Manaslu Permit, Season and Trek Difficulty Guidance for Beginners
Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of the underrated scenic treks in Nepal. Manaslu Circuit is situated in the Gorkha district of Nepal, surrounded by Mount Manaslu (the killer mountain: 8,163 meters), 8th highest peak of the world. This trek offers beautiful mountain views, different high passes, culture of Tibet and Nepal, river gorges, and so on. This Nepal trek is known for its untouched Himalayan culture (Nurbri and Tsumbas especially).
Being an underrated destination, Manaslu is unspoiled, uncrowded and peaceful making it different from other treks in Nepal. Villages like Samagaon and Lho which you’ll pass through in the route educated you about the lifestyle, ancient monasteries, and prayer wheels. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a difficult trek comparatively which takes you across the Larke Pass (5,106 meters) as well which is one of the most challenging passes in the Himalayas. This circuit trek is a great alternative for popular treks in Nepal such as Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and so on.
In case you’re planning to trek in Nepal this 2025/26, this trek offers a blend of culture and landscapes. The authenticity of this region is still preserved and there is still authenticity even though tourism grows from here as rules for responsible travel are made for this region. Being a restricted area, while trekking here, you need to obtain Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, along with Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and MCAP permits. Also, you need to hire a licensed trekking guide compulsorily. Manaslu trek is considered hard from moderate as it reaches higher altitudes and passes. To prevent yourself from altitude sickness, prepare yourself by acclimatizing enough, drinking plenty of water, walking at proper pace, and so on.
Therefore, Manaslu Circuit Trek is an untouched route to trek which is still unexplored. It’s difficult yet rewarding to trek in this region as it allows you to connect with nature.
Trekking Attractions of Manaslu Region in Nepal
- View of beautiful Mount Manaslu (known as the killer mountain)
- Uncrowded and scenic
- Larke La Pass (high altitude pass with altitude of 5,106 meters)
- Cultural Immersion (Tibetan and Buddhist)
- Chances to sport rare wildlife (Snow leopards, red pandas, himalayan tahr, and musk deer)
- Restricted area trekking
Why will Manaslu Trek Attract you in 2025/26?
The first reason why you should trek on Manaslu Circuit is because of the breathtaking views of mountains such as Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himlung Himal, Shingri Himal, and Annapurna II. Once here, you’ll never forget what you see, it’ll captivate your heart and mind forever. Due to being less crowded, it’ll bring peace to your mind while trekking in the Manaslu area of Nepal. Similarly, you’ll get to learn about Tibetan culture as the trail passes through villages like Samagaon, Lho, and Samdo. You’ll see the ancient monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, etc. This provides a spiritual experience to your trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a responsible and sustainable hike which bounds you with rules and regulations. As a permit is to be brought along with you, along with a guide, this helps in regulating tourism along with protection of the local environment and culture. This Nepal trek supports community-based tourism benefiting the locals.
What is the Best Season to go for Manaslu Circuit Trek ?
Manaslu weather during Spring season (March to May): Blooming of wild flowers and rhododendrons along with crystal clear views. This pre monsoon season is perfect for photography and videography. The temperature during spring is moderate making it neither hot nor cold for the trekkers.
Manaslu weather during Autumn (September to November) offers clear skies, stable weather, beautiful views after monsoon clearing dusts and humidity. The route feels fresh and the scenery is crystal clear during post monsoon. The trail is covered with greenery attracting trekkers to hike on the route of Manaslu.
Trekking during monsoon and winter is not favorable. Monsoon brings heavy rain with risk of landslides making the trail slippery and leeches. Winter on the other hand brings heavy snowfall making most of the teahouses closed making low possibilities of accommodating places.
What is the Transportation Service and How to Reach Soti Khola?
The starting point of Manaslu Circuit Trek is Soti Khola or Machha Khola which can be reached by road. It takes around 8 to 10 hours by local bus or private jeep from Kathmandu. Manasu Trek is a restricted area which is why you can’t trek solo. Since you’ll travel with a registered trekking agency, there will be a private transportation service dropping you to Soti Khola. The company you’re trekking with will manage transportation for you both ways. On the way, you get to see mesmerizing scenery of lush hills and forests, rivers, waterfalls which will captivate your heart forever. By the end of the trek, you can return back either to Kathmandu, or Pokhara from Besisahar (in case you’re not planning to do Annapurna Circuit).
How is the Accommodation, and Fooding Facility En Route of Manaslu Region Trek?
While in Manaslu Circuit Trek, don’t expect luxury stays: accommodations are found in the form of teahouses or guesthouses run by local families. The rooms include twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some villages like Samagaon and Lho offer slightly better amenities with attached bathrooms, and hot showers but with extra charge. Number of accommodations in lower elevations are more compared to higher elevations. If you want to stay in a single room, it’s possible in lower elevations but in exchange for extra charge. Meanwhile, in the higher elevations, you might have to share rooms with outsiders as well. Carry sleeping bags as nights are cold in higher elevations.
Manaslu Circuit Trek offers meals with wide options despite being in a remote area. Dal Bhat is most common while trekking in Nepal but teahouses here offer varieties such as noodle soups, fried rice, momo, pasta, and so on. Instant coffee, ginger tea, and lemon tea are widely available. Fooding becomes a little pricey as you gain altitude. So, carry some snacks along with you.
How Difficult is Manaslu Trekking? What are the Preparations Required for Trekking in Manaslu Circuit?
The highest point you’ll reach during Manaslu Circuit Trek is 5,106 meters (Larke La Pass), conquered after long days of hiking, steep ascents, descents, and high-altitude exposures. You’ll be walking for 6 to 8 hours a day on a terrain that is remote, where amenities are limited. This circuit trek is comparatively difficult. The weather in higher elevations is unpredictable, making it both physically and mentally draining. There obviously is the possibility of altitude sickness as the elevation rises above 3,000 meters. So, prepare yourself well for the Manaslu trek.
Since Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek in Nepal, you need to be prepared both physically and mentally. Make sure you’re fit to proceed on this route. Before doing Manaslu trek, focus on cardiovascular exercises such as running, hiking, cycling, and so on and build stamina by walking long distances or stair climbing. Choose similar routes in your nearby areas to hike on to get used to such an environment. Packing is the key for making your trek comfortable, so make sure you pack your essentials only. And do not forget to trek with a licensed guide since this is a restricted area trek. Keep your permits safe with you.
Is it the Mandatory Hiring Guide and Porter in Manaslu Trek?
Yes, Manaslu Circuit Trek is a restricted area trek making it mandatory for you to hire a guide from a registered trekking company. With a licensed trekking guide, you will be at ease as they not only navigate the remote trails but also assist you with permits, accommodation, and communication in local languages. An experienced guide can enrich your trekking experience in Nepal by sharing insights about the culture, mountains, monasteries, and so on along the way. Hence, trekkers must be accompanied by a registered guide as per the rule making it safe for you ensuring sustainable tourism.
Similarly, hiring a porter is highly recommended as your backpack will be carried making it physically easy for you. Especially in this route because Manaslu trek consists of long walking days and in high altitudes. Even though a porter carries 20-25 kgs (of two trekkers) of your combined backpack, allowing you to trek comfortably with just a light daypack (weighting 4-5 kgs), this makes a huge difference in energy saving for you to cross Larke La Pass.
Especially for the first time trekkers, hiring a guide and porter makes the journey easy and convenient as you’ll be unaware about the trekking trail and condition of weather.
What is The Highest Altitude of Manaslu Larke La Pass Trek? Is there a Possibility of Altitude Sickness ?
Altitude Sickness leaves symptoms in one’s body while crossing the elevation of 3,000 meters. Manaslu Circuit trek takes you above 5,000 meters making an obvious risk of Acute Mountain Sickness. You’ll reach the height of 5,106 meters in Larke La Pass. There are various symptoms of altitude sickness you might notice such as headache, dizziness, nausea, dropping of oxygen level. In this circuit trek, the risk of altitude sickness arises between villages like Namrung, Samagaon, and Samdo.
In case such symptoms arise, always listen to your body. There’s a saying while trekking, “Hike up, Sleep low” so, try not to sleep at higher elevations. Don’t rush while walking, instead walk at a slow pace. Drink enough water to keep yourself hydrated. Always listen to your body, don’t drink alcohol, and do not skip meals to prevent yourself from AMS. Carry Diamox (acetazolamide): a medicine preventing symptoms with you. Your guide will recognize symptoms and help to prevent it for you.
What are the Trek Extension with Manaslu Circuit?
There are several trek extension options in Manaslu trek if you have enough time and want to make your journey more adventurous. Manaslu Circuit Trek can be done with Tsum Valley trek. Tsum Valley trek is a remote, sacred Himalayan valley rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture, and breathtaking scenery. This trek will add 5 to 7 more days to your itinerary.
Another extension option is Annapurna Circuit Trek connecting with Tilicho Lake Trek. Combining Manaslu Trek with Annapurna Circuit includes passes like Larke La Pass and Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) which requires extreme physical preparation, combining the trek with Tilicho trek is rewarding despite being challenging. This makes your journey longer and more diverse as it covers multiple mountain ranges, climates, and culture in a single trekking. If you want to walk for a long time, this option is perfect while travelling in Nepal in 2025/26 for trekking purposes.
Restricted Area Permits Required for Trekking to Manaslu Region?
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is a special permit required to enter certain areas of Nepal where trekking and tourism is regulated by the government. Restricted Area Permit helps in preservation of the area, its culture, and various conflicts. Generally, those restricted permit areas are near the China (Tibet) borders. In Manaslu region of Nepal, following Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) are required and permit fee details as below.
- September-November: USD 100 for first 7 days, then USD 15 per day
- December-August: USD 75 for first 7 days, then USD 10 per day
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 30
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30
What are the Packing Tips for Manaslu Trek in Nepal?
Clothing and Shoes
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support, Lightweight camp shoes, Layered clothing system-moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece or down), and a windproof outer shell
Accessories and Gear
- Wool hat, Sun hat, Gloves, Buff or scarf, UV-protection sunglasses, 40–60L backpack, sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower), Trekking poles, Headlamp with extra batteries
- Power bank, Camera, Lightweight sandals, Notebook, Local cash (ATMs are unavailable on the trail)
Hydration, Hygiene & Snacks
- Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder. Water purification tablets, High-energy snacks (nuts, bars, dried fruits)
- Sunscreen, Lip balm, Personal toiletries, Quick-dry towel, Wet wipes, Basic first aid kit, Personal medications
Documents Requirement for Special Permits
- Passport copies
- Passport Size Photo
- Nepal Visa (Visa Number compulsory for Special Permit Issue)
- Travel insurance (with helicopter evacuation coverage)
What are The Things to Keep on Your Mind While Trekking Manaslu Circuit?
- You must hire a licensed trekking guide and trek with a registered trekking agency.
- You need a special permit as a Restricted Area Permit is mandatory.
- Prepare yourself physically and mentally as this is moderate to difficult trekking in Nepal.
- Always listen to your body and acclimatize properly in case there are symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Be ready for steep climbs, snow, and snow while en route to Larke La Pass.
- Don’t expect luxury accommodations as you’ll need to adjust in basic lodges and teahouses. Make sure to carry a sleeping bag with you.
- Weather is unpredictable especially in higher elevations. So, don’t forget to pack waterproof gear and layered clothing to prevent yourself from rain, snow, and wind.
- Carry enough Nepali cash for fooding and lodging as there are no ATMs on the trail.
- Pack light but smart. Bring essentials only because this is a long trek.
- Be ready to pay extra for internet and electricity.
- Make sure you’ve done travel insurance covering trekking and helicopter evacuation.
- Respect local culture and customs since Manaslu region is culturally rich; be mindful of traditions and dress modestly.
- Choose the right season to trek and make sure to take follow up from your selected agency for the condition of trekking route and weather.
Conclusion: Beginners Can Trekking to the Manaslu Larke Pass with Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, Manaslu Circuit Trek is doable with Annapurna Circuit for beginners. Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderate to difficult trek in Nepal that can be done with physical and mental preparation in advance. If you are someone looking for remote and restricted treks in Nepal, this is the one for you. While trekking in this region, you’ll be contributing to sustainable tourism. This circuit trek will give you first hand experience of remoteness, culture, along with beautiful sceneries. If it is your first time trekking in Nepal, make sure you’re physically fit and have been engaging in cardiovascular activities like hiking, running, or swimming. Regular walking activities help a lot to trek in Manaslu region of Nepal. Staying hydrated, feeding yourself well, maintaining a pace while working are key factors to complete Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal.
