Embark on an exciting Short Manaslu Circuit Trek into the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas wilderness. This is an incredible adventure around the world's 8th highest mountain Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), a truly wild and less touristy area in contrast to those on Everest and Annapurna treks. It winds through enchanting landscapes from lush subtropical foothills to the raw high-altitude landscape of Larkya La Pass at 5,106m, the dramatic pinnacle of the trek.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek - Overview
The Short Manaslu Circuit trek is one of the most exciting experiences that combines stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and exhilarating trails in a short amount of time. It is a trekking trail around the world's eighth-highest mountain Manaslu (8,163m) and offers a spectacular view of Annapurna andGanesh Himal ranges. This short adventurous trek in the heart of Nepal's Himalayan region takes you through lush forests and alpine meadows. It is tranquil and immersive, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Your trekking journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, the starting point of the trek, and includes vibrant ethnic villages such as Jagat, Deng, and Namrung, which are influenced by Tibetan culture. The Manaslu Circuit region is rich in Tibetan Buddhism, with monasteries, prayer flags, and intricate stone carvings dotting the landscape. The locals are warm and welcoming, enriching your adventure with their still-continuing customs and traditions in a very spiritual and cultural way. As you move to higher altitudes like Lho Village, Samagaun, and Larke La Pass will be blessed with breathtaking views of the snowcapped peaks including Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Shringi Himal (7,161m), Larke Peak (6,249m), Annapurna II (7,937m) and Ganesh Himal Range.
As you ascend higher, it will lead you to the Manaslu Conservation Area, which protects and provides a habitat for many rare wild animals such as snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. Moreover, the same region is home to several bird species including Himalayan Buzzard, Eurasian Kestrel, White-tailed Nuthatch, Brown Dipper, and Red-billed Chough. It winds its way through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, while waterfalls leap down granite rocks and glacial rivers tremble down precipitous canyons and stunning Birendra Lake, which is a turquoise water lake contrasts beautifully with surrounding rocky cliffs and the towering snowcapped peaks of the Manaslu Massif. The lake can be seen up close at the shore or from above on the trail to the Manaslu Base Camp.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, which has an elevation of 5,106 meters. It offers stunning views of some of the most magnificent peaks in the Himalayas. Further down this pass, you will reach Bimthang, and onward, massive meadows and dense forests are crossed in the route to Dharapani, from where a drive brings you back to Kathmandu.
At Touch Planet Treks, we commit to making your journey in one of Nepal's best short treks, safe, flexible, authentic, and enriching. Under our expert guidance, we provide you with a worthy chance to fully engage with the beauty and spirituality of the Himalayas.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek – Highlights
- Start your trek with an adventurous drive and experience thrilling off-road excursions through stunning Landscapes.
- Trek around the world's 8th highest peak, Mount Manaslu in less than two weeks.
- Cross one of Nepal's highest and most challenging mountain passes Larkya La Pass (5,106 m), offering dramatic alpine views.
- Explore monasteries, mani walls, Chortens, and gombas in remote villages like Samdo, Samagaun, and Bimtang.
- Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, Bon culture, and the unique heritage of Bhotia communities along the ancient Himalayan trade route.
- Witness the stunning Birendra Lake, Manaslu Base Camp, Pung Gyen Gomba, and glaciers.
- Witness the breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Himlung Himal(7,126m), Cheo Himal (6,820m), Nemjung (7,140m), and Kanguru (6,981m).
- Discover breathtaking landscapes filled with rivers, rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil streams throughout the trek.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty Level
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered to be both exhilarating and demanding, but it is generally rated as a moderate to difficult trek for reasons like the overall altitude reached during the trip. The altitude is so high that it can even make a perfectly fit person fall into altitude sickness. Acclimatization has to be done to avoid these risks and to make the journey successfully safe. Also, the topography of the trek involves an uneven path, steep inclines, and rocky surfaces, all require good balance and stability. The steep ascents and descents add to the intensity and call for careful navigation.
In this isolated region around Manaslu, sometimes weather factors can be quite challenging, which contributes to the unpredictable nature of a trek here. Trekkers should be prepared for a range of weather Cold temperatures. High-speed winds, and the likelihood of precipitation for rain or snow. However, fitness is a major element with which the trek can be accomplished in good health. Because in this journey one requires stamina, strength, and the ability to carry a moderately heavy backpack for long periods of time continuously.
The Short Manaslu Trek is accessible to most trekkers despite these challenges. If one does proper preparation with physical conditioning, acclimatization, and suitable gear. You can witness this shocking beauty in Manaslu Circuit with the help of a professional guide. The right mental attitude, and the magic of the Manaslu Region to conquer this unforgettable trek which is regarded as one of the best short treks in Nepal.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Distance
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek distance is approximately 110km giving trekkers a relatively confined yet fulfilling experience. Every day of the trek goes through diverse terrains such as Subtropical forests and finally high-altitude landscapes. A drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola takes approximately 7-8 hours (141 km) and further trekking for 22 km which takes around 6-7 hours to reach Jagat. From Jagat, you will trek 19 km to Deng, a 6–7-hour journey through forests and small vibrant villages. On the fourth day, you will cover 20 kilometers to reach Namrung, again in 7-8 hours. The next stretch towards Samagaun is 19 km and takes 6-7 hours, you shall spend a day here for acclimatization. This gives you time to explore the village or take a short trek to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake.
After acclimatization, the trek steps up by walking around 16 km to Samdo (4-5 hours). Followed by Dharmasala covering a distance of 10 km (4-5 hours). The view from there is very pictorial and the real test comes in crossing the Larkya La pass. Which is approximately 24 km to go to Bimthang and will take between 8-10 hours. After Bimthang it takes only 22 km 7-8 hours trek to Dharapani and then 215 km 8-9 hours driving to Kathmandu. The Short Manaslu Circuit is an amazing journey in the high mountains of Nepal suitable for either adventure or cultural experiences.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Best Season, Time, and Months
The best time for the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is in the Autumn season, from September to November. This is the most favorable time for trekking as per weather and beauty. Autumn begins in September, and the weather is now stable. The trails begin to get busier during this time of the year as trekkers start taking advantage of the dry conditions. October is really the best of times to be in the Manaslu Circuit Trek with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and fantastic vistas of the mountains rounding off this month as the most popular with trekkers.
However, it is the peak of the season, the trails can be rather crowded, so accommodations will be booked well in advance for our guests. It gets colder in November, but many still love trekking for the great views with fewer trekkers on the trails. Clear skies and crisp air make the mountain scenery breathtaking during this period, therefore making the trek unforgettable.
Spring (March-May) is another good time to go on a trek, especially in March and April. During this season, the weather is pleasant flowers bloom, and the greenery is lush, making the landscape vibrant and full of colors. March brings cool weather with beautiful mountain scenery, while in April, the pathway is adorned with colored blossoms. However, in May as Spring advances, temperatures can rise in the lower altitudes even though the weather in the higher altitudes remains decent. Monsoon constitutes June, July, and August, but it's not the best time because of slippery trails, landslides, and heavy rainfall. Although many adventurers like the lush, misty landscapes, it is quite challenging. The worst time constitutes winter, that is, from December to February, when freezing temperatures and the closure of teahouses make trekking tough.
Benefits of Booking Short Manaslu Circuit Trek with Touch Planet Treks
- Free airport arrival and departure transfer facilities from/to the hotel on private transport.
- Easy booking and reservation system.
- Free Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Map.
- Online Short Manaslu Circuit Trek briefing after booking confirmation.
- Open for customized Short Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary.
- 24/7 phone and WhatsApp communication at +977 9841774591
- Touch Planet Treks T-Shirt (to keep) and a Duffel Bag (for trekking duration).
- We will provide Oximeter for blood oxygen monitoring at high elevations to detect altitude sickness early.
- Free Medical Kits might be necessary in Certain Cases.
- Free Excess Luggage Storage facility at Touch Planet Treks during the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost in 2025
The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a special adventure crafted to deliver a thrilling experience and quality service at every step of this remarkable journey through a hidden Himalayan gem. The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek cost varies between USD 9,00 to USD 1,300, depending on the size of the group and the level of premium services chosen by the trekkers.
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hassle-free trek package is one of the best short treks in Nepal that comes with certified and experienced guides, reliable porters, and all permits included. With well-planned thoughtfulness, prices include the best accommodations, from cozy trek route lodges/teahouses to premium Kathmandu hotels. Wholesome food each day keeps you energetic throughout the high-altitude adventure in Short Manaslu Circuit Trek. The cost includes all transportation and arrangements in regard to accommodation, as per the itinerary, for smooth travel.
- For a solo trekker, the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek costsUSD 1,180.
- If you are in a group of 2 to 7 trekkers, the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek costs USD 1099.
- For the trekkers in a group of 8 to 14, the Short Manaslu Circuit Trek costs USD 1,040.
- For a group of 14 to 20 trekkers, the cost of a Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is USD 970.