Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary: 12-Day Adventure Through Nepal’s Remote Himalayas

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich high-altitude adventures. This 12-day journey circles the majestic Mount Manaslu and offers a remote, crowd-free experience filled with dramatic landscapes and Tibetan-influenced villages. With a carefully planned Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary and a detailed Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, this trek is a bucket-list route for trekkers seeking solitude and authenticity in the Himalayas.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Unlike more commercial trails like the Everest or Annapurna circuits, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a wild, unspoiled path that still retains its traditional character. Managed expertly by Mountain Treks Nepal, the trek follows a route marked clearly on any standard Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, winding through lush valleys, ancient monasteries, and rugged mountain passes. The Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary ensures proper acclimatization and exposure to the best highlights of the region.

12-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machhi Khola (890m) via Arughat Bazar (601m)

• Duration: 7–8 hours

Start the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a long drive from Kathmandu. This first day brings you into the terrain outlined in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, showcasing Nepal’s terraced hillsides and rivers.

Day 2: Trek from Machhi Khola to Jagat (1,410m)

• Duration: 5–6 hours

Follow the Budi Gandaki River along a path that introduces you to the cultural flavor of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As shown in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, you pass through dense forest, teahouses, and suspension bridges.

Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,860m)

• Duration: 5–6 hours

The route on the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map heads north into steeper terrain. Stone steps and river gorges characterize this part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary.

Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m)

• Duration: 5–6 hours

This segment of the Manaslu Circuit Trek transitions into alpine forest. Namrung is a major stop on any Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, known for its cultural and photographic appeal.

Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,150m)

• Duration: 4–5 hours

Continue higher along the official Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary. Lho is rich in Tibetan influence and offers jaw-dropping views of Manaslu itself.

Day 6: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun (3,500m)

• Duration: 4–5 hours

According to the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, Sama Gaun is a central hub. It’s the cultural and spiritual heart of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, complete with ancient gompas and yak pastures.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaun (3,860m)

Take time to adjust at this altitude. Many Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary versions recommend optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.

Day 8: Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo (3,860m)

• Duration: 3–4 hours

This is a short but beautiful walk shown clearly on every Manaslu Circuit Trek Map. Samdo is the last major village before crossing the pass.

Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,450m)

• Duration: 4–5 hours

Dharamsala is a basic rest stop before the high-altitude challenge. This stretch of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary prepares you for Larkya La Pass.

Day 10: Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,106m)

• Duration: 7–9 hours

The highest point on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass. The Manaslu Circuit Trek Map highlights this section as a dramatic crossing with jaw-dropping Himalayan views.

Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,963m)

• Duration: 6–7 hours

From this point in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary, the trail descends sharply. Expect lush forests, waterfalls, and a return to more temperate landscapes.

Day 12: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu

• Duration: 6–7 hours

The final day retraces the drive back to Kathmandu, marking the completion of your Manaslu Circuit Trek as shown in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map.

Highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Authentic Himalayan culture
• Fewer crowds than Everest or Annapurna
• High-altitude pass crossing
• Iconic stops shown in every Manaslu Circuit Trek Map
• Detailed and balanced Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Why Mountain Treks Nepal?

For your Manaslu Circuit Trek, Mountain Treks Nepal offers a streamlined and safe experience. From logistics and permits to guided support, their team ensures your Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary is stress-free. Their knowledge of the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map ensures you never miss a key landmark.

Packing Essentials for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Warm trekking clothes
• Gloves, hat, thermal layers
• Trekking poles and boots
• High-quality Manaslu Circuit Trek Map or GPS
• Hydration tablets and snacks

Conclusion: Manaslu Circuit Trek – The Path Less Traveled

The Manaslu Circuit Trek delivers unmatched beauty, seclusion, and cultural depth. Every stop, peak, and pass shown on the Manaslu Circuit Trek Map offers something unique. This 12-day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary gives you the perfect blueprint for an epic adventure.

Choose Mountain Treks Nepal for a journey that balances challenge with comfort, guided insight with wild beauty. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is calling follow the trail, check your Manaslu Circuit Trek Map, and start your next great Himalayan adventure.