12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek 

Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days

The 12-Day Manaslu Region Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and rewarding trekking routes. It passes beautiful Buddhist landmarks and local area settlements. The route is becoming a popular alternative to the overcrowded Annapurna and Everest treks. The Manaslu region was opened for trekking in 1991 and is now one of the most sought-after routes for adventure lovers. This trek offers stunning views of Mount Manaslu and provides a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. This guide covers all aspects of the 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek, including the best time to visit, costs, difficulty, distance, itinerary, and more.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal

12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek is a beautiful off-the-beaten trek in the Manaslu region located in the Gorkha District of Nepal. It Includes the eighth-highest mountain in the world Mt. Manaslu stands at 8,163 metres (26,781 ft). The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude alpine terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter other notable peaks such as Buddha Himal (6,692 meters / 21,956 feet), Himal Chuli (7,893 meters / 25,896 feet), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters / 24,350 feet) to the east, as well as the Annapurna Himalaya, including Annapurna II (7,937 meters / 26,040 feet) and Annapurna IV (7,525 meters / 24,688 feet) to the west.

This trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, as it passes through traditional villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Tamang, Ghale, and Magar in the lower region and in the upper region Gurung and Tibetan communities.

Throughout the 12-day journey, trekkers experience the unspoiled beauty of the Manaslu region, crossing high passes such as the Larke la Pass at 5,160 meters. The trek is designed for those seeking a condensed yet immersive experience in one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. It provides ample opportunities to witness the local way of life, ancient monasteries like a Pungyen Monastery, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are an experienced trekker or seeking a new adventure. 12 days of Manaslu Region Trek promises an unforgettable experience.

Best Time for the Manaslu Trek

The best time to undertake the Manaslu Region Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons.

• Spring (March to May): This is an excellent time for the trek, as the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom.
• Autumn (September to November): This is the most popular time for trekking in Nepal, as the weather is dry, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate.

 Manaslu  Trek Difficulty

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is regarded as a challenging adventure due to its high altitude, remote location, and rugged terrain. Trekkers should be physically fit and mentally prepared for long, demanding days of walking, typically ranging from 6 to 8 hours each day. The trek includes a substantial altitude gain, making proper acclimatization essential to avoid altitude sickness. This is particularly important when crossing the Larkya La Pass, which rises to over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet).

12 Days  Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance

The 12-day Manaslu Circuit is approximately 177 to 200 kilometers (110 to 125 miles) long, depending on the route itinerary taken and any side trips you might do. The trek usually takes 12 to 18 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs. The circuit takes you around Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a glimpse into the local culture.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

The cost of the trek can vary depending on several factors. Such as the trekking agency, the services included the group of trekkers, the duration of the trek days, and the season. On average, the cost ranges from $820 to $1,450 per person. This typically includes permits, guide and porter services, accommodation, meals, and transportation.

The cost of the trek may be lower if you are part of a large group. Trekking in a group offers the advantage of splitting expenses like guide and porter fees among participants, lowering the cost for each person. Similarly, booking accommodation and transportation for a group can be more cost-effective. We NWT also offer group discounts, which can further reduce the overall cost per individual. Moreover, traveling with a group not only makes the trek more affordable but also adds a social and supportive element to the adventure. Consequently, joining a group can enhance both the financial and experiential aspects of your trek.

Manaslu Trek Permits

Trekkers need several permits to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit:   A special permit is required for accessing the restricted region of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): The Manaslu Conservation Area requires a permit for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area.
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required as the trek enters the Annapurna region towards the end.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Solo

The Manaslu region trek is designated as a restricted area by the Government of Nepal. Solo trekking is not allowed. Trekkers are required to be in a group of at least two people and must be accompanied by a registered guide. This rule is in place to ensure the safety and security of trekkers in these remote regions.

12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek Route

The Manaslu Circuit trek for 12 days starts at Soti Khola or Machekhola, both of which are reachable through Arughat, the main entry point to the trek. From there, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River upstream, meandering through a variety of landscapes and traditional villages. The trekking path winds through thick forests, terraced farmland, and challenging high-altitude landscapes. The journey culminates with crossing the Larke La Pass situated at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), before descending into the Annapurna region.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather

The weather on the Manaslu region trek can vary significantly depending on the season and altitude:

• Spring (March to May): Weather in spring mild temperatures and blooming rhododendrons.
• Summer (June to August):  weather in the Monsoon season with heavy rainfall and challenging trail conditions.
• Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable weather.
• Winter (December to February): The weather in the winter season is cold temperatures. Especially at higher altitudes, with a high possibility of snowfall.

Manaslu Annapurna Circuit Trek

For those seeking an extended adventure, combining the 12-day Manaslu Circuit with the Annapurna Circuit is a fantastic option. This combined trek offers an unparalleled experience, covering two of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes with visibility of the seventh highest Mt: Dhaulagiri in the world stands at 8,167 meters (26,795 ft). The combined trek can be done approximately 20-25 days, depending on the chosen itinerary. The combined trek starts from Machekhola and ends in Jomsom which is also the gateway to the upper Mustang trek. Trekkers also combine the 12-day Manaslu circuit trek with the Tsum Valley trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Photos

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers countless photo opportunities, from stunning mountain vistas to picturesque villages. Key photo spots include:

• Mount Manaslu: Capturing the majestic peak from various viewpoints.
• Larkya La Pass: Panoramic views from the high pass.
• Traditional Villages: Photographs of the culturally rich settlements.
• Budi Gandaki River: Picturesque river scenes along the trail.

Manaslu Trek Reviews

Trekkers who have completed the 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek praise its breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and challenging nature. Reviews highlight the sense of adventure, the warmth of the local people, and the stunning landscapes.

Manaslu Region Trek Preparation Tips

Here are some essential tips for a successful Manaslu RegionTrek:

1. Physical Preparation: To physically prepare for the 12 Days Manaslu Region Trek at home, and improve cardiovascular fitness through running, cycling, and stair climbing. Build strength with squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups. Enhance flexibility with regular stretching and yoga. Practice deep breathing for acclimatization and use altitude training tools if available. Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and follow a consistent workout schedule with rest days. Include a mix of running, strength training, yoga, cycling, stair climbing, and hiking in your weekly routine.
2. Pack:  For the Manaslu Region Trek, pack sturdy, waterproof boots, layered clothing, a warm-down jacket, trekking pants, and thermal underwear. Use a quality backpack with a rain cover and a sleeping bag for cold temperatures. Bring trekking poles, a headlamp, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, high-energy snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, a map, a compass, and necessary permits
3. Permits: Ensure you have all the necessary permits before starting the trek. 
4. Acclimatization: Take rest days and ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness. 
5. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
6. Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Conclusion

The 12-day Manaslu circuit trek is a challenging yet immensely rewarding trek that offers a unique blend of incredible natural beauty, fascinating cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you are an experienced trekker or looking for a new challenge, the trek promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas. With preparation and a positive mindset, you can start on this remarkable adventure and create unforgettable memories.

Note

All published dates are guaranteed departures. If the date does not fit with your schedule, we can lead a private trek on your preferred dates at the same cost. Share your preferred trip itinerary with us, and we’ll help turn your dream destination into reality.