Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permit Cost Itinerary

Manaslu Circuit Trek rewards you with an exhilarating experience and provides the stunning scenery of Nepal's Himalayas. This tranquil trek in Nepal tests your endurance and takes through the varied landscapes, but the reward is well worth the effort. The 13 to 14 days trek offers mesmerizing mountain views along the trail.

As you cross the Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), you will be enchanted by the views of the Manaslu, Samdo, Cheo and other mountains. Although there are challenging parts with proper packing, acclimatization and obtaining the trekking permit you can complete the trek smoothly. The diverse landscape, rhododendron flowers, waterfalls streaming down and serene rivers will captivate you. Additionally, the crisp Himalayan air, the fluttering prayer flags, and traditional houses along the way make the trek more charming.

You can have many opportunities for self discovery and witness the beautiful scenery feeling the grandeur and majesty of nature. With careful planning and knowledge of the Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permit Cost Itinerary you can enjoy trekking in the Manaslu Region to the fullest and make beautiful memories.

Details About Manaslu Circuit Trekking Permit

Why Are Permits Required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek? 

Permits are mandatory for the high altitude treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This exciting journey is immensely rewarding. However, the area is remote and it is important to have permits for safety reasons. The permit funds aid in the conservation of the local resources.

The Manaslu region is a restricted area. You will need special permits to enter this protected zone. The authorities have kept the restriction to regulate tourism, protect the cultural heritage of the region, and maintain the ecological balance.

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will pass through traditional villages of remote areas and the permit systems that can help ensure that the locals also sustainably benefit from tourism. The permits help the authorities keep records and track visitors for safety purposes, reducing risks in case of emergencies. In addition, the authorities use the permit funds for wildlife conservation, proper garbage disposal, and trail maintenance.

Also, the Manaslu Circuit permit system ensures that trekkers begin the adventure with licensed guides, which is compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit. Solo treks are not allowed in this region due to its tough trails and remote location. You must be accompanied by a registered guide. This system enhances trekkers safety and also creates local employment opportunities.Thus, the permit system is crucial to protecting the region's heritage environment, culture and the safety of the visitors.

Permits for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Special permits are necessary for Manaslu Circuit Trek as it passes through ecologically and socially sensitive regions. The permits help manage tourism, maintain the environment, and preserve cultural heritage.

For Manaslu Circuit, three permits are required. You must have the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. This is essential for access into the protected Manaslu region. Another permit that you will need is the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). As it is a restricted region, requiring this permit is a must to get access to the restricted area. This permit charge varies season-wise.

As the portion of the trek takes you through the Annapurna region, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) should also be obtained. These permits help in the management of access to the limited area, control of tourism and maintenance of trails. Obtaining these permits helps in maintaining sustainable tourism and conservation of the natural and cultural treasures of the Manaslu Circuit.

Manaslu Circuit Permit Costs

Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost

The Manaslu Circuit Trek package costs around US$ 1275 to US$ 1470. The package price starts from US$ 1470 for a single traveller, whereas the group package is priced at US$ 1275. The package includes a vast range of services to ensure a comfortable trek.

After you arrive at the airport you will be welcomed warmly by our team and your airport pickup and drop-off will be in a comfortable private vehicle. We will arrange your stay at a 3 star hotel in  Kathmandu where you will stay for three nights with breakfast included.

During the Manaslu Circuit Trek, dinner, lunch, and breakfast will be provided. In addition, we will also arrange teahouse accommodation en route. The cost of all ground transportation as stated in the itinerary is included in the package. Also, a highly experienced guide will be assigned to you, with the cost of their expenses, including food, accommodation, salary, and insurance, covered by the package.

Other inclusions in the packages are trekking permits, a first aid medical kit and a sleeping bag (returnable at the end of the trip), trekking/duffel bag, and a souvenir t-shirt. The Government taxes and office service costs are also included in the package price.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in the capital, Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)

After you land at the International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Bharal Adventure will warmly welcome you.  We will hold a short welcome session and transfer you to your designated accommodation. You can get glimpses of Kathmandu during this short drive.

You can take some time to relax and rest at the hotel. If you wish to explore the city then you can walk through the streets. You may also simply sit at the cafe and observe vibrant atmosphere of the city.

In the afternoon our guide will meet you and explain the details of your trek. You may ask questions and to receive a detailed briefing on the itinerary and what can you expect in the days ahead. Afterward, you can return to your hotel room for a restful night before setting off on your trekking adventure on the next day.

Day 2: Trek preparation and obtaining the Manaslu Special Permit

You will spend the day preparing for the Manaslu Circuit Trek on Day 2. We will obtain Manaslu Special Permits that are essential to trek in this restricted area. Likewise, you can also double-check your trekking gear and make sure that everything is well packed.

If you need something, you can visit some local shops where buying and renting gears are available. In the afternoon, you may freely explore Kathmandu's rich cultural heritage by visiting the Kathmandu Durbar Square and the surrounding area.

Day 3: Drive to Machha Khola From Kathmandu

Machha Khola Elevation: 890 m

Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hours

On the 3rd day, you will enjoy a picturesque and thrilling road journey from Machha Khola, which is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The stunning views of Nepal's varied landscapes can be seen along the way. After departing from Kathmandu, you will pass through beautiful stops like Thankot, Naubise and head towards Dhading Besi. 

By the afternoon, you will make it to Arughat and then enjoy bumpy rides. The glimpses of beautiful mountains can be seen along the way. You will then reach Soti Khola. The sights of forests and cliffs are common from this point on. Then, driving past the Lububesi village, you will finally arrive at Machha Khola which is your stop for overnight.

Day 4: Trek to Jagat from Machha Khola

Jagat Elevation: 1,365 m

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Your journey on foot along the trails of the Manaslu Circuit Trek begins on the 4th day. With a hearty breakfast at Machha Khola you will gear up for the trek ahead. You will ascend following a path that leads you to Kholrabesi Village.

Continuing further, you will reach Tatopani Village, which is famous for its natural hot springs. From Tatopani you will pass through thick forests and reach Dovan Village. You can walk by the side of the Budi Gandaki River and enjoy the beautiful sights.

Then, you will walk through Louri and Thado Bharyang village following a steep path and reach Jagat, where you can see traditional houses, monasteries, prayer flags and mani walls. For the overnight, you will stay at a teahouse in Jagat.

Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Pewa

Pewa Elevation: 1,870 m

Trek Duration:  8 to 9 hrs

On the 5th day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will begin the trek after breakfast. You will trek towards Salleri Village by following a downward path to Dudh Pokhari and crossing a suspension bridge. From Salleri you can see the stunning view of Shringi Himal.

Then, you will continue trekking through varied terrains towards Philim. Then, you will follow the trails leading to the Chisapani Village and reach this point in around 45 to 50 minutes.

You can take a short break at this place and make your way towards Ekle Bhatti. through tranquil bamboo forests. You will then notice the high cliffs of the Budi Gandaki valley and arrive in Nyak. Then, you will continue trekking and ascend gradually to Pewa, which is your stop for the night.

Day 6: Trek from Pewa to Ghap

Ghap Elevation: 2,250 m

Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

On the 6th day, your destination is Ghap. The exciting journey sets off early in the morning after you have breakfast at your teahouse in Pewa. You will begin the day by ascending in a zigzag path heading towards Rana Village. From there, you will follow an uphill path along with a steep trail to Bihi Phedi. Once you reach Bihi Phedi, you will walk on more gentle paths.

However, you need to be alert because the area also has landslide zones. Throughout the day, the walk continues in a forest and you can witness unique flora. You can see the majestic scenery of Shringi Himal on your way.

By trekking from Ghap for almost 7 to 8 hours you will arrive at Pewa Village. You will check in at the booked accommodation at Pewa and have a delicious and freshly prepared meal and take rest to be well prepared for another invigorating journey on foot on the next day.

Day 7: Trek from Ghap to Lho Gaun

Lho Gaun Elevation: 3,180 m

Trek Duration: 7 hrs

You will begin the trek early on this day to reach Lho Gaun and enjoy the enchanting scenery of surreal landscapes along the trail for a long period. You will trek along the tranquil forested path and move toward Namrung. The trekking trail winds through beautiful blue pine, oak, and rhododendron forests. In addition, the serene Budi Gandaki River will still be along the side.

The path from Namrung leads toward Lihi in a relatively gentle path which will soon be followed by a steep ascent. You can gaze upon the stunning views of the mountains as you proceed. You will then cross the Hinan River and finally reach Sho village. Then, you will climb uphill and finally reach Lho village and be rewarded with stunning views of the Buddha Himal, Manalsu North, Naike peak, and many others.

Day 8: Trek from Lho Gaun to Samagaon

Samagaon Elevation: 3,530 m

Time Duration: 6 to 7 hours

On Day 8, we will begin the journey trekking from Lho after a wholesome breakfast. You will follow a straightforward path and head towards Shyala. You will hike through pine and rhododendron forests and reach the Shyala Village in around 2 hours. The beautiful views of Manaslu North, Naike, and Manaslu are the key attractions of this charming village.

Continuing further, you will trek to Ribung Gompa and can take your time to feel the peacefulness of its surroundings. On this day, you can witness spectacular views of Himalayan summits and glaciers while ascending. Then you will follow a route where you can see many prayer flags and monasteries and reach Samagaon, which lies at 3,530 m and is your stop overnight.

Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon

Acclimatization day at Samagaon is crucial to adapt to the higher altitudes. You are at an elevation of 3,530 m and you need to have an acclimatization day to allow your body to adjust to the new environment. You can opt for the short acclimatization hikes to nearby destinations. Pungyen Gompa is one of the destinations that many trekkers visit. Similarly, you can also opt to visit Manaslu Base Camp.

You may visit the Birendra Lake too and immerse in its serene beauty, which takes 2 to 3 hours. If you choose to visit the base camp of Manaslu, then you have to hike uphill, which takes around 6 to 7 hours. However, the surrounding views are stunning, and you can see the camp set-ups by climbers and an up-close view of Mount Manaslu. You will return to Samagaon to rest overnight after completing the acclimatization hike.

Day 10: Trek From Sama Gaon to Samdo

Samdo Elevation: 3,875 m

Time Duration: 4 to 5 hours

On the 10th day, you will head towards Samdo from Sama Gaon. You will begin your exciting adventure after having breakfast at your teahouse. You will pass through a place with very little vegetation and places where few huts can be seen.

Most of the section of the trail is flat on this day, except for the final section which requires you to ascend the trails leading to Samdo. Along the Budhi Gandaki River, you will make a gradual ascent and reach Samdo.

This picturesque village is renowned for its stupas and houses with the distinct architecture. You can witness the panoramic view of mountains like Samdo, Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, and many other peaks from this village. You can explore the beautiful Smado Village and head towards your designated accommodation for the night.

Day 11: Trek from Samdo to Larkya La Phedi (Dharmashala)

Larkya La Phedi Elevation: 4,600 m

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

On the 11th day you will trek to Larkya La Phedi from Samdo. This day starts with crossing the bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. You will come across prayer flags and mani walls on the way to the Larkya La Pass.

Afterwards, you will cross the pristine Larkya Glacier and enter a dry and barren terrain. The altitude gain during this day requires caution during the trek. After a few hours of steady ascent, we will reach Larkya Phedi and will conclude the day's hike. In the remaining part of the afternoon, you can enjoy leisure time strolling around the surroundings.

Day 12: Trek to Bhimthang from Larkya La Phedi (Dharmashala), Crossing Larkya La Pass

Bhimtang Elevation: 3,790 m

Larkya La Pass Elevation: 5,106 m

Trek Duration:  8 to 9 hrs

You will experience the most thrilling phase of the trek on the 12th day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Your destination on this day is Bhimthang, for which you have to cross the Larkya la Pass, which lies at 5,106 m. The ascent is tiresome and lengthy. However, the scenery of the surrounding hills, valleys, and mountains is exceptional.

You can see panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Larkya Peak, which is breathtakingly beautiful. After climbing steeply, you will arrive at the pass where you can witness Buddhist prayer flags and majestic mountain panoramas.  The sights of Himlung, Kangguru, and other mountains from the pass are beautiful and you can take several snapshots from this point.

After enjoying and celebrating the accomplishment of successfully crossing the pass, you will descend to Bimthang village. The trail can be slippery and also challenging so you should take gradual steps. Soon afterwards, you will reach Bhimthang Village, which is a stop on the 12th day of the trek.

Day 13: Trek from Bhimthang to Tilije

Tilije Elevation: 2,310 m

You have entered the final phase of the trek. After making it to the destination of the day, i.e, Tilije, your journey on foot finally comes to an end. Today's trek offers a gentle downhill. The trail moves slowly downhill along the Gho village.

You will cross beautiful wooden bridges along the trail. You will trek through oak and rhododendron forests and also pass through several farms before you reach the beautiful Phurke Khola.

As you pass through the pine forest, the beautiful views of the Marsyangdi Valley can be seen. Continuing past Phurke River, you will trek while enjoying the serene surroundings, and reach Tilje. There are charming local teahouses in the village and you will stay at one of the finest ones for the night.

Day 14: Drive to Besisahar from Tilije and Return to Kathmandu

Besisahar Elevation: 760 m

Tilije to Besisahar: 3 hours

Besisahar to Kathmandu: 6 to 7 hours

On this day, you will take a public Jeep from Tilije to Besisahar. The alluring scenery of the surroundings will keep you engaged throughout the drive. In 3 hours, you will reach Besisahar. You can take a short rest after arriving at Besisahar and then you will head towards Kathmandu on a private car.

The sights of the rivers, hills, markets, villages and modern buildings will keep you engaged. In 7 to 8 hours, you will reach Kathmandu. We will then drop you off at the booked hotel, where you can have the necessary healing time after completing the strenuous Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Day 15: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

On Day 15, you will fly to your onward destination or home country. If you have some leisure hours left before the flight then you can shop or stroll through the streets. We will assist you with the check out procedures from the hotel. We will drop you off at the airport for your flight. Your wonderful Manaslu Circuit Trek has come to an end but the beautiful memories you made while trekking are something that you will cherish for years to come.