The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek offers all the iconic elements of the full circuit—including remote mountain trails, Tibetan-influenced villages, and the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160 m)—but in a condensed 12-day format. This version is perfect for adventure trekkers with a tight schedule who still want to experience one of Nepal’s most scenic and off-the-beaten-path treks.

Though shorter in duration, the trek still traverses through the Manaslu Conservation Area, offering panoramic views of Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), the world’s eighth-highest peak.

Trek Overview

• Region: Gorkha / Manaslu Conservation Area, Nepal

• Duration: 12 Days

• Max Elevation: 5,160 m (Larkya La Pass)

• Start Point: Machha Khola or Soti Khola

• End Point: Dharapani or Besi Sahar

• Trek Difficulty: Strenuous (due to high altitude and long days)

• Accommodation: Teahouses / Lodges

• Best Season: March–May and September–November

• Permit Type: Restricted Area Permit + ACAP + MCAP

Why Choose the Short Manaslu Trek?

• Covers all the main highlights of the full Manaslu Circuit

• Includes crossing the Larkya La Pass

• Trek through authentic Gurung and Tibetan villages

• Ideal for fit and experienced trekkers with limited time

• Less crowded than Annapurna and Everest regions

• Still provides exposure to Himalayan wilderness, glaciers, and culture

Short Manaslu Circuit Trek Itinerary (12 Days)

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930 m)
A long, scenic drive via Arughat along mountain roads. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 2: Trek to Jagat (1,340 m)
Follow the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through forests and small settlements.

Day 3: Trek to Deng (1,860 m)
Trail enters a steeper valley; Tibetan influence becomes visible in village architecture.

Day 4: Trek to Namrung (2,630 m)
Steep climbs and beautiful forest sections. Views of Ganesh Himal begin to appear.

Day 5: Trek to Samagaon (3,530 m)
Visit chortens, mani walls, and monasteries. Incredible views of Manaslu.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Samagaon
Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,800 m) or Pungyen Gompa for altitude adaptation.

Day 7: Trek to Samdo (3,860 m)
Short, easy day with time to explore this last village before the pass.

Day 8: Trek to Dharamsala / Larkya Phedi (4,460 m)
Final staging point before Larkya La Pass.

Day 9: Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), descend to Bimthang (3,720 m)
A long and physically demanding day, with high-altitude exposure.

Day 10: Trek to Dharapani (1,960 m)
Begin descending through lush forests. Join the Annapurna Circuit trail.

Day 11: Drive to Besisahar (760 m)
4–6 hour jeep ride through scenic villages and valleys.

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu
Return to the capital and conclude the trek.

Required Permits

Because Manaslu is a restricted area, the following permits are mandatory:

1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

   • USD $100 for first 7 days (Sept–Nov); $15/day after

   • USD $75 for first 7 days (Dec–Aug)

2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) – NPR 3,000 (~USD $25)

3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 (~USD $25)

Note: Minimum of 2 trekkers required, and a licensed guide is mandatory.

Trek Difficulty

• Strenuous – Suitable for trekkers with previous high-altitude experience

• Daily trekking: 5–8 hours, with long descents and ascents

• Larkya La Pass is exposed and can be icy depending on the season

• Proper acclimatization and pacing are crucial

Estimated Cost (Per Person, 12 Days)

Costs vary by group size, service level, and transport options.

What to Pack

• Warm layers, down jacket, gloves, hat

• Waterproof trekking boots and rain gear

• Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C)

• Trekking poles, water purification tablets

• First-aid kit and altitude medication (Diamox)

• Headlamp, sunglasses, snacks, energy bars

• Extra cash (no ATMs on the trail)

Best Seasons to Trek

Spring (March–May)

• Rhododendrons bloom, stable weather, good trail conditions

Autumn (September–November)

• Best visibility and dry, cool trekking weather

Avoid:

• Monsoon (June–August): Landslides and trail disruptions

• Winter (December–February): Risk of snow and Larkya Pass closure

Cultural & Natural Highlights

• Samagaon and Samdo – Traditional villages with strong Tibetan culture

• Larkya La Pass – Panoramic views of Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Himlung Himal

• Buddhist Monasteries & Chortens – Rich spiritual atmosphere

• Manaslu Base Camp (optional) – A challenging side trip with amazing views

• Flora and Fauna – Blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, eagles, and diverse vegetation zones

Final Thoughts

The Short Manaslu Circuit Trek is a fast-paced version of one of Nepal’s best remote treks, perfect for experienced trekkers on a tight schedule. It retains the trek’s authentic charm and epic scenery, culminating in the dramatic crossing of Larkya La Pass. For those seeking a less-crowded, culturally rich, and rugged Himalayan adventure, this is an ideal choice.