How long is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Manaslu Circuit Trek – A Himalayan Solitude Adventure

Overview

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a real and the most natural trekking experience in Nepal's restricted zone. The Manaslu trek begins with an 8- to 10-hour jeep or bus ride from Kathmandu to Machhakhola at 930 meters / 3,051 ft. The journey back is through Dharapani at 1,963 meters / 6,440 ft. to Kathmandu via Besisahar. The total Manaslu trekking walk distance from Machhakhola to Dharapani is approximately 110 miles (177 km).

Trekking Highlights

• Cross dramatic Larke La Pass (5,160 m / 16,929 ft)

• Explore traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages

• Explore Manaslu Conservationa Area

• Explore ancient Monsteries alogn the trail

• Vist and Explore high freshwater lake like Birendra Lake

• Hike through Budhi Gandaki River gorge

• Visit Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft) from Samagaon

• Enjoy close views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft)

• Witness views of Himalchuli (7,893 m / 25,896 ft), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m / 25,823 ft), and Ganesh Himal (7,422 m / 24,350 ft)

• Enjoy solitary walk, true remoteness and wilderness

Trail Conditions and Difficulty

Manaslu Circuit Trekking Trails involves steep climbs, rugged terrains, and river crossings. The hardest part is Larke Pass crossing due to cold, snow, and thin air. The trek is moderately to highly demanding and requires good physical condition. Trails remain remote and peaceful.

Food and Accommodation

• Sleep in basic teahouses with shared rooms and minimal power

• Try local Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread

• Hot showers and internet connectivity are provided at some villages at an additional charge

Trekking Time and Daily Overview

• Total trekking time: 12–15 days

• Average daily hike: 6–7 hours

• Average walking distance daily: 8–12 miles (13–20 km)

• Total hiking time for entire trek: 80–100 hours

Transportation

• Jeep/bus drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola: 8–10 hours

• Return trip by jeep/bus from Dharapani or Besisahar to Kathmandu: 9–11 hours

Best Time for Trek to Manaslu

• Spring season (March through May)

• Autumn season (September through November)

• These months offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and mountain scenery.

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Permits and Guide Requirement

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Licensed guide is necessary

Porters are optional but not required

Trekking to Manaslu Circuit is best suited for adventure seekers looking for off-the-beaten-path Himalayan trekking in Nepal.

How long is Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek from Machhakhola to Dharapani is around 177 kilometers and takes 12 to 14 days. The trek starts at Machhakhola (869m) and gradually moves higher to Larkya La Pass (5,160m), which is the highest altitude of the trek.

Important places/ stops during Manaslu Cirucit Trek are at Jagat (1,340m, 15km), Deng (1,860m, 20km), Namrung (2,630m, 19km), Lho (3,180m, 11km), Samagaon (3,530m, 8km), and Samdo (3,875m, 7km).

A rest day at Samagaon facilitates acclimatization in Manaslu Cirucit Trek. From Dharamsala (4,460m, 6km), trekkers cross the icy Larkya La Pass (5,160m) and go down to Bimthang (3,590m, 16km).

The final stretch of Manaslu Ccirucit Trek goes through Tilije (2,300m, 17km) to Dharapani (1,860m, 6km).

This Manaslu trek offers remote trails, mountain landscapes, and Tibetan culture. It's best done in spring (Mar-May) or autumn (Sep-Nov) for favorable weather and safe conditions.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance: Machhakhola to Dharapani

Manaslu Cirucit Trek from Machhakhola (869 m) to Dharapani (1,963 m) trail is about 177-180 km. The terrain has drastic height gains, river crossings, forest, and high-altitude village walks. It normally takes 7–8 days. A day-to-day distance, elevation, and approximate hiking time summary is provided below.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance: Machhakhola to Dharapani Chart

Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance from Kathmandu to Kathmandu

The Manaslu Circuit Trek involves around 177 km of trek from Machhakhola to Dharapani, with out-of-the-way Himalayan landscapes and cultural immersion. The whole trek from Kathmandu to Kathmandu is covering about 280 km of driving and 177 km of trekking. So the total distance of Manaslu Circuit Trek from Kathmandu to Kathmandu is 457 km. Below is an overview table of trekking elevations and distances throughout the route.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary with Distance and Elevation: Daily Work Plan

| ** | 175 km (drive)
1,400 m |

How many acclimatization days do I need in Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Two acclimatization is recommended for your Manaslu Cirucit Trek. One at Lho Gaun(3180m) and thet other at Samagaon(3500m). You can rest and acclimatize your body with highest elavations before ascending to Larkya Pass(5106m). These two days acclimatization in Manaslu Cirucit Trek will help you conquer over Larkya Pass conveniently.

The first acclimatization day is either at Namrung (2,630 m) or Lho (3,180 m). Lho is the more popular option among trekkers. A typical side hike is to Ribung Monastery or higher up to Shyala (3,500 m), with close-up views of Manaslu. The round trip distance is approximately 4–5 km.

The second acclimatization day is at Samagaun (3,530 m). The finest excursion is to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m). It is a full-day excursion for 10–12 km. For a shorter excursion, there is Birendra Lake (3,650 m), just 1.5 km.

These acclimatization excursions help you adapt before crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). Don't skip them.

Proper acclimatization in Manaslu Circuit Trek increases safety and enjoyment on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

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Are you planning to do some Side Trips during your Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Allocate Extra 2 days for Side Trips

If you have an extra two days on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, take a side excursion to Kal Tal or Pung Gyen Gompa.

Option 1: Kal Tal (3,680 m) – From Prok (2,380 m), hike 10 km (one-way, 5–6 hours). Kal Tal is hidden alpine lake with wide Manaslu, Himalchuli, and glacier views. The climb is more challenging but less crowded and more rewarding. Camp or return to Prok.

Option 2: Pung Gyen Gompa (4,000 m) – A day hike from Shyala (3,500 m) or Sama Gaon (3,520 m). It's a 6–7 km round trip (4–5 hours). The monastery lies beneath Manaslu's east face and offers stunning glacier views. It's excellent for acclimatization.

Both options enhance acclimatization and immersion. Kal Tal gives distant wildness scenery. Pung Gyen Gompa offers spiritual depth and sheer ridges. Both side trips trekking options are non-technical and require humble fitness during Manaslu Circuit Trek. Take snacks, water, and layers. Start early to avoid the afternoon winds.

Allocate Extra 2 days for Unforeseen Circumstances

You need to include 2 buffer days for flexibility in your Manaslu Circuit Trek. The trekking is about 177 km long and includes a high point at Larkya La Pass (5,160m). You can complete Manaslu Circuit Trek in 12-14 days. But, Unforeseen circumstances can delay the itinerary.

Weather delays are probable, especially in the area around Samagaon (3,530m) and Dharamsala (4,460m). Snow or rain can either block the path or delay the Larkya La crossing.

Altitude sickness may slow down the pace, especially above 3,000m, requiring extra acclimatization days. Altitude symptoms may appear near Namrung (2,630m) or Samdo (3,875m).Landslides and road blockades between Machha Khola (930m) and Jagat (1,340m) may affect transport or walking days.

Medical issues or accidents may require short breaks or backtracking. Trekkers typically spend an extra day in Samagaon resting for recovery or acclimatization.

Additional 2 days offer security, minimize stress, and enhance your overall trekking experience. Prepare well for a more comfortable and flexible Manaslu Circuit trip.

One more day for Kathmandu World Heritage Sites Tour

Spend an additional day visiting Kathmandu's seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Go to Kathmandu Durbar Square (1,400 m), just 2 km from Thamel, for ancient temples and palaces. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), just 3 km away on a hill at 1,370 m, has a panoramic view of the city. Pashupatinath Temple, 5 km east at 1,340 m, shows Nepal's sacred Hindu ceremonies. Go to Boudhanath Stupa (1,360 m), 2 km from Pashupatinath, to observe Tibetan Buddhist culture. In Patan (5 km south, 1,310 m), find affluent Newari architecture. Visit Bhaktapur (12 km east, 1,400 m) for medieval squares and pottery streets. Add Changunarayan Temple (6 km from Bhaktapur, 1,500 m), Nepal's oldest temple. This cultural excursion allows you to connect with Nepal's history, art, and spiritual life. Adding this additional day enhances your appreciation before trekking or traveling elsewhere.You can do this Kathmandu Day Tour to World Heritage Sites before you begin Manaslu circuit Trek and after you wrap it up. Both options are fine for you.

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Extra Day for Nagarkot Sunrise with Mt. Everest View

Spend an additional day to view sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot (2,175 m), 28 km east of Kathmandu. Watch Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and over 20 Himalayan peaks on clear mornings. Sunrise casts golden colors in Langtang, Ganesh, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar ranges. Drive takes about 1.5 hours. Wake up early and reach the view tower before sunrise for greatest views. Early morning after sunrise, breakfast amidst scenery and take optional treks to Changunarayan (4 hours, easy downhill only). The serene environment offers a peaceful respite from the pandemonium of Kathmandu. Homestays and local hotels provide cozy mountain lodging. The extra day adds peace and scenic grandeur to your trip. It is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who wishes to catch glimpses of Everest without trekking.

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You can see Mt. Everest from Nagarkot if you allocated just an extra during your Manaslu Cirucit Trek in Nepal.

How long is the drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola?

Travel distance between Kathmandu and Machha Khola is approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles), which typically ranges between 8 and 10 hours, based on traffic congestion and road surface condition. It begins in Kathmandu with an elevation of 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) above sea level and decreases to reach Machha Khola, where it is roughly 870 meters (2,854 feet) elevation above the sea level. The drive takes the Prithvi Highway, passing through Malekhu and Dhading Besi towns, before taking the rough road to Arughat, Soti Khola, and finally Machha Khola.This drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola is a scenic journey through Nepal's diverse landscapes, terraced fields, rural villages, and river valleys. Although the initial stretch to Dhading Besi is blacktop, the subsequent portions become increasingly rough, especially after Salyantar and Arughat, where the road is unpaved and rocky, especially during the monsoon season when there can be landslides. Despite the rugged conditions, the drive treats travelers to a taste of Nepali rural areas and serves as an introduction to the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which begins at Machha Khola.

How long is the drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu?

The drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu is approximately 175 to 177 kilometers, typically taking 5 to 7 hours under usual road and traffic conditions. Besisahar, at an altitude of around 760 meters, serves as a transit for the Annapurna Circuit. The journey to Kathmandu, 1,400 meters in elevation above sea level, follows the Prithvi Highway, passing through towns like Khanikhola, Naubise, Malekhu, Dumre and Mugling, with backdrop views of rice paddies and the Marsyangdi River.

For comparison, a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola takes about 140 to 160 kilometers and takes between 8 to 10 hours by jeep or bus. The trip involves Dhading Besi, Aarughat, and Soti Khola with road types varying between paved roads and bumpy off-road. Machha Khola at an elevation of about 870 meters is a favorite starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

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Final Words

The trek from Machhakhola to Dharapani in Manaslu Circuit Trek takes about 180 km and takes typically 12 to 14 days of trekking, with 2 necessary acclimatization days—normally in Samagaon and Namrung/Lho. The Manaslu trek traverses Larke Pass (5,106m), requiring gradual increase in altitude for safety reasons.Include 2 travel days by road: one from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and one from Dharapani to Kathmandu, via Besisahar. Some include 1 or 2 buffer days in case of weather delays or rest. A Kathmandu sightseeing tour prior to or after trekking is 1–2 days, visiting major UNESCO attractions.

Overall, budget for 17 to 18 days for the entire and real experience of Manaslu Cirucit. The trekkers should allow 2 working weeks (14 working days) to complete the trek comfortably, keeping in mind traveling and some extra days (2-3). This time ( 14-16) days provides sufficient acclimatization, safer trekking, and room for cultural exploration or unforeseen setbacks during Manaslu Cirucit Trek.

Author

Krishna Thapa

This article originally appeared on the Haven Holidays Nepal Blog and has been republished here with permission.

About Haven Holidays Nepal:
Haven Holidays is a Kathmandu-based trekking and tour company offering tailor-made trekking packages in Nepal including Langtang Valley, Annapurna Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, and Everest Base Camp. Visit www.havenholidaysnepal.com to start planning your next trek.