Manaslu Circuit Trek Beginner Guide 2026/27 | Cost, Itinerary & Tips

If you’ve ever dreamed of trekking in Nepal but felt unsure about where to start, the Manaslu Circuit Trek might just be the perfect choice for you. Tucked away in the remote corners of western Nepal, this trek combines stunning Himalayan scenery, untouched villages, and an authentic cultural experience that takes you back in time. Unlike the crowded Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit trails, the Manaslu region offers peace, authenticity, and the feeling of truly stepping into the wilderness.

For beginners and first-time trekkers, planning a multi-day trek in Nepal can feel overwhelming. What permits do you need? How difficult is the trail? What should you pack? And most importantly, how do you prepare for such an adventure?

In this Manaslu Circuit Trek Beginner Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know - from trail highlights and daily itineraries to gear tips, fitness preparation, permits, and costs. By the end, you’ll feel confident, excited, and ready to book your trip with a trusted local operator - Best Heritage Tour.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden gem compared to the more popular trails of Nepal. Here’s why beginners and adventure lovers are increasingly choosing it:

Less crowded trail - Unlike Everest and Annapurna, you’ll meet fewer trekkers, giving you space to enjoy nature and culture.
Authentic cultural experience - The trail passes through traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages where lifestyles remain unchanged for centuries.
Breathtaking scenery - Snow-capped peaks, river valleys, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and the mighty Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
High mountain pass adventure - Crossing the Larke La Pass (5,106m) is a thrilling highlight and a badge of accomplishment for beginners.
Controlled trekking region - Because it’s a restricted area, trekkers need special permits and must go with a licensed guide, ensuring both safety and sustainable tourism.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, but with preparation. The Manaslu trek is considered moderate to challenging, but beginners who are reasonably fit and mentally prepared can definitely complete it. Here’s why:

Gradual acclimatization - The itinerary is designed to allow your body to adjust to high altitude step by step.
Professional support - With a licensed guide and porter from Best Heritage Tour, you’ll have the safety, motivation, and logistics covered.
Trekking pace - Days involve 6-8 hours of walking, which may be tiring at first, but anyone with determination and basic training can do it.

If you’ve done regular hikes or some multi-day treks in your home country, you’ll adapt quickly. Even absolute beginners can succeed with the right mindset and preparation.

Best Time to Do the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Timing can make or break your trekking experience. The best seasons are:

Spring (March to May): Warm days, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.
Autumn (September to November): Crisp skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent trekking conditions.
Winter (December to February): Fewer trekkers, but heavy snow can make Larke La Pass difficult. Beginners should avoid unless very experienced.
Monsoon (June to August): Trails are slippery, and landslides are common. Not recommended for first-timers.

For beginners, October or April are ideal - stable weather, clear skies, and manageable temperatures.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary (Day by Day)

Here’s a beginner-friendly itinerary (14-16 days), starting and ending in Kathmandu:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu - explore Thamel and prepare.

Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (710m) - scenic drive along rivers and hills.

Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,410m) - entry point of restricted area.

Day 4: Trek to Deng (1,804m).

Day 5: Trek to Namrung (2,630m).

Day 6: Trek to Lho (3,180m) - stunning views of Manaslu peak.

Day 7: Trek to Samagaon (3,530m) - acclimatization stop, explore monasteries.

Day 8: Acclimatization day in Samagaon - optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.

Day 9: Trek to Samdo (3,860m).

Day 10: Trek to Dharamsala / Larke Phedi (4,470m).

Day 11: Cross Larke La Pass (5,106m) and descend to Bimthang (3,590m).

Day 12: Trek to Goa (2,300m).

Day 13: Trek to Tilije and drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 14-16: Buffer days for weather or rest before departure.

This itinerary is flexible, and it ensures proper acclimatization for beginners. Check the detailed itinerary over here.

Permits Required for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Because the Manaslu region is a restricted area, special permits are required:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Issued from September to November (USD 100 for first 7 days, then USD 15/day). From December to August (USD 75 for first 7 days, then USD 10/day).
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 30 per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30 per person.

Note: You cannot trek independently. A licensed guide and at least two trekkers in a group are mandatory. Best Heritage Tour arranges all permits hassle-free.

Physical Fitness and Training Tips for Beginners

You don’t need to be an athlete, but preparation is key. Here’s how to get ready:

Cardio training - Hiking, jogging, cycling, or swimming 3-4 times per week for stamina.
Strength training - Focus on legs (squats, lunges) and core to handle long walking days.
Practice hikes - Try 6-8 hour day hikes with a backpack at home before your trip.
Mental preparation - Be ready for rustic lodges, basic facilities, and long days.

Packing List for Manaslu Circuit Beginners

Packing smart makes trekking easier. Essentials include:

Clothing - Layer system (base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell), trekking pants, gloves, hats.
Footwear - Quality trekking boots (broken-in), sandals for lodges, trekking socks.
Gear - Backpack (40-50L), sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C), trekking poles, water purification tablets.
Personal items - Sunscreen, lip balm, first aid kit, snacks, power bank, toiletries.
Documents - Passport, permits, insurance details.

Accommodation and Food on the Trek

Expect tea houses and lodges, run by local families:

Rooms: Twin beds, simple blankets (bring sleeping bag).
Food: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry), noodles, soups, momos, fried rice, pancakes.
Drinks: Tea, coffee, hot lemon, bottled water (though refilling with purification is better).

Don’t expect luxury - think comfort in simplicity.

Cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek

The total cost depends on trek length, group size, and services. On average:

Permits: USD 100-150.
Guide and porter: USD 25-30/day for guide, USD 20-25/day for porter.
Accommodation and food: USD 25-40/day.
Transport (Kathmandu-Soti Khola, Dharapani-Kathmandu): USD 30-50 one way.

A package with Best Heritage Tour is the most hassle-free choice, covering permits, logistics, guide, porter, food, accommodation, and transport. Prices usually range between USD 1,200-1,600 per person depending on customization.

Safety Tips for Beginners on the Manaslu Trek

Trek slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily.
Carry Diamox (altitude medicine) with doctor’s advice.
Always listen to your guide’s instructions.
Have travel insurance that covers trekking above 5,000m.

Conclusion: Start Your Manaslu Circuit Trek Journey

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a dream journey for beginners who want a genuine Himalayan adventure without the overwhelming crowds of Nepal’s mainstream trails. With its blend of culture, scenery, and adventure, it offers everything a trekker could hope for in their first big trek.

But trekking in a restricted area requires proper permits, safety planning, and an experienced guide. That’s why choosing a professional, trusted operator like Best Heritage Tour makes all the difference.

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or someone looking to step into high-altitude trekking, Best Heritage Tour ensures you’re fully prepared, safe, and supported every step of the way.

Contact Best Heritage Tour today to start planning your adventure:

Phone: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Website: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal

Your Himalayan journey begins here - take the first step today!