--- title: "Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026/27: Itinerary, Cost & Permits" description: "Plan the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a detailed 15-day itinerary, 2026/27 cost, permits, Larkya La route, difficulty, altitude and advice from local Nepal…" canonical: "https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit" --- # Manaslu Circuit Trek Follow the Budhi Gandaki from the road-supported Machha Khola approach through Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho, Samagaun and Samdo, then cross Larkya La and descend toward Bimthang and Dharapani. [View itinerary](#recommended-itinerary)[Check price & availability](#manaslu-trek-cost) Restricted-area permit handling · Two acclimatization days · Confirm current roadhead, pass conditions and price with the local team **15 days**Core Kathmandu plan **2 days**Acclimatization **5,106 m**Larkya La **Strenuous**Difficulty **~177 km**Route estimate **Machha Khola**Common trailhead **Dharapani**Walking finish **Teahouses**Accommodation **RAP + MCAP + ACAP**Core permits **Guide + TIMS**Separate requirement **Mar–May / Sep–Nov**Main seasons **Private / group**Departure format Current information ✓ Last checked: 21 Aug 2026 Roadhead, restricted-area fees, TIMS procedure, guide rules, trail conditions, lodge capacity, weather and package pricing. [Official sources ↗](https://ntb.gov.np/plan-your-trip/before-you-come/tims-card)[What to recheck →](/data-methodology) Details and source context Status Manaslu route, permit and package details are dated planning information Applies to Manaslu Circuit Trek planning Last checked 21 Aug 2026 About the Manaslu Circuit Trek ## A point-to-point circuit through the Budhi Gandaki and over Larkya La The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows the Budhi Gandaki north from the road-supported Machha Khola approach into a restricted mountain region shaped by river gorge, forest, cultivated terraces, Tibetan-influenced villages and high pasture. The trail reaches the Jagat checkpoint, then continues through Deng, Namrung and Lho before opening around Samagaun beneath Mount Manaslu. Samagaun is the first real high-valley base: a second night allows a measured acclimatization outing to Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa or part of the Manaslu Base Camp approach, depending on fitness, weather and the guide’s judgment. The next stage to Samdo is shorter but still raises sleeping altitude to about 3,860 metres, and a second acclimatization night is valuable before the move to Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi. Pass day begins early from the basic high camp, climbs through cold and exposed terrain to Larkya La at approximately 5,106 metres, and continues with a long descent toward Bimthang. The circuit then moves through forest and lower villages to Tilije and Dharapani, where the walking route meets the Annapurna road network. This is not an untouched or isolated landscape: villages, lodges, roads and established trekking services are part of the route. It is generally quieter and less infrastructure-heavy than the busiest Everest and Annapurna corridors, but the trade-off is rougher access, simpler accommodation, fewer recovery options above Samagaun and a more consequential pass day. A balanced company plan takes 15 days from Kathmandu, with two acclimatization days and a separate road return. It suits fit trekkers who can handle consecutive 5–7 hour stages, basic teahouses, uneven lower-valley trail, high sleeping elevations and a flexible decision if snow, wind, health or road conditions change. [Read the complete 15-day itinerary →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-itinerary) Route highlights ## Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights Village sequence, acclimatization and the pass day define this trek more usefully than broad scenery claims. 01 ### Follow the Budhi Gandaki from Machha Khola through Jagat, Deng, Namrung and Lho 02 ### Spend two acclimatization days at Samagaun and Samdo before the high camp 03 ### Choose a measured Samagaun outing to Birendra Lake, Pungyen Gompa or part of the Base Camp approach 04 ### Cross Larkya La at approximately 5,106 metres, then descend into Bimthang 05 ### Move from Tibetan-influenced villages and alpine pasture toward the Annapurna road network 06 ### Finish the walking circuit at Dharapani and separate the rough exit road from the Kathmandu return Balanced package route ## Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary – 15 Days Two acclimatization days stay in the plan. Day 11 is the high pass crossing; the route does not treat Larkya La as an appointment that must be forced. 01 **Kathmandu → Machha Khola**Road / transfer · Sleep about 900 m · Long jeep day **+** Common vehicle-supported start; keep essentials in the cabin. Sleeping altitude about 900 m Walking / transport Long jeep day Accommodation Hotel / as arranged Meals As arranged 02 **Machha Khola → Jagat**Trekking day · Sleep about 1,340 m · 6–7 h walk **+** River crossings, steps and rough lower-valley ground. Sleeping altitude about 1,340 m Walking / transport 6–7 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 03 **Jagat → Deng**Trekking day · Sleep about 1,800 m · 6–7 h walk **+** Gain height without a large sleeping-altitude jump. Sleeping altitude about 1,800 m Walking / transport 6–7 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 04 **Deng → Namrung**Trekking day · Sleep about 2,630 m · 6–7 h walk **+** Longer forest stage into the upper Budhi Gandaki. Sleeping altitude about 2,630 m Walking / transport 6–7 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 05 **Namrung → Lho**Trekking day · Sleep about 3,180 m · 3–4 h walk **+** Shorter stage protects recovery above 3,000 m. Sleeping altitude about 3,180 m Walking / transport 3–4 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 06 **Lho → Samagaun**Trekking day · Sleep about 3,530 m · 4–5 h walk **+** Reach the main acclimatisation village. Sleeping altitude about 3,530 m Walking / transport 4–5 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 07 **Samagaun acclimatisation**Acclimatization day · Sleep about 3,530 m · 3–6 h hike **+** Gain daytime height and return to the same bed. Sleeping altitude about 3,530 m Walking / transport 3–6 h hike Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 08 **Samagaun → Samdo**Trekking day · Sleep about 3,860 m · 3–4 h walk **+** Move higher without racing. Sleeping altitude about 3,860 m Walking / transport 3–4 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 09 **Samdo acclimatisation**Acclimatization day · Sleep about 3,860 m · 2–4 h hike **+** Check recovery before the high camp. Sleeping altitude about 3,860 m Walking / transport 2–4 h hike Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 10 **Samdo → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi**Trekking day · Sleep about 4,460 m · 4–5 h walk **+** Arrive early and prepare for the cold pass day. Sleeping altitude about 4,460 m Walking / transport 4–5 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 11 **Dharamsala → Larkya La → Bimthang**Pass day · Sleep about 3,590 m · 8–10 h walk **+** Highest and longest stage; use a real turnaround plan. Sleeping altitude about 3,590 m Walking / transport 8–10 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 12 **Bimthang → Tilije**Trekking day · Sleep about 2,300 m · 5–6 h walk **+** Long descent on tired legs. Sleeping altitude about 2,300 m Walking / transport 5–6 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 13 **Tilije → Dharapani**Trekking day · Sleep about 1,860 m · 4–5 h walk **+** Finish the main trail and confirm the road exit. Sleeping altitude about 1,860 m Walking / transport 4–5 h walk Accommodation Teahouse lodge, subject to current capacity Meals Use the current package quotation 14 **Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu**Road / transfer · Sleep Kathmandu · Long road day **+** Keep the rough exit away from an international flight. Sleeping altitude Kathmandu Walking / transport Long road day Accommodation Hotel / as arranged Meals As arranged 15 **Kathmandu buffer / departure**Road / transfer · Sleep Kathmandu · Flexible day **+** Absorb a late road arrival or weather change. Sleeping altitude Kathmandu Walking / transport Flexible day Accommodation Hotel / as arranged Meals As arranged [Open the detailed itinerary guide →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-itinerary) Route and elevation ## Manaslu Circuit Trek Route Map The current standard sequence is Kathmandu → Machha Khola → Jagat → Deng → Namrung → Lho → Samagaun → Samdo → Dharamsala → Larkya La → Bimthang → Tilije → Dharapani, followed by the Besisahar and Kathmandu road return. - 01 **Kathmandu → Machha Khola**about 900 m - 02 **Machha Khola → Jagat**about 1,340 m - 03 **Jagat → Deng**about 1,800 m - 04 **Deng → Namrung**about 2,630 m - 05 **Namrung → Lho**about 3,180 m - 06 **Lho → Samagaun**about 3,530 m - 07 **Samagaun acclimatisation**about 3,530 m - 08 **Samagaun → Samdo**about 3,860 m - 09 **Samdo acclimatisation**about 3,860 m - 10 **Samdo → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi**about 4,460 m - 11 **Dharamsala → Larkya La → Bimthang**about 3,590 m - 12 **Bimthang → Tilije**about 2,300 m - 13 **Tilije → Dharapani**about 1,860 m - 14 **Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu**Kathmandu - 15 **Kathmandu buffer / departure**Kathmandu Manaslu Circuit Trek Elevation Profile **Kathmandu **Machha Khola **Jagat **Deng **Namrung **Lho **Samagaun acclimatisation **Samagaun **Samdo acclimatisation **Samdo **Dharamsala **Bimthang **Tilije **Larkya La 5,106 m The profile shows overnight elevations from the itinerary. Larkya La is a daytime high point, not a sleeping altitude. Use the [route map guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-map) and [altitude profile guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-altitude-profile) for the detailed reference set. Samagaun acclimatization day ## Choose the side trip that matches the group’s recovery. Samagaun is not a sightseeing checklist. Birendra Lake is the gentler acclimatization option. Pungyen Gompa (also written Pung Gyen) requires a longer valley outing. A fuller Manaslu Base Camp approach reaches higher, involves rougher moraine and is not automatically appropriate for every group. The guide should choose the objective after checking sleep, appetite, headache, coordination, weather and the time needed to return for food and rest. A side trip is successful when the group returns symptom-free and ready for the next day, not when it reaches the highest possible point. [Samagaun acclimatization stage →](/manaslu-circuit/samagaun-acclimatisation)[Birendra Lake guide →](/manaslu-circuit/birendra-lake)[Manaslu Base Camp guidance →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-base-camp) Crossing Larkya La ## The pass day is strenuous trekking, not technical climbing—and not an easy day. Larkya La rises from Dharamsala at about 4,460 metres to approximately 5,106 metres before the route descends through exposed and often uneven ground toward Bimthang. A typical crossing takes about 8–10 hours in the current itinerary framework, with an early start, cold wind, possible snow or ice, limited shelter and no dependable service across the pass. Carry the headlamp, warm gloves, shell, water, sunglasses, breakfast or high-energy food where you can reach them. The guide should review recent crossings, forecast, snow, visibility and group health the evening before and agree on a turnaround time. The descent is part of the hard work: knees and balance are tired at the point where the terrain remains loose, steep and exposed. Do not confuse the published daytime high with a place where anyone sleeps. [Read the full Larkya La guide →](/manaslu-circuit/larkya-la-pass-guide) If Larkya La is unsafe ## A pass decision protects the group’s return as much as the crossing. If snow, wind, visibility, trail condition or health makes Larkya La unsafe, the guide may wait when Samdo or Dharamsala has suitable shelter, supplies and a credible short-weather window. Dharamsala is a basic seasonal high camp, so an indefinite hold is not a safe default. The group may descend toward Samdo and, if necessary, reverse the Budhi Gandaki route while the agency coordinates road access, extra nights, staff days and the changed return plan. There is no simple like-for-like tourist bypass and helicopter rescue is not a routine transport solution. Ask before booking who authorizes a turnaround, which extra costs are yours, how the agency communicates a delay and how much buffer exists before an international flight. [See the closure and contingency protocol →](/manaslu-circuit/what-if-larkya-la-pass-is-closed) Package pricing ## Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2026/27 The current sellable package price depends on dates, group size, solo eligibility, private or group format, hotel category, road transport, guide and porter arrangement, meals and the exact permit inclusions. The current CMS record does not contain a live price, so this page does not turn the supporting guide’s planning ranges into a quotation. Standard 15-Day Package**from US$1,195**Per person (min 2 trekkers required for RAP), includes Machha Khola & Dharapani overland transfers, RAP + MCAP + ACAP permits, guide, porter & teahouses Small Group Departure (4–8 trekkers)**from US$1,050**Fixed departures with shared jeep transfers and group-efficiency savings on restricted-area permit logistics Single Room Supplement**+US$220**Guaranteed private room in Kathmandu & lower lodges; Dharamsala high camp is dormitory constrained Manaslu with Tsum Valley (21 Days)**from US$1,650**Comprehensive sacred valley extension including Tsum Valley RAP permit, Mu Gompa and Larkya La pass [Read the detailed cost guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-cost)[Request current price →](/contact?trip_interest=Manaslu%20Circuit%20Trek&source_path=%2Fmanaslu-circuit&entry_point=manaslu-cost#planning-enquiry) Permits, TIMS and guide rules ## Keep the three core permits separate from TIMS. The standard circuit uses the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the western exit. TIMS is a separate trekker registration, not a fourth restricted-area permit. Current Nepal Tourism Board guidance lists Manaslu Circuit among routes requiring a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS. The Department of Immigration publishes seasonal RAP fees, while NTNC publishes the conservation-area permit schedule; both should be checked for your nationality, dates and route before issue. The public rules do not resolve every solo or minimum-group application scenario in one clear English statement, so the agency must confirm the actual permit file rather than promise an unsupported workaround. [Current Manaslu permit fees and documents →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-permits)[Solo, guide and group rules →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-solo-without-guide) [Preparation ### How difficult is Manaslu? Separate physical effort from technical climbing →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-difficulty)[Health ### Altitude and acclimatization Read the Samagaun-to-pass progression →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-altitude-sickness)[Season ### Best time for Manaslu Compare snow, rain, lodges and road risk →](/manaslu-circuit/best-time-for-manaslu-circuit-trek)[Packing ### Packing for the pass Keep cold, water and safety layers accessible →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-packing-list) Access and trail life ## The roadhead and exit are part of the itinerary. The current common approach drives from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola, but older Soti Khola plans and shortened Jagat starts still appear in the market. Road damage, construction, landslides and vehicle changes can alter the point where walking begins; the operator should record a dated driver report before departure. After Dharapani, the route continues by rough mountain road toward Besisahar and then by highway to Kathmandu. Those are separate transfer stages, not one predictable travel time. On the trail, expect family-run teahouses with twin rooms, shared bathrooms, dining rooms and limited charging or Wi-Fi. Dharamsala has the narrowest margin for beds, food, water and power. Meals usually centre on dal bhat, noodles, rice, eggs, soups and tea, with less variety at altitude. Treat or buy safe water, carry cash, and keep medication, documents, food, warm layers and headlamp in your own day bag. [Transport and road conditions →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-transport-guide)[Accommodation, food and water →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-accommodation-food)[Dharapani return planning →](/manaslu-circuit/dharapani-to-kathmandu) Guide and porter support ## Support should be visible in the quotation and on the pass day. A guide is part of the route’s legal and operational system, not only a person who walks at the front. [Staff roles ### Guide versus porter-guide Compare licensing, load and emergency duties →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-guide-vs-guide-porter)[Budget ### Guide and porter cost Ask what staff pay, insurance and equipment include →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-guide-and-porter-cost)[Insurance ### Insurance for Manaslu Check remote altitude and evacuation wording →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-travel-insurance)[Operator ### Who maintains this guide Meet the named Kathmandu-based planning team →](/manaslu-circuit/dinesh-bhusal) Route options ## Choose the route before adding the extension. The standard circuit remains the primary product. Tsum Valley and shorter versions need their own permit, duration and recovery discussion. [Package ### Classic Manaslu Circuit Request the standard 15-day route →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-package)[Duration ### 13 days or 15 days? Compare efficiency with recovery margin →](/manaslu-circuit/13-vs-15-day-manaslu-itinerary)[Extension ### Manaslu with Tsum Valley Add a separate restricted-area valley →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-with-tsum-valley)[Compare ### Manaslu or Annapurna Circuit Compare permits, access and pass demands →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-vs-annapurna-circuit) Why trek Manaslu with us? ## A written route plan is only useful when the field decisions are clear. Amigo Treks’ Manaslu planning material is built around the decisions that affect a real departure: restricted-area paperwork through a Nepal-registered operator, a current roadhead check, two acclimatization nights, a conservative Larkya La call, teahouse coordination above Samagaun and a separate return buffer after Dharapani. Ask for the named guide, permit set, staff ratio, inclusions, insurance responsibilities, cancellation terms and pass or road-delay procedure in writing. No page can guarantee a crossing, road arrival or fixed price; the value of the booking is that the team has a clear next decision when the original plan no longer fits conditions. [Review the package questions before enquiring →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-package) Practical planning ## Keep the useful details close to the route. Larkya La weather windows, mountain jeep roads, Dharamsala high-camp realities, RAP regulations and cash buffers complete your preparation. ## The safety margin is in sleeping altitude and Larkya La pass pacing The Manaslu Circuit is a point-to-point high-altitude trek that circumnavigates Mount Manaslu (**8,163 m**), the world's eighth-highest peak. The supreme operational and physical challenge of the circuit is crossing **Larkya La** at **5,106 metres**. The safety margin on Manaslu is determined by acclimatization pacing in the upper Nupri valley. The balanced 15-day framework mandates two distinct acclimatization stops: - **Samagaun (3,530 m):** A second night here provides time for an acclimatization day-hike toward Birendra Lake (**3,691 m**), Pungyen Gompa (**4,050 m**) or Manaslu Base Camp approach (**4,400 m**). - **Samdo (3,860 m):** The last permanent Tibetan village before the pass, providing a crucial physiological stepping stone before ascending to high camp. The pass day begins from **Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)** between **04:00 AM and 05:00 AM** to beat afternoon high-altitude gusts, gale winds and cloud accumulation. The ascent crosses glacial moraine, frozen tarns and snowfields to the prayer-flag-strewn pass at 5,106 m, followed by a steep, knee-jarring 1,400-metre descent over loose scree and ice into **Bimthang (3,720 m)**. Trekkers should carry microspikes or crampons, headlamps with fresh lithium batteries, windproof outer shells and insulated gloves in their daypacks. Read the detailed [Larkya La pass guide](/manaslu-circuit/larkya-la-pass-guide) and [altitude guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-altitude-sickness). ## Overland Access and Mountain Roadhead Logistics Unlike Everest, Manaslu requires no domestic mountain flights. However, the ground transfer to and from the trailheads is an arduous operational phase: - **Kathmandu to Machha Khola (Trailhead):** An 8- to 9-hour journey covering roughly 160 km. The highway to Dhading Besi and Arughat is paved, but the remaining stretch along the Budhi Gandaki riverbed to Soti Khola and Machha Khola is an unpaved, single-lane dirt track requiring high-clearance 4WD jeeps. - **Dharapani to Kathmandu (Exit):** After crossing Larkya La and descending through Tilije to Dharapani (**1,860 m**), trekkers meet the rough Annapurna jeep road. The 4- to 5-hour drive down to Besisahar is rocky and bumpy, followed by a 5- to 6-hour paved drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Because monsoon landslides and river swelling can alter the point where vehicles can safely pass, itineraries must incorporate a flexible road cushion. Consult the [transportation guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-transport-guide) for current roadhead conditions. ## Accommodation and Daily Teahouse Living Lodges along the lower Budhi Gandaki (Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho) are traditional family-operated teahouses with twin rooms, wood-paneled walls and shared facilities. In upper villages like Lho and Samagaun, lodges reflect Tibetan Buddhist architecture with rooftop terraces framing sweeping vistas of Manaslu's twin summits. The most critical bottleneck is **Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi)** at 4,460 m. Dharamsala is not a permanent settlement, but a seasonal mountain high camp comprising basic stone shelters and pre-pitched dining tents. Rooms here are dormitory-style with multiple beds per room; during peak autumn departures, space is constrained and trekkers may sleep in shared dining areas or sturdy mountain tents. Indoor heating is absent in bedrooms across the entire circuit. A **four-season sleeping bag rated to -15°C (0°F)** is non-negotiable. For a stage-by-stage review of lodge amenities, consult the [accommodation guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-accommodation-food). ## Food, Hydration and Trail Health Meals along the circuit are prepared fresh to order in teahouse kitchens using local ingredients: - **Dal bhat:** The core staple throughout the trek, served with seasonal spinach, potato curry, lentil broth and tomato chutney. - **Tibetan mountain staples:** Tsampa porridge (roasted barley flour), buckwheat roti, Sherpa potato pancakes and steaming bowls of vegetable thukpa or thenthuk. - **Garlic and ginger tea:** Essential hot drinks consumed morning and evening to maintain hydration and promote peripheral circulation at sub-zero temperatures. Meat options become scarce and unhygienic above Jagat due to the absence of trail refrigeration and the Buddhist sanctity of animal life in Nupri. Stick strictly to a vegetarian diet throughout the trek. Carry a lightweight water filter (such as a Katadyn BeFree or Sawyer Squeeze) alongside chlorine dioxide purification drops, as boiling water at high camps consumes precious kerosene and firewood. Review nutritional guidance in the [food and water guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-accommodation-food). ## Trail-Life Out-of-Pocket Costs and Cash Requirements Package pricing covers vehicle hire, restricted-area permits, conservation fees, guide and porter salaries, lodge rooms and scheduled meals. Incidentals on the trail must be paid in Nepalese Rupees (NPR): Swipe to view table → | Trail Amenity | Typical Cost (NPR) | Approximate USD | Operational Reality | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Hot Shower (Gas / Solar / Bucket) | NPR 400–700 | $3.00–$5.25 | Gas/solar down valley; bucket of hot water at Dharamsala | | Device / Power Bank Charging | NPR 300–600 | $2.25–$4.50 | Solar/generator power; fees charged per device or battery | | Wi-Fi Data Voucher | NPR 400–800 | $3.00–$6.00 | Everest Link vouchers in Samagaun/Samdo; no signal at Dharamsala | | Boiled Drinking Water (1 L) | NPR 200–500 | $1.50–$3.75 | Increases with altitude as wood and fuel must be portered | | Guide / Porter Pooled Tip | $12–$18 / $8–$12 per day | Group total | Standard pooled gratuity presented at Dharapani or Besisahar | There are **zero bank ATMs on the Manaslu Circuit** between Arughat and Besisahar. Trekkers must withdraw **NPR 35,000 to NPR 45,000 per person** in Kathmandu before departure to ensure comfortable coverage of showers, charging, hot beverages, bakery treats and staff tips. Review detailed pricing in the [Manaslu trek cost guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-cost). ## Restricted Area Permits (RAP) and Group Regulations Manaslu is an environmentally and culturally sensitive border region with the Tibet Autonomous Region. Under Nepal Department of Immigration regulations: - **Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP):** - *Autumn (September to November):* USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, plus USD 15 per additional day. - *Winter / Spring / Summer (December to August):* USD 75 per person for the first 7 days, plus USD 10 per additional day. - **Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit:** NPR 3,000 per person foreign / NPR 1,000 SAARC. - **Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit:** NPR 3,000 per person foreign / NPR 1,000 SAARC (required for the western exit from Dharapani to Besisahar). - **TIMS Registration:** Processed through the operating agency. **Crucial Legal Requirement:** The Manaslu RAP cannot be issued to independent solo trekkers. The Department of Immigration strictly requires a **minimum group of two foreign trekkers** accompanied by a **licensed Nepal trekking guide** and processed through a registered Nepal trekking agency. Solo travelers can be paired on permit rosters with matching departure dates. Check all legal requirements in the [permits guide](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-permits). **Written by** [Dinesh Bhusal](https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/author-dinesh-bhusal) **Last updated** 21 Aug 2026 **Last fact-checked** 21 Aug 2026 **Sources checked** 2 Questions trekkers ask ## Manaslu Circuit Trek FAQ How many days does the Manaslu Circuit Trek take?+ The balanced package framework takes 15 days from Kathmandu, with two acclimatization days at Samagaun and Samdo, a separate Larkya La crossing day and a protected return/buffer day. Most trekkers should allow 14–16 days. What permits are needed for the Manaslu Circuit?+ The standard circuit uses a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the western exit. TIMS is separate from those permits. Is a guide required for Manaslu?+ Current Nepal Tourism Board guidance lists Manaslu Circuit among routes requiring a licensed trekking guide and agency-issued TIMS. The RAP is processed through an authorized agency; do not treat a porter as an automatic substitute for a licensed guide. Can I trek Manaslu solo?+ You can ask for a private guided departure as a solo paying traveller, but independent unguided trekking is not the current planning model. The agency must confirm the restricted-area application and any minimum group rule for your nationality and dates before taking payment. How difficult is Larkya La?+ Larkya La is a strenuous, non-technical trekking pass. The day starts from Dharamsala, climbs over cold and exposed terrain to approximately 5,106 metres, and continues with a long descent to Bimthang. Snow, ice, wind and symptoms can change the decision. What happens if Larkya La is unsafe?+ The guide may wait when shelter, supplies, health and the forecast make a short delay reasonable, or turn back toward Samdo and the Budhi Gandaki. There is no routine guaranteed bypass or helicopter solution. Where does the Manaslu Circuit start and finish?+ The common current package baseline drives from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola, although road damage can force an earlier walking start. The walking circuit finishes at Dharapani, followed by a rough road toward Besisahar and a separate return to Kathmandu. Can I add Tsum Valley?+ Yes, but Tsum Valley is a separate restricted-area extension with its own permit and usually adds about 5–7 days. It should not be inserted into the standard 15-day circuit itinerary. Is Manaslu harder than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit?+ The comparison depends on the person. Manaslu has a demanding pass day, rougher lower access and more restricted-area logistics; Everest has a longer high-altitude commitment, while Annapurna usually has more developed infrastructure and flexible road access. [Open the package and booking guide →](/manaslu-circuit/manaslu-circuit-trek-package) Plan with a Nepal-based team ## Request a current Manaslu Circuit Trek plan. Share your dates, nationality, group size, walking experience and whether you want the classic circuit or a Tsum Valley extension. The planning team can confirm the current roadhead, permit application, guide arrangement, lodge sequence, pass-day margin and written quotation. [Check current dates and price →](/contact?trip_interest=Manaslu%20Circuit%20Trek&source_path=%2Fmanaslu-circuit&entry_point=manaslu-cta#planning-enquiry)[Browse supporting guides](/manaslu-circuit/guides) Talk through the next decision ## Ask a trip planner about Manaslu Circuit Trek. Share your name, contact details and one short question. The planning team will use the page context to start in the right place. Your request goes directly to [Amigo Treks & Expedition](https://www.amigotrekking.com/), our Kathmandu-based trekking and tour team. The submission includes technical attribution such as IP-derived location, device type and pages visited before sending. See the Privacy Policy. [Read the Privacy Policy.](/privacy-policy) - Route and pace fit for your dates - Practical trade-offs and fallback options - A reply from the local planning team Usually replied to within 1 business day. This is not an emergency channel or medical assessment. **Send a short planning request**Name and a short message are required. Add an email or phone number so we know where to reply. Your name * Email (or phone; one required) Phone (or email; one required) Short message *At least 10 characters. Do not send passport, payment or medical documents. I agree that Amigo Treks & Expedition may use my message and related technical attribution to reply to my request. [Read the Privacy Policy.](/privacy-policy) * The submission includes technical attribution such as IP-derived location, device type and pages visited before sending. Community Insights ## Route Experiences & Field Updates Recent destination insights, seasonal road conditions, and practical advice for this Himalayan journey. [Explore Community Discussions](https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#discussion)[Sign in](https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/login?redirect=%2Fmanaslu-circuit%23discussion)[Create an account](https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/register?redirect=%2Fmanaslu-circuit%23discussion) Verified accounts share firsthand field notes; new submissions are moderated for accuracy. ```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#organization","name":"Himalayan Travel Guide","description":"A practical, source-aware travel planning library for Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Mount Kailash and the wider Himalaya, published at nepaltibetbhutan.com.","url":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#logo","url":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/_next/static/images/himalayan-travel-guide-logo.webp"},"founder":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/author-dinesh-bhusal#person"},"parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.amigotrekking.com/#organization"},"sameAs":["https://www.amigotrekking.com/"],"address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Kathmandu","addressCountry":"NP"},"contactPoint":{"@type":"ContactPoint","contactType":"editorial corrections","email":"info@amigotrekking.com"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.amigotrekking.com/#organization","name":"Amigo Treks \u0026 Expedition","url":"https://www.amigotrekking.com/"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#website","name":"Himalayan Travel Guide","url":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#organization"},"inLanguage":"en"}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#webpage","url":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit","name":"Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026/27: Itinerary, Cost \u0026 Permits","description":"Plan the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a detailed 15-day itinerary, 2026/27 cost, permits, Larkya La route, difficulty, altitude and advice from local Nepal trekking experts.","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#website"},"mainEntity":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#article"}},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#article","headline":"Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026/27: Itinerary, Cost \u0026 Permits","description":"Plan the Manaslu Circuit Trek with a detailed 15-day itinerary, 2026/27 cost, permits, Larkya La route, difficulty, altitude and advice from local Nepal trekking experts.","url":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#webpage"},"inLanguage":"en","dateModified":"2026-08-21T00:00:00+05:45","author":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/author-dinesh-bhusal#person"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/#organization"},"about":[{"@type":"Place","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#place","name":"Manaslu Circuit","containedInPlace":{"@type":"AdministrativeArea","name":"Manaslu region, Nepal"}}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/author-dinesh-bhusal#person","name":"Dinesh Bhusal","jobTitle":"Director \u0026 Co-Founder, Amigo Treks \u0026 Expedition; 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Most trekkers should allow 14–16 days."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What permits are needed for the Manaslu Circuit?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The standard circuit uses a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the western exit. TIMS is separate from those permits."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is a guide required for Manaslu?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Current Nepal Tourism Board guidance lists Manaslu Circuit among routes requiring a licensed trekking guide and agency-issued TIMS. The RAP is processed through an authorized agency; do not treat a porter as an automatic substitute for a licensed guide."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I trek Manaslu solo?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can ask for a private guided departure as a solo paying traveller, but independent unguided trekking is not the current planning model. The agency must confirm the restricted-area application and any minimum group rule for your nationality and dates before taking payment."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How difficult is Larkya La?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Larkya La is a strenuous, non-technical trekking pass. The day starts from Dharamsala, climbs over cold and exposed terrain to approximately 5,106 metres, and continues with a long descent to Bimthang. Snow, ice, wind and symptoms can change the decision."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What happens if Larkya La is unsafe?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The guide may wait when shelter, supplies, health and the forecast make a short delay reasonable, or turn back toward Samdo and the Budhi Gandaki. There is no routine guaranteed bypass or helicopter solution."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Where does the Manaslu Circuit start and finish?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The common current package baseline drives from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola, although road damage can force an earlier walking start. The walking circuit finishes at Dharapani, followed by a rough road toward Besisahar and a separate return to Kathmandu."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I add Tsum Valley?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, but Tsum Valley is a separate restricted-area extension with its own permit and usually adds about 5–7 days. It should not be inserted into the standard 15-day circuit itinerary."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is Manaslu harder than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The comparison depends on the person. Manaslu has a demanding pass day, rougher lower access and more restricted-area logistics; Everest has a longer high-altitude commitment, while Annapurna usually has more developed infrastructure and flexible road access."}}]},{"@type":"ItemList","@id":"https://www.nepaltibetbhutan.com/manaslu-circuit#itemlist","name":"Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary","numberOfItems":15,"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Day 01: Kathmandu → Machha Khola","description":"about 900 m · Long jeep day · Road / transfer"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Day 02: Machha Khola → Jagat","description":"about 1,340 m · 6–7 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Day 03: Jagat → Deng","description":"about 1,800 m · 6–7 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Day 04: Deng → Namrung","description":"about 2,630 m · 6–7 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Day 05: Namrung → Lho","description":"about 3,180 m · 3–4 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"name":"Day 06: Lho → Samagaun","description":"about 3,530 m · 4–5 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"name":"Day 07: Samagaun acclimatisation","description":"about 3,530 m · 3–6 h hike · Acclimatization day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":8,"name":"Day 08: Samagaun → Samdo","description":"about 3,860 m · 3–4 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":9,"name":"Day 09: Samdo acclimatisation","description":"about 3,860 m · 2–4 h hike · Acclimatization day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":10,"name":"Day 10: Samdo → Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi","description":"about 4,460 m · 4–5 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":11,"name":"Day 11: Dharamsala → Larkya La → Bimthang","description":"about 3,590 m · 8–10 h walk · Pass day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":12,"name":"Day 12: Bimthang → Tilije","description":"about 2,300 m · 5–6 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":13,"name":"Day 13: Tilije → Dharapani","description":"about 1,860 m · 4–5 h walk · Trekking day"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":14,"name":"Day 14: Dharapani → Besisahar → Kathmandu","description":"Kathmandu · Long road day · Road / transfer"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":15,"name":"Day 15: Kathmandu buffer / departure","description":"Kathmandu · Flexible day · Road / transfer"}]}]} ```