Manaslu Circuit Trek
The 'new Annapurna Circuit' — a spectacular trek around the world's eighth highest peak with far fewer trekkers and rich Tibetan culture.
Distance
177 km
Duration
16 days
Elevation Gain
6,800m
Max Elevation
5,160m
Min Elevation
700m
Highest Point
Larkya La (5,160m)
Difficulty
Challenging
Best Season
March-May, September-November
Route Type
Loop / Circuit
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Cost
USD 150
Permit Information
Manaslu restricted area permit (USD 100/week Sep-Nov, USD 75/week Dec-Aug), Manaslu Conservation Area permit (NPR 3,000), TIMS card. Licensed agency and guide required.
The Manaslu Circuit has emerged as one of Nepal's finest treks, often called the 'new Annapurna Circuit' — offering similar diversity of landscape and culture but with far fewer trekkers. The 14-18 day circuit circumnavigates Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth highest peak, crossing the dramatic Larkya La pass at 5,160m.
The route follows the Budhi Gandaki gorge from Arughat through incredibly diverse terrain — subtropical lowlands give way to terraced farmland, then dense forests, and finally high alpine landscapes. Tibetan-influenced villages with ancient monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags line the upper sections.
As a restricted area, the Manaslu Circuit requires a licensed agency, guide, and minimum group of two. This keeps visitor numbers manageable and preserves the trek's wild character. The Larkya La crossing is demanding — steep, potentially snow-covered, and at serious altitude — but the views from the pass are extraordinary.