The Manaslu Circuit Trek is officially open for bookings for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. If you have been thinking about this trek, now is the time to secure your dates.. Book with the best manaslu trek company for competitive pricing and guaranteed departures.
Manaslu Treks and Expedition has been operating the Manaslu Circuit Trek since the region opened to international trekkers and we know this route better than any agency in Nepal. Our guides have walked every section of the Manaslu Circuit in every season. Our team handles every permit, every teahouse arrangement, and every logistics detail from the moment you send us your first message to the moment we drop you at the airport after the trek ends.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
What Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Why Is It One of Nepal’s Greatest Treks?
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a complete Himalayan journey around Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain at 8,163 metres. The route is known for its remote valleys, dramatic mountain scenery, Tibetan Buddhist culture and the challenging crossing of Larkya La Pass.
Complete Circuit Around Mount Manaslu
The trek follows the eastern side of Mount Manaslu before crossing the high Himalayan pass and descending toward the Annapurna region. Unlike an out-and-back trek, the scenery, landscape and villages continue to change throughout the journey.
World’s Eighth-Highest Mountain
Mount Manaslu rises to 8,163 metres in west-central Nepal. Its long ridges, glaciers and surrounding peaks create one of the most dramatic mountain landscapes found on any trekking route in Nepal.
From Subtropical Valleys to High Himalaya
The trail begins near Machha Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki River through forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges and narrow river gorges. It gradually climbs into colder alpine terrain and high mountain settlements near the Tibetan border.
Larkya La Pass Crossing
The highest and most demanding section is the crossing of Larkya La, generally listed at around 5,106 to 5,160 metres. The pass offers wide views of glaciers and surrounding peaks before the trail descends toward Bhimtang. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Approximately 14 to 16 Trekking Days
Most complete itineraries take around 14 to 16 days, including an acclimatization day in Samagaun. Shorter itineraries are possible, but they should not remove essential acclimatization before the pass.
Remote and Less Commercial
The Manaslu Circuit remains quieter and less developed than the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna trekking routes. Teahouses are available along the trail, but the atmosphere remains more traditional and the mountain facilities become basic at higher elevations.
Restricted-Area Trekking Route
The upper Manaslu region lies inside a restricted trekking area. Foreign trekkers require a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and must complete the official permit process through a registered trekking agency. Permit charges vary according to the trekking season. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Strong Tibetan Buddhist Culture
Upper villages such as Lho, Shyala, Samagaun and Samdo preserve a strong Tibetan Buddhist identity. Along the route, trekkers pass monasteries, chortens, mani walls, prayer wheels and traditional stone-built homes.
Traditional Nubri Communities
The Nubri communities of the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley maintain languages, customs, religious practices and trading traditions closely connected with Tibet. This cultural continuity gives the trek far more depth than mountain scenery alone.
Excellent Side Trips
The acclimatization day in Samagaun can be used to visit Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake or Pungyen Gompa. These side trips provide additional mountain views while helping trekkers prepare for higher elevations.
Diverse Mountain Views
Depending on the location and weather, trekkers can see Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Shringi Himal, Cheo Himal and other peaks around the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.
A Challenging but Non-Technical Trek
The Manaslu Circuit does not normally require mountaineering skills, but it is physically demanding. Long walking days, cold conditions, remote terrain and high altitude require good preparation, suitable insurance and a carefully planned itinerary.
Why Trekkers Consider the Manaslu Circuit One of Nepal’s Best Treks
- It combines a complete mountain circuit with constantly changing scenery.
- It remains quieter than Nepal’s most commercial trekking routes.
- It includes both subtropical valleys and a high Himalayan pass.
- It provides meaningful contact with traditional mountain communities.
- It offers strong cultural, natural and physical adventure in one journey.
- It is suitable for experienced trekkers seeking a less crowded route.
Important: Manaslu is restricted through a permit system, but this should not be described as a fixed daily trekker quota unless an official government limit is published. Its quieter character mainly comes from the remote location, permit requirements, longer itinerary and compulsory organized trekking arrangements.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost 2026 by Group Size
The Manaslu Circuit Trek cost for 2026 depends on the number of trekkers in your group. As the group size increases, the cost per person becomes lower. Special discounts are available for all group sizes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 and 2027 Booking Is Now Open
Manaslu Treks and Expedition is accepting bookings for all 2026 and 2027 Manaslu Circuit Trek departures starting today. Spring 2026 dates from March through May are filling quickly. Autumn 2026 dates from September through November are available now and the most popular departure windows for October are already receiving enquiries. 2027 spring and autumn seasons are open for advance booking.
Booking early for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is important for one specific reason that is different from most other Nepal treks. The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit system limits the number of trekkers who can enter the restricted zone at any given time. During peak autumn season in October the permit allocation fills up and trekking companies that have not confirmed their groups and permit applications in advance cannot guarantee entry. Manaslu Treks and Expedition handles all permit applications directly with the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and securing your booking with us early ensures your permits are confirmed before peak season demand reaches its ceiling.
No advance payment is required to confirm your Manaslu Circuit Trek booking with Manaslu Treks and Expedition. You can pay after arriving in Nepal by international card, bank transfer, or cash. Reserve your dates today with a simple WhatsApp message or email and we will hold your place while you complete your preparations.
Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 and 2027 Cost — Complete Breakdown
The Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 and 2027 cost with Manaslu Treks and Expedition is 100 percent all-inclusive. There are no hidden costs, no surprise fees added in Nepal, and nothing extra to pay after you confirm your booking. What we quote is what you pay.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek package price includes all permits, all accommodation, all meals, licensed English-speaking guide, porter (one porter shared between two trekkers), all ground transport from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back, teahouse arrangements throughout the route, and government taxes and service charges. Nothing is excluded from the package price except international flights, travel insurance, personal spending on the trail, and guide and porter tips.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
Why Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek More Expensive Than Other Nepal Treks
The Manaslu Circuit Trek costs more than comparable duration treks in the Everest and Annapurna regions for specific structural reasons that are worth understanding clearly.
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is the primary additional cost. This permit is required for all foreign nationals entering the Manaslu restricted zone and is issued only through registered trekking agencies. For the autumn season from September through November, the Restricted Area Permit costs USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 per additional day. For a 14 day Manaslu Circuit Trek in autumn the total Restricted Area Permit cost is approximately USD 205 per person. For the spring season from December through August the permit rate is USD 75 for the first seven days and USD 10 per additional day, making the 14 day spring total approximately USD 145 per person.
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit costs an additional USD 22 to 25 per person regardless of season. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is required for the lower Marsyangdi section of the circuit and costs approximately USD 22 per person.
The mandatory licensed guide requirement on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is enforced at every checkpoint and cannot be avoided by any foreign trekker regardless of experience level. A licensed English-speaking guide for the full Manaslu Circuit Trek costs USD 30 to 35 per day for the complete 14 to 16 day duration.
The remote location of the trailhead requires a full day of road transport from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back, which adds transport costs that shorter approach routes do not have.
All of these costs are already included in the all-inclusive Manaslu Circuit Trek package price from Manaslu Treks and Expedition. When you see our total price and compare it to other Nepal trek packages you need to account for the fact that those permit and guide costs, which are unavoidable and non-negotiable, are already inside our figure.
What Is Included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek Package from Manaslu Treks and Expedition
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (1 night before and 1 after the trek)
- Ground transportation: Kathmandu to Machha Khola and Dharapani to Kathmandu by public bus
- All necessary permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Licensed, English-speaking local trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying up to 20 kg total – 10 kg per trekker)
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Morning tea or coffee every trekking day
- Lodge/teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Sleeping bag and down jacket (to be returned after the trek)
- Trekking map of the Manaslu Circuit
- Trekking completion certificate from Manaslu Treks & Expedition
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu hosted by Manaslu Treks & Expedition
- First-aid kit carried by the guide
- All government taxes and local charges
Cost Not Included in the Package
- Nepal visa fee (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Travel insurance (must include emergency evacuation coverage)
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
- Personal expenses like snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers during the trek
- Tips for guide and porter
- Any services not mentioned in the “Included” section
The Full Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary 2026 and 2027
The standard 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary operated by Manaslu Treks and Expedition is designed with the correct acclimatisation structure to make the Larkya La crossing safe and the overall experience genuinely enjoyable rather than a race against altitude.
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu, hotel check-in, trek briefing and gear check
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m) — approximately 7 hours
Day 3: Trek Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) — 6 to 7 hours, Manaslu Restricted Area entry
Day 4: Trek Jagat to Deng (2,095m) — 5 to 6 hours, enter Nubri cultural region
Day 5: Trek Deng to Namrung (2,900m) — 6 to 7 hours, Tibetan Buddhist villages begin
Day 6: Trek Namrung to Samagaun via Lho and Pungen Gompa (3,500m) — 5 to 6 hours, first full Manaslu view
Day 7: Acclimatisation Day Samagaun — Manaslu Base Camp visit and Birendra Lake
Day 8: Trek Samagaun to Samdo (3,785m) — 3 to 4 hours, last village before pass
Day 9: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala / Larkya La Base Camp (4,450m) — 4 to 5 hours
Day 10: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m), descend to Bimthang (3,590m) — 7 to 9 hours, the great day
Day 11: Trek Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m) — 5 to 6 hours, descent through rhododendron forest
Day 12: Trek Tilije to Dharapani (1,860m), drive to Kathmandu — long day, arrival evening
Day 13: Leisure day Kathmandu / buffer day for any delays
Day 14: International departure from Kathmandu
Manaslu Circuit Trek Permits 2026 and 2027 — Everything You Need to Know
The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires three separate permits in 2026 and 2027. Manaslu Treks and Expedition handles all three permit applications from Kathmandu before the trek begins. You provide your passport details and two passport-sized photographs and we do the rest. On the trail the permits are checked at army-staffed checkpoints at Jagat and at several points through the restricted zone above.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and is the primary permit that controls access to the restricted zone above Jagat. In 2026 and 2027 the permit costs USD 100 per person for the first seven days during the peak autumn season from September through November. Each additional day beyond seven costs USD 15 per person. For the off-peak season from December through August the rate is USD 75 per person for the first seven days and USD 10 per additional day.
The Restricted Area Permit requires that all trekkers travel with a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency. You cannot obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit independently. Any foreign national attempting to enter the Manaslu restricted zone above Jagat without a valid permit faces immediate ejection from the area by the army checkpoint personnel.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit covers entry to and movement within the Manaslu Conservation Area, which encompasses the entire restricted zone of the Manaslu Circuit Trek above the checkpoint at Jagat. The permit costs approximately NPR 3,000 per person, which is equivalent to USD 22 to 25. This permit is also issued in Kathmandu through a registered agency.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
The lower section of the Manaslu Circuit descent through the Marsyangdi valley passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area and requires the ACAP permit. The ACAP costs NPR 3,000 per person, equivalent to USD 22 to 25. If you are only doing the Manaslu Circuit Trek and not an Annapurna extension, the ACAP is still required for the descent section from Bimthang to Dharapani.
Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026 and 2027
The Manaslu Circuit Trek has two primary seasons and two periods that are generally not recommended. Understanding the seasons properly helps you choose the right dates for your group and fitness level.
Autumn Season — September, October, November
Autumn is the most popular season for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and for good reason. The monsoon ends in September and the air is washed clean and crystal clear for the following three months. Mountain visibility is at its absolute best during autumn. The views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding peaks are sharper and more consistently clear than at any other time of year.
October is the single finest month for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Temperatures across the entire route are at their most comfortable. The high sections above Samagaun are cold at night but manageable during the day. The Larkya La crossing in October under clear skies with perfect visibility is the finest version of the single greatest day on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
November remains excellent but temperatures on the high sections and at Dharamsala before the pass crossing are noticeably colder. Late November brings genuinely cold nights at Samdo and Dharamsala but the trails are clear and the mountain views are magnificent.
For 2026 autumn season bookings, October departure dates are already receiving enquiries. Contact Manaslu Treks and Expedition now to confirm your October 2026 dates.
Spring Season — March, April, May
Spring is the second main Manaslu Circuit Trek season and the preferred choice for trekkers who want to avoid the highest autumn season crowds while still having excellent mountain visibility. March and April are the peak months within the spring window.
The rhododendron forests on the lower sections of the Manaslu Circuit between Machha Khola and Jagat are in full bloom in March and April, adding a visual dimension to the trek that the autumn season does not offer. The higher sections above Namrung are clear and the Larkya La Pass is typically accessible by mid-March once the worst winter snowpack has cleared.
May brings warmer temperatures throughout the circuit but the pre-monsoon cloud build-up begins to affect afternoon visibility on the high sections. May is still an excellent month for the Manaslu Circuit Trek but the morning departures for the Larkya La crossing are more critical to get right to avoid afternoon cloud.
Winter and Monsoon
December and January are possible on the lower sections of the Manaslu Circuit but the Larkya La Pass carries significant snow and ice in midwinter and the crossing is considerably more technical and demanding than in the main seasons. Trekking agencies who know the Manaslu Circuit well do not recommend December and January for first-time visitors to the route.
The monsoon from June through August brings heavy rain on all sections of the Manaslu Circuit below 4,000 metres. Trail conditions deteriorate significantly, the river crossings on suspension bridges become more serious, and the lower forest sections are slippery and leech-infested throughout the monsoon period. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not recommended during the monsoon for any group.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty — What You Need to Know Before You Book
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is rated as a challenging to difficult trekking route. It is not technically difficult in the mountaineering sense. No ropes, harnesses, or climbing skills are required at any point on the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek. But the combination of sustained high altitude, the Larkya La crossing at 5,106 metres, 12 to 14 consecutive days of walking through remote terrain, and the physical demands of the upper valley sections above 4,000 metres places the Manaslu Circuit Trek firmly in the serious trekking category.
You should be in good cardiovascular fitness before attempting the Manaslu Circuit Trek. A minimum preparation programme of 8 to 12 weeks before departure is recommended, including regular long-distance hiking with significant elevation gain, cardiovascular training, and endurance work. Trekkers who arrive in Kathmandu without prior high-altitude experience and without a fitness preparation programme consistently struggle on the upper sections of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and are at higher risk of altitude-related problems on the Larkya La crossing.
The most common cause of trekkers failing to complete the Manaslu Circuit Trek is altitude sickness, and the most common cause of altitude sickness on this route is moving too fast and skipping or shortening the acclimatisation day at Samagaun. The itinerary that Manaslu Treks and Expedition uses is specifically designed to give the body the time it needs at altitude. Trust the acclimatisation days.
Prior high-altitude experience above 4,000 metres is genuinely helpful for the Manaslu Circuit Trek but is not strictly required. Trekkers who have never been above 3,000 metres can complete the Manaslu Circuit successfully with a well-structured itinerary and a good guide. The guide’s ability to monitor altitude symptoms and adjust the pace appropriately is the most important safety factor on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Who Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek For
The Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026 and 2027 is appropriate for a specific type of traveler. If you recognise yourself in the following descriptions, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the right choice for your Nepal adventure.
You have done serious multi-day hiking before. Not necessarily at Himalayan altitude but in mountain terrain with significant daily elevation gain and multi-day consecutive days on the trail.
You are looking for a Nepal trekking experience that gives you genuine mountain remoteness rather than a well-serviced trail with tea houses every thirty minutes and hundreds of other trekkers visible at all times.
You are interested in authentic Himalayan culture. The Tibetan Buddhist communities of the Nubri region, the monasteries along the Manaslu Circuit, the traditional architecture and religious practices of the upper valley are things you want to understand and engage with, not just walk past.
You have 14 to 16 days available for the trek itself, not including travel days to and from Nepal.
You understand that a restricted area trek with mandatory guide and permit requirements is fundamentally different from a trek you can book and cancel at will. The Manaslu Circuit Trek requires commitment and preparation.
If you are a first-time Nepal trekker with no prior high-altitude experience and limited time, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is probably not your ideal starting point. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek or a shorter Langtang Valley Trek would give you a first Himalayan experience at appropriate difficulty before returning to Nepal for the Manaslu Circuit.
Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Everest Base Camp vs Annapurna Circuit — Which One Is Right for You
This is the question we receive most often from trekkers in the research phase of their Nepal planning. Here is an honest comparison.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is the most famous trekking route in Nepal and the world. It is a genuinely extraordinary experience and the scenery in the Khumbu region is among the finest on earth. But Everest Base Camp in 2026 means sharing the trail with tens of thousands of other trekkers during peak season. The tea houses require advance booking months ahead during October. The trail above Namche is one of the busiest pedestrian routes in any mountain region on earth.
The Annapurna Circuit was once considered the finest circuit trek in the world but road construction through the Marsyangdi valley has shortened and changed the character of the classic route significantly. The lower sections are now largely accessible by vehicle and many trekkers find the circuit feels fragmented compared to what it was twenty years ago. The Annapurna Circuit remains beautiful but it is no longer the complete wilderness experience it once offered.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is what the Annapurna Circuit was before the roads arrived, combined with the cultural depth of the Tibetan Buddhist Nubri region that the Khumbu offers at a different level of accessibility. The Manaslu Circuit is restricted, genuinely remote above Jagat, culturally richer in the upper valley than either of the other two great Nepal circuits, and crosses one of the finest mountain passes in Nepal at Larkya La. The trade-off is the permit cost and the mandatory guide requirement, which Manaslu Treks and Expedition handles completely.
For experienced trekkers who have done Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna region and are looking for the next level of Nepal trekking experience, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the correct answer almost without exception.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
The Larkya La Pass Crossing — The Greatest Day on the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Larkya La Pass crossing at 5,106 metres is the physical and emotional centrepiece of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Every day of the 14-day itinerary before it is building toward this crossing and the sense of that accumulating purpose is one of the things that gives the Manaslu Circuit Trek its particular character.
The crossing begins at 3am from Dharamsala at 4,450 metres. The trail climbs through the darkness by headlamp through increasingly dramatic glacial terrain before reaching the col at dawn. The sunrise at Larkya La with Manaslu rising above the eastern ridgeline is one of the finest mountain views available to any trekker anywhere in the Nepal Himalaya. The 360 degree panorama from the pass includes Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and on a very clear day Annapurna II in the far south.
The descent from Larkya La to Bimthang drops more than 1,500 metres through loose rock and glacial terrain. It is long and demanding on tired legs and the full Larkya La day from Dharamsala to Bimthang is typically 7 to 9 hours of walking. Arriving at Bimthang in the late morning light with the Manaslu massif behind you and the green meadow of the valley floor below is one of those travel moments that justifies everything that preceded it.
Every trekker who has crossed Larkya La with Manaslu Treks and Expedition says the same thing when asked about it afterwards. Worth every step of every day that came before.
What Our Guests Say About the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Manaslu Treks and Expedition
The guests who trek with Manaslu Treks and Expedition on the Manaslu Circuit Trek come from all over the world and they consistently say the same things about the experience.
Steffen from Germany completed the 19-day Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek with us in March 2026. He said the Tsum Valley section was the most culturally profound travel experience of his life and that the Larkya La crossing at dawn was something he would never be able to describe adequately to anyone who had not been there. He specifically mentioned that the guide’s cultural knowledge of the Nubri region transformed what could have been a beautiful physical journey into something with genuine depth and meaning.
Aine Conway from Ireland, living in New Zealand, completed the 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek with her friend Aoife in March 2026. They wrote their guide Kiran a poem at the end of the trek that they shared publicly and that captured something about the experience that a standard review cannot. They have already told us they are coming back.
Peteris Neimanis from Latvia, a pilot at Cathay Pacific, flew from Hong Kong to complete the short Manaslu Circuit Trek with us in November 2025 with only eleven days available. He said the trip was worth every cent and every step and described it as one of the most complete and meaningful travel experiences of his life.
These are not exceptional outcomes. They are the consistent experience of guests who trek the Manaslu Circuit with the right company, the right guide, and the right itinerary.
Why Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Manaslu Treks and Expedition
There are many Nepal trekking companies that offer Manaslu Circuit Trek packages. Most of them offer it as one route among fifty or a hundred options. Manaslu Treks and Expedition is different because the Manaslu region is our specialty.
Our guides have walked the Manaslu Circuit Trek in every season and across dozens of different iterations of the route. They know which tea houses have the warmest rooms in Samdo. They know the exact conditions at Dharamsala in March versus October. They know the checkpoints, the permit processes, and the logistics of the drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back with the kind of specific knowledge that only comes from doing something repeatedly and paying attention.
Kiran, who manages and operates Manaslu Treks and Expedition, responds personally to every inquiry. Not an automated system. Not a junior salesperson reading from a package description. Kiran himself, who has guided the Manaslu Circuit Trek many times and who knows what questions matter to someone planning this specific route. Every booking decision we make is made by someone who cares about the outcome because their name and their company’s reputation are attached to your experience on the trail.
We do not require an advance payment. We do not use high-pressure sales tactics. We provide honest information about the route, conditions, cost, and commitment required, so you can make an informed decision. If the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not the right route for you at this point in your trekking experience, we will tell you that honestly and recommend what is.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
How to Book the Manaslu Circuit Trek for 2026 and 2027
Booking the Manaslu Circuit Trek with Manaslu Treks and Expedition is straightforward.
Send us a WhatsApp message at +977 9869225929 or an email to info@manaslutreks.com with your approximate travel dates, the number of people in your group, and any specific requirements or questions you have about the Manaslu Circuit Trek route or the 2026 and 2027 booking process.
Kiran will reply personally within 24 hours with a complete itinerary, full cost breakdown, and all the information you need to make your decision.
No advance payment is required to hold your dates. We reserve your permit slot and guide assignment on confirmation of your booking with a simple agreement. You pay on arrival in Kathmandu before the trek begins by international card, bank transfer, or cash.
For groups of more than 10 trekkers, we offer a special group discount. Contact us directly for group pricing on the Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026 and 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manaslu Circuit Trek Bookings for 2026 and 2027
1. Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek open for booking in 2026 and 2027?
Yes. Manaslu Circuit Trek bookings are open for the spring and autumn seasons of both 2026 and 2027. Private departures can be arranged according to your preferred dates, while group-joining treks follow scheduled departure dates.
Before confirming, send us your expected arrival date in Nepal, preferred trekking month, number of trekkers and whether you want a private or group trek. We will then recommend the most suitable itinerary and departure date for your available time.
2. What are the best months to book the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026 or 2027?
The main Manaslu trekking seasons are March to May and September to November. April and October normally receive the highest demand because teahouses are operating fully and conditions are generally suitable for crossing Larkya La.
March is quieter but can still have snow around the pass. May is warmer, with a greater possibility of afternoon cloud or rain. September becomes clearer as the monsoon finishes, while November offers crisp mountain views but colder nights in Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala.
3. Can I choose my own Manaslu Circuit Trek departure date?
Yes. A private Manaslu Circuit Trek can start on almost any suitable date during the main trekking seasons. Private departures are best for couples, families, photographers and travellers who want flexibility with walking pace, accommodation or acclimatisation days.
Group-joining treks operate on fixed dates and follow a set itinerary. They are normally more affordable because guide, transport and porter expenses are shared among the group. Contact us with your Nepal travel dates, and we will check the closest private or group departure.
4. Can a solo traveller book the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026?
Yes. Under the restricted-area permit rules introduced on March 22, 2026, an individual foreign traveller can now receive a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit without finding a second trekker.
However, solo booking does not mean independent trekking. Your permit must still be processed through a registered Nepali trekking agency, and you must remain with a licensed trekking guide throughout the restricted section. A solo traveller can choose a private guide or join one of our fixed group departures.
5. Is a licensed guide still compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes. Every foreign trekker entering the Manaslu restricted area must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide arranged through a registered trekking agency.
The 2026 rule removed the former two-trekker minimum, but it did not remove the agency or guide requirement. The updated provision also limits each guide to a maximum of seven trekkers in a restricted-area group. Larger groups therefore require an additional licensed guide or assistant guide.
6. What documents are needed to book the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
To begin the booking and permit process, we normally need:
- A clear colour copy of your passport
- Your expected arrival date in Nepal
- Your preferred trek starting date
- Your Nepal visa details or visa application information
- A recent passport-size photograph when required
- Your travel insurance and emergency contact information
- Details of any medical, dietary or accommodation requirements
Your passport information must match the information printed on the restricted-area permit. Bring the same original passport to Nepal because permits may be checked at several points along the trail.
7. What permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The standard Manaslu Circuit route requires three principal permits:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: Required for the controlled section of the route and arranged through a registered trekking agency.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit: Required for entry into the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: Required because the final section of the circuit enters the Annapurna Conservation Area near Dharapani.
A local municipality charge may also apply under current local regulations. Our package includes the required permits and we arrange the paperwork before the trek begins.
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
8. How much do Manaslu Circuit Trek permits cost in 2026?
The official Manaslu Restricted Area Permit fees are:
- September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and USD 15 for each additional day inside the restricted area.
- December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and USD 10 for each additional day.
The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit each cost NPR 3,000 for a foreign national. Permit rates for 2027 should be reconfirmed before booking because government fees may be revised.
9. How far in advance should I book the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
For an October departure, booking approximately four to six months ahead is recommended. October has the highest demand for experienced guides, suitable transportation and teahouse rooms in villages such as Samagaun, Samdo and Dharamsala.
For March, April, May, September or November, booking around two to three months ahead is normally sufficient. Later bookings may still be possible, especially for private departures, but accommodation choices and guide availability can become limited during the busiest weeks.
Early booking is mainly about securing good logistics and staff—it is not because there is a published daily permit quota.
10. Do I need to pay an advance deposit to confirm my booking?
No advance deposit is currently required to reserve your Manaslu Circuit Trek with Manaslu Treks and Expedition. You can confirm your dates by sending your passport copy and basic travel information.
Payment can be completed after you arrive in Nepal by cash, international card or another agreed payment method. Your final booking confirmation should clearly show the itinerary, total package price, inclusions, exclusions and payment arrangement, so there are no unexpected charges after arrival.
11. How much does the Manaslu Circuit Trek cost in 2026 and 2027?
The price depends on the itinerary length, number of trekkers, type of transport, porter service and whether you select a private or group departure.
The current private package rates displayed on this page are:
- One trekker: USD 1,350
- Two to five trekkers: USD 1,250 per person
- Six to eight trekkers: USD 1,200 per person
- Nine to ten trekkers: USD 1,150 per person
Prices for 2027 should be confirmed when booking because government permit fees, transportation and teahouse costs may change.
12. What is included in the Manaslu Circuit Trek package?
Our standard package includes the required trekking permits, licensed local guide, teahouse accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek, ground transportation, porter support according to the confirmed package, guide and porter insurance, government taxes and local logistical arrangements.
A sleeping bag, down jacket and trekking duffel can also be provided when listed in your booking confirmation.
International flights, Nepal visa fees, personal travel insurance, alcoholic drinks, additional snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging and staff tips are normally personal expenses unless specifically included in your quotation.
13. Will I get a private room during the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
We arrange a private room wherever suitable rooms are available. Most teahouses provide simple rooms with two single beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets.
Accommodation becomes more limited in remote villages such as Deng, Samdo and Dharamsala. During busy periods, solo travellers may occasionally need to share, and attached bathrooms cannot be guaranteed at higher elevations.
Bathrooms are usually shared in the upper villages, and hot showers may cost extra. We recommend carrying a warm sleeping bag because teahouse rooms are not heated, even when blankets are provided.
14. Is travel insurance compulsory for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Yes. Your travel insurance should specifically cover trekking above 5,100 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation in Nepal.
Standard travel insurance sometimes excludes trekking above 3,000 or 4,000 metres, so check the altitude limit carefully before purchasing your policy. The insurance should also cover medical treatment, trip interruption, delayed travel and evacuation from remote areas.
Carry both digital and printed copies of your insurance certificate, policy number and emergency assistance contact details. Your guide or trekking company may request this information before leaving Kathmandu.
15. Can the Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary be customized?
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available days, trekking experience, preferred pace and interests.
Possible changes include adding an extra acclimatisation day in Samagaun, visiting Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake or Pungyen Gompa, continuing to Pokhara after Dharapani, or adding the Tsum Valley extension.
We do not recommend removing essential acclimatisation days only to make the trek shorter. Any customized plan should still allow sufficient time to adapt to the altitude before crossing Larkya La at approximately 5,106 metres.
What is the difference between the 14-day and 19-day Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The 14-day Manaslu Circuit Trek covers the classic circuit route from Machha Khola to Dharapani including the Larkya La crossing. The 19-day version adds the Tsum Valley extension, which branches off the main Manaslu Circuit near Lokpa and enters the hidden Tsum Valley with its ancient monasteries including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa. The 19-day version requires an additional Tsum Valley Special Restricted Area Permit at USD 500 for the first 7 days. For trekkers with 19 days available, the combined route is consistently rated as one of the most complete trekking experiences in all of Nepal.
What travel insurance do I need for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Your travel insurance must explicitly cover helicopter evacuation at altitudes above 5,106 metres. This is not optional on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. A helicopter medical evacuation from the upper Manaslu Circuit to Kathmandu costs USD 6,000 to USD 15,000 and without the right insurance policy that cost falls entirely on you. Manaslu Treks and Expedition will ask for confirmation of your insurance policy before the trek begins. Carry printed and digital copies of your policy certificate on the trek.
Final Message from Manaslu Treks and Expedition
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is not the most famous trekking route in Nepal. It is the best one.
It is the best because the Manaslu Restricted Area permit system keeps it genuinely remote at a time when genuinely remote Himalayan trekking is becoming increasingly difficult to find. It is the best because the Nubri cultural landscape of the upper Budhi Gandaki valley offers an encounter with Tibetan Buddhist tradition at a depth and authenticity that the more visited Himalayan regions cannot offer anymore. And it is the best because the Larkya La Pass crossing at dawn, with Manaslu rising above the eastern ridgeline and the entire sweep of the Central Himalaya visible in every direction, is one of the finest mornings available to any trekker anywhere on earth.
We have been bringing trekkers to the Manaslu Circuit since the region opened to international visitors. We know every section of this route, every season, every checkpoint, every teahouse, and every decision that makes the difference between a good Manaslu Circuit Trek experience and an extraordinary one.
Booking for 2026 and 2027 is open now.
Send us a message. We will take care of everything else.
WhatsApp: +977 9869225929
Email: info@manaslutreks.com
🏔 Recommended Manaslu Trips for 2026 / 2027
Ready to Trek the Manaslu Circuit in 2026?
Have questions about dates, permits, itinerary or cost? Talk directly with our local trekking team.
Explore Our All-Manaslu Circuit Trek Package for 2026
Best Manaslu Circuit Trek Package
The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most spectacular and off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures. Set in the remote Manaslu…
