Introduction

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek offers an incredible adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions. Circling the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters) — the 8th highest mountain in the world — this trek delivers dramatic Himalayan scenery, ancient Buddhist culture, lush valleys, and rugged alpine landscapes.

Less crowded than Everest or Annapurna, the Manaslu trek is perfect for adventurers looking for raw natural beauty, authentic cultural immersion, and a challenging high-altitude trek.

Trek Overview

Standard 16-Day Manaslu Trek Itinerary (Detailed)

Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700m)

• Full-day scenic drive via Arughat.

Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (870m)

• Trek along riverbanks, suspension bridges, and small villages.

Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m)

• Enter the restricted area of Manaslu; permits checked at Jagat.

Day 4: Jagat to Deng (1,860m)

• Beautiful trekking through bamboo forests and waterfalls.

Day 5: Deng to Namrung (2,660m)

• Enter Tibetan-influenced regions, stone houses, prayer flags.

Day 6: Namrung to Samagaon (3,530m)

• Incredible views of Manaslu, Manaslu North, and other peaks.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Manaslu Base Camp (~4,800m)

• A challenging side trip offering stunning close-up views of Manaslu.

Day 8: Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m)

• Short trek to Samdo, a traditional Tibetan refugee village.

Day 9: Samdo Acclimatization or Hike to Tibetan Border

• Another day to acclimatize — optional trek to the border viewpoint.

Day 10: Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m)

• Prepare for crossing the Larkya La Pass.

Day 11: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,106m) and Trek to Bimthang (3,590m)

• The highest and most challenging day. Rewarded by panoramic views.

Day 12: Bimthang to Tilije (2,300m)

• Descend into lush valleys.

Day 13: Tilije to Dharapani

• Join the Annapurna Circuit route.

Day 14: Drive Dharapani to Besisahar, then to Kathmandu

• Celebrate back in the capital!

Difficulty & Challenges

• Physical Endurance: Long days, high elevation gain/loss.

• Altitude Sickness: Real risk due to fast elevation gains after Samagaon.

• Remote Logistics: Fewer rescue and hospital facilities.

• Weather: Unpredictable above 4,000 meters.

Training Tip: Prioritize high-altitude acclimatization hikes, strength training (legs, core), and long-distance hiking preparation.

Best Time to Trek Manaslu Base Camp

Required Permits

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

 Important: Solo trekking is not allowed — you must trek with at least one other person and a licensed guide.

Permit costs (2025 estimate):

• MRAP: $100 for the first 7 days (then $15/day)

• MCAP + ACAP: ~$30 total

Accommodation: Tea Houses

• Basic wooden lodges; some are quite rustic.

• Facilities improve slightly after Jagat and Namrung.

• Hot showers and Wi-Fi available in a few places (extra cost).

• Meals: Dal Bhat, noodles, pancakes, fried rice, local Tibetan bread.

Essential Packing List

Clothing:

• High-quality down jacket

• Layering system (base layer, fleece, waterproof shell)

• Trekking pants, thermal leggings

• Warm gloves, hat, buff

Gear:

• Strong trekking boots (broken in)

• Trekking poles

• Sleeping bag (-15°C rating recommended)

• Water filtration system (bottled water expensive higher up)

Other:

• Headlamp, extra batteries

• Sunscreen, lip balm

• First aid kit with altitude medication (Diamox)

 Cost Breakdown (Approximate)

Total Estimate: $1,000–1,500 for an organized trek.

 Highlights of Manaslu Base Camp Trek

• Explore ancient Buddhist monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages.

• Less commercialized and more authentic Himalayan experience.

• Epic crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,106m).

• Close-up views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, and other peaks.

• Chance to experience both Himalayan alpine and subtropical lowlands in one trek.

 Important Tips for Success

• Trek slowly and acclimatize — extra rest days in Samagaon/Samdo are key.

• Hire an experienced guide familiar with Manaslu.

• Prepare for basic living conditions — it’s remote!

• Carry extra cash — no ATMs after Arughat/Soti Khola.

• Be flexible with your schedule (weather can delay passes).

• Respect local culture — villages like Samdo are traditional Tibetan Buddhist.

Final Thoughts

The Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem for serious trekkers craving raw nature, dramatic scenery, cultural richness, and challenge.
If you dream of walking where few others go, under the shadow of the eighth highest peak on earth, this trek will deliver an unforgettable journey!