manaslu Circuit trek difficulty to find out more about this trek.

When is the right time for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The best time to plan the Manaslu trek is during autumn, i.e. from September to November.

During this time, the views of the Himalayas are clear with fewer chances of rainfall.

Similarly, the spring months, i.e. from March to May, are also a good time for trekking to Manaslu.

This is the time when beautiful flora covers the dense forest, offering you a magical experience while trekking.

The winter months, like late December, January and February, are less preferred times for the Manaslu Circuit trek because the Larkya La pass may become dangerous during extreme snow conditions.

If you are properly prepared with the right rain gear, doing the Manaslu Circuit trek during the month of monsoon is also a good idea.

Choose the monsoon if you are not able to do it in spring and autumn, as you should expect some rain along with fogs/clouds covering the snow-topped mountains.

What is Special at Manaslu? How is it Different from Everest and Annapurna?

Manaslu Circuit trek includes crossing of the Larkya La pass (5213m).

Here you will get excellent views of the Himalayas like Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna range, Kangaru, Choe Himal and various other snow-capped peaks.

You will also witness the stunning views of landscapes.

Also, you will get to explore Tibetan influenced Buddhist cultures and traditions.

The less crowded trails and off-the-beaten-path make this Manaslu Circuit different from other treks in Nepal.

Moreover, on this circuit trek, you will not follow the same path again.

You will begin your journey in Machha Khola and conclude it in Dharapani, visiting various high Himalayan villages such as Jagat, Samagaon, Samdo and Bimthang.

Thus, every day you will be seeing new things, meeting new people, and exploring new places.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek harder than Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek is often considered as more demanding than the Annapurna Circuit Trek due to its rugged trails, higher mountain passes and lesser amenities along the route as compared to ACT. Trekkers encounter steeper ascents and descents, remote villages and a more rugged terrain, making it a physically and mentally challenging adventure.

Can I do the Manaslu Circuit Trek solo?

No, you cannot trek solo because the Manaslu Circuit trek falls under a restricted area outlined by the government of Nepal.

According to the government of Nepal, there should be at least two trekkers to trek in this region.

Also, you need to book your trek with a registered company in Nepal and must trek with a licensed guide when going on the Manaslu Circuit trek.

A professional and experienced guide will help you with route navigation.

Plus, they are very helpful during emergencies. They are also great negotiators.

You can also hire a porter who can carry the baggage for you.

Doing this will allow you to enjoy the long walks without having to carry a heavy burden.

How do I Prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

To embark on the Manaslu trek, you should first prepare physically and mentally.

This entails enhancing your stamina and building physical strength so that you can comfortably walk for 6 to 8 hours per day over rough terrains, uphill and downhill stretches.

You can develop your strength and stamina through cardiovascular exercises like swimming or cycling.

Additionally, you can go on hikes to prepare yourself and even climb stairs in tall buildings.

Make sure to carry a light backpack while practicing for the trek.

By preparing diligently, you reduce the likelihood of having to abandon the trek midway.

Furthermore, individuals in reasonably good physical condition are less susceptible to altitude sickness.

Without any physical issues, you’ll enjoy the trek more and the overall trekking experience will be worthwhile.

Where is the Starting and Ending Point of the Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit trek starts from Machha Khola and ends at Besisahar.

You can drive from and to Kathmandu on a local bus or private jeep.

It takes 9 to 10 hours to drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.

And while returning it takes 6 to 7 hours from Besisahar to Kathmandu.

A private jeep for this journey is, however, a better option than the bus for those who don’t want to compromise on comfort. Also, the bus journey takes longer.

Also, in a private jeep, you have safe storage for your luggage.

How Many kilometer is manaslu circuit trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek covers approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) in total distance, taking trekkers through diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to high mountain passes.

The route typically takes around 11 days to complete, allowing ample time for acclimatization and exploration of the stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Manaslu region.

Do I Need Permits to Trek to Manaslu?

The Manaslu route is in a remote and restricted area that remains protected under the Manaslu Conservation Plan.

Hence you need special permission to trek in Manaslu.

September, October, November are the best time and the cost of the permit is higher during this time.

The cost in other months is, however, less. The permits you will need are:

• Restricted Area permit
• Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit

Since you will obtain the restricted area permit, you do not need a TIMS card for this trek.

How much does the Manaslu Trek Costs?

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding Manaslu trek is its cost.

Here is what you should know about the Manaslu trek cost.

Transportation cost

• Local bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola- USD 10 per person
• Private jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola – USD 150 to 200 each way. (The cost can be less if you share i.e USD 30 for 7 people). On return from Besisahar to Kathmandu – USD 10 for tourists and USD 6 to 7 for locals

Permits cost

• Restricted Area permit: USD 70 per person for the first week and extra USD 10 per person per day thereon for September to November. And USD 50 per person for the first week and extra USD 7 per person per day for December to August.
• MCAP: NRS 1000 for SAARC nationals and USD 30 or NRS 3000 for foreign nationals.
• ACAP: NRS 1000 for SAARC nationals and USD 30 or NRS 3000 for foreign nationals.

Cost of Guides: USD 36 to 40 (This includes guides accommodation, food, and insurance)

Cost of Porters: USD 20 to 25 (This includes porters accommodation, food, and insurance)

Cost of Accommodation: USD 8 to 10 for one twin sharing room.

Cost of Food: USD 10 per meal which is USD 25 to 30 on a daily basis.

Miscellaneous cost:

Paying some money for charging your gadgets or a hot bucket shower falls under this.

Also, it includes tips for your guide and porter at the end of the trek.

As a rough estimate, the Manaslu package for 11 days would range approx USD 1100 to 1250.

What Type of Accommodation to Expect During the Trek?

Manaslu Circuit trek offers accommodations that are usually basic in terms of facilities.

The facilities include twin sharing beds in a room, meals, and shared toilets, etc.

The tea houses will provide you with a blanket.

But it is important to carry a sleeping bag along with you for the extra warmth especially while crossing the Larkya La pass at high altitude.

Camping trekking can also be another option for Manaslu Circuit trek.

Our company staffs will arrange all the accommodation and meals.

Why is Tea House Trekking Better than Camping?

Teahouse trekking is better for the local economy and also for you.

By doing tea house trekking you will be helping with the locals economy by bringing jobs into the area. There is more local interaction as well.

Camping, however, brings very little work for locals other than porters.

Tea houses trekking employs fewer porters (2 trekkers-1 Porter for tea house trekking ) (1 trekker-2 porter for camping). But in tea house trekking more money is spent locally on food and accommodation.

Teahouse trekking is more hygienic.

Camping leads to littering whereas in tea house trekking it is the responsibility of the landlord to keep the area clean.

However, it is totally up to your preference whether you want to do tea house trekking or camping.

What Food and Meal do We Eat on the Course?

Each teahouse offers continental food, which you can choose from the menu.

Normally every vegetable served in the tea houses is locally produced.

This is usually organic which is good for your health.

For those who prefer non-veg, make sure to check with the guide if the meat is fresh before you place the order.

Because of the altitude and weather, it is sometimes difficult to raise the animals for consumption.

Storing meat could also be challenging.

The best way is to avoid meat consumption during the trek because it is better safe than sorry.

The basic food items like Dal Bhat, soups, porridge, noodles, etc are some of the best meals you can have.

Also, you won’t find teahouse anytime you are hungry so you can carry a few packets of dry fruits and granola bars for that quick boost of energy.

This helps in re-energizing by retaining your blood glucose level.

Telecommunication and Wifi Facilities in Manaslu Region

Only 40% of the area in Manaslu has a cell phone signal.

However, most of the camp has a satellite phone for emergency contact. Some lodges in Samagaun and Samdo also offer wifi for an extra charge.

If you want to bring 4G sim card with an internet package, we would recommend having Ncell.

Less than USD 10, you can buy an internet package in Kathmandu.

Make sure you have one of them before departure.

How is Drinking Water in Manaslu Region?

You can get bottled water in each tea house and this will cost roughly NRS 200 which is USD 2 in the lower elevation. And NRS 400 i.e USD 4 in the higher elevation.

You can also take a water purification tablet or drop to filter water to save money.

The water source is normally available in every one or two hours of walking distance where you can refill water.

Relatively the water in the mountain is not as polluted as in the city and are usually drinkable.

You will probably see the locals and the guides drinking this water with no issues.

Yet if you want to try please make sure you use water purification drop.

It is very important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while trekking esp at high elevation.

Hence, drink as much as you can. This way you can reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

What Should My Insurance Policy Cover on Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Your travel insurance policy should cover the helicopter rescue operation.

This is useful in case of medical emergencies.

Your trekking leaders are well trained for high altitude.

They have the ability to take the right decision on right time. In cases where he encounters altitude mountain sickness symptoms, you will be first taken to lower altitude.

In a severe case, helicopters will airlift you to a hospital in Kathmandu.

Hence your insurance policy should cover all these medical expenses with Helicopter charges.

What to Pack for Manaslu Trek?

It is always wise to check the weather condition prior to the trek and pack accordingly.

However, we can arrange all the trekking gears and equipment after your arrival at Kathmandu.

The weight of the luggage should range between 15 to 20 kgs.

This is for both you and porter to avoid overburdening.

Is it Possible to Customize the Trip?

Yes definitely! We can arrange the Manaslu Circuit trek as per your needs and requirements.

From the costs to the number of days to sightseeing, we can plan your trip that fits in your budget and convenience.

Is Manaslu Circuit Trek harder than Everest Base camp Trek?

Contrary to popular belief, Manaslu Circuit Trek is generally considered more strenuous than Everest Base Camp Trek.

While both treks offer unique challenges, Manaslu route involves longer and more sustained periods at high altitudes, with fewer opportunities for acclimatization.

Additionally, the rugged terrain and fewer facilities along the Manaslu route add to its difficulty.

Conclusion

Manaslu Circuit Trek invites adventurous souls to explore new landscapes and enjoy peaceful hiking experiences.

Unlike regular trails like Annapurna or Everest, it reveals untouched natural beauty, which requires resilience and curiosity.

Be prepared for remote, rough terrain and be willing to sacrifice some comforts for a memorable 11 days journey.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help or information, we’re here to make sure your trip goes well.

Discover the wild beauty of Manaslu and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

Get ready for a journey full of stunning sights and calmness, even if it means giving up some comfort for two weeks.

If you have any questions or need assistance, we’re here to help you succeed, please feel free to contact us.