Manaslu Circuit Trek – Larke La Pass, Villages & Himalaya Views

Manaslu Circuit via larke pass Trek Details on 2026/2027 (route,cost and guidelines) 

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote, adventurous, and less-traveled gem in Nepal’s Himalayas, taking trekkers around Mount Manaslu (8,163m)—the world’s eighth-highest mountain. At the heart of this thrilling journey lies Larke La Pass (5,106m), a dramatic high-altitude crossing offering breathtaking views and a true sense of accomplishment.

This trek is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, stunning alpine landscapes, and meaningful encounters with Tibetan-influenced culture in isolated Himalayan villages.

Why Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

• Uncrowded alternative to the Annapurna and Everest regions

• Panoramic mountain views: Mt. Manaslu, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Annapurna II

• Cultural richness: Tibetan-style villages, ancient monasteries, and spiritual sites

• High-altitude adventure with glacier valleys, river crossings, and Larke La Pass

• Scenic diversity: Forests, meadows, terraced fields, and rugged alpine terrain

Larke La Pass – The Crown Jewel of the Trek

Crossing Larke La Pass (5,106m) is the defining highlight of the Manaslu Circuit. Trekkers ascend before dawn to make the long crossing over snow-dusted trails and rocky terrain. The physical effort is rewarded with awe-inspiring views of towering Himalayan peaks and a feeling of standing on top of the world.

You can also take an optional side hike from Samdo to Lajyang La (5,160m)—a high viewpoint offering sweeping Himalayan panoramas and a quiet connection with the remote wilderness.

Trekking Route Overview

The trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola, tracing the Budhi Gandaki River. From here, the trail winds through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, rice terraces, and traditional villages including Jagat, Namrung, and Samagaon.

As elevation increases, greenery gives way to alpine wilderness. Samagaon serves as a crucial acclimatization stop, with rewarding side trips to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. The trail continues to Samdo, then to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) before the challenging ascent over Larke La Pass, descending into the stunning valley of Bhimtang.

13-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu → Machha Khola (900m)

A scenic drive through river valleys and rural villages marks the beginning of your journey.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat (1,370m)

Cross suspension bridges and walk beside waterfalls as you ascend into the hills.

Day 3: Trek to Deng (1,865m)

Enter the Manaslu Conservation Area and begin to feel the remoteness of the region.

Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2,630m)

Pass through dense forests, Buddhist prayer walls, and traditional stone houses.

Day 5: Trek to Samagaon (3,525m)

Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Manaslu as you arrive at a beautiful mountain village.

Day 6: Acclimatization in Samagaon

Take a rest day with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.

Day 7: Trek to Samdo (3,850m)

Walk through yak pastures and open valleys as you gain altitude.

Day 8: Acclimatization in Samdo

Explore the village or take a side trip to Lajyang La Pass near the Tibetan border.

Day 9: Trek to Dharamsala (4,460m)

Reach the final outpost before the high mountain pass.

Day 10: Cross Larke La Pass (5,106m) → Bhimtang (3,590m)

An early start leads to a long, rewarding day crossing the snow-covered pass with spectacular Himalayan views.

Day 11: Trek to Tilije (2,300m)

Descend through alpine meadows and pine forests into lower valleys.

Day 12: Trek to Dharapani → Drive to Besisahar

Join the Annapurna Circuit trail and begin your journey back to civilization.

Day 13: Return to Kathmandu

A scenic drive back to the capital concludes your trek with unforgettable memories.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Circuit

The trek is best during:

• Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and stable weather make for perfect trekking conditions.

• Spring (March to May): Warm temperatures and blooming rhododendrons enhance the scenic beauty.

Travel Tips for a Safe Trek

• Acclimatize properly to reduce risk of altitude sickness.

• Trekking with a licensed guide is required in the region.

• Carry sufficient Nepali rupees—there are no ATMs on the trail.

• Pack layers and warm gear for high-altitude conditions.

• Respect local customs and always ask before photographing locals or religious sites.

What Makes Manaslu Special?

The Manaslu Circuit isn’t just about high peaks—it's about discovering authentic Himalayan culture, remote mountain beauty, and spiritual simplicity. You’ll walk past spinning prayer wheels, colorful monasteries, and smiling locals whose hospitality stays with you long after the trek ends.

Whether you’re looking for a less crowded alternative to Everest or a more challenging option than Annapurna, Manaslu Circuit with Larke La Pass offers the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and soul.

Manaslu circuit trek budget Plan

Transportation

Transportation rates are varies according to the types of transportation you choose, festivals time  and busy touristic season and the number of group you are with. where the average cost for Local possible sharing costs is from 70$-120$ in round trip. where private for wheeler transport cost 300$-400$.

Accomodation 

Accomodation in manaslu circuit route in the 2026/2027 is wise enough to prepare forn 8$-12$ per day i.e:100$-150$ in total trekking days

Food Cost

The idol food cost for manaslu circuit trek is 40$-50$ per day, for breakfast , lunch and dinner. i.e: 420-600

Permits cost

The total permit cost in trekking in manaslu circuit trek comes in 145$-256$ depends on the seasons.

Guide and Porter Cost

Guides and porter are available in the kathmandu for manaslu circuit in 25$-40$ per day in the base of their proficiency and experience. i.e: 300$-480$

Extra Cost

Extra personal cost for drinking soft drinks, hard drinks, battery charging , internet, hot buckets shower comes 10$-15$ per day and clothings cost. i.e:120-180
where mountain mate provides full Layers of gears such as, Backpacks,down jacket, Sleeping bags, hiking sticks, crampons, head lamps 90$ as rent for the whole trip. 

 So total cost for the Manaslu circuits  comes 1200$-1600$.

Frequently Asked Question For Manaslu Circuit

why manaslu circuit trek?

-Well preserved cultural, archiac lifestyle, preserved terrain for Buddhism practised by famaous Tibetan sage Milerepa, rich in wildlife and himalayan landscape forbidden trekking sites.

How many days it tooks too Manaslu circuit?

-it takes 12-15 days by depending upon the grou size and plan

Is it Possible to trek solo in manaslu?

there is slightly a change for trekking in Manaslu from 2026 that visitors can trek solo but need to organized and should have guide.

How frequently Altitude sickness in Manaslu region?