How to Make a Booking
To book your trip, simply find and click on the “Customise Your Trip” button at the top and fill in your preferred travel dates, group size, and any special requests. Once we receive your details, our team will get back to you promptly.
Alternatively, you can click “
ReserveNow” to secure your spot directly.
Let us help you plan your perfect Himalayan adventure.
What Makes Your Journey with Us Different?
At Himalayan Ecological Trekking, we believe tourism should be a force for good, and that takes responsibility for the land and its people. Beyond the breathtaking views, your trip supports our mission of Responsible Tourism. For over 25 years, we have reinvested in the remote regions we explore, ensuring your journey supports the land and its people. We take great pride in our long-standing history of community support in Nepal. We have transformed rural education by developing 7 regional schools. Beyond the classroom, we bring vital healthcare to remote hill areas and empower the trekking community through Porter's Progress, an initiative dedicated to providing porters with the gear they need for the trail.
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Proven Commitment: Since 2009, we have built and restored multiple earthquake-resistant schools in rural regions like Dhading and Sindhupalchowk.
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A Commitment to Sustainability: We are among the few operators with a formal, transparent Sustainability Policy. We don't just follow procedures; we set standards for socially and environmentally conscious travel.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Map

Manaslu Circuit Trek Elevation / Altitude

Manaslu Circuit Itineraries Options:
Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days
Day 1: Kathmandu/ Drive to Machkhola
Day 2: Machakhola/ Trek to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat/ Deng
Day 4: Deng/Namrung
Day 5: Namrung/ Shyala
Day 6: Shyala/Sama (via Pungyen)
Day 7: Sama Rest (Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp)
Day 8: Sama/ Samdo
Day 9: Samdo/ Dharmasala
Day 10: Dharmasala/ Bhimtang (via Larkya La)
Day 11: Bhimtang/ Dharapani
Day 12: Dharapani/ Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara
The price is per person, 750 USD for two people
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek 18 Days
Day 1: Kathmandu/ Drive to Machha Khola
Day 2: Machakhola/ Trek to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat/ Lokpa
Day 4: Lokpa/ Chumling
Day 5: Chumling/ Chhokangparo
Day 6: Chhokangparo/ Nile
Day 7: Acclimatisation Day at Nile - Hike to Mu Gompa
Day 8: Nile/ Chuling
Day 9: Chumling/ Deng
Day 10: Deng/ Namrung
Day 11: Namrung/ Shyala
Day 12: Shyala/ Sama Gaon
Day 13: Sama Gaon/ Samdo
Day 14: Acclimatisation day: Side Trip hike to Rui La (Tibetan Border)
Day 15: Samdo/ Dharamshala
Day 16: Dharmasala/ Bhimtang Via Larke-La (5106m/ 16751ft)
Day 17: Bhimtang/ Dharapani
Day 18: Dharapni/ Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara
Join our group departing on 22 April for the Manslu Tsum Valley 18-days itinerary above. Feel free to drop us message for cost and details. We provide most competitive prices and high-end service.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Hidden Route
Day 1: Kathmandu/ Drive to Machha Khola
Day 2: Machakhola/ Trek to Jagat
Day 3: Jagat/ Lokpa
Day 4: Lokpa/ Ripchet
Day 5: Ripchet/ Gumba Lungdang
Day 8: Day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp; Back to Gumba Lungdang
Day 9: Gumba Lungdang/ Lamagaon
Day 10: Rest Day, visit the Monasteries and Milarepa cave
Day 11: Lamagaon/ Mu gumba
Day 12: Visit Chho Syong and Trek to Rachen Gumba
Day 13: Rachen Gumba/ Chumling
Day 14: Chumling to Thorjong
Day 15: Thorjong/ Bihi Phedi (Joined Manaslu Route)
Day 16: Visit the Serang gumba after lunch; then to Prok
Day 17: Day trip to Kal tal (3574m), back to Prok
Day 18: Prok/ Namrung
Day 19: Namrung to Shyala
Day 20: Shyala/ Sama via Pung Gyen Gompa
Day 21: Sama to Samdo via Birendra Lake
Day 22: Rest day, or Hike to Tibetan border or Samdo Peak
Day 23: Samdo/ Dharamsala
Day 24: Dharamsala/ Bhimthang via Larke-pass(5106m)
Day 25: Bhimthang/ Dharapani
Day 26: Dharapani/ Drive to Kathmandu or Pokhara
If the itineraries above don’t quite fit your timeframe and preferences, we can adjust or create one that suits you.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Packing List
Documents & Essentials
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Visa (Nepal)
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Trekking permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit - MCAP, Chumnubri Rural Village Permit) (Taken care of by the Company)
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Travel insurance (covering trekking & high-altitude). Provide 1 copy to the company
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Cash for personal expenses (Nepali Rupees; ATMs are limited along the trail)
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Flight tickets/itinerary
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Emergency contact list & copies of documents
1. Clothing
Base Layers:
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Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short & long-sleeve)
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Thermal tops and bottoms
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Lightweight trekking pants
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Underwear and quick-dry socks (several pairs)
Insulation Layer:
Outer Layer:
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Waterproof & windproof jacket (Gore-Tex recommended)
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Waterproof trekking pants
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Warm hat and sun hat
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Gloves (thermal & waterproof)
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Buff or neck gaiter
Footwear:
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Sturdy trekking boots (well-broken-in)
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Comfortable camp shoes/sandals
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Gaiters (optional, for snow/mud)
2. Trekking Gear
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Daypack (25–35L)
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Sleeping bag (rated to −10°C/14°F or more) (Provided by Company if needed)
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Trekking poles (collapsible) (Provided by Company if needed)
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Sunglasses (UV protection)
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Water bottles or hydration system (2–3 L capacity) (Provided by Company if needed)
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Water purification tablets/filter (Provided by Company if needed)
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Personal trekking map & compass / GPS (Provided by Company)
3. Personal Items
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Sunscreen (high SPF) & lip balm
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Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap)
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Quick-dry towel
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Toilet paper/tissue packs
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Hand sanitizer
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Personal medications & first-aid kit (blister plasters, bandages, painkillers) (Basic first-aid) Aid Kit is also carried by Guide)
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Sleeping liner (optional, for teahouse hygiene)
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Trekking snacks (nuts, energy bars)
4. Electronics
5. Optional Extras
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Lightweight binoculars
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Notebook & pen
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Playing cards / small games
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Small daypack for side excursions
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Microspikes/crampons (if trekking during icy conditions) (Provided by Company if needed)
Tips for Packing
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Layering is key: temperatures vary from tropical valleys to alpine zones.
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Limit your backpack to 12–15 kg for comfort.
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Bring only essentials during the trek. You can store excess luggage at Kathmandu hotel or at our office for free.
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Choose quick-dry and moisture-wicking fabrics.
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Keep electronics and documents in waterproof pouches.
What is the best time for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
The best seasons to trek in Manaslu are autumn and spring. A little cold weather at night, but warm and clear days and clear views of the spectacular mountain ranges. Often clouds appear in the afternoon, creating an interesting atmosphere and different but no less stunning views of the mountains.
Each Season has its own pros and cons. Choose your timing carefully for the best experience:
Spring Season (March-May):
- Clear mountain views after winter storms
- Rhododendron blooms in lower elevations
- Moderate temperatures and stable weather
- Good visibility for photography
- Slightly crowded but manageable
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Spring
Autumn Season (September-November):
- Crystal clear mountain views
- Stable weather conditions
- Perfect temperatures for trekking
- Dry trails and reliable tea house services
- Peak season with more trekkers
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Autumn
Winter Season (December-February):
- Extremely cold temperatures at high altitude
- Snow on Larkya La Pass
- Limited tea house services
- Challenging conditions but fewer crowds
- Requires extensive cold-weather gear
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Winter
Monsoon Season (June-August):
- Heavy rainfall and leeches in the lower sections
- Cloud cover obscuring mountain views
- Risk of landslides and trail washouts
- Generally not recommended for trekking
- Some tea houses may close
Manaslu Circuit Trek in Summer-Monsoon
Choose spring or autumn for the best combination of weather, views, and services along the route.
Best Time for Manaslu Circuit
Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature by Seasons

How difficult is the Manaslu trek?
The Manaslu circuit trek is considered moderately difficult. The trail slowly ascends into the mountain areas, and we slowly gain altitude. Some of the walking days may be lengthy, particularly the day when crossing the Larke-La pass is a long day, and you need to be able to walk on rugged, steep terrain.
Can I do a trek without a guide?
Trekking in most of the Manaslu area without a guide is not possible. It is a restricted zone, and as per the law of the Nepal government, a licensed guide and special permit are compulsory for the safety and security of trekkers.
What kind of permit is required for the Manaslu Circuit trek?
Travelling to the Manaslu region requires a special permit and a group of at least two trekkers. Because the trekking region is in a remote part of Nepal and is relatively high in altitude, there is a risk that trekkers get lost or suffer from altitude sickness. To avoid these situations, the Nepalese government has made a guide and special permit compulsory for trekking in this region.
You will need four permits for this trek, in fact:

- Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit (CRMP)
What is the cost of the required permits and fees for the Manaslu circuit trek?
- Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP Permit): the cost varies according to the season. From September to November, it is USD 100 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 15. The rest of the year (December-August) costs USD 75 for 7 days, and each extra day costs USD 10.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit): 3000 NPR
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit): 3000 NPR
- Chumnubri Rural Municipality Permit
What is the highest point on the Manaslu circuit trek?
At 5160 meters (16929 feet) above sea level, the Larkya La Pass reaches the highest elevation point during the Manaslu Circuit trek. The remarkable panorama of surrounding mountains strikes trekkers at this tricky elevation region because of the demanding mountainous conditions and tall elevations that exceed 5000 meters.

How can I prevent getting altitude sickness?
This is a guided trek, and you will be accompanied by one of Nepal's experienced trekking guides who knows how to recognize altitude sickness (as there may be other physical conditions as well with similar symptoms) and who knows what to do. They will take very good care of you.
In general, you must climb up slowly not much more than 500 meters (altitude of night stay) per day. Drink plenty of water and avoid smoking and drinking liquor. If symptoms of altitude sickness are observed, climb slowly or stop for a rest day (depending on intensity), allowing your body to adjust. If symptoms persist and/or get worse, you must move to a lower altitude to avoid life-threatening conditions.
How are Emergencies Handled?
At HET, your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid, altitude awareness, and emergency response, enabling them to act calmly and effectively in any unexpected situation. They maintain regular contact via mobile or satellite communication, ensuring quick coordination of assistance even in remote areas. All field teams are supported by our Kathmandu office, which provides 24/7 backup for logistics, medical guidance, and emergency decision-making.
Prevention is key on all our treks. We conduct daily health check-ins, build acclimatisation days into our itineraries, and provide clear guidance on hydration, nutrition, and pacing. For minor problems, our team offers immediate first aid on the trail. For mild altitude sickness, trekkers receive rest, fluids, and medication such as acetazolamide if prescribed. If symptoms continue or intensify, the safest and most effective approach is to descend to a lower altitude, which typically eases the condition quickly.
HET also provides small bottled oxygen with a mask for emergencies, ensuring trekkers have supplemental support when needed. In more serious cases, trekkers may be escorted to nearby health posts in Namrung, Samagaun, or Samdo, or other villages along the route such as Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Bhimtang, and Dharapani, where basic medical care and oxygen are available.
For critical situations, including severe altitude illness or injury, HET arranges helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu, working with trusted rescue providers to ensure timely and professional treatment. We strongly recommend that all trekkers have travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation, which makes the rescue process smoother.
With HET, there is a clear, practical plan in place for every scenario, so you can focus on enjoying the Manaslu Circuit with confidence and peace of mind.
Do we need to arrange our own international flights to and from Nepal?
Yes, travellers are responsible for booking their own international flights. To make planning easier, we recommend using reliable flight search engines or checking airlines with frequent service to Nepal, such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, or Nepal Airlines.
Who will meet me at the airport upon arrival?
A welcoming HET team representative will meet you at the airport, holding a sign with your name or our company name for easy identification. They’ll assist with your luggage and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.

How much can a porter carry?
For safety and comfort, each porter carries 20–25 kg. Typically, this means around 10–12 kg per trekker when one porter carries the bags of two trekkers along with their own items. We recommend keeping your pack within this limit and leaving any extra luggage at your hotel or with the trekking company.

What type of insurance do I need, and how do I get it?
Travel insurance is important for high-altitude routes like the Manaslu Circuit, which reaches Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. Your policy must include medical evacuation coverage for the trek’s maximum elevation, as helicopter rescues are often the only option in serious emergencies. Good insurance can also cover additional costs such as flight delays or cancellations due to bad weather, medical treatment, theft, or loss of personal belongings during the trek. It’s important to share a copy of your insurance policy with the tour operator so we can assist effectively if needed.
Carry both digital and printed copies of your policy and save your provider’s emergency contact details for quick access. Comprehensive insurance provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the trek’s stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. Providers such as World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, and SafetyWing offer coverage suitable for high-altitude trekking, including medical emergencies, evacuation, and protection for your gear. Be aware that insurance purchased through airlines when booking flights usually does not cover high-altitude medical evacuation, so always check the fine print to confirm altitude limits and emergency evacuation coverage.
Food and accommodation on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Because it is a restricted region and still relatively off the beaten path, there are a limited number of simple tea houses on the way, although the number has been increasing in recent years. As for food, they will usually provide cereals (mostly muesli), toasted bread, eggs, or pancakes for breakfast and soups, pasta, sandwiches, and potato dishes, as well as traditional Nepali daal bhaat (a dish of rice, lentils, and vegetable curry). Although other items are available, we recommend sticking mostly with local food, like daal bhaat or potatoes, as this is usually safe and people know how to prepare it.
What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bags provided to trekkers?
The sleeping bags we provide are rated for temperatures as low as -25°C. Additionally, our guides can arrange extra blankets from teahouses if needed for added warmth.
I’m a vegetarian. Is that a problem?
Not at all! We fully accommodate vegetarian diets on the Manaslu Circuit and all our treks. Simply let us know in advance, and we’ll make sure your meals suit your dietary preferences throughout the trek.
Choosing vegetarian meals can also help reduce the risk of food-related illness or indigestion, especially in remote areas.
Is travel insurance required for this trek?
Yes, travel insurance is a must for those trekking in remote regions of Nepal. It is for trekkers’ safety and security and is used only in exceptional emergency cases. The insurance should cover medical emergency cases, including helicopter evacuation.
Also, emergency insurance is required for the crew (guide and porters) which is covered by HET. As serious and responsible trekking agency we ensure that all of its crew members are properly insured and adequately equipped for the trek.
How long does it take to complete the Manaslu circuit trek?
Most travellers estimate a 12- to 18-day trip to complete the Manaslu Circuit trek. The duration of the trek can be adjusted according to your bodily adjustment needs for altitude, along with optional Tsum Valley exploration time.
What are the ATM and currency exchange options in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu has a wide range of ATMs and currency exchange services. Most ATMs accept international cards, though withdrawal limits and fees may apply. Currency exchange counters are also plentiful, generally offering competitive rates.
Do you provide accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara?
Yes, we can arrange accommodation in Kathmandu at boutique hotels such as Hotel Vistara, Hotel Vajra, and Ramada Encore, chosen for their comfort, reliable service, and convenient locations. Please note that these hotel stays are not included in the package price we have provided and would be booked separately at the best price.
Should I tip my guide and porter? If so, how much?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s a customary way to show appreciation for your guide and porter’s effort and dedication. The amount depends on the trek’s length and difficulty, your group size, and the level of service provided.
For a 13-day Manaslu Circuit trek, you can tip based on daily rates:
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Guide: $10–$15 per day
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Porter: $5–$10 per day
Alternatively, some trekkers prefer to tip 10–15% of the total trek cost, which also works well for longer or more challenging treks. Tipping is voluntary and meant as a gesture of gratitude. If your guide and porter go above and beyond, you may choose to give a little extra.
Cultural Etiquette while Trekking in the Manaslu Region
When trekking the Manaslu Circuit or visiting any part of Nepal, being aware of local customs and cultural norms helps ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.
Here are some important guidelines for visitors:
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Respect local traditions and customs.
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Remove your shoes before entering homes, monasteries, or temples.
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Be polite, patient, and courteous with locals.
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Respect religious beliefs and practices.
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Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially in villages or of people.
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Protect the environment—avoid littering or damaging natural sites.
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Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
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Refrain from public displays of affection, such as kissing.
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Use your right hand when giving or receiving items or shaking hands.
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Avoid taking photos in areas where signs indicate it is prohibited.
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Do not touch idols or sacred objects in temples and monasteries.
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Remember that English may not be widely spoken in remote villages.
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Avoid giving money to begging children; support local communities through responsible tourism instead.
Following these simple practices will help you enjoy the Manaslu Circuit while showing respect for the local culture and traditions.

Need Help Planning Manaslu Circuit Trek or Tsum Valley, or both?
We understand that every trekker has a different pace, comfort level, and goal, so we customise each trek accordingly. Message us at our email or WhatsApp, and we will be happy to share a tailored itinerary and cost based on your needs. Contact Us Directly: Please feel free to Email [email protected] or WhatsApp +977 9851006023 (Bikesh) for questions, online briefing, bookings and inquiries.